Connect with us

Trip Ideas

Nashville’s Historic Landmarks: A Walking Tour

Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its vibrant music scene, Southern hospitality, and rich history. While many visit for the honky-tonks and live music, the city also offers a treasure trove of historic landmarks perfect for exploration on foot. Embark on a walking tour that showcases the storied past and cultural heritage of Music City.

Starting Point: The Ryman Auditorium

Begin your tour at the iconic Ryman Auditorium, often called the “Mother Church of Country Music.” Built in 1892, this National Historic Landmark originally served as a tabernacle before becoming the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Today, it’s a revered concert venue and a must-see for history buffs and music lovers alike. Don’t forget to step inside for a self-guided tour to learn about the legends who’ve graced its stage.

Read More: 50+ Orlando Activities for Adults (Girls Trip Guide!)

Second Stop: Printer’s Alley

From the Ryman, take a short stroll to Printer’s Alley, a historic district that once housed the city’s thriving publishing industry. This narrow alleyway later became a nightlife hotspot, famous for its speakeasies during Prohibition. As you walk through, you’ll feel the echoes of its colorful past, with historic buildings and vintage signage adding to its charm.

Read More: 15 Epic Things To Do In Myrtle Beach

Third Stop: The Tennessee State Capitol

Head up the hill to the Tennessee State Capitol, a stunning Greek Revival building completed in 1859. Designed by William Strickland, who is also interred in its walls, the Capitol is one of the oldest functioning capitol buildings in the U.S. Stroll through the surrounding grounds, which feature statues and monuments dedicated to Tennessee’s notable figures, including President Andrew Jackson.

Fourth Stop: Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Adjacent to the Capitol, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers a beautifully landscaped space brimming with history. Highlights include the Tennessee Map Plaza, a 200-foot granite map of the state, and the Court of 3 Stars, which honors Tennessee’s three Grand Divisions. The park also features a series of 95 carillon bells that play Tennessee-inspired songs.

Fifth Stop: The Hermitage Hotel

Just a few blocks away, step into the opulence of the Hermitage Hotel, which opened in 1910. This Beaux-Arts masterpiece has hosted presidents, celebrities, and suffragists. Its stunning lobby and renowned Art Deco men’s restroom are worth a peek. The hotel’s role in the women’s suffrage movement adds a layer of historical significance to your visit.

Sixth Stop: The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

Wrap up your walking tour at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. Located in the historic Nashville Municipal Auditorium, this museum celebrates the unsung heroes behind some of the greatest recordings in music history. Exhibits include instruments, memorabilia, and interactive displays that appeal to all ages.

Read More: What to Wear in New York in Winter (with Secret Tips from the Locals)

Bonus Stops

If you have extra time, consider venturing to:

  • Fort Nashborough: A reconstructed log fort that tells the story of Nashville’s early settlers.
  • The Johnny Cash Museum: A tribute to the Man in Black, filled with personal artifacts and exhibits.

Read More: The Madeira you don’t know, but should

Tips for Your Tour

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Bring a water bottle and sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
  • Check the hours and ticket requirements for each landmark in advance.

Exploring Nashville on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s history and charm. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your hometown or a first-time visitor, this walking tour promises a memorable journey through the heart of Music City.

Continue Reading

Tips + Planning

New York on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Fun

New York on a Budget

Dreaming of NYC but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. While the Big Apple consistently ranks among the world’s most expensive cities, experiencing its magic doesn’t require a trust fund. With insider knowledge and smart planning, you can savor iconic sights, world-class culture, and delicious eats without breaking the bank. Here’s your roadmap to an unforgettable, affordable New York adventure.

Conquer the Classics for Free (or Almost Free)

New York is overflowing with iconic experiences that cost nothing but your time.

Read More: Most Stunning Beaches in Hawaii

  • Walk Famous Landmarks: Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking skyline views and photo ops. Explore Central Park – visit Sheep Meadow, Bethesda Fountain, and hidden waterfalls. Wander through Times Square at night to soak in the neon energy, marvel at Grand Central Terminal’s architecture, and admire the Rose Reading Room at the New York Public Library.
  • Seek Out Spectacular Free Views: Skip the expensive observation decks. Ride the Staten Island Ferry (FREE, 24/7) for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk the High Line, an elevated park with unique city vistas and art. Head to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for that classic postcard view of Manhattan.
  • Discover World-Class Museums for Less: Many major museums offer “pay-what-you-wish” admission or free hours:
    • The Met: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents; suggested admission others
    • American Museum of Natural History: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents
    • MoMA: Free for all every Friday evening (5:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
    • Museum of the City of New York: Pay what you wish for NY residents; free for all Wednesdays
    • National Museum of the American Indian: Always free
    • Bronx Museum: Always free
    • Others: Guggenheim (pay-what-you-wish Sat evenings), Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (free Fri evenings), and Brooklyn Museum (free first Saturday of the month)
  • Embrace Parks & Green Spaces: Beyond Central Park, explore Prospect Park (Brooklyn), Brooklyn Bridge Park (free kayaking in summer!), Bryant Park (free events year-round), Washington Square Park, and the unique Little Island.

Read More: Family Fun in Destin – Best Activities for All Ages

Eat Like a Local (Without the Tourist Markup)

NYC’s culinary scene is legendary, and you don’t need a fancy reservation to enjoy it.

