5 Fabulous Glaciers To Visit In Alaska

We’re fast approaching the dead of winter. In many places, it will be extremely cold and starkly white. Inevitably, my first encounters with glaciers come to mind at this time. During three separate trips to Alaska — where my husband’s daughter and my sister have relocated — we visited five fabulous glaciers.

Glaciers form when more snow falls than melts over time, compacting into ice that may then begin to move from its own weight. This phenomenon often occurs in regions least reached by solar heat — near the poles, including Alaska, America’s last frontier. Here are the glaciers we recommend you visit when you go north.

1. Worthington Glacier In Valdez, Alaska

On our first trip in summertime, there were a lot of wildfires around Anchorage, so we proceeded to Valdez in the southeastern part of Alaska. There were a few showers on the way; the air was damp; a lot of fog hovered around. As we lost cell signals and our broadband communications, I exclaimed, “Gosh, the glaciers are puny around here! They’re just tiny patches of white.”

A few minutes later, as our RV negotiated a bend on Richardson Highway, a huge white mountain suddenly appeared. And we could walk to it from the roadside! It was Worthington Glacier. Visitors can park nearby and walk on the face of the glacier. My husband did; I chickened out. At almost 6,000 acres — which is small compared to others — Worthington Glacier is part of the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, it features great examples of areas where ice has accumulated and even terminal moraines, which form at the end of a glacier, denoting its maximum advance.

2. Surprise Glacier In Prince William Sound

The following week, we took the four-hour Glacier Bay Cruise from Whittier, Alaska, a small town of about 200 — which doubles during summer — on the western edge of south central Alaska. It’s only 62 road miles southeast of Anchorage, separated from mainland Alaska’s road system by a 2.5 mile long tunnel that is shared by alternating one-way auto and railroad traffic. Going through this tunnel turned out to be an experience in itself.

We rode in a high-speed catamaran with huge picture windows plus extensive outside viewing areas. While we were touring Resurrection Bay and the College Fjords, we learned about the three glacier types — alpine, or hanging from high places; piedmont, or at mountaintops; and tidewater, or on the water’s edge. The cruise took us to see 26 glaciers up close, some rising to 1,700 feet above sea level. They were all so beautiful that I began to not mind the cold and actually ventured outside to view them without obstruction.

As our vessel slowly approached Prince William Sound, a strikingly blue tidewater glacier suddenly appeared. It was quite a sight, like a scene before tragedy struck the Titanic. And that’s why it’s called the Surprise Glacier. It’s the most active tidewater glacier in the area. Many pieces had calved and were floating in the icy waters around us. We spotted sea otters playing around them. And then the crew served us glacial blue margaritas from the ice they harvested. This legendary Inside Passage cruise was one of our most exciting Alaska adventures.

Salmon Glacier in Alaska. — Carol Colborn

3. Salmon Glacier

That summer, on the way back to the lower 48, we drove down the Stewart-Cassiar Highway. It is also known as Glacier Highway, and it cuts through northern British Columbia. Again, I grew impatient because I did not see a glimpse of a glacier-topped mountain for a couple of hours — until we turned right to take a peek at the town of Stewart, British Columbia, toward the coast.

The bigger surprise, however, is the town of Hyder, Alaska, with its population of almost a hundred people, only two miles from Stewart’s border. We did not make it to Juneau, but there we were at its southernmost tip. The town gave us the unforgettable experience of driving up to the fifth largest glacier in North America. As we drove slowly up the hill, all of 15 miles from downtown Hyder and Stewart, the long glacier slowly made its appearance. When we reached the summit, we saw its entire extent. But the pictures I took do not give it any justice.

And the price we paid was high. The road was dirt/gravel all the way. And since it was also rainy that day, it was very muddy dirt/gravel. But there was no other way to get there.

During our visit, there was nothing commercial about the towns of Stewart or Hyder because it was already off-season. No one even wanted to take my husband out fishing on a boat. But we were rewarded with a side show at Fish Creek, right at the foot of the hill. A good-sized black bear showed up and for about 30 minutes hunted for and devoured the salmon he found there. We could not stop clicking our cameras. We saw firsthand why it is called Salmon Glacier.

4. Exit Glacier In Seward

The following year, we returned to Alaska. Although we flew in that time, we rented an RV to camp at other places we had not covered. One of the weekends, we headed off to the town of Seward at the mouth of Kenai Fjords National Park. I felt that Whittier was prettier (yes, it rhymes) despite being smaller. It was already off-season in Seward, and well into fall, so there was hardly a soul on the waterfront. That said, the boats were all still moored on the marina and the shops were still open.

Eight and a half miles west of the town is the area’s prized landmark. It’s where you can get close to the famous Exit Glacier. Part of the huge Harding Ice Fields (which span 500 square miles), it is so named because it has been receding slowly since the earliest recorded terminus in 1815 — the recordings are so marked all along the way — about two miles from the most recent one. One can imagine the extent of the former glacier from the marshland it continues to create at its foot. I decided to try to finally walk on the glacial ridge as my husband did at the Worthington Glacier in Valdez the previous year. But it was extremely cold. It felt like I was inside a freezer. I quickly turned back after the very short photo op. If you are uncomfortable in the cold, like I am, it’s probably better to go during summer.

