From sea to shining sea, the United States is a very diverse country – both when it comes to culture and natural beauty.

I’ve traveled across the continental United States many times over (you never really realize how big Texas is until you drive through it. Damn that state is big!). I think, just on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the country. That’s a lot of time and doesn’t even take into account that visit to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In short, I’ve seen a lot of this country.

And there is a lot worth seeing.

In the past, I’ve talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned, so it only seems proper to give you a list of the best places to visit in the USA.

All these places are near and dear to my heart and really showcase just how special this country is and how many wonderful places there are here. (It took me awhile to narrow down this list!)

In no particular order, here’s my detailed list of the best places to visit in the USA:

(Note: This list is based only on where I myself have been. There are a lot more breathtaking places I haven’t explored yet, which is why they may not be on this list. It doesn’t mean they aren’t worth seeing. It just means I haven’t been there.)

1. Memphis

Gritty, industrial, and a bit run down, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it, but don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is still home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. Additionally, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal, detailed, and moving Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). I enjoyed the city more than I expected and was disappointed when I had to leave. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old building with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel is also a non-profit that donates 100% of its profit to social justice causes around the city.
 

2. Austin

I love Austin (I actually moved there in 2016 and stayed for several years before returning to NYC). The warm weather, the lively honky-tonks and live music, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing hiking and biking trails, and tons of outdoor activities…Austin has it all.

Thanks to everything from the growing food truck population to the flagship Whole Foods store with the incredible salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat well — whenever I’m here. The Austin campus of the University of Texas provides a youthful vigor to the city, and its liberal attitude attracts a diverse and eclectic population. In short, you can’t skip Austin, because if you do, I’ll find you and drag you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is located in an old firehall from 1885. They have fast Wi-Fi, plenty of chill common areas, and an amazing on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.

For more travel tips on Austin, check out these posts:

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a city with soul. It’s seen some hard times, but it lives on with a zest for life unmatched by most places. It has a rich and long history (don’t miss taking a haunted walking tour while you’re here) and is filled with scrumptious French-inspired Creole and Cajun food, live jazz music, street performers, and an appreciation for all the temptations of life. Life is lived well here in the Big Easy. You don’t come here to relax — you come here to indulge! In my opinion, New Orleans one of the most eclectic and vibrant cities in the United States.

WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA: HI New Orleans – An award-winning hostel with spacious dorms, comfy beds, privacy curtains, and fast Wi-Fi. Everything a budget traveler needs!

For more travel tips on traveling New Orleans, check out my suggested itinerary on how to spend your time there!
 

4. Asheville

Asheville is Portland in the North Carolina mountains: full of tasty craft beer, food, and hipsters. I liked the area a lot, including its proximity to some wonderful and scenic mountain hikes such as the Carolina Mountain Trail. Moreover, the town has a lot of parks for those wanting something closer — and be sure to check out the Asheville Botanical Gardens near the university campus. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, and the gigantic Biltmore estate, the largest privately owned home in the US and once home to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like! And, if you haven’t, you should! The show is addicting!)

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE: Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel – A laid-back hostel with a spacious front and back porch for relaxing. There’s free parking, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes.
 

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

The drive up the Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic in the world. I have to agree. I didn’t travel the whole coast but the portion I drove (San Francisco to Portland) was incredible: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the way. Be prepared to make slow progress, as you’ll be pulling over frequently to stop, hike, and admire the view. I especially liked Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
 

6. Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a large expanse of giant redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. It’s a must for anyone road-tripping around California.

WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Lodge – Located on the coast in Trinidad, this rustic budget-friendly lodge has basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV, and some of their rooms also have full kitchens. It’s a clean, comfy no-frills place to crash for a night.
 

7. Glacier National Park

Even though I visited when most of the park was still closed (it was too early in the year and there was still snow around), I was still stunned by the area: gorgeous snow-capped mountains rising high into the sky; a beautiful, still lake in which to admire those mountains and large glaciers; and hiking trails galore. It was the most mind-blowing place I saw on my trip, and I can understand why everyone raves about it. I can’t recommend a visit there enough.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Camping – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You won’t be disappointed.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene (be sure to take a beer tasting tour), excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants in the world), a large international airport with lots of connections, and proximity to the mountains. It’s clean, and the locals are incredibly friendly. There are few cities in the US I want to live in, but I love Denver enough to say that it’s one of them.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated one of the best in the country, offering a swank interior, free jacuzzi, outdoor firepit, comfy beds with blackout curtains, cheap overnight parking, and more.
 

