Savannah, Georgia’s Food Scene: What To Eat And Where

Savannah, the state of Georgia’s oldest city, is recognized for its history, tree-lined streets, and beauty. As “The Hostess City of the South,” this charming city boasts hidden gems and a food scene worth a deep dive.

Savannah is a foodie’s dream destination brimming with dining opportunities that will thrill both the discriminating palate and the diner eager to savor “down-South” cooking. If you get yourself to Savannah, Georgia, here are the eight eats, drinks, and places that’ll bring you gastronomical merriment (that means good eatin’, ya’ll).

1. Sweet Tea

There is iced tea, sweetened, and there is sweet iced tea. When you choose your iced tea “sweetened” in Savannah, you are choosing sweet tea, the favorite drink of the South. Your taste buds will spot the distinction instantly. How is Southern sweet tea made? The answer depends on the teachings and recipes passed down to the one making it.

Cane sugar may be added to the water prior to steeping the tea bags, liquid sugar may be used in lieu of cane sugar, or 1 to 2 cups of sugar may be added to the steeped tea. However it’s made, sweet tea is the happy ending to a Southern meal and a must if you are in Savannah.

The Grey Restaurant in Savannah, Georgia. — Desiree Rew

2. The Grey Restaurant And The Grey Market

There’s no missing The Grey restaurant. However you get there, when you round the corner and look up, you’ll see a regal Greyhound statue perched atop the restaurant’s name. This award-winning restaurant, housed in an old Greyhound bus terminal, is a true example of something old, something new. The Grey Market is located within a four-minute walk. It serves casual meals you can hold in your hand or drink through a straw. Both restaurants boast menus that represent the culinary prowess of Chef Mashama Bailey.

At The Grey, the diner bar menu consists of small plate dishes such as duck pastrami, sauerkraut, poached egg, and potato rossi. You can also find a combo that includes boiled peanut hummus. Boiled peanuts are definitely a thing in Georgia. The dinner menu provides you with two choices: a four-course or six-course meal.

The Grey Market picks up where the diner bar vibe in the restaurant lets off, offering take-out, dining at the lunch counter, groceries, sundries, and coffee. Whether you order the TGM Burger with its homemade potato bun and Comeback Sauce, dinner for two consisting of hearty comfort foods to enjoy in your own kitchen, a decadent dessert, or a frozen daiquiri from the daiquiri machine, you can’t go wrong. There is something for every vibe and on-the-go situation at this market.

The Grey and The Grey Market are establishments led by an award-winning chef whose menus pay homage to the South, community, and the kitchen she grew up in. If you have the opportunity to dine at either place, take it!

At The Grey, classic collard greens are prepared with an onion trifecta, apple cider vinegar, and mustard greens mixed in. The chefs also honor local seafood in the dayboat catch, made with Yukon gold potatoes, spring garlic, and ham hock.

The Grey restaurant is both history and history in the making. It is an industry-celebrated establishment led by a famous chef who’s menu pays homage to the regional foods of the South and the kitchen she grew up in. If you have the opportunity to dine here, take it!

3. Sweet Potato Pie At Ms. Polly’s Cake Giant

Stop by any home in the South during Thanksgiving and you will find a sweet potato pie on the dessert table. The pie, comprising of mashed sweet potatoes (not to be confused with yams), evaporated milk, sugar, and spices, is a Southern dessert staple. Make a stop into Ms. Polly’s and you may find one just out of the oven. According to the sign outside of Ms. Polly’s shop, her pies and cakes are the go-to for locals.

Walking by Ms. Polly’s is similar to passing the kitchen where your mother, Big Mama, or Auntie is cooking. If she hears your footsteps as you pass by the kitchen, without even looking at you, she’ll call, “Come on in here! I’ve got some pies in the oven. Come get some!”

If Ms. Polly is in the store with the doors open and you pass by she will extend the same invitation to you — and this is an invitation you won’t want to turn down!

The sweet potato pies at Ms. Polly’s are individually sized, each with its own pie crust and tin pie plate. Pies are not the only items in this hometown bakery. You will have your choice of cakes, cookies, cobblers, and cupcakes to name a few. Ms. Polly’s Cake Giant is the welcome to Savannah, Georgia, that every visitor to the South needs.

4. Shrimp And Grits

Grits are an essential food found in the cupboards of most Southern homes. In fact, they were declared the state’s official prepared food by the Georgia General Assembly in 2010. Southern families have been preparing shrimp and grits together for generations, and now you can get the pairing in many fine dining establishments across the country. Grits provide the creamy base and are topped with a mixture of shrimp sauteed in butter with other savory ingredients — smoked sausage, ham, onions, garlic, to name a few. Of course, the shrimp mixture will vary according to the chef’s preferences, which is part of the fun of trying shrimp and grits from different kitchens.

What’s so special about shrimp and grits? It can be enjoyed during breakfast, lunch, or dinner. What makes it exceptional in Savannah? The fresh seafood from the coastal town adds to the quality of the dish, making this a must-try dish when in Savannah.

5. Blends Coffee Boutique

This coffee boutique is just what its name suggests: small, trendy, and specialized. Don’t worry, coffee has not been dubbed a traditional Southern sip since the last time you checked.

In fact, Blends continues to offer beans from the countries of Guatemala, Colombia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Ethiopia, and Sumatra.

What establishes this as a must-try in Savannah? The charming atmosphere, the care with which your customized drink is crafted, and the intoxicating aroma of the coffee roasting inside that spills out onto the street as you go by. You will crave a stop in. Consider this your permission slip.

