UnitedStatesofAmerica
Land of the Road Trip - Home of the Car
4 All American Road Trips
All recommended sites & everything else can be located & checked out with a few clicks - most have 10 photos showing views, food, beds, scenery, facilities, goods - everything you need to make an informed decision & links to all of them.
Just click on any marker, then on the traffic arrow and a 2nd location for instant detailed public & private travel information including routes, distances, times, frequency, transfers & stop locations.
Your holiday - Your way
COUNTRY GUIDE
Monument Valley
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
TRAVEL RECIPES - these itineraries are meant to be flexible as we all have different likes and interests. Treat it like a recipe that you can play around with as you like. Go through the tours and what to see and do to work out how long or how little you want to spend in each place. Some trips are coordinated with events but you will be warned about them.
BEST TIME TO GO - Spring , Summer and Fall are a good time with Summer being peak tourist season.
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In winter the north freezes over and the further south you go the warmer it gets. It can get really humid down south.
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The west coast doesn't freeze up like the east. Seattle is the wettest place in the country by days but not in volume.
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Hurricane season down south is August and September.
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Alaska is best in summer which is short - mid May to mid September.
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The best time to visit Hawaii is April to October. June to August is peak tourist season. Winter is November to April where it is a little cooler and a little wetter.
STAY -
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Most hotels are available on Booking.com unless otherwise stated. It's best to get bookings with free cancellation and pay on site when you get there. Hotels chosen are usually 3*** or 4 or 5 if they are good value. They are chosen firstly for their location, value for money, positive testimonials regarding cleanliness and service and features like rooftop terraces and great views.
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Since the end of Covid a lot of prices have gone through the roof. So if the selected hotel is out of your price range click on the location map and choose something cheaper nearby. Or you might prefer something else but try to stay in the same area.
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Accommodation in the USA is very expensive so hotels around the 3*** level should be around the US$200 mark and up. If you want a cheaper option you'll have to stay at a generic motel on the edge of town or try to find a hostel. Airbnb is another option worth trying.
BUDGET
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It's not going to be cheap. Decent accommodation is really expensive. Some areas are better than others so you could try roughing it when necessary and having something decent when it's affordable.
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As these are all road trips you have the added expense of daily car rental. If you want to get something special for Route 66 it will cost you. Gasoline is not as cheap as it used to be.
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Food and drink will likely be a lot of roadside places which are sort of middle of the range prices. Be selective about what attractions you visit to save on entrance fees. Pick free ones and go on lots of walks. A bit of planning and it will all work out.
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If money is not a problem just follow the recommendations and you will have a ball.
VISAS - Click here for information
TIPS -
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Prices for these trips are in US$
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It's always a good idea to have a drinks cooler / esky / chilly bin with you on a road trip. They can be bought cheaply and you should get one at the start of the trip and stock it up with non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
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Get off the Interstate Highways and on to the minor roads that go through the little towns along the way. You'll be surprised with the high standards of these minor roads.
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Carry a photocopy of your passport at all times
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Download Maps.me app and the appropriate maps onto your phone before you go
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All of these itineraries are road trips. Most of the time your hotel will be in walking distance of restaurants, bars and night life. On those occasions it isn't or you want to go to a different area it's probably best to use a ride share app.
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Grab some soaps and shampoos from the hotels for the odd occasion when you are roughing it in the State Parks
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Before you leave home pick up a Route 66 Passport online. They also have offline navigation apps.
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You could combine 2½ trips and do the triangle from Miami - Nashville - New Orleans - Miami. You could start and finish the trip in any one of these cities.
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Or you could do Nashville - New Orleans - Miami - New York + (Montreal - St. Johns)
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Or you could return to Chicago - or New York - or Montreal (& St. Johns) after doing Route 66 on the Across America Train Trip.
FLIGHTS -
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Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - has direct flights to 247 destinations in 48 countries on 6 continents so it should be easy to find a direct or connecting flight
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Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) - has direct flights to 184 destinations in 42 countries and 5 continents spread all around the world
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Miami International Airport (MIA) - has direct flights to 184 cites in 63 countries mainly in the Americas and Europe
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New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - has direct flights to 192 destinations in 72 countries in 6 continents
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New York Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) - has direct flights to 185 destinations in 58 countries in 5 continents
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New York City Airport (LGA) aka La Guardia is located in Queens and mainly has domestic flights
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Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) - has mainly domestic flights so it will be easiest to connect with a major USA city. There are direct flights to London, Montreal and Cancun
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Key West International Airport (EYW) - has 20 domestic flights mainly along the eastern seaboard as well as Fort Worth Texas and Chicago
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Nashville International Airport (NBA) - has 106 direct flights to the USA, Canada, London, Cancun and San Pedro Sula
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Once you have bought your airline tickets get some travel insurance to cover your investment
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POPULATION - 331.8 million
CAPITAL - Washington DC
RELIGION - Christian 71%, Other 6%, None 23%
ETHNICITY - White 72%, Hispanic 15%, Black 13%
LANGUAGE - English
NATIONAL DRINK - Bourbon
NATIONAL DISH - Hamburger, Apple pie
GOVERNMENT - Presidential Republic
BIRTHDAY - 4th July 1776
BIG MAC IN $US - $3.39
LITERACY - 99 %
MINIMUM WAGE ANNUAL IN $US - $15,080
CURRENCY - United States dollar USD -= $1
LIFE EXPECTANCY - 78.87
TOURISTS PER YEAR - 79.6 million
NO.1 TOURIST SITE - Times Square
CHEERS - Cheers
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GET YOUR KICKS 19N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - The road that was born twice
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2,448 miles - 1 1 states - 3 time zones & 2 Springfields
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+ Bonuses - Monument Valley, Grand Canyon & Las Vegas
Chicago 3N
Saint Louis 1N
Stroud 1N
Amarillo 1N
Santa Fe 2N
Seligman 1N
Las Vegas 2N
Los Angeles 4N = 19N
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Chicago style Pizza
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Rush Street
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Many Icons & Diners
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Small town USA
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Lou Mitchell’s Diner
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Vintage Motels
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World's largest Arch
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Multiple Springfields
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Gary's Gay Parita
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Grand Canyon
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Hoover Dam
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Las Vegas
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Monument Valley
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Phillipe the Original
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Venice Beach
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Universal Studios
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Disneyland
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Whiskey A-go-go
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Viper Lounge
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Stay in the Elvis Suite
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Four Corners Monument
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Hollywood Walk of Fame
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A free USD$72 Steak Dinner
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Mississippi Riverboat Cruise
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Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour
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The best bar in Yavapai County
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World Famous Cadillac Ranch
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The World's largest Totem Pole
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The Margarita Capital of the World
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Spend the night in "Radiator Springs"
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Los Alamos - birthplace of the A - bomb - Little Boy and Fatman
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The start, end, mid-point and two birthplaces of the most famous road in the world
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Use the daily maps which enlarge with a click & the Marker Map for more detail
Photo by Alex Meier on Unsplash
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Image by Víťa Válka from Pixabay
1- 3 Chicago IL - 3N
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Before you leave home you can pick up a Route 66 Passport which you can get stamped at various places all along the route. They also have offline navigation apps.
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Fly into Chicago and out of Los Angeles. Unless you want to return to Chicago by a different route. You could drive up the very scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Seattle then cut across Montana, Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore on your way back to Chicago. Which after diving East for over 2,000 miles and 30 hours, they call the mid-west.
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Muscle Cars
Classics
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Stay at or near Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place *** - great location on the south loop, indoor pool, 5 restaurants, fitness centre, bar, expensive parking available - just pick up your vehicle on the day you are leaving
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Or for a cheaper option the HI Chicago Hostel *** - private and dorm rooms available, excellent location centre right in the loop, good breakfast included, no parking available
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Campervans
Yank Tanks
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You may want to read the "Grapes of Wrath" before you head off for some background history on the route. Start the trip with a few nights in Chicago to check out some of the iconic must see's and do's in the Windy City. Take a boat cruise through downtown, ride a bike or skate around the Lakefront Trail, go to a Blues Club or two, head to Rush Street for cheap drinks, or visit these old pubs, shop in the Magnificent Mile, eat Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, popcorn and pumpkin pie, hit Millers Pub a Chicago institution since 1935 also with iconic dishes and perhaps take a tour or catch a game at Wrigley Field. Head out to Navy Pier for a meal and view of the city's skyline. Willis Tower and the Skydeck Experience is a short walk from the hotel.
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You should organise your vehicle online before you get here along with your hotel bookings. Get the car for around 16 days so that you will have it until you leave. Pick it up the day you head off on Route 66 and drop it off at LAX Airport when you fly out. This way you will have transport to look around LA and get out to the airport. First decide on what suits you best. Motorbike - Harley, Indian, Trike, Classic American - Corvette, Mustang, Cadillac, convertible or hardtop, muscle car, Campervan or RV (Recreational Vehicle), SUV 4WD or just a nice, normal, cheap car.
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For campers here is a comprehensive state by state guide of all the camp grounds along route 66. It all depends on your budget and how many of you there are. Click on one of the vehicles of your choice for information and don't be shy about chasing up the best deal you can get. Get them to drop your vehicle off at your hotel. You'll be staying near the starting line and Chicago isn't exactly driver friendly.
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Trikes
Harleys
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Bicycle Tales
RVs - Recreational Vehicles
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Once you are organised it will be time to head to the starting line of Route 66. Also known as the Mother Road, the Will Rogers Highway and America's Main Street. It is the most famous road in the world. Don't have breakfast before you start, because that is your first stop.
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Have a hearty breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s Diner which is three years older than Route 66 and traditionally the first port of call. People would stop off here and fill up before hitting the road. They have the best coffee in Chicago and great breakfasts. They also invented the donut hole.
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4 Springfield il - 1N
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So far you've travelled one mile and at this rate it's going to be a long trip😁. Eighty five % of the road is drivable and it is well signposted. This is not the case everywhere even though more signs are going back up. The best way is to get a Route 66 specific map. Make your way to Pontiac via the Gemini Giant for morning smoko and have a look at the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum. On to Springfield for Abraham Lincoln's house and other important historic sites.
