3 Days Exploring Portland, Maine

If you're dreaming of salty ocean air, postcard-worthy lighthouses, fresh seafood, and charming coastal streets, Portland, Maine deserves a spot on your travel list. I spent three days celebrating my 40th birthday exploring this quintessential New England city, and it quickly won me over with its perfect blend of adventure, history, and waterfront charm.

From pedaling along the coast on a lighthouse bike tour to watching the sun set over Casco Bay on a scenic harbor cruise, every day offered a new perspective of Maine's rugged beauty. In between, we wandered the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, browsed locally owned boutiques and bookstores, indulged in some of the freshest oysters and lobster I've ever had, and never passed up an opportunity to stop and admire the harbor views.

Whether you're planning a girls' getaway, a long weekend, or simply looking for the perfect coastal escape, here's how to spend three unforgettable days in Portland, Maine.

Day One:

Lighthouse Bikes offers a lesiure 5 mile bike tour of two historic sights: Bug Light and Spring Point Light. Along the way guides will tell insightful stories and history, stop for photos and have you ride along iconic picturesqu harbors.

Grab caffine at Matcha Mood. Their menu is a matcha girl's dream, featuring flavors like strawberry, purple ube, black sesame, coconut cloud, Biscoff, yuzu lemonade, and more. You can customize your drink with coffee jelly, order it iced, hot, or blended as a frappe, making it easy to find your perfect matcha mood. I went with the Purple Matcha, an iced matcha with ube and lavender and it was just as delicious as it was photogenic!

Wander around Maine’s first and only all-romance bookstore Grump & Sunshine. Say hi to the bookstore dog Jace and grab your next happily ever afrer read. I went during the World Cup games and got Relationship Goals by Brittany Kelley.

Enjoy a local brew at Austin Street Brewery. Open concept vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating. They are known for their corn dogs and you can do a happy meal on Wednesdays and get a corn dog and beer for a discounted price! I enjoyed a glasss of “After the Glitter Fades” Tart Blonde Ale with Mint & Lime and it was so refreshing!

And right behind the breweryyou will find an indoor mini golf, Mini Bar Golf. We went on a Wednesday because they have 75 cent wings wednesday and $10 all you can play. It was so much fun here, 18 custom-designed mini golf holes, 20 taps pouring local favorites, 32 screens highlighting your favorite sports, and a flavor-filled menu of apps and bar food that will make your mouth water! Some of the holes have games to prompt competition and they have digital score keeping!

Day two

Start the day with famous gourmet potato donuts at Holy Donut! Started by a a visionary single mother, who her apartment kitchen into a donut laboratory fueled by a desire to offer a healthier donut that she felt comfortable sharing with her daughter. With so many fun flavors to try, I opted for the Lavendar donut!

Have shopping be your cardio on Commercial Street along the harbor. There are so many cute shops owned by local artisans. You can find clothing, jewlery, things for the home, souveiners and snacks along the way. Some of my favorites Old Port Cardworks, Casco Bay Artisans, and others along the way!

Lunch at Highroller is a must! Known for their lobster rolls and beer, the menu has also expanded to include oysters, red snappah red hot dogs, grilled cheese, whoppie pies and more! We opted for hot lobster rolls with butter, red hot dogs, chicken nuggets and a variety of fries.

Test your skills at the Arcadia barcade, there are an assortment of vintage video games, skeeball, claw machines, pinball and so much more in this two story barcade. There is also a full bar, with some fun cocktail options and food items like pizza, hot dogs, and sweets! You can win tickets to claim a prize at the end too!

The views of the harbor are spectacular but what better way to see everything than by water? We booked a 7pm Susnset Cruise of Casco Bay and it was breathtaking! They have a bar on board to bring drinks and we brought snacks. There is a roof observation deck with rows of chairs, there are tables and chairs in a covered area on the main deck and you can wander around the boat to take all the pictures!

If you take a cruise from the main pier, walking distance you can get the best Italian food at ViA VECCHiA. Located in an iconic brick and ivy covered building overlooking cobblestone streets, it has the perfect evening out vibe. All of their wine is imported but our server was so knowledgeable in helping each of of find something that went well with our meal and that we would love! The focaccia and aranchini is a nonnegotiable to start with, both were amazing! The chicken marsala and campanelle were table favorites but everything was fresh, flavorful and delicous!

Day three

Tandem Coffee in the West End, get there early there is always a line becuase the coffee and freshly baked goods are amazing. This place was so good, we went every single morning! They are known for their buscuits and for good reason! I had to have the loaded savory: Buttermilk biscuit with Fredrikson Farm goat cheese and house made tomato jam and it was 100/10! They also have cookies, scones, pie and quiche!

Relax on Portland’s only public beach, Eastern Promenade. The pebbly waterfront is popular for kayaking, launching boats, and enjoying sweeping views of Casco Bay, all just a 15-minute walk from downtown.

Shipyard Brewing & Tasting Room was a great stop for the group, lots of seating and a variety of drink options. Beers on tap, prosecco or vodka, CBD or THC drinks and sodas give a wide range so everyone can find something. I mixed their Blue Lobster Prosecco with the Blueberry Seltzer with 10mg of CBD for a relaxing refreshing drink.

I love to stumble upon art and when we found a street and alley filled with murals it became the backdrop of so many photos!

The Grill Room & Bar needs to be on the list if only for the best espresso martinis! This urban steakhouse has a great vibe and the bar was so much fun! The staff was fantastic, bartenders made the best drinks, shoutout to Karl! Another favorite was the Maine Blueberry Gin & Tonic but they also have a mocktail list and variety of beers. They are known for their beef tartare and steak but also have oysters, pizza, and lobster mashed potatoes that were great!

A Perfect Day in Ponce: Rum, Art & Island Charm

Most travelers head straight to San Juan, and while it’s iconic, the south side of the island has its own kind of magic that’s absolutely worth exploring.

Ponce, known as the “Pearl of the South” (La Perla del Sur), is rich in history, full of stunning architecture, vibrant plazas, and surrounded by beautiful beaches. It’s the kind of place that feels both cultural and colorful, where every corner tells a story and the pace invites you to truly take it all in.

To start your adventure, head straight to the heart of the city — the plaza. In Ponce, that’s Plaza Las Delicias — the historic and vibrant centerpiece of downtown, and truly a must-see.

Surrounded by colorful colonial architecture and anchored by beautiful fountains, the plaza is where the city’s culture comes to life. By day, you’ll find local food and art vendors lining the square; by night, it transforms with live music, energy, and a lively community atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to slow down, take it all in, and experience the rhythm of Ponce.

Just beyond the plaza, you’ll find one of Ponce’s most iconic landmarks, Parque de Bombas. This striking red-and-black wooden building, originally built in 1882, was Puerto Rico’s first firehouse and now serves as a museum.

