Travel Guide

ENGLISH, LIFE IN NYC, NEW YORK, NEW YORK CITY, UNITED STATES · March 23, 2023

Sunrise at the Empire State Building

how-tall-is-empire-state-building — The Empire State Building has a total height of 1,454 feet (443 meters).

Empire State Building in New York

I was invited to a special sunrise event this morning at the Empire State Building. The event was hosted by BH Photo and Nikon USA. Waking up extra early to arrive at 6:00 AM was worth it for this view of New York City’s skyline!

By 6:30 AM, every digital creator and photographer had their camara set-up, and was ready to capture this morning’s sunrise! Nikon brought their cameras with lenses for us to use… what a dream! I’ve been a Nikon fan all my life!

Here are my photos from today’s sunrise event at one of the tallest buildings in New York City!

Empire-State-Building-observation-deck — Admiring New York City from the Empire State Building’s observation deck.

Empire State Building – Facts

Construction of the Empire State Building began on March 17, 1930.
In a record-breaking 1 year and 45 days, construction on the building was completed in 1931.
In 1932 tourists paid 10 cents to peer through a telescope at New York City.
“King Kong” debuted in New York City on March 2nd, 1933 putting the Empire State Building front-and-center for one of cinema’s most famous films.
In 1955 the American Society of Civil Engineers selected the Empire State Building as one of the seven greatest engineering achievements in America’s history.
The Empire State Building Observatory received its 50 millionth visitor in 1976.
On May 18, 1981, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission declared the Empire State Building a landmark.
The Empire State Building unveiled a new LED lighting system capable of 16,000,000 different colors in 2012.
The building’s transformation in 2019 included a 102nd floor observatory, offering breathtaking views the city.

Empire State Building Tickets and Observation Deck

The observation deck is on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building.

Adult tickets to visit the Empire State Building start at $44 dollars for the observation deck, children tickets start at $38 dollars, and senior tickets at $42 dollars.

Where is the Empire State Building located?

The Empire State Building is located in the corner of 5th Avenue and 34th Street. It is easy to arrive there because one avenue away, on 6th Avenue and 34th Street, there is a big subway station (right scross from Macy’s department store). Trains E, B, D, M, F and N, Q, R, W stop at that station, so any of those lines can take you to the Empire State Building!

What to do around the Empire State Building?

Bryant Park is a great option! You can walk north to 40th Street, and enjoy a stroll around the park. Or I highly recommend that you visit the New York Public Library, a beautiful building that is worth exploring inside, and one of the best free things to do in New York City.

After visiting Bryant Park, you can make your way to Grand Central Station on Park Avenue and 42nd Street. Inside this stunning train station you will find Magnolia Bakery where you can enjoy a serving of their famous banana pudding for me!

If you have comfortable shoes on, walk to Rockefeller Center located on 49th Street, Radio City Music Hall or St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 50th Street!

You can also do a little bit of shopping at Macy’s department store, Sephora, H&M or Zara, located within walking distance.

When you are done visiting the Empire State Building you can grab coffee or tea at the Starbucks Reserve on the ground floor of the Empire State Building.

If you need an idea on what to do on a rainy, snowy or cold day, I usually suggest visiting any of New York City’s wonderful museums like The MET, The MoMA, or The Guggenheim.

17 Free Things To Do In NYC

Looking for a pet friendly hotel in New York?

See my list of pet friendly hotels in New York City here (many allow pets to stay for free).

Museums to visit in New York City

If you are an art lover like I am, take a look at these articles:

VISIT FLORIDA

MORE DESTINATIONS

ENGLISH, UNITED STATES · March 6, 2023

The Best Pet Friendly Hotels We’ve Stayed At

Pet-Friendly Hotels

My husband and I live in New York and have been traveling with our dogs for many years, so today I’m sharing 15 pet-friendly hotels we have stayed at, plus over a dozen other hotels that welcome dogs – ideal for travelers that want to bring their pups on vacation. I also included pet-friendly hotels in New York City where your pups will be able to stay with you at no additional cost.

The hotels that I am sharing today are located along the east coast of the US because traveling on this side of the country is doable for us based in New York.

Looking for hotels in New England? Or maybe you would like to escape the cold and head south to The Florida Keys? As the mama of two dogs that have a combined weight of 100+ pounds, I am here to help!

Ready to go on a road trip? Let’s get started with the list of pet-friendly hotels that have welcomed us, and our dogs. The photos that I am sharing in today’s article were taken by us during our stay at each hotel.

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels I’ve Stayed At

Best Pet Friendly Hotels

The Vanderbilt in Newport, Rhode Island

vanderbilt-newport-rhode-island-auberge-resorts — When it comes to the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island, The Vanderbilt stands out as one of the top hotels.

vanderbilt-hotel-newport-ri-rhode-island — Breakfast at The Vanderbilt in Newport, Rhode Island

celebrating-at-the-vanderbilt-hotel-in-newport

Location: Newport

Pet Policy: The pet fee is $150 per pet (a one-time fee). Dogs must be under 75 pounds.

This historic, 5-star Newport mansion was once owned by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt and is one of the most iconic on the east coast. We stayed here for three nights and enjoyed an early breakfast overlooking the garden terrace, dinner in The Dining Room, and our spacious suite.

Regarding our dogs, upon arrival, we were provided with two beds and two water bowls. We felt that both of our pups were incredibly welcomed by the hotel’s friendly staff during our entire stay.

The Vanderbilt is located on Mary Street, within walking distance from many of Newport’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions including Downtown Newport, Bowen’s Wharf, Newport Harbor, Trinity Church, The International Tennis Hall of Fame, and St. Mary’s Church.

This upscale hotel was built in 1909 and has 33 guest rooms and suites that were reimagined and refreshed in Spring 2022, after our stay. The rooms range from 400 – 2,000 sq ft, and the guest suites feature a stylish sitting area.

The Vanderbilt is home to two restaurants, The Dining Room, and The Roof Deck. After a busy day exploring Newport, you can unwind in The Garden with a chilled glass of Aperol Spritz.

Check Rooms & Prices at The Vanderbilt here.

Best Things To Do in Newport

The Brenton Hotel, Newport, Rhode Island

what to do in newport ri best restaurants — The Brenton Hotel is situated on Newport Harbor and is one of the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island.

Location: Newport

Pet Policy: There is a $40 pet fee, per pet. Two dogs per guest room.

The Brenton Hotel debuted in 2020 and is one of the best hotels in Newport, Rhode Island. We’ve stayed at this hotel twice in recent years, and I must say that their location is unbeatable.

This luxury boutique hotel offers beautiful views of Newport Harbor, along with nautical-inspired rooms that face the marina and historic Newport. The hotel has 57 rooms and an environmentally sensitive green rooftop where we enjoyed sipping on cocktails at sunset! We stayed in room 410 overlooking the marina.

Regarding our dogs, we took them for walks along the harbor, four times a day! Staying by the harbor was a beautiful experience for all of us (the pups included).

Take a walk to the Drift Cafe and pick up their delicious Acai bowls for breakfast, or walk to the White Horse Tavern, a historic restaurant dating back to 1673, where we enjoyed their farm-to-table cuisine and a lovely romantic dinner.

Be sure to visit the hotel’s restaurant, The Living Room, for breakfast, lunch, or dinner when they serve delicious “small plate” dishes, artisanal beers, fine wine, and the best craft cocktails.

The Brenton Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Newport that you don’t want to miss.

Check Rooms & Prices at The Brenton Hotel here.

Best Things To Do in Newport

Woodstock Inn & Resort, Woodstock, Vermont

woodstock-inn-resort-vermont — If you are traveling to Vermont, The Woodstock Inn & Resort is one of the best dog-friendly hotels to stay at.

Woodstock-Inn-Vermont-best-places-to-stay

Location: Woodstock

Pet Policy: The Garden Level Wing accommodates pets in rooms near a dog-walking area. There is a $150 pet fee.

The Woodstock Inn is a New England gem that has been cherished for decades. The original property, Richardson’s Tavern, was built in 1793 and renamed The Eagle Hotel in 1830. Years later, during the tourism boom of the mid-19th century, the new Woodstock Inn was built on the tavern’s original site, quickly becoming Vermont’s first winter sports center for tourists.

Regarding our dogs, we stayed in a room in the Garden Level Wing reserved for guests that are traveling with pets. The area has easy access to an outside garden.

The Woodstock Inn is located in the heart of the historic town of Woodstock, within walking distance from shops and restaurants, including The Prince & The Pauper and Au Comptoir. We loved trying the maple creeme at Woodstock Scoops, and I bought goodies from several of the local shops in the village that I know I’ll cherish forever. Be sure to check out F.H. Gillingham & Sons, a market that has been in business for 130 years!

This luxury resort has 142 elegant rooms and suites that embrace Vermont’s style, a Forbes 4-Star Rated Spa with therapy rooms, and two swimming pools.

The Woodstock Inn is home to two restaurants, The Red Rooster, a restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Richardson’s Tavern, a bar featuring local craft brews and spirits.

Check Rooms & Prices at Woodstock Inn & Resort here.

The Colony Hotel, Kennebunkport, Maine

things-to-do-in-kennebunkport-maine — The Colony Hotel in Kennebunkport is one of Maine’s most pet-friendly hotels.

best-pet-friendly-hotels-in-maine — Room 343

Location: Kennebunkport

Pet Policy: One of Maine’s most pet-friendly hotels. There is a night fee.

The Colony Hotel closes seasonally: from October 23, 2022, until May 19, 2023. See below for another pet-friendly hotel in Kennebunkport.

This hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Originally the site of the Ocean Bluff Hotel 1872, the current hotel opened in 1914 as The Breakwater Court. We stayed here for three nights (in room 343), and we appreciated the homemade-style breakfast, the views from our room, and everything about the hotel.

The Colony Hotel is located on Ocean Avenue, within walking distance from Kennebunkport’s Dock Square, shopping, and restaurants. One day we explored Goose Rocks Beach (a beach bordered by Cape Porpoise), had lobster rolls in the dining room at Pier 77 with excellent views, and drinks with snacks at Batson River Brewing & Distilling – all were highly recommended to us and we loved them!

At this hotel, you will find 125 rooms located in five separate buildings. As soon as you enter the hotel’s main building, you will notice the classic New England charm to be admired. If you are traveling with a small group or family, there are two private houses to stay at as well.

With regards to eating and dining at the hotel, breakfast is complimentary to guests, and served daily on the Porch and Grand Dining Room. The Marine Room has a menu that is available daily (the ravioli were delicious!) until 9:00 PM.

Reminder: Restaurants in Kennebunkport close very early, so be sure to make dinner plans early!

Check Rooms & Prices at The Colony Hotel here.

PET-FRIENDLY HOTEL KENNEBUNKPORT

(I have not stayed at the hotel below but it is pet-friendly)

Yachtsman Lodge & Marina – “Two dogs per room. A nightly fee of $50 per dog, per night. There are only 2 dog-friendly Harborfront Bungalows. Dogtober: in October the pet fee is waived”

Amara Cay Resort, Islamorada, Florida

best-hotels-florida-keys — Watching the sunrise from our suite at Amara Cay Resort in Islamorada.

