Since we can’t get to Santa’s North Pole workshop, North Carolina is the next best place for holiday magic. Asheville and its mountain neighbors go all out for Christmas, with twinkling lights, holiday parades and a Polar Express train ride. After an incredible recovery from Hurricane Helene, the region’s spirit shines brighter than ever with the return of traditions like Santa on Chimney Rock and the National Gingerbread House Competition. We’re spotlighting North Carolina’s most Christmassy towns including Forest City’s dazzling lights, McAdenville’s storybook streets and Asheville’s iconic Biltmore celebration. Get ready to out-Christmas Clark Griswold with our guide to the top holiday events, festive eats and cozy stays for a sleigh-worthy road trip through Western North Carolina.

1. Have a Hallmark Moment at Biltmore

The 8,000-acre Biltmore estate located minutes from downtown Asheville has the feel of a grand European aristocratic manor with a stunning, 250-room French Renaissance chateau at its center. When my family toured it back in 2006, we gasped and gawked like country bumpkins who’d never seen indoor plumbing. The kids particularly loved the basement bowling alley and swimming pool.

Bedazzled for the holidays with thousands of ornaments, twinkle lights and lush wreaths, Biltmore is breathtaking. Daytime tours begin at 9:30 am, continuing until the Candlelight Christmas Evenings begin at 5:30 pm. The 1.5-hour audio guide tour winds through the home and provides rich details about the Vanderbilt family, architect Richard Morris Hunt and unique features of the home.

I wandered around, imagining what my life would be like after winning Powerball, as a talented high school choir performed in the Winter Garden, filling the house with music.

Starring Role

Although many productions have been filmed at Biltmore, it wasn’t until 2023 that the estate got its chance for top billing. The Hallmark Channel, with the encouragement and cooperation of the fourth and fifth generations currently running the estate, released A Biltmore Christmas. 

The usual rom-com plot (girl meets boy, girl loses boy and – spoiler alert – girl and boy live happily ever after) is elevated in this film thanks to a magic hourglass, gorgeous ’40s costumes, sassy banter and lush sets. Fun fact: the film’s star, Bethany Joy Lenz, starred in One Tree Hill, a classic high school CW series set and filmed in the Tar Heel State that recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

Also on the estate property is Antler Hill Village, a retail/entertainment complex with a winery, shops, dining and an Outdoor Adventure Center. Biltmore tour tickets include admission to Antler Hill. Tickets also include FREE next-day grounds access to the Estate.

Christmas at Biltmore
Asheville, NC
2025 Dates: November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
The final Candlelight Christmas Evening is January 3, 2026

2. Check Out the Entries in the National Gingerbread House Competition

My greatest gingerbread house-building success was the year I glued together sheets of graham crackers with tubed frosting. Basically a “2” on a scale of 1-10. The entries I swooned over at the annual competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn inspired me to make a better effort next year.

Two hundred bakers entered this year’s event, competing in four age categories: adult, teen, youth and child. The displays must be at least 75 percent gingerbread and 100 percent edible. If the judges get suspicious, they sample the goods so cheaters need not apply. There is no fee charged and every entry is displayed and judged. It’s also free to view the displays.

If you’re really eager to hone your skills, a two-hour gingerbread house workshop will be held on December 12 at Montgomery Sky Farm in Leicester, NC, about 20 minutes from Asheville.

National Gingerbread House Competition
Omni Grove Park Inn
290 Macon Avenue
Asheville, NC
2025 Dates: December 1 – December 12, 2025

3. It’s Time for a Toast at Grovewood Village

My friends are crafters. They knit, crochet and felt. And I’m totally jealous of my buddy who can Cricut. After visiting Grovewood Village, I’m all about planning a return girlfriend trip because this is way better than an outing at Michael’s.

This historic site was once home to the weaving and woodworking operations of Biltmore Industries. Operations ended in 1981 and the property was transformed into working artist studios in 1992. Visitors can learn about the rich history, tour an antique car museum and shop ’til you drop in the 9,000 square-foot retail space featuring the work of more than 350 artisans.

Vessels of Merriment is a special holiday event. Celebrating its 7th year in 2025, drinking vessels including goblets, flasks and tumblers are available for purchase from 15 potters just in time for a holiday toast.

Grovewood Village
Vessels of Merriment
2025 Dates: November 15 – December 31

4. Head to Forest City for Hometown Holidays

A million lights are bright in Forest City, RomanticAsheville.com‘s #1 Christmas town in the greater Asheville area. After a cozy dinner for two, snuggle up for a horse-drawn carriage ride, take a hand-in-hand twirl around the “ice” skating rink, then commemorate the moment with a photo in front of the largest lighted ornament in POP (Pavilion on Park Square).

Note: The carriage rides and skating are weather-dependent.

Forest City Christmas
2025 Dates: November 28 – January 1, 2026

5. Spend an Evening at the Holidays at the Garden Illumination

Want to wander through a garden full of lights? Head to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens for their annual illumination. A highlight of this year’s event is a 7-minute fable told through lights and sound, tracing a fawn’s journey through the four seasons.

Tiptoe through light tulips, skip along light discs and stop for photo ops in the glittering pavilion in the Children’s Garden.

Holidays at the Garden
2025 Dates: November 28 – December 27, 2025
The Garden is closed on Mondays

Want more glowing gardens? Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville is another popular event.

NC Arboretum Dates
2025 Dates: November 15-January 4

6. Shop by Candlelight in Dillsboro

Celebrating its 42nd year in 2025, the Lights & Luminaries festival is a sparkling two-week celebration in Dillsboro, about an hour’s drive from Asheville. I chatted with one patriarch herding his large and lively family into one of the shops who said he’s been coming for more than 30 years and wouldn’t miss it. More than 2500 luminaries are set out to light the way to the town’s shops and studios where the owners welcome guests with hot cider, hot chocolate and holiday treats.

I collect snowflake ornaments so I was tickled to score ones woven out of sweetgrass at Dogwood Crafters, a cooperative of 40 artisans that opened back in 1976. Another must-stop is Nancy Tut’s Christmas Shop. The 100-year-old home is full of ornaments, many of which can be personalized; follow the peppermint swirls on the floor to guide you from room to room.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are on hand to meet the kiddos. Romantic (and FREE) horse and buggy rides are a highlight.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Parking can be difficult. Be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance to secure a spot. A very kind gentleman walked us to an open space and helped us back in. Or head to Monteith Park to park and take the free shuttle downtown.

7. Attend the Sylva Tree Lighting

The tree lighting ceremony in Sylva is accompanied by live music and a brilliant fireworks display. The celebration takes place at the foot of the town’s historic courthouse. It’s dramatically perched 107 steps above Main Street and is billed as the “most photographed courthouse” in North Carolina. The building’s been repurposed as the county library and the view of the town from above is worth the climb.

After the lighting, explore Sylva’s Main Street, a major stop on the Jackson County Ale Trail, promoted as pouring 100 different drafts. Prefer mixed drinks? Check out the sassy sips at The Cut.

Sylva Tree Lighting and Fireworks
2025 Date: December 5

8. Catch a Christmas Parade

The last thing you want to do in New York in December is stand on the sidewalk to watch a parade. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is the city’s last seasonal hurrah. But southern small towns, with their above-freezing late fall temps, stage festive Christmas parades, often paired with Christmas tree lightings, to kick off the season. Most, including Rutherfordton’s and ones in Banner Elk and Tryon, occur annually on the first Saturday in December.

Our group was graciously hosted by Jim Masek and Russell Knight, innkeepers of Carrier Houses Bed and Breakfast in Rutherfordton for a parade viewing party. The 8-room guesthouse in the Blue Ridge foothills features period furnishings and a grand front porch providing the best parade view in town.

Rutherfordton Christmas Parade
2025 Date: December 6

9. Watch Santa Rappel in Chimney Rock State Park

If you’re looking for an unusual, only-in-NC holiday event, the Annual Santa on the Chimney features the man of the hour rappeling 314 feet down Chimney Rock, assisted by pros from Fox Mountain Guides. Take a 27-story elevator ride to join Santa Claus for a photo op. There’s a craft table and letter-writing station for the kids.

At the base, Chimney Rock Village is filled with kitschy souvenir shops and restaurants.

Chimney Rock State Park
Santa on the Chimney
2025 Dates: December 6

10. Stroll Christmas Town USA

The neighborhood with the over-the-top Christmas lights near my home in New York is Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. In North Carolina, the standout is McAdenville, a town of 650 that swells during the holiday season to accommodate more than a half-million visitors.

The FREE event is a perennial finalist in USA Today’s 10Best Public Holiday Lights Display, ranking alongside big-time and big-money shows like Austin’s Trail of Lights and Lights Under Louisville, the underground festival of lights in Mega Cavern.

Sip a beer in the River Room in the Dynamo 31 complex while you wait for the lights to go on at 5:30 pm. The taproom is a unique funding source for the Catawba Riverkeeper, a not-for-profit tasked with preserving the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. All beers served are produced within the basin.

Although you can drive through the lights, I suggest walking to appreciate them. You can park in the lot at Dynamo 31. Stroll along the pond with the floating trees and continue through the housing development which has an HOA requirement that homeowners participate in the light display. It’s a circular loop that winds back to the downtown area with shops and restaurants.

Christmas Town USA
McAdenville, NC
2025 Dates: December 1 – 26

11. Ride The Polar Express

One of the first things I did this year when my grandbaby was born was to book a Christmas trip on our local Polar Express. It’s a holiday tradition for many families throughout the US, and North Carolina has one of the best.

Beginning in early November, families don their Christmas pjs and climb aboard the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s Polar Express. There’s singing, dancing, cocoa and cookies on the ride to the North Pole to pick up you-know-who.

The Polar Express Train Ride
Bryson City, NC
2025 Dates: November 6 – December 31

Read More: 11 Fun Things to Do in Andrews NC, a Charming Spot Near Asheville

12. Drive-Through a Christmas Winter Wonderland

Tryon International is a renowned equestrian center near Rutherfordton and the site of Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Drive-Thru Light Show. In addition to the illumination, there are live music performances, ice skating and kids’ activities in the Winterfest Village.

Tryon International Winterfest
2025 Dates: November 14 – February 1

Where to Eat and Drink Near Asheville

EDISON, Craft Ales + Kitchen

The Omni Grove Park Inn has 10 dining options (some seasonal). The EDISON features a farm-to-table menu, gorgeous Blue Ridge mountain views and adult beverages including craft beers, small-batch bourbons and handcrafted cocktails.

On tap during the holiday season is a special local beer, Highland Brewing’s Gingerbread Ale. It was lighter than I expected with a pleasant spice cookie aroma and taste. It held up against the rich flavors of the bites I sampled, including a taste of the South appetizer that topped fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese, four-cheese grits, arugula, lemon vinaigrette and smoked tomato jam.

Try to save room for a souvenir mug of hot cocoa served from the full-size REAL gingerbread house in the lobby. Take your cocoa to one of the chairs in front of the 36-foot-wide fireplace and soak up the sound, sights and smells of the season.

Maples on Main

Discard your good intentions. “Dan’s Too Thick French Toast” is too good to pass up at this cozy eatery in Rutherfordton. But it’s only served on Sundays. The Lavazza coffee was the best I had on this trip.

Nellie’s Southern Kitchen

I’ve had great experiences at celebrity restaurants (sublime fish and chips at Gordon Ramsay’s in Atlantic City) and those that were meh (overpriced and underwhelming entrees at Richard Gere’s Bedford Post Inn). Nellie’s Southern Kitchen, owned and operated by Denise and Kevin Jonas, the parents of the singing Jonas Brothers, falls into the great category. The mission at this Belmont NC restaurant is to serve elevated Southern comfort food in an environment that evokes memories of meals enjoyed ’round a family table.

Nellie was Kevin’s grandmother, the family’s beloved matriarch who lived, worked, sang and cooked in Belmont NC. Her beaming portrait watches over guests in the dining room. She’s dressed in a gown of billowing cotton, a nod to her employment in the local cotton mill.

Our group dined with Denise and Kevin who graciously told us about the development of the restaurant as a way to honor Nellie and keep her recipes alive for future generations. Denise is a talented cook too. She’s modest about her abilities but her Sweet Potato Caroline casserole was a standout of the many bites we sampled. I also really enjoyed the shrimp and grits. The shrimp float on a fried raft of grits accented by a Cajun cream sauce.

Of course, Nellie’s is a destination restaurant for fans of the band. The rear hall is lined with notable awards marking milestones in the brothers’ careers. Kevin beamed like every proud papa, especially noting a photo of the family in the White House with President and Mrs. Obama and Sir Paul McCartney taken after the boys surprised the Obama daughters with a performance.

Chimney Rock Smokehouse

The weather outside was frightful but the mood inside the Chimney Rock Smokehouse was truly delightful. Nick Sottile and his crew transform their small BBQ joint into a pop-up Miracle bar for the holiday season. There are 200 of these application-only pop-ups in the US and Canada that feature Griswaldian decorations and a curated menu of holiday cocktails.

The “Die Hard”-inspired Yippie Ki Yah Mother F*****r! was a coco-rummy delight, served in Santa’s pants and decorated with a basil sprig “tree.” My pulled pork sammie was tender and flavorful and the baked potato salad had a fresh flavor thanks to a sour cream dressing.

North Carolina has several Miracle bar pop-ups lined up for 2025, including Asheville’s Golden Pineapple and the Backstage Lounge in Charlotte.

City Lights Cafe

When traveling, I’m always on the lookout for the local version of my hometown breakfast joint, Sparky’s Diner. I’m sure you have one – the place where regulars stow their mugs behind the counter, you bus your table and the owner knows your name, order and the date of your next dentist appointment. City’s Lights Cafe in Sylva gives off a Sparky’s vibe.

Adjacent to the City Lights bookstore, the cafe serves breakfast all day (the restaurant closes at 3 pm) and a variety of sweet goodies that are hard to resist.

ILDA

When a sommelier marries a Michelin-trained chef, good things happen in your mouth. That’s what I learned when dining at ILDA, the passion project of sommelier Crystal Pace and chef Santiago Guzzetti. The Sylva restaurant features a charmingly eclectic interior with an open kitchen and large bar where mixologist Antoine Hodge serves tasty cocktails and homemade numbered batches of limoncello infused with a rotating assortment of herbs. Batch #58, for example, featured a blend with echinacea, feverfew and lavender, an appropriate potion on a drizzly grey evening.

Consider sharing entrees with your dining partners so you can eat more of the light and lovely tiramisu at meal’s end.

Babbo Italian Kitchen

We like to call these places red sauce joints. Expect satisfying portions of traditional Italian-American favorites at Babbo in Forest City. We sampled several appetizers including tasty mushrooms stuffed with crabmeat, a caprese salad and one whopper of a meatball.

My entree, Pollo alla Babbo, featured chicken encased in a too-dense-for-my-taste breading. But the Alfredo cream sauce was delicious. Table entree favorites were the ravioli, plain and lobster.

Where to Stay

Inn on Biltmore Estate

1 Antler Hill Road
Asheville, NC  28803

It might be hard to go back home after a stay at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. A Forbes Four-Star property, the Inn pampers guests with Vanderbilt-level attention. The setting serves up million-dollar Blue Ridge views, the rooms are comfortably elegant and the services are those you’d expect at a high-end resort:

• Evening turndown with chocolates on the pillow
• Complimentary bottled water
• Spa reserved for Biltmore Estate Annual Pass Holders and guests of the Inn, Village Hotel or Cottages
• Complimentary guest shuttle service to the Estate, Antler Hill Village and Winery and Amherst at Deerpark

The Esquire Hotel

168 W. Main Street
Gastonia, NC 28052

A six-year renovation transformed a bank building that opened its doors in 1918 into a boutique luxury retreat, an Ascend Hotel Collection property. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Lawyers Building as it’s known locally, is an architectural delight. Barrister’s is the hotel restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Esquire is located on Gastonia’s Christmas parade route. Accessing the parking lot can be difficult during the festivities. Speak to the front desk staff about when the streets will be closed to traffic and for help with alternate routes.

