South Padre Island and spring breakers are inextricably linked. However, the Texas hot spot has plenty of must-see attractions that lure travelers year-round to its picture-perfect beaches, ecological sites and water-centric establishments.

Hit the Beach

Beaches in South Padre Island are among the best in the United States. Stretching 34 miles, they’re rimmed by the Gulf of Mexico on the east and Laguna Madre Bay on the west. Amidst the sand, sun-seekers work on tans as well as check out waterfront restaurants and shops. On the north end, the beachfront remains largely undeveloped, making it a great locale for anyone looking to escape the mayhem. Wherever you settle in, expect to be tempted by activities such as surfing, dolphin watching, scuba diving and windsurfing.

Gladys Porter Zoo

This area zoo is a relaxing oasis set amidst 26 tropical plant-laden acres where 225 species of flora flourish. Showcasing more than 1,600 animals (and 377 species), the zoo has seen success breeding endangered wildlife. Among the most popular attractions is its Tropical America exhibition where Galapagos tortoises, Caribbean flamingos, spider monkeys and Cuban crocodiles elicit amazement from visitors. The Africa exhibit, which is loaded with zebras, lions, chimps and white rhinos, is a crowd-pleaser as well.

Gladys Porter Zoo
500 Ringgold St.
Brownsville, TX
(956) 546-7187

Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark

Although it’s unlikely you’ll get sick of the sand, this action-packed water park makes a good case for a detour. Interconnected waterways, rides and slides—not to mention a 5-story “sandcastle,” uphill water coaster and surf waves—give families loads to do. The park also has direct beach access to the Gulf of Mexico. Upping the ante further, there’s a swim-up bar, hot tub and wading pool. On-site dining means you can make a day of it.

33261 State Park Road 100
South Padre Island, TX
(956) 772-7873

Tip Some Back

It’s practically a crime to come to South Padre Island without sipping a cocktail or two or three. Coconuts Bar & Grill is the quintessential place to hit the sauce, just be prepared for a raucous scene. Belly up and dive into fried grouper, jerk chicken and peel and eat shrimp. Wave runner and parasailing rentals are offered on-site.

2301 Laguna Dr.
South Padre Island, TX
(956) 761-4218

Learn About Sea Turtles

Sea Turtle Rescue is an enjoyable (and educational) destination where visitors can learn about marine conservation, sea turtle rehabilitation and marine turtle life worldwide. A range of species is on display, from flatback to Pacific black and loggerhead species. Experts give talks and guests can view feedings. Those who get attached to the creatures can consider adopting a resident sea turtle.

6617 South Padre Island Blvd.
South Padre Island, TX
(956) 761-4511

The beauty of Ireland and its rich folkloric history is well documented, but many people are unaware of the fun and adventure that is available for kids and entire families on vacation. Ireland has taken an impressive step to combine exciting outdoor sports and activities with educational content for kids of all ages, providing a fun time for all and plenty to think about afterward.

Castle Archdale Country Park

Castle Archdale Country Park is located ten miles north west of Enniskillen and stretches along Lower Lough Erne for about 230 acres. The park is part of the Castle Archdale Caravan Park and Camping Site, which hosts carnivals, festivals and activities for all ages. The Country Park contains monastery sites, a deer enclosure, ponds, a wildflower meadow, trails and butterfly gardens. Kids and adults enjoy bicycling, hiking, boating, and pony trekking. The park also contains a museum and visitor center with exhibits and information about the historic and ecological nature of the site. The park is open to the public everyday from 9 a.m. For more information call +44 28 68621588, or go to www.fundays.ie.

Kart City

Kart City is a sports activity facility established in 1993 in Dublin that offers fueled kart racing, urban paintball, a large hobby shop called BoyZ Toys for model cars and vehicle enthusiasts and a diner. Kart racing is available on their junior track for kids ages six and up and on their two pro tracks for people ages 16 and up. The facility has six race types to choose from: Arrive and Drive, Mini Grand Prix, Mini Enduro, Kids Party Special, Full Grand Prix and Endurance Race Meet. Upon signing up, drivers are fitted with gloves, helmet and a racing suit. The park is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 12 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. Go to www.kartcity.net for more information and pricing, or call 01 842 6322.

