15 Girlfriend Getaways in the U.S.
City living, beach bumming, cocktail sipping, spa pampering... What's better than a fun weekend vacation with your girlfriends?! If you're looking for ideas of where you should pack up and get away with your girlfriends for the weekend, I've got you covered! Here are 15 Girlfriend Getaways in the United States so you and the crew and escape and enjoy!
15 Girlfriend Getaways in the U.S.
City living, beach bumming, cocktail sipping, spa pampering... What's better than a fun weekend vacation with your girlfriends?! It's time to get the crew together and pack your bags!
If you're looking for ideas of where you should pack up and get away with your girlfriends for the weekend, I've got you covered! Below are 15 Girlfriend Getaways in the U.S. so you can live it up with the ladies.
New York City, NY
NYC is chock-full of things to do on a girlfriend getaway. I mean...hello...Carrie Bradshaw & Crew?! There is so much you can do with the ladies when you're in town! You can brunch, shop, drink, museum hop, and sight see. You can see plays, shows, musicals, and even crazy street performers. You can explore the many neighborhoods and dine in the best restaurants. It's a must do at least once with your girlfriends. Read more in my New York City guide right here!
Miami, FL
When you get to Miami you almost feel like you've escaped into another world. The air is spicier, the people are hotter, and the music is louder. Some of my best memories of Miami were girls weekends when we would explore the streets of South Beach, lounge by the pool with our mojitos, and soak in the Latin vibe that is practically palpable on the streets of SoBe. Head to Miami for a girls weekend in the fall, winter, or early spring to avoid the high temperatures and humidity (because no one wants humidity to battle their hair). Check out our Miami city guide here!
Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara is a perfect destination for a girl's trip because you have the beach, the city, and the wine country. Does it really get any better than that? You can pamper yourself by staying at a luxury resort, like the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara; head into town and do a food tour with Taste Santa Barbara Food Tour; go wine tasting along the Urban Wine Trail, or escape into the Santa Ynez Valley for some wine country living. It's practically impossible not to fall in love with Santa Barbara when you visit. Browse the full Santa Barbara city guide now!
Sedona, AZ
Sedona (along with a few other cities in the Southwest) is ideal for those of you who want to get away to pamper yourselves for the weekend. Escape into the desert to stay at a spa resort for a relaxing retreat with the girls. There are plenty of properties that also offer yoga retreats and other activities for you to chill out and enjoy.
Nashville, TN
If you and your girlfriends love country music, barbeque, whiskey, and kicking your boots up at the local bar, head to Nashville for the weekend! This city has so much to offer for a girl's weekend from live music to soul food. Head to the bars for a night of karaoke and some bourbon, or spend your days exploring the many outdoor activities that this city has to offer.
Charleston, SC
Charleston has been getting some serious attention lately, and for very good reasons. This adorable South Carolina city does not fall short on southern charm or hospitality at all. Come here with the girls to explore the cobblestone streets, the city's quaint architecture, take a cooking class, or shop around the downtown areas. This city is definitely on the top of my list to visit with my girlfriends! Get other tips with our city guide here.
Nantucket, MA
If you and the gals are looking for a place to relax along the Northeast coast of the U.S., try visiting the charming town of Nantucket. This destination, which is just off the coast of Cape Cod, is perfect for those of you who like a little "polish" to your beach vibe. Stay at a cozy B&B, browse the downtown boutiques, or head out near the water for a day. Be sure to indulge in all the seafood you want while you're there!
Austin, TX
Austin used to be a best kept secret of Texas, but that's all changed in recent years thanks to big events, like SXSW, coming and exposing the city for it's incredible, unique, eclectic culture. Come to Austin with your girlfriends and keep it weird! You'll find so much to do from funky food spots, to hip(ster) bars and lounges, and even plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Savannah, GA
Savannah is another destination that's perfect for the group of girls who want to get a taste of southern charm and hospitality! Walk through the historic parks and squares of the city and enjoy your time outside, or set up a weekend at the spa and pamper yourselves with soothing full body treatments. You'll also walk away feeling comfortable and happy with all of the delicious food choices down there... Browse some of my personal favorite things in Savannah with this post.
Napa, CA
What's not to love about America's wine country? This is really the ultimate girlfriend getaway if you want to relax with a glass of wine in the countryside with your besties. It doesn't get much better than Napa's rolling hills and spectacular vineyards. Go wine tasting, hit the spa, and check out the stunning 1800s/1900s architecture around the downtown area. You'll also find lots of art shops, local boutiques, and unique markets and restaurants along the riverfront area. All around a fabulous cultural destination for girlfriends!
New Orleans, LA
Even though most people think of New Orleans as just a party town, NOLA is actually a perfect destinations for girlfriends who want to get away to experience that southern eclectic culture. You can walk through the streets of the French Quarter, browse the boutiques of Magazine Street, sign up for a cooking class to learn how to cook Cajun food, watch some jazz or burlesque shows in the evening, and indulge in desserts at popular places like Cafe du Monde.
Chicago, IL
The Windy City has so much to offer visitors, especially for a fun girl's weekend. Stay downtown and walk around the Riverwalk, go on an architecture boat tour, visit Lincoln Park, or dine at one of the many world-renowned restaurants in town. There are plenty of museums, shopping districts, wine bars and lounges, and other things to enjoy. This city seriously has so much for you and your girls to experience during your visit. Check out more things to do and where to stay in my full Chicago guide right here!
San Francisco, CA
There's so much to love about this wonderful city by the bay. San Francisco has the architecture, the world-class dining, the shopping, the weather... It's an ideal urban destination for girlfriend getaways because there is so much to explore and do while you're there. You can head to Hayes Valley for some shopping and dining, step into a bar or cafe in the Mission, or visit some of the local wine bars in the downtown area. You can check out more on San Francisco in my City Guide right here!
Denver, CO
If your idea of a fun girl's getaway is an outdoor adventure, then Denver might be an ideal destination for you. In the summer months, you have practically every outdoor activity you could ever imagine for you and the girls to enjoy (hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, etc.); and in the winter months, you have skiing, snowboarding, and other cold weather activities available all around the city. You could even take a mini day trip to the Rocky Mountains if you wanted!
Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs has always been a popular spot for their trendy hotels, luxurious spas, and upscale restaurants. You and the girls could head downtown to shop for vintage goods, step into an eclectic wine bar, or spend the day doing outdoorsy things like horseback riding or hiking. It's a unique destination that hasn't lost it's stylish charm over the years.
What are other U.S. Girlfriend Getaways that you love? Comment below with other suggestions!
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How to Spend Your Time in Chicago During the Summer
There's nothing quite like summertime in Chicago. The Riverwalk, fireworks above the lake, rooftops and patios, and festivals galore! If you're planning a trip to the Windy City during the summer months, check out this travel guide on things to do in Chicago while you're visiting! You definitely don't want to miss out on this summer destination.
How to Spend Your Time in Chicago During the Summer: 10 Things to Do in Chicago
Now that summer is in full swing, travel season is too. Have you planned out which exciting city you're heading to next? New York, Paris, London, Los Angeles... All great cities. But they have nothing on CHICAGO in the summer.
Ask anyone who has been to or lives in Chicago during the summer and they'll tell you that all those cold winter months are worth living through solely because of the summer. Now I might be a littttlee biased, but I'm tell you--something about this city totally comes alive in the summer! It's like all of those months in hibernation puts us into action from late spring through early fall.
From rooftop bars to street festivals, the Riverwalk to Millennium Park, there are endless things to find, do, and eat here. If you're planning a trip to the Windy City during the summer, check out these tips on things to do in Chicago during your visit! Think of this as your "Chitown Summer Bucket List"!
1. Stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk
The city of Chicago recently invested a pretty penny into designing an amazing waterfront pedestrian walkway that is located on the south bank of the Chicago River. Visitors can come and enjoy a walk down by the river and stop in at the local wineries, restaurants, boat rental shops, bike rental stations, and more. You're right in the heart of downtown, which is wonderful to experience on a sunny day.
2. Head to Millennium Park for Free Activities
Millennium Park is sometimes scoffed off by locals as a tourist trap; but not in the summer! In the summer, Millennium Park has so much to offer visitors of all ages. There are free yoga and dance classes, free movies screenings, free concerts, free festivals, and more! What's better than free activities in the city?! For a full list of their activities from May through September, click right here.
3. Visit Lincoln Park, the Zoo, and the Conservatory (all for free)
One of the city's best kept gems lies just north of the city center. The neighborhood of Lincoln Park is a must see when visiting Chicago (and it's where I call home!). Walk through the gorgeous park, visit the city's Lincoln Park Zoo, explore the Lincoln Park Conservatory, or relax by the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool--all for free. It's a serene escape from the city without even having to leave the city. Try walking around the neighborhood if you have some time as well. It's very family friendly and full of boutiques, bars, and restaurants!
4. Shop the Farmer's Markets
There's something so nostalgic about a farmer's market in the summertime... Don't you agree? Chicago offers plenty of opportunities for farmers markets all around the city during the summer on various days of the week. You're guaranteed to get the extremely fresh food, beautiful flowers, and a lively atmosphere. There are even local restaurants that offer pop-ups at the markets from time to time! Check out the farmer's market schedule right here.
5. Attend a Festival
"Chicago" and "Festivals" are basically synonymous in the summer months. You can find a festival or event going on almost every single day in the summer--especially on the weekends. Attend fun events like Lollapalooza, Jazz Fest, Chicago Pride, West Fest, Taste of Chicago (or Randolph, River North, etc.), Art Fest, and even Hot Dog Fest. There are tons of different food, music, drink, or art related festivals going on throughout the summer, so make sure you don't miss out! Check out a full schedule here.
6. Spend a Day On the River
If you're keen on spending the entire day by the water downtown, check out some of the other activities to do besides just the Riverwalk. You can go kayaking in the river, rent a boat or pontoon to cruise along the river, or you can take the uber-popular Chicago Architecture Tour. You basically get to spend the afternoon in a boat cruising around the downtown Chicago area while learning about the city around you. There are a few different companies that offer a Chicago River tour and, from what I hear, you really can't go wrong with any of them. Jay and I did one that was sponsored by the Chicago History Museum and it included a wonderful tour plus free drinks and snacks. I highly recommend it!
7. Drink at a Rooftop Bar and Eat on a Restaurant Patio
Ok, so I get that for those of you who live in warm climates you're probably thinking this one is silly; but in Chicago, rooftops and patios are a way of life in the summer. Like I said earlier, we're in hibernation mode during most of the year, so the minute it warms up--we are outside!
Most restaurants and bars will start to open up their patio areas as soon as it hits decent temperatures (sometimes 50 degrees will do it), so take advantage of those when you can! See my list of places to eat in Chicago right here.
As for the best rooftops, check out some of these: J. Parker, Soho House, NoMI Garden, Cindy's, GreenRiver, Streeterville Social, or Rock Bottom. You can also browse the popular lists on Thrillist, Timeout, or Chicago Mag for more suggestions!
8. Spend the Day at the Beach
A lot of people look at me crazy when I say they should spend a day on the beach in Chicago, but it's a real thing that people do here! Thanks to Lake Michigan, Chicago's lakefront offers a nice stretch of "beachfront" property for visitors and locals to enjoy. You can party hard with the young crowd down by Oak Street Beach or North Avenue Beach (not my scene at all), or head a little further north towards Fullerton Beach or Montrose Beach to have a more quiet and relaxing experience. I personally love doing the latter with a little picnic in tow. Either way, I recommend you walk along the lakefront to take in the incredible views of the city and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
9. See a Show
Chicago is an artistic hub for fascinating shows and brilliant performances. When visiting the city, you should definitely try to nab some tickets to see a Broadway play, a theatre performance, a dance performance, a comedy show, or a musical! The options are endless here and you shouldn't miss out.
My personal favorites are the dance performances put on by Giordano Dance Chicago, which is America's original jazz company. First of all, I love that the roots of jazz dance are here in Chicago and that this company has been thriving for over 50 years. Second, having grown up as a dancer myself, it's so inspiring to see the these incredibly talented professionals perform such moving pieces time and time again. I'm always so thrilled to see the new and innovative performances that their company comes up with! They typically have performances towards the beginning and end of summer (as well as throughout the rest of the year), and you can see their full schedule right here!
10. Explore the Neighborhoods
The Windy City is a neighborhood city, which means it's comprised of a ton of different areas and neighborhoods that all have their own unique personalities and vibes. The best part about being in Chicago when it's warm out is that you can actually enjoy the feeling of walking around and exploring the neighborhoods! Hop on a the L, take a bus, rent a bike, or get in a cab and head to a neighborhood that you want to see and explore it for a day. My personal favorites are Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park, West Loop, and River North, but everyone has their preferences. You can check out more info on neighborhoods in my Chicago City Guide.
Also try:
Renting a Divvy bike and ride around town
Catching a baseball game with the Cubs or White Sox
Heading to Navy Pier to ride the new ferris wheel, or seeing the fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays
Exploring our world renowned museums, like the Art Institute or Shedd Aquarium
Renting a boat and venture out to Lake Michigan or tie-up to other boats in the "Play Pen"
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This list is just barely scratching the surface on all the incredible things there are to do here during the summer. Comment below with more activities that you love in Chicago!
Want more info on what to do during your visit to Chicago? Check out my complete FREE City Guide on Chicago. You'll find tips on airports, transportation, where to stay, when to visit, and much more!
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California Road Trip: Travel Guide Along the Pacific Coast Highway
Ready for the road trip of your lifetime? If you're looking to do a fun road trip along California's Pacific Coast Highway, look no further than this handy travel guide to get you there. In this travel guide to Highway 1, you'll get an itinerary with all your stops, drive times, as well as "good to know" information before and during your trip. Buckle up! Here we go!
California Road Trip: Travel Guide Along the Pacific Coast Highway
Are you into road trips? I'll admit...I'm not much of a road tripper. I prefer to get wherever I want to go as quick as possible, and being a city girl has made me hate driving. BUT...the one place that changed my mind about road trips? California.
Have you ever seen the California coastline?! It's breathtaking! I really don't think it's fair to the rest of the country that California has that much beauty! It's incredible. Taking a road trip along the California coastline--and, more specifically, along the Pacific Coast Highway--should be on everyone's bucket list. You see beaches, mountains, valleys, cities, vineyards... Ugh! There's everything!
