Published Sep 1, 2017

The Museum Of Medical Oddities In Philadelphia Is Not For The Faint Of Heart

Published Sep 1, 2017

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Published Oct 4, 2023

Your Ultimate Guide to Winter Attractions and Activities in Northern California

Ready for the best things to do in Northern California in winter? We have the ultimate list of skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, and more!

Published Oct 4, 2023

Written by

Megan Todaro

Ahh, winter in Northern California. It's the perfect way to dive into a wonderful mix of indoor and outdoor fun, creating a memorable season for visitors and residents alike. It doesn't matter whether you're an adventure lover or someone who adores cozy indoor activities; there are a ton of fun things to do in Northern California in winter. Personally, I love the chance to read by the fireplace, take a road trip up to the mountains, or head out to various state parks like Yosemite National Park.

One of the absolute must-tries in this season is hitting the slopes. Northern California boasts some fantastic ski resorts like Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain that offer a blast of excitement with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing amid the most breathtaking mountain scenery. And guess what? If you're on a budget, you can still have a fantastic time by heading outside into nature! Winter has this amazing way of transforming the region's natural wonders into even more magical places, like the iconic Big Sur and the pristine Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of cheap things to do in Northern California in winter that involve nature and not breaking the bank.

With a snowy touch, the famous waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls, turn into something straight out of a fairy tale, with their graceful cascades surrounded by glistening snow, making it a mesmerizing sight for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you're speeding down the slopes or taking a leisurely stroll through places like Sacramento, Santa Cruz, or near the Pacific, Northern California winter activities offer a little something wonderful for everyone to enjoy.

Holiday Events In Northern California

It's the attractions that provide some of the best family things to do in Northern California in winter. NorCal's holiday season weaves a spell of enchantment, offering a rich array of festive events and adventures. From the mesmerizing lights of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom to beautiful holiday markets like San Jose's Christmas in the Park, there's a world of merriment waiting to be explored during the winter season. You can fully immerse yourself in the cozy embrace of community celebrations of Mendocino, go ice skating near the Golden Gate Bridge, or savor the lights from various botanical gardens. It doesn't get much better than this...

1. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Location: 1001 Fairgrounds Dr, Vallejo, CA 94589

Popularity: Popular year-round, as it is an amusement park.

Price: Six Flags ticket required for entry.

Winter at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom offers a unique twist on the typical theme park experience. During the winter months, the park transforms into Holiday in the Park, a festive wonderland filled with holiday lights, decorations, and seasonal entertainment. Visitors can enjoy holiday-themed shows, meet and greets with Santa Claus, and the thrill of riding roller coasters in the crisp winter air. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.

2. Napa Valley Wine Train

Location: 1275 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559

Popularity: Popular year-round for various train excursions.

Price: Ticket prices vary depending on excursion. Reservations encouraged.

The Napa Valley Wine Train is a delightful excursion through the picturesque Napa Valley during the winter months. Passengers are treated to a scenic journey aboard a beautifully decorated vintage train, enjoying gourmet meals and, of course, wine. With wintry vineyard views and cozy interiors, it's a unique way to savor the region's renowned wines and culinary delights while taking in Napa Valley's serene beauty during the colder season.

3. Christmas in the Park

Location: History Park in San Jose

Popularity: A very popular event every year.

Price: Price per car varies.

Christmas in the Park is a cherished holiday tradition. Each year, Plaza de Cesar Chavez transforms into a magical wonderland of festive displays, animated exhibits, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Families can stroll through this enchanting park, enjoying the twinkling lights, holiday music, and visits with Santa Claus.

4. San Rafael Lighted Boat Parade

Location: San Rafael, California

Popularity: A popular town year-round.

Price: Free to view from various spots around town.

The San Rafael Lighted Boat Parade is a beloved annual event in Northern California. Set against the backdrop of the San Rafael Canal, this festive spectacle features a colorful flotilla of boats decked out in dazzling lights, creating a magical display. Families and spectators gather along the waterfront to enjoy the twinkling vessels as they cruise through the night, spreading holiday cheer and a sense of community.