9. Chicago

When the weather is nice, I don’t think there’s a better city in the United States. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class food (try the deep dish, sushi, and hot dogs), the fun and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its famous bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic architecture (be sure to take an architecture tour).

And, once the winter deep freeze is over, Chicagoans burst out of their homes to enjoy the summer weather, so there’s a positive, happy vibe emanating through the city. Take advantage of it.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clean hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a great location. The beds are comfy and the common area is huge so it’s easy to meet people.

For more travel tips on Chicago, check out these posts:

10. New York City

The city that never sleeps. ‘Nuff said. I mean, there’s a reason I moved here — and then moved back again after living in Texas. You can’t go wrong here. New York sells itself and there’s nothing I can say here. I know you already want to go.

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: HI NYC – This is one of the biggest and best hostels in the city. It’s super easy to meet people here, they have a chill outdoor patio, and the kitchen is huge so you can cook more meals and save your budget.

For travel tips on New York City, check out these posts:

11. Natchez

I was most surprised by this Mississippi city. I didn’t know anything about it, but Natchez was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes, built by isolated plantation owners wanting to get away in the summer and interact and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate.

Now, they are historic monuments, and you can tour them while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path — and my favorite discovery from my last road trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ: The Beaumont House – If you want to splash out, this recently-renovated B&B in a mansion includes free breakfast and spacious historic rooms as well as modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.

For more travel tips on Natchez, check out this post on my visit there.
 

12. Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–covered trees, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the Old South. I had visited this city many, many years ago, but its beauty, Southern comfort food, and tranquility stuck with me over the years.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This affordable three-star motel is just a short five-minute walk from downtown. Boasting a retro vibe, there’s free coffee and juice every morning, as well as free popcorn available in the lobby.
 

13. The Grand Canyon

Words can’t accurately describe how incredible the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so many ways — its sheer size, fantastic depth, red hues, and striking vistas. Most people simply stand at the edge of the canyon and look out across it, but its true size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the bottom. Make the time to hike down to the Colorado River, hike the less visited trails, spend the night, and hike back up for sunset.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You’ll need to reserve a spot early though as they disappear fast!

For more travel tips on the Grand Canyon, read this post on hiking the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

A little bit country, a little bit tech, Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, and rightly so. It’s got a wonderful music scene (including the famous Grand Ole Opry), a growing cocktail bar scene, and some down-home Southern restaurants.

There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly and happy people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into great (though sometimes very one-sided) detail about the state’s history, but it’s more exciting than you might think.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Red Roof Inn – While it’s not centrally located, this is one of the city’s few affordable two-star options. A quick 13-minute drive from the Grand Ole Opry, this budget-friendly joint boasts an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and free coffee.

For more travel tips on Nashville, check out these posts:

15. San Francisco

Food of every nature, hipsters, high tech, and a diverse population make San Francisco one of my favorite places to visit. Additionally, it’s close to some wonderful national parks, like Muir Woods, where you can escape the city and go hiking amid giant trees (there are lots of half-day guided tours you can take). San Francisco has so much to do that you need at least four days to really appreciate it.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO: Green Tortoise – As one of the oldest in town, this hostel is an institution in San Francisco. It offers free breakfast, free dinners multiple times per week, and even a free sauna! It has a huge common room so it’s easy to meet people and has a very fun, social atmosphere.

For more travel tips on San Francisco, read these posts:

16. Miami

White sand beaches, Cuban food, wild nightlife, gorgeous people, and amazing warm weather — what’s not to love about Miami! I don’t think I could ever live here, but for a weekend of fun in the sun, Miami is perfect.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Generator Miami – This hostel has a pool, two restaurants, a bar, and is just minutes away from the beach. It’s massive (there are 8 floors), the beds are more comfortable than the cheap ones you’ll find at the party hostels.

