A Brit and A Southerner

20 Amazing European Monuments You Need to Experience

Travel Tips

Sep 12, 2016

20 Amazing European Monuments You Need to Experience

European architecture is understandably a huge attraction for many visitors from all corners of the globe. If you are an avid historian or simply appreciate fine architecture, you should certainly be considering a visit to Europe in order to experience all of the amazing landmarks on display. European monuments offer something very different to anywhere else in the world and it’s no surprise to see nations around the world importing or replicating these types of architectural styles.

European Monuments and Architecture

I love architecture and we have been fortunate enough to explore a number of European countries, each of which offers something unique and distinctive when it comes to architectural designs. Whether you want to explore Gaudi’s infamous designs throughout Barcelona or perhaps a little Italian Renaissance architecture, Europe is inundated with iconic examples.

The various architectural periods that are iconic to Europe are present throughout the continent but we want to share a collaboration of monuments and landscapes that will likely inspire you to book a trip to Europe sooner rather than later. If you read our recent collaboration on why you should travel to Eastern Europe for amazing architecture, you will know that there are distinctive examples throughout the continent. However, we want to focus on Western Europe on this post.

We are delighted to collaborate with a number of our friends around the world who share some of their favorite European monuments, many of which are tourist hot-spots but some of them are hidden gems that you may never have heard of before! Let’s take a look at 20 of the finest examples of architecture that typify European architectural genius.

Ashford Castle

Country: Ireland
Address: Cong, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Click here for directions to Ashford Castle in Ireland using Google Maps

I’ve always loved castles and have spent many nights in them. My most recent stay was at Ashford Castle in Ireland. I think it is exciting to enjoy contemporary comforts in an ancient building.

In this case, Ashford Castle dates back to the 13th century, and 83 posh rooms in the original section of the castle date back to the 13th and 17th centuries. I guess they didn’t do any building there in between. I recommend taking tea in the comfortable lounge or a cocktail in the bar, followed by dinner in the grand dining room, while admiring the gorgeous views as seen in the image above.

Thanks to Carole Terwilliger Meyers from Berkeley and Beyond for highlighting why Ashford Castle is one of her favorite architectural designs around Europe.

Burano

Country: Italy
Address: Burano Island, 30100 Venice, Italy

Click here for directions to Burano in Italy using Google Maps

Burano is an enchanted island located about an hour boat ride from Venice in Italy known for the intricate and detailed lace that is made on the island. It is only accessible by boat and boasts some of the most colorful buildings in all of Europe.

An afternoon is best spent wandering the canal side streets and exploring the alleys that wind through the island resting only to sip on an aperitif or munch on some of the freshest Adriatic seafood you can find.

Thanks to Megan Stetzel from Forks and Footprints for highlighting why Burano is one of her favorite spots around Europe.

Caernarfon Castle

Country: Wales
Address: Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, LL55 2AY, UK

Click here for directions to Caernarfon Castle in Wales using Google Maps

These magnificent castle ruins are probably best known as the location for the coronation of Prince Charles when he became the Prince of Wales, but the attraction goes well beyond that.

With a long history of being a strategic location, Caernarfon has seen fortifications dating back to Roman times. To see this imposing castle standing guard over the surrounding village, with Roman buildings just outside the castle walls is a highlight for any history buff.

Thanks to Dean Williamson from La Vida Global for recommending Caernarfon Castle in Wales as a great example of European architecture.

Caldea-INUU Spa

Country: Andorra
Address: Parc de la Mola, 10, AD700 Escaldes-Engordany, Andorra

Click here for directions to Caldea-INUU in Andorra using Google Maps

High in the Pyrenees Mountains is one of the world’s most remarkable buildings. It is ironic that one of Europe’s smallest countries is home to Europe’s largest spa: The Caldea-INUU spa complex.

The Jean-Michel Ruols design of cold glass and steel is designed to draw inspiration from the mountains that surround the valley. Inside the modernist building, visitors relax and float in pools of warm, thermal waters. The twin spas (Caldea and INUU) welcome thousands of visitors every year to this tiny mountain principality.

Thanks to Lance Longwell from Travel Addicts for introducing us to this hidden gem of a spa complex in the small nation of Andorra.

Chillon Castle

Country: Switzerland
Address: Avenue de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux, Switzerland

Click here for directions to Chillon Castle in Switzerland using Google Maps

How can you not love Chillon Castle? Impossibly romantic, scenically located on a rocky outcrop on Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is one of the most visited attractions in Switzerland. It was propelled to fame by Lord Byron, who wrote ‘The Prisoner of Chillon’, a much-loved poem about the 16th-century prisoner, François Bonivard, who languished in the dungeon for years.

Strategically situated on an important land route to the St. Bernhard Pass, the castle was owned by the ruling Savoys from the 12th to the 16th century and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s turbulent past.