Christmas Towns In Northern California

As far as free things to do in Northern California in winter are concerned, visiting a small town certainly tops the list. Northern California becomes a magical place during the holiday season, and its Christmas towns embody the true essence of festive charm. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets of Sutter Creek, aglow with enchanting lights, or immersing yourself in the beauty of the Bay Area, there's a magical Christmas experience tucked away in every corner of the region.

5. Nevada City, California

Location: Nevada City, California

Popularity: Popular year-round as a Gold Rush town.

Price: N/A

Nevada City, California epitomizes Christmas charm. This Gold Rush-era town dons a festive cloak of lights and holiday decorations, creating a magical atmosphere on its historic streets. Visitors can explore quaint shops offering unique gifts and partake in seasonal events and celebrations. Nevada City's timeless ambiance and spirited festivities make it a cherished destination to revel in the true magic of Christmas.

6. Sutter Creek, California

Location: Sutter Creek, California

Popularity: Very popular during Christmastime. Also popular year-round for wine tasting.

Price: N/A

Sutter Creek, California transforms into a Christmas haven during the holiday season. Its historic Main Street lights up with Christmas decor, evoking a cozy yuletide atmosphere. Local shops and boutiques offer an array of special gifts for the season, and the community gathers for joyful events, parades, and celebrations that make Sutter Creek a magical destination to experience the true spirit of Christmas.

7. Ferndale, California

Location: Ferndale, California

Popularity: Very popular during winter, as the whole town comes to life with decorations.

Price: N/A

Christmas in Ferndale, California is a heartwarming experience. Its picturesque Victorian streets twinkle with enchanting lights and seasonal decorations. Community events and festive gatherings bring neighbors together to share in the joy of the season. Ferndale's blend of old-world charm and holiday spirit makes it a truly magical place to celebrate Christmas, adding in a dose of nostalgia, too.

Outdoor Activities

Out of all the best things to do in Northern California in winter, outdoor activities top the list. It’s no wonder really, with such beautiful destinations like Sequoia National Park, Mammoth Lakes, and Muir Woods in the neighborhood. Spending time outside can mean ice skating with family and friends, or simply heading out to San Francisco’s Union Square for the annual tree lighting ceremony.

8. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Popularity: Very popular all year long.

Price: Park entry fees at minimum.

Did you know you can take a guided snowshoe tour at Lassen Volcanic National Park? As winter blankets the park, it offers a serene and pristine landscape for snowshoers to explore. With well-marked trails and breathtaking views, visitors can meander through snow-covered forests, around frozen lakes, and even past steaming hydrothermal features. It doesn't get much more magical than this!

9. Soda Springs Ski Resort

Location: 10244 Soda Springs Rd, Soda Springs, CA 95728

Popularity: Popular during skiing season when the mountains open.

Price: Lift tickets, rentals, tubing packages vary.

Soda Springs Ski Resort located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, is a thrilling destination for snow tubing enthusiasts. With dedicated tubing lanes and a magic carpet lift, visitors can zoom down the snowy slopes for an exhilarating ride. The resort's winter wonderland backdrop and the joyous laughter of tubers create an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit spot for winter fun in the region.

10. Folsom's Historic District Ice Rink

Location: 905 Leidesdorff Street, Folsom, CA 95630

Popularity: Very popular on weekends during winter.

Price: Cost of rink use and skate rental.

Folsom's Historic District Ice Rink, a cherished wintertime attraction in Northern California, offers an incredible skating experience. Located in the heart of the charming historic district, the ice rink beckons visitors of all ages to glide on the ice beneath twinkling lights and historic facades. Surrounded by the town's unique shops and dining, it creates a festive and spirited atmosphere.

11. Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe

Location: Nebelhorn, Hwy 50 El Dorado Fwy, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96155

Popularity: Very popular during skiing season.

Price: Lift tickets, rentals, skiing packages vary.

Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland, offering an array of snow-filled activities for all ages. Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, the resort boasts groomed snow play areas, perfect for snowball fights and building snowmen. Visitors can also enjoy exhilarating snow tubing, making it an ideal destination for family fun in the winter. The stunning alpine scenery enhances the experience, creating cherished winter memories.

