25 Things To Expect When Visiting New Orleans For The First Time

New Orleans is a city unlike any other in the United States. For starters, it’s one of the oldest cities in the country. It boasts a unique, rich culture, the result of African, French, Spanish, and Creole influences coming together in an incredible melting pot. Its food, music, and architecture reflect this diverse heritage and draw millions of visitors every year.

Here are 25 things you can expect when visiting this unforgettable city for the very first time.

The French Quarter in New Orleans. — f11photo / Shutterstock

The Basics

1. Be prepared: The party never stops. New Orleans is famous for over-the-top celebrations that pop up as quickly as a summer storm. In NOLA, people hold parades for weddings, birthdays, funerals, and even Sunday brunch. You will find a reason to celebrate around every corner. Embrace it.

2. There’s much more to New Orleans than the French Quarter, but focus on the city if it’s your first time in town. There’s plenty to cram in — too much — in the city’s heart and surrounding neighborhoods. Uptown, Marigny, and the Garden District are other must-explore spots. Make sure you wander outside the Quarter at least once or twice.

Of course, if you can’t get enough of this area, book one of the many hotels in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

3. Some of the top attractions are free, including City Park, the French Market, Jackson Square, Saint Louis Cathedral, and the New Orleans Museum of Art. Seek out these places, and soak it all in! They’re easy on the budget, and you’ll have a great time exploring.

4. Bring a good pair of walking shoes; you will walk a lot, so make sure your feet are happy. In New Orleans, it’s not unusual to walk several miles in a single day. Your Fitbit will be thrilled, and you’ll burn off some of those big Cajun meals!

5. Bring a little cash. New Orleans is a place that’s always marched to the beat of its own drum. To this day, legendary sites like Cafe du Monde and the streetcars don’t take plastic or Apple Pay! Plan to have a few bucks with you at all times so that you’re not stuck looking for an ATM.

6. Don’t call it the Big Easy. No one in New Orleans calls it that. Ever. You shouldn’t, either.

A local band in New Orleans. — Peek Creative Collective / Shutterstock

Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler

7. You’ll hear music everywhere — it’s inescapable. On the streets, in bars, and in hotel lobbies, jazz and blues are king. Even if you don’t have tickets to a show, plan to stop in and listen whenever possible. Impromptu shows go on at all hours in NOLA.

8. You’ll eat more than you ever thought possible, so embrace it. You can diet later, but for now, enjoy all of the fantastic food this city is known for: gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po’boys. And don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path when it comes to dining; you won’t regret it!

9. The bar scene is unreal! You’ll want to check out more than a few bars and taverns — from hole-in-the-wall treasures to lavish hotel venues — for incredibly crafted cocktails and old standards.

10. And yes, you can bring a drink anywhere. There are no laws against open containers here. Grab a cold one in a plastic cup, and bring it along with you as you shop and stroll. Just be sure to pace yourself!

11. About those beads: If it’s not Carnival season, resist the urge to buy and wear them. Off-season, they scream tourist — and, quite frankly, look silly. The best beads are the ones tossed to you from a Mardi Gras float — there’s no need to fake it!

St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

The History

12. You’ll sense the mix of cultures everywhere, from the historic street signs in Spanish to the architecture to the chicory coffee. New Orleans is a place like no other, thanks to the many different groups that settled here hundreds of years ago. You’ll likely hear Cajun and Creole accents, further proof of this city’s enduring melting-pot culture.

13. You’ll feel like you’ve left America behind, with New Orleans’s uniquely European, Caribbean, and African look and feel. But you won’t even need your passport!

14. The Mississippi River runs through the city and serves as its beating heart. Visitors should absolutely make time for a walk along its banks. The river was an entry point to America for hundreds of thousands of people in our country’s early days. Today, the area is home to fun shops and cafes — and, of course, plenty of places to eat and drink.

15. The cemeteries are truly unique. Since New Orleans is below sea level, the deceased are placed in aboveground tombs. On your first visit, make time to tour at least one of the city’s historic cemeteries. You’ll see some famous names and be wowed by the craftsmanship.

Streetcars in downtown New Orleans. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Transportation And Accommodations

16. The streetcar (not trolley!) is cheap, efficient, and fun. Locals and tourists alike take both the lines up to the Garden District and Uptown and down to Canal Street. You should plan at least a couple of rides on this old favorite.

17. Taxis are plentiful in the Quarter, and Uber and Lyft are accessible at all times from your phone, wherever you are. It’s easy to access transportation here if you’re in a rush or tired.

18. It’s not necessary to rent a car in New Orleans, especially if you’re spending all of your time in the city. Parking can be a hassle and expensive, and in a place as walkable as New Orleans, you won’t need a car unless you’re planning on taking a day trip from the city.

19. There are terrific lodging options everywhere. New Orleans has long been a prime convention and meeting destination, and so there are plenty of hotels, from large chains to smaller boutique options. To really get a feel for the city, and for a more homey, intimate feel, consider a home-share such as a VRBO or Airbnb.

The French Quarter of New Orleans. — amadeustx / Shutterstock

When To Visit

20. Summer’s a scorcher — there’s no getting around it. Temperatures here can easily reach the mid-90s, and the humidity makes the heat even more oppressive. If you visit during this time, stay hydrated (with non-alcoholic options!) and take breaks inside as needed.