For more travel tips on Miami, read these posts:

17. San Diego

Forever warm and sunny, San Diego’s weather creates a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors — from hiking, days at the beach, or running. And they are always happy to show people their city.

The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy seafood restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls. I love San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Adventure Hostel – With a focus on sustainable travel (there’s a vegetable garden and backyard chickens), this chill hostel is very friendly and social. It’s clean, and the water pressure in the showers is decent, and the beds are comfy. (For more hostel suggestions, you can read this post.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Though the water level of the lake, as well as the flora and fauna around it, is sadly depleted due to the California drought, Lake Tahoe is still nonetheless impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Camping – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You won’t be disappointed.
 

20. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but it’s all wrong. It’s even better than words can describe. It’s the most crazy beautiful state I’ve ever been to, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. The people are super cool, welcoming, and outdoorsy, too. If I had to pick a favorite state, it would be Montana. I just love it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Located in downtown Bozeman, this hotel is quiet, clean, and is home to friendly staff. They organize all kinds of events too, like pub crawls and movie nights, so it’s easy to hang out and meet people.
 

21. Washington D.C.

The capital of the United States is a vibrant, international city, and that’s what I love about it. It’s second only to NYC in diversity of people and food (which is to be expected with so many people from international aid organizations and embassies). You hear a million accents in this town! Throw in the free Smithsonian museums, lots of parks, a riverfront for strolling or running, and some historic government buildings and monuments, and D.C. becomes one phenomenal place to visit, relax, eat, and drink! Be sure to take a tour of Capitol Hill while you’re here!

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel – Offering pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is located in an old Victorian mansion. The beds have thick mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, there’s free coffee and tea each day, and they even host a free happy hour each week!

For more travel tips on Washington D.C., here are some other articles I’ve written:

22. Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since it’s where New Englanders escape for the summer. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). If you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape!

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – Just a short walk from the beach in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the standard amenities (TV, free Wi-Fi), as well as free parking and a relaxing sauna and hot tub.
 

23. Boston

I may be biased because I grew up here, but I love Boston and cherish my visits home. Boston rocks (Go Red Sox!). It’s historic (founded in 1630), small-ish, easy to get around, and filled with awesome and loyal people. It’s home to a ton of activities, like the Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall, the JFK Museum, and the Boston Commons and Public Garden, as well as some of the best Italian and seafood restaurants in the country. Be sure to eat at Zaftigs for the best brunch in the city! It’s wicked!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: HI Boston – This spacious and clean hostel is just a short walk from pretty much everything in the city. They have female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and several chill common areas where you can meet other travelers.

For more travel tips on Boston, check out these posts:

24. Las Vegas

Vegas, baby, Vegas! A lot of people are turned off by the bright lights and gambling, but Vegas is much more than the casinos, expensive clubs, and hotels on the famous Strip. There’s incredible hiking nearby at Red Rocks National Park, a growing art scene, a booming tech scene, and lots of concerts and shows.

Get off the Strip, explore the real Vegas (because technically the Strip is located in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why people decide to live here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin City Hostel – Just a short walk from the (in)famous Fremont Street, this is a social hostel that hosts all kinds of events (such as bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, casino nights, and more). It’s a great place to connect with other travelers.

For more travel tips on Las Vegas, these articles can help:

25. Portland

Portland, Oregon is incredible. I would move there if it had a bigger airport with better connections. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s a religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. There’s even an underground donut scene here.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND: HI Portland – Northwest – Rated one of the best hostels in the world, this centrally-located HI hostel offers free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outdoor courtyard with a firepit, regular live music, and much more.

For more travel tips on Portland, read this post on the city.
 

26. Seattle

Home to a little business called Starbucks, it also boasts an exciting downtown, fresh fish, authentic Asian food, art museums, and funky nightlife. In historic Pioneer Square, you can go on an underground tour of the city’s ruins (a hella cool experience). Moreover, you’re right on the water and, weather permitting, can head out onto Elliott Bay to explore some little islands. Seattle is just a cool city. There’s always something to do there, it’s techy, and everyone is relaxed. Plus, there’s craft beer and coffee — what’s not to love about that!

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE: Green Tortoise – Located right across from the iconic Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes all kinds of activities so it’s easy to meet people. They also offer free breakfast and daily events. It’s one of my favorite hostels in the country.

