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I absolutely fell in love with the Land of 10,000 lakes. Minnesota is a picturesque state populated by some of the warmest and friendliest people you'll ever meet. During the warmer months, you'll find yourself with endless ways to connect with nature and soak in the stunning surrounding sights. Minneapolis especially stands out as a large city with a thriving city life that has lakes and rivers woven throughout its borders. The city stretches out to accommodate many neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality. Downtown is brilliantly connected by skyways that link fourteen miles of buildings together to keep residents out of the cold temperatures during winter months. The food scene here is brilliant with many award-winning restaurants to choose from. On any given summer day there are dozens of festivals to choose from. In the summer, Minneapolis is my idea of perfection. I wish we knew how magical it is here so that we would have planned a longer stay. We'll be back! In the meantime, below are my Top Ten Things to do in Minneapolis in Two Nights. 1. Figure Out a Way to Wind Up in Winona: Along with Marfa, Texas, and Madrid, New Mexico, Winona ranks high on my list of the USA's best undiscovered towns. Winona is located in southeast Minnesota sitting beautifully along the Mississippi River while nestled in a scenic bluff country that is loaded up with parks and picturesque perspectives. For a town of roughly twenty-seven thousand people, there is a lot to soak in here. I highly recommend an afternoon exploring this wonderful town. Below are some of the highlights of Winona. Sugar Loaf Reaching eighty-five feet high into the sky, Sugar Loaf is Winona's most notable landmark. A short, but moderate, hike up the bluff yields breathtaking vistas overlooking Winona Lake, The Mississippi River, and the town of Winona. The climb to the peak is mostly an incline of four hundred feet. Once you get closer to the top the trails are lined with gorgeous wildflowers, endless views of prairies, and ultimately stunning landscapes for miles on end. Bloedow's Bakery Bloedow's Bakery has been a staple in Winona for almost one hundred years. Locals line up for their homemade loaves of bread and pastries but the real top sellers are their famous donuts. Downtown Winona The downtown area of Winona is a registered Historic Landmark. The main strip is on E. 3rd Street where you'll find yourself charmed by the eclectic stores selling anything from musical instruments to comic books or yarn to high-end home decor items. This certainly is a quirky little town in the most attractive way possible! The buildings are perfectly preserved from their late 1800s inception, the stores are colorful, the people are friendly, and the food is really good too! We really loved everything about this discovery. Blooming Grounds Coffee House This neighborhood cafe was packed with patrons when we arrived for lunch. Both their large outdoor patio and super spacious indoor space were almost filled to capacity. We loved watching the locals swarm through the doors to pick up their orders along with others who lazily lingered over their lunch at the restaurant. Our salads and wraps were really good. Blooming Grounds Coffee House is reminiscent of a hip coffee house you'd find in Brooklyn, NY, minus the hipster attitude. Garvin Heights Lookout The lookout point offers sweeping views of Winona Lake and The Mississippi River overlooking Winona. The fields leading to the overlook are overflowing with wildflowers and every hue of green that you can dream of. This is a stunning scenic stop not to be missed when in the area. *Numbers 2-10 are in Minneapolis* 2. Linger Along Lake Harriet Bandshell Park During Sunset: Walking along Lake Harriet during dusk is as picturesque as it gets. The waters on the lake are as calm as ever during this time of the day creating beautiful reflections of anything caught in its sight. There is plenty of space for everyone to enjoy with separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists. Spend the last moments of a perfect summer day strolling along the lake and wishing the sun a farewell. 3. Bask in the Aroma of the Rose Garden's Bouquets: Right near Lake Harriet is a remarkable rose garden. You won't have to search too hard to locate it as the sensational scents will help guide you to the 1.5-acre garden filled with roses of every kind and color. As if the flowers were not enough, there is also an exquisite water fountain imported from Italy to add to the majestic atmosphere. 4. Make a Morning Visit to Minnehaha Falls: The Minnehaha Falls do not require a trek or hike to discover. In fact, finding a parking spot is the biggest obstacle at the park so get there as early as you can. Once you snatch a spot, the walk to the falls is under three minutes. These natural falls are remarkable from every angle. Make sure to take the many stairs down to the lower falls to fully appreciate all perspectives of this natural wonder. Feel free to linger in the park as there is plenty to do. Surreys and bikes are available for rent and on summer weekends many festivals are hosted in this popular destination. 5. Stroll Around Lake Nokomis: We truly cherished our time on the 2.5-mile loop around Lake Nokomis. The trails are flat and really easy to walk along. There are spectacular views throughout the path covering everything from fields of wildflowers to city skylines. Plan ahead and wear your bathing suits! We didn't have ours and wished we did. There are a few swimmable beaches and plenty of kayak and SUP rentals along the way. Spending some time on the water is the ultimate way to cool off after walking the lovely loop. 6. Stare at the Weisman Art Museum in Wonder: I am a big fan of Frank Gehry's work. The Weisman Art Museum may be his greatest masterpiece. Although the museum is closed until the Fall for renovations we were perfectly content just staring at the facade. In reality, I can't imagine that any work of art inside is more striking than the building itself. 7. Saunder Through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Eleven acres full of whimsical sculptures make for a fantastic (and free) way to explore the city. We all loved walking through the interactive part admiring the works of art enclosed by the city's architectural delights. You'll find yourself feeling like a local here. Many Minneapolitans meander through the park or lazily lay in the grass wasting the weekend away in a gorgeous setting. Don't miss out on a visit here. 8. Stride Across Stone Arch Bridge: The Stone Arch Bridge is a former railroad bridge built in the mid-1800s. It is the only arch bridge made of stone on the entire Mississippi River. Crossing over the bridge takes you through a bit of history and a visual lesson of what this part of the city was once like compared to what it has become. The juxtaposition of old versus new is quite remarkable. There are several abandoned flour mills along the way, preserving the history of this former milling town. A walk here is a sure way to learn about Minneapolis' past while exploring another part of the city. 9. Dig into the Delicious Dining Scene: The food scene in Minneapolis is unbeatable. We had one delicious meal after another. I spent a lot of time researching the city's best restaurants and making our dining selections. Be forewarned, you must make reservations in advance as the best restaurants fill up fast and walk-ins are subject to waits of over an hour. There were so many incredible choices to make. We needed a solid two weeks here just focused on eating to make a dent in the food scene. Unfortunately, we just had two nights to dive into as many decadent dishes as possible. Fortunately, I think we championed discovering some culinary treasures. Monello (breakfast) For a simple and light breakfast in a lovely atmosphere, start your day at Monello. Lean back in a luxe leather booth under ambient lighting while sipping your coffee. What especially stood out was their garam masala granola. I was a bit hesitant to order this spiced dish. When the kitchen sent me a sample, I was pleasantly surprised by how tasty it was. The service is fantastic here. This restaurant is not trendy or extremely creative with its menu. However, for a calm start to the day in a great setting with plenty of healthy menu options, Monello is a very good choice. Alma Cafe (breakfast) This popular cafe opens at 8:00 am. By 7:50 am there was already a line forming with eager diners craving a pastry or breakfast sandwich coupled with a perfect cup of Joe. Staff kept coming out of the kitchen with large trays of freshly baked bread and treats. The scents of coffee beans being ground mixed with freshly baked goods is enough to make anyone publicly drool. We loved every bite of everything we ordered at Alma. We shared three of the flakiest chocolate croissants created by mankind. Although we absolutely loved these indulgent treats, the real gems here are the breakfast dishes. The baked egg strata made with organic eggs, bread, shiitake mushrooms, spinach, gruyere cheese, and thyme is just dreamy. We also devoured the Torta Sorta served on a toasted buttered roll topped with scrambled eggs, refritos, pickled jalapeño slaw, and chihuahua cheese. The innovative dishes in this causal cafe are outstanding. Red Cow Ask any local for a great lunch spot recommendation and Red Cow will come up again and again. In fact, when we were there a film crew was onsite shooting for Campus Eats highlighting the best restaurants in college towns. Although Red Cow is known for their burgers, I was really surprised by how outstanding their salads were. On a long road trip, you need to watch what you eat, or else the next road you'll find yourself on is one of dieting, which isn't fun! There were so many enticing salad options here we ordered three different types and they are all so good. My husband opted for the buffalo chicken tenders, which he devoured. This is a great stop for an authentic neighborhood experience with many fantastic food options for both vegetarians and carnivores. Tenant This tiny treasure delivers enormous flavors. Seating twenty people for two very precisely timed seatings (6:00 pm and 8:00 pm) Tenant proves that a Prix-fix menu can be casual and simultaneously creative. Serving six courses at $60 per person, dinner here is quite a steal. The staff of eight were harmoniously collaborating in the kitchen to prepare the perfect plates delivered to all the tables at the same time. Counter seating offers a full view of the kitchen staff assembling the dishes with such precision. Our vegetarian menu looked like this: Green salsa verde topped with roasted cauliflower, chili fresco, roasted beets, berries, and edible flowers. Egg salad with tomato mayonnaise, charred and pickled fennel, and charred citrus on homemade focaccia. Shitake mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, grilled sweet corn, turnip, grilled zucchini, and scallions topped with vegetable broth. Doppio pasta with grilled brocolli and kale tossed in a marscopone ricotta sauce. Braised artichoke and grilled asparagus mixed with homemade pasta in a tomato harissa sauce. Peach custard with whipped cream and streusel. For the two in our party who are not vegetarian, lamb, shrimp, and crab were included in their dishes. There is no menu here. The kitchen will call you before your reservation to understand your food restrictions and then they masterfully work their magic. Young Joni Run by a James Beard award-winning chef, Young Joni draws a crowd of foodies like no other restaurant. Boy was it tough to snag a reservation here. When we arrived for our 6:30 pm reservation, the enormous restaurant was packed and walk-ins were quoted ninety-minute wait times. I am so happy that I was relentless in my reservation-making attempts because this was a meal we would not have wanted to miss. The menu offers a variety of globally inspired dishes but the stars of the show here are the creative wood-oven fired pizzas. All three pies we ordered were exquisite! The Tavern is comprised of homemade red sauce, mozzarella cheese, jalapenos, and honey. The Broccolini is loaded with broccolini, mozzarella, french feta, castelvetrano olives, garlic, Calabrian chili, preserved lemon, almonds. I mean, have you ever heard of such a thing? Everything from the interior decor to the details in the hardbound menu, to the innovative dishes, is superb. Milkjam Creamery As we were going through old magazines while packing up for our move out of New York City, we found a review for Milkjam Creamery in an old Bon Appetit magazine. We immediately noted that the ice-cream shop is located in Minneapolis which made its way on our road trip route. On our list it went and then before we knew it into the shop we found ourselves. The flavors are so unique and exciting we each opted for two scoops so that we can taste our two favorite combinations. Our choices were Peanut Butter Mousse Tracks made with peanut butter ice-cream, housemade peanut butter cups, and butter fudge; Ridin' Duuurty comprised of oreo milk with oreo chunks and salted peanut butter; PB VS Everybody concocted with peanut butter banana and oreo cookie chunks. Can you say yum? I need more now. 10. Treat Yourself to Laid-Back Luxury Lodging: Hotel Ivy, a Luxury Collection Hotel As soon as we checked in to Hotel Ivy we immediately found our happy place. The property is immaculate and oozes an understated modern ambiance. There are several corners and restaurants to hide in, the gym is one of the best hotel gyms we've come across, the spa is spectacular, and the staff is trained to pamper every visitor. We became friends with the lobby bartender who we chatted with both nights that we stayed at the hotel. It was hard to say goodbye to him and we ended up parting with a hug! The downstairs bar, Constantine Bar, is a sexy candle-lit lounge that serves impeccable drinks. The rooms are spacious with rather large bathrooms. Also, the hotel has connecting rooms which oddly is not often available in hotels throughout the country. We had plenty of space to relax and unwind on the premises while being a stone's throw away from all the sights we explored. Minneapolis really won our hearts. This city should be on everyone's summer destination list. It offers a perfect balance between discovering city streets along with the plentiful opportunities to explore nature. Summer brings everyone out creating a lively and fun environment. The culinary scene here stands out as one of the top ten best in the country. Locals are friendly and fun. There's really nothing not to love about spending part of your summer vacation here!

