I love the Christmas season; it truly is the most wonderful time of the year. I love that no matter where you live, you can always find something fun to do to celebrate the season with loved ones. Although things might look a bit different this year, there are still plenty of activities available to get you in the Christmas spirit! I had such a fun weekend in Austin chasing the Christmas spirit all around town.
If you live in Austin or are traveling there during the holidays, here are my top can’t-miss activities:
Pictured above, this coffee shop goes all-out for their light display every year where they program a giant wall of Christmas lights to coordinate to music. While this year it may look a little different since have to purchase tickets and reserve a table in advance and follow social distancing protocols, it doesn’t take away from the magic one but. Sipping hot coco, listening to live music & tapping your foot along to your favorite holiday classics under the glow of Christmas lights- honestly, what could be better?
This family creation was imagined a few years ago by a 22 year old college student (and an Aggie might I add… whoop!) and has grown over the past few years into possibly the most elaborate and impressive light display I’ve ever seen, with over 200,000 lights. You simply park your car and wander around their property, taking in every impeccably executed detail while soft Christmas tunes are playing in the background. The best part? It’s completely free, but donations are encouraged & all proceeds go towards the Make a Wish foundation. So make the trip to the Maywalds’ home, get your dose of Christmas spirit, and help make a child’s wish come true.
This is a vintage-inspired market where you can ooo and ahh over gorgeous art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home goods, refurbished vintage treasures & more. This year they hosted a special holiday market offering a vast assortment of holiday home decor and unique gifts. I myself bought a refurbished vintage mirror for a steal of a deal, along with a hanging lantern that I have absolutely no use for and a couple of gifts. While this 3-day event already passed this year, they host markets throughout the year so keep checking their page for more opportunities to shop & bookmark this post so you don’t miss this fun holiday event next year!
Four words- year round Christmas bar. What more do you need to know? Stop in & sip on some boozy hot chocolate surrounded by an ornate arrangement of ornaments and lights. And if you can’t make it in time for Christmas- don’t fret! The Christmas spirit never dies within these four walls, so you can even visit in February while living in blissful denial that Christmas has come and gone and it’s now time to execute all those New Years resolutions you promised yourself you would do but are now questioning why…
While I must admit I’ve never been, this Christmas time event has always been on my list. While they have closed the attraction to pedestrians this year, you can still drive through the dazzling display of Christmas lights set up through Zilker park. It warms my heart to know that nothing can stop this beloved Texas tradition from lighting up our lives!
This holiday season pop up is the perfect spot to finish up all of your holiday shopping and the perfect opportunity to shop small this year. Anyone could easily spend hours wandering around admiring all of the unique treasures handmade by incredibly talented artists. I was honestly blown away and had to restrain myself from purchasing the entire warehouse. If you can’t make it in before December 24, you can also order from their online shop!
Enjoy your time in Austin, and have a very merry Christmas season!
Now that it’s December, it’s officially time to start celebrating the most wonderful time of the year!! Although I may or may not have started decking the halls the day after Halloween… but that’s besides the point. With all this Christmas spirit filling the air, you’re probably frantically beginning to piece together the perfect gift lists for the people in your life. I don’t know about you, but every year I find myself scouring gift guides online searching for perfectly personal and unique gifts for those who are… let’s just say not the easiest to shop for. Well if you have someone in your life who loves to catch flights and travel the globe, and you’re not quite sure what to get them- I’ve got you covered!
I myself have actually received this as a gift before and absolutely LOVED it! If you know someone who has a trip planned in the future, you can send them on a self-guided scavenger hunt through town to learn more about the place they’re visiting! By cashing in the voucher you send them, they can choose whatever type of scavenger hunt appeals to them in whatever place they choose to go to. It’s such a fun way to dive deep into the history of a place you’ve never been and learn fun little tidbits you probably wouldn’t have learned otherwise! They even have in-home scavenger hunts at home available for times like these when our travel plans may be lacking.
Because everyone who loves to travel needs at least one cute passport cover. There are tons of cute options on Etsy, and this one is personalized and comes with a matching luggage tag!
This is the perfect way to keep all your toiletries organized and save packing space in your suitcase. Comes in a bunch of different colors and has great reviews!
This one is the perfect size for weekend trips or to use as a carry-on and I love that it’s a flexible, durable material and so comfortable. It also comes in a fun camo print with a red stripe, and you can also buy different patterned straps to go with it!
Sometimes it’s the little things in life- like being able to easily keep your dirty laundry separated out from your clean laundry when you travel. The type A’s in your life will love this.
One of the less expensive alternatives and one that I have had for a few months and have been loving. Not having to worry about tangled earphone wires on the plane has been truly life altering.
Osprey is an awesome company that makes extremely durable, quality products for anyone who loves adventure. I gave my fiancé this duffel over a year ago, and he has loved how surprisingly spacious and robust it has been. They make tons of other products from hiking backpacks to travel accessories. And the best part- all of their products have a lifetime warranty.
Somebody gifted me with this years ago, and at first I must admit- I thought it would be one of those things that I never used and eventually tossed out. But I can honestly say I’ve probably gotten more use out of this little gadget than most gifts I’ve ever received. I take it with me on every trip where I have to fly, because it’s the perfect amount of perfume to last you through a trip, it’s compact, and you don’t have to worry about your glass bottle breaking or any spillage. Trust me- it’s the gift that every traveler didn’t know they needed.