5. Matanuska Glacier North Of Anchorage, Alaska

We first saw a glimpse of the Matanuska Glacier on our very first trip to Alaska — driving to Anchorage from Tok — at the view deck of the State Recreation Area at Milepost 101. But at that time we could not find out how to get closer to it. Before our third trip to Alaska, I saw pictures of my husband’s daughter and her husband walking on the glacier. We finally had people we could ask for directions. So, on this third trip, we went with my sister and her husband. The access is at Mile Post 102, 100 miles northeast of Anchorage off Glenn Highway.

The directions included driving through an “unsafe road” to the small cabin office two miles down the valley. There, we paid an entrance fee of $20 and drove another two miles to park next to the glacier. Then we braved the challenging, muddy, and slippery hike — these conditions are the same even during summer — on the ice to get closer to its face. Using the cleats lent to us by my husband’s daughter, we had a great time exploring the glacier on our own. So, on this third try, I finally did walk on a glacier. Another item on my bucket list ticked off.

It was no mean feat because, at 27 miles long and 4 miles wide, Matanuska Glacier is the largest glacier accessible by car in the U.S. It is a valley glacier like Worthington and moves quite a bit, flowing like a river under its weight — about a foot a day. It began its retreat to its present-day location about 10,000 years ago. With no significant change in mass for the past two decades, it still feeds Alaska’s Matanuska River.

There are other places where you can find glaciers. But Alaska is where you can find many that are car accessible, walkable, and photographable. Go during summertime and you will have unparalleled thrills.

Want an arctic adventure? Experience the midnight sun: what it is and why it’s worth a trip, and learn about visiting the arctic circle responsibly: seven things to know.

13 Fantastic Things To Do In Oxford, Mississippi

Named for the university town in England, Oxford, Mississippi, has also made a name for itself in terms of higher education and culture. While it’s home to the state’s flagship university, there’s much more to this town than the University of Mississippi.

Located just 100 miles from Memphis, Oxford boasts a rich literary tradition, important Civil War history, and ties to the civil rights movement. Each year, thousands of tourists delight in its beauty and cosmopolitan feel, characteristics usually associated with cities many times its size.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Oxford.

Ole Miss campus in Oxford. — Bryan Pollard / Shutterstock

1. University Of Mississippi — Ole Miss

Oxford wouldn’t be Oxford without the University of Mississippi, and a stop here is worth your vacation time. There’s a reason why national outlets including Architectural Digest routinely name the campus one of the most beautiful in the country.

Ole Miss, founded back in 1848, radiates out from the Lyceum. This Greek Revival masterpiece has seen turbulent times: It served as a hospital during the Civil War, and the bullet holes that dot its columns are reminders of the horrific violence that erupted when James Meredith enrolled as the university’s first African-American student in 1962.

Beyond the Lyceum, the campus sprawls over thousands of acres covered in magnolias, live oaks, and massive pines. It’s worth spending part of a day here to bask in the beauty of the park-like setting.

2. University Of Mississippi Museum

From fine art to scientific instruments to ancient artifacts, the collections at the University of Mississippi Museum are a delight to explore. Consider stopping here for a fascinating look at the university’s past and its commitment to arts and culture.

At the museum, you’ll see some 19th-century tools used to teach Ole Miss students physics and astronomy, as well as Roman and Greek pottery and coins. There’s an impressive collection of American art, too; it was bequeathed to the university by individual donors and artists.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; admission is free.

Rowan Oak, William Faulkner's house. — James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

3. William Faulkner’s Rowan Oak

While it’s technically a part of the University of Mississippi Museum, Rowan Oak sits to the south of the Ole Miss campus. The stately home was where Nobel laureate William Faulkner lived for four decades until his death in 1962. In 1972, the writer’s family sold the complex to the University of Mississippi on the condition that it would serve as a museum and a place for people to learn about Faulkner’s work.

While the grounds are open to the public and free to roam, it costs $5 to step inside the 150-year-old home and see the rooms where the literary giant lived and worked; even his iconic portable Underwood is on display.

Fans can also pay homage to Faulkner at the Oxford Memorial Cemetery, where the writer and his entire family are buried. Visitors often leave trinkets, including coins and bottles of bourbon, on his grave. It’s customary to take a shot and then leave the rest as a tribute to the legendary wordsmith.

4. Historic Oxford Town Square

The beating heart of Oxford is its historic town square. This charming, quintessential small-town setting includes restaurants, galleries, boutiques, and specialty shops (we’ll get to those later), all clustered around the Lafayette County Courthouse, which was rebuilt after the original structure was burned by Union troops during the Civil War.

This spot has been Oxford’s economic and social hub since the town’s founding back in the 1830s. It’s the perfect place to take a seat and do some serious people-watching!

Inside the Oxford Treehouse Gallery. — Oxford Treehouse Gallery

5. Art Galleries

Oxford is renowned for both the quantity and quality of its art galleries. Many feature everything from fine art to folk art and everything in between, so you’re guaranteed to find something that captures your interest.

Oxford Treehouse Gallery

The Oxford Treehouse Gallery, just outside town and tucked into a pine grove, is a gorgeous spot featuring pieces from more than 20 regional artists.

