Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting the great state of Texas. This southern state is known for a lot of things; as they say “everything is bigger in Texas!” As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for Texas travelers. If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Texas, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”
Texas Pride
How can you tell someone is from Texas? They’ll tell you! Texans LOVE Texas and have huge pride in their state, their food, their sports teams, and just about anything in Texas. The Texas flag is everywhere, and you can buy just about anything in the shape of the state of Texas: from waffle makers to coffee mugs!
Texas Proportions
You don’t just “visit Texas.” You have to choose where to go in Texas because it’s a huge state! At the widest part of the state, it’s nearly 12 hours to drive from El Paso to Galveston, Houston, or Beaumont. That’s about the same distance it would take to drive from Paris to Vienna, which takes you through at least three countries. 12 hours on a Texas road trip doesn’t even get you out of Texas!
When they say everything is bigger in Texas, they mean it! From serving sizes at Texas restaurants to gas stations and stadiums.
Texas Weather
A lot of retirees move to Texas for the mild winters, but the Texas summers can be brutal! You have heat plus humidity and that can be daunting for sightseeing, but there are also some great beaches in Texas. So, plan accordingly, because Texas weather can vary quite a bit from season to season.
Tornadoes are a real thing in Texas, especially in late spring through summer. Pay attention to tornado watches and warnings, and know what to do in the event of a tornado. (A “tornado watch” means conditions are good for spawning a tornado, while a “warning” means one has actually been spotted.)
Buc-ee’s
You might think you are just pulling into any other gas station to fill up and take a potty break. But you are in for a shock the first time you visit Buc-ee’s. Imagine if Target and a big truck stop had a baby: that is Buc-ee’s. They have amazing food inside, including brisket sliced right before your eyes! You have to try their proprietary snack, Beaver Nuggets. They are also known for having super clean restrooms, so it’s a great pit stop on your Texas road trip!
The food in Texas is shockingly good, and of course, most things come in Texas-sized portions. From BBQ to Tex-Mex to breakfast tacos, the food in Texas will surprise and delight you!
Texas BBQ is fantastic, and you want to get the brisket, which is Texas’ specialty. It will probably ruin you from eating brisket anywhere else, but you have to try it! Pulled pork is not a Texas thing; we’re in cattle country!
Tex Mex is Texas’ own take on Mexican food. It’s different from Mexican food, but it’s still delicious!
Our favorite Texas food has to be the breakfast tacos. They come in all kinds of varieties, with additions like chorizo, cactus, bacon, sausage, and cheese. We tried a lot of breakfast tacos and our favorite was Torchy’s Tacos in Austin. But I don’t think we had a bad breakfast taco in Texas; they were all pretty tasty!
Texas has a lot of varied landscapes throughout the state. There are deserts, mountains, beaches, hill country, swamp country, and cosmopolitan cities. You can drive a few hours in Texas and have an entirely different experience. That’s why you need a lot of time to really experience the diversity of Texas.
If you can spend two weeks in Texas, we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in Texas:
Galveston is a great best destination in Texas; it’s close to Houston so you can fly in and be on the beach by afternoon. There are 32 miles of beaches in Galveston, as well as many outdoor activities. It’s not just a beach town, as they have a nice historic district, museums, and amusement parks. Learn more at Visit Galveston. Corpus Christi and South Padre Island also have fantastic beaches in Texas.
Houston is just about an hour from Galveston and has a fantastic Museum District. They have a great Children’s Museum and the NASA Space Center you can tour. Visit Houston Texas to start planning!
San Antonio is another worthwhile Texas destination. Of course, there’s the Alamo, but there are actually several missions in San Antonio. There’s also the Riverwalk and tasty Tex-Mex food. San Antonio was even recognized by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy!
Austin is not just the capital of Texas, but also the Live Music Capital of the World! Visit Austin for a weekend getaway with live music, shopping, and great dining choices.
Fredericksburg is the hub of Texas Hill Country. It started as a place with many German immigrants, and you’ll still see German influences today in the names of some of the landmarks. There are some great museums here, too!
Dallas-Fort Worth is now a sprawling metropolitan area that includes Arlington, Irving, and Plano. Besides the Kennedy Assassination sites, there are tons of fun things to see in Dallas. There’s a lot of money in Dallas, which means the fine arts are well-funded.
Texas Football
Texans love their football. If you’ve seen “Friday Night Lights” or “Varsity Blues” you have an inkling of how big Texas football is. It’s not just the Dallas Cowboys or the Houston Texans; college and high school football is HUGE in Texas.
Friendly Texans (And How to Stay on Their Good Side)
Texans don’t just love their state, they love sharing it! They will gladly tell you what to eat in Texas, and where to go in Texas, along with their own personal tips. Texans are known for being loud and boisterous, but it’s in a friendly way, so we love Texans.
That said, there are a few ways to anger Texans, so heed our warning and don’t be an ugly tourist in Texas! After all, one of their mottos is “Don’t mess with Texas.”
Texans are friendly but stay out of their way on the roads. They love to drive shockingly fast, so get up to speed or get out of the way!
Don’t badmouth Texas! Whether it’s their football teams, their accents, or Bluebell ice cream, don’t diss their favorites. (this includes What-A-Burger and Buc-ee’s too!)
Don’t question whether Texas is part of the South or not. You can’t win no matter which way you lean because Texans both defy and embrace those labels.
It is part of the South, so manners are key! Please, thank you, and holding the door open are just basic common sense in Texas.
Texans love visitors; they don’t necessarily love transplants, so be careful about telling them you want to move to Texas! Especially if you’re from California!
Pretending to “know” Texas when you’ve spent 3 days in Austin might ruffle some feathers. As we’ve mentioned, Texas is pretty diverse and Austin is only one part of the puzzle. (Also, Austin is very different from most other places in Texas!)
Don’t schedule something during football season. Football season includes Friday (high school) Saturday (college) and Sunday (NFL.)
Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a trip to Texas; it’s full of pleasant surprises. It’s such a diverse state, with beaches, cities, museums, and friendly people! Deciding where to go in Texas can be overwhelming because it’s such a big state, but you’ll have a good time no matter which Texas destination you choose!
Want more tips for traveling in Texas? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Wisconsin. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to see in Wisconsin, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Wisconsin trip.
Don’t Miss Out on Wisconsin Food
Wisconsin is known as America’s Dairyland, and the residents are lovingly known as cheeseheads. So that gives you a hint of what the state is known for. If you are lactose intolerant, I’m sorry because you are going to miss out on some of the best Wisconsin food!
When you visit Wisconsin, these are some of the foods you have to try!
Cheese curds – they can be eaten plain, deep-fried or in poutine (the good ones squeak when you eat them!)
Beer cheese soup is also a popular Wisconsin dish, combining two of the state’s most popular products. You might also see beer cheese on a burger – get it, it’s delicious!
Maple syrup is also made in Wisconsin. If you get local butter and local syrup, it’s better than the pancake it’s served on!
Bratwurst is another Wisconsin staple; if you drive in from Chicago, you’ll see the Brat Stop and the Cheese Castle shortly after you arrive in Wisconsin
Frozen custard in Wisconsin is delicious! You might even have a Culver’s near you where you can try this tasty treat. (Try their butter burger too, yum!)
Cream puffs are another tasty dessert you might see in Wisconsin
Cranberries are grown in Wisconsin, so you’ll see a lot of fresh cranberry products.
You’ll see a lot of Scandinavian influence in Wisconsin, including in the food.
Norwegian meatballs are a larger version of Swedish meatballs
Swedish pancakes are thin like a crepe, often served with lingonberry sauce
Danish Kringle is a pastry similar to a coffee cake, that is baked in a large circle. They freeze really well, so it’s a nice souvenir to take home.
Fish Fry Friday is a huge Wisconsin tradition. You’ll see churches, event centers, bars, and restaurants all advertising their Friday fish fry. The tradition started with Lent, a religious holiday when Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays. There’s also an abundance of fish in Wisconsin, particularly walleye. The tradition continues today with fish fries throughout the state; stopping at a fish fry is a great way to meet locals.
Wisconsin beer is also a must! The Major League Baseball team is the Milwaukee Brewers, so beer brewing is a major part of Wisconsin history. Miller, Schlitz, Pabst, and Leinenkugels all come from Wisconsin. I rate Wisconsin as one of the best states for beer. There are dozens of craft breweries in Wisconsin and a lot of fantastic beer that you can’t get outside of Wisconsin. Every time we visit Wisconsin, I stock up on New Glarus Brewing Company’s Spotted Cow; it’s only available in Wisconsin.
If you prefer cocktails, the Wisconsin drink is a Brandy Old Fashioned. Typically, an Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, but in Wisconsin, they use Brandy so it’s even sweeter.
In Wisconsin, it’s not only what you eat, but where you eat. The best food in Wisconsin is found at the bars and the supper clubs. This is where you’ll find the best version of these Wisconsin specialties. Supper clubs are totally a Wisconsin thing; you have to check one out during your trip!
Don’t Forget to Engage the Locals
People in Wisconsin are super friendly, so be sure to ask them the best way to get where you are going. Or maybe you want to know the best supper club or custard shop. The locals love sharing their favorite spots, so don’t miss out on the best insider knowledge. The key to getting along with the locals is to be friendly. If you are friendly, they will be friendly right back. That also means waving if somebody lets you cut in while driving!
If you’re from Illinois, you might hear FIB tossed around. It doesn’t mean Friendly Illinois Buddies! There is a not-always-friendly rivalry between Wisconsin and Illinois, and FIBs are F@#$% Illinois B#$%^ – we’ll let you fill in the blanks on that one!
This is the Midwest; people are friendly and chatty. So, it’s not that the service is bad, but it’s slow because the servers and customers like to chit-chat. Don’t be the guy from Illinois who is impatient and demanding service. Take the time to slow down and enjoy a calmer pace.
Don’t Underestimate the Size of Wisconsin
If you are planning a trip to Wisconsin, make sure you are realistic about how much ground you can cover. It is over five hours to drive from the south of Wisconsin to the north. And don’t always trust Google Maps to properly calculate the time or distance to your next destination.
Don’t Think Water Parks Are Just for Summer
Wisconsin Dells used to be a summer resort area known for huge water parks. At some point in recent history, they started building indoor water parks, so now the Dells are a year-round destination. There’s Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, Mt. Olympus, and many more! Many of these parks have on-site lodging and dining, so you don’t ever have to leave the property.
Don’t Miss Door County
Door County is the favorite weekend getaway for Wisconsin residents. It’s the little thumb-like peninsula that sticks out into Lake Michigan. There are over 300 miles of shoreline, with cute little resort towns all along the peninsula. When you talk to the locals, they all have their favorite town to recommend, whether it’s Fish Creek, Sister Bay, or Washington Island.
Don’t Hit a Deer!
The Milwaukee NBA team is called the Bucks for a reason. There are a LOT of deer in Wisconsin. It can be hard to avoid deer, but the best you can do is pay attention and obey the speed limits, especially at night!