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Spend the night here at the Route 66 Hotel *** - free parking. South of town is the Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill & Museum & Entertainment Complex. Sounds like a night out. Or if you prefer something more relaxed catch a movie at the Route 66 Drive-In.
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Spuds MacKenzie
5 St. Louis MO - 1N
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Just a short drive today to St. Louis. Start off with breakfast at the Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill or the nearby Cracker Barrel. Spend the day seeing it's many attractions like the Gateway Arch. You can ride the tramway to the top for spectacular views over St. Louis. The onsite museum will tell you the story of the Pioneers and their Westward adventure as well as the Native Americans. Their are a range of Mississippi Riverboat Cruises available. Another place worth mentioning is the fun and hands on St. Louis City Museum. Try some of the famous Ribs at Bogart’s Smokehouse for lunch. Then a tour of the legendary Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the home of Budweiser Beer. Dinner and drinks at the Delmar Loop (One of the 10 great streets in America) should round out a pretty good day. You can catch the train from the Convention Centre Station close to the hotel.
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Stay at or near Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Convention Centre *** - parking onsite for reasonable fee.
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6 Springfield MO - 1N - Birthplace #1
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If you're an early riser you might like to catch the sunrise over the Gateway Arch. One last stop before you leave has to be Rooster for breakfast. There is one less than a 10 minute walk west from the hotel on Washington Ave. With farm fresh innovative dishes it has become one of the local favourites. If you need a kick start their Bloody Mary's are bloody good. Off to the Meramec Caverns a popular, natural wonder that should amaze you. Stop in Cuba at a historical café for lunch. Then another Route 66 museum in Lebanon and check out Wrinks Market as well. And if you need a rest after all this the next stop is the world's second largest rocking chair. Finish up in another, Springfield where you will spend the night. There are over 50 murals around town if you want to head out for a look. Still no sign of the Simpsons who were actually based on the Springfield in Oregon. There are around 40 Springfields in the USA but nobody seems to agree on the actual number.
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Stay at or near the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven *** - free parking - try to reserve Room 409, the Elvis Suite, he stayed here in 1956 and it looks like he left a few things behind.
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If you enjoyed the caverns earlier you can take a tram ride through the nearby Fantastic Caverns which were once used as a Speakeasy. There is a car museum here as well as a park to mark the birthplace of Route 66.
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Springfield is known for having great pizza so that might be dinner tonight as you wander along the restored Commercial St district. It has lots of 1920's style shops and restaurants. For a bit of fun you could get picked up by a hearse and taken to the Hotel of Terror.
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7 Stroud OK - 1N
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First Stop today is at Gary's Gay Parita at Paris Springs. Gay was the wife of the original proprietor of this now gasless 1930 Gas Station. Pick up a souvenir and have a chat. They give good advice on the best places to stop at along the route. The next attraction will be the Mural Park in Joplin and then the Rainbow bridge for a brief Kansas visit. Maybe pick up a souvenir, then head south through the rolling hills of Oklahoma.
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Say hey to the legendary Blue Whale on the way past. And stop in Tulsa at Ike's Chili and eat a bowl of history for lunch. Tulsa is quite large with many attractions. Spend a bit of time here looking at what interests you. It may be Art related, the Oil Industry, the Golden Driller or perhaps the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. Also of interest is the Route 66 Historical Village and Ollie's Station Restaurant which helped inspire the animated movie Cars. The Philbrook Museum of Art is another stunning local attraction worth seeing. The 72 room mansion was owned by an oil tycoon and has 23 acres of gardens.
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Finish up in Stroud for the night where Route 66 has numerous classic buildings that are on the National register. After a look around you may feel like some Mexican food and Margaritas. There are plenty of attractions in this area.
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Stay at or near the Sooner Motel * - free parking - the Fiesta Cozumel Cantina & Grill is just across the road - the best Margaritas in Oklahoma.
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Or if you're not thinking of a big night on the tequila you might find the Hampton Inn & Suites Stroud *** more comfortable - free parking, indoor pool, fitness centre & good breakfast included
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8 oklahoma City OK - 1N
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Stroud is Oklahoma's Winery and Grape Capital so you could do a few cellar doors on your way to Oklahoma City. Morning smoko and souvenirs at Pops 66. It is only a short drive today to give you a break. Hire a Bird Scooter (or Lime or Helbiz) and spend the day looking around at the many things the state capital has to offer. There is the Oklahoma History Center, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Frontier City or maybe just a round of golf or visit to the water park.
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If you're looking for a drink try the 51st Street Speakeasy. They have a 4pm - 6pm happy hour with Appetisers and Cocktail combos. Spend the evening in the amazing Bricktown area just down the road. have a walk along the Bricktown Canal and take a relaxing ride on the Water Taxi to see what attractions are around. If you feel like a good steak head over to Cattlemen's Steakhouse in Stockyard City. Be aware steak is also on the menu tomorrow night.
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Stay near the Bricktown entertainment area. All of these are about a 5 minute walk away and have parking rates that are half of the other hotels.
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oklahoma City Downtown - Bricktown, an IHG Hotel *** - 24 hour desk, fitness centre, very good breakfast included, reasonably priced parking or street parking should be available
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Or the Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma City-Bricktown *** - excellent location around the corner from the river walk, 24 hour desk, very good breakfast included, ATM, snack bar, moderately priced onsite parking
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Or the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown *** - 24 hour desk, restaurant, bar, ATM, indoor pool, fitness centre, reasonably priced onsite parking
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9 amarillo TX - 1N
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Have breakfast at Sid's Diner which is about a half hour drive out of town in El Reno. The fried onion-burger has been filling up travellers in this area since 1926. Before you get there you'll see the Lake Overholser Bridge. Today you'll be traversing areas where the buffalo roamed and great cattle drives passed through as you head on to Texas. Stop for smoko in Clinton and go to the Route 66 museum there to learn about some of it's history and myths. Stop in Shamrock for lunch at the Tower Station and U Drop In Café. Another hour and a half will see you in Amarillo. You should have time in the afternoon to get out and see a few things.
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For dinner how about a free steak. All you have to do is eat a shrimp cocktail, baked potato, salad, buttered dinner roll and a 72oz steak. In less than an hour. Easy. Or you could just have a normal meal at the world famous Big Texan Steak Ranch.
Image by Dave Navarro from Pixabay
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Amarillo
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Stay at or near the one stop, big as all Texas the Big Texan Motel *** - free parking, Route 66 and cowboy themed rooms, good price, outdoor swimming pool, World famous Steak Ranch, Brewery, Amarillo's #1 music venue and gift shop all a short walk from your room
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10 - 11 Santa Fe NM - 2N
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Early start today as there's a bit to get through. Breakfast at Ye Olde Pancake Station then stop in at the Helium Centennial Time Columns Monument. Off to the "world famous" Cadillac Ranch just outside of town. Take some spray paint if you want to add to the colour or satisfy your inner graffiti artist. Stop for smoko after you've gone 1139 miles and still have 1139 miles to go. Yes you're half way there so a definite photo op and visit to the Midpoint Café. A quick hello to the ghosts at the border in Glenrio then Tucumcari for Watson's BBQ lunch or Del's Restaurant. This town was a part of the inspiration for the Disney movie Cars. Grab a map and do your own mural tour. Continue on through the "Wild West" to one of the US's most beautiful cities, Santa Fe - the Margarita Capital of the World!!
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Downtown Santa Fe
Image by Rony Rafael Romero from Pixabay
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You've earned a rest so have a couple of nights here and a day off. Lash out on a nice hotel with a pool if you can afford it. Have dinner at one of the great places to eat like La Lecheria - Ice Cream Parlour, Jambo Cafe - African / Arabic, Compound Restaurant - local innovation, El Nido - Open Fire Dining, Clafoutis - French Patisserie, the Plaza Café - the oldest restaurant in town, El Farol - the oldest bar / restaurant with a Flamenco dinner show and La Choza for Mexican and Margaritas. You may also want to do a tasting tour of Santa Fe Spirits or perhaps the Opera. There is plenty of lively night life in Santa Fe and here are a few bars worth visiting. There is a free shuttle service to get around to the city's attractions.
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Stay at or near La Fonda on the Plaza *** - fantastic location by the plaza, bell tower bar for sundowners, parking onsite for a reasonable fee, French Bakery, traditional adobe, outdoor swimming pool, rooftop hot tub, Spa and Wellness Centre, restaurant and bar, ATM, sun terrace
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A bit cheaper is the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza**** - 5 minute walk from the Historic Santa Fe Plaza, outdoor pool, 24 hour minimart, restaurant, 24 hour gym, outdoor jacuzzi and fireplace, cafe, reasonably (for here) priced parking
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Cheaper again 7km away from the centre of town but has a shuttle service into the plaza is the Coyote South *** - 24 hour desk, very cheap parking which is included in room price, fitness centre
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Santa Fe was founded in 1610 by the Spanish and it is known for it's Pueblo style and great views. Try breakfast at Café Pasqual's or the Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen. Spend the day exploring. It is full of historic sites, shops and restaurants. There are museums, art galleries, churches, markets, rafting, golf and the Kakawa Chocolate House. Try some of the local specialties including following the "Margarita Trail". Or have a sleep in and hang around the pool for a while. You might want to stock up the bar before the next leg of your trip.
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12 Monument Valley AZ - 1N
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Hopefully you are well rested because you have a full drive / ride today. You're taking a detour away from Route 66 but it will be well worth it. You're off to the stunningly spectacular Monument Valley. Head up to Los Alamos for a breakfast burrito at Chili Works . This was the town that was taken over by the Top Secret Manhattan Project which developed the first atom bombs. There were two different types represented by Little Boy and Fat Man which were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. There are some interesting places related to the project for a self guided tour. Don't miss the Bradbury Science Museum.
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Image by Christoph Drozdzdok from Pixabay
Straight out of the movie "Cars"
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Continue on through Cuba and other small towns on the way up to the Four Corners Monument where you can stand in four states at once. There are shops and markets here. Stop for lunch and smokos anywhere that takes your fancy. Just be sure to be booked in your hotel and enjoying a sundowner at Monument Valley by sunset. You'll have to BYO because alcohol cannot be sold on native land.