Southside Gallery

Southside Gallery is conveniently located in the town square. It showcases works by artists from the Southeast and hosts monthly exhibits plus artist receptions.

Gallery 130

Gallery 130, located on the campus of Ole Miss, is a gem featuring works by student artists. It also hosts shows for visiting professional artists and is open to the public from Monday through Friday.

Oxford Art Crawl

To get a great overall feel for Oxford’s art scene, consider taking part in the Oxford Art Crawl, which takes place on the fourth Tuesday of most months from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A courtesy bus drops participants off at each gallery, allowing them to check out the exhibits and pop-up shows at each stop.

6. Burns-Belfry Museum & Multicultural Center

To learn more about the lives and history of Oxford’s African-American residents, a stop at the Burns-Belfry Museum & Multicultural Center should be on your agenda.

The museum is housed in the Burns Methodist Episcopal Church, built by freed African Americans in 1910. When the congregation moved to another building in the 1970s, the church became an office building called the Belfry. Eventually, author and Oxford native John Grisham bought the building and donated it to two non-profits, tasking them with its preservation.

The Burns-Belfry now has a dual purpose: It serves as a venue for community meetings and events, and it also houses a museum that details the history of the church and the people who attended services there.

Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

7. Holly Springs National Forest

There are several places in and around Oxford where you can take advantage of terrific recreational opportunities. Less than an hour to the northwest, Holly Springs National Forest is a popular outdoor stop nestled amidst northern Mississippi’s iconic pine woods. There are hiking trails past several lakes and cypress swamps, and camping sites are available for the truly adventurous.

Sardis Lake in Oxford, Mississippi. — traveler jordan / Shutterstock

8. Sardis Lake

Sardis Lake, a 45-minute drive from the center of Oxford, is the spot where locals go for time on the water. First built in the 1930s as a flood-control facility, the lake is now a top recreation spot, offering beaches, boating, and great fishing.

9. Avent Park

In town, Avent Park features sports fields, a walking trail, and plenty of quiet nooks that are perfect for picnicking.

10. Bailey’s Woods Trail

And if you’re looking to make the trip from Ole Miss to Rowan Oak, skip the car ride and head out on Bailey’s Woods Trail, a wooded path that connects the two sites. It will take you just 20 minutes and is a great way to get some exercise while you sightsee.

11. Boutiques In Oxford

Oxford has more than its fair share of terrific boutiques and specialty shops, so you’re bound to find the perfect presents and souvenirs.

Square Books

At Square Books in the town square, you’ll find everything from rare first editions to paperback bestsellers. Square routinely hosts book signings and other literary events.

Katherine Beck

For upscale gifts, stop by Katherine Beck. This sweet boutique does big business catering to the sorority scene at Ole Miss; it offers jewelry and home decor items.

Cicada

For carefully curated on-trend fashion pieces, Cicada has got you covered. This luxe women’s boutique features labels including Rebecca Taylor, Helmut Lang, Vince, and Alexis Bittar, among others.

12. Neilson’s Department Store

While not a boutique, Neilson’s is a must stop during your time in Oxford. Situated near the courthouse, this historic department store dates back to 1839, making it one of the South’s oldest retail outlets. Offering clothes, cosmetics, and home accessories, Neilson’s is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

13. Ajax Diner

Serving up Southern soul food so good it gets its own shout-out here is Ajax Diner. Located in the town square and full of colorful, kitschy decor, Ajax has long been a local favorite, routinely making best-of lists for everything from its cornbread to its plate lunches.

Offering regional favorites including catfish, fried chicken, turnip greens, po’boys, and red beans and rice, this diner is the place to go at the end of a busy day when you’ve really worked up an appetite.

Don’t sleep on the squash casserole (it’s amazing!), and be sure to save plenty of room for dessert. The pecan pie is to die for!

The Best Things To See And Do In Davenport, Iowa

The largest of the Quad Cities, Davenport, Iowa, has much to offer visitors. Located halfway between Chicago and Des Moines, Iowa, it possesses a vibrant arts and culture scene that mixes well with its industrial past. While recent flooding took its toll near the riverfront, the town is on the rebound and ready for visitors once again.

From perusing museums to shopping, wandering historic neighborhoods, and exploring the Mississippi riverfront, there’s something for everyone in this charming Midwestern city.

Here are a few of our favorite things to see, do, and experience in Davenport.

View of Government Bridge in Davenport, Iowa, USA — Mark Zhu / Shutterstock.com

Explore The Historic Riverfront

Perhaps the best introduction to Davenport is a stroll down the riverfront that helped put the city on the map.

A great place to start your stroll is Lindsay Park. This 31-acre expanse borders the Village of East Davenport, which is worth a closer look for its shops and cafes. The paved trail will take you by some of the park’s best amenities, including its playgrounds, historic firehouse, and yacht club. It meanders along the mighty Mississippi, offering beautiful views and perfect places to picnic.

Centennial Park, a larger green space closer to downtown, is another scenic stretch worth visiting. In the summer, it’s a bustling area with a splash park; it’s also home to Modern Woodmen Park, a minor league baseball field where the Quad Cities River Bandits play.

