In the last three years, with definitive borders around the world, the arrival in the U. S. has increased significantly. The U. S. government has provided Americans with much-needed comfort, a tonic in this time of uncertainty and fear. We’ve rediscovered national parks, explored this country’s hidden shorelines, and discovered a new appreciation for America’s wonderful outdoors.
Even though many foreign countries have reopened their doors to travelers, the domestic is still going strong, according to the U. S. Travel Association. This shows that there’s still a lot to notice close to home.
So, what are the most productive selling options right now?Each year, I scour the most productive sales options for a stopover in the United States. Once again, I’ve enlisted the help of expert and influential women to identify their favorite selling options in the United States in 2023. I also opened my own little black e-book to reveal the destinations that are on my radar.
This year, the most sensible possible choices of places to stopover span the entire country, from coast to coast, from beachfront getaways to mountain huts to urban sights, with a few surprises along the way. Compare those picks to the 2022 list of the most productive investments in America, and it’s clear that America is the gift that keeps on giving.
Chosen by: Lucee Santini is a lifestyle editor and blogger who has contributed to the Huffington Post, SheBuysTravels, and Newsbreak and is an editor and publisher of MomJunky. com. She shares her adventures and tips on Instagram @momjunky. com and @family destinations.
Why: Phoenix recently made headlines as hosting Superbowl LVII, hosting Taylor Swift’s outing kickoff and hosting MLB spring training. But there’s a lot to notice in Greater Phoenix in 2023, one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. , not to mention the natural beauty that made it a must-visit destination in the first place. ” The Valley of the Sun is known for its year-round sunny weather, beautiful hikes, and picturesque scenery,” says Lucee Santini, who loves places like the Desert Botanical Garden, a 144-acre oasis in the middle of the desert.
The city is in the midst of a $23 million renovation of South Mountain Park and Preserve, the largest urban park in the United States, that will culminate with the park’s centennial in 2024. “Stay at WorldMark Phoenix – South Mountain Preserve,” Santini says. the best base to explore the nearby trails and enjoy an amazing exhibit or display. “
Over the next year, Phoenix will see the opening of several major resorts, adding Moxy Phoenix Downtown (housed in a 1920s Luhrs building), The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie (overlooking Camelback Mountain) and the billion-dollar VAI (with white-sand beaches, a 52,000-square-foot island, and the Mattel Adventure Park).
Some iconic homes are also being redesigned. The Wigwam, a historic hotel offering luxury casitas and suites in the West Valley, will undergo a complete renovation in 2023. Look for two expansive pools, bocce ball and tennis courts, as well as an upgraded pool. golf club with 54 holes of championship golf, adding two courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Meanwhile, the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort
The Phoenix metro area’s food and wine scene is also booming, with interesting entrees like Chic Chef 77 (Arizona’s first Black-owned wine bar, run by celebrity chef Nik Fields) and Chilte (Mexican street food in the Grand Avenue Arts District’s new Egyptian Motor). Avenue Hotel). . The drinks scene is also making headlines around the world, thanks to hot spots like Platform 18 and UnderTow, which have created a new cocktail theater brand.
Talley Farms Vineyard in San Luis Obispo, on California’s Central Coast.
Chosen by: Molly O’Brien is a freelance journalist.
Why: California’s Central Coast, stretching from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo, is experiencing a renaissance, with new and renovated hotels, an expanded wine offering, and a burgeoning culinary scene, not to mention an upscale vibe. “Something special opens up in you when you’re on the Central Coast,” says Molly O’Brien. Maybe it’s the warmth of the net that welcomes you, or the abundance of open spaces to explore, or maybe it’s the freshness of the ingredients used in the local atmosphere for eating and drinking, you can feel almost at ease and let go. Stressed. “
In Santa Barbara, also known as the American Riviera, the new tech-focused boutique hotel, Drift Santa Barbara, officially opened in early 2023 in a restored 1920s building and offers contactless check-in, a third-wave boutique coffee shop and dining spot (Dawn) and artisan bar (Dusk) powered through Mexican heritage. The Steward, a new Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel, will debut in May. Set on approximately five acres of gorgeous gardens, this all-suite boutique hotel is deeply committed to sustainability, from ditching single-use plastics to staff uniforms made from vegan materials.
The region’s arts and dining scene is also booming. The former Bellosguardo Estate will open its doors to the public for the first time at the end of 2023, while Urban Wine Trail welcomes many new tasting rooms, adding La Lieff Wines and Frequency Wine Co. Among Santa Barbara’s culinary newcomers is the AMA restaurant in Playa de Palosanto Miramar. (serving original Japanese sushi in a charming setting) and Augie’s Tequila Bar and Restaurant (offering the largest variety of tequilas and mezcals on the West Coast, plus local agave spirits).