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It's worth making the effort to get up early for sunrise as you won't see too many as good as this. It is a good place to learn about Navajo Culture and there are various tours available. Or just do your own self drive 17 mile Tribal Loop. 4 x 4 not required but impassable when wet. With scenery from the old Westerns like this how about some horse riding.
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Stay at or near Goulding's Lodge *** who are the major players here - free parking, restaurant, indoor pool, ATM, sun terrace
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They have a variety from cabins, villas, apartments, rooms and houses. They have a restaurant with panoramic views of the valley and feature authentic Navajo and Southwestern cuisine. They sell gas and groceries. They have an indoor swimming pool, free parking, café, ATM, tour desk, sun terrace
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Two others you could look at are Fire Tree Bed and Breakfast
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13 SEligman AZ - 1N - Birthplace #2 of Historic R66
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Next stop the Grand Canyon. There are various ways to get involved with this. If you want to ride a mule down into it you need to book very early. Head into the Grand Canyon Village and you will be inundated with ways to spend your money. When you're ready head back to Route 66 and to welcome you back you'll be staying in Seligman the birthplace of "Historic Route 66".
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Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Route 66 Iconography - Seligman
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Step back in time to the real life Radiator Springs - Seligman was an inspiration for the animated movie Cars. In 1987 it was given the title of birthplace of the Historic Route 66 thanks to the efforts of some of it's citizens to get the road declared a "historic highway". Full of colourful old cars, kitsch and signs. To turn back the clock head on over to Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-in. Go shopping at the Rusty Bolt. Eat carrion at the Roadkill Café / OK Saloon :-) Have a margarita at the Road Runner Gift Shop, Café and Pub. Go boot scootin at the world famous Black Cat Bar. Sleep in a historic landmark motel.
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Stay at or near the Deluxe Inn *** - excellent location near all of the attractions, free parking, BBQ facilities.
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Or down the road a bit next to the Roadkill Cafe is the Historic Route 66 Motel - lots of Route 66 memorabilia, free parking
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14 - 15 las Vegas NV - 2N
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Have a good old fashioned diner breakfast and head on up via Peach Springs to Kingman on the old road. Pop into the Grand Canyon Caverns for a look. They're not as impressive as what you saw yesterday. Have a look around, there is another Route 66 museum, a visitor centre with souvenirs or maybe stretch your legs and have a coffee. There is a brewery, winery and distillery but it's a bit early in the day for that. Isn't it?
The Vegas Strip
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Next stop Nevada. Make your way to the Hoover Dam an engineering marvel first opened in 1936. Learn the story about the dog with an unfortunate name who owned a dam. There is a cafe here if you're getting hungry. There are a variety of walks too if you're feeling active.
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Half an hour away is Las Vegas and hopefully it's mid week so you can get a great deal on your hotel. Time for another break from the road as you spend a couple of nights here. Have a flutter, take in a show or two, you know the drill. Head to Senor Frogs and have a Margarita or three. Beware of expensive drinks in your hotel fridge. There are some pretty spectacular golf courses around here if you feel you need some exercise after sitting in a car for ten days.
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Stay on the strip around Bellagio. Try some of these for starters, all in an excellent location, with reasonable parking fees, you should be able to get a swimming pool or seven, half a dozen restaurants or more for under AUD $200. Hunt out the specials. Horseshoe Las Vegas formerly Bally's *** - excellent location very close to all of the attractions, outdoor pool, 5 restaurants & a fitness centre, onsite paid parking
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Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino *** - outdoor pool with entertainment, waterfalls & water slide, Beach Club pool & spa, 5 restaurants, gym, bar
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Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino **** - rooftop pool, Eiffel Tower with fine dining, 12 restaurants, 9 bars, full service spa & gym
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16 - 19 lA CA (Venice Beach) - 4N
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Hopefully you haven't blown all of your money on the tables. Stop in at Barstow for lunch. You could try Peggy Sue's 50's Diner that has been around since 1954. If you're starting to get a thing for Route 66 Museums you're in luck. There are two more left on the trip. One here in Barstow and it's free!!. There is another one just down the road at Victorville. Keep on going until you reach Santa Monica Pier. Take a selfie with the End of Trail sign. Don't forget to get your certificate of completion from the nearby Last Stop Shop. And one last souvenir. They close at 8pm weekdays and 10pm on weekends.
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Stay at or near Venice Suites *** - can park on the street or pay a reasonable fee for private parking per day, rooftop terrace for people watching - sea views and sunsets, amazing location on Ocean Front Walk, fully equipped kitchen, BBQ facilities, launderette.
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Hang on to your car it'll come in handy. Drop it off at the airport when you leave. Hang out on Venice Beach and prepare for a little Californication. Visit all of the major sights on your list like Disneyland, Hollywood, Universal Studios, Whiskey a Go Go, the Viper Room and have a French Dipped sandwich at Phillipe's (must eat). If you do nothing else on this trip do that last one! Visit nearby Olvera Street the birthplace of Los Angeles while you're in the area.
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If you're not ready to go home there are three more US Road Trips below, one #132 Train Trip from LA to Montreal and a trip from #12 Montreal to St. Johns in Newfoundland. It could be a good way to spend your Vegas winnings🤑.
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THE APPALACHIAN WAY 38N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - non stop americana
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2500 MILES, 9 STATES, 1 Federal District & 2 TIME ZONEs
Miami 1N - (or Vice Versa)
Key West 3N
Florida City 1N
Cocoa Beach 3N
St Augustine 3N
Savannah 3N
Atlanta 2N
Blue Ridge 2N
Chattanooga 1N
Nashville 2N
Cherokee 1N
Blowing Rock 1N
Gainsville 1N
Ronks 1N
Asbury Park 1N
New York 3N = 38N
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Key Lime Pie
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Joe's Stone Crab
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Everglades
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Key Largo
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Dollywood
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Enola Gay
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Mar-a- Lago
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Little Havana
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Joe's Stone Crabs
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Ocean Drive
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Lower Broadway
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A 200 foot buffet
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Kennedy Space Centre
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The Pentagon
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Mason - Dixon Line
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The White House
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Fountain of Youth
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Hemmingway's Cats
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Clothing Optional Bar
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Golf World Hall of Fame
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I Dream of Jeannie & Flipper
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Birthplace of Coca Cola
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Major Civil War Sites
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The Grand Old Opry
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Gettysburg & Valley Forge
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Sailfish Capital of the World
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Most Beautiful city in the USA
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Most Haunted city in the USA
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The World's largest Surf Shop
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The World's best Fried Chicken
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The Country Music Hall of Fame
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The World Golf Hall of Fame
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The World Famous Biltmore Pool
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The largest bas relief in the world
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Washington and the National Mall
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Major Civil and Revolutionary War Sites
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The World's most famous Golf Course
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Daytona - the World's most famous beach
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From Blue Ball to Intercourse to Paradise PA
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The Venetian - the world's most beautiful pool
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Blue Ridge Parkway - America's Favourite Drive
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Martin Luther King Junior's birthplace and grave
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World renowned Robert Is Here exotic smoothies
1 Miami Fl - 1N / 1 1 Miles
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Fly in to Miami and pick up a car🚗 at the airport and drive to a nearby hotel and relax and have a good nights sleep. If you arrive early enough you could drive straight down to Key West. It would depend on how jet lagged you're feeling. You'll need to get the car for 36 days and drop it off in New York. If you live in the USA and have your own car all the better. Or you could look at buying something and selling it in New York. Don't worry about leaving Miami without seeing anything as you'll get a chance on the way back. As this is a reasonably long trip there will be a cheap option for accommodation where ever possible. And there's always that motel on the edge of town.
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Stay at or near the North Bay Inn Miami *** - located on an island village in the bay, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, cheap parking onsite
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Cheaper option - Gables Inn ** - free onsite parking
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SPLURGE - stay at the famous Biltmore Hotel ***** - charged parking onsite, world famous swimming pool, 4 restaurants, golf course, bar
2 - 4 Key West FL - 3N / 171 m
“It’s the best place I’ve ever been any time, anywhere” - Ernest Hemingway - on Key West
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Next morning head off on one of the US's great road trips down the Overseas Highway to the Florida Keys. Have a coffee on the beachfront, skip breakfast and have brunch at Mrs. Mac's at Key Largo. You can start you Key Lime Pie tasting mission here as she boasts a world famous secret recipe version. Save some room for Key Lime pie at Islamorada where you have the Green Turtle and Lazy Days Restaurant. Perhaps you should get some to go and try it later. You can always come here for a feed on the way back up. Don't forget to pay your respects to Flipper the world's most famous dolphin on your way past. Check in to your hotel in Key West and start exploring.
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Stay at or near Douglas House *** - excellent location in the old town just off Duval Street and a short walk from the action, free parking onsite, outdoor swimming pool, tropical gardens, sun terraces, massage
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You might also like to see what Airbnb has to offer
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Eccentric and beautiful Key West is closer to Cuba than the US and before Castro took power there were regular ferry and air services between the two. Among the attractions are the Hemmingway Home & Museum with it's famous cats, the cemetery with it's humorous epitaphs, the Southernmost Point of the United States and Mallory Square which is full of buskers, street performers and colourful people. They all gather every night to watch the sunset.
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Food and drink is a big thing here. There is the iconic Key Lime Pie and working out who makes the best one. Other treats include Lobster Eggs Benedict for breakfast, Pepe's Corned Beef Hash, Hogfish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, long boozy Sunday Brunches including unlimited Mimosas and a DIY Bloody Mary Bar, Glazed Donuts in creative flavours such as Piña Colada, Candied Kumquat, Blood Orange Marmalade, Pumpkin Pecan Praline and Dulce de Leche. Plenty of fresh and delicious seafood available. Another local icon is the Conch Fritter plus Conch Chowder, Conch Sandwich, Florida Keys Spiny Lobster and Key West Pink Shrimp. How about some Cookie Nookie Pie for dessert.
Image by Alexandru Strujac from Pixabay
Cape Canaveral
Image by SpaceX-Imagery from Pixabay
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Key Lime Pie - isn't green!
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Go to Key West Tours 2
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If you are feeling like minded with the locals you might pick up a Conch Republic Passport. It could save your life.
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One of the big pastimes around here is enjoying a drink or three. If you're starting at sunset Mallory Square then the adjacent Sunset Tiki Bar is the place to be. For a bit of old Key West try the Schooner Wharf Bar, or a sunset sail aboard a Historic Key West Schooner. Floating Tiki Bars mean you can have your own private sunset cruise.
