Centro León: This is easily the best museum in the country. See Dominican culture, art, and history in the state-of-the-art facility. While you’re there, watch and learn how cigars are made.

Carnaval in La Vega: Join in the fun during the pre-Lenten Carnaval celebration often touted as the best in the country. Dance in the streets at one of the best parties thrown in the Dominican Republic.

Pico Duarte: Hike 3,087 meters to the top of the highest peak in the Caribbean. This challenging trek takes you to the summit, where on a clear day you can see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

Parque Nacional Valle Nuevo: Take in the phenomenal bird-watching opportunity in this protected forest and then head over to the Salto de Aguas Blancas for a dip in the pool of the three-tiered waterfall.

Ruta de Murales: Take The Mural Route through Salcedo — the town is its own art gallery. From the water tower on the edge of town with the likenesses of the Mirabal sisters, all the way to the Museo de Hermanas Mirabal, you will find murals on fences, banks, hotels, and anything with a smooth surface.