The place we went this yr : NPR

[ad_1] <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4500x3000+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F7c%2Fdd%2Ff4594f8b4a8387a892694c419d75%2F2025-12-npr-travel.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4500x3000+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F7c%2Fdd%2Ff4594f8b4a8387a892694c419d75%2F2025-12-npr-travel.jpg" class="img" alt="A collage of photos including Mardi Gras floats in New Orleans, a sculpture of a man in a suit, Hawaii coastline, an alien statue, two sheep and people swimming at Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas." fetchpriority="high"/> A photograph illustration of pictures from NPR staffers' travels in 2025, together with journeys to (clockwise from higher left) New Orleans; Flint, Mich.; Hawaii; Roswell, N.M.; Rhinebeck, N.Y.; and Austin, Texas. Photos by NPR/Photograph illustration by Emily Bogle/NPR cover caption

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Photos by NPR/Photograph illustration by Emily Bogle/NPR NPR staffers get round — each for enjoyable and to report on tales from throughout the U.S.

This yr, we made our option to well-known landmarks, but additionally noticed off-the-beaten-path cities, quirky occasions and beautiful pure landscapes. You may be conversant in a few of these, however likelihood is you will uncover one thing new on this eclectic combine.

We broke it down into tough classes: museums and different landmarks, locations for out of doors actions, trying out a complete city, and occasions to place in your calendar.

So if you happen to're up for journey, here is a listing of the place we went and why we expect these locations are price a go to.

LANDMARKS, MUSEUMS AND ODDITIES Mardi Gras World, New Orleans <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ffd%2Ff4%2F5392d6a1409eae2cb624edee3807%2Fjennifervanasco.JPG" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ffd%2Ff4%2F5392d6a1409eae2cb624edee3807%2Fjennifervanasco.JPG" class="img" alt="This working warehouse is where Kern Studios produces its mammoth floats for Mardi Gras and major events." loading="lazy"/> Take a tour of the place floats for Mardi Gras are created. Jennifer Vanasco/NPR cover caption

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Jennifer Vanasco/NPR This working warehouse is the place Kern Studios produces its mammoth floats for Mardi Gras and different main occasions just like the Tremendous Bowl. Don a string of beads and take a tour — full with a candy slice of king cake. You will stroll previous an enormous bust of William Shakespeare, the tentacles of an octopus, and a full-sized float topped by a sculpture of musician Trombone Shorty. Guides undergo the corporate's historical past (the founder made his first float on the again of a mule cart in 1932) and provides detailed explanations of how items are made. Plus, you possibly can marvel at workers portray and carving, turning plastic foam and papier-mâché right into a rainbow of whimsical characters. — Jennifer Vanasco, senior editor, Tradition Desk

Bodie State Historic Park, Calif. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/6144x3253+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F04%2Fe2%2Ff1c25d8c479d8caba20e733e61f4%2F39760700652-f69e4b1652-6k.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/6144x3253+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F04%2Fe2%2Ff1c25d8c479d8caba20e733e61f4%2F39760700652-f69e4b1652-6k.jpg" class="img" alt="Bodie State Historic Park in California is preserved from when the last of this ghost town's residents left more than a half-century ago." loading="lazy"/> Bodie State Historic Park in California is preserved from when the final of this ghost city's residents left greater than a half-century in the past. Mike McBey/Flickr Artistic Commons cover caption

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Mike McBey/Flickr Artistic Commons An actual life ghost city within the Wild West! It is part of American tradition I solely noticed in films. What stays of Bodie, a once-bustling gold-mining city within the late 1800s, are about 200 constructions left in "arrested decay." That implies that you stroll via Bodie because it appeared in 1962, when California designated it a state park. We obtained to peek via the home windows of buildings and see artifacts left behind by the city's residents, the final of whom left greater than 50 years in the past. It is so effectively preserved that you simply really feel such as you've gone again in time. — Anne Li, senior product supervisor

Worldwide UFO Museum and Analysis Middle, Roswell, N.M. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+997/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F2a%2F01%2F8157bf32413da2814986bd4c9088%2Favapukatch.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+997/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F2a%2F01%2F8157bf32413da2814986bd4c9088%2Favapukatch.jpg" class="img" alt="The museum is dedicated to the 1947 Roswell crash and other alleged UFO incidents." loading="lazy"/> Roswell, N.M., is the location of a well-known incident in 1947 that spurred years of hypothesis about UFOs. Ava Pukatch/NPR cover caption

