Things to do in Alaska
Flightseeing
Explore some of the most remote and beautiful places in Alaska on a flying safari. Fly over Alaska's protected wilderness with the Claus family as your pilots, who have been flying here for three generations. They can land in places that are difficult or impossible to reach on foot, such as the Wrangell Mountains or along the Chitina River. This is the best way to experience the true wilderness of Alaska.
Heli-Skiing
Heli-skiing is the ultimate alpine adventure, and it doesn't have to just be for expert skiers. In the Tordrillo Mountains we can arrange heli-skiing and snowboarding for all abilities, whether you're a beginner or a pro. Your highly trained guides can take you to the best spots to match your ability so you can ski down the freshest powder imaginable and enjoy incredible mountain scenery. Who said a USA holiday had to be boring?
Cruise Through Inside Passage
There is surely no better way to admire Alaska's spectacular landscapes than on a luxury cruise. Hear the roar of a glacier calving, admire vast icebergs floating in the water and witness humpback whales breaching, all from the deck of the ultimate luxury cruise ship. Travel through Inside Passage and explore remote areas of Alaska, and continue further south along the British Columbia coast to Vancouver.
What to do in California
Big Sur Whale Watching
Humpback whales congregate in Monterey Bay from late April to early December when they can be observed near the surface feed on anchovies and krill. Whales from this population often approach boats and engage in 'friendly' behaviour, circling and rubbing up against the bow of the boat. With contact initiated by the whales, watchers have the chance to be part of a profound moment of connection between two species.
Learn to surf in Santa Barbara
Become a pro (well, competent, at least) surfer during a private surf lesson on the beach and in the waves in Santa Barbara. Having a one-to-one lesson with an expert instructor is the best way to maximise your time and (fingers firmly crossed) stand up and ride your first wave.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Visit the world-renowned aquarium in Monterey Bay. Located on the ocean's edge the aquarium offers a fantastic window into marine life. Home to sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies and thousands of other marine flora and fauna, the aquarium's mission is to inspire others to conserve the ocean and its inhabitants.
Hike Snow Creek Trail
Yosemite National Park is an obvious choice for lovers of nature and dramatic landscapes, but with that comes hordes of people. Escape the crowds by avoiding the popular Mirror Lake Trail and going up the somewhat more challenging Snow Creek Trail. Along this route, enjoy some amazing views across Tenaya Canyon and of landforms such as Half Dome, with silence all around you.
The Sonoma Serengeti
There's more to Sonoma than just wineries. One very different attraction is Safari West, known as 'The Sonoma Serengeti' thanks to the nearly 900 animals from 90 different species that live here, such as wildebeest, rhinos and giraffes. You can enjoy a private safari with a guide who can take you around this 400-acre reserve and explain the strong emphasis they have on conservation.
Things to do in Colorado
Enjoy The Ranch Life
A beacon for adventurous types, Colorado is best experienced outdoors. In the summer months, spend your time fly fishing, riding, hiking and mountain biking. For a true Old West feel, stay at a ranch and get back to nature cowboy-style. Receive riding instruction from an experienced wrangler, challenge yourself to shoot skeets (clay pigeons) and enjoy thrilling mountain bike rides.
Ski In Vail
With its pristine conditions, sunny climate and varied terrain, Vail is a ski enthusiasts dream. Take to the slopes and enjoy the 5,289 skiable acres and stunning views of the surrounding Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges. After you've had your fill of adventure for the day, stroll into the village and drink in the alpine-inspired architecture, quaint cobblestone streets and year-round events from film festivals to athletic competitions.
Explore The Rocky Mountains
A whimsical wilderness of hidden valleys and towering peaks, Rocky Mountains wows visitors year-round with its hiking trails, winter sports and abundance of wildlife. Experience the ultimate escape with a wilderness camping experience and break in your walking boots along hundreds of miles of well-marked hiking trails. In winter, strap on a pair of snow shoes or some cross country skis and glide through white wintry forests.
Visit Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, just south of Denver, offers fantastic hiking, biking and rock climbing. Enjoy stunning views from spots such as the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, or head out on a scenic hike without the crowds at Redrock Canyon. Colorado Springs is also home to the country's Olympic Training Centre, where tours of the practise facilities are available - perfect for sports fanatics.
Things to do in Hawaii
Whale Watching In Maui
Witnessing North Pacific humpback whales (one of the world's four humpback populations) in their natural environment is among the most unforgettable marine wildlife adventures you can have. These majestic mammals grace Hawaiian waters year after year on their annual migration, meaning that between December and March you're almost guaranteed a sighting. Listen to their beautiful underwater songs on the hydrophone and meet them face to face on a snorkelling tour.