There’s plenty of other exciting news in 2023 across the Central Coast, from America’s newest wine country, which is expanding, to new restaurants like Italian-inspired Cielo (opening in Atascadero) and Antigua Brewing Company (opening in San Francisco). . Luis Obispo). The Paso Robles wine tasting destination now boasts a new Michelin star at Six Test Kitchen and the town will soon be home to two Nomada Hotel Group properties: The Farmhouse and River Lodge, which will provide easy access to the old downtown area. Old is new, too: On the once-forgotten border of the town of Pozo, Nomada Hotel Group is transforming the iconic Pozo Saloon into a trendy getaway with Airstreams, glamping tents, camper hookups for speedster vans, outdoor bathtubs, and a distillery.
Explore San Francisco.
Chosen by: Emily Carmichael is the editor-in-chief of Fifty Grande.
Why: The City by the Bay is working this year, thanks to a diversity of new concepts in hospitality, gastronomy, technology, green spaces and sustainability. “With all the plight of Silicon Valley, other people might be tired of hearing about SF right now, but if there’s one thing they’re paying attention to, it’s the city’s sustainability leadership. It’s on our list of top destinations. productive projects focused on sustainability in 2023,” says Emily Carmichael.
Exciting openings come with Auberge Resorts’ Hotel Hearst (which transforms an iconic building into a luxurious area that combines culture and innovation) and the LINE Hotel San Francisco (a new interpretation of the area’s historic architecture with a landscaped rooftop sundeck offering panoramic perspectives of the city). ). perspectives).
In addition, the recently opened Presidio Tunnel Tops, designed through James Corner Field Operations (New York City’s corporate High Line), provides the city with plenty of area to explore and relax among 14 acres of new national park and scenic views. the bay.
The culinary scene is also in vogue. ” It’s not hard to find some delicious dishes here that emphasize sustainability or local sourcing, such as Point Reyes Farmstead cheese or lolo,” says Carmichael. “There’s also the Japanese tea field and picnics at Dolores Park. San Francisco is simply a wonderful place to eat and spend time outdoors, fog be damned.
Then there’s the influence of technology. SHŌ, a two-story entertainment and nightlife culinary experience, will be enrolled in the developing NFT phenomenon debuting in downtown San Francisco in the fall of 2023. The concept will include a rooftop dining venue and a Sky Lounge, as well as a personal club with the acquisition of an NFT.
Overlooking the heated pool at the Grand Hyatt Vail.
Chosen by: Laura Begley Bloom is a professional and author of this column.
Why: Sixty years ago, an organization of visionaries to open a ski hotel on Vail Mountain that would eventually revolutionize the industry and assistance made this former mining town a must-visit not only for the jet set but also for nature lovers seeking year-round adventures. As the mountain celebrates its 60th anniversary, Vail has plenty to celebrate in 2023.
One of the main protagonists is Camp Hale, President Biden’s first national monument. The new revolutionary monument on the outskirts of the city will pay homage to the original population of this region, the Ute people, as well as the army’s 10th Mountain Division, which contributed to the liberation of Europe in World War II and trained there. In addition, there are 53,804 acres to explore with mountain biking, guided hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, and overnight trips to nearby 10th Mountain Division cabins. (Delaware North recently announced the acquisition of Nova Guides, an outdoor recreation and adventure travel company founded in Camp Hale. )
In other good news, Vail Resorts has achieved 100 percent renewable electricity, not only in Vail, but in all of its North American ski resorts. This is part of the pioneering company’s Commitment to Zero effort to achieve net-zero. Vail also built two new elevators in Wildwood and partnered with local distillery 10th Mountain Whiskey to create a pair of limited-edition bourbons in honor of the anniversary.
In a city where restaurants, lounges, and hotels are innovating, booking hot food is a personal gondola treat at Alpenrose, while Chasing Rabbits shakes things up with its exclusive entertainment venue that includes dining, an arthouse cinema, a cocktail speakeasy, and more.
Located at the base of Vail Mountain, along the respected fly-fishing waters of Gore Creek, the Grand Hyatt Vail is also pulling out all the stops to celebrate its 40th anniversary. New executive chef Pascal Coudouy is reinventing the Alpine menu in fine-dining restaurants. Gessner Place, while the pop-up restaurant Yoshimi has been so popular that it will soon be replaced by a new permanent sushi spot. And the hotel has created many memorable moments, from a yurt of Moët après-ski to the first and champagne Moët. vending machine
Skytop Mountain House in Bailey, Colorado
Chosen via: Kathryn O’Shea-Evans is design editor and co-author of the new ebook Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour of America’s National Parks (Gibbs Smith, April 2023), with a foreword by Ken Burns.
