When vacation time calls, look to the national parks for some of the most satisfying and least costly alternatives. Open year round, national parks offer activities across the country. For outdoor adventure or indoor discovery — try a venture into the national parks.
There are almost 400 national parks to choose from so if you need a little help picking one, you're at the right place. Travel Tips can get you started. Park Lodging will help you find a place to sleep.
You can Find a Park to search for events and activities (see the Plan Your Visit section for each park), participate in one of the many Institutes and Field Schools or save some money and come on one of the days we waive entrance fees. You can browse our weekly getaway series for inspiration. You can even volunteer to help us take care of the national parks while you're here.
There's an adventure out there for everyone — plan yours soon!
October 27, 6-10 pm
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site,
Pennsylvania
These family-friendly ghost tours of the Staple Bend Tunnel introduce historic figures associated with the portage railroad. Reservations required; tours conducted hourly.
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October 27, 10 am to 3 pm
Montezuma Castle National Monument,
Arizona
Meet the Rough Riders, dressed in garb from the 1800s, in a living history program celebrating Theodore Roosevelt's birthday. Many special activities are on tap.
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October 27
Natchez Trace Parkway,
Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee
Pioneer cooking, period toys, and tomahawk throwing are only part of the fun at this day-long celebration of frontier living just north of Natchez, Mississippi.
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October 27
Saguaro National Park,
Arizona
Artisans from several Arizona native Nations will display their craftworks, share American Indian dances, and give insights into Southwestern native cultures.
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Daily; 2:15
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park,
California
Take part in a guided tour of the historic ship Balclutha. Discover the hardships and rewards of the sailors who fought for survival during the treacherous Cape Horn passage.
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