The Low Country Boil at Savannah Seafood Shack in Savannah, Georgia. — Desiree Rew

6. Low Country Boil At Savannah Seafood Shack

Low Country is a name given to coastal South Carolina, but the cuisine extends to the areas by the Savannah River. If you have the pleasure of having a meal in Savannah and see a Low Country boil option on the menu, go for it! Shrimp or a shellfish are typically boiled with corn on the cob, smoked sausage, potato, and distinctive seasonings that create the unforgettable Low Country boil flavor combination. The ingredients go together in one pot so the flavors can meld. Each unique element of the boil shines through and they combine to deliver a hearty meal.

The Savannah Seafood Shack serves a rendition of the Low Country boil cooked inside of clear plastic sacks and served inside a deep dish for easy eating. Each of your five senses will be engaged as soon as your plate appears. You’ll get a waft of warm seasonings and spices well before the bag is opened. Roll up your sleeves and get ready for flavors and ingredients that will pop on the palate, no additional seasoning required.

7. Byrd’s Famous Cookies At City Market

Peaches are the state fruit of Georgia, and there is no better way to appreciate the creative uses of the Georgia peach than in a modest, bite-size cookie. Byrd’s Famous Cookies is a cookie maven for the cookie connoisseur. Several flavors are available and most are even eligible for sampling!

Byrd’s has gluten-free cookie options, making their diverse treats enjoyable for all cookie lovers. It is easy to become overwhelmed when you wander into the store and witness all the varieties, so I suggest pacing yourself. Start at the sample bar — one cookie at a time, you’ll uncover your favorite.

With a sample in your mouth and your eyes closed, you could easily convince yourself that you’re eating a key lime pie, a slice of chocolate cheesecake, or salted caramel. If you decide on the Georgia peach cookie, you will soon discover it is the next best thing to eating a fresh peach.

Once you’ve determined your favorite flavor, you can purchase it in a tin, a vacuum-sealed bagged, or a mix-and-match self-serve box. Savannah boasts three Byrd’s locations to choose from, so whatever part of town you’re in, a mini cookie is standing by to make your acquaintance.

8. Georgia Tasting Room At City Market

The Georgia Tasting Room is a one-stop shop for locally produced wines and craft beers that highlights those made in Savannah. When you see the sign outside advertising the low-cost wine tasting (six tastes for $3) you’ll know you’ve happened upon a gold mine. The Georgia Tasting Room is just one of the many bars and libation stations within City Market — an open-air market featuring eateries and retail stores.

What makes this place worth a stop on the stroll is its wine smoothies. This family-run establishment serves up fun flavors of smoothies with wine blended in. And they’re available to go. That’s right: You can leave the store with them. Have your choice of a wine smoothie or a moonshine smoothie (if you’ve never had moonshine, I suggest going for this option).

Another element you’ll love is that everybody gets carded. If it’s been a while since someone questioned whether you were over 21, the day you stroll into the Georgia Tasting Room will be your lucky day.

There is culinary wonder and adventure in Savannah, Georgia. Seek and you will find. Enjoy!

How To Visit The Sahara Desert

When you tell your friends you’re planning a vacation to the Sahara Desert, don’t be surprised if they respond, simply, “Why?”

It’s a fair question. The Sahara is one of the world’s largest deserts. It’s nearly devoid of life-giving rainfall, and it’s considered one of the toughest places on earth for life of any kind.

Lots of people would say that makes it a questionable spot to take a vacation — but those people would be…misguided. In fact, the Sahara offers the adventure of a lifetime to travelers of all persuasions. You can even explore the area in plush comfort if you know where to look.

Whether it’s been on your bucket list for years or you’re just in the mood for something completely different, the Sahara Desert may be your next favorite vacation destination, or at least the most memorable. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your trip to the King of Deserts.

Sand dunes in the Sahara desert. — Denis Burdin / Shutterstock

Where Exactly Is The Sahara Desert?

Short answer: The Sahara is in Africa. But as we mentioned, the Sahara is the largest desert in the world, outside of the polar areas. Covering almost one third of the African continent and spanning over 3.6 million square miles, this desert is a vast tranquil ocean of sand — and so much more.

Scientists divide the desert into six distinct ecoregions, each with its own system of plant and animal life. In that sense, then, there isn’t just one Sahara Desert. There are many Saharas. And not all of them are equally great for a vacation.

Likewise, not all of them are in a single country. Most North African nations, including Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, and northern Niger (which is not technically a North African nation, but that just goes to show how huge the Sahara really is), encompass some of this enormous region. While some parts of the desert are off limits, there are still plenty of places to safely experience the beauty of this natural wonderland.

In fact, the only areas you should typically avoid are those restricted due to civil and political unrest. You’ll be safe as long as you follow specific guidelines for entry into and passage through the desert. You can (and should) always check the U.S. State Department’s website for detailed information about security concerns for any country you plan to visit.

But for now, let’s focus on the two Sahara-access countries that U.S. travelers tend to favor, both for the bustling tourism infrastructures already in place and for the incredible food, lodgings, services, and experiences that await visitors there: Morocco and Egypt.

How To Get To The Sahara Desert Through Morocco

Morocco is probably the most popular destination for access to the Sahara. As of this writing, Royal Air Maroc is the only airline that offers direct flights from the United States. You can also fly Delta, Air France, American, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Norwegian, Air Europa, or Condor — if you don’t mind layovers.

A direct flight from New York to Marrakech airport takes about nine hours, whereas flights with international stops will require at least 11 hours of travel. Some of these flights can take over 20 hours with layovers factored in. Of course, that may be well worth it if you catch a cheap fare.

