Tag: American travel

A Guide to Philadelphia Must-See Attractions

Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern attractions. As the nation’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Philadelphia is not just a destination for history enthusiasts but also a haven for food lovers, art admirers, and shopaholics, as per this Philadelphia travel guide from Travel + Leisure. . Whether you’re here to explore iconic landmarks or indulge in the city’s burgeoning food scene, Philadelphia promises a memorable experience.

Historic Landmarks and Cultural Icons

One cannot visit Philadelphia without exploring its significant historical sites. Independence National Historical Park is a must-see, as it houses the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and theU.S. Constitution were signed. This park is not only a testament to America’s founding but also a symbol of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality, having hosted numerous protests and movements over the years.

Another iconic spot is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to the famous “Rocky steps.” Climbing these steps is a rite of passage for many visitors, echoing the triumphant scene from the “Rocky” film. Inside, the museum boasts an impressive collection of works by artists like Mary Cassatt, Henri Matisse, Georgia O’Keefe, and Pablo Picasso. For a more intimate art experience, the Barnes Foundation offers a stunning array of paintings from masters such as Renoir, Van Gogh, and Modigliani, alongside a fascinating collection of Native American, African, and other cultural artifacts.

Culinary Adventures

Philadelphia’s food scene is as diverse as its history. Foodies will find an array of dining options that cater to every palate. For a taste of inventive vegetarian cuisine, Vedge is a top choice, offering seasonal dishes in a historic mansion setting. South Philly Barbacoa is renowned for its succulent lamb tacos, a dish so popular that lines often form early. For a more upscale experience, the JG Skyhigh Lounge atop the Four Seasons Philadelphia offers not only gourmet snacks and small plates but also breathtaking views of the city.

Suraya in Fishtown provides an authentic Lebanese dining experience, complete with a tempting tasting menu. Meanwhile, Laser Wolf and Zahav, both created by chef Michael Solomonov, offer exceptional Middle Eastern fare. Zahav, in particular, has garnered national acclaim for its exquisite pomegranate lamb shoulder and comprehensive five-course meals.

Shopping and Unique Finds

Shopping in Philadelphia offers something for everyone. The 9th Street Italian Market, a century-old community space, is perfect for those seeking fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and pastries. It’s a place where shopping becomes a cultural experience, connecting visitors with the city’s immigrant heritage.

Jeweler’s Row, established in 1851, is a treasure trove for jewelry enthusiasts, offering a range of unique and custom pieces. Even if you’re not in the market for gems, the area is worth exploring for its historic charm and upscale boutiques. For book lovers, Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books in Germantown is a haven of literature and good coffee, known for its welcoming atmosphere and curated book selection.

Activities and Events

Philadelphia offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. The best time to visit is from March to May when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. This period coincides with the Philadelphia Flower Show, the largest in the U.S., and the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of Japanese culture through food, music, and art.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Fun

Beyond its urban attractions, Philadelphia also offers beautiful green spaces and outdoor activities. The city’s parks, such as Fairmount Park, provide a lush escape for nature lovers. For a day of wildlife exploration, the Philadelphia Zoo, one of the oldest in the country, offers a unique opportunity to see over 1,300 animals, including some rare and endangered species.

Philadelphia is a city that seamlessly blends its historic roots with a modern, dynamic atmosphere. From its pivotal role in American history to its vibrant food scene and eclectic neighborhoods, the City of Brotherly Love offers a diverse array of experiences for every visitor.

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US Towns to Visit To Feel Like You’re in Europe

What if you could take a leisure trip to Europe without having to leave the country? Thankfully, this article from CountryLiving provides an overview of 35 American towns that offer European-style attractions and activities for people who want to travel to Europe without traveling internationally. America is home to numerous towns that mimic the European style through their historical architecture, restaurants serving traditional dishes, and unique recreational activities that are sure to satisfy any traveler.

St. Augustine, Florida (Spain)

The historic city of St. Augustine is located in the northern part of Florida, and it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the Sunshine State. St. Augustine is home to historic sites and attractions that reflect its Spanish colonial history,including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a spectacular fortress that was built in the 1700s and is still standing today. This attraction has been carefully restored, preserving many of its features while adding modern amenities like restrooms and barrier-free access areas, allowing visitors to explore this historic gem with self-guided or history-laden tours with experts.

Vail, Colorado (Switzerland)

At 10,000 feet above sea level, Vail, Colorado is a quaint mountain town that many travelers flock to during the winter season, as it’s home to a wide variety of unique Swiss-inspired architecture. This town, which is home to spectacularresort experiences, five-star dining, and diverse shopping options, is also an architectural mecca for those who appreciate the work of Swiss architects and their work in Zermatt, Switzerland, a town located at the base of the Swiss Alps.