Its bold colors make it impossible to miss, and stepping inside feels like a walk through history, with preserved photos, vintage uniforms, and original firefighting tools on display. Best part? It’s free to visit, making it an easy and worthwhile stop as you explore the city

While exploring the plazas, one stop you can’t miss is a piragua stand! A piragua is a traditional Puerto Rican treat made of hand-shaved ice, packed into a cone or pyramid shape and topped with vibrant, fruit-flavored syrups. Sold by street vendors known as piragüeros — they’re a staple on hot island days and part of the local culture.

I went for guava, but the piragüero insisted I try a classic: tamarindo. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it has a deeper, more tart taste that’s less sugary than most and honestly, the combination was perfect. Refreshing, flavorful, and exactly what you need while strolling through the city in the heat

Another cultural gem is the Museo de Arte de Ponce (MAP), the largest art museum in the Caribbean and one of Puerto Rico’s most important cultural institutions, often tied to the city’s nickname, “The Pearl of the South.”

Founded in 1959 by Luis A. Ferré, the museum houses an impressive collection of European Baroque, Victorian, and Puerto Rican art, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Unfortunately, during my visit it was closed. The main building has been undergoing repairs following the 2020 earthquakes and additional storm-related damage. It’s definitely worth checking ahead for updates, because when it reopens, it’s a highlight you won’t want to miss

The highlight of our trip was driving up into the mountains for a tour at the Don Q Distillery and it was absolutely worth it 🍹🇵🇷

For $60, you get a 1.5-hour experience that includes a behind-the-scenes tour and a hands-on mixology class. We sampled rum straight from the barrel, explored the original Serrallés family home, and learned how to craft two classic Puerto Rican cocktails. It’s equal parts history, culture, and fun.

Don Q has been produced by Destilería Serrallés in Ponce since 1865 and is now the #1 selling rum on the island. Known for its smooth, light-bodied, molasses-based spirits and commitment to sustainability, the brand offers everything from aged selections like Reserva 7 to a variety of flavored rums.

And if you ask me, the flavored rums are a must. Don Q Coco is elite and hands down the best for making coquito during the holidays

Pages, Pints & Public Art: A Milwaukee Guide

There’s something about fall in the Midwest that just feels different, in the best way. Coming from Florida, where seasons don’t quite happen, this felt like stepping into a whole new world. The crisp air, the leaves turning shades of gold and red, the excuse to layer up, it all felt like a cozy little dream.

The original plan was to go to a book con event, but that got cancelled. Thankfully, The Well Red Damsel, a romance bookstore, had recently opened and filled the void to create the cutest book crawl!

The trip to Wauwatosa is worth it just to stop in and see the aesthetics: 6429 W North Ave, Wauwatosa (women owned & LGBTQ+)

Milwaukee is known for their beer, so for science we had to explore the local breweries and try all the styles!

Lakefront Brewing 1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee: top choice they have such a fun brewery tour and cheese curd of the month flavors. My favorite was the Hazy Rabbit, flaked oats give a creamy mouthfeel, while heaps of Mosaic, El Dorado, Azacca, and Cashmere dry hops saturate every juicy swig with ripe citrus and tropical fruit flavors.

Eagle Park Brewing there is an MKE location but we went to S64 W15640 Commerce Center Pkwy in Muskego: cool vibe inside, you order from QR codes on the table. Try a flight.they have fun flavors like Goon Juice: this beer is loaded with aromas of bubble gum, tangerine, papaya, and a touch of pine.

Explorium Brew Pub 143 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee: connected to a mall, both indoor and outdoor seating. Blueberry and Strawberry cheesecake sour beers were my top choice. If you are adventurous, try the hot dog beer, it’s an American Lager.

The art scene is thriving in Milwaukee and such a variety for all pallets:

Milwaukee Museum of Art 700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee: $30 but on Thursdays from 4p - 8p it’s donation based. Nearly 35,000 pieces on display.

Black Cat Alley E Ivanhoe Pl, Milwaukee: alley way filled with murals up and down multiple building

David Barnett Gallery 1024 E State St, Milwaukee: Nationally recognized and featured over 600 different artists

Bronze Fonz Statue on N riverwalk way: Public artwork by Gerald P. Sawyer, located on the Milwaukee Riverwalk. The Bronze Fonz depicts Henry Winkler as "The Fonz," a character in the 1970s television series Happy Days, which was set in Milwaukee.

And for the first time ever, I got to go apple picking…a true bucket list moment I didn’t realize I’d love so much. There’s just something special about slowing down, being in the moment, and experiencing a season you don’t get back home.

A Bravo Style Afternoon

I’m a certified Bravoholic, give me The Real Housewives and Vanderpump Rules and I’m fully in my element. So while I was staying in Manhattan Beach, I skipped the chaos of Downtown LA and made it my mission to explore the iconic, drama-filled corners of Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and the Hollywood Hills, aka the real-life backdrop of some of my favorite Bravo moments.

Beverly Hills

We were so lucky that the "The Great Elephant Migration", a traveling exhibit of 100 wooden elephants, was in town! The Beverly Garden Park is so beautiful and often times is showcasing public art. I of course had to see the iconic Beverly Hills sign, the spiral staircase from Clueless and walk up Rodeo Drive like I was in Pretty Woman!

Need a caffeine pick me up? Stop in to Cha Cha Matcha!

West Hollywood (WeHo)

The ultimate Vanderpump trifecta!

Lunch at There’s Something About Her, Dinner at Sur and Drinks at TomTom. I do a deeper dive into what I ordered here.

Hollywood Hills

If you have one touristy moment, you have to see the Hollywood Sign! It’s also so much fun to drive up the winding hills and see all the gorgeous houses!

On the way we did some shopping and checked out local galleries. My favorite was the Glossier store!

Baltimore on the Water

Baltimore is a city on the water known for amazing seafood but you have to get ON the water to get a really fun perspective of the city and explore the Inner Harbor!

A friend of mine, who is local, recommended the group of us take an Urban Pirate Booze Cruise and it ended up being one of the most fun parts of our trip!

We opted for the BYOG - Bring Your Grog! For about $30 you get to climb aboard a huge fun pirate ship and you can bring your own drinks (glass, bottles, cans, plastic cups etc.) and a cooler to drink and party for about an hour. This is VERY interactive, so be ready!

The pirate crew will give everyone fun (& a lil naughty) names to set the tone for a wild ride. There are random games, drinking related, music and pirate themed adventures up and down the harbor.

Feel free to dress up and they also sell some themed attire, I ended up with a cute pirate hat headband!

Exploring SoCo Austin

South Congress Avenue is a vibrant neighborhood south of Lady Bird Lake is a must-stroll for visitors and a popular hangout for locals. SoCo oozes homespun character with unique boutiques, restaurants, galleries and music venues.

“Shopping is always a good idea”

Allen Boots - 1522 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | For over 45 years Allen Boots has been making cowboy boot dreams come true! Get matched with the perfect pair for ranchin’, dancin’, or whatever trouble you’re ready to kick up while in Texas!

Kendra Scott Flagship Store - 1701 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | The OG Flagship store, which has some fun extras. Make sure to grab some coffee or a treat at their original cafe. In additional to the typical KS jewelry this store has the yellow gold collection in partnership with Wrangler and hat customization.