Why: “Coloradans like me know the truth: Sometimes we get stuck in crazy, LA-style traffic on the 1-70 Freeway for hours, just looking to get to the mountains for a day of skiing or an alpine hiking adventure,” says Kathryn O’Shea-Evans. “
But O’Shea-Evans and her husband recently discovered a dream option away from the cheering crowds: Bailey, Colorado. “It’s an hour’s drive from downtown Denver on Highway 285 and it’s filled with so many mountainous thrills that it feels like you’re in an uncharted corner of Europe,” O’Shea-Evans says.
For getting out into nature, O’Shea-Evans recommends the Deer Creek Trail. “If you need to soak up a quiet mountain forest and take a short, easy walk along a rushing stream, this is the place to be,” he says. Another favourite spot is Lake Wellington. Open year-round and a must-see for fishermen in the area, it is stocked twice a year with fish such as rainbow trout and palomino trout,” he says. To immerse yourself in the history of the region, McGraw Memorial Park is a must-see. see. ” The 20-acre park across the creek is home to a historic 1870s farmhouse, the Keystone Railroad Bridge, and the Shawnee School,” says O’Shea-Evans.
Other popular vacation spots include Aspen Peak Cellars, located on the banks of the South Platte River (“don’t miss the charcuterie board, freshly baked baguette with Tuscan olive oil, and the original Swiss cheese fondue”) and PCCP Resale Shop (“an all-volunteer store stocked with treasures of second-hand items, all at a good price, whether it’s wardrobe staples or fun children’s toys. “)
In fact, O’Shea-Evans loves Bailey so much that she and her husband bought a stylish vacation home and turned it into a luxury short-term rental, Skytop Mountain House. “It’s a wonderful view of Bandit Peak and Rosalie Peak. “”When we’re vacationing there with our son, we see wildlife, from moose to moose, and we never encounter traffic jams. This is Colorado as it was meant to be. . . Don’t tell anyone.
The clear waters of Henderson National Park in Florida.
Chosen by: Kate Schweitzer is a Chicago-based freelance editor and mother of two. Follow her on Instagram @kateschweitzer.
Why: A family-friendly destination, Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers near-perfect year-round weather, a developing hotel scene, rich ecotourism that the destination strives to protect, as well as a “fishing net so colorful that the beach town is known as “the luckiest fishing village in the world,” says Kate Schweitzer.
Located in the Gulf of Mexico, Destin offers travelers a diversity of immersive and educational activities, such as synthetic reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving, educational beach walks to learn about sea turtles, and emerald green waters where dolphins roam freely in their natural habitat. To repair and repair local marine life, the destination has introduced a number of projects, adding new lighting initiatives for sea turtles, the first fishing aggregation device in the U. S. , and the first to be used to create a new sea turtle in the world. The Emerald Coast Open and the Lionfish Removal Festival.
“Visitors can also broaden their love of marine life by visiting the Gulfarium C. A. R. E. of Destin. Centre, which promotes the rehabilitation of stranded sea turtles,” says Schweitzer. “My kids enjoyed both the excursion guided by a marine biologist and riding a trimaran in search of dolphins. “
Destin is also home to a colorful seafood scene from gulf to table, adding places like Lulu’s (owned by Jimmy Buffett’s little sister Lucy), Rockin Tacos, and Brotula’s Seafood House. “In fact, do the right thing and ask for any lionfish. “Destin is, in fact, a hidden gem of Florida, and I’m so glad I discovered it. “
A view of the waterfront in St. Pete, Florida.
Chosen by: Terry Ward is a Florida-based publisher whose works appear on CNN, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, and the Washington Post, among many other media outlets. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @TerryWardWriter.
Why: “St. Pete has one of Florida’s most productive combinations of a cool, lively urban center and beautiful beaches nearby,” says Terry Ward. “The city is known for its art scene, from artwork to Salvador Dali to Renaissance masterpieces in museums, but it also remains delightfully tranquil and available on all levels. “
With 35 miles of uninterrupted coastline, plus some of Florida’s most sought-after beaches and a thriving arts and culture scene, it’s no wonder St. Petersburg is a must-see. John’s is the city of St. John’s. Pete seems to be on the radar of travelers. The Dalí Museum continues to offer exclusive and avant-garde exhibitions that explore multi-sensory and immersive stories for all types of travellers and is a must-see when visiting the destination.
