Things To Do
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Things to Do in Oslo, Norway: Is Oslo Worth Visiting?
Nude beach. Food halls. Viking ships. Breathtaking views. Oslo, the metropolitan capital of Norway, sits at the head of Oslofjord. Oslo has cold winters as well as warm sunny days by the fjord. The Norwegian capital has Michelin star restaurants, nature parks, museums, & whatever you want to do. If you're endlessly researching for the essential list of things to do in Oslo, Norway, this list has 18 top activities in Oslo all year round.
Norway is incredible. From the history at the Viking Ship Museum to the remarkable arts of the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet to the funky sculptures at Vigeland Sculpture Park at Frogner Park, Oslo, Norway has so much cultural history. You can go ski jumping on Holmenkollbakken or at least see the Holmenkollen Ski Museum. If you have more time, you could head to Tusenfryd, an amusement park at Vinterbro, Norway.
Is Oslo worth visiting?
Yes. Oslo is certainly worth a visit if you're a travel lover. The crisp nighttime air feels empowering. The view from the Oslo Opera House is magnificent; you might even make a seagull friend. Some of the best things to do are actually free. No matter what you want to see, Norway is breathtakingly beautiful. I'd come back in a heartbeat. From hanging out at a groovy sculpture park by Gustav Vigeland to checking out the Aker Brygge neighborhood, you'll come to savor your Norwegian moments of bliss.
What is famous in Oslo Norway?
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Norway; there's the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway. Top attractions include Holmenkollen Ski Museum, Vigeland Museum, The Kon-Tiki Museum, University Botanical Garden (Botanisk hage), & more. Experience the magic & charm of Oslo city center!
About Carmen
If you came here because you searched for things to do in Oslo, Norway, you probably don't know much about me. Hey, I'm Carmen, a travel influencer & blog coach from San Diego, California. I've traveled to 20 countries. I started my blog in 2011. One of my greatest hobbies is finding bargain flight tickets. These are some of the best things to do in Oslo. I traveled to Norway end of October/early November, so there's still a lot of things to do in Oslo during autumn & winter.At the highest point of The Vigeland Park at Frogner Park |
Oslo Pass
Opt for the Oslo Pass which gives you free entry to museums and activities, free public transport, and discounts on sightseeing, restaurants, shopping, & more. It's worth researching if you want to experience a lot of what Oslo has to offer in a short period of time. The Oslo Pass is best when utilized to the maximum. That way you can see a bit of everything from the fjords to Oslo city center.
The Vigeland Park
Separate from the Vigeland Museum, The Vigeland Park at Frogner Park contains over 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. The sculpture park consists of the Monolith, the bridge, & the fountain. The Monolith shows 121 human figures holding onto each other in various positions. The bridge shows 58 sculptures of men, women, & children, while the fountain depicts a group of men holding a vessel with water spilling out. The fountain wasn't running while I was there, so it looked like a bunch of dudes holding a bowl. Did I mention all the figures are naked? Tip: Vigeland Park at Frogner Park is free to enter every day, 24 hours a day (or night). Sometimes the best things in life are free!
Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress also called Akershus Castle was completed in the 1300s. Entrance to the fortress grounds is free to walk around, which is the ideal option for anyone on a budget. The clear skies & green grass against the stone castle look beautiful in the summertime, but the Akershus festning (that's the Norwegian name) is pretty romantic on a rainy autumn/winter day. Tip: Akershus Fortress makes an excellent sunset vista point; look out at the fjord with the city lights glistening as it gets dark.Aker Brygge
Walk along the boardwalk of Aker Brygge, a strip of eateries by the water. It's pretty small. I walked by it during a wintery evening. This is the ideal spot to wine & dine with friends, loved ones, & of course, alone. This place is buzzing during the summertime, but there wasn't much happening when I walked by on a November night.Oslo Cathedral at night |
Oslo Cathedral
Why not pop in the cathedral while you're checking off free things to do in Oslo, Norway? I was walking by the Oslo Cathedral (Oslo domkirke) & ended up making it for part of an evening service. The chorus echoing in the cathedral will ring in my ears forever. There is a lot you can see around Oslo city center.Stumbled upon the street art at Ingens Gate |
Street Art at Ingens Gate
Make sure this magical alleyway filled with street art is on your free things to do in Oslo list. Oslo has quite a lot of art throughout the city, but Ingens gate is located in the GrĂ¼nerløkka neighborhood near the Akerselva River. Walk under the magnificent chandelier; the dangling charms sound soothing when the wind hits it ever so gently. Drop by Ingens gate alley for an array of artwork. It's small & charming, but you won't be disappointed.People eating at Mathallen Oslo food hall |
Mathallen Oslo