For more travel tips on Seattle, read this detailed planning guide!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days, noteworthy enough to be the focus of an HBO series. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Country Inn – This kitschy hotel is one of the cheapest places in town. Located right downtown, they have a mini gambling hall on-site, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. It’s nothing fancy but it won’t break the bank either.
 

28. Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown. There’s also a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that was the actual name; I’m not being racist). I wish I could have spent more time, but that’s just more reason to come back.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a fitness center, pool, and a decent breakfast spread, this three-star hotel in downtown KC is one of the more affordable places to crash in the city.
 

29. Louisville

Louisville sits on the Ohio River and is the largest city in Kentucky. I was surprised at how much I liked it and how much there was to do here. There’s an established theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of delicious places to eat (it’s a solid foodie city), and all the bourbon you can drink.

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels much more like an Austin or a Portland than your traditional southern/midwest city. In the past, it was considered a fly-over city and was skipped by most people. It’s definitely not now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – While it may be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is affordable, includes free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills choice but clean and comfy.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is another lively city full of delicious food, fun bars, lots of history, and all the southern charm you’d ever need. It’s beautiful, the people are nice, and there’s a high, high concentration of world-class restaurants for such a small city. (If you love seafood, you’re going to love it here. This is one of the best cities in the country for seafood.)

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON: Charlestons NotSo Hostel – Located in a historic neighborhood, this laid-back hostel includes free coffee/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small but the beds are perfectly comfy.
 

31. Franklin

Located just outside of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town charm. The city is full of history (there was a major Civil War battle here), a historic main street, and some really delicious bars and restaurants. I didn’t expect much and the city really surprised me. It’s the perfect two-night destination.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Hotel – This upscale property features a restaurant on-site, fitness center, bar, and terrace. If you don’t want to splash out, check Booking.com for other options.

The United States is filled with too many “must-sees” places to visit to list in a single blog post. After all, the country is home to over 329 million people and covers 3.8 million square miles.

Just be sure to turn off the highways, head to the small towns, and discover some favorites of your own. The best of the USA is always away from the major highways in the little no-name towns with little diners, quirky shops, and friendly people!

For more travel tips on traveling the USA, read these other blog posts:

South Carolina is filled with towns that blend Southern hospitality, delicious food, and a touch of natural beauty—and Spartanburg is no exception.

Located between Charlotte and Atlanta, Spartanburg is an under-the-radar gem that offers all the makings of a great weekend getaway: scenic parks, walkable downtown streets, excellent coffee, and burgeoning culinary and craft beer scenes. What really sets it apart, though, is its balance of small-town warmth and big-city energy.

I recently spent a few days exploring this vibrant Southern city and found myself amazed by its lively local events, minor league baseball games, tucked-away trails, and locally inspired restaurants.

Spartanburg was also named one of the best places to retire in South Carolina—which means you can expect exactly what I found: a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, remarkable affordability, and a balance of energy and relaxation. Whether you’re into hiking, patios with string lights, or sipping something peachy at a local brewery, Spartanburg delivers with heart.

Here’s everything you need to plan your own unforgettable South Carolina escape.

How to Get There

If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Greenville-Spartanburg International (GSP), located about 30 minutes from downtown. GSP offers direct and reasonably priced flights to and from major hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Miami, and more.

Spartanburg is also easy to reach by car. It’s about 1.5 hours from Columbia, less than 1.5 hours from Charlotte, and roughly three hours from Atlanta. I made the scenic drive from Virginia, passing through scenic foothills and stretches of farmland.

Know Before You Go

Spartanburg is walkable, affordable, and packed with personality. While it’s growing rapidly, the city hasn’t lost its small-town soul. Everyone I met, from baristas to bookstore owners, was genuinely kind and proud of their city.

Zach Fox, director of communications for Spartanburg, agrees, saying, “Spartanburg, particularly downtown, is a very welcoming place. It blends some big-city offerings with small-town charm.”

For those who love the outdoors, like myself, it’s a good idea to pack comfortable shoes. There are scenic trails, peaceful gardens, and well-kept parks either within walking distance or just a short drive from downtown.