Location: Islamorada

Pet Policy: Guests bringing dogs will be charged a $50 non-refundable fee per pet per day, a maximum of two dogs per room.

Amara Cay Resort is a hidden gem located in Islamorada, one of six villages of the Florida Keys. The hotel is located 90 miles from Miami, and 80 miles from Key West. We stayed here for five nights, and I recommend walking out to the resort’s private beach immediately upon arrival (especially if you arrive during sunset as we did!).

At this tropical resort, you will find 110 rooms, each with a private balcony. Our oceanfront suite was on the top floor, it had a living room, a balcony, and a spacious bedroom with large windows, perfect for watching the sunrise. Overall, this hotel was ideal for us with dogs.

Amara Cay Resort’s amenities include bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, and board games on their outdoor lawn. The resort also offers its own heated pool and a private beach for guests to enjoy.

We ate at the resort’s outdoor Tiki Bar multiple times because we loved their key lime pie and piña colada. We also went out to dinner to Ciao Hound Italian Kitchen & Bar and had some of the best appetizers ever. We picked the baked spinach artichoke fonduta, and their prosciutto-wrapped shrimp. For dinner, my husband and I had the mahi-mahi.

Check Rooms & Prices at Amara Cay Resort here.

The Westin Harborview, Portland, Maine

Best-things-to-see-Portland-Head-Lighthouse

Location: Portland

Pet Policy: Two dogs are allowed per room, for no additional fee.

The Westin Portland Harborview is a historic hotel that originally opened in 1927 as the Eastland Park Hotel. We stayed here for four nights, appreciated that there was no pet fee, and loved how easy it was to access the popular points of interest. I’ve stayed at several Westin hotels over the last decade, and their beds are heavenly!

Regarding our dogs, upon arrival at the hotel, they each got a plush Heavenly Dog Bed that was fluffy and comfortable. The hotel and its staff are extremely dog friendly, so that was amazing. Taking our dogs to walk at Bug Light Park during sunset was one of the highlights of our trip!

If you are a foodie, then Portland is for you. While visiting Portland you must try the donuts at either 88 Donuts, Hifi Donuts, or The Holy Donut. I was impressed with Portland’s standout donut shops, and couldn’t believe the variety of flavors available. And if you love lobster, head over to Highroller Lobster Co. or Luke’s Lobster Portland Pier, for one of the freshest lobster rolls you’ll ever try. On our last night, we had drinks at ViA VECCiA and dinner at Scales, a spacious seaside venue for local seafood – I highly recommend both!

Portland’s must-see lighthouses are located within 5 miles of this hotel.

Because of its location in the heart of Portland’s downtown area, its excellent customer service, and no pet fee, this is one of the best pet-friendly hotels in Portland – hands down!

Check Rooms & Prices at The Westin Harborview here.

20 Things To Do in Portland, Maine

Epic Lighthouses You Need to Visit in Portland

Glover Park Hotel, Georgetown, Washington DC

boutique-hotel-near-georgetown-kimpton-glover-park-hotel

Location: Washington DC

Pet Policy: Pet-friendly rooms with a one-time fee of $125 per stay.

This boutique hotel is located near Georgetown University, and many international embassies that are situated on Embassy Row, less than a mile from the hotel. Georgetown is a historic area known for its cobblestone streets and traditional buildings. In close proximity to this hotel, you will also find American University and National Cathedral Gardens with a botanical garden and horticultural sanctuary.

Regarding our dogs, we received many goodies for them! We stayed here one night, and it was our first time visiting Georgetown. I was impressed with the beautiful homes in the Georgetown area and had an enjoyable walk with our dogs in the morning.

The Glover Park Hotel has one restaurant, Glover Park Grill, that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to its guests. We had dinner here and ordered chicken parmesan.

Check Prices & Availability at Glover Park Hotel here.

Indigo Inn, Charleston, South Carolina

Location: Charleston

Update: As of September 2022 Indigo Inn no longer accepts pets. See below for pet-friendly hotels in Charleston.

This historic hotel is located in Downtown Charleston, a short walk from the Holy City’s treasures such as Charleston’s City Market, Rainbow Row, King Street, College of Charleston, Waterfront Park, and The Battery.

We booked this hotel one hour before arrival. We were having an impossible time locating a hotel in Downtown Charleston that allowed medium-sized dogs. We stayed here for five nights, and the hotel’s excellent location helped us maximize our time in the city.

The Indigo Inn has 40 historic guest rooms and onsight parking – which was a plus since the majority of hotels in the historic area of Charleston do not have a parking option. The hotel offers a daily wine & cheese reception for its guests.

Two spots that I recommend are The Watch Rooftop where we enjoyed drinks with a friend and Indaco on King St. where we had wood-fired pizzas with my husband’s cousin.

If you’d like to see Charleston’s highlights in 24 hours, see my 1 Day Itinerary of Charleston here.

Check Rooms & Prices at Indigo Inn here.

MORE PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS IN CHARLESTON

The Charleston Place – “Pets of all shapes and sizes are welcome”

Wentworth Mansion – “Dog-friendly accommodations for an additional fee of $40 per day”

John Rutledge House Inn – “Dog-friendly accommodations for an additional fee of $40 per day”

Hotel Emeline – “A cleaning fee of $100 per stay applies with a pet weight limit of up to 40 pounds, max. Limit two pets per guest room. No cats permitted”

1 Day in Charleston Itinerary

One Ocean Resort, Atlantic Beach, Florida

jacksonville-travel-guide-by-ana-florentina — Escape to Atlantic Beach and stay at the One Ocean Resort, a wonderful beachfront hotel that welcomes pets.

Location: Atlantic Beach FL

Pet Policy: Pet must be a cat or a dog. There is a two-pet limit per room. The non-refundable pet cleaning charge is $150 per stay.

One Ocean Resort & Spa is Northeast Florida’s only artfully-inspired boutique resort. Regarded
as the “Nantucket of the South,” Atlantic Beach is known for its shingle-style mansions and cottages along Beach Avenue and Ocean Street and boasts the most expansive stretch of sand between Amelia Island, Ponte Vedra, and St. Augustine.

This AAA Four-Diamond Award property is located on Ocean Blvd, and the amenities include a luxury oceanfront spa, an outdoor swimming pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. We stayed here for four nights, witnessed unbelievable pink sunsets, enjoyed morning and afternoon walks on the beach with our dogs, and had a room with an excellent backdrop of the ocean. If you’re looking for a laid-back, beach-chic atmosphere, this hotel is for you.

During the day you can stroll the Beaches Town Center and its various local shops. For breakfast, we grabbed a cup of coffee, tea, and pastries at Southern Grounds Co., and at night we enjoyed live music and dinner at The Local. If you love custards, you must try a scoop of Whit’s Frozen Custard right across the street from the resort – it was so good we went daily.

One Ocean Resort is home to Azurea Restaurant, featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the property – we had some of the best cocktails here!

It is arguably one of the best hotels Northeast Florida has to offer, with 193 beachfront and beach-view rooms with luxurious beds custom-designed specifically for the resort.

If you are interested in visiting St. Augustine, this resort is 32 miles away from St. Augustine’s historic district, a 40-50 minute drive via Florida A1A.

Check Rooms & Prices at One Ocean Resort here.

The Top Things To Do in St. Augustine | 2-Day Itinerary

Jacksonville Travel Guide & Where to Stay in Atlantic Beach

The Residences at Biltmore Asheville, North Carolina

Location: Asheville

Pet Policy: Two pets in select pet-friendly condos. There is a $100 nonrefundable pet fee.

The Residences at Biltmore is a condo hotel located on 700 Biltmore Avenue, just 1/2 mile from the gates of The Biltmore Estate, and 2 miles from Downtown Asheville. Asheville is pretty well-known for its breweries and craft beer industry – there are more than 30 breweries!

Every room at The Residences at Biltmore has a full-sized kitchen, gas fireplace, private patio or balcony, and at least one large bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower. We stayed here for three nights, in a suite that had everything we needed.

We took our dogs with us to the following dog-friendly spots in Asheville: breakfast at the Sunny Point Café, a family-owned restaurant serving American comfort food with a covered outdoor dining area, beer tasting at Green Man Brewery, an award-winning beautiful brewery with a great layout (we sat outside in the upper bar), and dinner at The Funkatorium, a rustic pub with an amazing menu, a barrel room, and a dog-friendly patio – I highly recommend all of these!

Check Rooms & Prices at The Residences at Biltmore here.

More Pet-Friendly Hotels

We’ve often booked a pet-friendly hotel for a quick stay or only for the night, to rest and continue with our drive the following morning. The five pet-friendly hotels below turned out to be great options for us.

Hotel Zena Viceroy Washington DC – Located next to Thomas Circle Park. The hotel is a 13-minute walk from the White House.

Two dogs per room. Pets stay free.

Residence Inn by Marriott Charlotte Uptown NC – In the Uptown area, a 2-minute walk from the Spectrum Center sports and events venue. Large fields on both sides of the hotel.

Maximum two pets per room. Nonrefundable $100 pet fee per stay.

Hotel Indigo Jacksonville FL – Adjacent to a beautiful walking path by a lake, we really enjoyed it. A 15-minute drive from both downtown Jacksonville and the beach.

Two pets are allowed, with a $75 fee per stay.

Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park FL – Modern and clean rooms with a cool vibe. A 5-minute walk from Hotel Indigo Jacksonville (mentioned above).

Two dogs of any size. No additional fee.

The Landon Bay Harbour Miami Beach FL– Adjacent to the upscale Bal Harbour neighborhood, shops & restaurants. A 12-minute walk from the beach. 14 miles from Miami International Airport (MIA).

An additional fee of $50 per stay.

Pet-Friendly Hotels in New York City

If you are visiting New York City, there are many dog-friendly hotels you can stay at!

The Plaza Hotel – Iconic hotel in a landmark 19th-century building opposite Central Park.

Maximum two pets per room. Accepts dogs of all sizes at no additional cost.

The Muse New York – Located four blocks from Rockefeller Plaza and Times Square.

Two pets of any size. Dogs and cats are allowed. Pets stay free.

The Standard High Line Hotel – In the Meatpacking District, 100 feet from the High Line.

Welcomes dogs of every shape and size. Cats are allowed. No additional fee.

M Social Hotel Times Square New York – Located a 5-minute walk from Times Square.

Pets under 75 pounds are welcome. There is a non-refundable pet fee of $100 per stay.

Loews Regency New York – Located a 5-minute walk from Central Park.

The first national hotel chain to launch a pet program with the introduction of Loews Loves Pets in 2000. One-time fee of $50 per stay (dogs and cats allowed).

The Benjamin Royal Sonesta – 3 blocks from Rockefeller Center.

No breed or weight restrictions. Up to two pets are permitted per room or suite, $75 per stay.

Interactive Map of Pet-Friendly Hotels

MORE INFO FOR TRAVELING WITH PETS

If you are traveling with dogs in a car, be sure to pack several gallons of water (finding drinkable water is not always an option), collapsible dog bowls, a non-slip dog bowl, and blankets (I like the ones that measure 29 in by 30 in). Packing big round cotton balls, and self-adhesive first aid gauze with scissors is a must. We bring our Furbo with us, to be able to watch the dogs if we step outside.