Take In The Art At The Figge

You can’t miss the Figge Art Museum. The eye-catching glass building sits on the banks of the Mississippi in downtown Davenport.

The museum first opened in 1925 as the Davenport Municipal Art Gallery; it was run by the city until 2005, when a major gift allowed it to construct and open its new building, plus transfer care of its permanent collection to a nonprofit organization.

The Figge features artwork from around the world, spanning six centuries. Revolving special exhibits include works by contemporary artists. This special spot is an absolute gem and well worth your precious vacation time.

Admission costs $10 for adults. The Figge is open Tuesday through Sunday, and there are evening hours every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Vander Veer Botanical Park in Davenport. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Stop To Smell The Roses

Head just north of downtown Davenport for a true Victorian-era experience.

The Vander Veer Botanical Park was founded in 1885 and modeled after New York’s Central Park. Vander Veer is a favorite venue for weddings and parties, and after a stop here, you’ll see why.

The gorgeous green space features a historic rose garden, a children’s garden with sculptures, an indoor conservatory that routinely hosts flower shows, and a duck pond. Each season brings new delights: early spring bulbs, flowering shrubs in the summer, leaves ablaze in the autumn, and holiday decor and a poinsettia display in the winter.

Admission is free, and the park is open daily.

Channel Your Inner Science Guy (Or Gal)

The Putnam Museum, northwest of downtown, is one of the most interesting spots in Davenport.

Founded as one of the first museums west of the Mississippi more than 150 years ago, the Putnam has evolved into a premier Midwestern science center, with hands-on exhibits related to science, history, and the natural world for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Its Black Earth/Big River exhibit takes a fascinating look at the natural habitats of the Quad Cities; it features a large aquarium that houses native fish and reptiles. There’s also an IMAX theater on-site, which offers a fantastic 3-D movie experience.

The Putnam is open seven days a week; adult admission costs $9.

Learn About Davenport’s History

To learn about the immigrants who settled in Davenport, plan to visit the German American Heritage Center & Museum.

Housed in a historic hotel where German immigrants once stayed when they arrived in Davenport, this museum chronicles and explores their experience. Visitors will see how the group helped shape much of the Midwest. The museum features hands-on exhibits that help visitors better connect with and understand the immigrant journey to America.

The museum is open every day but Monday, and admission costs $5 for adults.

Take A Step Back In Time

To get an inside look at one of Davenport’s most eclectic homes, head to the Palmer Family Residence, located on the campus of the Palmer College of Chiropractic.

The grand residence, built in 1874, was home to B. J. and Mabel Palmer and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. B. J. Palmer’s father founded the chiropractic college that still bears the family name; he and Mabel loved to travel and bring home souvenirs from their adventures abroad. While much of their extensive collection was donated to the Putnam after their deaths, visitors can still see a large number of fantastic artifacts from Europe and Asia during tours of the mansion every Friday morning (or by appointment).

The tour costs $5 per person, and it lasts about an hour.

The bowling alley in Hotel Blackhawk. — Hotel Blackhawk

Go Bowling In A Basement

One of the most impressive, historic, and luxe places to stay in Davenport is the Hotel Blackhawk.

This brick-and-terra-cotta building was constructed in 1915 and has hosted celebrities from Babe Ruth and Tony Bennett to Hollywood legend Cary Grant. Grant fell ill in his suite here just before he was set to perform at the nearby Adler Theatre; he passed away at a nearby hospital.

After a long period of neglect, the Blackhawk was restored to its former glory in 2010, and the attention to detail is obvious once you step into the lobby, with its marble floors and gorgeous ceiling murals.

While staying, dining, and enjoying the spa here are all terrific treats, we especially loved the basement bowling alley, with its elevated pub grub and full-service bar. It’s the perfect place to really have some fun during your Davenport visit.

Find Your Groove At Bix Fest

If you’re fortunate enough to be visiting Davenport during the first weekend of August, you’re in for a real musical treat. That’s when the annual Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival (or Bix Fest) takes place downtown.

Named for the famous jazz cornet player who was born in Davenport in 1903, the four-day event draws enormous crowds and features a dazzling array of free concerts, jam sessions, and parties, all celebrating Bix’s life, career, and preferred genre of jazz.

People come from across the country for this festival, so if you’re considering a visit at this time, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance!

Eating In Davenport

Whether you’re in the mood for a small bite, a brewery stop, or a home-cooked sort of meal, Davenport has you covered. In addition to the delicious food, there’s another big bonus: Most establishments have gorgeous views of the mighty Mississippi, and during the warmer months, the patio scene is stellar!

Front Street Brewery is the oldest brewpub in Iowa (it opened in 1992). The beer list includes both lighter ales and darker porters and stouts, with taps rotating seasonally.

The Machine Shed is a Davenport classic that opened on the outskirts of town in 1978. While there are now six locations throughout the Midwest, the original is still a favorite with the locals in Davenport. From a hearty breakfast (check out the skillets!) to lunch and dinner, expect excellent comfort food here throughout the day.

Me & Billy, a kitchen and bar located downtown, serves up curated, seasonal cocktails alongside tasty noshes in a casual, classic setting.