Whatever airline you choose, fly into the Moroccan city of Marrakech. This will put you within reach of the most popular Sahara attractions without having to travel too far by land. Once you’re in the region, of course, you’ll need to get out of the city and into the desert.

View of Marrakech, Morocco. — Matej Kastelic / Shutterstock

Morocco has a great bus system that can take you into the Sahara. The two main bus companies are Supratours and CTM. Currently, Supratours is the only one offering direct rides to one of the most popular desert city destinations, Merzouga.

If you want to get to Merzouga as quickly as possible, the 12-hour Supratour bus ride is the best option. Or you can break up the trip into multi-night stops to experience more of the area.

Cities like Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou, and Dades Gorge all have beautiful sites, museums, tours, and restaurants worth checking out. Why not make your Saharan vacation into a complete tour of the settled region?

How To Get To The Sahara Desert Through Egypt

Another option for visiting the Sahara is to travel through Egypt. From the United States, you can fly directly into Cairo via EgyptAir flights, or you can use Lufthansa, Emirates, Delta, American, United, or Air France for flights that stop here and there in other countries. A direct flight from New York will take about 10 hours and 30 minutes, whereas flights with even just one stop range from 13 to 25 hours of travel time.

View of Cairo, Egypt from the pyramids. — Guenter Albers / Shutterstock

Once you arrive in Cairo, you have a few options for Saharan adventure, all of which are located in the western portion of the country. There are direct bus lines from Cairo to multiple desert oases, such as Siwa, Al Kharga, Dakhla, Farafra, Bahariya, and the White and Black Deserts.

It’s possible to plan your entire Saharan trip yourself, but why bother, when there are so many excellent and reasonably priced organized tours? If relying on busses and taxis, negotiating ride fares, and booking your own hotels sounds too overwhelming, a tour might be the way to go.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Sahara?

There are lots of factors to take into consideration when deciding on the time of year to visit the Sahara Desert. Of course, you should start by thinking about that desert heat. The Sahara is at its hottest between June and September, so if you’re not a fan of sunscreen and extra water bottles, avoid this season.

But that doesn’t mean you should restrict travel to the winter months. From November through February, daytime temperatures are mild—but once the sun sets, temperatures plummet, sometimes even below freezing. Dust storms are prevalent from February to April. All that considered, the landscape is seemingly at its most pleasant from March through May and September through October.

Sahara Desert Luggage Essentials

When packing for your trip, consider the activities you have planned. Will you ride camels through the desert? Camp under the stars? Or will you relax in a luxurious resort while taking brief day trips into the wilderness beyond the city?

Generally speaking, there are a few items every Sahara visitor should include in their checked luggage. For instance, be sure to pack long, comfortable pants for walking and leg protection when riding camels. Bring a light jacket, a hat, and a scarf to wrap around your head and face for protection from blowing sand and sun.

And don’t forget sunscreen. Bring your favorite comfortable sneakers, hiking boots, or hiking sandals. Finally, you’ll definitely want a camera and extra batteries — plus a brush to clear sand off the camera lens.

Camelback tour through the Sahara Desert. — Adisa / Shutterstock

Activities And Attractions In The Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is full of beautiful ancient ruins, sand dunes as tall as mountains, and wondrous oasis towns. You can ride a camel, camp outside under the desert night sky, watch wildlife at play, or even have a desert spa experience.

Whatever your interests, this sparse environment is packed with lush opportunities. Here are just a few of them to get you started:

The Majorelle Gardens

If you fly into Marrakech, Morocco, be sure to visit the Majorelle Gardens before leaving on your desert quest. French painter Jacques Majorelle spent 40 years perfecting this little oasis in the city. The grounds are filled with banana trees, palms, marble pools, water channels, and fountains with pathways woven throughout. There’s also a Berber culture museum on the grounds that’s not to be missed.

The gardens and museum are open every day, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. between October 1 and April 30. They’re open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. between May 1 and September 30. And they’re open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the month of Ramadan. Admission costs around $20 for the gardens and $10 for the museum.

Camping under the stars in the Sahara Desert. — danm12 / Shutterstock

Erg Chebbi

Located just two days by car from Marrakech, Erg Chebbi is an easily accessible, tourist-ready section of the Sahara that hasn’t sacrificed a bit of its natural, wind-swept grandeur. An erg is the desert as it exists in your imagination: sand, sky, and dunes as far as the eye can see.

What makes Erg Chebbi so special is the wealth of experiences available to visitors. Located so close to the city, the locals have had plenty of time to build a thriving tourism economy.

Take a camel trek across the dunes, or camp in luxury beneath the stars. Stop in a Berber village and watch the sun set over the sand. If you want to experience the pure, sandy Sahara, Erg Chebbi is a great choice.

Siwa

Siwa is a true Egyptian oasis area on the western edge of the nation. The desert gives way to green olive groves and, seemingly out of nowhere, water. Siwa is ripe with mineral springs, salt lakes, and swimming pools — including Cleopatra’s Pool, where the Ptolemaic ruler is said to have soaked herself more than 1,000 years ago.

Stop in the Siwa town of Shali to tour the ancient ruins of the Shali Fortress. Trace the footsteps of Alexander the Great to find the historical site of the Oracle of Siwa. Experience desert beauty, startling history, and luxury comforts here and all over the Sahara.

Just be sure to take lots of pictures. They’re the best answer to your friends’ doubtful question: “Why?”