Wooden Pet Barrier

We always travel with a lightweight wooden pet barrier that we use for blocking the entrance to our hotel room. It is an absolute must for us because one of our dogs likes to open doors. The wooden pet barrier we have has three panels, is 30 inches tall, and stays permanently right in front of the hotel room’s door, as close to the door as possible. Our dogs are afraid of it, so they do not get close to it. When we are not traveling, we use our wooden pet barrier daily at home to keep the younger dog from bothering the older dog while they eat their food.

Shop: Wooden Pet Barrier

See what else I’ve purchased for my dogs here!

A final note!

And there you have it, pet-friendly hotels in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, and Washington DC!

I hope that this post inspires you to bring your dogs along with you! As my dogs get older, I have an impossible time leaving them behind. My husband and I are both flexible and understanding with them, so we make stops on the road to take them out every few hours. If I had to redo any of the trips mentioned above, I’d do them the same way! Well, maybe I would’ve stayed a couple more days in each location.

As much as I update and stay on top of this article, please always double-check each hotel’s pet policy as they are subject to change.

Where will you travel with your pets next?!

SHOP FOR YOUR PETS

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DESTINATIONS, UNITED STATES, VERMONT · November 18, 2022

2 Days in Vermont & Where To Stay

woodstock inn resort — Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont

2 Days in Woodstock, Vermont

We just returned from spending a weekend in Woodstock, and I am excited to share all about it! Are you considering a trip to Vermont? I love exploring the charming towns and cities of New England, and driving through the state of Vermont during autumn seemed like the loveliest idea, so Woodstock was an easy choice for us!

Crossing covered bridges, tasting Vermont’s famous maple syrup, and seeing the magical colors of fall – that’s what Autumn in Vermont is all about! We came back from Vermont in love, so here is what we did, where we stayed, and what you can expect to see if you go!

In my United States Guides you will find more ideas for road trips and getaways in the country.

Woodstock – The perfect New England weekend getaway destination.

Where is Woodstock, VT?

Woodstock is located in the state of Vermont, in the New England area of the country.

How far is Woodstock?

The trip from New York City to the town of Woodstock is around 250 miles (402 km) via I-95 and I-91. The drive took us a little over 4 hours, with normal driving conditions and very little traffic on a Friday morning. If you are visiting Woodstock from Boston, the trip is 140 miles (225 km). Woodstock’s location makes it a perfect weekend destination.

Which airport is best for Woodstock?

Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB) is 16 miles from Woodstock, a 25 minute drive.

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is 87 miles from Woodstock, a 1+ hour drive.

Another option is to fly into Albany International Airport (ALB) and drive a little over 100 miles to Woodstock. If you enjoy exploring by car, I would suggest flying into Boston Logan Airport (BOS) or any of New York City’s airports, and driving up to Vermont.

What is Vermont famous for?

Vermont is well known for its maple syrup, beautiful autumn foliage, mountains, ski resorts, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, maple creemees, and cheddar cheese.

Why visit Woodstock, Vermont?

Woodstock is incredibly precious all year round! Vermont is also a destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, so if you find yourself in Killington Ski Resort, the biggest ski resort in Vermont, I recommend adding a stop to Woodstock to your trip (a 30 minute drive).

Where to stay in Woodstock VT?

We stayed at the wonderful and historic Woodstock Inn & Resort, located just steps from the village of Woodstock. Staying at this resort had been on my bucket list for years, and although snow is typically expected during the month of November, we enjoyed temperatures in the high 60s all weekend long!

The Woodstock Inn is a New England gem that has been cherished for decades. The original property, Richardson’s Tavern, was built in 1793 and renamed The Eagle Hotel in 1830. Years later, during the tourism boom of the mid-19th century, the new Woodstock Inn was built on the tavern’s original site, quickly becoming Vermont’s first winter sports center for tourists.

Woodstock VT Hotels — Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont

The Red Rooster – Woodstock Inn’s Restaurant

After an afternoon exploring the village of Woodstock, we headed back to the hotel for dinner at the Red Rooster, a restaurant located inside the resort. The drinks we ordered were excellent, Bees Knees and the seasonal Woodstock Warmer. I recommend starting with their beet & apple salad (with mint and yogurt dressing!) or the autumn squash soup and having the prime ribeye as the main course. Don’t forget to order dessert, the pumpkin cremeux, and the maplewood orchard were both delicious.

Woockstock Inn — Beautiful details at the Woodstock Inn & Resort

The Woodstock Inn has been beautifully preserved thanks to the Rockefeller’s generosity and a major renovation that took place in 1967 to modernize the property.

Laurance Rockefeller was a conservationist interested in creating eco-friendly resorts, including the Woodstock Inn in Vermont, and properties in Hawaii, and Wyoming.

How many rooms does the Woodstock Inn have?

The Woodstock Inn has 142 elegant rooms and suites that embrace Vermont’s style.

The resort warmly welcomes dogs and has pet-friendly rooms, so we brought our two elder pups with us on this vacation. 🙂

See all rooms and reviews at the Woodstock Inn & Resort here.

SHOP: Delsey Luggage

SHOP: Strathberry Handbag

Woodstock is one of the most beautiful towns in North America.

What to do in Woodstock?

Visit a Covered Bridge

Vermont is home to more than 100 covered bridges, more than any other U.S. state! The majority of these bridges were constructed during the mid and late 19th Century. While visiting Woodstock you can explore Middle Covered Bridge, one of the most picturesque covered bridges in Vermont, located across the street from the Woodstock Inn! Other covered bridges near Woodstock include Taftsville Covered Bridge, Lincoln Covered Bridge, and Quechee Covered Bridge.

Shop at Local Stores

During our walk around the village of Woodstock, we stopped at as many local shops as we could! I love buying unique gifts to bring back home, and I bought a cheese board, the cutest red jar for serving maple syrup, Christmas decorations made by local artisans, holiday cards, and magnets! Be sure to stop by F.H. Gillingham & Sons, a New England general store that has been in business for over 130 years, selling everything from jams and maple syrup to clothing and toys. Visiting their store was like stepping back in time!

Sample Maple Syrup & Cheddar Cheese

We also enjoyed Maple Creemees, a Northern staple made with local Vermont maple syrup at Woodstock Scoops, the local ice cream shop!

MIddle Covered Bridge — Middle Covered Bridge is one of the prettiest bridges in Vermont

covered bridge woodstock vt — The list of top things to see in Woodstock definitely includes the Middle Covered Bridge!

Shop: Knit Skirt | Strathberry Handbag | Loeffler Randall Boots

MAP OF VERMONT

SHOP FOR VERMONT!

MORE THINGS TO DO IN WOODSTOCK VT

EXPLORE MORE US DESTINATIONS

LIFE IN NYC, NEW YORK CITY · October 10, 2022

Best Operas To See at The Metropolitan Opera in New York (2023)

What To See at the Metropolitan Opera New York

2023

On Saturday, after dinner at Quality Italian, we made our way to the Metropolitan Opera to see Luigi Cherubini’s 1979 Opera, MEDEA. This is a unique co-production of the Metropolitan Opera, Greek National Opera, Canadian Opera Company, and Lyric Opera of Chicago that kicked off the 2022-23 season in October. The Met has never presented Cherubini’s most celebrated work until this season, so we decided to go see it.

The performance of Medea is anchored by the soprano Sondra Radvanovsky, a role that Maria Callas championed on stage in the 1950s. If you are planning to visit New York City, you can get tickets to see this wonderful opera.

The Met Opera’s 2022-23 season is full of outstanding works, including two that I am looking forward to seeing: La Traviata and L’Elisir d’Amore.
See the full list at the bottom of this post!

METROPOLITAN OPERA HISTORY

The Metropolitan Opera was founded in 1883, with its first opera house built on Broadway and 39th Street. In the early years all performances were in Italian, then they were in German, until it was decided that most works would be performed in their original language.

Construction of the “new” Metropolitan Opera House began in 1959 and continued over the next ten years. It is now located at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a 16-acre complex that is home to the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, New York City Opera, the Chamber Music Society, the Film Society, the Juilliard School, the Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Library for the Performing Arts and the School of American Ballet.

Lincoln Center – Fun Facts

The board of architects was headed by Wallace K. Harrison who helped design the United Nations and Rockefeller Center.
Nearly 188 buildings were razed to make way for this grand cultural center.
The rectangular buildings of glass and Italian travertine marble can accommodate 13,666 spectators at a time.

Metropolitan Opera – Fun Facts

The Met Opera House contains seven rehearsal halls and storage space for six opera sets.
The large murals in the lobby of the opera house are by Marc Chagall.
The crystal chandeliers that accentuate the red-carpeted staircase were a gift from Austria.

Medea Opera Reviews — Medea at the Metropolitcan Opera in New York

MEDEA OPERA SYPNOSYS & REVIEW

Glauce, princess of Corinth, is preparing for her wedding to the hero Giasone. For years, Giasone has been in a relationship with the sorceress Medea, the mother of his children. Glauce worries that Medea, who is still in love with Giasone, may do something to stop the wedding. Wedding festivities are interrupted when Medea appears and demands that Giasone return to her. Giasone rejects Medea’s pleas, but Medea, hurt and enraged, curses Giasone, calling on the gods of Olympus to help her take revenge. After Medea is requested to leave the city, Medea pleads to be allowed just one more day with her children.

To learn how the story ends, you need to watch this performance! This play can be summarized with this statement: Medea is the most notorious sorceress of all.

met Opera on demand — The Metropolitan Opera House in New York

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York

MET TITLES

If you decide to go to the Metropolitan Opera House, be sure to turn on the “Met Titles” as soon as you sit down. You will see that they appear on individual screens mounted on the back of each row of seats. Titles are provided for all Met performances in English, Spanish, and German. Titles are also provided in Italian for Italian-language operas. This is a unique system of real-time translation that I personally find magnificent – it helps you better understand the performances.

Overall, going to the opera is a marvelous experience that is a great excuse to dress up for!

Enjoy and make a great evening out of it!

WHAT IS A GOOD FIRST OPERA TO SEE?

For first-timers I suggest: La Traviata, La Bohème, Tosca and Don Giovanni! All of these are popular operas that will have you coming back for more.

MET OPERA RUSH TICKETS

Rush tickets go on sale for Monday through Friday evening performances at Noon, for matinees four hours before curtain, and for Saturday evenings at 2:00 pm. These tickets are only available online and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

MET OPERA TOURS

Tours of the Metropolitcan Opera are currently suspended until further notice.

MET OPERA ON DEMAND

If you prefer to watch The Metropolitan Opera’s performances from the comfort of your home, you can do so with their online streaming service.

The Met Opera has an unlimited subscription plan for $14.99 per month or $149.99 per year, and there are more than 800 full-length performances that you will be able to choose from. Learn more about this streaming service here.

There are free apps available for Amazon Fire TV and Tablet, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, Android, Roku, and Samsung Smart TV.

METROPOLITAN OPERA HD

Another option is to visit your local theatre and watch the Met’s performances there! The Met’s 2022–23 season of live movie theater transmissions features ten productions that can be seen in cinemas worldwide. Search for cinemas by city in this link here.

WHAT TO SEE AT THE METROPOLITAN OPERA 2023

Here are my suggestions on what to see at the Met Opera during 2023!

