June 1, 2020
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after
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Walking is the best way to explore on vacation! Getting around on your own two feet allows you to take things slow and not miss out on the sights and sounds of your destination. Additionally, walking is inexpensive and offers numerous health benefits. The U.S. is full of interesting cities that center pedestrian experiences. Here are some of the top major and small to mid-sized metro areas in the U.S. for your next walking adventure.
A major city built before the automobile, Boston is a pedestrian paradise filled with history about the American Revolution and beyond. For a history lesson, stroll the famed 2.5-mile Freedom trail that features 16 sites significant to the Revolutionary War.
Stop for photos in front of Paul Revere’s house, or the site of the Boston Massacre and secret meeting spots used by patriots during the American Revolution. Take a walking tour with Boston By Foot to learn about how immigration shaped the sites, sounds and architecture of the North End — Boston’s oldest neighborhood.
Despite Seattle’s reputation for rainy downpours, its eclectic neighborhoods and access to nearby nature make the city a walker’s paradise. Head to the Pioneer Square neighborhood to walk along the Puget Sound waterfront and through historic cobbled streets lined with galleries.
Hike the trails at Olympic Sculpture Park and head to the beach. Head to Pier 57 for some fun activities to fit in between your steps, including a ride on The Seattle Great Wheel for views of Elliot Bay.
The U.S. capital is one of the world’s best walking destinations. Stroll the National Mall to see the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and other iconic monuments along the Tidal Basin.
Continue on to the quieter East Potomac Park for incredible urban river views. Later in the day, ride the Metro to Dupont Circle to take in historic architecture, bars, restaurants, boutiques and bakeries. Head to the historic Georgetown neighborhood to walk along the C&O canal towpath.
This snowy, northern city may have a reputation for chilly weather, but it is still one of the most walkable cities in the nation. More than 50 miles of paved trails wind through parks, gardens, beaches and unique neighborhoods. To fully immerse yourself in nature, go snowshoeing through Theodore Wirth Park.
After the thaw, take a spring hike through the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and the Quaking Bog. Stroll the shores of Boom Island along the Mississippi River for the best views of the downtown skyline.
This mountainous city is a hiker’s paradise. An deal destination for urban strolls and technical trail hikes, Boulder is recognized as a Gold-level Walk Friendly Community. “The pedestrian-only Pearl Street Mall and extensive network of multi-use paths and hiking trails are Boulder icons that attract people from all over the country and world,” writes the City of Boulder.
You can walk directly from downtown to mountain trails. Head to The People’s Crossing rock formation located on the west end of Pearl Street. From there, hike the Red Rocks Trail where you can “play around the otherworldly, ochre-colored sandstone, hidden in plain site just minutes from downtown,” writes Visit Boulder. Take a self-guided or led tour with the Boulder Walks Program.
The largest city in Maine, Portland is one of 26 U.S. cities ranked by Love Exploring as the best places to spend a car-free weekend. For incredible waterside views of bustling Portland Harbor, stroll the 5.2-mile Harbor Walk Trail. From there, you can access a number of great walking routes including the paved trails in Bug Light Park, and parts of the South Portland Greenbelt Walkway.
Cross the Casco Bay Bridge by foot for a walk through Thomas Knight Park. Take a break and lounge on East End Beach. Meander on cobblestone streets and pick up a souvenir at Old Port. Take one of the many self-guided walking tours curated by Greater Portland Landmarks to Learn about Portland’s history and architecture.
“As it is a compact city, Lincoln is best explored on foot, and there are designated walking trails in the city centre, as well as out in the countryside,” writes Visit Lincoln. In the heart of the city, you will find gorgeous gardens and green spaces perfect for midday stroll.
Take in the flora at The Arboretum, Liquorice Park and Temple Gardens. Head over to nearby Dawber Gardens. Take a self-guided Historic Haymarket Tour to learn how industry and railroads shaped the city.
This river city is the ideal for both urban and nature strolls. Head downtown to wade in the outdoor fountains of the landscaped park surrounding the Tennessee Aquarium. From there, cross the scenic Walnut Street pedestrian bridge for incredible views of the Tennessee River and access to great restaurants in the city’s Northshore neighborhood.
Spend the day on the 16-mile Tennessee River Walk. Climb the strenuous Guild-Hardy Lookout Mountain Trails. History buffs will enjoy strolling through Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, the site of two major Civil War battles.
You never know when illness, weather or a travel delay will put a snag in your travel plans. In this age of uncertainty, travel insurance is essential for protecting the financial investment you’ve made in your trip. Allianz Global Assistance offers trip cancellation benefits that can reimburse non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to a reason included in your policy.
We also offer emergency medical transportation benefits, which can save you thousands if you have to be evacuated on a remote hike due to a medical emergency. We offer plans for a range of budgets, including annual and one-trip plans.
Wherever you roam, don’t forget to protect yourself with travel insurance. Get a quote and find the right plan for you.
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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.
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