Hampton Inn and Suites

227 Sparks Drive
Forest City, NC 28043

I was thrilled to discover this gem in Forest City. The bright, cheery lobby features a treat station to purchase bevvies and snacks. The lobby is a high-ceilinged great room with plenty of light and seating. And the complimentary breakfast area, featuring the chain’s legendary waffle station, is clean and well-stocked.

Rooms at the Hampton Inn are large with comfy bedding and seating areas, fridges, microwaves, desks and a very handy wall-mounted valet station for coats.

Best Western River Escape Inn & Suites

248 WBI Drive
Dillsboro, NC  28725

Don’t be put off when pulling up. The approach to the Best Western is through an industrial area over railroad tracks. Consider it a mullet. The front might be all business, but the party’s in the rear where this budget-friendly hotel fronts the Tuckasegee River. During my stay, the river was shrouded in an eerily beautiful fog, a view I enjoyed from my guestroom balcony.

Rooms are large with mini-fridges, microwaves, flat-screen RVs, a desk and a tub/shower combo. There’s a large indoor pool and hot tub with several chaise lounges. And the nightly rate includes a complimentary hot breakfast. The holiday events in Sylva and Dillsboro are less than 15  minutes away.

Can You Have Too Much Christmas?

I was afraid that the trip was going to be too much of a good thing. Just the opposite. I left western North Carolina super excited to savor the season. Bring it on, Santa!

It may seem crazy to travel during December but there are lots of reasons to pack up the sleigh and just do it.

As a young mom, the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas was a total blur. While the kids were at school, I’d hustle around like an overstressed elf, prepping for the holidays. On January 2nd, I’d let out a huge sigh and collapse. I would have loved a trip like this for a few days with my girlfriends to unwind, shop and get some holiday decorating inspo.

Now that the kids are grown, I appreciate the Christmas season more. Getting into the holiday spirit means cycling through Hallmark movies, stringing twinkling lights while sipping a seasonal cocktail and planning Christmas season grownup getaways. I saw so many adorable senior couples dressed in holiday sweaters and holding hands while wandering around Biltmore. It was the sweetest thing ever. Our wedding anniversary is in late November. I think I know what we’re doing next year and I can’t wait to suggest it to our friends.

Getting to Western North Carolina

Touring the western North Carolina holiday events is a wonderful seasonal road trip because you’ll travel through the scenic Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. Wish for a dusting of snow to turn the whole landscape into the stuff of snow globes.

If you’re flying into the area, you’re in luck. Airport options near the NC mountain towns are numerous. Check Charlotte Douglas International, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and Asheville Regional Airport for flight fares and car rental rates.

Read More:

• Hendersonville NC: This Mountain Town is Back and Bustling One Year After Hurricane Helene
• Things to Do in Wilmington North Carolina
• Coastal North Carolina: Kid-Friendly Onslow County Adventures
• Love and Pickleball in Charlotte North Carolina

The post 12 Places to Celebrate Christmas in Western North Carolina appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Ready for a road trip through Georgia filled with Southern hospitality, scenic highways and small-town charm? I’ve driven the route from Atlanta to Savannah through Macon and Georgia’s secret finds—places with town squares, historic homes and unforgettable eats.

As a seasoned travel writer and photographer with hundreds of published stories, I’ve mapped out the best stops, photo ops and local experiences. This Georgia road trip itinerary blends culture, history and beauty—ideal for weekend getaways, couples and slow travel adventures.

The writer was hosted.

Setting the Scene

The Route

My Georgia road trip started in Atlanta, where modern skyscrapers rise over historic districts and world-class attractions. After a few nights in Buckhead and Midtown, I steered south through small towns to Macon to uncover Civil War history, Native American culture and iconic rock-and-roll roots. From there, Savannah greeted me with cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks and timeless charm.

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Who Should Go

Perfect for couples, families or solo travelers, this Atlanta to Savannah road trip caters to those seeking cultural attractions, outdoor adventures and culinary delights. The route delivers a diverse range of experiences, from luxury hotels and trolley tours to historic estates and coastal getaways.

The Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for road tripping through Georgia. Dogwoods bloom across Atlanta in March and April, while Savannah’s gardens explode with color. My husband and I visited in late April and we couldn’t have asked for better weather.

Hurricane season runs from June to November. Fall months feature mild temperatures, fewer crowds and perfect conditions for strolling through historic districts and plantations.

Winter brings mild temperatures that seldom dip below freezing.

Atlanta

Best Things to Do

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir – A gleaming white marble Hindu temple that feels like a world away from the city hustle. Participate in the water ceremony to feel included in the purification of mind and body experience.
• Atlanta Trolley Tour – A narrated ride that weaves together downtown landmarks.
• Atlanta History Center – Immersive exhibits like the Cyclorama, the Swan House and gardens showcase Georgia’s complex history.
• Krog Street Market – A playground for foodies offering artisan bites, cocktails and market energy. I loved the energy—locals grabbing bites, friends meeting over craft beer and cocktails and food stalls dishing out global flavors.
• Center for Puppetry Arts – A whimsical museum featuring Jim Henson creations and global puppetry traditions. I loved learning about the man who brought us Miss Piggy, Kermit, Big Bird and so many other childhood favorites.

Where to Stay

Waldorf Astoria Buckhead – Refined luxury with a serene spa and Buckhead sophistication. Dexter, our bellman, made our visit memorable. Friendly and helpful, he escorted us to our room, demonstrated the luxury features and made sure we had bottled water on the morning of departure. The service and ambiance at the Waldorf Astoria feel genuinely exceptional—nothing else compares.

Wylie Hotel Atlanta, A Tapestry Collection by Hilton – A boutique retreat in Midtown with historic charm and a neighborhood vibe. Our guest room at the Wylie maximized space with efficiency. I liked that The Wylie Hotel sits conveniently close to Ponce City Market, Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park.

She Buys Travel Tip : Although the Wylie Hotel fronts the busy street, it blends in with the surrounding buildings, making it hard to notice. Trust your GPS on this one.

Where to Eat

BAPS Shayona Café–The all-vegetarian menu delivers authentic flavors of India, with fresh, hot meals served at the counter and tables by the windows, offering a casual spot to enjoy them. Shoppers find packaged snacks and sweets ready to take home for later.

They handed me a sample of a sweet treat to finish my meal and I savored every bite. Road-tripping kept me from snagging a whole box to bring home.

Brassica at Waldorf Astoria Buckhead–At Brassica, I tasted Atlanta’s roots layered with French technique and Southern hospitality. From fresh pastries in the morning to seasonal dishes and late-night cocktails, it works for any time of day.

Little Tart Bakeshop at Krog Street Market–Sarah O’Brien founded Little Tart Bakeshop in 2010, growing from farmers markets to three Atlanta locations while keeping close ties to the city’s food community. Little Tart Bakeshop works with local farmers and artisans who highlight fresh, quality ingredients.

Macon

Best Things to Do

• Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park – Ancient earthworks and walking trails tell the story of Indigenous peoples thousands of years ago. Standing at Ocmulgee Mounds, I felt the deep history beneath my feet.
• Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House – A pilgrimage site for Southern rock fans, showcasing memorabilia and stories. The Big House Museum pulsed with the energy of the Allman Brothers’ legacy.
• Tubman Museum – The Tubman Museum ranks among the Southeast’s largest African American art, history and culture museums. The Tubman Museum’s bold art installations left a lasting impression.

Where to Stay

Hilton Garden Inn Macon/Mercer University – Modern comfort with convenient access to downtown attractions.

Where to Eat

Bradley’s on the Square (In Jackson, Georgia) Dive into Southern classics, hearty bites and a full bar on the historic square. The friendly staff answered all our questions about the town, the square and the restaurant’s history. We enjoyed a local, icy-cold craft beer and delicious barbecued chicken wings.

After a filling lunch at Bradley’s in Jackson, we chose the Hilton Garden Inn’s Garden Grille & Bar (Macon, Georgia) for a light dinner. We appreciated the customizable meals and that the sophisticated bar served our favorite adult beverages, prepared to our liking.

Savannah

Best Things to Do

• Wormsloe Historic Site – Famous oak-lined avenue leading to the colonial estate ruins. Wormsloe’s avenue of live oaks dripping in Spanish moss felt “deep south”.
• Old Savannah Tours – A 75-minute, non-stop, narrated experience that delivers an enlightening introduction to Savannah. A terrific way to get the lay of the land.
• The Olde Pink House – A fine dining icon housed in an 18th-century mansion. Reserve far in advance because this popular destination offers limited open hours. Dining on artistically presented regional food at The Olde Pink House is worth planning in advance.

Where to Stay

We chose The Alida, Savannah, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, because the location in the historic Plant Riverside District is close to many sites we wanted to visit. Savannah, a walkable city with tree-lined streets, offers 22 historic squares and stunning architecture.

Where to Eat

We enjoyed small plates: Mushroom Tartine (mushrooms, focaccia, Parmesan, chives) and Fried Calamari. I tried She-Crab soup (blue crab, smoked roe, crostini)—a thick, delicate soup. Sides included honey-glazed Heirloom Carrots and a colorful salad.

The Olde Pink House delivers upscale Southern cuisine in a centuries-old setting filled with antiques and artwork. Its pink façade, haunted lore and reputation as a top wedding venue cement it as a local icon and Instagram favorite.

After a memorable lunch and the restaurant closed until dinner time, we explored the Planters Tavern “Wine Vault” that protected the wine collection. The scene felt spooky as the wait staff silently folded cloth napkins under the watchful eye of their manager.

Tips for an Atlanta to Savannah Road Trip

Mix City and Coast: Balance Atlanta’s big-city energy with Savannah’s walkable charm.

Time Your Departure: Leave Atlanta outside of rush hour if you can. Downtown traffic can easily add an extra hour.

Explore Small-Town Squares: Jackson, Forsyth and Monticello feature courthouse squares framed by independent shops, historic facades and classic diners.

Build in time to stroll, photograph the architecture and grab coffee or ice cream from local spots. These squares showcase pure Southern character.

If you like set-jetting, stop at the Monticello Courthouse, featured in the movie My Cousin Vinny and starring Joe Pesci.

Plan for History: Georgia bursts with historic sites. Be sure to set aside time to explore museums, take guided tours and find hidden gems.

Savor Local Foods: Atlanta offers Southern comfort and international cuisine. Macon is known for barbecue and soul food, while Savannah specializes in coastal seafood and Lowcountry dishes.

Stay Flexible: Allow extra time in Savannah; the city’s beauty and food scene will tempt you to linger.

Read More

• Gorgeous Georgia Waterfalls and Nature Hikes
• Exploring Buckhead, Atlanta’s High-End Neighborhood
• Where to Play, Stay and Eat in Savannah for the Perfect Girls Weekend
• 12 Best Things To Do in Macon GA With (or Without) Kids

The post The Perfect Itinerary for Your Atlanta to Savannah Road Trip appeared first on She Buys Travel.

The assembled tourists squealed and scrambled to the observation deck railing to capture two provincial icons – the Peggy’s Cove lighthouse and Bluenose II schooner – in the same photo. When I mentioned this unexpected delight to locals during my week-long Chowder Trail road trip, the response was always the same.

“It doesn’t get more Nova Scotia than that.”

To help you plan your Nova Scotia road trip, here’s my 7-day itinerary with must-see attractions, best bites and recommended rest stops.

Editor’s Note: The writer was hosted.

How to Explore Nova Scotia, One Bowl at a Time

To celebrate Nova Scotia’s local flavors, Taste of Nova Scotia created four delicious trails spotlighting authentic, Nova Scotian-owned establishments (Chowder, Lobster, Cheese, Good Cheer). The Chowder Trail provides a fun framework for planning your road trip. Each stop links Nova Scotia’s landscapes, coastal towns and culinary heritage one bowl at a time.

• Download the app: End the “Where should we eat?” debate once and for all. The Chowder Trail app helps you discover nearby trail stops serving up authentic local chowder.
• Eat local: Each participating restaurant features fresh, Nova Scotian ingredients and regional recipes.
• Earn rewards: Collect virtual passport stamps as you go to earn entries in prize drawings.

Visit at least 10 Chowder Trail locations and you’ll earn a free T-shirt (and bragging rights). Full contest details are available on the Taste of Nova Scotia website.

Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!

7-Day Nova Scotia Chowder Trail Road Trip Itinerary

Water was almost always in view during my 1200-kilometer loop drive. Although Nova Scotia is the second smallest province, Canada’s Ocean Playground boasts impressive water stats:

• Over 13,000 km of coastline
• 6,674 lakes
• 160-mile-long St. Mary’s River

Days 1 and 2: Discover Halifax

Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital city, is my recommended starting point. Plan to spend two days exploring the very walkable waterfront to learn about the history and cultural traditions of the province.

It can get busy when the motor coaches and cruise ships discharge tourists. Off the waterfront, Halifax has a college town vibe with over 35,000 students attending universities there.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Be prepared for a glute workout; the Halifax hills are steep.

Things to Do in Halifax

• Take a one-hour Harbour Hopper tour to orient yourself. The repurposed amphibious military vehicle drives up to Citadel Hill before dunking into the water for epic skyline views.
• Tour the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic for exhibits dedicated to the 1917 explosion that devastated Halifax and the 1912 Titanic sinking, with recovered artifacts.
• Lean against one of the “Drunken Lamposts,” an intentionally crooked art installation. Or time your waterfront stroll to coincide with high or low tide to experience the 12-minute light show at the Tidal Beacon.
• Visit Alexander Keith’s, the Nova Scotian equivalent of Budweiser. Tours, conducted by costumed guides, are offered daily in the 1820 brewery.
• Shop Spring Garden Road, then continue uphill to the ornate wrought-iron gated entrance to the Halifax Public Gardens. Established in 1867, the Victorian fountains, bridges and formal beds are a colorful urban oasis.
• Learn about beloved Nova Scotian folk artist Maud Lewis, who lived and worked in a hand-painted rustic cabin installed in the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.

Day 3: Peggy’s Cove and the Lighthouse Route

Get an early jump out of Halifax to avoid driving behind motor coaches along Route 333. Accessing the road to Peggy’s Cove, according to the hotel valet, can be a “bag of hammers” during the weekday morning rush. There was some traffic and plenty of students walking and biking to class, but it was relatively tame compared to driving in midtown Manhattan.

Leaving Peggy’s Cove, the Lighthouse Route continues along Route 3, tracing the craggy South Shore, to Lunenburg, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to See Along the Lighthouse Route

• Peggy’s Cove: If you haven’t photographed the 1915 lighthouse on Peggy’s Point, you haven’t been to Nova Scotia. Watch your footing on glacially deposited granite boulders for a close-up, or hang back on the newly constructed observation deck.
• Bluenose II: By now, you’ll have met Bluenose, but might not know it. The fishing and racing schooner appears on Nova Scotia license plates and the Canadian dime. Two-hour cruises are available from June to September at different coastal locations.
• Hooked Rug Museum of North America: A small museum staffed by talented (rug) hookers is worth a visit. The craft developed out of necessity. By weaving scrap fabric into old burlap, women created rugs to cover cold floors. Historic examples, tools and patterns are on display and there’s a large selection of handmade rugs, runners and mats for sale.
• Oak Island: Sadly, fans of the History Channel’s wildly popular series can’t help Marty and Rick Lagina dig for treasure on Oak Island. But weekend Money Pit Express tram tours are available. Boat tours led by one of the show’s divers are another option. Didn’t book a tour? Visitors are permitted to access the island and take a picture of the memorial to the six treasure hunters who’ve died. The official Treasure Shop is located on Route 3.
• Take a Lunenburg Walking Tour: Themed tours with a local guide are a great way to explore this historic fishing village. My food-focused adventure included tastes of chowder, lobster and a terrific chicken salad dotted with locally grown cranberries. I learned that Nova Scotian pickled herring is called Solomon Gundy, not to be confused with the nursery rhyme or the ’60s pop song by The Foundations.
• The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic: Learn about the first fishers, the indigenous Mi’kmaq, and the explosive commercial growth of the industry. Watch historic video footage of fishing dories in action in the Ice House theater. Be sure to ask one of the passionate young guides about the Bluenose. Built in Lunenburg, the fishing schooner’s four wins in international racing competitions during the ‘20s and ‘30s remain a source of provincial pride.
• SS Atlantic Heritage Interpretation Park: The worst shipwreck before the Titanic was the 1873 sinking of the SS Atlantic. Local fishing families rescued 400 passengers and crew from the frigid winter waters. A short trail leads downhill to the bayside monument and there’s a small, volunteer-staffed museum.

