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Denali National Park Tour – How to Make the Most of Your Visit?

Chris Boothman
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7
Denali National Park Tour – How to Make the Most of Your Visit?

Imagine a landscape of pristine, natural serenity. Imagine a scene where wildlife roams around without fear of human intervention. Imagine waking up to the sight of the tallest peak in North America with the Northern Lights glowing brightly in the background. Now take a moment to stop imagining and realize that after reading this post, you can experience all of this plus much more! Taking a Denali National Park tour is a no-brainer if you are visiting Alaska in the near future.

Forget Yellowstone…Forget Yosemite…Forget all 58 other areas that have been nominated as National Parks! We want to introduce you to Denali National Park which we now consider to be even more spectacular than any of the other parks we have experienced on our travels.

denali national park tour

We absolutely LOVE both Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks and both offer spectacular scenery that I honestly thought couldn’t be bettered. However, after visiting Denali in the heart of Alaska’s “preserved wilderness”, I really believe you could argue that this offers even more breathtaking scenery than the aforementioned parks.

But of course, all of this is subjective and if I had to put money on my favorite…well it would be a really tough call!

Where is Denali National Park?

Let’s start by taking a look at how you can reach Denali National Park. Located in the heart of Alaska, the reality is that you will be flying into Anchorage and then making your way north via the Parks Highway which runs for 323 miles between the capital and Fairbanks. Whether you choose to take a tour bus or perhaps go with a car rental as we did, there will be countless opportunities on the drive to admire Denali’s main attraction.

mount denali

Mount Denali, or Mount McKinley as it was formerly known, is the tallest peak in North America. Standing at 20,310 feet it is the only mountain in the continent that exceeds 20k feet. Located among other iconic peaks such as Mount Foraker and Mount Hunter, Mount Denali is understandably the focal point of all visits to the national park. But don’t let this peak fool you because there is so much more to experience!

denali national park tour

A drive of around 4 hours will see you reach the entrance to Denali National Park, though the reality is that you will need a couple more hours given that you will likely want to stop along this route for your first pictures of Denali along with a possible visit to the quirky town of Talkeetna.

How to take a Denali National Park Tour?

Ok, so you have arrived at Denali National Park and you are raring to explore! The first reality check arrives when you realize that you can’t explore much of Denali without taking one of the pre-organized shuttle buses. At this point, you have a couple of options open to you because, since 1972, no private vehicles are allowed (a couple of exceptions here!) beyond mile 15.

denali national park tour

A visit to the Wilderness Access Center (WAC) should hopefully alleviate your concerns and if you arrive at Denali later in the day, we recommend visiting the WAC in preparation for your exploring the following day. If you can plan well in advance, you can organize a shuttle bus tour online, though there are only limited spaces available through the online portal and the remaining tickets are sold at the WAC.

denali national park tour

The following tour options are available – Shuttle Bus and Narrated Tour Bus.

Shuttle Bus (Green Buses)

This is the ‘cheaper’ option and the route we opted for. You will provide your own food and drink and for the most part, this will be just a ‘shuttle’ experience though we later found out that our driver was incredibly knowledgeable and shared a plethora of information on the ‘tour’ (though she ‘claimed’ it wasn’t a tour).

denali national park tour bus

Shuttle bus ticket prices vary from year to year, but as of September 1, 2016, here are the latest prices and destinations that you can reach.

  • Toklat River (Mile 53)
    • Adults – $26.50
    • Children (Under 15) – FREE
    • Duration – 6.5 Hours
  • Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66) – $34
    • Adults – $34
    • Children (Under 15) – FREE
    • Duration – 8 Hours
  • Wonder Lake (Mile 85) – $46.75
    • Adults – $46.75
    • Children (Under 15) – FREE
    • Duration – 11 Hours
  • Kantishna (Mile 92) – $51
    • Adults – $51
    • Children (Under 15) – FREE
    • Duration – 12 Hours

Please note that these fees DO NOT include the entrance fee which is an additional $10 per person unless you have the National Park Annual Pass which waives this fee.

denali shuttle bus tours

The key benefits of the shuttle bus option aside from being more cost effective are related to the flexibility. If you are interested in hiking through the Denali National Park wilderness, this is definitely the best option.

denali national park tour

You can leave the bus at any point during your journey and once you have finished your exploring, simply flag down the next green bus and continue your journey or return to the WAC.

denali national park tour

Green shuttle buses will stop for all wildlife sightings and everyone on board is encouraged to keep their eyes open in all directions as much of the wildlife is frequently difficult to spot. We were fortunate to spot grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and Dall sheep during our journey through the park.

denali national park wildlife

Narrated Tour Bus (Tan Buses)

There are a couple of different ‘narrated’ tour buses available each day where the drivers are certified ‘driver-naturalists’ and will share much more knowledge and information on the route you take through the park. These are a more expensive option and offer less flexibility but do offer a box lunch and beverages.

Here are the different tour options available if you prefer a more structured tour.

  • Natural History Tour – $77.25
  • Tundra Wilderness Tour – $130.25 (A shortened version is available in the Spring and Fall for $66.50 per person)
  • Kantishna Experience – $194

Summary

Regardless of which Denali National Park tour bus you take, we can guarantee that this is an experience you won’t want to miss! Exploring Denali National Park is a breathtaking experience that words and pictures will never do enough justice.

denali national park wildlife

As we work on editing literally thousands of amazing photographs that we captured throughout our Denali journey, we hope that you will consider these various options when you plan a trip to Alaska. Be aware that visiting Alaska outside of the ‘peak period’ (May to September) will prevent you from experiencing these tours but if you plan a visit during this timeframe, you will have the ultimate experience just like we did!

Be sure to check out website over the next few weeks as we share more stories and breathtaking images from our journey through Denali National Park.

Have you taken a Denali National Park tour? Do you prefer flexibility when taking a tour or would you prefer to learn as much information as possible from a knowledgeable tour guide?

Why Major Marine Tours Are the Best Way to See Kenai Fjords?

Chris Boothman
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19
Why Major Marine Tours Are the Best Way to See Kenai Fjords?