Thanks to Carol Perehudoff from Wandering Carol for introducing us to the gorgeous Chillon Castle in Switzerland.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Country: Belgium
Address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Click here for directions to The Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert in Belgium using Google Maps

Just steps from Brussels’ spectacular UNESCO-listed Grand Place is a lesser known but no less striking work of architecture. The Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert is the oldest covered shopping arcade in Europe, inaugurated in 1847. This stunning shopping mall has two main corridors topped with a glass roof allowing natural light to enter.

The galleries contain some of the city’s best high-end shopping. Inside, you’ll find merchandise from luxury handbags to delectable Belgian chocolate. Grab a seat at one of the indoor cafes and watch the colorful pedestrian traffic without fear of Brussels’ notorious rainy weather.

Thanks to Alison Cornford-Matheson from Cheese Web for introducing us to the gorgeous Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert in Brussels.

Hallgrímskirkja

Country: Iceland
Address: Hallgrímstorg 101, Reykjavík, Iceland

Click here for directions to Hallgrímskirkja in Iceland using Google Maps

Hallgrímskirkja stands prominently over Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavík. The Lutheran church is the tallest building in Iceland as well as the largest church in Iceland.

The church’s steeple has some of the best aerial views the city and if the weather is clear, the Snæfellsnes peninsula offers a stunning backdrop with the city of Reykjavík in the foreground. The building is designed to look like the basalt lava flows of the island.

Thanks to Jennifer Melroy from Made All The Difference for introducing us to this gorgeous piece of Icelandic architecture.

La Casa Batllo

Country: Spain
Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain

Click here for directions to La Casa Batllo in Spain using Google Maps

One of the most emblematic and beautiful buildings in Barcelona is La Casa Batllo. The dragon skin rooftop, the inside patio and all the small details that show what a genius Gaudi was are on display at this former residential building turned museum-foundation.

I have visited it three times yet I never bore of listening to the audio guide sharing the fascinating ideas and concepts from nature that Gaudi illustrated. “There are no straight lines in nature” so none of his buildings had any either. Can you imagine living there? A family once did!

Thanks to Mar Pages from Once in a Lifetime Journey for recommending La Casa Battlo, an iconic reflection of Gaudi’s work in Barcelona. If you are interested in exploring more of Gaudi’s inspiration around Barcelona, check out our guide to Gaudi architecture.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Country: Italy
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy

Click here for directions to the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy using Google Maps

The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy needs no introduction – it is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world. There is always something amazing about visiting somewhere you have seen your whole life and this is no exception. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s fun to visit and pose for silly photos which usually involve pretending you are holding it up.

The tower is located in the Piazza dei Miracoli (Plaza of Miracles) and its worth also visiting the other attractions at this site.

Thanks to Sharon Gourlay from Where’s Sharon for highlighting why the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a gorgeous piece of architectural brilliance.

Maastricht’s Historic Town

Country: Netherlands
Address: 6211 CL Maastricht, Netherlands

Click here for directions to the Town Hall in Maastricht, Netherlands using Google Maps

Vrijthof Square is in the center of the old historic town in Maastricht, in the Netherlands. This is where Andre Rieu, the renowned musician was born and annually plays to his hometown people. In the square are two amazing churches, Sint Janskerk, and a Catholic Church, Sint Servaas sitting side by side. It is claimed that if you walk between the two your sins will be all absolved.

From the top of the red church tower of Sint Janskerk you look down onto Vrijthof Square, and only then can you see the visual illusion of a diving board in the center of the square. The people of Maastricht have a sense of humor about lots of things.

Thanks to Paula McInerney from Contented Traveller for highlighting why the historic town of Maastricht in the Netherlands offers a plethora of amazing architecture.

Musikverein

Country: Austria
Address: 1010, Musikvereinspl. 1, 1010 Wien, Austria

Click here for directions to the Musikverein in Vienna using Google Maps

The Musikverein in Vienna is a concert hall designed by an architect who had a thing for opulence. The building is grand and built with generous proportions to contain the Golden Hall with acoustics as magnificent as the décor. Gilded Caryatids, Apollo, and Muses painted on the ceiling and Orpheus on the front façade all echo Greek Renaissance styling.

A bold color scheme of red, green, ivory and gold give a classical ambiance to the building, sumptuously decorating the arches and domes in gilded Aztec designs. Massive crystal lights, gold embellished walls, stairways with red carpet and arched windows create an opulent concert hall. The Musikverein is renowned for delivery of the highest quality classical chamber ensembles and is one of my favorite Viennese buildings.

Thanks to Lyn Baker from A Hole in my Shoe for highlighting why this iconic building in Vienna is one of her favorites.

Oslo Opera House

Country: Norway
Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo, Norway

Click here for directions to Oslo Opera House in Norway using Google Maps

The Oslo Opera House is probably one of the most iconic buildings in Norway. Clad in white Italian marble, the façade rises like the white crest of a wave from the ocean. While man-made and ultra modern, this building feels very natural and perfectly placed in its environment.

I visited Oslo during my honeymoon road trip through Scandinavia and I was mesmerized by the beauty of the Oslo Opera House. My favorite part is that you can walk on the building and enjoy the view over Oslo and the Oslofjord at its feet.

