Weekend Getaway In Des Moines: The Best Things To See And Do

Des Moines, Iowa: It’s not a tropical getaway or major city, but this metro area of over 645,000 people is a unique jewel in the Corn Belt, where you’ll find a plethora of activities, art, dining, and shopping you won’t get anywhere else.

If you’ve never been before, you’ll want to consider these interesting things to do and see, plus places to grab a bite, snag some photos, and have a shopping spree.

Things To Do In Des Moines

The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, IA. — Klanker / Shutterstock.com

Visit The Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo, located in downtown Des Moines, is a wonderful place to kick off your time in Des Moines. With over 25 acres of land, the zoo, which opened in 1966, offers a range of animal experiences you’ll enjoy, including the Australian Adventure, where you can see live koalas and kangaroos, a rare treat outside of the land down under.

The zoo features a free-range aviary and exhibits where you can feed koi fish, parakeets, and giraffes, or even take a camel ride. You will see elephants, zebras, otter, rhinos, gibbons, tigers, and more.

Spend a few hours at the zoo viewing the critters, having an animal encounter or two, and grabbing a snack or meal at the Safari Grill or Macaw Cafe.

You can visit the zoo between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $14 and children’s admission is $8.

The High Trestle Trail at night time. — Iowa National Heritage Foundation

Traverse The High Trestle Trail

The High Trestle Trail is a decommissioned railroad track, repurposed for pedestrians, cyclists, and rollerbladers. The trail itself stretches for 25 miles and winds its way through four counties. The High Trestle offers shaded and open areas, varied terrain, and diverse views along the 25-mile route.

The trail features a 130-foot trestle trail bridge from which it gets its name. The bridge is one of the longest of its type in the world and was named by the BBC as one of the world’s eight amazing footbridges. If you come at the right time, you can see the bridge lit up at night.

The High Trestle Trail offers you a unique way to experience Des Moines and, if you’re up for the full day, to meander on through four additional towns. There’s no admission fee and the park is open year-round. Multiple access points allow trail-goers to enter and stop off at Ankeny, Madrid, Sheldahl, Slater, and Woodward, too.

Get Cultured At The Des Moines Art Center

The Des Moines Art Center first opened its doors in 1948. Since then, the art deco-style building has provided visitors with a unique art experience through its permanent collections featuring Rodin and Matisse, as well as the rotating exhibitions of collections from the region.

The museum also boasts a stunning ornamental rose garden that features a unique collection of sculptures. You’ll probably want two to three hours to enjoy the full experience of the museum and gardens.

The Des Moines Art Center is an admission-free activity. Check the website for hours and special events.

Unwind At Smash Park

If you’re feeling social, head to Smash Park for a one-of-a-kind experience. This unique and interactive venue is basically a backyard party year-round, except you don’t have to do any cleanup.

Smash Park has Iowa’s largest patio and contains over 40 HD televisions for those who want to kick back and relax. If you’d rather be the player, they offer:

Pickleball courts
Shuffleboard courts
Bocce ball
Cornhole
Ping pong
Giant Connect Four
Giant Jenga
Yard Dice
Beer Pong
Golden Tee
Foosball
Board Games

Smash Park is an all-in-one sort of joint, featuring backyard foods, hand-crafted cocktails, over fifty beers, and premium wines and spirits. Angus burgers, fire-roasted rotisserie chicken, and more make this a great place for a group on a friends’ getaway or family outing.

Smash Park opens at 8 a.m. daily and is open late, with varying hours each night. Fees vary by activity, so head to the website for more info.

Downtown Des Moines. — Nick Fox / Shutterstock.com

Places To Eat In Des Moines

Lucca

If you’re looking for a beautiful atmosphere for an upscale dining experience after a long day of shop and play, you’ll want to visit Lucca, a luxurious Italian restaurant. The dining area features the building’s original exposed brick, which brings additional warmth to the already cozy restaurant.

Their indulgent menu includes choices ranging from popular pastas like the Al Forno and Amatriciana to multi-course dinners featuring a range of choices like shrimp ceviche, potato bacon soup, pork mole, and eggplant marinara.

They’re open for lunch and dinner and offer both gluten-free and vegetarian options.

You can view the full menu online or call to make reservations.

Skip’s

Skip’s has been serving their upscale food and handcrafted cocktails in Des Moines since 1981. They offer a variety of American classics anyone can appreciate and have some of the best service in town. According to travelers and locals alike, the prices are reasonable, the service prompt, and the food delicious.

Their menu features unique delights like pecan encrusted chicken strips and jalapeno shrimp appetizers. Their ever-popular chicken marsala makes the lunch menu, and you can try the Steak de Burgo if you go for dinner.

Skip’s is open for lunch and dinner, save for Sunday when they are closed.

Flying Mango

Featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives in October 2015 and selected by Guy for Triple D Nation in December 2018, Flying Mango is a tasty barbecue and Caribbean food joint with heart.