I’ve both given and received this gift- and it was a definite win both ways! Every month you get a new bag of coffee from around the world which comes with a post card that teaches you about the region it’s from. I’ve kept all the postcards so far and plan on putting them in a frame to hang above my coffee station. And every bag of coffee I’ve received has been truly delicious. If the jetsetter in your life is a coffee drinker, this is the perfect gift that keeps on giving!
Okay hear me out- I know fanny packs aren’t the cutest trend. But when I’m traveling, I hate having to worry about keeping up with my purse. I bought this on a whim to wear across my chest (more as a “belt bag”) and it’s so lightweight I hardly notice it’s there- yet it’s the perfect size to keep the bare essentials close by while I’m on the go. This is especially great when traveling around Europe where you have to watch out for pick-pockets. It’s durable and comes in so many fun colors, I honestly might have to order myself another…
If someone in your life loves to hike, these have been one of the BEST purchases for me. They are waterproof, durable, and so comfortable. I honestly didn’t have to endure any sort of break in period- they felt like I was walking on clouds the moment I first put them on my feet.
Sounds random, but I went through my entire stick in just a few months I used it so often. Especially when you’re traveling to dryer climates, this is perfect to stick in your travel bag and have on hand when your lips or under eyes need a moisture refresh. I’ve always had issues with dry lips and this is the only thing that has helped! This would make for a nice little stocking stuffer.
My fav travel blogger, Helene Sula, just launched this line of candles that is PERFECT for anyone who suffers from wanderlust. She is releasing one scent at a time, each connected to a travel memory. I mean how perfect is that? And everyone loves a good candle.
I hope you find this gift list helpful! Merry Christmas and happy holidays!
With the Fourth quickly approaching, I’m sure you’re finalizing plans, and the daunting question has come to mind- “What should I wear?”. I’ve rounded up some outfit ideas that you can still get in time for the big day! Whatever you have planned, whether it’s a fun dinner date or hanging out at the lake with friends, I’ve got ya covered.
I remember a few years back when a couple of friends and I embarked on a road trip to the Grand Canyon, we stopped through New Mexico briefly along the way, and aside from a delicious green chili burger (a southwestern staple and a foreign concept to me at the time), I remember thinking, “huh, not much to see here.” But boy, was I wrong. Four years later, I made my way back, only this time with New Mexico as my final destination.
With news of state parks beginning to open their doors after two long months of COVID-induced lockdown and Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, it was the perfect excuse to seek out a new adventure. We tossed around ideas like Denver; Los Angeles; and even Broken Bow, Oklahoma. But between our need for travel arrangements that accommodated our pup, bad weather in the forecast for the Central United States, and unknown restrictions still looming around COVID, we decided Ruidoso was probably our best bet.
So after nailing down a destination the night before, we packed up the car and embarked on the journey ahead, with Dallas in our rear view and the wide open, unknown road ahead of us. What began as an impromptu attempt to escape to somewhere, ANYWHERE but Dallas quickly turned into the unexpected adventure my soul so desperately needed and one I’ll always remember!
There are those places in the world that are blatantly beautiful, and the majesty of their grandeur is so renowned that everyone dreams of getting to experience it one day. But there are also places that possess a different kind of beauty- a humble beauty. Hidden in plain sight, they’re tucked quietly away from the limelight in the midst of the most unassuming spaces, and they sneak up on you like a glorious sunrise after a long, dark night. Ruidoso was one of these sweet places- a true diamond in the rough (and after a nine hour drive through the middle of nowhere, rough is an understatement).
I knew there were some mountainous areas in New Mexico, but what I pictured in my head came no where close to the expansive views of rolling mountains as far as the eye can see and lakes so blue they almost look fake. Two days isn’t enough time to explore all of the grandeur Ruidoso has to offer, but if two days is all you have, then it will certainly be two days well spent!
Where We Stayed
I would recommend staying as close to downtown Ruidoso as possible. Ruidoso is a charming little town with so many cute, eclectic shops and delicious dining options that you won’t want to miss out on, and it’s a short 10-30 minute drive from all of the best trail heads. We stayed at Pinon Park Cabin Rentals, and we couldn’t have asked for a better location. It was the perfect balance of being a short five minute drive from downtown Ruidoso while still feeling tucked away in the seclusion of nature. While drinking our morning coffee on the patio each morning, we even enjoyed the company of some deer friends rummaging for snacks. The rental property offers cabins of all sizes, so whether you’re a group of two or a group of 10, I couldn’t recommend this place enough!
What To Bring
Chapstick, Lotion & Sunscreen: The environment in New Mexico is extremely dry (it is the desert, after all), so it’s super important to moisturize while you’re there. My favorite chapstick and moisturizing stick definitely saved my face while I was there! And because it’s so dry, it doesn’t feel as hot as it does in a place with more humidity, so the sun will sneak up on you. I came back burned to a crisp, so do as I say and not as I do- wear sunscreen!
A swimsuit: If you go during a warm weather season, there are some seriously beautiful lakes around Ruidoso that you should take advantage of! Bring a swim suit so you can rent a canoe or just take a dip in the out-of-this-world blue water.
Real hiking shoes: If you want to do some real hiking, you’ll need some real hiking shoes. I just brought my tennis shoes because I wasn’t expecting the terrain to be so rough, but because of knocked down trees around the trails from a fire a few years back and a lack of high foot traffic, let’s just say it’s wise to bring shoes with some grip depending on which hikes you choose to do. But more on this later.
Layers: Because the environment is so dry, the temperature can fluctuate quite a bit throughout the day. I found it helpful to throw on a light jacket in the chilly mornings that I could take off and tie around my waste once the temps rose.