Day 4: Annapolis Valley

You can opt to take the long, scenic way to the farms, orchards and vineyards in the Annapolis Valley by traveling southwest from Lunenburg, through Yarmouth, before heading northeast. But you’ll need at least 5 hours of drive time, 6 if you travel scenic Routes 3 and 1. With only a week, I chose to bisect Nova Scotia’s narrow mid-section, traveling north on Highway 102 to reach Port Williams, one of the Valley’s oldest agricultural villages.

Things to See in the Annapolis Valley

• Wolfville Farmers’ Market: Park in the large Acadia University lot on Main Street and walk to the popular Saturday Farmers’ Market, open from 8:30 am to 1 pm year-round. In addition to some of the prettiest produce I’ve ever seen, you’ll find home-baked goods, local authors, artisan crafts and wine tastings.
• Winery Tours and Tastings: The Annapolis Valley is home to 12 wineries, producing extremely drinkable wines, including Tidal Bay, Nova Scotia’s first wine appellation. Unique wine experiences I’ll try when I return with a designated driver include:
  • Make a reservation to dine at acclaimed Chowder Trail stop, Le Caveau at Domaine de Grand Pré.
  • Take a wine tour aboard a British double-decker bus.
  • Phone anyone, anywhere from the British phone box in the middle of the Luckett vineyards.
• Grand-Pré National Historic Site: French Catholic Acadians established productive farms by creating intricate dyke systems that prevented Fundy saltwater from flooding the fields, and lived peacefully with the indigenous Mi’kmaq. Because the Acadians refused to swear allegiance to the British Crown, approximately 10,000-12,000 were forcibly expelled from 1755-1764. Louisiana’s Cajuns trace their ancestors to these refugees. Tour the museum, memorial church and gardens.

Bay of Fundy Detours

The Bay of Fundy is an Atlantic Ocean inlet between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia with the world’s highest tides. Twice a day, more water moves in and out of the Bay than flows through all of the world’s freshwater rivers.

Let that sink in for a second.

Bay of Fundy experiences range in duration, exertion and price, and can be accessed easily from the Annapolis Valley and Northumberland Shore.

I chose free options proximate to my road trip pit stops. While in the Annapolis Valley, I timed a visit to Hall’s Harbour at low tide to see beached boats and teeny tiny people walking along the water’s edge.

From the Northumberland Shore, I backtracked to the Bay of Fundy Discovery Site in Truro at high tide to watch the tidal bore roll in. This phenomenon can be dramatic. One resident told me she’d witnessed surfers ride the bore wave. On my visit, the bore was gentle but noisy, startling a flock of sea birds sunning on a sandbar as it rolled past the onlookers gathered on the bank of the Salmon River.

Additional Bay of Fundy Excursions

• Walk the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park
• Go Tidal Bore rafting
• Kayak the Bay of Fundy coastline

Day 5: Northumberland Shore

Dip into Windsor as you head to the Northumberland Shore, Nova Scotia’s warm-water vacation destination. Tour the museum celebrating the town as the birthplace of hockey and, if it’s fall, go to Dill’s Farm, home of Atlantic Giant, the world’s largest pumpkin variety. Then continue on to Tatamagouche – fun to say, fun to stay.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Summer’s the season for this region. During my late September visit, shops, restaurants and attractions were beginning to close up for the year.

Things to Do Along the Northumberland Shore

• Cycle or stroll a segment of the Trans Canada Trail, the world’s largest recreational trail network.
• Ride the Tatamagouche Road Train, a ½ hour guided tour around town.
• Sip a Sunrise Session Ale at the Tatamagouche Brewing Co., a Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail establishment.
• Go for a dip at one of the area beaches. Rushtons Beach is rumored to have the warmest water north of the Carolinas.

Day 6: Continue Along the Sunrise Trail

Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail is always included on the world’s most scenic drives. You need at least one day to travel the 185-mile loop, but it’s best savored over several. I’ll return with my son on another trip to hit the Cape Breton golf courses along the route.

Fortunately, there are other scenic waterfront driving routes in Nova Scotia. Traveling east from Tatamagouche, I followed signs for the Sunrise Trail to access charming coastal villages, like Pictou and New Glasgow.

Things to Do Along the Sunrise Trail

• Stop in Pictou to see a replica of the Ship Hector, the vessel that brought the first wave of Scottish immigrants to Nova Scotia in 1773.
• Visit Vendor Village, a collection of artisan shops, is located on the Hector Heritage Quay.
• Check the event calendar for the riverfront Glasgow Square Theatre. The venue hosts a year-round variety of music, comedy and dance performances.
• See the Museum of Industry in Stellarton. Explore the important and arduous work done by generations of residents. The entire 2nd floor is devoted to coal mining with memorials to the hundreds of Nova Scotians who perished in cave-ins and explosions, most recently in 1992.

Day 7: Marine Drive to Porters Lake

After spending the night in New Glasgow, I headed east to Antigonish, then followed Route 7 south along the shores of multiple long, narrow lakes glittering in the September sunshine. Following my final Chowder Trail stop at the Liscombe Lodge, I traced the ocean coastline on designated Marine Drive. Stands of pine trees anchor a series of coves, lined with moss-covered boulders. It’s one of the many Nova Scotia postcard moments I’ve committed to memory.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If your pants are snugger than they were at the beginning of the week, hike the Crowbar Lakes Trails before settling in for a hot tub soak at Nalu Retreat.

Best Bites Along the Nova Scotia Chowder Trail

Seaport Social: I paired a bowl of chowder with a ½ portion of the beetroot salad, offered as one of the Eat Well options at the Westin Nova Scotian’s on-property restaurant.

The Press Gang: Make a reservation to experience a chef-driven menu in a Halifax cellar that dates back to 1759. Don’t skip the local oysters; pair them with a flute of Nova Scotian bubbly brut.

Cable Wharf: Grilled sourdough with maple butter accompanies the seafood chowder at Cable Wharf, which also has a tasty lobster roll and scenic al fresco seating.

The Kiwi Cafe: Open daily from 8 am – 4 pm, this Chester gem has a yummy lobster and haddock chowder. I paired a small soup with a 1/2 portion of their Cobb salad, muscled my way through it all AND wedged in a homemade chocolate cheesecake brownie.

Old Fish Factory Restaurant & Ice House Bar: Located in the same building as the Lunenburg Fisheries Museum, the Old Fish Factory has wonderful waterfront views, a delicious lobster roll and homemade kettle chips.

Mateus Bistro: Friday grill specials and live music are seasonal highlights of this Mahone Bay restaurant. The weather was perfect for sipping a dark and stormy prepared with local Ironworks rum and Propeller Brewing Co. ginger beer.

Train Station Inn Railway Dining Car: The meal was my favorite of the trip, based on food quality and the pure fun of eating in a vintage dining car at this family-run restaurant.

Liscombe Lodge Resort and Conference Centre: Sit along the back window wall in the lodge restaurant for relaxing river views. My final chowder was deliciously dotted with farm-fresh carrots and served with a flaky chive biscuit. A menu highlight for carnivores is the cheddar bacon burger served with a garlic aioli.

Best Time to Visit Nova Scotia

Although Nova Scotia temperatures are moderate year-round, winter precipitation brings icy driving conditions. So the best time of year to travel the Chowder Trail is May to October. July and August are high season for tourists. For a more laid-back vibe, consider spring or fall shoulder season.

Where to Stay Along the Chowder Trail

Google map of Nova Scotia Chowder Trail road trip overnight rest stops.

Westin Nova Scotian, Halifax

Vibe: Waterfront sophistication in a prime location

• Luxury renovation of a historic grand railway hotel
• Marriott Bonvoy brand
• Seaport Social, an on-site Chowder Trail restaurant
• Indoor pool, fitness center

Black Forest Cabins, Mahone Bay

Vibe: Chic Scandinavian hideaway, camping for non-campers

• Cabins with modern exteriors, cozy interiors
• On-property sauna for guest use
• 15-minute walk to Mahone Bay shops and restaurants
• Sited along the 10 km Bay to Bay Trail connecting Mahone Bay and Lunenburg

The Stay at Planters Ridge, Port Williams

Vibe: Vineyard tranquility, leisurely countryside escape

• Three serene bedrooms in a renovated farmhouse
• Sip the vineyard’s sparkling Infatuation rosé in the deep soaking tub
• European-inspired breakfast included
• On-property winery

Train Station Inn, Tatamagouche

Vibe: Quirky nostalgia for playful adventurers

• Renovated vintage cabooses
• On-property fine dining, live music, bar and gift shop
• One of Condé Nast’s Most Unique Hotels in the World
• Easy access to the adjacent Trans Canada Trail

Riverside Inn, New Glasgow

Vibe: Elegant romantic retreat

• Hot tub, sauna and fire pit for guest use
• Continental breakfast included in room rate
• Pets allowed (additional fee)

Nalu Retreat & Nordic Spa, Porters Lake

Vibe: Futuristic nature-immersed serenity

• Dome glamping overlooking Porters Lake
• Private hot tub and outdoor shower for a personal hydrotherapy experience
• Fire pit outside; fireplace inside
• Coming soon: Nordic spa

Getting to Nova Scotia: Arrive by Air, Sea or Land

I landed in Halifax after a quick two-hour non-stop flight from LaGuardia airport. In addition to New York, non-stop service is available from:

• Boston
• Chicago
• Orlando
• Philadelphia
• Fort Lauderdale (seasonal)
• Orlando (seasonal)
• Tampa (seasonal)
• Washington DC

Rental car counters are in the parking garage across from the terminal at Halifax Stanfield International Airport.

If you’re bringing your own car from the US, you’ll drive from Maine through New Brunswick. A scenic option is the three and ½ hour CAT high-speed car ferry between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If you arrive in Nova Scotia before hotel check-in, visit the colorful souvenir shops in Fisherman’s Cove and have your first chowder at Evan’s in Dartmouth for skyline views of Halifax.

Additional Info

• As of the original publication date (October 2025), one US dollar is approximately $1.40 CAD.
• Electrical outlets are the same in the US and Canada. A power adapter is not required.
• Drive on the right side of the road in Nova Scotia. Speed limit signs are posted in kilometers, not miles per hour.
• My phone’s GPS worked well throughout the trip.

Read More:

• 14 Fun Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• Hopewell Rocks Park: Getting Down and Dirty in Canada’s Bay of Fundy
• The Muir Hotel Review: 5-Star Luxury in the Heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia
• Visiting Canada’s Bruce Peninsula

The post Savor the Flavors, See the Coast: 7 Days on Nova Scotia’s Chowder Trail appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Western North Carolina calls to road trippers with winding mountain roads, stunning vistas and small-town charm. I’ve explored this region on three unforgettable trips, from the Blue Ridge Parkway’s iconic overlooks to rare finds only locals know. Along the way, I’ve uncovered family-friendly stops, foodie hot spots and adventures for every traveler. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, planning a romantic escape, or seeking outdoor thrills, here are the places I think you’ll love the most.

Meadowbrook Inn and Historic Tapoco Lodge hosted me. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Skip the airport stress — Lyft’s On-Time Pickup Promise guarantees your scheduled ride shows up within 10 minutes of your pickup time. If it doesn’t? You’ll get Lyft Cash. You can schedule up to 90 days in advance and even lock in your rate. Use code SBT25 to save 25% off ONE scheduled ride to the airport.

Blue Ridge Parkway, AKA “America’s Favorite Drive”

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina, northeast through the Blue Ridge Mountains into Virginia, where it links with Shenandoah National Park and becomes Skyline Drive.

Are you ready to explore more destinations? Get inspired with our newsletter!

Highlights Along the Drive

• Asheville: The largest city in Western North Carolina; nestled between the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. The city boasts a lively arts scene, historic architecture, a bustling downtown, highly rated restaurants and local breweries, all set against mountain views and anchored by the Biltmore Estate.
• Hendersonville: A quaint mountain town just 15 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway, with historic streets and shopping, the Dupont State Forest, and views from Jump Off Rock!
• The North Carolina Arboretum: Spans 434 acres in the Southern Appalachian Mountains south of Asheville. Visitors find 65 acres of cultivated gardens, a Bonsai Exhibition Garden, miles of trails, rotating exhibits, a bistro and a gift shop, all surrounded by Pisgah National Forest.
• Grandfather Mountain: Delivers breathtaking views and rugged terrain for hikers and explorers. The famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge thrills visitors above a deep gorge, while rare wildlife and dramatic rock formations await on its trails.
• Blowing Rock: Offers sweeping Blue Ridge views and a lively local art scene. Galleries, shops and festivals line downtown, and the town’s namesake landmark juts dramatically from a cliff with legendary scenery.
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: Flat Top Manor, the 23-room estate built by Moses Cone in the early 1900s, crowns 3,500 acres along the Parkway. Carriage trails, lakes and landscaped grounds invite hiking, horseback riding and craft shopping at the Parkway Craft Center.
• Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM): Showcases the art, culture and history of the Southern Appalachians. Exhibits highlight local artists, traditional crafts and regional heritage through permanent collections and rotating shows.
  

Where to Stay: Meadowbrook Inn – Blowing Rock

A cozy boutique hotel in downtown Blowing Rock, Meadowbrook Inn treats guests with a regional breakfast menu in the morning and a duck pond with free food for the resident ducks. This mountain retreat, situated near shops, galleries and restaurants, serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Where to Eat

The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop – Blowing Rock

In the heart of downtown Blowing Rock, The Speckled Trout blends High Country cuisine with a cozy mountain setting. Carolina Mountain Trout anchors the menu, served six ways with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan sides—I chose the almond & cornmeal-crusted trout with Hoppin’ John and collard greens.

Six Pence Pub – Blowing Rock

Six Pence Pub brings a classic British pub experience to downtown Blowing Rock. With traditional fare like Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips and Pot Roast, it ties Old World flavors to North Carolina’s colonial heritage—I ordered the delicious Shepherd’s Pie.

Tail of the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway: Twists and Turns for Daring Drivers

These drives are beautiful but not for the feint of heart!

• Promoted since the 1990s as a motorcycle and driving destination, Tail of the Dragon twists through 318 curves in 11 miles and traces its roots to a trail once used by Cherokee Native Americans and buffalo herds.
• The Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway, connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina. It passes through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests and takes its name from the combination.

After my battle driving the Dragon, I connected to the Cherohala Skyway along the Tennessee border. Unfortunately, the rain and fog made it an arduous journey. Fog thickened so much in several places that I couldn’t see the pavement in front of me.

She Buys Travel Tip: While I took it easy on the winding curves of the Tail of the Dragon in the rain, the dense clouds on the Cherohala Skyway made it hard to see the road. Wait for a sunny day to see the stunning landscape.