If you're looking to do a fun road trip along Highway 1, look no further than this handy travel guide to get you there. I've mapped out an itinerary with all your stops, drive times, as well as provided you with "good to know" information before and during your trip. Buckle up! Here we go!
Good to Know Information Before Your Trip:
For those of you who are planning your first visit to California, or maybe it's your first time doing the PCH drive, check out these FAQ's about planning your trip.
How long should I plan the trip for?
How long you plan for the trip is entirely up to you, but I would recommend at least 1 full week if you really want to get the full adventure. Of course, there are people who do it in 5 days, a weekend, or even 2 days, but I want you to have a really special experience with it! You're going to want to relax and enjoy when you can, pull over to see the views, or even spend an extra night in those special cities you fall in love with. Do at least 1 week minimum from start to finish.
Where should I start?
This is another personal preference. There's really no right or wrong answer for where you start or finish. We personally went from south to north, but I've heard that sometimes the traffic from north to south can be a little less hectic (can't confirm this from my own personal experience though!). You could even look up the price difference of flying into San Diego vs. Santa Ana vs. Los Angeles vs. San Francisco and make your decision that way! For this travel guide, I'll be giving you directions from south to north.
How much should I budget?
How much you budget will be based on the types of accommodations you're wanting to stay in during your trip and the entertainment costs you'll incur (including food). You can find budget friendly hostels or campgrounds along the way, or splurge on luxury 5-star resorts. You can buy groceries along the way and make food on the go, or you can dine at expensive restaurants. You'll also have to account for gas along your trip, so I'd say somewhere between $50-200+ per day depending on your travel style. *PS-If you're a budget conscious traveler, check out this post I did on how to spend $50 a day or less during travel!
Do I need a car?
Yes. Unfortunately, there is no public transportation that will allow you to do this trip, but that's half the fun of it! When you have a car, you get to pull over and enjoy the scenery as much as you want!
Can I go alone or should I go with people?
Yes, you can absolutely do this road trip alone! However, I will say that having another person or group with you during the road trip makes it a lot more fun. You'll be creating wonderful travel memories together; you can take turns taking pictures for one another; you can split all the travel costs; you can even take turns driving so everyone gets a chance to look out the window. Totally up to you though! I personally loved having Jay by my side through all of it (mainly because I never had to drive... hehehe!) and wouldn't have it any other way.
Where should I stay?
There a plenty of places you can get off and stay around PCH, but I would recommend spending some time in San Diego (or La Jolla) before/after the trip, Orange County (around Laguna Beach or Newport Beach), Los Angeles (around Venice or Santa Monica), Santa Barbara, Big Sur (or Carmel/Monterey for other options), and San Francisco.
The Road Trip Itinerary
Below you'll find the outlined itinerary we did for our Pacific Coast Highway journey. This itinerary is from south to north (starting in Orange County and ending in San Francisco), but you can easily invert it if you want to travel from north to south. Please keep in mind that all drive times are approximate and that traffic is a real deal in California. Always check your GPS or Google Maps for more accurate times. There will also be areas where you might have to merge onto other freeways besides Highway 1. Ok... Here we go!
Starting Point: Orange County
Fun fact: A lot of people think that PCH goes all the way to San Diego, but it actually ends around Dana Point in the O.C.! Southern California is a beautiful area filled with beaches, incredible food, surfing, epic coastal views, cute towns, and more. When you're starting out in Orange County, I recommend you visit spots like Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. There are lots of little towns right in a row along the coastline, so maybe pick 1-2 and explore. Use my travel guides for Laguna & Newport to find out what to do/eat while you're there. **If you're starting out here, you can fly into either San Diego and drive up, or fly into Santa Ana and hang around the area to explore before heading north.
Also consider stopping by: San Diego, La Jolla, or San Clemente before you start the official Highway 1 Adventure. It's technically not part of the official route, but it's worth exploring if you have time!
Los Angeles
Drive time from Orange County: Approx. 1hr 30min
After spending time in the O.C., your next stop will be Los Angeles. I recommend getting off PCH to see Santa Monica and/or Venice since they are closest to the coastline (and the cutest I.M.O.). Both towns are right next to each other and offer that cool Cali beach vibe that you've probably seen in movies and TV shows. Walk around Main Street, rent a bike to go along the boardwalk, stroll down Abbot Kinney Boulevard, or get something to eat along the water. Use my travel guide to Venice to see what you can do/eat while you're there.
Also consider stopping by: Long Beach or Malibu
Santa Barbara
Drive time from Los Angeles: Approx. 1hr 40min
Santa Barbara might be my favorite city in all of California (it's a toss up between this and San Francisco). I guarantee you'll fall in love the minute you arrive to this "American Riviera," as the locals call it. There's endless Spanish-style architecture throughout the city, incredible places to eat, wonderful beaches, and tons of culture to explore and experience. See my travel guide to Santa Barbara for things to do, places to stay, or where to eat when you pass through.
Also consider stopping by: Montecito, Summerland, or Solvang. Solvang is a little off the path of Highway 1, but it is such a gorgeous, little town that is worth exploring. You can even stay over at this ranch resort that's like a luxury camp for adults!
San Luis Obispo
Drive time from Santa Barbara: Approx. 1hr 40min
After departing Santa Barbara, the next area you might want to stop in is San Luis Obispo. The town of SLO has a super cute and trendy downtown area, making it a great stop to get out for a bite to eat or to walk around. It's a lovely town that you'll enjoy seeing or driving through.
Also consider stopping by: Pismo Beach or Morro Bay
San Simeon
Drive time from San Luis Obispo: Approx. 1hr
Just before you get to Big Sur is the town of San Simeon. I definitely recommend getting off here to explore Hearst Castle. It's a remarkable hilltop mansion that was once the home of media mogul, William Randolph Hearst. The castle is a must-see along the Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Check out this post on Hearst Castle to see all the details of booking your visit there.
Also consider stopping by: Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is a great spot to pull over and get a glimpse of the elephant seals along the beach!
Big Sur
Drive time from San Simeon: Approx. 30min
Big Sur is a must-see destination that should be on everyone's bucket list. The natural beauty of this area is one you'll never forget and will absolutely take your breath away. Visit the epic waterfalls of McWay Falls, hike through one of the many state parks, or snap a picture near the historic Bixby Bridge. Check out this full travel guide to Big Sur for more details on what to do, where to stay, and where to eat there.
Also consider stopping by: McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and Bixby Bridge
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Drive time from Big Sur: Approx. 40min
Just north of Big Sur is the charming little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The quaint downtown area and lovely houses around the city makes you feel like you've stepped into some sort of West Coast fairytale. Stop around here to walk around downtown or grab something to eat. It's such a cute stop on your way up the coast. This is also around the area of the famous Pebble Beach golf course!
Also consider stopping by: Monterey
San Francisco
Drive time from Carmel: Approx. 2hr 15min
We've reached the final city along our California road trip: Good 'ol San Francisco. The city of San Francisco is such a unique and magnificent destination. You'll surely fall in love with it the minute you arrive. Here you've got iconic landmarks, sprawling city views, one-of-a-kind street art, world class dining, and so much more. I recommend staying a few days in SF once you arrive so you can truly enjoy and experience the city. Check out my detailed city guide to San Francisco for more tips, where to stay, and things to do while you're there!
Also consider stopping by: Santa Cruz or Half Moon Bay
Have you ever done the California Road Trip along Pacific Coast Highway? -or- Are you going soon? Comment below with more tips or suggestions!
PS--Don't leave for the road trip without picking up some new travel gear! Check out my favorite travel things here!
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A Weekend Guide to Big Sur
Big Sur is an incredible destination that everyone should see at least once in their life. If you're heading to Big Sur, use this travel guide to be prepared with everything you need to know! Uncover good tips to know before you leave, along with recommendations on where to eat, where to stay, and what to do during your visit to Big Sur.
A Weekend Guide to Big Sur
I would argue to say that Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. Deep blue waters that crash along miles of glorious California coastline, the breeze against your face as you drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, and endless adventures and opportunities to explore nature. It is a truly magnificent place that you must see at least once in your lifetime.
If you're heading to Big Sur, or doing the great "California Road Trip," use this travel guide to Big Sur to be prepared with everything you need to know! I've got "good to know" tips for your journey (some of which I wasn't even aware of before going), recommendations on where to eat, where to stay, and what to do during your visit to Big Sur.
Good to Know Information Before Heading to Big Sur
Normally I just jump right into these travel guides with places to eat, sleep, and play, but Big Sur is different. This place requires a little bit of info beforehand, or else you're going to be baffled when you get there; so here are some good to know tips before you venture out to Big Sur:
Before You Go
There is absolutely ZERO cell phone service in Big Sur. Like, seriously, the second you cross over into Big Sur territory, your phone will go off the grid. It's kind of nice once you get used to the shock of not being constantly connected!
There's usually wifi at most of the popular restaurants, bars, and hotels, but don't count on it when you're out and about. Unplugging in nature is what it's all about!
You can do Big Sur in 1 day, but you should really spend at least 2 days there to see everything and take your time.
Big Sur is pricey (because they can be), so be prepared to spend some $$ while you're there. Those of you from NYC or other large cities will feel right at home spending about $15-18 for a cocktail and $20-30 for an entree.
Make your reservations as far in advance as you can since things tend to book up fast!
Tips for the Drive
Rent (or have) a car. That's the only way to do it.
Safely stop along the road wherever you want to get out and enjoy the view. It's magnificent and you deserve to soak it in! Make sure your cameras are charged!
Pack snacks and drinks ahead of time so you can avoid paying astronomical prices at the convenience stores or restaurants in Big Sur.
Have some cash handy because certain state parks require a small entrance fee before you head in.
Have hiking and/or beach clothes readily available for you to grab and change into if the mood strikes you to get out and have an adventure. I'd recommend checking the weather ahead of time so you know which one to pack.
Pick up a copy of Big Sur's free tourist newspaper (available at almost any establishment in the area) so you can utilize the map. You won't have cell phone service, so it will be your life line. You can also just take a screenshot of this, which was the exact map we used to get around:
Alright... Now for the good stuff. Where to eat in Big Sur! Like I mentioned earlier, Big Sur is pricey. You're not going to have an easy time trying to avoid paying high prices for everything you eat, but it is possible to find some affordable options. There are also incredible luxury options if you want to splurge and go all out. The good news is that the food in Big Sur (at least the food that we had) is pretty damn good and typically comes in generous portions!
Budget:
Big Sur Taphouse, 47520 Hwy 1 -- Great spot to grab a beer, big portions of comfort food, and watch whatever sport they have on TV
Big Sur Deli, 47520 Hwy 1
The Maiden Publick House, Village Center Shops, Hwy 1
Also try: Packing food before your trip, or driving to grocery store in Carmel-by-the-Sea for affordable groceries. Unfortunately, "budget" and "Big Sur" don't typically go together very often.
Moderate:
Big Sur Bakery, 47540 Hwy 1 -- Ask any local where to eat in Big Sur and I guarantee this will be at the top of their list. Definitely a popular spot in the area! On the more expensive side of "moderate"
Deetjen's Restaurant, 48865 Hwy 1 -- Another popular spot for both locals and travelers
Fernwood Resort Bar & Grill, 47200 Hwy 1 -- AKA Fernwood Tavern. Tasty pizzas, bar food, and a great spot to hang out in a "pub" environment
Nepenthe, 48510 Hwy 1 -- Food with a view!
Cafe Kevah, 48510 Highway One -- Just downstairs from Nepenthe and supposedly more affordable
Also try: Big Sur Roadhouse (especially after they finish redecorating their space!), Big Sur River Inn Restaurant, Big Sur Lodge Restaurant, or Ripplewood Resort Restaurant (breakfast + lunch option)
Luxury:
Sierra Mar, 47900 Hwy 1
The Restaurant at Ventana, 48123 Hwy 1
Also try: Driving to Carmel-by-the-Sea for other luxury options
Budget:
Ripplewood Resort, $$, 47047 Hwy 1
Ripplewood Resort offers guests minimalist cabins in a woodsy setting. Some cabins even come equipped with full kitchens and private decks. Another great part about the property is the convenience store, restaurant, and gas station that are available for traveler's needs
Also try: Fernwood Resort, Deetjen's Big Sur Inn, Lucia Lodge, or Big Sur Campground and Cabins. There are quite a few other locations that provide campground or RV spaces as well.
Moderate:
Glen Oaks Big Sur, $$, 47080 Hwy 1
Glen Oaks is a beautiful getaway in the heart of Big Sur that it is comprised of multiple fireside motor lodges and numerous single and multi-room cabins, all of which are newly renovated and remodeled. These separate options allow you to choose the exact type of experience you want to have during your stay: either "immersive glamping in the forest" or "comfortable luxury with a side of nature." I personally love the accommodations at Glen Oaks Big Sur (it's my preferred location to stay in Big Sur) because of the modern, luxurious comforts they provide within each lodge or cabin. Read more about what to expect during your stay at Glen Oaks Big Sur right here.
Also try: Treebones Resort (they also provide budget friendly options) or Deetjen's Big Sur Inn (some of their private rooms are on the moderate side)
Image via Post Ranch Inn
If you really want to splurge on luxury in Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn is your spot. This incredible, contemporary ranch-style hotel is set on a cliff that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Guests will enjoy rustic-chic suites or tree-houses, private decks with mountain or ocean views, 2 cliff-top infinity pools, and much more. No luxury is spared at the Post Ranch Inn.
Also try: Ventana Inn & Spa ($$$)
Things to do in Big Sur:
Visit the iconic McWay Falls -- Probably one of the most breathtaking sights you'll see.
See the purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach -- **HOW TO GET THERE: The road to get to Pfeiffer Beach is a bit hidden and narrow. When you're heading southbound, take the 2nd right after Big Sur Station. There will be a sign that says "NARROW ROAD: NO RV's OR TRAILERS." It costs $10 once you make your way down the narrow and winding road, but it is well worth it. Use caution while driving.