Limbo Jewelry Boutique - 1708 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Modern boutique with local jewelry and chic custom items.

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“You don’t need a silver fork to eat good food. ”

Torch’y Tacos - An Austin staple (now chain) serving up Mexican street food style tacos with a variety of options and flavors. Make sure to get the queso too!

Hopdaddy Burger Bar - 1400 S Congress Ave Suite A190, Austin, TX 78704

Home Slice Pizza - 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Thin crust, New York Style pizza. Carry out or enjoy dining on the picnic tables outside with a view of Congress Ave.

Amy’s Ice Cream - 1301 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Cute and quirky local ice cream shop. Fun flavor combinations, vegan options available, window service only.

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“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see”

Mi Casa Gallery - 1700 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Store and art gallery highlighting the Mexican culture. Great option for unique souvenirs rich in history.

Big Top Candy Store - 1706 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Circus themed old school candy and soda shop. The nostalgia vibes are so fun in here and grab your favorite sweet treat while looking around at the posters and art.

Austin Locks - 1912 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704 | Grab a lock at Prima Dona and you can write yours and your sweeties initials on it and lock it on this chain link display out back in the parking lot!

Clermont Charm

Clermont is a city in Lake County, Florida, about 22 miles west of Orlando and all the theme parks. It was just about a 44 min drive for me so great option for a day trip!

Citrus Tower

One of Florida’s first “attractions,” the Citrus Tower was built in 1956 stands 226 ft or 22 stories.

At the base of the tower is a very cute coffee shop and lounge area. You can take a ride up the elevator to the top observation deck for $11. There are 360 degree views at the top of the tower that highlight the city in each direction. There are chairs to sit and enjoy the view and a ledge to bring your coffee to hangout.

Presidents Hall of Fame

Very unique road side attraction. The building itself looks like a mini White House and just next to it is a mini replica of Mount Rushmore!

When you walk inside you are greeted by Abe Lincoln! You will find so many unique items from each president and first lady. The main attraction is the replica of the White House. Similar to that of a larger dollhouse each room is decorated. Very interesting to see how each president decorated the oval office during their term as well.

Gastropub

I read a lot of great reviews on yelp about the Crooked Spoon! A must is one of their burgers! I went with the 420 burger: Florida Angus beef, Swiss, candied bacon, fried onion ring, pineapple relish, honey mustard aioli, brioche bun. I subbed the honey mustard for their raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce and had a side of fries. SO VERY GOOD!

Mini Food Hall

This is a shop local gem! There are about 10-15 vendors inside. Ranging from plants, jewelry, to snacks, Boba or desserts. Each booth has a little seating and there are places to sit outside too.

Comic Controllers

Old school soda shoppe. Cheesecake. Video games. Random mix yet totally perfect! Cosmic controllers is also home to Pop Culture Soda Shoppe & Sweet Cups Chef.

I went it and had to try one of their floats. A TV scrolls of a photo of each one of their creations. I went with the Lil Orange Bird. Orange cream soda, vanilla ice cream, sunshine, whipped cream and sprinkles. They are places on one of a kind Lisa Frank inspired coasters and you can sit at a high top surrounded by the pastels of a soda shop. Along the counter you can stop by and grab homemade cookies or cheesecakes in a jar. The flavor combinations are unique and delicious! The rest of the location is dedicated to the video games you can play for free. Old school style treats or for sale in addition to gaming items.

Day Trip to Sanford, FL

Quaint little town north of Orlando and on the water. There are so many cute little local spots to explore.

Downtown

I love finding quaint downtowns that are filled with restaurants, shops and hidden gems. the area is very walkable and there is a lot of free street parking around. There is also a central square that is usually filled with vendors on the weekends.

Beer

There are so many cute local breweries in the area. If you love beer, enjoy a mini pub crawl! Start at Wop’s Hops, then Sanford Brewing, then Celery City, then Deviant Wolfe!

Celery City

I decided to checkout Celery City since it was in the area I was walking around and shopping. I enjoyed one of their sours. It was a great blend with hints of citrus. There is bar seating, high tops and outside picnic tables. There is a little sushi place attached if you want to grab food too.

Shopping

So many cool local shops here. There is also a lot of art influence so great unique options! I really loved Magpies. Cute jewelry, clothing, accessories, things for the house and unique gifts! They had a sale and I got so many things for under $20!

Street Art

I loved finding this mural on the wall in the alley next to Hollerbach’s near Magpies. There was also a super fun art project done late 2020 called Wings of Sanford and some of the mural wings are still up. See my post on that here.

Sanford Museum

There is a lot of history on this little city and the railroad. This museum is by donation so make sure to donate to keep them going! It is broken up into 3 rooms with various exhibits on the town, famous athletes from Sanford and lots of cool history facts.

Food

Henry’s Depot is such a cool food hall! Love this kind of concept! You can get a variety of options for the best meal! I started with Oak Flame Pizza and it was fantastic! I had the Floridian and I may already be dreaming of another! It's their take on the classic margherita with citrus infused ricotta, orange zest and baby tomatoes! The blend of the citrus flavors was a great pop! So fresh!

I made sure to leave room for The Greenery Creamery. They have both Dairy and Non-Dairy Selections of ice cream! I was going to do for the cookie monster but the girl told me about this chocolate and peanut butter flavor that had a limited run so I knew I had to try it before the season was over. I am so glad I did, it was the perfect sweet treat.

I can't wait to come back!

Sightseeing in Savannah

A city filled with Southern Charm! I celebrated my birthday here with friend and we had such a great time with so much to do and see all weekend!

SCAD Museum of Art

A contemporary art museum that features both emerging and established artists. I loved that they had an entire space for SCAD alumni! When I went, Monica Cioppettini was on display and it was one of my favorite exhibits! General admission is $10 and worth so much more! Plan to stay at least an hour to go through all the exhibit halls and speak with docents about the behind the pieces, so interesting!

Prohibition Museum

Get transported back to the early 1900’s! Learn about the history behind the 18th amendment and walk along the journey of the dry times. The museum closes into a cute little speakeasy were you can grab drinks! I recommend doing the museum ticket with the drink!

Riverfront

Savannah has a beautiful riverfront. It’s the place to check out! Lots of restaurants and shops all up and down the road. You can also see cargo ships go by, its very impressive! There is also live music on the weekend which was so much fun! Make sure to dine outside or have drink on one of the rooftops.

Yoga on the River

We were so happy to see that New Yoga Now was doing classes outside on the lawn in front of the river! It was so nice and peaceful. Only $15, reservations online here.

JW Marriott

I wish we stayed here! A brand new property on the east end of the Riverfront. The inside is like a museum that features gem stones and dinosaur bones! Bonus inside you will find an art gallery and many bars and restaurants!

Grand Boheme Gallery

Located inside the JW Marriott this is a must stop if you enjoy art! Small gallery packed with wonderful pieces of many different mediums and all for sale!