Alaska is home to eight national parks, many of which are largely inaccessible despite the inherent beauty that lies within each of them. Denali National Park is understandably the most iconic given that it is home to the tallest peak in North America and we had an amazing experience there. However, we also had the opportunity to explore Kenai Fjords National Park courtesy of Major Marine Tours and this experience was certainly one that will long live in our memories.

kenai peninsula

Who are Major Marine Tours?

Kenai Fjords National Park is accessible primarily via chartered cruises that are offered by two major cruise companies, one of which is Major Marine Tours.

major marine tours

A variety of daily cruises are available dependent on your interests and time constraints (or perhaps your ability to survive sailing in the North Pacific!) but we opted for the six-hour tour of Kenai which was an amazing experience.

Major Marine Tours is an award-winning, family-owned Alaska boat tour company celebrating 25 years of business in 2016.

Major Marine Tours are the market leaders in Alaska given that they offer national park rangers as interpreters and provide guests with the option to purchase a delicious Alaska salmon and prime rib meal.

major marine tours seward alaska

I want to emphasize the mission of Major Marine Tours which I think epitomizes why the onboard experience is so amazing.

  1. Committed to bringing the control and benefits of the Alaska visitor industry back to Alaska.
  2. Motivated to delivering an authentic, world-class Alaskan experience to our guests.
  3. Dedicated to operating with reliability, honesty, integrity, and environmental sensitivity.
  4. Alaskans who thrive in a challenging, dependable work environment.

Before heading on this tour, we had very little experience in the open waters of the ocean but everything about this tour was meticulously planned, organized and coordinated by the captain, his team and of course, the national park ranger who provided in-depth knowledge of everything we saw.

national park service

Let’s take a look at the options available to visitors wishing to experience this tour company.

Kenai Fjords

The following 5 tours are all available and depart out of Seward Harbor (prices listed below are for the 2017 season as many of the tours are no longer available for 2016. For the latest prices, check out the website here):

  • 8.5 Hour Northwestern Fjord Cruise – Adults $224; Children $224
  • 7.5 Hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise – Adults $179; Children $89.50
  • 6 Hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise – Adults $159; Children $79.50
  • 5 Hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise – Adults $88; Children $44
  • 3.5 Hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise – Adults $79; Children $39.50

A couple of alternative whale watching cruises are available, including a brand new Orca Quest Cruise that will be available in 2017!

kenai fjords national park cruise

Prince William Sound

Major Marine Tours also operates cruises from Whittier into the Prince William Sound as follows:

  • Prince William Sound Surprise Glacier Cruise – Adults $149; Children $74.50
  • Prince William Sound Blackstone Bay Glacier Cruise – Adults $119; Children $59.50

Seward Harbor

Our journey to Kenai Fjords National Park started in Anchorage with a 2.5-hour drive south to the quaint town of Seward where as you can see all tours to the Kenai Peninsula depart from. This journey itself is an amazing experience but that’s for another post. Arriving in Seward we first had to find somewhere to park for the day.

seward alaska

Arriving in Seward we first had to find somewhere to park for the day. Fortunately, there are a couple of parking lots available and for only $10, you can leave your vehicle all day without worrying about whether you will have a car when you return. We arrived in plenty of time for our 11:30AM cruise so had some time to get out and explore.

After collecting our boarding passes at the ticket office inside the Harbor 360 Hotel, we wandered along the harbor front and grabbed a coffee from a quirky hole in the wall called ‘Nature’s Nectars’.

major marine tours seward

A couple of visits to souvenir shops and the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center and our time quickly passed. We headed down the jetway passing beyond the fleet of catamarans owned by Major Marine Tours along with all the other vessels that docked in Seward.

spirit of adventure major marine tours

Our first experience with wildlife occurred before we even boarded the Spirit of Adventure as we saw a couple of sea otters playing in the water and also a nasty looking (in a good way but I don’t think you would want to touch it!) jellyfish on the opposite side of the dock.

seward harbor jellyfish

Spirit of Adventure

As we slowly made our way out of Seward Harbor and into Resurrection Bay, this gave us ample opportunity to explore our home for the next six hours – the Spirit of Adventure. I think this was aptly named given that we were heading out with only one idea in our minds, exploring and being adventurous in Kenai Fjords National Park.

spirit of adventure

The Spirit of Adventure is an 86-foot catamaran that operates the 6-hour Kenai Fjords cruise. With a seating capacity of 174 passengers and three different levels for visitors to enjoy stunning panoramic views across the Kenai Peninsula and beyond, this vessel is an impressive sight as it cruises into the open ocean.

kenai fjords national park cruise

Wildlife Encounters

If you are taking one of the longer cruises, you are likely interested in experiencing as much wildlife as possible on your cruise.

major marine tours bald eagle

We hadn’t left Seward Harbor when our captain pointed out a bald eagle perched on the dock and we slowly glided close beside this gorgeous bird of prey. We immediately knew this was going to be an epic experience and we just hoped our luck would continue.

bald eagle major marine tours

A couple of spottings of humpback whales occurred as we left Resurrection Bay but none of them were long enough to capture a good picture. For the wildlife photographers out there, trying to capture that perfect image of an animal that prefers to spend its time under the water making it incredibly difficult.

sea otters

We saw several more sea otters during our cruise out of the bay along with a couple of Harbor seals that were relaxing on the jagged rocks that jutted out from the Kenai landscape.

harbor seals

The ultimate goal to see a whale would have to wait until later in our journey but we kept our fingers crossed.

kenai fjords puffins

We saw a couple of puffins that were the final ones to migrate out of the area before the winter set in but we were finally rewarded for keeping our eyes peeled when we saw two transient orcas elegantly gliding in tandem just a short distance from us.

major marine tours orcas

The onboard national park ranger informed us that we were incredibly fortunate to see this given that these mammals generally prefer to stay away from human interaction and stay underwater.

major marine tours orcas

Kenai Fjords National Park Scenery

If you thought the Kenai Fjords cruise couldn’t get any better after experiencing all of this amazing wildlife, wait until you reach the amazing Aialik Glacier. After passing a couple of glaciers from a fair distance en route out of Resurrection Bay, we were amazed at just how close we were able to get to Aialik Glacier.