Food halls are one of my favorite ways to eat in Oslo other than stopping inside a grocery store for munchies. Mathallen Oslo offers a tempting range of food from Asian tapas, Tex Mex, fresh seafood, & more. This is the perfect spot to stock up on cheese, meat, veggies, & yummy baked goods. Oh, & Mathallen Oslo is conveniently located near the street art at Ingens gate! Tip: Walk up to the second story to see a bird's eye view of the hall & see if the boutiques are open. Grab a bite to eat at Vippa Oslo near the Port of Oslo |
Vippa Oslo
Another food hall? Why yes. I wouldn't have it any other way. Food halls are a convenient, affordable way to grab a bite to eat or satisfy multiple food personalities, rather than your typical sit-down restaurant. Come to Vippa for multicultural food stands & a stunning view of the Port of Oslo.The Inner islands of Oslo Fjord offer many summertime activities |
Islands of Inner Oslo Fjord
Spend the day exploring the Oslo Fjord, a 68 miles/100 kilometers long with many islands freckled. The islands are a hub during the warmer months with everyone swimming, hiking, & having fun outside. On the island of Hovedøya, there are monastery ruins from the Middle Ages. Drop your knickers because Langøyene island has a nudist beach on the southern tip.One of the large ships at the Viking Ship Museum |
Viking Ship Museum
As the name suggests, the museum contains the beautifully restored Gokstad & Oseberg Viking Ships. These ships were used in burial rituals for rich Vikings. The ships are positively massive & you can walk up a couple steps to a second story to see inside the ship, so you get a view of preserved Viking ships & other Viking finds like coins & even skulls. If you're looking for a souvenir, the Viking Ship Museum has a cool gift shop too. Tip: Stay around for the Vikings Alive visual journey projected onto the walls of the museum. I enjoyed the music & animation as an entertaining way to learn about the Viking Age.
Norwegian Folk Museum
Located at Bygdøy in Oslo, the Norwegian Folk Museum (Norsk Folkemuseum) is the optimal place to learn about Norwegian folk art, folk costumes, the Sami culture, & people I knew nothing about prior to visiting the museum. Don't forget to also the Open Air Museum, which is part of the Norwegian Folk Museum. This one of the best hidden gems during my trip.Just a small corner of the Open Air Museum at the Norwegian Folk Museum |
Open Air Museum (at Norwegian Folk Museum)
The Open Air Museum turned out to be a hidden gem that I can't recommend enough, easily one of my favorite parts of Oslo! If you enjoy the outdoors, quaint villages, old towns with history, this is the place for you. The Open Air Museum displays Norwegian rural & urban buildings from the Middle Ages to the 20th Century. Visit the Old Town, the countryside, the Setesdal farmstead, & Tip: Find the barn to see cows, pigs, chickens, & rabbits up close!Posing next to "The Scream" by Edvard Munch |
Munch Museum
The Munch Museum (Munchmuseet) houses the work of Edvard Munch, a Norwegian painter. You might recognize his most famous piece, "The Scream." Munch was raised in Christiania, which is modern-day Oslo. "The Scream," however, isn't located at the Munch Museum; it's at the National Gallery. We had some trouble locating the museum as it was under construction due to a planned expansion of the museum. Upon his death, Munch donated over 1,000 paintings to the government & that's when the country built the Munch Museum.National Gallery
Note: The National Gallery is closed until 2020 while they move to a new museum location.
The National Gallery (Nasjonalmuseet) in Oslo, Norway houses Edvard Munch's "The Scream" & "Madonna" as well as other notable Norwegian artists, such as J.C. Dahl, Thomas Fearnley, & Harald Sohlberg. Together The National Gallery & the Norwegian Museum of Architecture comprise the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design.Fram Museum Oslo
The Fram Museum Oslo allows you to step aboard the original expedition ship!
Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art
The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern (Astrup Fearnley Museet) contains collections of contemporary art with a focus on acquiring pieces that push boundaries, & perhaps even comfort zones. The building design itself aims to welcome visitors to look out at the boats on the fjord. Some popular pieces included: "God Alone Knows" by Damien Hirst, "Michael Jackson" & "Bubbles" by Jeff Koons.The brick exterior of the Oslo City Hall |
Oslo City Hall
We walked by Oslo City Hall (Oslo rĂ¥dhus) many times. You can't miss its big, beautiful, brick exterior. The City Hall is home to Oslo's administrative body as well as their City Council. Guided tours of City Hall are available all year long.Salvador DalĂ's Venus de Milo aux tiroirs at Ekebergparken Sculpture Park |
Ekebergparken Sculpture Park
Ekebergparken is essentially an outdoor art gallery with sculptures from Salvador DalĂ, Auguste Rodin (I went to the Rodin Museum in Paris), Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Sean Henry, & other magnificent artists. You could spend hours here finding best things to do as you stroll through the woods & spot artwork along the way. Tip: Check out the spectacular views of Oslo during sunset; the city lights up at night. Bonus Tip: They host a free tour of the Skyspace on Sundays.The Kon-Tiki Museum
Located in the Bygdøy peninsula in Oslo, Norway, the Kon-Tiki Museum offers insight into Thor Heyerdahl, one of history’s most famous explorers. Head over to the Kon-Tiki Museum website for more information. Thor Heyerdahl was a Norwegian adventurer known for his Kon-Tiki expedition in 1947 where he sailed thousands of kilometers across the Pacific Ocean in a homemade raft.
