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Where To Eat In Pensacola

Sep 29, 2022 · 2 Comments

If you're looking for some great places to eat in Pensacola, you've come to the right place! Pensacola has a vibrant food scene, with something to suit every taste.

Collage of pictures of food in Pensacola.

Being the beach lovers that we are, we had to go to Pensacola to check out the food scene. And we were not disappointed! Pensacola has a great mix of restaurants, from casual beach bars to fine dining.

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Researching Where To Eat

Before embarking on our trip, we did a little "research" to determine where to start. Our research consisted of reviewing the comments and recommendations on TripAdvisor.com and polling friends and acquaintances on Facebook. Being in the South, we have plenty of friends who love going to the beach and have recommendations.

Another thing we like to do at the beginning of our trip(s) is to take a food tour. Food tours are not only a great way of learning about the destination, but also to learn about restaurants that we might want to revisit while on the trip.

Below is where we ate along with our recommendations, as well as more recommendations that we did not have a chance to try.

Flounders Chowder House

Flounders Chowder House was recommended by a few of my friends. People rave about their clam chowder on TripAdvisor.com, where it is ranked #6 out of 31 restaurants in Pensacola Beach.

Jeff ordered Coconut Shrimp which came with their tasty Island Pina Colada Sauce and was served with lemon, French fries, and delicious pineapple coleslaw.

Friend coconut shrimp, French fries, and coleslaw. — Coconut Shrimp $25.99

I ordered their Firecracker Shrimp Tacos which are made with crispy fried shrimp served on top of lettuce, pico de gallo, Jack cheese, cilantro, along with guacamole and cumin-infused sour cream. (The order of three tacos does not come with any sides.) It did come with Firecracker Sauce on the side that I was able to pour over the tacos. With the sauce, those tacos packed some serious heat.

Plate of spicy shrimp tacos. — FIrecracker Shrimp Tacos $18.99

The item that we recommend that you order at Flounders is a slice of Key Lime Pie. It has not one, not two, but rather three slices of Key Lime pie stacked together. The back side of the "slice" is generously coated with whipped topping. It's a dessert perfect for sharing among three or more people.

Slice of three-layer Key Lime pie. — Key Lime Pie $6.99

Flounders is located at 800 Quietwater Beach Road and is open from 11:00 am until 12:00 am Monday through Thursday, from 11:00 am until 2:00 am Friday and Saturday, and from 10:30 am until 12:00 am on Sunday.

Red Fish, Blue Fish

Ranked #2 on the list of places to eat in Pensacola Beach is Red Fish, Blue Fish. While the name evokes fond memories of Dr. Seuss, you won't find green eggs and ham on the menu. Word has it they serve the Bushwacker on the coast.

Building made out of stacked shipping containers.

Instead, once you walk past the red and blue building built out of shipping containers, you enter an outdoor seating area that overlooks Santa Rosa Sound. It's a fabulous place to be when the sun is setting.

Jeff ordered one of their signature dishes, the Grouper Piccata, which is made with white wine, lemon and caper sauce, and served over a bed of rice and asparagus.

Grouper topped with capers and a side of asparagus. — Grouper Piccata $32.00

Craving some greens, I ordered the Ahi Tuna Salad which was made with organic mixed greens, shredded carrots, radish, sesame seeds and wasabi peas served with a sesame ginger vinaigrette.

Ahi tuna on top of a bed of salad greens. — Ahi Tuna Salad $19.00

Our friends opted for the Fried Shrimp and Chips - jumbo shrimp fried, grilled or blackened, served with coleslaw, fries, cocktail sauce and lemon.

Tray of fried shrimp and fried potatoes. — Shrimp and Chips $24.00

Red Fish, Blue Fish is located at 5 Via de Luna Drive #B next door to Water Pig BBQ. RF,BF is open daily from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm.

Peg Leg Pete's

It's hard to believe Peg Leg Pete's comes in at #8 on TripAdvisor because when you go, there's a chance that there may be a 2-hour wait to get in. (Tip: Go for a late lunch or early dinner to avoid the long wait.)

Man and woman in front of a statue of a pirate.

To get things started, we order the Smoked Yellowfin Tuna Dip which was served on a bed of lettuce with fresh diced tomatoes and packets of crackers. (This was perhaps the favorite item that we and our friends had during our culinary exploration of the area.)

Smoked tuna dip on top of lettuce and diced tomatoes. — Smoked Yellowfin Tuna Dip $12.99

Jeff ordered the Cajun Fried Catfish which were dusted in cajun spices and crisply fried. The catfish was served with French fries, cole slaw, and a side of cajun sauce.

Fried catfish, French fries, and coleslaw. — Cajun Fried Catfish $16.99

I ordered a cajun shrimp wrap and a side salad. While I had no problems eating the wrap, I recommend their Shrimp Po Boy instead.

Hand holding a shrimp wrap. — Cajun Shrimp Wrap

Our friends split a sampler platter which included grouper, shrimp, and large sea scallops, and was served with rice pilaf, sugar snap peas, garlic toast, and sides of dill sauce and garlic butter.

Fish platter with shrimp and rice. — Mixed Sampler $26.99

Peg Leg Pete's is located at 1010 Ft Pickens Rd and opens daily at 11:00 am and closes at 10:00 Sunday through Thursday and at 10:30 pm on Friday and Saturday.

Fish House

The Fish House is located downtown at 600 S Barracks Street, Suite 112. It is located on Inner Harbor Channel and is a pretty lively place. The wait time for dinner on a Friday night was about 1 hour.

Their signature dish is World-Famous Grits à Ya Ya. It's described on the menu as "Spiced Gulf jumbo shrimp top a sauté of spinach, portobello mushrooms, applewood-smoked bacon, garlic, shallots, and cream over a heaping bed of smoked Gouda cheese grits." Honestly, I found it to be "just okay."

Gouda shrimp and grits. — World-Famous Grits à Ya Ya $21.95

I found myself with plate envy when the rest of the party ordered the Strawberry Salad (fresh spring greens tossed in strawberry vinaigrette with fresh strawberries, blueberries, cucumbers, shaved onion, and grape tomatoes; finished with crumbled feta and toasted almonds).

Strawberry salad with tomatoes, red onions, and sliced almonds. — Strawberry Salad $13.95

If you are a dessert lover, their Triple Chocolate Cheesecake is a winner. It's made with an Oreo cookie crust that's filled with a layer of milk chocolate cheesecake, topped with a layer of white chocolate cheesecake, and drizzled with a dark chocolate ganache.

Slice of triple chocolate cheesecake. — Triple Chocolate Cheesecake $7.95

The Fish House is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm and Friday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm.

McGuire's Irish Pub

We had heard from several people that we had to go to McGuire's Irish Pub and that the restaurant had millions of dollars hanging from the ceiling. All that we heard was true!

Dollar bills are tacked to the ceiling and walls throughout the restaurant which makes for quite a sight.

Walls and ceiling of a pub covered in one dollar bills. — Money, money, money - MONEY!

But that's not the only reason to go to McGuire's. The authentic Irish pub food and ambiance is also worth the visit. The waiters and waitresses look as though they just got off a plane from Ireland. The service and food are impeccable to boot!

We got there early to avoid the crowds and started our lunch with an order of Irish Boxtys - Irish Boxtys -garlic mashed potatoes hand rolled in herbed bread crumbs and flash fried. They were served with salsa, guacamole dip, and a horse radish sour cream sauce. (I recommend that you try these potato treats!)

Fried mashed potato balls and dips. — Irish Boxtys - $9.99

Another thing that McGuire's is known for is their steaks. Jeff ordered a 16-ounce New York Strip (Prime) which was served with creamed spinach, baked tomato, a couple of onion rings, and a small loaf of bread topped with honey butter. Jeff rates the steak as excellent and cooked well, and a hearty portion that could easily be shared.

Ribeye steak, onion rings, and baked tomato. — 16-ounce New York Strip $49.99

I ordered McGuire's Ultimate Chef's Salad which is made with crisp lettuce, red onions, grape tomatoes, red & yellow peppers, cucumbers, carrots, pepperoncinis, bacon, smoked turkey, kosher ham, Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and a hard-boiled egg. It was one of the heartiest salads I have eaten and it did not disappoint.

Large cobb salad. — McGuire's Ultimate Chef's Salad $15.99

McGuire's is located at 33 Harbor Boulevard and is open daily from 11:00 am - until close (usually 2:00 am). McGuire's is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Casino Beach Bar & Grille

For truly beachside dining, Casino Beach Bar and Grill is a great choice. Ranked #2 out of 45 restaurants in Gulf Breeze (while the address is technically Gulf Breeze, it's all Pensacola), this is a great spot for lunch or dinner.

Jeff ordered the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl with avocado, sprouts, sushi rice, radishes cucumber, seaweed salad, toasted sesame, carrots, beets, daikon root soy glaze, and wasabi aioli.

Ahi tuna poke bowl with carrots, radishes, and avocado. — Ahi Tune Poke Bowl $18.95

I opted for the Grilled Shrimp Tacos on flour tortillas with fries, slaw, pineapple pico, cotija, jalapeños, radishes, sriracha mayo, and cilantro lime cream. (These were very messy to eat.)

Shrimp tacos and fried potatoes. — Grilled Shrimp Tacos on Flour Tortillas $16.95

Three of us decided to splurge a little with our caloric budget and split The Lauren, the only dessert on the menu that has a full description. It was a pretty nice way to end our meal on Pensacola Beach.

Brownie sundae with whipped cream and spoons. — The Lauren - vanilla ice cream, brownie, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, peanuts, and a cherry $9.95

If you like "people watching," you will probably like Casino Beach. It's located next to the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier and you will probably see people from all walks of life (like us!) passing by.

Two men and two women standing near a beach.

Casino Beach Bar and Grill is located at 41 Fort Pickens Road and is open from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm daily.

Cafe Bistro

If you are craving a smoothie, Cafe Bistro at 39 Via de Luna Drive is where you want to go.

Tropical smoothie in a plastic cup. — 24-ounce **Tropical Breeze** $7.99

Cafe Bistro is located in a small shopping strip across the street from Emerald Isle. They are ranked #1 of 3 for desserts in Pensacola according to TripAdivsor. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dessert and are a quicker option than nearby Native Cafe.

I enjoyed this Tropical Breeze Smoothie while the rest of the gang went fishing in Pensacola. I was in and out within 10 minutes while nearby diners at Native Cafe had an hour's wait for breakfast.

Other Dining Recommendations

Angelenas - Fans of Food Network have probably heard of this Pensacola upscale restaurant. Chef James Briscione beat Bobby Flay in a culinary show down with his crawfish tortellini stuffed with andouille sausage bathed in crawfish sauce.

Angelena's is known for its Italian cuisine with Gulf Coast roots. Dining options include dining in the restaurant, selecting from their "Grab & Go," and placing an order for family meals to go.

They are open for dinner Monday through Saturday starting at 4:00 PM. For dining in, I recommend that you first make a reservation and put on your "nice clothes" for this establishment.

Angelena's is located at 101 E Intendencia Street.

Coffee Cup Restaurant - This restaurant recommendation came via Facebook from someone who went there multiple times during her trip to Pensacola.

Coffee Cup Restaurant is also located in Pensacola proper at 520 E Cervantes Street and is opens at 6:00 am Monday - Saturday and at 7:00 am on Sundays. (It closes at 2:00 pm daily.)

Menu items include breakfast classics, build your own omlet, eggs Benedict, quick lunch, salads, and seafood.

The Grand Marlin - The Grand Marlin is another upscale restaurant that you will want to get dressed up for. It's located just north of the Pensacola Beach Bridge Toll Booth at 400 Pensacola Beach Boulevard.

The Grand Marlin Praline Basket with Crispy Pecan Praline Basket/ Vanilla Bean Ice Cream/ House Caramel & Chocolate Sauces and Seasonal Berries. — **TGM Signature Praline Basket** $9
Crispy Pecan Praline Basket with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, House Caramel & Chocolate Sauces, and Seasonal Berries

Ranked #4 out of 31 restaurants in Pensacola Beach, this is another restaurant that you will want to make reservations and dress up for.

In 2018, The Grand Marlin was listed among the 100 most scenic restaurants in the US, and with its location on Santa Rosa Sound, it's easy to see why.

Menu items include items such as Crispy Lobster Fingers, Fresh Shucked Gulf Oysters, Shrimp and Grits, Grilled Ribeye, and their signature Praline Basket for dessert.

The Grand Marlin is open Monday - Thursday from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm and on Fridays from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm. On Sunday, TGM is open for brunch from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm and opens for dinner at 2:00 pm (until 9:00 pm).

Joe Patti's - An institution in Pensacola since 1931, Joe Patti's is a seafood shop where you can get fresh caught seafood, novelty items in their retail store, wine, and on some days, hot beignets from the stand in front of the store.

You can get them to steam your seafood and then take it back home or to your condo to enjoy.

Joe Patti's is located at 524 South B Street and is open daily from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Native Cafe - If breakfast is your favorite meal, you're in luck at Native Cafe. It's open from 7:30 am until 2:30 pm Tuesday - Sunday (closed on Monday) and they serve breakfast all day. I went one weekday morning and the wait was going to be about an hour.