Photo Credit: Anton Petrus / Shutterstock, Patrick Poendl / Shutterstock

Eating And Drinking In Gettysburg: 15 Places To Try

Though Gettysburg is only a small town, its food scene packs a powerful punch. There are cute coffee shops dedicated to roasting only the finest beans; funky pubs; quirky retro pit stops serving up fries, cheesesteaks, and cheap pancakes; pizza joints; cool breweries; farm-to-table restaurants; worth-the-line ice cream counters; and historic inns serving up old-fashioned fare and ghost stories at the same time. Whether you’re in the area for a serious academic pilgrimage or just passing through the famous town as part of a bigger road trip, you’ll be sure to find something there to satisfy your taste buds and your wallet.

A word of warning: The word has long been out about Gettysburg as a tourist attraction, and its reputation as a foodie destination has been steadily growing. Lines for tables are common during peak dining times in the spring, summer, and early fall. Arriving a bit early or — even better — calling ahead for a reservation will help you make the most of your time.

1. Gettysburg Baking Company

Vanilla lattes, old-fashioned hand pies, creamy café au laits, and extra-gooey pecan sticky buns are some of the delectable treats you’ll find at Gettysburg Baking Company. The company also offers a small selection of lunch items, including sandwiches, soups, and salads.

2. Eighty Two Café

Eighty Two Café is another tempting destination for coffee lovers — the store roasts all of its coffee in house. People take their java VERY seriously here! But there’s still plenty of fun to be had, especially on Thursday trivia nights. Strawberry shortcake muffins, peanut butter brownies, and orange cranberry bread round out the offerings.

3. Hunt’s Battlefield Fries

Well known for its fries (surprise, surprise!), messy sandwiches (messy in a good way, that is), and burgers, Hunt’s Battlefield Fries is a great greasy-spoon breakfast joint. The French toast is great, as is the little-bit-of-everything retro-style decor.

Dunlap's Restaurant in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania — Dunlap’s Restaurant

4. Dunlap’s Restaurant

Open as early as 6:30 a.m. to serve the early birds, Dunlap’s Restaurant is a great stop for classic breakfast platters in Gettysburg. Nearly everything on the menu is under $12 (most breakfast selections are under $6). A stack of pancakes with coffee costs just $4! Be sure to pick up a slice of shoofly pie before you go.

5. Garryowen Irish Pub

There’s an Irish pub in every corner of the world, and Gettysburg is no exception. Shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, Ulster fry-ups, traditional beef stew, and chicken in an Irish cheddar and whiskey sauce are all good choices at Garryowen Irish Pub. Live music is available most Friday and Saturday nights, plus the first and third Sundays of each month.

6. Gettysburg Eddie’s

A fun sports bar, Gettysburg Eddie’s is the place to go for loaded nachos, deep-fried pickles, cheesesteaks, burgers, and hero sandwiches. Happy hour is every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and includes discounted appetizers and mixed drinks. The low-key atmosphere and children’s menu make it great for families.

7. Tommy’s Pizza

Families have been heading to Tommy’s Pizza since the 1970s for inexpensive pizzas, subs, gyros, and salads. The store offers delivery as well, so if you’re eager to relax in your hotel after a long day of exploring, all the yummy treats will come to you. The sauce-free Greek pizza with feta, spinach, tomatoes, oregano, garlic, and olive oil is the house specialty.

8. Appalachian Brewing Company

This hugely popular location (translation: Show up early!) is 10 minutes outside of town. It’s famous for its locally brewed beer and huge servings. The beer-battered fish and chips, yurt burger, and stout-infused s’mores pie are all delicious.

9. The Pub & Restaurant

Located in the center of Gettysburg, The Pub & Restaurant is a bit on the touristy side of things, but it makes up for that with a lengthy menu and a prime location. The restaurant offers everything you can imagine: flatbreads and stuffed pretzels, hot and cold sandwich platters, made-to-order pizzas, and lavender-blueberry cheesecake. It’s definitely a spot to hit up when you’re part of a large group of people with different food preferences.

10. Food 101

Focusing on local food, Food 101 sells fresh salads, artisan pizzas (including fennel, sausage, and broccolini pizza with roasted garlic oil — yum!), and a good assortment of sandwiches and burgers. This is a great spot for vegetarians, both for the selection of meat-free dishes and also because the flexible staff members are more than happy to come up with veggie dishes on the spot if you have a hankering for specific ingredients.

11. Hickory Bridge Farm

On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, this 165-year-old barn outside of Gettysburg serves up family-style meals including fried chicken, baked ham, corn on the cob, and apple crisp. Reservations are essential. If you’re lucky enough to be staying at the property’s bed and breakfast, you’ll get a full breakfast each day of the week except Sunday — when a basket of breakfast goodies will be delivered directly to your room!

12. Dobbin House (Springhouse Tavern)

For serious history buffs, Dobbin House, located in the oldest building in Gettysburg, is the most important foodie stop in town. It played a role in the battle itself (as a makeshift field hospital), and before that, it was a clandestine stop on the Underground Railroad. It’s also an inn, and the staff members offer free tours of the building so that you can absorb all the unique stories that the house has accumulated over the centuries.

Inside, foodies can choose to dine at the casual Springhouse Tavern (go for the onion soup, the spit-roasted chicken, and the apple pie) or in the formality of the Alexander Dobbin Dining Room.

13. The Inn At Herr Ridge

Directly across the street from a Gettysburg battlefield, The Inn at Herr Ridge is one of the most historic restaurants in town. In fact, it served as a Confederate hospital during the Civil War. Reservations and smart dress are a good idea at this fine-dining establishment. Braised lamb, pan-seared scallops, grilled pork chops, and filet mignon (nearly all of it local) are prominent on the menu, but the real star of the show is the spectacular wine cellar. It’s considered to be one of the best in the United States. Introduce yourself to the sommelier and get ready to try some exciting wines with your dinner.