Luana Evening
With pina colada in hand and your favourite Hawaiian shirt on, enjoy an evening at a traditional Luana. Enjoy a hula performance, an iconic dance involving plenty of hip swaying and foot tapping that has become a worldwide symbol of Hawaiian culture, and maybe even give it a go yourself. Head to the beach to listen to traditional Hawaiian music and watch captivating cultural dances and demonstrations.
Immersive Helicopter Ride
See the island from a bird's eye perspective on a thrilling helicopter ride over some of Maui's most dramatic landscapes. Departing from Kahului Heliport, you'll fly along Maui's North Coast with views of breathtaking sea cliffs and cascading waterfalls, and get an aerial perspective of the Road to Hana and the iconic Jurassic Rock. Descend and land deep in the Hawaiian rainforest and immerse yourself in the lush vegetation.
Drive the Hana Highway
Take a full day for a leisurely drive along the 52 miles of the Hana Highway from Kahului to Hana. The highway meanders along Maui's north-west coast, over narrow one-lane bridges and past tall green cliffs, waterfalls, beaches and locals selling tropical fruit on the roadside. Make the most of the temperature being in the mid to high twenties by doing this drive in a convertible.
Things to do in Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole Rodeo
Don a Stetson and spend an evening at the rodeo, a key part of the Western way of life. Watch steely cowboys ride the bucking bronco and check out the barrel racing where cowgirls on horseback steam tightly around a barrel. You can also see calf roping competitions and gritty bull riding displays. All the while, chow down on cheesesteaks and bison burgers to keep you fuelled throughout.
A Bird's Eye View
For a different perspective of the picture-perfect cowboy town, hop on the Aerial Tram up Rendezvous Mountain. Glide up to 10,450 feet where you can soak up 360 degree views of the Tetons and the valley below. In winter, work up an appetite skiing down the mountain or trailing off-piste paths. Otherwise simply tuck into Nutella-oozing waffles at Corbet's Cabin, located at the summit.
A Safari in the Tetons
Take a safari through Grand Teton National Park; your expert guide will talk you through its pristine ecosystem exhibiting flora and fauna which has existed here since prehistoric times. Traverse dense forest, ancient rocks and glacier lakes spying bison (although you may see them causing a few traffic jams), antelopes and moose in the wild. If you're lucky you may even spot a grey wolf, recently migrated from Yellowstone.
Cowboy Country
Jackson Hole, one of the USA's many American West cowboy towns, is the departure point for Grand Teton National Park and further north, Yellowstone National Park. After spending the day skiing or exploring the geology and wildlife of the parks, unwind at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. At this iconic Jackson Hole institution, the bar seats have been converted in to makeshift saddles to add to the horseback experience.
Things to do in Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
First fly over the world-famous Hoover Dam, which holds the largest body of water in the southwest, Lake Mead, before heading to the Grand Canyon and admiring this incredible natural wonder from the sky. You can then touch down at an exclusive landing site some 4,000 feet below the rim of the canyon and explore the area on foot.
Black Canyon Raft Tour
Explore the Black Canyon on a rafting tour with a knowledgeable guide. The canyon lies just below the Hoover Dam in the Lake Mead Recreational Area and has walls that rise nearly 2,000 feet from the river's edge. Glide along the river admiring waterfalls, hot springs and other geological wonders, as well as an abundance of wildlife found here, including big horn desert sheep, ospreys and great blue herons.
Experience a Vegas Hotel
Vegas hotels exist in their own universe. Many are like giant shopping malls with rooms attached; think multiple restaurants and cafes, pharmacies, grocery stores, gift shops and, of course, huge sprawling casinos, all under one extravagant roof. Lean in and enjoy a flutter on the cards or, if you're travelling en famille and would rather stay in casino-free territory (yes it does exist), we can recommend the best hotels.
Discover Old Vegas
To get a little further under the skin of Sin City than just the casinos, shows and nightlife, head downtown to Old Vegas, where the original city was founded in 1905. It is widely reported that Vegas was historically run by mob groups, and here you will find the Mob Museum, along with the quirky Neon Museum which houses old signage of hotels gone by.
Things to do in Los Angeles
Visit the Griffith Observatory
This iconic Los Angeles sight is a great spot both at night and during the day; in the evening admire the cosmos through the telescopes and enjoy guided star shows, while during the day you can hike in the park around the observatory and enjoy views across the city, including the Hollywood sign. You could even try and recreate that iconic La La Land scene…
Explore Santa Monica
Spend time exploring Santa Monica and discovering all that this downtown Los Angeles neighbourhood has to offer. Visit the famous pier with its amusement park and Ferris wheel, and of course the beach, where you can join in some classic Californian pastimes like surfing and beach volleyball.