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Duval Street is the main drag and a pub crawl will see you visiting some of the most famous bars in town. There is an official one you can join for company and fun. There is a rooftop garden bar where you can strip off if the mood takes you. No pictures and towels on seats required. There are many top rated, "iconic" and "world famous" bars around. If you like drinking this is your town. If you don't how about a ghost tour.
5 Florida City Fl - 1N / 127 m
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Have a look at the Florida Keys on your way out and stop off for brunch or an early lunch somewhere by the water. Continue north across the 42 bridges of the Overseas Highway 1. Grab a hotel in Florida City. Get here with enough time to go and visit the Everglades Alligator Farm which is 10 minutes out of town. Or you might want to save your airboat and alligator experiences for the Everglades tomorrow. Check and see if anything is on at the nearby NASCAR track. Or see what live performances are on at the Seminole Theatre. Head into historical Homestead for a stroll around and some surprising dinner options.
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Stay at or near Best Western gateway to the Keys - Florida City. Homestead, Everglades *** - free parking, outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, free buffet breakfast you can have by the pool, ATM
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Or the Hoosier Hostel ** - free parking, fun leftover from the hippie days with swimming pool, outdoor shower, waterfall, hammocks
6 Miami south Beach Fl - 1N / 43 m
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Start off early in the morning for your Everglades tour via the Homestead Entrance. Take some food with you. Stop in at local icon Robert Is Here..... Fruit Stand for your exotic fruit smoothie. If you can't make up your mind which one you want just have another one on the way home. First stop will be the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Centre to get you started. There is another one further along at Flamingo. Stop in at the HM69 Nike Missile base if it's open on the way through the Everglades. See the Pink Flamingos, take an air boat ride and go for a scenic fauna and flora filled hike. There are normal boat tours available at the Flaming Marina. Go on a guided Ranger tour.
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Everglades National Park
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When you've seen enough make your way to the Biltmore Hotel and it's world famous swimming pool to cool off for the afternoon. It is still one of the largest in the world and back in the day many of Hollywood's biggest stars would hang out here. In fact Olympic Champion and Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller was a swimming instructor here. Head off to your hotel in South Beach and get ready for a night out in party central. Monty's Raw Bar is a great place for sunset. Waterside Happy Hour from 4pm - 7pm with open seafood bar and live music. Rooftop bars are always great at sunset Ocean Drive isn't known for it's good value prices so here are a few Happy Hours to get things started.
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Stay at or near the Colony Hotel *** - expensive secure parking, Art Deco hotel (this one is one of the most popular to photograph) located on Ocean Drive 1 minute from the beach right in the heart of everything, restaurant, bar, ATM
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A cheaper option is the Bikini Hostel, Cafe & Beer Garden *** - parking onsite for a reasonable fee, 10 minute walk to the beach, bars and restaurants, free breakfast and dinner included, restaurant, bar, garden, ATM
7 Fort Lauderdale Fl - 1N / 50 m
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Have a look around Miami today. Start off in Little Havana for breakfast / brunch. Spend a bit of time here seeing what's around. Get yourself a few Cuban cigars and some rum for down the road. Don't miss lunch at Joe's Stone Crab for a real local delicacy at a real local icon. You may have to wait but it will be worth it. Even if you don't like crabs. Walk off lunch along the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk and enjoy a little afternoon smoko.
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Later in the afternoon check in to your hotel at Fort Lauderdale. Stay at or near Snooze ** - excellent location across from the beach and next door to the Casablanca Cafe, walking distance to shops and restaurants, beach gear available, rooftop terrace, parking is cheap
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Then it's off to Pelican Landing for sundowners You might want to go to the Mai Kai Polynesian Revue Dinner Show later. Or if it's a Friday / Saturday maybe the live mermaid show at The Wreck Bar. They also have great Sunday Brunches. Or perhaps a river cruise on the Jungle Queen.
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Breakfast at the O-B House where Fort Lauderdale comes to have breakfast. Follow the A1A north along the coast. Use this road as much as possible as you head up the coast. Stop in at Palm Beach to see Mar-a-Lago which was famous well before Trump came along. A visit to the historic Breakers Hotel is a must as well. A fascinating book about the history of this area and the personalities involved is Palm Beach Babylon by Murray Weiss and Bill Hoffmann. Truth really is stranger than fiction.
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8 - 10 Cocoa Beach FL - 3N / 191 m
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Smoko stop in Stuart at the original Jupiter Donuts. Stuart is known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World" so if that's your thing you might want to spend a night or two in this pleasant town. Continue on to Cocoa Beach the setting for I dream of Jeannie. Younger travellers may need to google that one. Cocoa beach is a surf town and a party town. Eleven time world surfing champion Kelly Slater was born and raised here. He even has a statue. It's also next door to the truly amazing Kennedy Space Centre. As you can imagine there's a fair bit to see and do there. Another major attraction is nearby Disneyworld in Orlando. So if 3 days isn't enough time to get to do everything just stretch it out.
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Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Lift Off - Cape Canaveral
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Stay at or near Days Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach Port Canaveral ** - excellent location 4 minute walk to Cocoa Beach Pier, outdoor pool, 2 restaurants, American breakfast included, parking is very cheap
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Photo by pan xiaozhen on Unsplash
The Walt Disney World Resort - Orlando
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Some local places not to be missed are the Ron Jon Surf Shop open 24/ 7 and it's the world's largest. A good place for souvenirs and all things beach related. Sunrise Diner is good for breakfast for such delights as Irish Benedict, poached eggs with corned beef hash and Crab Benedict. Fishlips Waterfront Bar and Grill is the place for Sunday Mimosa Brunch and lunch. It has a sundeck and a Tiki bar upstairs. On the pier you have Pelican's Bar & Grill, the Boardwalk Bar, Keith's Oyster Bar and the Rikki Tikki Tavern at the end of the pier is where to go for sundowners. Seafood Atlantic with it's outdoor deck is a good place to enjoy super fresh local seafood for dinner. The Fish Camp Grill has Cajun food and live music. Around the corner from the hotel is the Cocoa Beach Ale House. Also worth a mention are Barkada Bowl Poke - Ellie Mae's Tiki Bar with live music - Kafe del Puerto Puertorican Eatery - Crackers Island Grille for Old Florida - Sunset Cafe Waterfront Bar & Grill. A dinner show cruise on the Indian River Queen is another option. Finally it'll be time to head to Coconuts on the Beach with it's huge deck and great ocean view. On your way to or from the Space Centre stop in at the world famous Dixie Crossroads for a feed of shrimp.
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Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.
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11 - 13 St Augustine Fl - 3N / 132 m
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Pick up lunch along the way and drive onto Daytona Beach for your beach picnic and a swim. Crab lovers will want to visit Crabby Joes on the Sunglow Pier, just drive on over. Rev heads will want to go out to Daytona International Speedway where you you can visit the museum, amusement park or even drive a few laps yourself. St Augustine was founded in 1565 making it one of the oldest settlements in the US. You will hear a lot about Henry Flagler while you're in Florida and it all started when he brought his sickly wife here in the early 1880's. He opened up the state by building a railway service down the coast and erecting major hotels.
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In town stay at or near The Pirate Haus Inn ** - excellent central location walking distance to everything, all you can eat pancake breakfast included, parking is quite cheap
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For an option across the river try Anastasia Inn Saint Augustine ** - charged onsite parking, good location 5 minute walk to the Conch House and the beach, 15 minute walk to the colonial quarter, small swimming pool
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St. Augustine has the works, some tacky some exceptional. The Lightner Museum was Henry Flagler's Hotel Alcazar and like the town itself has a bit of everything. There is an old Spanish Fort, a recreated Colonial Quarter complete with artisans and tradesmen, the World Golf Hall of Fame where you can register your Hole in One's (all none of them) and the Fountain of Youth where you can take a sip. In fact you can even get Aussie Pies there at The Kookaburra. Travel back in time to the Colonial Quarter, the Spanish Military Hospital Museum, the Old Jail and the Pirate and Treasure Museum. Have a free tasting and tour at the St Augustine Distillery. There is a Hop on Hop off Trolley to help get you around. Or take the Pirate ship experience. There have been a few sail into the harbour over the years.
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For a rooftop bar at sunset head over to River & Fort. Come dinnertime give some of these a try. Oscar's Old Florida Grill is the place to head for live Bluegrass and Sundowners. Night life here is full of energy and there are many bars and most of them feature live music. If you're down the beach head to the Conch House for great food and cocktails. Don't miss the famous Reggae Sunday's if you're in town.
14 - 16 Savannah GA - 3N / 190 m
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Stop in at the Kingsley Plantation just out of Jacksonville the last remaining antebellum (pre-civil war - you will see this word a lot through Georgia in relation to mansions etc) plantation in Florida. You can explore the slave quarters, kitchen house, Plantation House, waterfront and the other old buildings at this State Historic Site. Continue along the Old Atlantic Highway and make your way through Georgia to the most beautiful city in the USA, Savannah. It is also the most haunted city as well. Fortunately General Sherman spared the city during his March to the Sea during the Civil War.
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While you're here go to the second hand shop and get yourself a cheap sleeping bag of some sheets and a blanket as you'll need them at the next stop. You can probably get something new from one of the discount chains.
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The Savannah Waterfront exudes Southern charm and hospitality. There are paddle driven riverboats as well as a lot of shopping, eating and drinking establishments. You can even ride a refurbished Melbourne tram along it'd length. It has gorgeous mansions and colonial buildings and has been described as a beautiful lady with a dirty face because she likes to play up. Things get crazy in March when they celebrate St. Patricks Day. Bull street is where Forest Gump sat at the bus seat in the movie. There is a great walk along the river front called Factor's Walk. Or for a good walk spoiled head out to the Savannah Inn and Golf Country Club. One time secret playground for mobsters, Hollywood royalty and the local members of high society. Jimmy Hoffa is said to be buried on the course perhaps solving the 40 year mystery of where he ended up. He is not the only one to have met with a premature demise around here.