Thanks to Maria Haase from Maria Abroad for recommending Oslo Opera House as a building you can’t afford to miss the next time you visit Norway.

Palais du Justice

Country: Belgium
Address: Place Poelaert 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Click here for directions to the Law Courts of Brussels in Belgium using Google Maps

The Belgian Law Courts may not seem like a fun place to visit, but this huge building dominating central Brussels is a striking piece of architecture with an intriguing story. The building is immense, bigger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and is topped with a 24,000-ton dome. Controversial when it was constructed, owing to the demolition of a vast swath of low-cost housing, the building remains a point of debate.

Since 2003, the Palace of Justice has been hidden behind a shroud of scaffolding, the construction company having gone out of business, but peak behind the covering to discover the intricate facade of this magnificent building. The building is generally open to the public and it’s worth popping inside to stand under the giant dome.

Thanks to Alison Cornford-Matheson from Cheese Web for introducing us to the Palais du Justice in Brussels.

Reichstag

Country: Germany
Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany

Click here for directions to the Reichstag in Berlin using Google Maps

Berlin has got a whole lot to brag about these days, and The Reichstag building is no exception. The building served as the German house of parliament until an arsonist destroyed it in 1933, but it has been fully restored and back in action since 1990.

While once criticized for its mixture of architectural styles, the Reichstag’s tremendous size, picturesque glass dome, and shrouded history make it a quintessential part of any trip to Berlin.

Thanks to Taylor and Daniel from Travel Outlandish for recommending the amazing Reichstag in Berlin, Germany.

Reims Cathedral

Country: France
Address: Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France

Click here for directions to the Reims Cathedral in France using Google Maps

Magnificent Cathedrals seem to be a dime a dozen in Europe and so it takes something special to really make you sit up and take notice. This really is special as the site of 25 coronations of the kings of France, including the crowning of Charles VII in 1429 in the presence of Joan of Arc.

I love this building for its place in history and being one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the World.

Thanks to Dean Williamson from La Vida Global for recommending Reims Cathedral in France as a great example of European architecture.

Roman Forum

Country: Italy
Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, Roma, Italy

Click here for directions to the Roman Forum in Italy using Google Maps

Rome, like most major European cities, is history come to life. From its narrow, cobbled streets to its abundance of beautiful art and architecture, it’s hard not to be charmed by modern-day Rome. But to truly escape back in time, and get a glimpse of the city as it stood in the days of the Roman Empire, the Roman Forum is the place to be.

The Forum was the city center for centuries, housing temples, shops, government buildings and more. What remains now is a stunning complex of ruins, the scale, and beauty of which cannot be dulled by time. This is where I truly felt ancient Rome spring to life, and it’s a place I cannot wait to visit again and again.

Thanks to Beth Tryon from Adventuring the Great Wide Somewhere for suggesting the Roman Forum in Italy which epitomizes the historic European architecture we all love.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Architecture

Country: Germany
Address: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Click here for directions to Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany using Google Maps

If you don’t recognize this town, and this corner in particular, from the millions of photos online, then it may still remind of something from an early Disney movie.

And so it should! This beautiful little town was the inspiration for the streets in the original Pinocchio animated classic. I loved this place because it was like walking through a children’s book.

Thanks to Dean Williamson from La Vida Global for recommending Rothenburg ob der Tauber which certainly is a Disney-like experience!

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Country: Vatican City
Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Click here for directions to St. Peters Basilica in Vatican City using Google Maps

Even if you’re not religious, like me, you have to visit the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The seat of the Catholic Church must be exuberant and grand. But the building is more than a temple of religion. It houses some of the world’s finest artworks, like Michelangelo’s Pièta.

The architecture is bold, experimental and even after hundreds of years still interesting. Go early morning to avoid waiting and so you can hear your footsteps on the marble floor.

Thanks to Naomi from Probe Around The Globe for highlighting why St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is one of those European monuments you can’t afford to miss.

The Acropolis

Country: Greece
Address: Athens 105 58, Greece

Click here for directions to the Acropolis in Greece using Google Maps

When you are traveling around the capital of Greece one of the absolute best things to do in Athens is explore The Acropolis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is over 2500 years old, and can be seen from almost everywhere in the city.

The Parthenon stands proudly in the center as the most impressive structure, but the detailed columns and facades are worth studying for their intricate carvings. There’s nothing quite like wandering through an architectural marvel that has been inspiring travelers for centuries!

Thanks to Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem from NOMADasaurus for highlighting why the Acropolis is one of the best things to visit not only in Greece but also across Europe.

The Cloth Hall

Country: Belgium
Address: Grote Markt 34, 8900 Ieper, Belgium

Click here for directions to the Cloth Hall in Belgium using Google Maps

The Cloth Hall stands in a commanding position in the town square of Ieper, a small Belgian town close to the French border. This magnificent building dates back to the 13th-Century. During this time, and for many centuries to follow, it was the marketplace for the cloth industry, the lifeblood of the town. Ieper suffered greatly during both world wars.