What To Do
DAY ONE
Drop off your bags and hit the ground running- there’s so much to see and do! Head to Grindstone Lake, just five miles outside of Ruidoso. You can park right next to the lake, so pack up the car with some food because you’ll be spending a few hours here. If you want to do a hike, I recommend the Grindstone Mesa Loop trail. Although being a bit lengthy for a leisurely hike at 7.4 miles roundtrip, it’s a very moderate hike that will delivery beautiful views of Lincoln National Forest and the turquoise waters of Grindstone Lake from a distance. It’s also a very dog friendly hike if you brought your furry friend along with you!
After you’ve made it back to the lake, celebrate with a lakeside picnic. You’ve earned it! Take in the beautiful scenic views and do a little people watching. It was fun to see people of all different backgrounds and stages of life gathered there, whether they were fishing, swimming, kayaking or just walking around. If the water isn’t too cold, throw on your swimsuit and take a dip yourself! With water so blue it looks like Gatorade, surrounded by tree-covered mountains, I can’t imagine a better way to spend the afternoon.
After you’ve returned to the cabin and freshened up, it’s time to venture downtown! Walk up and down the quaint street of Sudderth Drive (which basically encompasses “downtown”) and stop in the many mom and pop shops you find along the way. If you’re looking for a piece of handmade pottery to take home with you, pop into White Mountain Pottery and Earth & Stone. Browse around the eclectic boutiques and gift shops. Admire the carved wooden bears at every turn. Stop into one of the many beer gardens and tap houses for a local brew, or tasting rooms for a glass of wine. You could easily kill a few hours here just admiring the local art, chatting with the merchants and stocking up on souvenirs.
Now that you’re tired, broke, and probably hungry, it’s time to grab dinner and then return back to your quarters for a good night’s sleep! A couple of dinner suggestions that we loved: a burger from Lincoln County Grill, a pizza from Cafe Rio (be sure to order ahead at this spot, as there is always a long line out the door!), or a cheese-smothered Mexican meal from Jorge’s Cafe.
DAY TWO
Wake up early to take full advantage of your last full day! Head to Zocca Coffee & Tea for a caffeine boost to get you going and a bite to eat for breakfast.
Now, it’s time for more hiking and more gorgeous views- and some of the best views to be had are found at the top of Lookout Mountain. Now, let me preface this by saying that there are a few different ways to reach the top of the mountain, and we chose the most strenuous of those ways, partially because of closures due to COVID, and partially because we didn’t know the extent of what we were in for. We took the route Lookout Mountain via Lower Deep Freeze, Apache Bowl, and Crest and Scenic Trail Loop, and while at times I truly wasn’t sure I would make it to the top or if I’d have to send my boyfriend and dog back down to call a helicopter on my behalf… in the end, I have no regrets. If you’re going this route (and you’re an intermediate hiker at best like myself), it’s so so important that you 1. download the AllTrails app to use as a guide and 2. wear comfortable hiking shoes with a lot of grip.
All in all, the trail was awesome. The first half of the hike encompasses a unique experience of walking through a portion of the forest that was hit by the Little Bear Fire back in 2012. Hundreds and hundreds of full-grown trees knocked to the ground, some completely uprooted, and petrified. It was an ominous and chilling experience to picture the raging fire that caused this massive destruction while walking through the remains of the forest.
After that stretch, it’s very difficult to keep track of the actual trail as not much of it remains in tact. If we didn’t have the AllTrails app and the advice of a very kind couple that preceded us, we definitely would have ended up extremely lost. If you use the app’s navigation to guide you, you’ll eventually find your way. And if you do get lost, my best advice is to just keep going straight upward, and you’ll eventually find the trail again. This stretch of uncertainty only lasted about a quarter of a mile, and then we were back on track!
You’ll eventually reach a meadow between the two peaks with stunning views that look like they’re straight out of The Sound of Music. But the views just keep getting better from there. Once you reach the chair lift (I should mention this is utilized as a ski mountain in the winter), there is a deck area set up where you can stop to rest and sneak a peak at the White Sands National Park in the west.
From there, the trail continues to the top of Lookout Mountain where the views will truly take your breath away, and it will all be worth it. Panoramic views of rolling hills, snow covered peaks, the White Sands, trees, mesas, valleys- everything as far as the eye can see for miles and miles and miles. If you haven’t already fallen in love with New Mexico, you certainly will now.
On the way back down, I would recommend taking the Sierra Blanca trail all the way. It’s less scenic, but much quicker and less strenuous to get you back to where you started. You can also take the gondola back down if you’re really beat (and I wouldn’t blame you).
Side note: Remember I mentioned there are two other options to get to the top of Lookout Mountain? The Sierra Blanca Trail and the gondola are those options- much more efficient, but much less breathtaking- in every sense of the word. The Sierra Blanca trail is really more of a ski slope/access road than a trail, but if you’re looking for something very moderate to get you to the top, it’ll get the job done. The gondola will take you straight up with minimal physical effort exerted, but you will still have to take the remainder of the trail up to the top of lookout mountain, which is very moderate, although still an elevation gain of about 400 feet.
Once you make it back down, you should still have the majority of the afternoon and evening left to kill! We began our hike at around 8:30 am and made it back to the car at around 2:30 pm, and we went at a pretty leisurely pace. If you have the time, I would next make the drive out to White Sands National Park. Unfortunately, it was still shut down while I was there, but I can’t wait to go back and experience it one day. It’s a little over an hour drive from Ruidoso, so you should have enough time to make the drive out there, spend an hour or so basking in its wonder, and drive back in time for dinner.