Highlights Along the Drive

• Fontana Dam: The tallest dam in the eastern U.S., with impressive scale drawing history buffs and photographers.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park protects one of America’s richest natural habitats. Trails, waterfalls and wildlife encounters make it a must for outdoor lovers.
• Nantahala National Forest: This rugged landscape offers hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting adventures. Towering trees and mountain streams create an unforgettable backdrop.
• Cheoah Dam: The dam played a starring role in The Fugitive, when Harrison Ford’s character jumped from the structure. Cheoah Dam remains a dramatic stop along the route. Stay at the Tapoco Lodge to see the dam and it’s dramatic falls on Release Dates.

Where to Stay: Historic Tapoco Lodge – Robbinsville

The Historic Tapoco Lodge Resort, designated a National Historic site and a popular local destination built in the 1930s by ALCOA for dam workers, now blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Sitting on the Cheoah River in the Nantahala National Forest, this modern hotel, built with local materials like river rock, chestnut wood and handmade bricks, is a viewing site for Release date events (releasing the water from the dam).

Where to Eat

Tapoco Tavern – Robbinsville

Tapoco Tavern offers pub fare and craft beer in a casual, family-friendly setting at Historic Tapoco Lodge. My Campfire Carolina Mountain Trout arrived on caramelized onions, smoky bacon and glazed pecans, with indulgent sides of baked mac and cheese and super slaw.

Cheoah Dining Room – Robbinsville

The Cheoah Dining Room at Tapoco Lodge delivers a refined dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and wine pairings. Daily breakfast and evening meals showcase upscale Appalachian-inspired cuisine in a formal riverside setting.

Flying In

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), the largest commercial airport in North Carolina, serves as a central hub with 186 nonstop destinations. Its single-terminal layout makes it easy to navigate and ideal for both domestic and international flights.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Hampton Inn & Suites at Charlotte Airport offers comfortable accommodations that prioritize convenience, amenities and accessibility for both business and leisure travelers. With free breakfast, It’s the perfect hotel for your start and end of a Western North Carolina road trip. And bonus: you’re nearby the rental car centers where you can pick up and drop off your ride.

Read More

• Where to Stay in Asheville, North Carolina: 15 Top Choices
• Hendersonville NC: This Mountain Town is Back and Bustling One Year After Hurricane Helene
• Best North Carolina Family Resorts for Relaxation & Adventure
• Best Things to Do in Andrews, North Carolina
• 12 Places to Celebrate Christmas in Western North Carolina

The post My Two Favorite Drives in Western North Carolina for Mountain Vistas, Hidden Gems and Culinary Delights appeared first on She Buys Travel.

This road trip felt like a dream come true. My husband and I finally made the Aiken-to-Charleston run and checked it off our bucket list. I write and photograph road trips for a living, so I planned a simple route with low-stress stops, good food and great light. This recommended itinerary for a road trip from Aiken to Charleston offers guidance on when to travel and where to stop for history, relaxation and luxury. Follow along and turn your South Carolina drive into a relaxed, memory-rich experience.

Best Route for a Road Trip From Aiken to Charleston

The best route for a road trip from Aiken to Charleston, South Carolina, depends on what you look for in a road trip through the South. The most direct and scenic route from Aiken to Charleston is via US-78. That historic corridor runs into downtown Charleston.

The fastest route with the most freeway is Interstate 20 to Interstate 26, which runs around Columbia to Charleston. The drive takes about three hours from Aiken to Charleston, covering the 132 miles between cities.

However, a road trip allows you to travel at a slower pace, giving you time to see the sights and learn interesting things along the way. Since we visited a friend in Sumter, South Carolina, we drove through Columbia to get to Sumter, then on to Charleston.

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The Best Times Of Year To Take A Road Trip From Aiken To Charleston

Spring or late fall offer the best conditions for walking and outdoor activities in South Carolina. Summers bring heat and humidity, and hurricane season runs from June through November. We visited the South in early May, and the timing was perfect.

Must-See Attractions Along The Way From Aiken and Charleston

Aiken

One night in Aiken delivered a full itinerary. After touring the Historic Horse District and strolling under the canopy of live oak trees, I ducked into the Visitor Center and Train Museum for maps, stories and rail history.

Evening settled at The Willcox Hotel—cocktails, a gracious dining room and a plush night’s sleep. The following morning, dodging raindrops, we lingered a couple of hours inside the Aiken County Historical Museum, tracing Winter Colony legacies room by room.

Compact, walkable and rich with equestrian soul, Aiken rewards even a quick stay with character and charm.

Things to Know about Aiken

• Known as the “Horse Capital of the South”
• Equestrian history dates back to the mid-1800s–polo, steeplechasing, training, equine rescue and a museum.
• Legacy as a winter haven for Northern families seeking a warm escape from cold weather.
• Hosts many horse shows and events throughout the year.

Attractions in Aiken

• Aiken County Historical Museum – Named Banksia after the Banksia Roses gracing the brick wall near the entrance. Two homes joined together: the older home, dating back to 1840, and the brick portion built in 1931 as a Winter Colony home.
• Aiken Visitor Center and Train Museum – your source for everything to know about Aiken in a rebuilt railroad depot.

What I liked best

• Bruce’s Field (Aiken Horse Park) – watching the thoroughbreds prance around the fields.
• The unpaved clay roads, ideal for horseback riding, but messy when it rains.
• Imagining myself rubbing elbows with the horsey crowd during the off-season in the Winter Colony.

Columbia

We arrived in Columbia in time for dinner, stayed overnight, and briefly drove around the USC Campus on the day the students were moving out.

Things to know about Columbia

• Capital of South Carolina since 1786
• Second-largest city in the state
• It is an important cultural and economic hub

The top three attractions in Columbia

According to Experience Columbia SC, these are the three top attractions in Columbia.

• Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
• South Carolina State Museum
• Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

What I liked best

• Easy access to an excellent sushi restaurant

Charleston

Things to Know About Charleston

• Charleston, a walkable city on a peninsula, features uneven pavement and brick streets, so wear supportive shoes.
• Signature foods, including Lowcountry staples such as shrimp & grits and she-crab soup, headline many menus.
• Spoleto Festival USA (major annual performing arts festival) fills theaters and churches for 17 days each spring. Book early.
• With more than 20 museums in the city and metro area combined (art, history, house museums, forts, historic houses, parks etc.) Charleston delivers a more in-depth sense of the Lowcountry.

Things To Do in Charleston

With only two days in Charleston, we made the most of our time by staying close to the action in the Historic District.

Charleston Visitors Centers

375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-4444

The Charleston Visitors Centers provide extensive details on Charleston activities, including themed packages and other offerings.

Grayline Tours

375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-4444

Grayline Tours offers entertaining and informative minibus day-trip tours of Charleston’s historic district, partnering with numerous local attractions. All tours depart and end at the Charleston Visitor Center.

The Charleston Museum

360 Meeting Street Charleston, SC 29403

843.722.2996

Established in 1773, The Charleston Museum, America’s First Museum, discovers, preserves, interprets, celebrates and shares the rich history of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Its diverse collections, engaging exhibitions, educational programs and special events spark curiosity and encourage conversation about defining stories.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC, 29414

843-571-1266

Since the 1600s, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens belonged to the Drayton family. The wealth accumulated by the Draytons came from rice, not cotton, like we might think. Enslaved people tended the operation and ran the house. When the Romantic gardens were developed, enslaved people also tended to them. After the Civil War, when funds were needed, the gardens opened to the public and became one of Charleston’s first attractions. Former enslaved people conducted the tours.

The Magnolias’ gardens bloom every day now, and the plantation and gardens are open year-round. Visitors can explore six miles of walking and biking trails throughout the property.

What I liked best

• The combined men’s and women’s restroom at the Visitor Center. While it was initially shocking and uncomfortable, it made total sense after I used it a couple of times.
• The Charleston Museum, located near the Hampton Inn and Visitor Center, offers one of the best introductions to the region’s history and culture.
• The bicycle rickshaw ride. Seeing Charleston after dark, cocooned in silence, was a totally different experience from the noisy, vibrant daytime.
• The Nature Train tour at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, where we saw many alligators in the swamp.

Where To Stay

If you are looking for affordable accommodations on your road trip from Aiken to Charleston, count on Hilton to deliver safe, quality lodging along the way. Treat yourself to luxury when visiting Aiken.

The Willcox Hotel, Aiken

100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC, 29801

803-648-1898

Things to know about The Willcox Hotel

• Opened in the late 1890s to host the Winter Colony set (vacationers from northern climes)
• On the National Register of Historic Places
• Steeped in horse country and lifestyle
• Close to 2,100-acre Hichcock Woods, perfect for morning walks before polo, golf or garden visits
• Some historic rooms and suites feature fireplaces and deep soaking tubs
• On-site restaurant and bar, salon and spa and seasonal outdoor pool
• Ambiance is old-world, unhurried hospitality with a modern touch

What I liked best

• The Gilded Age charm with vintage style.
• The welcoming hospitality of all the staff and the owner.
• The vintage yet modern, elegant touches in the hotel room–lavender-scented spray for our pillows, turndown service with citrus-infused water, the old-fashioned room key and the desk drawer stocked with stationery supplies.
• The availability of on-site dining.

Hampton Inn – Columbia-Downtown Historic Dist, SC

822 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC, 29201

803-231-2000

Things to know about The Hampton Inn

• Conveniently located in the historic downtown area of Columbia
• 10-minute walk to the University of South Carolina and the Metropolitan Convention Center
• On the Gervais Street Corridor, with many popular local restaurants and bars
• Close to the EdVenture Children’s Museum, South Carolina State Museum and Riverbanks Zoo

What I liked best

• It’s a Hilton brand
• Walking distance to a popular sushi restaurant
• Easy to relax here

Hampton Inn, Charleston Historic District, Charleston

345 Meeting St., Charleston, SC, 29403

843-723-4000

Things to know about The Hampton Inn

• Directly across the street from the Charleston Visitors Center in the heart of Downtown Charleston
• Concierge on-site
• Free hot breakfast
• Fitness Center and outdoor pool

What I liked best

• It’s a Hilton brand
• Convenient to the Grayline hub at the Visitor Center across the street
• Easy parking in the attached parking structure
• Many popular eateries surround the hotel
• Close to the city center and attractions

Where To Eat

Are there any good restaurants to stop at between Aiken and Charleston, SC?

You bet, there are! We found our top bites at these stops along the route.

Aiken

The Willcox Restaurant – on-site, ground-floor restaurant

The Willcox Hotel

100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC, 29801

803-648-1898

What I liked best

• The outstanding service with dedication to the guest
• The decor – refined and elegant
• The gluten-free and vegan options, plus The Willcox Private Label Caviar
• The pat of butter shaped into a dome, served on a small square of black slate, made an understated artistic statement

Columbia

Tsunami – Gervais Street Corridor, a few steps from Hampton Inn

Tsunami

700 Gervais St A, Columbia, SC 29201

803-312-9911

What I liked best

• The generous portions of sushi
• The friendly manager
• Seeing many college students arrive for dinner

Charleston

The Rarebit

The Rarebit

474 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

843-974-5483

What I liked best

• The owner prepared our adult beverages exactly the way we liked them
• Delicious vegan options
• Ambiance – friendly and relaxed

JK Grill and Bar

JK Grill and Bar

428 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

843-483-5940

What I liked best

• Icy, cold beer served promptly
• Regional food – Lowcountry Po’boy (shrimp or flounder with lettuce and tomato on a grilled Amoroso roll)
• Sitting outside on the busy street corner, people-watching

Victor’s Seafood & Steak

Victor’s Seafood & Steak

Hutson Alley

39F John St, Charleston, SC 29403

843-203-3000

What I liked best

• The sophisticated ambiance just a few steps away from the hotel, hidden in an intriguing alleyway
• Their specialty – seasoned and seared steaks
• The meal was enough to feed four people

Hilton hosted my husband and me at the Hampton Inn in Charleston, South Carolina. All opinions are my own.

Read More

• Southern Charm and More: 16 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina
• South Carolina Coastal Roadtrips
• Charleston’s Untamed Beauty: Highlights of the Lowcountry
• Thoroughbred Country South Carolina: Horses, History, and Homestyle Dining

The post Road Trip from Aiken to Charleston, South Carolina appeared first on She Buys Travel.

If your family vacations include (or even revolve around) bringing your pets, you’re not alone. Travel is a way of bonding with pets. The rising demand is leading to increased options from pet-friendly travel products to hotels that welcome our furry family members with pet beds, water bowls and treats.

Still, family vacation fun with Fido or Fluffy requires some planning. Before you hit the road, here’s what to buy and what to do to ensure the trip works for everyone.

Taking a Road Trip with a Pet: What to Pack

We like to keep a duffel bag filled with our dog’s toys and treats to keep him happy on the road. He’s even got his own car seat. Here are more ideas:

• Travel makes some pets anxious. The NHV Natural Pets Travel Essentials Kit calming herbal remedy can help manage your pup or cat’s travel anxiety. It also includes a spray to ward off fleas, ticks, lice, and mosquitoes while camping or hiking. There’s also an ointment to help soothe injured paws and skin.

• No more playing cat and mouse trying to get your cat into a pet carrier. The Cozy Comfort Carrier from Cat-in-the-Bag features a heads-out design, roomy interior, and an adjustable Velcro collar to ensure your cat feels calm and comfy. In addition, front Velcro ports and a zippered bottom make grooming an effortless task. The travel cat body carrier also features a long padded strap and a seat-belt pass-through loop for comfortable carrying and safer car rides.  The carrier comes in a variety of colors.

• All fun road trips need good snacks, right? Melmo’s pet treats come in a variety of flavors. For dogs, Melmo offers beef stew, homestyle chicken, punky peanut butter, and other flavors. For felines, there’s Melmos Meowsers.

• Keep your car seat clean and your dog safely harnessed with the Vailge Dog Seat Cover. . We use this all the time from errands to outings and trips. It’s 100% waterproof with a mesh window, and is machine washable.

• Great for walks or longer hikes, this Onetigris Dog Vest Harness has pouches for treats, poop bags, or whatever your dog needs. My son even attached a Junior Ranger Joshua Tree National Park velcro badge to his dog’s vest on their camping trip. These sturdy vests are available for small, medium and large dogs.

More Handy Pet products

While on the road, remember that safety comes first. Don’t leave home without an emergency kit for your family and a separate pet first aid kit. Have the first aid kits handy so you don’t have to unpack the whole car to reach them. It’s also a good idea to pack copies of health certificate and medical records.

Essential pet items include:

• food and water bowls
• leashes
• pet wipes
• travel bed
• poop bags
• soft travel crate
• medications
• bottled water
• It’s also a good idea to have a harness and seat belt or car seat for your dog. Most airlines approve the Snoozer Roll Around Travel Dog Carrier Backpack 4-in-1 travel carrier. It converts to a backpack, dog bed, and car seat. It also has wheels so owners can tow their pets through an airport.

Pros and Cons of Pet Travel

Things to consider before taking a road trip with a dog include:

• Your pet’s temperament
• Physical limitations
• Illness.

Whether you are road tripping or flying with a pet, consult with your vet before the trip to ensure your pet is up to the trip. And book pet-friendly accommodations — don’t take the chance that you will find a hotel on the road. Take some time to find pet-friendly restaurants, too, so your pet doesn’t have to spend all of his time in the car or the hotel room.

Also, plan for more road trip stops to let your pet out of the car for exercise and potty breaks. Most rest stops along the interstates have areas specifically for pets.

Once you arrive at your destination, find activities to keep your dog active so he will spend more time sleeping when he’s alone in the hotel room..

Planning Your Pet-Friendly Trip: Hotels

There are thousands of dog-friendly hotels in the United States. Not so pet-friendly are the fees that come along with some of these stays. It is always best to check with individual properties but the following chains advertise no pet fee:

• Aloft
• Red Roof Inn
• Kimpton
• Motel 6
• Virgin Hotels

Always check with the hotel before you book. Some hotels have restrictions on the size and breed of animals allowed to stay. And leave the “do not disturb” sign on the door — you don’t need to stress your pet or the housekeeping staff with a surprise encounter.