It’s also appealing: “It’s an LGBTQ haven and hosts the state’s largest gay pride parade every year,” Ward says. “And the new St. Pete Pier has a year-round collection center, whether it’s at a temporary skating rink, among pelicans and anglers at the end, or while enjoying amazing perspectives of downtown and Tampa Bay from a rooftop Tiki. Bar bathed in salty breezes.
This year brings big changes to the hotel scene, primary renovations to the iconic Vinoy Resort
And when it comes to enjoying St. John’s annual 361 days of sunshine. John’s, Pete, that doesn’t happen on the beach. This year, the 75-mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail rounds out another 6. 7 miles. The multi-use trail stretches from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg. Pete with connections to coastal communities along the way, making it a wonderful way to explore the area.
Explore Savannah, Georgia.
Chosen by: Melissa Klurman is an expert and contributor to Reader’s Digest, The Points Guy, and Travel Awaits.
Why: A captivating getaway to the south, Savannah’s “host city” is a favorite of editor Melissa Klurman because of its rich history: Downtown is a National Historic Landmark; its 22 parking spaces, adding the illustrious Forsyth Park at Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil; and, of course, its many regional culinary specialties.
Despite its many attractions, Klurman says, Savannah’s live music scene remains a bit unknown. “Savannah is still in the shadow of Nashville and Austin. But that’s all about to change,” Klurman says.
This year, the city has a new entertainment venue, the Enmarket Arena, which brings together famous artists in a stadium with a capacity of 9,500 people. This follows the opening of the Plant Riverside District, an entertainment domain that debuted in the pandemic.
Even more appealing is the colorful Savannah Music Festival, a 17-day birthday party of jazz, blues, folk, global roots, and live classical music. It’s a series of concerts that’s easy to attend (and enjoy), says Klurman, who also notes that tickets start at an affordable cost of just $31. “You can attend indoor and outdoor shows, big raffles like Buddy Guy, or smaller lunchtime occasions to get a feel for this Southern festival,” Klurman says. I’ve been a local favorite for more than 30 years, but I’m betting that with the new focus on Savannah as a truly extraordinary music destination, the Savannah Music Festival will be on the most sensible list of music lovers for years to come. “
A rendering of the Longfellow Hotel, which will open in Portland’s historic West End neighborhood.
Chosen by: Born and raised in Maine, Vanessa Santarelli is the founder of Your Maine Concierge (the state’s first personalized guided companionship experience) and co-host of the television show Maine Life.
Why: “You can spend a week in Portland and barely scratch the surface of all that Maine’s largest city has to offer,” says Vanessa Santarelli. “”
From fine dining to local beachfront eateries, Portland has more places to eat per capita than any other city in the country, San Francisco. Earlier this year, Per Se and Eleven Park alumni opened Twelve to rave reviews. Other notable venues include The Danforth (a dining spot and cocktail bar with chic interiors across Death
Looking for a quintessential Maine experience? Cross the bridge to South Portland for local half-shell oysters, ceviche, smoked trout, and salmon toast at SoPo Seafood Market and Raw Bar, accompanied by a local craft beer like Austin Street Brewery’s Patina, heading for a casual eatery. restaurant. “, but an impressive lunch of delicious Maine lobster rolls at the simple picnic tables at Lobster Shack at Two Lights, watching sailboats and fishing boats pass by,” says Santarelli. “After lunch, follow in the footsteps of the famous painter Winslow Homer made plans for a field trip to the Portland Art Museum’s personal studio on the ocean cliffs of Scarborough that fostered many of his most admired works. “
This year will also bring exciting hotel novelties: designed by the same people who built the famous Lake House in Canandaiga, the Longfellow Hotel will open its doors this summer in Portland’s historic West End. The assets will be the first full-service standalone hotel to open. in Portland in 20 years and is named after the famous Portland poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Owned and operated by two longtime Maine brothers, the hotel reinterprets the wild, rugged look of Maine in a sophisticated, relaxing oasis in downtown Portland.
Another new hot spot is the Washington Baths, an edgy Scandinavian-style bathhouse. This year will also mark the 200th anniversary of the first steamboat to Portland from Boston, which introduced normal passenger service between the two cities and helped Maine become a “vacation country. “
A sand dune in Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore domain.
Chosen by: Erica Zazo is an independent travel and outdoor publisher founded in Chicago. He writes about lesser-known hiking trails and outdoor adventures throughout the Midwest.