Visit Universal Studios
You can't go to Los Angeles and miss out on the chance to get a little taste of Hollywood. Visit Universal Studios, where more movies and television shows have been filmed than anywhere else, to explore world famous movie sets and enjoy the themed rides and attractions. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must for avid fans, as you can explore Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, and even sample Butterbeer.
Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Spend an afternoon shopping on the achingly cool Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. The plethora of carefully curated clothing and homeware concept stores will leave you needing an extra suitcase for the trip home. The food in this area is some of the best and most innovative the city has to offer, a highlight being local favourite The Tasting Kitchen, with its focus on fresh and seasonal produce.
What to do in Miami
Visit The Wynwood District
Known for its many colourful murals, the Wynwood District is Miami's art mecca, home to the highest concentration of street art in the country. Stroll along vibrant streets home to a hip young crowd and enjoy the funky art galleries, chic clothing boutiques, stylish bistros and late-night bars. Make sure to attend the monthly Wynwood Art Walk and experience a night of iconic street art, culture and food.
Miami Day Tour
Get a feel for Miami's eclectic tapestry of neighbourhoods on a day tour. Visit Coconut Grove, Miami's original neighbourhood and the oldest inhabited area in the city, and soak up its warm laid back atmosphere with charming boutiques, quirky galleries and sidewalk cafes. Visit Little Havana, Miami's vibrant Cuban heart, and admire the stylish 1930s architecture in the Art Deco District, home to over 800 'Miami Modern' buildings
Soho Beach House
Spend the day soaking up the sun at the swanky Soho Beach House overlooking iconic Miami beach. Founded as a private club for the film and creative industries, this art-deco hotel is the perfect spot for a relaxing beach day and world class people spotting. Swim laps in the pool, enjoy waiter service at the beach, dine at the rooftop taqueria and tequila bar and have a late afternoon coffee at the Cuban bar.
Enjoy Miami's Nightlife
Experience Miami's music scene at Bayside Marketplace, a more relaxed alternative to South Beach which is famous for its nightlife. Stretching along the waterfront among the superyachts are numerous restaurants and bars, and there is live music on offer every night. Or to experience a taste of Cuban culture (the island is only about 100 miles away), spend an evening in the neighbourhood of Little Havana.
Things to do in New England
Historic Boston
Explore historic Boston by walking the two-and-a-half mile red line that connects 16 significant historic sites around the city. The sites cover more than 250 years of history and tell the story of the American Revolution. While taking part in the trail, which has helpful audio and visual guides, you get the chance to explore one of the USA's first great urban centres.
Cape Cod Watersports
Take to the water and explore the picturesque Cape Cod peninsula. We can organise private cruises around the bay and the neighbouring islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard; sailing lessons and adventures into the Atlantic; and fishing trips so you can have a go at catching your supper - fresh lobster, anyone?
Whale Watching
Head out from Provincetown for some of the best whale watching in Cape Cod. Humpback whales are most commonly spotted here, but you may also see finback, minke, sei and pilot whales, and perhaps even dolphins. Whales gather here from April to October to feed and raise their young, so this is when you have the best chance of a sighting.
Go Sailing from Newport
Complement your trip to New England with a sailing trip from Newport. As a lot of New England is on the coast, there is no shortage of water-based activities to enjoy here, and Newport is the original home of the Americas Cup sailing competition, so get a taste of the action by chartering a sailing boat for the day for an adventure out into the Atlantic Ocean.
What to do in New Orleans & The Deep South
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
Discover five centuries' worth of history and learn about the milestone events and figures of the civil rights movement at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. The museum is built around the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King was assassinated in 1968, so you can see the balcony where he was shot and learn about the continued impact of his legacy.
French Quarter Tour in New Orleans
Explore New Orleans' French Quarter on a guided tour. Often referred to as the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, it's the oldest neighbourhood in the city with architecture to show it. Stroll down Royal Street, ducking in and out of art galleries and antique shops as you go; head to Bourbon Street to find the life and soul of the party; and enjoy plenty of live jazz, of course.
Visit Graceland: Home of the King
Visit the home of Elvis Presley himself at the Graceland Mansion in Memphis, which offers an unrivalled glimpse into Elvis's personal life, with guided and audio tours available. Explore his beloved home, learn about his roots and influences, and soak up some serious 70s vibes with the mansion's authentic décor.
Visit the Town of Natchez
To get even deeper in to the Deep South, beyond the trio of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, head to the historic little town of Natchez, slightly north of New Orleans. It is one of the oldest settlements on the Mississippi river, filled with characterful buildings, museums and charming B&Bs. The historic mansions, known as antebellum homes, have been converted into museums to showcase the region's rich history.
What to do in New York
Helicopter Tour
For unrivalled views of this iconic city, so often seen in movies and TV shows, take to the skies; we can arrange a helicopter tour which includes flying over some of the most famous sites in New York. This is the chance to take some incredible photos as you fly over landmarks such as Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the green oasis of Central Park.