If you’re lucky enough to have an extra day to spend in the area, there are a number of other places to explore and activities to partake in. If you want more lake time, you could visit the nearby Alto Lake, a natural reservoir less than 10 minutes outside Ruidoso. If you’re feeling ambitious and still have energy to squeeze in another hike, Monjeau Lookout is another scenic spot to check out, and at 12.4 miles round trip, it would be a great way to spend the majority of your day. If you just want to kick back and spectate an event, head to Ruidoso Downs Race Track & Casino to watch the horse races. While you’re in Ruidoso Downs, be sure to stop into Pinon Pottery, a small pottery shop packed full of character and beautifully handmade (and affordable) pieces. Most of the pottery they sell is made in the shop; you can even peek in the back and see their workshop. One of the potters was running the shop when we visited, and she was very informative and knowledgeable about all of the pottery they sold. If you want to venture further out of town, you could also head to the nearby small town of Cloudcroft for a little antique shopping and additional exploration. So many options, so little time!
Ruidoso and its surrounding beauty stole my heart, and I can’t wait to return. I hope you love it as much as I did!
There’s a certain magic that exists in the Big Apple at Christmas time- the lights, the trees, the lavish decorations and the abundance of holiday cheer. There’s a reason Buddy the Elf loved it so much, after all. Unfortunately, there are forces beyond our control that determine whether or not the weather coincides with our holiday cheerfulness. Ready to hit the streets of New York, but the weather outside is frightful? Don’t fret; I’ve got you covered. Here are 10 things you can do to stay indoors to avoid letting the weather disrupt your holiday antics.
#1 Chelsea Market
This massive indoor marketplace will supply you with all the Christmas cheer you need while also providing you with plenty of dining and souvenir shopping options (and I don’t mean those tacky snow globes you can find at every street corner in Times Square). Grab a coffee or pastry to snack on while you walk around and browse the local vendors, or sit down and enjoy a tasty meal at Friedmans. And be sure to look up and enjoy the copious amounts of ornaments and tinsel hanging from the ceiling throughout the market.
#2 Starbucks Reserve & Roastery
Right next door to Chelsea Market, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your feet and enjoy a delicious hand crafted cup of joe. If you’ve never been to a Starbucks Roastery before, you’re in for a treat. I assure you, this is not your average Starbucks.
#3 Radio City Christmas Spectacular
I’m sure you’ve heard of this famous performance with the gals in sparkly outfits kicking their legs like there’s no tomorrow. If you need something to get you in the Christmas spirit, this show is a MUST. Sit back and experience a heart warming show full of incredibly talented dancers, singers and performers while Radio City Music Hall is transformed into a magical winter wonderland all around you. Already seen the Rockettes perform in a different city and thinking, “Been there, done that”? Trust me, the show in NYC takes it to a whole other level. The lights, the music, the costumes and obviously the dancing; throw in a full menu of Christmas cocktails, and what’s not to love?
#4 Macy’s at Herald Square
You’ve probably seen the outside of this massive department store (it’s actually the largest department store in the world) on your TV screen as you watch the floats glide past it during the Thanksgiving Day Parade, but that’s not all this Macy’s is known for. Come the end of November, the entire 3-acre store is decked out from floor to ceiling in Christmas decor galore. They even have a manifestation of the North Pole on the top level where you can meet the jolly Kriss Kringle himself (but make a reservation online before you go!)
#5 The Oculus
Tucked behind the 9/11 museum is this stunning new addition to New York City’s impressive architecture scene. Also functioning as an upscale shopping mall, it’s the grandest terminal station you’ll find in the city (aside from Grand Central Station, of course). During Christmas, they jazz the place up with a unique and definitely photo-worthy display of Christmas lights on the ground floor along with a quaint little Christmas market.
#6 Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station is far more than just a commuter train terminal. You could walk around and get lost for hours admiring the ornate architectural elements, wandering the food court, browsing the shops and gazing up at the famous celestial ceiling mural. In addition to all of this, the station hosts an indoor holiday market along with various events throughout the Christmas season.
#7 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Wander inside the gorgeous Neo-Gothic cathedral on Fifth Ave. Sit in a pew for a while and soak in the history surrounding you.
#8 Dine at Rolf’s
This snug German restaurant has become a holiday staple and considered a must-visit by many. The moment you walk through the door, you’ll be wonderstruck by the borderline absurd amount of Christmas decorations covering the entire eatery. The size of this restaurant may be trivial, but they certainly made use of every inch (and i mean that very literally) of space. I mean, they decked the heck out of those halls. While the food and drinks are certainly overpriced, it’s just one of those places you have to go once. I’ve never seen anything else quite like it, and I’m not sure anything else like it exists. Try and make a reservation well in advance, but if things don’t pan out, you can always wait in line to get in. Go on a week day at an off time (we went around 3pm), and you shouldn’t have to wait more than half an hour.
#9 Plaza Food Hall & Hotel
Hungry for a bite to eat, but don’t want to break the bank? Head over to the Plaza Hotel, a New York icon just outside of Central Park. Sneak a peak at the Christmas tree in the lobby if you can, then head to the entrance to the Food Hall, which is basically an underground food court kicked up a few dozen notches. Take a seat and chow down on a delicious meal from one of the various food vendors. Offering international cuisine and everything from casual to fine dining, the Plaza Food Hall has something for everyone.
