You Should Know These Places|You Should Know These Places
Alaska
Have you ever wondered where the best place to see the northern lights would be? If you ask those in the know, they'll tell you to go to the famed Fairbanks, Alaska—arguably the best place in the world for aurora borealis spotting. Spectators have a chance to see the darkened night sky streaked with glowing natural light four out of five nights from August 21 to April 21, known as aurora season.
Arizona
Built right into the red rock of Arizona, Chapel of the Holy Cross draws crowds for many reasons, particularly for its striking architecture. The outside aesthetic of this unique place of worship is enough to get the attention of anyone, but the views from inside is the truly captivating sight. Sunset becomes a spiritual experience if you get to watch it from this Sedona, Arizona, locale.
Arkansas
At the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, even the building is considered a remarkable work of design. Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, established the museum with free entry for visitors. The grounds are as beautiful as the gallery and have attracted millions of visitors since it was founded in 2011. After viewing some of the peculiar and breathtaking exhibits, a stroll on one of the walking paths invites observers to serenely ponder their experience.
California
With architect Julia Morgan, media magnate William Randolph Hearst spent 28 years of his life designing, constructing and filling Hearst Castle with personal and practical treasures. Hearst was best known for being the inspiration for the fictional main character Charles Foster Kane in the well-known 1941 film "Citizen Kane." Keeping in theme with his real-life inspiration, Orson Welles also based the "Xanadu" mansion from the movie on Hearst Castle.
Colorado
Just 10 miles away from Aspen, some say that Maroon Bells is the most photographed place in Colorado. Onlookers appreciate the brilliance of color between the two peaks, which reach over 14,000 feet each. This is one of those places you have to see to believe, as it transforms into a completely new scene every season.
Connecticut
William Gillette was known to portray the fictional sleuth Sherlock Holmes onstage like no one else has been able to since the turn of the 20th century. The actor shared a fondness for detail with his fictional counterpart, overseeing the intricate design of Gillette Castle, set above the Connecticut River. For instance, the residence of the late actor had several stand-alone woodworks, including 47 uniquely carved doors, none of which have the same design as another.
