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5 Best Pastry Shops in Barcelona’s Born Neighborhood

5 Best Pastry Shops in Barcelona’s Born Neighborhood

I live in a minefield of Barcelona’s most delicious pastry shops.

Though that might sound problematic for anyone with a sweet tooth, I have the fortune of living on the fifth floor of a walk-up building. That means one thing: no gym memberships and lots of tasty treats.

To be fair, delicious pastry shops are located around the city. They aren’t confined to the bounds of the small part of my neighborhood, the Santa Maria del Mar area of El Born in Ciutat Vella. But this little slice of the Old City is renowned for its museums… and its pastry shops.

Let’s leave the museums for just a moment to focus on life’s sweeter side.

If you’re heading to Barcelona anytime soon, you’re highly likely to end up in this area. Passeig del Born and Santa Maria del Mar are two huge stops for tourists. Even if you don’t stay long, you’re going to run into one of the shops listed below.

Here’s where to go and what to eat in order of my favorites.

5 best pastry shops in El Born

Brunells

Courtesy of Brunells

You can catch me inside Brunells every Friday night, where I’m buying the mini lemon pie and sacher, and then going home to not share either one with my boyfriend.

The Brunells’ shop is absolutely adorable with an iconic Barcelona modernist vibe. You can purchase large cakes, mini versions, and pastries like the croissant that took home the 2020 Best Croissant in Barcelona award.

Plus, you can have a seat and enjoy a coffee in their small café. But if you just want to take away a dessert, head into the shop. You can also order takeaway coffee there. *Beware of crowds; Brunells is located next to Museo Picasso.

Bubo

Courtesy of Bubo

Located on the other side of Santa Maria del Mar is Bubo. I like Bubo because the great minds/bakers are constantly releasing new, imaginative treats.

Most are small, allowing you to sample more than a few imaginative desserts, like fruit-loaded coulants and award-winning chocolate croissants. They’re like mini pieces of art, from their visual design to their ingredients.

Bubo also places a really high standard on its ingredients and overall operations. That being said, it’s a little pricier than other shops.

Hoffman

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

I get asked for directions to Hoffman Bakery a few times a year. This hugely popular bakery is internationally known, drawing visitors from around the world.

I don’t personally eat there very often, but it wouldn’t be a Born pastry list without name-dropping them. They’re located right off Passeig del Born and, similar to Brunnells, lines are common during rush hour.

Funky Bakers

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

If you’re staying in El Born, you need to know about Funky Bakers—it’s the only spot in the area that’s open and selling breakfast bites before 10 am.

I love their borek and their house bun (ask for it with cream cheese for a bagel-ish breakfast), along with their desserts.

The chocolate chip cookie is to die for, along with their chocolate Swiss rolls. There’s also a merengue bomb that I take on every now and then; it’s for two people, but I can handle it solo on a good day. Funky Bakers is located right outside Santa Maria del Mar where Passeig del Born starts.

Jon Cake

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Jon Cake opened its doors one day and, in the next, lines of tourists appeared. And many are happy to wait hours for a slice of the famous cheesecake at Jon Cake, which was famously developed by an aerospace engineer who traded his spaceship for an industrial-sized oven.

Though exorbitantly priced, Jon Cake really meets the hype. I have never tasted a cheesecake like Jon Cake. That being said, don’t wait in line. If you really want a Jon Cake, order a whole cake online and skip the line to pick it up, then take it back to your hotel room.

You and a partner can portion it out for two or three days—or smash it in a single go with a few friends. Just don’t waste your precious time in Barcelona waiting in that hours-long line.

Bonus pick: Demasie

Courtesy of Demasie

Demasie is located on Carrer Princesa near Brunells. Its specialty is cinnamon rolls with unique and delectable twists. I’m putting it here as a bonus pick because, to be blunt, I think anyone who has even smelled a Cinnabon won’t be overly impressed by Demasie’s cinnamon rolls.

Again, let me reiterate: maybe Demasie’s cinnamon rolls are good, and Cinnabon has just ruined me forever. It’s hard to tell.

Summer Rush: 10 Most Crowded Destinations in the US

I’m a traveler who will wholesale avoid cities (and even entire countries) when they hit their high season.