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Ava Pukatch/NPR It is a museum devoted to the 1947 Roswell crash and different alleged UFO incidents. In one of many immersive reveals, you are on an alien spacecraft and watch on the spaceship's console because it crashes into Roswell. One among my favourite components of the museum is all of the newspaper clippings from alien encounters throughout the U.S. Plus you possibly can watch an alien "abduction" and see a prop alien utilized in a film about Roswell. The city actually embraces its standing as an alien hub: There have been even alien statues on the fuel station. — Ava Pukatch, manufacturing assistant, Morning Version

World's Largest Chest of Drawers, Excessive Level, N.C. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2016x1512+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F70%2F05%2F31358e4b4540b9dd1895402e7802%2Fnellgreenfieldboyce.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2016x1512+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F70%2F05%2F31358e4b4540b9dd1895402e7802%2Fnellgreenfieldboyce.jpg" class="img" alt="The World's Largest Chest of Drawers, in High Point, N.C., stands nearly 40 feet tall." loading="lazy"/> The World's Largest Chest of Drawers, in Excessive Level, N.C., stands almost 40 ft tall. Nell Greenfieldboyce/NPR cover caption

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Nell Greenfieldboyce/NPR I used to be in Excessive Level, N.C., reporting on the science of purple autumn leaves and drove by a chest of drawers standing almost 40 ft tall. Inside is a constructing designed to appear to be a bed room bureau, which was constructed on the location to rejoice the native furnishings trade in 1926. When this bureau obtained outdated and wanted a refresher, the bigger chest of drawers was constructed round it. A few large socks dangle out of 1 drawer.

After I stopped by, it was surrounded by a series hyperlink fence with an indication that stated it was being repaired. It jogged my memory that we won't have our enjoyable native oddities except somebody does the laborious work of preserving them going, regardless of time and the weather. I salute my fellow Individuals who do this work, bringing pleasure to strangers. — Nell Greenfieldboyce, correspondent, Science Desk

Free Flight Unique Hen Sanctuary, Del Mar, Calif. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+386/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe2%2Fe9%2Ff32d3d5642dda20b866658428234%2Famysokolow.jpeg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+386/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe2%2Fe9%2Ff32d3d5642dda20b866658428234%2Famysokolow.jpeg" class="img" alt="The Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar, Calif., is a rescue for exotic birds." loading="lazy"/> You possibly can work together with quite a lot of species on the Free Flight Unique Hen Sanctuary in Del Mar, Calif. Amy Sokolow/WBUR cover caption

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Amy Sokolow/WBUR Most of the birds right here have trauma and pluck their feathers or have everlasting accidents. Some birds sat on branch-like perches scattered all through the house, whereas others have been in cages. We have been capable of feed them, and one in every of them talked! We noticed macaws, cockatoos, African gray parrots, cockatiels and extra. It was wild having the ability to stroll amongst them and work together with them, and see the loving care these animals get right here. — Amy Sokolow, WBUR affiliate producer, All Issues Thought of

Shigeko Kubota Video Artwork Basis, New York Metropolis <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+959/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F62%2Fd1%2F1c2d17024202b536f6ae3bb6fca2%2Flucaschen.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+959/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F62%2Fd1%2F1c2d17024202b536f6ae3bb6fca2%2Flucaschen.jpg" class="img" alt="The Shigeko Kubota Video Art Foundation preserves the space used by the video artist Shigeko Kubota in New York City." loading="lazy"/> The Shigeko Kubota Video Artwork Basis preserves the house utilized by the video artist Shigeko Kubota in New York Metropolis. Connor Von Mind/‎ cover caption

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Connor Von Mind/‎ Shigeko Kubota was an innovator in video arts, alongside together with her husband Nam June Paik. The 2 have been a part of the worldwide Fluxus motion of the Nineteen Sixties and '70s, which favored experimentation and efficiency.

