It’s summer in San Francisco!
Best parks, museums, fun food, hikes, free music and kid’s shows, tips, insider secrets (redwood grove, fairy doors, Chinatown lunch and playgrounds, cheapest bay cruise), and more.
Summer 2026: Tips for Visiting US National Parks
Know before you go to US national parks this summer.
Tips for road conditions, weather, wildlife and fire safety, extreme summer heat, new entrance fees and passes, national parks with no entrance fees, and individual park updates.
July 4 Celebrations Around America
Independence Day this year celebrates 250 years of democracy and creation of a new country – the United States of America.
This summer traveling around the US, enjoy July 4 festivals with live music, community parades and activities, local food, and of course, fireworks.
Bake Star Cookies for July 4th
The first American flag had 13 white stars on a blue background.
Two hundred and fifty years later, there are 50 stars, representing each of the United States.
For a fun activity to celebrate July 4, bake cookies in the shape of stars.
Read more…Summer Solstice Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes
June 21 is the summer solstice, longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. Especially far north in Scandinavia, long sunlit days seem to go on forever.
Celebrate the summer solstice with a batch of fresh strawberry cupcakes.
Free Pass to California State Historic Parks
Sign up for a free pass to 30+ California State Historic Parks, valid until Dec. 31, 2026.
More info and 10 favorite parks to visit.