21. Carnival season — or Mardi Gras — is much cooler, but more crowded. If you really want to get in on the party, head to New Orleans from Twelfth Night (early January) until the day before Ash Wednesday. That’s when Carnival is in full swing, with parties, parades, and fun. Many locals escape the city the week before Fat Tuesday for ski breaks. You’ll find some terrific lodging options, but you’ll pay a premium for them!

22. Jazz Fest, another NOLA fan favorite, takes place in late April and early May. At this much-anticipated event, the world’s best-known musicians play for thousands of fans. If you’re headed to New Orleans for this special event, be sure to book your tickets and accommodations early!

Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans. — travelview / Shutterstock

Other Things To Keep In Mind

23. You might have some somber moments. For all of the city’s good cheer, locals still talk about Hurricane Katrina and the havoc the storm wrought on their city. While neighborhoods have been rebuilt and residents have returned, the effects of the storm linger more than a decade later.

24. Prepare for the morning after. As we mentioned earlier, New Orleans is legendary for its well-earned party-hearty reputation. So, it should come as no surprise that you’ll likely see people hurting the next day. Once we were strolling along the Riverwalk and saw a young man vomit into a nearby garbage can. We didn’t bat an eye. Each morning, business owners and residents alike hose down Bourbon Street to get rid of the stink from the night before. While it might offend the senses of some, it’s just part of life here. Our advice: Hold your nose, shrug it off, and have fun anyway.

25. Expect surprises around every corner. From a jazz funeral parade to a second line celebrating a wedding or birthday, a fortune teller on Jackson Square, or a delightful antique shop on Royal, adventure awaits on nearly every corner of this cobblestone city. Enjoy it!

The Best Things To See And Do In Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham was established in 1871 when an abundance of iron, limestone, and coal was discovered in the area. As the production of steel grew, so did the city’s population. Now home to more than 210,000 people, Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama and provides a wide variety of things to do.

It’s easy to spend a day in the Steel City learning about the civil rights movement, hiking, indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, and browsing the city’s unique shops.

Here are some of the best things to do in the area.

Visit The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute was founded to educate visitors about the importance of civil rights, and, more broadly, human rights for all. A short video leads the way into the first exhibit, Barriers Gallery, which illustrates what segregation in the United States was like between the 1920s and the 1950s. Artifacts, posters, and videos are displayed in chronological order; exhibits cover everything from Jim Crow laws to the bus boycotts in Montgomery to Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech in Washington, D.C.

The Institute was constructed across the street from key locations such as Kelly Ingram Park, which was an important meeting point for civil rights groups, and 16th Street Baptist Church, where four children were killed during a hate bombing in the 1960s.

The Institute is open from Tuesday through Sunday. Allow 2 to 3 hours to make your way through the exhibits. Admission costs $15, but on Sundays, entrance is granted by donation.

Admire The Animals At The Birmingham Zoo

Although it’s relatively small, The Birmingham Zoo is home to everything from African elephants and hippos to endangered red pandas. The zoo frequently hosts special events and talks to promote education and animal conservation. At certain events, visitors can even feed the resident lorikeets and giraffes.

The Birmingham Zoo is open daily. You’ll need an hour or two to admire all the felines, monkeys, and birds. Admission costs $17 per person but is half off every Tuesday.

Statue at Vulcan Park. — Chara stagram / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy Panoramic Views At Vulcan Park

Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge, has become a symbol of Birmingham. You can see references to Vulcan around the city, but nothing beats the 50-ton cast iron statue of him on top of Red Mountain. Standing 56 feet tall in Vulcan Park, it’s the world’s largest cast iron statue and celebrates Birmingham’s role in the iron and steel industry.

The Vulcan statue alone is worth the drive to the top of the mountain. While the statue is the draw, the surrounding platform, which provides panoramic views of Birmingham, is the reason to stay. There is plenty of parking, and entrance to the park is free.

In addition to the view, you can also take in the Vulcan Museum, which documents the iron and steel history of the city. Admission costs $6.

Hike The Quarry Trail In Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve boasts more than 1,040 acres and 14 miles of hiking trails for outdoor lovers. Before Ruffner Mountain was the beautiful preserve it is today, it served as an iron-ore mine.

If you only have time to complete one hike, make it the 1.1-mile Quarry Trail around the ridge. It’s a moderately difficult trail with uneven terrain, but it provides access to other trails if you’d like to prolong your hike. One trail that branches from the Quarry Trail is the Hawk’s View Overlook Trail, a half-mile uphill trek to a gorgeous view of Birmingham.

Since the area was once a mining site, stay on the trails and don’t get too close to the edges — the ground may be unstable. A $3 donation is suggested for using the trails.

Railroad Park in Birmingham, Alabama. — Redbeard1 / Shutterstock.com

Stroll Through Railroad Park

Railroad Park is a 19-acre green escape in the center of town. The man-made park features 600 trees, countless flowers, and a lake in the center. During construction, bricks, cobblestones, and other materials were uncovered; these were repurposed into the walls and benches that line the grounds.

The park is equipped with a playground, skate area, gym, and several trails for walking, running, and jogging. A little less than a mile, the loop around the perimeter of Railroad Park is one of the most popular. The park is free to the public and is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

You can also drive through the nearby Rainbow Tunnel, an underpass that is lit up with colorful lights in the evening.

