National Public Lands Day is Sept. 26, 2026
Volunteer to help keep our parks in good shape, and visit parks to learn about cultural connections and conservation efforts.
“National parks preserve the story of America.”
Family vacations in December: Four cities to beat summer heat
Summer 2026 was extraordinarily hot, breaking records. Cities such as Athens, Seville, Bangkok and Rome reached such high temperatures, outdoor activities are not fun. Take your family vacation in December to avoid summer heat, and enjoy the wonderful holiday season in these cities.
Read more…Apple Hill and recipe for Apple French Toast
September is time to head to Apple Hill, two hours east of San Francisco in the foothills to enjoy bounty of fall apples. Check out our list of favorite Apple Hill farms, apple treats, and family activities, plus a recipe for Apple French Toast Bake.
Read more…Celebrate Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
The Mid-Autumn Moon Festival is coming up in September.
This holiday, celebrated in Asia, is fun for families – kids stay up to see the full moon and eat special sweets. Go out and look for Jade Rabbit and Lady Chang in the moon.
Yosemite in Fall
September and October are a great time to visit Yosemite National Park, weather is much cooler in the valley and there are fewer crowds throughout the park. Travel tips, including weather, parking and shuttle buses, cell phone coverage, day hikes maps, art in Yosemite.
Read more…Summer’s end: Travel the world with books
Summer is ending, but books are always an open road.
Read your way around the world to far destinations, step into adventures in another place and time, meet artists and look at art, find out why our national parks are so special and plan your next park to visit.