For an elevated foodie experience, head to the Bix Bistro at the Blackhawk. This spot is famous for its Sunday brunch and adjacent lounge, which routinely features live jazz.

Shopping In Davenport

Sure, there’s mall shopping here, but for a charming, small-business experience, head to Davenport’s central neighborhoods.

The Freight House Farmers Market is held on weekends on the riverfront, bringing together dozens of farmers and vendors from across Iowa and Illinois. You’ll find a wide range of organic produce, baked goods, honey, and even craft items.

Head to East Davenport for a variety of boutiques offering clothing, jewelry, home goods, and accessories.

The Bucktown Artists’ Market, located in the Bucktown Center for the Arts, includes more than a dozen shops and studios offering one-of-a-kind, handcrafted works of art in all sorts of media.

Urban Farmhouse, located downtown, offers everything from candles to cozy blankets and throw pillows, all designed to make your home a happier, more comfortable place.

And to satisfy that sweet tooth, plan to stop at the Chocolate Manor. Located just south of the Adler Theatre, this local sweet shop creates confections including toffees, turtles, truffles, and chocolate-covered bacon that can be enjoyed in the shop or beautifully boxed to take home.

Planning a trip to Iowa? Don’t miss Cedar Rapids and Dubuque.

8 Unique Phoenix Restaurants To Try

A great restaurant is never far away in Phoenix, Arizona. In addition to its luxury resorts, lushly landscaped strip malls, and enormous sports complexes, the fifth-largest city in the United States features an ever-evolving menu of innovative eateries.

Still, plenty of historic and quirky settings exist as well. Think groves of citrus trees, ranching outposts, and quaint bungalows.

Less than a century ago, the sprawling metro area known as the Valley of the Sun was more about gritty agriculture than urban chic. As every Arizona student is taught, the state’s economy was built on the five c’s: copper, cattle, climate, cotton, and citrus.

It should come as no surprise that the city’s culinary scene showcases that rich and varied history. From former orchards to historic stockyards to repurposed old houses and churches, Phoenix boasts a host of distinctive and quirky restaurant venues.

Here are eight unique restaurants to try in the Phoenix area.

The front counter at The Farm Kitchen. — Cindy Barks

1. The Farm Kitchen At South Mountain

If a picnic lunch in the shade of leafy pecan trees sounds inviting, head to The Farm at South Mountain without delay. The casual Farm Kitchen is just one component of the cool green oasis tucked away from the traffic of south Phoenix.

The Farm at South Mountain dates back to the 1920s, when 100 pecan trees were planted. While the farm has evolved over the years, the pecan grove remains today. The land around it has been transformed into a charming venue that houses three separate eateries and several event spaces.

The Farm Kitchen is the most casual of the eateries, featuring wicker picnic baskets and a self-serve area with reasonably priced sandwiches, salads, pies, and cookies. After ordering, you can take your lunch to a picnic table in the shade of the pecan trees.

Another advantage of The Farm at South Mountain is its proximity to the South Mountain Preserve, a 16,000-acre park in south Phoenix with dozens of trails through pristine desert terrain. A trip to the farm and park makes for the perfect hike-and-lunch outing.

For a moderate hike amidst the cacti, consider South Mountain’s Mormon Trail, a 1.2-mile route that offers a summit view of the entire valley, stunning rock formations, and plenty of prickly chollas and towering saguaro cacti.

Although the hike features a fairly steep climb, about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, and rocky terrain, it is easier than Phoenix’s other summit climbs at Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, and the payoff is arguably comparable. The peak offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire metro area.

Allowing time for rests and photo breaks, the hike takes about 2 hours.

2. Luci’s At The Orchard

Part marketplace and part restaurant, Luci’s at the Orchard is a modern take on the classic Phoenix fruit stand. Built at the site of one of Arizona’s first citrus groves, the restaurant retains the land’s shady, rural atmosphere even as it exudes a modern vibe.

Families flock to the moderately priced central Phoenix complex that includes Luci’s brunch, lunch, and dinner spot and whimsical marketplace with indoor/outdoor seating. The space also features the kid-friendly gelato spot Splurge and the more upscale Pomelo.

For a spicy Southwestern brunch, try Luci’s popular chilaquiles, a mound of corn chips smothered in eggs, pulled pork, salsa, and potatoes.

Food from House Of Tricks. — Cindy Barks

3. House Of Tricks

Hearkening back to the days when Phoenix and nearby Tempe consisted of quiet streets of quaint bungalows, House of Tricks plays off its classic cottage setting. The result: a fine-dining experience just steps from the bustle of Tempe’s hectic Mill Avenue.

Located in a renovated 1920s-era home not far from the Arizona State University campus, House of Tricks is a refined spot for lunch or dinner. Seating choices range from tables next to a stone fireplace to bistro tables beneath massive shade trees and strings of lights on the outdoor patio.

Restaurant founders Robert and Robin Trick have long been a part of the Phoenix culinary scene, and it shows in their creative menu choices, such as the popular grilled-salmon-and-chive risotto cake salad, a delicious creation topped with crispy corn tortilla strips and chipotle-grapefruit vinaigrette.

The creative choices make House of Tricks worth the splurge for a fine-dining lunch or dinner.