The Farnsworth House Inn in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania — The Farnsworth House Inn

14. Farnsworth House Inn (Sweney’s Tavern)

More than 100 bullet holes scar the stone walls of the Farnsworth House Inn. The building served as a stronghold for Confederate sharpshooters and as a hospital after the battle. Perhaps these are the factors that have contributed to it being named one of the most haunted inns in America! Sweney’s Tavern on-site features old-fashioned eats (goober peanut soup, homemade meatloaf, and game pie) as well as wraps, sandwiches, and salads and a delicious selection of desserts. A meal there is a good way to enjoy the spirit of the property without actually having to encounter any spirits!

15. Mr. G’s Ice Cream

Who says you can’t eat a full meal at an ice cream joint? They’ve got dairy. They’ve got fruit. And isn’t the cocoa bean practically a legume? This is the kind of “I’m all in!” thinking you need to have at Mr. G’s Ice Cream. The chocolate peanut butter soft-serve sundaes, the root beer floats, and the butter pecan ice cream (in a waffle cone, of course) are especially good. Note that the store closes just before Christmas and generally reopens the first week of March.

Photo Credit: HAKINMHAN / Shutterstock

4 Amazing Travel Experiences To Spoil Your Dog

A vacation isn’t complete without loved ones alongside you. That’s fine when you book a cabin with your best friends, but what about the four-legged members of your family? We don’t know about you, but we have a hard time relaxing without a dog in the room.

It’s no surprise that more and more of us are taking our dogs on vacation. A recent American Pet Products Association survey found that 40 percent of dog owners vacation with their pets. Ten years ago, only 20 percent of dog owners were likely to hit the road with their pup in tow.

If you count yourself as a dog lover, chances are you plan vacations with your pup’s best interests at heart. Next time you need to get away from it all, why not double down by putting your beloved pet front and center?

Plenty of vacation destinations cater specifically to the tail-wagging demographic. It isn’t hard to put together a trip that your dog will love as much as you do — if not more. Here are some of the top options for pampering your pet while recharging your own batteries.

A dog camping with a traveler. — LightField Studios / Shutterstock

1. Dog Camps

Summer camp isn’t just for Scouts anymore. For outdoorsy types, there’s no better way to spend some quality time with a four-legged friend than to visit a camp designed just for dogs — and their owners, of course.

Check out Camp Dogwood in Lake Delton, Wisconsin, near the Wisconsin Dells. Animal Planet called this sleepover camp one of the “planet’s best dog-friendly destinations,” and with its range of dog-centric activities in a gorgeous wilderness setting, it’s easy to see why.

Stay in a cabin, an air-conditioned lodge, or camp out on the grounds in your own tent. Pack your daytime schedule with training, play, and informational lectures that will bring you and your pet closer than ever. Run agility courses or enjoy some social time with the pack. Vacation packages are available in winter, spring, and fall.

If you’re closer to the Berkshires of western Massachusetts or the Blue Ridge area of Georgia, visit one of Camp Unleashed’s two locations. Relax in a rustic cabin with friends, furry or otherwise. Swim together in the lake; take dog-and-you classes on behavior, health, and nutrition; and hike the trails with new friends or just the two of you.

The only question left is who will have the most fun — we’re betting it’s the dog.

A woman and her dog in a hotel. — Soloviova Liudmyla / Shutterstock

2. Dog-Friendly Luxury Hotels

Looking for some canine-centered relaxation closer to the city? Book a stay at a luxury hotel that welcomes pups with open arms. New York’s Ritz-Carlton (no less) is happy to book a stay for you and your pet, as long as your pet is under 60 pounds; the hotel will set your room up with a special dog bed for naps and lounging. Treats are available, and when it’s time to do business, the hotel hands out clean-up bags with a special holder.

If the Ritz isn’t your speed, look for a Kimpton Hotel. This boutique chain operates lodgings all over the United States and the world. Unlike many dog-friendly hotels, Kimpton doesn’t place a size limit on the pets it welcomes. “If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in,” the hotel chain says. Employees will even greet your dog by name and send pet beds and bowls for food and water to your room — all at no extra charge.

Other hotels that have generous pet policies include La Quinta, Loews Hotels and Resorts, and, depending on the location, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts.

A dachshund enjoying their day at the spa. — Masarik / Shutterstock

3. Spa Days For Dogs And Their People

Pamper yourself and your puppy all in one trip. Believe it or not, spa services are available for canines, too. You just have to find the right spa.

Check out Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in western Pennsylvania, just 70 miles south of Pittsburgh. It offers the full range of spa services, from manicures to holistic healing practices, within a luxury resort. Stay for the week, soaking your worries away.

Pick the Chateau Lafayette rooms or a two-room townhome; dogs under 50 pounds are welcome in both of these. If your dog is bigger — or if you just want some time to yourself for a massage or some hydrotherapy — drop your pet off next door at the Nemacolin Wooflands Pet Resort & Spa. The resort offers luxury daycare and spa services for animals, and the employees will take good care of your pup.

You could also book a trip to the Lake Austin Spa Resort, located outside of Austin, Texas. You and your pet alike will enjoy the thorough pampering. Staff members provide dog beds, customized food bowls, and a treat with the nightly turndown service. They even hand your pup a squeaky toy when you show up.

Best of all, the resort’s chef offers a special gourmet menu just for dogs. Choose grilled hanger steak over brown rice, a luscious chicken breast, or even a bison burger. Why shouldn’t your dog eat as well as you do?