Explore The Sloss Furnaces

Where there is iron production, there must be furnaces! A National Historic Landmark, the Sloss Furnaces commemorate the beginnings of Birmingham. After operating for almost 90 years, the Sloss Furnaces were abandoned in 1971 due to the Clean Air Act. After undergoing renovations, they opened to the public.

Today, the site is equipped with a short introductory video and exhibits, and visitors can take a self-guided tour to learn about the history of the furnaces, the iron-production process, and the people who once worked at the site. It’s captivating walking through the site and seeing the giant, rusting contraptions; you can easily imagine the site as it was just 50 years ago.

The Sloss Furnaces are open Tuesday through Sunday and are free to visit.

Eating In Birmingham

Birmingham offers a wonderful selection of international cuisine, specialty food shops, and classic Southern fare.

Here are some places to grab a bite in the Steel City.

Pizitz Food Hall

A Birmingham original, Pizitz Food Hall is situated in the heart of downtown. The building operated as an eight-story department store until its closure in 1988. Since 2017, when the building was restored, the hall has grown to include 14 food stalls. With so many options, you can choose whatever cuisine your stomach desires, from traditional cheeseburgers at The Standard to Ethiopian injera flatbed at Ghion Cultural Hall. Conveniently, Pizitz has its own parking structure and allows 2 hours of parking free of charge.

Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q

You’re in the South, after all, so a stop at a juicy barbecue spot is a must. Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q is happy to oblige your taste buds with pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue plates (two trimmings and a sauce), and small plates of nachos or queso dip. However, the real showstoppers are the cheese biscuits that are provided at the beginning of each meal, free of charge. They’re fluffy, salty yet sweet, and most of all, cheesy. Jim ’N Nick’s sells bags of the cheese biscuit mix, and they fly off the shelves!

Church Street Coffee & Books

Located in a cozy corner of Birmingham called Mountain Brook, Church Street Coffee & Books is the perfect place to go either before or after visiting the Birmingham Zoo. Part coffee shop, part bookstore, Church Street serves up the best reads with some strong brews. In addition to being highly knowledgeable about new books, the staff members are known for their specialty Breakup Cookie, a large soft-baked cookie with melted chocolate chips and a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

Steel City Pops

Steel City Pops, a local favorite, whips up popsicles that are fruity, creamy, paleo, or even cookie. All the popsicles are made from local ingredients that are natural and unrefined. Visiting Steel City Pops is truly an experience. Not only do you choose your pop, but you also have the option to make it gourmet. You can dredge it or dip it in milk, dark, or white chocolate and then garnish it with an assortment of toppings, including sprinkles, fruit, and cookie crumbles. Choose from pre-made gourmet recipes in-store or create your own concoction. Some popular options include s’mores, pecan praline, and strawberry milkshake.

The front counter at Yellowhammer Creative. — Yellowhammer Creative

Shopping In Birmingham

In Birmingham, there are a lot of independently owned shops and boutiques that specialize in unique and creative goods.

One such shop is Marguerite’s Conceits, which sells bed and bath goodies such as lotions, bath soaps, bath bombs, and scrubs. Since it’s a short walk from Church Street Coffee & Books, you can grab a hot brew and walk through the quaint streets of Mountain Brook to look for fun gifts.

Set within Pizitz Food Hall, Yellowhammer Creative is full of hand-printed cards, posters, stickers, T-shirts, and bags. The designs are all quirky and unique to the brand. Many of the goods available center on Birmingham, so Yellowhammer is the perfect place to purchase fun souvenirs for loved ones (or for yourself!).

Although it’s a little bit of drive outside of Birmingham, The Blue Willow provides unique home goods and decor. If you’re looking for goods full of Southern charm, you’ll find them here. If you want to take it one step further for someone special, the shop even provides monogramming on fabric, glass, and metalware.

7 Quick Things To Know About Germany’s Charming Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Picture a small Bavarian town. Colorful, historic buildings line cobblestone streets, vines crawl up the sides of medieval buildings, and street vendors call out to you as you make your way toward the bustling city square. It’s a quaint, idyllic community that can’t possibly exist in modern times — and that’s Rothenburg ob der Tauber in a nutshell.

Set in Germany’s Franconia region, Rothenburg ob der Tauber (literally, “Red Fortress above the Tauber”) is a fascinating destination full of historically significant landmarks and enchanting architecture. Here are a few quick facts to keep in mind while planning your visit.

The streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. — Olena Z / Shutterstock

1. According To Legend, It Was Saved In A Drinking Contest

This is the type of legend that you’ll only hear in Germany: During the 30 Years’ War, the Count of Tilly successfully besieged Rothenburg. He declared that the town’s councilmen would be executed — and the councilmen responded by presenting their conqueror with an enormous 3.25-liter cup of wine.

The count said that he would spare the councilmen if someone could drink the wine in one attempt. Rothenburg’s mayor, Georg Nusch, stepped up — and saved the town with a single magnificent gulp. Granted, the legend probably isn’t true, but it’s still an important part of the city’s lore.

Different flavors of Schneeball. — Hans / Pixabay

2. It Has Its Own Pastry

The Schneeball is unquestionably Rothenburg’s greatest culinary contribution. Created more than 300 years ago, it’s a ball of fried dough covered in confectioners’ sugar and sometimes augmented with caramel, chocolate, or other flavorings.