The Cloth Hall was completely destroyed during World War I. Given the importance of this building to the town, it was rebuilt at the end of the war. The building you now see, also now known as the Town Hall, is an exact replica. I fell in love with Gothic architecture when I was in Belgium and the Cloth Hall in Ieper simply took my breath away.

Thanks to Kerri McConnel from Beer and Croissants for highlighting why you should consider visiting the Cloth Hall in Ieper.

Summary

WOW…what a diverse collection of amazing European monuments that we have been introduced to. I enjoyed putting this collaboration together because I think this perfectly showcases a fine blend of iconic European monuments mixed in with a few hidden gems that I’m sure many of us were not aware of.

Even the smaller nations across Europe like Andorra can boast iconic landmarks that are worth experiencing. We want to reiterate our appreciation to all our amazing friends from around the world for sharing their thoughts and I am sure you will all agree that this will likely inspire you to consider many European destinations in the near future!

What are your favorite monuments around Europe? Do you prefer to visit mainstream landmarks or stumble across hidden gems that typify local European architecture?

5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Minnesota

Minnesota

Chris Boothman

Sep 8, 2016

5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Minnesota

Known as the “Land of 10,000 lakes,” Minnesota is one of the most spectacular states for untouched, natural scenery and breathtaking beauty. If you want to visit Minnesota, you will likely want to experience a variety of urban and rural landscapes across the state. From the historic Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul to the 11,842 lakes that are scattered throughout the state, Minnesota is a haven waiting to be discovered.

We have been fortunate to experience Minnesota on a couple of different occasions and we are looking forward to a return visit at the end of September for the 2016 Ryder Cup to be held at Hazeltine Country Club, just outside of Minneapolis. Hopefully, this event will help put the rest of Minnesota on the map and the thousands of golfing enthusiasts will have some time to explore other parts of the state that offer amazing attractions.

Explore The Land of 10,000 Lakes

Although I have heard Minnesota referred to as “The North Star State,” it is almost exclusively known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for obvious reasons. Minnesota is the northernmost state in the United States, perhaps indicating the reason for the aforementioned antiquated nickname. Regardless of the reasons, I prefer referring to a state because of its natural landscapes.

We are delighted to collaborate with Kirsten Stillman, who has shared her thoughts on her top 5 reasons to visit Minnesota. There are undoubtedly a lot more reasons to explore Minnesota but perhaps this will inspire you to explore the state for yourselves. Let’s take a look at what Kirsten has to say about Minnesota.

Introduction

Minnesota is home to the brave that survive the snowy and cold winters (they get colder than Antarctica, I’m not even joking) and the truly hot summers. Despite the adverse weather conditions, the locals are deemed “Minnesota nice” and it’s honestly true.

If I could have a sixth category for why you should visit Minnesota, it would be to interact with the friendly locals. Nowhere else in the country will you meet people like Minnesotans.

A Rocking Arts Scene

With an infusion of $500 million from private donors and foundations, Minneapolis experienced an arts boom that named it best art district by USA Today in 2015 and other publications.

minneapolis institute of art — Image courtesy of Ashley Ryan from Pure Wander

Northeast Minneapolis is a hub for the best and brightest artists that host galleries, studios, and performance spaces in the historic and industrial buildings in the area. One of my personal favorite spots is the Minneapolis Institute of Art, which has free admission and plenty to see to occupy your afternoon.

If theater is more your style, Minneapolis has the second-most seats in the nation which offers a variety of shows for kiddos and adults alike. Plus, with all the restaurants, shops, breweries, and hidden treasures scattered around the area, there’s always something for everyone in the vibrant center of this community.

minneapolis orpheum theatre — Image courtesy of Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map

Camping and State Parks

Ever heard a story about the most epic camping trip? It probably happened in Minnesota. With 67 state parks and 62 state forest campgrounds, Minnesota is perhaps most famous camping-wise for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or the “Boundary Waters” to the locals.

Lakes, streams, and beaches are carved out from left behind glaciers and more wildlife than you can handle frequently populate the area. Tamer camping options are available elsewhere in the state, but if you opt-in to the full experience and glory of truly roughing it in the Boundary Waters, make sure to do serious research, respect the nature, and acquire any permits you may need for fishing or camping in certain areas.

Shopping to End All Shopping

Stop everything. No, I mean it. Take an entire day to enjoy the luxuries of shopping in the largest shopping mall in the Unites States. With visitors from all over the world, the Mall of America is the epitome of retail therapy.

mall of america — Image courtesy of Ashley Ryan from Pure Wander

Built where the Metropolitan Stadium once hosted Vikings football games, the ever-expanding MOA hosts four levels of shops and boutiques, including plenty of Minnesota-specific “tourist” stores to pick up Midwest cheese or a Minnesota-themed alpaca sweatshirt.