That’s a personal preference of mine. I’m in my vampire era, meaning I’m interested in cooler destinations with long nights perfect for being sealed into a (metaphorical) coffin. I blame it on my artistic sensibilities and the fact that I live in a very, very sunny city.

Most travelers are not in their vampire era.

In fact, millions of Americans patiently endure the winter with their hearts set on a grand summer vacation. Sunlight and never-ending beach days are part of the allure, marking yet another successful trip, and a few crowds along the way only add to the excitement.

Still, no matter how much you cherish a packed summer vacation, there are times when the crowds can be a bit much.

Maybe you’re sick of running into the dinner rush and waiting for a table. Maybe you can’t hear yourself think in noisy masses anymore. Maybe it’s too hard to keep track of a larger group.

Regardless of your preferences, you might want to know the US’s most crowded summer destinations. Here’s the breakdown based on cold, hard numbers.

Crowded destinations that I’m not including

I’m crossing off large cities from this list because I’m assuming most Americans realize New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and Las Vegas are packed year-round. Plus, their numbers swell in summer thanks to an influx of international tourists.

Instead, I’m focusing on classic summer destinations where Americans flock year after year to leave the city behind.

After decades of steadily growing popularity, some hotspots are starting to feel the pressure of unending crowds. I’ve listed these out below, along with rough estimates for how many tourists pack in during the summer rush.

If you enjoy traveling to the destinations below, keep at it—just make sure to keep a few spare day trips and coping strategies in your back pocket in case you need a little room to breathe.

10 crowded destinations in summer

Florida Keys, Florida (~5 million)

This network of islands is seeing a tourism boom with consistent year-over-year growth, especially as Americans set their sights on domestic tourism. That being said, the Keys are a large, spread-out area, meaning you can usually escape the rush by strategically planning a trip to avoid the most crowded destinations in the Keys.

Orlando, Florida (~30 million)

Sure, Orlando is popular pretty much year-round thanks to the number of amusement parks it hosts. However, with a new Universal exhibit opening up in 2025, it’s expected that Orlando will see even greater numbers of visitors this summer.

Panama City, Florida (~5 million)

Panama City is one of the Sunshine State’s most hardcore spring break party destinations—but April isn’t the heyday for this panhandle hotspot. Panama City (similar to Destin and Gulf Shores) is one of the most popular domestic summer destinations.

Destin, Florida (~4 million)

With areas like Fort Walton taking off, Destin has become a perennial favorite for millions of Americans. If you want to drift away from the crowds, I suggest taking a closer look at Fort Walton’s unique neighborhoods—some are more cloistered than others.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee (~3 million)

Gatlinburg has quietly become one of Appalachia’s most popular new destinations thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere and range of affordable activities. But if you’re hoping to soak up the forests without a crowd, consider scheduling your trip around the summer rush.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (~4 million)

Just like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge has risen in the ranks of popular American summer destinations thanks to its gorgeous scenery, proximity to Appalachian parks and reserves, and its famed Dollywood.

Gulf Shores, Alabama (~5 million)

Just like Florida’s panhandle destinations, Gulf Shores remains a perennial favorite for families that want an affordable, sub-tropical beach escape. But with summer prices hiking, I’d recommend sticking to shoulder seasons—if not to avoid crowds, then to save.

San Diego, California (~10 million)

I had no idea San Diego was such a summer hotspot; in my head, it’s a perfect wintering zone. In reality, San Diego is one of the US’s most up-and-coming summer vacation destinations. If you want to avoid the most crowded destinations in the city, plan your trip accordingly.

Virginia Beach, Virginia (~10 million)

Though not quite at the level of Myrtle Beach (below), Virginia Beach continues to grow in terms of its domestic summer tourism numbers. Uniquely, it looks like many vacationers are already targeting the spring and autumn shoulder seasons to avoid high prices and crowds.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (~19 million)

If you’re into Myrtle Beach vacations, you’re probably not worried about the crowds. In fact, they might be one reason you keep coming back. Just know that Myrtle Beach remains untouched when it comes to affordability, meaning you can still access reasonable prices despite all the demand.

7 Amazing Rentals on Lake Willoughby, Vermont

What if I told you there’s a place in the United States unofficially known as the Northeast Kingdom? And that it’s home to one of the country’s most pristine glacial lakes?

Welcome to Lake Willoughby, tucked away in the northeastern corner of Vermont.