The loft house is preserved from when Kubota lived there. You possibly can see her and Paik's artwork and gear, together with some massive items from her assortment: robots with TVs for stomachs, a play on the Duchamp wheel, and in addition her cookware and diaries and (first ever!) home-built video synthesizer. — Lucas Chen, improvement author

Boardmanville Buying and selling Put up, Glamis, Calif. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4284x3213+0+1995/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe8%2Ff8%2F7e8629d6411786887661889f5397%2Fbeckymeiers.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4284x3213+0+1995/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe8%2Ff8%2F7e8629d6411786887661889f5397%2Fbeckymeiers.jpg" class="img" alt="The Boardmanville Trading Post is a go-to spot for ATV riders in Southern California's Imperial Sand Dunes." loading="lazy"/> The Boardmanville Buying and selling Put up is the go-to spot for ATV riders in Southern California's Imperial Sand Dunes. Becky Meiers/NPR cover caption

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Becky Meiers/NPR In the course of the Imperial Sand Dunes is Glamis, Calif. — an off-grid paradise for ATV riders. From there, if you happen to cross the prepare tracks and head east towards Black Mountain, you will see a wooden signal for "Boardmanville." Metal your self and comply with the washboard mud highway till you see a bombed-out Cessna, and you'll be rewarded with a chilly beer and a Totino's pizza. Open once they wanna be and solely seasonally, the Boardmanville Buying and selling Put up is a log cabin, constructed within the Nineteen Seventies by a neighborhood miner. — Becky Meiers, technician, Community Operations Middle

Paisley Park, Chanhassen, Minn. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5184x3456+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fcb%2F83%2F3c21e9394cac950794744747ece0%2Fap21083009192447.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5184x3456+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fcb%2F83%2F3c21e9394cac950794744747ece0%2Fap21083009192447.jpg" class="img" alt="Amplifiers and a drum kit are on display at Prince's Paisley Park on Nov. 2, 2016, in Chanhassen, Minn." loading="lazy"/> Amplifiers and a drum equipment are on show at Prince's Paisley Park on Nov. 2, 2016, in Chanhassen, Minn. Jeff Baenen/AP cover caption

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Jeff Baenen/AP The mixed office and playground Prince constructed for his musical life sits simply outdoors Minneapolis. You possibly can stroll via a number of studios, stand in his workplace, and see the merchandising machine the place Prince appreciated to get a Snickers. The information was wonderful, so beneficiant with tales and answering questions.

We stared on the zany outfits, the footwear, the guitars, handwritten notes. We imagined late-night events, with Prince on the heart, jamming. And sure, we obtained to take a seat on the bike from Purple Rain.

Although Prince wasn't there, he was in all places — within the followers' storytelling, remembering, listening to his music. — Justine Kenin, editor, All Issues Thought of

Expertise the blues, Clarksdale, Miss. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F8e%2F0a%2F8758d2af433799da83f98c33895f%2Fchrisbentley.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F8e%2F0a%2F8758d2af433799da83f98c33895f%2Fchrisbentley.jpg" class="img" alt="Red's in Clarksdale, Miss., keeps the spirit of the blues alive." loading="lazy"/> Purple's in Clarksdale, Miss., retains the spirit of the blues alive. Peter O'Dowd/WBUR cover caption

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Peter O'Dowd/WBUR Nobody is aware of precisely the place or when the blues started, however you might make a convincing case that Clarksdale, Miss., is the house of one in every of America's most enduring musical genres. The Delta Blues Museum celebrates Mississippi's function within the delivery of the blues, with artifacts together with a reconstruction of the sharecropper's shack that Muddy Waters lived in on the Stovall Plantation. For the reason that blues cannot totally be appreciated in a museum, drop by Purple's on an evening when there's somebody taking part in — the historic juke joint retains the spirit of the Delta blues alive. — Chris Bentley, producer, Right here & Now

Thorne Miniature Rooms, Artwork Institute of Chicago, Chicago <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F27%2Fb9%2F523df18e4ac79dd4a11518ebf901%2Famymorgan.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F27%2Fb9%2F523df18e4ac79dd4a11518ebf901%2Famymorgan.jpg" class="img" alt="The Thorne Miniature Rooms are a series of mini rooms (1:12 scale) on display behind glass." loading="lazy"/> The Thorne Miniature Rooms are a sequence of mini rooms (1:12 scale) on show behind glass. Amy Morgan/NPR cover caption