The Oslo Opera House is home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet. Stay entertained with internationally acclaimed opera & ballet performers, or head to the roof for plays, concerts, & other events throughout the year. The architecture of the building is meant to be accessible & open. Tip: It's free to walk up the roof of the Opera House, so head there for an epic view. Add this freebie to your things to do in Oslo list! The best things in life are free!
The remarkable view from the roof of the Oslo Opera House |
Opera House
The Oslo Opera House is home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet. Stay entertained with internationally acclaimed opera & ballet performers, or head to the roof for plays, concerts, & other events throughout the year. The architecture of the building is meant to be accessible & open. Tip: It's free to walk up the roof of the Opera House, so head there for an epic view. Add this freebie to your things to do in Oslo list! The best things in life are free!The Oslo, Norway Royal Palace |
Royal Palace
Want to stand near royalty? Well, the King & Queen of Norway live right here at the Royal Palace in Oslo. A lot of royal meetings & official dinners take place here. Foreign heads of state don't stay at Airbnb, like me, they stay at the Palace! The Royal Palace is open to the public during the summer months, yet another experience I missed out on because I visited Oslo, Norway in November.Things to do in Oslo, Norway bingo |
Where to Stay in Oslo, Norway
I stayed in an Airbnb whilst in Oslo. I shared a room with my boyfriend, our Airbnb host, & his dog. We had an amazing experience. If you're interested in creating an Airbnb account, please use my *affiliate link* to receive a $30 credit toward your account.I hope you get a chance to visit Oslo. There's much to explore, especially if you enjoy nature & museums. Public transport is easy to navigate. Norway's capital might be expensive for some, so keep that in mind.
Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem
San Diego is an enormous county. In fact, it's around 4,500 mi.². I just Googled that. I definitely didn't know that off the top of my head. In North County San Diego alone, there's Del Mar, Escondido, Oceanside, Solana Beach, & more cities. Looking for best things to do in Encinitas? Drive Coast Highway 101 or head to Swami's Beach, Moonlight State Beach, San Diego Botanic Garden, or Encinitas Historical Society. There's a lot you can do. Keep reading!
I enjoy international travel as much as the next person. I visited Spain, Germany, Mexico, & Norway, which proved more than ever that small moments matter, no matter where you are. You have to supplement those getaways with something budget-friendly, something local. At the end of the day, I'm a San Diego lifestyle blogger at heart! There's always something exciting to do in San Diego.
You might also want to read my blog post Encinitas Coffee Shops: Searching for the Best Coffee in Town where I list all the coffee shops in Encinitas all in one place.
Things to Do in Encinitas CA - North County, San Diego
Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See: Things to Do in Oceanside, California
Whether you like coffee drinks or walks by the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, California. Read this guide for Encinitas points of interest whether you're a North County San Diego local or an out-of-town visitor!
Hanging out at the Moonlight Beach overlook with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean |
Head to Encinitas Beaches
Encinitas is a beachside town with miles of trails, there are a lot of beaches in this part of North County San Diego! Moonlight State Beach is one of my favorite places to relax, it even has a snack bar. Play volleyball with your friends or dip your toes in the water. Moonlight Beach is beautiful & I've seen some of the best sunsets of my life there. Want other beach options? Check out Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach, or Swami's State Beach. Again, heaps of beaches & best things to do in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach is a personal favorite of mine, snack bar is cool, but bathrooms can get messy. You can surf or just stare at the ocean! You'll find one of the best views in Encinitas!Related reading: Carlsbad Coffee Shops - Searching for the Best Coffee in Carlsbad, California
What is Encinitas famous for? How much does it cost to live in Encinitas?
Go Downtown
The bustling streets of Encinitas await. Watch a film at La Paloma Theater, which opened in 1928. Moonlight Beach is right there too. There are even things to do in Encinitas with kids. Go to any beach! Moonlight Beach or the tide pools. Stroll along the coast & you'll realize why Encinitas is such a great place. It's popular for a reason.
Grab a cup of coffee
The city of Encinitas has no shortage of coffee shops. Head to Pannikin Coffee & Tea for a coffee & a muffin. Their muffins are enormous & perfect for sharing. I love the Aztec Mocha from Lofty Coffee Co.; it has a spicy kick thanks to the cayenne. There's also Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, Ironsmith Coffee Roasters, Coffee Coffee, Philz Coffee, & a few other spots.