Sheltered on all sides by Willoughby State Forest, home to the famed Mounts Pisgah and Hor, it’s a dramatic and deep glacial lake with two separate public beaches. And it’s pretty enough to have been mentioned in a Robert Frost poem, ‘A Servant to Servants’.

In summer, it comes alive with vacationers who pack onto the beaches and take to the waters. And in winter, it transforms into a hot spot for ice fishers and climbers, as the summer’s waterslides freeze over for the cold months.

Still, Lake Willoughby remains off the radar for many out-of-towners, making it perfect for a reliably rejuvenating escape.

Ready to drop off the map at an Airbnb on Lake Willoughby? Here are the best rentals for your total relaxation.

Best rentals on Lake Willoughby, Vermont

  • Best waterfront rental: Lake Willoughby Waterfront
  • Large & lux rental: The Lions Den
  • Most unique rental: The Lake Willoughby Treehouse
  • Most budget-friendly rental: Willoughby Haven
  • Couples Escape: Lake Willoughby Mill Brook Studio Cottage
  • Eclectic pick: Log Cabin Retreat
  • Rustic & remote rental: Waterfront camp at Lake Willoughby

Best rentals on (or near) the water

Best waterfront rental: Lake Willoughby Waterfront

If you’re a huge fan of getting out on the water, look no further. This rental gives you direct back-porch access to the lake, including a swimming dock. But the wrap-around porch and large windows also let you soak up the lakeside views and atmosphere even when you’re lounging at home.

There is one catch. So far, this property only has one review. Though it’s a great review, the owners of this Airbnb prefer to have direct conversations with their guests before signing off on a rental. If you prefer a very hands-off experience, that might not be for you. Or if you like quality control from a hands-on host, it might be up your alley.

Large & lux rental: The Lions Den

Luxury meets convenience at The Lions Den. This waterfront rental has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, giving any large groups plenty of space to roam. But what I love about this rental is how easy it makes it to get out on the water.

Want to hit the lake? There are boats and kayaks waiting for you by the shore.

What about lounging on the beach? You have a private one at your disposal.

Just want to soak up the view of Lake Willoughby? Enjoy a meal or a drink from the porch, which hangs over the water.

Most unique rental: The Lake Willoughby Treehouse

Forget regular old cabins and cottages. This adorable treehouse is small and simple, letting you take a slightly elevated view of your surroundings from the vast porch. Though a bit rustic, it’s a fantastic pick for anyone who really wants to maximize the amount of time they spend outdoors.

However, I’d reserve the treehouse in the warmer months only. The interior is pretty small, meaning you might start to feel stuffy if you can’t utilize that ample porch space.

Most budget-friendly rental: Willoughby Haven

Full disclosure: Willougby Haven doesn’t have any reviews yet. If you’re someone who likes to trawl through reviews, then keep reading. That being said, if you’re okay trusting the photos and going out on a limb, Willoughby Haven looks like an absolute steal.

The interior is adorable, with a fresh coat of paint and modern appointments. The small studio gives you access to a 2.6-acre communal lawn and sandy shoreline.

You’ve got beach and lawn chairs accessible, along with a fire pit and kayaks. At such a low price point, it’s absolutely worth being the first guest to try out the Willoughby Haven.

Couples Escape: Mill Brook Studio Cottage

Comfort and simplicity make the Mill Brook Studio a fantastic lovers’ escape. The single-bedroom rental has a comfortable Tempurpedic bed, along with a great chaise lounge. With modern amenities in the bathroom and kitchen, you’ll be able to kick back with ease.

But what I love about the Mill Brook Studio is its proximity to a babbling brook. If another trip to Lake Willoughby doesn’t sound appealing, you and your partner can kick pack in the outdoor seating area and listen to the creek.

Eclectic pick: Log Cabin Retreat

Who doesn’t love a little whimsy and character at a lakeside rental? The Log Cabin Retreat has an eclectic design that adds a huge dash of coziness—and, like the name suggests, log cabin walls throughout.

Despite the kitschy design, the space remains functional with plenty of sitting and lounging areas to make eight guests comfortable. That being said, if antiques aren’t your thing, you might want to look elsewhere.

Rustic & remote rental: Waterfront camp at Lake Willoughby

If you’re okay with a more basic and rustic escape, head to the waterfront camp. This cute home dates back to the 1960s—you’ll feel the mid-century vibes in the home’s design and décor, which is a bit dated.