Stop at Bixby Bridge to admire the architectural beauty
Check out the "Portal to Big Sur" at Ragged Point Inn & Resort
Walk down to Sand Dollar Beach and enjoy the view
Hike through the Redwood Grove at Glen Oaks Big Sur and see Grandmother Pfeiffer -- The Redwood Grove near the BIg Sur River is a beautiful experience. Grandmother Pfeiffer is the second largest redwood in all of Big Sur.
Visit any of the numerous parks to enjoy hiking, waterfalls, or campgrounds. -- There is Limekiln State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Salmon Creek Falls Trail, and much more. Some of these parks cost money to park or enter, so check ahead of time what the fees are or carry cash with you in the car.
Safely stop anywhere along the road while you're driving to get out and take pictures. Big Sur is such a beauty that you should savor and enjoy.
Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey before/after your trip depending on which way you're driving.
Visit Hearst Castle before/after your trip depending on which way you're driving. Check out this post for tips!
Have you been to Big Sur? What are your favorite things to eat, places to stay, or things to do? Comment below with more recommendations!
Thank you to Glen Oaks Big Sur for sponsoring my visit during my trip to Big Sur. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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A Weekend Guide to Santa Barbara
We're heading to the American Riviera for the weekend: It's time to pack up for Santa Barbara, California! Use this travel guide to find out where to eat, where to stay, and what to do on any budget when visiting beautiful Santa Barbara.
A Weekend Guide to Santa Barbara
It's time to take a trip to the Riviera! The American Riviera. We're heading to Santa Barbara, California for the weekend!
The gorgeous city of Santa Barbara, which sits along a south-facing curve of California, has so much to offer visitors. Coastal views with a backdrop of the mountains, old Spanish style architecture throughout the town, a bustling and thriving culinary scene, luxurious resorts and spas, trendy art-filled neighborhoods, and so much more. Come here once and I guarantee you'll be leaving with your second visit already planned!
Santa Barbara is a perfect destination for families, couples, and even solo travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and find out where to eat, where to stay, and what to do in Santa Barbara during your visit.
If you're looking for places to eat in Santa Barbara, rest assured, you will not be leaving hungry. This city is full of so many wonderful places to eat with all different types of cuisines, ambiances, and experiences that it will even appease the pickiest of foodies.
Budget:
Pickles & Swiss, 811 State Street, Ste E -- Really tasty sandwiches and melts
McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, 728 State Street -- Santa Barbara's very own and some of the best ice cream you'll ever have
The Blue Owl, 5 W Canon Perdido
On The Alley, 117 Harbor Way
Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria, 905 State Street -- Try the Chipotle Chicken Pizza and thank me later (It won a pizza contest award in Italy!)
Also try: C'est Cheese (absolutely must go), Santa Barbara Public Market (my personal favorite inside is Empty Bowl), Renaud's Patisserie, or Mony's Mexican Food
Moderate:
Los Agaves, 600 N Milpas Street
Finch & Fork, 31 W Carrillo Street
Santa Barbara Fishouse, 101 E Cabrillo Blvd
Mesa Verde, 1919 Clif Drive
Milk & Honey, 30 W Anapamu Street
Cielito Restaurant & Tequila Bar, 1114 State Street
Lilac Patisserie, 1017 State Street -- A gluten free bakery!
The Brewhouse, 229 W Montecito Street
Also try: Zaytoon, The Hungry Cat, Lucky Penny, Brophy Bros., Opal Restaurant & Bar, or Arnoldi's Cafe
Luxury:
Yoichi's, 230 E Victoria Street
The Lark, 131 Anacapa Street, Ste A
Arigato, 1225 State Street
Bouchon, 9 W Victoria Street
Bella Vista, 1260 Channel Dr -- Boasts incredible ocean views of Butterfly Beach
Also try: Olio Crudo Bar, The Stonehouse, Toma Restaurant and Bar, or Downey's
Budget:
The Wayfarer, $, 12 E Montecito Street
Image via The Wayfarer
Santa Barbara's premiere hostel/hotel sits right along the trendy Funk Zone area, making it perfect for people who want to explore this neighborhood or walk around the Urban Wine Trail. The Wayfarer offers both private and dorm-style rooms, which are great options for people looking for a more affordable accommodation in the Santa Barbara area.
Also try: Hotel Santa Barbara ($$), Hotel Indigo ($$), or Hotel Milo ($)
Moderate:
Kimpton Canary Hotel, $$$, 31 W Carrillo Street
Image via Canary Santa Barbara
This charming boutique hotel is conveniently located right in the heart of Santa Barbara and just 5 minutes from the beach. Spanish-style architecture meets modern conveniences at the Kimpton Canary Hotel. Plus, you can't beat the view of the city from the rooftop here!
Also try: Spanish Garden Inn ($$), Simpson House Inn ($$), or The Fess Parker ($$$)
Luxury:
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, $$$$, 1260 Channel Drive
If you want an ultimate luxury experience while visiting Santa Barbara, look no further than the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. This magical wonderland of natural gardens and Spanish architecture is conveniently tucked away in the exclusive enclave of Montecito. It is a beautiful property with beach access and private gardens, spacious rooms with Spanish style influence and modern conveniences, and many more on-site amenities to enjoy. It is my hotel of choice when I visit Santa Barbara. You can read more about what to expect when you check-in right here!
Also try: Belmond El Encanto ($$$), San Ysidro Ranch ($$$$), or Bacara Resort & Spa ($$$$)
Things to do in Santa Barbara:
Walk the Urban Wine Trail - The Urban Wine Trail is basically a self-guided "wine tasting" crawl. You walk from tasting room to tasting room around the cool downtown Santa Barbara area. Each tasting room typically has a flight special that you can try multiple wines at once. Download the app on your smartphone and enjoy your tastings! *My favorite rooms were Grassini Family Vineyards, Jamie Slone, Cebada Winery, and Santa Barbara Winery; but there are so many others that are wonderful and cute as well!
Spend a morning at Ganna Walska Lotusland - This incredible botanic collection is located in depths of Santa Barbara's suburban area. It's a spectacular natural beauty that you must see during your stay! Read more about my visit to Lotusland and what you can expect right here.
Explore the cool galleries and shops of the Funk Zone - The Funk Zone is a new, up and coming neighborhood of SB. There are hip and trendy galleries, boutiques, and restaurants popping up all the time now. It's definitely worth it to walk around, check out some of the shops, and then stop in and eat at one of the great restaurants there.
Walk around the Presidio - The Presidio is another neighborhood of Santa Barbara that you should spend some time walking around. What you'll find here is a lot of the beautiful Spanish-style architecture and influence, fun places to eat and drink, and even some great boutiques to stop in around.
Do a Santa Barbara Food Tour - There's no better way to get to know a city than by tasting the cuisine. My personal favorite food tour is Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours. You can read more about it and what you can expect right here.
Ride the town's Hop-On, Hop-Off Trolley - I'm a big fan of any Hop-On, Hop-Off tour, and especially this one. Instead of those overbearing double-deck buses that you normally have in major cities, this one is a cute little trolley! Sure, it's a little touristy; but it's the best way to get around and see a lot of stuff in a short amount of time. The trolley takes you by great landmarks, such as the Old Mission Santa Barbara, where you're able to get off to explore until the next trolley comes around.
Watch the sunrise AND sunset over Butterfly Beach - Because Santa Barbara is located along a south-facing curve of California, people are able to catch the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the same coastline. Head to Butterfly Beach, which is located just in front of the Four Seasons Resort, and catch the breathtaking views.
See the view from the top of the Santa Barbara Courthouse - If you want a spectacular view of the city, walk up the steps to catch a view from the top of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, which is just as beautiful as the view!
Attend the weekly farmers market on State Street - Check the local schedule to see when the weekly farmers market is being held. It's a great time to meander around State Street and buy some local goods.
Explore the downtown area around State Street - Downtown Santa Barbara is full of so many cute boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and more! You should definitely spend a good amount of time just walking around the State Street area. Walk through La Arcada, check out the Art Museum, or stop in somewhere to eat!
Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo - The Santa Barbara Zoo is a beautiful, world-renowned zoo and a great place to spend the day with the family!
Spend a day on the waterfront - Walk around the Stearns Wharf, spend the day paddleboarding and/or kayaking, bike along the waterfront, or even head out on a boat tour to go explore the Channel Islands or go whale watching.
Go museum hopping - Santa Barbara has tons of wonderful museums and cultural landmarks for visitors to enjoy. You can check out the Old Mission, Casa del Herrero, Museum of Natural History, Museum of Art, or Cold Spring Tavern. Pick a category that suits you best (architecture, art, nature, etc.) and just explore it! There's something for everyone to enjoy in Santa Barbara.
See a show or attend a seasonal festival - Santa Barbara has tons of amazing seasonal events and festivals for visitors and locals to attend. Check out events like the Outrageous Film Festival, the Flamenco Arts Festival, the Art Walk, or the Pride at the Beach Festival!
Escape to Montecito or Summerland for the day - Check out the small towns of Montecito or Summerland, which surround Santa Barbara. They are cute, quaint, and full of personality. Drive through and maybe stop to walk around a bit!
Have you been to Santa Barbara? What are your favorite things to eat, places to stay, or things to do? Comment below with more recommendations!
Thank you to Visit Santa Barbara, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, Ganna Walska Lotusland, and Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours for providing various services and/or accommodations during my visit to Santa Barbara. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Big Sur: Glen Oaks Big Sur
Last Stop of the California Road Trip: Big Sur! Are you traveling to Big Sur too? Check in to Glen Oaks Big Sur, where you'll be able to choose between luxurious comforts with a side of nature or immersive glamping in the heart of the forest.
A Weekend at Glen Oaks Big Sur: A Luxurious Haven in the Heart of Big Sur
You've seen pictures of Big Sur, California, haven't you? The stunning pictures of those deep blue waters from the Pacific Ocean that come crashing onto a shoreline filled with magnificent, towering rocks... Or maybe you've seen the pictures of those endless coastline views that seem to be more and more breathtaking with every turn you make. Yeah, I've been seeing those pictures for so long that I had developed serious travel envy. I needed to get to Big Sur, stat.
After spending some time in the Santa Barbara area, it was time for Jay and I to continue our journey north. We grabbed our hiking shoes, our cameras, and our chicest "Big City-meets-Big Sur" outfits (ok, maybe that was just me...) and headed up Highway 1 to get a look at the enchanting Big Sur area for ourselves. And since I'm a big believer that where you stay can make or break your travel experience, I knew that we had to stay somewhere amazing to make our Big Sur adventure magical.
I was sort of into the idea of staying somewhere "outdoorsy" since I'm constantly surrounded by urban structures, but I still wanted the comforts of modern living (you can take the girl out of the city, but you can't take the city out of the girl). I spotted Glen Oaks Big Sur on a list that premiered the most romantic outdoor getaways in the United States and was immediately hooked in. The luxurious, newly remodeled guest cabins and lodges, the lush and pristine Redwood Grove, the on-site restaurant, and the ideal location in the heart of Big Sur all sold me on this perfect glamping getaway.
Arriving to this Natural Hideaway
Getting to Glen Oaks Big Sur is really half the fun of staying here! You'll be coming from either north or south on Highway 1 and encounter so many incredible opportunities to stop, pull over, and soak in the majestic views. You could see the beautiful, secluded McWay Falls, the legendary Bixby Bridge, and the miles and miles of incredible, untouched beauty around the California coastline. *Since check-in doesn't start until the afternoon, I'd recommend leaving with ample time in the morning to be able to stop and enjoy the views as many times as you want.
We drove up north on Highway 1, which gave for a longer, more scenic route into Glen Oaks Big Sur. We probably stopped along PCH at least a dozen times before arriving at the lodge. When you take this route, you can stop and see the "Portal to Big Sur" at Ragged Point Inn & Resort, the McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, the purple sand beaches at Pfeiffer Beach, countless hiking trails and stunning views, and all of the adorable, local restaurants, like Big Sur Roadhouse. The entire road trip kept building up our anticipation to arrive at Glen Oaks!
Choosing Your Experience
After spending the day exploring Big Sur, we were finally ready to check into our room at the lodge. What I love about this property is that it is comprised of multiple fireside motor lodges and numerous single and multi-room cabins, all of which are newly renovated and remodeled. These separate options allow you to choose the exact type of experience you want to have during your stay: either "immersive glamping in the forest" or "comfortable luxury with a side of nature."
The upscale cabins are all in the heart of a Redwood Grove, which makes for a perfect, quiet nature experience. The stately fireside motor lodges are a little bit more suitable for those who want the beauty of nature with a little more modern, luxury comfort. Since it was our first time staying in an outdoor getaway like this, we opted for the Adobe King Fireside Lodge because we wanted that comfortable luxury with a side of nature experience. It was perfect for my "Big City-meets-Big Sur" mentality :)
Luxury Comfort Meets Rustic-Chic
Entering our elegant fireside lodge was such an unforgettable experience. After we pulled up to the property, we got out of the car and followed a path around high fences covered in fresh Jasmine that danced alongside the towering trees. We opened the gate to our lodge and were greeted by a lovely, private outdoor patio that came with a two-way gas fireplace, which was visible from the outside and interior of our room.
Our King guest room was beautifully decorated in a rustic/retro style with a modern twist. The room had bright, colorful decor, gorgeous wood furnishings, fun activities to keep you busy (like yoga mats, board games, and a Buddha Board), and even a complimentary s'mores kit! The bed and pillows were a fabulous highlight of their own... I think I fell asleep within 2 seconds of putting my head down on that pile of plush pillows.
However, my favorite part of the whole room (and probably the thing that I was most excited about) was the bathroom. The glamorous bathroom came with heated floors, modern fixtures, and a large, two-person shower with stone flooring. I wanted to cut this room out of the lodge and take it home with me!
How to Spend Your Time Here
After exploring Big Sur all day, it's nice to know that you have stylish comforts to come home to at Glen Oaks Big Sur. However, the homey lodge is much more than just a place to sleep. There is plenty to experience right outside your front door around the property!
Here are some things I would recommend doing during you stay at Glen Oaks Big Sur:
Walk to the Big Sur River
The Big Sur River is located near all of the cabins on the west side of the property. Follow the paths down to the river and enjoy the soothing sounds of the water. If it's warm enough, you can even go in the water for a quick, refreshing dip!