Don’t Worry if You Don’t Speak Wisconsinese
This is still the United States, but they seem to have their own vocabulary in Wisconsin, and they definitely have an accent. Some strange words you might hear in Wisconsin include:
Bubbler: a drinking fountain
Stop-and-Go light: a traffic light
Ope: the Wisconsin “oops”
Don’t Think Kwik Trip is Just a Gas Station
Kwik Trip is like the Bucees of the North. Yes, it’s a gas station. But they sell everything! I had mashed potatoes and gravy with turkey from a Kwik Trip! It’s part convenience store, part grocery store, part gas station.
Don’t Trust the Weather in Wisconsin
Wisconsin weather can be all over the place. Especially if you are near Lake Michigan, as the lake sometimes makes its own weather. Summer is generally hot and humid, and winter is typically pretty cold and snowy. Spring and fall weather are unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. And don’t forget the bug spray in the summer months – the bugs here are thirsty!
Don’t Forget that Orange is the State Color of Wisconsin
Whether it’s blaze orange during hunting season or orange traffic cones for road construction, there’s orange everywhere in Wisconsin! If you do go hiking in Wisconsin, make sure you know if it’s hunting season and wear blaze orange if it is.
The fall colors are pretty spectacular, as well!
Don’t Make Plans During a Packers Game
The state practically shuts down when the Packers are playing. If you get a chance to go to a Packers game, don’t miss it! It’s super fun. Just know that if you’re not at the game or watching the game on TV, everyone else probably is.
Don’t Pass Up a Trip to “the Lake”
Minnesota may be the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” but Wisconsin has around 15,000 lakes! Every Wisconsin family has their favorite lake they go to in the summer. If someone from Wisconsin invites you to “the lake” don’t pass it up! Whether it’s boating in the summer or ice fishing in the winter, they love their lakes in Wisconsin. (Just don’t be surprised if you can’t pronounce the names of the lakes!)
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Wisconsin! Between the food, the friendly people, and the beautiful lakes, it’s a great state to visit! We visit often and there are always new reasons to plan a Wisconsin trip! Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about traveling to Los Angeles California. The “City of Angels” is the home of movie studios, celebrities, and American beach culture. If you’ve never been to Los Angeles, your first visit can be overwhelming. So we’ve put together some travel tips to help you figure out the best places to visit in Los Angeles.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles traffic is notorious, and you will inevitably get stuck in it at some point! There’s never a time when there isn’t traffic; it just goes from bad to worse at certain times of the day. The only thing you can really do is try to plan around rush hour. When you are flying home from Los Angeles, make sure to leave plenty of time to account for traffic. If you get there too early, see our LAX tips below!
Driving a rental car can be intimidating, but it is the best option for getting around Los Angeles. Make sure you have GPS set up and programmed ahead of time. There are some Los Angeles neighborhoods that you should avoid, so don’t just drive around aimlessly. If you aren’t sure what areas to avoid, check with your hotel front desk or concierge.
Keep in mind that parking in Los Angeles is expensive, frustrating, and even confusing at times. If you’re not on a tight budget, you can valet park almost anywhere and save yourself the headache of finding a spot. Otherwise, just pay close attention to the parking signs because the rules can be different depending on the time of day.
If driving in Los Angeles is not for you, there are other options.
Rideshare options like Uber/Lyft are widely available in Los Angeles. Just beware of surge pricing during rush hour. I’ve seen the same ride triple in price from one hour to the next. If you’re in an outlying area like DisneyLand, you may want to pre-schedule your ride home as there may not be a lot of rides late at night in the “suburbs.”
Public transportation in Los Angeles is available, and it’s kind of hit or miss depending on where you want to go. I don’t recommend the buses, but sometimes the subway can be useful. Most trains depart from downtown, so you may have to go downtown first. If you are on a tight budget, then taking public transportation will save you money, but it may take you much longer to reach your destination.
Los Angeles Neighborhoods
Los Angeles is a huge city made up of much smaller cities. What we think of as Los Angeles is actually many surrounding cities, like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, and others. It can take an hour or more to get from one side of town to the other. When you start planning out your places to visit in Los Angeles, it’s a good idea to plot them out on a map. Grouping LA attractions by location can save you a lot of frustration and travel time, and also help you decide where to stay in Los Angeles.
I even recommend staying in multiple Los Angeles neighborhoods for a few days at a time. It might seem like a hassle to switch hotels mid-trip, but it’s an even bigger hassle to cross the city multiple times in one day.
If you’re thinking about grouping various Los Angeles neighborhoods together, these are some good options:
Beverly Hills, West Hollywood & Hollywood
Santa Monica & Venice Beach
Downtown has a lot of museums and the La Brea Tar Pits
Amusement parks like Disney Land and Knott’s Berry Farm are in Anaheim
Hollywood may have once been all glitz and glamour, but it is no longer that way. It’s more grit and grime. To follow the glamour, you want to go to Beverly Hills, not Hollywood. Hollywood is still home to iconic attractions like Grauman’s Chinese Theater, but it’s not a squeaky-clean tourist destination, it’s a bit rough around the edges.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is iconic, but there are almost 3,000 stars. If there’s one you really want to see, it may be worth visiting but don’t expect to know who all the stars are. Be prepared for lots of buskers and street performers ready to relieve you of your loose change and small bills. If you take their photo, you should be prepared to pay them something. They will not give you change, so make sure you have some small bills!
You can visit some show tapings in Hollywood, but be prepared for an all-day event. A 30-minute sitcom can take hours and hours to film.
Tours of the Stars is another popular Hollywood attraction, aka tourist trap. You might see some homes where celebrities used to live, but these days, celebrities live in gated communities. If you’re just looking to get off your feet for a bit, then go for it, but keep your expectations in check if you decide to join a Hollywood Homes tour.
The other iconic destination in Hollywood is the Hollywood Sign. But the sign itself isn’t really a destination because once you get up close, you lose the view of the whole sign. It’s best to get your photos from afar where you can get the whole sign in the photo. Don’t pay someone to take you up there; it’s not worth it.
West Hollywood sits between Beverly Hills and Hollywood, and there are some great clubs and restaurants to check out in this area.
When we think of Hollywood, we think of movie stars. But you’re more likely to see movie stars in Beverly Hills than in Hollywood. It’s still pretty rare to see a celebrity, but Beverly Hills has famous hotels like the Beverly Hilton and the Beverly Hills Hotel. It’s also home to some fantastic restaurants, so it’s a great place to splurge on a nice dinner out on the town.
Two main attractions in Beverly Hills include the famous sign which you have to get your photo with, and Rodeo Drive. (Ro-DAY-o, not rodeo like the cowboy contests!) Rodeo Drive is famous for shopping, but it’s only about three blocks long, so it’s a quick stop. You can also find some high-end shopping along Beverly Drive or Wilshire Boulevard.
Beverly Hills is one of the more expensive areas of Los Angeles, so it’s nice to visit for a day, but I don’t recommend staying there unless you really want to splurge.
Unlike a lot of other cities, downtown Los Angeles isn’t full of attractions. In fact, many tourists don’t even venture downtown. There are some great ethnic neighborhoods for affordable and amazing food, but it’s also where you’ll find skid row and lots of homeless encampments.
Venice Beach is another popular Los Angeles neighborhood. If you’re coming to LA, you have to at least check out the Pacific Ocean! Venice Beach can get super crowded on the weekend, so plan a mid-week visit if you can. It’s a great spot to rent a bike and cruise the boardwalk that’s been featured in so many movies and TV shows. You might even start to see why the city was named after Venice, Italy.
Other Los Angeles beaches include:
Santa Monica Beach
Huntington Beach
Manhattan Beach
Hermosa Beach
Redondo Beach
Be warned, though, the water is cold! This is not a tropical beach destination; most of the surfers you see will be wearing wetsuits to stay warm.
Other Los Angeles Attractions
Besides the beaches and touristy Hollywood attractions, there are actually some great cultural attractions in Los Angeles. Just a few of my favorite places to visit in Los Angeles include:
Greater Los Angeles is home to several amusement parks as well, including Disney World. There’s also Universal Studios and Harry Potter World, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier.
Of course, there are lots of outdoor attractions in Los Angeles as well. LA is surrounded by National Forest and National Recreation land, and locals love to get outside and explore nature. Whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, golf, or surfing, make sure you get outside and take advantage of the sunny Southern California weather!
Before your trip to LA, make sure you download the LA Times 101 Restaurants list. The list is a great tool for deciding where to eat in Los Angeles. It ranges from high-end fine dining to food trucks. There is a ton of great food in LA, so the list will really help you narrow down your options.
Don’t be afraid to branch out and try new types of food. LA has restaurants from all over the world, and it’s worth trying some new cuisine. Of course, In N Out and Del Taco are worth trying if you don’t have them at home, but balance those out with unique cuisines you’ve never tried before.
Don’t pass up the street food in LA as well! Food trucks are a huge part of LA culture, and this is really where they became so popular. If you’re visiting LA on a budget, eating at food trucks is a great way to save some money and enjoy delicious food!
Is Los Angeles Safe?
LA isn’t always shown as a safe destination for travelers, and there are definitely some areas to avoid. However, as a tourist, you’re not likely to accidentally wander into a gang fight or a dangerous situation. Of course, anything bad can happen anywhere, but I don’t feel like LA is worse than other cities in the US. That said, I do have some safety tips for visiting LA.
Don’t mess with the homeless people in LA. You will see them nearly everywhere you go; it’s not concentrated in one area over another. If you do see a large encampment, don’t go wandering around in it. Leave them alone and they will probably leave you alone.
LA used to be known for smog, and it was a real safety concern for many years. But California has some pretty strict clean air policies now, so it’s not much of an issue. Some summer days can be bad, so if you have serious breathing issues, you may want to visit in spring, fall, or winter.
Some people worry about earthquakes when visiting LA, and it’s always a possibility, but it’s not something you can predict, so there’s no use worrying. LA has pretty strict building codes that can withstand some very large earthquakes.
Jaywalking can be very dangerous in Los Angeles. Because of the notorious traffic, LA drivers are always in a hurry, so don’t assume they will follow traffic signals. Be on high alert when walking around LA.
Cigarettes are typically frowned upon in LA, but you will smell marijuana just about everywhere. It is legal and has created a funny double standard, but cigarette smokers should beware of disapproving looks from locals.
Besides these safety tips, use your usual travel smarts that you would anywhere in the world. Don’t leave valuables in your car, don’t flash money or expensive jewelry, don’t wander alone after dark in a compromised state, etc.
Los Angeles is such a diverse city; you can go all out and live like a movie star, or you can set a strict budget and stick to it. Most of us are probably somewhere in the middle. I do have a few tips for saving money when you visit Los Angeles.
Buy breakfast and snacks at the grocery store, rather than eating out for every meal. And if a store sells Oscar statues, their prices are probably too high. Buy your groceries and sundries elsewhere!
Eat at food trucks instead of sit-down restaurants.
Factor transportation costs into your accommodation costs. It doesn’t do you any good to save $30 on a hotel each night if you’re going to spend that much on Ubers to get where you are going! Don’t be afraid to change hotels!
Avoid surge pricing when using Uber and Lyft by planning your trips outside of rush hour
Consider public transportation for the parts of your trip where it makes sense.
Besides these budget tips, many of the Los Angeles attractions I mentioned already are FREE! LA has lots of free museums, and even the other museums often have a free day once a month. It may be worth looking into the Go Pass or City Pass; if a lot of the covered attractions are on your itinerary, then it might save you some money.