Winter Getaways

Sometimes the most romantic things to do in Northern California in winter involve ditching the Los Angeles scene and heading up into the mountains to a remote cabin covered in snow. Northern California's winter accommodations provide a snug escape within the region's seasonal splendor. Do you prefer enchanting lodges tucked amidst the mountains? Or do you seek a touch of luxury with ski resort stays? The area's historic inns, charming boutique hotels, and rustic cabins exude a welcoming ambiance, while city hotels in San Francisco and other urban hubs offer urban comforts. In Northern California, winter lodgings cater to diverse tastes, promising an unforgettable seasonal delight.

12. Sierra Hot Springs

Location: 521 Campbell Hot Springs Rd, Sierraville, CA 96126

Popularity: Very popular during winter when hot springs and hot tubs are open.

Price: $160+ per night.

Sierra Hot Springs

in Northern California's serene Sierra Nevada Mountains, is a tranquil oasis of rejuvenation. This natural geothermal wonder boasts a variety of mineral-rich pools and saunas, each with its own unique healing properties. Visitors can immerse themselves in the healing waters, surrounded by the beauty of the forested landscape. Sierra Hot Springs offers a peaceful retreat where relaxation and natural therapy harmonize in perfect balance.

13. Inn Town Campground

Location: 9 Kidder Ct, Nevada City, CA 95959

Popularity: Very popular all year long.

Price: Price depends on room accommodations.

Winter at Inn Town Campground in Nevada City, California, is a cozy escape into nature. With heated restrooms and hot showers, it's a comfortable camping experience even during the colder months. Visitors can gather around fire pits to roast marshmallows and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Surrounded by pristine forests, it's an idyllic destination for winter camping, providing both adventure and seclusion.

14. Inn at Mount Shasta

Location: 710 S Mount Shasta Blvd, Mount Shasta, CA 96067-2532

Popularity: Very popular all year long.

Price: $169+ per room

The Inn at Mount Shasta offers a charming alpine retreat. With stunning views of the majestic Mount Shasta, this cozy inn provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Its comfortable rooms, tranquil gardens, and easy access to outdoor adventures make it a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area and experiencing a peaceful mountain getaway.

15. The Cabin in Sierraville

Location: Sierraville, California

Popularity: Very popular no matter the season.

Price: $270+ per room

Step into the enchanting beauty of the Sierra Nevada with a stay at this delightful Sierraville cabin available for rent on Airbnb, providing the perfect escape from the daily grind. This mountain haven exudes warmth and comfort, recently updated with new furniture and fixtures, offering everything you require for a memorable mountain getaway. The cabin accommodates two guests comfortably, featuring a queen-sized bed with a luxurious mattress for a peaceful night's rest. With a cozy gas fireplace and premium wool blankets, even chilly winter evenings are a breeze.

Have you started planning your itinerary of things to do in Northern California in winter yet? I know, I have. I’m going to visit handfuls of wineries, sip on rich red Syrahs, and find the best state park hiking I can. The Golden State truly comes alive as the temperatures drop, making it an ideal vacation destination in America. Whether you’re choosing a day trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park or an overnight getaway in wine country, you’ll surely have a rewarding experience. Even with hiking trails blanketed in snow, just add an extra layer of socks and enjoy! This time of year in NorCal sure is special. Do you have a favorite attraction or event in winter? Sound off in the comments section!

Experiences|Museums

Published Dec 27, 2017

Here Are 14 Museums In Philadelphia That You Absolutely Must Visit

Philadelphia offers a diverse range of museums, from art and history to science and culture, making it a top destination for museum enthusiasts.

Published Dec 27, 2017

Written by

Kim Magaraci

With how much history has happened right here in our city, it's no wonder we're one of the museum capitals of the world. There are more than 100 museums in Philadelphia, and some days you may walk past a dozen of them and never even notice they are there. Here are a few that are so worth spending the day exploring — particularly when the weather is bad, and you want to imagine you're anywhere else but rainy, chilly Philly. Whether you like science, history, art, or even all three, you're sure to find your new favorite museum somewhere in Philadelphia.