4. Taco Guild

If a good taco is akin to a religious experience for you, you shouldn’t miss Taco Guild in central Phoenix.

Set in the old Bethel Methodist Church on Phoenix’s Osborne Avenue, Taco Guild features lofty wood-beamed ceilings set off by vivid jewel-toned stained glass windows and pews original to the church.

The building is bursting with Phoenix history. Vintage black-and-white photos line the walls, reminding visitors of weddings and other church functions from days gone by, while a concrete cornerstone at the building’s entrance carries an 1893 date.

Complementing the awe-inspiring setting is the restaurant’s menu, which along with its classic Mexican cuisine features creative taco choices such as Korean fried chicken and shrimp and jalapeno bacon.

For a fun and tasty appetizer, try the street corn trio, a combo featuring Mexican elote — spicy corn served on or off the cob — slathered with habanero butter and chipotle aioli.

The reasonably priced appetizers and entrees come with house-made tortilla chips and a choice of salsas.

Rock Springs Cafe in Phoenix. — Cindy Barks

5. Rock Springs Cafe

Located about 45 miles north of central Phoenix, Rock Springs Cafe along Interstate 17 has long been a staple for Phoenicians on weekend or day trips to northern Arizona.

For more than 100 years, the cafe has served as a stopping point for travelers. In the late 1800s, it was a water stop for miners, cattle drivers, and sheepherders on the Black Canyon Trail. It was also a stop on the stagecoach line that ran between Phoenix and Prescott, and it later became a gathering spot for area ranchers.

Over the years, the stop has evolved from a general store and hotel to the thriving cafe and bakery it is today.

Rock Springs Cafe has a menu rich with ranching favorites, including moderately priced chicken-fried steak, barbecued chicken, pulled pork, and smoked brisket. But no stop at the bakery would be complete without a slice of its signature cherry crumb pie a la mode.

6. Gertrude’s Restaurant

Phoenix is synonymous with the Sonoran Desert, and nowhere is the desert showcased more beautifully than at the Desert Botanical Garden. Towering saguaros and flowering wildflowers line the garden paths, all surrounded by Phoenix’s rugged mountain ridges.

For those who want to stop for refreshments in a desert setting, the garden’s Gertrude’s Restaurant offers a unique Phoenix dining experience. Named for Gertrude Divine Webster, an early environmentalist who founded the Desert Botanical Garden in 1939, the restaurant is known for its seasonal offerings that celebrate Arizona’s growers and producers in a sophisticated oasis setting.

Fresh herbs from Gertrude’s patio are found in most everything that is served, from the green chili hummus with herbed quark to the salmon toast with house greens and caper vinaigrette.

Open for brunch and lunch, Gertrudes offers moderately priced options.

7. Chelsea’s Kitchen

Central to Phoenix’s agricultural scene has long been the system of canals that carries water throughout the arid community.

And for a lovely view of the Phoenix canal, sit for a time on the shade-dappled patio of Chelsea’s Kitchen, an industrial-chic eatery described as an Arizona roadhouse.

The restaurant features a wood-burning rotisserie and grill along with a unique smokeyard and patio fireplace.

Located in the charming Arcadia neighborhood in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, Chelsea’s Kitchen offers a mashup of Southwestern fare and American comfort food. Try the short-rib tacos, deviled eggs, and green chili cornbread.

The lunch menu offers moderately priced options, while the dinner entrees are pricier. The combination of atmosphere and superior quality makes Chelsea’s worth the splurge.

8. The Stockyards Restaurant

Billed as Phoenix’s original steakhouse, The Stockyards Restaurant claims a history dating back to an early-1900s cattle baron, along with a stockyard that once held thousands of cattle within its 200 acres of cattle pens.

In the 1940s, The Stockyards Restaurant opened, quickly becoming a popular meeting place for cattlemen, bankers, and politicians. Although the cattle pens slowly gave way to urban development throughout the 1950s, the steakhouse remained.

The Stockyards Restaurant was restored in 2004, and the site was recently added to the local historical register, both for its place in the history of the Arizona cattle industry and its architectural style.

Staying true to its history, The Stockyards features steakhouse favorites such as prime rib, ribeye, and New York strips, along with classic sides like cowboy beans, twice-baked potatoes, creamed spinach, and mushroom skillet. Expect steakhouse prices for the beef options and more moderately priced chicken and pork choices.

For a sweet steakhouse dessert with a Southwestern twist, try the ancho chili brownie topped with cinnamon ice cream, Mexican chocolate sauce, and spiced candied pepitas.

Why You Should Visit The Churchill War Rooms In London

For more than seven decades, Winston Churchill served his country; first in the military, then in Parliament, and eventually in two terms as prime minister. His first four years as prime minister have captured the imaginations of biographers and moviemakers alike. Fifty years after his death, movies continue to be made about the man and his leadership during World War II. As recently as 2017, two major studio movies were released, Churchill and The Darkest Hour.

One of the best ways to understand this period in history is by visiting the Churchill War Rooms in London. This time capsule, located under the Treasury, offers a glimpse into the life and leadership of Churchill during the war.

Here are just some of the reasons to make time for the Churchill War Rooms on your next trip to London.