Don Giovanni (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)
Idomeneo (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)
Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk (Dmitri Shostakovich)
Rigoletto (Giuseppe Verdi)
Tosca (Giacomo Puccini)
La Traviata (Giuseppe Verdi)
La Bohème (Giacomo Puccini)
The Magic Flute – Holiday Presentation (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)
Peter Grimes (Benjamin Britten)
Der Rosenkavalier (Richard Strauss)
Aida (Giuseppe Verdi)
Fedora (Umberto Giordano)
L’Elisir d’Amore (Gaetano Donizetti)

A final note!
I went to see Medea with my husband, and on a different night I invited my parents to see La Traviata. Although I personally prefer La Traviata, both were outstanding.

WHAT TO WEAR TO THE OPERA

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DESTINATIONS, MAINE, Travel, UNITED STATES · August 15, 2022

20 Things To See & Do in Portland, Maine

Bug Light Park Portland Maine — Bug Lighthouse

With its beautiful lighthouses, award-winning lobster rolls, rich historic district, world-class dining scene, and striking scenery, I am adding Portland to the list of cities that are a must-see in the Northeast of the United States!

Whether you are looking to take a vacation with friends, family, or by yourself to Portland, here is a list of fun things to do when you visit Portland!

Amazing Things To Do in Portland, Maine

1. Visit Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light Park)

Bug Light Park is one of my favorite spots in Portland!

Originally constructed in 1855, the new 26 ft lighthouse resembles a 4th century Greek monument that was inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. The light was restored in 1989 and was reactivated in 2002.

The surrounding park is the perfect place for a waterside walk, and if you visit during sunset you might catch one of the prettiest pink sunsets you’ll ever see.

This gem was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and memorializes the shipbuilding efforts of World War II.

We stopped here the night we arrived in Portland. I captured these photos at 8:02 PM on July 30th!

I love that the park offers free and convenient parking, which made it easy for us to explore the area with our two pups, before heading over to the hotel for a late-night check-in.

How to get there: Bug Light, S Portland Greenbelt Pathway, South Portland, ME 04106

2. Climb the Portland Observatory

If you’d like to admire Portland from above, then the Portland Observatory is for you!

The 86-foot high observatory is a historic maritime signal tower that was built in 1807 at the direction of sea captain-turned-entrepreneur Captain Lemuel Moody (1768-1846). It is the only known surviving tower of its type in the United States.

At the time, ships entering the harbor could not be seen from the docks of Portland until they rounded the point of land at Spring Point Ledge and were almost in the harbor. Moody identified incoming vessels with his powerful telescope at the top of the tower.

The Observatory remained a working marine signal tower run by the Moody family until 1923 when the invention of the two-way radio made it obsolete.

I highly recommend the guided tour! My husband was pleasantly surprised – he loved learning the history of the builder, the physical structure of the tower, and the impact it had on Portland’s harbor. We thought the views from the top were fantastic!

The tour lasts 45 minutes, you will climb 103 steps, and once you reach the top you will enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Portland. The breeze blowing through the open windows made the climb comfortable. The tour stopped on each level for the interesting exhibits, and to allow everyone to sit or move upstairs at a reasonable pace. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17.

How to get there: Portland Observatory, 138 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101

SHOP: Cleobella Eyelet Dress

Portland Observatory best things to do in Portland

3. Tour the Historic Victoria Mansion

Victoria Mansion was built between 1858 and 1860 as a summer home for two people, Ruggles Sylvester Morse and his wife Olive. When Morse died in 1893, his wife sold the house with most of its furnishings to J.R. Libby, a prominent dry goods merchant. The Libbys occupied the mansion until 1929.

The house has been open to the public as a museum since in 1941, and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1971.

Don’t miss this gem! The mansion is one of the finest examples of the Italian Villa style in the United States. It is strategically located near the city’s earliest gas and sewer lines, and the house had hot and cold running water.

I loved stepping back in time, and being able to see 90% of the original interiors of the house! The original wall paintings by the Italian-born artist Giuseppe Guidicini, a master of the trompe l’oeil (“fool the eye”) style, make the surfaces in the house appear to be three-dimensional and will make you look twice! The mansion’s parlor and reception suite are breathtaking.

The guided tour lasts 45 minutes. Tickets are $16 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-17.

See the video I made after touring Victoria Mansion here.

Address: Victoria Mansion, 109 Danforth St, Portland, ME 04101

SHOP: Cleobella Dress

4. See the Portland Head Light

The Portland Head Lighthouse is Maine’s oldest lighthouse, and the most photographed lighthouse in the United States!

Construction began in 1787 at the directive of George Washington and was completed in 1791.

How to get there: Portland Head Light, 12 Captain Strout Cir, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107

5. Walk around the Arts District & Downtown Portland

The Arts District is a section of downtown Portland designated in 1995 to promote the cultural community of the city. It covers a large part of upper Congress Street towards the West End.

Right behind that green clock on Monument Square, you will find Hifi Donuts, a neighborhood spot in a vintage setting where we grabbed artisanal donuts & lattes one early morning.

In these areas, you will find many coffee shops, bars, restaurants, art galleries, a theater company, and museums. Maine College of Art (MECA) and the Portland Museum of Art are located here as well.

6. Bike around Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

A caisson-style lighthouse located in South Portland that was first lit in 1897 to help watercraft safely navigate Casco Bay!

We enjoyed walking around the trails that surround the lighthouse during sunset. We saw lots of people letting their dogs play in the water. The views were magnificent all around.

How to get there: Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, 2 Fort Rd, South Portland, ME 04106

7. Try Honey Wine at Maine Mead Works

Maine Mead Works is a winery that specializes in honey wine. The winery’s brand HoneyMaker is offered in a variety of year-round and seasonal styles and are all hand-crafted in Maine using 100% wildflower honey.

We visited the tasting room at Maine Mead Works and enjoyed a flight of four different meads: lavender lemonade, cranberry, blackberry lavender mint, and dry. These flavors were so good.

How to get there: Maine Mead Works, 51 Washington Ave, Portland, ME 04101

8. Have Brunch at Bayside American Cafe

This well-known breakfast spot has been a local landmark since 1990!

Their famous brunch menu features breakfast, lunch and specialty brunch items such as Maine lobster eggs benedict, homemade corned beef hash, as well as pancakes and French toasts served with 100% local Maine maple syrup.

Because we visited in July, the patio and deck were open for dining.

Brunch is served from 7 AM – 2 PM, Wednesday – Monday.

How to get there: Bayside American Cafe, 98 Portland St, Portland, ME 04101

9. Enjoy Dinner at Scales on the Maine Wharf

Scales is a traditional New England restaurant that offers lobster, seafood, and a raw bar in an elegant setting on the Maine Wharf, on Portland’ Maine’s Historic Waterfront.

We loved our appetizers and dishes: anadama bread, green salad, Maine clam chowder, warm buttered lobster roll, and grilled Maine bluefin tuna. We also ordered a mint chip frappe to-go!

Be sure to make your reservation weeks in advance!

How to get there: Scales Restaurant, 68 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101

10. Try the Mini Donuts at Eighty 8 Donuts

Eighty 8 Donuts was highly recommended to us by two locals we met during our first night in Portland.

We ordered a box of ‘Specialty Bites’ and the taste was divine. The flavors included: Bamm Bamm (fruity pebbles topped donut), Homer (strawberry glaze with rainbow sprinkles), 007 (maple icing with bourbon cream and candied bacon), Cookies & Cream (cookie on a donut), Boston Cream (chocolate icing with Bavarian cream) and Lemon Zinger (lemon glaze with a raspberry center).

They also have a location at the base lodge of Sugarloaf Mountain in Carrabassett Valley and a donut truck that is based in Portland, Maine.

How to get there: Eighty 8 Donuts, 225 Federal St, Portland, ME 04101

11. Grab a Lobster Roll at The Highroller Lobster Co.

Portland has some of the best lobster you will ever find, and plenty of places offering delicious lobster rolls. We decided to check out The Highroller Lobster Co., a neighborhood diner that serves a full menu of lobstery options. My husband does not eat shellfish, so after I finished my lobster roll we walked 140 feet to Crispy Gai where he ordered fried chicken.

Luke’s Lobster is one of the favorites among the tourists. You can find this spot directly on the working waterfront, off the Portland Pier, in the heart of the Old Port.

How to get there: Highroller Lobster Co., 104 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101

The city of Portland is full of amazing things to do! I hope today’s post helps you plan a trip to this must-see destination in Maine!

Keep reading to see 9 more fun things to do in Portland!

How many days do I need in Portland, Maine?

3-5 days in Portland, Maine is the perfect amount of time to discover the city’s history and enjoy the craft brews and bites.

What is the best time of year to visit Portland, Maine?

The best time to visit Portland is June – August.

9 MORE FUN THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND

Portland Museum of Art
Visit Peaks Island
Eastern Promenade Trail (2.1 miles)
The Holy Donut (Maine potato donuts)
Allagash Brewing Company
Austin Street Brewery
Luna Rooftop Bar
ViA VECCHiA
Central Provisions

BEST PLACES TO STAY

The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
Portland Harbor Hotel
Westin Portland Harborview
Canopy By Hilton Portland Waterfront
Blind Tiger Guest House
The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast
AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown
The Francis

See all Portland area hotels, prices, and reviews here.

MORE CITIES YOU WILL ENJOY

DESTINATIONS, MAINE, UNITED STATES · August 7, 2022

3 Epic Lighthouses in Portland, Maine

The Best Lighthouses in Portland, Maine

Hi everyone! We just returned from Portland, the largest city in the State of Maine, set on a peninsula that extends into Casco Bay. Portland has everything you’d expect from a seaside New England town: charm, an incredibly delicious culinary scene, a scenic coastline, the freshest lobster you’ll ever eat, lots of breweries, landmarks, and of course, lighhouses.

Seeing lighthouses is definitely one of the amazing things to do in Portland, so if you are planning to visit the state, add at least one of these lighthouses to your list! In today’s post I am sharing a a round-up of the photos that I took last week!

How many lighthouses are in Portland Maine?

Portland is lucky to have six lighthouses located within twenty minutes of the city! Here are three lighthouse that I loved!

1. SPRING POINT LEDGE LIGHTHOUSE

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is the only caisson-style light station in the United States that visitors can walk to! This lighthouse was constructed in 1897 by the government after seven steamship companies stated that many of their vessels ran aground on Spring Point Ledge. The light resembles a giant spark plug, sitting at the end of a granite breakwater in South Portland.

Be sure to allocate an hour to explore the surrounding area! We saw lots of people playing frisbee with their dogs in the water, riding bicycles, and walking along the trails.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse Portland Maine

2. PORTLAND HEAD LIGHT

Portland Head Light is a quintessential coastal landmark, Maine’s most famous lighthouse, and the most photographed lighthouse in the United States! George Washington commissioned this lighthouse that has been in operation since 1791, making it the oldest lighthouse in Maine. You can find it along the shores of Fort Williams Park, in Cape Elizabeth. Fort Williams Park is open from sunrise to sunset, and with over 90 acres of recreational space, you will find plenty of areas to explore.