1. Penn Museum

When you visit the Penn Museum, you might find it hard to look away from the enormous 15-ton Egyptian sphinx, which is one of their main attractions. More than 125 years of sponsoring expeditions has allowed Penn Museum researchers to collect the nearly 1 million artifacts on display, and this impressive history has made Penn Museum one of the world's best archaeological and anthropological museums. You'll find clay tablets with cuneiform writing, artifacts from a 3,200 year old Pharaoh palace, and the largest collection of artifacts from the Levant.

Address: 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

2. Barnes Foundation

The gorgeous Barnes Foundation stands out among the Parkway museums thanks to its impressive landscaping and architecture, but the real draw is the collection inside. Works from Cézanne, Renoir, Matisse, Manet, Degas, Seurat, Prendergrast, Titian, and Picasso make the Barnes Foundation one of the largest collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, African sculpture, and early Modern paintings in the entire world.

Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130

3. American Helicopter Museum & Education Center

alt — Facebook / American Helicopter Museum

Kids and adults alike have so much fun in the 20,000-square-foot hangar at the American Helicopter Museum. Discover 70 years' worth of vintage and modern aircraft, climb into some helicopters and pretend to pilot around, and see the world's only V-22 tilt-rotor Osprey on public display.

Address: 1220 American Boulevard W, Goshen Twp, PA 19380

4. Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute is one of the oldest and most impressive science museums in the world, and visitors have been flocking here for decades to enjoy their signature interactive exhibits. Admit it — even when you visit as an adult, you've got to run through the heart! The enormous IMAX theater and North America's second-oldest planetarium are other popular reasons to visit one of Philly's favorite museums.

Address: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

5. Mütter Museum

alt — Facebook / Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

You'll find some strange things at the Mütter Museum... including a wall of 3,000 skulls, abnormal body parts, strange skeletons, and preserved organs. If you can stomach all of that, you can also check out a slice of Albert Einstein's brain.Address: 19 S. 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

6. Philadelphia Museum of Art

alt — Facebook / Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art might be the most famous building in Philadelphia, thanks in no small part to Rocky Balboa. The third largest art museum in America impresses visitors every single time, with amazing collections of Modern, Impressionists, America and Renaissance artwork. The Pollocks are always my favorite to see, but Duchamp, Thomas Eakins, Cezzane, and others fill the more than 80 rooms with stunning culture and talent. Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130

7. National Constitution Center & Independence Visitor's Center

alt — Facebook / National Constitution Center

Independence Mall is worth taking an entire day to explore. Be sure to visit the 160,000 square-foot National Constitution Center to see a rare copy of the Bill of Rights, as well as the Constitution, of course! The stories told in the large Kimmel Theater are worth attending, as they mix multimedia to teach about the beginning of our country. Explore key Supreme Court cases and hang out with life-size bronze figures of the founding fathers before heading across the street to walk through Independence Visitor's Center and seeing the Liberty Bell. If you have time, consider touring Independence Hall while you are nearby.

Address: 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

8. Please Touch Museum

Do you remember trips to the Please Touch Museum when you were a kid? More than two million visitors have played through the halls of one of America's best children's museums. Historic Memorial Hall is the perfect location to blend education and play as kids and adults enjoy six interactive exhibit zones. Currently on display, you'll find an impressive restored Woodside Park Carousel, built in Philadelphia in 1908.

Address: 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131

9. Fairmount Water Works

Fairmount Water Works is one of Philadelphia's most recognizable landmarks, and now you can explore the Interpretive Center on the grounds! Learn about environmental protection, architectureal history, and the importance of urban water planning. Kids and adults alike will love the interactive exhibits and the environmental aspect of the Water Works. This musuem is best saved for a warm weather day.

Address: Waterworks Drive & Kelly Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19130

10. African American Museum in Philadelphia

alt — Facebook / The African American Museum in Philadelphia

When it was founded in 1976, the African American Museum in Philadelphia, was the first institution built by a major U.S. city to preserve, interpret and exhibit the heritage and culture of African-Americans. The main exhibit, Audacious Freedom, tells the stories of African Americans in Philadelphia during the first century of American history: 1776 to 1876. Learn about Octavius Cato and other historic figures as you explore the exhibits on display.