Inside the Cabinet War Rooms. — Uwe Aranas / Shutterstock

You’ll Learn Why An Underground Bunker Was Necessary

The devastation of World War I left Britain fearing what a future war would bring. In 1920, military leadership developed a plan to evacuate top government officials from London in the event of a major attack. But due to concerns about how this would be received by the residents of London, the plan was scrapped. This led to the concept of an emergency shelter within London. In 1938, the New Public Offices building was selected as the location for this shelter, since it had a large basement and a strong steel frame.

Now the top government and military officials had a secure place from which to direct war efforts. In 1939, one week before Britain declared war on Germany, the Cabinet War Rooms became fully operational. This space would be used until 1945. During the six years it was in use, there were frequent expansions to accommodate the growing staff needed to support Churchill and his top ministers and military leaders.

You’ll Get To Travel Back In Time To The 1940s

After the lights were turned out on the Churchill War Rooms in 1945, the space was left largely untouched for decades. In 1984, the space was opened as a museum under the management of the Imperial War Museums. As a result, visitors now have a glimpse of life in the 1940s.

Visitors to the Churchill War Rooms can witness the work spaces and technology of the era. To manage the large volume of calls coming in for all the military and government leaders, a switchboard room and a fleet of operators were needed. Another room is full of desks with typewriters that would have been occupied by women preparing reports for upcoming meetings. However, Churchill objected to the noise of the original typewriters used in the basement, so brand-new Remington “noiseless” models were imported from the United States.

The map room contains many telephones, some of which are fitted with scramblers, or devices intended to block others from overhearing calls. The new technology was very helpful in the 1940s, but unfortunately, it took up to 20 minutes for the scrambling device to warm up before each use; this made emergency calls impossible.

The Cabinet War Room. — Uwe Aranas / Shutterstock

It Was The Center Of British Operations During World War II

One of the first rooms visitors see is the Cabinet Room. Here, Churchill, his government ministers, and the heads of the military branches gathered 115 times to discuss all aspects of the war.

The Cabinet Room tables and chairs are set up in a large square, with the exception of three chairs placed in the center of the room. These were the “hot seats” for the heads of the Navy, Army, and Air Force. They sat facing Churchill so that he could look them in the eye as he peppered them with questions about progress and strategy.

The busiest and most important room during the war was the Map Room, with desks and phones filling the center of the room and paper maps covering the walls. It was here that the progress of Germany’s troops was tracked.

A bedroom in the underground bunker. — David Herraez Calzada / Shutterstock

You’ll Get A Taste Of Life Underground

Life in the underground bunker was tough. Many military and civilian staff members were expected to live in this dark, confined space. The size of the bedrooms coincided with rank, and the lowest-level personnel were relegated to tiny living quarters. Needless to say, privacy was limited.

Staff living underground had limited exposure to the sun, so they were expected to periodically stand in their underwear and protective eyewear in front of a sun lamp. Unfortunately, the sun lamp technology was new and unrefined, so sunburns often resulted from the overly strong light.

However, the men and women who lived there were deeply committed to their work, despite the uncomfortable setting. They knew they were a part of the war effort and were proud of it.

The Churchill War Rooms also provide a look at Churchill’s life during the war. He had his own bedroom and one for his wife, Clementine. However, Churchill didn’t enjoy being underground all night and would frequently slip out and sleep in a bedroom next to his aboveground office instead.

In a small kitchen nearby, Churchill’s personal chef, Georgina Landemare, prepared meals. This highly respected chef had offered her services to Churchill and his wife during the war despite the cramped conditions and the need to prepare meals from rations.

The entrance to the Churchill War Rooms and Museum. — I Wei Huang / Shutterstock

You’ll Learn About The Legacy Of Winston Churchill

Halfway through the tour of the War Rooms, visitors are encouraged to enter the Churchill Museum. Opened in 2005, the museum covers all 90 years of Churchill’s life, including his lonely childhood, his military and political careers, and his retirement. Hundreds of items are displayed, including his military uniforms, smoking jacket, favorite cigars, and the door of No. 10 Downing Street. The museum also features video and audio recordings of important moments in Churchill’s life.

The museum delves deep into Churchill’s life and legacy. During World War II, Churchill was perceived worldwide as a hero, but his overall legacy is much more complicated.

Over the course of his career, Churchill entered the army, ran for public office, worked as a war correspondent, wrote a novel, led and modernized the Navy, and served twice as prime minister of Britain. There were many successes, but also many failures. He switched party affiliation twice, a move that was both unusual and controversial.

A highlight of the Churchill Museum is The Lifeline, a high-tech, 50-foot touchscreen table that allows visitors to scroll through thousands of documents and photos from Churchill’s life and career. Not only is The Lifeline loaded with great details about Churchill, but it also shows world events that were taking place at the same time. It does an excellent job putting Churchill’s life and legacy in context.

Inside the Churchill War Rooms. — Uwe Aranas / Shutterstock

You’ll Have Valuable Historical Context For Your London Vacation

It’s impossible to visit London and not hear about Churchill. And while most people have a general idea of his role in history, many don’t know the details.