Paris Market

A cute two story shop that brings you to Paris in the 1920’s. It is so quaint! You will find jewelry, perfume, and other accessories on the main level and things for the home on the bottom level. There is also a very cute French café on the main level if you want a croissant, coffee or a macaroon!

Botanical Garden

This is about 15min away from the main downtown but was such a nice excursion! The gardens are free to enter and roam. There were so many little paths and flowers blooming. We went during rose season. There is also a small lake with a fountain and different places to sit, relax, sketch!

Starland Yard

I was headed to the two tide brewery and read about Starland Yard being next door with food trucks but had no idea how cute the entire area was! There are tons of shops and walls of street art! So much fun to walk around and explore! It’s about a 10min drive from the main downtown area and seems where the locals hangout so it was a great hidden gem to find!

Cathedral

This church was stunning both outside and inside. I recommend checking the schedule to see when mass takes place so that you can go inside when there is not a service and really walk around and admire the art and architecture. You can also say a prayer and light a candle for $2 which was special.

Parks

There are so many small little parks and squares all over the downtown area. It’s a nice break from the southern heat to find a cute shaded area with benches. Some had fountains too which was very relaxing.

Food

There is so much great southern food here and the craft cocktail game is strong as well! A made a whole blog post dedicated to showcasing everything I ate and drank here.

Immerse yourself in Downtown St. Pete, FL

Some people come for the beaches but I came to St. Pete for the foodie and arts scene praised by Travel & Leisure.

Murals

There are hundreds of Murals in the downtown area. If you love street art you are in luck! Some of my favorites are detailed here in this post.

Salvador Dali Museum

This museum is home to the largest collection of the surrealist’s work outside of Spain! Located right on the water in a very unique style building! When I went masks were required the entire time. I also purchased the $25 ticket to get into the Dali and the special Van Gogh exhibit. There are indoor exhibit spaces and then an outside courtyard with installations.

Experience Van Gogh

This was a separate special event and for $25 we had access to the museum before/ after the timed experience. The walls and floor had projected images and music played throughout. It was about an hour to see the entire experience.

Morean Arts Center

Is also known as the Art Club of St. Petersburg, focuses on an innovative, community-oriented approach to art and art education. There are art classes on site, exhibit space to view local art and summer camps for kids. Free to view.

Chihuly

This collection presented by the Morean Arts Center and located across the street. This is a stunning, permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly's unique glass artwork. Tickets are $20 and they close at 5pm. Plan for about 30-40 minutes to see all the pieces and take photos.

Baseball

Sports fans rejoice! Downtown St. Pete is home to the Tampa Bay Rays. If you go during baseball season you have to check out a Ray's game! The stadium is enclosed so you can enjoy the game in an air conditioned stadium! Fun food option, you can get popcorn in a large helmet! When I went, masks were required inside.

St. Pete Pier

A new attraction in the area. The views are amazing! If you go on the weekend get their early to score parking before the lots fill up. There are a few public art installations and a Farmers market on Saturday.

Shopping

There are tons of cute shops up and down Central and the core of Downtown St. Pete. My favorites were ZaZoo’d (pictured here) for some fun and eclectic gifts, Vladamir’s which was a unique Russian store, and Sip, Shop Hooray which is a boutique and bar!

Hotel

Need a place to stay? We stayed at the Avalon (443 4th Ave N) which was right in the heart of downtown and walking distance from so much! We also had access to the sister hotel next door the Hollander which had a nice pool, patio area, bar and restaurant.

Food & Drinks

Looking for food & drink options check out my blog on all my favorite finds here.

An afternoon in Mt Dora, Florida

Just north of Orlando, is a cute little town close to many popular springs - Mt Dora. I heard of a few interesting things to do in the area and decided to make an afternoon trip one weekend.

Parking is free but gets full on the streets quickly. I was lucky and found a little lot right next to my first destination, the Van Gogh House.

Van Gogh House

A local Florida couple decided to paint their entire house look like van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’! It is amazing to see! The detail is beautiful and very whimsical! Remember it is private property so be mindful when taking photos.

Street Art

As I was walking down 5th I came across a cute little alleyway with a pretty butterfly mural! I also saw some dumpsters with accent walls with art too!

Art Galleries

As I was walking down the street I was happy to see so many mom and pop shops selling handmade jewelry, art and sculptures. Many of the artists are there in shop so you can hear the stories behind the pieces and learn about the inspirational process.

Wave Sushi

I saw so much buzz about this place on Instagram and on Yelp, I knew I had to try the unique and photographable sushi!

One of my favorite unique ways to have sushi is a sushi burrito! I knew I had to try that one. You can have them standard or deep fried. I tried to save the calories and had it regular. I went with the spicy tuna. The fish is so fresh and the flavors just pop! Something to be mindful of, a lot of those fun character sushi (like the yoda, pokemon, spongebob have to made by the head chef and could take up to an hour - oh and they are pricey up to $75 each!) . I went with a unique lower priced item - the mosaic square sushi roll ($20). They had one rainbow for pride but mine was a blue variant and almost too pretty to eat! They also have fun items like a sushi pizza, a sushi crunchwrap as well as traditional sushi rolls you might be used to!

Modernism Museum

This is such a unique museum which focuses on the power of art and design on how they ignite the imagination!

Currently on display was Space Oddities” The Sequel the Ultimate David Bowie Memphis Collection.

David Bowie was one of the most radical figures in recent popular culture. Memphis, founded under the leadership of Ettore Sottsass in Milan in 1981, was the most radical of all design groups. This exhibition brings them together. I was not very familiar with Memphis but after watchign the 15min intro video I realized I had seen their work often and gave me such a better appreciation for the exhibit I was about to see.

Bowie built up an extensive body of Memphis work over the years and this exhibition is the largest gathering of Memphis objects ever presented in an American museum, over 75 examples. The museum has one main gallery space but plan to give yourself about 30mins to wander and appreciate the pieces.

There were a few coffee shops, restaurants and art galleries I did not get a chance to go explore, so I will definitely come back for another afternoon!

Exploring Plant City, Florida

Located off I-4 near Tampa Bay, Plant City is a small town with big flavors!

Keel Farms

Winery, Brewery, Restaurant. A little off the beaten past but this is a gem you need to make time for! This family owned and operated farm started in 1981, added wine in 2003 and then ale + cider in 2013.  If you want to do a tasting make sure to call in advance to make a reservation.Each tour includes a trolley ride and a behind-the-scenes experience to learn more about the winery and brewery every Saturday and Sunday.  I didn't know this in advance so all the slots were full. I was able to just grab a seat at the bar and order a flight and make my own tasting with more wine!

Sweet Wine

Florida is known for its sweet wines and Keel has a speciality in blueberry wine and the area is known for its strawberries so berry wines are the stars of the show! For the wine tasting you get to pick 6 wines (or if you chose the beer and cider tasting you can mix either of those for a total of 6 drinks). Unfortunately the Blueberry sangria was out by the time I arrived so I ordered: Sangria, Wild Berry Pinot Noir, Dry Blueberry, Blueberry Raspberry Merlot, Strawberry Riesling. I really enjoyed the Wild Berry Pinot Noir and the Blueberry Raspberry Merlot.