Flying Mango grills or smokes the vast majority of its fare, earning the restaurant a statewide reputation for uncommonly deliciously cuisine. The restaurant is owned by husband-and-wife team Michael Wedeking and Suzanne Van Englehoven. They purposefully aim to craft a memorable meal for each guest who visits their Des Moines restaurant.

You can try dishes like the Jenny Salad with brisket and cornbread, the Chicken Creole, or smoked pork tenderloin. If you’re after a dinner inspired by the Deep South, the Redneck Surf-n-Turf and Louisiana Platter will get you there.

Flying Mango has dinner hours Tuesday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. Lunch and dinners on other nights are available for private parties only.

Harbinger

For a different twist on dining, visit Harbinger. The Asian-influenced restaurant — owned by Joe Tripp, a three-time James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest, and Rae Doyle, the front of house manager and sommelier — blends fresh farm produce with seasonal flavors to create unique twists on well-known Asian dishes like steamed buns, mochi, and chawanmushi.

If you want to indulge in a full dining experience here, you can create your own five-course meal from a select menu, or try the chef’s pre-selected tasting menu. Both meals include wine pairings and vegetable-forward plates that will leave you satisfied.

Harbinger is open for dinner starting at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tip: If anything includes the XO sauce, you don’t want to miss it.

Shopping In Des Moines

West End Architectural Salvage

If you’re dying for some stunning rustic furniture and home accessories, you’ll want to drop into West End. They source their inventory from New York, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Chicago, England, and the Middle East to curate their unique and intriguing collection of classically appealing items.

Tin panels, stained glass windows, aged furniture, and more can be found here, and they can ship items home for you if you find something you just have to have but can’t manage to transport.

Or, if you’re looking for something small and unique to bring home as a gift, they have interesting mementos like jewelry made from old typewriter keys and custom pieces crafted from odds and ends discovered in their curation process.

Raygun

If you enjoy an empowering shopping experience, you’ll want to visit this quirky Des Moines shop. Raygun offers a range of collections — tumblers, mugs, magnets, stickers, t-shirts, and more — and items that promote the rights of pretty much everyone in our nation.

The shop started when Iowa college graduate discovered he didn’t fit the mold for most jobs and grew into a multi-location shop that promotes the rights of women, public education, the LGBTQ+ community, cyclists, “snowflakes,” the environment, and pretty much everything else that’s marginalized and under-represented.

Leona Ruby

Leona Ruby is a stunning jewelry shop where you can find locally crafted pieces and nationally celebrated collections from brands seen everywhere elegant, including the red carpet. Owner Ellen Martinson named the store for her two grandmothers, Leona and Ruby. These women introduced her to patent leather handbags, high heels, and jewelry. Their love of beauty helped inspire Ellen’s commitment to compassion, humor, and generosity in all that she does — including managing her beautiful Des Moines store.

Nine Must-Visit Attractions Near Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is full of exciting attractions, beautiful parks and gardens, and intriguing restaurants. However, its central Iowa location means that there is plenty to see and do nearby as well. Check out these can’t-miss attractions that are all within a few hours’ drive of Des Moines.

Okoboji

If you’re ready to put in a long day, the 3.5-hour drive from Des Moines to Okoboji is well worth it. From the beautiful scenery and energizing water activities to the theater and arts in the town, this is a prime day-trip destination. The town is located on the pristine glacial lake of the same name, in an area known as the Iowa Great Lakes terrain.

West Okoboji is the deepest lake in the state of Iowa, so it’s a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water sports. It’s also loaded with charming restaurants and pubs around the east and west sides of the lake. On the southern end of West Okoboji, you can find Arnolds Park, a retro amusement park where you can spend a fun day riding the coasters, checking out the Maritime Museum, or catching a concert.

The beaches, parks, museums, and outdoor sports alone make Okoboji worth a visit, but the delicious food, stellar shopping district, and theatre will take your day trip to the next level.

Amana Colonies

For a shorter day trip, visit any of the seven Amana Colonies just 90 minutes by car from Des Moines. The villages, originally founded by German immigrants, boast a host of lovely traditional inns and bed and breakfasts for overnight stays, plus rows of shops primarily owned and run by the descendants of the original residents of the villages.

Start the day with a visit to the Amana Heritage Museum to learn about the culture and heritage of the area. Follow that up with dining in any of the many family-style restaurants—something the villages are specifically known for—and shopping in the artisan shops around town. Visit the other shops and boutiques and the Amana Art Guild, or try some delicious sweets made right there in Amana.

When you’re ready for some outdoor fun, pull out your bike or strap on your walking shoes to explore the Lily Lake wildlife trails or the area’s gravel and paved bike trails. Or, if water’s more your scene, you can bring your canoe or kayak for a paddle along the Iowa River.

Field Of Dreams

Movie buffs and baseball fans alike will love this day trip away from the bustle of the city. Dyersville, Iowa, has been home to the Field of Dreams movie site since the late 1980s when the iconic film starring Kevin Costner was released in theaters.

In 1988, the Lansing Family Farm was approached by the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the Iowa Film Board about using the farm for the film. Don Lansing, owner, greeted the visitor with questions. Their interactions ultimately led to Mr. Lansing signing a contract for the rights to film Shoeless Joe at the farm. The title was later changed, and the rest is history.