A trip to the Churchill War Rooms is an excellent way to learn more about the man who thwarted Hitler’s Third Reich. It’s also a great opportunity to peer inside the place where victory was discussed, plotted, and eventually achieved. Many other sights in London relate to this critical time in history, and the War Rooms provide valuable context.

The entrance to the Churchill War Rooms. — Willy Barton / Shutterstock

How To Visit The Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms have become increasingly popular with visitors to London, so purchasing a timed ticket online in advance is recommended. If possible, arrive close to opening at 9:30 a.m. The website recommends allowing at least 90 minutes for a visit, though many people stay longer due to the large number of exhibits.

This isn’t an ideal museum for young children, but it’s a great option for older children and those who have recently studied World War II in school.

London bound? Don’t miss these 10 free museums in the city. And when you’re ready for a break from the hustle and bustle, consider one of these eight amazing day trips from London.

These Are The Best Authentic Hawaiian Gifts And Souvenirs

The Aloha State is a tropical paradise that you’ll want to remember after you return home and can no longer smell the orchids in the air or hear the waves lapping the golden sand. The best way to keep your vacation memories fresh is with an only-found-in-Hawaii memento, but as many exceptional items as there are to choose from, there’s also a glut of foreign-made, schlocky souvenirs around that you might wind up grabbing in a hurry.

Here are a few authentic Hawaiian gift choices that are as unique as the islands themselves. You may even want to share these authentic bits of Hawaii with your friends and family to inspire them to visit the Aloha State.

Macadamia Nuts

Locally grown macadamia nuts have been produced in Hawaii since the late 1800s and are one of the delicious perks of spending time on the islands; you’ll find them gracing everything from breakfast pancakes to dinner entrees. Take a taste home with you with in candy form (you’ll see Hawaiian Host and Mauna Loa treats in most grocery shops and the ubiquitous ABC Stores — including versions dipped in chocolate or combined with coconut), plain or salted in jars, or mixed into spreads, coffee, or cookies, with prices starting at around $5 for a box of chocolate and nut candy.

Kona Coffee

The gold standard for coffee aficionados, these rich, flavorful beans are only grown on the volcanic slopes of the Big Island, making them both rare and pricey. Expect to pay a premium for any 100 percent Kona variety (about $22 for half a pound), or choose a blend in which Kona is combined with other varietals for a more affordable option (about $7 for half a pound).

Koa Wood Carvings

Koa trees only grow in Hawaii at high altitudes, and local carvers use the deep chocolate- and cherry-colored hardwood to craft everything from delicate chopsticks to large wooden bowls that are both decorative and useful. Due to its rarity, Koa products can carry large price tags. The KoaWood Ranch on the Big Island of Hawaii sells heirloom quality koa housewares; a handcrafted medium bowl carved by a local artisan cost around $300, while wood wine stoppers are around $50.

Colorful leis on a rock in Hawaii. — Valeria Venezia / Shutterstock

Lei

As a visitor, you’ll most likely receive a lei — either one of fragrant flowers or polished kuikui nuts — as a lovely welcome gift when you arrive at the airport or your hotel. Traditionally, leis are also used as tokens of appreciation and affection throughout the Hawaiian islands, and they make a fabulous gift to bring home to friends and family (or just keep one for yourself, we won’t tell anyone)! Leis start at about $12 for simple, single strands and can go as high as $80 for specialty items crafted from ti leafs and ginger flowers.

If you’re on Oahu, be sure to shop on Maunakea Street, which is known for its accomplished lei crafters. (Note that citrus flowers and a few others are not allowed to enter the mainland U.S. per the USDA).

Anahola Granola

Bring this handcrafted cereal made in Kauai and sold in gourmet stores around the state ($14 for 12 ounces) home with you and it will make it feel like you’re still eating breakfast in Hawaii every day, even though it might not be quite as sunny. The secret to this super delicious granola are its locally sourced ingredients, including Hawaiian honey, macadamia nuts, coconut, papaya, and pineapple.

An artist at the Lahaina Galleries. — Lahaina Galleries

Original Artwork

There’s no better way to guarantee that you’re purchasing authentic and unique items than to go directly to the source — in this case, the artists who created them. Lahaina Town on Maui is full of galleries and is a particularly good destination to source original artwork, whether you’re after paintings, ceramics, or jewelry. Start at the Lahaina Galleries, which house multiple artists to get a taste of what’s available, then wander around the banyan-tree filled plaza to discover other galleries. Although original paintings can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, note that you can often buy prints of popular works starting at $20.

Aloha Attire

If you’re thinking “authentic” island clothing, forget about loud prints on polyester “Hawaiian” shirts. Authentic aloha wear, the preferred name, is graced by images that are associated with Hawaii — think orchids, waves, volcanoes, surfboards — on clothing, and (this is the important part in a tropical climate) that breathes and is comfortable in the heat. Hilo Hattie has stores on all four of the major islands (Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai), and is known for its gorgeous fabrics and stylish options, including lovely pareos ($25) and sundresses (from $25) for women, and vintage-inspired short sleeve, button-down, collared shirts for men (from $35) all made in Hawaii.

Still trying to decide where to go in Hawaii? These are the best things to do along Maui’s luxurious Wailea Beach, plus how to do Hawaii’s Big Island in one day.