Bucket-List Mini Adventures In America’s Coolest Cities You Need To Try

United States of Adventure

You don’t need to head into the wild to find adventure in the USA  – some of the country’s most exhilarating experiences are right in the heart of its cities. From rock climbing and horseback riding to kayaking, skiing and even flying, our well-traveled editorial team have ranked the 24 best mini adventures in America’s coolest cities.

Click through this gallery to discover your next adventure... 

24. Pedal around Los Angeles, California

Fitness is practically a way of life in Los Angeles, and with miles of riverside cycle paths, it's easy to see why. The Los Angeles River Bicycle Path cuts through the scenic Glendale Narrows, winding past lush stretches of Griffith Park and into the mural-dotted Elysian Valley.

Though the route is split into two unconnected sections, both offer a refreshing ride through some of the city’s most vibrant pockets. Rent a bike downtown and follow the river as LA reveals a quieter, cooler side.

23. Take a Discovery Hike in Portland, Oregon

Get lost in Oregon’s backyard on a free, expert-led Discovery Hike organized by the Forest Park Conservancy. These themed walks explore everything from the park’s rich history to its medicinal plants – check the Conservancy’s website to see upcoming dates and register.

Prefer to go it alone? Forest Park offers more than 80 miles of trails, where you can seek out landmarks like the moss-covered ‘Stone House’ or ‘Witch’s Castle,’ a crumbling former restroom with a mysterious charm.

22. Skate in the Sky, Atlanta, Georgia

When winter sets in, the residents of Atlanta head skyward. Since its debut in 2017, 'Skate the Sky' has transformed the rooftop of Ponce City Market into a seasonal ice rink, offering a unique way to take in the city skyline.

Skaters glide (or wobble) across the ice with panoramic views all around, then warm up post-session with a hot toddy from one of the rooftop bars.

21. Swing through the trees in Orlando, Florida

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park feels a world away from the city's theme park crowds – though it's just around the corner. Hidden in the pines, this aerial ropes course challenges you to climb, swing and zip your way through the treetops, with courses ranging from 10 feet to a nerve-testing 50 feet. There’s even a dedicated course for kids, so the whole family can get in on the action. 

 

20. Catch some waves in San Diego, California

There are fantastic waves up and down the Californian coast, but for city surf, San Diego takes some beating. If you're already a seasoned surfer, head to La Jolla, where giant swells break far from the shore.

If you're a newbie ready to learn, the San Diego Surf School runs lessons (group sessions and private classes) from Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach. 

19. Swim in Barton Springs Pool, Austin, Texas

There are few better ways to escape Austin’s sticky heat than with a dip in Barton Springs Pool. Set within the sprawling Zilker Park, this man made pool is fed by natural underground springs, giving it a refreshing, steady temperature of around 68°F year-round.

Despite its popularity with both locals and tourists, the pool spans a massive three acres, so there’s plenty of space to cool off and stretch out.

18. Get your skates on in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Each summer, Philadelphia’s waterfront gets a playful makeover as the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink rolls into town. Set along Christopher Columbus Boulevard, this open-air roller rink is the centerpiece of Summerfest – a seasonal celebration complete with mini-golf, fairground rides, food stalls and a towering 60-foot Ferris wheel.

17. Try 'log rolling' in Madison, Wisconsin

This curious sport has its roots in 19th-century Wisconsin, when lumberjacks would balance on floating logs as part of their work. Though risky, it soon turned into a form of friendly competition.

Today, you can try it out with Madison Log Rolling, who run sessions on Lake Wingra during the summer months. Practise solo or challenge an opponent in a friendly duel. For a more relaxed vibe, their adult-only 'Lager Loggers' classes pair the sport with a pint.

16. 'Skydive' in Orlando, Florida

Ever dreamt of skydiving, but been afraid to take the plunge? You can whet your appetite at iFLY in Orlando, whose indoor wind tunnels allow you to experience the feeling of floating above the clouds without the heady heights.

With additional locations in Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Atlanta, iFLY offers 90-minute to two-hour sessions that include expert instruction, time to float in the wind tunnel and a gravity-defying demo from the pros to wrap things up.

15. Try kiteboarding in Boston, Massachusetts

Recognized as one of the top kiteboarding spots in the States, Boston’s Pleasure Bay draws crowds to its shoreline to watch the pros in action. However, it’s not ideal for beginners, with tricky conditions and hidden underwater rocks.

Newcomers are better off booking a lesson with New England Kite School or Kite Boston, who usually hold sessions at safer nearby spots like Revere Beach or Nahant.

14. Cross-country ski with your dog in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Few cities offer cross-country skiing, and fewer still offer the chance to ski with a four-legged friend. 'Skijoring,' where a canine companion pulls you along on cross-country skis, has gained in popularity throughout Minnesota.

Annual races take place across the state in winter, and one inner-city 'skijoring' spot is Bde Maka Ska, a lake in Minneapolis. Check the Loppet Foundation website for race details, and look out for free introductory sessions in Theodore Wirth Park. 