Related reading: 40+ Things To Do In Conejo Valley, California
In awe of the view from the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple |
Spend Time in a Garden
The Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple is one of my favorite spots in North County San Diego because it has some remarkable views. Relax in the peaceful Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens. Stare at the majestic koi swimming in their ponds. Look out at the vast Pacific Ocean. It's free to enter but donations are welcome. If you want to spend some time in nature with over 4,000 types of plants, visit the San Diego Botanic Garden. The Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens are certainly worth a visit if you're in Encinitas CA, Southern California!Support Local & Buy Souvenirs
Stroll Downtown Encinitas Main Street for all the cool retail stores & businesses. Caravan West is a bohemian paradise with baskets, blankets, books, & more. Check out Moon Shadow Boutique for bohemian fashion & vintage home accessories. Crystals, hair salons, home decor, kids boutiques, men's clothing, stationery, swimwear, women's clothing, there are local Encinitas, Southern California options for any gift or souvenir need. Downtown Encinitas has a lot of spunky shops!
Related reading: Things To Do in Torrance, California
A coffee & giant muffin from Pannikin Coffee & Tea is one of my favorite things to do in Encinitas |
Drive Historic Highway 101
Spend the day along Highway 101 driving along the beach. Go on a drive after spending time at the San Diego Botanic Garden or at the meditation gardens. Drive North County. U.S. Highway 101 runs through the states of California, Oregon, & Washington. Highway 101 is the longest highway in California. Drive down a piece of history in Encinitas. Downtown Encinitas Main Street is conveniently located on Highway 101; park your car then shop some of the local boutiques & stores.Eat Delicious Food at Encinitas Restaurants
Spend a day at the beach savoring the waves then head to a place to eat. Get a burrito or tacos or anything - you're in a beach city after all. Surf by day then visit a taco shop for a great meal. Go to the nature center or Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas.Fresh fish, tasty vegetarian food, gluten-free options, raw & organic desserts, Downtown Encinitas has restaurants food for all your needs! My other personal favorite restaurants in the city of Encinitas: pastries from St. Tropez Bakery & Bistro ♥ hot & prepared foods from Lazy Acres Natural Market ♥ Machacha Breakfast Burrito from Mozy Cafe (two eggs, jack cheese, & soy chorizo instead of turkey) ♥ organic, fresh options from GOODONYA like the Breakfast Veggie Bowl ♥ EVE Encinitas for all things vegan ♥ Home & Away Encinitas has affordable food & a beautiful space with hand-painted art
Drink Craft Beer at Encinitas Breweries
San Diego County has over 150+ breweries; it's one of the best place to find beer, so it's no surprise that the city of Encinitas has a few craft beer options. Saint Archer Brewing Co. has happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday through Friday - get $2 off a pint. Enjoy plant-based food & a full food menu (in addition to a full craft beer list, obviously). Sip on Thorn Brewing Co. at Home & Away Encinitas. Modern Times Far West Lounge. Culture Brewing Co. always features artists on their walls, so they're kind of like an art gallery with beer. North County has dozens of beer options.How About Cocktails?
Sip on a sexy cocktail at any number of cool Downtown Encinitas CA spots. In addition to a full food & craft beer menu, Bread & Barley has a number of signature cocktails (like the Leucadia Sunrise made with vodka, lemon, lavender, elderflower, cucumber), brunch cocktails, & classics. The Roxy is another classic go-to on Encinitas Main Street. Home & Away Encinitas has some tasty cocktails. Solterra Winery and Kitchen for wine!From La Paloma Theater to the farmers market, Encinitas is open to the public with plenty to offer. What are your favorite things to do in Encinitas? Do you like Moonlight Beach & Highway 101? Would you go surfing? Have you been to Self Realization Fellowship gardens?
Other places to visit in San Diego: La Jolla, Solana Beach, San Elijo Lagoon, anywhere on El Camino Real. Diego, California is a large county & it would take a long time to explore the whole place but you can have fun trying. Enjoy your visit & experience the best has to offer.
Did I miss something? Leave a comment with your 3 favorite things to do in Encinitas.
Have you visited Encinitas CA or North County San Diego? Do you like to explore your own city? :]
Bunkers del Carmel Turo de la Rovira Barcelona: Things to Do + The History
What if I told you there's a magical 360° view of Barcelona that's completely free?
Free dollars. Free euros. Free o'clock.
Free things to do in Barcelona? Count me in! Bring comfy shoes and take a hike through what's left Bunkers del Carmel underground military bunkers and be prepared to discover panoramic views of Barcelona city skyline. Del Carmel Barcelona is a great place to get lost within the city. I would say it's a hidden gem but plenty of people know about it.