The Farm

If you have kids they have a really cute playground area. You can also walk around and see some farm animals and the sunflower field! There are seasons for u-pick sunflowers, blueberries, peaches and strawberries. I came at the end of May which was the end of the season.

Mural

On my way to my next stop I wanted to check out this fun rainbow mural. Located on the side of a storage unit in a small strip plaza not far from Parksdale at 4288 US-92.

Parksdale Market

Plant City is known for strawberries and Parksdale Market is the place to check out. Open Wednesday to Sunday, you can get fresh fruits and veggies and they have a stand selling sweet treats. I really wanted the strawberry shortcake but they didn't have any so I went for the strawberry shake. It was creamy and delicious! I heard the strawberry sundae is also a great option! There is a nice outdoor covered seating area and a small gift shop behind.

Water Tower

Before leaving I wanted to see the strawberry shaped water tower. Located next to a little baseball field. 2602 E. Cherry Street

Southern Hill Fams

It’s Fall Y’all! Even though the weather still doesn’t change up much here in Florida, I still enjoying putting on my plaid shirt, some boots and head outside for all things FALL!

The Farm

A family run business, Southern Hills Farm is currently run by the 4th generation of farmers. Southern Hill Farms has now become a destination within Clermont and the Greater Orlando.

Sunflowers

Try and get to the sunflower field first and early in the day if you can! It can get crowded and the pictures look amazing when no one is in the background. The field is beautiful and so many flowers! The sea of bright yellow throughout the fields is truly a magical sight to see. The harvest is spring and fall, during the U-pick events you can take home your favorite flowers. Pick up a pair of scissors for flower cutting and find the perfect home to take home in the bouquet bags. Flower are $2 each.

Blueberry Picking

There are 40 acres of blueberry bushes on the farm. The blueberries were solely commercially harvested until 2014, when they decided to open the farm for their community to enjoy. The blueberry harvest is from mid-March through May. You can come to the farm and pick your own blueberries. After the harvest you can still snag some Blueberry mimosas during the fall festival! I opted for the larger glass that comes with a commemorative mason jar to take home.

Food Options

On the weekends they bring in a variety of Food trucks. When I went I got the most amazing elote corn on the cob! There are usually 4-5 different options of food trucks and a covered pavilion with picnic tables to eat.

During the seasonal spring and fall u-pick seasons you can grab amazing SHF sweet treats like blueberry or peach cobbler and apple cider donuts. These desserts are worth the wait in long lines. Everything is freshly made using items grown on the farm.

Make sure to check them out throughout the various seasons! So much fun!

San Antonio Travel Guide

San Antonio is a city rich in history, bursting with culture, and booming with modern attractions, discover what’s old and explore what’s new! I took a trip to this Texas city in late 2017 on a whim and was so pleasantly surprised with how much there was to do!

Bike Tours

If you have followed me for awhile you know I love to blend fitness and adventure. I try to find a bike tour in every city I visit. I think it is such a fun way to explore a new place and get a great workout in. I found Cycling San Antonio. They promote a casual bike ride through the world heritage historic missions. For $85 a person you get a tour guide to take you around the missions for five hours. It was amazing! I learned so much about San Antonio’s history, had a chance to take so many amazing pictures and we biked over 10 miles.

Historic Missions

You might know the phrase, “Remember the Alamo”. The Alamo is a huge part of San Antonio’s history. You can visit the historic grounds and church for free, but I recommend taking one of the guided tours. I got a tour included with my bike tour, which was great! While everyone thinks of The Alamo, I was much more impressed with the other missions, especially Mission Concepcion. It is the oldest unrestored church in America. Make sure to see the beautiful original fresco paintings and awe inspiring architecture which has stood the test of time.

RiverWalk

The River Walk is an area that is so uniquely San Antonio! If you can, try to stay at a hotel on or very close to the River Walk. This is a 15 mile urban waterway system that created an entire neighborhood just below street level along the Paseo de Rio. It is great to walk along the river, shop in the stores, enjoy dining with a view or a hop on a river boat! In my food blog for San Antonio, I will share some of my favorite restaurants.

Historic Market Square

Because of San Antonio’s close proximity, there is so much Mexican influence in this city. The Historic Market Square was one of my favorite places to visit. A three block outdoor plaza has shops and restaurants is the largest Mexican market in the US. There are two parts to the square, you have 32 specialty shops in “El Mercado” and 80 shops in the “Farmer’s Market Plaza”. I found so many unique and authentic gifts to bring back home. I also enjoyed the art and speaking to the artists. Open daily at 10am, but the weekend is a much more lively experience with live music and entertainment. I watched local schools perform Mexican dances, it was beautiful!

514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207

San Fernando Cathedral

I really enjoy seeing historic buildings, especially churches. The San Fernando Cathedral is spectacular, but what makes it even more of an attraction is it’s display at night! Yes, at night! A beautiful light display is projected onto the facade of the cathedral depicting a visual art installation. “The Saga” is the story and history of San Antonio and is accompanied by lively music as well. You can catch the show every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays at 9:00 p.m., 9:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Murals

The area is so rich in culture especially in the arts. Street art is one of my favorite mediums. I think local outdoor art brings a new life into a community. Many of the artists bring their Mexican heritage to their pieces, so I really enjoyed seeing that in the streets. There are quite a few murals on Guadalupe Street clustered together and easy to walk to.

Spurs

Immerse yourself in the local sports! The San Antonio Spurs are the local NBA team and this town has spirit! I found so many flags, signs and even murals showing the basketball team all the love. If you visit during the season, try to catch a game at the AT&T Center which is just west of downtown. If you can’t get tickets, try one of the local sports bars to catch the game and join in with local fans cheering on the team! Crazy J’s is right across the street and still within the heart of the arena district but if you want to stay closer to downtown try one of the local brew pubs like Blue Star Brewing of Bier Garten.

Aquarium

For just $16 for adults and $11 for children you can spend a fun filled afternoon at the San Antonio Aquarium. While not the largest attraction, the San Antonio Aquarium has not only tanks of cold water fish, tropical fish, sharks, and string rays but hundreds of reptiles and birds as well! One of the best parts of this place, is that they encourage interaction! You can purchase tokens to do animal feedings or have an animal encounter (starting at just $3). I fed the turtles and went into the aviary to feed the birds. I wish they had the lemur when I was there because that looks amazing!

The Pearl

The Pearl is the perfect example of how the right mixed use project can totally transform a neighborhood! Former brewery (from 1883 to 2001), the 22-acre Pearl site is home to The Culinary Institute of America, San Antonio, the year-round Pearl Farmers Market, Hotel Emma and a variety of restaurants and shops.

The Farmers Market is amazing, so many local vendors set up shop each weekend. Make sure to come hungry, so much good food! There are also a lot of handmade items like soaps, jewelry and things for the home. After browsing the market, you can check out a variety of little shops in the area, pop into a coffee shop or sit down for a meal.