aialik glacier major marine tours

The experience is amazing, there is no other way to describe it. As we approached the active glacier, we noticed more and more ice in the water and our tour guide warned us to listen and appreciate our surroundings.

kenai fjords national park

He constantly kept reminding us to “open up our senses” which at first we were both a little confused about but the moment we walked to the top deck, we appreciated exactly what he was referring to.

aialik glacier alaska

The crisp sound of the glacier carving ice into the water along with a distinctive smell was enough to open up our senses. Combine this with the amazing visual that was in front of us and well, it was a moment that will long live with us.

kenai fjords national park

It was amazing watching the ice crack and then crash into the bay, a sight that I am sure the majority on board had never experienced before.

ice carving aialik glacier

Time flew by and after our captain announced that it was time to move to our next location we were all left trying to capture those last selfies and pictures of Aialik Glacier.

major marine tours

The glaciers throughout Kenai Fjords National Park are not the only attractions that are worth experiencing. The coastline itself is a spectacle that you will want to admire though we suffered the disappointment on our return trip of pretty poor visibility given the presence of some pretty heavy rain squalls.

kenai fjords coastline

For more images of both our wildlife and breathtaking scenery experience, check out our photo gallery of Kenai Fjords National Park here.

Alaskan Salmon and Prime Rib

Visitors on the longer Kenai Fjords cruises have the option to purchase the Alaskan salmon and prime rib lunch buffet. For only $19, you can enjoy an ‘all you can eat’ experience and this is certainly great value for money.

major marine tours kenai fjords cruise

Lunch is well organized and each section of the vessel is given an opportunity to form an orderly queue at the buffet line and fill your plate with as much as you can eat. You will also have the opportunity to return later if you need more of the amazing cuisine on offer.

alaskan salmon

We are not huge fans of prime rib (sorry folks just being honest!) but the Alaskan salmon was AMAZING! Combine this with salad, rice pilaf, and sourdough bread and you won’t be leaving the boat hungry.

major marine tours lunch cruise

Just before the end of the cruise, a delicious dessert offering of cheesecake, chocolate brownies, and fruit are offered for that final indulgence before you leave the cruise and bid farewell to an amazing experience on board the catamaran.

Summary

When I started writing this post, I really hoped that I would do Major Marine Tours enough justice because everything about our experience was amazing. Heather was a little skeptical prior to boarding because she suffers from sea-sickness but she coped admirably and had very few issues throughout the six-hour tour of Kenai Fjords National Park.

major marine tours kenai fjords cruise

The highlights? Everything! In all honesty, seeing all of the amazing wildlife, in particular, the bald eagle and orcas were probably our top picks but after seeing everything we experienced it’s difficult to pinpoint one aspect.

Our recommendation is pretty simple. Book a trip to Alaska and be sure to head to Seward to take a cruise of the Kenai Fjords offered by Major Marine Tours. It’s a no-brainer, great value for money and you won’t leave disappointed.

Disclaimer – We were hosted by Major Marine Tours on the 6-hour Kenai Fjords National Park cruise in consideration of a blog post review. The views contained within this post are entirely our personal opinion/experience and we received no final compensation for this.

weekend wanderlust

20 Amazing European Monuments You Need to Experience

Chris Boothman
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5
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

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

burano architecture

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

european monuments 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.

caernarfon castle in wales

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

caldea inuu spa in andorra

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.

european monuments in andorra

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

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

european monuments

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

Hallgrímskirkja iceland

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

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

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

maastricht old 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

european monuments

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.

vienna musikverein

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

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

european monuments

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

reichstag berlin

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.

reichstag berlin

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

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

european monuments 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

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

saint peters 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

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

the cloth hall belgium

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

Chris Boothman
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14
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.

visit minnesota

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.

minnesota north star state

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.

minnesota winter

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.

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

boundary waters

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.

stillwater 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.

duluth visit minnesota

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.

duluth

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.

fried pickles minnesota state fair
Image courtesy of Jenna Kvidt from Wander The Map
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.

minnesota winters

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.

minneapolis st paul

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.

st mary's basilica in minneapolis

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.

visit minnesota

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?

weekend wanderlust

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

Chris Boothman
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1
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.

north and south dakota

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.

north and south dakota road trip

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.

falls park in sioux falls

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.

north and south dakota

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.

hotel alex johnson rapid city

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!

city of presidents walking tour

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!

mount rushmore south dakota

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.

north and south dakota

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!

needles highway

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.

needles highway custer state park

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!

wall drug store

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.

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.

north and south dakota

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.

badlands national park

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!

badlands national park

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.

north and south dakota

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.

north dakota

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.

north dakota state capitol

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).

north and south dakota

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

Chris Boothman
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13
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.

portland head light

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.

portland coast maine

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.

visit maine

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.

visit 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.

inn at cuckolds maine

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.

camden maine

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

visit maine

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.

mount battie in maine

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.

ogunquit maine

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.

portland head light maine

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.

maine road trip

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.

visit maine wildlife

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.

visit maine

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.

maine waterfalls

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?

weekend wanderlust

Why the Millenium Memories Experience by Hilton is Amazing?

Chris Boothman
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24
Why the Millenium Memories Experience by Hilton is Amazing?

Do you love New York City? Of course! Do you love scavenger hunts? Who doesn’t love a little mystery with the hope of finding something epic! Do you want to stay in a luxury hotel at an affordable rate? Let me think about that….YES, YOU DO! We have the perfect opportunity for you that we just experienced recently in the Big Apple. The Millenium Hilton Hotel in Lower Manhattan has recently announced their Millenium Memories package which offers visitors the answer to all three of the above questions.

millenium memories package

This post is not going to be your stereotypical hotel review, rather we are going to focus on highlighting our experience creating our very own #MilleniumMemories while exploring this area.

lower manhattan new york city

Why Millenium Hilton?