#10 Dyker Heights Bus Tour
Last, but certainly not least, head away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan and take a bus tour of Dyker Heights, the most festive neighborhood in Brooklyn. You may be thinking, “Wouldn’t rain kind of put a damper on a Christmas lights tour?” This may not be the best option if it’s pouring rain or snowing heavily, but for us it was the perfect escape from the annoying drizzle we encountered during our stay. We absolutely loved being able to sit on the warm, dry bus and gaze out at some seriously impressive Christmas displays in the yards of the wealthy Brooklynites. Book your tickets through A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours, and you’ll get a charismatic and knowledgeable guide who will share entertaining anecdotes and more intimate insights that you probably won’t get with other options. This tour was definitely one of the highlights of our trip, and was the ultimate way to muster up some Christmas spirit!
I don’t know about you, but when I think of Texas the first things that come to mind are fried food and cowboy boots. Well, the State Fair of Texas is basically every Texas stereotype amplified. For almost a month, Fair Park in Dallas is transformed into a southern oasis where every food under the sun is covered in batter and deep fried. Pie, cake balls, tacos, pizza, ice cream, pasta, butter, Coca Cola… even beer. It’s the place where the limits of what, and how much, people are willing to eat are tested, all while a giant friendly cowboy statue waves at the masses from above. Along with food (and Big Tex), there are games, prizes, performances, and of course rides including the iconic ferris wheel. It’s one of the reasons Fall in Texas is the best time of the year. There’s nothing quite like it.
There’s a reason people travel far and wide for the State Fair. It’s an experience you’ll never forget! But if you’re attending the Fair for the first time, it can be a little overwhelming. With so much to see, do and eat, it can be hard to figure out where to begin. So, here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your visit to the State Fair of Texas!
When Should I Go?
The State Fair always takes place the last week of September through most of October, giving you plenty of opportunities to find a time to visit! If you live in the area, or you’re able to come during the week, I would recommend avoiding visiting during the weekend to minimize your time spent waiting in lines. In addition to shorter wait times and less people to navigate through, week days usually mean lower admission prices and even discounted food prices.
Can’t make it on a week day? Don’t worry, you can still get the benefits of shorter lines and cheaper admission when you go after 5pm on the weekends. Cooler temps and getting the experience the fair grounds all lit up are just added bonuses of going in the evening! More opportunities for discounted rates can be found here.
Pro tip: avoid attending the day of the University of Texas-Oklahoma University game. Each year the game is held at the Cotton Bowl located inside the Fair, and herds of football fans swarm to Fair Park to cheer on their respective teams. Check the calendar beforehand and try your best to avoid the madness!
Where Should I Get My Tickets?
I’d recommend buying your tickets online to avoid waiting in line, especially if you’re going on a weekend afternoon. If you aren’t able to buy them in advance, or want to take advantage of a discounted rate, the ticket booths accept cash and various types of cards making admission hassle-free.
Once you have your ticket inside, you’re not done quite yet. You still have to purchase tickets for food (called “coupons”) separately. If the lines at the booths near the entrance are too long, keep wandering around and you’ll find plenty of coupon machines sprinkled throughout the fair grounds. All of these coupon booths also accept card. I would personally recommend grabbing 50 tickets to start out, as most things inside the fair costs anywhere from 10-30 tickets. If you want to do more than just eat, games and rides require separate tickets, which can be purchased at booths conveniently located in the entertainment areas located at the back of the park.
How Do I Get There?
My best advice? Take the DART. Traffic is terrible around the fair grounds, and parking can be difficult. Dallas actually has a pretty convenient and efficient public transportation system (the DART) that should be utilized, especially for the State Fair. Download the GoPass app and purchase a day pass for six dollars. Hop on the green line that conveniently stops directly in front of the Fair Park entrance. The green line picks up in front of Fair Park every 10-15 minutes, so you don’t even have to worry about rushing to leave. Easy peasy!
What Should I Wear?
It’s Fall in Texas, so most likely you won’t be chilly all day long. Definitely check the weather before you go, as the weather in Texas tends to be pretty volatile (we can go from wearing a tank top & shorts to a sweater & boots in the span of 24 hours). If you’re going in the morning or the evening, I’d recommend bringing a light layering jacket to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures. You’ll also be doing a lot of walking, so wear shoes that won’t kill your feet after a few hours! In general, people show up in a wide range of clothing, from t-shirts to overalls to casual dresses, so don’t stress too much about your outfit!
Where Do I Go & What Do I Get?
The biggest mistake I made my first year at the Fair was not getting a visitors guide. I just walked around aimlessly tasting food after food from the obscure stands I would pass by, being disappointed with each bite. I didn’t understand what the hype was all about, and I went home thinking I had wasted my money on a mediocre experience. My second time around I grabbed a visitors guide from one of the Info kiosks, and holy cow… game changer.
The visitors guide contains a map, which is key to maximizing your Fair experience. It lists all of the food winners from that year (aka all of the food really worth spending your money on), and tells you exactly where each tasty fried treat is located. This year, we tried the fried fettuccini alfredo balls and fried nutella custard stuffed french toast! YUM.
Make sure you make your way to the Tower Building Food Court, which is basically the pinnacle. It’s the holy grail of fried food. It’s easy to miss for a first-timer, but it’s the most important place in the whole joint you need to go to get food. That, and one of the Fletchers Corny Dog stands of course!