Meander through the Redwood Grove (and see Grandmother Pfeiffer!)
Along the path to the Big Sur River is a stunning Redwood Grove that boasts some of the oldest and largest Redwoods in the area. Make sure you stop and see Grandmother Pfeiffer, which is the second-largest Redwood in all of Big Sur. She is truly magnificent!
Take a hike around the property
You can walk around the property to enjoy all of the natural beauty that surrounds it, or even ask about some of the nearby trails to continue your journey further into Big Sur.
Enjoy the communal campfire
Every night around sundown, Glen Oaks Big Sur hosts a private campfire for their guests at the communal campfire site until 10pm. Bring your s'mores supplies (and maybe a glass of wine), ask the front desk for some skewers, and enjoy!
Stop in at Big Sur Roadhouse for breakfast
The Big Sur Roadhouse, which is currently undergoing a wonderful redecorating process, is a great spot for Glen Oaks guests to stop in for breakfast. They provide complimentary donuts and coffee for guests, as well as an assortment of other small breakfast items. Once the redecorating is complete this year, they will also be serving a full menu with other meal options. The restaurant is so chic and decorated with a variety of unique and hand-made furnishings. It's a must-see!
Chill out in your private outdoor patio
The best part of staying in our guest room was having the private outdoor patio to enjoy at our leisure. You can come out and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, a glass of wine in the evening, or just relax out there with a book or your Buddha Board! I loved that our room had the dual two-way gas fireplace because we were able to turn it on and enjoy it from both the inside and the outside.
Good to Know Information
All of the accommodations at Glen Oaks Big Sur are undergoing an exciting redecorating project to allow for more luxurious comforts throughout the property.
There are no televisions in the rooms to allow for a full nature immersion experience.
There is no cell phone service in Big Sur, but you will have Wi-Fi access in your cabin or lodge.
Coffee and beverages are always available in the front office, as well as across the street at Big Sur Roadhouse. Make sure you pick up a maple donut for breakfast there too! I promise you will be licking your fingers after you eat it... It's that good.
Parking is available on-site near your accommodation.
There is a general store next to the front office in case you need groceries, supplies, or anything you might have forgotten at home.
Staying at Glen Oaks Big Sur really made our Big Sur experience so wonderful! It was perfectly located for what we wanted to see and do, the staff was incredibly friendly, the prices were very affordable for the area, and the accommodations were the excellent combination of "comfortable luxury with a side of nature." We will definitely return to Glen Oaks Big Sur the next time we visit!
Glen Oaks Big Sur
47080 Highway One
Big Sur, CA 93920
(831) 667-2105
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to Glen Oaks Big Sur for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Hearst Castle: A Stop at San Simeon's Enchanted Hilltop Mansion
If you're taking a road trip along PCH, make sure to stop for a visit at the enchanting Hearst Castle to experience this "never-never land" yourself! Come explore this opulent palace in San Simeon where Old Hollywood royalty would gather together for a night of fun.
Hearst Castle: A Stop at San Simeon's Enchanted Hilltop Mansion
The legendary Hedda Hopper once said, "A visit to the Hearst Ranch was a ticket to never-never land. Never has there been such a place and never will we see its like again." If you're taking a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, make sure you pencil in a visit to the enchanting Hearst Castle during your journey to experience this never-never land yourself! This magnificent estate, once owned by the media mogul William Randolph Hearst, sits upon a beautiful hilltop in the heart of San Simeon. Some have argued that it is the closest thing to a "royal palace" that we'll ever see in the United States.
After the turn of the 20th century, Mr. Hearst commissioned Julia Morgan, an incredibly talented architect and designer of her time, to bring the house of his dreams to life. The two worked together on the project for over 28 years, and never quite finished due to Mr. Hearst's failing health. However, much of the project was completed in that time allowing for guests to enjoy the property as it is today. The opulent Castle--including its many gardens, pools, terraces, priceless works of art, and 165 rooms--takes up 127 acres of the entire estate. In its prime, Hearst Castle became widely known as a popular gathering place for some of Old Hollywood's elite.
Join along our journey of Hearst Castle so you can properly plan your trip, or just get serious wanderlust looking at the pictures of this incredible estate!
Pre-Trip Planning
Because of the long lines you may encounter at the Visitor Center of Hearst Castle, I recommend you start planning your excursion before your arrival. Hearst Castle offers a variety of tours, with ticket prices starting at just $25 for adults. Tickets can be purchased on their website here. You can still purchase tickets at the Visitor Center; however, reserving your tour in advance will allow you to save some time and headache when you arrive, especially if a tour becomes sold out.
The Tours
Hearst Castle offers a variety of tours for guests to be able to enjoy different parts of the estate. Signing up for a tour is the only way you can gain access onto the grounds. Depending on how much time you have for your visit, you can book 1 or as many of the tours as you want! We only booked 1 tour, but wished we could have had time for more!
The main tours of the Castle include the following:
Grand Rooms Tour: Recommended for first time visitors. This tour provides an experience of Casa Grande (the main house of Hearst Castle) and all of the opulent social rooms.
Upstairs Suites Tour: Explore up the winding staircases into the Castle's most private rooms, including Mr. Hearst's own personal quarters.
Cottages & Kitchen Tour: Discover the Castle's surrounding cottages, wine cellar, and enormous kitchen.
Evening Tour: Turn back time to the 1930s and come experience the house at night! Book your reservation for a night tour, where Living History Docents will be dressed up as if they were heading to an evening soiree at the Castle with Mr. Hearst himself. This tour is the longest tour available and can only be booked at certain times of the year.
*Additional tours, including private and accessible designed tours, may be found on the booking website.
After the tour(s), you're allowed to explore the Neptune Pool, the Roman Pool, and the gardens at your leisure. Unfortunately, you can't gain access into any of the other rooms without a tour, which is why I advise reserving multiple tours if you want to see more rooms! You can purchase your tickets for any of the tours here.
Arriving at Hearst Castle
When you arrive at the estate, you'll pull up to a large parking lot in front of the Visitor Center. Once inside, you will have the option to view "Hearst Castle Building the Dream," which is a 40-minute film about the history of Hearst Castle. It helps set the stage for what you're about to see on the incredible hilltop. You can choose to watch it before or after your tour, but I recommend watching it before your departure. *This short film is included in most daytime tour tickets. Check your reservation to be sure!
Once you're ready to start your journey to the Castle, you'll head to the bus area to catch a 15-minute shuttle ride up the Enchanted Hill. The bus ride, where you'll be able to see thousands of acres of beautiful land, includes an audio narration from none other than Jeopardy's Alex Trebek. You'll learn interesting bits of Hearst history and info as you ascend towards the mansion at the top of the hill.
While You're There
After you exit the bus, you'll be greeted by your tour guide who will take you along your path through the house. Once your tour(s) is concluded, you're able to explore the Neptune Pool, the Roman Pool, and the gardens on your own before heading back to the Visitor Center on the shuttle.
If you're interested in doing a walking tour of your own, download the Hearst Castle app on your smartphone to listen to a guided tour of the grounds! There is a ton of really interesting information that you'll learn about all of the public spaces around the Castle.
Once you're finished exploring, simply head back to the shuttle area to catch a bus back down to the Visitor Center.
Good to Know Information
Booking your tickets in advance is recommended, but not required. You can select your tour and book your reservation here. You must have a tour reservation in order to gain access to the grounds. *I also recommend booking your ticket in advance because they can sell out!
As of right now, the world famous Neptune Pool is empty because it is undergoing a massive restoration project. At this point in time, the pool is expected to be completed by Summer 2017.
You cannot bring any food or drink on your tour of the Castle, with the exception of bottled water. The property can get pretty hot on sunny days, so definitely bring your H2O!
Download the Hearst Castle App on your smartphone to enjoy a virtual guide while exploring the grounds on your own! We did this and loved it!
There is a food court available inside the Visitor Center, but you can also pack a lunch or some snacks to eat by your car to save money.
Movie times for the film "Hearst Castle Building the Dream," vary, so you can plan to see the screening either before or after your tour.
One thing I wish we would have planned for was more time for tours! We only did the Grand Rooms Tour, but would have loved to stay and go through the other ones. You can easily spend an entire day and evening at the castle taking tours because there is so much to see and learn! We're definitely planning on returning for more tours (especially the night tour!) once the Neptune Pool is fully restored!
Have you ever been to Hearst Castle? Comment below with your favorite part of your trip!
Hearst Castle
750 Hearst Castle Rd.
San Simeon, CA 93452
(800) 444-4445
Thank you to Hearst Castle for hosting our visit. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. All opinions are my own.
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Santa Barbara Food Tour: Taste the City from a Local's Perspective
When traveling, eating the local food is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture. Experience the Santa Barbara culture by eating your way around it with Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours!
Santa Barbara Food Tour: Taste the City from a Local's Perspective
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Food is the key to any culture around the world. Period. When you try the local food, you're immersing yourself into the culture. But what if you're pressed for time? Or what if you want to experience and taste a lot in a shorter period of time? A local food tour just might be the answer to all of your problems.
Anytime I travel somewhere new, I'm so eager to try the food. And based on some of my previous posts, you'll know by now that I absolutely love getting local recommendations on where to eat. When you want to taste the best a city has to offer, there's nothing better than doing it from a local's perspective. When I knew I was coming to Santa Barbara for a few short days, I immediately set up a food tour with one of the city's finest: Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours.
The fabulous, local foodie, Evan Elizabeth Berger, officially founded Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours back in 2014, after spending years conducting smaller, private tours of her own. Evan and her wonderful team of expert guides lead you on a 3.5 hour walking tour of Santa Barbara, where you'll eat, play, and love local. Evan and Aiyana (who was our other guide for the day) were so welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate about what they do that it made the entire experience so much more enjoyable than it already was. Read on for more details on our adventure!
A Little Something Sweet to Start the Day
Evan mentioned that she had found some research that stated that starting out your meal with something sweet is actually good for you because it can help the digestion process along (plus it's just really fun). Now, I'm not sure of the validity of that statement, but I'm 100% NOT arguing with it. I will always start my meal with sweets if someone tells me to--especially FRENCH sweets. UGHHHH.
Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro, 1324 State Street
Our first stop of the day began at the deliciously tasty Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro. Our friend Emma at RP&B brought out a variety of Parisian Macarons in different flavors for us to sample. Up until this moment, my favorite macarons were none other than the original Parisian heavy hitters: Ladurée and Pierre Hermé (coming in at a very close 1st and 2nd place, respectively).
After I tried the Parisian Macarons from Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro, I was left speechless. I honestly don't know how to rank my favorite macarons anymore! These were incredible!!! AND they were a really nice size macaron, not leaving you feeling like you just ate a small crumb. *I actually went back after the tour and bought a big bag to take home with me! :)
To say that I loved starting at Renaud's is an understatement. They set the bar for the tour pretty high. I'd recommend coming here any day of the week to enjoy a morning coffee and breakfast! Their entire bakery selection, which is baked fresh every day, looked amazing.
Pre-Lunch Snacks 'n Apps
After our little sweet treat, we were off to the next stop of the day! What I loved about walking from location-to-location with Evan and Aiyana was that they kept us so entertained with fun facts and trivia about Santa Barbara throughout the day. They taught us about the history, the architecture, the hot spots around town to know about, and a ton more. It definitely kept us on our toes!
But by now, our bellies were ready for round 2!
Santa Barbara Public Market, 38 West Victoria Street
Our next stop was at the Santa Barbara Public Market, which is kind of like the hip, new kid on the block in this city. This trendy, urban marketplace is home to a wide range of restaurants, shops, and merchants all operating within one communal space. You can hop over to the bar at Empty Bowl for some Asian Fusion cuisine, buy a bottle of wine at Wine+Beer, try some seafood at I`a Fish Market & Café, or grab some cupcakes at Enjoy Cupcakes. There are lots of unique options to choose from!
We had a taste of the popular noodles from Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar, where they specialize in authentic noodle dishes and small plates from Thailand and Taiwan. It was so good that I had to stop myself from eating too much Pad Thai and not sharing with the others... Oops (sorry, not sorry...)!
Cielito Restaurant and Tequila Bar, 1114 State Street
After having a little taste of Asia, it was time to try another style of food. Enter Cielito's: the Latin American Inspired Central California Cuisine. Cielito Restaurant and Tequila Bar is a lively spot in the heart of the historic La Arcada courtyard.
Here we had a little tequila tasting, some fresh guacamole and salsa, and quinoa-kale fritters to eat. Everything was very fresh and very delicious. I'm pretty sure everyone at our table kept eyeing the mango habanero glaze and avocado aioli to see who would actually step forward first to lick the plate (yes, it was that good). Hint: It was Jay...
Isabella Gourmet Foods & Cebada Winery, 5 East Figueroa Street
Just around the corner from Cielito's is the adorable Isabella Gourmet Foods. This one-of-a-kind downtown spot is a boutique artisan grocery that focuses on serving its customers the best and most unique local foods. You'll find so many wonderful things in here from cold-pressed elixirs to fine chocolates, exotic cookbooks, to savory nuts and superfoods. I could have spent all afternoon admiring every little corner of goodies in this picturesque boutique!
Upon entering the shop, we walked up the stairs to the Cebada Winery Tasting Room. This petite tasting room sits in the open loft-space area within Isabella Gourmet Foods. It was the perfect combination of merchants: unique foods with unique wines.
At this stop, we had some gourmet popcorn from Isabella's and a flight of wine from Cebada (one of those wines being a blueberry one, which I was very pleasantly surprised with...). Both offerings were creative and tasty, just as you would imagine!
Lunch Time
Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria, 905 State Street
I'll totally admit this: When I walked by Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria when I first arrived in Santa Barbara, I totally thought it was some common pizza chain and completely overlooked it. Now, I actually sort of feel like how the sales women in Pretty Woman must have felt when Julia Roberts came back in and said "Remember me? BIG mistake! HUGE!" So wrong of me to think that. BAD ANA!!!
Alright... This place, my friends, is still stuck in my mind. What have you done to me, Persona Pizzeria?! This popular "fast-pizza" place is a wonderful DIY pizza joint that allows you to pick and create your own pizza from scratch (which is ready in 90 seconds!), or order from the expert's award-winning pizza selections. *And OMG I just found out it's coming to Chicago! Yeeeeee!