Why: To add an underrated destination to your bucket list in 2023, look no further than the Traverse City waterfront on Michigan’s northwest side. The destination is the ultimate combination of small-town charm, combined with a greater offering in the cultural and culinary space, such as Modern Bird (from a husband-and-wife duo in Michelin-level kitchens) and Dennos Museum Center (with the largest collection of Inuit art in the country).
“As a Michigan native, I can’t say enough good things about my love for Traverse City,” says Erica Zazo. “I’m a big fan of outdoor adventures in the area, adding kayaking and fly fishing on the Boardman River, biking downtown, hiking the Old Mission Peninsula, and boating in Grand Traverse Bay. “
One of the wonderful things about this lesser-known destination is that it’s the cherry capital of the country: visitors can walk among the cherry blossoms in spring and celebrate the region’s favorite crop, the National Cherry Festival, in July. Traverse City is also home to a hidden wine gem: Traverse Wine Coast. Located on the 45th parallel, the region aligns with Europe’s prestigious wine regions and boasts two exclusive heated spaces across the great waters of Lake Michigan: Leelanau and the Old Mission Peninsula.
It’s also the land of beer. ” I’m a big fan of Michigan craft beer and visiting the Farm Club north of downtown Traverse City is one of my favorite places to drink local beer,” says Zazo. “They have an amazing gourmet menu, amazing beers, and amazing perspectives from their incredibly charming ballroom that radiates the warm, modern vibe of the cottage. “For a motorcycle and beer adventure, Zazo recommends a ride along the Leelanau Trail, a 17-mile paved motorcycle trail that runs right next to the Farm Club and stretches all the way to Suttons Bay.
Finally, Traverse City is an all-season destination, whether it’s skiing and winter sports at Crystal Mountain Resort, leaf watching in the fall, or exploring the shore of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake in the spring and summer. For an ideal location to stay, Alexandra Inn will debut this summer on a personal beach along East Grand Traverse Bay. Each of the 32 rooms will have deep soaking tubs and glass-enclosed balconies with striking perspectives of the water.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, booming.
Chosen by: Laura Begley Bloom is a professional and author of this column.
Why: The Magnolia State has everything a traveler might need in 2023, from a cutting-edge culinary scene to bustling small towns and incredible herbal beauty.
In Hattiesburg, appreciate more than 50 works of art on the Public Art Trail, the Hattiesburg Pocket Alley Pocket Museum (a 48-×-36-inch demonstration display case filled with a collection of items that rotate monthly) and burn your center and soul at the Lucky Rabbit, which even features glassblowing demonstrations.
Other hidden cities include Waveland (the only network on the Gulf Coast that prohibits the construction of ads on its coast), Bay St. John’s and St. John’s. Louis (which has an old downtown full of art galleries and antique shops) and Diamondhead (known for its golf scene and some of the vegetables from the coast.
Mississippi has also forged an iconic culinary culture, with high-end foods prepared by celebrity chefs, farm-to-table restaurants, and no-frills establishments. In historic downtown Ocean Springs, Vestige offers a fresh American menu fostered through flavors and techniques. at Elvie’s in Jackson, chef Hunter Evans channels his love of food and hospitality that he learned in his grandmother Elvieretta’s kitchen in New Orleans. The Delta is also known for its tamales, and the way to indulge in this beloved snack is to stick to the Hot Tamale Trail.
When it comes to nature, Quapaw Canoe Company hosts traditional day and night wilderness expeditions on the lower Mississippi River, its Back Waters, Bayous, Oxbows, and Flood Plain. Mississippi also offers excellent birding through its forests and sandy beaches, and Mississippi shorebird watching. Trail helps visitors identify more than 40 known birding sites through local birders.
Diversity of hotels in Mississippi, from woodland retreats to historic inns and everything in between. The Roost at Ocean Springs is a restored boutique hotel located just steps from the beach and the eclectic city center. Set on 26 acres, the Monmouth Historic Inn in Natchez was built in 1818 and is now a National Historic Landmark.
Kansas City, central Missouri with Union Station.
Chosen by: Anna Petrow is a Kansas City-based food and lifestyle photographer and a regular contributor to The New York Times, Travel Entertainment, and Fathom.