Make sure to check the event calendar before you go. They usually have fitness events on Tuesday, like Pilates at Pearl. I had such a great (and free) class and made some very sweet friends! The local community is amazing!

Japanese Tea Garden

Japanese Tea Garden is a great free and relaxing option during travel. The restored garden features a lush year-round garden and a floral display with shaded walkways, stone bridges, a 60-foot waterfall and ponds filled with Koi. I had a great time walking around, admiring the lush greenery and taking pictures. There are places to sit all around the garden which is so peaceful. The Japanese Tea Garden is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk and is wheelchair accessible.

Witte Museum

Learn about nature, science and culture at the Witte Museum. Admission is $14 for adults. This museum is everything Texas. A replica of a giant Quetzalcoatlus will greet you as you enter the H-E-B Lantern. You can walk around and see a remarkable collection of South Texas historical artifacts.

Tower of Americas

I find it really cool to see a new city from a variety of perspectives, so everytime there is a tower I have to check it out. I heard the Tower of the Americas is popular and can get very busy, so I made sure to be there at 10am when they opened. This helped avoid a long line up to the observation deck and less people in the background of photos. For $14.50 you can have unlimited access to Observation Deck, Flags Over Texas & the 4D Theater Ride! Since I got there so early, they were not ready to get people up in the elevator so I tried the 4D ride. There were 3 different kinds that rotate throughout the day. It might have been a 5 to 10 minute experience similar to a low budget Disney 4D ride where the chairs move. If you get motion sickness you may want to skip this. When I finally got to go up to the tower, I got a chance to see some great views of the city. San Antonio is not a city filled with high rises like Chicago or New York so the views are a little different, but still a cool experience.

739 E. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd San Antonio, TX 78205

Dia de los Muertos

I was so fortunate that my trip was during Dia de los Muertos. As I mentioned, there is so much Mexican influence in San Antonio. I was able to see so many ofrenda tables (altars made by families of their loved ones who passed away). There were also a few exhibits dedicated to this holiday, explaining the significance. If you can try to make your trip around November first or second to experience the celebration of life.

I felt very safe in San Antonio. A majority of the area was very clean. I was able to navigate to many places by walking, which was great to enjoy the sights on the street. I started to use uber to get to some places just outside of Downtown but then stumbled upon VIA Metropolitan Transit, local VIA bus fares are $1.30 (15¢ for a transfer). What is even better are the Viva routes, like Viva Culture which take you to almost all of the local cultural attractions! It was perfect and affordable while traveling.

NYC Travel Guide

New York City is one of my favorite cities! It is a mecca of food, culture and shopping! I have been to The City many times, so I rounded up some of my favorites and to make it easier, organized by neighborhood. 

SoHo & Chelsea

In front of the shopping area of the Hudson Yards you will find The Vessel a new landmark, which is a spiral staircase meant to be climbed. This interactive artwork was imagined by Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio as a focal point where people can enjoy new perspectives of the city and one another from different heights, angles and vantage points. Keep in mind, to climb the Vessel you need to have tickets. You can reserve tickets 14 days in advance online or try for same day tickets starting at 9:30am. They seem to sell out so quickly!

Pietro Nolita (174 Elizabeth St) is an all pink restaurant! Go there for the gram, it’s beautiful! Food is authentic Italaian, pretty pricey but not bad for lunch! They also sell cute pink shirts, hats and stickers to commemorate your visit! The place is a little small so try to go on off hours if you can to avoid a long wait.

Flying Tiger (920 Broadway) is a fun eclectic items for your office, craft room or just in general if you are a fan of stationary! The place has an Ikea style model where you wander through a path that will ultimately take you to the register. I was able to get some super cute stickers and note cards for my planner. I also grabbed a sharpener for my desk and some silly props for a friends upcoming birthday (think tiara, sash the works). They also have items for the home and electronics.

Times Square & Hells Kitchen

Summertime in the city means it's rooftop season! One of my favorites was Haven (132 W 47th St), located on the top of the Sanctuary Hotel and offers stunning views over the city in the theater district. Perfect location for a place to go right before a Broadway show. I also loved Cantina (605 W 48th)! Cantina is a modern Mexican restaurant and much more lively than Haven. Perfect for Happy Hour! For HH you can get $8 Margaritas, wine or sangria. There is also Taco Tuesday specials and Wednesday they have big ass margaritas and big ass tacos for parties of 8. The views here are also great!

Hu Kitchen (78 5th Ave) is a dairy free girl's dream come true. I knew I loved Hu when I discovered the wonderful chocolate bar at Whole Foods. Hu Kitchen’s local restaurant in NYC allows for healthy eating on the go with a food hall style establishment. I went with a make your own quinoa bowl, a Hu chocolate bar and kombucha!

Matcha lattes are all the craze but mix that with a beautiful aesthetic and you have a winning combination! ChaCha Matcha (1158 Broadway) uses ceremonial ground matcha, so all the benefits of the calm focus and calorie burn without the jitters. There are various drinks with matcha from lattes, lemonade or chai as well as classic coffee drinks, cold brew and espresso.

Chinatown

Shanghai Heping Restaurant (104 Mott St) has THE BEST SOUP DUMPLINGS! Keep in mind, CASH ONLY. This is a solid Chinatown joint you have to try out! Prices are amazing, and the Pork Steamed Dumplings are where it's at! You can get 8 of them for only $4.95. This is perfect for one person, easily.

Milk & Cream Cereal Bar (159 Mott St.) is a super cute little shop with so many photo opportunities before you even get to the counter to order, so be ready! If you thought ice cream was an amazing treat wait until you pair it with your favorite cereal, that's another level. BUT they don't just pair it, Milk & Cream infused and mixes it in the ice cream! The portions are huge but who wants to share ice cream!

I love finding unique food while I travel. I read about a Sushi burrito and knew I had to have one! I used to always go to Poketown in Chinatown but they closed the location I went to. I would recommend trying Great Wall Chinese (384 Grand St) which is a little more east in the lower east side but worth it! You can pick your favorites to go inside the roll like a poke bowl but they roll it all into a burrito and make sushi a hands free treat!

Brooklyn

Hop on the subway and escape the city and head over to Brooklyn if you have some extra time!

There you will find the most instagramable corner! Washington and Water Streets in Dumbo is the perfect spot for a picture! It is a beautiful view of the Brooklyn Bridge, NYC in the far background and the frame of the picture are two old classic buildings.

Jane's Carousel is a carved, wooden, 48-horse carousel that was built in 1922 housed in a beautiful glass enclosure out of the elements. For just $2 a ride, enjoy all the nostalgia! Located on Old Dock Street.

Fitness

Central Park has multiple running routes and trails that vary by difficulty. It is a vast green oasis in the middle of a bustling city, the views are amazing. You will find so many people running in and around the park throughout the day. There are multiple run clubs and run tours if you are looking to make new friends or not run alone. Depending on the time of year, there is also sunrise yoga or pilates classes offered in the park.