I think it’s one of the best rentals on Lake Willoughby for small families and larger groups that don’t want to overspend.

Despite its age, you’ve got all the amenities and features you could want for a memorable Lake Willoughby escape. There’s a large porch that overlooks the lake and forest, fitted with a large table and chairs. There’s an adorable dock that extends over a shallow part of the lake, making this ideal for families.

6 Natural Wonders in Nebraska You Probably Haven’t Heard Of

Nebraska has more hidden wonders than you might think.

Recently, I covered some of the state’s quirkier things to do, from exploring the famous Carhenge art project to attending the Kool-Aid Days festival. The short list of beloved oddities is just the tip of the iceberg.

Nebraska is home to charming small towns, a handful of top-notch state parks, and a capital city that will keep you captivated for days on end. Though the average traveler is likely just passing through Nebraska, it’s a worthwhile destination in and of itself.

But like many other ‘fly-over’ states, there’s a huge misconception about Nebraska—that it’s flat and boring, offering little for nature lovers. That’s false for a few reasons.

First, who says prairies and grasslands aren’t drool-worthy? We love the sky to observe stars at night, but tend to write off the day for some reason.

Second, if I can’t sway you to fall in love with rolling plains, then these other natural wonders in Nebraska are sure to pique your interest. Let’s take a closer look.

6 gorgeous natural wonders in Nebraska

Oglala National Grassland

Oglala National Grassland (Getty)

I’m starting out with those grasslands that I personally love. Oglala National Grassland is one of the most intact grassland territories left in the world, stretching over 94,000 acres. It’s located in the state’s upper northwestern corner near South Dakota and Wyoming.

Here, you’ll find unspoiled views of the horizon in each direction—it almost feels like being out on open water.

As you take on hikes through the prairie, you’ll stumble upon healthy tallgrass that reaches up to your waist, along with other surprises like the badlands. (More on this below.)

Toadstool Geological Park

At sunrise in Toadstool Geologic Park, a hiker walks across badland layers of hardened volcanic ash, clay and sandstone in the Oglala National Grassland of Nebraska. (Getty)

While most of the Oglala National Grasslands is prairie, some portions are actually home to badlands. Badlands are rugged and rocky stretches of land, home to escarpments to canyons to small hills.

They’re best experienced at Toadstool Geological Park and Campground, which is home to massive, well-preserved fossils.

You can find interpretive areas and exhibits in Toadstool that offer insights into the geological formations and the fossils discovered inside the park. There are plenty of day hikes that showcase the coolest badlands views, along with basic services like picnic areas.

Niobrara National Scenic River

Swallows flying over the Niobrara River near the Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine, Nebraska. (Getty)

The Niobrara is a large, important tributary that feeds into the Missouri River—but before the two meet, you can enjoy 76 miles of pure natural splendor. Welcome to one of the ‘longest’ natural wonders in Nebraska.

The Niobrara is a naturally quiet corridor where you won’t hear nearby highways or farms, letting you truly unwind at the riverside or out on the water.

The most popular way to enjoy the river is by floating down it, either on kayaks, canoes, or inflated tubes. The Niobrara National Scenic River area is also home to over 200 waterfalls, including the Big Cedar Falls to Smith Falls. Plus, you’ll have a fantastic view of the passing Sandhills prairie region as you explore the river.

Merritt Reservoir

Clouds and reflections at sunset at Merritt Reservoir near Valentine, Nebraska. (Getty)

It’s pure summer fun at Merritt Reservoir each year. This state recreation area comes alive each summer. Most visitors are going to camp and fish as part of their summer vacations, with a heavy emphasis on fishing.

But that’s not all. Merritt Reservoir is the stomping grounds of the annual Nebraska Star Party. In 2022, Merritt Reservoir became an official International Dark Sky Park.

That makes it ideal for stargazers and hobbyist astronomers. If you want to join the Nebraska Star Party, you can rub elbows with more practiced astronomers who are willing to teach you the basics—and maybe even take a glimpse through their telescope.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Prairie schooners at Mitchell Pass as a reproduction of Oregon tail.

When it comes to famous Oregon Trail locations, Nebraska’s top site is Chimney Rock. But let’s not forget about Scotts Bluff, which served as an important marker for pioneers heading west in the days of yore. Today, you can explore 3,000 acres of grasslands and badlands surrounding the iconic bluff.