13. Rock climb in Austin, Texas

Just minutes from downtown Austin, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers a wild escape – and some of the city’s best rock climbing. Local outfitter Rock-About runs sessions for all levels, with gear provided and expert guides on hand. It’s an adventurous, distinctly Austin way to spend a day outdoors.

12. Ride a gondola through New Orleans, Louisiana

For a more laid-back adventure in the Big Easy, head to City Park and climb aboard a Venetian-style gondola. Nola Gondola offers 50-minute cruises through the park’s tranquil lagoons, complete with romantic Italian music and a gondolier in full striped-shirt-and-boater-hat regalia.

You’re welcome to bring your own drinks – there’s an ice bucket and glasses on board – and tours run Wednesday to Sunday, typically from noon to early evening. It’s a peaceful, picturesque way to see a different side of New Orleans.

11. Snorkel at Queen’s Surf Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii

While Hawaii’s best snorkeling is usually found beyond its cities, Queen’s Surf Beach in Honolulu is a rare urban gem. Set along the edge of Waikiki, its clear and gentle waters are ideal for spotting vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish – especially near the Waikiki Aquarium. True to its name, it’s also a favorite spot for surfers.

10. Zip line over Las Vegas, Nevada

Soaring 12 stories above Fremont Street, the aptly named SlotZilla zip line sends riders flying above the neon glow of downtown Las Vegas. The launch tower is modeled after a giant slot machine, complete with flashing lights and two larger-than-life showgirls.

There are two options: the 77-foot-tall Zip-Zilla line or the Super-Hero Zoomline, which launches from 114 feet and sends riders 1,750 feet in a prone, superhero-style position.

9. Go horseback riding in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California

While celebrities may zoom around the city in their Cadillacs, there's a better way to discover the City of Angels. Sunset Ranch Hollywood offers guided horseback riding tours through Griffith Park with views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory and downtown Los Angeles.

8. Whitewater kayak in Denver, Colorado

It’s not every day you can go whitewater kayaking in the heart of a major city, but in Denver, that’s exactly what’s on offer. At Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, a man-made stretch of white water provides an urban adventure for keen kayakers. For something more relaxed, there’s also a small beach area ideal for swimming.

7. Join a speed boat tour of Miami, Florida

If you're feeling the need for speed then this high-octane tour of Miami is for you. A journey with Thriller Miami Speedboat Adventures is as much a sight-seeing jaunt as it is an adrenaline hit.

You'll zip you past some of Miami's top attractions, from well-heeled Fisher Island to South Beach. An expedition takes 45 minutes and shoots you off from the Bayside Marketplace in the city's Downtown area. 

6. Ride a hot air balloon over Albuquerque, New Mexico

The annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (pictured) sees hundreds of kaleidoscopic balloons take to the New Mexico skies. But you can have a cloud-based adventure year round with Rainbow Ryders, who organize hot-air-balloon expeditions over Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Colorado Springs and Phoenix. Go at sunrise or sunset for the most epic vistas.

5. Jet ski on the Hudson River, New York City, New York

If you’ve already tackled Manhattan on foot, why not see the skyline from a new angle – at speed? Jet skiing the Hudson River offers a thrilling way to take in New York’s landmarks, with skyscrapers soaring above as you skim the water below.

Several outfitters offer rentals and tours, including New York Harbor Jet Ski. Their options range from a three-hour Grand Tour of the city, taking in sights like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, to a shorter 90-minute sunset ride.

4. Kayak under the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

There are few better ways to see the Golden Gate Bridge than from the water. Various outfitters run kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboard sessions in the area, and Sea Trek is one of the best.

The company's Paddle the Gate route takes you right under the bridge's bright red span, before cruising along the Marin Headlands. The round trip lasts three hours, and is suitable for novice and expert kayakers alike (over 16s only on this adventure). 

 

3. Try flyboarding in Nashville, Tennessee

You may not have heard of flyboarding, but in Nashville, you can try it for yourself. Powered by jets, the board lifts you above the water, offering what Nashville FlyBoard calls 'the sensation of flying.'

It’s said to be surprisingly easy to learn, and a guide is always on hand to help you get the hang of it. Sessions take place by appointment at various locations in and around the city, including Percy Priest Lake, just a 15-minute drive from downtown.

2. Skydive over Chicago, Illinois

Even the lofty skyscrapers of Chicago will seem small on this adventure. On a skydiving experience with Skydive Midwest, you'll sweep over sprawling Lake Michigan and be able to spot the striking cityscapes too.

Novice divers are strapped onto an experienced instructor for a tandem ride, but should you wish to go it alone, special courses are available. 

1. Pilot an aerobatic plane over Las Vegas, Nevada

Our top pick for a city-based adventure, this is adrenaline-fueled sightseeing with a serious twist. At Sky Combat Ace in Las Vegas, you’ll take to the skies in a high-performance aerobatic plane – with an expert pilot at your side and dual controls that let you take charge mid-flight.

Choose from a range of flight experiences, from gentle loops and rolls to full-throttle aerial stunts, depending on how brave you're feeling. And if you'd rather keep your feet on the ground, there's a spectator package that lets you watch the action without the G-forces.

Now see how we've ranked America's most amazing views