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Amy Morgan/NPR On a advice from a colleague, we wandered the halls and stairs of the museum till we lastly discovered, on the underside flooring, a darkish little cavern stuffed with — certainly — a sequence of mini rooms (1:12 scale). Behind glass, they're stuffed with tiny housewares and furnishings in interval types from France, England and the U.S. The rooms are lit realistically, so it feels such as you're peering into somebody's Parisian flat in mid-morning, for instance. They may not be extra charming! The Thorne Miniature Rooms, constructed within the Thirties, are a "do not miss." — Amy Morgan, senior editor, Homepage Staff

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Dolly Sods Wilderness, West Virginia <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fb3%2F10%2Fd71f4f374e7d806d1b443de94561%2Fmarisapenaloza.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fb3%2F10%2Fd71f4f374e7d806d1b443de94561%2Fmarisapenaloza.jpg" class="img" alt="The Dolly Sods Wilderness is the highest plateau in the Appalachian Mountains." loading="lazy"/> The Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia is stuffed with scenic overlooks and mountaineering trails. Marisa Peñaloza/NPR cover caption

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Marisa Peñaloza/NPR West Virginia's Dolly Sods Wilderness, within the Monongahela Nationwide Forest, is the very best plateau within the Appalachian Mountains. The winds are sometimes so sturdy that bushes develop in peculiar and delightful shapes. You will discover open, rocky plains, distinctive rock formations (additionally formed by the winds), grassy fields, forests of purple spruce bushes and evergreens, scenic overlooks and waterfalls, and intensive mountaineering trails. At occasions you are feeling as if you happen to're strolling on the moon, different occasions you are feeling a calmness and robust connection to nature as you stroll via an evergreen space. Merely magical. — Marisa Peñaloza, senior producer, Nationwide Desk

Highway to Hāna, Maui, Hawaii <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ffa%2F9f%2F6f4fedea47cfa90d5d78d7cdbfd9%2Fashleywesterman.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ffa%2F9f%2F6f4fedea47cfa90d5d78d7cdbfd9%2Fashleywesterman.jpg" class="img" alt="Looping around the eastern part of Maui, the nearly 65-mile road showcases the island's diverse landscape." loading="lazy"/> Looping across the jap a part of Maui, the almost 65-mile highway showcases the island's various panorama. Ashley Westerman/NPR cover caption

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Ashley Westerman/NPR Looping across the jap a part of Maui, the almost 65-mile highway is the easiest way to see the range of landscapes Pacific islands have to supply. The Highway to Hāna (or the Hāna Freeway, as it is also recognized) takes you thru moist rainforests with hidden waterfalls and arid hills that slope into the ocean, previous black sand seashores and historic lava flows. Identified for its a whole lot of hairpin turns, you'll journey throughout gravel — and generally grime! — roads, cling to cliffsides and cross slim one-lane bridges.

Whereas there are various locations to pause and take inventory of the gorgeous environment, I extremely counsel making time to take a hike in Haleakalā Nationwide Park, seize a espresso at Ono Natural Farms, go to the gravesite of Charles Lindbergh and dig your toes into the black sand at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. The journey may be executed in a day, however undoubtedly begin early. — Ashley Westerman, supervising editor and producer, Morning Version

Evel Knievel Bounce Website, Twin Falls, Idaho <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/1560x878+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F12%2Fb0%2F4a98f5cc4904b51a28ca187e9a59%2Fshawnmacdonnell.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/1560x878+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F12%2Fb0%2F4a98f5cc4904b51a28ca187e9a59%2Fshawnmacdonnell.jpg" class="img" alt="Daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump across the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls, Idaho, in 1974." loading="lazy"/> Daredevil Evel Knievel tried to leap throughout the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls, Idaho, in 1974. Shawn MacDonnell/NPR cover caption

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Shawn MacDonnell/NPR That is the place daredevil Evel Knievel tried to leap over the Snake River Canyon in a "skycycle" — or steam-powered rocket — in 1974. The leap failed when Knievel's parachute deployed too early. A big grime mound is all that is still of the platform constructed for the try. It is a fantastic piece of Americana situated alongside a scenic space of the Snake River Canyon. — Shawn MacDonnell, operations supervisor, Community Operations Middle