305 Fitness (18 W 8th St) is a Miami inspired dance cardio class. I just had to include this one, being able to enjoy the 305 in NYC was a dream come true for me! Can we take a moment to realize this is located on Calle Ocho? How Miami is that? Live DJ in each class, it is a nonstop dance party! 305 Fitness is making sweat sexy nationwide!

trampoLEAN (37 W 26th St Fl 9) is not your typical workout, while it is is focused on posterior muscles like glutes/hamstrings/rear delts, but the workout was actually full-body HIIT style class on a mini trampoline.

A unique once a year class is Solstice Yoga in Times Square! Take a free yoga class in the middle of Times Square! They have classes running all day long on the first day of summer in June. Aerie is one of the major sponsors and they give out yoga mats to each yogi participating as well as a little goodie bag! There are two instructors per class and it is projected on one of the jumbotrons!

Holidays

Everyone knows about the ice skating at Rockerfeller Center but I feel NYC holds so many other holiday gems!

Right after Thanksgiving, the city is decorated with wreaths and Christmas trees come out in all of their glory. But nothing compares to a walk Downtown to see the window displays. The most beautiful Holiday Windows in New York are located at Tiffany & Co, Henri Bendel, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue and of course, Macy’s. Macy’s takes the cake! They not only have a beautiful display for their windows, but the entire store inside is decorated. The Santaland inside is amazing and kids come every year to see and speak to the Macy’s Santa.

The holiday season in NYC isn't complete without a visit to Rolf's (281 3rd Ave), Gramercy's Christmas paradise. The German restaurant has become known for its over-the-top decorations, with thousands of ornaments and twinkling lights.

The NYC Rockettes Show is my absolute favorite show! It is spectacular! The dancers are amazing, the costumes are over the top, the music includes all your favorites - it is overall pure joy. You will be transformed into an immersive, winter wonderland. There are usually two show times a day and the show is an hour and a half with no intermissions.

So many options! Let me know if you tried any of them or if you think I should add something!

Healthy Winter Park

Winter Park, Florida is a quaint neighborhood just north of Downtown Orlando. A mecca for arts and culture, Winter Park is also perfect for a healthy lifestyle. There are many tree lined streets perfect for a run or stroll. The area is dog friendly so you can also bring your four legged friend too! I put together a list of my favorite spots in the area that help keep me in line with my fitness goals.

Proper & Wild

Meet your new neighborhood vegan and vegetarian spot! You could get juices, wellness shots or coffee & teas. If you are in the mood for a happy hour there are also beers and cocktails. My go to for brunch has been le grilled cheese without onions, sub the kalamata jam for the tomato jam with a side of fruits.

Mon Petite Cheri

After a workout I was walking around Park Ave looking for a spot to get a quick, healthy but filling bite to eat. I saw this little cafe and popped in. I saw they offered a full breakfast with eggs, Avocado Toast and potatoes. They also offered a variety of coffee options and lots of non dairy options in milk and snacks.

SoHo Juice

I’m really big on smoothie and açaí bowls. It is a great way to get your fruits and veggies in and mix in supplements. SoHo Juice uses wholesome ingredients that are vegan, gluten free and dairy free. My favorite has been Cloud 9. Base of mango, pineapple, banana, almond mylk, and blue algae. On the top it has goji berries, granola, banana, strawberry, coconut flakes, and a blue majik drizzle. I also like to add protein and maca powder.

Barre3

My new favorite workout studio. I found them on class pass, which has been a great option for me while I travel. Each class ranges from 3-7 credits depending on time of day and popularity. Barre3 is a combination of ballet barre, Pilates and yoga. This class gives me strength and helps me work on my balance. Their goal is to help build lean muscles, a strong core and long term postural benefits! The studio is is bright, clean and has plenty of free parking nearby. There is also childcare so moms can enjoy a workout.

Barre in the Park

Barre3 is also very involved in the community. Each year they take over the Central Park on Park Ave and do a free workout class in the park. It is so much fun to take a typical workout out of the studio and enjoy being outdoors. They also partner with local vendors and offer samples of healthy snacks.

Hard Rock Hollywood, FL

I remember going to the Hard Rock back in the day. It was one of the first casinos here in South Florida and when they opened up the clubs, it just gave us another option - especially because they had an 18+ night at Passions! 

Fast forward 10+ years and the Seminole tribe has taken their vision of the Hard Rock Hollywood to a whole different level. 

The Guitar Hotel

sight straight out of the Las Vegas playbook. It’s massive, it’s lite up, it’s gaudy, it’s beautiful! The Seminole Hard Rock AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel is characterized by authentic memorabilia that surrounds stay, play, and dine resort amenities. The 469 rock star suites are outfitted with signature furnishings and Sleep Like a Rock® bedding that is designed for guests to relax and recharge like rock royalty. The resort is centrally located 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s beaches and 30 minutes from Miami, and just like an in-demand live show, they tend to sell out so check for bookings ASAP! You can stay in the Oasis Tower, with a view of the pool and guitar; the Guitar Hotel, surrounded by the amazing light show; or the original Hard Rock Hotel, with casino below.

I am most looking forward to Daer. It’s the new dayclub/nightclub. You can tell the vibe is going to be so much fun. Again, I see the Seminole’s bringing South Florida some chic Vegas upscale party scenes with Daer. VIP experiences will be available.

Pool Time

This new addition also includes 3 new pools for the Guitar Hotel. A classic style pool with cabanas, in water lounge chairs and plenty of spots to catch some sun. A second pool feels more like a beach located miles from the coast! There is sand and a walkin “sandbar” into another pool. And finally a huge pool that looks like a lake where you can rent equipment for water activities such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaks and more!

So many things to do

There is also a revamp of the entertainment locations. You can see concerts, Maroon 5 was playing the opening week and the Chain Smokers are coming up next. Watch comedy shows, Kevin James will be doing his bit there. Or come for the popular casino! They have digital slot machines, poker tables and plenty of opportunities to test your luck! They also added a few new restaurants. I was able to try the Beach Club with a view of one of the pools. The drinks were so good! I tried the titos with muddled strawberries and my friend had a cucumber with titos! I recommend getting the chips with guac and the sweet potato taters! You can grab sandwiches and salads as an entree too!

Lights!

I’m sure you have seen the guitar from far and wide in South Florida, but get ready for the light experience. The show is a daily spectacular featuring a series of orchestrated outdoor music and light shows showcasing the LED lights built into all sides of the brand new and immaculate Guitar Hotel. The lights are programmed to change color and intensity and are choreographed to different songs. Six high-powered beams of light accentuate the production by projecting at least 20,000 feet into the sky. The six lights mimic the strings of an imaginary guitar neck. Performance daily at 7:30pm.

Have you been yet? Keep me posted on what you think!

Calle Ocho

Little Havana is the neighborhood that became a sort of “Plymouth rock" for Cubans that fled to Miami in 1959 after Castro took over Cuba. Fast forward to now and there is so much culture, great food, rich music and so much to do in the area.