  • The Almighty Slice: Grab a classic $1-$3 New York slice from spots like Joe’s Pizza, 2 Bros Pizza, or countless neighborhood pizzerias.
  • Street Food & Food Trucks: Fuel up with affordable breakfast tacos, bagels with cream cheese, hot dogs, pretzels, and legendary halal cart plates.
  • Global Delights in Ethnic Enclaves:
    • Chinatown: Inexpensive dumplings, dim sum, noodle soups
    • Queens (Flushing, Jackson Heights): Authentic and affordable eats from around the world
    • Arthur Avenue, Bronx: Authentic Italian far superior (and cheaper) than Little Italy
  • Happy Hour Deals: Milk happy hour for discounted drinks and sometimes food at popular bars.
  • Groceries & Markets: Grab picnic supplies for park lunches. Explore food halls like Chelsea Market (sample affordably) or Essex Market.

Smart Savings on Accommodation & Transportation

These two areas often eat the biggest chunks of your budget. Fight back!

  • Stay Beyond Manhattan: Consider Brooklyn, Queens, or even New Jersey for significantly better hotel rates and more space.
  • Book Early & Compare: Use comparison sites. Winter offers the lowest prices, while spring/fall provide good balance of cost and comfort.
  • Master Public Transit: Ditch the expensive cabs!
    • Subway & Bus: The $2.90 single ride is your lifeline. A 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard ($34) pays for itself after about 12 rides
    • Walking: NYC is incredibly walkable
    • Citi Bike: Great for short hops
    • Ferries: Besides the FREE Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry offers scenic routes

Score Deals on Entertainment & Experiences

Culture and fun in NYC don’t have to come with a sky-high price.

  • Broadway & Theater:
    • TKTS Booths: Get same-day tickets for up to 50% off
    • Lotteries & Rush Tickets: Many shows offer deeply discounted tickets via digital lotteries or in-person rush sales
  • Free Festivals & Events: NYC’s calendar is packed!
    • Shakespeare in the Park: Summer performances in Central Park
    • SummerStage & BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!: Free concerts in parks
    • Holiday Magic: Rockefeller Tree, Macy’s Parade, Dyker Heights lights
  • Comedy & TV Tapings: Find free or low-cost comedy shows and apply for free audience tickets to TV shows.

Read More: Cancun on a Budget – How to Travel Like a VIP

Pro Tips for Maximum Savings

  • Travel Off-Peak: Visit in winter or early December for lowest prices
  • Embrace Free Walking Tours: Cover neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Chinatown
  • Hydrate Smart: Carry a reusable water bottle – NYC tap water is excellent
  • Seek Out Local Alternatives: Skip tourist traps for authentic neighborhood experiences

Read More: Beyond the Parks – Hidden Gems in Orlando

The Takeaway:

New York City on a budget isn’t just possible; it can lead to a richer, more authentic experience. By focusing on free attractions, eating locally, staying strategically, mastering the subway, and seeking deals, you unlock the true vibrancy of the city without draining your savings. Remember, the best things in New York – the energy, the people-watching, the iconic skyline views – are often free. So pack your walking shoes, grab a MetroCard and a dollar slice, and get ready to fall in love with the Big Apple on your own terms! What’s your first budget-friendly NYC adventure going to be? Share your tips in the comments!

Continue Reading

Oceanside

Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

Oceanside Marina Restaurants

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.

Continue Reading

New Orleans

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans

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.

Continue Reading

Travel Tips

Oceanside Marina Restaurants Oceanside Marina Restaurants
Oceanside56 years ago

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...

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana Beach Bliss in Punta Cana
Punta Cana56 years ago

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana: Top All-Inclusive Resorts

Punta Cana, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean...

Seattle Coastline Seattle Coastline
Trip Ideas56 years ago

Coffee, Culture, and the Coastline: A Perfect Day in Seattle

Ever wake up in a city that smells like freshly-pulled espresso and feels like adventure is waiting around every corner?...

Napa Valley Napa Valley
California56 years ago

Sipping Through Napa: Best Wineries to Visit

Napa Valley. Just the name evokes images of rolling vineyards, sun-drenched hills, and the clinking of glasses filled with exquisite...

A Guide to Nashville’s Best Live Music Venues A Guide to Nashville’s Best Live Music Venues
Trip Ideas56 years ago

Music City Musts: A Guide to Nashville’s Best Live Music Venues

Nashville. The name itself conjures images of honky-tonks, the twang of guitars, and the soulful voices of country music legends...

Destin Destin
Myrtle Beach56 years ago

Myrtle Beach for Families: A Complete Travel Guide

Myrtle Beach for Families: Your Complete Guide to Sun, Sand, and Smiles! Dreaming of a family getaway filled with sunshine,...

San Juan PR San Juan PR
Trip Ideas56 years ago

Discovering Old San Juan: A Step Back in Time

Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan feels a bit like stepping into a living, breathing postcard—one that’s...

Destin Destin
Florida56 years ago

Family Fun in Destin: Best Activities for All Ages

Destin for the Whole Crew: Unforgettable Family Fun on the Emerald Coast Destin, Florida, often conjures images of breathtaking beaches...

Downtown Orlando Downtown Orlando
Florida56 years ago

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...

Cabo Cabo
Trip Ideas56 years ago

Cabo Adventures: Top Excursions for Thrill Seekers

For travelers who crave more than lazy days on the beach, Cabo San Lucas is a paradise waiting to be...

Trending