Why: “Kansas City’s culture includes a mix of creativity and food,” says Petrow. “Located in the center of the country, our chefs and farmers were among the first in the country to quietly lead the farm-to-fork movement. “
Today, Kansas City is having its moment, thanks in addition to other people who truly care about where their food comes from. “You see skincare come to life creatively in everything from cocktails to handmade chocolate in Kansas City,” says Petrow. . ” Christopher Elbow’s confectionery has earned a place on the national stage, while local liquor brands like J. Rieger
Another characteristic of this city is that it values the network more than the competition. “You see this all the time, from restaurants supporting each other in their new projects to large coffee warehouses leading the way in network initiatives,” says Petrow. One user who embodies this spirit: Jackie Nguyen, owner of Vietnamese café Café Cà Phê. ” Their shop has become a home for artists, organizers, and dreamers,” says Petrow. Rarely a week goes by without them hosting a cultural workshop or fundraiser for a fellow small business inventor – a genuine plea. “
All of this feeds into the overall ethos of for the arts, adding first Fridays at the crossroads, open gallery nights, street art festivals that draw giant crowds, open-air fried fish contests in the summer, and establishments like the beloved American Jazz Museum. “Food and drinks are never far behind,” says Petrow. An example of this? KC’s most anticipated brewery, Vine Street Brewing, founded and owned by Black, will open near the museum this year,” says Petrow. “So don’t hesitate, take more time and book a flight to our new airport – your taste buds will thank you. “
A view of the Atlantic City waterfront.
Chosen by: Andrea Doyle, journalist at Skift Meetings.
Why: “Atlantic City will have a sign in 2023 and I’ll be a regular visitor,” says Andrea Doyle. “”America’s Playground (as this coastal city is called) has seen significant reinvestment in the destination in recent years, adding multimillion-dollar hotel renovations, innovative restaurants, and all-new attractions.
“There are so many new features online that I can’t wait to see,” says Andrea Doyle. “I’m really looking forward to dining at Nobu, which is opening its doors this year, enjoying an exhibition at Spiegelworld, and attending some of the most exciting events in the world. “
When it arrives at Caesars Atlantic City with a new production of “The Hook” in the summer of 2023, Spiegelworld is shaping up to be the leading provider of submersible entertainment on the planet. It will also bring new life to the destination: the long-awaited $55 million rebranding and renovation from the Borgata Aquatic Club to the MGM Tower. Adding to the excitement: Island Waterpark at Showboat Atlantic City, which will be the largest indoor water park in the country and will feature surfing machines that will create life-size waves and the world’s most traditional forms of water.
And, of course, there are the tried-and-true favorites that continue to deliver results. “On my getaways with my friends and in my e-book club, we go shopping, dine at prestigious restaurants, and have spa treatments at wellness centers like Exhale Spa Bathhouse. at Ocean and dancing the night away at Boogie Nights at the Tropicana,” Doyle says.
Niagara Falls on a summer’s day.
Chosen by: Michele Herrmann, freelance writer and content creator dedicated to travel, food and lifestyle
Why: Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for visitors from all over the world, thanks to iconic attractions like the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds. Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park has been a focal point for visitors to the falls, and now a new $46 million guest center set to open later this spring will feature sustainable elements, hands-on exhibits and indigenous history to enrich the experience.
“The Niagara Falls area of New York has undergone a great deal of expansion and revitalization,” says Michele Herrmann. “From institutions like Wine on Third to the new Ator Scale Center, there’s a lot going on. Other places to stop include the Niagara Aquarium and the Niagara Power Vista.
Nature is the focal point of any visit to Niagara Falls in the United States, and the new Niagara Hiking Company offers guided day hikes in the Niagara Gorge, with panoramic perspectives and a told history of the area.
Just steps away from Niagara Falls, visitors can stay at the Red Coach Inn, which will celebrate its centennial in 2023. The historic hotel overlooks the stunning upper rapids of the Niagara River. Also a short walk from Niagara Falls is the newly renovated voco The Cadence Hotel. Rooms have balconies where visitors can stand and enjoy a glass of wine from one of Niagara’s many local wineries.
Oklahoma City’s Bricktown community at dusk.
Chosen by: Kay Kingsman, editor and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.
Why: “Oklahoma City isn’t on the list of dream destinations for travelers, but 2023 is the year that’s going to change,” says Kay Kingsman. “Other cities across the country would arguably be given the colloquial name of ‘weird’ or ‘quirky,’ but Oklahoma City, also known as OKC for short, is flying under the radar due to its offbeat attractions and locally curated arts scene.
Uptown’s Bradford House Boutique Hotel is a new staple of OKC hospitality. “It offers its visitors exclusive rooms, delicious afternoon tea, jazz evenings with regional musicians, and even weekly French lessons,” says Kingsman. “It will be hard to leave your comfortable hotel room, but once you do, two of the most exclusive museums you’ll ever know: the American Banjo Museum and the American Pigeon Museum. While both are likely random, the others will note how pigeons and banjos were integral to the foundation. of fashionable American culture.