We had the pleasure of trying their award-winning pizzas with a side of beer. The Chipotle Chicken Pizza was the shining star of the show here. It was even the Winner at the International World Pizza Competition in Napoli, Italy (that's how you know it's serious)! This baby came fully loaded with chipotle dressing, shredded mozzarella, roasted chicken topped with crema, more chipotle dressing, and fresh pico de gallo. Ay dios mio! My mouth is still watering from this pizza.
Quite the French Way to End a Meal: Cheese, Sweets, & Wine
As the tour began coming to an end, it was time to enter the final courses of food. In true French style, we ended the day's meals with a round of cheese, a round of sweets, and a bonus round (or two) of wine.
C'est Cheese, 825 Santa Barbara Street
The first stop after our pizza lunch was the gourmet food and cheese boutique, C'est Cheese. How can you not love a place with a name that cute and clever?! I never thought I would see a cheese shop with so many authentic and artisanal cheeses outside of Europe, but this place proved me wrong.
We tried a few different samples of their best cheeses while learning a little background info on each one! We were even able to head inside and taste some other ones at our leisure. It was a super cute spot to check out, and definitely a downtown SB staple.
McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, 728 State Street
Last (but certainly not least) on the incredible Taste Santa Barbara Food Tour was the world-famous McConnell's Fine Ice Creams. I would say that they saved the best for last, but that might be too bold of a statement to make on a list as good as this one. However, I can say this: a trip to Santa Barbara is absolutely NOT complete without a stop at McConnell's.
McConnell's is a locally owned ice cream company that was founded in Santa Barbara almost 70 years ago. Today, they are still making ice cream exactly how they started making it back in the day: in small batches, all from scratch, and with the best local, organic ingredients. Every bite is pure, creamy bliss.
Try my favorite flavor when you're there: Churros con Leche! And you better get that thing in a waffle cone! That delicious smell will haunt you if you don't, and you will regret it.
Unfortunately, after McConnell's, the 'Official' Taste Santa Barbara Food Tour was over :( However, some of us still wanted to keep going a little bit and finish off the tour with a proper goodbye. We said our farewells to our new friends who had to leave...and decided to keep the party going down the street at Grassini Family Vineyards Tasting Room!
BONUS: Grassini Family Vineyards, 813 Anacapa Street #6
What better way to end a long day of eating and walking around than with a fresh glass of wine?! Located in the beautiful, historic El Paseo shopping plaza is the Grassini Family Vineyards Tasting Room. I was so excited to come to Grassini's Tasting Room because a few friends of mine had told me how great it was.
What I loved about the tasting room (besides the amazing Sauvignon Blanc) was the warm energy that greets you as soon as you walk inside. The staff was so friendly and inviting, and they were eager to share all of the interesting details about the winery and vineyards, as you tasted each glass! It was a perfect way to end our afternoon.
I was so sad to end our time with Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours, but I knew I had walked away with a few things: a full and happy belly, some fun facts about Santa Barbara, a bag of snacks for the road, and new friends (awwwww)! The TSBFT was such an incredible experience and I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who is visiting through Santa Barbara, even just for the day! It's only a few hours, so that gives you plenty of time to explore the city and eat your way around it with your new foodie friends!
Good to Know Information:
You can book your tickets for Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours here. Tickets range from $79-$99, and I highly recommend buying the ticket that includes alcohol if you can. This is an incredible price for a food tour that includes all the food, drinks, and fun entertainment (aka cool SB trivia!).
Eat a light breakfast early in the morning so you have room for all the food. You will not leave the tour feeling stuffed or uncomfortable, but you will definitely leave feeling content. They portion everything out very well.
Consider bringing a bottle of water or sunscreen if it is really hot. Not necessary, but good to think about.
Participate in the trivia because it is really fun and you might learn something (or get a prize)!
You will receive a brochure that includes exclusive discounts to a lot of great local spots around Santa Barbara for you to use post-tour. This is something you absolutely will not get without participating in this awesome tour!
*All food and restaurants on this list for the TSBFT are subject to change at any moment.
Thank you to Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours for hosting our tour. And a special thank you to Evan, Aiyana, and all participating businesses who made our visit spectacular. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in the Santa Ynez Valley: Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
It's time to take a step back, unplug, and unwind in the country. Experience the authentic Old West with me at The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort. Join along as we explore this iconic, luxury ranch nestled away in the Santa Ynez Valley!
Retreat to Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort: Unplug and Unwind in the True Wild West
As a full-time entrepreneur, I'm always connected to the outside world in some way, whether it's through social media, texting, emails, etc. I'm always ON. It's kind of exhausting sometimes! Amirite fellow entrepreneurs?!
After spending some time in the heart of Santa Barbara, I wanted to take a break from the urban lifestyle for a bit, which is something I rarely do. I was ready to test my limits and go "off the grid" for few days. I get so used to the comforts of city living that I forget how necessary it is to just unplug and unwind for a bit! I wanted to have an experience where I could really immerse myself into California's rich, western culture and retreat into the depths of the countryside.
I came across the iconic Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort and instantly loved what I saw. This secluded, romantic ranch and resort is tucked away in the Santa Ynez Valley (aka Santa Barbara's premiere wine country) and sits upon a property of over 10,000 acres. The spirit of the Old West is alive and well at this seductive getaway, which has even been a hotspot for old Hollywood royalty (à la Clark Gable and Doris Day) since their doors opened in 1946. With all the lush, rolling hills, natural beauty, and wide-open spaces, I knew it would be the perfect place for Jay and I to get some R&R for couple of days.
Escaping into the True Wild West
We've all seen the old movies and pictures of the "Wild West," but how many of us have actually experienced it? Can you imagine a life where you wake up early to the sounds of the birds flying around the crisp, cool morning air? A morning when you can practically smell the beads of dew that sit on the grass... And as you smell the fresh dew, you start to hear the sounds of the animals on the ranch waking up and moving around. You go outside to see the sun peaking out on the green, rolling valleys and you know it's going to be another beautiful day. Well that, my friends, is exactly the life you get to experience when you come to Alisal for a visit.
I was almost on sensory overload with all the natural beauty that surrounded me at the resort! From the moment you pull up to the property, which is about an hour away from downtown Santa Barbara, you're greeted by lush, open fields that are filled with magnificent horses and cattle that are grazing the property. On one side of the road, you see the large, wood barn and stables where the animals roam freely in their spaces. On the other side, you see all of the charming guest cabins and accommodations surrounded by beautiful trees in bloom with colorful flowers dancing around them. It instantly felt like we had left the world we knew behind us and entered a bygone era of the authentic Wild West.
A Luxurious "Camp for Adults"
After you drive up to the main office and get all checked in, you're given the key to your guest room and access to the grounds, where a whole other world awaits you. As you enter your room, you're immersed into a stylish and spacious accommodation that is filled with authentic Western decor, a wood-burning fireplace, and even a private outdoor seating area.
Every room comes equipped with its own little "kitchenette" that includes a small refrigerator and coffee maker, wood for the fireplace, and all of your other typical in-room amenities. One thing that is unique about the accommodations here is that there are no televisions or phones in the guest rooms. Alisal does this to maintain the integrity of the true ranch experience. It definitely helped me "unplug and unwind."
Once you're all settled into your adorable new room and you're ready to explore, you have virtually every outdoor activity you could imagine available to you. You could go horseback riding, hit up the tennis courts, go for a hike, swim at the pool, play a round of golf, take your shot at archery, go for a bike ride, fish on the lake, have a picnic... The list goes on and on! You could even take a break and get a massage at the spa, play some Ping-Pong or pool in the Billiards Room, or go to the gym and have a nice workout. It was seriously like we were in a luxurious camp for adults! There was so much available to us, and we didn't have to respond to anyone in the outside world! HOORAYYYY!
How to Spend Your Time Here
What I loved most about visiting Alisal is that we never had to leave the resort for anything. It was truly an immersive ranch experience that did not require us to go far for anything we wanted to do. All of our activities were right there, all of our dining options were steps from our front porch, the wonderful staff was incredibly responsive and attentive to anything we requested, and best of all, we spent all the time we desired in the gorgeous nature around us.
The list of things you can do when you visit is so extensive that you really can't go wrong with what you choose. However, these are my personal favorite things to do when visiting Alisal:
Experience a Morning Horseback Ride (or any ride for that matter)
One of the most memorable experiences Jay and I had during our stay at Alisal was the morning horseback ride we scheduled on our second day. We arrived early to the stables, where there was coffee and hot chocolate waiting for us. As soon as we got our horses assigned, we were split into our respective groups (either Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced) and sent off on the trail.
**TIP: Jay and I had both ridden a small handful of times, but weren't sure what the dude ranch equivalent to a "Beginner" was (I seriously thought it was probably some advanced stuff because...you know...it's a ranch and all...), but we put that down anyways. We could have easily been in the Intermediate group because we were more skilled than we thought. So if you have some experience and you're on the fence, just try "Intermediate."
Going along that trail in the morning was one of the most calming and extraordinary experiences I've ever had. The crisp, fresh air, the sounds of the horses walking, the views of the rolling mountains with the sun peaking over them, the trees with the Spanish moss growing all over them... It was breathtaking! I was seriously speechless with the beauty that surrounded me.
Once we reached the end of the trail, we came upon a few small, old cabins with a large outdoor dining area. The Alisal staff was hard at work preparing a massive breakfast feast for everyone to enjoy. The smell of the fresh eggs, the sizzling bacon, the massive buttermilk pancakes with the signature "A" branded in the middle... It was incredible! And to top it all off, they had a man playing guitar and singing country songs, while another man came out to tell some old folk stories. Talk about that "camp for adult" feeling again!
After our bellies were full and our hearts were warm, we got back on our horses and rode back to the resort. The views on the way back were just as spectacular, and we even got the chance to see some of the local cattle and other wildlife during our ride! I could have spent the entire rest of the day riding around the grounds on my wonderful horse, Jesse. If we hadn't already scheduled the rest of our day with activities, we would have immediately signed up to do another ride.
Enjoy Fine Dining Cuisine On Site
Let me tell you something... The food here is out of this world. No joke. Jay and I never left one meal feeling dissatisfied or hungry. Everything we had was un-be-lieve-a-bleeee. Plus, breakfast and dinner are both included in your resort package! So make sure you head to the Ranch Room for your meals and enjoy everything your little heart desires.
Tour the Grounds
There is so much to explore and do on site at Alisal. But before you get after it, walk around the grounds a little bit and just take it all in! It's not too big to be able to walk from one end of the main property to the other. Walk into the many rooms and buildings, explore the pool, hit some Ping-Pong around, etc. It's really fun to just walk around and explore!
Build a Fire in Your Guest Room's Wood-Burning Fireplace
Besides the horseback ride, this might have been our favorite little experience. Since Jay and I are both city dwellers now, we don't have a lot of opportunities to build a real fire in a wood-burning fireplace. It was a really sweet "country" experience for us to have together. Truth be told, I didn't do much (read: anything) besides sit back with a glass of wine and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the crackling fire. Jay really did all the work here :) But I still loved it so much!!
Retreat to the Post-Dinner Events
After dinner each night, there is typically some sort of entertainment in the magnificent Oak Room, which is just down the hall from the Ranch Room. It's a nice spot to come and sit by the fire, grab a drink, and listen to whatever type of entertainment they may have.
During our stay, we had the pleasure of seeing local legend, Bill Powell, play some beautiful piano songs. I actually cried because it was so lovely! Bill has been playing at Alisal for several decades now and is known to many guests. He was so sweet too!
You can also head to the Library after dinner if you want some adults-only time (and access to a TV!), or head to the Billiards Room for some post-dinner games. Either way, you can't go wrong with what you choose!
Other Notable Mentions:
Hit the Tennis Courts
Play a round of Golf
Schedule a massage at the spa
Take the shuttle lake (where you can fish, picnic, or explore)
Try your best at Archery
Take a small boat on the lake
Go for a bike ride around the property
Take a run around the property
Watch the sunset from your patio
Head to the gym for a workout
Good to Know Information
Breakfast and dinner are both included in your rate, but alcohol is not. Like I said before, the food is incredible and you're never going to leave hungry.
Adults and children are expected to keep a semi-formal attire for dinner. Men must wear sport coats or blazers. *I really loved this rule! Everyone looked so wonderful and dressed up for dinner. Why don't more places do this nowadays?!
Lunch can be found at any of the four restaurants on site. If you're heading to the lake for the afternoon, you can even order a boxed lunch to be delivered during your excursion!
Before and/or after dinner every night there is typically some sort of entertainment in The Oak Room Lounge (which is such a stunning room). It becomes adults-only after 9pm!
There is another adults only Library that is located just across the lawn from the main dining building. It's a nice place to go and hang out or watch TV. Yes, one of the few TVs on the property!
Every day you are given an itinerary of events that are happening around the resort. It's helpful to keep handy if you want to know where and when everything is going on (i.e. meals, activities, etc.)
Wi-Fi is included throughout the property, but remember you're there to relaxxxx! Enjoy yourself and unplug for a bit :)
After our time at Alisal, I felt relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to head back into the city. It was such a wonderful, romantic escape and an incredible experience to be part of. Who knew that this little city girl could actually come to love the country?! I'm definitely looking forward to returning to Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort again, perhaps next time with my whole family in tow!
Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
1054 South Alisal Rd
Solvang, CA 93463
(805) 688-6411
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Escaping to Lotusland: Santa Barbara's Magical Garden
Next stop of our Santa Barbara journey! After researching what to do in Santa Barbara, I came across some whimsical images of a place that looked like a secret, magical garden hidden in the depths of Santa Barbara. Join me as I explore the world renowned Ganna Walska Lotusland!
Escaping to Lotusland: Santa Barbara's Magical Garden
Before our arrival to Santa Barbara, I had done a little research and digging to find the best ways we could immerse ourselves in the SB culture (after all, isn't that the way we should all travel?!). I came across some beautiful images of a place that looked like a secret, magical garden hidden in the depths of Santa Barbara. "What is this gorgeous place?!" I thought to myself. "TAKE ME NOW!"