Free things to do in Barcelona? Count me in! Bring comfy shoes and take a hike through what's left Bunkers del Carmel underground military bunkers and be prepared to discover panoramic views of Barcelona city skyline. Del Carmel Barcelona is a great place to get lost within the city. I would say it's a hidden gem but plenty of people know about it.
Hike Bunkers of Carmel on Turo de la Rovira for a panoramic view of Barcelona.
Imagine a panoramic look at Barcelona from 262 meters/859 feet above sea level. Picture yourself looking out at the Mediterranean Sea, La Sagrada Familia, & the entire city of Barcelona from up high. Find this unforgettable location at Bunkers del Carmel/Bunkers el Carmel on the hill known as Turo de la Rovira, the site for the defense of Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War. The best way to get is here to take public transportation then walk the rest of the way.Related items: National Geographic Map of Barcelona (Available on Amazon)
Related reading: Welcome to the Cologne Cathedral in Germany
The History of TurĂ³ de la Rovira
TurĂ³ de la Rovira is a Museu d'Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA) heritage space, which officially opened in 2011 after undergoing restoration. It once contained the anti-aircraft battery used to defend Barcelona from air attacks. Pretty historic, eh? The Rick Steves Barcelona book is a great resource on things to do while you're in the city. Check out Rick Steves Barcelona here.The View of Barcelona, Spain from Bunkers Del Carmel / Bunkers el Carmel
Perhaps you're a sucker for savoring spectacular sights. Me too, my friend, me too. If you want to take a selfie, get the best Instagram travel influencer shot, or snap a memorable photo, del Carmel Bunkers is the spot to check out. The view of the city is incomparable from the top of Bunkers del Carmel. On one side you can see the Mediterranean Sea, La Sagrada Familia, & all the Barcelona hot spots. On the other side, stare out at the Barcelona homes.
Related reading: How to Save $$$ on Flights Using Google Flights
Things To to Do at Bunkers Del Carmel on Turo de la Rovira
Remember that it's free of charge to explore. Who doesn't love free things to do in Barcelona, Spain? Everything adds up: the museums, the cathedrals, the parks. Why not add something free to the list? So you made it up Turo de la Rovira, now what?Have a picnic on top of the world.
Take snacks & drink so you can have yourself a merry little picnic. It goes without saying to pick up after yourself & dispose of any trash. Have you visited Bunkers del Carmel? Have a question? Want to share your experience? Leave a comment below! Popular things to do in Barcelona include Park GĂ¼ell, La Sagrada Familia, and much more. You can always use tools like TripAdvisor or read articles on New York Times to plan your trip. What you do next is up to you! Are you feeling like some tapas? Stroll Plaça de la Catedral or Las Ramblas. There's so much to do in Barcelona as well as the surrounding area. To learn more about Barcelona, Spain, check out some of the books available on Amazon. Where to now?
Where to Stay in Barcelona
What are some accommodations options in Barcelona? Here's a map with some affordable options. Traveling somewhere soon? Make sure to check if there are any visa requirements!Things To Do at Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, Texas
I'm a tiny speck amongst the majestically carved Franklin Mountains & the vast Chihuahuan Desert landscape that surround me. I wipe a bead of sweat from my brow. It's barely 8 a.m. but the sun is no joke. I pull the brim of my El Paso hat down to cover as much of my face as possible. This is Franklin Mountains State Park.
I'm exploring Franklin Mountains State Park as a familiarization tour guest of Visit El Paso. El Paso is a city in El Paso County, which you can find located in the far western part of the U.S. state of Texas. I look at the other travel influencers, journalists, bloggers, & writers. Everyone is taking photos. I put my phone on a wooden post, set a self-timer for 3, 2, 1. I smile. "Cheese!" I say to myself. I look at the picture.
It's glorious. Mother Earth is photogenic in that way. If you're a nature lover, hiking fan, or desert enthusiast, add Franklin Mountains State Park to your El Paso, Texas To Do List. There are several activities you can do all year long, fall, winter, spring, summer!
Latitude: 31.908166
Longitude: -106.525458
Headquarters
2900 Tom Mays Access Rd.
El Paso, TX 79911
Entrance Fees
Adult: $5 Daily
Child 12 Years and Under: Free
Group - Adult: Contact the Park
Reservations and Hours
Since they tend to reach capacity, it's highly recommended to make reservations for both camping and day use. As far as their hours go: from the first Saturday in April to the first Saturday in September, gate hours are extended on Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sundays from 6:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dying for more hidden gems & beautiful locations from the USA? Sign up for travel tips, hacks, best photo spots, & behind-the-scenes designed for blogger, influencers, & travelers.
1. Nature Watching
The state park has a diverse ecosystem of birds, reptiles, coyotes, squirrels & maybe a mule deer or perhaps you'll spot a mountain lion. Leave nothing but footprints! Leave all plants, animals, minerals, and artifacts in the park as you found them. Everything in the park is protected by state law for everyone’s enjoyment.