Let’s start by saying WE LOVE NEW YORK CITY! It’s the ultimate 24-hour city of the world and I know this phrase has been coined many times before but it’s so true. We have stayed at a variety of hotels throughout Manhattan but always found something negative with them either with location, price or amenities.

millenium hilton new york city

However, earlier this year we decided to stay at the Millenium Hilton in Lower Manhattan and had the best experience. The moment we heard that they had a new package known as ‘Millenium Memories’ to entice visitors to explore this neighborhood, we were raring to head back and stay again.

millenium memories package

To give you a very brief look at why this is the perfect hotel to stay while visiting New York City, perhaps the view overlooking Ground Zero and the brand new One World Trade Center will convince you.

millenium hilton new york city

If not, check out some of the gorgeous suites available along with a business center, fitness room, and amazing swimming pool. Breakfast is served either in the restaurant as a buffet or as room service and we were really impressed by the variety available.

millenium hilton breakfast

But all of these are ‘expected’ benefits of staying in a top-notch hotel in New York City right? That may be the case but what sold the Millenium Hilton for us is the location. We always hear the phrase ‘Location, Location, Location’ when it comes to finding the perfect real estate for an organization.

millenium hilton

The Millenium Hilton on Church St has hit the jackpot with easy access to Fulton Center, a transit center and retail complex offering easy access to a variety of subway lines to get anywhere else in Manhattan or across the Brooklyn Bridge.

millenium hilton new york city

The Millenium Hilton on Church St has hit the jackpot with easy access to Fulton Center, a transit center and retail complex offering easy access to a variety of subway lines to get anywhere else in Manhattan or across the Brooklyn Bridge.

Millenium Memories Package

So what’s the Millenium Memories package all about? The idea is that visitors are enticed into opting for this package with the opportunity to save 20% on their final night stay at the Millenium Hilton.

millenium memories package

Not only do you get to save money but you can have a whole bunch of fun at the same time. After checking-in, you will receive the following items:

  • Drawstring bag with Millenium Hilton printed on the front;
  • Millenium Hilton charger to ensure your devices are fully charged;
  • Millenium Hilton selfie-stick to help capture those memories;
  • Free, premium in-room WiFi ($16 value).

You will be given detailed instructions on 5 iconic landmarks located around Lower Manhattan and your job is to head out and explore to find each one before capturing a selfie as directed. Take crazy pictures, unique snapshots and most importantly have fun.

millenium memories new york city

Once you have taken each of the five images, be sure to tag them on either Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the #MilleniumMemories hashtag.

millenium memories

After completing this task, simply show your ‘tagged’ photos to Guest Services at check-out and you will qualify for 20% discount on your final night (please note, a minimum two-night stay is required to be eligible for the discount).

Scavenger hunt + selfies = savings

Don’t worry, if you get sidetracked and only manage to tag one image, you can still qualify for a 10% discount.

millenium memories package

Our #MilleniumMemories Experience

We want to share our experiences exploring Lower Manhattan and specifically highlight where you can find the various locations listed on the scavenger hunt. We will also give you a few ideas of other spots you may stumble across as you wander around this part of Manhattan.

explore lower manhattan

The beauty of walking around New York City is that you never quite know what is around each corner. Beauty awaits you everywhere, so we encourage you to book the Millenium Memories package and start exploring!

Here is an overview of the route we took. You can certainly spend all day wandering around Lower Manhattan but in terms of the five specific attractions highlighted, you can expect to spend a couple of hours searching for them.

millenium memories scavenger hunt

Charging Bull

We started out early in the morning to try and avoid the searing heatwave that New York City was experiencing during our visit and headed towards Battery Park down Broadway. Our first attraction was the iconic Charging Bull which is frequently referred to as the “Wall Street Bull”.

charging bull lower manhattan

Arturo Di Modica is the artist famous for creating this bronze sculpture that stands in front of the Bowling Green Park in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan.

charging bull millenium memories

The meaning behind this sculpture dates back to the Wall Street Crash in 1987 when Di Modica wanted to create something that would help inspire economists and Wall Street gurus to celebrate the spirit and hard work of America in overcoming obstacles through pure grit and determination.

It’s this symbol of virility and courage that Di Modica saw as the perfect antidote to the Wall Street crash of 1987.

Be sure to visit the Charging Bull early to avoid the masses of tourists that want to capture that perfect candid moment with the bull in the background. We were a little late and had to deal with a number of tourists but we were still able to capture a great shot.

Here is our first picture for our #MilleniumMemories collection:

millenium memories charging bull

Directions

Click Here to open Google Maps for walking directions from the Millenium Hilton to the Charging Bull on Broadway.

millenium hilton to charging bull

Seaglass Carousel

One of the newer attractions in Lower Manhattan is the Seaglass Carousel, located in Battery Park. The idea of creating an aquatic carousel to provide a sea life experience on the traditional fairground ride was certainly something that has proved to be a hit with visitors to the park. Just a short walk from the Charging Bull, this is the obvious attraction to visit next.

seaglass carousel millenium memories

For only $5, you can take the Seaglass Carousel ride aboard one of the 30 fiberglass fish. If you prefer the simple ride, sit on the outside fish for a leisurely experience. However, for the ultimate experience, hop on the turntable which gives visitors the chance to ride while moving up and down in synchrony with the audio playing in the background.

seaglass carousel battery park

LED color lighting add to the overall effect and although we visited during the day, I’m sure this is a spectacular experience when darkness sets in and you can really see the lighting and other effects creating a memorable visit.

seaglass carousel new york city

Here is our second picture for our #MilleniumMemories collection:

seaglass carousel millenium memories

Directions

Click Here to open Google Maps for walking directions from the Millenium Hilton to the Seaglass Carousel at Battery Park.

millenium hilton to seaglass carousel

South Street Seaport

The furthest attraction on the scavenger hunt leads you along the eastern side of Lower Manhattan to South Street Seaport. This historic waterfront district is today a combination of piers, amazing panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge and boats offering tours of the East River.

south street seaport renovation

However, after leaving South Street Seaport, you will be left wondering what the historic pavilion once looked like, as today it is a derelict hub waiting for regeneration. The pavilion closed in 2013 with hopes that the proposed entertainment and retail center would offer a more attractive destination for visitors to this part of New York City.

south street seaport millenium memories

As we strolled around the piers stretching into the East River, we couldn’t help but admire the SS Peking boat and other vessels that docked in this area of Manhattan.

south street seaport

This is one of the attractions on the scavenger hunt where you can take a variety of selfies, dependent upon your interests.

south street seaport new york city

Whether you want an iconic image of the Brooklyn Bridge in the background or perhaps one of these gorgeous vessels, use your imagination and create an everlasting memory.