Think of the Schneeball as the snowball version of a cookie. You can find them throughout Rothenburg in coffeehouses and bakeries, and they’re essential fare for sweet-toothed travelers.

Aerial view of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. — Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock

3. It’s One Of The Best-Preserved Medieval Cities In Germany

Many of Rothenburg’s buildings were constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries (though many are rebuilt, as we’ll discuss in a moment). One of the town’s historically significant structures is the Staudt House, which was built in the 12th century and has been owned by the Staudt family since 1644.

The Staudts became nobility under Hapsburg rule, and the black-and-yellow colors of the Hapsburgs make frequent appearances on the house’s dressings. In recent years, the city has leaned into its legacy, and even the newer buildings feature medieval styling and architecture.

4. It Was Rebuilt After World War II

During World War II, Rothenburg ob der Tauber was a German stronghold, and many of its architectural landmarks were destroyed by the Allied Forces in 1945. By that point, the town was already a symbol of Bavarian tradition, and it was carefully recreated to pay tribute to that history. That meant restoring the centuries-old buildings to their original specifications.

Today, many tourists are unaware of that history. While Rothenburg appears perfectly preserved, it only maintained its cultural status through a painstaking (and expensive) reconstruction process.

Houses in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. — Olena Z / Shutterstock

5. For Centuries, It Was A Free Imperial City

From 1274 to 1803, Rothenburg was mostly independent, since its ruler answered only to the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. That independence is an important part of Rothenburg’s cultural heritage.

The city celebrates its history on the first weekend of each September, when historical groups gather in Rothenburg to celebrate the eras of its past. Essentially, the town enjoys a giant Renaissance festival, which is just as charming as it sounds.

The medieval entrance gate to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. — Christian Mueller / Shutterstock

6. It Has An Incredible Wall

How do you maintain your status as a free imperial city? Well, for starters, you’ll need some high-quality walls. Rothenburg certainly has that covered — the town still has its fortifications!

Travelers can visit each gate and tower by taking walking tours. Many of these structures were originally built in the 13th century, and the famous Markus Tower and Roder Arch date back to the 12th century.

Saint James's Church in Rothenburg. — Victor FlowerFly / Shutterstock

7. It’s Home To A Beautiful Gothic Church

Since 1485, Saint James’s Church has been a prominent part of the Rothenburg skyline. It houses the Altar of the Holy Blood, a priceless work of art created sometime between 1499 and 1505. The altar is one of woodcarver Tilman Riemenschneider’s masterpieces.

Inside the church, stained glass windows tell the story of Rothenburg. With its gorgeous Gothic arches, towering spires, and imposing lancet windows, the church is truly an essential stop.

Christmas time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. — irakite / Shutterstock

Rothenburg ob der Tauber makes a great destination for a day trip, but given the town’s incredible history, it’s also a wonderful place to spend a few days. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time — no other city showcases medieval Bavarian culture in quite the same way, and if you’re interested in German history, Rothenburg certainly deserves a place on your bucket list.

5 Excellent Weekend Getaways In Ohio

You might not guess that Ohio is in the top 10 in the United States in terms of population. But with major metropolitan areas such as Cincinnati and Cleveland and a total footprint of more than 40,000 square miles, Ohio is the seventh-largest state by population in the U.S. It touches the Great Lakes in the north and the Appalachian Mountains in the south.

Ohio is generally considered the eastern edge of the Midwest. So while the majority of the state has a Midwestern feel, there are some towns that have more of an East Coast vibe. Of the three major cities, Cleveland feels like an East Coast city, Columbus feels like the Midwest, and Cincinnati, on the Kentucky border, feels like the South.

There’s so much to experience in this surprisingly large and diverse state. Here are five places that would be perfect for an Ohio weekend getaway.

Skyline of Cincinnati, Ohio. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

1. Cincinnati

Cincinnati is 2 hours from everywhere. It’s 2 hours from Indianapolis, Indiana; 2 hours from Louisville, Kentucky; 2 hours from Columbus; and 2 hours from Huntington, West Virginia. Okay, it may not be 2 hours from everywhere, but for those in the Midwest, Cincinnati is going to be a fairly short drive away.

The best place to stay is near downtown. Cincinnati is fairly compact, and many of its attractions (and hotels and restaurants) are located near the Ohio River. A stay downtown will give you access to almost everything, including the riverfront, which is home to the stadiums of the Cincinnati Reds and the Cincinnati Bengals. If you time your vacation right, you could take in a game.

What are the best spots to visit while you’re in town? A visit to Eden Park provides several options, including the Krohn Conservatory, an indoor botanical garden with frequent butterfly shows; the Cincinnati Art Museum; and the Vietnam War Memorial.

There’s also the Over-The-Rhine Historic District. At the center is the lively Findlay Market, a public market that’s been in operation since 1852. You could spend all day in this area exploring all of the restaurants and shops.

And if you’re going to visit Cincinnati for a weekend, you’ll have to try some of the city’s famous chili. Skip the fast-food places and go to one of the originals like Camp Washington Chili. The best way to try it? Five-way chili, or chili with spaghetti, beans, onions, and cheese. It might sound strange, but it’s a Cincinnati staple, and it’s definitely the way to go.

