Alive with the hum of high-energy adventure, Vancouver is a sophisticated cityscape on the edge of British Columbia’s wild interior. This multicultural city offers a bit of everything: big city buzz, sky-high mountains and Pacific beaches. If you’re a history buff you can view First Nations artifacts at the Museum of Anthropology. Take little ones to meet over 50,000 aquatic creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium, or get a bird’s eye view of old-growth forest at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Horseshoe Bay salmon fishing… Granville Island paddle boarding… Grouse Mountain’s aerial tram— discover loads of outdoor adventure in Vancouver, from the bay to the backwoods.

Alive with the hum of high-energy adventure, Vancouver is a sophisticated cityscape on the edge of British Columbia’s wild interior. This multicultural city offers a bit of everything: big city buzz, sky-high mountains and Pacific beaches. If you’re a history buff you can view First Nations artifacts at the Museum of Anthropology. Take little ones to meet over 50,000 aquatic creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium, or get a bird’s eye view of old-growth forest at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Horseshoe Bay salmon fishing… Granville Island paddle boarding… Grouse Mountain’s aerial tram— discover loads of outdoor adventure in Vancouver, from the bay to the backwoods.

Ketchikan sits at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage— a gateway to the wild landscapes and seascapes of Misty Fjords National Monument. The canned salmon capital of the world, it’s a hub for fishing and outdoor sports. It’s also home to three tribes of Northwest Coast Native Americans, making it a great place to get a taste for the local culture. You’ll see it in the colorful, hand-carved totems that line the city’s streets and parks, and in the unique stilted homes that cling to Deer Mountain’s slopes. If you want to get up close and personal with nature, venture into the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the United States. Or head to Ketchikan Creek Waterfall for amazing views of downtown Ketchikan and a glimpse at the yearly salmon runs.

You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snowcapped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque downtown area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historic landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbor to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.

The tiny town of Skagway still looks like it did during the Klondike Gold Rush over 100 years ago— and today it remains an outpost for thrilling Alaskan adventure. An old-time street car ride along bustling Broadway Street reveals well-preserved buildings, including the state’s oldest hotel. You can see engraved walrus tusks at the Corrington Museum, or get lost in riveting historical reenactments around town. If outdoor adventure is more your thing, there are plenty of ways to amp up the adrenaline, from sledding with Alaskan Huskies on Laughton Glacier to rafting Lynn Canal, the longest fjord in North America.

One of Alaska’s lesser-known gems, Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of Fords Terror Wilderness area. As you drift through its 30-mile-long stretch, you can’t help but be awed by the surrounding granite cliffs, mountain valleys and dozens of gushing waterfalls. Drifting icebergs, deep blue waters and a spectacular tidewater glacier only add to this natural spectacle’s appeal.

Day at sea

Victoria delivers a delightful blend of British pomp and outdoor adventure. Here you can admire Victorian architecture at Craigdarroch Castle and eat your way around Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Explore “Garden City” floral displays or go biking in the “Cycling Capital of Canada”. From orcas whistling in the harbor to glow-in-the-dark scorpions at the Bug Zoo, Victoria has every adventure covered.

Nestled between the majestic Cascade Mountains and the sparkling waters of Puget Sound, Seattle, Washington, is a city known for its natural beauty, innovative spirit, and vibrant cultural scene. From its iconic landmarks to its thriving culinary scene, Seattle offers a wealth of experiences that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.

• Your journey in Seattle begins with a visit to the Space Needle, an iconic symbol of the city. Take an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views of the cityscape, the Puget Sound, and the distant Olympic Mountains. The Space Needle's futuristic design is a testament to Seattle's forward-thinking nature.
• Pike Place Market is a bustling mecca for foodies and shoppers. Watch fishmongers toss salmon, sample local artisanal cheeses, and savor freshly baked pastries. Don't forget to snap a photo with the famous bronze pig, Rachel.
• Embark on a scenic ferry ride from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island. As you cross the waters of Puget Sound, take in breathtaking views of the city skyline and Mount Rainier. Once on the island, explore charming boutiques, enjoy farm-to-table dining, and visit the picturesque Bloedel Reserve gardens.
• MoPOP is a tribute to the creativity and innovation that define Seattle. Explore exhibits celebrating music, science fiction, and pop culture icons. The museum's unique architectural design, created by Frank Gehry, is a work of art in itself.
• Marvel at the stunning glass art creations of Dale Chihuly in the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit. The vibrant, otherworldly glass sculptures and installations are set against the backdrop of a lush garden, providing a one-of-a-kind visual experience.
• A short drive from Seattle will take you to Mount Rainier National Park, where you can hike through old-growth forests, marvel at vibrant wildflower meadows, and witness the majesty of Mount Rainier, an active volcano. The park offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
• Stroll along the Seattle Waterfront, where you can visit the Seattle Aquarium, take a ride on the Great Wheel for stunning waterfront views, and savor seafood at waterfront restaurants. Ferries to nearby islands depart from here, offering day trip options. Fremont, often dubbed "The Center of the Universe," is a quirky neighborhood filled with public art, eclectic shops, and a thriving arts scene. Don't miss the Fremont Troll, a beloved neighborhood landmark, lurking beneath the Aurora Bridge.
• Seattle is renowned for its coffee culture, and a visit isn't complete without a stop at a local café. Explore the city's coffee heritage with visits to Starbucks Reserve Roastery, Caffè Vita, and numerous indie coffee shops.