While I like to make it my mission to find the best food at the Fair, I also think it’s fun to just wander around and take it all in. The sights, the sounds, the lights, the music, the diversity of the crowds. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else!
Ever heard of Austin City Limits? It’s one of the largest music festivals in the country, and one of my favorite parts about living in Texas. Every year, thousands of people dressed in the hippiest attire they can muster swarm to Zilker Park for two weekends full of performances from over 100 bands. It takes place in the middle of Austin, Texas, one of the most unique cities in America.
While many non-Texans might picture Austin as just another Texas town full of cowboys, southern twangs and sweet tea (it is the state capital after all), they would be mistaken. Austin is a bustling, vibrant city chalk full of art, music, color and the raddest of vibes, making it the perfect destination for this three day weekend music fest.
Have I sold you on it yet? If the answer is yes, then you’re in luck! I’m about to give you all the tips you should know when attending ACL for the first time.
Tip #1: Hydrate!
You’re in Texas in October. The sad reality is that you will be hot. Very hot. So if you bring one thing besides your wristband, let it be an empty water bottle. They won’t let you in with any liquid, but there are water filling stations scattered throughout the park where smiling volunteers will fill up your water bottle free of charge, whenever you need it! Lots of people bring camel backs, too. That provides easy access to water and a convenient way to carry your stuff around, so it’s a win win!
Tip #2: Don’t Dress to Impress
The first year I went to ACL I wore booties with a two inch heel, and it was still to this day one of the most stupid decisions I’ve ever made. You’re going to be standing or walking around for the majority of the day (even at the performances you don’t sit), so wear comfortable shoes!
Tip #3: Get Connected
If you go to aclfestival.com/wristband you can connect your card information to your wristband for a stress-free way to pay for things at the festival. This was the first year I did it, and I’m never doing it another way. It’s great to not have to worry about losing your credit cards so truly the only things you need to bring with you are your phone, ID, water bottle and wristband!
Tip #4: Do Your Research
Make sure to look at the schedule before you show up and figure out who you want to see when. I often print it out, highlight my top picks, and take a picture of it to have on my phone. Might be a little old school… or type A… but you’ll thank me later! They almost always schedule two big performers that everyone knows and loves to play at the same time on different stages, so prioritizing is key.
Tip #5: Timing Is Everything
I’d recommend getting to the park a little later in the day, or at least not at peak times. The lines can get pretty crazy (and uber prices expensive) in the morning, so I’d recommend grabbing lunch beforehand and making your way there in the early afternoon. Don’t worry- most of the performances really worth seeing aren’t until later in the day anyway. That way, you can save yourself from having to spend twice as much on food inside the park, and you’ll beat the crowds.
And last but not least, Go Explore!
As I mentioned earlier, Austin is such a unique city that offers a broad range of activities. Make sure you take some time to see the sights, and eat all the food, duh (three words: Kerbey Lane queso). Some can’t miss spots are South Congress (or “SoCo”), an area jam packed with quirky boutiques, restaurants, food trucks and more. Home Slice Pizza is always a favorite of mine! The Domain is great for all you big spenders, or window shoppers, and is full of excellent brunch spots! The Culinary Dropout is a definitely a winner for their large portions and smiling service. One of the many things that makes Austin unique to other Texas cities is its abundance of nature spots. From hiking, to swimming, to kayaking, Austin’s pretty much got it all. Rent a paddle board and make your way down the Colorado River, lay out at Barton Springs, or dive in head-first at Hamilton Pool. Whatever you choose to do, make the most out of your stay in the Texas State Capital!
I can’t tell you how long I’d been dreaming of going to Nashville after hearing nothing but good things from everyone I knew who had visited. Over Labor Day Weekend, it was finally my turn to visit Music City, and it did not disappoint! Nashville is a lively city with a small town feel. Everywhere you turn you’ll find incredibly talented musicians who you are certain are going to make it big one day, and fried chicken, and biscuits. Lots of biscuits. If you love music, food, dancing, or any form of fun, you’ll love it here.
Before you go, be sure to check on my post on 5 Tips for Nashville First Timers for a few things I wish I had known before my trip! But without further ado, here’s my full guide to a long weekend in Nasvhville. Enjoy!
Day One
Hop off the plane at BNA, and head straight to brunch. As far as brunch spots in Nashville go,Pinewood Social is basically the cream of the crop. Because it’s so popular (and for good reason), you might want to try making a reservation ahead of time. Aside from delicious food and bubbly drinks, there’s also a bowling alley and a pool. I mean you might as well just spend the rest of the day here. But don’t do that, because there’s so much more to see and do!
Head to the Country Music Hall of Fame and be sure to carve out a few hours to wander around and read about the history of country music and stars of the past and present. Even if you aren’t super interested in country music, it’s still an interesting and interactive museum that I think everyone visiting Nashville should check out. No matter your preference, it will undoubtably give you a greater appreciation for country music.
Before you leave, head to the Hatch Show Print Shop where you can pick up the perfect souvenir. Hatch Show Print is a 138 year old print shop known for its design of concert posters for various famous artists throughout the years, and they still remain in business today. You can choose to browse around the store and select one of the many designs available that suits your fancy to take home with you, or you can even do a tour there and press your own poster to take home!
Next, walk a short distance to scope out the Ryman Auditorium, the birthplace of bluegrass and original home of the Grand Ole Opry. We didn’t go inside, but you can do a tour there as well if you’re interested and need a couple of hours to kill!
