Tips + Planning
Beyond the Parks: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Orlando might be the theme park capital of the world, but trust me, there’s way more to this city than just roller coasters and costumed characters.
Beyond the flashing lights and endless lines, Orlando hides a treasure trove of lush landscapes, historic charm, and unexpected adventures. If you’re ready to trade the theme park hustle for something a little more offbeat, check out these four hidden gems that’ll make you see the city in a whole new way.
Lake Eola Park

Right in the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a picture-perfect escape from the buzz of the city. The iconic lake is home to elegant swan boats, a gorgeous fountain that lights up at night, and a paved path perfect for strolling, jogging, or people-watching.
On weekends, you might stumble upon a local market, live music, or a yoga class under the skyline. Pack a picnic, snap some skyline photos, and don’t forget to feed the swans—this scenic spot blends urban energy with peaceful vibes in the best way.
Read More: The 10 Most Exciting Activities in Orlando, US
Wekiwa Springs State Park

If you love the outdoors, Wekiwa Springs State Park is the perfect spot to explore Florida’s wild side. Just a short drive from downtown, this natural oasis features crystal-clear springs that stay a refreshing 72 degrees year-round.
Take a dip, snorkel, or rent a kayak and paddle down the scenic Wekiva River, where you might spot otters, turtles, or even a manatee. The park also boasts miles of hiking trails through pine forests and shaded hammocks, making it a great place for a nature-filled escape.
Read More: Summer on a Budget: Enjoy Orlando!
Sunset at The Wheel at ICON Park

For one of the best views in the city, head to ICON Park and take a ride on The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel offering breathtaking panoramic views. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting over the lakes and city lights.
The air-conditioned capsules provide a smooth, comfortable ride, making it an effortless way to soak in the scenery. And with plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options at ICON Park, you can turn your sunset ride into a full evening out.
Read More: 50+ Orlando Activities for Adults (Girls Trip Guide!)
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Want to see a different side of Orlando? Hop aboard the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour for a laid-back, narrated cruise through the area’s stunning chain of lakes and historic waterways.
Glide past elegant waterfront homes, lush gardens, and charming canals, all while learning about the region’s history and wildlife. It’s a relaxing and unique way to experience the beauty of Central Florida without the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
Read More: Five Sights in Orlando That You Can’t Miss
Discover More of Orlando!
Orlando is way more than just theme parks—it’s a city bursting with surprises, ready for you to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for nature, adventure, or a killer sunset view, these hidden gems prove that the magic of Orlando goes way beyond the parks. Ready to experience a different side of the city?
Weekend Getaways
Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a just-plucked salad while staring at the Pacific, then buckle up, buttercup—Oceanside farm-to-table dining is calling your name.
Tucked between sun-soaked beaches and rolling inland hills, this Southern California gem has quietly grown into a haven for food lovers who like their meals local, their chefs bold, and their plates—well, Instagram-ready.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who really really likes brunch, Oceanside farm-to-table dining offers more than sea views. We’re talking heirloom tomatoes kissed by morning fog, craft cocktails that double as magic tricks, and chefs who are basically artists with aprons. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting fed, farm-fresh style.
What Is Oceanside Farm-to-Table Dining, Really?
Let’s clear the table for a sec. Farm-to-table isn’t just some trendy buzzword chefs slap on menus to sound eco-chic. At its core, it means sourcing ingredients locally—often directly from farms—and serving them up with minimal processing and maximum flavor. In Oceanside, this goes beyond just taste. It’s a philosophy. A lifestyle. Dare we say… a movement?
And the best part? You’re supporting local growers, reducing your carbon footprint, and probably tasting the juiciest strawberry of your life. Win-win-win.
Best Oceanside Farm-to-Table Restaurants You Need to Try
1. The Plot

This zero-waste, plant-based spot is straight-up revolutionary. Their ingredients come from their own nearby farm, and the dishes? Think beet poke, jackfruit tacos, and other delicious curveballs that even die-hard carnivores can’t resist. Oh, and they compost everything. If guilt-free indulgence had a home address, this would be it.
2. Dija Mara

Farm-to-table meets Southeast Asian street food in a vibe-heavy spot that’s as edgy as it is flavorful. The grilled octopus is legendary, and if you skip the charred broccolini, you’re doing it wrong. The chef draws heavily from local produce, giving traditional Balinese flavors a SoCal twist. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it absolutely slaps.
3. Piper at The Seabird Resort

Piper doesn’t mess around. Set inside a dreamy oceanside resort, this airy spot serves up locally-sourced everything—from the eggs in your shakshuka to the basil in your spritz. It’s coastal chic meets farmers market brunch, with a pastry chef who deserves a standing ovation. Try the house-made granola, and prepare to get hooked.
4. Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub

Don’t let the name throw you. This place is an Oceanside staple, known for its punk-rock approach to sushi and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Chef Davin Waite works with local fishermen and farms to craft rolls that are inventive, wild, and weirdly poetic. Like a sea urchin haiku with a wasabi kick.
Markets & Makers: Take the Experience Home

Don’t just eat it—live it. Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market is held every Thursday and is your golden ticket to the freshest produce, local honey, and homemade everything. Chat up the farmers. Sample the stone fruit. Grab some sourdough that might change your life. It’s laid-back, lively, and just the right amount of chaotic.
While you’re at it, check out Cyclops Farms, a certified organic urban farm that supplies many of Oceanside’s restaurants. They host events, dinners, and even let you pick your own produce. Warning: you might leave with a crate of kale and a deep desire to start gardening.
Final Bites: Why Oceanside’s Food Scene Hits Different
Let’s be honest—farm-to-table is often tossed around in cities that feel more like curated museum exhibits than real, lived-in communities. But Oceanside? It’s gritty, it’s growing, and it’s got soul. The chefs here aren’t following trends; they’re setting them. The food isn’t pretentious; it’s passionate. And every bite tells a story that started just down the road.
So, next time you find yourself in this coastal corner of California, come hungry—and maybe wear pants with an elastic waistband. You’re gonna need it.
Planning Your Visit?
Make sure to check restaurant hours, reserve ahead if you can, and leave room in your suitcase for jam jars and handmade pasta. This isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a full-on flavor adventure.
Dig in.
New Orleans
New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!
Read More: Here Are Nine Things You Didn’t Know About Majorca
Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.
Read More: 10 Must-Do Experiences in the Big Apple
What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.
Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:
A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