These incredible, lush images I saw were from the world-renowned Ganna Walska Lotusland. Lotusland boasts a 37-acre estate filled with botanical beauties and natural wonders. There are numerous gardens and additional areas to explore throughout the property from Mid-February to Mid-November. I'm a big believer in spending time in nature for the mind, body, and soul, and so I knew that this was a place that Jay and I needed to check out.
How it All Began: The Woman Behind the Name
This whimsical garden was brought to life because of an extraordinary woman named Madame Ganna Walska. Originally from Poland, Ganna Walska was an unstoppable force who lived by her own rules (my kind of gal!). One of her mottos was, "I'm an enemy of the average." She was a well-known opera singer and socialite who performed for audiences in Paris, New York, and many other cities across the Americas and Europe.
After purchasing the estate in 1941 (which was formerly called Tibetland), Ganna Walska spent the next 43 years of her life curating and growing one of the world's most beautiful, personal horticultural collections. She would travel high and low throughout the world to find the perfect additions to her colorful landscape collection. It was even said that if Madame Walska was out for a drive and saw something she liked, she would send her driver inside the establishment to make an offer on purchasing what she wanted. Her hard work certainly paid off because today Lotusland is full of unique and enchanting tropical and subtropical plants from around the world.
Lotusland Today and How to Explore
After Madame Walska passed in 1984, the property was turned over to the Ganna Walska Lotusland Foundation. This nonprofit organization made the garden open to the public in 1993. People from all over the world are now able to come and visit the magical gardens of Ganna Walska Lotusland!
Because the property is located in a private, residential area of Santa Barbara, reservations are required to enter (more information below). When you call to make your reservation, you will be given the 2 time options for your guided tour. The guided tours are led by wonderful and extremely knowledgeable docents of the property. The tours will lead you around the entire estate while explaining some of the history and details of each garden.
The extraordinary collections, which take after the woman who created them, range from rare cycads, cacti, palms, succulents, ferns, aloes, and so many more! Some of the most popular attractions are the lotuses and waterlilies, which are typically seen in full bloom in the summer months. There are currently about 25 different main areas and gardens that you will see on your tour.
What to See and When to Go
Luckily, when you go on your guided tour, you will have a chance to walk through and see every breathtaking sight. There are gardens, statues, fountains, exotic and rare plants, and even a horticultural clock! However, these are my personal favorite things to see that you cannot miss:
The Succulent Garden: Because I'm a frequent traveler and I'm always on the road, the only plants that I can ever successfully keep in my home are succulents! So because of this, I had a special connection to the Succulent Garden. Those plants are my favorites! And I also love how cute and small they can be, just like me :)
The Water Garden: This is the famous garden where you will find all of the lotus flowers and water lilies. They typically start to bloom in the summer months, sometimes even around Ganna Walska's birthday in late June!
The Blue Garden: Right in the heart of Lotusland is the Blue Garden, which was one of the most iconic gardens of the property. I fell in love with the blue and silverish colors of all the plants here. So magnificent!
The Butterfly Garden (or Insectary Garden): This garden is the epitome of sustainable preservation and maintenance. Everything in this area is meant to recycle essential energy and nutrients, as well as attract positive pollinators, while deterring invasive species. We learned a lot about the sustainable practices here in this garden!
The Orchards: You'll find lemon trees, orange trees, olive trees, and more amongst the orchards of Lotusland.
The Cycad Garden: The cycad garden of Lotusland is world-renowned because of the extensive collection of specimens that live here. Ganna Walska sold over a million dollars worth of her personal jewelry to make this garden possible! Make sure to pay a visit to the three special Encephalartos woodii (aka "The 3 Bachelors"), which are among the world’s rarest cycads and extinct in the wild. They pleasantly sit on top of a small cliff which overlooks their own koi pond.
The Parterre and Topiary Garden: This area is located just near the main house and is home to the iconic horticultural clock, rose gardens, and the Neptune fountain of Lotusland. It's a whimsical place to wander around.
Theatre Garden: This little garden was unique to me because I could totally imagine Ganna Walska hosting performances or plays here. You're greeted into the garden by these small stone statues (which are kinda funny and creepy looking in my opinion) which Madame Walska brought with her from France. You can even buy replicas in the gift shop!
The Tropical Garden: This was the first thing we saw when we entered the property and it took me by surprise. I was not ready for how beautiful the gardens would be and this one set the bar very high. You really feel like you are immersing yourself into a tropical garden! Look for the beautiful glass stones that line the path on the ground, which Madame Walska recycled from a glass factory!
The Japanese Garden: I love this garden because it truly makes you realize how diverse the entire estate is. It is peaceful, unique, and filled with a variety of different species. A must-see!
I would recommend visiting Lotusland at any point in the year! There is always something in bloom or something changing in the gardens. We visited in the spring, which made for cooler weather and sunny skies. However, if you want to see the lotus flowers, book your reservation for a summer visit (or during LotusFest in July). Be sure to check the website beforehand to see if there are any fun events scheduled during your visit!
Good to Know Information
Lotusland is completely sustainable and all-natural in the way that they conserve and maintain their gardens. There are absolutely no pesticides used anywhere; and they've even adopted natural preservation methods to attract positive pollinators, while deterring invasive species.
Since Lotusland is tucked away in a private, residential area of Santa Barbara, reservations are required to enter. Tickets for admission are $45, but don't let this deter you; it is worth every penny. Call 805-969-9990 to schedule your reservation.
Guided tours for your visit take place at 10am or 1:30pm every Wednesday-Saturday from mid-February to mid-November. You must schedule a tour if you are not a member.
Annual memberships start at only $75 and it grants you free access (and other perks) whenever you make a reservation! Plus, your money goes right back into preserving this horticultural treasure. This is a great opportunity if you live in Central California and want to come visit often! (I would totally get this if I lived there or visit CA often...)
Members also get exclusive invitations to private events hosted by Lotusland throughout the year.
Lotusland is only permitted 15,000 guests per year due to community restrictions; so make sure you book your reservation ASAP by calling 805-969-9990.
Bring sunblock and water if you are visiting on a warm day!
Ganna Walska Lotusland was a truly spectacular sight to see. I highly recommend making a stop here if you are in the Santa Barbara area, if only to escape into nature for a moment and smell the fresh air! Ahhhh :)
Ganna Walska Lotusland
695 Ashley Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
(805) 969-9990
Thank you to Ganna Walska Lotusland for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
Join me along my California coast road trip! FIRST STOP: A romantic getaway to the elegant Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Spanish architecture, hidden bungalows, and oceanfront views. Doesn't get better than that!
A Romantic Getaway to Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
My goodness, it has been a hot minute since I've been able to sit down and share my recent travel adventures with you all! If you've been following along on Instagram, you've probably seen that I've been all over the West Coast and the Caribbean in the last month! Wheeewww! It's been a beautiful whirlwind, and I'm so thrilled to finally share it with you!
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After a successful Women in Travel Summit last month, I was ready to kick back with Jay for a few weeks and relax. I had never been up the coast in California, so we drove up PCH all the way from Irvine and started our romantic getaway in beautiful Santa Barbara. As if the city wasn't spectacular enough, we checked into the incredibly romantic Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara for our stay.
I believe that where you stay when you travel can make or break the experience, and I can confidently say that our visit to Santa Barbara was exponentially better because we stayed at The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Everything at the Resort, from the gorgeous Spanish architecture and decor, to the warm hospitality, to the charming location made me absolutely fall in love with Santa Barbara.
Arriving at the Resort
Conveniently tucked away in the exclusive enclave of Montecito is the elegant Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Since their doors opened in 1927, it has been a hotspot for locals, celebrities, and travelers alike. The minute you drive up to the property you can feel the incredible history that practically oozes off the walls. It is such a unique property because you feel like you are truly escaping from all reality.
As you enter the resort, you're immediately immersed into a magical wonderland of natural gardens and Spanish architecture. I was absolutely in awe from the minute I walked in. Every corner is more breathtaking than the next! You walk in and see the wood beam ceilings with the multi-colored ceramic tiles, the red tile roofs and white stucco walls, the radiant bougainvillea growing alongside the native plants and trees; and as you look out just in front of the property, you're greeted by a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean from Butterfly Beach. I felt like I was in a Spanish-themed Alice in Wonderland!
A Spanish Colonial Modern Fusion
I know that this might come as a shock, but I love that there are no high rise buildings in Santa Barbara. I know...shocking statement coming from the city girl! But seriously, it adds so much charm and elegance to the city. The Biltmore Santa Barbara is no exception to that rule. The Resort is actually comprised of multiple low-lying buildings and single-storey bungalows, which enhances that "mysterious wonderland" feel. Once you exit the main building, you'll probably follow one of the many winding sidewalk paths through the gardens towards your guest room or bungalow.
Entering our room was an experience in and of itself. The rooms are a beautiful marriage of old-world Spanish Colonial style with a touch of modern aesthetic. Jay and I were both blown away at the attention to detail of this luxurious accommodation. The room was filled with gorgeous green and white decor, colorful bathroom tiles, a cute work station under the window, and there was even a mini living room with a gas fireplace. The living room led out to our private outdoor patio, which was our favorite place to relax and have breakfast in the mornings. It was truly a home away from home. And let me just say...that was probably the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in. Ugh. Gimme!!!
How to Spend Your Time Here
The wonderful thing about staying at a place like the Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara is that you really never have to leave the Resort if you don't want to. There is so much to explore and do while you're spending your time on the grounds that you could literally just escape here and say goodbye to the outside world. *That is actually what a lot of old Hollywood celebrities would do! I told you...the history here is fascinating!!
However, when you do come for your visit, I recommend doing these things:
Watch both the sunrise and the sunset over Butterfly Beach
Yep, you heard me. The sunrise AND the sunset over the beach. Say what?! When our wonderful concierge told us about this, I was so confused. I thought to myself, "It's California... There's only sunsets over the beach, sweetheart." Oh man, I was surely mistaken. SB is along a south-facing curve of California, thus allowing for visitors to actually see the sunrise and sunsets over the beach!
Butterfly Beach is conveniently located just in front of the hotel, so Jay and I woke up early one morning--coffee in hand--and headed to the beach to get a look. The tide was pretty high, but we made an adventurous trek across the rocks to get an exclusive view; and wow, was it breathtaking. You can head back here for sunset as well, or catch a different view from the Coral Casino next door, which is accessible for guests of The Biltmore Santa Barbara.
Tour the gardens
The horticulture on this property is one of the most immaculate and stunning collections I've ever seen. I could seriously spend most of my time just wandering around the gardens and spending time in nature. Grab one of the mini botanical guides that are in your room or at the concierge and tour the property to see the exotic plants, trees, and flowers!
Dine on site at Bella Vista or the Ty Lounge
The dining options on site are just as beautiful as they are tasty. Step into the main Bella Vista restaurant (or as I called it, "the Aladdin room") and take in the gorgeous view of Butterfly Beach from your dining table. It is a spectacular oceanfront, al fresco dining experience with a decadent menu. This is also a hot spot for people to come and brunch on Sundays!
By night, head into the trendy Ty Lounge for some happy hour cocktails and live entertainment. They recently finished some minor renovations in this lounge and painted the gorgeous wood beam ceilings! It's a must-see for sure!
Visit the Coral Casino and drink at the Tydes Coral Reef Bar
The Coral Casino, which was built in 1937, is an exclusive members-only club that is located adjacent to the Resort. Luckily, all guests of The Biltmore Santa Barbara are granted complimentary access to part of this property. You must check out the incredible Coral Reef Bar that is in the lounge upstairs. It is round 275-gallon aquarium that sits on top of the main bar, and it's filled with a live coral environment and fish!
Jay and I came here for a couple of happy hour drinks and to watch the sunset. The view was unbeatable, and the cocktails were pretty damn good themselves... We didn't dine here, but the food looked awesome.
Hit up the Gym, Resort Jungle Pool, and Spa (especially on Meditation Monday!)
The Gym, Resort Jungle Pool, and Spa are all conveniently located within steps of each other. If using any of these facilities is your jam while traveling, then Four Seasons Resort is the place to do it!
The Gym is spacious and full of great equipment for a travel-workout. They also have some little snacks you can purchase if you want to load up on nutrients before/after your workout.
The Spa was lovely and had an extensive menu of luxurious treatments (and also a really delicious smelling pear scented soap in the bathroom! OMG, I need to have it!). Also, make sure to attend "Meditation Monday" at the Spa during your visit if you can! The Resort began this new experience in March 2016 and is offering this complimentary service on the first Monday of every month. I was so bummed we missed it, but will definitely be back for it!
The Resort's Jungle Pool is exactly what is sounds like: a pool that looks like it's in the middle of the jungle. There is one large pool and 2 smaller hot tubs with different temperatures (I learned this the hard way by getting into the colder one first). Make sure to dip your head underwater in the pool and listen for the music playing! YES, underwater music! Super fancy! Jay and I spent our last afternoon here lounging by the pool; it felt like we were in our own little oasis :)
Other Notable Mentions:
Check out the tennis courts, croquet lawn, and putting green
Rent a bike from the spa to ride into town
Grab your board and go paddle boarding or surfing around the Santa Barbara area
Tour the gardens with the Resort's landscape manager
Order 24-hour room service and chill out on your patio or in front of the fireplace (ahhh...yes. My favorite!)
Good to Know Information
Download the Four Seasons app on your smartphone to enhance your visit. You can check out, plan activities, make reservations, or even contact housekeeping all from your phone! We tried it out for the first time and loved it.
Having a car isn't essential (especially if you are really trying to have a getaway experience and stay on the grounds), but it helps if you want to go in and out of downtown frequently. We parked ours in the self-parking lot, which was just behind the hotel, so that we could get around whenever we needed.
Complimentary coffee and tea is available every morning in the lobby.
There is a local train that passes through relatively close to the Resort. We never heard it from our room (or maybe we're just used to the city noise?); but just in case, there are ear plugs provided in each guest room.
Butterfly Beach, which is located just across the street from the property, is a wonderful public beach to hang out at.
My only regret of staying here is that we didn't have more time! I fell so in love with this property and Santa Barbara that I'm definitely looking forward to returning in the future. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara was the perfect romantic getaway for us. It will be our hotel of choice when we come back to SB!