Aerial view of Put-In-Bay, Ohio. — LukeandKarla.Travel / Shutterstock

2. Put-In-Bay

An island? In Ohio? Yes, there’s an island getaway in Ohio. Located in Lake Erie not too far off the lake edge from Sandusky, Ohio, Put-in-Bay (that’s Put-in-Bay, not Putin Bay) is a very popular summer getaway in the state.

It’s a short ferry ride from Sandusky to Put-in-Bay, and once you’re on the island, you can rent a golf cart and explore. Almost every vehicle on the island is a golf cart, and they book up fast, so your first step to a Put-in-Bay getaway should be to book your golf cart in advance. Reservations can be made on the Put-in-Bay Golf Carts website.

A popular place to stay in Put-in-Bay is the Put-in-Bay Resort, but there are also many homes available for rent, as well as luxury villas at Put-in-Bay Villas. If you’re planning to visit in the summer — particularly in July or August — try to book well in advance. Accommodations book quickly for this time.

There are many things to do on the island. You can sample wines from across the region at the Put-in Bay Winery; after viewing the winemaking exhibit, sit on the patio overlooking the bay and enjoy your glass of wine. If you’re on the island on a Saturday afternoon, you can enjoy the classic car parade and then go to the Antique Car Museum to see all of the classic cars up close. There’s also a history museum, a carousel, a butterfly house, and a chocolate museum — it’s difficult to see everything in just one visit to Put-in-Bay.

Summer is obviously the best time to visit, but don’t rule out the fall. Most of the main attractions (the Antique Car Museum and the butterfly house, for instance) are still open on fall weekends. And you could visit South Bass Island State Park to see the gorgeous fall colors.

Skyline of Dayton, Ohio. — David Harmantas / Shutterstock

3. Dayton

When most people think of Dayton, they think of aviation. While Wilbur and Orville Wright may have completed their first flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, the brothers lived in Dayton and developed their airplanes in Dayton. As a result, much of Dayton’s industry is aviation-related. The massive Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is located in Dayton, and aerospace companies have flocked to the city over the years.

Any weekend getaway to Dayton should begin with a visit to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the world’s largest aviation museum. Honestly, you could spend an entire day here, walking through renovated hangar after renovated hangar. There are more than 360 airplanes and missiles on display. There are galleries explaining how the Wright brothers developed their first airplanes, galleries on the evolution of the airplane, and galleries on space exploration.

But Dayton isn’t just about aviation. It’s Ohio’s sixth-largest city with a population of 140,000, so there are many things to see and do. Take in a summer concert at the Fraze Pavilion, one of Ohio’s largest outdoor concert venues, or visit the Dayton Art Institute. If you’re a beer lover, grab your passport book for the Dayton Ale Trail, a 21-stop visit to all the local breweries. Don’t worry — you don’t have to stop at all 21 in one day!

There are lots of great dining and shopping opportunities in Dayton as well. Make your way to Fifth Street just east of downtown, where many of Dayton’s best restaurants and shops are located. A good starting point is the intersection of Fifth Street and Jackson Street. Walk in either direction from there along the cobblestone streets for great shopping and dining.

Skyline of Columbus, Ohio. — f11photo / Shutterstock

4. Columbus

Located right in the center of the state — and home to Ohio State University — Columbus is at the heart of it all. And it’s a surprisingly large city, with a population currently approaching 900,000. In terms of population within the city limits (not metropolitan area population), that makes Columbus the 14th-largest city in the United States. I doubt many realize that the city of Columbus is home to more people than the cities of San Francisco, Denver, Seattle, and Boston.

As a result, Columbus has more to offer for a weekend getaway than you would think. There are many sides to the city, with the Ohio State University area making Columbus feel like a college town and the downtown area making it feel like a major metropolitan city.

Here are some great spots to visit on your weekend getaway.

First off, if you love touring college campuses, a visit to Ohio State University should be in the cards. You can walk the campus if you’d like, or you could just visit the shopping areas surrounding the campus, such as High Street. Start at the intersection of High Street and Woodruff Avenue and go in either direction from there.

If you love zoos, you should know that Columbus has one of the best zoos in the world. It’s the “home zoo” of world-renowned zookeeper Jack Hanna. He was the zookeeper for 15 years and helped turn the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium into one of the top institutions of its kind in the world. Also, one of the top science centers in the nation is located in Columbus. COSI (the Center of Science and Industry) is known for its dinosaur exhibits, but there’s much more than that.

For shopping and dining, don’t miss the Short North Arts District. From your hotel, take an Uber to the intersection of High Street and First Avenue. In either direction, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and art galleries unique to Columbus. This is also a great spot to grab brunch. The most popular spot (be sure to call ahead or make reservations online) is probably The Guild House. A late-Sunday-morning brunch at The Guild House is a great way to end your weekend in Columbus.

Aerial view of Ohio State University in Athens. — Braden Moon / Shutterstock

5. Athens

Ohio State University is a massive campus in a massive city. If it’s a small-college-town experience you’re looking for on your weekend getaway, perhaps Athens, Ohio, home of Ohio University, is more your style.

I’m a sucker for college towns, and this is a great one. In fact, USA Today named Athens the number-one small college town in the United States in 2016. With its quaint campus and great shopping district, Athens provides the perfect college-town experience. There’s nothing like an autumn visit a college town on a Saturday, especially if there’s a football game in town. You don’t even have to attend the game — the atmosphere alone is amazing.