Finally, leave a phone number with the front desk so you can be reached if you plan to leave your pet in the room alone. That way, staff can call if your pet sounds distressed.

Pick the Right Destination

Take your dog’s health into consideration when choosing a destination.

For example, if your dog is old and has hip problems, you probably shouldn’t take him on a hiking trip unless you plan on carrying him in a backpack. If your dog is a barker, you may want to book rental home accommodations instead of a hotel stay. Or hire a dog walker/doggy daycare at your vacation destination if you will leave your pet unattended at any time.

Plan a Vet Visit

If you’ll be flying with your pet or your trip will be long, it is a great idea to squeeze in a visit with your veterinarian before you go. Your vet can assess your pet’s fitness to travel.

Planning to travel internationally? The American Veterinary Medical Association is a great resource for proof of vaccinations you might need (including USDA certification). Ask for a printed copy of your pet’s health record to carry with you in case an emergency comes up on the road.

Before you leave, have your pet micro-chipped for identification, and bring a spare tag with your phone number.

Doggy Dos and Don’ts for Riding in the Car

Designate a safe place for Fido in your car. That means your pets shouldn’t sit on your lap or jump between car seats.

It’s safest for dogs to be contained in a carrier, secured with a harness or seat belt, or lying down in the back seat. Try to make their area comfortable with a bed, blankets, and familiar toys. Some cars even have great pet-friendly features like washable, fold-down cargo areas or cargo barriers that keep your dog safe in the back of the car or SUV. This cover will ensure the back seat stays fur-free. We recommend bringing dog grooming gloves since travel stress can cause excess shedding and hair removal will be as easy as patting Fido.

Plan for More Pit Stops

Give yourself plenty of time to stop for breaks. Be sure you allow extra travel time on your road trip for bathroom breaks for your dog. It’s also a good way to prevent car sickness.

BringFido.com has listings of pet-friendly hotels, restaurants and activities along your route so your dog can stretch his legs after a long car ride.

Upon Arrival at Your Destination

One of the first things we do upon arrival is take our dog for a long walk. Dogs are curious about their new surroundings. On her first trip to Big Bear, Maya explored every room in the cabin. But mostly she enjoyed sniffing pine cones, trees and other new smells outdoors. We brought her on hiking trails and to the lake.

Including dogs in our activities is a lot of fun. After all, that’s the main reason we travel with them, right?

The post Everything You Need for a Safe & Fun Road Trip with Your Fur Kids appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Ready to plan your next great American road trip? Skip the usual and hit the heartland! The Midwest is packed with jaw-dropping natural beauty, quirky roadside stops, and vibrant cities that don’t get nearly enough love.

Use Chicago, St. Louis, or Detroit as your launchpad, then head toward epic sand dunes, storybook islands, or even a Christmas-themed amusement park (yes, in the summer!). Whether you’re in the mood for hiking, history, or just a really good slice of pie, the Midwest delivers.

This state-by-state guide will show you the best vacation spots across America’s middle — from Ohio’s hidden gems to South Dakota’s wide-open wonders. Let’s roll!I

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Illinois

Chicago, Illinois

Any Midwest road trip would be incomplete without a trip to the Windy City, with its countless ways to spend your time. Our favorite must-dos during a Midwest weekend getaway to Chicago:

• Visit the Bean. The shining star of Chicago’s Millennium Park, snapping a selfie in the reflective surface of the giant sculpture is a Chicago must-do. (Even the locals do it!) If you can’t show that photo when you get home, no one will believe you visited Chicago!
• Go shopping. The big draw is the world-famous “Magnificent Mile,” Michigan Avenue’s premier shopping strip. Don’t forget to stop at the American Girl Store. Even if you don’t have a daughter, the huge, luxurious store is an experience.
• Enjoy the lake. Spend some time strolling along Oak Street Beach, with the magnificent Lake Michigan on one side and some of Chicago’s priciest real estate on the other. Or take a boat ride that leaves from the family-friendly Navy Pier.  For a deep understanding of Chicago’s place as an architectural mecca, take the Chicago Architecture Foundation boat tour on the Chicago River. Kids love seeing the city from the river — and seeing the underside of the bridges over the river.
• Visit Lincoln Park Zoo. One of the last free zoos in the USA, this lakefront gem has a children’s zoo, a lagoon where you can rent peddle boats and beautiful landscaped gardens. Don’t miss a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory on your way out of the zoo.
• Eat. In Chicago, that means deep dish pizza or a Chicago hot dog. Just remember: No one over age 18 orders catsup on a hot dog in Chicago. If you do, everyone will know you’re an out-of-towner.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Stay in one of these Chicago hotels with a view!

Oak Park, Illinois

Best known as the home of Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is the first suburb west of Chicago and easy to get to via the Green Line on Chicago’s famous elevated train system. (It seems like just about every movie filmed in Chicago has at least one scene that takes place beneath the L tracks!)

Stop at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, then take the walking tour of the Wright-designed homes in the surrounding neighborhood.

Read More: How to Road Trip with a Baby – A Survival Guide for Parents

Great River Road Scenic Byway

More than 2,000 miles long, the Great River Road Scenic Byway runs along the Mississippi River through 10 states and hundreds of historic river towns.

That includes 33 miles from Hartford to Grafton, Illinois, where the road is known as the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. This drive is particularly beautiful in the fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow.

Read More: How to Plan an Epic Family Road Trip in 6 Easy Steps 

Starved Rock State Park

This lovely state park is about 90 minutes west of Chicago. It’s a mecca for hikers and nature lovers. Trails wind along the gorgeous steep sandstone cliffs that line the Illinois River.

During the spring and early summer, it’s easy to find waterfalls along the hiking trails. You can camp there or spring for a stay at the Starved Rock Lodge.

Midwest Road Trip: Indiana Destinations

Indiana Dunes National Park

The stunning sand dunes that line the southern tip of Lake Michigan were designated the USA’s 61st national park in February 2019. Indiana Dunes has 15 miles of stunning beaches and huge dunes to climb.

The sand dunes and beautiful blue water look like something you’d see on the East Coast – not something you’d find in a Midwest vacation spot. When you’re done playing on the beach, there are lots of craft breweries and local restaurants nearby.

Indianapolis, Indiana

This Midwest town is one of our favorites. It’s small enough to feel manageable, even to people who aren’t used to urban hustle and bustle, but big enough to offer plenty of fun.

Start at Indianapolis’ White River State Park. Located right in the center of the city, it’s home to the Indianapolis Zoo, a minor league baseball stadium, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, the Indiana State Museum (check tickets) and the NCAA Headquarters and Hall of Champions, with lots of fun hands-on play for tweens and teens. Indy locals consider the river one of the city’s hidden gems.

Indianapolis is also home our hands-down, absolute favorite kids’ museum, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. It’s a must-stop destination for dino-loving families. Get a tickets pass to eight main attractions of Indianapolis. And then visit Indy Island, one of Indiana’s best indoor waterparks.

The city neighborhoods of this Midwest vacation spot are connected via biking trails that wind through its cultural districts.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If you have a membership to a local museum or zoo, check to see whether it is a member of a reciprocity group before you head off on your family vacation. It could mean free entrance to museums and zoos during your trip as well! There are groups for science museums, zoos and cultural institutions.

Santa Claus, Indiana / Holiday World

It’s Christmastime year-round in Santa Claus, Indiana. Write a letter to Santa at the post office, or spend the day at the super family friendly theme park, Holiday World.

Who doesn’t love an entire theme park themed to Christmas?

Midwest Road Trip: Iowa Destinations

Des Moines

Let the kids run off some road trip energy at Des Moines Pappajohn Sculpture Park. This park is located off of Grand Avenue and showcases more than 25 sculptures spread over more than 4 acres. Metered parking is readily available nearby.

Not only is this a great photo spot that teens will love for the Insta, but it’s got a hill in it that kids can’t resist rolling down over and over. Who said fun can’t be free!?

Dubuque

Located where Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa meet, Dubuque lets you tick off three states on your Midwest road trip.

While there is plenty to do in Dubuque, including an arboretum, aquarium and caves to explore, we highly recommend checking out the Fenelon Place Elevator (also called the Fourth Street Elevator). Technically a funicular, this elevator has been called the shortest, steepest scenic railway ride. You sit in a cable car for the ascent. Once you’re at the top, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Mississippi River and three states.

Elk Horn

How often do you have the opportunity to feel like you’re visiting another country without leaving the Midwest? Elk Horn, Iowa, is home to the Museum of Danish America.

If you have older kids, let them roam the grounds and explore the museum. For kids under 12, the better stop is going to be the Danish Windmill. You’ll get some fun family photos and get to check out a working windmill. Originally built in Nørre Snede, Denmark in 1848, the windmill was brought to the United States in pieces and rebuilt by a team of volunteers in 1976. The site also has a village replica, tiny chapel and gift shop full of fun items and things to eat.

Kimballton

This town of fewer than 500 people is another great stop to explore Danish heritage in Iowa. Kimballton is home to Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid & Sculpture Gardens. This small park based around a fountain features a replica of the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, Denmark. There are 8 more bronze sculptures representing stories by Andersen. Nasreen’s kids loved seeing these and talking about the original stories they were based on. It’s a good, quick stop for the whole family.

SheBuysTravel Tip: There’s a small playground nearby, so allow time for the kids to play.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities include Bettendorf and Davenport in Iowa and Moline and Rock Island in Illinois. Tractor-loving kids (and adults) will require a visit to the free John Deere Pavilion in Moline. The Putnam Science Museum in Davenport is also a must-do. The whole family will demand home-made ice cream from Lagomarcino’s. Choose to stop at the downtown location, open since 1908.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Get some exercise by renting bikes and riding the path along the Mississippi River.

Winterset, Iowa

Winterset is the home of legendary actor John Wayne, has a super fun sculpture park, and fun, family-friendly railroad attractions. Central Iowa is also the inspiration for The Bridges of Madison County.

Midwest Road Trip: Kansas Destinations

Kansas City, Kansas

The College Basketball Experience in Kansas City is a slam dunk for families. But our favorite thing to do in KC is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, where it’s virtually guaranteed you’ll hear someone say, “Oh, I used to have that toy!”

Read More: Best Hotels in Salina, Kansas: The Little Town that Could!

Midwest Road Trip: Michigan Destinations

Whether you’re visiting gorgeous beach towns on Lake Huron, spending the winter with sled dogs in Traverse City, touring the state capitol in Lansing or looking for the Northern Lights in Petoskey, there are so many delightful towns to visit in both the lower and upper peninsulas of Michigan. The state also offers a few unique Midwest vacation spots for your Midwest road trip.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Looking to visit both Wisconsin and Michigan in one trip? Make the travel more fun by crossing Lake Michigan on the SS Badger car ferry! 

Detroit, Michigan

If you haven’t been to Detroit lately, you haven’t been to Detroit. It is a city on the rise. Plan to spend a day at the beautiful Belle Isle Park, home to one of the oldest aquariums in North America. It’s small and free and well worth a look to show the kids how aquariums have changed over the years.

The Detroit Historical Society, a small but exceedingly well done museum, showcases the history of the town the automakers built. The Detroit Art Institute across the street is a world-class art museum with impressive special events.

And don’t miss a chance to eat a burger and fries at HopCat!

Holland, Michigan

Holland, Michigan may be the closest thing you can get to the Netherlands without traveling to Europe. A large, authentic Dutch windmill is perhaps the highlight of a stop in this Midwest vacation spot but there also are Dutch restaurants, architecture tours, and even wooden shoe carving shows. If you visit in May, you’ll be treated to the Tulip Time Festival, too!

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This no-cars-allowed island between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas is probably the most famous Midwest vacation spot on our list.

Mackinac Island is home to the United States’ second-ever National Park. Mackinac Island National Park is 70 acres of forests, incredible rock formations, wildlife and beautiful water features, as well as historical and cultural landmarks. And it’s a wonderful place to explore on bicycles because you don’t have to dodge cars!

Before you go, practice saying the name. It’s pronounced Mack-i-naw even though it’s spelled Mackinac. And it’s definitely worth a visit, even if you can only spend one day on Mackinac Island.

Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan

Long the playground of wealthy Chicagoans looking to beat the city heat each summer, there is a wealth of fun outdoors things to do in Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas. Topping that list is a visit to Oval Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan.

It’s no wonder this small town has been named the “Best Beach Town in the Midwest” by Midwest Living magazine.

Traverse City, Michigan

This foodie town sits on the banks of Grand Traverse Bay and is the gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes (check out available tours), one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere in the world. Really.

Feed your hungry teens anything cherry — from cherry jam to cherry burgers.

Midwest Road Trip: Minnesota Destinations

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth, like many of the Great Lakes towns on this Midwest family vacations list, offers lots of outdoor activities for families. It is also home to Great Lakes Aquarium, the only freshwater aquarium in the US.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Home to the Mall of America (which may be reason enough to visit), Minneapolis and its sister city, St. Paul, have so much to offer visitors. Explore the largest mall in the US, or enjoy a number of theater performances.

Hike to Minnehaha Falls or explore miles of nature trails along the Mississippi River. It’s also one of the most affordable family vacations in the Midwest, with lots of free things to do with kids.

Midwest Road Trip: Missouri Destinations

Branson, Missouri

Branson, Missouri, is a fun and affordable vacation destination with beautiful lakes and mountains as well as fun shows and theme parks.

Silver Dollar City is a family-friendly park themed to an old mining town. Choose from more than 40 rides and live entertainment.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

“The Strip” at Lake of the Ozarks offers your typical tourist fare: gift shops, arts and crafts, fudge and candy factories and the like. But it’s the beautiful lake (with more than 50 marinas), a collection of golf courses, horseback trails, boat tours through caverns and tours of mansions (both current and historic) that makes this a worthy Midwest vacation spot that will keep you busy for as long as you want to stay.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is one of our favorite Midwest getaway spots. Less than 6 hours from Cincinnati, Chicago, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Des Moines, Milwaukee, Louisville, Nashville, Tulsa and Memphis, it may be the most centrally located destination on this list.

You’ll want to visit the Gateway Arch, of course, but plan to spend some time at Forest Park. It’s larger than New York’s Central Park and home to a free zoo and a number of free museums. There’s also the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Grant’s Farm and the eclectic, one-of-a-kind City Museum.

There’s a really fun and trendy waterfront area (Laclede’s Landing), plus an aquarium and lots of stuff for sports lovers, including taking in a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

St. Charles, Missouri

Just a half hour’s drive from St. Louis is charming and historic St. Charles.

Celebrate car culture with a stop at Fast Lane Classic Cars to ogle the 200 classic and muscle cars on display. Or forget about your car for a while and hop on board the St. Charles Trolley to ride the 30 minute loop around town. Download the app to track where the trolley is so you’ll know how long you’ll need to wait for a ride. The best part? It’s free!

Midwest Road Trip: Nebraska Destinations

Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha as a must-do for foodies. It is one of the nicest, cleanest and most hospitable family vacation spots in the Midwest – especially in the spring when the weather is perfect.

Don’t miss the opportunity in Omaha for your kids to stand in two states at once! Check Omaha experiences here. Even though it was pouring rain, SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump said her kiddos still thought it was one of the coolest things they did on their Midwest road trip.

There is plenty of parking on the Omaha side of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You can walk to the middle of the bridge and straddle the state line between Nebraska and Iowa. Activities for kids exist on both sides of the bridge.

Midwest Road Trip: Ohio Destinations

Cincinnati, Ohio

Like the other large cities on this list, Cincinnati offers far too many attractions to really cover here. World-class museums, one of the best zoos in the country, several professional sports teams and a vast history are only a handful of the reasons to visit the Queen City.

Check out the best nightlife options in Cincinnati and these fun free things to do in Cincinnati.

Cleveland, Ohio

The most famous attraction in Cleveland, Ohio is probably the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Even my kids, who didn’t know half of the artists, found plenty of interesting things to see and do.