Bend is a special place that offers abundant opportunities to enjoy nature through a plethora of trails and Alpine lakes while also presenting many options to kick back in breweries, cafes, and restaurants of a high caliber after a long day spent in the woods. It's hard to imagine a place that magnetically pulls you to everything related to outdoor exploration can suddenly turn brutally cold and grey in the winter. Summertime here is perfection. I'll hold on to our memories of a blue sky, green landscape, turquoise crystal lakes, and cool evening temperatures. We spent three wonderful nights in Bend equally enjoying downtown and the heavily forested environment. We also were able to get a good sense of the laid-back locals who tend to be in either hiking boots or flip flops, heavily tattooed, and ready to relay a friendly greeting to everyone they pass. Life here is chill with an emphasis on beer and adventures in the great outdoors. Below I share our itinerary for your taking. Day One: 1. Check into a Comfortable Home in a Great Location After more than two weeks of hotel hopping with no laundry access, it felt wonderful to check into a spacious house and finally wash our clothes. This Airbnb is very reasonably priced, considering its great location and size. More importantly, it is immaculate and well-stocked. The decor is quirky with a retro twist that incorporates cork-inspired details and an unusual choice of accent colors but otherwise, you cannot go wrong with a stay here. We were able to walk to many neighborhoods, restaurants, and cafes from the house and also easily access other parts of the area. We were all unanimously thrilled to be able to spread out in this comfortable home, watch a movie together at the end of the day, and take a break from all the running around we have been doing. 2. Time for Tacos & Margaritas in One of Bend's Best Not too long ago we relished in a delicious dinner at Tenant in Minneapolis, where our server recommended eating at El Sancho Taco Shop West when we got to Bend. What a great recommendation! We knew we were in for something special when we arrived to find a long line filled with the kitchen's loyal fans. After developing a cult following with their food trucks, El Sancho opened their brick-and-mortar locations proudly serving high-quality street food to the community. This simple, laid-back joint whips up innovative and truly delicious tacos. My mushroom tacos (a wild blend of mushrooms with onion, cabbage tomatillo, and chili paste) were SO good. Equally impressive was the Oaxacan taco (seared Mexican cheese with roasted green chilis). Tacos coupled with a margarita under an umbrella at a picnic table surrounded by a young, hip crowd with brightly colored hair and tattooed bodies is my idea of a fun meal. Day Two: 1. Turn up the Tunes and Roll Down the Windows Hop in your car and drive through the Cascades Lake National Scenic Byway for sixty-six miles of spectacular sites through windy roads and towering mountain peaks. Mount Bachelor looms larger than life along the route as Alpine lakes greet you in their scattered locations. The views are remarkable. There is a lot more to see in this area but honestly, we were eager to get back to our Airbnb and enjoy some downtime. We initially planned to drive down to Crater Lake but decided against it after seeing recent pictures of the smokey atmosphere from the current wildfires. We also tried to find Crescent Lake but without cellular service, we could not use our GPS and failed at finding it on our own. If you're up for it, I do suggest visiting these two lakes while you drive through the Cascades Lake National Scenic Byway. Below are some of the gorgeous vistas we enjoyed along the picturesque drive. Spark Lake On a summer Monday morning lots of locals and visitors flocked to this popular lake to set up their camping sites and push their kayaks into the water. The landscape is visually stunning comprised of marshland, wetland, and meadows. From the lake, there are also breathtaking views of three dominant peaks: South Sister, Broken Top, and Bachelor Butte. Nineteen miles of trails are available for those wishing to enjoy the lake from land. The natural beauty here is magnificent. Devils Lake Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest is a stunning, thirty-acre lake, Devils Lake. The scenery here is as serene as it can get. Still, turquoise waters instantly soothe the soul. Elk Lake This active lake is located on the Elk Lake Resort where guests of the hotel and day-time visitors congregate for year-round activities. During the summer there is a marina with ships ready to sail, cabanas along the water to lounge in, a swimming beach, and an onsite restaurant and ice-cream shop. It's really fun to walk around here and soak in the summer vibes. If you have time rent a kayak and explore the lakes vast waters. 2. Discover Downtown Bend If you've been to Austin, TX you're likely to find some similarities between the cities. The main hub of town exudes an urban-hipness without much effort. You'll find local coffee shops on every corner and a never-ending selection of breweries. The folks are casual. It just feels easy here. Even on a Monday evening, it felt like Sunday morning. There's a nice, slow pace in the rhythm of the town but not in an annoying I-want-to-pull-my-hair-out kind of way. Take a Bet on Bend Mountain Coffee If you find yourself needing a caffeine fix after all this exploring you'll have plenty of options to choose from. There are dozens of inviting cafes with catchy names and they are all well-reviewed. It's really hard to decide which one to try when there are so many promising options. We ended up taking a chance on Bend Mountain Coffee and we were extremely pleased with our cold brew and iced latte. Drake Park The thirteen-acre park is an easy walk from downtown. As you stroll the trail you're sure to admire the setting filled with large homes that line Mirror Pond, locals walking their dogs, and people laying in the grass. 3. Eat Like a Local Oregonians love their food trucks, and not just those living in Portland. In Bend, you'll find the locals' favorite food truck collaborative at The Lot where a pod of food trucks meets around a communal dining area equipped with a taproom in an inviting atmosphere. It's a fun, outdoor place to enjoy a casual meal made with the freshest ingredients. We munched on gyros, salads, and of course... tacos! 4. Reward Yourself for a Day Well Spent The artisan gelato at Bonta is no joke. I don't indulge in ice cream frequently, when I do it's because it's nothing less than fantastic. The staff encourages patrons to sample away and they permit two flavors in a small cup. Score! Each flavor is hand-crafted and most include locally grown ingredients. Ready for our order? Dulce de Leche & Sea Salt, Stracciatella, Peanut Butter & Chocolate Fudge, Vanilla Bourbon Pecan, Salted Vanilla, Espresso & Brownies, and Strawberry Honey. I think it is fair to say we had a comprehensive experience here. I can confidently vouch that this gelato is incredible. 5. Grab a Drink at a Neighborhood Favorite Grab a pint in the beautiful gardens of McMenamins Old St. Francis School a former Catholic Schoolhouse converted into a destination hotel that draws locals and tourists alike with an onsite pub, brewery, movie theater, live music venue, and a soaking pool. Former classrooms have been brilliantly transformed into lodging rooms. If you're interested in getting to know this historic property more intimately, they offer walking tours. Otherwise, just kick back and relax in their tucked-away garden. Day Three: 1. Fuel Your Day With an Awesome Cup of Caffeine I am kind of obsessed with The Pantry and equally inspired by the mercantile-meets-coffee shop concept. At The Pantry not only can you pick up a delicious brew but you can buy dozens of grains, seeds, and dried fruit in bulk; all displayed in attractive glass jars. They even sell bulk artisan shampoos, conditioners, body wash, and bubble bath soaps in appealing jars to pump into reusable corked-sealed glass jars to take home. I need this store in my neighborhood asap. If buying in bulk always looks this good, I want to buy in bulk forever! 2. Chase Waterfalls There are at least two hundred and forty waterfalls in Oregon. You can commit an entire year to find them all. Bend has its fair share of striking falls to hunt, some are easier to find than others depending on how challenging and lengthy of a hike you desire. We chose the three falls below based on their easy access from Bend (about a one hour and twenty-minute drive) and because they are a nice mix of falls you can enjoy right off the highway to some that require four miles of hiking to view. To make things easy, they are all within a five to ten-minute drive of each other. Sahalie Falls These falls are right off the parking lot requiring very little walking before facing their majestic flow. I felt guilty having the pleasure of witnessing this magical sight without working for it. Koosah Falls Koosah Falls is right near Sahalie Falls. You can either embark on a 1.6-mile hike to get to them from the Sahalie Falls trail or you can drive two minutes to the next parking lot that is only a couple of hundred steps from this grande natural wonder. The scenery is unreal; the aqua-watered pools that form at the base of the falls juxtaposed with the lush, green landscape are simply breathtaking. Make sure to take the wooden stairs down to the base of the falls to soak in this beauty from all vantage points. Blue Pools During the four-mile in and out hike, I kept thinking of the similarities between the lessons we learn in nature and the ones we learn in life. Most times, big rewards come to those who earn them. Walking through this scenic jungle, reminiscent of a scene of Jurassic Park, is not easy. Hikers need to patiently traverse the two-mile trail covered by lava-formed rocks and large underground roots. During the summer, not only is it a busy trail, it is humid. Those willing to persevere win the privilege of witnessing one of the most crystal clear aqua waters on the planet. In basic terms, the vision you'll encounter is simply unforgettable. In my opinion, the walk to the pool is as equally striking as the pool itself. The moss-covered landscape is painted in every shade of green, the misty river that hugs the trail with a series of small falls is quite dreamy, and the scent of wet wood is energizing and uplifting. If you are going to enjoy a longer hike while in the area, this is one not to miss. Please note that swimming in the water is not recommended. The temperatures stay at thirty-seven degrees year-round and may cause hypothermia. 3. Indulge in a Memorable Meal Located in downtown Bend, 900 Wall serves American food in an airy and bustling atmosphere. Their spicy deviled eggs are outstanding and so are their lentil fritters (which we ordered a second order of). We also shared an order of homemade bread, a Cesar salad, a seared tuna, and two types of pizza (mushroom and Margherita). What really stood out was how accommodating the waiter was - he literally said "yes" to all of our requests. This isn't the kind of place where the chef is a diva. At 900 Wall the kitchen wants everyone to leave happy. We left very satisfied and on a high note as we prepared to leave Bend the next morning. 4. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Goody's Chocolate & Ice Cream is a family-run chocolate and ice cream shop. Their factory produces twenty tons of chocolate each year. It gets pretty crowded in the evenings by post-dinner crowds looking for a sweet treat. The shop is quaint, staffed by friendly teens, and has really delicious chocolates. We savored our salted peanut butter cup, rocky road bar, dark chocolate pecan cluster, and homemade caramel. What a perfect way to end our three nights in beautiful Bend! During the summer season, there is nothing bad that could be said about Bend. We genuinely loved everything about it, even when it turned a little gray and rainy. Every aspect of the town is unassuming, unpretentious, and really innovative. In all our travels in the USA, and even throughout the world, I have never seen a store like The Pantry (see above). They don't stand alone in the originality department, every restaurant and cafe in Bend distinctly stands out from one another; each with its own unique spin yet not one of them flaunts their creative touches with their noses in the air. Instead, the goal here is to make everyone feel welcome while introducing them to new experiences. On top of this great lifestyle approach, there are endless stunning surroundings that call everyone outdoors at every opportunity. A day on the lake followed by an ice-cold locally brewed beer sounds like an epic summer day to me.