Hermann, Missouri (Germany)

Located in the heart of Missouri wine country and tucked away in the Missouri River Valley is the town of Hermann, Missouri, a German-influenced town that’s rich in culture and history. In the present day, you’ll feel instantly transported to a German town beside the Rhine River when visiting Hermann, and this is because this town was flocked to by German immigrants in 1837 and founded by Hermann Mannheim. The town not only offers architecture that is reminiscent of Germanic buildings, but it also hosts festivals throughout the year that celebrate German heritage like Das Fest and Maifest, offering an authentic taste of Germany without the international travel.

Charleston, South Carolina

Named after King Charles II of England, the city of Charleston, South Carolina is a historic destination with a rich, distinct Southern charm and ever-present English influence. Charleston is a city that is known for its classic architecture that reminds tourists and residents of England due to its colorful, short buildings and Europe inspired streetscapes. From stately churches, such as Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church, to colorful, short buildings such as Leon’s Oyster Shop, both of which are set alongside charming cobblestone avenues, you’ll be instantly reminded of England once walking about Charleston.

Holland, Michigan (Netherlands)

Located in Michigan’s Ottawa County, is Holland, a city famous for being reminiscent of the Netherlands, as it was founded by Dutch settlers in 1847. Known as the “Dutch Capital of North America,” the city of Holland serves as an authentic reminder of the Netherlands with its historic sights such as the Settler’s House Museum, a small family home that has been lived in by a series of working-class families over the course of its long history. After surviving the Great Holland Fire of 1871, the house has been restored to its original Dutch architecture. Other attractions in the city that are potently reminiscent of the Netherlands are the annual Tulip Time Festival, the Nelis’ Dutch Village Theme Park, and the 250,000 tulips and Dutch-style DeZwaan Windmill at the Windmill Island Gardens.

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American Bucket List Activities

International travel is assuredly enticing, unforgettable, and unique, but it has a tendency to be expensive, which is why many are turning to their “own backyard,” as it were, and rediscovering the once-in-a-lifetime wonders of the United States. One such company is the premium email-subscription service, Scott’s Cheap Flights, which had its extensive survey results of the “Most Popular Bucket List Activities in Each U.S State” featured recently on Travel Pulse’s blog.

The list is a culminating result of a sample size of 3,000 people who answered the question: “what activities and experiences are at the top of your USA bucket list?” Predictably so, the results revealed some obvious “greatest hits” of California and Hawaii topping the list, but the data set also gave interesting insight such as approximately 70% of all bucket-list activities chosen by travelers taking place outdoors, whether it be exploring the Denali National Park in Alaska national park in or visiting the white-sanded beaches of Georgia’s Jekyll, Cumberland, and Tybee Islands.

Lastly, before diving into a small sampling of the enticing events, it should be remembered that a “bucket list destination” is special because it’s a trip that’s unique to the area that it’s located in for one reason or another while also teeming with memories that could last a lifetime. The bucket list aspect doesn’t need to be grim or morbid, but it should be seen as a goal in which you can perceive some of the more exquisite and spectacular sights, activities, and wonders of nature or man that this world has to offer, while we’re here.

Gazing at the Wild Ponies of Assateague Island National Seashore

Located in close proximity to Ocean City, Maryland & Chincoteague Island, Virginia is a 37-mile beach, inland pine forest, and salt marsh that has stood as a National Park and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service refuge and State Park for several decades. Besides being stunningly gorgeous, this beach is unique due to its over 300 free-roaming wild ponies and horses that have been trotting down the beach and surrounding areas since the 17th Century. Locals believe that the ponies originally came to the island from a sunken Spanish Galleon ship, which was recently discovered offshore, but no matter the cause, the free-roaming ponies are a truly rare sight that one should demand to see with their own two eyes.

Traversing Nevada’s Valley of Fire

Survey respondents placed experiencing Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park ahead of touring Las Vegas and all its commercial wonders, so that tells you that there’s something special about the breathtakingly panoramic landscapes. Named for its 40,000 acres of strikingly red Aztec sandstone found alongside limestone, the Valley of Fire is also home to ancient, petrified trees and petroglyphs that date back over 2,000 years ago. The landscapes that make up the crimson valley serve as the ideal backdrop for your outdoor excursion, as the State Park is home to dozens of trails for walking, viewing, biking, and hiking. Make it a point to drive down the winging Valley of Fire Highway the next time you need a color compliment to the monotonous, dull hues in your neck of the woods.

View the Natural Wildlife of South Dakota’s Badlands

Reconnect with the early settlers and take in unforgettable sights in the “Land of Stone and Light,” found in the rugged topography of the Badlands. This National Park is home to geological formations that resemble mosaic paintings, one of the world’s richest fossil beds, and approximately 244,000 acres to explore. What’s special about this area is that it is not only home to untold beauty but also countless species of wildlife unique to the area. From Wild Turkey to Buffalo to Kangaroo Rats, the expanse of the Badlands has a unique sight for every visitor on every visit.

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