Be sure to round out your cultural enrichment with a visit to the recently opened Museum of the First Americans. “It explains the decolonized history of the Americas through the lens of the continent’s indigenous peoples,” Kingsman says.
There are other amazing things to do in OKC besides the museums. “Enjoy a psychedelic treat at Factory Obscura and dine at the award-winning Grey Sweater restaurant,” says Kingsman. “Oklahoma City is also an ideal place for a road trip, as it’s located along Route 66, one of the strangest and at the same time most artistic roads in the country. “
Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a while, be sure to also charge at least a day to visit nearby Tulsa. “Tulsa is a destination in its own right, but if you only have time for one activity, make sure visitors will be informed about the sad truth of how government entities are systematically destroying and displacing Black neighborhoods, as well as the steps they want to take to take action. “
The skyline of Portland, Oregon, with Mount Hood in the distance.
Chosen by: Kay Kingsman, editor and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.
Why: “Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Portland, Oregon, will rise again in 2023 with an unprecedented expansion in the food and beverage scene, both in quality and variety,” says Kay Kingsman. “
Portland, voted “Best Food City of 2022” via WalletHub, is at the forefront of the industry when it comes to cutting-edge menus representing cuisines from around the world. “A particularly attractive feature of Portland’s new trajectory is the number of new and developing restaurants. businesses that are owned and operated through BIPOC and LGBTQA pioneers, reinforcing the fact that a trip to Portland can be right for all travelers,” says Kingsman.
With so many wonderful dining options, it can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors. Kingsman’s most sensible recommendations: Matutitna or Masala Lab for breakfast, followed by Nong’s Khao Man Gai or Heavy Plays for lunch. “End the evening on a high note at Republic or Kann, two James Beard-nominated restaurants,” Kingsman says. Or a bite to eat at the institutions that have made Portland a familiar destination in the culinary world: food carts. “There are literally piles of food carts, and in general, you can’t go wrong, but some of my personal favorites are Balong, Erica’s Soul Food, Kim Jong Grillin, and Speed-o Cappuccino,” Kingsman says.
How do you spend the time between meals? Stay active at some of the new inclusive gyms like Flow in the City or take part in a networking run hosted through Deadstock Coffee Roasters,” says Kingsman. You can also spend your own pace walking through Portland’s Japanese Garden, which has “I added a new tea café, or explore the city on an urban walk and some small local businesses to pick up souvenirs and buy groceries, tax-free. “
Explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century Spanish castle in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Chosen by: Kay Kingsman, editor and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.
Why: After recovering from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico is hurtling into 2023 — and beyond — with new opportunities to enjoy while staying true to its Puerto Rican identity. “One of the first things visitors are likely to notice is the variety of lodging features that take direct advantage of the community, such as Dreamers Welcome, a new LGBTQIA-owned hotel organization co-founded by Puerto Rican artist and designer Roy Delgado,” says Kay Kingsman.
From surfing to sunbathing in the lagoons, Puerto Rico is a destination of natural beauty, with miles of stunning marine coastline and the only rainforest national park in the United States. “For sailing enthusiasts, there are also several islands off the coast with white sand and crystal clear waters. “Or take a kayak and tour one (or all!) of the 3 bioluminescent bays. “
Other nature highlights come with the reopening of the famous Camuy Caves, known for their extensive network of herbal lime caves and underground canals to explore. And then there’s the independent corporate company Earthship PR, which offers educational tours and short-term rentals of its sustainable, detached homes built from recycled materials.
In addition to the island’s natural beauty, Puerto Rico’s cultural attractions are also a major draw. “Companies like Higuaca Adventours and Sojourn will offer tours of Taino and Afroborinken heritage,” Kingsman says. Along with the global explosion of Puerto Rican musicians such as Bad Bunny, Rauw Alejandro, and Villano Antillano, the island is also experiencing an expansion in the art scene. “Be sure to check out art collectives on social media like El Local in Santurce for the latest news on art events in Puerto Rico. “Kingsman says.
A number of new restaurants are also popping up across the island. “A food tour with Flavors of San Juan Food or Spoon is a must to sample some of the best flavors Puerto Rico has to offer,” says Kingsman. Sightseeing is rarely your style, you can create your own culinary adventure by following the recommendations of local Puerto Rican food influencer Come Con Juan. “
Nneya Richards in southern Rhode Island.
Chosen through: Nneya Richards is a speaker and blogger at ‘N A Perfect World, a hub of food, fashion, and geopolitics fostered through the lifestyles of millennial global citizens. It is through exploring the global that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.