Montana is one of those places I have always mysteriously been drawn to. I'm not sure where this innate attraction to the state comes from but I have always found Montana to be so exotic. The picturesque landscapes I have seen in pictures and the state's location across the country from my east coast nook have pulled me in its direction for years. This road trip has allowed me to ultimately spend eight glorious nights in Big Sky Country turning a lifelong fantasy into a reality. On our first road trip stretch at the start of the pandemic, we hit Big Sky, MT during ski season. We wanted to get to know the state during the summer months as well and decided to include a three-night visit during this second leg of our USA road trip. What we experienced in Bozeman, Helena, and Glacier National Park has left us wishing we had more time exploring this magical state. Montana is hands down one of my favorite states in the United States. The scenery is spectacular, the sky transforms into the most beautiful shades of varying color throughout the day, the air is crisp, and the people here exude an aura of serenity and bliss. Although winter yields incredible skiing in a winter wonderland, summer here is a time of carefree wonder, laughter in lakes, bare feet in sprawling grass, s'mores by the firepit, and cocktails underneath the star-studded sky. Below I share with you our three-night itinerary to hopefully enjoy one day too! Day One: 1. Walk Around Downtown Bozeman Bozeman is a wonderful, clean, and vibrant city filled with the happiest people I've met across the country. They aren't just friendly, they truly radiate an overall sense of happiness that is contagious. Main Street Historic District is lined with a balance of both chain retailers and mom-and-pop boutiques. There are plenty of coffee shops, bars, and restaurants as well. Bozeman is regarded as one of "the most livable places in America" for good reason. Just outside of the vibrant downtown area locals can enjoy hiking, fishing, magnificent mountain ranges, cycling, and everything outdoors that their hearts desire. 2. Sip a Cocktail at Sky Shed The rooftop bar at The Armory Hotel is a great spot to enjoy craft cocktails amongst locals while soaking in stunning views of downtown and the encircling mountain ranges. This hip bar attracts a good-looking crowd and drinks are served by servers in their shades. A visit during lower evening temperatures is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoor patio during the summer. 3. Eat Dinner at One of Bozeman's Best Bozeman has been attracting many talented chefs who have formed a vibrant food scene. Getting reservations at the most-desired restaurants here are as difficult as snatching a table at one of Manhattan's best restaurants. We had so many wonderful options to choose from but only one night in Bozeman. We ultimately picked Urban Kitchen because it was across the street from our hotel and we found their seasonal inspired American menu to be enticing. For appetizers, we started with crispy Brussel sprouts and grilled carrots, crispy calamari and shrimp in spicy Thai chili sauce, and bang bang tuna. For our mains, we dove into blackened salmon with Teriyaki glaze, filet mignon, chicken carbonara with gnocchi pasta, avocado Ceaser salads, and truffled macaroni and cheese. To wash down the delicious dishes we sipped on perfectly balanced old-fashioneds. You're guaranteed to have a memorable meal here. 4. End the Day on a Sweet Note Located in the historic Baxter Hotel, La Petit Chatelaine has been ranked as Best Chocolatiers and Confectioners in the USA and has deservingly won many awards for their delectable creations. The unique flavors stand out most here. After a difficult time choosing which truffles to try, we went for the "Margarita" which is filled with lime puree, tequila, white chocolate ganache and rolled in dark chocolate topped by sea salt, "Huckleberry" filled with huckleberry pates de fruit and dark chocolate, "Black Lava Sea Salt Caramel" filled with salted butter caramel and organic cream, dipped in white chocolate and topped with Hawaiin sea salt. The chocolates will leave your mouth content for days. Don't leave Bozeman without stopping in. 5. Retreat and Rest Well at a Wonderful Hotel Spend the night at Bozeman's only four-star hotel. The Armory Hotel has plenty of social gathering areas from a swanky restaurant to a rooftop pool and bar. The hotel also has a gym and lots of other lux amenities like free bikes for guests, a complimentary coffee bar in the lobby, and a superbly friendly staff. Day Two: 1. Start Your Morning Like a Montanan Folks from Montana take their coffee very seriously. There are several impressive cafes to choose from along Main Street. We headed into Main Street Market for dreamy iced lattes and a pre-breakfast cookie that was fantastic. 2. Begin Your Day with a Bountiful Breakfast A couple of locals recommended breakfast at Jam! Apparently, everyone else in Bozeman planned on eating there too. The restaurant does not accept reservations. We arrived early, at 8:00 am, strategically dodging a long wait but when we left diners were being quoted ninety-minute wait times. Is it worth the wait? Absolutely! Firstly, the service is fantastic. I loved our friendly waiter who shared lots of great tips for our upcoming visit to Glacier National Park. But the real draw here is the menu. I have never seen so many varieties of pancakes! Think Cinnamon Roll, Blueberry Ricotta, Peanut Butter Cup, Bananas Foster, Coconut Banana, and Classic. They even have a Pancake Flight for those who want to sample three pancake flavors. Their crepes are equally creative. Between the menu, trendy atmosphere, and fantastic food, this must be the best breakfast spot in Bozeman. 3. Head Over to Helena A Walk along Last Chance Gulch, the historic main street in the state's capital, is delightful. Art permeates the sidewalks and murals abound. Quaint shops line the closed-off streets selling artisan products and imported treats. Families gather for outdoor meals and kids ride their bikes up and down the sidewalks. The historic street is extremely well-preserved and immaculate inviting visitors to linger at a leisurely pace. General Mercantile This little gem in the heart of the Historic Helena district completes a worthy visit to Helena. General Mercantile has been serving coffee to locals since 1971 and has grown into a neighborhood staple selling everything from locally made salsa to artisan soaps. The interior is reminiscent of the town's wild west history - imagine a saloon with a modern facelift. Be prepared to lose yourself in the aisles and leaving with more than you bargained for. Firetower Coffee is a favorite gathering place in Helena amongst locals. The coffee house roasts its beans and serves both breakfast and lunch in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Lots of Beatles memorabilia hang on the walls along with autographed guitars in this chill space. The quesadillas and sandwiches are quite good just expect a longer than usual wait time for them to be prepared. You have no choice but to succumb to the shops' laid-back pace. 4. Check In to Roam Beyond (30 minutes from West Glacier Park) After refueling in Helena, head on over to the outskirts of Glacier National Park. Make every effort to check in to Roam Beyond around 5:00 pm so that you can take full advantage of the gorgeous campgrounds. Luckily, the sun doesn't set in this part of the country until 10:00 pm in July gifting visitors with an extra-long summer day. The unique lodging experience at Roam Beyond is one that you'll never forget. Cabins are retrofitted, refurnished RVs complete with every eco-friendly and sustainable detail you can imagine including solar panels. The rooms are brilliantly designed to maximize space and comfort with all the modern touches you'll need during your glamping excursion on the premises. At Roam, you'll find yourself in one of the most stunning landscapes in the country. There are lots of activities spread throughout the grassy property. I felt like a was at summer camp. We absolutely adored this place. Day Three: 1. Fuel up with a Montana Coffee Roaster Montana Coffee Traders has been roasting and serving coffee for the last forty years. These experts deliver a great cup of joe along with their delicious homemade pastries and breakfast/lunch options. With our coffee and breakfast bites, we ordered lunch to go so that we had freshly made, enjoyable food handy while we were exploring Glacier National Park which has extremely limited food options. 2. Soak in the Stunning Sites in the USA's Most Beautiful National Park I have no words to explain the intense beauty that permeates every acre of Glacier National Park. A visit here was on my bucket list for years and finally visiting was truly a dream come true. Some tips for exploring the park: Regardless of which entrance you take (east or west) start your excursion by driving to the opposite end of the park and working your way back to the side entered from. We embarked on our explorations from the west gate and drove straight across to Goose Island making very few stops. We made all our stops on the way back to the west side. This worked out to be very efficient and well-organized, allowing us to see everything we wanted. The park has recently changed its entrance rules and limits the number of tickets that are sold per day to drive along Going-to-the-Sun-Road. I was well prepared to purchase tickets on the day that tickets for our arrival date were being released. I set up my account, and my alarm, to ensure I would snatch an entry ticket. Within TWO SECONDS all tickets were sold out. You can't visit Glacier National Park without driving along this epic road so I had to get resourceful and figure out how to get us on that route. You have two options: Arrive before 6:00 am and after 5:00 pm when entry tickets are not required OR you can book a tour that is on the Going-to-the-Sun-Road ensuring you access to the most scenic drive in the country. We booked a boat tour on Lake McDonald at 1:30 pm but gained entrance to the famous road when we arrived at 8:30 am just by showing our tour tickets (see more on tour below). We have enjoyed some pretty spectacular drives during our ten-month-long road trip and I can confidently say that the Going-to-the-Sun-Road is hands down the most breathtaking drive; the most heart-stopping one too. The road is dangerous and ridiculously narrow at extremely high altitudes. The treacherous path spans fifty miles and reaches its highest point at Logan's Pass, which peaks at 6,650 feet. Drive really slow for safety measures and to allow full absorption of the mindblowing scenery for the duration of the drive (which takes about two hours to complete). It was almost impossible to resist stopping at lookout points as we made our way to the west side of the park. But we stuck to our strategy which ultimately allowed us to view vistas at every opportunity on the drive back west. Our first stop was at the Goose Island viewpoint overlooking Saint Mary Lake, the park's (and the state's) second largest lake. Incidentally, it happens to be a popular spot for bear sightings and we were lucky enough to watch a grizzly bear grazing its shore. It is hard to grasp the sheer beauty of the aqua waters encircled by mammoth mountains that are colored with green pine trees. We found true Paradise here. As we slowly made our way back west our next stop was at Hidden Lake / Logan Pass which is located on the continental divide, thus the proud waving of both an American and Canadian flag. This is the most populated part of the park and parking is literally impossible. We tried to source a parking spot three times and eventually decided that its best for me to take the kids out on the three-mile in and out Hidden Lake Trail while my husband waited in the car. As we walked the heavily trafficked path the scenery was mindboggling. Neverending vistas of snow-capped mountains, wildflowers, and the greenest fields. There is a lot of climbing, you will be out of breath at some points. A group of people on their way out mentioned encountering a bear with her cubs who walked just thirty feet away from the hikers. We had our bear spray and horn with us at all times but luckily had no use for it. I had a Julie Andrews moment and wanted to sing out long as I twirled through the fields but my kids made me stop. Half a mile east of Logan Pass is a small parking lot with no name that offers magnificent views of the valley, waterfalls, and even some sightings of elk and bighorn sheep. Red Rock Point You'll find another unforgettable viewpoint at Red Rock Point. Pristine, aqua waters, and small waterfalls overwhelm the senses here. Surprisingly it wasn't as crowded here and we mostly had this magical site to ourselves. Sacred Dancing Cascade is a fairly new footbridge allowing revelers to admire the river from a higher vantage point. For those who prefer to hike there are also trailheads to embark on deeper hikes into the mountains. McDonald Falls are easy to view from the roadside or you can opt for an easy, family-friendly hike. The water is crystal blue and strikingly beautiful. Glacier Park Boat Company in the historic Lake McDonald Lodge offers a one-hour tour around Lake McDonald, the park's largest glacier lake, on a century-old boat. We enjoyed the views and learning about the park's history. Mostly, this was an excellent booking to get us into the park and on to the Going-to-the-Sun-Road. The rainbow rocks in Glacier National Park are quite famous. You can spot them in many spots along the river and lakeshores. For a never-ending perspective of these colorful rocks, you can spend some time admiring them approximately half a mile into Apgar Village. Glacier National Park deserves a high spot on your bucket list. The awe-inspiring scenery is remarkable. This is truly the most incredible national park in the United States. If you are an avid hiker, you can easily spend a week here exploring all the trails. My family spent eight hours in the park, which made for an extremely gratifying, inspiring, and breathtaking experience as we fell in love with our planet all over again. 3. Head back to ROAM for Sunset and S'Mores I can't imagine a better way to wrap up the day than heading back to the campgrounds at Roam Beyond. Grab a table and grill, snatch a bike to ride around the property, gather the family for a game of volleyball, and then huddle around the fire pit to roast some marshmallows and watch the sun paint the sky in the wonderful shades that Big Sky is known for. It was hard to leave Montana but I have a strong hunch that we will return for another visit. Our three-night itinerary truly gave us a delicious taste of the state, its people, and its unsurpassable landscapes. We've barely left, yet we find ourselves already longing for more of it.

Have you ever heard of Dayton, WA? If you're like most people, chances are you haven't. I needed to find us a stop between Glacier National Park and Bend, OR to break up the long drive. The requirements were that we would spend the night in a place that we have never visited and that there would be some type of draw to the town that we were staying in. Dayton is a close forty-five-minute drive to the Palouse Falls so I randomly selected it as a place that we would spend a night during our road trip while visiting a beautiful nearby natural wonder. The forty miles leading to Palouse State Park were pretty harrowing. We had zero cellular signal for miles on end in the middle of never-ending plains with no other cars around. The rolling yellow wheat fields were calming as they guided the windy roads through endless paths to what seemed like nowhere. The drive itself was an adventure, we even spotted wild coyotes along the way! The surrounding landscape was so dry we couldn't comprehend that a waterfall would soon greet us amidst the expansive fields of nothingness. Yet, before we knew it, the state park signs guided us to a majestic sight. An oasis in the midst of seemingly useless land. Miracles truly greet those who seek them patiently. We opted to admire the falls from the viewing point although many others braved the treacherous trails along the rocky, high ledges. Not only was the drive incredible, but the falls were also magical, and the following landscapes along the drive yielded lakes and rivers intersecting with bridges that were truly a remarkable treat. Downtown Dayton On a Saturday evening, there may have been two people strolling down the town's Main Street. I don't know what to make of Dayton. It's a desolate ghost town with well-kept shops and architecture. The town is urgently awaiting a revival, the sidewalks plead for visitors. Colorful murals, inviting storefronts, and polished buildings are eagerly awaiting more visitors to discover it. There literally was nothing going on here on a Saturday night. Nothing. Except for a gorgeous sunset, cool evening summer temperatures, and of course the realization that I was in a town that no one has ever even heard of. If you are driving from Glacier National Park to Bend, OR I do recommend a visit here. However, don't go out of your way just yet. Weinhard Cafe In a town like Dayton, I would never expect "elegant and comfortable dining" but that is exactly what Weinhard Cafe promises and delivers. You know it's going to be good when a New York native/ Los Angeles transplant leaves everything behind to find solace in nearby Walla Walla and opens up a restaurant with her Italian-born, Le Cordon Bleu trained east coast chef husband. Alas, the tiny town of Dayton has an even tinier food scene that exclusively lies within Weinhard Cafe's four walls. While the husband is the culinary wizard of the establishment, the wife is its personality. As a fast-paced, social, and slightly sarcastic gal, Vicki spends time chatting with her guests, getting to know them, and making them feel right at home. Indeed, the homey experience made me feel like we were having dinner in a family member's home. In fact, we are still looking into this, but there may be a chance that we are family! If it turns out that we are related, ending up in Dayton will all begin to suddenly make sense. In our usual tradition, we ordered a bunch of items on the menu: wild salmon over risotto, truffle fries, homemade bucatini with porcini, rigatoni with vegetables picked from the owners' garden, broccoli cheddar soup, truffle fries, a burger, and a turkey sandwich. Everything was solid and every bite was devoured. The highlights though were the bottle of local Sauvignon Blanc and the homemade desserts: pecan pie and "dark chocolate kit kat cake". Over the course of our meal, I learned that Dayton is actually in the middle of wine country and that there are highly regarded vineyards in the neighboring towns. Just two months ago, the husband-wife team brought a little taste of New York and Italy to Dayton. I have a feeling the pioneering duo will directly impact the direction the deserted town takes. Walla Walla The town of Walla Walla is renowned for its wine with over one hundred wineries in the area. Nestled in a valley surrounded by hills and vineyards many folds flock to this city for great food, wine, and shopping. The downtown area is bustling and lined with patios inviting those strolling by to come inside for wine tastings. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast at the funky AK's Mercado Their scones were fantastic as were their Mexican-inspired breakfasts. On Sundays, they make homemade beignets. Lucky for us, we dined on a Sunday and left with a bag of steaming beignets to enjoy on the road. It's only a thirty-two-minute drive from Dayton and would make a more lively place to stop for a night or two as you drive from Montana to Oregon. Weinhard Hotel Lodging at the Weinhard Hotel is your best bet in this part of Washington. The hotel dates back to 1890 and has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. There have been many accounts of ghost sightings at the inn. Original photos of visitors and founders that date back to past centuries add to the haunted energy that lurks in the halls. Management strives to make guests feel comfortable and they clearly take pride in thoughtful touches like complimentary artisan chocolate in rooms along with exclusively made Thai hair products and even a locally sourced bottle of cabernet sauvignon awaiting at your door upon waking up. Surreys are also available for guests to borrow to ride around in. In my opinion, the inn imbues a kitschy Victorian vibe but regardless, its charm and thoughtful amenities eventually won me over. The small hotel is spotless and rooms are decorated with an eclectic collection of Victorian-American antique pieces. Our two rooms cost almost half the amount of the usual rates we pay for just one room. If you somehow find yourself in Dayton, this is your best option, although this doesn't necessarily mean it's a great option. I take great pride in discovering unknown treasure towns in the United States. Dayton won't make my list of "best undiscovered American towns" but if, and only if, you seek an unusual stop along your road trip between Montana and Oregon then I say, give it a try. The only way to get to know the United States is by experiencing all parts of it. Keeping an open mind and exploring less-known regions truly gives you an honest sense of what is available in all parts of the country. The best part of discovering these tiny towns sprinkled throughout the USA is by speaking with the locals. Just by talking, and listening, we found a former New Yorker in this town of two thousand residents and even potentially located a family member in the most unlikely place. The roads truly lead us to the best adventures in life. Get in your car and drive to the weirdest, smallest, town near you. Sit for a coffee and talk to the staff. You'll be delighted by what you find out.