Isle au Haut, Maine <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1284/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F41%2Fd5%2F60634cc340bd96bb5e18496ef885%2Fkatiesypher.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1284/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F41%2Fd5%2F60634cc340bd96bb5e18496ef885%2Fkatiesypher.jpg" class="img" alt="Isle au Haut is home to a less-visited section of Acadia National Park." loading="lazy"/> Isle au Haut is residence to a less-visited part of Acadia Nationwide Park. Katie Sypher/NPR cover caption

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Katie Sypher/NPR One of many bigger islands situated off the Maine coast, Isle au Haut is residence to a less-visited a part of Acadia Nationwide Park and in addition a small year-round neighborhood.

Accessible by way of the mail boat, the center and southern portion of the island can be found for day-trippers and campers to discover. I grew up tenting on Isle au Haut each summer season, and I used to be blissful to search out this yr that the island has modified little or no since my childhood. The tough Atlantic winds are continuously reshaping the forest panorama. The island's ample pine and oak bushes, the various sorts of moss and lichen, and prolific blueberry and blackberry bushes, give it a mild legendary high quality that makes me really feel like I can gaze on the panorama indefinitely. — Katie Sypher, assistant producer, How I Constructed This

The Narrows, Zion Nationwide Park, Utah <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3072x2304+0+1701/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F6f%2F63%2F432302b64346abb4f6723cf7a703%2Fchloeveltmanthenarrows.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3072x2304+0+1701/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F6f%2F63%2F432302b64346abb4f6723cf7a703%2Fchloeveltmanthenarrows.jpg" class="img" alt="The Narrows is a popular hike in Zion National Park, where the route can require walking through water several feet deep." loading="lazy"/> The Narrows is a well-liked hike in Zion Nationwide Park, the place the route can require strolling via water a number of ft deep. Chloe Veltman/NPR cover caption

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Chloe Veltman/NPR The Narrows, an epic gorge bordered by craggy, dizzyingly excessive cliffs, is the narrowest part of Zion Canyon in Utah's Zion Nationwide Park. The most effective factor about it's that somewhat means in, the stroll turns into a wade — or a swim — via the river that runs via the canyon. Many individuals lease particular rubber waders and an extended steadying pole to do that hike. However you needn't. My accomplice and I simply went for it in our shorts and sneakers. It was one of the vital lovely, fascinating and adventurous of the various hikes I did in 2025. — Chloe Veltman, correspondent, Tradition Desk

Nolichucky River Gorge, Cherokee Nationwide Forest, North Carolina/Tennessee <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F07%2F4c%2F417717e046a2a96951dfd215c954%2Fnolichuckyriver.jpeg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F07%2F4c%2F417717e046a2a96951dfd215c954%2Fnolichuckyriver.jpeg" class="img" alt="The forested gorge of the Nolichucky River, a whitewater and outdoor enthusiasts' destination, makes a comeback post-Helene." loading="lazy"/> The forested gorge of the Nolichucky River, a whitewater and out of doors lovers' vacation spot, makes a comeback post-Helene. Trey Moore cover caption

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Trey Moore Hurricane Helene's catastrophic floods destroyed nearly every part in its path. To know the size of the destruction within the Southern Appalachian Mountains, I joined a cleanup crew on the Nolichucky River. Then I kayaked the Nolichucky River Gorge, one of many steepest gorges within the jap U.S., to see a surprising, scoured panorama and some raging rapids. Rebuilding and particles cleanup are almost executed. The U.S. Forest Service expects to reopen river entry within the spring, a time for a rebirth of this sacred public land for guests to get pleasure from out of doors actions equivalent to kayaking, rafting, fishing and mountaineering. — Rolando Arrieta, director of content material manufacturing & operations

Barton Springs Pool, Austin, Texas <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2268x1701+0+1481/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F59%2F15%2F8646a2ac474c9acc8966f1cc2011%2Fgretapittenger.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2268x1701+0+1481/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F59%2F15%2F8646a2ac474c9acc8966f1cc2011%2Fgretapittenger.jpg" class="img" alt="Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas, is a 3-acre natural swimming pool." loading="lazy"/> Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas, is a 3-acre pure swimming pool. Greta Pittenger/NPR cover caption