And the best part, in the center of the mall, where the players used to beat each other to a pulp in the name of the game, stands the country’s largest indoor theme park for you and the kiddos.

mall of america nickelodeon universe — Image courtesy of Ashley Ryan from Pure Wander

Nickelodeon Universe gives the mall a sense of light-heartedness with joyful screams as children whiz overhead on a rollercoaster or barrel down a tunnel to make a splash at the end of the log ride.

mall of america visit minnesota — Image courtesy of Ashley Ryan from Pure Wander

Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, other gems include Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, a mini-golf course, a “lobby” area for celebrity visits and signings, and other seasonal attractions.

Super Cute Cities and Need To See Spots

Every state has hidden gems, but a stop in Minnesota without seeing some of the cutest little cities will leave your visit bereft of the wonder that is Minnesota.

Starting with the oldest and founding city of Stillwater, there is a wonderous mix of old-world charm and modern convenience; make sure to visit Arcola Mills and the old granary silo-turned coffee shop.

In iconic Duluth, see the North Shore as you’ve never seen it before with a trip to Gooseberry Falls, adventures along Lake Superior, tours of the Glensheen Mansion (site of the famous Congdon murders), hidden gems in every corner of the picturesque downtown, and take a picturesque walk along the famous Aerial Lift Bridge.

Minnesota State Fair

“The Great Minnesota Get Together” draws crowds from all over the country and for good reason. It’s been named the best State Fair by USA Today in 2015, and the second largest State Fair in the United States only placing second to the State Fair of Texas, which runs twice as long. Minnesota’s State Fair runs for 12 days through late August and ends on Labor Day in September.

Some notable exhibitions include a lumberjack competition/show, booths showing off everything from ethically sourced Alpaca products to stunning local artists showing off their work. Local radio personalities vie for the crowd’s attention with on-air guest spots and the free swag (all the free swag from everyone!). Even the car dealers showing their newest models and Harlequin Romance vie for attention with free swag. My favorite part, however, is the food.

visit minnesota state fair — Image courtesy of Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map

The trademark of the fair is the deep-fried food on a stick; so if you want it, it’s most likely there! You want alligator deep-fried and on a stick? You got it!

minnesota state fair — Image courtesy of Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map

You want a Twinkie deep-fried and on a stick? Yup, or how about fruit or cream cheese-stuffed olives? Yup – all deep-fried and on a stick! Definitely an experience anyone – foodie or no – will not want to miss.

minnesota state fair food — Image courtesy of Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map

Visit Minnesota – Our Thoughts

We have nothing but amazing things to say about Minnesota. Our first visit was during the depths of winter which apparently you have to be hardy souls to survive. However, we had a great time and I would encourage everyone to visit Minnesota during winter at least once.

No one’s kidding when we say Minnesota winter’s aren’t for the weak.

The snow and frigid cold temperatures can either hinder or help your experience. If you are looking to spend all your time outdoors, perhaps visiting during the heart of winter isn’t the best time. But Minnesota is a state that you can experience indoors as much as outdoors, especially given that Bloomington is home to the Mall of America.

Winter is a perfect time to experience all of the great things indoors, whether it is a little retail therapy or perhaps visiting one of the many museums scattered across the state.

We spent time exploring Minneapolis outside for a few hours during the winter and despite the cold conditions, we enjoyed visiting the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and St. Mary’s Basilica which is one of the most architecturally beautiful landmarks across the state in my opinion.

A return visit to Minneapolis over the Memorial Day weekend offered a very different look at the state. We had the opportunity to spend more time outdoors exploring Minnehaha Falls and also passing through the city of St. Cloud during our epic road trip through the Dakota’s and down to Minneapolis for TBEX North America 2016.

Summary

There is a lot more to experience in Minnesota than you might imagine. Yes, the Twin Cities are amazing and well worth spending considerable time visiting but as Kirsten highlighted, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Minnesota. We can’t wait to return at the end of September for the Ryder Cup which in itself is an awesome experience, at least based on our previous trips in 2012 to Medinah in Chicago and 2014 at Gleneagles in Scotland.

From the retail adventures to be had at the Mall of America to the gorgeous untouched shorelines of Lake Superior, Minnesota is a state that should be classified as a hidden gem that everyone should visit at least once.

Thanks to Kirsten for sharing her thoughts on why Minnesota should be a state you should consider visiting on your next travels around the States

You can follow Kirsten at the following social networks:

Facebook – Still Kirsten
Instagram – Still Kirsten

We would also like to thank Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map and Ashley Ryan from Pure Wander for sharing some of their favorite images of Minnesota! I’m sure you are salivating at the sight of that amazing food from the Minnesota State Fair.

Have you visited Minnesota? If so, what are your experiences? Are you intrigued by exploring the Mall of America or perhaps one of the 11,000+ lakes that are on offer around Minnesota?

How to Enjoy an Amazing 48 Hours in North and South Dakota

South Dakota

Chris Boothman

Sep 5, 2016

How to Enjoy an Amazing 48 Hours in North and South Dakota

Thinking about where to spend your next 48-hour weekend getaway? Forget New York City or Florida and instead, consider North and South Dakota! Ok, so you may think we are crazy but after our epic road trip around both these states in just 48 hours (that’s right, it’s possible to explore a bunch of attractions and landmarks in both) we want to share our itinerary exploring this part of the States.