Getting To Los Angeles
More than likely, you will fly into LAX for your trip to LA. It is the main airport in Los Angeles, but it’s not the only airport. Make sure you check the surrounding airports when you are watching flight prices. LAS has the most flights and is generally cheaper, but it doesn’t hurt to check Burbank, Orange County, Long Beach, Ontario, and others. Make sure you factor in your transportation costs, too. You might spend a bit more to fly to a different airport which will save you time and money on ground transportation.
If you do fly into LAX, there are some things you should know:
While baggage claim is on the lower level, you might need to then go up one floor for shuttles and taxis. Pay attention to the signage when exiting the airport.
The buses can be confusing, so make sure you get on the right bus!
Ask your hotel if they have an airport shuttle. If they do, ask them for very detailed instructions on where to go for the shuttle. (see the previous bullet point)
Make sure you go in the right door! The doors are labeled by the airline, but inside, there may be walls dividing the various airlines. So you can’t always go in one door and expect to connect to another airline’s desks.
Don’t freak out when you see the security line. They’re actually pretty efficient.
If you have TSA Precheck or Clear, they’re not as easy to find, so look to the right of the main line. Or just ask a staff member to point you in the right direction.
Space is cramped at LAX and it doesn’t seem like the gates have enough seats. If you have to get some work done, it may be worth investing in a lounge pass because you won’t find much space at the gates and you’ll get free food without the long lines at the food court!
Bathrooms are kind of few and far between as well, so don’t pass one up if you have to go!
Surprisingly, there aren’t a lot of food options at LAX. Of course, there’s food to be had, but the lines are always long. It’s best to just eat before you get to the airport. There’s also an In N’Out across the street, so make sure you try that iconic California burger chain!
There’s also a park next to the airport, across from In N Out. If you have a long layover at LAX, you probably won’t have time to go into town in less than five hours, but you can get some fresh air at the park. It’s marked Airplane Landing ViewPoint on maps, and it’s right in the approach path. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a great place for them to run around a bit and burn some energy.
Los Angeles Myth Busting
We asked our friend and Southern California Resident, Chris from Yellow Productions, to talk about some of the common myths about Los Angeles, and why they might not always be true!
Los Angeles is not one big city; it’s composed of 88 smaller towns and cities. The city of Los Angeles has four million people, while the county has ten million!
Movies are not usually made in Hollywood. All of the movie production that made Hollywood famous has now moved out to places like Studio City or Burbank.
Los Angeles weather is not always amazing! In fact, they are known for having “May Gray” and “June Gloom” as those tend to be cloudy and rainy months. However, it’s always a good idea to have sunscreen and sunglasses because you will probably need them!
Los Angeles isn’t as smoggy as people might think. They’ve made a lot of strides in terms of emissions regulations. The biggest issue now with air quality in Los Angeles is when there are wildfires in the area.
While Californians love their cars, there are actually some walkable areas in Los Angeles. If you plan properly when choosing where to stay in Los Angeles, you can probably spend at least one day exploring on foot.
Between public transportation and walking, you don’t absolutely have to drive to get anywhere in LA. You might need to Uber to your final destination from the train station, but you don’t have to rent a car.
Downtown Los Angeles isn’t just skid row. Yes, there are a lot of homeless in downtown LA, but there are also some great neighborhoods. Little Tokyo, Chinatown, El Pueblo, and Union Station are all great places to visit in downtown LA.
Contrary to what some might say, Los Angeles does have culture! There are some great museums in Los Angeles, including the Getty, the Brode, and the Griffith Observatory are all great cultural attractions in Los Angeles.
You might expect LA to be expensive, but visiting Los Angeles does not have to be expensive. A lot of museums are free, the beaches are free, hiking is free, and some of the best food comes from food trucks.
Los Angeles locals are not unfriendly. It’s actually a very friendly city, although it doesn’t necessarily have that reputation. Part of that is because they are always running late, but it’s typically because of the notorious traffic.
These are our travel tips for visiting Los Angeles. It may be super touristy, but there are many worthy destinations to visit, whether you are into food, culture, nature, or sports. Interested in more California travel tips? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to see in Pittsburgh, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Pittsburgh vacation.
Don’t Miss Out on Pittsburgh Food
There are some classic Pittsburgh foods to try when you visit, and if you know someone from Pittsburgh, they’ll make sure to tell you all their favorite places! Fair warning: they put fries in or on everything! Deli sandwiches, burgers, even salads, just might come with fries on top!
Primanti Brothers is the spot to go for deli sandwiches in Pittsburgh. It’s a local chain of sandwich shops, and they are known for putting fries and coleslaw on their sandwiches. Their Pittsburgher is a burger, with fries on top! It’s messy and it’s super filling, and it’s the first place any local will tell you to go.
Sheetz is a gas station/convenience store/mini-mar. It’s like a Pittsburgh version of WaWa. If you want snacks, go to Sheetz. They also have a full deli-grill inside, so you can order your food at the kiosk and it’s made to order. If you order a salad, you won’t be surprised when they ask if you want your fries on top or on the side. Because this is Pittsburgh.
Pierogies are another popular food to eat in Pittsburgh. They have a lot of Polish immigrants, so they also have great pierogis. They often come with meat or cheese inside, but you can also get fruit inside for a sweeter pierogi.
Chipped ham is something you might see in Pittsburgh; typically it’s something you would eat at home or take to go. It’s not necessarily a restaurant item, but a BBQ chipped ham sandwich is a Pittsburgh staple.
For breakfast, Pamela’s Diner is a great spot. They have a few locations around Pittsburgh. The food is delicious; I get the crepe pancakes, while Jocelyn swears by the chorizo hash.
Of course, I always sample the local beer when traveling and Pittsburgh is no exception. Iron City Beer is brewed by the Pittsburgh Brewing Company and comes in many different variations.
When it’s time for dessert, don’t miss these Pittsburgh spots:
The Milkshake Factory has the best milkshakes I’ve ever had.
Billy’s Ice Cream
Eat n Park for smiley cookies
Gus & YiaYia’s Shaved Ice Cart at Allegheny Commons Park
If you’re invited to a wedding in Pittsburgh, you’ll get to experience the Pittsburgh wedding cookie table. It’s a Pittsburgh staple!
Don’t Just Stay Downtown
Downtown Pittsburgh is great, but you should also get out and explore beyond the downtown area. Pittsburgh is really a city of neighborhoods. A few Pittsburgh neighborhoods to check out include:
Mount Washington – take the incline (Don’t call it a funicular, it’s called the Incline) which is a little trolley on track up the hill. If the trolleys look familiar, it’s because Mr. Rogers was from Pittsburgh and modeled his trolleys on the incline. The views are phenomenal!
The Strip District is a narrow strip of land along the Allegheny River. The neighborhood has great restaurants, as well as many markets and sidewalk vendors.
South Side Pittsburgh is a National Historic District due to a row of Victorian homes, and is also a great destination for nightlife in Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh North Shore sits across the Allegheny River from downtown Pittsburgh, and is where the major sports stadiums (Heinz Field and PNC Park) are located. Don’t ever call Heinz Field anything other than Heinz Field, regardless of the “official name.” Like Chicago’s Sears Tower, it will always be Heinz Field.
The Mexican War Streets District is another historic neighborhood that is recently emerging as an art district, with art destinations like Randyland and the Mattress Factory.
South Oakland is the academic and healthcare center of Pittsburgh as there are three universities, as well as hospitals and museums.
There are so many unique neighborhood places to visit in Pittsburgh, so make sure you include a couple in your plans!
Don’t Miss Out on Pittsburgh Museums
Besides eclectic neighborhoods and delicious Pittsburgh food, there are also some fun and unique museums in Pittsburgh.
The Heinz History Center is a Smithsonian museum and also includes the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum and Fort Pitt Museum
Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh, and the Andy Warhol Museum has the largest collection of his art and archives in the entire world.
The Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh include the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
The Frick Pittsburgh Museum offers a glimpse into the gilded age at the 19th century residence of industrialist Henry Clay Frick
Don’t Skip Point State Park
Besides all of the great Pittsburgh neighborhoods, there’s Point State Park. It’s where Three Rivers Stadium used to be; there are three rivers that all converge here. It’s a beautiful spot on the river and if it’s a nice day, you’ll find plenty of locals enjoying the great outdoors in the heart of the city.
Don’t Miss Kennywood
Kennywood is THE amusement park of Pittsburgh. Every local probably spent a lot of time there as a kid. If you ask a local, they will tell you to ride the Steel Curtain, and the Terminator. If you like amusement parks, this one is kind of a throwback, and it’s super fun for all ages.
Don’t Avoid Talking to Locals
Pittsburgh has a reputation as a tough town, but the locals are actually very neighborly. They are super friendly and they love having tourists because it’s not a huge tourist destination. They will gladly share their recommendations for where to eat and what to see in Pittsburgh. We had so many recommendations from Pittsburgh locals; we were pleasantly surprised!
Don’t Be Surprised if You Can’t Understand the Locals
Don’t feel bad if you have to ask a local to repeat themselves, there are still a few language differences in Pittsburgh. It’s not so much an accent, but totally different words that they use, like yinz!
Yinz is basically local slang for the plural “you.” Someone might say “how yinz doing?” and it’s basically just the Pittsburgh version of y’all. People from Pittsburgh are sometimes even called Yinzers.
Don’t Ever Confuse Pittsburgh and Philadelphia
They’re both located in Pennsylvania and both start with a “P” but that’s where the similarities between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia end. The two cities are major rivals in all things, including sports and especially hockey. There’s also a bit of a rivalry with Cleveland, as they are just two hours apart.
Pittsburgh has a lot of nicknames and not all of them are positive. Sometimes, the city gets a bad rap as it’s had some rough times as it went from the reigning steel-producing city to a sharp decline in manufacturing jobs. However, there’s actually a lot of cool stuff to see and eat in Pittsburgh. Don’t write it off; it’s an awesome city worth visiting.
The locals have a lot of pride in their city! They are passionate about their sports teams, their museums, and their food.
Don’t Be Caught Off Guard by the Pittsburgh Left
When you’re driving around Pittsburgh, you’ll notice something called the Pittsburgh Left. It’s a sudden left turn when the light goes green, also sometimes called a holeshot. Be prepared and when you’re at an intersection in Pittsburgh, be on alert for someone to turn in front of you.
Yinzers have a similar disregard for crosswalks; just because it says “don’t walk” doesn’t mean they won’t just dart out into the intersection.
Downtown Pittsburgh has a lot of one-way streets, so driving is already a bit confusing, even without other drivers turning left in front of you and pedestrians ignoring the traffic lights.
Don’t Miss the Fort Pitt Tunnel
If you’re driving to Pittsburgh from the West, take the route through the Fort Pitt Tunnel. You instantly go from rolling hills and small communities, through the tunnel, and you’re downtown. It’s a cool transition and offers great views of the Pittsburgh skyline. It’s beautiful at all times, day or night.