Stroll into the Goo Goo Shop, home of the infamous Goo Goo clusters created in Nashville in 1912, and snag yourself a little chocolatey pick me up. You can also pop into the Johnny Cash Museum right next door.
Go grab some spicy chicken at Hattie B’s for dinner. I’ll be upfront- I didn’t actually get to go there during my trip to Nashville, but it was at the top of my list of places to go and recommended to me by several people. I was SO sad that we missed it, but if you just look at pictures of their crispy chicken and creamy mac n cheese, you’ll understand why it’s a must. I’m determined to go back one day to get my Hattie B’s.
There’s no better way to end your first night than heading to Broadway to dance your heart out. Every bar is filled with incredibly talented musicians jamming to all the songs you know and love. From country music, to classic rock, to today’s hits and everything in between- Music City will be sure to live up to its name. Nudie’s, Acme, Tootsies Orchid Lounge and Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk are just a few that won’t disappoint.
Day Two
You had a jam packed first day in Nashville and you’re probably in dire need of some caffeine. Head to Barista Parlor in Germantown for a bourbon vanilla latte and biscuit sandwich. Still dreaming about that biscuit sandwich… Not to mention, you’ll get alll the cute Nash vibes in this quirky java joint.
Start your stroll to the Nasvhille Farmer’s Market, but stop by the World War II Memorial on the way (look for the giant spinning globe- you can’t miss it!) This memorial was a pleasantly stumbled-upon surprise that we found to be so interesting. After a quick 5 minute skim, we were able to learn so much about the history of Nashville and its involvement in World War II that we didn’t know before.
Head into the Farmer’s Market to shop around for some local goods, grab a snack if you need it, and definitely sip on a wine slush from Natchez Hills Winery. They have unique seasonal flavors like tea flavored wine. Definitely don’t knock it til you try it. If you’re as lucky as we were, you can grab a seat there and soak in some acoustic tunes from a live musician. Walk outside and browse the fresh produce, flowers and other local goods.
Next, catch a ride to 12 South, a long street lined with restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and LOTS of murals! A few favorite stops along this avenue are Frothy Monkey for coffee, the infamous Five Daughters Bakery, Taqueria del Sol for the best queso in Nashville, and Draper James for some shopping and a complimentary cup of sweet tea in hand.
To end the day, head to the Grand Ole Opry to spectate the radio “barn dance” that made country music famous many moons ago. Make sure to buy your tickets online ahead of time, and scope out which popular artists are playing on which days! But be aware that because of the structure of the show, each act is only about 3 songs long, so even the stars only have a limited time on stage. Tickets can be pricey, so I would say this is something you can probably skip unless it’s something on your top list of things to do!
Not interested in spending the money or looking for something a little more “off the beaten path”? Head to bars in East Nashville like Walden Bar, or The Gulch for the a variety of dinner options (Peg Leg Porker, the Pub or Burger Republic) & bars with live music including Rudy’s Jazz Room.
Day Three
Head to The Gulch area for your final brunch, and I arguably saved the best for last! Milk & Honey was such a cute spot with an outdoor patio and delicious food paired with equally delicious coffee. Burrata & a lavender honey latte? Don’t really think life gets much better than that. After brunch, meander your way around the neighborhood and stop into a few of the eclectic boutiques you’ll find along the way like Two Old Hippies. Make sure to snag a photo in front of the What Lifts You mural right down the street from Milk & Honey.
After you’ve taken all the photos of all the murals, head to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which you can walk across and catch remarkable views of the city. Once you cross the bridge, you’re back on Broadway, so it’s time for some day drinking and more live music (because there’s no such thing as too much live music when in Nashville)! Some of our favorite spots were Dierks Bentley’s for country music and dainty southern touches, Jason Aldean’s for stellar rooftop views, and Florida Georgia Line House for unique whiskey cocktails.
It’s your last night, so end it with a true local Nashville experience… and yes, it does involve live music. Find a listening room; there are a bunch sprinkled throughout the city. We went to theStation Inn, an intimate space that hosts bluegrass artists every night. Another highly recommended spot is the Listening Room Café which hosts performances by up-and-coming singer/songwriters and offers dinner and cocktails. Wherever you go, sit back & take it all in, because there’s no place like Nashville!
I don’t know about you, but before I went to Nashville, I would always see people posting pictures in front of all these beautiful, colorful murals, and being the basic Betty I am said “I WANT IN!” But where do you find all those Instagramable spots? Nashville is a big city filled with art found on almost every obscure building wall. If you simply drive around, you probably won’t have any issues finding an abundance of intricate murals with a dedicated hashtag & Insta handle in the bottom corner. And murals aside, Nashville has plenty of gorgeous city views to offer as a backdrop as well.
Here are the spots I found during my stay! Some are infamous, and some are lesser known. Whether you are looking for a painted backdrop or decide to let the cityscape do the talking, all of these spots are definitely photo worthy.
The Gulch
302 11th Ave S
We’re starting out with the most basic of them all. I’m sure you aren’t unfamiliar with the widely popular What Lifts You mural found in the Gulch district. Try and go on a weekday, as there is usually a long line on weekends!
Corner of 11th & Laurel
This long wall full of choppy patterns & colors is found just across the street from the Wings.
12 South
2709 12th Ave S
This 80-foot mural recently replaced a different Nashville mural & is found on the side of the new Madewell Denim Edit store on 12 South.
2702 12th Ave S
I bet this one looks familiar, too! Show off your Nashville pride by snapping a photo in front of this patriotic beauty located right next to Draper James.