Why: “It’s just over 3 hours from New York City on a quick and comfortable Amtrak ride. But shhhh, don’t tell New Yorkers,” says Nneya Richards. “During the summer season, it’s less difficult to get to South County, Rhode Island, than the Hamptons. And I need to come here all year round.
Southern Rhode Island County is on the list for 2023, thanks to all its secret amusements and some not-so-secret celebrity fans. “You’re probably familiar with the city of Watch Hill from Taylor Swift’s last wonderful American dynasty. ” says Richards. Or it’s because Watch Hill is home to the oldest flying horse carousel in the country, dating back to 1754. “
This also applies to the southern county: “There’s something for everyone,” says Richards. “There’s a laid-back vibe to cruising the city at places like Narragansett, and finding the country’s best seafood at restaurants like Matunuck Oyster Bar, and cuisine that might feel right at home in a Mexico City hot spot at Dalia, on the waterfront. Place to eat Mexican at Ocean House.
There are new hotels in South County, including The Cottage Collection (new hotels from the prominent Ocean House), The General Stanton Inn (a historic asset in Charlestown that will reopen in May), and Surf Shack Bed.
Other new and interesting places include David Burke’s Double Barrel Steak, which recently debuted at the Preserve Sporting Club.
Better yet: “It’s one of the few reserves of peace that the rugged Atlantic coasts can create so well,” Richards says. “And the sunrises and sunsets are just wonderful. “
The transparent sunset sky in Badlands National Park in South Dakota.
Chosen by: Laura Begley Bloom is a professional and author of this column.
Why: In addition to its six national parks, 63 national parks and recreation areas, iconic landmarks, and scenic drives, South Dakota has plenty of new reasons to put the state on its bucket list in 2023.
In the mythical Badlands, Oglala Lakota Living History Village is a new access point to the beautiful scenery and culture beyond and to the offerings of Lakota country. Another new adventure in the middle of the Lakota country: a vacation on Buffalo Road at the mythical Farlee Ranch on the Cheyenne River Reservation, which allows visitors to get a glimpse of Native American life. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the Crazy Horse Monument, which is still under construction and honors the Lakota leader who courageously defended the Lakota way of life.
At Custer State Park, the new Bison Center offers an exclusive bison experience on the park’s scenic drive through Southern Prairie, educating future generations about the importance of these majestic animals through dynamic interpretive displays. Overland America, headquartered in Hills, Custer, specializes in off-road adventures in Overland jeep and trailer rentals.
Another must-see in South Dakota for its landscapes, tribal history, and culture is the Native American Scenic Byway, which takes travelers through the lands of the Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River, and Standing Rock Sioux tribes.
South Dakota’s culinary scene may also surprise you, especially in Sioux Falls, home to places like The Treasury (an imaginative cocktail lounge next to the vaults of the area’s last boutique hotel, the Hotel on Phillips), Remedy Brewing Company (a recently opened, family-friendly, dog-friendly brewery), and pioneering Sanaa’s Gourmet Mediterranean (run by chef Sanaa Abourezk, nominated for the 2023 James Beard Award).
The front of the Woodstock Inn
Chosen by: Amanda Gabriele is a writer, editor, global traveler, and martini enthusiast. She is currently editor-in-chief of InsideHook and her work has been published in Travel Leisure, Eater, Gear Patrol, Thrillist, Matador, and more. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, but is looking for her next adventure, which you can follow on Instagram @amandameatballs.
Why: Woodstock, Vermont, has made headlines for reasons big and small. The city was recently included in American Express Travel’s 2023 Trending Destinations list, due to its popularity among cardholders. And fate turned heads when it reopened its iconic Suicide Six ski area. , one of the oldest in the country, with a new name, Saskadena Six Ski Area, and new amenities. The replacement was identified by its long-awaited nod to the ancestral lands of the Abenaki people, as well as the importance of intellectual aptitude. conscience.
The city’s undeniable attractions add to its appeal. ” I can’t think of a more idyllic place than Woodstock, Vermont – it’s the best getaway any time of year,” says Amanda Gabriele. “It offers all the activities (hiking, skiing, fishing) and an adorable main street with wonderful grocery stores (don’t miss F. H. Gillingham and Sons, Woody’s Mercantile and Yankee Bookshop). “
For such a small city, Woodstock also has a colorful hotel scene. “I’m looking for the best cocktail bar and maybe I’ll live in Le Comptoir with its cozy indoor and delicious drinks,” says Gabriele. On the mountain, Perley’s Pourhouse at Saskadena Six offers a variety of craft beers on tap from Vermont, an outdoor wood-burning fireplace, and fireplaces.
The city is also home to the iconic Woodstock Inn.
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