Don’t Rely on Public Transportation
In Pittsburgh, they have the “T.” It includes light rail lines and subway lines, but as a tourist, it’s not that useful. There are a lot of stations on the south side, but on the north side, there aren’t many stops. It’s much more of a commuter system than a tourist one. It doesn’t even go to the airport!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Pittsburgh! Between the food, the museums, and the history, it’s a great city to visit! We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved our visit to Pittsburgh. Want more USA travel tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about traveling to New York. The “Big Apple” is known as the City that Never Sleeps and has been featured in countless TV shows and movies. It’s an iconic part of American culture, and while the city is not for everyone, I do believe everyone should visit New York City at least once in their life. Before you go, I’ve put together some travel tips to help you prepare for and plan your trip to New York.
New York Q&A
On my most recent trip to New York, I met up with my friend Megan from The Megan Daily; she is a licensed NYC tour guide, so who better to ask all of your pressing questions about planning a trip to New York?
What is the best time to visit New York?
New York is great to visit any time of year, but the best time depends on the reason for your visit. If you are visiting New York on a budget, then January and February are the best time to visit. Prices are lower, but those are also the coldest months of the year. However, you can catch New York Restaurant Week and get some great deals on Broadway shows as well!
Summer in New York is great, but it can also be hot and humid. This is the season with the most tourists and the most festivals and free outdoor events. Spring and fall can be unpredictable, with snow one day followed by sunny and 60 the next day.
Christmas in New York is magical! There are so many fun things to do in NYC at Christmas. You’ll pay a premium for accommodation, tours, and restaurants, but it’s totally worth it!
What are the best places to visit in New York if you only have one day?
If you have only one day in New York, it’s best to hire a private tour guide so you can make the most of your time. A guide can add so much more information and context as you explore the best places to visit in New York. Here’s my ideal itinerary for a day in New York City:
Start the morning with a walk through Central Park, down 5th Avenue to Times Square
Choose between a walk on the High Line or a visit to Greenwich Village so you can see some of the less touristy parts of Manhattan.
Spend the afternoon in Manhattan, and also check out Chinatown and Little Italy
Right around sunset, head to the Brooklyn Bridge and walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn. As the sun sets, you’ll be able to see the New York skyline start to come alive with twinkling lights.
What is your favorite “local” restaurant to try?
The Tsion Cafe in Harlem is a fantastic Ethiopian restaurant. It’s one of my favorites, and very few tourists go there.
If you’re looking for the best “New York food”, these are my personal favorites:
Pizza: Rubirosa, Prince Street Pizza and John’s of Bleecker Street have some of the best New York-style pizza
Bagels: Ess-a-Bagel
Hot Dogs: McSorley’s Old Ale House
Cheesecake: Eileen’s
What Broadway show should I see?
There are 42 Broadway theaters, each with a different performance. Deciding what to see on Broadway can be a pretty personal choice, and there is something for every kind of taste. But if you’re really not sure what to see, the Disney productions are always great and family-friendly.
What is the best observation deck to visit?
My favorite is One World Observatory; they have tour guides onsite that really add to the experience. I was a tour guide there, so I may be a bit biased. If you are into history, this is the best option.
For sunset views, the Edge NYC is the best option as it has a glass railing and fantastic views
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is the Ingstagram darling of New York; Midtown’s tallest building is much more than an observation deck; it’s like an art installation in the sky.
Top of the Rock is not as high up as the other New York observation decks, but it’s kind of cooler that way. You are up close and personal with the New York skyline!
Of course, the Empire State Building is the “OG” of New York observation decks. If you’re visiting New York to see where your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed, then you should do this one.
Don’t feel like you have to go to all of them; pick one (or two at the most) and spend the rest of your time exploring at street level!
Is CityPass worth it?
Unless everything you want to see in New York is on the CityPass, they’re not usually the best deal. A lot of these combo passes have similar attractions, so you could have access to four observation decks, but you probably don’t want to visit four different decks. Make sure you do your research before your trip so you don’t lose money on an impulse purchase.
My personal favorite is La Guardia. It’s located in Queens, super close to Manhattan, and it’s a smaller airport, so it does have fewer flights. It’s only good if you can get a flight there!
JFK is also in Queens and only 10 miles from La Guardia, but it is a much bigger airport. If you’re flying internationally or on a longer flight with a bigger plane, JFK will have the most options.
Newark is actually in New Jersey and also has a lot of long-haul flights. Even though it’s farthest from the city, it’s probably the easiest airport that has public transportation directly to Manhattan. If you’re visiting New York on a budget, the AirTrain will be the cheapest option and you’ll be at Penn Station in about 30 minutes.
Note: Unauthorized taxis from the airport are a big scam, and you’ll see signs everywhere warning you not to take unlicensed cab rides. Stick with the official taxi lines or rideshare apps.
Besides the observation decks that Megan mentioned, there are still so many places to visit in New York. There are so many options that you really need to do some research and planning so you can strategically plan out your days. Otherwise, you will be crisscrossing all over the city and back. You might group your days like this:
Upper East and West Sides are where Central Park, The Met, and the Natural History Museum are located
Wall Street and the Financial District are Lower Manhattan
Brooklyn is across the river from the Battery and Financial District
Staten Island and the Statue of Liberty
Downtown includes Times Square, Broadway, and the Empire State Building
You also might find that many New York attractions are free, and New York museums often have a free day.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has many discounts available and is free on Friday evenings. They also have a “pay what you wish” policy every evening, so you can pay what you can afford.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) has “pay what you wish” for New York state residents, plus students in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut.
Times Square is one of the most recognizable areas in the world. Of course, it’s a tourist trap and you won’t catch a lot of locals there, but it’s still worth visiting. It’s just as much a part of New York as any other attraction, and it’s lit up like broad daylight well after the sun goes down. But don’t bother with the restaurants in Times Square; they will be overpriced and mediocre, just like any major tourist area.
Speaking of icons, the Statue of Liberty is probably the most iconic symbol of New York and the United States. Visiting the statue is a pretty big time commitment, so you have to decide if getting up close is worth half a day of your New York itinerary. If you want to climb up to the top, you have to reserve that in advance; it sells out!
When planning your New York itinerary, don’t overpack your days. Many first-time visitors to New York tend to overplan their days and they end up exhausted. Be reasonable with your plans, and know that you can always come back for another New York visit.
New York Tourist Traps
New York is full of tourist traps. But just because something is a tourist trap, doesn’t mean you should visit, it just means to keep your expectations in check. Times Square is a HUGE tourist trap, but it’s still totally worth visiting.
“I Love New York” souvenir shops are everywhere in New York! They are typically filled with cheap souvenirs and stuff that will likely end up in your Goodwill pile before the end of the year. New York has great shopping; save your money by not buying cheesy souvenirs and buy something memorable that will always remind you of your trip to New York.
TV-famous restaurants are often overpriced and underwhelming. Many probably started out as a great local spot, but then became famous due to a TV show or movie. If there is a restaurant you have to visit from your favorite movie, make sure you have a reservation or be prepared to wait in line.
Even Little Italy is sometimes considered a tourist trap. It’s not that the food isn’t fantastic, but because so many people flock there for Italian food, they tend to charge more than other Italian restaurants in New York.
Shopping on 5th Avenue is another New York tourist trap. It’s a great place for window shopping but is not necessarily a place for everyday folks like you and me to shop.
Pedicabs and Carriage Rides in Central Park are another tourist trap. If you really want to take a ride, go for it! But make sure you are aware of the price before you get in so you don’t get overcharged. And be prepared for dirty looks from the locals; the loud pedicab music is annoying.
Other New York tourist traps are the same in every city: Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, the M&M Store, the Lego Store, etc. They’re all the same in every city, so there’s not a huge reason to do them in New York. There are so many unique things to see in New York, don’t waste your time on chains.
New York Food
New York might be famous for pizza and hot dogs, but there is a ton of great food in New York. It’s a multicultural melting pot, so you can really get any kind of food you want in New York. Besides Italian and Chinese in their respective neighborhoods, there is a huge Puerto Rican population in New York, so there’s great Puerto Rican food. You can also get Ethiopian food, Indian food, German food, and much more!
I encourage you to get out of your comfort zone and try new cuisines in New York because it’s probably the most authentic you can get in the United States. But if you’re set on sticking to American food, New York has great steakhouses and burger joints. If there is a New York restaurant you’re dying to try, you should make reservations ahead of time, especially if it’s a “famous” New York restaurant.
Fortunately, the food that New York is famous for is also pretty cheap street food. You can spend thousands on a fancy dinner, or you can nab one of these New York specialties:
New York pizza: often sold by the slice, it’s thin and greasy and sold in huge slices for less than $10. You can sometimes find $1 slices if you look hard enough!
New York hot dogs: You’ll see hot dog carts all over the city; Nathan’s is a very popular one. You can get a plain dog pretty cheap, but make sure you check the price before you order. You will pay extra for all your toppings like sauerkraut or cheese.
New York bagels are an institution; sure, you can get bagels anywhere in the world, but New York bagels are in a league of their own. They are super filling and will power you through the day until your next meal.
Cheesecake is also a famous New York dessert. You’ll find “New York-style” cheesecake just about anywhere.
Besides the “big four,” there are some other famous New York food items to try:
Bodega or deli sandwiches. Bodegas have the best breakfast sandwiches! Pastrami on Rye from Carnegie Deli is probably the most popular sandwich in New York, but if you can think of a sandwich combination, you’ll find it at a bodega in New York!
Black and White Cookies are also very New York; in fact, there is a lengthy part of a Seinfeld episode all about the black and white cookie. They’re a tasty sugary treat, and they make great gifts or souvenirs.
The New York diner is a whole experience; they’re open late, serve breakfast all day, and are another great budget option for hearty, filling food in New York. If you want to splurge, brunch is also big in New York, and if you can find a “bottomless brunch” go for it!
If you’re visiting New York primarily for the food, then I suggest joining a food tour, as you’ll get to sample tons of great food and you’ll usually get a walking/history tour between food stops. This Chelsea Market food tour is a good one!
Tipping in New York
Tipping in New York City is not optional! The service industry thrives mostly on tips, so be prepared to tip a lot in New York. Servers, bartenders, tour guides, plus your hotel staff like housekeeping and the concierge. 20% is a standard tip for service; hotel tipping is typically based on your length of stay or specific interactions.
Getting Around NYC
Do not make the mistake of bringing a car to New York City! Traffic can be brutal, and Manhattan is full of one-way streets, so it gets overwhelming if you are not used to driving in New York. Parking is also expensive and frustrating. If you’re on a bigger road trip, then consider staying outside the city and taking the train in.
New York is the ultimate “walkable” city but you should really train your feet before you arrive so you can hit the ground running in New York. You can easily walk ten miles in one day in New York. Make sure you have good walking shoes! North/South roads are called Avenues and the East/West roads are streets; this makes it a bit easier to navigate New York streets.
Biking around New York can be fun, but make sure you are following directions. If it’s a one-way street, that applies to bicycles as well.
Uber, Lyft, and taxis are widely available in New York. Just know that you will pay surge pricing during rush hour and the subway is probably way faster.
Of course, the subway is the best way to get around New York. Taking the subway will save you time, money, and aching feet. It’s easy to use, better than getting stuck in rush hour traffic, and it’s great for people watching! If you want to be a good visitor, there are some “don’ts” to consider when taking the subway in New York.
