Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of State’s Level 4 health advisory urges citizens not to travel. After the pandemic passes, you may be anxious to celebrate by getting back out into the world. Until then, now is a great time to plan future trips and discover some amazing places.

Anchorage, Alaska

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After months of indoor hangouts, you may be called to the great outdoors. An adventure in Anchorage, Alaska, might be the excursion you need. Best enjoyed in Alaska’s warm summer months, Anchorage has an adventure waiting in every direction. South of the city at Chugach State Park, you can gaze at the massive remnants of Portage Glacier. Your hike will take you on a journey through vistas of snow-capped mountains and broad lakes. Encounter the breathtaking Alaskan wildlife, like wood bison, once believed to have been extinct. An art museum and heritage center are great for those looking for indoor enjoyment.

Honolulu, Hawaii

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A trip to paradise may be needed after months of cabin fever, and Honolulu is an epitome of paradise. Enjoy the rich culture and seasonal craft shows in the city, take walks through the tropical botanical gardens or hit the city’s famed beaches. On the shores of Honolulu, bodyboarding lessons are offered to tourists, making this an excellent option for vacationers looking to try something new and fun to learn. There is no better way to dip into the hobby than to try it on the tropical Hawaiian coast. The city is also known for its acclaimed zoo and nearby golf courses for a scenic and leisurely round.

Lansing, Michigan

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If you’re looking to get out of the neighborhood and discover someplace new, the vibrant city of Lansing, Michigan, could be what you’re looking for. From dining to art and history, your Lansing trip will immerse you in the city’s diverse culture. Browse the local art scene with Fireworks Glass studios and witness the process of blowing glass firsthand. For music-lovers, the city’s jazz and blues fests are an ideal time to visit. During the warmer times of the year, you can even see the city from the river with the local canoe rental service. For an eerie experience, tours are available to true crime and haunted locations.

Niagara Falls, New York

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A towering wonder of the world, Niagara Falls is a majestic sight, and the surrounding area has even more to discover. Niagara Falls State Park boasts multiple viewing options, including the observation tower, misty pathways at the base of the falls, and the Maid of the Mist boat tour. The city of Niagara Falls, New York, also has several attractions to take up more than one days’ worth of entertainment. A large casino is within walking distance from the falls itself, and it houses a range of dining, gaming and entertainment options to plan your trip around. The surrounding streets are lined with restaurants and shops with souvenirs unique to the city. Near the falls is another aquatic highlight: the Aquarium of Niagara. This fascinating establishment houses rescued seals, dozens of varieties of fish and has a new shark and ray exhibit on the way.

Tombstone, Arizona

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During a pandemic, our escapism comes from binge-watching movies and TV, but this may have you craving something more tactile. Step into the old west in Tombstone, Arizona—a fully-functioning town that both preserves and reenacts its own history. See the surrounding old west ghost towns and other historic sites via local Jeep and Humvee tours. Trolley tours and old fashioned stagecoaches can take you through the town’s central historic district, dotted with copious museums and historic sites. Tombstone has a selection of saloons and cafés for dining at high noon. Bed and breakfasts, RV parks and themed inns are available for visitors to stay for a spell.

Planning a trip takes time, which is something many of us have at the moment, and now is an excellent time to think about your next adventure to an amazing place.