If you are interested in climbing the Portland Head Light, you can do so on September 10, 2022 – Maine Open Lighthouse Day. This is a popular annual event that attracts 18,000 visitors and offers the public the opportunity to climb over two dozen historic Maine lights. Keep in mind that the Portland Head Light will only have 280 tickets available on a first-come first-serve basis. All lighthouses will be open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Learn more about M a i n e Open Lighthouse Day here.

Portland Head Lighthouse — Portland Head Light

3. PORTLAND BREAKWATER LIGHTHOUSE (BUG LIGHT)

Bug Light is perhaps my favorite lighthouse! We drove to see it the night that we arrived to Portland, right before we checked into our hotel. As I approached the lighthouse, the sky turned into a beautiful shade of pink and purple, and my jaw dropped – it was absolutely breathtaking!

I loved the park that is adjacent to the lighthouse (we walked our pups here!), and admiring the expansive views of Portland Harbor. The parking lot at the park is a major plus!

We returned to see this lighthouse on our last day in Portland, for a final walk around the park with our pups, before heading back to New York City!

And that’s a wrap of my favorite lighthouses of Portland, Maine!

Have you visited any of Maine’s lighthouses? I’d love to know which is your favorite! Feel free to comment below or DM me on Instagram @anaflorentyna with any questions.

Talk soon! Xx

MORE THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND MAINE

PLACES TO STAY

See all Portland area hotels here.

See all Maine area hotels here.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR PORTLAND ME TRIP

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DESTINATIONS, RHODE ISLAND, Travel, UNITED STATES · June 7, 2022

Top Things to See in Newport, Rhode Island

Top Things to Do in Newport, Rhode Island

If you want to see one of the prettiest cities in New England, you need to book a trip to Newport. We just returned from visiting Newport for the fourth time and I’m excited to share a list of the top things to do during your visit to The Classic Coast.

Is Newport worth visiting?

Yes, definitely. Newport is a beautiful coastal city that is worth visiting any time of year. Set on Aquidneck Island in the New England state of Rhode Island, Newport is rich in history, with plenty of lovely parks, boutiques, and great restaurants.

What is Newport known for?

This seaside city in Rhode Island is known for its Gilded Age mansions, spectacular sailing, all-around nautical vibes, miles of beaches, and magnificent sights. If you are into sailing, you likely know that Newport has hosted the American’s Cup, a renowned annual sailing regatta, for many years.

If you are looking for a vacation destination with beautiful beaches, restaurants, and that is family-friendly, then Newport is for you! Here is a selection of the best spots in the city that will surely take your breath away. At the bottom of the post, you will find a list of hotels & restaurants to enjoy during your stay in Newport.

Cliff Walk & The Forty Steps

Cliff Walk has been an icon for centuries. It runs 3.5 miles and about two-thirds of the walk is in easy walking condition. This enjoyable walk offers panoramic ocean views and the perfect amount of sea breeze. A total must-see!

The Forty Steps is a landmark dating back to the 1830s that is located right by Cliff Walk (at the east end of Narragansett Ave).

How to get there: The walk starts at the western end of Easton’s Beach at Memorial Blvd. and runs south with exits at Narragansett Ave., Webster St., Sheppard Ave., Ruggles Ave., Marine Ave., Ledge Rd., and ends at Bellevue Ave.

Castle Hill Lighthouse

The Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898 and it is located on Narragansett Bay in Newport, at the end of the historic Ocean Drive.

The lighthouse is not open but the grounds are adjacent to the Castle Hill Inn and are open to the public. It is worth noting that the lighthouse is still an active navigation aid for vessels entering the East Passage between Conanicut Island and Aquidneck Island!

We explored the area around sunset, and it was incredibly peaceful. The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

lighthouse newport rhode island — Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island

Outfit: Cable Knit Sweater | High Rise Jeans | Kate Spade Bag | Margaux Ballerinas

How to get to Castle Hill Lighthouse

The easiest way to arrive at the lighthouse is by parking your car at the Castle Hill Cove Marina and walking across the street. Follow the sidewalk to the left until you see a small white sign that says “Castle Hill Lighthouse” on your right. Walk through the trees, luckily it is a short path to the lighthouse! Bring your camera!

Newport Harbor

Newport Harbor is the area across Bowen’s Wharf, between Goat Island Marina and Fort Adams State Park. During this trip to Newport, we stayed at a hotel located right on the harbor, and we really enjoyed our walks there with our pups.

Bannister’s Wharf & Bowen’s Wharf

Bannister’s Wharf is a historic spot located between the Old Port and Bowen’s Wharf. Cobblestone paths, local boutiques, galleries, and award-winning restaurants are some of the things you will find in this charming area of Downtown Newport.

bannisters wharf newport — Bannister’s Wharf Marina. We grabbed coffee at the cutest shop to the right of these chairs.

Newport Mansions

Newport was the summertime playground of America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. The Newport Mansions is a collection of a dozen historic house museums ranging from the 18th century to the Gilded Age. And, your visit to Newport would not be complete unless you experience the opulence of one of the mansions.

Plan your visit to the Breakers, The Elms, Rosecliff, or Marble House, here.

Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is a 10-mile coastal drive and a total must-see during sunrise! We drove our way around this winding path and enjoyed the scenic coastline by car, but many love to do it by bicycle. Either way, you will absolutely love it.

King Park

King Park is a gem along the water that I love visiting each time I am in Newport! Street parking is free and available so it is easy to park your car, walk around, take pictures of Pell Bridge, and enjoy the view!

If you are traveling with children (or pups!), this is a great spot for exploring and relaxing by the water! You will also find a beautiful gazebo, the statue of Rochambeau, and other memorials at this peaceful park.

king park newport — King Park and Pell Newport Bridge in the back.

rochambeau-newport — Statue of Rochambeau at King Park in Newport.

Where is Rochambeau’s statue located?

This statue of Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, Comte de Rochambeau, is located in King Park along the waterfront at the south end of Newport.

Rochambeau led the French forces against the British at the decisive Battle of Yorktown.

How to get there: Arrive via America’s Cup and Thames Street.

Where to Stay in Newport

During this visit, we reserved a water-view king room at The Brenton Hotel on Newport Harbor, and it was the best decision. We had previously stayed here, so we were familiar with the hotel. The room was spacious, had an ultra-comfortable bed, and a wonderful view of the marina across the street.

Walking anywhere from the hotel was easy because it is located just steps from Newport’s downtown area. The Brenton Hotel has a modern nautical elegance, and all of its 57 rooms face views of the harbor and historic Newport. We loved the hotel’s rooftop and enjoyed dining at the hotel’s restaurant, The Living Room (hands down the best cocktails!).

Here’s the list of beautiful Newport hotels that I am familiar with and recommend, click on any below to see their availability, their rooms, and reviews:

See my review of The Vanderbilt Auberge Resort, here.

Where to Eat in Newport

There are many great restaurants in Newport! Here are the ones that we enjoyed this time:

White Horse Tavern – A cozy and upscale restaurant in a historic setting dating to 1673! This is America’s oldest tavern, the oldest operating restaurant in the U.S., and a National Historic Landmark. We highly recommend it, this is the kind of restaurant I like to find when I visit a new city, and it was excellent.

Drift Cafe – This is my favorite breakfast spot for Açaí bowls, smoothies, and lattes! You will find it tucked in Downtown Newport, next door to some of the cutest local boutiques (they are totally worth checking out!).

The Living Room – This restaurant is located inside The Brenton Hotel and offers tons of seasonally inspired “small plate” dishes designed to share. I loved the clam chowder, grilled octopus, and warm farro salad. My husband loved his truffle fries, pork belly steam buns, and grilled lamb lollipop!

Diego’s – This casual restaurant offers Mexican food with a twist, plus delicious margaritas! I love that they have a gluten-free menu. This spot is located in Bowen’s Wharf and it is a great option if you are looking for a low-key casual lunch or dinner.

Here is one more!

22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille – This classy nautical-themed dining room offers steak and seafood with waterfront views. I am including this restaurant because so many of you recommended it to us, and we always leave Newport without trying it!

Map of Newport RI

MORE INFO FOR YOUR VISIT TO NEWPORT

How far is Newport from New York City?

The drive from NYC to Newport is 175 miles (282 km) via I-95 N. The drive usually takes 3.5 hours with normal driving conditions.

How far is Newport from Boston?

The drive from Boston to Newport is 71 miles (114 km) via MA-24. The drive takes 1.5 hours. Newport’s location makes it a perfect day trip or weekend destination.

Which airport is best for Newport?

T.F. Green Airport (PVD) is the nearest major airport to Newport. This airport is located in Warwick, Rhode Island, and is 28 miles (45 km) from Downtown Newport.

Head to my Instagram and TikTok to see video recaps of our visit!

Have you visited Newport before?

FOR YOUR TRIP:

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DESTINATIONS, FLORIDA, Travel, UNITED STATES · February 20, 2022

Top Things To Do in St. Augustine Florida: 2 Day Itinerary

2 or 3 days in st augustine florida — *Castillo de San Marcos*

2 Days in St. Augustine Florida

Good morning, everyone! After spending a couple of months in Miami, it was time to start heading back to New York City. While looking for excuses to stay in the sunshine state a little longer, I told my husband that it’d be wonderful to make a stop in northeast Florida to visit St. Augustine. New York was expected to have snow and 18 degree weather, so he agreed with my idea.

free things to do in st augustine itinerary — *The Bridge of Lions* *in St. Augustine*

Why visit St. Augustine, Florida?

Exploring the oldest continuously settled city in the United States had been a dream of mine for years! I had visited St. Augustine in high school and barely remembered anything, so I decided to approach this visit to the city as if I was a first-time visitor. We stayed a week in Jacksonville, and I dedicated two days to exploring historic St. Augustine’s sites and attractions.

Today I’m sharing the 2 day itinerary that I created for myself, as well as all the photos that I took while I was in St. Augustine.

Read on for my tips on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 1

Take the Old Town Trolley Tour

I am a big fan of the Old Town Trolley. Trolley tours are available in only 7 cities in the United States, and St. Augustine is one of them. Whenever I am visiting a city for the first time, I like to take the city tour to get a highlight of the must-see places in the city and to find those attractions that I want to take time to see on my own.

If you don’t have many days to explore or are unable to walk for hours, the trolley is your best bet. I wanted to save time and not have to deal with finding parking lots, so this was a practical option. The trolley becomes your taxi, and you can hop-on and hop-off all day long. I’ve taken the trolley or the red bus in various cities around the world and have always found it useful.

St Augustine Old Town Trolley Tour best things to do — *The Old Town Trolley in front of Flagler College*

The cost of the trolley is around $32.00 for the first day and $15.00 for the second consecutive day. The fully narrated tour lasts a little over an hour, and I recommend jumping on it as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM. The last trolley departs at 4:30 PM, and it is worth noting that a complimentary hotel shuttle service is included in your ticket.

I forgot to pre-purchase a trolley ticket, so I bought mine at the stand by Potter’s Wax Museum. I also paid for parking, left my car in the parking lot, and hopped on the trolley that arrived within 10 minutes.

Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

The Cathedral Basilica is the 8th stop in the Old Town Trolley Tour and the first one that I, and half of the trolley, decided to hop off at. The cathedral is home to the nation’s first Catholic parish, it was first built in 1797, then rebuilt after a fire in 1887. The facade is a combination of Spanish mission and Neoclassical styles, and the interior is adorned with murals and stained glass windows. There is so much to see in the beautiful details, keep reading to see the photo I took of the cathedral’s unique interior…

Cathedral Basilica St Augustine best things to do — *Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine*

cathedral basilica free things to do st augustine — *Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine*

The Cathedral Basilica offers guided tours throughout the day.

Walk the grounds of Mission of Nombre de Dios

After visiting the cathedral, I waited 10-15 minutes for the next trolley to arrive, and I stayed on it until the 20th stop, the Mission of Nombre de Dios. It is at this location that the Great Cross, which rises 208 feet, was erected in 1965 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first parish mass. I can just imagine Father Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales celebrating the first mass as he proclaimed the land in the: “Nombre de Dios” (“Name of God”). He was the chaplain who accompanied St. Augustine’s founder and the Spanish explorers.

Historical Facts:

When General Pedro Menéndez de Aviles came to the New World from Spain, he arrived in hopes of establishing a colony and securing the land for Spain, and also converting the Native American Indians to Christianity.
The 208’ bronze cross is the tallest cross in the Western Hemisphere. A gift from the Vatican, it was capped at that height to avoid the installation of a mandatory aircraft warning light.

shrine lady of la leche best free attractions — *The Great Cross*

These first Spanish settlers brought with them a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and established the Holy Virgin’s first sanctuary in the U.S on the grounds. They built a chapel and dedicated it to “Nuestra Señora de La Leche” (“Our Lady of Milk & Safe Delivery”).

The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, America’s first Marian shrine, is located on the mission grounds. Pilgrims come from all parts of the world to pray for Our Lady of La Leche’s powerful intercession and light a candle in the historic chapel. I love visiting churches when I travel and spent an hour strolling the grounds and looking at all the monuments.

shrine lady of la leche — *Front of Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche*

Entrance to the grounds is restricted to their daily hours, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Parking is free.

From outside the shrine, I hopped back on the Old Town Trolley at exactly 5:00 PM. The trolley continued its way to its final stops of the tour: The Old Senator Tree and the Fountain of Youth. It wasn’t until the trolley dropped us off at stop #1 that I realized that I had parked my car outside of stop #3. Thankfully, a complimentary shuttle service is included in your Old Town Trolley ticket!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 2

A friend of mine and her husband joined me during Day 2 of my visit to St. Augustine! While she has been living in Jacksonville since 2014, her husband has lived in the surrounding area his entire life. He is incredibly familiar with St. Augustine and was our guide for the day. He mentioned that his sister lived in a home within the historic district of the city of St. Augustine for fifteen years, and I thought that was really cool. I had told them that I was interested in checking out Flagler College, so it was our first stop of the day!

Take a Tour of Flagler College

Flagler College is perhaps my favorite building in all of St. Augustine! The college is named for industrialist and railroad magnate Henry Flagler who built it in 1888 as a hotel. The property is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture and was one of the most exclusive resorts of its day.

Flagler College was the first of Flagler’s series of luxury resorts along Florida’s east coast, others include the neighboring Hotel Alcazar (now, Lightner Museum). I highly recommend taking a tour of this gorgeous property, exploring the courtyard, the grand lobby, the rotunda, the 86-foot domed ceiling supported by eight oak caryatids hand carved with robed women, and the Flagler Room!

flagler college st augustine — *Entrance to Flagler College*

Tours of Flagler College are guided and based on the college’s academic calendar. The cost of admission is $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors/military, and $1.00 for children 4-12.

Flagler College St Augustine things to do — *Flagler College*

Flagler College – Fun Facts:

Architects John Carrére and Thomas Hastings were young men right out of college when they designed Hotel Ponce de León (now, Flagler College) and Hotel Alcazar (now, Lightner Museum). They are noted most for the New York Public Library and The House and Senate Office Buildings adjacent to the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Louis C. Tiffany is credited with the building’s interior design including the stained glass & mosaics.
Hotel Ponce de León was one of the nation’s first electrified buildings. The Edison Electric Company powered the building with steam heat and 4,000 electric lights.
During the Depression, the federal government sponsored arts programs at the property were attended by Robert Frost, Ernest Hemingway, and Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.
The U.S. Coast Guard commandeered the property during World War II for use as a training center.
Mark Twain, President Theodore Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, and Babe Didrikson stayed at the hotel.
Henry Flagler’s great-nephew sold the property to a group from Mount Ida College to establish a women’s college, known today as Flagler College.

The Lightner Museum

Lighter Museum St Augustine — *Lighter Museum in St. Augustine*

The Lightner Museum occupies the former Hotel Alcazar, a resort also commissioned by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. The Hotel Alcazar opened in 1889, it was slightly less expensive than Hotel Ponce de León but had lots of amenities for guest enjoyment, like saunas, a casino, archery ranges, and the world’s largest swimming pool at the time. The hotel began to decline during the Depression and eventually closed in 1932. In 1947, Otto Lightner purchased the building to house his massive art collection. This property is now known as the Lightner Museum and it occupies the back half of the former hotel.

Walk St. George Street

After stopping for lunch at Casa Reina (I’ll get to it in a bit!), we made our way to St. George Street, a lovely pedestrian-only street lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. This street represents the center of the town and the site of many of the reconstructed Spanish colonial buildings in St. Augustine. We grabbed coffee and tea at the cutest little store and strolled up and down St. George Street while visiting local shops.

If you visit St. George Street, be sure to check out the following spots! The first image is of the Oldest School House, a wooden structure located at 14 St. George Street. The schoolhouse was built over 200 years ago, with red cedar and cypress, and put together with wooden pegs and handmade nails. In the second image, you can see the Old City Gates, one of St. Augustine’s most recognizable landmarks located at the north end of St. George Street. Be sure to take a photo in front of this historical site!

Oldest Wooden School House St Augustine — Oldest Wooden School House

Old City gate St Augustine — Oldest Wooden School House

Explore the Castillo de San Marcos

The Castillo de San Marcos is a must-see during your visit because it is the focal point of historic St. Augustine! This 17th-century Spanish stone fortress was built over 300 years ago by the Spanish to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route. An interesting fact is that many forts preceded the Castillo, however, this one made of coquina was impenetrable to enemy attack and was fire resistant. Construction began in 1672 and lasted 23 years, until 1695. I loved walking around the fort during sunset time, I got to enjoy views of the inlet and the most beautiful bright pink sky!

Castillo de San Marcos best time to visit st augustine florida — *Castillo de San Marcos* *National Monument*

The Castillo is open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee for adults is $15.00 and it is valid for seven consecutive days. Children (age 15 and under) are admitted free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult. I used the parking lot located in front of the Castillo, but the lot has a very limited number of spots.

Learn more about the Castillo de San Marcos here.

More Things To Do in St. Augustine

Take a Ghost & Gravestones Tour
Lighthouse & Maritime Museum (climb the lighthouse)
Anastasia State Park
St. Augustine Distillery (free self-guided tour & tasting available)
San Sebastian Winery (free self-guided tour available)
Sunset Cruise of St. Augustine
Fountain of Youth

casa reina st augustine — *Beautiful view from Casa Reina*

Where to Eat in St. Augustine?

CASA REINA TAQUERIA & TEQUILA

If you want to sip on a margarita while enjoying the flavors of Mexican cuisine, this place is a must! It is located in St. Augustine’s historic downtown area, on the bay front at the foot of the Bridge of Lions. I ordered the house margarita and the ‘nachos reina style’ – the best loaded nachos I’ve ever had! This restaurant has lots of seating areas, both indoors and outdoors. I suggest that you go during the day so that you can enjoy the outstanding view (see my images above & below)!

CAP’S ON THE WATER

Cap’s On The Water is a waterfront spot located 6 miles from St. Augustine’s historic downtown. This restaurant is a hidden gem that only locals know about (and was recommended by my friend’s husband!). Be sure to arrive before sunset, and enjoy dinner from the wooden deck! The truffle parmesan fries and the seared catch that came with mashed potatoes & roasted carrots were delicious! If you are looking for fresh local seafood and coastal cuisine, go here.

Where to Stay in St. Augustine?

Bed & Breakfast

There are many wonderful Bed & Breakfasts within the historic district of St. Augustine, see the options below by clicking on their name!!

Best Hotels in St. Augustine

If you prefer to stay in a hotel within historic St. Augustine, click on the hotels below to see the rooms, availability, and reviews for each!

Or see all St. Augustine hotels and their availabilities here.

Casa Monica best places to stay — *This is Casa Monica Resort in St. Augustine*, *Florida*

View Rooms & Availability at Casa Monica here.

An interactive map of St. Augustine FL

More info for your days in St. Augustine

When was St. Augustine founded?

The city of St. Augustine was founded on September 8, 1565, by a Spanish soldier named Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. He named the settlement “San Agustín,” as his ships bearing settlers, troops, and supplies from Spain had first sighted land in Florida eleven days earlier on August 28, the feast day of St. Augustine.

When is the best time to visit St. Augustine?

I recommend visiting in January / February. It is not too busy, and the weather was breezy and pleasant. If you would like to avoid the crowds, visiting right before Spring or Fall is your best bet.

What is St. Augustine known for?

St. Augustine is the oldest continuously settled city in the United States. The city is well known for the Castillo de San Marcos, built by the Spanish settlers to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route, and Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, containing healing water that enhances your appearance. St. Augustine is also known for Henry Flagler, a railroad tycoon that built luxury resorts along Florida’s east coast.

How far is St. Augustine?

The trip from Miami to St. Augustine is around 311 miles (500 km) via Florida’s Turnpike and I-95. The drive usually takes 5 hours, with normal driving conditions.

If you are visiting St. Augustine from Orlando, the trip is a little over 100 miles (165 km). St. Augustine’s location makes it a perfect day trip or weekend destination.

Which airport is best for St. Augustine?

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is 51 miles from St. Augustine, a 1 hour drive.

Orlando International Airport is 121 miles from St. Augustine, a 2+ hour drive.

Are 1-2 days in St. Augustine worth it?

Absolutely! Seeing all of St. Augustine in 1 – 2 days is doable because it is a compact and walkable city. St. Augustine is the perfect city for history lovers and those who want to experience Old Florida.

Day Trips from St. Augustine

If you are wondering what else to do during your stay in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra Beach, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, and Amelia Island, are all within 25-70 miles from St. Augustine.

Another popular option is to drive from St. Augustine to Savannah, Georgia. The drive is 176 miles (283 km) and it takes 3 hours with normal driving conditions. Savannah is a charming Southern city with horse-drawn carriages, antebellum architecture, and a historic district filled with cobblestoned squares.

If you are okay with driving a little further, I suggest driving from St. Augustine to Charleston, one of my favorite cities in South Carolina. The drive is 276 miles (445 km), and it takes around 4 hours. See my article with a list of things to do in 1 Day in Charleston here!

A final note!

In February of last year, we made a similar stop while making our way from Miami to New York. That time we stayed one week in Atlantic Beach, a city with laid-back beaches located 15 miles from downtown Jacksonville. To read about our stay at a resort located on the prettiest beach in Jacksonville click here. Staying in Jacksonville or Atlantic Beach, and making a day trip to St. Augustine, is another option for making the most of your visit to northeast Florida.