Native Cafe is located at 45A Via De Luna Drive across from Emerald Isle condominimums.

Keep in mind that YOUR experience will probably vary from our experience, for better or for worse. We would love to hear about your favorite places to eat in Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Gulf Breeze.

Food Tours in Pensacola, Florida

Sep 22, 2022 · 3 Comments

Pensacola is a food lover's paradise! There are so many delicious places to eat, and the Seville Food Tour is a great way to sample some of the best. This tour takes you on a guided course to different restaurants, all within walking distance of each other.

Collage of picture of food in Pensacola.

Taking a food tour is a great way to try a variety of dishes and learn about the history and culture of Pensacola's food scene. I can't think of a better way to explore the city and its cuisine. And, of course, food tours are a lot of fun!

We had the opportunity to book a Seville Savories Palafox-Trot food tour in 2022 while we were at the beach exploring its dining scene. The owner and tour guide is Duel Christian, a Pensacola native who has a love for both food and Pensacola history which is evident during his food tours. (Duel is a food writer and was a television producer/director in another life.)

The Palafox-Trot Tour

We booked The Palafox-Trot tour, a 3-hour tour that begins at 1:00 PM. The tour is offered Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and meets in front of the First United Methodist Church at 6 E. Wright Street, just a block from Palafox.

First United Methodist Church in Pensacola.

As with any food tour, the tasting destinations are subject to change due to supply issues, availability, etc. The following are the locations that we visited on a beautiful Thursday afternoon.

1. Polanzo Bistro

Our first stop was Polanzo Bistro at 286 N. Palafox Street. The restaurant/bar occupies an old building and has a cozy vibe with exposed brick.

We sampled some of their homemade Brunswick stew, a Southern classic made with meat and veggies in a thick, flavorful sauce. (This was Jeff's favorite item that we sampled on the tour.)

Bowl of Brunswick stew and a slice of bread.

The restaurant begins serving breakfast and lunch at 8:00 am during the week and brunch on the weekends at the same time. Dinner is served on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

America's First Settlement Trail marker.

After hearing facts about Pensacola being the first settlement in the United States and finishing our stew, we made our way to our second stop.

2. The Dog House

The Dog House is located at 30 S Palafox Street, a short walk down the street from Polanzo Bistro.

While The Dog House does indeed serve hot dogs, it serves so much more. One of their specialties that is worth trying is the fried mullet. Not that thing that Billy Ray Cyrus is known for but rather the saltwater fish that feeds on microscopic plants and small animals that live on the bed of the ocean floor.

Fried mullet, a hush puppy, and lemon slices.

We got to sample their fried mullet along with a homemade hushpuppy. Their hushpuppies are made with 13 ingredients, including Budweiser beer. (This was my favorite stop on the tour.)

The Dog House is open from 8:00 am until 3:00 pm Monday through Wednesday and from 8:00 am until 9:00 pm Thursday through Saturday. The Dog House is closed on Sundays.

3. 86 Forks

The third stop on our tour was as 86 Forks Bar + Table, located at 11 Palafox Place, Suite B. It is inside of a renovated building that has a few eateries on the ground floor with dining tables and chairs in the open and airy hallway.

86 Forks is known for its Asian-fusion dishes and we got to try their fried egg roll with braised beef, caramelized onions, napa cabbage, cheese, and spicy mustard sauce.

86 Forks is open Sunday through Thursday from noon until 10:00 pm and on Fridays and Saturdays from noon until midnight.

4. Pearl and Horn

Our next-to-last stop took us through the neatest food court at The Garden at Palafox and Main to Pearl & Horn. The Pearl & Horn is tucked away from several other restaurants that occupy individual Airstream trailers located in one convenient location.

The Pearl & Horn treated food tour participants to their choice of either smoked oysters or truffle French fries. Jeff opted for the oysters while I went for the fries which were absolutely divine. You really can't go wrong with Parmesan truffle fries with fried rosemary, now can you? (The fries were also at the top of my list of favs on this tour.)

Pearl & Horn is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm.

5. Bubba's Sweet Spot

Our last stop was at Bubba's Sweet Spot at 405 S Palafox. Golfing aficionados will probably be familiar with the owner - Bubba Watson. However, you don't have to be a golf fan to appreciate the gourmet fudge or ice cream that they serve.

While there, we were able to taste some of their homemade fudge. They even gave each participant samples of fudge to take with them. (I thought that was a thoughtful touch since not everyone wears stretch pants on food tours as they should.)

Tour Information

Pensacola food tours can be booked online at SevillesSavoryFoodTours.com. The price for the Palafox-Trot Food Tour is $55 per person. (Children ages 10 and under are free.)

Tours take place rain or shine, so bring an umbrella with you if rain is in the forecast. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Have food allergies? Let Duel know ahead of time. Vegan and gluten-free options may be available.

Other Food Tours

In addition to the Palafox-Trot, Duel also offers two other food tours:

Seville Stroll

For those who would rather take a dinner time tour, this is the option for you. It takes place on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 5:00 pm in old Seville and costs $65 per person (children 10 and under are free). Note, though, that they are unable to accommodate allergies on this tour.

Bayou Buzz

Fancy yourself more of a morning person? They have a tour for you, too! The Bayou Buzz tour covers five coffee vendors and participants get to sample their diverse specialties ranging from dark roasts, oat milk cappuccino, cold brews, French Presses, and iced coffees. The price is $35 per person and takes place Tuesday through Friday.

Where is your favorite place to dine in Pensacola?

Charleston South Carolina Restaurant - Circa 1886

Sep 11, 2022 · Leave a Comment

If you are looking for an elegant dinner option in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina, then you need to dine at Circa 1886. The food is top-notch and the atmosphere is perfect for a special evening out. You'll definitely want to add this experience to your bucket list!

Circa 1886 Location

Circa 1886 is located at 149 Wentworth Street in the original carriage house at Wentworth Mansion. The restaurant retains old-world charm and character from yesteryear, yet has all the modern amenities to make your dining experience truly memorable.

Flower arrangement in front of a large fireplace.

Circa 1886 Menu

The menu at Circa 1886 includes Appetizers, the Main Course, and a Sweet Finish, as well as Cocktails and Wine. Diners can order a la carte or opt for the five-course Chef’s Tasting Menu ($115, with wine pairings $165).

The appetizer menu features dishes such as Butternut Squash and Peanut Soup (with grilled scallion lacquer and dried mango), Foie Gras (cassava pudding, pomegranate strawberry jam, hazelnuts, lime basil oil), and Shrimp N' Rice Grits (Cabbage Leaves, Burden Creek Dairy Goat Cheese, Smoked Ham Hock Gravy).

Grilled cheese covered with thinly sliced ham. — Southern Grilled Cheese with *Pimento Cheese Mousse, Grilled Brioche, Surryano Ham, Paddlefish Caviar, Cured Yolk Powder*

Among the main course options, you'll find Peri-Peri Pork Belly (coconut red rice, collard greens, red onion piccalilli, guava puree), Rainbow Trout (sunflower sumac crust, wild rice porridge, corn sauce, arugula, cranberry paint), and Broken Arrow Venison (roasted onion, parsnip potato puree, acorn squash, juniper chestnut sauce).

You simply cannot dine at Circa 1886 without experiencing one of their four luscious desserts: West African Milk Tart, Bittersweet Chocolate Crémeux, Spiced Pear Cake, and Apple Rum Souffle.

More About the Menu

Circa 1886 has carefully curated items into four collections that showcase the multinational influence on South Carolina Cuisine. Those collections are Taste of Native Tribes, Influences from Europe, Flavors Brought from Africa, and South Carolina Today.

Guests of Charming Inns (Wentworth Mansion®, John Rutledge House Inn®, Fulton Lane Inn, and Kings Courtyard Inn) have an exclusive offer available just to them - a 3-course menu for $60 ($90 including wine pairing). Another great feature available to Charming Inn guests is that they can mix and match items from the four collections.

Caesar salad on a tear drop shaped plate. — Green Goddess Caesar Salad

Plate of paprika grouper and vegetables. — Green Goddess Caesar Salad

For instance, when I dined there as a guest from the John Rutledge House Inn® , I had the Green Goddess Caesar Salad from the South Carolina Today selection, the Paprika Grouper from the Influences of Europe, and I circled back to the South Carolina Today menu and had the Apple Rum Souffle.

Beef Tenderloin with Heart of Palm Puree, King Trumpet Mushroom, Asparagus, Roasted Potato, Sauce Espagnole. — "1855" Beef Tenderloin with *Heart of Palm Puree, King Trumpet Mushroom, Asparagus, Roasted Potato, Sauce Espagnole*

My husband had the Preserved Rabbit as a starter from the Taste of Native Tribes, the "1855" Beef Tenderloin from the Influences of Europe, and the Apple Rum Souffle from South Carolina Today.

Chef Marc Collins

Chef wearing a blue shirt sitting at a table.

Marc Collins has been the executive chef at Circa 1886 for more than two decades. In addition to creating amazing meals at Circa 1886, he is also a food champion in Charleston and beyond. For over a decade, he has worked with a network of local farmers and fishermen sourcing the freshest ingredients to use in his culinary masterpieces.

In 2019, Chef Collins became a South Carolina Chef Ambassador and was able to showcase the culinary history of South Carolina. On top of all of that, he has volunteered for organizations including Louie's Kids, Feed the Need, and the Lowcountry Food Bank.

Notes About Circa 1886

Be sure to make reservations in advance. Circa 1886 is rated #3 out of 563 restaurants in Charleston on TripAdvisor.com. You don't want to miss out on an incredible dining experience while you are in Charleston.
Circa 1886 is also the recipient of the Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the US (2014 - 2017) at TripAdvisor, named the Most Romantic Restaurants in the World in 2017 by Architectural Digest, won the Best of Award of Excellence in 2017 from Wine Spectator, has been awarded Four Diamonds from AAA for 16 consecutive years, and has been included in the Forbes Travel Guide for 16 consecutive years.
There is limited onsite parking at the restaurant. There is a parking garage at 81 Wentworth Street. You might be able to find a parking spot on surrounding neighborhood streets.
Dress etiquette is business casual. They "strive to provide an environment that all guests feel comfortable in their personal style of dress."
Circa 1886 is open for dinner Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.

Whether you are looking for a modern spin on Southern cuisine or something with an international flair, Circa 1886 has something to offer. The food is incredible, the wine list is excellent, and the service is impeccable. If you are looking for a truly special dining experience, Circa 1886 is the place to go.

Salads and Healthy Options in Gulf Shores

Sep 9, 2022 · Leave a Comment

Looking for a healthy restaurant in Gulf Shores? There are so many options to choose from! The best part is that you can still enjoy fresh seafood while eating healthy. Here are some restaurants where salads and seafood happily collide.

You don’t have to give up your favorite dishes when you want to eat healthier. These restaurants offer delicious, nutritious meals with plenty of variety on the menu. So whether you’re craving fried shrimp or grilled fish, these places will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing taste.

1. LuLu's in Gulf Shores

Arcadian Salad with shrimp and lettuce. — **Arcadian Greens Salad with Fried Shrimp**

LuLu's is my family's perennial favorite to get fresh seafood in Gulf Shores. It's located along Portage Creek and adjacent to the Homeport Marina. There's ample seating in the covered open-air dining area for hundreds of hungry guests (<- that's my guesstimate, not an actual number).

There are several salad options available on LuLu's menu. I chose the Arcadian Greens Salad with the addition of fried shrimp. Overall, the salad was good, but I must warn you that they do not remove the tails from the shrimp (my biggest pet peeve about shrimp unless I am eating it as finger food).

Blackened fish and shrimp skewer with French fries. — Blackened Fish and Blackened Shrimp Platter

If you want a healthy option at LuLu's other than a salad, then blackened fish and/or shrimp would be a good option. Sub out the fries and opt for greens, beans, or a side salad.

LuLu's is located at 200 East 25th Avenue in Gulf Shores. Click here for their online menu. I highly recommend that you go online to reserve a spot in line at the restaurant. It's not a reservation and you need to arrive 45 minutes before the estimated available slot.

2. Picnic Beach

Orange smoothie in a Picnic Beach cup. — Bama Breeze Smoothie

Picnic Beach is a quirky little restaurant located a couple of blocks away from the beach. Picnic Beach offers a diverse variety of dishes, ranging from BBQ to vegan power bowls. It's a win-win situation for couples in a house divided. (I don't mean Alabama/Auburn but rather omnivore/herbivore.)

I am happy to report that their Picnic Cobb salad is a winner, at least in my book. According to the restaurant's website, the salad is made with: romaine lettuce with roasted corn, candied pecans, boiled egg, tomato, smoked chickpeas, and sweet onion vinaigrette. It truly did not disappoint and is a salad that I would eat again. And again.

Chickpea Cobb Salad in a bowl. — Picnic Cobb Salad

Another healthy option is the Tuna Poke Bowl - tuna (Sushi Grade) with cucumber, cherry tomato, pickled carrots, avocado, seaweed, sesame seeds, Asian herbs, and ponzu. My steak and potato-loving husband ate the entire bowl.