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
1260 Channel Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
(805) 969-2261
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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A Foodie's Guide to Eating Around Chicago
If you need one reason to visit Chicago, do it for the food. Browse this guide of over 50 places to eat your way around Chicago's delicious food scene.
A Foodie's Guide to Eating Around Chicago
If you need 1 reason to go to Chicago, go for the food. The Chicago food scene is absolutely booming right now. With rents skyrocketing in NYC and LA, chefs and restaurateurs are starting to see the value in bringing their businesses to the Windy City, which makes hungry Chicagoans very happy.
I've done my fair share of eating my way around the city the last few years and think it's time to pass along my knowledge to other foodies living in or traveling through Chicago. Whatever you're in the mood for, I've got you covered. I've included a place for almost every occasion you can think of--girls night out, cheap eats, power lunches, rom-din (new abbreviation for romantic dinner??), and even places #FTB. So without further ado, here are my top restaurant recommendations around Chicago! Bon appétit!
Brunch
Summer House Santa Monica, $$, 1954 N Halsted St, *Retractable roof in the summer time!
Zella, $$, 1983 N Clybourn Ave, *Good spot if you want to party during brunch
Bongo Room, $$, 1470 N Milwaukee Ave, *Typically have seasonal menus, but red velvet pancakes are amazing
Taverna 750, $$, 750 W Cornelia Ave, *Great outdoor patio in the warm season
Blackwood BBQ, $, 305 W Lake St, *Amazing BBQ for any meal / More of a grab-&-go spot
Sable Kitchen & Bar, $$$, 505 N State St
Yolk, $$, 355 E Ohio St
La Creperie, $$, 2845 N Clark St, *Check out the darling patio in the back too!
Tavern On Rush, $$$, 1031 N Rush St, *Great location for people watching / Try the breakfast pizzas
Stanley's Kitchen & Tap, $$, 1970 N Lincoln Ave, *Near a ton of great sports & dive bars
"Power" Lunch
Slurping Turtle, $$, 116 W Hubbard St
Siam Rice, $$, 117 N Wells St, *Great power lunch spot to sit with fast service/ Basil Chicken is out of this world
LYFE Kitchen, $$, 413 N Clark St, *Very healthy spot with great food
Luke's Lobster, $$, 134 N LaSalle St, *One of the best lobster rolls in the city
HUB 51, $$, 51 W Hubbard St
Smoque BBQ, $, 3800 N Pulaski Rd, Ste 2
Bridge House Tavern, $$, 321 N Clark St, *Beautiful location along the river
Big Star, $$, 1531 N Damen, *Famous taco spot in Wicker Park / Cash only
Chicago French Market, $$, 131 N Clinton St, *Open market to walk through and stop at different kiosks
Bub City, $$, 435 N Clark St, *Cool, country vibe / Also has karaoke and live music on most nights
Protein Bar, Roti, or Freshii, $, Multiple Locations, *All great, fast eats for when you're in a hurry
Cheap Eats
Del Seoul, $, 2568 N Clark St, *Omggggg this place owns my heart... Get the shrimp tacos and thank me later
Crisp, $, 2940 N Broadway Ave, *Korean BBQ comfort food
Chicago Bagel Authority, $, 953 W Armitage Ave
Urbanbelly, $$, 1400 W Randolph St, *Attached to BellyQ / Just as good, but for half the price
Pierogi Heaven, $, 169 N Wells St
Naansense, $, 171 N Wells St
Torta Haüs, $, 926 W Diversey Pkwy
Belly Shack, $$, 1912 N Western Ave
Chicago Staples
Lou Malnati's, $$, Multiple Locations, *Best pizza in the city / The thin crust is delicious
Al's Beef, $, 169 W Ontario St, *Classic Italian beef sandwich
Portillo's, $, 100 W Ontario St, *Everything on the menu is amazing and you can't go wrong here
Pequod's, $, 2207 N Clybourn Ave, 2nd best pizza in the city IMO
Billy Goat Tavern, $, 430 N Michigan Ave, *Made famous by the likes of SNL
Wiener's Circle, $, 2622 N Clark St, *Go here late night for the "show"
Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse, $$$, 1028 N Rush St
Drinks & Sports Bars
D.O.C. Wine Bar, $$, 2602 N Clark St, *You can order the food from Dunlay's next door, too
RM Champagne Salon, $$$, 116 N Green St, *Cute date spot that feels like you're transported to Paris!
Old Town Ale House, $, 219 W North Ave, *Iconic stomping grounds of current & former Second City cast members such as Chris Farley, Billy Murray, and more!
The J Parker, $$, 1816 N Clark, 13th Floor, *Great rooftop view from Hotel Lincoln
Pops for Champagne, $$$, 601 N State St
The Pump Room, $$$, 1301 N State Pkwy, *Historic and popular bar in the Public Hotel / Food is great too
Berkshire Room, $$, 15 E Ohio St
Benchmark, $$, 1510 N Wells St, *Sports bar with retractable roof in nice weather!
Old Town Pour House, $$, 1419 N Wells St
State, $$, 935 W Webster Ave, *Great place for trivia night and watching a game
Fairways, $$, 1141 W Armitage Ave, *Sports bar with golf simulators
Public House, $$, 400 N State St
Bull & Bear, $$, 431 N Wells St, *Good happy hour spot & great food menu too
Dinner
Au Cheval, $$, 800 W Randolph St, *LITERALLY the best burger you will have in your life
Longman & Eagle, $$, 2657 N Kedzie Ave
Dunlay's on Clark, $$, 2600 N Clark St, *Get the turkey burger--my fave!
Glenn's Diner, $$, 1820 W Montrose Ave, *One of the city's hidden gems of seafood
Maude's Liquor Bar, $$$, 840 W Randolph St, *French onion fondue... yes.
Sunda, $$$, 110 W Illinois St
Kuma's Corner, $$, 2900 W Belmont Ave, *Great burger spot
GT Fish & Oyster, $$$, 531 N Wells St
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf, $$$, 218 W Kinzie St, *Get the thick cut bacon
Gilt Bar, $$$, 230 W Kinzie St, *Best steak tartare on earth
Fat Rice, $$, 2957 W Diversey Ave
Mana Food Bar, $$, 1742 W Division St, *Healthier vegetarian and vegan option
Roka Akor, $$$, 456 N Clark St
Girl & The Goat, $$$, 809 W Randolph St, *Stephanie Izard of Top Chef runs this awesome West Loop spot
Mercadito, $$$, 108 W Kinzie St
BellyQ, $$$, 1400 W Randolph St
Butterfly Sushi, $$, 1139 W Grand Ave, *Great BYOB sushi spot
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba, $$, 2024 N Halsted St, *My favorite tapas bar in the city
Crosby's Kitchen, $$, 3455 N Southport Ave, *The rotisserie specials and skillet cookie are amazing
Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder, $$, 2121 N Clark St, *Legendary place with delicious "pizza pot pies"
Boarding House, $$$, 720 N Wells St
Sweets
Molly's Cupcakes, $, 2536 N Clark St. *SO yummy / Appeared on Cupcake Wars
Glazed & Infused, $, 30 E Hubbard St
Doughnut Vault, $, 401 1/2 N Franklin St
Firecakes, $$, 68 W Hubbard St
Stan's Donuts, $$, 2800 N Clark St
Bang Bang Pie Shop, $$, 2051 N California Ave
This list is just scratching the surface on all the amazing eats there are in Chicago! Try these places out, ask other locals for their opinions, or walk around and stumble upon some quality spots yourself! You really can't go wrong with dining in Chicago...
What are your favorite places to eat in Chicago? Comment below with more spots!
PS - See my favorite travel things that I can't live without here!
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Brooklyn Food Crawl: Eat Your Way Through Williamsburg
Food is one of the universal keys to understanding any culture, so it's time to dive "fork first" into the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg. Come hungry and spend the day eating and drinking your way around Williamsburg with this food crawl itinerary!
Brooklyn Food Crawl: Eat Your Way Through Williamsburg
I think we can all agree that food is one of the universal keys to understanding any culture, right? So what better way to get to know a new place than by eating your way around it? I mean...all you have to do is say "there will be food" and I will be there.
My recent explorations brought me to the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg, a place that has been calling my name for years. Williamsburg has this relaxed, home-y, but-still-city vibe that reminds me so much of Chicago. The bf and I decided combine our loves for travel and food and do a little food crawl through Williamsburg to see what it was all about.
Thanks to many local recommendations, we made a list of our favorite places to eat your way through Williamsburg. We stopped at each of these places for a drink, an appetizer/small plate, or a full meal (and there's a few spots that we just stopped in to see the vibe). Check out our itinerary below for ideas on crafting your own personal food crawl! You can pick and choose from each category, or try to go to all of them!
Early Morning: Breakfast, Coffee, & Walk through the park
Blind Barber, 524 Lorimer St
Start your morning off at Blind Barber in Williamsburg. We got a later start and headed here around 11:45am, which was right when they were about to start cooking their Grilled Cheese offerings on their menu. GO HERE FOR THIS. Literally one of the best grilled cheese sandwiches I've had in my life. It was a daily special with veggie sausage, fried egg, tomato chutney, jalapeno, sharp cheddar, and pesto...*mouth watering*. Definitely a cute spot, and you'll start to notice a trend of cafes + barber shops after this one.
Variety Coffee, 368 Graham Ave
Cute cafe to stop in on Graham when you're walking up towards the McCarren Park. We already had a coffee at the previous spot, but would definitely come back here to grab a cup or sit near the window to work (aka people watch).
McCarren Park, 776 Lorimer St
After hitting up Variety Coffee, you can walk north on Graham, turn left on Driggs Ave, and then walk through McCarren Park. It is a nice spot to walk off the morning food and take in some urban nature. Once you're walking south on Driggs, you'll eventually hit N 12th St, which is where you can decide where to go next! We chose to walk all between Driggs and Kent Ave.
Grilled Cheese at Blind Barber
Late Morning: Snacks, Treats, & Walk to the shore
Cafe Colette, 79 Berry St
I can't get over how much I'm obsessed with Cafe Colette. The decor, the food, the neighborhood charm, the walk up coffee stand... It's amazing! Since it was a cold winter day, we opted for having a Hot Toddy and a small plate to share. Food and drinks were both phenomenal, and we got hooked up with recommendations on other places to go from the sweet bartender!
Bakeri, 150 Wythe Ave
We stopped in at Bakeri after our late morning snacks for a sweet treat to have while we were walking. This adorable, little, French style bakery has lots of wonderful sweets to enjoy--and even some gluten free and health conscious choices! There was even a cute patio out back that looks like it's open when it's nicer out. Even though I wanted to stay longer, we grabbed our snacks and headed out for a walk. *This place is cash only, so bring your $$!
East River State Park
If you walk out of Bakeri and head east towards the river down N 8th St, you're going to hit the State of New York - East River State Park, which was a lovely spot to enjoy our cookies and take in the view of Manhattan. It was a quiet Monday morning, which made for a peaceful view of the city. Definitely a nice spot to see a different view of NYC.
Early Afternoon: Appetizers & Snacks
Surf Bar Restaurant, 139 N 6th St
After heading to the park, go back west and walk around a little bit until you find yourself near Bedford Avenue. We spotted Surf Bar out of the corners of our eyes and immediately headed right in. When you walk into this restaurant you basically forget that you are in the middle of New York City and imagine that you're in a surfing town somewhere in California. There is literally sand on the floor! It was definitely a great place to come and cheer up the winter blues! Get the shrimp tacos and thank me later.
Juliette Restaurant, 135 N 5th St
Juliette is another spot that is sure to put you in a good mood. Think French brasserie meets NYC. The interior decor transports you to Paris, where you'll feel like you're lost somewhere deep in the heart of Saint Germain. Lots of greenery hanging from the ceilings, a lovely bar to sit at, and even a rooftop area to enjoy when it's nice out! I just absolutely loved being here because it felt so cozy and charming.
Bedford Cheese Shop, 229 Bedford Ave
At the very least, you have to stop by this Brooklyn institution to get a picture of the facade. The Bedford Cheese Shop is a great place to grab something small to snack on and go. Tons of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to choose from, which makes for great pre-lunch snacks.
Afternoon: Lunch
Allswell, 124 Bedford Ave
If you feel like sticking around Bedford after your early afternoon snacks, try out Allswell. It is a rustic pub with a seasonal and daily changing menu that they write up on a chalkboard. Food is tasty and ambience is cozy.
Café de la Esquina, 225 Wythe Ave
If you're feeling like Mexican for lunch (maybe after you had those killer shrimp tacos at Surf Bar?!), head to Café de la Esquina for a bite to eat in their retro diner or outdoor patio. Imagine stepping into a dive-like taqueria/diner that serves good food and portions. That's what you will get here!
Radegast Hall & Biergarten, 113 N 3rd St
If you're looking to kick back with a few beers at lunch, stop in at Radegast Hall & Biergarten. It will give you the chance to get a few blocks away from Bedford, but still have a unique Williamsburg experience. You can expect some classic and delicious German food at this authentic beergarden in the middle of Brooklyn.
Late afternoon: Snacks, Coffee, & Sweets
Sweethaus, 135 Metropolitan Ave
If you're at Radegast or Café de la Esquina (or just looking to head south for a bit), come to Sweethaus right after lunch. I'm obsessed with everything about this cute bakery from the bright colorful facade to the delicious cupcakes and sweet treats they serve. Definitely stop in here for a post-lunch dessert!
Diner, 85 Broadway
From Sweethaus, head south on Berry until you're between S 6th St and Broadway. On your right hand side will be the super funky spot, Diner. When you step in here, you'll feel like you're in an old vintage diner on a retro railcar. Grab some late afternoon snacks here if you can, or go around the corner to Marlow & Sons, which is owned by the same people. Menus are updated daily!
Black Brick Coffee, 300 Bedford Ave
After exploring some of the "downtown" Williamsburg area near Broadway, we headed back north on Bedford up towards Black Brick Coffee. At this spot, we were able to get a little work done and grab some coffee before dinner. It was a cute local spot, and the vintage decor was darling. Great spot to come to before heading out to drinks!
