Tips + Planning

Visiting New York City? Don’t Miss Seeing These Unique Sights

Without a doubt, New York has some sites and attractions you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are some of the places that should be mandatory in your itinerary.

Washington may be in all the newspapers by virtue of being the capital, but New York is by far the most famous American city. After all, it’s the city that never sleeps. The place where dreams come true.

It’s also where the world’s economy often hangs in the balance, and it has iconic locations everyone should see at least once in their life.

1. The Statue of Liberty

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Of all the things to see in New York, perhaps nothing beats seeing the Statue of Liberty up close. Ellis Island is also a big tourist hotspot but Liberty Island’s view certainly gets the top place in the list.

Try to join a tour if you also want some historical context to this world-famous landmark. Don’t miss out on climbing the pedestal either for some fantastic views of the island and the city. The Statue of Liberty Museum is also worth a trip for history buffs and regular visitors alike.

Remember that it’s a unique statue and symbol of the entire country. And taking a few pictures from far away won’t do it justice.

2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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If you’re no stranger to traveling, you’ve likely seen a few museums in your lifetime. But the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is unparalleled in the world. That’s why it enjoys global popularity and has an outstanding collection that attracts visitors all year long.

The museum’s permanent collection houses at least 2 million works of art. The Met is so big that it will probably take you two days to really see everything on display and learn a thing or two. Now that’s a world-class museum.

3. Central Park

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Call it famous or infamous, but Central Park is simply an iconic attraction of The Big Apple. In fact, there’s no New York sightseeing tour that excludes a stroll in the vast urban oasis.

Even a quick visit can give you a first-hand experience of life in NYC. All year round, whether it’s summer or winter, the park offers everything from tranquility to the hustle and bustle of the city. In a way, it perfectly encompasses life in New York.

4. The Financial District

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One of the most essential things to see in New York is the Financial District. It’s a neighborhood that’s inextricably intertwined with the world’s economy, yet most New Yorkers who don’t live or work there probably don’t even give it a second thought.

You can also trace the district back to the beginnings of the US government here. That’s why saying that it’s rich in historical and current significance would be an understatement.

While exploring the area, you should check out a couple of historic locations. Wall Street, the NY Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull, and Trinity Church are all within the Financial District.

5. The 9/11 Memorial

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There’s no denying that this memorial marks one of the darkest times in the 21^st century. But if you want to do something unique, then an emotional experience at ground zero surely checks everything on your checklist.

The 9/11 Memorial also has one of the most moving pieces of art created by people from all over the world. And from the memorial site, you can also see all the hard work put in over the years to rebuild the city after the devastating attack.

6. The City’s Skyline

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One of the most popular things to do in New York is to gaze upon the city from the Empire State Building. However, it’s been romanticized in the movies to the point where you may have to stand in line for hours to reach the top.

But that’s not the only place you can visit to get a high-rise view of the city.

You can get a glimpse of other amazing New York sights from the One World Observatory and the Top of the Rock viewing platforms.

Interestingly enough, the Empire State Building observation deck stays open later than other observation decks. That’s why despite its infamous long queues, a visit here to take in NYC’s sights may be more comfortable to fit into your schedule.

7. Broadway

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Every country has a live theater scene. But there’s theater, and then there’s Broadway. It’s even synonymous with New York, as the city hosts well over 40 such theaters.

You can catch many amazing live shows and often watch some of the world’s best stage and screen actors perform onstage. But if you can’t find tickets in time, organized Broadway tours that run daily can still provide you with a unique experience and a behind-the-scenes look at the US’s theater culture.

8. The Brooklyn Bridge

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The iconic Brooklyn Bridge is awe-inspiring enough that you can just sit and stare at it from afar. But it’s not just one of the most impressive things to see in New York. It’s also one of the top attractions and paths you have to walk – literally.

Admittedly, a train ride to Brooklyn is no fun. But if you walk the entire length of the bridge, you’ll realize the trip is worth it – it’s where you can enjoy some of the finest views in the city.

9. The New York City High Line

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Ever wondered what it would feel like to walk among the skyscrapers but not on the ground level? Well, now you can discover it for yourself.

The New York City High Line is a park built on top of an old railway line. It soars around 30 feet in the air and follows the entire length of 10^th Avenue. The old industrial railroad now has a fantastic variety of plants, stretching from Gansevoort Street to 34^th Street.

Completed in 2016, the High Line is one of New York’s newest iconic experiences.

10. The Grand Central Terminal

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No discussion of things to see in New York can possibly exclude Grand Central Station. After all, everyone’s seen part of it in movies and pictures. But it’s a different experience when you’re right there as part of the crowd.

The buzz of the station is insane, given that around 700,000 commuters pass through it daily. There’s no other terminal in the world that spans 76 acres. Yet, it’s as majestic as it is large.

Its high overhead, chandeliers, and style reminiscent of a Roman public bath make it a truly unique complex.

A Powerful Blast of American Culture

What’s more American than the city of New York? It has Wall Street, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, amazing bridges, financial and media headquarters, and so much more.

No trip to the East Coast is complete without visiting some of the city’s attractions. But know that it takes days to see all the important sites and learn a bit more about their history.

A New York City vacation will keep you constantly occupied and entertained.

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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

Facade of The Plot restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

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

A group of people eating at Dija Mara restaurant in Oceanside CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

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

Menu at Piper restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Theseabirdresort.com. (2025). Available at: https://theseabirdresort.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

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

Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Oceanside farm-to-table dining. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2022). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

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

Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market. Oceanside farm-to-table dining.

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!

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.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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 — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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 — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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 — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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 — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

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.

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.

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

People Enjoying The Beach at Myrtle Beach, SC

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

Kids at the beach. — Visitmyrtlebeach.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/[Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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.

Broadway at the Beach: Where It All Happens

Aerial View of Broadway at the Beach — Paradiseresortmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.paradiseresortmb.com [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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.

SkyWheel Rides and Ocean Views

View of the Skywheel Myrtle Beach. — Skywheelmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://skywheelmb.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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

A family at a mini golf course. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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).

The Great Food Hunt (For Picky and Adventurous Eaters)

Myrtle Beach Food Truck. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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

Myrtle Beach Pier — Reddit. (2025). Available at: https://www.reddit.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

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.

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.