Here is our third picture for our #MilleniumMemories collection:

south street seaport

Directions

Click Here to open Google Maps for walking directions from the Millenium Hilton to the South Street Seaport.

These directions are not the shortest route but they are based on where you would go if you chose to follow our decision to visit the above attractions first.

millenium hilton to south street seaport

Fulton Center

Referred to as “The Gateway to Lower Manhattan”, the Fulton Center is more than a typical New York City subway station. It’s almost like a modern transportation hub offering an eclectic blend of retail, culinary and interactive media experiences.

fulton center lower manhattan

Just entering the Fulton Center from Fulton Street or Broadway, visitors will be wowed by the modern architecture that starts from the gorgeous ceiling, through the vibrant displays and facades on the wall and of course, the subway system itself that we all love.

fulton center millenium memories

The philosophy and ultimate goal of the architects developing Fulton Center was to create an environment where people would feel comfortable and want to enjoy their experience. All too often, subway stations are a place where you quickly visit and quickly leave. Fulton Center is anything but that.

shake shack new york city

A brand-new Shake Shack has arrived at Fulton Center on Level Two offering visitors the opportunity to experience this modern diner experience in Lower Manhattan.

shake shack fulton center

As we entered the transit center, we immediately noticed people sitting around and enjoying the spectacular infrastructure or considering their options at the various culinary locations scattered throughout the center. The highlight is the Sky Reflector-Net which truly epitomizes the modern feeling of the Fulton Center.

fulton center ceiling

This monumental sculpture embraces light and air, creating a distinctive focal point within Lower Manhattan’s urban fabric.

Trying to capture a selfie with the Sky Reflector-Net in the background isn’t the easiest task especially with the light shining through and your camera wanting to focus on that rather than your face.

fulton center sky reflector net

However, be sure to take some time to enjoy this experience because this really is a beautiful construction and certainly a place we love to visit. We actually visited a couple more times during this trip to New York City and enjoyed lunch and ice-cream at Shake Shack!

Here is our fourth picture for our #MilleniumMemories collection (as I mentioned, this was tough with our phone trying to capture this with the light):

fulton center millenium memories

Directions

Click Here to open Google Maps for walking directions from the Millenium Hilton to Fulton Center.

millenium hilton to fulton center

The Oculus

The final stop on our journey around Manhattan was a case of ‘saving the best until last’. The Oculus is a gorgeous ultra-modern structure designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava.

oculus new york city

Dubbed as a “mind-boggling glass and steel structure”, the Oculus has been transformed into a mall that just recently opened (August 16, 2016) and a mass transit station for the World Trade Center.

oculus interior

Located directly across from the Millenium Hilton and by the One World Trade Center, this breathtaking structure offers a perfect companion to the towering skyscraper and has become one of the most photogenic landmarks across Lower Manhattan.

millenium memories

Calatrava designed the Oculus to evoke the impression of a child releasing a dove from their hands. The interior of the structure is just as impressive and it’s no surprise to hear that this is the new ‘selfie-magnet’ attraction across New York City.

oculus millenium memories

We were fortunate to have a hotel suite on the 49th floor overlooking the Oculus from a ‘birds-eye view’, with the World Trade Center and Hudson River offering the perfect backdrop.

oculus and ground zero

We strongly encourage you to request a room overlooking this part of the city, you won’t regret it!

Here is our final picture for our #MilleniumMemories collection. I personally think we saved the best attraction for last:

oculus millenium memories

Other Lower Manhattan Attractions

As you wander around Lower Manhattan, don’t be fooled that the attractions highlighted above are all there is to see! In fact, you could easily spend several days walking around exploring this neighborhood and still feel like you need a return visit for more. Here are some of the other top attractions that you can explore in the region.

Wall Street is undoubtedly an iconic location in the Financial District with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and The Trump Building at 40 Wall Street being two of the most iconic buildings here. A unique contrast in architectural styles for sure but definitely a place you should experience before continuing your journey.

titanic memorial lighthouse

Meanwhile, a short walk from here offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Titanic Memorial Lighthouse which was built to commemorate those that died in the 1912 tragedy.

south street seaport

A variety of restaurants can be found in the nearby South Street area, including Smorgasburg which offers a trendy dining experience.

south street seaport

The Bowling Green Park along with Battery Park offer a moment of respite from the urban setting of New York.

bowling green park

If you love visiting museums, there are a variety in Lower Manhattan offering a historical perspective on the city. The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of Jewish Heritage are two of the most informative museums here.

Did I fail to mention the small matter of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island…that’s right, it’s in Lower Manhattan!

Summary

Ok, so surely you are sold by now that Lower Manhattan is THE place to explore during your next visit to the Big Apple! The Millenium Memories package is definitely the best way to experience this part of New York City. Staying at the Millenium Hilton is not only a great choice for exploring Lower Manhattan, it also offers convenient access via the nearby Fulton Center to access every other neighborhood across the city.

millenium memories package

A 20% saving for your final night stay at the Millenium Hilton is surely the final selling point that will convince you to purchase this package! We created our own amazing memories courtesy of the #MilleniumMemories package and you can too.

We would love to hear from your experiences and why you are inspired to check this out during your next visit to New York City. Our guide to New York City will also give you plenty of other reasons to visit the Big Apple!

Disclaimer – We were guests of the Millenium Hilton and received a complimentary #MilleniumMemories package in return for consideration of a blog post. The views contained within this post are entirely our personal opinion/experience and we received no final compensation for this.

Why a Yankees Baseball Game is the Ultimate Experience?

Chris Boothman
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23
Why a Yankees Baseball Game is the Ultimate Experience?