Last but not least, if you’re a beer lover or foodie, come hungry and thirsty because Spartanburg knows how to serve up flavor.

Best Time to Visit

Summer is packed with energy, from outdoor concerts to baseball games, and the brewery patios are buzzing. If you’re looking to hike or relax in a garden, spring and fall are equally lovely, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers or changing leaves.

Fox says his favorite time in Spartanburg is the fall, when the crisp, cool air finally rolls in after the hot, humid summer—a refreshing change that makes those first few weeks especially enjoyable.

Best Things to Do

Relax at Cleveland Park.

This lakeside park offers walking trails, shady trees, and peaceful views. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a busy morning of exploring downtown.

Watch a Spartanburgers Minor League Baseball game.

Grab a seat at Fifth Third Park and enjoy an evening of baseball under the lights. The home crowd brings plenty of energy, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a fun stop whether you’re a sports fan or just in it for the snacks.

Beat the heat at Streaking Birdies.

If you’re looking to escape the sun, but still want to stay active, head to Streaking Birdies. This indoor golf spot, located across from the AC Hotel, features high-tech simulators and a fun vibe that makes for a good time, whether you’re practicing your swing or just playing for laughs.

Support local businesses at Hub City Bookshop and Little River Coffee Bar

This independent bookstore is a downtown favorite, filled with titles by Southern authors and charming gifts. It’s a great place to cool off, browse, and support Spartanburg’s literary scene.

Right next door is Little River Coffee Bar. There’s nothing quite like pairing a good book with a delicious cup of coffee, so I highly recommend combining the two.

Go shopping downtown.

From stylish clothing and outdoor gear to handmade gifts and teas, Spartanburg’s walkable downtown area is filled with shops worth exploring. The mix of boutiques lends the area a creative, welcoming energy.

Fox says, “I usually recommend a stroll through downtown Spartanburg, especially because I came to [the city] at a time when downtown was really on life support. Many storefronts were still empty, and there weren’t many people around. That has definitely changed over the years.”

Best Places to Stay

AC Hotel Spartanburg

Chic and centrally located, the 10-story AC Hotel Spartanburg in the heart of downtown made an ideal home base during my visit. It features a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city and the curated art collection throughout the property adds a thoughtful, creative touch. One of the best perks is the outdoor pool, a perfect way to cool off in the South Carolina summer. Plus, the property’s location is just a short walk from coffee shops, restaurants, and the baseball stadium.

Spartanburg Marriott

The Spartanburg Marriott has an outdoor pool and an American restaurant with plenty of seating outside, plus it’s just a short walk from downtown, making it an overall convenient stay.

Best Places to Eat

The Kennedy

I love it when a place offers upscale, delicious food without feeling too formal, and The Kennedy hits that sweet spot. Every dish is a winner, but what really stood out to me were the cocktails, cheddar biscuits, and chicken parmesan.

FR8yard

As a big fan of biergartens, I was excited to check out FR8yard, known for its lively atmosphere that welcomes adults, kids, and dogs alike. Fox says it’s one of his favorite spots, sharing, “They have a great selection of drinks and some really solid bar food. On top of that, they have live music almost every night, and when there isn’t a performance, they often break out a large projector for movie nights or show big sporting events.”

Blue Moon Specialty Foods

Start your day with a flavorful breakfast at this gourmet market and cafe. I loved the house-made sauces and Southern specialties, especially the quiche.

Cribb’s Kitchen

Cribb’s Kitchen is a must for burger lovers. This modern bistro offers a diverse menu featuring elevated sandwiches and hearty Southern classics, including deviled eggs and fried green tomatoes, all served in a friendly environment.

Fox says one of his favorite ways to spend an afternoon in Spartanburg is combining a few local favorites: catching a Spartanburgers game, stopping by FR8yard either before or after, and then wrapping up the day with dinner at Cribb’s Kitchen.

Rockers Brewing Co.

For craft beer enthusiasts, Rockers Brewing Co. is a local favorite renowned for its innovative brews and inviting taproom. It’s a great place to unwind and sample Spartanburg’s best beers.