Tuna Poke Bowl at Picnic Beach — Tuna Poke Bowl

Picnic Beach is located at 128 East 1st Ave in Gulf Shores. Check out their full menu.

3. Flora-Bama Yacht Club

Greek salad with fried shrimp. — **Greek Salad with Fried Shrimp**

Just because it has "yacht club" in its name, don't let the Flora-Bama Yacht Club fool you. This is a very laid-back restaurant serving delicious food. There are flags sporting "Barefoot Nation" and sand along the floor at the open-air establishment.

The Flora-Bama Yacht Club has three salads on the menu: Greek Salad, Traditional Chicken Caesar Salad, and Raspberry Pecan Salad. You can add an additional protein such as shrimp, chicken, or seared tuna to each salad for an upcharge.

I ordered the Greek Salad with fried shrimp. It was served with dressing on the side and pita bread and it tasted as good as it looked.

The Flora-Bama Yacht Club is located across the street from the legendary Flora-Bama Oyster Bar that straddles the Alabama/Florida state lines.

See the Flora-Bama Yacht Club menu for more ideas of tasty items to try.

There are plenty of places in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach where you can find salads and other healthy options. These are just a few that I have dined at recently and would recommend to my friends and family.

Where is your favorite place to dine in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach?

Exploring Savannah Through a Food Tour

Sep 1, 2022 · 1 Comment

Food tours in Savannah are a must-do. I took two different food tours in Savannah and was not disappointed with the variety or quality of dishes offered on either one! The best part was getting to experience this beautiful city from behind local eyes while learning about its history along the way.

There are no less than 8 tours in the area that will take you through all of this, from Southern cuisine to ghost stories! This post is going to highlight two tours: The Famous and Secret East Side Food Tour and First Squares Food Tour. Each tour is unique and your experience will vary from mine.

Famous and Secret East Side Food Tour

The Famous and Secret East Side Food Tour that I took was led by Country – yes, that’s the name she goes by. By far, she was the best tour guide I have ever had. She had all of the guests laughing as she took us on a three-hour tour around Savannah.

We began our journey at Capital Bee Company where we tasted several varieties of honey.

We then made our way to one of Savannah’s beautiful squares and each had a full-size chicken biscuit from Rise Biscuits and Donuts. While enjoying hot biscuits, we heard stories about fried chicken, the early Scots, and the period of segregation.

Woman holding a box of chicken biscuits.

We continued on to Cha Bella, a farm-to-table restaurant where microwaves and deep fryers are not used and the food is always fresh. We had a sample of risotto with tarragon and shrimp.

Small of bowl of shrimp, risotto, and asparagus.

Our next stop was Ashford Tea Company where we learned about the different varieties of tea and were able to sample some that the shop sells.

Woman in a blue shirt standing in front of a tea shop.

While there, we also were treated to a sandwich from Zunzi’s (a South African-inspired restaurant) called the Conquistador. It was made with French Bread, Chicken, Romaine Lettuce, Tomato, Provolone, Parmesan, Zunzi’s Sauce, Zunzi’s Dressing.

Large sandwich with chicken and lettuce.

We then headed to The Common Restaurant, a restaurant/bar that serves bottomless mimosas from 8 AM until 3 PM. While we did not imbibe on anything bubbly, it was there that we had a smoked oyster and a sample of fried cornbread.

Bar with wooden counter top and bottles of liquor.

Our final stop was outside of Leopold’s. Our tour group status meant that we did not have to wait in line to get some of the world famous ice cream. We each got a cup of Leopold’s Butter Pecan Ice Cream before saying our farewells.

This was a tour that I would happily repeat, stories and all. If you want to take a tour with Country, she typically works Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 11 AM.

First Squares Food Tour

The First Squares Food Tour took a different route and different foods and beverages were sampled. It rained the day of the tour, but that did not stop the three-hour walking tour from taking place.

The First Squares Food Tour began inside the Andaz hotel at 22 Square. There we had a sample of shrimp and grits with pork belly.

Small bowl of shrimp and grits and glass of water.

We moved on to The American Prohibition Museum where we sampled Artillery Punch along with a bite of a pimento cheese sandwich and boiled peanuts.

Making our way through the rain, we arrived at Little Crown by Pie Society, a traditional British bakery/pub, where we noshed on sausage rolls and heard the background story of how a British bakery landed in Savannah.

Our next sample was that of pork belly doughnut sliders from The Ordinary Pub. Because of the downpour, we nibbled on them under the protective cover of Trinity United Methodist Church.

Not to be deterred by the rain, we made our way to Mint To Be Mojitos where we sampled real empanadas. Most of the tour participants opted to purchase a mojito, like the (virgin) watermelon mojito pictured below, in the laid-back environment of their hidden speakeasy.

Watermelon mojito in a plastic cup with a purple straw.

Our final destination was the flagship store of the Savannah Bee Company. We sampled several varieties of honey and then had apple slices with honey and cheese.

Wooden board with slices of apples topped with cheese and honey.

I can’t think of a better way to enjoy delicious bites from distinctive restaurants while learning about the city’s fascinating history at a leisurely pace.

There are a couple of advantages of taking a food tour at the beginning of your trip.

You sample dishes that you may or may not like. If you find a dish you like, you can go back later to that restaurant and order the full-sized dish/meal. If you don’t like the item, you know to avoid it.
Tour participants are often offered discounts to the establishments that are visited.

How To Book a Food Tour

Before booking a tour, I recommend that you read the reviews at TripAdvisor.com. There are usually plenty of helpful tips in the comments to give one a "heads up" about what to expect or whether a different tour might be better.

Then, head to a site like Viator.com or GetYourGuide.com to book a tour. If you book a tour using one of those sites, I recommend that you download their app so that you will have your electronic ticket at your fingertips.

Have you taken a food tour? Where was it and what was the best thing you tried?

Gettysburg Food Tour

Aug 21, 2022 · 10 Comments

Gettysburg is a small town with a big history. And what better way to learn about the town than to go on a food tour? Gettysburg Food Tours offers a unique opportunity to sample the local cuisine while learning about the town's rich past.

Along the way, you'll sample delicious food from some of Gettysburg's best-known restaurants. Whether you're a history buff or a foodie, Gettysburg Food Tours is sure to offer an enjoyable and educational experience. (Bonus points to those who are both a foodie AND history buff!)

Woman's hand holding a miniature taco topped with cheese.

Gettysburg is known for its historical sites related to the Civil War, but it's also home to some great food. I took a Savory Gettysburg Food Tour, a 3-hour tour that took us around seven different places in Gettysburg where we sampled some amazing food, olive oil, and gelato. Not only did we get a variety of food to sample in Gettysburg, but we also learned a bit of history along the way.

One thing to know about food tours is that you should not expect them all to be the same. Because many local restaurants like to use fresh, seasonal produce, their menus are subject to change. Your experience will most likely be different from mine, but should still be just as enjoyable nonetheless.

Where We Ate

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1. Tacos Monarca Mexican Grill

The Gettysburg Food Tour takes you on a culinary journey through the town and the tour lasts about 3 hours. On our tour, we started at Tacos Monarca Mexican Grill where we sampled authentic Mexican cuisine. We sampled a corn taco with beef chunks, cheese, cilantro and onion, which was served with beef soup to dip the tacos.

Mini taco, green and red dipping sauces, and soup.

It was cool to look out the window and imagine Abraham Lincoln riding a train into town before he was to deliver his famous Gettysburg Address.

Tacos Monarca is located by the railroad tracks at 11 W Railroad St. Hours are 10:00 AM until 9:00 PM daily.

As you will notice in the pictures, the day started a little overcast, but by the time we finished, the sun was shining bright. Food tours typically take place rain or shine, so be prepared when you go.

2. Food 101

Red brick building with an entrance on the front corner.

Our next stop was at Food 101, a true farm-to-table restaurant. If "it" is not in season, they aren't serving "it."

We had a slice of their homemade pizza made with homemade pizza dough, homemade sauce, and fresh, local toppings. The thin crust pizza was incredible.

Food 101 is in a building that had once been a pool hall. The chef teaches a local culinary class that is literally farm-to-fork. (He and students go from the farmers market to the class room.)

Food 101 is located at 101 Chambersburg St and opens daily at 11:00 am and is open until 8:00 PM Sunday - Thursday and until 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

3. Garryowen Irish Pub

We headed west and stopped at Garryowen Irish Pub, an authentic Irish Pub in the heart of Gettysburg. Once inside, it's as if we left Pennsylvania and were magically transported to Ireland. We sampled some Scrumpy Prig (cider) and some Shepard's pie.

Small shepherd's pie and glass of scrumpy prig.

Garryowen Irish Pub is located at 126 Chambersburg Street and opens daily at 11:00 AM.

4. Thai Elephant Walk

Next on our list of places to try was Thai Elephant Walk. While it may not be the fanciest restaurant on the block, it does serve really delicious authentic Thai cuisine.

Perhaps if I had not been so engrosed in my food, I would better remember what our tour guide said about the building. (I think that Thai Elephant Walk might be on top of the foundation of where Thaddeus Stevens used to work.)

Curry, drunken noodles, white rice, and spring roll on a red divided tray. — Red curry, drunken noodles, rice, and spring roll. We were all give a slice of fresh watermelon later.

Thai Elephant Walk is located at 51 Chambersburg Road and is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday.

Around Gettysburg

About midway through our culinary journey, we walked through the town where our awesome tour guide, Gayle, told us more about this historic town.

Statue of Abraham Lincoln in Gettysburg.

We stopped for a moment in front of the Wills House, where President Lincoln stayed the night before he gave his Gettysburg Address.

Wills House historic marker in front of red brick building.

It was a nice place to ruminate on Gettysburg's role in this country's history.

ACNB Bank building in Gettysburg. — ACNB Bank

White hotel with blue awnings over windows. — ACNB Bank

Old red brick building with wood shutters. — Shriver House Museum

Red brick building with metal roof and decorated with American flags. — Shriver House Museum

5. Gettysburg Olive Oil Company

The Gettysburg Olive Oil Company was a natural stop on the food tour. There we sampled olive oil and basalmic vinegar paired with bread, popcorn, granola, and lemonade.

After learning more about the products, we were free to sample the oils and vinegars in the shop. If you haven't tried flavored basalmic vinegar, you are in for a treat. Gettysburg Oil Company has a wide variety of flavors to choose from, and they are all delicious.

Sample size cups filled with vinegar, olive oil, and granola.

Gettsyburg Olive Oil Company is located at 430 Baltimore Street and is open Thursday - Monday from 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM.

6. Cottage Creperie

Cottage Creperie sign in front of a yellow building.

As we were nearing the end of our tour, we had two more stops. By then, the sun was shining and the heat was starting to build, so we were glad to sit underneath their covered patio while we tried freshly made strawberry crepes topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream.

Slice of strawberry crepe covered with powdered sugar and whipped cream.

Cottage Creperie uses locally sourced ingredients (farm-to-table) to make both sweet and savory crepes. (They also serve homemade ice cream and French press coffee.)

Cottage Creperie is located at 33 Steinwehr Avenue and is open Wednesday - Sunday from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM (Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday) and until 5:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

7. Cone Sweet Cone

Our final stop was at Cone Sweet Cone, because one dessert is never enough.

We were treated to homemade ice cream, gelato, and Italian ice. What I really liked for this stop is that we were allowed to select the flavor of our choice. It was the perfect way to end a great food tour in Gettysburg.

Scoop of chocolate gelato in a waffle cone. — Chocolate Gelato

Cone Sweet Cone is located at 433 Baltimore Street and is open from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM Monday - Friday, 12:00 PM until 9:00 PM on Saturday, and 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Sunday.

Why You Should Take a Food Tour

Sample delicious dishes from different restaurants that you might otherwise not try.
Sometimes, places that you stop at on a tour will have special offers for tour participants. (Think coupons.)
A food tour is a great way to get to know a city, learn about its history, and try new foods all at the same time.
A food tour is a great way to meet new people and make friends.

How To Book a Food Tour

More Photos Taken Around Gettysburg

Bronze statue of Thaddeus Stephens. — Thaddeus Stevens

Old building with columns and cupola on top. — Prince of Peace Episcopal Church

Old Episcopal church with red doors. — Prince of Peace Episcopal Church

Post Script

You never know who you will meet or what you will learn while on a food tour. A local from Gettysburg attended the tour we were on and told us that we needed to try the burgers at the Blue & Gray Bar and Grill.

We also learned that taps is played at the Gettysburg National Cemetery every evening at 7:00 PM.

And one last thing, we were told that the ghost tours in Gettysburg are good.

Hungry for more? Check out my post about the food tour in Puerto Vallarta that I took as well food tours in Savannah, Georgia.

Orlando in October

Aug 15, 2022 · 5 Comments

Visit Orlando during the fall and experience a whole new world of flavors. Get scared by haunted houses, enjoy stunning rides, and spend time with flamingos at SeaWorld. Plus, there are always great deals available on hotels and tickets.

Collage of pictures of things to do in Orlando in October. — Pin this to save it for later!

Orlando is a great place to be in October - the weather is still warm but not muggy making it an ideal time to explore the theme parks.