South Dakota is extremely underrated. The state not only houses Mount Rushmore but also majestic national parks, quirky little towns, and a landscape of varying vistas that will each appeal to visitors in their own unique ways. In total, we spent three nights in South Dakota (see my article on our one night in Sioux Falls). Had I known how awesome it is here, we would have easily spent an entire week immersing ourselves in the endless activities and stunning sights. More people need to make their way over to this part of the country. I hope that my itinerary below will inspire you to visit and see for yourself what makes this state so attractive. Feel free to steal our two nights itinerary in the Mount Rushmore area (if you have longer, add on a third night in Sioux Falls). Day One: 1. Work Your Way Over to Wall Drug Wall Drug draws two million visitors each year to the tiny city of Wall. This kitschy little store contains a bunch of smaller shops selling souvenirs, memorabilia, and even fudge. There is also a restaurant on-site (the smell of fried food deterred us from eating there) and very clean restrooms. The drug store's history is what made a stop here enticing to me. Dating eighty years ago, the original owners committed to opening a pharmacy and general store in Wall, known as "the geographical center of nowhere". They struggled drawing in customers and brilliantly came up with the concept of pitching dozens of large, handmade billboards along the road, which still line the highway, advertising that ice-water is available to all visitors for free. The strategy was a success and thousands of hot, hungry, and tired drivers started to pull in. The original pharmacy can still be found on site along with all the other eclectic offerings in this funky tourist trap. It's a great stop to stretch your legs if it is on your route but I wouldn't make it a destination in your travels per se. 2 . Be Bewildered by the Beauty in Badlands National Park The dramatic landscapes in the park can be appreciated from several lookout points along the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway. The stretch covers approximately forty miles, fifteen overlooks, and an abundance of trailheads. This loop is the best way to experience Badlands. Although the park cannot compete with The Grand Canyon, the drive through the park is unforgettable regardless. A really cool feature in the landscape is the sprawling grass fields among the buttes, spires, and canyons. The contrast between the bright green grass and the dried-out rock formations is striking. Below are the overlooks that we enjoyed most: Pinnacle Overlook Ancient Hunters Unnamed Approximately one mile or so after the Ancient Hunters Overlook is an unnamed viewpoint that I think is one of the nicest and most unique in the vicinity. The colorful, sprawling hills are spectacular and otherworldly. Yellow Mounds This viewpoint is another one that you should not miss. The yellow rock formations resulting from decaying plants on the former sea bed are quite beautiful and unusual. Keeping with the color theme, there are also yellow wildflowers that add to the spectacular sight. Panorama Point This perspective offers the typical scenery that you will find in the Badlands with panoramic views of the ubiquitous red rocks. The scenery here feels particularly infinite. Burns Basin This is another great spot to soak in the expansive vistas. Except here you can appreciate them at the comfort of a bench. Fossil Extinct Overlook This was another one of my favorites in the park. The landscape is different in this area than others in the park and you can actually walk through the grounds. There are several little hills that you can climb. If you're as lucky as we were you'll also spot a ram seeking shelter in one of the small caves in the rock ahead. Another cool perk is that nearby is the Fossil Exhibit Trail, a well-paved trail that features exhibits of extinct creatures that once inhabited the park. 3. Lodge in Lux-Camping Overlooking Mount Rushmore Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is "Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as a 'Best Resort in the World', 'Top 10 Resort in the United States and #2 in 'Top Resorts in the US – Midwest & West' ". The campsite is ideally set between the Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park and is just 3.5 miles away from Mount Rushmore. The spacious safari-inspired tents are decorated with king beds, lush linens, and private bathrooms/showers. Common areas are beautifully appointed enticing guests to lounge in the communal areas. There is a daily activity calendar, including yoga classes and guided hikes. Breakfast and dinner are served on-site along with nightly s'mores by several lit firepits. Keep in mind, temperatures peak during summer months and although the campsite has Wi-Fi there is no a/c anywhere on-premises. Luckily temperatures drop drastically in the evenings but don't plan on lingering on the premises before 5:00 pm without experiencing a heat stroke. We loved changing our lodging experience up a bit and this was a perfect way to experience the outdoors without really roughing it at all. Day Two: 1. Make Your Way to Mount Rushmore First Thing in the Morning Mount Rushmore is a very popular landmark that gets inundated with visitors as the day progresses. We made sure to arrive by 8:00 am and successfully beat the crowds. Like most people, I've seen pictures of the monument thousands of times. Despite how familiar Mount Rushmore may feel, the in-person experience is quite breathtaking. In fact, we unexpectedly ended up lingering on the grounds for nearly an hour. Make sure to take the half-mile Presidential Trail around the park that offers many different vantage points of this monumental masterpiece. The trail will also take you to the "Sculptor's Studio" where Gutzon Burglom, the artist, worked on his vision. To avoid climbing hundreds of stairs through the trail, start your walk on the left entrance walking clockwise. 2. Get Bewitched by Black Hills National Forest Knows as "an island in the plains" the Black Hills National Forest" is a nature enthusiast's delight. Driving through the windy roads is an excursion in itself. Just follow the road as it leads you through rugged rock formations, lakes, canyons, and expansive grasslands. Roll down the windows, pump up the music, inhale the mountain air and just drive. 3. Watch the Wildlife in Wonder Take the Black Hills Forest route towards Custer Park. There is an entrance fee to get into the park but if you want to drive along Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway you'll have to pay a reasonable fee. Wildlife Loop is the highlight of the park as there are many opportunities to encounter wildlife as you drive through the eighteen-mile loop. We saw dozens of bison and their calves grazing the fields, some were as close as six inches from our car! Being so close to these beasts was one of the coolest experiences of my life. Further down the loop, we crossed a field with wild horses and donkeys with their foals. What a sight! The drive along this loop was surreal. I was on a constant lookout for unicorn encounters and sightings of fluttering fairies... 4. Recalibrate in Downtown Custer After all this sightseeing and excitement you will surely work up an appetite! However, don't expect lots of gourmet, healthy food options in the area. Lucky for you, I did some research ahead of time and found Baker's Bakery & Cafe, a well-reviewed restaurant that offers healthier options like salads and wraps. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food and the old-western charm of the historic downtown area. This makes for a great refueling rest stop between Custer Park and Crazy Horse. 5. Be Captivated at Crazy Horse Once completed, Crazy Horse will be the world's largest monument. Watching a future wonder of the world being worked on is really exciting! A visit to witness this mammoth rock-side sculpture in the flesh is truly being privy to history in the making. The monument honoring Native American culture and deep history in the region began being built back in1948. Many estimate that it will take another one hundred years to complete. There is a fee to enter the park. Insider's Tip: I would only pay the entrance fee if you are interested in touring the museums and exhibits. If you just want to see the monument you can get an equally great vantage point off the highway. 6. Cool Off in a Lovely lake Lake Sylvan is a perfect retreat from blazing summer temperatures. If you follow my itinerary, you should be at around 2:00 pm in your day by now, the time of day when high temperatures peak. There is no better way to escape the heat than by plunging in cold, crystal clear waters. The lake is absolutely beautiful and has several rock formations used as jumping cliffs by the many swimmers who visit. There are free kayaks and paddleboards available on a first-come-first-served basis. There are also several little shores around the lake to enter the waters. The most populated, and largest, beach area is near the rocks where daredevils, including my children, took their leaps into the lake. 7. Navigate Through Nutty Needles Highway The drive along Needles Highway easily makes my list of America's Top Five scenic drives. The road is best known for its needle-like granite formations. You will be wowed for the entire fourteen-mile drive along magnificent vistas. To add to the adventure, you'll need to drive through an extremely narrow tunnel that will miraculously accommodate your car. 8. Head Back to Homebase to Honor the Sun During our glamping adventure at Under Canvas, we learned that the best time to enjoy the campgrounds is after 5:00 pm when the temperature cools down. Heading back around this time will allow you to enjoy the gorgeous grounds without feeling like you are melting or wondering if you accidentally reserved a sweat lodge for your room. End the day with an outdoor dinner amongst the pine trees, play some soothing tunes on the guitar available in the lobby, watch the sunset on the terrace that overlooks Mount Rushmore, and of course, enjoy one more night of roasting marshmallows. South Dakota is a perfect summer destination. Add it to your wishlist, make the wish, and watch it come true!

We wrongly had very low expectations of Sioux Falls as we pulled into the city. A stay here was simply meant to be a convenient stopover between Minneapolis and Mount Rushmore. Little did we know that we would instantly be won over by all that this adorable city offers. A visit to Sioux Falls turned out to be an ideal stop to break up a long drive. One night here is a perfect amount of time to experience what this part of the country offers which is a heck of a lot more than we expected! Here are my suggestions for What to See and Do in Sioux Falls in 24 Hours. 1. Arc of Dreams The iconic sculpture is a signature landmark in Sioux Falls. The arc peaks at eighty-five feet above the Big Sioux River and spans a size similar to a football field. It's a short and pretty walk on a pedestrian bridge under the arc for revelers to admire this new addition to the city's art scene. 2 .8th and Railroad High-end retailers line this outdoor shopping center. It's rather small but filled with upscale boutique shops and gourmet restaurants in a quaint setting. We were rather surprised by the quality of products being sold in the beautifully designed stores. During the summer there is a Farmer's Market every Saturday. Please note that most of the shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays. 3. Downtown Sioux Falls Phillips Avenue is the main drag in downtown. It is a rather happening hub and gathering place that is extremely well-maintained, clean, and bustling with visitors, restaurants, and shops. We had such a wonderful time walking the sidewalks and admiring the architecture. Many shops displayed pride flags which we didn't expect to see in this part of the country. We were so impressed by the sophistication of the folks here, the high-quality retailers, and the excellent food options. 4. Sculpture Walk As you walk down Phillips Avenue you'll cross sixty sculptures from a variety of artists located throughout the country. Each Spring new pieces are selected to line downtown's sidewalks. There are short bios included with each piece which provide some context to the sculptures. Sioux Falls loves its art. You'll find lots of sculptures throughout the city, not just downtown. 5. Falls Park Falls Park is Sioux Falls's biggest attraction. The park spans almost one hundred and thirty acres along the Big Sioux River. The site once housed The Queen Bill Mill in the late-1800s. Ruins of the former mill remain on the park grounds to preserve the historic past of the park. There are several vantage points to admire the falls, including an observation tower. 6. Corn Palace "The World's Only Corn Palace" oddly draws 500,000 tourists per year to view the corn murals that were made a century ago. The Corn Palace is an eighty-minute drive from Sioux Falls. Personally, I wouldn't make the drive just to see the attraction but it makes for a fun, quick stop if you're driving from Sioux Falls to Mount Rushmore. 7. Where to Eat: Josiah's (breakfast) Most restaurants in Sioux Falls are closed on Sundays and Mondays but Josiah's Coffee House & Cafe loyally serves locals every day of the week. This cafe is so adorable and welcoming. Best of all, they serve smoothies and healthy breakfast options like homemade granola with fresh berries and oatmeal topped with chia seeds and ground flax seeds. For those of you who enjoy a pastry with your coffee, the bakery pumps out a variety of freshly baked goods. We loved starting our day off here. Crave (lunch) Although our hotel recommended the restaurant, we set our expectations very low for lunch at Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar, housed in the Hilton Garden Inn of Sioux Falls. The restaurant is a popular food option for visitors and locals as it was full for lunch when we arrived (thank goodness we made reservations!). The menu quickly impressed us and put our concerns at ease. The restaurant offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The dishes were prepared with fresh ingredients and everything was actually really good! Crawford's Bar & Grill (dinner) Crawford's is the place to have dinner in Sioux Falls. The funky, up-scale American eatery is lively and upbeat. The food is good, not great but the fun atmosphere makes up for the lack of culinary mastery. CH Patisserie (sweets & treats) You won't be able to resist entering this gorgeous patisserie when you walk down Phillips Avenue. CH Patisserie is the brainchild of a World Champion Pastry Chef. The European-style desserts and pastries are almost too pretty to eat. The macarons come in the most creative flavors we have encountered. The french treats come in unique creations like cake frosting, fruity cereal, chocolate-covered strawberry, s'more, and chocolate pretzel. The latter is absolutely delicious - possibly the best macaron I have ever tasted. 8. Where to Imbibe Carpenter Bar We never imagined that such crafty cocktails would make their way to Sioux Falls. Carpenter Bar is the kind of bar you'd expect to find in Manhattan. The mixologist here are top-notch and take the art of creating the perfect cocktail very seriously. The outdoor patio was filled with customers sipping their well-balanced, creative cocktails while people watching. The folks seated next to us were from Chicago and New York. This is certainly the type of place that attracts people from big cities who are accustomed to quality drinks. Except here, the drinks don't come with big-city price tags. At $10 per cocktail of this caliber, it was difficult to resist a third round. The Hello Hi Further down Phillips Avenue, you'll find The Hello Hi, a bar with a completely different vibe than nearby Carpenter Bar. The Hello Hi draws locals to this kitschy, Polynesian-inspired neighborhood hang-out spot. The atmosphere was vibrant with music blaring and patrons enjoying the tropical mood with a New York-style pizza. This is a great spot to end the night as the temperatures drop and the sky begins to darken (not before 10:00 pm!). 9. Where to Stay Hotel on Phillips The Hotel on Phillips is a Historic Landmark that was built as the Sioux Falls National Bank in 1918 and converted into a chic hotel one hundred years later. The hotel maintains many historic details like the original chandeliers while ultimately delivering modern accommodations. The location is an easy walk to the main hub of downtown. This is with no doubt the best hotel accommodation you will find in Sioux falls. We had such a blast in Sioux Falls. The attractions are all within very close proximity to one another and will take you under two hours to check out. The main draw for us here was the time we spent on Phillips Avenue drinking great cocktails, mingling with locals, and watching the activity in town as people trickled down the sidewalks and cars slowly pulled down the street making their marks. The quality of the town offerings really took us by surprise. For some reason, we did not expect such a high level of sophistication here. Boy were we wrong. Because the town is so tiny one night here is more than enough but you can expect a wonderful night indeed!