Early Evening: Pre-dinner Drinks
Maison Premiere, 298 Bedford Ave
Finally time for some pre-dinner drinks and oh my goodness... How can I properly describe Maison Premiere (which is conveniently located next door to Black Brick)? The Great Gatsby + New Orleans + Oyster Bar + Absinthe + Secret Garden = Maison Premiere. I think that sums it up. Just go. And make sure you have one of their signature absinthe drinks while you're there.
St. Mazie, 345 Grand St
St. Mazie is another great alternative for pre-dinner drinks. It is also located near a lot of the spots that I listed for dinner locations below; so if that's important to you, then take this place into consideration. St. Mazie is a funky cocktail bar that has live music, beautiful antique decor, amazing drinks, and a garden and basement room to enjoy other alternatives to the upstairs lounge.
Evening: Dinner
Bozu, 296 Grand St
Once you have your pre-dinner drinks, head over to Bozu for dinner if you're feeling like having some Japanese style tapas or sushi. Decor is cute and cozy and the food is incredible. We ordered about 6 or 7 (or maybe more...that's when I lost count) small plates and spent less than $100. For those of you who know New York dining, you know that that's an incredible price for great food at a chic dinner spot.
St. Anselm, 355 Metropolitan Ave
St. Anselm is one of the tastiest places to grab some steak or seafood in Brooklyn. It's located in the same area as these other spots, so come here if you're feeling like splurging a bit on a steak dinner. Decor is chic and rustic, and you won't be disappointed about the food. They don't take reservations, so be prepared to wait on busy nights!
Caracas Arepa Bar, 291 Grand St
Caracas is a really tasty Venezuelan restaurant that offers creative renditions of the traditional arepa dish. It's a good place if you're craving Latin food and are interested in getting multiple dishes to try out their different styles.
Late Evening: Post-Dinner Drinks
Larry Lawrence, 295 Grand St
Larry Lawrence is an amazing, unassuming, and unpretentious speakeasy located right next to 2 of the dinner spots that I recommended, and around the corner from the other, making it ideal for walkability. I absolutely love Larry Lawrence as a first stop for post-dinner drinks. We came here after Bozu and wouldn't have even noticed the secret entrance if we hadn't searched for it on the internet ahead of time. The decor inside is extremely minimalist, but somehow very intimate. The cocktail list is really great too!
Hotel Delmano, 82 Berry St
To say that we saved the best for last might be a bold statement, but I mightttt be willing to take that risk with Hotel Delmano. Regardless of that, it was fabulous to end our long day of eating and drinking at this quaint Williamsburg spot. The decor is opulent and gorgeous, making you feel like you've stepped back in time into Old New York, and the cocktail list is incredible. This is a really wonderful spot if you're looking to share a romantic end to the day over some specialty cocktails.
After post-dinner drinks, you'll probably be ready to head straight home after eating and drinking your way around Williamsburg. But hopefully, with this itinerary, you were able to walk around all day, become more acquainted with the neighborhood, and fill your stomach with delicious food! Comment below with some of your favorite spots to eat or drink in Williamsburg!
PS - See my favorite travel things that I can't live without here!
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15 Romantic Getaways in the U.S.
Ditch the flowers and chocolates this year and sweep your lover off their feet with a lovely weekend vacation. Travel to one of these 15 romantic getaways in the United States!
15 Romantic Getaways in the U.S.
Love is in the air: Valentine's Day is just around the corner! If you haven't made your plans yet, why not surprise your honey with a lovely weekend vacation? Ditch the chocolates and roses for some much needed R&R at a cozy hotel. Here are 15 romantic getaways in the U.S. to make your Valentine's weekend as sweet as can be.
Sedona, Arizona
Image via uberoom.com
Starting out the list of romantic getaways is Sedona, Arizona. Consider going off the grid for the weekend with your partner and just taking in the nature around you. If hiking in nature isn't your thing, consider staying at one of Sedona's many spa resorts and enjoying some 5-star treatments. It's definitely a great city to escape and relax, away from all the hustle and bustle.
Miami, Florida
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When you get to Miami you almost feel like you've escaped into another world. The air is spicier, the people are hotter, and the music is louder. It's a wonderful place to be. Hit South Beach by morning, stroll Ocean or Collins Avenue by afternoon, have dinner along Española Way in the evening, and end the night at a bumping night club. This city is a great escape for any fun, adventurous couple.
Big Sur, California
Image via media-cdn.tripadvisor.com
Get back to nature when you visit Big Sur, California. This town boasts some of the country's most exquisite views of the Pacific Ocean just along California's coastline. Stay at a luxurious spa or inn and get the royal treatment in between your hikes or drives through nature. Make sure you set aside plenty of time to take in those views!
Charleston, South Carolina
Image via forbes.com
Enjoy the Southern comfort when you visit Charleston, South Carolina. This gorgeous town is known for its quaint B&Bs and luxurious hotel mansions, which makes it an excellent weekend destination for you and your love. Wander the tree-lined streets or take a carriage ride down the road to see stunning, old architecture.
Park City, Utah
Image via historicparkcityutah.com
Whether you like to hit the slopes or not, you really can't miss a romantic weekend in Park City, Utah. Rent one of those cute colorful cabins downtown, or stay in a ski-in/ski-out lodge along the mountains in Deer Valley. If you're really feeling the need to splurge, look into staying at the St. Regis Deer Valley and you'll be thrilled about the views you get to take in.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Image via cdn.jacksonholewy.com
Feed your natural instincts for the weekend at Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This could truly be an off-the-grid, natural experience for you and your partner to enjoy together. Go hiking together, take a hot air balloon ride, take a dip in the hot springs, spend the weekend at the spa, or cuddle up in a cabin in the woods.
La Jolla, California
There is so much to love about La Jolla, California. This cute SoCal town is full of romantic things to do for the weekend. Stay at La Valencia hotel, stroll through the town, see the animals at the cove, or watch the sunset over the beach. For a full weekend guide to La Jolla, click here!
New York, New York
New York will always hold a special place in my heart because it's where I fell in love. This city has everything for couples to do. Any type of restaurant you want, the best shows in the world, the most amazing urban parks, shopping, architecture... Ugh, the list goes on and on. NYC is truly a paradise for couples who love the city.
Savannah, Georgia
Image via covingtontravel.com
Steal kisses from your lover as you stroll down the charming Southern streets of Savannah, Georgia. No doubt you'll fall deeper in love in this quaint little town filled with cobblestone streets, Spanish moss, and waterfront architecture. Stay at a romantic inn or rent a house in the historic district of town. You really can't go wrong when you're in Savannah!
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Image via buycaperealestate.com
Most people think to head to Cape Cod during the summer; but why not skip the crowds and save some money by heading there during the winter season? The views are just as gorgeous, but you'll likely find better deals. Cozy up with your love to look for light houses or watch the sunset over the water.
Maui, Hawaii
Image via hawaiiactive.com
If you're lucky enough to be close to Hawaii (aka living on the west coast), consider hopping on a flight and heading over to Maui for a romantic weekend. Relax on the beach for the weekend, take the Road to Hana, visit one of the many picturesque waterfalls, or just hang around the spa for the weekend. It's Hawaii...are there really any bad choices?
Napa, California
Image via bloomberg.com
Maybe it's all the wine, the luscious landscapes, or the tasty food scene, but Napa, California just oozes romance and luxury. This city, which is just a short drive away from San Francisco, is a great couples getaway that you can't miss out on. Sit back, sip your wine, and hold your honey's hand while soaking in the Napa sunset over the rolling vineyard hills.
Portland, Oregon
Image via agapevoyage.com
If you and your partner are into having a quirky, fun weekend, try out Portland, Oregon. This city is filled with unique things to do and places to go. They are known for their food and drink scene (craft beers, anyone?), as well as their incredible proximity to natural beauty. Make sure you visit at least one of the many parks nearby!
Chicago, Illinois
Image via sohohousechicago.com
Chicago, my home sweet home. It's impossible not to fall in love with this city when you visit with your lover. There's food, architecture, world-class museums, and so much more. You really can't go wrong when you spend time here; but if you want a killer view, hit up the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building. You will be thankful you didn't miss those views.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Image via travelthruhistory.tv
Whether your idea of a romantic weekend means eating your worries away with delicious cajun food, snuggling up listening to great music, or partying it up with the best of them on Bourbon street, New Orleans is sure to sweep you off your feet. Visit this sensual city for the weekend and take in the unique NOLA architecture, listen to jazz music, or stroll through Jackson Square.
What are your favorite romantic getaways in the United States? Comment below with other great suggestions!
PS - See my favorite travel things that I can't live without here!
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Free Things to Do in New York City
NYC is expensive, but there are plenty of things to do around here that prove "free" doesn't have to mean "shitty." Check out these free things to do in New York City that help you stay active and explore culture.
Free Things to Do in New York City: 5 Ways to Be Active & 5 Ways to Explore Culture
New York City is expensive. Like, really expensive. A great cocktail starts at $15, dinner for two can easily be $100, taxis are almost $4 before you even move the car, and I'm not even going to get started on the cost of real estate...
It's easy to see your hard-earned money go quickly down the drain in New York City, so finding things to do for free (or on the reallll cheap) is so helpful to make sure this city doesn't suck you dry. Luckily I've been able to find some amazing things to do here that prove "free" doesn't have to mean "shitty." Here are some tips for free things to do in New York City in order to be active and explore culture.
5 Ways to Be Active:
1. Yoga To The People
This is hands down my favorite thing on this post. Yoga To The People is an amazing yoga studio (with multiple locations throughout the city) that offers free/affordable yoga classes to the masses. It is donation based, so you can pay what you are comfortable paying. And if you don't have a yoga mat, you can rent one for just $2. The classes are really, really good and very popular amongst New Yorkers. Go channel your inner yogi now!
2. Walk the High Line
The High Line is a beautiful, old, elevated railroad track that has been turned into an outdoor park/walkway for pedestrians. It connects the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and bits of Hell's Kitchen all by this one stretch of track. You'll get amazing views of the city, the river, and even New Jersey by walking through the High Line. It's really great to come when it's nice and sunny out too.
3. Walk, bike, or skate across the Brooklyn Bridge
There's no better way to get stunning cityscape views of Manhattan and Brooklyn than by crossing the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Marvel at this architectural beauty while walking, biking, or skating 1.134 miles to cross it one-way. You'll definitely want to stop for pictures if you haven't already because it's too pretty not to oogle at the views from here.
4. Pick a neighborhood and walk around
Picking a neighborhood to get lost in and explore is a wonderful way to stay active and get to know the city better. My boyfriend and I love doing this on our days off together. We just pick a place that we want to get a deeper look at and spend the day wandering the streets. It's a fun way to walk a few miles on any afternoon.
5. Go Kayaking on the Hudson
If you're into kayaking, try out the free tours that you can take at the Downtown Boathouse. This company offers free tours and classes throughout the week when the weather is warmer. Services usually open up around April of every year.
Also try: Free ice skating or yoga in Bryant Park, biking around the city, or free yoga in Times Square in the summer.
5 Way to Explore Culture:
1. Visit Museums, Zoos, or Gardens
Many tourists aren't privy to the fact that NYC museums can actually be free to get into. There are tons of wonderful places that are either donation based or offer free nights to visit. Here are some great spots to check out:
African Burial Ground: Free all the time
American Museum of Natural History: Free the last hour it's open and admission price is "suggested"
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens: Free on Tuesdays and from 10am-12pm on Saturdays
Brooklyn Museum: Free first Saturday of the month
Bronx Museum: Free all the time
Bronx Zoo: Free on Wednesdays
El Museo del Barrio: Free the third Saturday of the month
Fashion Institute of Technology Museum: Free all the time
Guggenheim Museum: Free from 5:45-7:45pm on Saturdays
Hispanic Society of America Museum & Library: Free all the time
Japan Society: Free from 6-9pm on Fridays
Metropolitan Museum of Art: Admission price is "suggested"
MoMA: Free from 4-8pm on Fridays
National Museum of the American Indian: Free all the time
New York Botanical Garden: Free all day Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9-10am
New York Earth Room: Free all the time
New York Historical Society: Free from 6-8pm on Fridays
New York Aquarium: Free 3pm Fridays and 4pm in the summer
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: Free all the time
Socrates Sculpture Park: Free all the time (light shows & movies on Wednesdays in the summer)
Whitney Museum of American Art: Free from 7-9:30 on Fridays
9/11 Memorial Museum: Free from 5-8pm on Tuesdays
2. Hang in Parks
New York has plenty of parks to love throughout the city. Central Park, Bryant Park, Riverside Park, Battery Park, Madison Square Park, Washington Square Park, and the list goes on and on. Take a picnic and hang out in one of the many parks, see Shakespeare in the Park in Central Park, or catch a movie on the Astoria Park Great Lawn. All for free, and all for your enjoyment!
3. Take a Brooklyn Brewery Tour
The Brooklyn Brewery has been gaining more and more notoriety over the last few years, and hosting free tours every week has been a vital role in growing their presence in the community. Stop by the Brooklyn Brewery for a free tour every weekend to see how your favorite NYC beer is made. Tours are free from 1-5pm on Saturdays and 1-4pm on Sundays.
4. Sightsee in Midtown
There are so many modern and iconic beauties to love in Midtown. You can do any of the following things for free around this neighborhood:
Visit the New York Public Library
Walk through Grand Central Station to see the architecture
See Rockefeller Center (and the Christmas tree/lights on 5th Avenue during the holidays)
Take in the energy at Times Square
Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral
See the Empire State Building
See the Chrysler Building
5. Go to TV show tapings
Did you know that a lot of your favorite TV show tapings are actually free to attend? Yep! Jimmy Fallon, Kelly & Michael, The Today Show, and so many more! All you have to do is either show up or reserve your tickets ahead of time and get there early. Here is a list of shows that are currently offering free tickets to studio audiences.
Also try: Seeing the art in the Chelsea galleries, visiting Governor's Island, taking a tour at the Federal Reserve, or calling ahead at Juilliard to score free tickets to performances.
What are other free things you like to do around NYC? List any recommendations below!
PS - See my favorite travel things that I can't live without here!
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Hi, I'm Ana Rebeca! Welcome to The City Sidewalks. Here you’ll find tips on Travel, Lifestyle, and Wellness.
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