The best VR apps and gadgets to travel the world virtually

We're all feeling a bit like Ariel lately. We just want to be where the people are. But we can't. So it's time to find something else to do. One of the things you can take advantage of right now is the fact that many museums and art institutions are offering free virtual tours. And to do it right and feel like you're really there, you're going to need some VR gadgets.

CEEK 360 Wireless 4D Headphones as a Virtual Reality Headset

You’re bored. We get it. So are we. So. Bored. But even in the midst of everything going on right now, there’s still some pretty cool stuff happening. Have you ever wondered what Dracula’s castle looks like? Wanted to take a tour of the Winchester mansion but haven’t been able to make it out to California? Many places are opening up their grounds and museums for free virtual tours, and you’re going to want to take advantage of them while you can. But who wants to just sit in front of their laptop and look? Nah, we have a better idea. So we’ve rounded up the best VR apps and gadgets.

Now you can travel the world like a boss right from the comfort of your couch and pajamas. Strap on your VR headset, select your destination, and go. Looking for ideas of where to visit? How about the Louvre, the Sistine Chapel, the Guggenheim, Yosemite National Park, or the Great Wall of China? And that’s just to name a few. A simple Google search will reveal endless virtual tours you can take.

And we’re here to make them even better for you.

Try out some VR apps

One of the things you’re going to need to start your virtual vacation is a virtual reality app. And you can find an app for just about anything. Heck, future college students can even hop on VR apps to tour prospective colleges. But here are some we think you’ll enjoy.

Ascape VR

This app will take you on tours around the world. And you can enjoy it with or without a VR headset. Want to go on a safari? Skydive? Visit the Grand Canyon? Just select your destination and teleport there. This app requires iOS 8.0 or later, and it’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Sites VR

Want to visit Holland while the tulips are blooming? Maybe check out a palace in Istanbul? Sites VR will take you there. This app requires iOS 5.1.1 or later, and it’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Google Expeditions

With Google Expeditions, you’ll have both virtual reality and augmented reality capabilities. Plus, it’s free. And we all love free. If you have kids around the house, this is a great way to keep them busy and learning.

Want even more VR apps? Digital Trends has compiled a list of the best 2020 VR apps.

You’re going to want a VR headset

Many VR apps don’t require a virtual reality headset, but come on. You know you want one. You’ve been wanting one for a while, but you couldn’t justify it. We’ve been doing a lot of shopping and justifying over here, so we’re going to give you the go-ahead to do the same yourself.

CEEK 360 Wireless 4D Headphones

Are you looking to take your gaming, music, and virtual reality experiences to a whole new level? The CEEK 360 Wireless 4D Headphones can do that for you. Moreover, these headphones feature ultra-deep bass and earth-shaking vibrations. The proprietary physics-based 3D Audio and omnidirectional surround provide an incredibly realistic listening experience. Pair them with the CEEK VR Headset to take your VR experiences anywhere.

Oculus Quest 6DOF All-in-One VR System

Enjoy total freedom with your VR content with the new Oculus Quest 6DOF All-in-One VR System. Offering six degrees of freedom and intuitive touch controllers, it lets you move freely and naturally and even interact with other objects and people around you. Without the need for a PC, wires, or external sensors, it’s ready to use out of the box. It’s capable of tracking your exact location thanks to four ultra wide-angle sensors and computer vision algorithms. With a display resolution of 1600 by 1440 per eye, the Oculus Quest remains at an affordable price point.

HTC Vive Focus Plus Standalone Enterprise VR System

Use VR for business applications with the HTC Vive Focus Plus Standalone Enterprise VR System. Designed for simple deployment and management, this device combines impressive graphics, ergonomic comfort, and controllers with six degrees of freedom. Thanks to 6DoF tracking in the controllers, the Vive Focus Plus allows for immersive and intuitive hand motions and VR navigation. Additionally, the pressure-sensitive trigger offers improved manipulation of and interaction with items in virtual environments. 

HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset

Experience a reality different from your own with the HP Windows Mixed Reality Headset and Controllers. Resting on your head, the dual high-resolution displays transport you to a whole new world. The included hand controllers also let you personalize and interact with a variety of content. This includes travel, sports, culture, and even live concerts and games such as Minecraft. In fact, there are over 20,000 different titles to choose from to pique your interest.

Oculus Go Wireless VR Headset

Take your imagination on the go with the Oculus Go Wireless VR Headset. Totally comfortable and wire-free, this system lets you move and interact with scenes like never before. The Oculus Go is an all-in-one system. Once in place, it gives you access to over 1,000 games, apps, 360° experiences, and more, all in stunning virtual reality. Whether you’re a gamer or a sports fan, it will truly blow you away. In addition, the Oculus Go comes with a hand controller so you can interact with everything you see with effortless ease. 

Daydream View 2.0 VR Headset by Google

Introducing Daydream View 2.0—the latest VR headset by Google. As an upgrade on the original headset, the 2.0 version uses Daydream Euphrates and WorldSense to make the entire virtual experience easy and intuitive. In addition, the Daydream View 2.0 also incorporates Chrome VR. With this module, users can open, browse, and navigate the entire internet just like at a computer. 

Start checking some items off your list of places to see this weekend. We’ve made a list over here of where we want to visit. Do you have a place on your list that you’re excited to see? Let us know!

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