Ruin bars are all the rage in Budapest and have been around since the founding of Szimpla Kert, the mecca of all ruin bars, in 2002. These bars are built in Budapest’s old District VII neighborhood (the old Jewish quarter) in the ruins of abandoned buildings, stores, or lots. This neighborhood was left to decay after World War II, so it was a perfect place to develop an underground bar scene. These places were very off the beaten path, rough around the edges, and catered to artists, students, and alternative people.

But they became very popular and well known by 2010 and have nice gone mainstream, though their setting has not changed.

From the outside, these bars look like normal buildings. They don’t have large signs pointing the way, you don’t hear any loud noise, and there’s no line of people waiting to get in. But once you walk in and enter the inner courtyard, you find yourself in the middle of a hip, artsy, and funky bar bustling with crowds talking, dancing, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Large bouncers, along with posted signs, ensure that people are quiet on their way out so as to not disturb the neighbors.

Each of these ruin bars has its own personality, but they all follow a few basic principles: find an old, abandoned place, rent it out, set up a bar, fill it with flea market furniture, have a few artists come in to leave their mark on the walls and ceiling, add in some weird antiques, serve alcohol, and watch people flock in.

When you’re in these bars, you feel like you’re drinking at your local thrift store. None of the furniture matches. It’s all old. It’s eclectic. It feels like they just ransacked your grandmother’s house. The ceilings are all designed differently and the places haven’t been repaired or fixed up, and there are still holes in the walls and visible pipes everywhere.

Though the Ruin Bar movement has become mainstream, many of the bars have done a good job of keeping their character and staying true to their roots — even as they fill up with more tourists.

Here is a list of the best ruin bars of Budapest:
 

Szimpla Kert

This was the original ruin bar. It opened in 2001, starting this trend. It’s one of the biggest ruin bars and still one of the most popular. Once an abandoned factory, now there’s a large open courtyard, a top floor filled with eclectic furniture, cocktail bars, music, and even an old, stripped-down Trabant (a communist car) to have a drink in. All the rooms have a different theme. They also sell pizza, which, after a few drinks, makes for the perfect walking-home snack. Everyone I take here says it’s one of the coolest bars they’ve ever been to. If you just visit one bar, make it this one.

Grandio

Grandio is a ruin bar and hostel in one. It’s famous for its outdoor, tree-filled courtyard but is mostly filled with travelers and people on bar crawls since it’s also a hostel. This is a good place to start your night and meet other travelers. During the day you can find locals relaxing here with a drink in the garden. It’s not quite as rowdy as the other bars and, since it’s smaller, it has a bit more of a laid-back and intimate vibe.

Dürer Kert

A former university building, this ruin bar and music venue lets you tap into your inner college student as you drink a few beers while playing foosball, Ping-Pong, darts, and a French game called pétanque (it’s fun). The courtyard garden is a good spot to enjoy all the live music that happens in this bar. The space is really big and there’s a lot of activity here. Plus, I love how the art and paintings on the wall.

Instant-Fogas Complex

The Instant-Fogas Complex is located in an entire apartment building and the biggest ruin bar in the city. There are over 20 rooms, 18 different bars, multiple dance floors, and 2 gardens. It’s one of the more club-like ruin bars. In Instant, you can sit in what were once individual apartments and relax on furniture that looks like it was found on the street. They’ve knocked down many of the walls to connect the apartments and make space for the DJs and dancing. Given its popularity and the fact that it’s more “clubby,” drinks here are a little more expensive than in other ruin bars. If you want to dance away the night, this is the bar for you.

Doboz

I’m not entirely sure if this place fits into the ruin bar culture. It was much fancier and trendier than the other bars I visited. It was like being in a “real” bar. However, I was taken there as part of a ruin bar tour, and, regardless, I loved this place. You walk into the courtyard and are greeted by a tree with a red-eyed robot attached to it. It looks like a Transformer is about to attack you. There are two main rooms: one red, the other blue. They play a lot of dance music, and this place fills up toward the end of the night. The only downside is that it has more limited opening hours than other bars.

Mazel Tov

This is one of Budapest’s newest ruin bars. Mazel Tov (located in the old Jewish quarter) is a community center and restaurant serving traditional Jewish cuisine by day. At night, the courtyard is a party with DJs and live entertainment entertaining guests. There’s also a restaurant here. I wouldn’t call this a “ruin bar” in the traditional sense but it’s a nice atmosphere, the decor is nice, and it’s got great drinks. It’s fancier than all the others so don’t expect something so “rough and tumble.”