Today you can visit the location, which is just a three-hour drive from Des Moines, to enjoy an immersive experience that covers the filming of the movie and the history of baseball. Enjoy free admission during seasonal hours.

You can visit their website for more information on hours and to schedule a tour (available 359 days a year) 24-hours ahead of arrival, or just plug the address into your GPS: 28995 Lansing Road, Dyersville, Iowa.

Grotto Of The Redemption

Considered by some to be the eighth wonder of the world, the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption is a must-see for anyone with an interest in religious artifacts and shrines. The stunning shrine is the largest man-made collection of fossils, minerals, and petrifications in a single location, and depicts the life of Jesus through its creative design. It took 42 years—starting in 1912—to build the shrine, and nearly 100,000 folks visit the site each year.

The Grotto is located two and a half hours outside Des Moines, near West Bend, Iowa, which is home to other interesting historical sites, a soda fountain, and flavorful dining spots that you’ll want to visit after checking out the shrine.

The shrine is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while the gift shop is open November through April from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and May to October until 6 p.m. Note that the shop is closed in January. The office of the Shrine is open from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Birthplace Of John Wayne

If you didn’t know the Duke was born in Iowa, you do now. You can even visit the home where John Wayne lived for the earliest years of his life. Winterset, Iowa, is the humble town the star, born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, first called home, and it’s just 45 minutes outside of Des Moines. Wayne’s father was a local pharmacist who worked on the south side of the now-historic town square.

The Morrison’s four-room house has been restored to reflect the appearance of the residence in 1907 when Wayne was born, and the museum that now accompanies the house exhibits artifacts from the actor’s life and career in Hollywood. Original movie posters from his films, costume pieces, scripts, signed contracts, letters, sculptures, paintings, and even one of his last customized cars rest in the museum. In past years, famous visitors have included Wayne’s widow and children, Maureen O’Hara, and President Ronald Reagan.

A bonus: As you explore Wayne’s hometown, you might spot the real bridges of Madison County, also made famous on the silver screen.

Maquoketa Caves State Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, an incredible day of climbing and exploring can be had in the dark caverns at Maquoketa Caves State Park, about three hours away from downtown Des Moines. Its limestone formations, caves, and rugged bluffs help to make this gorgeous park one of the most unique natural destinations in the state of Iowa.

The caves vary greatly, from the 1,100-foot Dancehall Cave, which has lighted walkways, to other caves that range in size and can be explored by walking or, in cases best enjoyed by the adventurous, crawling.

A gorgeous trail system links the caves in the park and includes multiple overlooks and vistas, offering you a beautiful hiking experience that can last for a few hours or all day.

Templeton Rye Distillery

If you’re in the mood for a dive into Prohibition history (and a shot of whiskey), you’ll want to make the 90-minute drive out to Templeton Rye Distillery. Supposedly the rye whiskey from Templeton was Al Capone’s drink of choice. Fans even claim that a bottle made its way to Alcatraz for Capone during his time as prisoner AZ-85.

Duck into the visitor’s center to “experience the good stuff” on a tour, enjoy a shot at the store, or participate in a whiskey tasting. The on-site museum showcases the distillery’s history and ties to the community of Carroll County.

Ledges State Park

For a different kind of outdoor experience, drive an hour out to Ledges State Park. The deep sandstone gorge offers unique trails unlike anything you’ll find outside of the state. Do some kayaking, have a picnic, or go fishing on the Des Moines River, which borders the western edge of the park.

After you’re done playing in nature, drive just a few miles north of the park to the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone. You can take an evening dinner ride or a shorter scenic ride if you need to head back before it gets too late.

Pella

If you have a thing for Dutch culture, you’ll want to visit the small town of Pella, a beautiful spot an hour away from Des Moines. Pella was founded by Dutch immigrants in 1847 and since then, the town has thrived on Dutch culture, maintaining a beautiful main street filled with Dutch bakeries, shops, and even a 1850s-style windmill.

After you’ve done some shopping and eaten delicious stroopwafels, head just outside of town to Lake Red Rock to visit the state’s largest reservoir. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities including camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Why Every Blues Music Fan Should Visit Clarksdale, Mississippi

At first glance, many people may see Clarksdale, Mississippi, and think it’s just another small, country town. Are they right? Absolutely. However, the town has a lot more to offer than you may think, and if you’re a true blues fan — well you probably already know this.

Clarksdale, Mississippi, is the self-proclaimed birthplace of the blues and this isn’t just part of a marketing campaign. This small town in Mississippi was home to some of the best blues artists, from Son House and John Lee Hooker to Junior Parker, Ike Turner, Eddie Boyd, Sam Cooke, Muddy Waters, Pinetop Perkins, Earl Hooker, Lil Green, and Big Jack Johnson to name a few!

This blues-loving town truly embraces its heritage, honoring it with great historic attractions and soul-moving music festivities hosted throughout the year.