For centuries, Scotts Bluff has served as an important landmark—first for Native American tribes, then for pioneers on the Oregon Trail and, later on, the California and Mormon Trails. Fans of history can learn more about Scotts Bluff’s role as a landmark at the visitor center.

Fort Robinson

Fowler, July 31, 2012. Copyright NEBRASKAland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

This now-defunct military fort takes you straight to an unsoiled stretch of Pine Ridge forests that span 22,000 acres. Active until the end of WWII, Fort Robinson has served many unique purposes—as a research center, as a K9 dog-training center, and even to house POWs.

Today, most guests hike and bike on the trails, go fishing in the ponds and/or creeks, and even take off-roading jeep rides. If you want to learn about Fort Robinson’s history, head to the Fort Robinson History Center and the Trailside Museum. Personally, I’d probably go for a stagecoach or horseback riding excursion to get out and explore the land.

6 Extra-Cozy Bed And Breakfasts in New York State

Lodging doesn’t get more comfortable than a bed and breakfast.

B&Bs combine the focus of a boutique hotel with the charm of a hyper-small stay.

Many bed and breakfasts are located inside decades-old mansions and manors, adding a dash of historic appeal. It’s not uncommon to find bed and breakfasts that also host small events that allow guests to gather and mingle, like tea time. Then there’s the home-stay-like feel that fosters an added sense of intimacy.

In many small but impactful ways, bed and breakfasts stand out in a world of generalized hospitality. Even if you only have a day or two, you can unwind and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

Americans are pretty spoiled when it comes to the range of B&Bs at our disposal. But if you’re on the hunt for a quaint getaway with an experienced, top-tier bed and breakfast, I suggest heading to New England.

This region is chock-full of detail-oriented bed and breakfasts that will bring out your inner Lorelai Gilmore. Ready to kick up your feet at one of New England’s cutest, coolest locations?

These are the very best bed and breakfasts in New York State.

Bed and breakfasts in New York State

  • Lux pick: Moonshadow B&B
  • Budget-friendly: Los Gatos Bed & Breakfast
  • Nature-focused: Green Acres Retreat
  • Tons of character: Log Country Inn Bed and Breakfast of Ithaca
  • Boutique charm: Canandaigua Guesthouse
  • Modern twist: Stratton Creek Inn

Top 6 picks: Bed and breakfasts in New York State

Moonshadow B&B, Hammondsport

Courtesy of Booking

Let’s kick off the list with a five-star bed and breakfast in New York State: Moonshadow. The elevated bed and breakfast offers a perfectly balanced interior, which nails its homely B&B design by including a few modern accents. The kitchen and porch are particularly cozy, fit for slow mornings and, later on, soaking up sunsets.

According to reviews, the morning breakfasts are particularly drool-worthy, along with the lakeside views. You can see the lake from many parts of the property, including the adorable fire pit.

Los Gatos, Penn Yan

Courtesy of Booking

Budget-conscious travelers won’t find a better bed and breakfast than Los Gatos. Despite the reasonable prices, this is a well-oiled B&B machine with friendly, warm hosts and a cozy setup. Both the décor and the grounds are suitably charming, giving you the perfect place to unwind outside of the city.

The cherry on top? Penn Yan is close to many of New York State’s most popular wineries and breweries. There’s also a gorgeous lake where you can take a hike and enjoy the water.

Green Acres Retreat, Hancock

Courtesy of Booking

Cute, clean, and newly renovated, Green Acres Retreat will take you off the beaten path and straight into a charming woodland. There are outdoor areas that let you soak up the views, including a large fire pit and plenty of benches. Indoors, you’ll be able to fully unwind with new mattresses and fast Wi-Fi.

Though it’s not a traditional bed and breakfast, the common areas are a great place to unwind with fellow guests. And staff are always on-call to help you out, whether you want a special treat for a romantic escape or a little help with the electric fireplace.

Log Country Inn Bed and Breakfast of Ithaca, Spencer

Courtesy of Booking

Like the name suggests, the Log Country Inn Bed and Breakfast is a large, rustic structure with a log façade and interior.

Anyone who likes natural wood features will be blown away by the rooms, which include exposed log ceilings and even nooks for the beds. With stone-lined tubs large enough to fit two, this has to be one of the best places to hole up for winter with a lover.

