We've placed the nation's capital at the top of our bucket list for its vibrant mix of history and culture. When traveling to the District of Columbia, residents of our senior living community can see iconic symbols firsthand, including the White House, National Mall and Lincoln Memorial. The 19 museums that compose the Smithsonian Institution are all free to visit. Depending on your interests, you could spend time at the Museum of American History, National Gallery of Art or National Air and Space Museum. When you're ready to relax, take a dinner cruise along the Potomac River for a unique view of the city. Many people visit the capital in the spring to see its stunning display of pink and white cherry blossoms.
For a big-city experience, it's hard to go wrong with the Big Apple. New York City draws millions of tourists each year for its distinctive attractions and exuberant atmosphere. Visitors can see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, admire the skyline from the Empire State Building and marvel at the bright lights of Times Square. Central Park offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with walking paths, bridges, gardens and a castle to explore. Broadway awaits with unforgettable live theater. Whether you see a long-running musical or a contemporary production, you'll be treated to impressive stories and performances.
New Orleans feels a world away from Bethesda Gardens Monument in Colorado. Where else can you cruise the Mississippi River on a paddle wheeler while listening to jazz or look for alligators on a bayou tour? The French Quarter, boasting cobblestone streets and historic buildings, immerses you in French, Spanish, African and American culture. Grab a beignet from the famous Café du Monde, and enjoy the energy of street performers and artists in Jackson Square. Be sure to save room for dinner and indulge in local delights such as gumbo, jambalaya, po'boy sandwiches and crawfish étouffée.
Another must-see destination, Yellowstone National Park is the perfect place for seniors to spend time outdoors. Pull out your camera for Instagram-worthy shots of the Old Faithful geyser erupting and the rainbow of colors at Grand Prismatic Springs. Go fishing on Yellowstone Lake, soak in relaxing hot springs and look for wolves and bears on guided wildlife tours. The park gets busy in the summer, so plan your trip in advance to secure accommodations. Residents of our senior living community can take advantage of their retirement years and travel in late May and June when Yellowstone is less crowded.
Featuring more than 500 miles of picturesque shoreline, Cape Cod is a favorite coastal getaway. Your trip can be as busy or as quiet as you want. You can play a round of golf, kayak in the waters of Cape Cod Bay or bask in the sun on sandy beaches. The peninsula's charming communities — including Provincetown, Chatham, Wellfleet and Falmouth — are home to art galleries, boutiques, antique shops and spas. When you've worked up an appetite, feast on popular dishes such as lobster rolls, fried clams and delicate scallops.
With its breathtaking glaciers and majestic mountains, Alaska is on many travel bucket lists. If you're up for exploring by car, plan a road trip from Anchorage or Juneau and discover the state's natural beauty at your own pace. Some seniors prefer to see Alaska's Inside Passage on a cruise ship, where you can watch for whales, eagles and seals. You can take a major cruise line up the coast from Seattle or San Francisco or book with small-ship cruise operators in Alaska that can reach more secluded areas. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, consider booking a stay at a remote wilderness lodge.
When you visit San Francisco, you can cross famous attractions off your must-see list, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and Alcatraz. Take a cable car ride around the city, making sure to stop at Lombard Street to see the hairpin turns that make the road the crookedest street in the world. Head to the wharf to board historic ships at Hyde Street Pier and say hello to the sea lions that laze at Pier 39. This city is full of cool neighborhoods to explore, including Little Italy, Chinatown and the Marina District.
Disney World might be an unexpected entry on our list, but the Florida resort isn't just for kids — it's for the young at heart. Rediscover the magic of characters such as Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Aladdin and Winnie the Pooh. Whether you visit one theme park or all four, there's plenty of whimsy to be found. If you're not fond of thrill-seeking rides, opt for gentle, family-friendly experiences such as the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise and Wildlife Express Train. Delight in playful parades and street performances, and watch dazzling fireworks. Many attractions are accessible, and older adults can rent mobility devices if needed.