Don’t miss a stop at the fun hands-on Great Lakes Science Center next door. Save a few bucks by buying the combo ticket admission to both the hall of fame and science center.

While you’re in Cleveland, you should also check out the beautifully revitalized Little Italy neighborhood or catch a Cavaliers game.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Travel less than an hour from Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, and you’ll find yourself at the beginning of Appalachia.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the area’s best hiking for families. We’ve taken young kids there on paved trails and spent time on more difficult hikes with older kids and adults. For adventure seekers, there’s zip lining.

This Midwest vacation spot is also home to caves, waterfalls and cultural and historic attractions. Small lakes offer boating (pontoon and human-powered craft such as kayaks or canoes only) and water sports.

Sandusky/Lake Erie Shore, Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio, is home to Cedar Point Amusement Park, which bills itself as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. We agree. It’s where we took our kids to teach them to love roller coasters! Start with the smaller, tamer coasters and work your way up the Top Thrill Dragster — a steel coaster that reaches speeds of 120 mph as it shoots you straight up, then crawls over the top to wind straight back down, all in 17 seconds.

There are also four indoor waterpark resorts and beautiful beaches along Lake Erie. From Sandusky, take a ferry to Kelleys Island or South Bass Island’s Put-in-Bay. On these Lake Erie islands, take a cave tour, go fishing or climb the Marblehead Lighthouse in Port Clinton for spectacular views.

Warren County, Ohio

You can also take a scenic train ride to Lebanon, the county seat of Warren County – “Ohio’s Largest Playground.” Here you’ll find a charming downtown area with some of the country’s best antiques shopping.

You can even dine – or stay overnight – at the Historic Golden Lamb Inn & Restaurant. Opened in 1803, the Golden Lamb has hosted 12 US presidents and dozens of other US and world dignitaries.

Midwest Road Trip: South Dakota Destinations

Driving through South Dakota is THE iconic Midwest road trip. Start with a stop in Wall, South Dakota, to gawk at the incredibly touristy Wall Drug, wind through the breathtaking Badlands National Park, see Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, pay your respects to Crazy Horse, then watch the buffalo roam at Custer State Park.

Consider staying in Rapid City. It’s centrally located to all of the South Dakota attractions.

Badlands National Park

Take the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) and stop often to ogle the Instagrammable rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires of Badlands National Park. Watch for bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and other protected wildlife.

Mount Rushmore

Look up President Washington’s nose (really!) as you hike around Mount Rushmore. That’s the national park where the busts of four presidents — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln — are carved into the side of the Black Hills Mountains. This Midwest vacation spot draws more than 3 million visitors every year.

Custer State Park

You can hike, fish and be wowed by Needles Highway here. But the biggest reason to visit Custer State Park is the chance to stop the car and watch the herd of 1,300 grazing buffalo on the Wildlife Loop.

Crazy Horse Monument

Unlike the other South Dakota attractions, Crazy Horse is a private endeavor run by a nonprofit. The project was started by Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948. It’s still far from finished.

Mitchell

There’s just one reason to stop in Mitchell on an I-90 road trip across South Dakota: The Corn Palace. This kitschy stop has been operating since 1892 and is exactly what it sounds like: a reason to get people to pull off the highway and visit Mitchell. Every year, artists decorate the outside of the building with 325,000 ears of corn. A visit is free, but bring your wallet. The kids will want to buy some of the corn-y souvenirs and treats.

Midwest Road Trip: Wisconsin Destinations

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is the capital of Wisconsin and it’s a rockin’ college town. Take the free tour of the beautiful capitol building, then walk across the street to browse through the (also free) Wisconsin Veterans Museum.

On Saturdays from April to November, the capital is circled with a huge farmers’ market selling everything from veggies to the must-try Wisconsin cheese curds. (You know they’re fresh if they squeak when you bite into them.)

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Madison, including eating some of Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds. Never skip the cheese curds!

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin combines a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan with the hustle and bustle of an urban center. Visit the world-class Milwaukee Art Museum and take the little ones to the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and school-age kids to Discovery World.

Motorcycle fans can visit Harley-Davidson Museum, and Milwaukee visitors can take part in several festivals throughout the year – including Summerfest, one of the world’s largest music festivals.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

About an hour north of Milwaukee, Elkhart Lake is a lovely, serene family vacation spot in the Midwest. Several hotels nestle along the shores of the lake, where the calm water tends to be much warmer than Lake Michigan. We love the beautiful Osthoff Resort which has a number of wonderful restaurants. Race fans will want to plan a visit to RaceAmerica to watch a race or take a track driving course.

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay is best known as the home of the powerhouse Green Bay Packers American football team, which is celebrated at the team’s Titletown complex.

But Green Bay also is the gateway to Door County. Known as the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Door County is famous for its small towns along the bay and its fish boils.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells calls itself the “water park capital of the world.” While we love the giant indoor Kalahari Waterpark any time and the giant outdoor Noah’s Ark waterpark in the summertime, there’s much more to do there than just water slides.

Much like a visit to Branson, Missouri, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you’ll find a plethora of go-kart tracks, live dinner shows and boat tours. Don’t miss a ride on the famous Duck Boats! Away from the hustle and bustle of those tourist destinations though, you’ll also find plenty of water sports and hiking in the Dells’ three nearby state parks.

Editor’s Note: This is an updated version of a post written by Jennifer Kaufman.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best time of year to take a Midwest road trip?

A: The best time to take a Midwest road trip is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the attractions are open. However, if you’re interested in fall foliage, consider visiting in September or October.

Q: How long should I plan for a Midwest road trip?

A: It depends on how many stops you want to make and how much time you have. For a comprehensive Midwest road trip, plan for at least 2-3 weeks. However, if you’re short on time, you can still hit some of the highlights in a week or less.

Q: What are some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip?

A: Some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip include Mount Rushmore, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan, and the Wisconsin Dells.

Q: Is it safe to travel to the Midwest?

A: Yes, the Midwest is generally a safe place to travel. However, as with any destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: What are some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip?

A: Some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip include camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own food instead of eating out, and visiting free attractions like state parks and museums.

The post Hit the Road: Epic Midwest Road Trips You’ve Gotta Try appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Expect curiosity and surprise on this Missouri road trip which includes all seven National Parks. While this was part solo road trip and part girlfriend getaway, it also makes for a great family journey. We drove clockwise, starting at the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, in the southeastern corner of the state, and ending at Missouri’s newest National Park, Ste. Genevieve National Historic Park.

The map shows our route, and we’ve numbered each of our stops, including a few stops that aren’t part of the National Parks, but are photo- and fun-worthy bonus stops.

Plan 7-10 days as you ponder the past at points of historical significance, gaze on the present scenic beauty both human-made and natural, and learn about landscape and wildlife conservation for a brighter future.

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1. National Park: Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The nationally protected Ozark National Scenic Riverways includes 134 miles of rivers and 350 miles of roads. Start at the Van Buren Visitor Center  Staff is friendly and the educational resources take less than an hour to view.

SheBuysTravel Tip:   The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are the best times to visit Missouri to avoid crowds. Hotel prices are lower than you might expect. Keep in mind that weather and being short-staffed may cause businesses to close, so call ahead to confirm current hours.

Big Spring

Big Spring is at the end of State Route 103 and only four miles away. Big Spring is the largest spring in Missouri with a temperature between 55 and 58 degrees year round. On an average day 288 million gallons of water flow from the spring. Take a pleasant moment to relax while listening to the sounds of water and rustling leaves in this practically perfect place.

Alley Spring

Alley Spring is about 40 miles west on Highway 106. The old one-room schoolhouse built in 1897 and mill built in 1894 is picturesque. The waterway and mill were featured on an “America the Beautiful” quarter minted in 2017.

2. Branson

Branson is less than 4 hours from the Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park System. Make reservations ahead of time for one of Branson’s dinner shows or a spa treatment, then get some sleep in one of the great resorts before continuing on the Missouri National Parks road trip.

Read more about Branson

• Best Resorts in Branson, MO for Family Fun and Outdoor Adventure
• Branson Dinner Shows: Lowdown on the Hoedown
• Branson’s Best Things to Do: Live Music, Shopping & Spas

3. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

In the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River, on August 10, 1861, Union forces lost to Confederates. A 4.9-mile loop indicates eight major points of  Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. This park has both biking and horseback riding trails.

The impressive Visitor Center and Museum displays an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts. Along with a research library, you will see numerous uniforms and munitions. If visitors can learn from the horrific and unsettling past, then a more promising future lies ahead.

4. George Washington Carver National Monument

Who was George Washington Carver?

A quiet black youngster who was born into slavery earned the nickname “The Plant Doctor”. Against overwhelming odds, he found a way to respect God, be of service to humanity, and become a pioneer soil conservationist. His knowledge of plants, especially peanuts, impressed Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, President Franklin Roosevelt and countless others.

The Great Honor

Congress designated his monument in 1943, the first park to honor an African American scientist, educator, and humanitarian. The George Washington Carver National Monument does a fantastic job of covering his life. The one-mile Carver Trail loop highlights sculptures, ponds, an old house, and old graves. (Carver is buried at Tuskegee University in Alabama.)

Inside the Visitor Center are exhibits, books, murals, classrooms, and a museum. This was, by far, the most surprising and most educational part of the entire road trip.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Stay overnight in Joplin where you’ll find murals that celebrate the performing arts, Route 66, graffiti, geometric design and more.. Here’s a tour that celebrates this art form.

5. Harry S Truman National Historic Site

The Harry S Truman National Historic Site includes a Visitor Center where you get the ticket to tour the home. This Victorian home has over 8,000 square feet. Park rangers do a terrific job of narrating the short free tour. They can answer any question about Truman: his presidency, his family, his home and all the furnishings.

The Truman Presidency

Just a few of the issues that Truman dealt with while in office: the end of World War II, the use of atomic bombs in Japan, the Korean Conflict, the recognition of Israel as Jewish homeland, and an attempted assassination.

Nearby is the huge Truman Presidential Library and Museum. It has a replica “Oval Office”, a gift shop, and one of the best museums. This is also the burial place of Harry and Bess Truman. Get all the patriotic feels here.

Bonus Stops For Photo Ops

While planning the driving route, most folks would probably go from Independence to St. Louis by way of Jefferson City since it is the capital. Instead, take Highway 36 which is called “The Way of American Genius”. This is a photographer’s dream come true!

6. Hamilton and 7. Chillicothe

Stop in Hamilton to photo murals that pay tribute to quilts, trains, and J.C. Penney. Next pause in Chillicothe to appreciate the murals. They just might be the greatest thing since sliced bread. Of course, make your way to 709 Washington Street to see the Sliced Bread mural, which was a bucket list item for me.

8. Marceline

Allow a couple of hours for the next stop. The Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline is filled with nostalgic memories of a certain famous mouse and other Disney items.  

9. Hannibal

Hannibal is an excellent place to slow down and get some real food. One cannot live on road trip snacks for too long.  Not only does Hannibal have all of the Mark Twain sights imaginable, it also has a satisfying assortment of food. The two best choices are feasting on Irish fare at the Ole Wolfhound Pub and savoring Italian delights at The Brick Oven. 

Read more about Hannibal and Mark Twain: A Twain-Inspired Girls’ Getaway to Hannibal, Missouri

10. Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch National Park  is an iconic American landmark that celebrates westward expansion and other possibilities of the American dream. The 91-acre park includes a movie, an underground museum, an old cathedral, an old courthouse, and a store.

The 630-foot tall arch is made of stainless steel and is as wide as it is tall. Looking east are great views of riverboats cruising the Mississippi River. And to the west are plenty of outdoor art, busy streets, skyscrapers, and greenways.

Many travelers are simply thrilled to touch this famous landmark and photograph it from various viewpoints. Some plan an entire day here, while others prefer a quick visit before their next destination.

SheBuysTravel Tip: At Gateway Arch National Park keep in mind that the tram ride to the top is not recommended for those in wheelchairs or with claustrophobia. Plan well ahead if planning to park near the Arch, or to avoid driving in the traffic, most local hotels offer a shuttle.

11. Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site

The first attention-grabber is a stunning large red horse stable surrounded by pretty pink flowering dogwoods. As a lady rooted in the Deep South, I had been conflicted about what could be found to appreciate at the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site.  

The Many Sides of Grant

Here one can learn that Grant himself designed the stable that was large enough for 25 horses and now serves as a museum. He was an avid and respected horseman. He was deeply in love with his wife. Together they discussed conflicted feelings about slavery, as Grant had grown up being against it while his wife’s family enjoyed having slaves.

In 1865 General Grant sat down for a civil and gentlemanly conversation with General Robert E. Lee as they brought the Civil War to an end. At Lee’s urging, Grant agreed to allow Confederates to keep their own horses. Grant served as the 18th American president from 1869 to 1877.

White Haven

This historic site consisting of 9.65 acres includes a visitor center, museum, house, and three small out buildings. The outdoor walking tour includes exhibit panels and the grounds are exquisitely maintained. It is genuinely impressive and my opinion of Grant improved due to this visit. Ironically, the main house originally belonging to Grant’s father-in-law is called White Haven yet the exterior has always been kept painted Paris Green.

From here it is only about 30 miles to the quaint little town of Kimmswick, which is a lovely spot to enjoy lunch. Then another 30 miles to the final National Park.

12. Ste. Genevieve National Historic Park

History can be both beautiful and complicated. So can the process of a town becoming, in part or in whole, a National Park. For a deeper understanding of Ste. Genevieve National Historic Park (which is so new that it is not even listed on most sites) begin at the Ste. Genevieve Welcome Center and then the circa 1794 Jean-Baptiste Valle House and garden.

Waves of Residents

Ste. Genevieve was inhabited by various indigenous people off and on for over a thousand years before being settled by the French in 1735. It is one of the oldest French colonial settlements west of the Mississippi River. Examples of the unique French vertical log construction can still be seen in numerous homes that are open for tours, such as the Jean-Baptiste Valle home. The area has had waves of residents who were Spanish, Native American, Creole, African, English, and German.

Walkable Small Town

This is a welcoming and walkable small town with about 5,000 residents. It is quite picturesque, so bring both a phone and a good camera. Many historical buildings are currently managed by either the Department of Natural Resources, the Colonial Dames, or the National Park Service. A few buildings became part of the National Park in 2020, and more will become part of that. Some believe the entire town will eventually be a National Park.

Anyone with a love of architecture or history will be charmed by Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. Events include golf tournaments, a summer music series, a fall scarecrow contest, and occasional historic reenactments.

Looking for Even More Missouri Inspired Travel? Read these:

• 20 Fun FREE Things to Do in St. Louis: Gateway to Fun
• Missouri Girlfriend Getaway Ideas for Maximum Memories
• 9 Best National Parks in the Midwest
• Road Trip Planner: How to Plan an Epic Road Trip 

The post Road Trip Through Missouri’s 7 National Parks appeared first on She Buys Travel.

As a road trip junkie, I design my trips to offer a well-balanced blend of beach, culture and nature.

This 14-day solo road trip, which explored five destinations, started and ended in Miami, providing me with opportunities to experience Florida’s east and west coasts, the Keys, and a central city gem.

Here are my recommendations for things to do, places to eat, and places to stay on this 425-mile journey, including Delray Beach, Islamorada, Lakeland, Tampa, and Miami Beach.

Portions of this trip were hosted and are listed at the end. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Route Overview

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Stop 1: Delray Beach

Delray Beach, aka “The Village by the Sea”, offers small-town vibes with amenities found in bigger cities.

You can walk everywhere, but on hot, humid days, the Freebee, an on-demand ride-share service, transports you between the beach and Pineapple Grove Arts district.