Here is a sample 3-day itinerary of what to do in Orlando while still enjoying a bit of downtime. It includes staying at the DoubleTree Resort at SeaWorld, a day at SeaWorld and evening at Disney Springs, a day at Universal Studios, and a day of resting at the resort. Use it as inspiration to plan your own trip to the Theme Park Capital of the World.

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SeaWorld

Start your trip by eating a light breakfast at the DoubleTree Resort and then get ready to head over to SeaWorld. From the DoubleTree Resort, you can either walk there in about 10 - 15 minutes or opt to take the complimentary shuttle. (Check with the resort for shuttle times.)

SeaWorld is open from 10 am until 6 pm during the week and from 9 am until 7 pm on the weekends.

From late September through October, the park celebrates Halloween with their kid-friendly annual event Spooktacular on the weekends. During this daytime event, families are immersed in an underwater "fantasea" including trick-or-treating, whimsical sea creatures, and more.

The reason that I said to start off with a light breakfast is because of SeaWorld's All-Day Dining Deal. For adults, it is only $49.99 per person and for children (ages 3-9) it is $24.99 per person if you order online.

What makes this an incredible deal is that you can get an entree, a side, and a drink ONCE PER HOUR while at the park at Voyager's Smokehouse, Expedition Café, Seaport Pizza, Captain Pete's Island Treats, The Spice Mill, Seafire Grill, and Mango Joe's®.

SeaWorld is a great place to encounter animals that you would not normally get the chance to. If you are nearby when the Flamingo Walk takes place, be sure to follow the beautiful pink creatures. They will stop in the park and you can sit down and enjoy their company. The birds will come up to you and play with your hair. Trust me - it's a fun experience and you need to do it!

Flamingos walking down a road at SeaWorld.

Then there are the dolphin and killer whale shows. You'll enjoy watching the incredible interaction between the trained humans and the sea creatures. These highly intelligent beings have the option of not performing - it's their choice.

Man on top of dolphins at SeaWorld in Orlando.

After spending your first day at SeaWorld, return to the resort to freshen up. Then take an Uber or drive yourself to Disney Springs for a taste of Fall around Lake Buena Vista.

Disney Springs

There are numerous locations at Disney Springs to dine, but if you are hungry for a hearty Italian dinner there is one clear choice - Terralina.

Terranlina Italian restaurant at Disney Springs.

Terralina opened in June 2018 and is the latest dining concept by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano.

Dining at Terralina, guests can take their time to savor authentic Italian cuisine in the dining room or al fresco with sweeping waterfront views.

At Terralina, guests can enjoy handcrafted aperitivios, Crafted Lemonade made with lavender rosemary vodka, classic Margherita pizza, and seafood dishes like Swordfish Peperonatta.

My personal recommendation for Terralina is to order the Lemon Panna Cotta with candied thyme for dessert. It's light and luscious and you'll be glad you ordered it.

Before heading back to your room, take a leisure stroll around Disney Springs. This might be a good time to do some holiday shopping - there are 110 shopping options including everything from candy apples at Disney's Candy Cauldron to gifts and housewares at Shop For Ireland.

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure

Begin day 2 with a hearty breakfast at the resort's premier restaurant, Laguna. Then put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore the Universal Orlando Resort. October is a great time for exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Avoid parking hassles by taking the complimentary shuttle from DoubleTree.

Universal Studios is divided into two parks - Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. For a one-day, one-park ticket the price is $109 per person. For both parks (parkt-to-park) for one day, the price is $164 per person. The advantage of the two-park ticket aside from double the fun is that you can ride the Hogwarts™ Express between Hogsmeade™ Station and King's Cross Station with a Park-to-Park Ticket.

If you like to get your thrills from rides, then start at Universal's Islands of Adventure which received the #1 Amusement Park in the World - TripAdvisor® Travelers’ Choice Award. Ride to your heart's content and then wander over to the village of Hogsmeade™.

Channel your inner Harry Potter or Hermoine Granger and stop at the Three Broomsticks™ for some British fare for lunch. Afterward, hop on the Hogwarts™ Express and begin your journey to Universal Studios.

Harry Potter dragon at Universal Studios.

For dinner head over to City Walk and try burgushi - that's burgers + sushi at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar.

Burger sushi at Universal Studios. — The Taste Explosion Roll

This isn't your typical sushi joint. It's full of energy and they serve unique creations, such as the Taste Explosion Roll (pictured above). It is made with certified Angus beef, applewood bacon, jalapeños, spicy mayo inside, coated with tempura flakes, and topped with Roma tomato and pepper jack cheese, and then it's baked. Before serving, it is drizzled with cashew cilantro pesto.

Bloody Mary with a small hamburger on top. — Bloody Mary Had a Little Cow

At this point, some people might want to imbibe a little liquid courage before they head back to Universal Studios for Halloween Horror Nights. I can personally vouch that the Bloody Mary Had a Little Cow at Cowfish is a pretty tasty option. Be sure to eat the hamburger on top - it might not look like much but it's delicious!

Milkshake topped with whipped cream. — Classic Vanilla Milkshake

For those for whom adult beverages are not an option, Cowfish makes hand-spun milkshakes. If you aren't a plain vanilla type of person, then perhaps one of the following will hit the spot: The Nutty Cow, Cookies & Cream, The Marshmallow Crisp, Gimme More S'More Shake, Matcha Madness, The P "Double-B" & J Shake, Key Lime Pie, The Grasshopper, Yuzu Lemonade, Cup of Joe, Caramel Miso, or Avo Mango.

After dinner on your way to Universal Studios, take time for a selfie with your bestie at the giant VooDoo Doughnut throne.

Two girls in front of Voo Doo Doughnuts in a large chair.

VooDoo Doughnuts is renowned for its fun spin on doughnuts. The City Walk location is the first VooDoo Doughnuts location east of Texas. Be prepared to wait in line just to get inside the building. Surprisingly, the doughnuts are quite affordable with cake doughnuts costing just under $2 and most raised doughnuts are in the $2-3 range.

Chocolate Voo Doo doughnut. — **Voodoo Doll® - $3.75**

Halloween Horror Nights

Once you have mustered your courage, head back to Universal Studios for Halloween Horror Nights. This is a separately ticketed event, so be sure that you have yours in hand (or on your phone). (Don't wear a spooky costume to this event - Universal bans them!)

There are 10 haunted houses at the Halloween Horror Nights event. For 2022, four houses have been officially announced:

The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare
Universal Monsters: Legends Collide
The Horrors of Blumhouse, and
Halloween,

Previous houses which might be brought back for 2022 include:

The Carnival Graveyard: Rust in Pieces,
Slaughter Sinema,
Dead Exposure: Patient Zero,
Poltergeist,
Scary Tales: Deadly Ever After,
Trick 'r Treat, and
Seeds of Extinction.

This event sells out so it's best that you pick a few haunted houses to go through first and create a strategy before you enter the park.

What might even be scarier are the street creatures that are roaming the park. Some will creep up behind you and scare the bejeebers out of you.

Creepy church at Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studio.

For more tips and a survival guide for Halloween Horror Nights, visit Undercover Tourist for detailed info.

Rest and Relaxation at the DoubleTree Resort at SeaWorld

Day 3 is all about relaxing because after exploring two different parks over two days, you need a break. The DoubleTree Resort at SeaWorld has two pools and a hot tub that are an oasis away from it all. Enjoy a poolside lunch and soak up some rays while they last.

Take advantage of some of the fun activities at the resort, like mini golf, table tennis, or play checkers on the outdoor oversized checkerboard. You can read more about the DoubleTree Resort at SeaWorld by clicking here.

How To Get To Orlando

Orlando is located in central Florida and is accessible by several major highways including Interstate 4, the Orlando East-West Expressway(there is a toll) and the Florida Turnpike.

Orlando is served by two international airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) which is located just southeast of the city and Sanford International Airport (SFB).

Public transportation in Orlando is provided by Lynx, the city's bus system. Lynx buses operate throughout Orlando and connect to many of the area's attractions.

If you're planning on driving to Orlando, the best time to travel is during the fall or winter months when traffic is lighter. Keep in mind that Orlando is a popular destination, so expect traffic and congestion during peak tourist seasons.

Orlando is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. The city also has a number of other attractions, including the Orlando Science Center, the Orlando Museum of Art, and the Discovery Cove.

I was a guest of the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld. All thoughts, opinions, and grammatical errors are my own. Visit DoubleTree3.Hilton.com for more information about the resort and to book your stay and VisitOrlando.com to plan your trip.

Like tours? Me, too. That's why Silver Sun Seeker is an affiliate with Get Your Guide. Check out these offers:

To search for more lodging options, check out Booking.com.

Things To Do In Harpers Ferry

Aug 12, 2022 · 2 Comments

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia is the perfect place to escape for a weekend. This charming town is located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers and is home to many historic buildings.

View of a city from the top of a mountain.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking and tubing opportunities in the area. History buffs will enjoy exploring the many historic sites in Harpers Ferry.

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Old brick house. — St. Peter's Roman Catholic Cathedral (in the back)

Water fountain and flowers. — St. Peter's Roman Catholic Cathedral (in the back)

Hike Maryland Heights

To get a bird's eye view of the city, hike up the Maryland Heights Trail, part of the National Park Service. The trail is considered to be a moderate to strenuous hike that can be from 4.5 to 6.5 miles round trip. The hike can take up to 3-4 hours, round trip.

Bridge across a river. — The Point - Where the Shenandoah River and Potomac River meet.

The hiking trail is pretty amazing and you just might catch glimpses into Civil War, industrial, and transportation history.

Woman walking down a metal spiral staircase. — Stairs on the way to the trail.

The trail is open from sunrise to sunset, so be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to return from the apex. You can pick up a trail map at the park's Visitor Center at 171 Shoreline drive.

Be sure to keep yourself hydrated while you hike as there is no water available on the trail. (There are also no restrooms, so "go" before you go.)

Two women at the top of a mountain taking a selfie in front of the city view.

The sweeping view of Harpers Ferry and the Potomac River from Maryland Heights is stunning. Be aware that there are not any barriers to protect hikers, either from wildlife or natural hazards such as slippery rock formations. There have been fatalities.

See John Brown's Fort

After descending the mountain, make your way to the center of the town and take in the sites. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a must-see. The park includes the John Brown Museum, which tells the story of the abolitionist who led a raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859 in an attempt to start a slave uprising.

The fort was used as a prison, powder magazine, and possibly a supply house during the Civil War. It was the only Armory building to not be destroyed during the Civil War.

Interesting fact: the fort was sold, dismantled, and transported to Chicago in 1891 and put on display. After having only 11 visitors in ten days, the building was closed, dismantled again, and left on a vacant lot. In 1895, the fort was re-assembled on a farm about 3 miles outside of Harpers Ferry. In 1909, the building was relocated to Storer College. In 1960, the National Park Service acquired the building and had it moved to its current location in Lower Town in 1968.

Buy Historic Candy

Another museum that pays tribute to the past is True Treats. If you have a sweet tooth, this candy shop is the place for you because it is all about candy throughout the years. I am talking way back to the 1700s.

The store is "the nation’s only historic candy company with over 500 products including cakes, teas, syrups, gums, waters, cocktail mixes, sweet vinegars and more."

Grab a Bite To eat

If a hearty meal is what you crave, head up the hill and stop by The Rabbit Hole, a wood-paneled cozy restaurant located at 186 High Street. The portions are generous and you could easily split one meal between two people.

Wood paneled restaurant with chairs and tables.

Menu items include the likes of Loaded Pork Fries, CBD High Street Salad, Blue Ridge Burger, and Mac N Cheese.

Philly cheesesteak and French fries. — Wanderdown Cheesesteak - Shaved Ribeye on a Sub Roll w/ House White Cheddar Cheese Sauce, Fire Roasted Sweet Peppers, Grilled Onions, Lettuce & Tomato. Served with Fries $14

Float Down the Shenandoah River

After having worked up a good sweat on your upper lip from climbing up the mountain, a casual float down the Shenandoah River is a nice way to relax and unwind and River Riders will help make it happen.

River Riders is ranked #1 out of 5 outdoor activities to do in Harpers Ferry. From white water rafting to tubing to ziplining, they have it all. They even have electric bikes!

For the not-so-adventurous, flat water tubing is the way to go. At River Riders, you will watch a safety video, don a life jacket, and then load up in the bus and be taken to a drop-off point on the Shenandoah River. You can take a leisurely float down the river where you will get off at a specified point and get back on a bus to be taken to the River Riders resort.

See the Allstadt House and Ordinary

On your way out of River Riders, you might spot an old white house. That was the house of John H. Allstadt. The home was built on 1,675 acres by the Lee family with the earliest part of the house dating to about 1790.

The home and 114 acres were purchased by Jacob Allstadt in 1811. Allstadt began an inn that served meals (called an ordinary) and expanded the dwelling.

The house was not immune to John Brown and his men. In 1859 on his way to Harpers Ferry, Brown and his party stopped there and knocked down the door. He took Allstadt, his son, and seven slaves as prisoners. (All were released but one who was captured helping John Brown and jailed in Charles Town, where he died.)