If you have never visited North or South Dakota, you are probably thinking exactly what we did prior to our road trip to TBEX in Minneapolis. Having visited 46 states, North and South Dakota were two of our four remaining states. We all know about Mount Rushmore in South Dakota and perhaps Badlands National Park but I knew nothing about North Dakota. We needed a plan to explore as much of both states as possible in just 48 hours.

48 Hours in North and South Dakota

I contemplated writing a post comparing North vs South Dakota and why you should visit one over the other but after considering the pros and cons of each, I figured it would be better to share our experiences in both.

Here is a map and schedule of our itinerary and what we visited along the way.

Day 1 (Afternoon)

1:00PM to 5:00PM – Explore Sioux Falls, South Dakota
5:00PM to 10:00PM – Drive to Rapid City (Approximately 350 miles or 4 1/2 hours along I-90)

Day 2 (Morning)

7:00AM to 8:30AM – Explore Downtown Rapid City
9:00AM to 10:30AM – Mount Rushmore
11:00AM to 12:30PM – Needles Highway

Day 2 (Afternoon/Evening)

12:30PM to 2:00PM – Drive to Wall (Approximately 90 miles or 1 1/2 hours)
2:00PM to 3:00PM – Wall Drug Store
3:00PM to 5:30PM – Badlands National Park
5:30PM to 8:00PM – Drive to Pierre and visit South Dakota State Capitol (Approximately 120 miles or 2 hours back along I-90)
8:30PM to 11:30PM – Drive to Bismarck, ND (Approximately 210 miles or 3 hours through South/North Dakota scenic byways)

Day 3 (Morning)

8:00AM to 9:30AM – Explore Bismarck and visit North Dakota State Capitol
9:30AM to 1:00PM – Drive to Fargo (Approximately 195 miles or 3 hours along I-94)

And that is how you explore North and South Dakota in just 48 hours! Don’t worry, we will share a little more information on each of the spots we visited during this road trip. It may seem like A LOT of driving…ok, who are we kidding because it is a lot…but this is extremely rewarding once you have accomplished it.

We are not all fortunate enough to have plenty of days to spend exploring each of these states so we hope that you will consider this as a viable route, or at least part of this if you are looking at visiting both North and South Dakota.

Sioux Falls

Welcome to South Dakota!

Spending a few hours in Sioux Falls is the best way to start your experience in South Dakota. We were pleasantly surprised at how cool Sioux Falls was, in particular, the stunning Falls Park which is a MUST-SEE attraction.

You could easily spend several hours relaxing and exploring these falls but be sure to take a stroll downtown which is just a short walk from Falls Park.

Check out the towering Cathedral of St. Joseph that overlooks the city and the Old Courthouse Museum offers a quirky experience educating visitors about the history of Sioux Falls in the late 1800s.

You can check out more information on our post of the top things to do in Sioux Falls.

Rapid City

The drive from Sioux Falls to Rapid City along I-90 is not as bad as you may imagine. Yes, it’s almost 350 miles but given the speed limit is for the most part 80mph, you can easily drive this in around 4 hours. We stayed overnight at the Hotel Alex Johnson in downtown Rapid City which offers a perfect location to explore for a few hours the next morning.

Known as ‘The City of Presidents’, Rapid City offers an awesome self-guided walking tour around the downtown area. On every street corner of two parallel streets are monuments of the 42 former presidents, offering a historical reflection on American history. Be sure to find your favorite president!

You can check out more information on our post of downtown Rapid City and the City of Presidents walking tour.

Mount Rushmore

It’s the most famous landmark in South Dakota so a trip to this state wouldn’t be the same without visiting the Black Hills to check out Mount Rushmore. Whether you agree with the stereotype that Mount Rushmore is just an overrated tourist attraction, I truly believe this is something you have to see for yourselves. In our opinion, it is anything but overrated!

We had an awesome time exploring and marveling over the intricate details of this monument. The Presidential hiking trail is a cool experience to get an up close and personal look at the four presidents but just being on the grounds of Mount Rushmore is something I think everyone should experience to appreciate the beauty here.

If you want to visit Mount Rushmore, we encourage you to check out our post detailing our experiences there.

Needles Highway – Custer State Park

A short drive from Mount Rushmore will lead you to a stunning scenic drive known as the Needles Highway. The drive is within Custer State Park so the $20 admission fee into the park may sound a little expensive especially when you realize you will only experience this one drive. But once you start appreciating the breathtaking beauty along this route, you will know this was $20 well spent!

Passing through tunnels that are only just wide enough for one vehicle and admiring the spectacular geological formations that create such a beautiful environment make this two-hour journey one that you won’t forget.

If you are interested in seeing more spectacular images from our journey through Custer State Park, check out our review of the Needles Highway experience.