Hop on Highway 61 from Memphis and enjoy these five things all blues fans should do in Clarksdale!

The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale. — James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

1. Visit The Delta Blues Museum

The Delta Blues Museum is a great stop to make if you’re curious about why the Delta is known as the land where the blues began. The museum was established in 1979 by the Carnegie Public Library Board of Trustees. In 1999 the museum was reorganized as a stand-alone museum.

According to its website, “the Delta Blues Museum is the state’s oldest music museum.” The attraction sits in the historic Clarksdale freight depot, which was built in 1918. The building was appointed a Mississippi Landmark Property in 1996.

According to Roadtrippers, visitors will find many captivating artifacts, like old costumes and instruments, that help reveal the history of blues.

The Crossroads in Clarksdale. — James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

2. Experience The Crossroads

The Crossroads is a mythic Clarksdale intersection. An iconic Crossroads sign is situated at the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 41, but some say the Crossroads is actually at the intersection of Highways 8 and 1 south of Rosedale. Others even insist the crossroads is on the Dockery Plantation.

Just what is the Crossroads? Well, legend has it that now-famous blues musician Robert Johnson, who was born and raised in Clarksdale, made a deal with the devil at the Crossroads.

On a page dedicated to the story of the Crossroads, Clarksdale.com says, “Robert disappeared for a season. …He found himself at a dark and deserted crossroads around midnight where he was met by a strange man. The man tuned his guitar and played a few songs and returned it to Johnson.”

In 1932 Johnson returned to the stage with a brand new musical style. When he played for his blues buddies — Son House and Willie Brown — they were amazed at his improvement. Why the amazement? Well, Johnson was not a skillful guitarist prior to the strange encounter.

House said Robert “blew a harmonica and he was pretty good with that, but he wanted to play guitar.” As far as his guitar playing went? “Such a racket you never heard!” He recalled others saying “Get that guitar away from that boy!”

When Johnson reappeared, able to play the guitar — amazingly well — the legend about how he sold his soul to the devil at the Crossroads was born.

Johnson went on to write a few songs — “Me and the Devil Blues” and “The Crossroads” — that pay tribute to the legend.

Johnson’s death, much like the actual location of the Crossroads, remains shrouded in mystery.

The Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale. — Peek Creative Collective / Shutterstock

3. Grab A Table At Ground Zero Blues Club

This blues club draws blues fans from near and far to partake in its festivities. Anyone in search of an authentic blues experience should give this place a visit. It was co-founded by Bill Luckett and the Academy Award-winning Morgan Freeman. Fun fact: Morgan Freeman is a Mississippi native.

Bill Luckett told The Washington Times, “We named the club for the fact, or because of the fact, that, for decades, Clarksdale has been referred to as ‘ground zero’ for blues music.”

Luckett and Freeman put a lot of thought behind the name for the club. It wasn’t given its name by coincidence.

“When we decided to open the club and call it Ground Zero Blues Club, I put the definition of ‘ground zero’ on the front door right out of Webster’s: ‘The point of beginning of something or where a nuclear explosion occurs. So we are the point of beginnings of blues music, which is America’s, in a way, gift to the world. Blues was the root music, and everything else is the fruit music, so to speak,” Luckett told The Washington Times.

Ground Zero opened its doors in 2001 and is now the host of Clarksdale’s annual Juke Joint Festival. It was also named one of the top 100 bars and nightclubs in America.

A blues musician at a festival. — Daniel Ridge / Shutterstock

4. Attend Blues Festivals

With names like the birthplace of the blues, ground zero for blues, and the land where the blues began, it’s only right that Clarksdale has some amazing annual blues festivals to back up its names.

Clarksdale is home to some of the best blues festivals in the nation. Some of the most noteworthy are the Sunflower River and Blues and Gospel Festival, the Juke Joint Festival , and the Deep Blues Fest. If you want to hear live music from some of the best blues musicians around, be sure to schedule your Clarksdale trip around one of these festivals. The Juke Joint Festival typically occurs in April while the Sunflower River and Blues and Gospel Festival is always in August and the Deep Blues Fest is in October.

The birthplace of the blues has more than just a few annual festivals to offer, of course! Consult Visit Clarksdale’s calendar for a list of all the festivals happening this year.

5. Expect A Live Blues Concert 365 Days A Year

Yes, you read that right. Clarksdale embraces its blues heritage every day of the year. A weekly blues calendar features dates, locations, and times when live blues music will be showcased around town. The schedule is always subject to change, but if you really love live music, you can count on Clarksdale for 365 days a year of live blues music performances.

Blues enthusiasts coast to coast should add a trip to the birthplace of the blues to their bucket lists. Spend a day or a week immersing yourself in the deep blues culture Clarksdale, Mississippi, has to offer!

Headed further south in Mississippi? Explore Bay St. Louis, Mississippi’s excellent food culture.

11 Amazing Hidden Gems In Santorini

Santorini is undeniably one of Greece’s most famous and popular islands, and when you see images of Greece in the media, you’re likely seeing shots of Santorini.