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Stay at or near the Planters Inn on Reynolds Square *** - parking is expensive, excellent location a short walk to the river front, 2 restaurants, bar, fitness centre, bike rental, spa & wellness centre
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Splurge - where Al Capone used to stay at The DeSoto **** - excellent location in the heart of historic Savanah, near restaurants and bars, outdoor rooftop swimming pool with bar, onsite parking is expensive, 2 restaurants, bar with Happy Hour, café, Fitness Centre, ATM
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There are some famous places to eat around town and some famous dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes and Peach Cobbler. Some of the other favourite restaurants include these 10 places. Head out to Tybee Island for the fantastic setting, views and food at the Crab Shack. after a long lunch make your way to the nearby CoCo’s Sunset Grille for sundowners. With handmade drinks and perfect views of the river, marina and the sunset. You might see Forest coming in on his shrimp boat. Might as well have some more seafood while you're here. It doesn't get any fresher and it's served up with great drinks and music. You may not want to leave Tybee Island. And you probably shouldn't drive. Take an Uber out there as its only a 20 minute drive.
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Photo by Jose Llamas on Unsplash
Oak Forest with Spanish Moss - Savannah
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To have an uniquely southern dining experience go to Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. Line up early and take a big appetite. Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlour opened their doors in 1919 so that in itself is a good enough reason for a visit. Family recipes home made on the premises is another. Another local institution with a long history was the Johnny Harris Restaurant opened in 1924. Although the restaurant is now closed you can still get the same food made by the same people at BowTie Barbeque Co.
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Moon River south of town may pique your interest, there are hop on hop off trolley tours, farmers markets, quintessential southern scenes, the birthplace museum of the founder of the Girl Scouts, Hearse Ghost Tours and various places of historical interest.
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In Savannah they like a drink and unlike many other places you can walk around with it. Head for these rooftop bars at sunset. River Street is a good spot for a DIY Pub Crawl. Or how about a haunted Creepy Pub Crawl. There are a lot of bars around Savannah worth going to. Some places worth checking out are Rocks on the Roof and the beer garden at the Moon River Brewing Company.
17 - 18 Stone Mountain Park GA - 2N / 250 m
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Have lunch in Augusta and golfers might like to take a look / photo op outside the famous Golf Course. Unfortunately you can't even go down the drive but there is a small sign you could stand in front of and maybe do a lap of the course. Outside the fence. For non-golfers this is probably the most famous and coveted course on the planet. On Friday's you could have lunch at Luigi's where many golfing celebrities have also eaten (11.30am - 2pm). Final stop today is the Stone Mountain Park. You'll be glamping so pick up some meat for a BBQ and some other supplies to keep you going for a couple of days.
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Once a rock quarry and the symbolic birthplace of the Ku Klux Klan. Stone Mountain Park is the site of the Confederate Memorial Carving, the largest bas relief in the world. It took numerous sculptors from 1916 to 1972 to finish the sculpture of three Confederate leaders on horseback. Unfortunately Confederate leaders aren't so popular anymore and are being removed around the country. This one presents more of a problem than most.
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There are two ways to get to the top, walk the trail or take the cable car. When you get there you will be rewarded with amazing views of the Atlanta skyline and the Appalachian Mountains. You could ride up and walk down. In the evening there is a spectacular laser light and sound show. Spend the night here (they have lakefront wooden yurts) and explore tomorrow if you didn't get enough time today. There is a scenic railway around the base a historic square, attractions, dining and shopping options. There are also a couple of championship golf courses here if you feel like a round. Very scenic with the lake and Stone Mountain in the picture.
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Stay in one of the lakeside yurts with wonderful views over the water and up to the mountain. There is a minimum 2 night stay and you'll need your own bedding. Check in is 2 pm and check out is 11am. Unfortunately alcohol is not permitted. There are 7 different dining options in the campgrounds plus a general store and some gift shops.
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For a cheaper option go for the Safari Tent Site
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Splurge - the Evergreen Marriott Resort **** - beautiful location on the lake, free parking, heated outdoor and indoor pools, 2 restaurants, cafe,
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Or The Inn at Stone Mountain Park *** - free parking, outdoor pool
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Image by Paul Brennan from Pixabay
Politically Incorrect Stone Mountain
19 - 20 Atlanta Ga - 2N / 28 m
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Atlanta is the state capital and birthplace of Coca Cola. Unlike Savannah which was left alone by Sherman, he burnt Atlanta to the ground. Naturally a tour of the World of Coca Cola will be high on the to do list. Other highlights include the Georgia Aquarium - Martin Luther King Jnr's birthplace and grave - the National Centre for Civil and Human Rights
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Stay at or near Hyatt House Atlanta Downtown *** - very expensive secured parking onsite, great location near many of the sights and downtown, outdoor pool, fitness centre, bar, sun terrace, free breakfast, ATM, BBQ facilities, minimarket
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Or Hyatt Place Atlanta Centennial Park *** - expensive onsite parking, excellent location close to everything, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, great breakfast included
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There is plenty to see, do, eat and drink within walking distance of the hotel. If you want to have a drink further afield there is MARTA and Uber of course. If you get a chance head out to the Atlanta Belt Line.
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Sundaze Kitchen - brunch and Mimosa towers until 5pm
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Atlanta Breakfast Club - southern breakfast
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Apache XLR - food, drinks and live entertainment
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Encore Hookah Bar & Bistro - for drinks and hookahs
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The Yard Milkshake Bar - another shark tank success
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Der Biergarten - al fresco beer garden
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STATS Brewpub - draught direct
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Baja Fresh Mexican Grill and Dos Bocas (Authentic Cajun, Tex-Mex & Prickly Pear Margaritas)
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Bottle Cap Cafe - Coca Cola Pina Colada
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Majestic Diner - food that pleases since 1929
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Manuel's Tavern - "one of the best bars in the US" - Esquire
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Butter & Cream - hometown, house made ice cream
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Mary Mac's Tea Room - southern cooking since 1945
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The Varsity - family owned and operated since 1928
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Busy Bee Cafe - since 1947, James Beard award winner
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Paschal's - soul food since 1947
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Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream - ice cream of the future
21- 22 Blue Ridge GA - 2N / 102 m
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When your ready head on up to Blue Ridge and get a cabin out in the woods where you can hide away and relax for a couple of days. Stock up with local produce on the way. Enjoy some home cooking and a few BBQs. Sit around the fire with a some beers and wines. Go hiking through the forest. Play a round of golf or two on the scenic local courses.
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Stay at or near Swiss Puure Huus - parking onsite, beautiful location, 1 bedroom holiday home, patio, fully equipped kitchen with coffee machine, fireplace, BBQ
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Nearby is Tank Town USA a heavy equipment playground where you can drive a tank with a machine gun and crush cars among other things. You can also ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway along the beautiful Toccoa River, go to one of the last remaining Drive In's and visit Farmers Markets. Try the many specialties in some of the wonderful local restaurants. Or pick up a gourmet picnic supper to take back to your cabin. There are a couple of brewing companies worth a look, some wineries and a hard cidery. Some other places worth a visit include the Pink Pig BBQ place - Grumpy Old Men Brewing - Rum Cake Lady and Carroll's Barbeque.
23 ChatTanooga TN - 1N / 81 m
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Stop in at Mercier Orchards for a breakfast fit for a king then keep on going through to Chattanooga. Go out to the top of Lookout Mountain and you should be able to see 7 states. Go to the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel for a look around and a check in. If you can resist eating lunch here continue on to Bea's Restaurant, home of the best fried chicken in the world. Spend the night in this charming city that made it on to the New York Times top 45 cities in the world list.
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Stay at or near the Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo *** - in a historical building on the grounds of the iconic Chattanooga Train Station, onsite parking for a good price, great location surrounded by restaurants and night life of Station Street, several restaurants, bars and a night club with live music, entertainment and comedy, café, ATM, outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, fitness centre
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A Cheaper option The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel * - free parking, great location close to Station Street, the world's first LEED Platinum Hostel, full kitchen, free breakfast, laundry facilities, a variety of rooms from dorm to private
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24 Cascade Hollow TN - 1n / 104 m
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Next stop Lynchburg, Tennessee home of Jack Daniels and where you'll doing a tour. Even if you don't like Bourbon - correctly called Tennessee Whiskey you should find it interesting to see how it's made and if you do like Bourbon / Tennessee Whiskey you'll be in heaven. Afterwards head to Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House Restaurant for a typical southern lunch. Mr. Jack used to eat here a hundred years ago. You know - Mr. Jack. That should soak up some of the alcohol for your drive to the next distillery. After lunch have a browse in the Lynchburg Hardware & General Store if you want some souvenirs. If you're not a drinker or not interested just skip this and head straight for Nashville. Or just do one distillery and see some of the other attractions around the area.
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The George Dickel Distillery is twenty minutes away and is open for tours from Thursday to Monday. The last tour starts at 3.30pm. These distilleries are two of the most revered and highly respected whiskey brands on the market today. Compare the two, buy a bottle of each and perhaps spend the evening tasting.
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You will be in quaint little Cascade Hollow which isn't on a lot of maps and the only accommodation is the Cascade Hollow Lodge so get your booking in early. They have a dining room. It's not on Booking.com so you'll have to do it through their website. Check which days both places are open and tour times.
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Broadway - Nashville Tennessee
Image by Garrett Hill from Pixabay
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Go to Nashville Tours 2
25 - 26 Nashville TN - 2n / 75 m
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Slight change of scenery today as you go from the negligible population of Cascade Hollow to the million plus of Nashville. If you love music and food you're going to be very busy. There is a plethora of both here to get around to and experience. Many of them famous and very old. You can tour the city on a hop on and off Trolley Bus, by Segway, do a dinner and music cruise on the General Jackson Showboat and see some of the major league sites like the Grand Old Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Lower Broadway with it's Honky Tonks and Dance Halls among many other highlights. You will be walking in the footsteps of many famous personalities.
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Stay 1 mile away from Broadway across the river at Comfort Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown - Stadium ** - free parking, great location 10 minute walking distance to Lower Broadway over the pedestrian bridge, guitar shaped indoor pool, free buffet breakfast, minimart, ATM
27 Cherokee NC - 1n / 254 m
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Take a very scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains to the Titanic Museum with it's various replicas. Then stop at Dollywood for some lunch and perhaps fun. Continue on to Cherokee the beginning of the Blue Ridge Parkway and your stop for the night. You might want to learn about the Indians at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Oconaluftee Indian Village while you are here. Or maybe some tubing down the river or a scenic walk along that river. There are a range of places to eat around town.
