On Bridge Day each October you can walk across the New River Gorge Bridge—or jump off. Hundreds of parachutists make the 876-foot [267-meter] leap on the one day it's legal. How much free-fall time is safe? 'You'll hit the water about nine seconds after you jump,' advises Bridge Day enthusiast Bill Von Novak. 'It's a good idea to open your chute before that happens.'
— From "New River's Deep Soul," June 1999, National Geographic magazine
There are 58 national parks in the U.S., as varied as the country that houses them. We’ve gathered everything you need to know to set off for an adventure, plus photo galleries, quizzes, maps, and more.
Spice up your family’s travels with this collection of 3,500 family-friendly sights and activities grouped by states and by categories of interest—and many of them are free!
Merry-go-rounds, deep-fried corndogs and high-flying Ferris wheels mark the start of state fair season. Submit your best summer fair pictures to the newest category of My Shot and view photos from other fairs across the country.
No land in America is more sacred than the square mile of Arlington National Cemetery. Experience it in its entirety with this feature from National Geographic magazine.