The problem with visiting a “most famous” or “most popular” anything when traveling is that these places tend to be overcrowded and teeming with tourists. Santorini is no exception to this rule, especially in summer during high tourist season when cruise ships are arriving into the port on what seems like an hourly basis.

Luckily for those who try to avoid situations like this while traveling, Santorini is home to endless hidden gems that offer visitors authentic experiences.

From hikes with unparalleled panoramic views to secluded beaches, ancient cave homes, and some of the best Grecian cuisine on the island, head for the following amazing hidden gems in Santorini when you’re ready to venture off the beaten path.

1. Imerovigli

Oia and Fira are arguably the two most popular villages on Santorini, and as a visitor to either, it’s difficult to escape mass tourism. Situated right in between these two regions is Imerovigli, a spectacular alternative to the island’s most visited areas.

View of the sea from Skaros Rock. — Alexandra Mahoney

2. Skaros Rock

Skaros Rock, also known as Fortress Skaros or Castle Skaros, is a stunning rock formation and collection of ruins in Imerovigli. Soaring out of the Aegean Sea, the former castle on Skaros Rock used to be the head of the Christian congregation in Santorini until it was destroyed in an earthquake in the mid-19th century.

Today, visitors can hike Skaros Rock and take in its incomparable 360-degree panoramic views of Santorini. While the hike up Skaros Rock may look daunting from a distance, it’s a not-too-demanding hike that is relatively rocky but flat and doesn’t take more than one hour to complete. Just be sure to bring a decent pair of walking shoes and avoid wearing sandals.

3. The Blue Note

As you approach the last stretch of steps on your hike of Skaros Rock, you’ll run into a seaside restaurant called the Blue Note. Walk up the restaurant’s stairs and you’ll be welcomed by yet another stunning panoramic view of the Aegean Sea.

While my mother and I didn’t have a full meal at the Blue Note, we worked up a bit of an appetite after hiking Skaros Rock and ordered — without a doubt — the best Greek salad we tried on our trip (and we tried a lot). The presentation itself was top-notch, especially when accompanied by a bottle of local Grecian white wine.

Agios Georgios in Santorini. — Andriy Markov / Shutterstock

4. Agios Georgios

When dining at the Blue Note, you’ll notice Agios Georgios, a beautiful church with striking views of the Santorini caldera, just down below. You can walk all the way around the church to enjoy lookout points that cover the entire island. This is a great place for a photo op.

5. Anastasi Church

Just about a one-minute walk from the Blue Note sits Anastasi Church, one of Imerovigli’s prominent white-washed basilicas.

While Anastasi Church can easily be overlooked, it has become a popular stop on the walk from Fira to Oia. Take a few photos as you listen to the chiming of the church’s bells.

Seaside views in Emporio. — Alexandra Mahoney

6. Emporio

Emporio, the island’s largest village and former hub for trade and commercial affairs, is one of Santorini’s best hidden gems.

Sitting at the foot of the Profitis Ilias Mountain, Emporio is situated less than seven miles southeast of Fira. This peaceful village will afford you a candid picture of what life is truly like in Santorini. It’s bursting with charming homes and yards, shops, cafes, bakeries, and traditional taverns.

If you decide to take up residence in Emporio, you will likely need to rent a car if you plan on visiting the rest of the island.

Depending on where you stay in Emporio, the roads are mostly cobblestone and can become incredibly winding and narrow in some areas. Rent a small car, and know that you may only have the option of manual vehicles.

One of the most charming aspects of Emporio is its traditional white-washed cave homes. You can find many of these traditional Grecian homes listed on Airbnb. If you get to stay in one, you’ll have a candid experience that will truly make you say “We’re not in Kansas anymore!”

Emporio is also home to a number of luxury villas built in traditional Grecian style, including Rock Villas, a fully-equipped complex with pool views, a grill, garden, spa baths, and hot tubs.

Canava Villas consists of three distinct villas, ideal for a romantic couples’ getaway or family vacation. Methodically built into the cliffs of Emporio, Canava Villas has rooftop accommodations, a secluded jacuzzi, a 16-foot jet plunge pool, and a stunning outdoor seating area.

Gorgeous view of Santorini. — Alexandra Mahoney

7. Stavros Restaurant

Although it comes as no surprise considering this quaint village’s authenticity and overall atmosphere, Emporio is arguably one of the best areas on the island to indulge in Grecian cuisine. And Stavros is just one of many examples of Emporio’s best local restaurants.

When you first glance at Stavros restaurant, it doesn’t really look like anything promising. My experience traveling, though, is that these are usually the places where you’ll find the best local eats.

Stavros is known for its mouthwatering grilled meats that you can see spinning on a spit for hours on end at the front of the restaurant, slowly cooked until the meat is perfectly tender and juicy. These meat-filled plates are massive and affordable, usually accompanied by pita bread, fried potatoes, tzatziki, tomatoes, and onion, all for under 10 euro.

8. Bakery In Emporio

Directly across from Stavros is a bakery (it actually just says “Bakery” out front), selling freshly baked bread, cakes, biscuits, ice cream, coffee-to-go, and savory pies. This traditional Greek bakery is known for its chocolate baklava, a must-try sweet treat when visiting Emporio.