But Athens is more than just a college town. It’s located in the Hocking Hills region of Ohio, an area that looks more like West Virginia than Ohio. In fact, a visit to the nearby Hocking Hills State Park is something you’ll want to add to your weekend itinerary. Waterfalls, cliffs, gorges — you’re definitely not in the flat plains of western Ohio.

For shopping and dining in Athens, you’ll want to visit Uptown Athens. This area is adjacent to the Ohio University campus and contains all of the shops, restaurants, and bars you’d typically find in a college town. It’s hard to find parking in this area (it’s a college town, so parking is going to be difficult to find everywhere), so hailing an Uber or Lyft and having them take you to Uptown Athens (the intersection of Court Street and Washington Street is the center of the area) is the best way to go. If you need to walk off dinner, the campus is right there.

How To Spend A Day At Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park

When it comes to the star power of Arizona’s parks, Petrified Forest National Park has some tough competition from its three siblings.

Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona is famous for its towering saguaro cactus — a symbol of the American West. The majesty of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park was memorialized in pop culture in an iconic scene from the movie Forrest Gump. And the Grand Canyon is, well, the Grand Canyon.

Still, what the Petrified Forest lacks in celebrity status, it more than makes up for in unique moonscape terrain, mysterious fossilized wood, and aura of days gone by.

Petrified wood in Arizona's Petrified Forest. — Cindy Barks

In fact, don’t be surprised if a visit to Petrified Forest National Park has you thinking that the landscape is unlike anything you’ve ever encountered. And for me, that was a priceless experience!

So, if you’re in the mood for something different, slightly surreal, and largely off the tourist radar, spend a day in Arizona’s hidden gem national park.

Here’s how to make the most of your day there.

View of the Painted Desert in Arizona. — Cindy Barks

Appreciate The Painted Desert

Upon arriving at the park’s northern entrance off of Interstate 40, not far from the Arizona-New Mexico border, you will first encounter the vibrant but desolate landscape of the Painted Desert. (The park fee station is located just off the interstate.)

The 93,500-acre badland/desert region extends from the Grand Canyon area all the way east to the Petrified Forest, where the desert seems to explode into an earth-tone palette of reds, oranges, browns, grays, and lavenders.

The cracked and barren buttes seem to go on forever, and any drive through the park should include frequent stops at the available overlooks to take in the terrain. You really can’t go wrong with any of the overlooks, so I suggest stopping whenever the scenery moves you.

Or, for an up-close encounter, head out on the mile-long Painted Desert Rim Trail, accessible at the Tawa Point and Kachina Point trailheads. Although short, the hiking trail has a relatively steep grade in spots and a rough dirt-gravel surface.

The Painted Desert Inn in Arizona. — Cindy Barks

Experience A Desert Oasis

For a taste of the desert’s rich history, stop by the Painted Desert Inn, a National Historic Landmark that once operated as the Stone Tree House. During the 1920s and early 1930s, the inn served as an oasis for travelers who came for a selection of Native American arts and crafts, refreshments, and a night’s stay.

Although originally built of petrified wood and native stone, the building has been covered with adobe-style stucco since a renovation by the Great Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

These days, the inn functions as a museum that showcases the history of Route 66, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and the Painted Desert.

While it no longer offers accommodations or food service, the Painted Desert Inn still serves as an oasis for travelers ready to stretch their legs and take in some views and history.

Newspaper Rock in the Petrified Forest. — Cindy Barks

Check The News

Two millennia before the Internet, the native Puebloan people of the area had their own version of a social network.

Newspaper Rock boasts 650 petroglyphs, or rock carvings, that were left on a series of rock formations in the Petrified Forest by the ancient Puebloan people anywhere from 600 to 2,000 years ago.

Although the meaning of the carvings is open to interpretation, modern Native American groups have identified clan or family symbols, spiritual meanings, and calendar events, according to the Petrified Forest National Park website.

As you drive the 28-mile road through the park, Newspaper Rock is among the many attractions and trailheads that are noted along the way, and it is definitely worth a stop.

Because of the instability of the hillsides, the rocks are closed to hikers, but a catwalk and overlook exist for viewing, and free spotting scopes are also available. For capturing images of the individual petroglyphs, a zoom lens will come in handy. The stop requires a short drive off the main road and a brief walk along the catwalk.

Historic Route 66 in Arizona. — Cindy Barks

Head Down The Mother Road

A rusted old car body, dusty tumbleweeds, and a familiar highway sign etched into concrete will alert you to the significance of a portion of the park road: The old Route 66 corridor cuts through the Painted Desert, and a pullout along the road commemorates the historic route.

For decades, Route 66 was America’s Highway of Dreams — the main east-west route between Chicago and Santa Monica, California.

Arizona claims a long section of Route 66, and towns all along the route celebrate their place in travel history. Perhaps the stretch that best conjures up the combination of romance and hardship associated with the road is the section that runs through the Painted Desert.

According to a sign at the site, the Petrified Forest National Park is the only national park in the country with a section of Route 66 within its boundaries. The site is worth a quick stop for a photo opportunity and to read more about the famous road.