The people in Madison are extremely friendly and easygoing, ready to strike up a conversation at any time. Despite the large college-student population, the demographics of locals' age range varies greatly. With a population of fewer than 300,000 people, the city is on the smaller side, so two nights here is more than enough time to get a good sense of the town. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is larger than the main hub of the city itself and its beautiful campus is worthy of a couple of hours of your time to explore while you are in the area. Overall, we had a nice visit and enjoyed our walks through Madison's streets. Unless one of our kids ends up in this extremely well-ranked university, I don't see myself coming back for a second visit only because there simply isn't that much to do here. Don't get me wrong, it's a cute place but it lacks the level of excitement and pace that I am naturally drawn to. I hope that the highlights of our visit that I share below will help you plan a wonderful visit to the capital of Wisconsin. I carefully curated a list of the most appealing draws of this college town. TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN MADISON, WISCONSIN: 1. Make your Way to Milwaukee: Milwaukee is just a short, eighty-minute drive from Madison. We were unanimously charmed by this unique city that reminds us of no other place in the country because it truly has its own distinct character. During our short visit, we were able to spend some time in three neighborhoods that vary greatly from one another yet when visiting all three provide a comprehensive feel for all that Milwaukee offers, which is a lot of appeal and fun! Historic Third Ward This upscale and trendy neighborhood has seen a rebirth over the years. Former factories and warehouses have been converted into residential and commercial buildings. There are dozens of indie boutiques side by side with larger retail chains, a plethora of outdoor dining options, a bustling indoor market, and beautiful views of the Milwaukee River. This part of town is immaculate and the streets are lined with potted flowers adding to the quaint vibe. We were quite impressed by this neighborhood. It is definitely worthy of your visit. Milwaukee Public Market is located in the Historic Third Ward District and was packed with shoppers who craved artisanal products ranging from locally made cheese to handmade confections. You can find anything from donuts to lobster in this market if you actually get a glimpse of the booths past the crowds that block them. The energy here is infectious. The sights and scents are splendid. Miraculously I left empty-handed, which is a first for me but when you're on the road it's hard to stock up on cheese and sushi-grade fish! You'll find Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria right on the Milwaukee River in the Historic Third Ward. We were very satisfied with our lunch here. In fact, we ordered some dishes for a second round. We loaded up on their mushroom tacos, Brussel sprouts, sambusas filled with Impossible "meat", Mexican corn, two types of salads, shrimp tacos, and Baja fish tacos. Everything hit the spot and refueled us for our further explorations of Milwaukee. Bradford Beach A popular beach for locals and visitors alike, Bradford Beach has plenty of sand to stretch out and create your own little space while you spend the day in the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan. The beach has a little Tiki bar, volleyball courts, and a soccer field. Just a few feet away you can hop on the well-paved Oak Leaf Trail (which covers an impressive 125 miles of trails throughout the city) to enjoy a stroll along with gorgeous water and skyline views. Even on a chilly, cloudy day, there were quite a few enthusiastic people set up for a day by the lake. The Lower East Side / Brady Street Brady Street definitely delivers a few blocks of eclectic shops, indie restaurants, and preserved colorful architectural gems in the styles of the Classical Revival and German Rennaisance periods. The neighborhood is very unassuming yet houses Ground Up, a high-end sneaker shop that sells kicks ranging from $300-$700. To get a real feel for the variety in the personalities of Milwaukee neighborhoods, head to Brady Street during the day, grab a seat outside at Brady Beach, and dive into people-watching that involves some seriously interesting characters. While on Brady Street visit Brewed Cafe which perfectly captures the spunky spirit of the neighborhood. The cafe offers a wide selection of vegan food, freshly brewed coffees, live music, and plenty of tables to choose from. 2. Explore Campus Living at The University of Wisconsin-Madison: Get lost roaming around the gorgeous, sprawling campus of The University of Wisconsin. The grounds of the university are possibly larger than the main hub of Madison itself. We randomly plugged in a walking radius into our google maps that helped us cover a lot of ground and get a strong sense of the student life here. We started our walking tour after we finished breakfast at Mickie's Dairy Bar (see below). From there we crossed the street over to Randall's Stadium, the college's football stadium that seats 80,000 fans. We ventured further towards Porter's Boat House to soak in some stunning lake views and made a stop at the serene gardens run by The Horticulture Department. The entire walk took about forty-five minutes and really immersed us into the offerings of this attractive campus. Make sure to explore Franternity Row as well. The homes are absolutely beautifully appointed and possibly some of the nicest you'll find on a college campus. 3. Stroll Along State Street: State Street links Capitol Square with the University of Wisconsin. Meander along half a mile worth of wide sidewalks and closed-off, pedestrian-friendly streets filled with shopping racks and dining patios. Peruse through the shelves of the locally owned stores selling vinyl, imported whiskey, and everything in between. 4. Soak in the Architecture at the State Capitol: The State Capitol in Madison is one stunning structure! After your absorb the striking facade, head on in and explore the beautiful interior. Guided tours are offered for free on weekdays on the hour from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. If you prefer to roam the building on your own, make sure to work your way up to the outdoor rotunda on the observation deck for 360-degree views of the city. On the same level as the viewing deck, walk towards the indoor rotunda or the "Trumpeter's Balcony" for a breathtaking perspective of the ornate structure. 5. Breath in the Beautiful Scents at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens: I can't believe that access to sixteen acres of the stunning landscape is free at this incredible botanical garden. Yes, FREE. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is perfectly planned to keep the interest of visitors piqued at all times. A major draw is the Thai Pavilion and Garden which is the only authentic Thai pavilion, or sala, in the United States and only one of four in the world. It was a gift from the government of Thailand to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I actually love botanical gardens and The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are one of my favorites yet. It's approximately a fifteen-minute drive outside of downtown but totally worth venturing out of the city's hub. 6. Fall in Love with Frank Lloyd Wright: Wright proposed his design for the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in 1938. Almost one hundred years later it stands as a masterful example of architecture that is not only practical but well utilized in the lives of Madison's locals. The outdoor, upper-level terrace overlooks Lake Mendota while incorporating other visually striking sights like an overflowing fountain, elevated lighting, gardens, and an outdoor cafe. The indoor area is quite magnificent as well. Wright never fails to stimulate the senses of visitors. This particular property does a spectacular job of weaving colors, shapes, earth, and air into one unforgettable masterpiece. PS: I purposefully left out photographs of the interior because I think it is best to view this landmark in the flesh without any preconceived expectations. 7. Dive Into Madison's Dining Options: Graze serves farm-to-table dishes that are not only extremely fresh but overwhelmingly delicious. The open space creates a gathering place for diners to come together for a great meal that supports local farmers. As usual, we tried several outstanding dishes. Of course, we ordered the Wisconsin cheese board which came with a nice selection of three kinds of cheese, homemade butter, and a super tasty jam. We also noshed on the most incredible shishito peppers doused in garlic SarVecchio cream sauce and herbed bread crumbs. Three orders of macaroni & cheese were placed at our table- you've never eaten mac & cheese like this before. The noodles are huge and the cheese combination creates a heavenly, creamy result. Finally, the roasted beet salad is worth mentioning too. Field greens are topped with sweet cherries, Hook’s 10-year cheddar, and tossed in whole grain mustard vinaigrette. This salad is so simple yet so outstanding. There were a few other items we tried as well but the ones listed here were the stars of the meal. Graze was our first introduction to the Madison food scene and set the bar for our upcoming dining experiences! Mickie's Dairy Bar is Madison's go-to place for a hearty breakfast. Whenever we mentioned that we had plans to dine here locals would light up and share their fond feelings for this neighborhood diner. Although it is summer, when most college kids are not in town, Mickie's was full at 9:00 am on a Thursday. If you want to avoid a wait, head over as early as you can. Everything was really tasty but the banana, cinnamon, walnut pancakes left us wanting more. The Boat House The Boat House is located in The Edgewater Hotel and offers a lovely lunch right on Lake Mendota. For a solid lunch with spectacular water views, this is your spot. We thoroughly enjoyed our salads, croissant chicken salad sandwich, fish and chips, and coconut shrimp. The highlight of course was the view and then taking a walk on the deck that leads out into the green waters. Fresco You cannot miss a dining experience at Fresco, located on the rooftop of The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. The large outdoor patio has lovely views of downtown while allowing diners to sit amongst dispersed sculptures and pieces of art. The true artistic masterpieces though are in the presentation of the dishes which arrive like a true work of art created by some of the industry's legends. We loved every bite of our decadent meal. My favorite dish was the chilled corn soup with blueberry sorbet, za'atar popcorn, and cilantro. The soup is simply outstanding. We also indulged in chickpea fries, whipped sheep's feta with lavender honey, tuna crudo, pan-seared chicken, branzino, and tortellini. Every bite burst with flavors that harmoniously came together with the innovative ingredients carefully selected to deliver impeccable results. Dinner reservations here are tough to come by so make sure to plan ahead and ask for a table outdoors. 8. Treat Yourself to Wisconsin Made Ice Cream: The Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream is a local staple known for its award-winning premium ice cream flavors made right in Wisconsin. The shop whips up creamy scoops of all kinds: vegan, non-fat, sugar-free, etc... We dove into three fantastic flavors: "THIS $&@! JUST GOT SERIOUS" (yup, that's what it's called) comprised of award-winning, smooth salted caramel ice cream brimming with rich sea salt fudge and salted cashews; banana cream pie made with banana ice cream churned with a marshmallow ripple and real Nilla wafers; Mackinac Island Fudge combined with sweet vanilla ice cream with a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate fudge ripple and chunks of rich chocolate fudge. A visit here is an excursion in itself as you'll find yourself taking too much time deciding which flavor to order from all the wonderful options to choose from. 9. Stay Somewhere Central: The Edgewater Hotel holds the reputation of being one of Madison's best hotels. It's a historic hotel, right on the shores of Lake Mendota, steps from the State Capitol, in the heart of downtown Madison. The hotel has three restaurants, a market, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. They also have a Cadillac to shuttle guests to nearby destinations. The Edgewater has all the ingredients necessary in a luxury hotel but I have to admit, I was not easily impressed by the decor which I found to be outdated. Once we settled in, the charm of this iconic hotel grew on me especially because of its walking proximity to the many places we visited. The lovely lake views won me over as well. Overall, the hotel has everything you'll need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. It's not bad. But it's not luxury. Regardless, you won't find lake views or facilities like the ones at this property anywhere else in the area. 10. Wrap it Up With a Sensational Sunset You'll find a perfect summer evening at the Memorial Union Terrace just as the sun begins to set along with the throng of dancers getting lost in the beats of the live music right on the lake. The scene here is spectacular and is probably the most energetic spot in Madison. Children play on the grass, lovers sit along the water sipping wine, friends grab chairs near the band, it seems like everyone gathers here to pay homage to the setting sun. Catching a sunset here is absolutely the best way to end your visit to Madison. For a quick moment, I thought perhaps we could stay one more night after all.