Go to a Knicks Game
The Knicks are perhaps the most famous basketball team in the world and attending a game is a great way to experience a quintessentially American sporting event. NBA season is from October to April, when you can get into the spirit of things by enjoying a giant pretzel and a beer, and buying a foam finger, which you can wave around while pretending to know the rules.
Picnic in Central Park
Central Park offers the perfect escape from the bustle and madness of the city, and we can organise a private concierge to help you find the perfect spot in the park for a picnic, away from snap-happy tourists. They can set everything up at the time of your choice and prepare a menu according to your favourite foods.
Food Tour With a Local
It can be somewhat overwhelming trying to decide where and what to eat in the Big Apple, so to ensure you are fully fuelled to explore the sights of the city, head on a free food tour with a local resident. Whether you're after authentic pasta in Little Italy, some iconic New York-style pizza, or the best Chow Mein in Chinatown, the locals know the top spots.
Things to do in San Francisco
Visit Alcatraz
Catch the ferry to Alcatraz Island for a tour of one of the world's most notorious prisons, and enjoy impressive views back towards the city on the way. The disused prison is now one of San Francisco's most popular attractions and the island is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. You can tour the cell house and see the nine by five foot cells where the prisoners lived.
Cycle Over Golden Gate Bridge
Hire a bike and cycle the 1.7 miles across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which opened in 1937 and cost a staggering $27 million (about $1.5 billion today). To avoid the crowds (and the heat in the summer), do this early in the day and continue your ride to the town of Sausalito, where you can grab some lunch before getting the ferry back across the bay into the city.
Visit Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39
Visit the historic Fisherman's Wharf district to watch the fishing boats, visit delicious seafood stalls and restaurants, and spot sea lions basking in the sun. The area makes for a fantastic family day out, with plenty to do and see for all ages. Head to the iconic Pier 39, the most visited site in San Francisco, for fantastic views of the city and the bay.
Explore Chinatown
Enjoy a morning with a private guide in the famous San Francisco Chinatown. Go beyond the tourist traps and commercialised restaurants and learn about the history of this fascinating neighbourhood. Start off bright and early with a dim sum breakfast before exploring a Chinese market, learning about all the ingredients and taking part in a traditional tea ceremony, ending this authentic experience with family-style lunch.
Things to do in The Pacific Northwest
Visit Portland
Explore trendy Portland and take a foodie tour among the famous food trucks (of which there are over 600). Some of the city's most innovative chefs cook here and a tour is a great way to sample some excellent local food and drink, including a renowned Voodoo Doughnut or some craft beer. Then spend an afternoon getting a taste of Japanese culture in Oregon by exploring the Japanese Garden.
Visit Pike Place Market in Seattle
Visit Seattle's famous Pike Place Market to sample fresh food and shop for everything from artisan crafts and antiques to fresh fish and flowers in the numerous small shops and stalls within the market itself. If visiting between June and November, we recommend going on a Saturday for the weekly farmers market. You can then visit the world's first ever Starbucks just across the street.
Visit Olympic National Park
Visit Olympic National Park and explore some of the amazing scenery and wildlife that can be found here, thanks to the forest's unique biosphere. The park has a great network of hiking and biking trails so you can explore impressive mountains, forests, lakes, waterfalls and coastal inlets. In the milder months you can also kayak or paddle board on the lakes.
Things to do in Yosemite National Park
White Water Rafting
In the spring and early summer, go white water rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite National Park. There are different sections of the river to choose from, so whether you're a first timer or a seasoned pro with a taste for adrenaline, there is a ride to suit. Depending on the conditions and the time of year, the rapids can range from Class One to Four.
Learn to Rock Climb
If you're lucky enough not to suffer from vertigo, spend a morning learning to rock climb with a private guide. Your guide can teach you the very basics if you've never climbed before, or take you to new levels (quite literally) if you're a pro. The experts could tackle the iconic El Capitan or Half Dome, one of the iconic sights of Yosemite National Park.
Private Tour of the Park
Enjoy a private tour of the national park with a guide, taking in spectacular of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, as well as beautiful granite cliffs and magnificent waterfalls. Exploring the park with a knowledgeable guide means you can benefit from local knowledge and visit spots off the tourist trails.
Explore the Park With a Guide
Spend a day exploring Yosemite with a private guide and ex-ranger of the national park, whose knowledge and passion for all that Yosemite has to offer is unrivalled. As well as taking in the landscapes, you'll learn about the history and conservation of this iconic national park. Begin at the famous Glacier Point, overlooking the immense Sierra Nevada Mountain range, before exploring more of the park on hikes or drives.
