The night is young and sleep is for quitters. Sometimes it’s really nice to let your hair down and prowl a city to uncover its nightlife. Other times it might feel good to just lie on your back and look at the stars. Regardless of your mood, we’re on it. Here are some ideas for after dark experiences if you’re traveling in the U.S.
Stargazing – Mauna Kea, Hawaii
Wishing on a single star is nice and all, but wishing upon thousands slightly more than doubles the odds. Make your dreams come true with a trip to an observatory. The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station on Hawaii’s Big island is open from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Enjoy a documentary screening, star tours of the brightest constellations, and a close-up of the night sky through the telescopes. Luckily, when the observatory closes, the stars will still be there for you to see – at least until the sun starts to come up.
Sin in Sin City – Las Vegas, Nevada
In a city where there are no last calls, Vegas is all about life after dark. Bars, clubs, shows, restaurants, casinos, you name it. We’re beyond naming venues – there’s just too many. Whatever your vice is, chances are you’ll find it on the Strip. Specifically check out the “How to Vegas” tab and plan your trip here:
Monuments by Moonlight – Washington D.C.
The Washington Monument, the Capital, and the White House are impressive by day, but something about the way their lights reflect in the night sky makes them even more impressive after dark. There are plenty of tours that start in the pm and hit all the beautiful historical spots in D.C., perhaps under a full moon’s reflection even.
Bar Hopping – New York City
Of course the city that never sleeps had to make it on this list. There are a million ways to spend an evening in the Big Apple. Whether you’re noshing at a late night restaurant, sipping cosmos in a Soho lounge, popping a bottle in the Meatpacking District, or pub crawling in the East Village, you won’t be the only one.
Bead Up! – New Orleans, Louisiana
You don’t have to wait until Mardi Gras to party like it’s the end of the world, though I wouldn’t miss out on that opportunity either. The French Quarter teems with heritage and character. Bourbon Street is the main draw, and as the name implies, it’s an infamous party hub. The streets are laden with performers, fortune tellers and interesting (weird) people as well as numerous bars.