Savor Two Scoops of Pure Deliciousness

If that wasn't sufficient enough to cool you off, then head to Sharpsburg, Maryland and make a beeline to Nutters Ice Cream and throw a few Washingtons to the ladies and walk away with two ginormous scoops of some incredible ice cream. (Note: They only accept cash.)

Two scoops of ice cream in a waffle cone. — Pocono Paws $2.45

White chocolate ice cream in a cone. — Pocono Paws $2.45

Tip: if you decide to eat it outside in 90+ heat, eat fast or get it in a cup. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Harpers Ferry National Park Information

Harpers Ferry National Park is worth a visit if you are in the area. The main parking lot is located at 171 Shoreline Drive. The entrance fee to the park includes parking, ranger programs, and access to park museums, exhibits, and trails.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park bus. — Free shuttle from the parking lot to the Lower Town.

Parking passes are valid for 3 consecutive days. You can purchase your pass online or pay at the Entrance Station near the park's visitor center, Bolivar Heights, Harper Ferry Train Station and at the River Access Parking Lot. (Note: credit cards are only accepted at the Entrance Station and online.)

Entrance fees are: $20 for vehicles, $15 for motorcycles, and $10 per person.

Harpers Ferry is approximately 67 miles from Washington, DC, 597 miles from Charleston, South Carolina, and 128 miles from Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Harpers Ferry is considered one of the best small vacation towns in America and it's easy to see why. Although the town has less than 400 residents, there is no shortage of things to do. Whether you're looking for history, outdoor adventure, or just a place to relax.

Please leave a comment below telling us about your favorite things to do and places to eat in Harpers Ferry. Thanks!

Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina

Jul 27, 2022 · 5 Comments

Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect place to escape for a weekend. This charming Southern city is full of history and culture, and there are plenty of things to do and see. From exploring the downtown area to eating at some of the best restaurants in the country, Charleston has something for everyone.

This mini-guide will introduce you to some of our favorite Charleston spots.

The Pineapple Fountain in Charleston, South Carolina.

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1. Ride the Free Shuttle

You might be surprised to find out that Charleston's French Quarter pre-dates New Orleans by 40 years! Although Charleston's old roads were laid out in a grid, it might be easier to to ditch your car and to hop aboard the free shuttle (click here to learn more) and make your way around the historic city.

Palm tree lined King Street in Charleston. — 2nd Sunday on King Street

Get off on King Street and explore some of the shops and along the way take note of the palm trees. Those are palmettos and are South Carolina's state tree. (Fact: Palmettos may be called a tree, but in reality, they are monocots and in the same classification as grass.)

King Street in Charleston, South Carolina.

2. Explore the Museums

Make your way to the Confederate Museum located at 188 Meeting Street in the historic section. The museum is located up the stairs of the Market Hall building which was designed after the Temple of the Wingless Victory in Athens, Greece, and was built in 1841.

People walking in front of the Charleston Confederate Museum.

The Confederate Museum opened in 1899 and is only open from 11 am until 4:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Nathaniel Russell House Museum is a must-see for history buffs! You'll get to explore the lives of those who lived during colonial times and early federal periods.

The Nathaniel-Russell house in Charleston.

The museum offers insights into how these people thrived, including artisans or craftspeople they hired while building their lavish homes; as well as all that was required from enslaved men & women - which included forced labor in order to make it possible.

Curved staircase inside the Nathaniel-Russell home.

Not only is the spiral staircase beautiful to look at, but it is also an architectural marvel, with each cantilevered step supporting the one above and below it.

The Aiken-Rhett House is a beautifully preserved townhouse complex that offers an incredible insight into the life of Southern politicians and industrialists who lived during America's Civil War era.

Yellow antebellum house with large crape myrtles and palm trees.

It has been opened to public since 1975 and stands to tell so much history not only from an architectural point view but also social issues related to slavery.

Second floor piazza with view of palm tree. — Piazza

The house is open daily from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. (The last tour begins at 4:15.).

The Old Slave Mart Museum tells a story that is critical to understanding the role of slavery in our history and its impact on today’s society. The museum features an extensive collection including objects from auctions, articles used asides slave islands or prisons where slaves were held before being transported North for sale.

There is a small admission fee to the museum which is open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

3. Go Shopping

Underneath the museum is the Charleston City Market and one of the places that you have to go to when in Charleston.

People shopping in the Charleston City Market.

The market is the perfect spot for purchasing a sweetgrass basket that was handmade in Charleston. Basketweaving was originally brought to this area from Africa during slavery and it has been passed down for more than 300 years.

Did you know that it’s against the law to sell instruments and jewelry on Sundays in South Carolina? This may seem strange but there are some weird state laws around the country.

Man weaving a basket. — Corey Alston, Artisan Basketweaver

4. Go on a Carriage Ride

Nearby the city market, you will see signs for carriage tours. Book one - it's the best way to see Charleston and to learn about its rich history.

There are a couple of tour operators and I have gone on tours with both: Palmetto Carriage Tours and Old South Carriage. Both companies are good.

View of a street in Charleston from inside a horse carriage.

Among the things you may learn about on your carriage ride tour of Charleston includes the story of The Great Fire that ravaged Charleston on December 11, 1861. Over 540 acres, 575 homes, numerous businesses, and five churches burned during the disaster. (That's a fire watchtower below.)

You might spot earthquake bolts on a few of the buildings that you pass. In 1866, there was a devastating earthquake that shook the city. That earthquake probably would have registered near 7 on today's Richter scale.

House with wooden doors and wrought iron trim.

You'll by gorgeous homes and half homes. What's a half house? Well, back in the day kitchens were not located inside the main house due to potential fire hazards. Therefore the kitchens were built as a stand-alone units. Today, those units still stand but have been renovated into full homes.

American flag flying in front of a large house.

Many homes have beautiful wrought iron gates. You are bound to hear stories about the need for iron during the Civil War. Some gates were melted for the cause.

Have you heard of oleander?

Wrought iron fence in front of oleander bushes.

There is a story floating around about the country's first female serial killer who made her home near Charleston. Her name was Lavinia Fisher and legend has it that she would serve (oleander) tea to wealthy male guests at her inn. Long story short, she and her husband would murder the poor guys if the tea didn't do the job and they would take all their possessions.

Lavinia and her husband got caught and were sentenced. On her way to the gallows, it was reported that Lavinia's last words went something like, "If any of you have a message to give the devil, give it to me quick -- I'm about to meet him!"

White antebellum home with red fireplace.

5. Go to Church

There's a reason Charleston is called The Holy City. There are more than 400 places to worship, some with quite a bit of history such as the Circular Congregational Church. (The earliest unmarked grave there dates back to 1695.)

Grave yard behind the Circular Church in Charleston. — Circular Congregational Church

The Circular Congregational Church is one of the oldest continuously worshipping congregations in South Carolina. It was founded about 1681 and has a long history.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. — Cathedral of St. John the Baptist on Broad Street

The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist has been a part of Charleston for more than 180 years. The church was founded in 1854 and burned during The Great Fire. In 1890 the new cornerstone was laid on top of the foundation of the 1854 cathedral.

The pink Huguenot Church in Charleston. — French Huguenot Church, 136 Church Street

The French Huguenot (Protestant) Church was originally built in 1687 at the corner of Church and Queen Street. It was replaced in 1800 after the original building was destroyed in 1796 in an attempt to stop a fire. The current structure was built in 1845 and has survived shellfire during the War Between the States and an earthquake in 1886.

St. Phillips church in Charleston. — St. Phillip's Church

The oldest congregation in the United States south of Virginia, St. Philip’s has been vital to both spiritual and cultural life for over three centuries and continues to thrive even through times as dark as war or occupation by external forces.

6. Dine on Authentic Southern Cuisine

When in Charleston, you need to make sure that you eat some good Southern food.

For breakfast, head to nearby Mt. Pleasant and make your way to Viscious Biscuit, where the biscuits are anything but ordinary. Be prepared - this is a very popular place to get your fill and the line may very well be out the door.

Fried chicken on a biscuit with jalapenos. — THE VICIOUS
Cheddar & jalapeño biscuit, crispy fried chicken breast, signature maple sausage gravy, house cowboy candy, and a maple syrup drizzle.

For a truly Southern appetizer, head to Cru Cafe for their AMAZING fried green tomatoes. You should go there even if it is only for that dish.

Plate of fried green tomatoes topped with bacon lardons and cheese. — Fried Green Tomatoes $14

The Fried Green Tomatoes come with Pork Belly Croutons, Sheep’s Milk Feta, and Smoked Tomato Caramel.

For a casual lunch or dinner in the heart of the city, may your way to The Blind Tiger Pub, named after illicit drinking and gambling establishments that opened their doors as temperance legislation swept across the country.

While the menu is rather simple, the food is pretty good.

Steak frites on a plate and a cup of water. — Steak Frites
Grilled 8 oz hanger steak, chimichurri, and Henry Bain’s sauce served with parm-truffle frites and garlic aioli $30

For an upscale dining experience, you'll want to make reservations at Circa 1886.

The service is impeccable and the food is incredible. Once you dine there, you'll understand the basis for its numerous awards.

Gourmet salad on a tear drop-shaped plate. — Green Goddess Caesar Salad

Man cutting beef/ — Green Goddess Caesar Salad

Executive Chef Marc Collins uses fresh, seasonal local ingredients to create his culinary masterpieces.

For a quick, sweet treat to finish your day, Kilwin's has you covered. Kilwin's has been making their "super-premium" ice cream since 1985.

Kilwin's is located at 59 S. Market Street, across from the Charleston City Market. They are open every day from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm.

Cup of peanut butter and chocolate ice cream. — Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Another way to finish your day is to go to Byrd's Famous Cookies and sample some of their delicious cookies. Bonus: Sampling is FREE!

There's not one, but TWO locations of Byrd's on Market Street near the city market.

7. Go on a Ghost Tour

With all of her history, Charleston is full of tales from beyond the grave. Bulldog Tours offers history, food, and ghost tours that depart from their location at 18 Anson Street (which happens to be really close to Palmetto Carriage Tours).

Keep in mind that these are walking tours and you need to wear comfortable shoes. You'll go down old cobblestone streets and hear about old-fashioned duels that once took place and may have left the loser's soul to wander.

Woman walking a dog at the end of an alley.

You'll hear stories of our country's first president and how he was such a ladies' man. He once danced at the “Exchange” or “Customs House" house (pictured below) with a full dance card.

Old Exchange and Provost in Charleston, South Carolina.

Beneath the Old Exchange is the Provost Dungeon that once held many a pirate. On the Bulldog Tours, you can enter the dark, damp dungeon and imagine what it was like to be held prisoner there. You might even catch a specter on your camera.

Brick vaulted ceiling in the Old Provost. — Vaulted ceilings in the dungeon.

Looking out at the street from the Old Provost Dungeon. — Vaulted ceilings in the dungeon.

8. Ride a Boat

If you have additional time, consider exploring Charleston's harbor from the deck of one of SpiritLine Cruise's vessels.

SpiritLine offers harbor tours, dinner cruises, private dining events, and sightseeing. What's really cool is cruising at night and seeing the battery at twilight. The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge, is really awesome lit up at night.

9. Go on a Food Tour

One of the best ways to learn about the gastronomy of a city is to book a food tour where you will learn about the history, culture, and cuisine of the city.

I recommend that you book a food tour during the first part of your trip so that you will know where you want to dine later.

Small bowl of shrimp and grits and a plate of beignets. — Shrimp and Grits

Fried green tomato, grits, and tomato relish. — Shrimp and Grits

When we went, we booked the Savor the Flavors Charleston Food Tour through Get Your Guide. The 2.5 hour tour took us around the historic district through several restaurants where we dined on shrimp and grits, she crab soup, biscuits, and so much more.

10. Ride a Bike

A fun way to get around and explore a city is by taking a bike ride, or rather tour. Rebellion Roads in Mount Pleasant offers three different tours around the area.

Tours are about an hour and half to two hours long, but don't let the thought of pedaling a bike for that long scare you. They have electric bikes that can do a lot of the hard work for you!

Though not located in the Outer Banks, fans of the show might recognize some familiar landmarks as they cruise around Mount Pleasant.

Old Village's Post House Inn in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. — Old Village Post

11. Search for Sharks' Teeth at Folly Beach

Folly Beach, South Carolina is known for its picturesque views and natural beauty. But don't be fooled - this area also has some serious shark teeth!

The water's edge is a treasure trove of ancient teeth, with shingle-like scrapers that have been left behind by sharks over time. At times it might be beneficial to dig up some sand and look for treasures underneath!

12. See the Angel Oak

The centuries-old Angel Oak on St. John’s Island is a treasure not just for those who live there but also for visitors from all over! Angel Oak is 66.5 feet tall and has a circumference of 28 feet. Its largest branch is 187 feet long.

The tree is believed to be between 400 - 500 years old, making it one of the oldest oak trees in the Southeast.

Angel Oak Park is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday - Saturday and from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sundays.

13. Walk Along the Battery

Charleston's Battery is a public park that runs along the waterfront and was once the site where pirates were publicly hung. If only those trees could talk...

Trees around the park at the Charleston Battery.