I totally messed up on this leg of the road trip by booking only a one-night stay in this incredible city. Coming from New York City, I am a bit of a city snob and tend to zip through other cities never expecting any to have more to offer than the city I come from. Boy was I wrong with Chicago. This may be arguably the best city in the United States (minus the winter season that is). The city is quite large with many neighborhoods to explore, holds the title for one of the most creative food scenes in the country, is extremely clean and well-kept, and has an incredible energy that keeps visitors outdoors as much as possible. Oh wait, and how can I forget to mention, it is situated along an entire stretch of the most aqua waters and beaches; real beaches with sand and everything! Now, that is my idea of perfection - the combination of a thriving city with a beach! The East River in New York City can't even begin to compete with the vast, blue waters of Lake Michigan in this part of the country. Had I known how awesome Chicago is, I would have totally booked a few more nights here. Learn from my mistake and make sure you allow yourself at least three nights to become more intimate with this utopic city. Here's what our twenty-hour itinerary looked like. I am quite impressed by how much we fit in! Walk the city, wear comfortable shoes! In a jiffy, our initial walking tour looked like this * this is about five hours of walking time* Navy Pier Lake Front Trail along the Gold Coast and further Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Oz Park Old Town (stop at Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream on way to next stop) Maginifect Mile Millennium Park- The Bean Chicago River Walk We started our journey at Navy Pier, a three-thousand-foot long pier along Lake Michigan bustling with people strolling along to enjoy the views, grabbing a drink at one of the several outdoor bars, or riding the Ferris wheel which is a staple in the city skyline. From there we continued along the well-paved water promenade on the Lake Front Trail which spans eighteen miles of waterfront lanes for cyclists, joggers, and nature lovers to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake. The lanes are wide, leaving plenty of room for all types of commuters who soak in the spectacular vistas of the crystal waters on their route. We continued our walk into the Gold Coast, one of the more affluent neighborhoods in the city, with stately homes and towering skyrises. If you're up for additional walking, cross over into the neighborhood to soak in its vibe by walking through the streets. This neighborhood offers plenty of stunning architectural landmarks, notable restaurants, and high-end shopping. Once you are back on Lake Front Trail, make sure to take a moment to pause at Oak Street Beach, in the heart of the Gold Coast, which is a gorgeous part of the coast with ample sand and waters that are reminiscent of the Caribbean. We continued walking along the trail for approximately another two miles reveling at the pristine body of water, adventurous swimmers, sunbathers, volleyball players, and all the locals who get to enjoy a spectacular city AND a sea simultaneously! From Lake Front Trail we crossed over to the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, a beautiful three-acre enclave lavishly landscaped in the middle of the city. The stone steps, wild-flower-filled trails, animal life, and a pond overtaken with lilies all offer a perfect retrieve from city life. We had ambitious goals to head over to Oz Park from here and then cross down to Old Town along Wells Street, then to Jeni's Splendid Ice-Cream, and then ultimately over to Magnificent Mile but honestly, our feet were sore by now so we Ubered our way down to Millenium Park instead. This park is a magnificent urban oasis with the most striking amphitheater and of course, the iconic "Bean" that draws thousands of people each day. When we arrived at the park on a Tuesday afternoon in July, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra was rehearsing and visitors were treated to a free concert! Oddly, there were only a handful of audience members while just a few feet over at "The Bean" hundreds were waiting to take the perfect Instagram capture of the pretty awesome sculpture. A short walk from Millenium Park will take you to The Chicago Riverwalk, a scenic stroll along the bright green waters of The Chicago River. Make sure to grab a great shot over the De Sable Bridge which incidentally shakes vehemently with each truck that drives by! Where to Stay: The Peninsula Hotel is the ultimate hotel for luxurious accommodations, comfort, and a superb location in the River North section of the city with easy access to many of Chicago's most desirable sites. The hotel exudes glamourous vacationing with doting staff, enormous attention to detail, and rooms refitted with the most modern touches available. They even delivered the most delicious selection of treats prepared by their pastry chef to welcome our children. This place thinks of it all. Our stay here was perfect and my only complaint is that we didn't stay long enough. Where to Eat: Breakfast: Beatrix This local's favorite offers a healthy selection of breakfast items, including fresh-pressed juices, in a trendy environment that will keep you sipping your green juice as slowly as you possibly can. The restaurant opens early allowing eager tourists like me to start their day bright and early to soak in as much of the city as possible! The food here is fresh, delicious, and just what you'll need to start your day! We opted for a selection of juices: blueberry juice with white grape and basil; mango, orange, and pineapple nectar; pineapple yuzu lemonade. For our meal we noshed on the Greek yogurt and berries; avocado and jalapeno toast topped with radish and crispy quinoa; egg white sandwich with shishito peppers, jalapenos, organic kale, and spinach. Everything was beyond delicious. Lunch: Giordano's You can't leave Chicago without trying Giordano's famous stuffed deep-dish pizza. This is a pie like no other and will absolutely knock your socks off. The cheese is baked into the crust and topped with a homemade marinara sauce for an explosive pizza-eating experience. For $10.99 you can get your own personalized deep dish pizza with a side dish. Now that's a deep steal! Dinner: Galit I spent a lot of time researching where we should eat for our only dinner while in Chicago and am happy to share that all my hard work paid off. Galit offers a four-course Prix-fix menu for $65 per person that will take you on a culinary ride of innovative Middle Eastern flavors and ingredients that blows even the best restaurants in Tel Aviv out of the park. We haven't eaten Israeli food this good since our travels to Israel. Our dining experience was comprised of non-stop delivery of large portions of typical Israeli dishes with a unique twist. We ate too many decadent dishes to list here but trust me when I tell you every bite was sensational. In my opinion, you don't want to miss an opportunity to eat here when in town. I didn't have many expectations of Chicago. Had I known how impressive the city is, how much it offers, and how much fun it is to walk around here, I would have booked a longer stay. I have booked over nine and a half months' worth of traveling throughout the United States and have made very few decisions that I regret in my planning. Not staying longer in Chicago is one of them.

Grand Haven captures everything I have ever dreamt of when I catch myself longing for summer. This quintessential lake town is a dream destination for those who want to relive those summer days of childhood. The sun does not set until 9:30 pm leaving ample time for endless bike rides along the water, lazy strolls down Main Street for some window shopping, lingering in restaurant patios enjoying live music, and dipping your feet in Lake Michigan to cool down. I absolutely love this little escape on the west side of Michigan and hope to convince you to get out of your city, head over to this lake town, and spend some of your best summer moments here soon too. Below are my top ten things to do during two glorious nights in Grand Haven, MI. 1. Rent Bikes and Ride Them Everywhere: Bike lanes abound throughout this small town and are the best way, in my opinion, to get around. During the few sections where the bike lanes come to an end, bicyclists are permitted to ride on the sidewalk allowing for a super safe ride at all times. Our bed & breakfast share their cruisers with their guests. However, there are several companies to rent bikes from during your stay. Rent your bike(s) so that you can hop on and off as you wish, which will be often as there are so many breathtaking views that you'll want to spend a few moments with as you get lost in your thoughts. 2. Head Over to Grand Haven South Pier & Lighthouse: The two red lighthouses on the pier were established in 1839. Nearly two hundred years later you'll find locals and tourists meandering along the pier enjoying the vast views of Lake Michigan. Teens huddle in groups as they egg each other on to jump into the rather cold water, bikes zip up and down the long walkway, and revelers of nature sit still and stare into the wonders of our beautiful planet. The pier is pure summer bundled into 1,500 feet of bliss. 3. Stroll Through Downtown's Washington Avenue: This Main Street of Grand Haven is lined with quaint shops, some dating back to over one hundred years. Washington Avenue is the epitome of a small, American town with big offerings. There are several retail shops, many restaurants, and of course the ubiquitous ice-cream and candy shops that sweeten any summer stroll. Downtown is just a few steps away from the boardwalk so make sure to make your way over there as well for a lovely walk along the waterfront. 4. Explore Ann Arbor, MI: Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is well-worth the two-hour and fifteen-minute drive from Grand Haven. Ideally, you make a stop in Ann Arbor on your way to Grand Haven if you're heading over from the east coast. But even if it is out of your way, it's worth the drive to spend the afternoon! This adorable university town offers eclectic shops, cafes, and many vegan dining options. State Street houses many of the university's campus buildings and Main Street is pedestrian-friendly for those wishing to absorb the local vibe fully. Zingerman's Deli is probably the biggest draw here. I never imagined that I would have to leave New York City to find the best Jewish deli in the USA. This delicatessen is insane and whips up the most innovative and delicious sandwiches, all served with a crunchy, homemade pickle that completes a perfect meal. I opted for the "Lila & Izzie's Skokie Skidoo" stuffed with Swiss Emmental cheese, coleslaw, & lots of Russian dressing on grilled farm bread. OMG. I would drive to Ann Arbor from anywhere in the country just for this sandwich. 5. Ride on the 11-Mile Loop Trail Along Spring Lake: Biking enthusiasts will just love the trail around Spring Lake. It is well-marked and paved for the entire eleven-mile loop. Cycling through also offers a glimpse into the lake-side living in this part of Michigan. You'll ride through colossal homes that line the water, and through more humble neighborhoods too. You'll capture the patriotic pride that shines through as most homes proudly display an American flag. You'll find yourself saying "hello" to every single person that you encounter because every one of them will warmly greet you first. Of course, you'll also get to enjoy some time with nature as you ride over Spring Lake, along marshes, and through heavily dense vegetation as well. There is no better way to get a feel for a town than to ride right through it! 6. Take a Hike in North Beach Park: You'll be greeted by lots of sand on this never-ending stretch of sea, I mean lake. I have to keep reminding myself that Lake Michigan is not an ocean. It is hard to not continuously mistaken it for an ocean when the lake appears to be equally never-ending! North Beach Park is a beautiful place to settle for the day for some fun in the sun and a dip in the clear waters of the lake. Or, if you're like me and don't particularly love frigid water temperatures, take the nearby dune hike instead. This easy and short hike up wooden stairs offers beautiful perspectives of the dunes below and the mammoth body of water ahead. 7. Soak in Some History in Muskegon Just a 17-minute drive from Grand Haven will transport you to Muskegon, a lumber town that thrived in the mid-1800s and has remained beautifully preserved ever since. The streets are lined with historic buildings that are woven through newer structures along with many art sculptures and gardens. Follow the Hackley Heritage Trail that honors Charles Huckley who built Muskegon's first schools, churches, hospitals, and parks. He is honored throughout the square and his home remains proudly erect in pristine condition. Learning about Hackley's history and influence will inspire pretty much anyone who takes the time to learn about how one man's vision made quite a mark. 8. Spend an Evening in Holland: You won't be needing your passport for this Dutch-influenced town on the west coast of Michigan. Holland has three components to it: Windmill Island, Dutch Village, and Downtown Holland. Windmill Island is an adorable tiny replica of Holland with a couple of windmills and loads of tulips. There is a small path to meander along and enjoy some fun photo opportunities. Dutch Village was unfortunately closed when we arrived. Picture it as a mini- Dutch theme park with some Dutch architecture, retail shops stocked with clogs in every color, Dutch bakeries, and even some small rides for the younger children in tow. Downtown Holland reminded us all of Main Street in East Hampton, NY lined with upscale shops in quaint storefronts along pristine sidewalks. It's truly a beautiful part of town worth exploring, shopping, and grabbing some bites while visiting. We spent the majority of our time in this part of Holland. While in Downtown Holland make sure to stop in Holland Peanut Store, a local favorite for one hundred and fifteen years, to satiate your sweet tooth. The candy shop is filled with all your favorite childhood candies along with homemade confections. The dark chocolate sea salt caramel square I bought melted in my mouth. If you have an uncontrollable need to stop in every candy store and ice-cream shop that you pass by as I do, then also make sure to check out Peach Wave Frozen Yogurt and Gelato as well (also located in Downtown Holland). In this dreamy frozen yogurt shop, you get to self-serve your flavors and toppings to your heart's (and stomach's) desire. My idea of a perfect summer evening is exploring small coastal towns with ice cream in hand and no cares in the world. You'll find these easy, breezy moments in Holland, MI. 9. Stay at Bella Mia Bed & Breakfast: To fully absorb Grand Haven's charm I decided to book us a stay at a Bed & Breakfast. I am thrilled with my decision to book Bella Mia in Spring Lake, just four miles outside of downtown Grand Haven. The property is lovely with every detail attended to. Waking up to the chirps of birds, sipping coffee on the patio overlooking the garden, and starting our day with a scrumptious breakfast is my idea of heaven. The owner has bikes for guests to use, which we took full advantage of each day that we stayed. I also love the location of the property as it is an easy bike ride to Grand Haven but also is on the eleven-mile bike trail that loops around Silver Lake. There are only five guest rooms on the property ensuring ultimate privacy and comfort. Nicole, the hostess, is incredibly helpful and accomodating ensuring a perfect stay throughout. Staying here really enhanced our experience while visiting the area. 10. Eat your little hearts out: Surprisingly the food is quite good in the area (OK, maybe not great by New York City standards but let's just say better than I expected). There are plenty of solid options to choose from but keep in mind that most restaurants are closed on Sundays and Mondays and many do not accept reservations. When you plan your evening plan to arrive at your dining destination early to snatch a seat before the typical dinner crowd arrives. The Kirby House I was nervous about eating here because the dining establishment has low ratings from patrons. However, the hostess of our Bed & Breakfast recommended it so we gave it a shot and really enjoyed our visit here. The outdoor patio was packed with guests swaying along with the live music and breeze (the evenings here boast perfect temperatures). The food was quite good- I especially loved my Jerked Salmon Salad Bowl. The Kirby House is right off the boardwalk and on Washington Avenue making for an ideal location. I can confidently recommend this restaurant as a fun place for a meal in the area. Kilwins Located on Washington Avenue, you can smell the homemade waffle cones from hundreds of feet away. Not only does Kilwin's make delicious flavors to enjoy your summer scoops, but they also make a variety of chocolate confections that pleases all chocoholics, including myself. Righteous Cuisine Known for serving Mexican cuisine with a twist, Righteous Cuisine is a local favorite. This down-to-earth eatery mainly serves take-out but does offer a couple of outdoor dining tables that fill up fast. The staff was laid back in the nicest way possible and the food definitely has a unique flare to it. For example, our nachos were comprised of queso sauce, pinto beans, pico de gallo, ancho BBQ sauce, avocado mayo, and chipotle crema (it's not often that you see BBQ sauce on your nachos, but the flavors worked perfectly!). Also, my "wet burrito" surprised me when I bit into crispy potatoes that added to the delicious overall taste of my dish. This is a great lunch option in Grand Haven especially on a Monday when most restaurants tend to take the day off. Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant (Holland) You can't beat the views at Boatwerks. This waterfront restaurant has a gigantic outdoor patio right on the water with the most stunning views. Their salads are incredible as well. We couldn't get enough of the fresh ingredient combinations in each of the three salad dishes that we ordered. Does it get any better than a healthy meal along the water with people you love? When in Holland make sure to make your way to this lovely spot. We could have easily spent at least another two nights in Grand Haven. There are tons to discover in the town as well as surrounding areas. This "coastal" city is truly magnificent and allows for making many wonderful summer moments. If you have an extra night or two to spare then add them to your visit. Otherwise, two nights is pretty perfect too and will leave you with that lovely taste in your mouth of wanting to come back one day for more magic.