- The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

- St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

- The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

- Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

- Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.
Read More: Top Attractions in Washington, D.C.
Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective
New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.
Read More: Your Guide to Waikiki Beach
Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.
South Carolina
Myrtle Beach’s Family-Friendly Fun: A Parent’s Guide

Alright, parents—let’s be real for a second. Planning a family vacation can feel like trying to juggle flaming beach balls while balancing on a boogie board.
You want fun, but not too wild. You want the kids entertained, but also a little downtime for yourself (because, let’s face it, you deserve it). Enter: Myrtle Beach. This sunny South Carolina gem is more than just surf and sand—though the 60 miles of coastline sure don’t hurt.
Myrtle Beach is packed with family-friendly adventures, delicious eats, and just enough chaos to keep the kids happy without driving you totally bonkers. Let’s dive into all the stuff that makes Myrtle Beach a no-brainer for your next family getaway.
Hit the Beach—Obviously

First things first, the beach itself is a total win. Soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of room to spread out. Whether your little ones are building the world’s most crooked sandcastle or you’ve got teens perfecting their skimboarding skills, there’s something for everyone.
Pro tip: Head out early to snag a good spot and avoid that midday meltdown (you know the one). Pack snacks, sunscreen, and a beach umbrella you won’t wrestle with for 20 minutes.
Read More: Myrtle Beach for Families: A Complete Travel Guide
Broadway at the Beach: Where It All Happens

If your crew’s got energy to burn, Broadway at the Beach is the place to go. This buzzing entertainment district is basically a playground—for all ages. You’ll find everything from Ripley’s Aquarium (yes, the jellyfish tunnel is awesome) to amusement rides, shops, and quirky little snack stands.
Let the kids feed the fish, grab an ice cream, then wind down with a breezy boat ride around the lake. It’s kind of impossible not to have fun here.
Read More: Myrtle Beach’s Best Golf Courses: A Golfer’s Guide
SkyWheel Rides and Ocean Views

Feeling brave? Take the fam up on the SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach’s iconic Ferris wheel that towers 200 feet above the ocean. The views are next-level, and it’s surprisingly chill—even if you’re a little scared of heights (speaking from experience here).
And hey, it makes for a killer family selfie backdrop, so make sure someone brings their phone—or three.
Mini Golf: Battle for the Family Title

You can’t come to Myrtle Beach and not play mini golf. Seriously, it’s like a rite of passage here. The town is packed with wild, themed courses—think pirates, dinosaurs, and even jungle safaris.
Our favorite? Mt. Atlanticus. It’s got towering tiki heads, tricky holes, and views that make you feel like you’ve leveled up in vacation mode. Plus, a little friendly family competition never hurt anyone (just try not to gloat when you win).
Read More: 15 Epic Things To Do In Myrtle Beach
The Great Food Hunt (For Picky and Adventurous Eaters)

Finding food that works for everyone can be, well, a bit of a circus. But Myrtle Beach makes it easier. Got a kid who only eats chicken tenders? You’re covered. Want to sneak in some fresh seafood for the grown-ups? There are tons of beachside spots that hit both.
Try Sea Captain’s House for ocean views and shrimp-and-grits that’ll knock your flip-flops off. Or go casual with River City Cafe, where burgers come stacked and messy—just the way kids love ’em. And if you’re out exploring and need a quick bite, keep an eye out for local food trucks—you’ll find everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese, perfect for a laid-back beach day.
Chill Time: Parks, Piers, and Sunsets

When the high-energy activities start catching up to everyone, it’s time to slow things down. Take a sunset stroll along Myrtle Beach State Park, let the kids run wild on the playgrounds, or drop a line off the 2nd Avenue Pier.
It’s the kind of low-key magic that reminds you why family trips are worth every snack spill and sunscreen tantrum.
Read More: Travel for Less: Discover Myrtle Beach!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, Myrtle Beach hits that sweet spot between laid-back and full-on fun. It’s got just enough of everything—a beach for the bucket lists, attractions that make memories, and food you’ll dream about long after you’re home.
So pack the car, wrangle the crew, and set your GPS to good times. Myrtle Beach is waiting, and trust me, it’s one trip you’ll want to repeat.
Ready to plan your Myrtle Beach adventure? Book early, build that itinerary, and get ready for a family vacation that hits all the right notes—without hitting your stress limit.
-
USA56 years ago
The Top Nashville Attractions for the Music Lover
-
Trip Ideas56 years ago
New AI Technology Helps Travelers Find the Best Flight Deals
-
Uncategorized56 years ago
Booksi.com Review – Discount Travel Membership
-
Boracay56 years ago
The 10 Best Bars in Boracay
-
Trip Ideas56 years ago
10 Best Activities for an Unforgettable Las Vegas Adventure
-
Trip Ideas56 years ago
Nightlife in Benidorm – The Eight Clubs to Check Out
-
Trip Ideas56 years ago
Going to the Gulf Shores – Check Out These 10 Things to Do in This Alabama Hot Spot
-
Trip Ideas56 years ago
What to Know Before Visiting Mecca