Don’t fumble around with your tickets. Always Be Ready! This applies to anything and everything in New York. If you slow down the locals, you’ll hear about it. Have your wallet out and be ready to pay. Be ready to cross the street when the light changes. New York is not a city for dawdling.
Don’t buy Metro tickets from random people at the station; it’s probably a scam. Just buy a ticket from the machine, or pay from the app on your phone.
Don’t expect a direct subway from JFK or La Guardia airports; you’ll likely have to switch lines or transfer from a train to a bus. If you have a lot of luggage, don’t take the subway.
Don’t expect all subway stations to be accessible; not all of them have elevators or even escalators. If this is important to you, make sure you know which stations are accessible.
Don’t try to open or close the doors; it’s automatic.
Don’t get on the train until everyone exiting has gotten off. If everyone is trying to get on and off at the same time, it just creates a traffic jam.
Don’t make eye contact or conversation. Nobody is on the subway to make friends. What may seem nice in the Midwest might be annoying or creepy to New Yorkers.
Don’t take up an extra seat for your bags, your feet, or for manspreading. You get one seat!
Don’t get on an empty subway car. It’s usually empty for a reason, and it’s not usually a pleasant reason. Likewise, if there’s an empty seat on a packed train car, there’s probably a reason it’s empty. Double-check before you sit down.
If you are looking for the train conductor, look for the zebra stripes as that’s where the conductor car stops. Some people like to ride in the same car as the conductor for safety reasons as well.
Make sure you are going to the correct tracks; not all entrances connect both sides of the train tracks. Make sure you use the right entrance for downtown (southbound) or uptown (northbound.)
Don’t go by the colors on the map to find the right train. They use letters and numbers to identify the right train. They may share a few stops and then split off in different directions.
Don’t confuse the local train with the express train. Some are express trains that don’t stop at every stop. You can save a lot of time by using express trains, too.
Don’t worry if you can’t understand the PA system.
Don’t mess with other passengers, especially those that might be intoxicated.
New York at Christmas
Christmas in New York is magical. If you have the opportunity, don’t pass it up! There are so many fun things to do in NYC at Christmas, but keep these don’ts in mind:
Don’t wing it! Christmas is peak season in New York, so you have to plan ahead. Hotels, tours, and restaurants do fill up in advance!
Don’t forget to check the weather and pack accordingly. New York can be hot, rainy, snowing, and cold. All on the same day!
Don’t expect any deals over the holidays! A lot of the New York Christmas attractions are free, but you will pay a premium for lodging, dining, tours, and Broadway shows. (The deals come in January and February, which is the low season in New York.)
If you are able, tip extra during the holidays, especially on the holiday itself. Your servers, housekeepers, concierges, and tour guides are working on the holidays so you can have a vacation. Be sure to throw a little extra in their tip.
Don’t let the crowds scare you off. It can be overwhelming, but seeing the Rockefeller Tree lighting is worth it!
Don’t miss the Christmas Markets; there are several in New York and they’re all fun! Bryant Park has an Olympic-size ice skating rink. They all have fantastic treats and shopping.
Check out the events and attractions in the outer Boroughs. Staten Island has a great winter lantern festival, while the Queens County Farm has “Illuminate the Farm,” The Bronx has the holiday train show, and Dyker Heights in Brooklyn has the king of all light shows.
Book a New York holiday tour where you can learn about the history of the holiday and the role New York played.
Don’t miss the window displays. Fifth Avenue shops are the most elaborate Christmas windows, and there are fantastically creative windows all over New York! (Book a tour)
What NOT to Do in New York
Whether it’s avoiding tourist traps and scams, or just not being an ugly tourist, these are things you should not do when you visit New York City. We have an entire post on what not to do in New York City, but we have a few more to add:
Don’t worry excessively about safety in New York. It’s a big city, so of course there is crime, but it is not the cesspool that movies make it out to be. Crime against tourists is pretty rare, but use your travel common sense and you’ll be fine.
Don’t engage with street vendors. Whether they are selling bootleg CDs, fake designer purses, or tickets to events, they will try some hard-sell tactics. If you show the slightest interest, they might follow you down the street to get that sale. (This applies to street performers, too! If you do engage, be prepared to tip them.)
Don’t forget to bring cash. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially if you are trying some of the famous New York food carts on the street. Many cash-only stores will have an ATM, but you’ll pay excessive fees for the convenience.
Don’t be disrespectful at the 9/11 Memorial. This is not the place for selfies or TikTok videos. This will anger everyone, not just the locals, but the locals will actually confront you about it.
Don’t steal someone’s cab. If someone is already on a corner hailing a cab, don’t step in front of them and get your own cab. Wait your turn.
Don’t complain about the smells. It’s a big city, so just get used to it like everyone else.
Don’t diss the boroughs. There’s so much more to New York than Midtown and Manhattan. Unless you’re a New Yorker, you can’t get away with it. It’s like making fun of somebody’s sister – they can do it, but you can’t. In fact, don’t diss New York at all. New Yorkers know their city is the best city in the world, and if you don’t agree with them, you’re wrong!
Don’t think everything in New York is expensive! Between cheap street food and free museums and attractions, you don’t have to spend a fortune to visit New York.
Don’t fall for these common tourist scams:
Buskers and street performers make a living from tourists; they will try to hop into your photos and get money from you for being in their photos. If you want your picture with them, be prepared to pay. Otherwise, just keep walking.
The street “bump” is a common scam in New York. Similar to other tourist scams around the world, someone might bump into you and drop something and then try to get you to pay them for the item they dropped.
People often try to solicit donations on the street for “religious” groups. There’s no way to verify these guys, so it’s best to just keep walking. Make your donations where you know it’s a viable source.
If you see a “going out of business” sale, be skeptical. This is usually just a tactic to build demand and get you in the door.
These are our travel tips for visiting New York City. A first-time visit to New York can be overwhelming, so it’s good to do a lot of planning before your trip, and we hope these tips help you get started! Interested in more New York travel tips? Check out these blog posts!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting North Carolina. This southeast coastal state is known for the Outer Banks and Asheville, but there are a whole lot of cool things in between! As with any travel destination, there are many surprises in store for North Carolina visitors. If you’re thinking about planning a North Carolina vacation, don’t be surprised at these “shocks.”
North Carolina Mountains
A lot of people picture the Outer Banks when they think of North Carolina, but there are more than beaches in the Tar Heel State. There are a surprising amount of mountains and beautiful views once you head inland in North Carolina. You’ve got the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Smoky Mountains, and the Appalachian Mountains. Each season brings new beauty, from spring flowers to fall colors.
Of course, that means there are tons of recreational opportunities as well. Mountains, waterfalls, and rivers are just some of the best things to see in North Carolina!
The Outer Banks Experience
The Outer Banks experience is a shock for many first-time visitors. It’s such a beautiful destination, with gorgeous beaches and quaint little beach towns. You’ll also see cool lighthouses, wild horses, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial. (It can also be shockingly crowded, so book ahead!)
Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a popular destination in North Carolina. It’s a very laid-back, socially progressive town with great boutiques, food, live music, and beer. It has rapidly grown from a small town to a mid-size city and with that, there are some growing pains such as crime rates and shady characters that come out at night. But with the Biltmore Estate and surrounding mountain activities, we still love visiting Asheville.
Driving in North Carolina
North Carolina is the heart of Nascar country, but it’s still a shock how fast they drive in North Carolina. It can be a bit nerve-wracking how fast they come up on you, especially if you’re not exactly sure where you are going. If you’re not racing along with them, make sure you stay to the right so they can pass you safely.
North Carolina Furniture
High Point North Carolina is the furniture capital of the world. A combination of easy access to lumber and transportation put North Carolina on the furniture manufacturing map over 100 years ago and it continues to be a huge industry for the state. The High Point Market is like Disneyland for furniture aficionados!
Lines at Bojangles
Bojangles is a fast-food chain known for its fried chicken and biscuits. They were started in Charlotte, North Carolina so it’s kind of a big deal here. Even though there are over 800 locations in 15 states, you’ll still wait in a pretty long line if you hit a North Carolina Bojangles at rush hour.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate was completed in the late 19th century and is a major attraction in Asheville. It’s a legit castle and it’s gorgeous, both inside and outside. There are dozens of different tours you can take, and you can even spend the night at several different accommodation options on the grounds of the estate.
The real shock, though, is the sticker price of visiting Biltmore! Entry ticket prices vary seasonally, so in the off-season of January through March, it’s $69 per person. In the busy spring months of April and May, when the gardens are in full bloom, expect to pay $89 per person! If you want to visit Biltmore at Christmas? Over $100.
College Basketball in North Carolina
We typically think of the South as football country, but in North Carolina, they are crazy about basketball. Michael Jordan went to high school and college in North Carolina and is part owner of the Charlotte Hornets NBA team. Basketball is a big deal here; don’t get involved in any rivalry discussions and definitely don’t take sides in mixed company! If you can get tickets to a college game in North Carolina, don’t pass up the opportunity!
North Carolina Cuisine
There is some pretty great food to come out of North Carolina. For starters, Krispy Kreme started here. Other tasty treats to try in North Carolina:
North Carolina BBQ is different from BBQ from other areas; theirs is a vinegar-based sauce. Don’t forget the sides: hush puppies and cole slaw are a must!
The Carolina Dog has coleslaw, onions, chili, and mustard. Those flavors combine for a shockingly good hot dog.
Besides the food, you might be surprised to see that Coca-Cola is not as widely available in North Carolina. You’re in Pepsi country now. Cheerwine is another drink you’ll see all over North Carolina; it’s a cherry-based cola and those who grew up in North Carolina love it!
You can find some really good beers in North Carolina as well, especially if you are in Asheville. There are over 40 breweries in Asheville alone and the beer is so good! It must be the water.
Don’t let these “shocks” keep you from planning a North Carolina vacation; it’s full of pleasant surprises. It’s such a diverse state, with mountains, beaches, and even a castle!
Want more tips for traveling through the Southern US? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia. Savannah is a special place for our family: Jocelyn lived here for ten years and our oldest son was born in Savannah, so we always look forward to our Savannah Georgia vacation. For first-time visitors, there are some things you should know before planning a trip to Savannah.
What to See in Savannah
There are a lot of things to see in Savannah, and we have been visiting Savannah for over 20 years, so we definitely have our favorite Savannah attractions. Even if you only have a weekend in Savannah, you can still see a lot of the best sights.
Savannah History Museum is a great place to start your Savannah trip as you can learn about the history of Savannah, and plan the rest of your stay.
Historic home tours are some of the best things to do in Savannah. There are tons to choose from, so a bit of research before your trip will go a long way to ensure you pick the right tours for you! Here are a few that we recommend:
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters presents the history of the house through the lens of slavery. This is one of several Telfair Museums in Savannah; they are all quite interesting and worth visiting.
King-Tisdell Cottage is a Victorian Cottage that was once home to prominent African-American entrepreneurs.
Harper-Fowlkes House is a Greek Revival mansion built in 1842 and later owned by a preservationist who donated the home on the condition that the interior remains intact.