Painted on the side of Draper James & sharing an alley with the mural above, this blue and white striped wall makes a fun simple backdrop!
2511 12th Ave S
This minimalist black & white mural is tucked away in the parking lot behind Frothy monkey. Not only is it cute, classy & will go with any outfit, but it’s a nice little confidence booster… Seriously mural, you’re too kind!
Germantown
Nashville Farmer’s Market: 900 Rosa L Parks Blvd
If you make it over to Germantown to go to the Farmer’s Market, pop inside to snap a picture next to this cute little installation. This sculpture is a new addition to the Nashville art scene and was installed to celebrate Immigration Heritage Month.
Downtown
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar: 307 Broadway
Not a mural or a sculpture, but I’ll take this view any day. Broadway is lined with rooftop bars with similar stunning views, but the patio at Jason Aldean’s was so cute and would be the perfect spot for a photo & a beer on a cool Fall afternoon!
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
Not exactly in the heart of downtown, but just off to the side across the street from the Nissan Stadium, take a stroll over the Pedestrian Bridge for stunning views of the skyline.
East Nashville
Walden Bar: 2909 Gallatin Pike B
This spot is definitely off the beaten path. Recommended to me by a friend living in Nashville, Walden Bar is the perfect spot for a happy hour away from the hustle & bustle of Broadway. We stopped by on our way to the Grand Ole Opry, & just look how cute the hand painted mural walls are inside! Not to mention, the drinks were fantastic!
As I mentioned, these are just a few of the many photo-worthy spots Nashville has to offer. If you have other recommendations, feel free to drop a comment below!
Nashville has been on my bucket list for years, and last week I finally got to check it off! Was it amazing? Heck yes. Was it what I expected? Nope. Did I learn a thing or two while I was there? You betcha. If you’re thinking about booking a trip to Nashville, here are the top 5 things I learned that I think you should know, too. I hope these tips & tricks will make your life easier so you can maximize your time in the beautiful Music City!
#1: Plan & Prioritize
There are so many must-see spots in Nashville, but sadly, they aren’t all within walking distance of one another. When it comes to getting around, ride-sharing is definitely the way to go. With that being said, it’s important to plan out which neighborhoods you want to go to each day ahead of time to eliminate backtracking (trust me- I learned this the hard way!). Popular areas include: the Gulch for murals galore; 12th Ave South for shopping (and more murals); downtown for day drinking, live music and museums; East Nashville for artsy vibes and off-the-beaten-path stops; and Germantown for local goodies at the Farmer’s Market.
With the amount of sights to see, food to eat and music to hear, it can certainly be overwhelming trying to squeeze it all in, especially if you are only going for a few days. My advice? Make a list and prioritize. Figure out your number one preferences for brunch, museums, photo opps, bars- whatever it is you want to spend your time there doing- figure out where it is on the map, and plan out a tentative day-by-day schedule from there. Also check to make sure those places don’t close on certain days or at early hours while you are there.
But, remember to leave room in the schedule to wander and stop in the cute little places you stumble upon along the way, as Nashville is full of pleasant surprises!
#2: Listen Up!
In case you haven’t heard, Nashville is chalk full of incredible musical talent. It’s called Music City for a reason, after all. Make time to find a place to sit and take it all in. You never know when you might encounter a star on the horizon! Recommendations are the Station Inn, the Listening Room, Bluebird Café, the Grand Ole Opry (of course), and basically any of the bars on Broadway. Some of these venues may require you to purchase tickets ahead of time, which brings me back to my first point… that’s right folks- plan & prioritize!
Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk
The Station Inn
#3: Eat Up
Next to the music scene, Nashville is probably most well-known for its southern comfort food. Fried chicken and biscuits and burgers- oh my! The greatest disappointment from my trip was probably my inability to eat all the food that was on my list. If I could have one superpower, I think it would be the ability to expand my stomach to hold five times as much food as is currently possible and not be a miserable couch potato afterwards. If you’re a foodie like me, my advice is to not eat full meals, but to snack throughout the day. A piece of fried chicken from Hattie B’s here, a pastry from Five Daughters Bakery there… who says you can’t have it all?
brunch at Pinewood Social
#4: Be a Tourist & a Local
This is basically my mantra for every trip I take. I think it’s fun to indulge in being a tourist (at least a little) if it’s your first time to a city. Tourist attractions are usually popular for a reason, so throw on that tacky Nashville graphic tee, strap that bulky camera around your neck and embrace the fact that you are clearly not from here… and that’s okay! Not saying you have to drop $100 to go see a show at the Grand Ole Opry, but if that’s something that’s on your list, then go for it!
But that said, I also think traveling is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of a place that you’re unfamiliar with. In order to do that, you have to venture outside of those tourist hot spots to the places where the people who call Nashville “home” exist. Whether that be eating at a lesser known brunch spot, drinking at a bar not found on Broadway, or venturing out into the surrounding nature… whatever makes your heart content. I always think it’s fun to ask Uber drivers and servers for recommendations. The people who live there are the ones who know it best, after all.
#5: No Sleep Tonight
That’s right. I said it. This is coming from the granny herself. Yes, I may technically only be 24, but on the inside I’m a full-blown 75-year-old whose ideal Saturday includes binge watching Netflix, baking a loaf of pumpkin bread and going to bed at 9 pm. But Nashville is not the place for any of that business. Throw back some espresso shots, put on your dancing shoes and paint the town red. You’ll have the time of your life, and trust me, you won’t regret it!
The Girl out of Texas 