Csendes Letterem Café & Bar

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe to balance out the party atmosphere of some of the other ruin bars but don’t want to sacrifice the cool vintage aesthetic, this is the bar for you. It’s located right in the heart of Budapest and is the perfect place to relax and share drinks with friends or settle in for an evening of conversation. The bar also serves food and has Wi-Fi, so you’ll often find digital nomads mingling here.

Budapest may sell itself on history and thermal baths, but the ruin bars are by far the most unique thing about this city. Even if you don’t drink, come spend time at these ruin bars because they are such a funky way to see a popular and totally unique aspect of life in Budapest (you can even take a self-guided tour of a few bars that includes skip-the-line entry). You’ll meet a lot of locals when you visit too! So, don’t miss them.
 

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In a sea of cruise ships and tourists, where tchotchkes flow like wine, lies an outlier. An island of soul, with a past that has shaped modern history, and a culture of fast friends, cold beer, and off-the-grid adventure. Salt Cay, Turks and Caicos, a 2.9-square-mile patch of land about 35 minutes south of Grand Turk by boat, was once a thriving town. Now, the 40 full-time residents are well outnumbered by the wild donkeys that call the island home. From the island’s only bar and restaurant, to the local fishermen, to the world-class diving, Salt Cay offers a unique opportunity to get off the beaten bath and into the sun.

I am tagging along on an archaeological expedition, and with a small airstrip and only one bar and restaurant on the island, we opt to meet in Grand Turk before heading to Salt Cay. Our twin propeller plane operated by InterCaribbean (one of only two airlines that fly in and out of Grand Turk) is cramped, and the vents blow hot air. As the sweat beads on my forehead, I find myself distracted. Not by the turbulence, but the electric glow of the bluest water I have ever seen. The tides ripple over the coral heads below, and the zebra patterns of deep sapphire and turquoise water are interrupted by clouds of orange sea grass caught adrift in the current.

As our plane touches down, we shuffle off in a horde and down a mobile staircase, where we are herded to baggage claim. A single conveyor belt in a single-gate airport begins to roll, and our bags are collected. Introductions are made, and our group moves outside to a pair of golf carts (a preferred method of transportation on both Grand Turk and Salt Cay). Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory, so driving on the left side of the road is an adjustment, but a fun one. We cart past donkeys, tourists, locals, new construction, and houses from colonial rule.

We arrive at the Osprey Beach Hotel and drop off half of our group. I, and a few others, putt down the road to our hotel for the night, the Manta House. While off the well-trodden path, both of these stays are only a short walk from one of the best-kept secrets of the island, Sandbar. The wind blows across the electric teal water as my bare feet meet the wooden floor. Goggles, one of the local dogs that run in packs around Grand Turk, greets us like we’re long-lost friends. We watch the sun set as the last slice of orange dips beyond the horizon. A mythical green flash pops.

The following morning, we go grocery shopping, button up our final plans for the two-week excursion, and meet Richard and Elliot from Salt Cay Divers (the local dive shop) at the boat dock to carry us south, to the land of salt and silence.

The water is calm as we leave the harbor. A cruise ship has just arrived. The 35-minute boat ride is a straight shot, and the tide begins to swell as we leave the safety of the leeward side of Grand Turk. The boat rocks, cutting through the small waves. What was a pinpoint on the horizon grows in size as we approach the Salt Cay harbor. The white sand, the cliff face of the bluff, and the Coral Reef Bar & Grill, are all a welcome sight. As the boat reaches Deane’s Dock (the island’s only harbor), we are greeted by several islanders, including one of Enrique Dickenson. Enrique is wearing black long pants and a long-sleeved T-shirt—his standard attire. He’s the island entrepreneur, and one of his many businesses is golf cart rentals. He brings us carts, greets us like we’re old friends, and we load our gear for transport to our houses.