Dublin Zoo

The Dublin Zoo is an all-around adventure center for kids and families. The zoo has animals ranging from Asian elephants to zebras, fantastic grounds for kids to explore, an African swamp and educational programs for tourists and entire classrooms. Zookeepers give daily scheduled presentations on animals such as orangutans, lemurs, penguins, giraffes and reptiles and offer additional lectures and talks on Sumatran tigers, elephants and chimpanzees. The zoo hosts birthday parties and promotes its own Adopt An Animal program. The zoo is open to the public year round from 9:30 a.m. More information is available at www.dublinzoo.ie, or call 353 (0) 1 474 8900.

Chicago is a great city with a history of sophistication, architecture and business. It’s known for entertainment as well, and Halloween is an entertainment-filled holiday for the Windy City. Whether you want to tour a haunted house, ride a ghostly roller coaster or hear classic haunted tales by Edgar Allen himself, Chicago has got a way for everyone to celebrate the occasion. If you are ready to have a spooky time in Chicago, here are some places to visit.

Red Lion Pub

Visit this renown haunted pub on Halloween to get your scare-on. Built in 1882, the Red Lion location has a history of being a brothel, as well as an old west style saloon. Sightings of a ghostly figure now referred to as “Sharon” has been blamed for the inexplicable second floor bathroom locks malfunctioning, locking in frightened patrons, as well as mysterious swinging lamps and moving artwork. Check it out at 2446 N Lincoln Ave.

Weird Chicago Tour

Available usually only on Halloween weekend, the Weird Chicago tour will take you through this cities mobster and ghostly past. Visit the spirits of the Congress Hotel (the most haunted hotel in Chicago), see where John Dillinger was shot and check out a haunted tattoo parlor. Full of spooky tales that will bring shivers up your spine tickets are $30.00 as of 2009. Tours are picked up at the Hard Rock Cafe on Clark and Ontario streets.

Edgar Allen Poe Readings

Presented by the actors of the Lifeline Theater, Poe’s spookiest writings such as “The Raven” will be dramatically brought to life on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Tickets for it’s 23rd annual production sell for $25.00 and take place at the Glessner House on 1800 S Prairie Ave.

Shadows on the Street Haunted Tours of Prairie Avenue

Presented by the Glessner House on Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st, tours include stories from the Glessner House as well as a stroll to the homes of Marshall Field and George Pullman. Costumed docents will lead you into the mysterious 1800’s and fill your head with history and haunting. Head to 1800 S. Prairie Ave.

Windy City Sweets

Halloween is nothing if there is no candy involved, and Windy City Sweets has been treating the people of Chicago for over 20 years. Handmade fudge, candies and ice cream will tempt you to hold your hands out and yell “Trick or Treat.” Find it at 3308 N. Broadway Street.

Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America

Weekends in October bring out the ghouls and ghosts at one of the most fun theme parks in the area. Haunted houses, street entertainers and a special trick or treat day for the kids, Six Flags creates a spooky environment for kids of all ages to have a blast. General admission is $54.99 in 2009, but online specials can be found. Parking is extra so load up the car and get going.

The United States has hundreds of National Parks, founded to preserve some of the country’s most beautiful and pristine spots while allowing any visitor to enjoy their natural beauty.

Of the hundreds of National Parks, more than 100 allow camping. Camping in National Parks is a great way to see America, have a few adventures and save money in the process.

History

The first publicly protected park, transferred to California State ownership in 1864, was the Yosemite Valley. The first National Park was Yellowstone, established in 1872. The National Park Service was created in 1916 to manage and protect the growing number of National Parks throughout the nation.

Access and Amenities

Campsite amenities vary: some have hot showers, campfire rings and laundry facilities, while others may not even offer water. “Developed” campsites can generally be reached by car and offer more amenities, including RV hookups. “Primitive” campsites are usually private and scenic but often can be reached only on foot.

Cost and Reservations

Most National Park campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis (so arrive early on holiday weekends). A few campgrounds accept reservations. Campsites usually cost $10-$20 a night.

Wildlife and Fire Dangers

When you enter the park or the campground, you’re likely to see signs or meet a Ranger who will warn you about any park dangers. These vary from park to park: in Yosemite, you may be told to store your food in “bear boxes”; in Indiana, you might hear about a firewood quarantine for pest control. Fire danger varies by area as well. Follow all instructions to the letter; National Parks are the property of all U.S. citizens, and it’s every visitor’s responsibility to keep them beautiful and safe.

Time Limit

Enjoy your stay, but don’t linger: the maximum stay in a National Park is 14 days.