2. Rock Climbing
Go on a rock climbing adventure at Franklin Mountains State Park! Bring your own equipment & climb at the designated area in McKelligon Canyon or at Sneed’s Cory in the Tom Mays Unit. McKelligon Canyon has a 1,503-seat amphitheater for concerts, graduations, etc.
3. Camping
Stay at one of 14 tent campsites or 5 RV sites. Campsites don't have water or electricity. Click here to find out more about Franklin Mountains State Park camping & RV options. Campfires are permitted but only in fire rings. No gathering of firewood is permitted.
4. Dining
Ok, there aren't any restaurants for visitors but you can still enjoy a meal on the mountain. Find picnic benches & shade so you can take in the view while you eat. It's such a good view. I loved eating my breakfast & watched the desert come to life in the morning.
5. Hike a Trail
Spend the day on the trail. The hiking trails at Franklin Mountains State Park are intense. You could spend a lot of time exploring the 100 miles of trails on almost 27,000 acres. Now that's quite a hike. Hikers should always bring water, cell phone, good shoes, & a hiking buddy. Walk around, enjoy the view and the trail.
6. History
Native American tribes made the area their home for thousands of years. Find their deep mortar pits for grinding seeds. If you're really lucky, you might spot their colorful pictographs & etched petroglyphs on boulders & rock walls.
7. Events
Franklin Mountains has an active events page which you can check out here.
8. Bring Your Pet
You can bring your pet but they have to be on a 6-foot leash. Please pick up after them.
Clear your mind & spend time with nature at Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, Texas. Start off with a peaceful brunch on the mountain then camp overnight after a long day of exploring the trails. The entrance fee for adults is $5. Children 12 years & under are free. What are you waiting for? :] State parks are always fun to visit. Since there is no water or electricity available at RV camps or campsites, don't forget to bring plenty of water.
There are so many things that you can do in El Paso if you're in the area. From food to craft beer to plays, there's no shortage of ideas.
Sign up for travel tips & behind-the-scenes designed for blogger, influencers, & travelers who want to make an impact.
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Related reading: Celebrating My 1 Year Self-Employment Anniversary in El Paso
Which activity sounds the most fun to you? :]
How to Spend 48 Hours in Portland, Oregon: A Travel Guide
Portland, Oregon is a beautiful city in the Pacific Northwest known for its parks, bridges, microbreweries, coffee houses, & eco-friendliness. This is an ideal destination for travelers in the USA seeking a 48-hour trip, definitely a popular city on the West Coast.
My pro tip: visit in the fall so you can see just how glorious it can be. If you're looking for tips on how to spend 48 hours in Portland, Oregon, this is it! Stroll around downtown Portland, listen to music, play games at the arcade, buy local goods and products, eat food like fresh-baked bread or pizza, sip wine, & relish in everything that is Oregon. Spend a day or two in this magnificent city.
Consult this two-day Portland travel guide if you want to experience all the Portland essentials (but you should stay longer if you can :] ). If you have a travel bug or want to do some more traveling the United States, check out this city.
Consult this two-day Portland travel guide if you want to experience all the Portland essentials (but you should stay longer if you can :] ). If you have a travel bug or want to do some more traveling the United States, check out this city.
Whether enjoy shopping or local craft beer or food, there is a little bit of everything in this city. You'll feel included in some capacity. You'll find a hotel room or restaurant to suit your taste. From Powell's City of Books to scrumptious street food, there's a lot you can do in 48 hours in Portland, Oregon.
Dying for more hidden gems from across the world? Sign up for travel tips, hacks, best photo spots, & behind-the-scenes designed for blogger, influencers, & travelers.
Dying for more hidden gems from across the world? Sign up for travel tips, hacks, best photo spots, & behind-the-scenes designed for blogger, influencers, & travelers.
First 24 Hours in Portland: Day 1
9 a.m. - Grab a coffee & pastry from the closest cafe to where you're staying. There are so many delicious patisseries in Portland, you can't go wrong. Try the Tarte Abricot Amande at St. Honoré Boulangerie or the almond croissant at Ken's Artisan Bakery. There are lots of great restaurants and brunch spots. *Instagram-friendly spot!
10 a.m. - Make your way to Waterfront Park for some remarkable river views. Walk the path as you digest your breakfast & take in the fresh air. Sit down and do some people-watching. *Personal Favorite
11 a.m. - Head to Portland Saturday Market, which opens at 10 a.m. This is the spot to thrift if you like vintage shopping. Browse through the vendors & see if anything catches your eye. Grab lunch while you're there. We got some amazing perogies from the Polish food cart.
Spending the Afternoon in Portland
1 p.m. - Spend the afternoon exploring Lan Su Chinese Garden, one of the most authentic Chinese gardens outside of China. The garden melds art, architecture, design, & nature in serene harmony. Tickets are $9.50 for adults. *Personal Favorite & Instagram-friendly spot!