14. Sip Some Tea

The Charleston Tea Garden is the only tea plantation in America, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and production of this popular beverage. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation and taste different kinds of tea.

15. See Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is a historic site located in Charleston Harbor. The fort was the site of the first shots of the Civil War, and today it’s a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and explore the museum and grounds.

For more information, check out Charleston's Visitor's Guide online at https://www.charlestoncvb.com/visitors-guide/.
Be sure to use the hashtag #ExploreCharleston when you share your pictures from your trip.
Looking for a fabulous place to stay while in Charleston? Consider staying at a historic home once owned by a signer of the United States Constitution?
To save on attractions, check out the offers at Tour Pass.

If you have been to Charleston, what are some places that you would recommend to visitors?

The Huntsville International Airport

Jul 21, 2022 · Leave a Comment

The Huntsville International Airport may be small compared to some airports, but it is a major hub for the city of Huntsville and surrounding areas. With more than 1.2 million passengers annually, it's the largest commercial airport in North Alabama.

It's easy to see why the Huntsville International Airport is the best airport in Alabama and is ranked among the top 10 airports in the country.

Space mural inside the Huntsville airport.

History of the Airport

Prior to 1967, there had been two other airports in the Rocket City. Then in October 1967, the Huntsville Jetport opened at a cost of between $18 - $20 million. Dr. Warner Con Braun and Senator Sparkman attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The facility was noted to be the first of its kind at the time, with Hertz Corp. of New York managing and operating all airport service facilities.

Sign for departing flights in the airport.

The Huntsville International Airport has undergone many changes since its opening. Just recently, it has been awarded a $10 million grant which will be used to improve amenities and access in the airport terminal.

TSA Pre Check line at Huntsville Airport.

At the Airport

The airport offers free Wi-Fi, a couple of restaurants to grab a bite, and a gift shop. Water fountains offer travelers a place to fill up their water bottles, ideal for staying hydrated while you're waiting for your flight.

McAliser's Deli counter, register, and menu.

The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel is located inside the airport facility. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and fitness room. It's a great option for travelers who need a place to stay before their flight or after they've arrived in Huntsville.

The airport also has a car rental center with Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National, Alamo, and Dollar Car Rental. There are also a few limousine services available. (Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft are also available.)

Face Mask Policy sign in walkway at airport.

Walkway to gates 1A & 1B inside the Huntsville International Airport. — The airport has 12 gates.

Airlines and Destinations

The airlines serving HSV include American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Silver Airways, and United. Ticket counters open at various times depending on the airline. The earliest are Delta and American Airlines at 4:00 am. Current arrival and departure statuses can be checked online at FlyHuntsville.com.

Ceiling tiles with embossed airplanes. — Ceiling tiles at the airport.

Nonstop Service

Direct flights from HSV are available to:

Atlanta
Charleston
Charlotte
Chicago
Dallas
Denver
Detroit
Houston
Las Vegas
Miami (seasonally)
Orlando
Tampa
Dulles (Washington, D.C.)
National (Washington, D.C.)

Airport Parking

The first 30 minutes of parking is free at the airport. After that, it rates begin at $2/hour up to the maximum per day. Economy parking is $8 per day, parking deck levels 2-6 is $12 per day, and ground floor parking at the parking deck is $24 per day.

Have an electric vehicle and need a boost? Look for electric car charging stations. Two units are located on the first floor and four units are located on the fifth floor opposite the elevator interface.

Astronaut statue inside gift shop in the airport.

Notable Fact

Huntsville International Airport is the first commercial airport allowed to land a space vehicle.

Mural of airplane with a blue background.

Walkway from airport to airplane door. — Walkway to an airplane.

Airport Location

The Huntsville International Airport is located at 1000 Glen Hearn Boulevard.

United Airlines Express airplane at Huntsville International Airport.

Distance To Huntsville Attractions From HSV

If you have time, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is only a 15-minute drive from the Huntsville International Airport. Huntsville is known as the "Rocket City" because of its involvement in the space program. The center offers tours, exhibits, and simulators that give visitors a taste of what it's like to be an astronaut.

Other nearby attractions include:

Bridge Street Town Centre - 8.6 miles
Huntsville Botanical Garden - 10 miles
Von Braun Center - 13 miles
Huntsville Museum of Art - 13.7 miles

Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa

Jul 12, 2022 · Leave a Comment

Visiting Montgomery, Alabama, and looking for the best place to stay? One great option is the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center located downtown.

The Renaissance Hotel in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Renaissance Hotel is just a few miles off of Interstate 65 and close to many attractions. It is a AAA Four Diamond property that features more than 103,000 square feet of meeting space, an 1,800-seat performing arts center, a 73,000-square-foot exhibit hall, and a 9,000-square-foot European spa. It has all of the amenities that you need for a memorable experience.

The hotel has over 340 rooms, is sparkling clean, and has artwork on display from the artist Nall.

Need to grab a drink before heading out? The hotel has you covered - they have a small market near the check-in desk where guests can purchase soft drinks and snacks. (There is also complimentary spa water available to guests.)

Facing the check-in desk, the hallway on the right leads to the Montgomery Convention Center which hosts concerts and events.

On the opposite side of the hallway is the hotel's restaurant, The House, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The rooms are spacious and come with complimentary wi-fi, bottled water, a Keurig coffee maker, an in-room safe, and mini-fridge.

The bathrooms are spacious and are stocked with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a hairdryer for guests to use.

Check out this amazing view of the historic Montgomery train station and the surrounding area from a room on the seventh floor:

For an additional charge, guests can purchase day passes to the European-style Spa at Montgomery. The pass includes spa water, a glass of champagne, and a steam room, to name a few of the benefits. Therapeutic treatments include customized massages and facials.

Hotel guests have 24/7 access to the fitness center which includes cardiovascular equipment and free weights.

The spa, fitness center, and outdoor rooftop pool are located above the parking garage. There is even an outdoor track, perfect for getting your morning walk in before tackling the day.

If you like lively music and good drinks, then the outdoor bar at the Renaissance will be your go-to place. The atmosphere brings downtown Montgomery to life in the evenings and is a great place to wind down.

The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa is located at 201 Tallapoosa Street and is convenient to world-class museums, good restaurants, and Maxwell Air Force Base. The closest airport is the Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM).

Need help planning your trip to Montgomery? Check out the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce website for more inspiration.

You'll also want to read my post about Where To Eat In Mongomery as well as Seven Things To Do In Montgomery.

Have you stayed at a Marriott Renaissance Hotel?

Seven Things To Do In Montgomery, Alabama

Jul 11, 2022 · 6 Comments

There are plenty of things to do in Montgomery, like visiting the Civil Rights Memorial Center, exploring the riverfront, or going on an adventure at Montgomery Zoo.

Collage of pictures of things to do in Montgomery.

There are museums, parks, art galleries, and more! If you want to learn about our history or explore the arts scene, we have a lot of options for you. And if you need some food - Montgomery is home to many restaurants that will satisfy any craving.

Alabama Capitol at night. — State Capitol Building at Night

This ain't your momma's Montgomery. Below are seven things to do in Montgomery, Alabama today.

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1. Tour Dexter Avenue Church

The historic Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church was founded in 1877 in a slave trader's pen. The present-day building was constructed between 1883 and 1889 and still holds worship services and welcomes visitors.

Visitors from around the world come to see where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. preached his messages of love and non-violence. Visitors on the tour will feel the love from the tour guides and will no doubt leave with a better appreciation for others.

The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is located steps away from the capitol building at 454 Dexter Avenue.

Church tours are conducted Tuesday through Friday at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm and on Saturday: 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 1:00 pm.

2. Visit the Rosa Parks Museum

The Rosa Parks Museum is located across from the Davis Theater, not far from where Parks was arrested on December 1, 1955. The museum pays homage to Ms. Parks and others who lived during the era of segregation and had to stand up for their rights.

At the museum, guests learn about the Montgomery Improvement Association, a grassroots movement that was formed after her arrest to help fight segregation, learn more about Martin Luther King, Jr. and his role, and as well as learn more about the role that women played in the movement.

The Rosa Parks Museum is part of Troy State University in Montgomery and the mission of the museum is to, "...honor her legacy and that of the boycott by providing a platform for scholarly dialogue, civic engagement, and positive social change."

The Rosa Parks Museum is located at 252 Montgomery Street and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.

3. See F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald's Home

Though F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald only lived in Montgomery, Alabama for a year, their home on Felder Avenue is now the only museum in the world dedicated to their lives.

Visiting their home is like stepping back in time with actual mementos and period pieces on display.

Once upon a time after Scott and Zelda lived there, the building had been converted into apartments. Nowadays, not only can people visit the museum, but it's possible to stay in one of the upstairs apartments via Airbnb. (Enter "The Zelda Suite" in Airbnb's search bar.)

The Fitzgerald Museum is located at 919 Felder Avenue #919 and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

4. See the Greyhound Bus Station

The Greyhouse Bus Station at 210 S Court Street has been transformed into the Freedom Rides Museum.

There is a timeline on the outside of the building that is always open and it traces the Freedom Riders' journey through the South as they challenged the non-enforcement of the United States Supreme Court decisions Morgan v. Virginia (1946) and Boynton v. Virginia (1960), which ruled that segregated public buses were unconstitutional.

The museum is open from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm, Tuesday - Friday and from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturday.

5. Learn About Alabama Native Hank Williams

If you like both music and history, then the Hank Williams Museum in Montgomery is a spot you will want to add to your list.

The museum houses the most complete collection of Hank Williams' Memorabilia, including his 1952 Baby Blue Cadillac (the one in which he died in on January 1, 1953).

In addition to the car, there are over 35 showcases filled with Hank's boots, clothes, hats, horse saddle, Steinway Piano, 1937 Gibson Guitar, Rickenbacher Lap Steel, microphone and stand Hank used during his last performance, blue suede shoes, briefcase, suitcase, pearl-handled pistol, and much more.

At the Hank Williams Museum, you'll learn everything you ever wanted to know about Hank. (Did you know that he was only 29 at the time of his death?)

The museum is located at 118 Commerce Street and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm.

6. Learn About America's History of Racial Injustice

Entrance to the Legacy Museum in Montgomery.

The Legacy Museum opened in 2018 at the site of a former warehouse where black people were enslaved. The museum is part of the Equal Justice Initiative, a non-profit organization founded by Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy.

The museum is dedicated to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, to challenging racial and economic injustice, and to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society and is not to be missed.

Jars of dirt memorial. — Soil from lynching locations from around the country. Part of EJI's Community Remembrance Project.

The museum is a somber reminder of America's past and a call to action for equal rights for all for now and the future. It is a first-class museum that sheds light on a sensitive subject that many try to shy away from.

We must remember that "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

The museum has interactive displays that bring the struggle that many people of color still face today.

The Legacy Museum is located at 115 Coosa Street and is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 am until 7:30 pm and on Sundays from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm.

The National Memorial For Peace and Justice is another incredibly designed memorial. It is the nation’s first memorial dedicated to the legacy of enslaved black people, people terrorized by lynching, African Americans humiliated by racial segregation and Jim Crow, and people of color burdened with contemporary presumptions of guilt and police violence.

Sculptures and art are a visual reminder of the tragedy of lynching in the United States of America.

The National Memorial For Peace and Justice is located at 417 Caroline Street and is open every day except for Tuesday from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm.

7. Watch the Montgomery Biscuits Play Ball

The Montgomery Biscuits are the local Minor League Baseball team and they are the Double-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays and are an affiliate of the Minnesota Twins.

Home games take place at the Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium, a converted century-old train shed. While watching the Biscuits make history, you'll want to enjoy the full ballpark experience by indulging in a footlong hot dog.

More About Montgomery, Alabama

This is just a sample of some of the things to do in Montgomery. While there, be sure to eat some good old southern cuisine or check out some of the other parks and museums, such as:

For even more ideas of what to do in Montgomery, check out this video from Jenn:

I was a guest of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce. All thoughts, opinions, and grammatical errors are my own.

What is your favorite thing to do in Montgomery?

Where To Eat In Montgomery, Alabama

Jul 9, 2022 · 6 Comments

In Montgomery, you will find restaurants serving good old-fashioned southern food as well as upscale and nouveau creations. This is my shortlist of where to dine in Alabama's capitol city. There are so many great places for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a snack!

The city of Montgomery is the second-largest city in the state of Alabama and hosts thousands of visitors annually thanks to its world-class museums and the fact that it is the capital of Alabama. It's easy to work up an appetite after exploring the city. I hope this list gives you some ideas on what place to try first! Bon appetit!

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Cahawba House

For what has to be the best breakfast in Montgomery, head to Cahawba House which is within walking distance of the state capitol.

Woman holding a beignet covered in powdered sugar. — Cinnamon Beignets

Cahawba House is a very popular, low-key restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch. People line up to place orders for Southern favorites like biscuits, Conecuh sausage, and beignets.

Menu items include locally sourced honey, organic maple syrup, fried chicken, breakfast gravy, fried green tomatoes, meatloaf sandwiches, pimento grilled cheese, chicken salad, and burgers. You can also get a meat and three for only $10.

Biscuit with bacon, egg, cheese, and fried green tomato.