If I didn’t answer your question about St. Augustine, message me and I’ll get back to you!

What will you do with your days in St. Augustine?!

SHOP FOR ST AUGUSTINE:

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DESTINATIONS, SOUTH CAROLINA, Travel, UNITED STATES · February 27, 2021

1 Day in Charleston: Perfect Itinerary & What To See

1 Day in Charleston SC | What to See in 24 Hours

If you like charming cities as much as I do, then you will love Charleston. My first visit to Charleston was in 2018, but one visit isn’t enough when there is so much to see, do, and eat! As we made our way north, from Miami to New York, we decided to spend a week in South Carolina.

Charleston was founded in 1670 and is defined by pastel antebellum houses, cobblestone streets, historic sites, horse-drawn carriages, and its beautiful harbor. This port city is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in the United States with beautiful Colonial architecture.

Here is a list of my Top Things to See in Charleston, and a complete One Day in Charleston Itinerary (in case you are wondering what to do with your first 24 hours in the city!). In today’s post, I am also sharing the photos I took during my latest visit to the city!

Top Things to See in Charleston

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is an eight-acre park overlooking Charleston Harbour and the Cooper River.

Be sure to stop at the enchanting Pineapple Fountain, not only is it the iconic focal point of the park, it is also one of Charleston’s most Instagrammable landmarks!

Did you know that pineapple motifs represent hospitality?

charleston waterfront park best places to see — *Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park*

AnaForentina in Charleston South Carolina

Charleston Waterfront Park best places to see in

Rainbow Row

You can’t leave Charleston without checking out Rainbow Row!

Rainbow Row refers to the captivating row of thirteen pastel-colored homes located on East Bay Street, just along the waterfront. These historic homes were first constructed around 1740 and were used by merchants who run their businesses on the ground floor and lived on the top floor.

After the Civil War, Dorothy Porcher Legge and her husband purchased a section of the houses and started the process of renovating them. These homes will brighten your day!

The Battery

After checking out the homes on Rainbow Row, make your way to The Battery, a fortified seawall at the southernmost tip of the Charleston peninsula. We enjoyed this beautiful promenade that is well-known for its antebellum homes!

Charleston City Market

Spend a couple of hours exploring the Charleston City Market, pick up a regional souvenir, and soak up the local culture. Spanning four blocks, the historic market was established in the 1790s and is one of the oldest public markets in the country. The most popular arts and crafts available at this market include sweetgrass baskets, a true Charleston treasure.

An interactive map of how to spend one day in Charleston SC

the mills house hotel charleston best places to stay — *Charleston, South Carolina*

Carmellas Cafe Charleston — *Carmella’s Cafe*

Charleston – Where to Eat

Poogan’s Porch

If you would like to try traditional Southern cuisine, then you will enjoy this restaurant located inside a beautiful Victorian townhouse tucked away on charming Queen Street. When visiting Charleston, biscuits are a must! Their homemade biscuits are fantastic, and one early morning I walked over to pick up half a dozen for my husband and me!

Address: 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401

The Watch Rooftop

The Restoration’s The Watch Rooftop is a farm-to-table restaurant that is totally worth checking out! One of my husband’s college roommates recently moved to Charleston, and brought us here for cocktails on the rooftop and a panoramic view of Charleston from above!

Address: 75 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401

Indaco Italian Restaurant

Wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pasta, and great wine – need I say more?! My husband’s cousin has been living in Charleston for many years, so we met up with her and her boyfriend here for dinner. Delicious food & fun times!

Address: 526 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Carmella’s Cafe & Dessert Bar

We stopped at this lovely eatery on the way to the Pineapple Fountain! This popular cafe has smoothies, sandwiches, and desserts, and it is located just three minutes away from the Waterfront Park area.

Address: 198 E Bay St #100, Charleston, SC 29401

Charleston – Where to Stay

Indigo Inn

We enjoyed our stay at the Indigo Inn because of its excellent location, it is pet-friendly, it has a parking lot on site, and they offer wine & cheese daily at 5 PM. We were traveling with our two dogs, so staying at a hotel that welcomed them was a requirement for us. I feel that we got lucky with this one – we booked it one hour before we arrived in the city!

To see the rooms at Indigo Inn, click here.

UPDATE: As of September 2022, the Indigo Inn no longer accepts pets. See more options in this article.

Address: 1 Maiden Lane, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29401

Francis Marion Hotel

This historic hotel is also located in the heart of Charleston! Live jazz music along with cocktails is available at the hotel’s Swamp Fox Bar. A full-service spa and Starbucks Coffee shop are on site as well. We could not stay here because the hotel only allows one dog per room, and small breeds only. I think this hotel would be perfect for a romantic getaway!

To see the rooms at the Francis Marion Hotel, click here.

Address: 387 King Street, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29403

The Loutrel

This top-notch hotel offers a relaxing and cozy environment in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. If you are looking for refined elegance during your visit to the city, this luxury boutique hotel is a must! The hotel offers complimentary cruising bikes, and a Tesla car charging station. Be sure to check out the rooftop!

To see the rooms at The Loutrel, click here.

Address: 61 State Street, Charleston, SC 29401

The Charleston Place

We didn’t learn about this hotel until after we left, but I’d love to stay here in the future! This 5-star hotel features a gorgeous lobby, indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace! The hotel welcomes two pets of any size, for an additional fee.

To see the rooms at The Charleston Place, click here.

Address: 205 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC, 29401

See all Charleston area hotels and reviews here.

Best time to visit Charleston

The best time to visit Charleston, South Carolina is during spring (mid-March through May) or fall (September – November) when the temperatures are lovely.

Keep in mind that September is hurricane season, so be sure to check the weather reports.

Is 1 day in Charleston enough?

Although one day is not enough, it is definitely a good start! Charleston offers history, charm, architecture, great food, and scenic views, so you will want to visit again for sure! Take a look at the 1 day Charleston itinerary below, and enjoy your time!

How far is Charleston?

If you are visiting Charleston from Florida, the trip from Miami to Charleston is 590 miles (950 km) via Florida’s Turnpike and I-95. The drive usually takes 8.5 hours with normal driving conditions.

Can you do a day trip from Charleston to Savannah?

Yes! The trip from Savannah to Charleston is a little over 100 miles (160 km) via I-95. These two cities are often visited together because Savannah’s proximity to Charleston makes it the perfect day trip destination while staying in one or the other.

Which airport is best for Charleston?

Charleston International Airport (CHS) is 13 miles (20 km) from Charleston.

Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is 302 miles (486 km) from Charleston, a 5 hour drive.

Charleston 1 day itinerary and map!

MAP OF CHARLESTON SC FOR YOUR VISIT

Start your day with an early breakfast at Poogan’s Porch
Explore the Historic Charleston City Market
Take a coffee break at Carmella’s Cafe
Walk to the Pineapple Fountain & enjoy a walk along the river
Make your way to the colorful homes on Rainbow Row
Continue to The Battery & stroll by the water
Watch the sunset at The Watch Rooftop while enjoying a cocktail
Finish your day with dinner at Indaco on King Street

A final note!

If you are staying in Charleston for longer than two days, you can do a day trip from Charleston to Fort Sumter National Monument, an island fortress in the middle of Charleston Harbor that is famous for being the location of the first battle of the American Civil War. Less than two miles from the fortress you will find several dining options like NICO Oysters & Seafood, Page’s Okra Grill, and Water’s Edge, a restaurant on historic Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. We had lunch at Water’s Edge with friends of my husband, and I enjoyed the views and the linguini, but check all the restaurant options to see which you’d like best!

What are you looking forward to seeing in Charleston? I hope that this list of things to see, and my 1 day Charleston itinerary is helpful in planning your next trip to the Holy City.

Thank you for reading!

Lots of love, Xx

Shop for your Charleston trip 🙂

Looking for pet-friendly hotels in Charleston?

I wrote an article on the best pet-friendly hotels we have stayed at, and I included pet-friendly hotels in Charleston and other cities along the east coast of the US.

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FLORIDA, Travel, UNITED STATES · February 21, 2021

Jacksonville & Where To Stay in Atlantic Beach Florida

Jacksonville Travel Guide

The city of Jacksonville had always been at the top of my list of cities to visit in Florida! Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches, beautiful historic neighborhoods, parks, museums, outstanding golf courses and fantastic local restaurants.

We drove down to Miami to visit my family during the holidays, and on our way back to New York we enjoyed an amazing week in the city of Jacksonville!

I was invited by Jacksonville Florida Tourism to explore the city and share my favorite activities. We visited during the third week of January, and the weather was great. It was breeze at night, and we had plenty of sunshine during the day.

Keep reading to find out where we stayed, where we ate and what we enjoyed the most!

Where To Stay in Atlantic Beach FL

There are so many different experiences to have in Jacksonville. This time around we were looking to explore the fun things to do in town, relax by the ocean, and enjoy long walks on the beach. One Ocean Resort & Spa in Atlantic Beach was perfect for doing all of that.

Located about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line and 350 miles north of Miami, Jacksonville was the first stop we made after leaving Miami. We were escaping the snow, so spending a few more days by the beach was exactly what we were looking for.

One Ocean Resort & Spa is a luxury resort that features guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic Ocean. We stayed in one of their Deluxe King Rooms, which offered a breathtaking view of the ocean. Upon arriving, we opened the windows, and my husband noticed that we could hear the waves crashing from inside the room, he was so impressed! The guest rooms feature deluxe beds custom-designed for the hotel, and our bed was one of the most comfortable beds we’ve ever slept on. The hotel’s oceanic-inspired décor, combined with ocean views create an incredibly soothing experience for its guests.

See One Ocean Resort’s rooms and reviews here.

What To Do in Jacksonville

In Jax, as the locals call it, you will discover that this perfectly positioned city along the Atlantic Ocean in northeast Florida, has something for everyone! If you are looking to explore the coast, Atlantic Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach and Amelia Island are all within an hour’s drive from downtown Jacksonville. If you enjoy staying active or spending time outdoors, Jacksonville offers hiking and biking trails that will definitely get your adrenaline going.

Art lovers can enjoy an afternoon at the Cummer Museum & Gardens (my favorite place!), or at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Finally, did you know that Jacksonville is home to the World Golf Hall of Fame, The Players Championship, PGA Tour and Champions Tour, as well as home to world-class golf courses?!

cummer-museum-jacksonville-florida — *Cummer Museum & Gardens*

SHOP: Cozy Long Cardigan

Where To Eat in Jacksonville

Southern Grounds & Co. – Quickly became one of our favorite breakfast spots in Jacksonville! Their gluten-free blueberry muffins are so delicious! I loved their cute indoor area, if you are ever in town, check it out!

Address: 1671 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Whit’s Frozen Custard – This is one of the most delicious cold desserts! Whit’s Frozen Custard is located across the street from The One Ocean Resort so it was easy for us to grab a frozen custard every single day! The flavors that I ordered the most were: mint, banana & raspberry, and the last one was my favorite.

Address: 38 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

The Local on Neptune Beach – The Local is a fun place with a cool atmosphere and live music every night! We grabbed dinner here one day and had such a great time. Their fresh lemonade is one of the best I’ve ever had.

Address: 301 Atlantic Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar – Tacos & margaritas? Yes, please! This restaurant has an entire menu that is gluten free, how amazing is that?! My husband and I both love Mexican food so we had to try it out!