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Greta Pittenger/NPR I used to be not ready for the way massive nor how busy this 3-acre pure swimming pool can be after I visited in April. It's staffed with lifeguards and has a deck constructed round it, however the pool itself is wild. The depth varies — one finish is a kiddie splash pool whereas a part of the center is roped off for a diving board. Lap swimmers threat working into aquatic crops rising on the opposite finish. It is fed by pure springs, leaving my pores and skin feeling silky with minerals, however not with no sulfuric aroma. — Greta Pittenger, info specialist, Analysis, Archives & Knowledge Technique

Glass Seaside, Fort Bragg, Calif. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4770x3178+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F24%2Fea%2F769fe3b04f8e91b31bf1e9048b98%2F5927183319-afc29784ac-o.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4770x3178+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F24%2Fea%2F769fe3b04f8e91b31bf1e9048b98%2F5927183319-afc29784ac-o.jpg" class="img" alt="At Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, Calif., glass tumbles day and night in the waves against the pebbles and sand to become smooth." loading="lazy"/> At Glass Seaside in Fort Bragg, Calif., glass tumbles day and evening within the waves towards the pebbles and sand to turn into clean. Brendan Riley/Flickr Artistic Commons cover caption

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Brendan Riley/Flickr Artistic Commons It is a particular spot since it is the city's former dump web site. However what as soon as was trash has been was treasure. The glass tumbles day and evening within the waves towards the pebbles and sand. After a long time, it turns into clean, frosty and delightful. — Chad Campbell, senior producer, Morning Version

Wallace Falls, Wallace Falls State Park, Wash. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1311/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F40%2Ff1%2F26baed06425e8156c835c493eaa0%2Fmichaelziemelis.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1311/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F40%2Ff1%2F26baed06425e8156c835c493eaa0%2Fmichaelziemelis.jpg" class="img" alt="Wallace Falls State Park features a forest, lakes and waterfalls." loading="lazy"/> Wallace Falls State Park encompasses a forest, lakes and waterfalls. Michael Ziemelis cover caption

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Michael Ziemelis My household and I kicked off 2025 with a hike to Wallace Falls. Regardless of dwelling solely an hour away, we had by no means visited earlier than. The rain picked up as we arrived, however the climate proved to be quintessential Washington in the easiest way. As we made our means alongside the path, the rain lifted and the solar broke via. I will always remember that distinction: The sheer energy of the roaring water, set towards a backdrop of extremely lush, vibrant inexperienced moss with a spattering of blue sky. It turned a reluctant trek into a phenomenal, memorable begin to the yr. — Libby Ziemelis, senior Salesforce administrator

Geode Hill, Payson, Ariz. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F84%2Fe5%2F1a2f0ac240e583479b67ee289f56%2Falinahartounian.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F84%2Fe5%2F1a2f0ac240e583479b67ee289f56%2Falinahartounian.jpg" class="img" alt="Geode Hill, in Payson, Ariz., allows you to unleash your most destructive geological forces." loading="lazy"/> Geode Hill, in Payson, Ariz., permits you to unleash your most damaging geological forces. Alina Hartounian/NPR cover caption

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Alina Hartounian/NPR Some are as small as marbles. Others are as huge as mangoes. They usually all ultimately cede to a hammer's whack with a satisfying crack. Significantly better remedy than any rage room, Geode Hill within the pine tree studded panorama of Payson, Ariz., permits you to unleash your most damaging geological forces. And it is free.