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Stay at or near the Quality Inn Cherokee *** - free parking, private balconies on the river - with walkway, ducks, elk and trout fishing, free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, sun terrace, sun loungers, minimart
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Cheaper option Qualla Cabins and Motel * - free parking, great location right on the river, garden, terrace and BBQ,
28/30 BLOWING ROCK NC - PEAKS OF OTTER VA - Gainsville VA
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5 minutes north of Cherokee you'll find the southern entry to the Blue Ridge Parkway off to the right. A couple of things worth knowing is the speed limit is 45 mph on the Parkway and there are no Gas / Petrol Stations on it so fill up before you head off. The Marker Map will have gas stations marked on overnight stays and some main roads you cross over. Have a hearty breakfast and then hit the entrancing Blue Ridge Parkway - America's favourite drive.
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The Blue Ridge Parkway - Americas Favourite Drive
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There are plenty of places you'll want to stop as well as the speed limit means you won't be covering the same sort of miles you normally do. There is a non stop string of natural highlights and some wonderful little towns along the way. there are also some pretty amazing man made sights such as the Biltmore Estate. There is some great food, music and small town bars along the journey too. Some people take weeks to go through. You'll do it in three days plus Skyline through Shenandoah National Park. Take a bit longer if you want to get a bit more interactive. The first day is 271 miles, then 206 and 229. Have a look through the tours above⬆️ and there is an app you can download on to your phone which will give you information and stories according to your GPS location.
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Blowing Rock, stay at Hillwinds Inn - Blowing Rock *** - free parking, excellent location close to the main street, rocking chairs on your porch
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A slightly cheaper option Mountainaire Inn and Log Cabins - free parking, excellent location just around the corner from Main Street, fire pit
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Peaks of Otter stay at Peaks of Otter Lodge *** - free parking, fabulous location on the lake, restaurant, bar / lounge, minimart - on Hotels.com
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For a cheaper option turn left down Peaks Rd after you go past Peaks of Otter Lodge and go to Graham Ordinary Lodge - get in early as they only have 2 suites
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Before driving Skyline check and see that is open as it could be closed due to inclement weather. You have to pay an entrance fee to get into Shenandoah National Park. If you want to stretch your legs there is a 3 km self guiding walk called "Story of the Forest" at the Big Meadows Wayside. This is also the only place to get gas on Skyline.
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Gainsville stay at or near the Hampton Inn Gainsville - Haymarket *** - free public parking nearby, great location near restaurants and bars, indoor pool, fitness centre, free breakfast, minimart
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Or if you want to save some money the hotels outside the Manassas Battlefield are a bit cheaper. Try the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Manassas ** - free parking, pool, very good breakfast included, spa & wellness centre, fitness centre
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Or the Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Washington DC - Manassas - Free parking, good location - walking distance to eating, drinking and bowling.
31 - 32 Washington DC - 2N
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On your way into Washington, the nations capital stop in at historical Manassas National Battlefield Park one of the top ten civil war sites. You can do a walking tour around the first battlefield and a driving tour around the second. You can also visit the Henry Hill Visitor Center and museum. Two major battles were fought here both being won by the south. Next stop is the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. This is an extension of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and has some very interesting exhibits if you are interested in aviation and space travel. Featured are Enola Gay of Hiroshima infamy, the Space Shuttle Discovery, X15 and many other rare gems. There is a lot to see in this town so if you are into these types of museums and government buildings you might want to add a day or so to give yourself enough time to see everything you want.
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In Washington see all of the sights and monuments around the National Mall. Major attractions include the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, US Capitol Building, Supreme Court of the United States, Library of Congress and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum.
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The Capitol Building - Washington DC
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There are many ways to get around Washington like electric carts, open air trolley buses, segways and bicycles so just take your pick. The DEA has an interesting museum featuring different types of drug paraphernalia. Try to organise yourself a White House Tour. They are difficult and if you fail you can always go to the Visitor Centre which is like a museum. To view the Declaration of Independence you will need to visit the National Archives Museum. you will also see the Constitution and the Bill of Rights there. Fortunately all of these buildings are within close proximity of each other. And don't forget the International Spy Museum.
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Being a historic sort of place it is no surprise that Washington has a few famous eating and watering holes worth visiting as well as local signature dishes. Don't miss Ben's Chili Bowl for a half smoke which is very similar to a hot dog. Presidents and commoners alike have eaten in this Washington institution which has witnessed a lot of history over the years. Head to The Wharf DC for your evening's entertainment. A 24 acre development with restaurants, bars, music venues and a historical fish market. It is only a 10 minute walk from the hotel. In fact get there in time for sundowners.
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You don't get much for your accommodation dollar in Washington. Stay at or near citizenM Washington DC Capitol **** - reasonably priced parking, excellent location only 5 minute walk from the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, modern hotel where you can control everything in the room from your phone, restaurant and bar, rooftop terrace. You're within walking distance to most things you'll want to see. If you want to travel further afield there are many options.
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Another option Hotel Hive *** - reasonably priced parking nearby - reservation needed, excellent location 10 minutes walk from the Lincoln Memorial, micro hotel, restaurant, bar - Happy Hour, terrace, cafe
33 Ronks PA - 1N / 152 m
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Drive past the Pentagon Building for a gander as you head out to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. When you cross the state border into Pennsylvania you will also be crossing the Mason Dixon Line. It came to represent the line between north and south and also where slavery was allowed and where it was illegal. Gettysburg was the scene of a major battle and the turning point in the Civil War. The famous Gettysburg Address was given by Lincoln four months later at a dedication ceremony for the cemetery. You will need a good two or three hours to look around here. You can do a tour by Segway and it takes 3 hours and there are driving tours. There is the Battleground and other places where you could have lunch as well as the oldest restaurant in town the historical 1776 Dobbin House Tavern.
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Make you way to Ronks in the middle of Amish Country and book into your accommodation. You have a choice of styles tonight and if you really like it you could spend both night here.
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Stay at or near the Inn at Hershey Farm ** - free secured parking, great location close to Amish Buggy Rides and the Sight and Sound Theatre, free buffet breakfast, restaurant serving home cooked meals and freshly baked bread - specialising in Dutch Pennsylvania Dutch dishes such as Whoopie Pie, on-site bakery, country store, outdoor pool, outdoor fireplace
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Or an Amish Farm Stay - various locations
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Or stay in a train at the Red Caboose Motel & restaurant ** - free onsite parking, great location near Amish Buggy Rides, restaurant, ice cream parlour, petting zoo
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Cheaper option Country Living Inn *** - free parking on-site, good location in Smoketown, restaurant, garden
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Around Ronks you will find the Amish Village - Strasburg Steam Rail Road - Sight & Sound Theatres - Dutch Wonderland - Dutch Haven for souvenirs and Shoo Fly Pie and Amish Country Scooter Tours.
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Amish treats in store include a Buggy ride to an Amish Farm, tours to schools and homesteads, Amish food featuring Apple Dumplings, Scrapple, Shoo-fly Pie, Whoopie Pie, Apple Butter, Chow-chow, delicious bakeries, cafes and restaurants with very hearty fare. Two not to miss are the Log Cabin and the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop. Why not pick up a recipe book while you're out shopping around. You can treat your friends back home to an Amish night. If you get thirsty there is the Wacker Brewing Company, the Lancaster Brewing Company, the Thistle Finch Distillery and an old speakeasy set up in a barn called the Horse Inn. There are any number of tours and you can just drive your self around and take in as much Amish culture as you can.
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34 Intercourse PA - 1N / 6 m
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Don't forget to pick up an I❤️Intercourse Pennsylvania T-shirt and spend the night while you're there. And just to confuse people get a I Blue Ball T-shirt from Blue Ball. Remember they don't want their photo taken and give their buggies and horses a wide berth on the roads. And don't toot!
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Amish Horse & Buggy - don't toot!
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Stay at or near the Travelers Rest Motel ** - with free parking and exceptional breakfast included
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Intercourse attractions and places to eat include Barry's Car Barn - Farmer's Markets - Taylor Chip Cookies - Amos's Place, restaurant for Stoltzfus Meats - The Village Cafe, for coffee and treats and Lapp Valley Farm Dairy & Ice Cream. Head out to Blue Ball and the 200 foot buffet at the Shady Maple Smorgasbord. Check out the gift shop while you're there.
35 Asbury Park NJ - 1N / 143 M
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From the turning point in the Civil War to the turning point in the Revolutionary War at the Valley Forge National Historic Park. Valley Forge was very important as Washington's forces survived the harsh winter to fight another day. If you run out of time spend the night and look around tomorrow. You can self drive or take bicycles if you want to give the legs a stretch. Now that your war history education is complete make your way to Bruce Springsteen's hometown, Asbury Park. Have a late lunch and pull in for the best Philly Cheesesteak at Pat's or Geno's. You decide, they are just across the intersection from each other.
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Stay at or near The Melrose ** - excellent location 10 mins walk from the Stone Pony and a good price, terrace, no onsite parking but should be street parking nearby
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Spend some time at the beach before heading into the big city. Wander along the revitalised boardwalk. Try some retro pinball, Funnel cake, Saltwater Taffy and Lobster Rolls. There are some bars you will need to frequent. Firstly there is the Beach Bar which made it into CNN's world's top 50 bars. Then there is the dog friendly Wonder Bar with their Yappy Hours and live music. The rooftop beer garden and if it's the weekend the 1,000 person venue, The Stone Pony credited with launching Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi is a no brainer.