Address: 207 Atlantic Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

Azurea at the One Ocean Resort – We enjoyed one of the best fine dining experiences here! Azurea is a beautiful restaurant located inside the One Ocean Resort that offers a seafood-centric American menu. We loved the mussels as the appetizer, the seabass as the main course, and the brownie for dessert! The seabass for dinner is a must-have! It was probably the best fish I have ever eaten.

Address: 1 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

JACKSONVILLE AND ATLANTIC BEACH FLORIDA MAP

How is the weather in Jacksonville, Florida?

The average annual temperature of Jacksonivlle is 70 degrees, with an average high of 78 and an average low of 62. You can expect year-round sunshine, chilly nights during the winter months, and temperature in the 80s during the summer months. Jacksonville’s coldest month is January!

Where is Jacksonville located?

The city of Jacksonville is situated in the northeastern corner of Florida, 350 miles from Atlanta, Georgia, and 350 miles from Miami.

Save this post, and plan a quick getaway to Atlantic Beach soon!

And be sure to check out Visit Jacksonville to see why Jax is the perfect destination year round.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA TRIP

Have you visited Jacksonville? What was your favorite spot?

MORE PLACES TO STAY

See all Jacksonville area hotels and reviews here.

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COLORADO, Travel, UNITED STATES, WYOMING · June 10, 2019

Wyoming & Where to Stay in Denver Colorado

Centennial, Wyoming

I received so many messages and emails with questions regarding my recent road trip to Colorado and Wyoming. In today’s post, I will share recommendations based on what we did & what we loved! While growing up I had gone on several family ski trips to Vail, Colorado, on this 10 day trip I got to visit a lot more of this beautiful state. Such a fun time!!

My trip started on Friday, May 24th, when I landed in Denver, Colorado. We stayed in Denver for four days. On Tuesday we drove down to Colorado Springs, and on Wednesday we continued west to Centennial, Wyoming where we stayed two nights in a beautiful ranch. We spent the last three days in Boulder, Colorado to attend a wedding. Here is a list of what we did in case you ever find yourself in Colorado or Wyoming!

What to See / Do in Wyoming:

Centennial: This tiny city has a population of 270! We drove 130 miles from Boulder, Colorado to Centennial, Wyoming where we stayed two nights in a charming and rustic-style ranch surrounded by horses, cows, elk & moose! The ranch was located 3-4 miles from Centennial. The elevation of Centennial is 8076 feet!

Laramie: This city is located at the junction of Interstate 80 and Route 287, west of Cheyenne. It is just 30 miles from Centennial, we drove by it on the way to the ranch and noticed several restaurants. We considered driving back there for dinner but instead opted to stay the whole time at the ranch near Centennial and to have dinner at the restaurants that I mention below… This city offers tons of outdoor activities as well.

Snowy Range Scenic Byway: 29 miles of beauty! One night while we were on our way to dinner in Centennial, we took a lovely detour and decided to drive up the mountain. We made it to the top (11,000+ feet high), where everything was covered in snow! Truly spectacular views!

Fly fishing: The ranch that we stayed at was on the river, and because the owner of the ranch is an avid fly fisher, we decided to fly fish! They lent us all the needed gear, and we spent 2+ hours in the water – so much fun!

Where to Eat in Centennial WY:

Beartree Tavern & Cafe: we loved that it serves home-style meals!

Old Corral Hotel & Steakhouse: loved the old West-style vibes of this restaurant! Although we did not stay at their hotel, I saw that they have 35 rustic & modern hotel rooms – for those that need a place to stay while visiting Southeast Wyoming!

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Garden of The Gods

This park has 1,300 acres of sandstone formations and it is beautiful for those that enjoy hiking trails! It was so rainy that day, except when I took these photos! The dramatic views and the rock formations against a backdrop of a snow-capped Pikes Peak were delightful. It will take you less than 30 minutes to drive from the entrance to the exit. Worth visiting!

The Broadmoor Hotel

The Broadmoor is a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond, world-class resort in the Old Broadmoor neighborhood of Colorado Springs. The picturesque mountain views that surround it are stunning!

See The Broadmoor Hotel’s reviews and rooms here.

Denver, Colorado

Where to Stay in Denver:

The Oxford Hotel: Located in Downtown Denver, next door to Union Station! Three words to describe this hotel: historic, charming, and contemporary – I absolutely loved our stay there! The halls of this hotel are covered with breathtaking art collections. The hotel has an adjacent Spa where we enjoyed relaxing massages on Sunday. Every day from 5 – 7 pm there is a Bourbon Tasting in the hotel’s main lobby area. The Oxford Hotel has partnered with the Urban Farmer next door, to offer breakfast for its guests. PS: this hotel is pet friendly!

Where to Eat in Denver:

Osteria Marco: This amazing Italian restaurant was recommended to us, so one night we went there for dinner & to walk around Larimer Street… The pizzas we ordered were absolutely delicious. We sat on the tables outside, and we both loved the vibe and the string lights that illuminate the street! Check out Larimer Square, Denver’s most historic block with elegant Victorian buildings.

Union Station: Inside this beaux arts-style transport hub you will find an array of Denver’s coolest bars & restaurants. The place is very cute & has a great ambiance!! We met up with friends one afternoon at Pigtrain Coffee.

Root Down: This is a Denver staple full of “farm-fresh” plates at great prices, inside a converted filling station. We were a huge group & we went there to celebrate someone’s graduation. I was told this is Denver’s best place for vegetarians as well as one of Denver’s 10 best brunch spots! I loved it.

Urban Farmer: Next door to The Oxford Hotel. The food was the best, they have a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar inside, and I loved the “rural chic” interior! My favorite brunch items: coconut & chia seed panna cotta, and the french toast waffle.

coors-field-basebal-game — Attended the Arizona Diamondbacks vs Colorado Rockies game, at Coors Field in Denver!

OUTFIT DETAILS: Sunflower Maxi Skirt | Bowknot Crop Top

Boulder, Colorado

The entire trip was organized around a wedding we were attending in Boulder, so we were busy with wedding-related events the second weekend of the trip. The welcome dinner was held at the Chautauqua Dining Hall in Boulder, the wedding took place at The Kelly Urban Farm, and the brunch the day after the wedding was at a beautiful home in Boulder. We stayed at an Airbnb just one mile away from Pearl Street! I wore the outfit above to the brunch!

Where to Eat in Boulder:

SALT: The best farm-to-table dishes! This place was recommended to us so we went there for dinner. Their menu changes with the season, and they serve locally sourced ingredients, mostly organic. I want to return already! This restaurant is located on Pearl Street.

The Kitchen’s Next Door: Also located on Pearl Street, six of us went there for brunch, for a belated celebration of my birthday! They offer a fantastic selection of tapas-style plates to share as appetizers (delicious!). This restaurant is adjacent to The Kitchen, from the same owner.

Lucile’s: A cozy little breakfast place that has been around for 30+ years! The restaurant is inside a small Victorian house… Order the biscuits! Next time I will try the beignets! Lucile’s is located half a block from Pearl Street.

What to See in Boulder:

Pearl Street: located in Boulder’s historic downtown, Pearl Street is a pedestrian walkway lined with restaurants & shops! Very pretty!

If you happen to drive by Boulder, Colorado, and do not have a lot of free time, you can make your way to Pearl Street, grab a bite to eat, and continue on!

If you have any questions, message me! 🙂

BEST HOTELS TO STAY IN DENVER

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EUROPE, FRANCE, STYLE, Travel · October 12, 2017

FRANCE | Top Things To Do & See in Paris

10 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS

My days in Paris were short and sweet, and I am already missing the delicious food, the strolls, the views and the Parisian vibes. The City of Light has always been one of my fave cities in the world, not only because I lived there during my early 20s, but because my experiences have always been lovely. So I was incredibly happy when my sister announced that she would be getting married in France… that meant that I would return to Paris! The day finally arrived and a few weeks ago we took a flight from Miami to Paris, spent the weekend, and then drove on Monday to Dordogne, the southwestern region of France. We returned to Paris the following Friday and stayed six more days. Today I’d love to share with you my 10 things to do in Paris! … and a few photos I took on this trip. 😉

saint germain des pres — [Outfit details at the bottom of this post]

SAINT GERMAIN DES PRÉS

This quarter of the 6th arrondissement of Paris is one of the swankier neighborhoods in Paris’ rive gauch (left bank), filled with brasseries, upscale boutiques, yet not overcrowded with tourists.

Two cafés that I recommend to try are Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, I used to go to the first one with friends for l’aperitif (love this French habit!). The aperitif is a friendly ritual that Parisians do before a meal, they share a drink (nothing too high in alcohol) and something salty like chips. They also do it on regular week nights!

Sit outside, order the croque-monsieur and a Monaco bière with grenadine (my fave!). While the timing of the aperifit may remind you of the American Happy Hour, it is not the same concept. Happy hours celebrate the end of the ‘work-day’ but the aperitif is something else, it is not the end, it is the ‘beginning of the night,’ so the mind set is very different. And while in Paris I used to do the aperitif almost every night, here in Miami, I rarely make my way to any happy hours!

MUSÉE D’ORSAY

Skip the lines at the Louvre and visit this beautiful museum instead! Musée d’Orsay houses the largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces of the world. Inside are the works of a few of my favorite artists: Pierre Auguste Renoir, Édouard Manet, and Claude Monet. This museum is housed inside the former Gare d’Orsay, a railway station constructed for the 1900 World Fair. The view from the top level is amazing!!

I have a big admiration for painters and their art, that is one of the reasons why I initially moved to Paris – to focus my studies on Art History. If you are in Paris for a few days, and not sure whether to visit this museum or the Louvre, consider the following: the Louvre exhibits over 35,000 works of art (that’s a lot!), Musée d’Orsay contains 2,000 paintings and 600 sculptures. Back in the day, I visited the Louvre over a dozen times (3-4 hours inside each time), and I still have tons to see! … plus it is overwhelming due to the size of it.

CAFÉ DE L’ESPLANADE

This café (pictured above) is my absolute favorite café in Paris, and it has a spectacular view of Les Invalides! I love how cozy the outdoor seating is, the trendy inside decor, their menu, and that it sits in all of its Parisian splendor. Overall, it is a discreet, quiet, and elegant café in the exclusive 7th arrondissement.

I found this café because it was less than half-a-block away from the apartment where I used to live. [Side note: if you walk 50 meters up the street shown on the left side of the photo above, my apartment was there]. I loved going there with a friend who lived nearby, to study for exams while enjoying the peaceful view.

If you are going to splurge and treat yourself, this place can be a nice option, but I suggest that if you go for dinner – make the reservation the day before. Also, the gorgeous Musée Rodin is around the corner, it is dedicated to the works of my favorite French sculptor, Auguste Rodin – go check it out!

PALAIS DE TOKYO

If you want a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower, make your way to Palais de Tokyo located near Trocadero in the 16th arrondissement!

Afterwards you can also enjoy lunch or dinner at two trendy restaurants that I highly recommend:

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10 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS

SAINT GERMAIN DES PRÉS

MUSÉE D’ORSAY

CAFÉ DE L’ESPLANADE

PALAIS DE TOKYO

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