A dog at the dinner table. — Fotyma / Shutterstock

4. Dining With The Dogs

Speaking of eating, who’s up for a little food tourism? People travel for special meals all the time, and if you pick the right destination, you can happily keep your dog at your side all through the meal.

Stop by Ciao Hound Kitchen and Bar in the Florida Keys. People will enjoy the light Tuscan fare, while their dogs get to order off the Canine Cuisine menu, available only on Ciao Hound’s Pooch Patio. There’s even a (non-alcoholic) beer for your dog to enjoy, and water is always free.

Or how about Morristown Deli in Morristown, New Jersey? It’s only about 20 miles west of Newark, and dogs are always welcome at the deli’s outside café. The café is only open in nice weather, so plan accordingly. Morristown Deli offers a special menu for dogs, booster seats and high chairs for your furry friends, and even access to an on-site dog trainer.

Then there’s Pub Dog in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This restaurant goes all out for puppies, billing itself as “the first restaurant in Colorado where you can eat with your dog.” It would be just as accurate to call Pub Dog the first dog park that also serves dinner and drinks!

Pub Dog features a 3,000-square-foot leash-free zone where your pets can frolic while you enjoy a libation. Take a seat in the patio area (with your dog, of course) for dinner. If your dog doesn’t have an early bedtime, you can hang out late; Pub Dog is open until 9 p.m. most nights and until 10 p.m. on Saturdays.

Your dog will love it, and you’ll love seeing your dog happy. That sounds like a win for everyone.

Photo Credit: Javier Brosch / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Zivica Kerkez / Shutterstock

The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In the U.S.

Where should you go to find peace and serenity as well as a long list of fun things to do? A botanical garden, of course. These beautiful retreats are not only a feast for the eyes but also a feast for the ears, nose, and sometimes even tastebuds. Across the United States, you’ll find botanical gardens with massive redwood trees, tiny wildflowers, plants from around the world, and rare native species that are being carefully conserved. Some gardens offer an extensive list of tours and programs, while others are absolutely free. If you think that botanical gardens are nothing but tired roses, these 12 remarkable gardens will change your mind.

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania — Karen Grigoryan / Shutterstock

Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Just an hour outside of Philadelphia sits a slice of paradise otherwise known as Longwood Gardens. The lily pond alone is worth the drive — you’ll feel like you’re part of a Claude Monet painting. Other beautiful attractions include an orchid house, a meadow garden with walking trails, and an illuminated fountain. The fountain’s water spurts are set to music, making it an especially fun attraction. If you ask me, the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas have nothing on Longwood! Note that a timed ticket reservation is required in order to keep the crowds manageable.

The Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Illinois — eles / Shutterstock

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, Illinois

If Longwood gives you a touch of Monet’s France, the Chicago Botanic Garden will transport you to John Singer Sargent’s England. Its English walled garden contains primroses, wisteria, and thyme. The garden cites both Beatrix Potter and Jane Austen as influences — how romantic is that? It is also known for its extensive collection of spring bulbs, bonsai trees (some 185 of them), and prairie plants. There’s even a children’s garden for the little ones in your party.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Virginia — Realest Nature / Shutterstock

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, Virginia

Not many botanical gardens can claim to have an on-site maternity ward, but the Lewis Ginter Botantical Garden has just that — for butterflies! The garden’s butterfly nursery hosts native butterfly species as they emerge from their chrysalides, and lucky guests have the opportunity to peek inside to see their progress. The adult butterflies will be happy to see you as well — they’ll land on your shoulders as you walk through their enclosure. (Note that this attraction is only available between April and October.) The children’s garden, with its giant treehouse, rose garden, and cherry tree paths, is especially photogenic, as is the classically inspired glass-domed conservatory.

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona — Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, Arizona

You might not believe that a beautiful garden with bountiful blooms could thrive in the Phoenix heat. However, the Desert Botanical Garden is home to 140 acres of plants, all of which thrive in the desert. As you might expect, there are cacti and succulents aplenty, but you might be surprised at some of the other heat-tolerant plants, including the whimsically delicate desert wildflowers. The Desert Botanical Garden also features seasonal exhibits on butterflies and birds, and it regularly hosts art installations. The Electric Desert exhibit features plants, light, and sound after regular hours.

Missouri Botanical Garden, Saint Louis, Missouri

The Missouri Botanical Garden in Saint Louis has the distinction of being the nation’s oldest continuously operated botanical garden. It opened in 1859, and the home of the founder, Henry Shaw, is still standing.

After immersing yourself in the garden’s enchanting beauty, consider unwinding at one of the best hotels in St. Louis.

Far from being old-fashioned, the garden showcases a traditional Japanese garden (among the largest in the U.S.), a tropical rainforest under a glass dome, and an English woodland garden with over 300 rhododendrons.

It also offers programs for kids, teenagers, and Scouts members. The garden’s schedule of events sometimes includes wine-tasting seminars. Hey, grapes are plants too, right?

The United States Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C. — cdrin / Shutterstock

United States Botanic Garden, Washington, D.C.

Budget travelers, rejoice! The United States Botanic Garden is for you. This garden, one of the oldest in the United States, is absolutely free to visit. That’s enough to attract even the most casual of garden fans, but the garden’s location in central Washington, D.C., is an extra perk. The garden’s conservatory includes a Hawaiian collection, which showcases the native plants of Hawaii; a collection of medicinal plants from all over the world; and rare and/or endangered plants. Be sure to ask for directions to the really old ferns! Outside, the United States Botanic Garden features the First Ladies Water Garden, which honors the spouses of the American presidents. Meanwhile, the rose garden is a work in progress — the staff is experimenting with different organic gardening methods.

