If you're a roller coaster fanatic and think you've seen every type of coaster, think again. The following mountain coaster in Maryland is the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering a unique, unforgettable experience. Check it out and start planning your trip today!
In Western Maryland you'll find Wisp Resort, known mostly for its wintertime slopes and cozy cabins. This spot actually offers a variety of activities other than skiing, and the Mountain Coaster just may be the most remarkable.
After you're pulled up the hill, you're then taken on a journey that zips, twists, and zooms through 3,500 feet of wooded areas. This ride also provides views of Deep Creek Lake in the distance.
You can purchase one ride or a package of several rides by visiting the website here.
To get a glimpse of what to expect while riding the Mountain Coaster, check out the below GoPro video by Youtube user Rusty Cranium. Looks like a blast!
Address: 296 Marsh Hill Rd, McHenry, MD 21541
Have you ridden the Mountain Coaster at Wisp Resort? What was the like? For more adventures in Western Maryland, click here!
When it comes to winter activities in the US, there are some that are always at the top of the list. Whether it's skiing the slopes at a world-class ski resort, whale-watching in Alaska, or hiking through a national park, we've dreamed of them all. And while these winter adventures are incredible, we have found a few unique excursions that will make your season epic. So, this year, if you're searching for things to do during the colder season, here are 9 winter adventures across the U.S. that belong on your cold weather bucket list.
Of course, the best way to kick off any cold-weather adventure is with a ski trip to one of the top ski resorts in the country. With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, this world-class ski-only resort makes every experience memorable. The resort caters to skiers of all levels, so your entire family can enjoy this unique experience. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended to secure your spot on the mountain. Aside from skiing, the lodge boasts world-class dining, shopping, tours, workshops, ski lessons, and so much more. A trip to Deer Valley Resort will make your winter complete.
Alaska is known for its plethora of winter activities, but there is one that stands out amongst the rest. A private dog sledding tour in Willow, Alaska is an adventure that is made for any bucket list. The tour offers behind-the-scenes access to the family-run kennel, and you'll be able to meet the huskies as well as help secure their harnesses. The 90-minute Alaskan sled ride boasts stunning views of Denali as you meander through private trails. Bundle up, as it will be cold, but this bucket list adventure is worth the effort.
3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield
Frozen Lake Superior shoreline in winter showing an orange stone cliff, large icicles, the frozen lake, and people for scale. There is copy space on the left side of the frame. Photograph is from the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on Lake Superior in Northern Wisconsin, a popular winter travel destination.
For a truly unique experience that is worthy of your bucket list, take a self-guided tour to see the frozen sea caves at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield. Known as the "Jewels of Lake Superior" or simply as "The Apostles," these otherworldly islands require a bit of effort to get to, but they are worth the journey as they will leave you awestruck. Featuring 21 islands and over 70,000 acres of natural beauty, there will be lots of areas to explore. During the winter months, the sandstone caves are transformed into an icy winter wonderland that can be accessed by walking across the frozen lake. While the caves are beautiful year-round, during the snowy season, the ice formations are truly a sight to behold.
4. Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawai'i
Winter doesn’t mean that all activities must involve cold weather. If you agree, I found the perfect bucket list adventure in Hawai'i. Snorkeling with manta rays is an experience that you won't soon forget. Ride on a tour boat to witness the gorgeous Hawaiian sunset, then dive under the sea to get up close and personal with the graceful creatures. You'll be accompanied by an expert tour guide, so you'll be in good hands every step of the way. It's guaranteed to see mantas on your two-and-a-half-hour tour, but if you don't, you can rebook the tour at no additional charge. This one-of-a-kind adventure in Hawai'i is unlike any other.
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5. Private Winter Wildlife Safari, Yellowstone National Park
During the winter, gaining access to certain areas inside Yellowstone National Park is almost impossible. Luckily, there is a tour that offers access to some of the most fascinating spots inside the park. If you have never seen the Mammoth Hot Springs in the winter, then this tour is for you. In addition to the hot springs, you and your group will have access to Lamar Valley on this 8-hour tour, where you can witness bison, grizzly bears, wolves, as well as other wildlife in their natural habitat. This group tour is a nature lover's and photographer's winter dream come true.
6. New York Central Park Ice Skating Ticket with Cruise Experience, New York
Ice skating in Central Park has been a tradition for residents and tourists alike. At its opening (1858) and for the next century the Central Park Lake was filled with ice skaters. The lake was closed to skaters when Wollman Rink opened in 1950 putting skaters beneath the city skyline.
When it comes to winter activities across the US, New York City is a prime location. Millions of visitors flock to the city each year to experience all that it has to offer. One of the best things to do in NYC in the winter is to ice skate in the Wollman Rink in the iconic Central Park. You'll be fully submerged in a winter wonderland as you jump, twirl, and glide around the rink. But the fun doesn't stop there! Enjoy a 60-minute sightseeing cruise around the Statue of Liberty. After all, you can't travel to NYC without seeing Lady Liberty.
If you've been to the Grand Canyon, you may have explored it on land. However, there is a tour where you can witness the natural wonder by air and water. The 40-minute tour takes you on a helicopter ride over the West Rim of the canyon. You then land on the canyon floor and hop on a boat for a 15-minute scenic ride on the Colorado River. You can also opt to complete the tour on foot. If there is a snowfall, it makes this winter tour more spectacular.
8. Key West, Florida
Key West in the glow of the morning sunrise
Trade those ski goggles for sunglasses and enjoy Key West in the winter. Known for its dreamy sunsets and thriving nightlife, Florida’s southernmost point is the perfect place for a warm-weather winter. Take a sunset sail on a 70-foot catamaran, spend an afternoon snorkeling around a coral barrier reef, or take a leisurely paddle tour through the mangrove creeks. Whether you want to spend a weekend in Key West or the whole holiday season, you’ll never run out of things to do in Key West.
Vermont is home to 20 alpine ski areas, and there are plenty of places to go skiing in Vermont. Whether you prefer gentle slopes or thrilling glades and steeps, there’s a slope with your name on it. Jay Peak Resort is one of Vermont’s northernmost resorts and it just so happens to be home to Vermont’s only indoor waterpark and indoor ice rink. If you crave the need for speed, head over to Killington Mountain Resort where you can experience the highest vertical drop in New England. Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” this one is for the adrenaline junkies!
What do you think about these winter bucket list adventures across the US? Did your favorite cold weather activity make the list? Sound off in the comments below. Be sure to visit our website for more bucket list adventures that will make your year epic.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