2:30 p.m. - Still hungry? Stop by Alder Street Food Cart Pod or Bamboo Sushi for a bite to eat. Both had a respectable amount of vegetarian options. The city has quite a lot of budding food carts & trucks if you want more affordable, quicker food. There are plenty of restaurants too. You could spend 48 hours in Portland just savoring the different dishes and cuisines.
3:30 p.m. - Make sure to carve out some time for Powell's City of Books in the Pearl District in downtown Portland. You won't want to miss this gargantuan book store. It's more of an experience than a store, really. We grabbed a couple books & some souvenirs. The Pearl District has a lot to offer. *Personal Favorite & Instagram-friendly spot!
5:30 p.m. - Bring some bills & let out your inner child at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade. Play Creature from the Black Lagoon pinball, Frogger, Donkey Kong, & more.
7:00 p.m. - Like beer? Get a flight of beer at Rogue Distillery & Public House. Pickled Piper was so delicious but opt for a taster rather than a full pint. Getting a flight allows you to sample a variety of the house beers. Wine lovers - there are local spots around downtown for you too. You'll find a menu with craft beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails all around town. There's a bit of everything.
8:30 p.m. - Stand in line & nab a pizza slice at Sizzle Pie in West Portland. Browse the menu while you wait. Grab a seat if you can or simply eat as you head to the next stop.
9 p.m. - Catch a movie at the Living Room Theaters. Seats are super comfortable & you can even drink a beer as you watch your movie. The theater is 21 & up after 7 p.m. Cinema 21 is a bit further away, but it's a great choice if you're looking for indie films. You can purchase beer or wine there too.
2:30 p.m. - Still hungry? Stop by Alder Street Food Cart Pod or Bamboo Sushi for a bite to eat. Both had a respectable amount of vegetarian options. The city has quite a lot of budding food carts & trucks if you want more affordable, quicker food. There are plenty of restaurants too. You could spend 48 hours in Portland just savoring the different dishes and cuisines.
3:30 p.m. - Make sure to carve out some time for Powell's City of Books in the Pearl District in downtown Portland. You won't want to miss this gargantuan book store. It's more of an experience than a store, really. We grabbed a couple books & some souvenirs. The Pearl District has a lot to offer. *Personal Favorite & Instagram-friendly spot!
5:30 p.m. - Bring some bills & let out your inner child at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade. Play Creature from the Black Lagoon pinball, Frogger, Donkey Kong, & more.
7:00 p.m. - Like beer? Get a flight of beer at Rogue Distillery & Public House. Pickled Piper was so delicious but opt for a taster rather than a full pint. Getting a flight allows you to sample a variety of the house beers. Wine lovers - there are local spots around downtown for you too. You'll find a menu with craft beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails all around town. There's a bit of everything.
8:30 p.m. - Stand in line & nab a pizza slice at Sizzle Pie in West Portland. Browse the menu while you wait. Grab a seat if you can or simply eat as you head to the next stop.
9 p.m. - Catch a movie at the Living Room Theaters. Seats are super comfortable & you can even drink a beer as you watch your movie. The theater is 21 & up after 7 p.m. Cinema 21 is a bit further away, but it's a great choice if you're looking for indie films. You can purchase beer or wine there too.
11 p.m. - Voodoo Doughnut is open 24-hours a day, so avoid the massive line & go at night. It's a popular spot for tourists & maybe a local or two. The Voodoo Doll doughnut is iconic, but I recommend the Memphis Mafia doughnut with its banana chunks & cinnamon, covered in a glaze with chocolate frosting, peanut butter, peanuts, & chocolate chips. The sign looks better at night anyway. *Instagram-friendly spot!
9 a.m. - Sip on some of Portland's famous coffee. It's one of the city's finest attractions, well the most caffeinated at least. There's Coava Coffee Roasters, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, & so many other options. Check a map to find one close to you. Bonus option: go for tea at Steven Smith Teamaker. Go on a coffee tasting tour! *Instagram-friendly spot!
10 a.m - Breakfast begins at Blue Star Donuts. Yes, donuts again! I went to Blue Star in the afternoon on two different days & they were either closed or sold out. Go in the morning. The longer you're in line, the better everything looks. We got the Raspberry Rosemary Buttercream & the Meyer Lemon & Key Lime Custard donuts. *Instagram-friendly donuts!
11 a.m. - The Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of beauty dedicated to authentic Japanese garden design. Stop and smell the roses at International Rose Test Garden or head to Washington Park. Pittock Mansion is nearby & worth seeing.
2 p.m. - Time for some food & grub. Get ice cream at Ruby Jewel or Salt & Straw. Get a flight of beer & a cup of beer cheese soup at Cascade Brewing Barrel House. Eat the veggie bagel sandwich at Petunia's Pies & Pastries. Loads of tasty options in Portland. Lots of food options if you're staying in downtown Portland, Oregon!