9. Desiderio

After filling up on hefty plates of meat and chocolate baklava, you can kick back and relax with a warm cappuccino or cold freddo at Desiderio, Emporio’s hip and bohemian-style coffee shop.

Desiderio offers a laidback atmosphere with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, chess tables, and excellent made-to-order sandwiches accompanied by friendly waitstaff.

10. Perissa Beach

Known as Santorini’s largest black sand beach stretching more than four miles, Perissa Beach sits at the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain less than two miles east of Emporio and features unique dark sand that gets its hue from black lava.

Perissa Beach is a well-organized public beach, with copious amounts of lounge chairs, umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, seaside cafes, restaurants, and a playground.

When visiting Perissa Beach, head to Ntomatini, a meze dining experience that centers around appetizers and starters. This establishment prides itself on offering the finest and freshest local products in Santorini.

Be sure to try the restaurant’s stuffed tomatinis, spetzofai (Cretan sausages), and variety of saganaki dishes.

The Red Beach in Akrotiri, Greece. — Alexandra Mahoney

11. Red Beach In Akrotiri

Debatably the entire island’s most famous beach, Red Beach in Santorini is situated in the village of Akrotiri, surrounded by colossal red rocks that blissfully collide with the Aegean Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Though a popular beach in Santorini, Red Beach is still situated off-the-beaten-path and is secluded enough that it doesn’t feel overcrowded. Santorini’s Red Beach is located just four miles west of Emporio and about seven miles south from the popular town of Fira.

There is a free parking area at Red Beach, and visitors will have to walk about 10 minutes downhill on a rocky path to reach the beach. There are small stalls selling fresh fruits, souvenirs, smoothies, and sandwiches, and there is one nearby seaside cafe with restrooms.

Red Beach attracts visitors mainly due to its astonishing contrasting colors, and it’s a great place to snorkel with rich marine life. This beach is considered semi-organized since there are limited lounge chairs and umbrellas and no lifeguards on duty.

Want to island-hop? Check out these five amazing Greek islands you might not have heard of before, plus these 11 colorful sand beaches you have to see to believe.

Looking for hotels for your next stay? Here are the best hotels in Santorini that have private pools.

The Best Brunch In Omaha: 11 Places To Try

Brunch is always a good idea, and there’s nothing like a solid brunch experience to complete a weekend getaway. Omaha, Nebraska’s largest metropolitan area and economic hub, offers plenty of delectable brunch options for visitors and locals alike. This under-the-radar gem of a small Midwestern city is home to a surprisingly elevated food scene. For the first meal of the day, your options include a hipster café in a renovated gas station, Nebraska’s only all-organic bakery, a Midtown greasy spoon, a trendy West Omaha spot offering homemade toaster pastries, and more.

Here are the best of the best brunch eateries in Omaha in no particular order.

1. Saddle Creek Breakfast Club

This Midtown restaurant has been making waves in the breakfast scene since its 2017 debut. Saddle Creek Breakfast Club is a hip restaurant with an inventive menu and locally roasted coffee. It makes use of seasonal produce, so its offerings change regularly, but visitors can expect a couple heavy-hitter favorites to always be on hand. These include the popular chorizo gravy with crème fraîche biscuits and the eggs Benedict with braised short ribs, soft poached eggs, traditional Hollandaise sauce, and sweet-and-spicy jalapeño jam. For a plant-based delight, try the tofu rancheros with barbecue jackfruit or the yummy chickpea omelet. These items are well worth the hour-long wait, and they all cost approximately $10.

2. Pitch Pizzeria

Don’t discount this restaurant simply because it’s also famous for its pizza. Pitch, with locations in both Dundee and West Omaha, has recently expanded its breakfast menu full of mouthwatering selections. From the charming mini-bottle-service mimosa to the funky fig marsala waffle, this establishment really has it all. Plus, for those more in a lunch mood, the best items from the lunch menu are also available, so fans of the Calabrese meatballs and roasted Brussels sprouts won’t be disappointed. Pitch conveniently accepts both reservations and walk-ins at both Omaha locations.

3. Over Easy

Another favorite that’s newer to the scene is Millard’s Over Easy. This West Omaha haunt is perhaps best known for its homemade toaster pastries. The available flavors rotate seasonally and generally include a decadent Nutella option. Other favorites from the large menu include the cast-iron-crafted Dutch baby pancake, loaded breakfast naan, and vegetarian-friendly rosemary biscuits with gravy. A bonus? This spot boasts a drive-through for maximum convenience.

4. Carter & Rye

This brunch spot is actually a pop-up operation that is regularly available at the Omaha Farmers Market in Aksarben Village. Carter & Rye is a female-owned venture that offers both sweet and savory pastry items as well as specialty cold-brew coffee. The hot pockets are unreal, especially the creative kimchi, sausage, egg, and cheese combination. Other options rotate weekly and have included a Reuben as well as cheesy hash browns and dill. Carter & Rye also offers traditional fruit hand pies in flavors like blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry rhubarb. Catch them on Sunday between 9 a.m. and noon from May through October.