Georgia State Railroad Museum has old steam trains and you can even go for a ride on select days of the week. Check the website ahead of time so you don’t miss it!
Admire Savannah’s architecture. Just walking around and taking in the historic buildings and the preservation projects is free and interesting!
The Public Squares of Savannah are one of the draws for visitors; there are several squares you can walk to, with monuments, fountains, and that famous Spanish Moss hanging from the trees.
Forsyth Park is especially great if you are visiting Savannah with kids because they’ll have tons of room to run around and play, while the adults admire the monuments. If you happen to visit Savannah on St. Patrick’s Day, they dye the fountain water green.
Savannah Tours
Guided tours are some of the best things to do in Savannah. There are a ton of tours to take when you visit Savannah. While we love to explore on our own, sometimes it’s nice to get more history and background from a tour guide. And there are a ton of niche tours you can take in Savannah.
Take a Trolley Tour from the Savannah History Museum. This is a great way to get to know the layout of Savannah, and you can make a list of all the things you want to see during your trip. You also learn a lot about the history of Savannah, so this is the perfect activity for your first day in Savannah.
Savannah claims to be one of the most haunted cities in America, so ghost tours are very popular here. Some Savannah ghost tours are better than others, so do your research!
Walking tours that focus on architecture and history tours are also popular
Riverboat Tours are fun and a great way to get out on the water
Food tours and pub tours are the best way to sample some of the best food and beverages in Savannah and learn about the stories behind the cuisine.
Savannah Tourist Traps
Since Savannah is such a popular travel destination, there are bound to be some tourist traps trying to lure you in. Not all tourist traps are necessarily bad and usually, there is a reason something became so popular. As long as you know what you are getting into, there’s nothing wrong with including a few tourist traps in your Savannah itinerary.
Some Savannah ghost tours are worthwhile and others are total tourist traps. Before you choose the Savannah ghost tour you want, read a lot of reviews. Choose one with more historical context and less ‘paranormal’ activity as those tend to be a bit cheesy.
Pedicabs have popped up in seemingly every tourist town nowadays, and it can seem like a fun alternative to a taxi or Uber. But Savannah is flat and super walkable; save your money for something more worthwhile.
Similarly, the peddle-bars are the most tourist-trappy and most hated by the locals. In a town where you can literally walk around with an open cocktail, peddling around the streets while drinking just seems silly.
Locals will say Tybee Island is a tourist trap, but we still think it’s worth the trip.
City Market was at one time an authentic market, but it’s now pretty touristy and not all that interesting. Sure, there are bars and restaurants, but you’re going to pay more because of the location. In the same vein, River Street is pretty touristy, but it’s worth going to see. Just know that you’ll be surrounded by t-shirt and candy shops.
Restaurants like Paula Deen’s Lady and Sons are part of what made Savannah so popular, but the lines are so long that it’s not really worth it. You can get food that is just as good around the corner at a lesser-known Savannah restaurant.
Likewise, Leopold’s Ice Cream has become super touristy. It doesn’t mean their ice cream isn’t delicious, it just isn’t worth getting sunstroke while you wait in line in the hot sun. If you want to try Leopold’s, there are two locations at the airport.
What to Eat in Savannah
Let’s be honest, all of the Savannah attractions are secondary to the food. You come to Savannah to eat! And not all food in Savannah is deep-fried in butter. While you can get just about every type of cuisine in Savannah, these are the quintessential foods you must try when you visit Savannah.
Seafood is king in Savannah. If you don’t live on the ocean, take advantage of Savannah’s location and eat all the fresh seafood you can find! You’ll see shrimp, grouper, red snapper, crab, and oysters. Of course, there are the seafood dishes like Shrimp and Grits, She-Crab Soup, and Crab Rice that are also super tasty!
Low Country Boil is basically shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes all boiled together. It’s fun to make with a big group of friends and you dump it all out on a newspaper. Because it’s usually served as a communal meal, a lot of tourists miss out on this Savannah specialty. You can get it in some restaurants, but it’s not the same experience.
Another communal eating experience to have in Savannah is an oyster roast. This is more of a winter tradition, and the oysters are often roasted over an open fire on the beach. If someone invites you to a Savannah oyster roast, don’t miss it!
Po-Boys are a popular Southern sandwich, and the two favorite types are shrimp po-boys or oyster po-boys. Oyster po-boys in Savannah are the best!
We’re still in the South, after all, so you can’t go wrong with BBQ. There are some great BBQ joints in Savannah, so once you’ve had your fill of seafood, try some southern BBQ.
“Meat And 3” is a Southern style of order, where you get one meat plus three side dishes, like collard greens, buttered beans, okra, biscuits, and macaroni and cheese. It’s a great way to sample side dishes in smaller quantities.
Boiled peanuts are one of Liam’s favorite snacks in Savannah. They take fresh, green peanuts and boil them in a salty brine. They are served “wet” in the shell, so you don’t eat the shell, but you can suck some of the flavors out of it. You won’t find them on River Street or touristy places, but if you’re in a gas station or a bait shop, there’s a good chance they sell hot boiled peanuts.
Biscuits are another Southern staple and they aren’t just for breakfast! We can never get our fill of biscuits in Savannah!
Other Southern meals that are easy to find in Savannah include fried chicken, pimento cheese, deviled eggs, and fried green tomatoes.
Where to Eat in Savannah
Choosing where to eat in Savannah can be difficult because there are so many amazing restaurants! There are tourist mainstays, but there are plenty of other Savannah restaurants that aren’t famous but equally good. Ask the locals where they eat!
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is your classic “down home” Southern restaurant, and the sides are served family-style so you can sample a bunch. Lunch only.
The Pirate’s House is one of the oldest restaurants in Savannah and they are known for honey pecan fried chicken. Their Chatham Artillery Punch is a pretty tasty cocktail!
Cotton & Rye is a more modern gastropub, with an ever-changing menu
45 Bistro has a mouth-watering beef carpaccio appetizer and woodfired pizzas
Tubby’s locations have the best oyster po-boys in Savannah!
Sisters of the New South is our favorite to get a “Meat and 3”
Wiley’s BBQ is our go-to for barbecue in Savannah
B&D Burger is Liam’s favorite place for a burger in Savannah
Crystal Beer Parlor serves Southern-style food in an old grocery store
Vinny Van Go Go’s for pizza
Garibaldi’s flourless chocolate torte is Jocelyn’s favorite dessert (they also have a great crispy scored flounder)
Rancho Alegre has great Cuban food
Where to Drink in Savannah
The beauty of Savannah is that you can drink anywhere! Most restaurants and bars will offer “TGC” or To Go Cups so you can enjoy your cocktail while you stroll the streets of Savannah. River Street is the main hub for Savannah nightlife and dining.
For local beer, head to Moon River Brewery
The basement of the Olde Pink House is a great spot for classic cocktails and live music.
17Hundred90 Inn is a cozy bar that’s perfect for a winter night in Savannah.
Don’t Be An Ugly Tourist
Anytime we travel, whether it’s abroad or close to home, we try not to be “ugly tourists.” You know the ones. They annoy the locals and give other travelers a bad name. It usually just comes down to being courteous and polite, but every destination has a few specific things you can do to avoid being an ugly tourist. In Savannah, there are a few things you can do to avoid being an ugly tourist.
Don’t joke about Slow-Vannah. Yes, it’s the South, and things move at a slower pace, but that’s part of the culture and nothing to be ashamed of. If you want to use a nickname, stick with “Hostess City.”
Don’t hold up traffic, whether you are driving or meandering down the sidewalk. Things may have a slower pace here, but there are still people trying to get to work or get home from work. Don’t block their way while you gawk at the historic mansions. Honestly, this applies to every travel destination.
This especially applies to driving around the squares of Savannah. They work like a roundabout, but with tourists and locals driving plus tourists cutting across the streets, it can get confusing. Just park your car and enjoy the squares on foot. The locals will appreciate it.
Don’t complain about the climate or the bugs. Yes, there are mosquitos and palmetto bugs and sand gnats. Yes, it’s hot and humid. Bugs come with the territory. And if you don’t like hot and humid weather, don’t visit Savannah in the summer! The locals are used to it, so complaining about it won’t get you anywhere.
If you’re visiting friends, don’t ask them to hit up the tourist traps with you. Instead of making them wait in line with you for Leopold’s Ice Cream, ask them to show you their favorite ice cream spot that’s not as well known to tourists.
Paula Deen may have made Savannah food world-famous, but that doesn’t mean every dish here is deep-fried with a stick of butter. Not everything you eat in Savannah will be deep-fried so don’t imply that. Some of the best food in Savannah is fresh seafood, prepared simply.
Don’t park where you’re not supposed to! Living and working in a tourist town is challenging enough without tourists taking up your parking spaces. Paying upfront for parking will be a lot cheaper than getting towed, and you won’t annoy the locals in the process.
Don’t expect anything other than sweet tea when you order tea. You’re in the south; all tea is sweet tea unless you specifically order unsweet tea.
St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah
Savannah is the “Hostess City” so naturally, the town knows how to throw a party! There are lots of great Savannah festivals to attend, but the most popular is St. Patrick’s Day! It’s one of the largest celebrations in the country, and almost 500,000 people attend every year!
If you plan to spend St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah, here are our top tips for making the most of your time.
You have to get to the parade super early to get a good spot. The squares don’t open until 6 am, but people arrive well before that so they can be the first ones in to set up their space. I staked out our spot around 3:30 in the morning!
Likewise, you have to book your Savannah accommodation way in advance. There are lots of hotels in Savannah, but the population practically doubles during St. Patrick’s day, so get your reservations in early! Because of the crowds, hotels often implement extra rules to keep things orderly.
Know where the public restrooms are before you need them! Hotels and restaurants won’t let you in unless you’re a guest or a patron, so check ahead of time where you can use the restroom.
The parade starts around 10:15 and goes on for a couple of hours. However, the party goes on into the evening even after the parade has ended.
Parking is a nightmare! Last time, we had a 45-minute walk from our parking spot to the parade spot. If you can stay near the parade route, it’s probably worth the extra cost.
Savannah has pretty loose liquor laws, and you can have open containers, but there are still rules to be followed. Your drinks have to be in a plastic cup and must be 16 oz or smaller.
The popular Savannah restaurants will have ridiculous wait times, so don’t plan to eat at the Savannah classics; just grab something easy and save the popular spots for a time when there isn’t an extra million visitors in town.
Just enjoy the fact that you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in one of the best small towns in America! Take in the green fountains, the live music, and the camaraderie.
Tybee Island, Savannah’s Beach
You might want to break up your eating and history-absorbing activities with some time spent relaxing on a sandy beach. Tybee Island is one of the most popular day trips from Savannah, as it’s just 25 minutes to the beach. Getting to Tybee Island is super easy if you are driving from Savannah. Parking can be a bit of a hassle so if you’re renting a house, make sure parking is included. When parking at the beach, pay attention to signs and don’t let your meters run out. They ticket frequently!
There are several public beaches on Tybee Island. There’s South Beach, North Beach, Mid Beach, Back River, and Little Tybee. Yes, Tybee Island is a bit touristy and definitely a place where people go to party, but it’s worth the trip!