The hill sits off a dust highway and takes a little bit of trudging up earlier than the dimpled geodes begin showing in earnest. On the peak, they're in all places, nudging their option to the floor of the smooth earth. You will need to convey alongside a hammer, as a result of when you crack them open, they reveal frosty crystals, some seamed with mineral deposits. And extra vital, they supply souvenirs of that point you bought to trek up a hill and smash a bunch of rocks. — Alina Hartounian, supervising editor, Basic Project Desk

TAKE THE WHOLE TOWN IN Flint, Mich. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4284x3213+0+966/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F47%2F02%2F84b9a8f9400c9d75b6ad9737f81d%2Fnedaulaby.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4284x3213+0+966/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F47%2F02%2F84b9a8f9400c9d75b6ad9737f81d%2Fnedaulaby.jpg" class="img" alt="The Flint Institute of Arts, the second largest art museum in the state, contains an extraordinary glass collection and work by contemporary Detroit artists." loading="lazy"/> The Flint Institute of Arts, the second-largest artwork museum in Michigan, incorporates a rare glass assortment and work by modern Detroit artists. Neda Ulaby/NPR cover caption

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Neda Ulaby/NPR You possibly can drink the water now in Flint, Mich. Within the fascinating metropolis with a storied labor historical past, I visited the Flint Institute of Arts, the second-largest artwork museum within the state, partly to see a terrific exhibition about tattoos, but additionally to take a look at the extraordinary glass assortment and work by modern Detroit artists equivalent to Mario Moore and Carole Harris.

Professional tip: When you go to, hit the sprawling century-old Flint Farmer's Marketplace for every part from contemporary native cheese and apples to BBQ empanadas to Lebanese groceries, and town's small however mighty impartial bookstores, Totem Books and Comma Bookstore & Social Hub. — Neda Ulaby, correspondent, Tradition Desk

Tangier Island, Va. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F30%2F56%2Fe097117c42b0b6db2140cb89dcae%2Fjuliedepenbrock.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/4032x3024+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F30%2F56%2Fe097117c42b0b6db2140cb89dcae%2Fjuliedepenbrock.jpg" class="img" alt="Tangier Island, Va., has lost two-thirds of its landmass to erosion and sea level rise." loading="lazy"/> Tangier Island, Va., has misplaced two-thirds of its landmass to erosion and sea degree rise. Julie Depenbrock/NPR cover caption

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Julie Depenbrock/NPR Tangier is likely one of the final inhabited islands within the Chesapeake Bay, and it is rapidly disappearing. Since 1850, it is misplaced two-thirds of its landmass to erosion and sea degree rise. The island is residence to between 200-300 folks, a lot of whom nonetheless make a dwelling crabbing and fishing the way in which their ancestors as soon as did. Tangier is small, simply explorable by foot or by bike (which you'll lease for the day). I extremely advocate a golf cart tour from one of many locals to actually get a grasp of the island and its historical past. Then seize lunch at Lorraine's! Cameron Evans (who has a dockside images store) presents boat excursions across the island, together with sea glass and artifact looking.

The soft-shell crabs and the sunsets alone make Tangier effectively price a go to. — Julie Depenbrock, assistant producer, Morning Version

Cozad, Neb. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3000x2000+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F48%2Fe4%2F82e3daba4cc89a83edaa2a8a370d%2Fdsc05967-2.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3000x2000+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F48%2Fe4%2F82e3daba4cc89a83edaa2a8a370d%2Fdsc05967-2.jpg" class="img" alt="Cozad, Neb., is a small town of about 4,000 people." loading="lazy"/> Cozad, Neb., is a small city of about 4,000 folks. Rebecca Hersher/NPR cover caption

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Rebecca Hersher/NPR When you take a look at a map of the continental U.S., Cozad is correct smack dab within the center. It is a small city of about 4,000 folks. I visited to find out how they're recovering from a significant hailstorm, however everybody on the town stated the native artwork gallery was to not be missed. They weren't flawed. The Robert Henri Museum is unimaginable. Henri was an influential trainer to different painters and labored in a number of types. His work are arresting. And the employees on the museum is extraordinarily educated and welcoming. — Rebecca Hersher, correspondent, Local weather Desk

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Mothman Pageant, Level Nice, W.Va. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+672/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fc1%2Fb3%2F803e6f00472a993ca7c24c6e738a%2Fbillchappell.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+672/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fc1%2Fb3%2F803e6f00472a993ca7c24c6e738a%2Fbillchappell.jpg" class="img" alt="The Mothman Festival is a big draw for Point Pleasant, W.Va." loading="lazy"/> The Mothman Pageant is an enormous draw for Level Nice, W.Va. Invoice Chappell/NPR cover caption