When you think about the iconic sporting teams around the world, I am sure many of you will consider Manchester United, Real Madrid, Los Angeles Lakers and the Green Bay Packers. But there is one team that is perhaps even greater than all of these – the New York Yankees! A globally recognized brand and followed by millions around the world, the Yankees are not only an iconic image in Major League Baseball but also in the world of sport! So having the opportunity to attend a Yankees baseball game has to be on your radar, regardless of your interest in this sport.

yankee stadium

During our recent visit to New York City, we had the opportunity to attend the Yankees game with the Tampa Bay Rays. In the 2016 season, a Yankees vs Rays encounter may not seem the most lucrative given their positions in the American League East division, but there was something a little bit extra special about this game.

yankees baseball game

A Farewell to Alex Rodriguez

For Yankee fans around the world, August 12, 2016, will long live in their memories as it was the final game for Alex Rodriguez in a Yankee shirt. Although deemed as a controversial figure in some baseball circles, Rodriguez was a Yankee legend and certainly a figure that during his prime was a fan favorite and well worth the admission price alone.

alex rodriguez new york yankees

Rodriguez brought an end to his Yankee career finishing on 696 home runs while wearing the infamous pinstripe uniform.

yankees baseball game

Many would have loved to see him reach 700 but nothing will take away from his legendary status among Yankee greats.

alex rodriguez yankees

Where does he fall among the likes of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Mickey Mantle? Well, that’s for Yankee fans to decide but there are certainly no arguments against his statistics!

yankee home run

Yankee Stadium

Our visit to Yankee Stadium to attend the Rays game was the first time that we have experienced a live MLB game at what I consider the “home of baseball”.

yankee stadium

Earlier this year we took an amazing Yankee Stadium tour which really increased our desires to attend a game. Just walking through Babe Ruth Plaza outside the gates and looking up at the amazing sight of Yankee Stadium was enough to create excitement inside us.

yankee stadium

Flight cancellations, delays at La Guardia upon arrival and a 3-hour shuttle ride to our hotel in Lower Manhattan meant that we didn’t arrive at Yankee Stadium until the 3rd inning.

yankees rays

After picking up our tickets, we entered the stadium and found our seats in section 125 behind 3rd base. The view was amazing and we picked a pretty good time to sit down as “A-Rod” was preparing for his at-bat.

yankees rays last a-rod game

The atmosphere throughout Yankee Stadium was electric and it was unsurprisingly a sell-out crowd of 46,459 to watch A-Rod’s last game as a Yankee. The moment Rodriguez stepped out to the plate to face Rays’ pitcher Chris Archer, the crowd rose to their feet trying to capture a few final pictures and even videos (despite the rules against capturing video inside Yankee Stadium!) of their favorite Yankee.

yankees baseball game

Unfortunately, we missed A-Rod’s double to right-center during the first inning that scored a run but we appreciated every opportunity we got throughout the rest of the game to see him in action.

With all that I’ve been through, and for them to show up on a night like tonight and to show me that type of love, it’s something that I’ll never forget. (Alex Rodriguez)

Rodriguez showed his appreciation to the packed Yankee Stadium both before, during and after the victory over the Rays. Obviously, this was an overwhelming experience even for such a cool competitor on the ball field, but it’s a credit to the player that he is that he was still able to help the Yankees to a 6-3 victory.

alex rodriguez yankees baseball game

Yankees vs Rays

The outcome of the Yankees vs Rays game was what everyone hoped for given the prestige of A-Rod’s final game. A 6-3 victory took the Yankees season record to a respectable 59-56 though still several games outside of the playoffs.

cc sabathia new york yankees

A win for CC Sabathia on the mound to improve his personal record to 7-9 for the season was also well recognized by the hardcore Yankee faithful.

yankees rays

Starlin Castro was the star performer for the Yankees as he drove in four runs throughout the evening including a home-run to left center field. But this was all about a certain individual named Alex Rodriguez and it was apparent throughout the whole stadium.

yankees baseball game

Of course, they wanted their beloved Yankees to win, but the moment Rodriguez stepped to the plate there was a real sense of anticipation in hope that he could connect with one final home run hit.

attending a yankees baseball game

Enjoying the Yankees Experience

Attending a Yankees baseball game is more than just watching the game. It’s about allowing yourselves to be encapsulated in the whole Yankees experience. From the amazing selection of cuisine available in the Yankees food court to a quick visit to the official store to purchase a souvenir jersey or baseball cap, there is plenty to keep you occupied if you need a break from the action.

yankees food court

I didn’t envision attending A-Rod’s last game would allow any time to get away from this highly anticipated encounter but we were able to enjoy some of the fine food on offer along with a quick visit to the store on our way out of the stadium.

yankees merchandise store
Image courtesy of New York Yankees PR

Let’s take a look at some of the choices available if you wish to enjoy a quick bite to eat while watching your favorite stars in action.

Nathan’s Famous

We wanted something quick and easy so we opted to share a chicken strip basket with a souvenir drink from Nathan’s Famous. If you are looking for a hot dog or chicken tenders, this is certainly a great spot (perhaps we are a little biased given that we love this place but don’t just take our word for it!)

Location – Pepsi Food Court

Carl’s Steaks

Ready to experience an amazing cheesesteak? Don’t worry, you don’t have to go all the way to Philly for this because Carl’s Steak offers a variety of delicious, authentic cheesesteaks.

The “Tape Measure Cheesesteak” is a new item for 2016 and is undoubtedly one of the most popular. Why? Perhaps because it is a two-foot cheesesteak topped with your choice of American cheese or Cheez Whiz, served on a classic hoagie roll baked fresh daily.

yankees tape measure cheesesteak
Image courtesy of New York Yankees PR

Do you think you can dominate all of this on your own? Well, that’s a challenge in itself but maybe you just want to share this with a loved one as it is an ideal option for two hungry souls enjoying a night at the ball game.

Location – Section 107

Triple Play

If you are looking to sample an awesome burger, look no further than Triple Play. The GOAT burger is one of the most popular and of course, it’s no surprise to hear it is named like this because it is dubbed as the “Greatest of All Time (GOAT)”.

yankees goat burger
Image courtesy of New York Yankees PR

Featuring blended beef and topped with crispy bacon, pastrami, American cheese and a special ‘GOAT’ sauce, this is an attractive option for burger connoisseurs.