The majority of the group stays at Harbourside House, and three stay at Marshwiggle. All are accommodations are owned by and available to book through the dive shop. The Harbourside House is a connected duplex with one bedroom on one side and two bedrooms on the other. Full kitchens offer ample storage for groceries and more than enough space to prepare full meals. The front door opens to a rocking chair-lined porch overlooking the crystalline waters to the west. Donkeys and chickens are in abundance, with the occasional cow walking down the dirt road. Three others and I stay at ZaZen, owned by Karen, the dive shop owner.

We are woken up by the crow of a rooster just before the sun breaks the horizon each morning. With no paved roads, we spend our first days trekking and carting the dirt paths that connect the island. History runs deep and is ingrained in every person and place here. Salt Cay’s biggest industry (salt production) began in the late 1600s, when British colonists from Bermuda developed the salinas (salt ponds) and the infrastructure. Slave labor was used to grow the island into a key global player in the industry. The abolition of slavery and the development of salt mines marked the beginning of the end of the salt industry on Salt Cay. Now, we walk past the unkept salinas, ghosts of windmills, and homes that have stood the test of time. The White House, a once-prominent home, now offers a museum-like walkthrough experience for visitors to see a different era. Across the road, the salinas still form salt naturally. The concreted crystals flake off and make for a great souvenir, but Salt Cay Salt Works provides a more refined experience, bath scrubs, flavored salts, and more.

While the land of Salt Cay is riddled with the past, the real treasures of this place lie beneath the waves. Salt Cay Divers operates as a full-service dive shop with gear rentals, guided dives, and boat services. Richard, the shop manager and boat captain, works with our team to outfit everyone with gear and prep the boats for the dives ahead. The small plane from Providenciales to Grand Turk has weight limits, so you will want to leave your weights and tank at home, but the waters of Salt Cay have a variety of sites, including the shelf wall and plenty of shipwreck locations, so you will absolutely want to dive or snorkel while here.

The water on the leeward side of Salt Cay is like glass. The dive shop loads us up on one of the skiffs for near-shore diving, hauling us out to a historical wreck site on their larger double-decker catamaran. If you are diving offshore, like we did, bring motion sickness medication. This is especially true during the early months of the year (high season), when humpback whales are calving off the coast. Salt Cay gives visitors the opportunity to go whale watching and even swim with the whales.

As we deflate our BCDs and sink below the surface, we are transported. The water is a rainbow world. Fish and sharks bob and weave around the 40-foot-tall coral-covered rocks—a hazard for boats and the reason why this area of the Caribbean is referred to as a shipwreck graveyard. Nurse and reef sharks prowl for their next meal, lionfish hide in plain sight, and a cuttlefish scurries by. Its colors change to blend in better with its surroundings. Below us, a 15-foot-long anchor from a 1790 shipwreck accompanies 30 cannons lost to the sea. The visibility seems endless. As we float through the tide, a slight current pushes us adrift. Hiding behind the coral heads, we stop for a break, then swim coral head to coral head to return to our anchor line. At only about 45 feet deep, this dive lasts well over an hour.

We return to Salt Cay exhausted from the day and riding the buzz of the dive. We have a quick shower and a change of clothes before walking across the street to the Coral Reef Bar & Grill. The wood-floored patio bar has seating for about 20. A small ramp takes you inside, where Enrique is managing the bar. Beer, wine, soda, cocktails, and water are available for purchase. Water is not free on Salt Cay. We placed our orders in the morning, and Antonia (originally from the Dominican Republic) has spent the day prepping and cooking. Each day, she offers a small variety of items to choose from. I get the conch most days, and it is accompanied by a large serving of peas and rice and a side salad. Antonia smashes the conch—a very tough meat—into thin slices. Hand battered and fried, we eat it fresh out of the fryer with a beer in hand as the sun goes down. The bar fills with locals and visitors alike for weekly games of dominoes and Saturday night karaoke. A crescendo for the locals who have spent the day fishing, diving, collecting salt, and showing tourists around.

Fifteen days on Salt Cay go by quickly, and by the end, we are all tired, relaxed, and have been made to feel like we are a part of the Salt Cay community. There are not many places in the world where you can safely travel to a remote destination, be greeted by locals who are genuinely excited to see you, pet wild donkeys, dive with sharks, eat seafood caught that day, and truly disconnect. You will be surrounded by history on a true island adventure in Salt Cay.