Though I’m not usually a fan of log cabins and wood features, this might actually be my favorite pick on this list. The wood accents are beautifully done, and the design is cozy. Yet there are modern surprises throughout, from the sauna to the yoga room to the exotic tilework in the bathrooms.

Canandaigua Guesthouse, Canandaigua

Courtesy of Booking

Looking for a little boutique angle in your next bed and breakfast in New York State? Head to Canandaigua Guesthouse, a unique property set in a historic home that has a brand new design.

From bright wallpaper accents to its fully renovated bathrooms to its stone fireplaces, it has all the familiar elements of a cozy inn—just with a modern twist.

If you’re a little on the fence about the old-school design of many bed and breakfasts, head to Canandaigua Guesthouse. Like Green Acres Retreat, the newly updated rooms and amenities add a fresh feel to the atmosphere.

Stratton Creek Inn, Stratton

Courtesy of Booking

If you barely want a bed and breakfast, go for the Stratton Creek Inn. Its clean and modern design isn’t reminiscent of a traditional bed and breakfast—it almost feels like a hotel you’d find in the center of a large city’s up-and-coming neighborhood. Still, its stately wooden floors and furniture add a dash of homely charm.

Cinco de Mayo—What is the Holiday and Which Cities Celebrate In Style?

For anyone unfamiliar with Mexican holidays, Cinco de Mayo has nothing to do with the Day of the Dead.

The 5th of May is celebrated in honor of an important military victory in Puebla, Mexico, in 1862.

Here’s the short version for anyone who doesn’t like history: France’s Napoleon sought to conquer Mexico during his reign in the mid-1800s. He sent over armies, which were steadily making their way to Mexico City and other strongholds. Mexico fought back and managed a striking victory in Puebla in 1862, which sent shockwaves across the region and rallied the call for resistance.

At the time, the border between the US and Mexico was still particularly porous, meaning many of those original Cinco de Mayo festivities took place in California, New Mexico, and Arizona.

In fact, the very first Cinco de Mayo celebrations were held in Columbia, California.

Over the decades, Cinco de Mayo has remained an important holiday in the US. (It’s also celebrated in Puebla, Mexico, as a military commemoration.)

It brings people together to eat, drink, and be merry—maybe, at some point, someone brings up the Battle of Puebla. But probably not.

I think of Cinco de Mayo as a celebration and acknowledgement of the Mexican-American experience. It gives Americans the chance to learn more about Mexican heritage and highlights just how long our cultures have been intertwined… just in a casual way that involves community, great food, and cold drinks.

If you want to learn more about the holiday, I recommend reading through this surprisingly on-point article from the San Francisco 49ers.

Now, onto the fun stuff—like which US cities have the best Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Cities with great Cinco de Mayo celebrations

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis’s Cherokee Street is one of its liveliest downtown centers. Each year, the street comes alive with live performances, including music and lucha libre events, along with tons of Mexican vendors. There’s also a family-friendly area where kids can play games and enjoy treats. Oh, and there’s also a mechanical bull.

Arlington, Texas

Saint Louis’s Cinco de Mayo celebration on Cherokee Street is family-friendly, but Arlington’s Cinco de Mayo fete is a little more involved. Dozens of popular restaurants, bars, and clubs create special Cinco de Mayo menus and programs, from DJ sets to Mexican vendors. It’s a little heavier on the drinking, so make sure you plan your celebrations with transportation in mind.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

You can choose from a few high-profile block parties and special menus to celebrate Mexico’s defeat of Napoleon’s army. Best of all, most are within walking distance, letting you enjoy a Cinco de Mayo block party-crawl. The most famous spots that host DJ sets and mariachi performances are Rocco’s Tacos and El Camino.

Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

Similar to Arlington, you can choose from a few different Cinco de Mayo programs in the city. In fact, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options you have. One location, El Chingon, is hosting a four-day romp, if that paints a picture of how DFW likes to celebrate the Puebla victory.

San Diego, California

Located right on the border, San Diego comes alive for its 5th of May celebrations and festivals. You can expect a tight focus on Mexican arts and heritage thanks to its massive Mexican and Mexican-American populations. From folkloric dancing to mariachi to the world’s most delectable Cali-Baja tacos, there’s something for everyone.

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