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The Big Apple🍎
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36 - 38 New York NY - 3N
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Head into New York New York, drop the car off and start to tick items off of your bucket list. (Three days won't be long enough but see what you can do. Or extend if you can.) Statue of Liberty - probably best seen from the Staten Island ferry, Central Park, Times Square, Empire State Building, Broadway - see a show or two, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Yankee Stadium - do the tour, Wall Street - home of the robber barons, Greenwich Village - a haven for bohemians, 5th Avenue - the most well known avenue in New York, Grand Central Terminal - and the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant, Brooklyn Bridge - New York's most famous bridge and the 9/11 Memorial. A few more might be the High Line - repurposed elevated rail spur, Katz's Delicatessen - the most famous deli in the world, Chelsea Market - famous market in the old meat packing district, The Russian Tea Room - a treasured institution, Delmonico’s - steaks and baked Alaska since 1837, Russ & Daughters - over 100 years of bagels and lox, Junior's - famous cheesecake, Grimaldi's - 100 years of making pizza, Gray's Papaya - some of the best hot dogs and Lombardi's - the first for pizza in the USA. And we've barely scratched the surface. You're going to be busy.
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Stay at or near Doubletree By Hilton New York Times Square West **** - parking is US$85 per day so you might want to return that hire car after you drop your bags off, great location 10 mins walk from Times Square, rooftop bar, 2 restaurants, fitness centre
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Or in Chinatown the cheaper Hotel Mimosa *** - great location close to the subway and 9/11 Memorial, coffee house, no parking
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Cheapest option here is the Hl New York City Hostel *** - great location uptown and a 10 minute walk to Central Park, large patio with outdoor furniture, close to the subway, cafe, pub crawls, entertainment, a good place to meet people, 18 minute train ride to Times Square, all dorm beds apart from 4 person private room, ATM, no parking
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If you still have the travel urge and some dollars left you could take the very scenic and wonderful Adirondack train through the Hudson Valley and Adirondack Mountains to Montreal. From there you could make your way to one of a kind #12 St. John's and Newfoundland. Or you could take the Lake Shore Limited via Boston and Albany to Chicago and drive / ride #66 Route 66 to Los Angeles. Either way you'll have a blast.
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THE PAN HANDLE 22N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - beaches, springs & Swamps
New Orleans 4N
Pensacola 1N
Apalachicola 1N
Tallahassee 1N
Ichetucknee Springs State Park 2N
Orlando 3N
Key West 4N = 22N
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Tube the Ichetucknee River
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Oyster Po' Boys & Muffulettas
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Cafe au Lait & Beignets
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The National WWII Museum
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Samuel Zemurray's House
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New Orleans' Iconic Drinks
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Set of the Truman Show
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Stunning Beaches
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USS Alabama
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Apalachicola oysters
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World's Smallest Police Station
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Ichetucknee Springs
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Walt Disney World Resort
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Kennedy Space Centre
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The Don CeSar - Pink Palace
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The Holocaust Museum
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Drink a Bushwacker
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Mallory Square Sunsets
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Conch Republic Passport
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Key Largo & Flipper
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Conch fritters & Key Lime Pie
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Mississippi River Steamboats
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World’s Luckiest Fishing Village
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The French Quarter & Bourbon St
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Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo
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Stone Crab Capital of the World
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Jackson Square
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Lafayette Cemetery
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Creole & Cajun food
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St. George Island
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The Dali museum
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Tiki Bars
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The Gulf Coast
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The Emerald Coast
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The Forgotten Coast
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The Paradise Coast
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The Unforgettable Coast
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Hemmingway's cats & favourite bar
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Rosie O’Grady’s Goodtime Emporium
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The Finest fried chicken on the Planet
1 - 4 New Orleans - 4N
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If you're looking for a fascinating book to take with you or to read before you go, you can't go past The Fish that ate the Whale. Not so much about New Orleans but one of it's citizens - Sam Zemurray the Banana Man of New Orleans. You will be amazed at just how interesting bananas are and you'll be able to visit some of the sites where he left his mark.
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Fly into New Orleans (pronounced New Or-lins by the locals) aka the Big Easy for it's hedonistic ways. The hotel has pick up for a fee or take the express bus which drops you off in Canal Street and costs USD$1.50.
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It's a great place to eat, drink and party. It's mainly about the night time here but there is plenty to see and do during the day. Try the hop on hop off bus for a look around. Take a walking tour of the French Quarter. Maybe a rum distillery and tasting tour, Airboat swamp tour or a Katrina tour. Need a Voodoo Doll? The French market has them. What about a Steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River. On Sunday's they have a jazz cruise. Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo is a good place to pick up some souvenirs learn a little about it and maybe pick up the Hex your Ex kit.
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Stay at or near the Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter **** - excellent location in the middle of the French Quarter and one block from Bourbon St, heated indoor pool and fitness centre, self-service laundry, 24 hour desk, restaurant, parking is expensive so don't get your car until the day you're leaving
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Another good and cheap way to get around is on the street cars. If you're not here for Mardi Gras you can still go to Mardi Gras World and see what it's all about. If you are coming in any months other than December and January you'll need to make your bookings at least a year out.
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Food here is mainly Cajun and Creole. What is the difference between the two. That is a complicated question with many parts to the answer. A simplistic answer would be to say Creole is city food and Cajun is country food. It's a good idea to eat your meals at odd times here to avoid the crowds. There are many local specialities and iconic restaurants you'll need to try. Cafe du Monde for coffee and beignets (French donuts) and muffalettas (Italian style sandwich), breakfast at Stanley Restaurant, fried chicken from Willie Mae's, Po' Boys from Domilise's, (sandwhich with beef or fried seafood, often oysters), Crawfish Etouffee, Dooky Chase's for authentic Creole, Brennan's the inventors of Bananas Foster and the list goes on and on.
Photo Chase Baker on Unsplash
Image by Laura Kuhn from Pixabay
The Overseas Highway to Key West
New Orleans - aka the Crescent City - aka the Big Easy
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You can drink cocktails in the bars they were invented in, listen to live music everywhere and find all manner of places to have fun. There are a few don't do's to keep out of trouble. There are the places tourist's go and the places local's go. It's the sort of place it would be hard not to have a great time.
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French Quarter - New Orleans
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Go to New Orleans Tours 2
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5 PensAcola - 1N / 205 m
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Pick up your vehicle🚗 and it's time to hit the road. You'll need the car for 10 or 11 days depending on if you want to hang on to it at Fort Myers Beach for an extra day to look around. Drop it off there at Fort Myers. You may need to pick it up or drop it off at the airport at either end. Then you'll take the ferry to Key West and use public transport to get back to Miami. Key West is a pedestrian friendly town and you won't need your wheels.
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The USS Alabama in Mobile is your first main stop. It will probably be lunchtime so why not stop on the way through for a hot dog at the iconic Dew Drop Inn that has been dishing them out since 1924.
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The Ship Museum served in both the Atlantic and the Pacific in WW ll. What adds to the interest are the other exhibits such as a submarine (which had a dog as part of the crew), tanks from various wars and a replica of the European trenches. There is also a monument honouring the dogs which have served the country.
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Continue on to Pensacola where you will spend the night. This is a historic town that was founded in 1559. It has a great beach with plenty of water sports and lively nightlife on Palafox Street (which made the top 10 great streets in USA list). Likewise the Seville Quarter has plenty of ammunition for a Historic Pub Crawl. Have a look at the Naval Aviation Museum which has over 150 restored aircraft as well as a F/A-18 flight simulator you can play on. Pensacola is famous for being the home of the Blue Angels, the US Navy's flight demonstration squadron. The museum has an observation area if you're lucky enough to be there for practice or a show.
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When you get hungry try some of these places. And don't forget about the stunning beach.
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Stay at or near the Pensacola Victorian Bed & Breakfast - great location a 10 minute walk from the bars and restaurants in Palafox Pl, free parking, garden & terrace, historical building, fabulous breakfast included
6 Apalachicola - 1N / 172 m
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There are gorgeous beaches all along this coastline so if you want to add a few days to the trip and overnight somewhere just go for it. First you will come across Destin which has great fishing, swimming, boardwalk and golf courses. If you are interested in aviation and looking at planes don't miss the nearby and free Elgin Air Force Armament Museum. They have a SR-71 Blackbird the superfast spy plane. Grayton Beach is more of an organic hippy style town. It has a fantastic State Park. Next is the town of Seaside where they filmed the movie the Truman Show with Jim Carrey. See if you recognise anything. Panama City Beach has 27 miles of beaches and is a Spring Break sort of place. The Pier Park has 124 shops. Mexico Beach is a laid back get away from it all type of place. Stop anywhere along the way for a swim, a fish, lunch or anything else that takes your fancy.
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Spend the night in the hidden gem that is Apalachicola with it's pre Civil War architecture and some of the friendliest locals around. Visit the historical Gibson Inn, it has a ghost who is very friendly. Eat the famous Apalachicola oysters. Being a fishing town it's a good place to get the freshest seafood. Apalachicola has over 900 Historic homes and really is an atmospheric place. Be sure to go to the Raney House Museum to learn the history of this great little town.
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There are a couple of nice waterfront restaurants for dinner, namely Up the Creek Raw Bar and Half Shell Dockside. There are some other nice places in town as well. While you're out and about check out the night life.
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Stay at or near the Apalachicola Bay Inn - free parking, vending machines for snacks & drinks, Chinese restaurant across the road
7 St. George Island - 1n / 11 M
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A very short drive today so have a sleep in. It would seem a waste to come to this beautiful part of the world and then just take off. So spend another night at laid back and breathtaking St. George Island voted one of the USA's Top 10 beaches. Take the day off and relax at the beach. Or hire a bike and go for a ride. Or head out on a fishing charter. Go through the cocktail list in a Tiki bar. You'll find something you like.
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Stay at or near Buccaneer Inn - free private parking - reservation needed, beachfront, ATM, outdoor pool and sun terrace, a short walk from the Blue Parrot oceanfront cafe & Tiki bar
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There are several choices for breakfast, coffee, lunch, ice cream, sundowners, dinner, drinks and music so share the wealth. Many of them sell food and alcohol so mix and match as you please.
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Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
8 Tallahassee - 1N / 92 m
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A short drive today along rural highway 98 through the heart of old Florida. A short distance away is a photo op with the World's smallest police station. Definitely stop for a swim enroute at the crystal clear waters at Wakulla Springs. Or you could take a boat trip. Tallahassee is the capital of Florida but is more like a classical southern city and has a laid back and comfortable pace.