What’s great about the Tybee Island beaches is they are quite large and open, so you never feel super crowded. At certain times of the year, you can also see dolphins. You do need to follow a few rules when visiting the Tybee beaches.
Pay attention to any signage, as they get some pretty strong riptides from time to time. With smaller kids, we recommend Back River beach as the current and tides are not as strong.
Don’t forget a towel and/or beach chairs. The sand gets super hot, so you want something to sit on when you’re not in the water. There are places to rent and buy beach essentials all over the island.
Don’t bring glass containers to the beach! You can have beer or other alcoholic drinks, but they must be in a can or plastic container. They will fine you for having glass containers.
Don’t play in the sand dunes. There are fines for this as well, as the dunes are protected because sea turtles often lay their eggs there.
You don’t have to spend all your time on the beach. There are different excursions you can book, like fishing charters and dolphin tours. We love renting beach cruisers and riding around the island.
If you’re staying out on Tybee, then you’ll be hitting up some of the restaurants as well. It’s all about seafood on Tybee Island. Save the Southern cuisine for Savannah and just enjoy all of the fresh seafood you can order. Two great places to eat on Tybee Island are The Crab Shack and AJ’s Dockside. North Beach Grill is also good.
If you want to stay on Tybee Island, there are a few hotels, but we prefer to rent a beach bungalow or an apartment. Restaurants on Tybee are expensive, so it’s nice to have a kitchen to cook a few meals at home rather than eating out every single day.
Is Savannah Safe?
Savannah is a mid-sized city with a population of around 150,000. Savannah does have a fairly high crime rate compared to other similar-sized cities, but it’s important to understand that this typically does not affect tourists. We have found the historic district of Savannah to be fairly safe, but we take precautions just like we would in any other city.
The biggest safety concerns in Savannah are generally not crime-related, but there are a few things to keep an eye on:
Cobblestone streets are found throughout Savannah’s historic district, and if you’re not careful, you could fall and twist or break an ankle.
Getting down to River Street can be challenging as your options are an old stone staircase or walking in the road with cars. However, there is an elevator you can take to get down to River Street much more easily.
You do need to pay attention at night when walking around and use caution, especially if you’ve been sampling some of the tasty cocktails in Savannah.
Don’t leave valuables in your car as that is the most likely target for petty theft and criminals.
Cycling is popular in Savannah and not everyone stays in the bike lane, so make sure you are paying attention when crossing the street and make sure there aren’t any bicycles bearing down on you.
The heat and humidity of Savannah summers can be dangerous! Avoid these months if you can, but if you must visit Savannah in summer, make sure you stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and don’t plan anything for the middle of the day.
If you haven’t guessed by now, we absolutely love visiting Savannah Georgia! From the food to the festivals, the Southern hospitality, and the Tybee Island beaches, you can’t go wrong planning a trip to Savannah…unless it’s August! Need more travel tips for the South? Check out these blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on a trip to Charleston, South Carolina. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Charleston, we want to be sure you know what you should NOT do when you plan a Charleston family vacation.
Don’t Expect Charleston to Be Cheap
Charleston is not an inexpensive city to visit. It’s expensive to dine and drink in Charleston. It’s totally worth it, just be prepared. The most expensive part of your Charleston vacation will be your accommodation. You don’t always get what you pay for, as the accommodations are small and “historic.” If your hotel offers a happy hour or social hour, take advantage of it to save some money.
The best way to save money on your Charleston trip is to take advantage of Happy Hour specials at the local bars and restaurants. It’s also a great way to get out and meet locals, who are usually more than eager to share their tips for the best things to do in Charleston. Happy Hour is typically from about 5:00 until 7:00, and some hotels host a similar “social hour” with free appetizers and drinks.
If you want to host your own happy hour before heading out for the evening, you will have to plan ahead as you cannot buy hard liquor outside of an actual liquor store. You can get beer and wine at the grocery store or gas station, but if you want vodka for that Bloody Mary Mix, you’ll have to head to the liquor store. And remember they are closed on Sunday!
Don’t Miss Out on South Carolina Food
South Carolina food in Charleston is phenomenal; especially if you love comfort food or seafood. There are a lot of different cuisines that are expertly prepared in Charleston so you really can’t go wrong, but let’s focus on the traditional South Carolina that you absolutely should try on your next trip to Charleston!
Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that is so simple, yet truly amazing!
She-Crab Soup is the perfect starter for any meal in Charleston; hot, creamy bisque may seem odd in this humid climate, but it’s a must! The name comes from female crab meat that is used to make the soup!
Rice was the first cash crop in the Carolinas and it’s still a staple on most menus in Charleston. Crab rice is great, or if you prefer chicken, pilau is basically chicken and rice.
Oysters are also a common thing to eat in Charleston; if you get a chance to hit up an oyster roast, don’t miss it; it’s so good! While oysters on the half-shell aren’t a traditional Charleston dish, there are a lot of oyster houses in Charleston.
Po-Boys are a popular Southern sandwich, and the two favorite types are shrimp po-boys or oyster po-boys.
Frogmore Stew (also known as Low Country Boil) is not made with frogs, don’t worry! It’s basically shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes all boiled together. It’s fun to make with a big group of friends, but you can also get it in restaurants.
Biscuits are another Southern staple and they aren’t just for breakfast! We can never get our fill of biscuits in Charleston!
Boiled peanuts are a great snack to grab at the Farmer’s Market while you are walking around. They boil peanuts in the shell with spices and seasoning. It’s yummy!
Other Southern meals that are easy to find in Charleston include fried chicken, pimento cheese, deviled eggs, and fried green tomatoes. If you’re looking for a fun souvenir to take home, the Charleston Bloody Mary mix is really tasty! We always bring home a few bottles after a trip to Charleston. If you like seafood, you’ll love the food in Charleston!
Don’t Forget to Make Dinner Reservations
If there are specific Charleston restaurants you want to try, make sure you have reservations ahead of time! Even if you think you’re visiting Charleston during the low season, the best Charleston restaurants will still be full. But don’t bother waiting in line for dinner if you forget to make reservations. There are TONS of great restaurants to pick from, so just walk around the corner and find another spot. It’s not only the famous Charleston restaurants that have phenomenal food.
One thing to note about Charleston restaurants is that many of them close between 3 and 5 or between lunch and dinner, so make sure you plan ahead. Some only serve lunch, while others only serve dinner, so if there is a particular restaurant you want to try, check their hours ahead of time!
Don’t Think Every Historic Home is Open to the Public
One of the main reasons people visit Charleston is its historic architecture. But you have to remember, people live in a lot of these cool old houses. So, don’t go stepping through gardens and courtyards to get photographs, and definitely don’t go peeping in the windows. Unless you know for sure it’s a museum, treat every house like a private home because many of them are.
Don’t Miss Historic Home Tours
Once you’ve established what is a private home vs a private home museum, be sure to take a few tours of the homes that are open to the public. There are plenty of historic home tours in Charleston, and the Charleston CVB has rounded up the 11 best house tours in Charleson, including the Nathaniel Russell House Museum and the Aiken Rhett House.
Don’t Be Overwhelmed by City Market
Every travel blog and vlog will tell you that City Market is one of the best places to visit in Charleston. The Charleston City Market stretches for a couple of blocks and features over 300 vendors selling arts, crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. It can be overwhelming if you are there on a hot, humid, crowded day. We found it to be pretty touristy, so don’t feel guilty if you don’t go through the entire market.
Don’t Get Too Excited About Rainbow Row
Another popular Charleston attraction is Rainbow Row, a street lined with colorful houses. It’s pretty, but it’s not much different than all of the other streets in Charleston. There are hundreds of colorful homes and streets in Charleston, this one just happens to be more popular than others.
Don’t Get Overwhelmed by Churches
Charleston is sometimes called the Holy City, in part because there are over 400 church steeples on the Charleston skyline. Many give tours and several have cemeteries you can visit as well but don’t feel like you have to go to all of them, and don’t feel bad if they all start to look the same after a few tours.
Don’t Be Fooled by the Holy City Moniker
Part of the reason Charleston is nicknamed the Holy City is due to religious tolerance, so don’t think this is a super conservative religious city because the people are very open and welcoming and they like to have a good time.
Don’t Be Shocked by Sudden Storms
Sudden rain storms are pretty common in Charleston, but they’re usually very brief. It’s pretty common in coastal cities, and Charleston is no exception. In fact, most hotels and souvenir shops sell plastic ponchos because so many tourists are caught off guard by the rain.
Don’t Mess With Flooded Streets
Charleston is pretty much at sea level, so when those rain storms hit, the streets can flood quickly. Don’t walk or drive through streets that are flooded as you can be swept away. The water will dissipate fairly quickly, so just wait it out. Chances are, your rental car is not covered by flood insurance.
Don’t Drive in The Charleston Historic District
Like many historic downtown areas and tourist districts, driving can be a nightmare in Charleston. The streets are narrow and many streets are one-way only, making it difficult to navigate. Leave your car at the hotel and enjoy Charleston on foot.
Don’t Pack the Wrong Items
When packing for your Charleston trip, make sure you have the right clothing and shoes for exploring the area. You’ll be walking a lot, sometimes on cobblestone streets, so having good walking shoes is key to enjoying your Charleston vacation. You could easily walk 10 miles in a day here, just out and about.
Likewise, make sure you have lightweight clothing that is comfortable in hot, humid temperatures. You’ll want lots of sunscreen and a hat to keep the sun off your face and neck.
Don’t Forget Your Manners
You are in the South, after all, so don’t forget your manners when you visit Charleston. It’s expected that people hold the door for each other, and use their please and thank you. This includes being courteous to others when you stop to take photos; don’t just stop in the middle of the street! Step aside and let others pass first.
Fort Sumter is the spot where the Civil War began, and a visit to Fort Sumter National Historic Park during your Charleston family vacation. When you visit the Battery in downtown Charleston, you will see a fort just off the coast. That is not Fort Sumter; that’s Pinckney Castle. You have to take a ferry out to Fort Sumter. Not only will you learn about a crucial part of American history when you visit Fort Sumter, but you’ll also have a great view of the Charleston skyline from the ferry over.
Don’t Skip the Dark History of Charleston
Not all of Charleston’s history is colorful houses and southern charm. There’s a very dark side of American history here as well, and it’s important to learn about the slave trade and the plantations of the area. It’s estimated that 40% of the slaves brought to America from Africa came through the port of Charleston. Plantations have always been a tourist attraction of Charleston, but many are now stepping forward to educate visitors on the real history of what happened at the plantations. If it feels like a plantation is still whitewashing its history, find a more realistic one to visit. Some of the most popular Charleston plantation tours include:
Magnolia
Drayton Hall
Boone Hall
Botany Pay
Don’t Miss the Rest of Charleston
The historic district is the main draw for most visitors to Charleston, but there is more to the Holy City! Charleston is surrounded by history and some fantastic beaches, so feel free to add a few days to your Charleston vacation for some day trips from Charleston.
Folly Beach is out on the coast just 25 minutes from Charleston
Sullivan’s Island is also 25 minutes from Charleston and has Fort Moultrie National Historic Park, Station 18 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.