The Huntington gardens in San Marino, California — divanov / Shutterstock

The Huntington, San Marino, California

The botanical garden at The Huntington is part of a much larger organization that includes an art collection and an archive of rare books and manuscripts. The garden itself is divided into themed sub-gardens, including one dedicated to California’s native plants. I loved the Australian garden, complete with kangaroo paws, orange groves, blue hibiscus, eucalyptus, and mint bushes. The herb garden contains many varieties that have long fallen out of everyday use. Check out the tussie-mussie bed to learn how these handheld bouquets of yesteryear would contain hidden messages!

The Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver, Colorado — Kit Leong / Shutterstock

Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver, Colorado

While Denver might make you think of mountains, the Denver Botanic Gardens will take you through multiple landscapes and climate zones — all within 24 acres. The Gardens of the West will be of huge interest to ecologically minded travelers, since it demonstrates the resilience (and beauty!) of drought-resistant species. The garden hosts a lot of community events, especially during the summer: musical theater programs for kids, a summer concert series, and an annual plant sale.

Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Hawaii — Derek Robertson / Shutterstock

Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Kahului, Hawaii

While considerably more modest than many of the other botanical gardens on this list, Maui Nui Botanical Gardens wins my heart every time. A registered nonprofit organization, the garden focuses on environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and community ties. It features native Hawaiian plants and plants from other Polynesian islands. Its calendar of events includes some truly one-of-a-kind workshops. Have you ever heard of Breadfruit Day before? A visit here is a unique way to get off the Maui tourist trail and meet the locals.

Fall pumpkin tunnel, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. — fredlmcdowell / Shutterstock

Dallas Arboretum And Botanical Garden, Dallas, Texas

If you love going all out for the holidays, the displays and exhibits at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden will blow you away. The garden is especially famous for its Halloween displays, featuring 100,000 pumpkins in an incredible Pumpkin Village. But if you can’t make it for a special holiday event, don’t fret. The garden is a fantastic year-round destination — and it frequently hosts cooking classes and demonstrations. Kids will love the children’s garden and its 20-foot-high waterfall.

The Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle, Washington — neelsky / Shutterstock

Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle, Washington

The Washington Park Arboretum, jointly managed by the University of Washington Botanic Gardens and the City of Seattle, is home to more than 40,000 specimens, including an assortment of plants found nowhere else in the Northwest. It’s the perfect place for a scenic drive, especially in the spring when the trees are in full bloom. What really makes it stand out is its Japanese garden. It’s the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan, and seeing the cherry blossoms in bloom is an essential Seattle experience. There are also serene wetlands and woodlands. For just $20, you can ride a tram through the park and enjoy a narrated tour.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden in San Francisco, California — CO Leong / Shutterstock

San Francisco Botanical Garden, San Francisco, California

Fans claim that the San Francisco Botanical Garden is the most biodiverse botanical garden in the world. It has everything from gargantuan redwoods to one of the largest collections of magnolias you’ll find anywhere. Add in a garden just for fragrant flowers, another for moon-gazing, and one for tropical gardens of the equatorial mountains. Don’t forget the succulent garden, the ancient plants, the plants of New Zealand, and the flowers of Chile. The list goes on and on! There’s also a children’s garden and garden camp program.

The Best Things To See And Do In Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the world’s apex of antiquity. The Greeks, and then the Romans, ruled the city for centuries, leaving their mark with massive marble monuments, coins and jewelry forged from precious metals, and exquisite pottery and artwork. Nearly 4 million people now call the city and its metropolitan area their home. Travelers from around the world go there to roam the incredible ruins and imagine ancient times, when gods and goddesses were worshipped in over-the-top temples, and both theater and athletic competitions played out in enormous open-air arenas. Here are some of the best things to see and do while in Athens.

View from the Agora — Romas_Photo / Shutterstock

Admire The Acropolis

This iconic hill of archeological treasures that towers above Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Most of the masterpieces you’ll see there date to the fifth century B.C. and are constructed of creamy white marble. Of course, there’s the Parthenon, the massive temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, with its massive Doric columns. Other standouts include the Theater of Dionysus, which played host to drama competitions between the great playwrights, and the Erechtheion, where six enormous caryatids, or stone carvings of draped female figures, balance the weight of the structure’s southwestern corner on their heads.

Tickets to explore the complex start at 20 euros; plan to spend at least half a day at this amazing world wonder.

Marvel At The Marbles

You’ll need to purchase an extra ticket, but do not skimp on or skip the Acropolis Museum. This gorgeous and modern glass building, located just across from the Acropolis complex, has a complicated history. The museum was first established in the 1860s to house artifacts uncovered at the Acropolis. It was reconfigured and rebuilt at the Acropolis several times until 2009, when the new 25,000-square-foot building was completed right next door to the ruins. The new museum is built on top of an ancient Christian site discovered during construction; visitors can gaze down at it through the glass floor.

Be sure to take a moment to view the Parthenon Gallery, which features original friezes from inside the temple as well as replicas of the marbles taken by Lord Elgin in the early 1800s. The Elgin Marbles still reside at the British Museum in London and have yet to be returned, despite protests and political pressure.

Tickets to the museum cost 10 euros during the high season (April 1 to October 31) and 5 euros during the low season.