Wall Drug Store

As you drive I-90, you can’t help but notice a plethora of billboards advertising Wall Drug Store. A marketing ploy for sure but one that will work because if you are not enticed to check out what Wall Drug is all about, you should be!

Located in the small town of Wall, this iconic drug store started with a couple offering visitors the incentive of free iced water. It doesn’t sound much but in the heart of South Dakota with not much else around, this was certainly an attractive offering that worked for the owners of Wall Drug Store.

Today, Wall Drug is more than just a store…it’s an experience that you have to check out! Be sure to check out the restaurant that still offers the free iced water along with 5 cent coffee.

If you want to find out more about this idyllic shopping mall, check out our post on Wall Drug Store.

Badlands National Park

Looking for amazing natural beauty in South Dakota? Look no further than Badlands National Park! After leaving Wall Drug Store, the entrance to this national park is just a couple of miles down the road and offers a stunning scenic drive with a variety of overlooks and experiences you will cherish forever.

Impromptu encounters with wildlife such as bighorn sheep are frequent and just add to the overall experience in Badlands. If you have an annual National Park pass, your entrance to Badlands will be free but regardless it is well worth the admission fee!

Details of our experience in this national park can be found on our post highlighting why the Badlands Scenic Drive is such a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

Pierre

The drive from Badlands National Park to North Dakota offers a couple of alternative routes. If you are interested in visiting the State Capitol building, head back down I-90 towards Rapid City and then head north towards Pierre. We arrived in Pierre around 8:00PM so had enough daylight to walk around and explore the State Capitol.

If you have more time to explore Pierre, you could check out a variety of museums depicting South Dakotan history or perhaps visit the Fighting Stallions Memorial.

Having the State Capitol in Pierre is a little strange in my opinion given that many more visitors head to either Sioux Falls or Rapid City but at least this gave us an excuse to visit the city before crossing the state line into North Dakota.

Bismarck

Welcome to North Dakota!

Our time in North Dakota was much less than South Dakota but we still had time to spend the night in Bismarck and explore the North Dakota State Capitol building the following morning.

I am sure there will be people that disagree with this but I was disappointed by the appearance of North Dakota’s State Capitol. There was very little character and it reminded me of a high-rise corporate building. The uniqueness of this architecture in comparison with other State Capitols at least makes it stand out from the rest but in my opinion, not in a good way!

Fargo

Our final stop on this epic road trip saw us drive three hours on I-94 from Bismarck to Fargo. We were again left a little disappointed but perhaps if we had spent a little more time there we would have experienced more of what there is to do here.

The Fargo Air Museum is one of the most popular attractions here with a variety of interesting planes on display. If you are an aviation enthusiast, I’m sure this will be an attraction you won’t want to miss. For the rest of you, well perhaps you will continue on your journey through North Dakota and beyond.

Our journey saw us leave Fargo and head towards Minneapolis which was much more attractive than trying to figure out the best reasons to stick around Fargo.

Summary

We may be utterly crazy for attempting this in such a short timeframe but we did it! We had a great time exploring South Dakota and visiting so many cool attractions and despite being a little disappointed by our experiences in North Dakota, we are assuming that we just didn’t visit the right parts of the state (we would love to head west and explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park on another trip).

Regardless of your viewpoints of this form of travel, exploring a lot in a short time is feasible and definitely a way many people prefer to travel. We are not all fortunate to have ample time to spend in each location so hopefully a guide like this will inspire you to visit North and South Dakota in the near future.

What are your experiences in the two Dakotas? Do you have a preference over the two?

5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Maine

Maine

Chris Boothman

Sep 1, 2016

5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Maine

If you are looking for breathtaking stretches of coastline and delicious seafood, look no further than the northeasternmost state in the U.S. – Maine! Referred to locally as the Pine Tree State, predominantly for the abundance of parks and other areas of forestry, Maine is a haven for gorgeous natural scenery. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit Maine, you don’t know what you are missing!

We have been fortunate to visit the small town of Ogunquit along with the larger city of Portland, both of which offer a unique experience in Maine. We will share more of our personal thoughts later but first, we are delighted to collaborate with Anna Parker from Travel With Penelope and Parker, who has had the opportunity to explore Maine and shares her opinions on this beautiful state.

Let’s take a look at what Anna has to say about Maine.

The Lighthouses

Lighthouses are dotted along the coast – not only beautiful but on exposed bits of coast where the scenery and views are unbeatable.

Whilst there are plenty of beaches in the south, go north and lighthouses mark the danger at night and day for sailors and fishermen along the craggy coast.

Visit a few – Owls Head and Bass Harbour Head are stunning come rain or shine – but better still, stay in one! Living in a luxury lighthouse (the ‘Inn at Cuckolds’) for a couple of days was the ultimate retreat, surrounded entirely by the water with unbeatable views and more seals than people.

The Lobster

I ate 5 in a week, and why not? Lobster is a delicacy in Maine, but also an affordable one and a food that one just cannot get enough of. Whether you eat your lobster fresh off a steamer dipped in butter accompanied by corn and potatoes or if you choose to enjoy it in a roll doused in mayonnaise. Whichever way you prefer, it is delicious.