5. Leo’s Diner

While elevated, fancy brunch is now the norm, there’s nothing quite like a classic diner breakfast experience. Enter Leo’s Diner in the Benson enclave, the best greasy spoon in Omaha. The specials rotate daily, but longtime favorites like the loaded hash browns never disappoint. The portion sizes are gigantic, the coffee is weak, and the ambiance is dilapidated charm at its finest. Give Leo’s a look for a no-frills breakfast adventure. Just be aware that this restaurant accepts walk-ins only, so you can expect a bit of a wait.

6. Farine + Four

This airy bakery is the brainchild of Nebraska-born Ellie Pegler. She trained and worked in New York for years before moving closer to home to open her organic bakery. Her small, curated menu doesn’t disappoint when it comes to breakfast offerings. There’s an Insta-worthy matcha croissant, vibrant beet toast, a lox-topped bagel, and a luscious egg breakfast sandie. Other options rotate weekly based on the fresh produce that’s available, but Farine + Four really shines when it comes to baked items, particularly the baguette. You’ll also love the full coffee bar and the sweet-treat options.

7. Early Bird

The trendy Blackstone District is home to another great brunch spot in Omaha, Early Bird. This eatery offers a retro vibe alongside its large and satisfying menu. Favorites include the tater-tot breakfast nachos, pancake flight, and breakfast burger. Early Bird also nails it with its a.m. cocktail list. There are traditional picks like mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys as well as spiked coffee beverages and a slew of inventive drinks. Plus, with its cute tagline, “The early bird gets the pancake,” it’s easy to see why this spot is so well liked.

Tip: Reserve your spot in line using Yelp’s waitlist tool. It will significantly decrease the time you spend waiting outside the restaurant.

8. Lisa’s Radial Café

Lisa’s, nestled on the edge of the historic neighborhoods of Bemis Park and Josyln Castle, is a divine brunch establishment in Midtown Omaha. It offers another old-school diner-type experience with tons of regular customers, heaping portion sizes, a low price point, and the standard weak coffee. The large menu can be a bit overwhelming, so consider trying the Radial Breakfast Sandwich or build-your-own-omelet option. Another sure winner is the aptly named The Heavy, which consists of homemade sausage gravy drizzled over biscuits or hash browns. Like any good breakfast dive, Lisa’s Radial Café will leave you full and satisfied for roughly $10.

9. Louie M’s Burger Lust

Despite what its name suggests, this eatery excels at more than just patties. Louie M’s is a longtime South Omaha favorite. As a nod to the immigrant populations that have historically called the neighborhood home, the spot turns out excellent Mexican entrées. The chorizo scramble, huevos rancheros, and burrito are all excellent. Other favorites include the sweet strawberry French toast and savory spinach and feta omelet. Diners can expect to spend $12 or less on a larger-than-usual-size dish.

10. Railcar Modern American Kitchen

Another West Omaha pick, Railcar takes brunch to the next level. The $15 unlimited mimosas or Bloody Marys make it a popular destination for Sunday Funday. And the food is not to be missed, either. Favorites include the sausage and egg melt, the croque madame (French grilled cheese on steroids), and the fried chicken and waffles. For best results, share an à la carte lemon ricotta pancake with your table. It offers just enough sweetness to balance out a savory main brunch dish.

11. Culprit Café

This spot has both a downtown Omaha and a Midtown Crossing location. The focused but delicious menu features artisanal coffee, baked goods, breakfast classics, and brunch cocktails. Be sure to try the Sunday Morning Sidewalk beverage, which combines espresso and tequila. For meals, the biscuits and gravy or MXT breakfast sandwich won’t disappoint. At Culprit, expect the quiche flavor to rotate daily, and consider an order of housemade beignets for your table to split. The lunch menu is available at the same time as the breakfast options.

It’s easy to see that Omaha’s brunch scene is a well-developed culinary treasure, offering trendy spots to classic diners and everything in between. Travelers and locals alike can expect to be satisfied with their breakfast experience in Nebraska’s largest city.

8 Mesmerizing Travel Destinations That Look Frozen In Time

Imagine being able to step into the past and experience a living history that you can see, feel, smell, and touch. Well, you don’t have to imagine — there are places in the world where time seems to have stopped completely, allowing visitors to discover what life was like in an earlier age.

If you want to experience something truly unique, these eight travel destinations need to be on your bucket list!

Volterra in Tuscany, Italy. — Petr Jilek / Shutterstock

1. Volterra, Tuscany, Italy

Visit the walled city of Volterra for a glimpse of what life was like in ancient Italy, when the sprawling Etruscan civilization flourished in the region that is now Tuscany. Home to a host of ruins, including the remains of the impressive city walls, Volterra is a charming town steeped in history. In addition to Etruscan ruins, you can also explore several Roman structures that are still partially standing. The Roman Theater, Porta Diana, and Porta dell’Arco are all fantastically preserved remnants of an earlier time.