The Blue Mesa Trail in the Petrified Forest. — Cindy Barks

Hike The Blue Moonscape

Although Petrified Forest National Park is home to a number of hiking trails, if you’re going to stop at just one, I suggest you make it the Blue Mesa Trail.

The mile-long trail will not only take you into the midst of the blue-hued badlands, but it will also take you past clusters of petrified tree stumps and by informative interpretive signs that explain the geology of the area.

Of the formation of the petrified wood fossils, the park’s website explains that more than 200 million years ago, the logs that washed into an old river system were buried beneath massive amounts of sediment and debris. The wood was buried so quickly that it was protected from decay due to oxygen and organisms.

Depending on the season, you could have the Blue Mesa Trail virtually to yourself, which adds to the mysterious quality of the area. The trail, which is part pavement and part gravel, descends from the mesa into the badlands and starts with a steep grade.

The trailhead is in a somewhat remote area, about 3.5 miles off the main road. After the first steep section, the trail is fairly easy, and I spent about an hour wandering there, stopping on numerous occasions to take photos of the eerie buttes against the moody sky.

The Agate House in the Petrified Forest. — Felipe_Sanchez / Shutterstock

Visit A 700-Year-Old Home

Near the southern entrance to the park is the trailhead for the Agate House, a small pueblo that archaeologists believe was built about 700 years ago. The house, which is made of petrified wood, offers a glimpse into the lives of the early Puebloan people. While it stands alone on the top of a small hill, it likely was part of a much larger community, according to park information.

The 2-mile round trip begins at the Rainbow Forest Museum parking area. The trail is paved for the first half-mile, after which it transitions into a rough dirt surface. Plan on an hour or so to make the trip.

The WigWam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona. — Cindy Barks

Travel Back In Time In Holbrook

After a full day of meandering along the park road, the nearby town of Holbrook, Arizona, is a convenient and fascinating spot to refresh.

Located about 20 miles northwest of the south entrance to the park, Holbrook is a somewhat frozen-in-time community that embraces its vintage feel with old signs and quirky shops. A colorful mural on a long slump-block wall in the middle of town depicts a map of Route 66, with a large You are Here arrow pointing to Arizona.

With its plentiful petrified-wood displays, its main drag that follows the original route of the historic two-lane Route 66, and its classic WigWam Motel complete with teepee-style quarters and retro cars parked out front, Holbrook is sure to take you back to the bygone days of Route 66 road trips.

If you have the time, check out the town’s museum and visitor center, which is maintained by the Navajo County Historical Society in the town’s historic courthouse. It features exhibits focusing on the Wild West and Native American art, and it also distributes a Route 66 passport to visitors who are interested in keeping track of their stops along the historic route.

To gawk at the town’s huge variety of petrified-wood souvenirs, check out one of the shops, such as Jim Gray’s Petrified Wood Co., which offers products ranging from petrified-wood chairs and tables to ashtrays and refrigerator magnets.

Interested in more of what Arizona has to offer? Here are 15 truly unique experiences to have in the Grand Canyon State.

Easy Phoenix Hiking Trails To Experience The Desert Environment

One of the largest metropolitan cities in the U.S., Phoenix is also one of the best hiking cities in the country, offering visitors miles upon miles of desert trails through this unique environment.

Designated wilderness areas, including mountain preserves, desert parks, and riparian (or riverbank) areas with duck ponds, criss-cross the urban development. Trails for hikers of all skill levels show off the wonders of the desert environment. And some of the most spectacular trails comprise easy strolls in the middle of the city — no need for strenuous uphill or long hikes to feel far away from the hustle and bustle. The trails take you through spectacular desert scenery, showcasing different cactus varieties, desert trees, and bushes among the giant saguaros.

From walks among giant saguaros and spectacular vistas to hikes through desert oases and adjacent duck ponds, the following are some of the easiest desert trails you can hike in Phoenix.

Judith Tunnel Accessible Trail In South Mountain Park

South Mountain Park Preserve is not only the largest in Phoenix, but also the largest wilderness city park in the country. With 51 miles of trails crisscrossing its 16,000 acres of wilderness, the park offers something for hikers of all abilities.

The easiest trail through this wilderness is the paved Judith Tunnel Accessible Trail, comprising two half-mile loops, starting at the Visitor Center. As the name suggests, this trail is also wheelchair accessible, paved, and flat, making it a perfect introduction for first-time visitors to the desert environment.

The Kiwanis Trail In South Mountain Park

For those who want a bit more challenge, or at least a walk on an unpaved trail, the Kiwanis Trail offers a perfect introduction to desert mountain hiking. A mile-long and relatively flat trail, it has a slight elevation gain (480 feet) and the terrain is rocky in a few places, but nothing that requires any exertion (only decent hiking/walking shoes). This trail showcases Sonoran Desert plants and animals.

Hole-In-The-Rock Trail In Papago Park

One of the most recognizable spots in Phoenix, Hole in the Rock Butte is in the center of the city in Papago Park, across from the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo. Instead of desert plants and animals, here you’ll enjoy views of unusual rock formations in the desert.

A short walk (just under a mile) looping around and through the rock, this trail is popular with visitors and locals alike. Though you’ll encounter crowds no matter when you go, it is still the perfect trail to watch the sun set over the city skyline through the iconic Hole in the Rock.