Location – Section 115

Summary

What did we learn from attending a Yankees baseball game? Well aside from the fact it was an amazing experience watching A-Rod’s last game, we realized just how passionate the Yankee fans are.

yankees baseball game

I can only imagine what it is like to put on the famous pinstripe jersey one final time and walk out on to Yankee field in front of over 46,000 fans who are chanting your name.

yankees baseball game

Attending this Yankees game will long live in our memories as I am sure it will with many thousands of fans around the world. There are certain dates in history that are iconic and I’m sure this will remain one of them. We can’t wait for our opportunity to return to Yankee Stadium and see them in action again. Hopefully the next time we will be attending for a World Series-clinching victory!

LETS GO YANKEES!

Have you been to Yankee Stadium and watched the Yankees in action? Do you consider the Yankees to be one of the world’s top sporting teams?

Disclaimer – We were provided with complimentary tickets in consideration of a blog post review. The views contained within this post are entirely our personal opinion/experience and we received no final compensation for this.

weekend wanderlust


City of Presidents – How to Enjoy This Awesome Walking Tour?

Chris Boothman
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2
City of Presidents – How to Enjoy This Awesome Walking Tour?

When tourists head to South Dakota, it’s inevitable that attractions such as Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park will be at the top of their bucket lists. Rapid City may not be the first location you think about visiting but it is a convenient spot for visitors to stay overnight before exploring either of the aforementioned attractions. Known as ‘The City of Presidents’, Rapid City is a gorgeous location filled with beautiful architecture and many reasons to inspire visitors to get out and explore.

city of presidents walking tour
President Ronald Reagan – 40th President

If you are planning on visiting Rapid City for the first time, it is conveniently located on I-90 on the southwestern corner of South Dakota. It is about 30 minutes from Mount Rushmore and a little over an hour from the entrance to Badlands National Park. One of the most iconic aspects of Rapid City is the self-guided presidential walking tour which we decided to experience at 7:00AM on a gorgeous Saturday morning.

rapid city south dakota

Where to Stay?

Staying at the beautiful, historic Hotel Alex Johnson in the heart of the city, we were conveniently located to the City of Presidents walking tour which is located on two parallel streets. If you love history and want to stay at a luxury hotel for a reasonable price, this is the perfect option.

hotel alex johnson rapid city

The exterior of the building exudes the historic legacy of this hotel which dates back to the 1920s. Entering the hotel, you are presented with a glamorous lobby area with ornate furnishings and a warm welcome. Our room was clean and also maintained the rich history that is apparent throughout the hotel.

hotel alex johnson in rapid city

But undoubtedly the best aspect of this hotel is the Vertex Sky Bar which offers stunning panoramic views across Rapid City and the nearby Black Hills. Located on the top two floors of the Hotel Alex Johnson, all guests staying here gain access to this venue and have the opportunity to purchase cocktails, appetizers, and other delicious looking dishes.

hotel alex johnson rapid city

City of Presidents Walking Tour

Who would have thought that a number of presidential monuments would create such an awesome walking tour? This is exactly what has happened in the heart of Rapid City, South Dakota! A series of life-size bronze statues commemorating the nation’s past 42 presidents are visible on the corners of intersecting streets along Main Street and St. Joseph Street.

james polk rapid city
President James Polk – 11th President

Grab a map of the presidential statue locations and head out on the short walk because this really is a rewarding experience. We spent a couple of hours wandering around learning about the history of each of these iconic individuals who lead the American nation over the past 200+ years.

city of presidents walking tour

Each president is depicted showing an iconic pose along with a plaque commemorating their reign at the helm of the White House. I was interested to see if there was any sort of order or structure to where each of the statues was located around Rapid City. However, it’s obvious that this was just a random organization to eliminate any sense of favoritism.

president grover cleveland
President Grover Cleveland – 22nd President

The history of US presidents of course dates back to the late 18th century when President George Washington became the first to lead this historic nation.

city of presidents rapid city

Find Your Favorite President

We were fortunate to see all of the statues except for two or three which we assumed were being cleaned or repaired. Heather was immediately attracted to John F. Kennedy’s statue and she couldn’t resist taking a selfie with her favorite former president.

jfk statue in rapid city
President John F. Kennedy – 35th President

The history of this project dates back to the turn of the century when the decision was made by Rapid City to promote the history of US presidents. Abraham Lincoln was the first president to be displayed but soon after, a number of different sculptors collaborated to create the 42 that we see today.

abraham lincoln statue
President Abraham Lincoln – 16th President

The walking tour is a great way to see Rapid City but also gives you an opportunity to learn about your favorite president. Some of the lesser known presidents like Millard Fillmore and Chester Arthur can be found here and if you have any interest in American history/politics, Rapid City is the perfect location for you!

city of presidents walking tour in rapid city
President Bill Clinton – 42nd President

President Obama will have a statue created shortly after he leaves office so it will be interesting to see where Rapid City chooses to place his among the greats that preceded him.

city of presidents walking tour
President Ulysees Grant – 18th President

Arts and Culture Scene

Taking the self-guided presidential walking tour also enables you to experience everything else downtown Rapid City has to offer. This part of South Dakota has a wealth of art and culture and this is on display throughout the city.

rapid city art

The iconic Art Alley may at first glance appear to be a spot you would want to avoid but since 2005 an art project has blossomed here creating a unique location displaying local artists’ creativity.

art alley in rapid city

If you love perusing artistic murals, Rapid City is definitely a city you will enjoy walking around. There are multiple facades depicting artistic flair, the most interesting being the one at the Firehouse Brewing Company.

firehouse brewing company rapid city

This historic restaurant is one of the most popular spots for visitors to grab a bite to eat and I love how this firehouse has been renovated and transformed into what we see today.

rapid city south dakota

Main Street Square

For locals and tourists alike, the main heartbeat of Rapid City can be found in the Main Street Square. This public space has a fountain, grassy area and a myriad of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.

main street square rapid city

If you need a spot to relax after exploring the presidential walking tour, Main Street Square is a great location to enjoy your favorite beverage while thinking about your next trip (there is a signpost in the corner of this plaza with distances to iconic global locations like London and Rome).

main street square rapid city

Summary

Rapid City has well and truly been placed on the US map due to the creation of this awesome City of Presidents walking tour. It’s an ingenious idea and relates perfectly for visitors who plan to visit Mount Rushmore during their same visit to the Black Hills region of South Dakota.

gerald ford statue rapid city
President Gerald Ford – 38th President

The Hotel Alex Johnson is an affordable yet luxury accommodation in the heart of downtown Rapid City. We can attest that this hotel is a perfect option to experience everything Rapid City has to offer. Once you start walking around downtown, you will quickly realize why we were so excited to spend time here.