We hit Cleveland in a tizzy and stormed through the small downtown area engaging with as many sights and activities that could possibly be fit into a short, one-night stay. Take a look below at my suggestions that will guide you through a quick visit to The Forest City. Walk Through the Downtown Area - Quite frankly, we were a little underwhelmed by the city's downtown area. During our visit, it was extremely desolate, completely closed down on a Saturday, and had some interesting characters roaming its streets. Surprisingly, we walked over three miles in search of a coffee shop with none to be found! The architecture isn't the most attractive either. However, we did enjoy perusing the streets which led us to some of the fun attractions that I have listed below. Also, keep in mind that there are lovely stretches of promenades along Lake Erie that offer expansive views of this massive body of water. There is some charm to be enjoyed here, despite the fact that it may not be so obvious at first glance. Check Out The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame- This museum is one of Cleveland's most popular attractions. The Rock Hall is a massive collection of memorabilia from all of rock and roll's greatest legends. We were very impressed with the layout and compilation of anything from wardrobe pieces to handwritten letters that represent the lives of some of the most influential musicians in history. Adding to the fun, "The Garage" is a hands-on section of the museum inviting visitors to jam with the plentiful instruments provided to bring out the musicians in everyone. A visit here is definitely a must while in the area. Hop Over to Trendy Tremont- Just a seven-minute drive from downtown lies a tiny little neighborhood called Tremont which has quaint shops and several lively restaurants. Unlike downtown, there were loads of people out in this part of Cleveland enjoying the summer evening. We made reservations at Dante's, run by Cleveland's only Michelin-starred chef. While this restaurant would never pass as one run by a chef with a Michelin star in foodie cities like San Fransisco or New York City, the presentation of the food is lovely and so is the professional service. If you're looking for an upscale meal in Cleveland, I don't think you'll find anything better than Dante's but that doesn't mean the food is excellent per se. Watch a Baseball Game Along With a Sunset- If you can, snatch some tickets to an Indians' game at Progressive Field. The stadium is absolutely beautiful. Coupled with the crowd's energy and stunning sunset, this will be the highlight of your visit to Cleveland. Watching the Indians play against the Royals in this epic setting converted me into a baseball fall! Stay at a Swanky Hotel- If you're looking to stay in Downtown, consider The Metropolitan at the 9, Autograph Collection. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the attractions I listed above, has a very popular roof-top bar, and provides its guests with very spacious suites. My favorite feature of the hotel is the extra-large, well-stocked gym and a fully equipped pilates studio. Finally, the lobby houses a delicious restaurant, Adega, which serves brunch on the weekends. Be prepared for large crowds. The hotel was operating at full capacity during our stay. Our visit was short and sweet. We found Clevelanders to be very sweet with quirky personalities. For a city, the pace is rather chill. I am not convinced that Cleveland is a tourist destination. However, if you do find yourself passing through downtown, you'll find yourself enjoying the area and ready to leave quickly thereafter. In my well-traveled opinion, twenty-four hours is more than enough time in this part of the city.

Our last three months living in New York as locals were spent revisiting our favorite restaurants while also discovering new ones. We truly lived each and every one of our last days as New Yorkers with a new lens; a deeper appreciation for all that this vibrant city offers and a refreshed perspective of profound gratitude for all the memories we made here over the last twenty-three years. For the past few months, I was on a mission to revisit all of my absolute favorite spots in the city while also finding some new gems. Below I have compiled my personal "Best of NYC restaurants". Keep in mind that I focused on places I have visited repeatedly over the last two decades and made sure to visit at least one more time before leaving. Places like Masa, Per Se, and all those Michelin-starred restaurants are not included on this list. There are endless restaurants that are beyond incredible in New York City that are not on this list. This list is simply mostly a collection of my personal favorites that I have frequented often and that I will miss dearly. Gemma (NoHo) We have countless wonderful memories at this NoHo institution. Fourteen years ago we lived a couple of blocks from Gemma at The Bowery Hotel and would regularly make visits here for brunch. We frequented so often that we became great friends with the General Manager, Karim, who ultimately moved to Toronto. We visited Karim in Canada during the great solar eclipse of summer 2016. This restaurant not only delivers consistently delicious Italian food and celebrity sightings, but we also made a friend here who watched our children grow up over many years. I loved this spot so much that I use to fantasize about naming our not-yet-born daughter Gemma. Incidentally, we were eventually blessed with a daughter and decided against naming her after our favorite local restaurant. Regardless, she too became a regular customer. El Vez (Battery Park) I won't even attempt to count the number of times we have dined at El Vez. We have visited dozens of times for Sunday brunch with our family and dozens of times with friends for dinner and drinks. In fact, we have eaten here so often that our boys are quite sick of this restaurant and balk at any suggestion to dine here. Personally, I could never get enough of their delicious margaritas and likely the best vegetarian nachos you will find anywhere on the planet. Rosie's (East Village) Rosie's is another one of my go-to Mexican spots in Manhattan. Their Rosie's Margarita is an unbeatable smoky and spicy concoction of perfection. The cocktails served at Rosie's coupled with their homemade tortilla chips are pure bliss. This is the kind of place you order a pitcher with your pals on the patio, kick back, people watch, and enjoy life. Gigino at Wagner Park (Battery Park) If you're looking for a gorgeous view, a large grassy field where your kids can run around while you have an attempt at an uninterrupted grown-up conversation, and an unsurpassable sunset, Gigino is your place. They have a huge outdoor seating area, an extensive wine menu, and pretty good Italian food too. The real draw here is the view and the outdoor space where young children can run around freely in the midst of the city. I always feel like I'm on vacation when I dine here even though it's just a five-minute walk from my apartment. Gitano, Garden of Love (SoHo) You'd never know that within the wooden construction slabs that encase this restaurant lies a taste of Tulum complete with palm trees, sand, cushioned sofas, blaring music, and even a disco ball. The instant warm weather hits I always think "make a reservation at Gitano!"The vibe is very scene-y with a bouncer at the entrance and modelesque hosts and hostesses who escort guests to their tables. Despite the man at the door and the bounding models, there is an awesome casual vibe that permeates the cool space. This is the kind of place that you hunker down and linger at for as long as you wish under a palm tree with a cocktail in hand and not an inkling of stress entering your mind. Gitano is the ultimate urban oasis. Sadelle's (SoHo) There is no better place in the world to devour freshly made bagels with deli favorites like salmon, egg salad, tuna salad, etc. I won't even attempt to figure out how many times I have dined at Sadelle's. Although I love to frequent the establishment for breakfast or brunch I am also extremely impressed by how they transform for dinner service when they light up the restaurant with candles and serve outstanding Russian-inspired food. Day or night, I just adore this place. We even made sure to make reservations at their Las Vegas establishment while we were in town although sadly, they don't serve the "Sadelle's Tower" at that location. Order the tower and find yourself newly impressed by how many bagels you are actually capable of eating. Balthazar (SoHo) I have been a customer here for over a decade. We use to live nearby and I would stop in regularly for lattes and a pain au chocolate to kick off my day. My family would also visit often for brunch while we were living in the neighborhood. Once we moved out of NoHo we found ourselves craving for their delicious brunches and continued to patronize this wonderful French bistro. Balthazar consistently delivers a delicious brunch in a lively atmosphere with great service. Pastis (Meatpacking District) Another wonderful brunch spot, also French, also a favorite. Despite its popularity, Pastis struggled over the years and even closed down for a while. New Yorkers were thrilled to hear that the restaurant was coming back to the city. I was surely one of those celebrating their comeback. I've always loved the authentic French bistro vibe here and the innovative menu (where else where you find a heart of palm salad with artichokes and olives?). Its Meatpacking district location makes for a prime afternoon of brunching, shopping, and soaking some art at the nearby Whitney Museum. Lafayette (NoHo) Ok. I am noticing a pattern here that I actually have never noticed before- the Frenchies steal my palate for brunch spots! Lafayette is yet another favorite brunch destination of mine that also happens to offer French cuisine. Most notably they bake a coconut, banana, chocolate croissant that should totally be illegal because it is so addictive. The interior design here is super cute, the food is delicious, and there is always a fun crowd. Ladurée (SoHo) By now we have established that the French certainly win my heart for the best breakfasts/brunches in New York City. Ladurée holds an especially special place in my heart because our middle son and I use to visit this delicious restaurant weekly while we waited for his sister to finish her gymnastics class. We would load up on their scrumptious macarons accompanied by dreamy cups of hot chocolates. We have also celebrated Mother's Day here and I have equally great memories of catching up with my girlfriends at this elegant eatery. Each visit is consistently très magnifique. The Fulton (Seaport District) There was no turning back once The Fulton opened within walking distance from our apartment. I just love this place for so many reasons. The cocktails are always spot on. The views are unbeatable. The seafood is so fresh and the various preparation of the dishes are always perfect. I have come here with girlfriends, or with my husband for a date night, and even with my kids. This restaurant can easily be one of the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan. I will miss having it in my backyard dearly. Liberty Bistro (Battery Park) Whether you have a business meeting, a date with a pal, a need for some solo time with an epic view, or a nice lunch with the fam, Liberty Bistro will not disappoint. Both their outdoor space and indoor space are stunning, making this a year-round destination for me. The indoor vibe is very "Havana/Miami" while the outdoors feels like you are dining in a Provence garden. Khe-Yo (Tribeca) When my friend introduced me to this place years ago, I had no idea what to expect. Laotian food was not in my dining repertoire and boy was I happy to have welcomed it into my life. For those of you who have never eaten Laotian food, Khe-Yo is a great start. This award-winning restaurant is a great meeting spot for lunch or dinner, although it is a lot more lively in the evening. The food is always fresh, always spicy, and always incredibly delicious. Crown Shy (FiDi) It's hard to leave a neighborhood that overflows with incredible food options within walking distance. Crown Shy is the crown of the Financial District and delivers impeccably prepared American food consistently. Their menu changes seasonally and offers a wide range of veggie, seafood, and meat dishes with innovative twists that keep me coming back for more. Their cocktails are equally outstanding and extremely creative. Expect an exemplary meal here every visit. Rosemary's (West Village) I have so many wonderful memories at Rosemary's and many of them are of the incredible meals I have experienced here. The Italian restaurant serves seasonal ingredients that grow right on their rooftop garden! The plates are small and perfect for sharing. Also, those who enjoy eating a vegetarian diet, have tons of options here. This place is fun, lively, and consistent. Molly's Cupcakes (West Village) Would you believe me if I told you I have likely downed one hundred or so cupcakes here? Ok, so they were minis, but I would definitely put money on the fact that I have eaten at least one hundred of these precious cupcakes at Molly's. My three children use to attend a school across the street and we would make regular visits to Molly's after school. When the kids were younger, they just loved the idea of customizing their cupcake and icing flavor combination, created on the spot. Even more so, the self-serve sprinkles bar was their idea of heaven. We would enjoy a mini-cupcake doused in sprinkles while playing one of the many board games at the shop. Even now that our children have grown, they still love making visits to this cupcake shop that was a big part of their childhood. Fraunces Tavern (FiDi) This bar is housed in one of the oldest surviving buildings in Manhattan where George Washington gave a commemorated speech to his soldiers during the American Revolution. My husband and I are obsessed with this bar, but not the main, loud, frat-house-like part of the bar. Instead, we aim to snatch one of the two tables in the tiny whiskey bar that leads to the main area. During the winter, the two tables, equipped with leather armchairs, are split by a roaring fireplace. The drink menu has a very impressive collection of whiskey and the bartenders always serve a generous pour. The ambiance is masculine, sexy, and irresistible. Fraunces Tavern's Whiskey Bar is one of NYC's best-kept secrets. Dead Rabbit (FiDi) How lucky am I to have "The World's Best Bar" just one block away from my apartment? Dead Rabbit is no joke. The mixologists here take their jobs very seriously. The drink menu is a hardcovered book with over fifty pages of cocktail options grouped by alcohol types. The first floor is a more casual taproom with draft beer and food. However, it's The Parlor Room that has captivated me all these years. Intimate, romantic, and where all the mixology magic takes place, you'll want a seat on the second floor. Luckily, Dead Rabbit started accepting reservations recently. Beforehand it was walk-in only with average wait times of over one hour. Fortunately, I made friends with the awesome staff who always saved me a table for me and my guests. This is absolutely my favorite bar in Manhattan and where we always take out-of-town guests for a nightcap. The Lovelace (FiDi) As I write this article, I want to pinch myself! How am I leaving a neighborhood that has all my favorite New York City bars? I can literally walk to all three of the listed bars in under two minutes. The Lovelace is a swanky bar with a prohibition-era vibe. On specific days they have live music which really