Address: 701 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

11. Eastern State Penitentiary

alt — Facebook / Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State is more than just a Halloween attraction. The creepy Gothic architecture hides one of the most impressive prisons ever built. Did you know that Eastern State had central heat, running water, and flush toilets before most of the country? Even the White House waited longer than Eastern State for these amenities. Enjoy a tour of Al Capone's own cell, learn about famous bank robber Willie Sutton's 1945 breakout, and learn about prison art.

Address:22nd Street & Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130

12. National Museum of American Jewish History

One of the most impressive buildings in Old City, Philadelphia is the National Museum of American Jewish History. The museum tells the story of nearly 400 years of American history, from Jewish immigrants to Jewish Americans, and everything in between. Thousands of images and artifacts, along with original films and interactive displays, make this a must-see museum in Philadelphia. Visit the free Hall of Fame on the ground floor to see Einstein's own pipe, Stephen Spielberg’s first camera, and more.

Address: 101 S. Independence Mall, Philadelphia PA 19106

13. Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

alt — Facebook / Academy of Natural Sciences

The Academy of Natural Sciences is my favorite museum in Philadelphia. I can't help it — the enormous, fully constructed Tyrannosaurus Rex, takes my breath away, every time I see it! You can also check out the very first dinosaur ever discovered, Haddonfield's own Hadrosaurus foulkii. Dinosaur Hall is one of the most fun places to explore in the entire city. In the winter, it's nice to spend some time in the museum's simulated tropical rain forest and enjoy the butterflies that make you feel like you're somewhere far, far away from chilly Philly.

Address: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103

14. Battleship New Jersey

The most decorated battleship in American History is docked in Camden, just a short drive, train ride, or even walk away from Center City. Explore the impressive battleship's Combat Engagement Center, watch the launch of a Tomahawk missile, and hear the stories from tour guides who were active duty on the ship itself. "Big J" served through World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and the Gulf War.

Address: 100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ 08103

You can save on admission to multiple museums with the Philadelphia Pass, if you're planning to go on a museum spree. Some museums even offer free admission on certain days of the week, so it's worth calling to find out! That way, you can see as much of the history that's preserved within Philadelphia without going broke. Of course, this list is in no way comprehensive — there are dozens and dozens of fascinating museums in Philadelphia — but if you check these 14 out over the winter, you'll be sure to have a new appreciation for Philadelphia come spring. When the weather warms up and you're itching to spend some time outside, check out a few of Philadelphia's best outdoor museums, including Bartram's Garden: The Secret Garden In Philadelphia You’re Guaranteed To Love and The Magic Gardens: The One Enchanting Place In Philadelphia That Must Go On Your Bucket List Immediately.

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by Courtnie Erickson

on Nov 7

The Museum Of Medical Oddities In Philadelphia Is Not For The Faint Of Heart

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Your Ultimate Guide to Winter Attractions and Activities in Northern California

Holiday Events In Northern California

1. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

2. Napa Valley Wine Train

3. Christmas in the Park

4. San Rafael Lighted Boat Parade

Christmas Towns In Northern California

5. Nevada City, California

6. Sutter Creek, California

7. Ferndale, California

Outdoor Activities

8. Lassen Volcanic National Park

9. Soda Springs Ski Resort

10. Folsom's Historic District Ice Rink

11. Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe

Winter Getaways

12. Sierra Hot Springs

13. Inn Town Campground

14. Inn at Mount Shasta

15. The Cabin in Sierraville

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Get the latest updates and news

Here Are 14 Museums In Philadelphia That You Absolutely Must Visit

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Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

This Massive Antique Mall in Missouri Has Its Very Own Cafe

The 18 Best Travel Gifts You Can Get From Walmart

Hike This Trail in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park for an Unforgettable Adventure

The Amazing Campground in Idaho We Want to Visit All-Year Round

Hike More Than 1,800 Feet in Elevation in Alaska for an Unforgettable Adventure