Don't get discouraged by the long line- they know what they are doing and it doesn't take long to get served.

Cahawba House is located at 31 South Court Street and opens at 6:30 Monday through Friday and at 9:00 am on Sunday. They are open only until 2:00 pm and are closed on Saturdays.

Breakfast bowl with eggs, bacon, grits, and cheese. — Mommas Breakfast Bowl

Vintage Cafe

If you are craving something lighter and desire a breakfast that is plant-based, then venture out of the downtown area and head to Vintage Cafe. Located in a former bank, this light and airy restaurant opens at 7:00 am and serves healthy options such as breakfast salads, fresh juices, and smoothies.

If you don't have time to sit and eat, they have some grab-and-go items as well as a drive-thru.

Vintage Cafe is located at 416 Cloverdale Road and is open Monday thru Saturday from 7:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Breakfast salads, a cup of water, and a bottle of kombucha. — Berry Salad and Smoked Salmon Salad along with apple **better kombucha**

Prevail

For your morning cup o'Joe or kombucha on tap, head to Prevail which is located just down the street from the steps of the capitol building.

Prevail serves the best-rated coffee in Alabama in a building that has been renovated and has a modern-industrial vibe and is surrounded by Alabama history.

Prevail's address is 39 Dexter Avenue #102 and it is open Monday - Saturday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm and on Sunday from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Filet & Vine

If you are in the Cloverdale area, say to visit the F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald home or to explore the fascinating architecture of the early 20th century, then head to Derk's where you can build your own salad at their bar or select some soul-satisfying items from their hot bar. Derk's is located inside Filet & Vine, a market, deli, and bottle shop.

Filet & Vine is located at 431 Cloverdale Road and is open Monday-Friday: 10:00 – 7:00 and Saturday: 7:00-5:00.

Dreamland BBQ

BBQ lovers will find that the Montgomery location of Dreamland hits the spot. The environment is fun and lively and the menu is quite expansive compared to the original Dreamland.

The original menu items are available, such as slabs of ribs and white bread, but additional items like their fried okra starter, stadium nachos, BBQ sandwiches, wraps, salads, potato salad, mac n cheese, and even banana pudding are available as well.

BBQ Salad with red onion and two containers of salad dressing. — Smokehouse Cobb Salad

Dreamland is located at 12 West Jefferson Street and is open Monday-Thursday 10 am-9 pm Friday & Saturday 10 am-10 pm Sunday 11 am-9 pm.

Vintage Year

For dinner, you can't go wrong dining at Vintage Year.

You don't have to be on a date to enjoy the ambiance at Vintage Year, even though it has been named one of OpenTable’s 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America as well as Montgomery Advertiser’s Best of the Best Romantic Restaurant.

Bloody Mary with lemon, lime, and olives. — Virgin Bloody Mary

The food is delicious and the presentation and service are exemplary. It is no wonder that it has been mentioned in the New York Times, Forbes, and USA Today.

On the menu, you will find items such as Sautéed Gulf Prawns, Oysters on the Half Shell, Heirloom Tomatoes, Black Angus Filet, and Lamb T-Bone. Vintage Year also has a Sunday Brunch menu and Tuesdays are Burger Nights.

Vintage Year is located at 405 Cloverdale Road and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm -10:00 pm and for Sunday Brunch from 10:30 am-2:30 pm. Reservations can be made through Open Table.

Pasta dinner with shrimp. — Tagliatelle with Prawns

Pink mocktail with blueberries and garnished with thyme. — Mocktail Creation at Central

Central

After exploring Montgomery's fabulous museums, a dinner at Central will be the pièce de résistance. It's located steps away from The Legacy Museum and the Hank Williams Museum.

It has a cozy dining room, but the outdoor patio gets my recommendation as a great place for enjoying your meal, people watching, and listening to the occasional live music that is played in the alley.

Seafood corndogs on a wooden board. — Seafood Corn Dogs

The menu offers innovative creations such as the Seafood Corn Dogs (pictured above), Fett Sow Fries, Pressed Beets (salad), Scallops Ala Planche, Peach BBQ Glazed Pork Chop, and Bricken Chicken.

Bite of pasta on a fork. — Vegetable Pasta

And if you are still hungry after your main course, you can indulge in one of their fabulous desserts like Jake’s Mile High Lemon Meringue Pie or Strawberry Peach Cobbler made with sugar cookie dough and vanilla chantilly cream.

Central is located at 129 Coosa Street and is open Monday - Friday from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm and then at 4:00 the bar opens. Dinner begins at 5:30 pm. On Saturdays, they are open for dinner beginning at 5:30 pm. Central is closed on Sundays.

Chris' Hot Dogs

While a hot dog joint is not what we look for when we go out to eat, a trip to Montgomery calls for a trip to Chris' Hot Dogs. Chris' has been in business since 1917 and is the oldest family-owned restaurant in the city.

I'd be lying if I said that they serve gourmet or upscale cuisine. What they do serve are hot dogs with their special sauce served in warm, soft buns.

Man taking a picture of hot dogs and French fries.

They also have fries and onion rings, along with a few more items on the menu.

Stepping into the dining area is like stepping into the past. Speaking of the past, previous clientele includes four presidents, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Elvis Presley, and Hank Williams.

Chris' Hot Dogs is located at 138 Dexter Avenue and opens at 10:00 am Monday - Saturday.

Locations

Map thanks to Wanderlog, a road trip planner on iOS and Android

I was a guest of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce. All thoughts, opinions, and grammatical errors are my own. I ate all of the dishes pictured above (with the exception of the salmon salad - that was Jennifer's) and give them all two thumbs up.

For more ideas of what you can do in Montgomery, check out the tours available at Viator.com.

Exploring Yelapa, Mexico by Boat

Jul 7, 2022 · Leave a Comment

The quaint village of Yelapa, Mexico is accessible only by boat and is a site that should be on your bucket list. One great way to get there is to book an all-inclusive boat trip that will take you across the Bay of Banderas to Yelapa.

My family and I booked a tour through Chica Locca Tours which offers guests all-inclusive boat adventures at an affordable price. Their tours are a fantastic way to explore the Bay of Banderas and to discover off-the-beaten-path gems. Trust me.

You will not regret spending your day on one of their boats, exploring the beautiful scenery and wildlife in Puerto Vallarta. They offer various different tour options that you can choose from depending on what type of experience you're looking for! It's all-inclusive so there is no need for any additional payments once onboard.

I booked a trip on Chica Locca's Chica 55ft Yacht VIP for my husband, son, and myself. No regrets. The first thing that I noted when we boarded is that we all had to remove our shoes. Pretty smart. It keeps debris off of the boat and also sets the laid-back cruise vibe.

Breakfast plate with fresh pineapple, oranges, cantaloupe, grapes, cinnamon roll, and muffin.

Guests aboard the yacht start off with a plate of fruit and pastries for a light breakfast as the boat departs the La Cruz Marina.

In addition to breakfast and lunch, snacks and drinks were included in the cost, including delicious margaritas and plenty of Coronitas.

Even though the sky was overcast, our trip was pretty amazing. The cloud cover made riding through the Bay of Banderas on an ordinarily hot summer day quite comfortable.

Man driving a boat and wearing a "I Love My Job" shirt.

The Sierra Madre Mountains run into the Bay of Banderas. Even though they were not as lush and green as they would soon be after we left, they were still a sight to behold. (Notice the shirt that the driver is wearing. All of the employees truly seemed to love their job as well and they all treated the guests as family.)

One thing that sets the Chica Locca Tours apart from others is that there is an onboard masseuse - the massages are part of the package deal.

Look at those coconuts! Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco which is the leading producer of coconuts in Mexico. There are more than 55,000 tons of coconuts produced there each year.

Our captain drove the boat to a tranquil area and it was time for us to play in the Bay of Banderas. Guests had access to paddleboards, a floating lounge raft, and crystal kayaks - those were great because you can watch angelfish swim beneath you, snorkel gear, and life jackets.

After playing for a while, we all got back on board and lunch was ready. We had a choice of chicken, beef, or vegetarian.

Vegetarian salad in a styrofoam plate. — Vegetarian Meal Option

Roast beef sandwich. — Roast Beef Option

We were given two options when we arrived at Yelapa: to go to the beach or to go to the waterfall. My family chose the waterfall.

For all of us to get from our boat to the village, we would have to board a panga, an open motorboat often used as a water taxi. While we waited for our panga to come to get us, we were able to admire some of the other yachts in the harbor.

The village is very rustic and filled with many Instagrammable spots.

As Cafe Eclipse points out above, it and Puerto Vallarta are very accepting of people of all cultures, genders, religions, beliefs, and color.

This trip was priceless because it let us glimpse into real life in Mexico. We saw kids playing around the jungle, burros carrying loads, and people living life.

We made our way up the hill to the Cascada de Yelapa - the well-known waterfall. Our timing was a bit early being that the rainy season was just about to begin. While the water wasn't really falling much, it was still a beautiful sight to behold.

On the way back to the boat, there were several opportunities to buy a souvenir and help out the local economy.

The word "Yelapa" is said to mean "where two rivers meet the sea." The village was settled by four families whose descendants still inhabit the land grant which is a reservation that is legally protected for its indigenous people.

After taking in the waterfall, it was time to go back to our yacht and say goodbye to Yelapa.

This was a trip that my family and I will not forget. We got to see a side of Mexico that we would not have if we had not taken the Chica Locca Tour.

We spent most of our day disconnected from technology and more connected to each other. We traveled across the Bay of Banderas on a plush yacht and were given the VIP treatment. It was just what the doctor ordered.

About Chica Locca Tours

Chica Locca Tours was established in 2010 and offers boat tours to Yelapa, the Marietas Islands, and private sailing adventures. The all-inclusive prices include the tour, water activities, an open bar, light breakfast and lunch, and aboard the Chica 55ft Yacht VIP massages! To learn more about Chica Locca Tours, visit ChicaLoccaTours.com.

Thinking about heading to Puerto Vallarta? Be sure to read these other posts about the beautiful city on the Bay of Banderas.

Sheraton Four Points at the Huntsville Airport

Jun 27, 2022 · 2 Comments

The Sheraton Four Points at the Huntsville Airport is a hotel that offers travelers a convenient, comfortable place to stay while they're in town. The hotel is located at the airport and provides guests with easy access to all of the city's amenities.

The Huntsville International Airport is a world-class facility that serves the needs of travelers from all over the globe. The airport is about an hour and 15 minutes from Florence (AL), 40 minutes from Cullman, and 1 hour and 45 minutes from Nashville.

Four Points by Sheraton building at the airport.

For those with early morning flights, the hotel is a great option for saving driving time and the anxiety of wondering if you will make it on time. (You don't have to worry about traffic or accidents if you are staying at the airport!)

Property Details

The Sheraton Four Points has 146 rooms and offers a variety of amenities to its guests.

The rooms are a little dated (the hotel was originally built in 1967), but provide all that weary travelers need. There is free Wi-Fi, a comfortable bed, and plenty of space to relax before and after a long day of travel.

Closet with in-room safe and ironing board.

There is an ironing board and an in-room safe for guests to use in the closet.

Rooms have flat-screen televisions and personal coffee makers.

Near the elevator, there is a phone if you need assistance and hand sanitizer to keep your hands sanitized.

Treadmills and cardio equipment at the hotel gym.

On the 6th floor, there is a small fitness center on-site so those of you who need to decompress via a workout can pump some weight or walk on a treadmill.

If you need to print out your boarding pass or access a computer, there is a small business center located on the 3rd floor.

Hotel Parking

Parking deck and parking lot at the airport.

Parking at the hotel is free while you are a guest at a specified parking lot by the airport. [I was told during my check-in process that to save time in the morning, I could go ahead and park in the airport's parking deck rather than parking in the free lot for hotel guests. When it came time for me to pay for parking, all I had to do was show the parking attendant my hotel information and they deducted that night's parking fee from the total due.]

Onsite Restaurant

There is a restaurant on-site that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On TripAdvisor.com, The Grille ranks #77 out of 408 restaurants in Huntsville and averages ⅘ with 31 reviews.

Animals

Pets are not allowed at the hotel, though service animals are permitted and are exempt from fees/restrictions.

Check-In and Check-Out

Check-in at the Sheraton Four Points is between 3:00 PM and midnight. Check-out is by 12:00. (Alabama is in the Central Time Zone.) Contactless checkout is available for those who need to get on their way quickly.

Location

Sheraton Four Points at the Huntsville International Airport is located at 1000 Glenn Hearn Blvd SW, Huntsville, Alabama 35824.

Nearby Points of Interest

U.S. Space and Rocket Center - 9.7 miles
Bridge Street Town Centre - 8.6 miles
Huntsville Botanical Garden - 10 miles
Von Braun Center - 13 miles

Overall, the Sheraton Four Points at the Huntsville Airport is a great option for travelers who are looking for a convenient place to stay near the airport.

Cedar Crest Inn in Asheville, North Carolina

Jun 17, 2022 · Leave a Comment

Asheville is a beautiful mountain town in North Carolina, and it's the perfect place to stay if you're looking to explore the area. The Cedar Crest Inn is a historic inn near downtown and is a great place to relax after a long day of hiking or sightseeing.