The Agora in Athens, Greece — Inu / Shutterstock

Explore The Ancient Agora

Beneath the northwestern slope of the Acropolis lies the Agora, the marketplace of ancient Athens. The Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa (covered walkway) of Attalos are the Agora’s main attractions. Admittedly, this site isn’t as grand as the superstar right up the hill, but consider its history. This place was the true heart of the city, serving as its main residential and commercial area for 1,500 years. Excavations here have unearthed massive collections of artifacts, including jewelry, pottery, and coins. All of these objects help illustrate what life was like in ancient Athens.

Wander The National Archeological Museum

To get another curated look at the ancient artifacts of Athens, consider a stop at the National Archeological Museum, north of the Acropolis. The museum, the largest in Greece, was founded in 1829 to be the repository for the antiquities uncovered by archeologists working not only in Athens, but across Greece. More than 11,000 pieces, including sculptures, metalworks, and intricately decorated ceramic vases and urns, are on display; many of these objects had to be spirited away to secret spots during World War Two to ensure they weren’t stolen by the Nazis. You’ll be amazed by the history and beauty crammed into this spot. Tickets are 10 euros during the high season (April 1 to October 31) and 5 euros during the low season.

Hadrian's Arch in Athens, Greece — Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock

See Hadrian’s Arch And The Temple Of Zeus

The Roman emperor Hadrian built numerous monuments in Athens, and the entrance to one of the most famous is also impressive. Stroll under the Arch of Hadrian, a triumphal gate to the once-grand Temple of Zeus. As you enter, be on the lookout for the inscriptions on the arch. One reads “This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus,” and the other reads “This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus.” Scholars say the etchings allude to the fact that the arch stood at the boundary between the “old” and “new” sections of Athens.

Once you pass through, consider the hulking remains of the temple built to honor the king of the gods, Zeus. It once housed a 36-foot-tall statue of the deity that was crafted of gold and ivory. This place has been through the wringer since it was built back in 456 B.C.: The temple has fallen victim to numerous fires and earthquakes over the centuries. However, wandering through the massive columns that remain, it’s not hard to imagine its former glory.

Catch The Changing Of The Guard

For an old-meets-new experience in Athens, head to Syntagma (Constitution) Square. This square surrounds the Old Royal Palace, which was built for King Otto of Greece in 1843 but is now the home of the Hellenic Parliament. It’s a major public transit hub that, given its political focus, also serves as a place of protest for the people of Athens. Each day on the hour, the Evzones — costumed Greek guards keeping vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — hold a changing of the guard ceremony. Syntagma Square’s subway station is a mini-museum, built into archaeological ruins you can view while catching your train.

The Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, Greece — Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

Run Where The Olympics Were Born

Want to see where the original Olympics took place, and where the modern ones began? Head to the Panathenaic Stadium. Athletic competitions called the Olympiad were held at this spot from 565 B.C. until the fourth century A.D. In the 1860s, civic leaders in Athens decided to rebuild the old stadium, fashioning it from marble. The modern Olympics were revived in the stadium in 1896 and held there again in 2004. It’s an awe-inspiring spot in a city full of them.

General admission is 5 euros. You can channel your own inner Olympian during the morning jog sessions held daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Stroll Through The National Garden

Need a break from buildings? That’s completely understandable; the architecture of Athens can be overwhelming. For a nice break, consider a stroll in the National Garden. Located just east of Syntagma Square, this charming oasis was part of the palace complex constructed for King Otto and Queen Amalia of Greece in 1843. The garden is home to thousands of trees, gorgeous flowering shrubs and plants, a half dozen ponds filled with friendly ducks, a greenhouse, and a small café. Be sure to check out the adjacent Zappeion Hall, which features statues and busts of gods, goddesses, kings, queens, and politicians, as well as its own surrounding gardens. This is the perfect spot to unwind after spending a day at the Acropolis or the museums. The garden is free to all.

Nightlife in Athens, Greece — Milan Gonda / Shutterstock

Eating In Athens

One of the things we adored most about Athens was the food. Everything was delightfully fresh. Greek olives, just-baked pita bread, and local feta crumbles washed down with a glass of dry white Assyrtiko wine made up a quick, light lunch. We also really loved the dips, or mezze. Tzatziki, the cool cucumber-yogurt concoction, is a crowd pleaser, as is taramosalata, a spread made from fish roe. And if you love garlic, try the skordalia, a delicious potato-garlic mash-up. Be sure to sample the ubiquitous souvlaki (skewered lamb or chicken) and the world-famous, much-loved gyro sandwich. Saganaki, deep-fried Greek cheese, was another of our favorites, as was spanakopita, the spinach pie sold by street vendors and in cafés.

For a dinner splurge, consider Strofi. Located adjacent to the Acropolis, this open-air dining spot offers a million-dollar view and traditional Greek cuisine crafted with locally grown ingredients.

Shopping In Athens

When we needed a respite from the ruins, we went shopping. We did most of our buying in Plaka, an ancient area near the northeastern slopes of the Acropolis. Homes, gardens, cafés and shops are packed into this labyrinthine area with winding paths and relatively quiet lanes. It’s a great place to take a breather, grab a snack, and pick out some gifts to take home. Go to Adrianos Street for some of the best souvenir shops.

We purchased ouzo, a potent anise-flavored liquor that is the national drink of Greece. It’s worth wrapping up and stashing into your checked luggage for the trip home. It’s no surprise that you’ll also find some of the world’s best olive oil in Athens; it’s the perfect souvenir for foodies. For smaller, nonbreakable take-homes, consider kompoloi (worry beads made of coral or amber) or gorgeous hand-embroidered linens for the table or bed.

Photo Credit: Anastasios71 / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Sven Hansche / Shutterstock