All seaside towns have shacks serving the lobster roll – you can tell by the length of the queue if you’ve chosen somewhere good, it’ll be worth the wait!

The Scenery

Sat in a wooden Adirondack chair with a glass of chilled wine (or a lobster roll) in hand is the perfect way to enjoy the view, whether looking across to Acadia or just out to sea, it is quintessentially Maine.

blessed with gorgeous scenery and a rugged coastline which is rocky and beautiful and the colors are quite gorgeous whether inland in the forests or looking out to sea.

Take some time to travel inland and enjoy touring the wineries, with a breathtaking array of alpine scenery. The views across Penobscot Bay were relaxing with many a classic sailing yacht providing the ultimate relaxing scene. The Adirondacks just add to the natural beauty in front of you.

The Quaint Towns

Maine has so many charming and small towns. Camden is set around a historic working port with many lovely shops for gifts and local produce.

Ogunquit is blessed with lovely beach areas as well as an easy-going coastal walk near to the town.

Kennebunkport is a bustling place with plenty of shops and all manner of options for food and drink.

Portland is the cool big sister of the area, sprawling along the coast with a real local feel to it despite a large number of tourists that flock here. Boothbay Harbour is off the main tourist route yet has one of the best lobster shacks around.

The National Parks

There is no shortage of outstanding natural beauty in Maine. Camden Hills is an interesting place – either take a hike or (if short of time) drive to the top of Mount Battie and take in the stunning panorama of views inland and also down to Camden and across to Acadia.

If you have more time, Mount Megunticook is well worth climbing! Acadia National Park draws crowds and it’s easy to see much of it in a day on the recommended driving scenic route. However, we recommend heading off the beaten path to avoid the crowds and exploring more of what this national park has to offer.

The distinctive change from a coastal to an alpine scenery in such a short distance is incredible and something that you have to experience when you visit Maine.

Visit Maine – Our Thoughts

We immediately fell in love with Maine…it’s as simple as that! Spending some time exploring the quirky yet beautiful town of Ogunquit sampling the finest home-made hot chocolate before heading to the city of Portland to experience the gorgeous lighthouses.

Maine may be a popular location for food connoisseurs due to the delicious lobster here, but for anyone in the slight bit interested in lighthouses, this state is certainly the best place to visit.

The iconic Portland Head Light once played an integral role in the maritime industry around the Gulf of Maine. The history of this lighthouse dates back to the late 18th century and despite some renovations, today it is still proudly standing at the head of the primary shipping channel into Portland Harbor.

Our journey through Maine continued to some lesser known spots and in fact, we really felt like we were in a beautiful wilderness as we experienced a variety of wildlife (moose and deer among others) and breathtaking overlooks.

Approaching the Canadian border in Jackman, we experienced the gorgeous Attean View Overlook which if you have the opportunity is definitely a memory you will cherish.

If you love waterfalls as much as I do, well you are in for a real treat because Maine has an abundance of them waiting for you to discover. We pulled over on the side of the road as we approached the Canadian border and found this gem of a waterfall. It’s no surprise to hear that this is known as ‘The Falls’ and is located just off US 201, north of Jackman.

Summary

Maine is one of America’s hidden gems with a variety of reasons that will continue to attract visitors from all corners of the globe. Whether you are a food critic, avid historian or keen landscape photographer, Maine has a plethora of attractive towns and landmarks that will keep you intrigued.

Road tripping through Maine en route from Boston to Quebec City was one of the highlights of our trip and as you can see from Anna’s suggestions, pretty much everywhere you go there will be something to inspire you to explore further.

Have you experienced Maine? If so, what do you consider to be the highlights here and if not, what is it about Maine that attracts you?

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European Monuments and Architecture

Ashford Castle

Burano

Caernarfon Castle

Caldea-INUU Spa

Chillon Castle

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Hallgrímskirkja

La Casa Batllo

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Maastricht’s Historic Town

Musikverein

Oslo Opera House

Palais du Justice

Reichstag

Reims Cathedral

Roman Forum

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Architecture

Saint Peter’s Basilica

The Acropolis

The Cloth Hall

Summary

Explore The Land of 10,000 Lakes

Introduction

A Rocking Arts Scene

Camping and State Parks

Shopping to End All Shopping

Super Cute Cities and Need To See Spots

Minnesota State Fair

Visit Minnesota – Our Thoughts

Summary

48 Hours in North and South Dakota

Day 1 (Afternoon)

Day 2 (Morning)

Day 2 (Afternoon/Evening)

Day 3 (Morning)

Sioux Falls

Rapid City

Mount Rushmore

Needles Highway – Custer State Park

Wall Drug Store

Badlands National Park

Pierre

Bismarck

Fargo

Summary

The Lighthouses

The Lobster

The Scenery

The Quaint Towns

The National Parks

Visit Maine – Our Thoughts

Summary

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