The inn is a bed and breakfast, so you can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning before heading out to explore Asheville. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The History of Cedar Crest Inn

Cedar Crest Inn was built in 1891 at the direction of William E. Breese. Breese was a banker and Confederate Army veteran from Charleston who moved to Asheville in 1895 for the sake of his son's health. (His son had tuberculosis and the fresh mountain air was thought to be beneficial.)

The Victorian mansion was built in the Queen Anne-style by contractor Charles B. Leonard. The house was built with 20 rooms on a hill overlooking the Swannanoa River. The price? $10,000 at the time. (With an average inflation rate of 2.68%, that means that the house would cost approximately $321,204.40 in today's dollars to build.)

Table for two set in front of a wooden fireplace.

The story doesn't end so well for Mr. Breese. Around 1897, the tobacco industry was failing and Mr. Breese's bank closed. Breese was arrested and charged with conspiracy, embezzlement, abstraction, and misapplication. (In 1911, he was acquitted of all charges.)

Meanwhile, the mansion was sold in 1902 for $7,500 to Arthur F. Reese who named it Kenilworth Lodge. Reese was a socialite and was known to enjoy the company of George Vanderbilt. Reese died in 1926 and the house became the property of banks and insurance companies.

Sofa and chairs around a brick fireplace.

The house changed hands a few more times and from 1927 until 1932 was "Sherwood Sanitarium" where it was a place for people seeking healthy mountain air (for their tuberculosis).

In 1936 the mansion was used as a boarding house and the following year it was purchased as a home by John and Minnie Page. When Mr. Page died in 1939, Minnie converted the home back into a boarding house. Minnie preserved the house during the 40 years that it was hers.

Fast forward to 2018 and the house was purchased by GBX Group LLC. The company preserves historic properties around the country. The home is now Cedar Crest Inn and is a popular bed and breakfast in Asheville.

Rooms at Cedar Crest Inn

There are three properties at Cedar Crest Inn with 10 guest rooms in the main house, two options available at their 1915 bungalow, and four rooms/suites in the carriage house. Each room is unique and has its own personality.

The tower bedroom with a king bed and a twin bed. — The Tower Room

The rooms in the main house have been decorated with antique furniture and each room has a private bathroom.

Plate of carrot cake pancake and two sausage links. — Carrot Cake Pancake

Amenities at the inn include a two-course breakfast which is served from 8:30 AM until 9:30 AM daily (seating times are 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM), complimentary evening wine, and chocolate chip cookies.

Red and white bottles of wine on a table by a window.

Coffee is available throughout the day in the dining room via a Keurig coffeemaker.

People traveling with pets in tow will be happy to know that the rooms at the Cottage are pet friendly. (There is a one-time pet fee of $50 per dog and no more than two pets are allowed.)

Check-in time at the inn is between 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM. (Late check-in is available - be sure to get in touch with the innkeeper.)

More Information

Children under 12 are generally not permitted at the in..
The cancellation policy varies depending on how the room is reserved.
Cedar Crest Inn is a smoke-free facility.

Location

Cedar Crest Inn is located at 674 Biltmore Avenue.

Nearby Attractions

Biltmore House - 0.5 miles
Biltmore Village - 0.5 miles
French Broad Chocolate Lounge - 1.7 miles
Asheville Mall - 2.4 miles
WNC Farmers Market - 5.2 miles
The Cove - 7.1 miles

Booking.com

Where To Eat in Asheville, North Carolina

Jun 15, 2022 · Leave a Comment

Asheville, North Carolina is the perfect destination for food lovers of all kinds. The city has been dubbed "Foodtopia" due to its amazing restaurants and culinary scene. From James Beard finalists to fresh produce and local beef, Asheville has something for everyone. And with its amazing scenery and outdoor activities, you'll never have a dull moment.

Let's take a look at a sample of some of the good restaurants that Asheville has to offer.

1. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a warm and inviting restaurant where you can enjoy quality food with your friends or family. The menu features dishes that are inspired by seasons, local ingredients, and American cooking traditions to create one of the most magical dining experiences.

John Fleer, Chef and Owner of Rhubarb, is a father of three sons and three-time finalist for the James Beard Best Chef in the Southeast award. Following graduation from the Culinary Institute of America, John joined Blackberry Farm, where he served as Executive Chef from 1992 until 2007. During that time Fleer and Blackberry received many honors, most notably international status as Relais’ Gourmand.

Duck dinner on a plate. — **Rhubarb Glazed Duck Confit on Chili and Rosemary Braised Tuscan Kale, Watermelon Rind Pickle Salad.**

In May of 2009, John took his first step back across the Blue Ridge from Tennessee, opening Canyon Kitchen at Lonesome Valley in Cashiers, NC. Rhubarb is the next step in Fleer’s journey; he hopes to bring the relaxed atmosphere of his previous pastoral posts to Pack Square, broadening his approach with freestyle American cuisine well-suited for its location at Asheville’s vibrant crossroad.

Drink with an orange wedge. — **Rhubarb Shandy** -
*Adapted to accompany the duck confit with a splash of Banyuls--a wine from the home of duck confit in the southwest of France.*

Rhubarb is located at 7 SW Pack Square and is open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5 PM until 9:30 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 5 PM until 10 PM.

2. Chestnut

Located in a remodeled 1920's-ear building in the heart of downtown, Chestnut is co-owned by friends Joe Scully and Kevin Westmoreland.

Gazpacho in a shooter glass. — **Green Grape & Tomato Gazpacho** - A refreshing summer soup topped with sour cream (optional), made with yellow onion, green tomato, green grapes, celery, green peppers, jalapeno, cucumbers, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and white pepper, Tabasco, and sugar.

Joe graduated from the Culinary Institute of America with Honors. He has worked at The Waldorf Astoria, the United Nations, Cherokee Town and Country Club in Atlanta, and is also the owner of the Corner Kitchen in Historic Biltmore Village. The food and cocktails are created with an eye toward authenticity, local ingredients, and handcrafted goodness.

Green drink with a lime wedge. — **Ginger Mint Limeade mocktail**
Muddled mint, housemade ginger syrup & freshly squeezed lime juice.

The menu is always changing, but you can expect to find locally sourced produce and meat on the board.

Some of the mouth-watering options include:

Scratch-made Lobster Bisque (Troy & Sons Oak Reserve Cream, Chives),
Peppercorn-Crusted Ribeye (10 oz Hand-cut, Cheesy Herbed Hasselback Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus, Tomato Mushroom Ragout, Red Wine Demi Glace),
Pork Barbacoa (Mole Braised Pork Shoulder, Blue Corn Fried Sope, Chipotle Black Bean Puree, Tomatillo Corn Verde, Cotija, Micro Cilantro), and
Crow's Own Shrimp and Grits (NC Tail-on Shrimp, Blue Corn Grits, Benton's Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Arugula, Serrano Peppers, Peppercorn Cream Sauce).

Dinner on a plate. — **Risotto Cakes on Lobster Ragout** -
Pear-shaped, breaded & fried with Fontina cheese & served with tomato essence.

Chestnut is located at 48 Biltmore Avenue. Chestnut is open daily from 5 PM until 9:30 PM.

3. Tupelo Honey

Founded in 2000, Tupelo Honey has been serving up Asheville's best for over two decades. This Asheville staple is known for its Southern comfort food with a twist.

People dining al fresco in front of Tupelo Honey.

Tupelo Cafe focuses on fresh food and sources its ingredients from local purveyors when possible. With a focus on farm-to-table, conscious animal welfare matters to Tupelo Cafe. They work with partners who respect the animals they are providing.

Plate with grits topped with fried green tomatoes. — **Famous Fried Green Tomatoes*10.95** - Panko-crusted fried green tomatoes, basil, roasted red pepper sauce, over heirloom grits with goat cheese.

Menu items at Tupelo Cafe are a brunch lover's dream. From cathead biscuits on the appetizer menu to their famous fried chicken and buttermilk waffles, you'll find true Southern comfort food on the Tupelo Cafe menu.

At the end of your meal, there are a couple of dessert options: Heavenly Banana Pudding or Brown Butter Pecan Pie. If you can't choose between the two, you can order the Mini Dessert Duo and have them both!

Two waffles topped with spicy chicken and drizzled with honey. — **Sriracha Honey Fried Chicken* & Waffles $16.95** - Sweet, spicy & savory fried chicken with cilantro, over fluffy buttermilk waffles.

Tupelo Cafe is located at 12 College Street and is open Sunday - Thursday: 9 AM- 9 PM and Friday and Saturday 9 AM - 10 PM.

4. White Duck Taco

Don't let the strange name fool you - White Duck Taco makes some seriously delicious tacos in Asheville. Out of 57 locations selling tacos, they're #1 and #2 according to TripAdvisor.com.

Black flag with a white duck painted on it.

The items on the menu at White Duck Taco are sold a la carte to help keep costs down.

The items aren't what you will find at your basic taco stand. No - these are gourmet tacos with a wide range of flavors. Some of the tacos on the menu include Steak and Cheese, Banh Mi Tofu, Jerk Chicken, Thai Peanut Chicken, and Chicken Tikka Masala.

In addition to the delicious tacos, White Duck Taco also has sides to go with them like Street Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese and Green Chile Black Beans. And their housemade queso and fresh chips do not disappoint.

Bangkok taco with pickled vegetables. — Bangkok Shrimp Taco $4.45

To wash it all down, you'll want to glass of something nice and wet, like their White Peach Sangria or Frozen Cheerwine. Either way, you can't go wrong. (They also have soda, iced tea, Tecate, margaritas, draft beer, and wine.)

White Duck Taco Shop is located at 12 Biltmore (downtown location) and 388 Riverside. The Riverside location is by the French Broad River and has outdoor dining. Hours are from 11:30 AM until 9:00 PM at both locations.

5. The Lobster Trap

The Lobster Trap only features fresh seafood caught by trusted domestic purveyors and prepared in ways that showcase the delicate flavors and textures of fish, lobster, crabs, shrimp, oysters, and clams.

Located in a beautifully renovated historic building in the heart of downtown Asheville, The Lobster Trap features live entertainment from local musicians every night. To that, add locally brewed Oyster House beers, craft cocktails, seafood-friendly wines, and southern hospitality and you have The Lobster Trap’s formula for success.

Chef Mike McCarty’s work begins when the doors to the restaurant have closed for the evening. He is on the phone with purveyors until the early morning hours making sure that we have the freshest fish delivered before we re-open the next afternoon.

lobster roll — **Fresh Maine Lobster Roll** - *Fresh sweet Maine Lobster chilled and served on a brioche bun with a remoulade sauce on the side.*

Chef Mike has spent the last 10 years carefully cultivating his relationships with fishermen, distributors, and local farmers so The Lobster Trap receives only the freshest fish and ingredients. He and his team are the area’s specialists when it comes to the delicate preparation and pairing of seafood.

6. Zambra

Zambra is a tapas and small plate restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Asheville. They use global and regional influences, as well as local purveyors and farmers to shape their evolving menu. Their extensive wine list focuses on Spanish and new world wines.

Adam Bannasch has been the chef of Zambra since 2005. After working in restaurants through high school and graduating from New England Culinary Institute in 2000, Adam spent three-plus years honing his skills in New Orleans. There he worked at some of the city’s best restaurants, including, Stella, Peristyle, and August.

Sunburst Farms Trout Ceviche
Local Trout lightly cooked in citrus juices with avocado-poppy yogurt.

Slice of chocolate cake. — *Chocolate Torte*

7. Blue Ridge Restaurant at Grove Park Inn

Building made of stones with red tera cotta tiles..

For some of the best views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, head to Blue Ridge Restaurant at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Located on the main level of the historic hotel, the farm-to-table artisanal buffet has all that you desire in a gourmet Sunday brunch - including complimentary mimosas!

Plate with chicken, catfish, salad, macaroni, and a bowl of grits.

Blue Ridge Restaurant is located at 290 Macon Avenue. Demand is high so be sure to make reservations. The restaurant is open for Breakfast Buffet Daily: 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM, Dinner Buffet Friday and Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, and Sunday Brunch Buffet: Noon – 2:30 PM.

8. French Broad Chocolate Lounge

A trip to Asheville would not be complete without a stop at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. Asheville's only bean-to-bar chocolate shop, French Broad Chocolate Lounge is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth.

French Broad Chocolates brownie and chocolate candy.

They offer a variety of chocolate-based desserts, as well as hot chocolate and truffles. The salted caramel brownies are pure heaven in chocolate form.

The lounge is located downtown at 10 S Pack Square and is open 11 AM until 10 PM every day.

One way to experience a little bit of this and a little bit of that is to take a food tour. I learned about some of the places on this because of a tour that I took with Eating Asheville. I took The Classic tour and sampled beer from a local brewer, sangria, falafel, gourmet potato chips, the brownie above, a taco from White Duck Taco, and more.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Asheville is the place to be. With its farm-to-table philosophy and commitment to local ingredients, Asheville's restaurants are sure to please. Bon appetit!

More From Asheville:

Lion sculpture in front of Biltmore Estate. — **Biltmore Estate**

The Nashville Zoo

May 31, 2022 · 4 Comments