3 p.m. - Head back into downtown & explore the Portland Art Museum. Tickets are $19.99 per adult, which is a bargain if you're an art lover. This may be the perfect place to spend the afternoon if it's particularly rainy or glum outside. Make sure to check museum opening time. They close at 5 p.m. every day besides Thursday & Friday.
5 p.m. - Snap a selfie at the Keep Portland Weird mural on 3rd Street between Burnside & Ankeny before it gets dark. *Instagram-friendly spot!
6 p.m. - After you're done at the mural, walk the Burnside Bridge to check out the White Stag sign. You only need to walk halfway across the bridge to land a good photo. The sign looks better at night. *Personal Favorite & Instagram-friendly spot!
6:30 p.m. - Do you like dive bars, a place that's low key, where the locals are, where everybody knows your name? You've had a long weekend & your trip is winding down. Kells Irish Pub is one of my favorite spots in Portland. Sip on one of their house-made brews & stay for dinner. Their fries are definitely in my top 10 fries EVER. Decent amount of vegetarian options too!
10 a.m - Breakfast begins at Blue Star Donuts. Yes, donuts again! I went to Blue Star in the afternoon on two different days & they were either closed or sold out. Go in the morning. The longer you're in line, the better everything looks. We got the Raspberry Rosemary Buttercream & the Meyer Lemon & Key Lime Custard donuts. *Instagram-friendly donuts!
11 a.m. - The Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of beauty dedicated to authentic Japanese garden design. Stop and smell the roses at International Rose Test Garden or head to Washington Park. Pittock Mansion is nearby & worth seeing.
2 p.m. - Time for some food & grub. Get ice cream at Ruby Jewel or Salt & Straw. Get a flight of beer & a cup of beer cheese soup at Cascade Brewing Barrel House. Eat the veggie bagel sandwich at Petunia's Pies & Pastries. Loads of tasty options in Portland. Lots of food options if you're staying in downtown Portland, Oregon!
3 p.m. - Head back into downtown & explore the Portland Art Museum. Tickets are $19.99 per adult, which is a bargain if you're an art lover. This may be the perfect place to spend the afternoon if it's particularly rainy or glum outside. Make sure to check museum opening time. They close at 5 p.m. every day besides Thursday & Friday.
5 p.m. - Snap a selfie at the Keep Portland Weird mural on 3rd Street between Burnside & Ankeny before it gets dark. *Instagram-friendly spot!
6 p.m. - After you're done at the mural, walk the Burnside Bridge to check out the White Stag sign. You only need to walk halfway across the bridge to land a good photo. The sign looks better at night. *Personal Favorite & Instagram-friendly spot!
6:30 p.m. - Do you like dive bars, a place that's low key, where the locals are, where everybody knows your name? You've had a long weekend & your trip is winding down. Kells Irish Pub is one of my favorite spots in Portland. Sip on one of their house-made brews & stay for dinner. Their fries are definitely in my top 10 fries EVER. Decent amount of vegetarian options too!
Our first 30 minutes arriving in Portland late one evening, Fred & I felt hungry, tired, & unmotivated to figure out what to eat. I ultimately stepped up to lead us on a walk to nowhere. Most things were closed & I didn't have a plan but we just happened upon Kells Irish Pub. I swear those fries tasted like the most decadent fries in the entire world. We left with our bellies full & our minds happy with the start of our Portland trip. *Personal Favorite
8 p.m. - The night is young. Giggle a bit at Helium Comedy Club. Listen to some tunes at the historic Crystal Ballroom. Hit up Commons Brewery. Make a pit stop at Splash Bar grab a drink & play some of their free arcade games.
8 p.m. - The night is young. Giggle a bit at Helium Comedy Club. Listen to some tunes at the historic Crystal Ballroom. Hit up Commons Brewery. Make a pit stop at Splash Bar grab a drink & play some of their free arcade games.
No matter what you like in life, spend one day or two in the heart of Portland. You'll have a nice experience walking the area, stop to shop if something catches your eye. Hike some trails & take in Portland's gorgeous views, especially in autumn. I love the way the sunbeams & light hits the leaves. It will remain in my heart.
Got extra time? Want to try something that's not on the Portland travel guide list?
- Attend a Portland Timbers game.
- Spend the day at Colombia River Gorge looking at all the waterfalls & nature.
- Visit the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium for some oddities & curiosities.
- Go to Washington Park.
- Have a fun-filled day of adventure, snowboarding, and more on Mount Hood.
Take your family and enjoy the features of this Pacific Northwest location. Walk around the streets and explore the neighborhood. No matter how long you spend in the city, you'll find ways to have fun throughout your experience. Would you spend one day or more a few days in Portland?
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