The Art

Little Havana has really expanded its footprint in the arts. There are a few local galleries filled with rich Cuban art. Many murals now adorn the walls of local Calle Ocho businesses. In addition to the typical art scene, both music and food are major staples in the area.

Viernes Culturales

Every third Friday of the month explore all the arts on 8th Street. Many of the businesses stay open later, have music and specials. Local vendors come out and set up right next to Domino Park. You can find hand made items, jewelry, clothing and more while listening to musicians play on a stage toward the back.

El Pub

Local restaurant serving up authentic Cuban cuisine! Spot the restaurant by seeing the famous 6 foot rooster in front of the main entrance. You can enjoy a meal in the dining room or opt for a quick service experience at the counter. I came here on a food tour and we ordered appetizers, I went for the Tostones Rellenos (tostone cups), which were small bowls made of fried sweet plantains, filled with perfectly seasoned beef. If you are a coffee lover, everyone raves about the cortadito, Cuban coffee!

Azucar

Means SUGAR in Spanish but is also a famous ice cream shop. You can spot this local ice cream shop by the massive ice cream cone mounted on the side of the building. It started as an artisanal ice cream and sorbet boutique inspired by the culture, climate and passion for sabor latino! They create sweet flavors just like abuela would, using the highest quality ingredients and a desire to bring smiles to everyone’s face. They serve classic flavors like vanilla, but I encourage you to be adventurous and try flavors like domino (oreo cookies n' cream,) el mani loco (crazy peanut), platano maduro (sweet plantain), guarapina (sugar cane & pineapple) or my personal favorite Abuela Maria (guava, cream cheese, maria crackers).

Cubaocho

It’s a bar, it’s a restaurant, it’s a museum, it’s a performing arts center, it’s a must stop! As soon as you walk in you will see the beautiful bar! The lights hit the bottles just perfectly. There are a bunch of tables each with their own eclectic vibe and many made of framed works of art as the table top! When we walked in there was a 5 piece live band playing the best salsa music! Everyone was dancing having a great time! As you walk more into the establishment you will see so many authentic Cuban works of art that lead you to the back where there is another stage for music later in the night.

Ball & Chain

A historical bar & lounge on Calle Ocho that open before the area was even considered Little Havana in 1935. Owners say that Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole and Louie Armstrong were among the stellar black performers who appeared at Ball & Chain in the 1940s & 1950s. B Everyone can enjoy live music and delicious Cuban food all day from 11am – 6pm, no ID required. And in the evening Ball & Chain becomes a lounge with a dress code after 8pm. In the main room are tables and booths where you can sit, eat, drink and listen to live music. In the back patio there is a huge stage in the shape of a giant pineapple. They also have great music going, a dance floor and bar to entertain you all night long.

Mojitos are a must!

Mile High City

I was fortunate enough to get sent to Denver for a work conference. I took a few extra days to explore the mile high city! I used a lot of information I was given from the Denver CVB as a part of the IPW Tourism Conference but was not paid to write this blog post all opinions are my own.  

Beer Here

Denver has become the Napa Valley of beer. And of all the neighborhoods, River North (RiNo) is the hottest town to check out. In addition to being home to big names like Coors and Blue Moon, Denver is known for many craft beer brew pubs. I didn’t want to explore by myself so I hopped on an Aspire RiNo Craft Beer Tour. They take you to 3 to 4 different locations depending on time and size of group. Black Shirt Brewing Co. was my favorite. They had a cool outdoor space and we got to try a flight of beers. We then moved inside and got to see so many original local pieces of art! I was instantly drawn to the Biggie painting, if only it fit in my suitcase or I would have purchased it.

Take me out to the ballpark (musuem)

I’m a big baseball fan and had some time between my meetings. It’s a small museum and had just opened so since I was the only one there, I lucked out and got a personal tour! The museum is open Tuesday - Saturday from 11am - 5pm and has a $10 admission. It use to be called B’s Ball Museum to describe the personal collection of Bruce Hellerstien. There are so many one of kind items, from tickets, to light fixtures and chairs to uniforms and pieces from every MLB team!

RiNo

RiNo short for River North which is just north of Downtown Denver. It’s an area filled with creative businesses, including architects, art galleries, designers, furniture makers, illustrators, painters, media artists, photographers, sculptors and an array of studio spaces. RiNo is "Where Art Is Made" I was so excited to walk around an appreciate the local street art. First Friday is the best time to visit. The businesses open their doors for art openings and live music. The CRUSH Walls is an annual art event where artists paint an area of RiNo and you can appreciate the entire year. There is so much to see, explore and eat in this area.

Surfs Up

Since I was traveling to Denver by myself for work, I decided to set up a TIU meetup and meet some local girls. I wanted to find something unique to the area. I found City Surf Fitness, a 35 or 50 minute full body, surf-inspired strength and conditioning group class. So basically a full body workout on top of a surfboard that is on a stability ball. NOT EASY! Talk about a core workout trying to balance and do all the moves! They have a mix of on and off the board all to some great music.

Infinate possibilities

Urban winery known for the canned wine, I specifically found them and their canned rose! It’s an urban winery because it is located right in the heart of the Downtown in the RiNo district. I went for another tour opportunity, for $25 you get a 60 minute tour of the winery and a chance to taste multiple wines from the bottle, keg and can. It was such a great deal and you got a behind the scenes look at the place. After the tour a few of us hung out listening to music with another drink.

Red Rocks

Looking to experience the great outdoors and incorporate fitness? There are two trails within the park, one tis strictly pedestrian for hikers the other for bikers. During the summer they also have various workout classes with the most phenomenal views! The main reason I went to Red Rock was to experience a live concert and see the sunset over the rocks. I was lucky enough to see OneRepublic perform. It was the best concert of my life and I didn’t even really know their music but between the amazing band, the surrounding and the acoustics, I was speechless. This is a bucket list item for sure!

Overall, there is so much to do in Denver! I recommend staying Downtown. Everything is very walkable or a quick uber away.

Lake Nona Neighborhood

The greater Orlando area has really been growing over the last five years! New neighborhoods have been popping up and really thriving! One of the newest spots is Lake Nona!

Town Center

This shopping entertainment destination is packed full of things to do! I first came to the town center for an event and was blown away with how much there was to offer! There are boutiques, restaurants, art installations & free parking!

Art

You will first notice the beacon & code wall. The Beacon is a 6 story landmark that lights up beautifully at night! Next to it, is the code wall that has binary codes in glass. My favorite art pieces are the murals, especially the mural wings! Perfect for the photo op!

Boxi Park

This is a great mixed use space. A traditional park transformed by shipping containers and tarps to a new age food hall. There are a few different food concepts, like tacos, burgers and ice cream. A full bar is not far from the live music and there is plenty of seating in the shade and out in the sun. You can also play volleyball and kids can play on the playground.

Boxi Park is open in the afternoons and evenings from Thursday - Sunday. Either location are perfect for a night out! Lake Nona Town Center will have a phase two coming soon and I can’t wait to see what else this growing neighborhood has in store for us!