What Not To Miss:

• Wakodahatchee Wetlands – Nature lovers and photographers will love the birdwatching, alligator spotting, and serene wetlands. I didn’t spot any alligators, but read the signs and heed the parking instructions or risk the ire of other visitors.
• Delray Municipal Beach – Beach and water lovers find watersports, sunbathing, and this beach relaxing. Be sure to rent a beach chair to secure your personal belongings.
• Pineapple Grove Arts District – Public art, boutique shopping, and galleries draw visitors to this lively spot. Cruise in your convertible to show off.
• Silverball Retro Pub & Arcade – Two floors of loud, lively, and colorful arcade games offer countless pinball machines, Skeeball alleys, Wiffle Ball, and more. Because of the noise level, they even provide earplugs.

Best Place To Stay:

The Ray Hotel Delray Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, offers luxury lodging near the Pineapple Grove Arts District. I walked to the main drag, Old School Square Park, and many restaurants.

Read my review here for more great places to stay in Delray Beach.

Great Places to Eat:

• Campi at The Ray Hotel – The steak and seafood dinner was amazing – every course, from the bread to the antipasti and salad, was delicious.
• Lulu’s – The charcuterie board and fresh seafood come highly recommended.

Stop 2: Islamorada

Islamorada, nicknamed the “Purple Island” because of the violet-tinged sunsets, sits in the heart of the Florida Keys. Famous for world-class sport fishing, vibrant coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere, it draws visitors year-round. It is a perfect place for anglers, divers, and boating enthusiasts who love “island time” as much as I did.

What Not To Miss:

• Rain Barrel Village – An iconic arts and crafts destination. I had to capture a selfie with Betsy the lobster.
• Florida Keys Brewing Co. – Try the sample flights, which showcase the microbrewery’s tropical craft beers in a fun atmosphere.
• Florida Keys Food Tour – Discover local cuisine and history with expert guides. We learned how to blow the conch (pronounced “konk”) shell, enjoyed authentic Key Lime Pie, and boarded the full-scale replica of Ernest Hemingway’s boat, Pilar, at the Worldwide Sportsman store.
• Florida Keys History and Discovery Center – Exhibits featuring piracy, hurricanes, shipwrecks, early settlers, and progress in the Keys in a cool, upscale interior.

Best Place to Stay:

Casa Morada – A boutique hotel with luxurious suites and a private island. Casa Morada, in the heart of Islamorada, offers boat excursions and beach activities for guests seeking adventure or relaxation.

 I enjoyed the view of the Gulf from the Starfish Suite and the balcony while sampling the breakfast buffet.

Great Places to Eat:

• Lorelei Restaurant & Bar – Waterfront dining known for its fresh fish dip and conch chowder. I sampled my first conch here. (Pronounced “konk”).
• Pierre’s – Fine dining boasts stunning sunset views. Choose a seat on the oceanfront balcony or settle inside, like I did, to watch the spectacular sunset through the windows.

Stop 3: Lakeland

Lakeland, a city between Tampa and Orlando known for its beautiful lakes, is an excellent destination for outdoor water activities or strolling in the historic downtown area.

What Not To Miss:

• Florida Southern College – Home to the most extensive Frank Lloyd Wright architecture collection, offering in-depth tours of the buildings and grounds. I found the final project of his life absorbing.
• Bonnet Springs Park – This family-friendly park offers outdoor adventures, nature trails, and a tram with scheduled stops around the property.
• Circle B Bar Reserve – Wildlife viewing with alligator sightings and countless birds. The entrance, with its moss-covered trees, impressed me.
• Bok Tower Gardens—This National Historic Landmark with beautiful gardens boasts a world-famous carillon, which filled the air with magical sounds that followed me throughout the property.
• Downtown Lakeland & Munn Park – I loved strolling this historic district along charming brick-lined streets, exploring shops and restaurants.
• Living Water Boat Cruises, Winter Haven – Chain of Lakes boat tours navigate 24 interconnected lakes, including historic Cypress Gardens, now Legoland.

Best Place to Stay:

Home2Suites by Hilton – Conveniently located near major attractions, this budget lodging works well for families and solo female travelers. I appreciated the laundry facilities for guests.

Best Places to Eat:

• Grillsmith – This popular eatery is close to Home2Suites and offers delicious signature steaks and craft cocktails.
• Nineteen61 – The upscale service and ambiance blended well with the friendly patrons. They specialize in Latin American cuisine.
• Harborside – Our boat cruise began and ended at the dock, where we enjoyed lakeside seafood dining with sunset views and traditional seafood dishes.

Stop 4: Tampa

Tampa, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, has many waterfront attractions. In the early 1800s, it was a U.S. Army fort and then a Confederate stronghold. The 1880s railroad boosted its economy and cigar production.

What Not To Miss:

• Tampa Riverwalk – 2.6-mile scenic path with dining, entertainment, and attractions. Take a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour.
• Ybor City – Ybor City, once the “Cigar Capital of the World,” is a lively historic district with Cuban cuisine and nightlife. I spent a delightful hour entertained by the professional tour guide cum manager of a cigar store.
• Florida Aquarium – One of the best aquariums in the U.S.
• Amalie Arena – Hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning, concerts, and other events. It is within walking distance of the Tampa Downtown Hilton.
• TECO Line Streetcar – I explored Tampa on the free trolley, from downtown through the Channel District to Ybor City.

Best Place to Stay:

Hilton Tampa Downtown – Central location with modern amenities and great dining in the hotel.

Best Place to Eat:

The Hilton Tampa Downtown offered a convenient dining option during my brief stay. The craft cocktail and salmon dinner were excellent, and the European-style breakfast buffet, with cold cuts and charcuterie, was unbeatable.

211 Restaurant at Hilton Tampa Downtown – Upscale dining with fresh seafood at dinner and an extensive breakfast buffet with healthy offerings and European-style selections.

Stop 5: Miami Beach

Miami Beach, a barrier island east of Miami, is known for its luxurious waterfront mansions, historic hotels, and stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

What Not To Miss:

• Miami Beachwalk – The 9-mile Miami Beachwalk is a pedestrian and biking path along the Atlantic coast, connecting South Pointe Park to North Beach.
• South Beach – Art Deco buildings, palm-lined streets, and Muscle Beach were fascinating.

Best Place to Stay:

Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort – Hotel on Millionaire’s Row in Miami Beach with a private beach, two pools, and complimentary bike rentals.

Best Places to Eat:

Why go anywhere else when you can get the freshest, most interesting, and 3-dimensional meal?

• Allison Restaurant & Bar at Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort – Great Cuban food and drinks. I love three-dimensional meals, and this did not disappoint.
• Coffee House at Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort – I enjoyed a delicious bagel and lox breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at the Coffee House.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

I followed these safety tips on my solo road trip from Miami to Tampa:

• Drive only during daylight hours – I make this a habit whether visiting a new destination or driving around my hometown.
• Book hotels with 24-hour front desks, ensuring a safe and easy check-in.
• Pack a small cooler – I always carry water and snacks in case of emergency, especially in hot climates like Florida during the summer.
• Use valet parking when available. It adds security, especially in large cities like Miami and Tampa.
• Stick to the main highways (I-95, I-75, and US-1) and avoid unfamiliar back roads, especially at night.
• Plan your fuel stops. Find busy, well-lit areas. Few gas stations serve the Overseas Highway.
• Avoid walking on beaches alone at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Best Time of Year to Take A Road Trip from Miami to Tampa

Late fall through early spring offers the ideal window for a Florida road trip. Unseasonably cold and windy weather surprised me and the locals during my winter visit. Skip hurricane season, which runs from June through September.

Comped

Hilton Hotels, Casa Morada, Visit Central Florida, Circle B Bar Reserve, Bok Tower Gardens, Living Water Boat Cruises, Florida Southern College, Grillsmith, Nineteen61, Harborside

Read More

• How to Travel Solo as a Woman
• Unforgettable Vacations for Singles and Solo Travelers
• Southern Hospitality on Four Wheels: Charming Road Trips in America’s Southeast
• Fantastic Don’t-Miss Hidden Gems in Florida

The post Solo Road Trip Miami to Tampa appeared first on She Buys Travel.

There’s something undeniably magical about hitting the open road in a country as scenic and culturally rich as Portugal. The Algarve from Arabic: al-Gharb “the West”, with its golden cliffs, pristine beaches, charming towns, and delicious cuisine, offers the ultimate mix of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. As someone who thrives on discovering local gems and savoring unforgettable experiences, I couldn’t resist planning a week-long road trip through this sun-soaked paradise. Here’s my detailed itinerary, packed with tips to ensure you make the most of your journey.

Day 1: Faro – Gateway to the Algarve

Faro is the perfect starting point for a solo female traveler exploring the Algarve! With easy access to fly into Faro International Airport and rent a car right at the terminal, you can begin your road trip with ease. Faro is a charming old town with a vibrant marina and easy access to the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park. The city is safe, walkable, and filled with history, making it an ideal place to soak in Portuguese culture.

• Must-See Attractions: Cidade Velha (Old Town) is always worth wandering through cobbled streets, historic arches, and charming plazas. And then make your way to the Faro Marina where you can enjoy the waterfront scene of cafes, restaurants and stunning sunset views!
• Where to Stay: Check into Hotel Faro & Beach Club, a female-friendly accommodation with chic decor, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of Ria Formosa. This hotel a great base to explore the Algarve region for 2-3 nights. 
• Where to Eat: For dinner, I loved the fresh seafood at Marisqueira Faro e Benfica
• Drive Time: The hotel and downtown area of Faro is a short 12-minute drive from the international airport.
• Tip: Faro can be windy in the evenings, so pack a light cardigan or scarf.

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Day 2: Olhão and Ria Formosa

Olhão is a must-visit for its authentic fishing village charm, colorful markets, and incredible seafood. It’s the gateway to the islands of Ria Formosa, where you can take a ferry to pristine beaches and enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

• Must See Attractions: The Olhão Municipal Market. The vibrant stalls burst with fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. It’s a feast for the senses and an opportunity to mingle with locals. Ria Formosa Adventure Book a boat tour to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a maze of lagoons and islands. 
• Where to Eat: I loved stopping at Culatra Island, where I enjoyed an off-the-beaten-path beach and a rustic seafood lunch at Casa do Polvo Tasquinha.
• Drive Time: A 15-minute drive east of Faro 
• Tip: Wear sunscreen and bring a reusable water bottle. Hydration is key when spending time under the Algarve sun, depending on the time of year. 

Day 3: Tavira – The Tranquil Charmer

Tavira is one of the Algarve’s most “picture-perfect” towns, with its cobbled streets, historic Moorish architecture, and romantic bridges. It’s a quiet, laid-back destination, ideal for solo female travelers looking for culture, history, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.

• Must-See Attractions:  Visit the Tavira Castle for panoramic views, stroll along the Roman Bridge, and take a detour to the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo.
• Where to Eat: Dining at Aquasul, known for its Mediterranean dishes and cozy ambiance, for dinner is a culinary delight! 
• Drive Time: A 35-minute drive east of Faro 
• Tip: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Tavira’s cobblestone streets.

Day 4: Lagos – Cliffs and Caves

Lagos is a vibrant coastal town known for its golden cliffs, hidden grottoes, and lively nightlife. It’s great for solo female travelers seeking adventure, with plenty of boat tours, surfing opportunities, and a friendly, social atmosphere perfect for meeting other travelers.

• Must-See Attractions:  Book a kayak or boat tour to explore the dramatic cliffs and hidden caves of Ponta da Piedade. The turquoise waters and unique rock formations will leave you in awe. After a long day in the sun, I always enjoy an evening stroll through Lagos’ bustling streets, which are filled with shops and street performers.
• Where to Stay: Check into Casa Mãe, a boutique hotel offering a perfect mix of modern amenities and historic charm for 2-nights. 
• Where to Eat: Head to Mar d’Estórias for lunch. Try the octopus salad (a Portuguese favorite) and pair it with a local white wine. And end the evening by stopping by Gelícias for artisanal gelato.
• Drive Time: Drive west for an hour from Faro to Lagos, a lively coastal town. 

Day 5: Sagres – The Edge of the World

Sagres, the wild and rugged southwestern tip of Portugal, is a dream for solo female adventurers. It’s a paradise for surfers, hikers, and nature lovers, offering dramatic cliffs, windswept beaches, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for quiet reflection or outdoor exploration.

• Must-See Attractions:  Visit Cape St. Vincent, Europe’s southwesternmost point, and marvel at the dramatic cliffs. Parking and entrance to the lighthouse. Or sign up for a Surfing Adventure if you’re feeling adventurous at Praia do Tonel. Beginners are welcome, and the instructors are friendly and patient.
• Where to Eat: End the day with a sunset dinner at Rosa dos Ventos. Their seafood platter is a must-try.
• Drive Time: An hour from Lagos is a rugged little town called Sagres, which feels like the edge of the world.
• Tip: The cliffs can be windy, so avoid standing too close to the edge. And bring a wind jacket, even in the summer, the wind chill will cut to the bone after sunset.

Day 6: Albufeira and Portimão – Coastal Vibes

Albufeira combines stunning beaches with a dynamic nightlife scene, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers who want both relaxation and entertainment. Portimão, on the other hand, is a fantastic spot for solo travelers who love the ocean, offering a mix of history, watersports, and fresh seafood. The nearby Praia da Rocha is one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches, while the town itself has a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for exploration.

• Must-See Attractions:  Spend the day at Praia da Falésia, one of Portugal’s most stunning beaches. Lounge under a rented umbrella and take occasional dips in the clear waters. Or enjoy the day in Portimão, a lively city known for its marina and seafood restaurants. From here, embark on a boat tour to the Benagil Caves, one of Algarve’s most iconic attractions. The caves are famous for their stunning rock formations and the natural skylight that illuminates the water below.
• Where to Stay: Check into Pine Cliffs Resort, a luxurious and female-friendly retreat for the remainder of your trip. 
• Where to Eat: For dinner, visit A Ruína, perched above the beach.
• Drive Time: Head back east for a 45-minute drive to Albufeira 
• Tip: Pack a versatile dress and sandals for a smooth day-to-night transition. And always wear a life jacket during the boat tour and avoid swimming into the caves without a guide, as currents can be strong.`

Day 7: Silves and Farewell

Silves provides a more tranquil escape, perfect for those who enjoy history, culture, and a slower pace of travel. The town is known for its excellent local wines and scenic riverfront, making it a delightful stop on any Algarve itinerary.

• Must-See Attractions:  Explore the Moorish Silves Castle and learn about the region’s fascinating history.
• Where to Eat: Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at Café Inglês, featuring regional specialties like piri-piri chicken and a few pastéis de nata with a café.
• Drive Time: A 40-minute drive from Albufeira.

Practical Tips for the Algarve

Cultural Norms:

• Always greet locals with a friendly “Bom dia” (Good morning) or “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon).
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% is standard.

Packing Essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
• Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A reusable water bottle

Female-Friendly Considerations: 

Portugal is generally very safe for female travelers, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant. Stick to well-lit areas at night, lock your car, and keep your belongings secure, don’t leave anything in your car overnight.

Read More

• 10 Beautiful Portugal Beaches that Deliver the Ahhh
• Best Things to do in Douro Valley Portugal
• From Coast to Castle: Exploring Portugal’s Best Places to Visit
• Viking River Cruises Portugal: Traveling the Douro in Style

The post Road Trip Through the Algarve on Portugal’s Coast appeared first on She Buys Travel.

As a road trip junkie, I’m always on the lookout for new destinations to explore. Choosing Alberta, Canada for a recent road trip led to more discoveries than I ever dreamed possible. My adventure led me to badlands where dinosaurs once roamed. I cruised past golden canola flower fields, the jagged snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies and the always entertaining prairie dogs. Welcome to Alberta! This Western Canadian province boasts a varied landscape like none other, making it an ideal destination for the ultimate Canadian road trip.

Follow our 10-day road trip on the map below and read on about our favorite stops along this awe-inspiring 800-mile journey!