Have you visited Rapid City and experienced the City of Presidents walking tour?

5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Washington

Chris Boothman
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15
5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Washington

When people are talking about Washington, the stereotype will generally lead you to think about the White House or the National Mall, both of which are in the nation’s capital city, Washington DC. However, what about the other Washington…namely, the state of Washington? After reading this post, I am convinced you will want to visit Washington state as much as you want to explore the history and culture in DC!

It’s no secret that the state of Washington lives in the shadow of the popular city but certainly has a wealth of reasons which should entice you to head across the country and explore for yourselves. Sarah Hughes from Live, Dream, Discover has taken time out of her busy schedule to share her thoughts on why this state should be on your radar.

visit washington

Introduction

At Live Dream Discover, we believe that the key to a good life is balanced living. Luckily for us, we spend a few months a year in one of the best states in America for achieving that balance. With the combination of exceptional food and wine, stunning natural beauty, endless options for physical activities and a vibrant music and cultural scene, Washington really has it all.

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you should want to visit Washington.

Nature Lover’s Wonderland

Washington is known as the evergreen state for good reason. With the abundance of rain and evergreen forests, much of the state is indeed green all year round. But that is not where the natural beauty ends.

washington waterfalls

Washington also boasts the Cascade Mountain range, the Pacific Ocean, the Olympic Mountains and Peninsula, a multitude of rivers and lakes and even rain forests and deserts. This diversity of climate, terrain and waterways allow plenty of wildlife along with an abundance of unique flora and fauna to thrive in the state of Washington.

Eden for Foodies

The coastal waterways of Washington state supply a fresh bounty of seafood like salmon, crab, and oysters while the orchards and farmlands provide fresh produce and organic meat and dairy products.

visit washington for cuisine

Combine this with the states love of good cuisine and you can find delicious local and international delights everywhere you go.

Locally Crafted Beer and Wine

Although avid local wine lovers are in the know, Washington is still somewhat of a hidden gem. But the fact is this state is second only to California in wine production in the US. With over 31,000 acres of vineyards, 600 wineries and a wine export to more than 40 countries, it should be on everyone’s radar.

Then there’s the Craft Beer. Washingtonians love their beer and the local breweries have responded by producing award winning brews. The number of microbreweries has also doubled in the past 5 years.

Unlimited Outdoor Adventure Activities

Because of the diverse terrain and climate, Washington State offers year-round outdoor activities and adventures galore. You can choose from skiing, snowboarding, surfing, climbing, hiking, kiteboarding, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, boating…I could go on and on.

washington outdoor adventure

But what makes Washington really special is that you can do all of this within a few hours or less from pretty much anywhere in the state. Yes, you can indeed sail in the morning and ski in the afternoon!

Home to Seattle

Probably the best know reason to visit Washington state is the iconic city of Seattle (frequently mistaken for being the capital of the state which is actually Olympia). The picturesque setting on the Puget Sound surrounded by water, mountains and evergreens may be reason enough to visit the Emerald City.

visit washington

But there are countless other epic reasons. Seattle is a haven for foodies and coffee lovers, it has a rich musical and a music scene that continues to thrive today, it is an epicenter for festivals and cultural events and of course an abundance of outdoor activities.

Visit Washington – Our Thoughts

The state of Washington is an attractive destination for many reasons. The city of Seattle was the main reason we visited for the first time and it’s no surprise that we experienced the stereotypical weather we all love to associate with this part of the country – rain! But that’s all part of the experience and we did get to explore many of the city’s iconic attractions regardless of the inclement weather.

seattle washington

The Space Needle is an awesome landmark but it was perhaps the Seattle Aquarium that we were most impressed by. We can highly recommend the Seattle CityPASS which allows visitors the opportunity to experience the following 5 attractions for a much cheaper rate than purchasing admission tickets to each one individually.

  • Space Needle (Two visits)
  • Pacific Science Center or The Museum of Flight
  • Seattle Aquarium
  • Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
  • EMP Museum or Woodland Park Zoo
seattle aquarium

The food and breweries that Sarah has eloquently highlighted are a true credit to Washington and definitely provide an attractive reason to visit for the foodies out there.

space needle in seattle

Visiting Seattle enabled us to road trip north across the border to Vancouver, Canada so if you are planning a trip to the state of Washington, perhaps you should consider visiting British Columbia at the same time.

As you drive north, be sure to check out the amazing Boeing factory which is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Take a tour of the factory and learn about the history and future of aviation from the world’s largest manufacturer of planes. It really is a spectacular experience. When you see the size and magnitude of the plant where these planes are created, it just puts into perspective how awesome these planes are.

boeing factory washington

We also took a trip to the eastern side of the state when we visited the city of Spokane. The gorgeous Spokane Falls that run through the heart of the city are the main landmark here but again we sampled some fine cuisine, this time at O’Doherty’s Irish Grille.

spokane falls visit washington

Summary

Thanks to Sarah for highlighting so many breathtaking reasons that we should all be revisiting the state of Washington. If you haven’t explored the north-western corner of the United States, now is the time to place this on your radar.

Whether you are intrigued to explore the beautiful city of Seattle or perhaps you want to explore the inherent beauty of the Cascade Mountains including Mount Rainier, Washington has an abundance of attractive urban and rural landscapes waiting to be discovered.

Have you visited the state of Washington? What are your favorite attractions and landmarks in Washington?

weekend wanderlust


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