Isle of Palms has six miles of white sandy beaches, just 45 minutes from Charleston
Don’t Mess with the Alligators
You won’t run into any alligators in downtown Charleston, but if you’re out on the islands or visiting one of the golf courses, you are bound to see an alligator or two. They may look docile and slow, but they are not! Every year, alligators have encounters with humans and their dogs, and there typically is no winner. If you see an alligator, steer clear!
Don’t be surprised if you fall in love with Charleston! It’s such a charming city, with loads of historic sites and amazing food, not to mention nearby beaches and day trips!
Looking for more travel destinations in the Southern United States? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit South Dakota. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to see in South Dakota, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your South Dakota trip. With tips for visiting Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills, and other parts of South Dakota, you’ll be ready to hit the road and visit South Dakota this summer!
So much to see in South Dakota
Don’t Miss Both Sides of the Missouri River
The Missouri River splits the state of South Dakota into East and West. Each half has a different landscape and culture than the other, so they are both worth exploring. The eastern part of South Dakota more closely resembles the Midwest States with rolling prairies and farms, while the western part of South Dakota is edging close to the Rocky Mountains, so you have more hills and canyons. There are also two time zones in South Dakota, so make sure you pay attention to which time zone you are in!
Don’t Forget Your Wallet When You Visit Wall Drug
If you drive across South Dakota, you’ll see signs for miles, luring you to visit Wall Drug. They tease you with billboards for free ice water, but you’ll inevitably end up spending money while you’re there. They have tons of great souvenirs, not to mention tasty treats to fuel up for the rest of your South Dakota road trip.
Another great roadside attraction in South Dakota is the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. The palace walls are lined with murals made of corn, hence the name “Corn Palace.” They change the murals each year, so even if you’ve visited before, it’s fun to stop again and see the new murals.
Don’t Assume Both Dakotas are the Same
A lot of people tend to lump together North Dakota and South Dakota. They really are very different states. They both have a lot to offer, but in terms of tourism, there are definitely more tourist attractions in South Dakota. If you are driving cross-country and deciding which route to take, I recommend South Dakota, because there are a lot of cool places to stop along the way.
Yes, there are some over-the-top tourist spots in South Dakota, but they are definitely worth visiting.
Don’t Plan 60 Miles to Take 60 Minutes
When planning a road trip through South Dakota and the Black Hills especially, allow more time for driving than you think you’ll need. Some of the roads are narrow and winding, and you’re going to want to pull off the road in many places to take in the beauty of the Black Hills. Give yourself extra time when driving through the Black Hills.
Don’t Plan to Stay in One Area
The Black Hills region is made up of lots of smaller towns and areas and you’ll want to explore them all. It’s best to choose a central location and take lots of day trips because the Black Hills attractions are fairly spread out. Each town has a few attractions, but not enough to fill your entire trip. If you’re traveling with kids, I don’t recommend Deadwood as your base because it is a lot of bars and casinos. It’s more of a fun day trip from Keystone, Custer, or Rapid City.
Don’t Think Deadwood and Sturgis are Just for Bikers
Sturgis is famous for the annual motorcycle rally held each summer. The festivities also spill over into nearby Deadwood and throughout the Black Hills, but those towns aren’t just for bikers. They’re actually great little towns in the Black Hills, and really fun to visit. You might avoid the few weeks in August during the Sturgis Rally, but any other time, you should definitely check out these towns in the Black Hills. If you decide to visit the Black Hills in August, be prepared for crowds and higher prices, and make sure you book your lodging far in advance.
Don’t Mind the Gambling
Gambling is a popular pastime in South Dakota and the South Dakota casinos draw tourists from all over. Especially in Deadwood, it seems like every other shop on the block is a casino. Don’t be fooled by the Wild West storefronts; inside you’ll find slot machines galore! You must be 21 or older to gamble in South Dakota.
Don’t Expect Haute Cuisine
When you visit the Black Hills, expect to find a lot of steak houses and fast-food-type restaurants. Along with a lot of bars, you’ll find lots of bar food. The food is great, but it’s really more meat-and-potatoes cuisine rather than anything unique or innovative.
Don’t Expect Easy Parking
If you visit the Black Hills in the summer, you will be competing for parking spots with lots of other travelers. Even at your accommodation, parking might not be included. If you are renting a home or apartment through Airbnb or VRBO, make sure you ask about parking before you make a reservation.
Yeah, ground hogs are a think in South Dakota.
Don’t Trust the Weather Forecast
It’s possible to have all four seasons in one day in South Dakota. South Dakota weather is all over the place, with cold winters and hot summers, and everything in between, any time of year. Always have a few layers handy when you’re traveling around South Dakota as the weather can change quickly!
Mount Rushmore is definitely South Dakota’s most famous landmark, but that’s not all there is to see in South Dakota. You shouldn’t miss out on Mount Rushmore, but make sure you also visit Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Monument, Badlands National Park, or any other cool South Dakota attractions.
Don’t Expect Free Parking at Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is a National Memorial, so your Parks Pass will grant you access to the memorial itself, but the parking is not free and not covered by your park’s pass. When you park your car, make sure you bring the ticket along so you can pay at the pay station before returning to your car. All the parking lots are pretty much the same, so don’t worry about where you park; just remember where you parked!
Don’t Just Stick to the Main Trail at Mount Rushmore
When you enter the Memorial, you’ll walk down the path lined with flags from each state, and you’ll get some great views of the monument. But there are also hiking trails through the woods around there as well, so you don’t have to stick with the crowds on the main path. Grab a map at the visitor’s center and see what else you can find here.
Don’t Fly Your Drone at Mount Rushmore
Drones are not allowed in or around the memorial. Don’t try to sneak yours in or try to fly it from a nearby parking area. It’s best to leave your drone for this attraction and just enjoy it with your regular camera.
Don’t Skip the Crazy Horse Memorial
No, it’s not finished and probably won’t be in our lifetime. Even halfway finished, it’s incredibly impressive and it is the largest stone carving in the world. If you bring your kids, they can come back in 30 years and see how much it’s changed. Besides the memorial, there’s also a museum, a welcome center, a restaurant, and a gift shop. This is a great educational attraction in the Black Hills where you can learn about the Lakota tribe.
Don’t Expect Everything To Be Open Year-Round
Many businesses in the area are seasonal, so if you visit after Labor Day, you might find some shops and restaurants have closed up for the season. If there’s something you really want to see or do in the Black Hills, make sure you check ahead to see if they close for the winter and if so, when. We missed out on panning for gold because that was a seasonal activity only for the summer.
Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from planning a trip to South Dakota. We really enjoyed our time there, and hope our South Dakota travel guide helps you plan your family trip to South Dakota! Want more travel tips for the Western US? Check out some of our other blog posts:
Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Jackson Wyoming. While many travel blogs will tell you the fun things to do in Jackson Wyoming, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your Jackson Wyoming trip.
Don’t Confuse Jackson Hole with Jackson
Jackson Hole is the valley where the town of Jackson is located. There are several towns in Jackson Hole, including Jackson. This is also important when choosing your accommodation as a rental in Jackson Hole could mean a lot of different things. When you visit Jackson Hole, you are visiting the valley surrounding the town of Jackson.
Don’t Forget to Bring a Flashlight
It’s dark here, and the streets and sidewalks are not well-lit outside of the main downtown area. In part, this is cool because low light pollution means you have amazing views of the night skies. But when you’re walking back to your hotel, it can be very dark.
Don’t Miss the National Museum of Wildlife Art
While most things to do in Jackson revolve around the wildlife and the great outdoors, make sure you stop at this fantastic art museum on the way to Grand Teton National Park. It’s a great museum full of western and wildlife art, and one of the best things to do in Jackson.
Jackson, Wyoming right outside the Grand Tetons National Park
Don’t Forget to Pack Layers
The mountain climate can be harsh, and you’ll see temperature swings of 30 to 40 degrees each day. That means cold mornings and evenings, with warm, sunny days. The only way to properly dress on your Jackson trip is to have layers you can add and remove throughout the day.
Don’t Plan on Having a Cheap Trip to Jackson
Most of Wyoming is very affordable and budget-friendly. But once you reach Jackson, that’s no longer the case! Jackson is very expensive; the locals joke that the billionaires have chased out the millionaires. Forget about real estate; everything in Jackson is expensive. Plan to spend more on accommodation and eating out while you’re visiting Jackson. We visited in the fall and had trouble finding accommodation under $500 a night.
Don’t Wait to Reserve Jackson Wyoming Lodging
Because Jackson is so popular and expensive, any reasonably priced accommodation will go fast. There’s not really a low season in Jackson; it’s popular year-round with tourists so it can be difficult to find hotels in Jackson. Any affordable Jackson Wyoming lodging gets booked up well in advance, no matter which season you visit.
Don’t Try to Wing It With Your Plans
Just like with hotels, you need to plan ahead for any excursions and even your restaurant plans. There are a ton of fun things to do in Jackson, like fishing or rafting, but these excursions fill up quickly. Likewise, the restaurants are small and fill up, so it really helps to have reservations for dinner so you don’t have to wait an hour or more for a table. This even applies at breakfast; we found lines up to 30 minutes just to grab a pastry or a bagel to go.
Don’t Expect Authentic Wyoming in Jackson
Yes, Jackson is part of Wyoming, but it’s very touristy compared to the rest of the state. If you want to see “the real Wyoming” you need to get out into places like Cody and Cheyenne. The National Parks and ski resorts of Jackson bring visitors, and workers, from all over the world, so it’s definitely more of a mix in Jackson. Once you get out into Wyoming, you’ll see true cowboy country.
Yes, Jackson is known as a ski town. But there’s so much more to do and it would be a shame to miss out just because you don’t ski. You’re close to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, there’s an Elk Refuge, a Playhouse with live performances, a children’s museum, and so much more. Plus, Jackson has several fun bars and restaurants, like the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.
You have to get your picture in front of the antler gates.
Don’t Overestimate Your Skiing Ability
If you do visit Jackson in the winter, don’t overestimate your skill level at skiing. The ski runs in Jackson are not be taken lightly! They are likely much tougher than what you are used to skiing at home; especially if you’re from the Midwest like me!
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Bison or Elk
You’ll see bison and elk on a lot of menus in the Jackson restaurants. It’s not just a tourist gimmick, these are actually meats that the locals hunt and eat. Bison is quickly becoming a “healthier” alternative to ground beef as it has less fat. Bison burgers, bison chili, and elk steaks are a few of the favorites we tried in Jackson.
Don’t Mess With the Animals in Wyoming
Every year, tourists end up on the news because they got too close to the wild animals in Wyoming. Don’t let that happen to you; follow the guidelines that are posted everywhere and handed out in park brochures when you enter the national parks. You’re in a National Park, not a zoo; these animals are wild. They are not tame or friendly with people. The abundance of wildlife also means you need to pay attention while driving as animals can wander into the road at any time.
As we mentioned, Jackson Hole encompasses more than just the town of Jackson. If you get tired of paying high tourist prices, go check out some of the other little towns in the valley. Wilson, Teton Village, Moose, and Moran are just a few other towns you can check out when you visit Jackson Hole.
Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from planning a trip to Jackson Wyoming. It’s a cool town near two of the best national parks, plus so many other places to visit in Wyoming. Want more of our US road trip tips? Check out some of our other blog posts:
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