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Tours & Experiences Worth Booking

Sometimes the best part of a trip is something you book in advance. Here are tours and experiences we’ve loved or strongly recommend.

Catalina Island

• Catalina Express Ferry — The main way to get to the island from San Pedro, Long Beach, or Dana Point. Book in advance especially for holiday weekends.
• Kayak rentals at Two Harbors — Rent directly from the campground. Worth every penny for exploring the coves.
• Skiff rentals — First come, first served and they go fast (sold out by 8:30 AM in peak season). No advance booking — just show up early.

Italy

• Pompeii ruins tour — We did a brief stop en route from the Amalfi Coast. A guided tour makes the history come alive, especially for kids who’ve been reading Percy Jackson.
• Amalfi Coast boat tours — One of the best ways to see the coastline. Book ahead in summer.
• Tuscany winery tours — We visited cheese makers and wineries from our base in Umbria. Worth adding to any central Italy itinerary.

Chicago

• Chicago CityPASS — Covers 5 major attractions in 9 days. If you’re visiting at least 2 of the included spots (Willis Tower, Art Institute, Aquarium, etc.) it pays for itself.
• Chicago Architecture Boat Tour — One of the most acclaimed tours in the country. Great for couples and architecture lovers.