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Invoice Chappell/NPR This tiny city hosts an enormous annual pageant dedicated to a neighborhood legend: the Mothman. The primary sightings in 1966 of a mysterious, towering winged humanoid creature made worldwide information; years later, The Mothman Prophecies e book and movie sparked new curiosity. Right now, guests to Level Nice may dive into the once-secretive historical past of a sprawling TNT facility that operated there throughout World Conflict II, and the lore of the "Males in Black" seen close by. Mothman is driving a formidable financial rebirth for this city on the Ohio River. — Invoice Chappell, correspondent, Basic Project Desk

New York State Sheep and Wool Pageant, Rhinebeck, N.Y. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1160/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F30%2Fef%2F0545d94143d4b44cd19b761d1915%2Fsamanthabalaban.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3024x2268+0+1160/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F30%2Fef%2F0545d94143d4b44cd19b761d1915%2Fsamanthabalaban.jpg" class="img" alt="The New York State Sheep and Wool Festival is a perfect fall weekend in leafy, beautiful Rhinebeck, N.Y." loading="lazy"/> The New York State Sheep and Wool Pageant is an ideal fall weekend in leafy, lovely Rhinebeck, N.Y. Samantha Balaban/NPR cover caption

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Samantha Balaban/NPR The New York State Sheep and Wool Pageant began round 1980 as a bred ewe sale by the native shepherds. Now, it is an ideal fall weekend within the leafy, lovely Hudson Valley city of Rhinebeck: Take a basket-weaving workshop, purchase alllll the wool, watch llama leaping competitions, and pet angora goats. Or you might spend a complete day admiring the opposite fiber lovers' knitted outfits. Additionally they've the very best apple cider doughnuts. — Samantha Balaban, senior producer, Weekend Version

Metropolis of Halloween, Conway, S.C. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F95%2Ffe%2F79524da44265bb4abfb02108e71b%2Fjaclyndiaz.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/5712x4284+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F95%2Ffe%2F79524da44265bb4abfb02108e71b%2Fjaclyndiaz.jpg" class="img" alt="Each October, downtown Conway, S.C., turns into the "City of Halloween."" loading="lazy"/> Every October, downtown Conway, S.C., turns into the "Metropolis of Halloween." Jaclyn Diaz/NPR cover caption

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Jaclyn Diaz/NPR Each October, downtown Conway, S.C., transforms into the "Metropolis of Halloween" — actually the city renames itself Halloween, S.C., for the season.

Hundreds of jack-o'-lanterns and cobwebs cling from each tree and bush lining Conway's primary highway. Companies, metropolis buildings and different public areas are decked out in elaborate, thematic shows. This yr there was an animated skeleton band in an ode to the not too long ago deceased Ozzy Osbourne.

Strolling via downtown is an occasion in itself as every nook reveals some new, intricate show devoted to the spooky season — and it is fully free. And it made this millennial Halloween lover really feel like a child once more. — Jaclyn Diaz, correspondent, Basic Project Desk

Pawpaw Pageant, York, Penn. <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3000x2336+0+0/resize/1100/quality/50/format/jpeg/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F53%2Fd8%2Fce9d2bd44a9ba6b8d597c2908069%2Fap19136791383193.jpg" data-template="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/3000x2336+0+0/resize/{width}/quality/{quality}/format/{format}/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F53%2Fd8%2Fce9d2bd44a9ba6b8d597c2908069%2Fap19136791383193.jpg" class="img" alt="A pawpaw tree is shown in Missouri in 2018. The Pawpaw Festival in York, Penn., celebrates North America's only native tropical fruit." loading="lazy"/> A pawpaw tree is proven in Missouri in 2018. The Pawpaw Pageant in York, Penn., celebrates North America's solely native tropical fruit. Missouri Division of Conservation/by way of AP cover caption

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Missouri Division of Conservation/by way of AP This annual occasion in mid-September focuses solely on North America's solely native tropical fruit. The pawpaw is notoriously pungent and famously laborious to domesticate; foragers throughout the Northeast hold the situation of their favourite bushes secret, so that is your greatest probability to pattern the "Susquehanna banana" with out beginning a turf struggle. You possibly can attempt it uncooked, in ice cream type, or in lemonade. — Devin Mellor, operations supervisor