Double Butte Loop In Papago Park

For a slightly longer trail through Papago Park, the Double Butte Loop offers 2.2 miles of walking through desert environment. Most of this trail is paved, making it an easy trail for beginners. The only downside is that most of the trail markings are faded, and with many side-trails, it’s easy to take off in a different direction. Luckily, it’s almost as easy to get back on the main trail, especially since it’s always busy.

The Double Butte Loop won’t offer a getaway-from-the-city feel as much as some on our list, but it offers a great introduction to the desert environment and beautiful views of the city skyline.

The Nature Trail At The Piestewa Peak And Dreamy Draw Recreation Area

Surrounding the base of Piestewa Peak, Phoenix’s Dreamy Draw Recreation Area offers trails with great views and secluded valleys, making you feel miles away from the center of the city.

One of the easiest trails in this wilderness area, the 1.5-mile-long multi-access Nature Trail offers a loop through the desert environment with views of the surrounding peaks. Crossing a few desert washes — seasonal riverbeds — the trail does get rocky at times. Trail users get to see a wide variety of Sonoran Desert plants and the area’s most often encountered wildlife: rabbits and coyotes. In spring, desert wildflowers offer an amazing, colorful show.

Penny Howe Barrier-Free Trail At North Mountain Preserve

North Mountain and Shaw Butte, some of the highest peaks in the city and both part of the North Mountain Nature Preserve, are easy-to-recognize peaks on the North Phoenix skyline.

The Penny Howe Barrier-Free Trail is the easiest and shortest of all the trails in North Mountain Preserve. At 0.3 miles, it comprises two small loops, plus interpretive signs that teach about the desert flora and fauna.

Part Of Charles M. Christiansen Memorial Trail (Trail 100) At North Mountain Preserve

A short stretch of this 10-mile-hike starting at the North Mountain Visitor Center offers a nice stroll and great views of North Mountain, Shaw Butte, and their surroundings. Interpretive signs close to the Visitor Center offer insights into the desert environment in the middle of Phoenix. This is also a good area for wildflower viewing from February to April.

The Nature Trail At Reach 11

The Reach 11 Recreation Area in North Phoenix is home to a few multi-use nature trails, the Arizona Horse Lover’s Park, and a sports complex.

The short, mile-long Nature Trail in Reach 11 is partially paved until it reaches a loop area. From there, it is still an easy stroll through desert vegetation and a unique xeroriparian area — an oasis surrounding a small pond that’s home to a wide variety of desert plants. Interpretive signs along the trail offer info about the plants and animals of the surrounding environment. The trail is great for wildlife viewing, too. While you’ll most often see rabbits, desert rats, and birds of prey, you might spot a coyote or a few ducks in the pond.

Skip Rimsza Paseo Trails In The Sonoran Desert Preserve

The Sonoran Desert Preserve, one of the newest dedicated natural spaces in North Phoenix, offers miles of trails for hikers of all levels in a pristine desert environment. Being almost out of town, it features cleaner air and a nicer drive to get to than some of the aforementioned trails. It is also one of the few desert areas of Phoenix where you can be alone on the trail, with no other visitors around.

Accessed from the Apache Wash Trailhead, the Skip Rimsza Paseo Trails, both East and West, are by far the easiest in this preserve. Running in either direction, the trails feature light, gradual inclines of 37- and 15- feet elevation gain, and are both paved. The East Skip Rimsza Paseo Trail runs 1.9 miles, while the West trail runs 3.1 miles. The trails feature great views, though they do run parallel to Sonoran Desert Drive, so you might hear a bit of traffic noise, especially during times when the roads get busy.

Apache Wash Trail In The Sonoran Desert Preserve

For those who prefer to feel even farther away from the city noise, the Apache Wash Trail, the one that gave the trailhead its name, offers an easy and short walk in the desert. Starting on the west side of Apache Hill, the trail goes around the hill and is less than half a mile. Flat and wide, it is easy to walk, and it takes you away from the road noise. Filled with desert plants, it is also a great place for wildflower viewing in late winter and early spring. As a bonus, you might spot wildlife here, mostly rabbits, or a coyote on occasion.

Hiking In The Desert

Even if you hike in the desert in the winter, remember to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Though temperatures are perfect, it is still very dry and the sun is strong, so a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat are musts for even the shortest hike.

Be careful not to touch or step on any of the cactus varieties. The jumping cholla or the cute-looking teddy bear cholla can get stuck in your shoes, taking hours to get off. Some varieties have tiny needles you won’t even see, so while it might be tempting to touch them, those tiny, almost-invisible needles can get stuck in your hand, and they hurt (I’m speaking from experience). Also be aware of the young palo verde trees (while they still look like bushes), too. As beautiful as they are, they are very thorny, so try not to touch them or fall into one.

When it comes to wildlife, you need to be aware of the rattlesnakes. Though shy and beautiful, they could be deadly if startled. They won’t go searching for you, in fact, on most of the trails I mentioned you’re not very likely to encounter one. But in case you do, keep as quiet as possible and back away from it slowly, or walk around it far enough not to startle it. They might be out early mornings to warm up in the sun, so if you’d rather avoid an encounter, hike later in the day.

Want to see more cacti up close and personal? These are the most beautiful succulent gardens around the world. One is less than two hours away in Tucson and could make a perfect stop if you’re road tripping through Arizona.