sets the tone for a perfect night out. Their old-fashioned is one of the best you'll ever sip, the staff has always greeted us so warmly, and I will just miss this place so much! The Beekman Hotel (FiDi) I am kind of obsessed with The Beekman Hotel since its inception. This trendy hotel boasts a super stylish lounge, The Bar Room, that I have visited on countless occasions. Couches flood the dimly lit space that sits below a stunning atrium in the historic building. We have also eaten at the hotel's restaurant, Temple Court, and enjoyed some wonderful nights in the lower level Alley Cat for late-night drinks. I love this hotel so much that I've even booked staycations here, most notably with my daughter where we had an unforgettable pillow fight in their beautifully designed rooms. There are lots of memories waiting to be made here, most of mine were made right in the center of the hotel at The Bar Room. Harriet's Roof Top Just over the Brooklyn Bridge, in DUMBO, lies the most incredible rooftop bar in New York City. Harriet's Roof Top, at The 1 Hotel, is my ultimate favorite place for magnificent views and great vibes. While their food is "ok", their cocktails are usually spot on but really who cares what anything tastes like with views this great? There is always music pumping, a fashionable crowd of visitors, a beautiful breeze, and all the ingredients you'll need to fall madly in love with NYC. Everyone knows that New York City has a plethora of bars and restaurants to choose from. New things open up regularly. My husband and I go out for dinner often and I don't think we have even made a dent in the restaurant scene over the twenty-three years' worth of dining we enjoyed here. One of the best qualities of this city is the endless excellent options for everything you desire. Especially when it comes to cuisine. Before moving out of the city, we not only wanted to revisit our favorite spots but we also wanted to make sure to discover some new ones. Below are the best restaurant discoveries we made before bowing out. Luthun (Union Square) Each dish served from the tasting menu at Luthun is exceptional The chefs are true culinary geniuses who have masterfully captured brilliant combinations of ingredients that are executed as works of art. I couldn't stop photographing my food while fighting the guilty feelings of destroying the artistic creations before me. Everyone at the table literally oohed and aahed with each bite. I left not only extremely satisfied but also inspired. Everyone needs to dine here once in their life. Add Luthun to your bucket list. Now. The Vestry (SoHo) This seafood restaurant is new to the food scene and I am certain it will quickly become a New York City sensation. The indoor space replicates a ski-lodge feel with faux fur covers draped over the chairs. The service is very formal with a very attentive staff doting on your every need. They seemed to still be working out the kinks when we visited as it took over two and a half hours to get through our meal, the kitchen and bar moved at an unbearably slow pace. Apologies and a free round of drinks by management made up for the long delays but honestly, the food is so superb it was hard to be mad at all. We ordered nine dishes off Vestry's menu and were blown away with each bite that was purposefully built to be packed with freshness, creativity, color, and innovative ingredient combination. I am grateful to have had an opportunity to dine here before leaving the city. Miznon (Hudson Yards) Eyal Shani is one of my all-time favorite chefs. Some of my most memorable dining experiences have been in his Tel Aviv restaurants. Port Said, North Abraxas, and HaSalon are highlights of our travels in Israel so when the famous chef opened up Miznon right here in Manhattan, I jumped on the opportunity to check it out! Except, sadly, the Chelsea Market location was always packed, with a long line that I refused to wait in. I almost gave up until I learned that another Miznon location opened in Hudson Yards which is way less crowded. There are no ordinary pita sandwiches served at this eatery and each concoction is totally worth the hype and raving reviews. I couldn't leave NYC without hitting this place at least once and I am so glad we made it happen. Miznon has ruined my chance of ever enjoying a pita sandwich elsewhere ever again. Frevo (West Village) Yet another welcomed addition to the New York food scene, Frevo offers a theatrical experience from the moment patrons enter. Guests arrive at an art gallery and are escorted to a large painting that serves as a hidden door that leads into the small and intimate restaurant. The kitchen serves an eclectic six-course tasting menu with seasonal ingredients, powerful presentations, and the ultimate results in flavor. Olio e Piu (West Village) I truly wish I discovered this place sooner. I stumbled upon it when we strolled through the neighborhood and I was immediately captivated by its lively porch in the middle of a beautiful garden setting. If we continued living in NYC, I know this is the kind of place we would return to again and again. The Italian menu delivers a delicious brunch in a vibrant setting. On a clear, sunny day, Olio e Piu is one of those places where you'll find yourself having a "real New York moment". Restoration Hardware Rooftop I also wish that I discovered this gorgeous rooftop restaurant sooner as this too would be a place I would revisit again and again. The décor is stunning, the food is quite good, and the outdoor roof deck boasts gorgeous views of the city. Restoration Hardware Rooftop does an outstanding job with this new venue concept. I'm crossing my fingers that they open up a rooftop restaurant in their San Diego location. They can count me in as a lunch regular if they do. Let me know if you check any of these restaurants out and how your experience goes. I'd love any opportunity to discuss my old and new favorite restaurants in New York City. In fact, I'd love any chance to speak about the place I called home for over two decades.

If I could revisit a time in my life, 2010 would be the exact year I'd blast back to. If scientists have already proven that time can bend, why is it so hard for them to figure out how to twist it in a way that transports us back to those moments of our past that we yearn for most? In 2010 I just gave birth to our daughter. That year I became the mother of three children under the age of four. I had two boys and one girl. My life was pretty perfect in 2010. In that very year, I experienced a sense of fulfillment that came with motherhood that has been difficult to recreate, especially as our children continue to grow at record-breaking paces, leaving me distraught and anxious by the realization that one day soon they will be leaving the nest. In 2010 we also moved into our current apartment. Since then, the memories have just flooded through its walls and permeated the air. As I watch old videos of our kids lately, perhaps an unhealthy new obsession, I watch their radiant faces and listen to their kiddie accents and I want so badly to reach into the screen and hold them so tightly that I gasp in pain from the harsh reality that I will never have those days again. Don't get me wrong, these days are equally incredible. In fact, every single stage of their childhood has been a blessing full of magical memories. It's just that as they have grown, an unwanted internal clock has been planted into my brain counting down the days before they leave us. How can they ever leave us? Our two boys, who in 2010 were tiny little people, now tower over me. Their feet have gotten so enormous, providing clues into how much more growing awaits them. Our middle son who once playfully boasted about "going to hugging school" to explain where he learned all his mushiness and mastery of cuddles, now barely wants to be touched. Just last June I was still tucking him into bed, hugging him closely under the blankets as we shared secrets and as I sang him our usual bedtime lullabies. Suddenly, over the past few months, hugs are no longer enjoyable to the boy who hugged me the most. With his new height came many new changes, one of them the demise of cuddles in bed. I would be totally fine with these natural changes if they did not serve as constant reminders that our kids are moving into adulthood which in my mind means, leaving home. I can't fathom living without them in my daily life. I fear that I will die of a broken heart when we have an empty nest. I'm not being dramatic. I actually fear this will be my cause of death. Many parents eagerly await the moment their kids leave the house so that they can begin to enjoy life as a couple. I, on the other hand, always enjoyed my life with my kids and my husband. Having them by my side through every vacation, every adventure, every celebration is what made my life so incredibly satisfying. From their first days of birth, we have practically done everything together. Since the pandemic, we have been inseparable. They are my joy, my life, my purpose, and when our children leave, what will I have left? Motherhood is my greatest accomplishment. I was born to parent and raise children. It is a calling that I've always had and a journey that I have savored each and every step of the way. Our children have been my best friends, travel partners, teachers, and mostly my mirror. They have taught me endless lessons about myself, highlighting my strengths and mainly my weaknesses. They have also taught me to love deeply, intensely, and selflessly. I am beyond proud of who they have become. They are wonderful young adults with who I cherish spending my time with. Anyone who knows me knows that they are always by my side. I genuinely love anchoring my moments with them more than anyone else in my life (well, besides my husband who I adore too). They are fun, funny, honest (often harshly so), interesting, inspiring, ambitious, kind, loyal, compassionate, and offer me the boosts I need in my daily life. But they won't stop growing. And that means they will be leaving us soon. That's when I will begin to die a slow and painful death. I know my heart can't bear the lack of their regular presence. I cannot make sense of the difficult truth that one day soon they won't be running in and out of the kitchen and chatting away with us regularly at the dining room table. It seems so unfair! A cruel joke, really. To have them and love them and immerse every ounce of myself into every second of every moment for the past eighteen years of their lives and then off they go! Then what? For them, I pray that all their dreams come true. I wish for them that they marry someone who loves them as much as my husband and I love each other and as much as we both loved them. I dream that they experience many adventures and laughter and joy. I imagine they live free from societal constrictions and oblivious to the judgements others will want to impose on them. But what does my future look like? I'll be the one crying on the couch waiting for my phone to ring just to hear their voice. It's been three days of non-stop crying. Perhaps the nerves of moving are beginning to kick in. Maybe I shouldn't be watching so many old videos of the past. I can't help myself though. 2010 was the beginning of the most magnificent moments in my life. I continue to be pretty darn happy in 2021. Actually, I'll time warp back to any of the years in between. I just dread 2024, 2026, 2028 which will be the years I slowly start to collapse as the best years of my life come to a halt. I'll be forced to convince myself, by the encouraging attempts of others, that the best years are still yet to come but I'll know deep down inside, that I will never be the same again. For now, I inhale the memories we've created in this home. I breathe so desperately hoping that with each strong breath a memory will be embedded into my cells ensuring I will never forget certain moments. Like the times they'd all hop into empty boxes after an amazon delivery and I'd close the boxes up saying we're shipping them off to grandma and grandpa and they would crack up relentlessly. Or the time our son would hold a napkin over the air conditioning unit making it fly high into the air squealing with delight. Or the hours and hours we spent together taking baths, watching movies, eating meals, dancing, reading stories, playing with their trains, having tea parties, playing board games, reveling in hide-and-seek marathons, baking, painting, playing with shaving cream, making slime, drawing, playing instruments, celebrating birthdays, hosting friends... There have been endless, gorgeous moments that continue to lurk in the air. When people compliment us on our apartment, they don't realize it's the love in the air they're experiencing, not the visual effects of our décor or layout. Leaving this apartment is starting to feel like abandoning the memories we made. I feel like I am walking away from their childhood. I am so grateful that I was able to give up my career to raise my children. I have zero regrets about putting anything on hold over the years because I was able to focus on creating a family unit that was the kind I always dreamed of. There is no sense of "sacrifice" and absolutely zero regrets about putting a career on hold. None of those popular feminist tales ever enter my thoughts. In my mind, it is crystal clear that the only path is the one I chose, which is to raise our kids and spend as much time with them as humanely possible. I was blessed with the opportunity to spend hundreds of thousands of hours with them, never missing a beat. With that choice, comes the painful reality that when the time comes for them to blossom on their own, I will be left with a huge void in my heart. Yet, I would do it all over again if I could. I sit here typing as tears flow onto my keyboard and roughly twenty napkins drenched in snot are tossed a few inches away. The closer we approach moving day, the more it seems impossible to leave this place behind. I can't let go. This apartment is our memory silo. There is no way for me to breathe the millions of memories in before we leave. There just isn't enough time. I know there will be new memories. New beginnings. New adventures. I know all of this. I know that there will hopefully be so many happy times when they become adults living on their own- weddings and grandkids please G-d. I know that I will somehow survive and find ways to fill my days. I know all this. This knowledge though doesn't soften the recognition that my time with them is limited and that the clock is ticking in full force. So, I am left to continue tenaciously memory-make so that when they leave, I can look back knowing that we spent the best years of our lives together. My years with them in our home will absolutely be unmatched in the years to come without them under our roof. In the meantime, please let me sulk, just this once. I am in the midst of healing a fractured heart and dealing with the frustration of failed attempts at building a time machine- not to mention the panic mode of packing up and breathing in eleven years of the best memories of my life. My short-term goals are to gulp these recollections into my lungs and exhale them out, with all my strength, once we arrive to our new home in San Diego hoping they linger in the air we will breathe out west. I am grateful that the clock is set to on mode, serving as a constant reminder to make the last three years we have with our oldest son before he goes off to college as memorable as ever but I just wish it didn't tick so darn loud. I'm hoping to find a way to mute it so that I can peacefully focus on the here and now and allow myself to fantasize that these days will last forever.