Visit Volterra during the spring or summer months by flying into Pisa International Airport and hopping on a bus or train. The trip from Pisa to Volterra takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The town of Solvang in California. — Benny Marty / Shutterstock

2. Solvang, California

Solvang is a slice of Denmark in the Santa Ynez Valley. The town is a living celebration of California’s Danish heritage, and it’s full of Danish architecture and fabulous museums, like the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. Vino enthusiasts will love the thriving wine culture of Solvang, and you can enjoy a glass or two of California’s finest on your visit.

The most ideal months to visit Solvang are May, June, and October. During these months, the weather in Solvang is generally temperate and dry. December brings cooler temperatures and more precipitation, but it is a great opportunity to take part in the annual Julefest celebration for Christmas.

To get to Solvang, fly into the Santa Barbara Airport and hop on an Amtrak train. The 50-minute journey through California’s gorgeous wine country might just be one of the highlights of your trip!

Main street in Mackinac Island, Michigan. — aceshot1 / Shutterstock

3. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Americana comes alive on tiny Mackinac Island. Things move a touch slower in this car-free oasis that shuns chain restaurants and hotels in favor of local shops and beloved haunts. Fort Mackinac dominates the small island, a relic from the Revolutionary War and a crucial outpost for colonial resistance. During the summer months, Mackinac Island is a fantastic place to step back in time, experience small-town America, and catch a brilliant sunset!

Visit Mackinac Island by flying into the Pellston Regional Airport and taking a shuttle to the ferry. Shuttles run frequently from the airport to the island.

The town of Carcassonne in France. — Riska Parakeet / Shutterstock

4. Carcassonne, France

If you want to get a real feel for what medieval life was like, you must visit Carcassonne. This delightful town in southern France was an important military location during ancient times, and it remained strategically relevant in the medieval era, when Château Comtal was built. Today, visitors to Carcassonne can take a tour of the chateau and La Cité, the ancient restored city itself.

Visit this piece of French history between March and May, when you can explore the exterior of La Cité. The summer months are generally too hot. Fly into the Toulouse-Blagnac Airport and hop on a train. You’ll get a chance to check out the breathtaking French countryside during your hour-long ride to Carcassonne!

The town of Leavenworth in Washington. — Oleg Mayorov / Shutterstock

5. Leavenworth, Washington

Ein prosit! Leavenworth is the ultimate homage to Washington’s Bavarian heritage. This quaint alpine village is nestled high in the Cascade Range and is the perfect home base for anyone looking to explore Washington’s wine country. Alternatively, you can stay put in Leavenworth and enjoy some spectacular schnitzel and hefeweizen on historic Front Street. The best time to visit Leavenworth is undoubtedly during Oktoberfest, when the locals put on a party that rivals Munich’s.

Getting to Leavenworth is easy. Simply fly into Pangborn Memorial Airport in Wenatchee, Washington, and grab an Uber, Lyft, or taxi to the Bavarian city of your dreams. It’s only 30 minutes away. Use this tool to see which mode of transportation is the cheapest on the day you arrive.

Kizhi Pogost on Kizhi Island, Russia. — Mikhail Markovskiy / Shutterstock

6. Kizhi Island, Russia

It’s always the 15th century on Russia’s Kizhi Island, home to one of the most impressive UNESCO heritage sites in the world, Kizhi Pogost. This wooden church showcases expert carpentry and attention to detail. Visitors to this off-the-beaten-path island can also marvel at settlements from centuries before that are similarly well preserved.

Visit Kizhi Island during the spring or summer to avoid the harsh Russian winter. Kizhi Island sits in the middle of Lake Onega, and you can catch a local boat there from Petrozavodsk.

The town of Cody in Wyoming. — milosk50 / Shutterstock

7. Cody, Wyoming

For a taste of the true Wild West, you need to visit Cody, Wyoming. You’ll be transported back to the frontier days and get to soak in the scenic majesty of Yellowstone National Park at the same time. Cody is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream and is at its best in the spring and fall. Summers in Cody can be stifling and highly uncomfortable.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a group of museums that are in a class of their own. Learn about the Wild West and the colorful cast of characters who called it home, including William F. Cody, or Buffalo Bill, for whom the town was named.

Getting to Cody is fairly easy. You can fly right into the town at the Yellowstone International Airport. From there, downtown Cody is a mere few minutes away.

The town of Tombstone in Arizona. — Nick Fox / Shutterstock

8. Tombstone, Arizona

If Cody sounds intriguing, you should add Tombstone to your bucket list as well. Tombstone is the most famous frontier town, and its reputation is well deserved. It is reported to be swarming with ghostly residents, many of whom lost their lives in the harsh rough-and-tumble reality of the Wild West. Visit the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, and don’t miss the Bird Cage Theater, where many pioneers met their maker.

Tombstone is an oven during the height of summer, so plan your visit for the spring or fall. You can get there by flying into the Tucson International Airport and taking a bus or car to the historic town.

If you are a history buff, explorer, or simply want to visit a place where the past is alive and well, you’ll love these eight destinations.