1. Grab Your Cowboy Hat and Head to Calgary

Situated in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, where the prairies and the mountains meet, Calgary is a vibrant city steeped in Western culture. Home to the famed Calgary Stampede, cowboy hats are welcome here. But there’s much more to Calgary than rodeos. This walkable city is home to extensive outdoor pathway and bikeway networks, making it ideal for strolling, rollerblading, or biking.

Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures

One of my favorite experiences happened in another type of vehicle when we toured the town with Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures. Our group’s vintage-style motorcycles with sidecars attached arrived at our hotel to whisk us around Calgary for an unforgettable adventure. My driver—a retired Calgary police officer—was a blast sharing stories about his motorcycle adventures. We weaved in and out of neighborhoods, snapped photos from scenic overlooks and learned about the city’s history and highlights. Needless to say, we were part of the attraction as people around town stopped to check out our unique motorcade.

Studio Bell

Another highlight was a visit to Studio Bell. This 160,000-square-foot architectural masterpiece houses the National Music Centre’s expanded collection, which includes more than 2,000 rare instruments and artifacts and four Canadian Music Halls of Fame. Engaging interactive exhibits had us playing the drums and attempting to be recording artists—unsuccessfully!

SAM Centre

Not to be missed is the SAM Centre. Opened in May 2024, the SAM Centre shares the Calgary Stampede story through films and interesting hands-on experiences. I even had the opportunity to try out my roping skills. Let’s just say no animal needs to worry about me roping anything.

Where to Eat in Calgary

Calgary’s restaurant scene provides plenty of choices for delicious meals. One of my favorites was the classic steak house, Caesar’s, which has been a go-to spot for Calgary residents since 1972. Using the same Alberta beef supplier since its opening, steaks at Caesar’s come with a touch of drama as the chefs cook on an open-flame grill in the middle of the dining room. Be sure to order a tableside Caesar salad – delicious!

For another unique dining experience check out Calgary’s first ‘yakitoria’, Shokunin. This contemporary Japanese eatery focuses on the grilling of over 20 cuts of chicken and meat using a Japanese-Style Robata Grill.

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2. Experience the Dinosaur Capital of the World in Drumheller

Drive 85 miles northeast of Calgary to roam the Canadian Badlands in Drumheller—the dinosaur capital of the world. Along the way, golden fields of canola brighten the rural landscape. In Drumheller, the scene evolves into badlands sculpted by wind and water into canyons, ravines and hoodoos.

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology

In this charming town dinosaurs are everywhere—on street corners, at the fire station and the world’s largest dinosaur at the visitor’s center, Tyra. A T-rex, Tyra stands 86 feet tall and has 106 stairs visitors can climb to view the Canadian Badlands from her jaws. To view the bones of real dinosaurs who roamed this region millions of years ago, spend some time at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology. The museum houses the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs.

Bike & Bites E-Bike Tour

Exploring the badlands is another highlight in Drumheller. A Bike & Bites e-bike tour was a highlight of my visit. We spent the afternoon riding up and down the hills in this otherworldly landscape and enjoyed a delicious picnic lunch along the way.

Where to Eat in Drumheller

The Last Chance Saloon serves up mouthwatering BBQ in the Badlands with a side of sassy cowboy style in a rustic 1913 saloon.

Kick off your day with breakfast at WHIFS Flapjack House. WHIFS basically sums up the menu: waffles,  hamburgers, ice cream, flapjacks and salads. But it’s those flapjacks that keep folks coming back to this roadside eatery. Delicious!

3. More Badlands & Dinosaurs Between Drumheller and Edmonton

The drive to Edmonton from Drumheller takes about three hours but it’s a road trip you don’t want to miss.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

One of the best stops along the way is the Dinosaur Provincial Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, 150 complete dinosaur skeletons have been discovered here in a century of excavations. Bone beds – which are Disorganized concentrations of bones – have also been discovered here. These ancient remains provide the world’s most complete record of the late Cretaceous Period. Consider staying overnight in the park’s campground where glamping tents make for a comfortable camping experience.

4. Discover Alberta’s Capital City of Edmonton

Known as a “Ribbon of Green,” Edmonton’s River Valley boasts the longest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America inviting locals and visitors to escape into nature. Here are a few highlights of this intriguing city.

Cruise on the Edmonton Queen

Get to know this spectacular city on the riverboat Edmonton Queen, which recently received a million-dollar renovation.

Royal Alberta Museum

Edmonton also features numerous museums including the Royal Alberta Museum which includes collections focused on archeology, military and government history, Indigenous engagement and more.

Elk Island National Park

Less than an hour’s drive outside of Edmonton is Elk Island National Park, the cornerstone of Canada’s bison conservation story. The park is also part of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve making it an ideal place for stargazing. Geo Domes at Elk Island Retreat offers another luxurious glamping experience.

Where to Eat in Edmonton

For a unique dining experience check out Homefire. Established in 2005 by the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation, the restaurant keeps to its Canadian roots, serving up indigenous dishes from its homeland. An open-kitchen provides diners with an up-close look at the artful cooking techniques of the chefs.

5. Wildlife and Waterfalls in Jasper

The alpine town of Jasper sits at the northern edge of the Canadian Rockies and is the gateway to Jasper National Park. Wild and wonderful, the laid-back mountain town makes an ideal base for exploring the grandeur of Jasper National Park. The Jasper SkyTram climbs to the summit of Whistlers Mountain yielding views of the town and the surrounding landscape.

The largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park contains the second largest dark sky preserve. Wildlife, waterfalls and an abundance of stunning landscapes add to the park experience.

The Columbia Icefield

Jasper National Park is also home to the Columbia Icefield. Making the most of our visit, we ventured onto the Columbia Skywalk–a cliff-edge suspended glass platform 918 feet above the valley floor for views of the surrounding icefield. Another highlight was the ride aboard an Ice Explorer vehicle to the Athabasca Glacier for an unforgettable walk on the 10,000-year-old sheet of ice.

Where to Eat in Jasper

The Patricia Street Deli in Jasper is an ideal place to pick up a customized deli sandwich made from the freshest ingredients. The friendly owners love to share tips on places to see in the area while whipping up a delicious picnic lunch.

6. Finish Your Alberta Road Trip in Banff National Park

Alberta’s wonders continue as you drive south from Jasper to Banff National Park. The Icefields Parkway (AB-93) connects Jasper National Park with Banff National Park and is considered one of the most gorgeous drives in the world. The drive is roughly 140-miles and can be completed in three hours, but believe me, you’re going to make numerous stops for photos. Glacier-fed lakes shimmer with shades of milky aqua and turquoise and jaw-dropping vistas await around every turn.

Lake Louise

In Banff National Park, consider a stop at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. We visited in autumn outside of ski season but still enjoyed a chairlift ride up the mountain. From there we continued on a hike for stunning views of Lake Louise in the distance. Another not-to-be-missed experience is a hike around Lake Louise. But honestly, everywhere you go in Banff National Park is a not-to-be-missed experience. The same holds true for the entire province of Alberta. Maybe it’s time you added this to your road trip adventure list!

Where to Eat in Banff

The beauty of Banff National Park is mesmerizing so why not combine a scenic view with a delicious dining experience at Sky Bistro located in Banff National Park? Starting at the base of Sulphur Mountain, a gondola delivers you to the mountain’s summit. As you enjoy menu choices including smoked salmon, brisket burgers and short ribs, you can take in views of the surrounding mountain peaks through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Read more Alberta Travel Tips below or find your next Road Trip Inspiration here:

• 15 Things to do in Calgary
• Eat Your Veggies! These 13 Vegetarian Restaurants in Calgary are for Everyone
• Fairmont Palliser Calgary Review: Timeless Elegance Redefined
• When is the Best Time to Visit Banff? Any Time of the Year!
• 16 Things to do in Banff National Park: Rejuvenate Your Mind & Body
• The Banff Jasper Collection – What Pursuit Can Offer in the Canadian Rockies
• Moose Hotel & Suites Banff: Upscale Creature Comforts in Banff National Park

The post The Ultimate Road Trip Through Alberta Canada appeared first on She Buys Travel.

As a family of five, we’ve always opted to save the cost of plane tickets and road trip for our family vacations instead. Michigan to Florida has been our usual route – we even made this drive for our honeymoon, pre-kids. Along with multi-state trips, I’ve taken the kids by myself on two-hour-plus trips to visit family and friends more often than I can count.

As the kids got older, our drives evolved as well. The kids moved from car seats and boosters to becoming big enough to ride shotgun or even help drive. We moved from listening to CDs of toddler tunes to KidzBop to popular radio songs. The kids needed fewer rest stops. We stopped packing crayons and markers to keep them busy and took on the challenge to keep our road trips a family experience without having the tweens and teens buried in electronics.

In all that time on the road, I’ve developed a great strategy for making road trips with teens and tweens fun bonding experiences for the entire family. And that’s the whole point, right? Here are some of my road-tested tips for making your next trip with the big kids a memorable one!

1. Research, Planning and Packing

Kids of just about any age in today’s world are computer and electronics savvy. Put this to good use and give them research assignments to help plan the route for your trip. How far can we drive on one tank of gas? Do we want to stop in a small town for the night or brave the traffic of the big city? What’s the best price for a hotel? Kids are also great at finding fun attractions to visit along the way.

Teens and tweens are certainly capable of packing for themselves, but you know your kids best. My two older kids did a great job from a young age with only a few reminders like, “Did you remember socks?” On the other hand, my 19-year-old youngest still prefers me to hang out while he’s packing, just to make sure he remembers everything. As the kids got older, we always made sure that they were able to easily handle and carry their own luggage to and from the car. Using backpacks and bags with wheels helps a lot!

2. Seating and Navigation

Many of our road trips did not include my husband, who dislikes travel. When the kids were small, the front passenger seat was off-limits since they were all in car seats or boosters. Once they got older, we’ve rotated who rides shotgun on long trips. There’s a price for sitting up front: helping navigate. They all have phones with GPS, so even with the in-dash navigation, they help check upcoming exits for restaurants and keep an eye on traffic reports.

Letting the kids take turns sitting up front also allows them to change up who sits where in back as well. We have a minivan, so nobody is ever stuck in a middle seat, but a change of scenery can help break up a long drive no matter what.

3. Electronics

Ah yes, the blessing and curse of personal electronic devices. Every family makes its own rules about screen time on the road. For us road trips have generally been a free-for-all, with some limitations. We’re all stuck in a small, enclosed space with each other for hours on end with few breaks. To me, anything that helps keep the peace – and sanity – is helpful.

Electronics can still play a big part in a family road trip, even if you don’t want each kid staring at individual screens the whole time. There are plenty of apps that provide road trip games that even tweens and teens can enjoy with the family. My oldest has always loved searching out license plates from all the different states and tracking them on an iPhone app. We all help by watching for and pointing out new ones to record.

Personal phones, iPads or tablets also let kids individualize their entertainment. For a family with kids of varying ages, one movie for all might be tricky. After all, teens and preschoolers might not want to watch the same movie over an in-vehicle DVD player (if you have one). But with their own devices, your teen can watch a downloaded movie (or YouTube if you have in-car wifi or an unlimited data plan) while younger kids watch their own age-appropriate choices. In my case, even once my kids got older, they could rarely agree on any one show or movie to watch together. Having the option to watch separately is a huge plus on long trips.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t forget the electronic accessories! Everybody should have their own charging cords and headphones or earbuds. Bring extras – even teens and tweens can lose or break fragile cords or wireless headphones can die en route. It’s cheaper and easier to stock up before you leave than to have to make an unanticipated stop along the way and pay a premium at a roadside convenience store or gas station.

4. Photography and Social Media

It’s almost impossible nowadays to find an electronic device without a camera. And kids of all ages love taking pictures. By the time they are tweens and teens, they are usually skilled at taking good-quality photographs and helping preserve memories of your trip. My kids always loved taking pictures of each welcome sign as we crossed over state borders. Driving through rain or thunderstorms provides the opportunity for fun weather shots. Or you can give them scavenger hunt assignments of things to photograph along your route.

Depending on your kids’ ages and your personal family policies, your kids may be on social media. Mine would often chronicle our journeys on their social channels. It doesn’t work for every family, but I loved to see our trips through their eyes and words.

If your tweens or young teens don’t have their own social media accounts, consider letting them post to your accounts. It’s a good way to introduce them to social sharing in a controlled fashion. And it’s a good way to save precious family memories of your trip together. If you prefer not to share photos of your kids themselves online, have them take photos of landmarks or scenery you pass along the way.

5. Teen Drivers

By their mid to late teens, most kids are getting their driver’s permit or license. Depending on your state’s rules, you may choose to let them practice driving while on your road trip. There are some helpful benefits to this. Obviously, you get a break from being behind the wheel (although it’s not necessarily a stress-free environment, lol). Your teen gets plenty of freeway driving time and you can help them learn things like merging and passing traffic. They can build up a lot of driving hours at once.

Things to consider before letting your teen drive on a road trip:

• Make sure your insurance covers the teen driver.
• Check driver permit restrictions in your state AND other states you’ll be driving through to see what’s allowed.
• Know your route well to avoid congested areas, construction or potentially dangerous driving conditions.
• Decide whether you’re comfortable with your teen driving through large cities or in the dark.
• Watch the weather to see if you’ll be driving into any rain, snow or other challenges.

The first time my daughter drove while on a road trip was definitely nerve-wracking. But after watching her manage traffic on the freeway with increasing ease, I was much more comfortable when she got her license and drove long distances alone. And now when we road trip together, it’s great to have another adult to share the driving with!

6. Family and Kid Time

Family road trips are always a good opportunity to spend time together and reconnect. I’m glad we had opportunities to travel together when the kids were younger. As they got older, I realized how few chances were left for us to travel as an entire family. Now that they are all grown, we don’t do so nearly as often. You have to make most of the time while you have it.

This means planning family travel and finding ways to get your kids excited and involved. Does your teen love theater and drama? Maybe plan a trip to see a play or musical together in a city you’ve never been to and can explore together. Or take your sports-loving teen to see a professional game. Even on a trip to a destination like Disney, you can plan activities that interest and involve your whole family.

In 2018 my family took another road trip together from Michigan to Florida. We enjoyed the drive, taking turns choosing the music for us all to listen to, rather than everyone riding with earbuds in. This may have been our last full family road trip, and I’m thrilled that we have great memories of our (then) teens and tween to hold onto from it.

7. Choose the Right Hotel

Teens require food. Lots of food. To keep their bellies full without breaking the bank, we always try to book a hotel that offers free breakfast (a huge money saver when you travel with ravenous teens) and a way to cook at least a few meals in the room. And we want free wifi to keep the teens connected to their friends. 

With this criteria in mind, we suggest the following hotel brands.

Residence Inns offer studio, one- and two-bedroom suites so the kids can have their own space, which is always nice (for the parents as well as the teens). There’s also free breakfast and wifi and full kitchens and grocery service. That means we can order groceries ahead and arrive with everything we need to feed the kids. 

Element Hotels are eco-friendly hotels that offer electric vehicle charging stations and a free Bikes to Borrow program, which is great for getting kids (and parents) moving after a long day in the car. There’s a free breakfast and a full kitchen in the room. And Element Hotels feature those super comfy Westin Heavenly Beds. Sweet dreams!

TownePlace Suites have patios complete with Weber Grills, grilling tools, and seasoning so it’s easy to make dinner after a long day of driving. Then borrow a board game and see if you can interest the teens in a family game night.

All of these Marriott International Hotels can be booked with Marriott Bonvoy™ points. 

More Great Road Trip Ideas

• Awesome Road Trips Across the USA
• From Coasts to Canyons: 8 Road Trips to Experience the Best of America
• 30+ Fun Midwest Road Trip Ideas
• 8 Southeast USA Road Trip Ideas
• Best Vehicle for Road Trips: From EVs to SUVs to Pickup Trucks

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