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It has a lot of museums if that's your thing and is a good place to learn about the history of the state. Make sure you visit the Museum of Florida History. If you're into American cars have a look at the car museum. Also of interest is the Mission San Luis where Spanish and Indians lived together. The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail is 16 miles long and a great bicycle ride to give your legs a stretch. Head to Railroad Square Art Park for all your eating and drinking needs. There is plenty of great street art and at Cascades Park you'll find a lot going on in Tally's social centre including free performances. Blues lovers and others should go to the Bradfordville Blues Club. Tallahassee is a college town so there is plenty of youthful exuberance around the night spots.
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Stay at or near the Hyatt House Tallahassee Capitol University *** - great location 2 minutes walk from the Railroad Square Art District, cheap onsite parking, outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, very good breakfast included, BBQ facilities, minimarket on-site
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The Palace Saloon - another cheapie
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Recess - it's big and it's on the roof
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The Edison - in an old power station with happy hours
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Charlie Park - rooftop cocktails
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Gaines Street Pies - pizza Tallahassee style
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Bullwinkle's Saloon - the best bar in town
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Poor Paul's Pourhouse - the cheapest place in town
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Clyde's & Costello's - make out Mondays
9 - 10 Ichetucknee Springs State Park - 2N / 112 m
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Before you leave town pick up some supplies to keep you going for a couple of days. There are restaurants and shops in Lake City which is 20 miles away from the park. Another short drive today to the unusually named Ichetucknee Springs State Park. It simply means beaver pond. There is a small entrance fee per car and you can't take alcohol into the park.
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If you're here between May and September it's a fantastic place to go tubing on the pristine, warm, clear blue - green waters of the Ichetucknee River. A paddle is recommended. Only 750 people a day are allowed so get in early. It is actually a cluster of 9 large springs that put out 223 million gallons of crystal clear water every day. Other activities in this strikingly beautiful and historic park include birding, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming and hiking. The park has many services and facilities. Spend a couple of days in this natural wonderland. In winter you'll have the place to yourself and you'll see a lot more fauna especially birds without the tubers to scare them off. Even when the weather is cool the water stays at 72 degrees.
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Stay at the Ichetucknee Family Canoe and Cabins (not in Booking.com) just outside the northern entrance to the park. Rent a rustic cabin for two nights. There is a centrally located bathhouse and laundry facilities. It pays to book well ahead if you are coming between May and September. At least more than a month. You will need some form of bedding as well. There is a shop onsite that sells beer, ice, soft drinks and other handy items. There are picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills so take some meat. They can help you out with all of your tubing and canoeing arrangements.
11- 13 Orlando - 2N / 145 m
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The juxtaposition from the natural world to man made will see you at the global Theme Park Mecca that is - Orlando. It also has a lot of golf courses. 67 within 20 miles of the city. Even Walt Disney World Resort has 3 championship courses. There is a theme park for every age group. So pick one and knock yourself out. Another big question is whether to stay onsite or offsite. There are pros and cons of course. You're also very close to the Kennedy Space Centre which you may find more appealing. You may even get lucky and coincide your visit with a launch. Orlando itself has plenty to offer and you might decide to ignore the theme parks altogether. Or just hang around the pool and relax. One things for sure. It's a good place to spend money.
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Stay at the Avanti Palms Resort and Conference Center *** - free secured parking, great location on International Drive near 2 Irish Bars, outdoor swimming pool + Poolside Bar & Grill, hot tub, two restaurants, two bars, Starbucks cafe, 24 hour fitness centre, sun terrace, ATM, minimart, Tour desk, sun loungers
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There are a lot of restaurants, fast food places, shopping and bars along International Drive. There is a cheap and convenient trolley service along this route. Murphy's Pub Orlando is a 1 minute walk and the Lucky Leprechaun Irish Pub is a 5 minute walk away from the hotel.
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Disneyworld - Orlando
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14 - 16 St Pete Beach - 3N / 112 m
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Back to the coast at St Pete Beach. St Pete Beach is 8 miles away from St Petersburg or St Pete as it's known by locals. Only slightly confusing. There's plenty to do here within walking distance and even more by car. Heaps of waterfront settings for a meal and a drink. Head to Billy's Stone Crab for sundowners - cheap house Margaritas. Later in the evening you will find many great bars and night life.
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If you don't stay at Don Cesar at least go for a look and maybe have a meal. Take your bathers and steal a swim in the pool.
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Stay at or near Crystal Bay Historic Hotel *** - only a 5 minute drive from Treasure Island Beach, beautiful historical building with big rooms, free parking, fabulous buffet breakfast with vegetarian options included, outdoor pool, garden
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Splurge at the legendary Pink Palace - The Don CeSar **** - beachfront, has long been a playground for the rich & famous, 2 outdoor heated pools, pool bar, beach bar, lobby bar, free bike rental, spa, fitness & wellness centre, ATM, 6 restaurants, ice-cream parlour, reasonably expensive parking onsite, coffee house, beauty / barber shop
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Head down to the boardwalk, village and pirate ship at John Pass - play golf at the Isla Del Sol - Dolphin Racing - use the Beach Trolley to get up and down the coast - Clearwater Beach was named the best beach in the US so a day on the beach might be tempting.
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St Petersburg is reinventing itself from being a bit of a party town to a more arty and cultural place. There is a lot of street art and murals to admire around the town. Also the Dali Museum is worth a visit. As is the Holocaust Museum one of the largest in the US and set up by a survivor who fled the Nazis. Have lunch out on St Pete Pier.
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A little more information on the Don CeSar. A legend since it opened in the Gatsby era in 1928. It has had a colourful history with a dead owner hanging around as a ghost, becoming a hospital in the war years, surviving the wrecking ball and being restored to it's former glory. Some of it's well known guests include F. Scott Fitzgerald, Marilyn Monroe and Al Capone.
17 - 18 Fort Myers Beach - 2N / 134 m
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Head south over the 4.14 mile Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway bridge. The scariest bridge in Florida. Well the old one was because ships kept running into it. The new one opened in 1987 and is #4 in the US for suicides. A suicide barrier has been installed but it isn't 100 % effective. The rest of the trip to St Myers Beach should be uneventful. Fort Myers Beach is 15 miles away from Fort Myers the city so you could have a look around on the way in and have lunch there. Henry Ford and Thomas Edison had winter homes here next door to each other that you can visit. When you reach the beach book into your hotel drop your gear off then return the car at the Fort Myers Airport.
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Stay at or near the Shipwreck Motel ** - not on Booking.com, parking onsite - charges may apply, excellent location on the waterfront surrounded by beach bars and restaurants, tables and chairs along the waterfront, 2 minute walk to the beach and 3 minutes walk to Times Square the main shopping, dining and entertainment area, kitchenette, picnic area with BBQ grills, ATM. It is one and a half miles away from where the Key West Express departs
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A couple of natural wonders worth visiting are the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve wetlands with a boardwalk trail and the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge where you can tour in your car, or boat, go fishing or birding while enjoying the wild life. They are closed on Fridays.
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There are a range of boat cruises available as well. Including the Tiki Bar Hopping Cruise with Island Time. It's very popular so book ahead. While you're bar hopping how about a haunted Pub Crawl. If you just want to drink normally you'll find you're well catered for. Speaking of catering have a look at some of these places for a meal. You can also get a feed at these beach bars and watch the sunset. Later on check out the lively night life around.
19 - 22 Key West - 4N
“It’s the best place I’ve ever been any time, anywhere” - Ernest Hemingway - on Key West
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Early start in the morning as you have to be at the dock for the Key West Express at 7am for a 8am departure. You won't be able to take your cooler with you so donate it to a worthy recipient in FMB. The dock is 1.4 miles away from your accommodation and the trip takes around 4 hours depending on the weather. There is a ferry service all year but out of season there are a reduced number of sailings.
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Stay at or near Douglas House *** - excellent location in the old town just off Duval Street and a short walk from the action, free parking onsite so pick up another car for a couple of days if you want to check out some of the other keys, or you could drive yourself up to Miami Airport to fly out, outdoor swimming pool, tropical gardens, sun terraces, massage
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You might also like to see what Airbnb has to offer
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Eccentric and beautiful Key West is closer to Cuba than the US and before Castro took power there were regular ferry and air services between the two. Among the attractions are the Hemmingway Home & Museum with it's famous cats, the cemetery with it's humorous epitaphs, the Southernmost Point of the United States and Mallory Square which is full of buskers, street performers and colourful people. They all gather every night to watch the sunset.
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You could spend a day having a look at the rest of the Florida Keys. You can rent scooters, cars, jeeps, electric cars and golf buggies to get around. They might come in handy around Key West as well.
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Food and drink is a big thing here. There is the iconic Key Lime Pie and working out who makes the best one. Other treats include Lobster Eggs Benedict for breakfast, Pepe's Corned Beef Hash, Hogfish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, long boozy Sunday Brunches including unlimited Mimosas and a DIY Bloody Mary Bar, Glazed Donuts in creative flavours such as Piña Colada, Candied Kumquat, Blood Orange Marmalade, Pumpkin Pecan Praline and Dulce de Leche. Plenty of fresh and delicious seafood available. Another local icon is the Conch Fritter plus Conch Chowder, Conch Sandwich, Florida Keys Spiny Lobster and Key West Pink Shrimp. How about some Cookie Nookie Pie for dessert.
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Hemmingway Home & Museum - Key West
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If you are feeling like minded with the locals you might pick up a Conch Republic Passport. It could save your life.
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One of the big pastimes around here is enjoying a drink or three. If you're starting at sunset Mallory Square then the adjacent Sunset Tiki Bar is the place to be. For a bit of old Key West try the Schooner Wharf Bar, or a sunset sail aboard a Historic Key West Schooner. Floating Tiki Bars mean you can have your own private sunset cruise.
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Duval Street is the main drag and a pub crawl will see you visiting some of the most famous bars in town. There is an official one you can join for company and fun. There is a rooftop garden bar where you can strip off if the mood takes you. No pictures and towels on seats required. There are many top rated, "iconic" and "world famous" bars around. If you like drinking this is your town. If you don't how about a ghost tour.
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Key West Sunset
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To get back to Miami International Airport you can take the bus which will get you there in about 4 hours. You could hire a car if you wanted to have a scenic drive. If you wanted to spend a few last days in Miami and the Everglades click here.
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If you want to continue travelling you have a few options. You could do Key West to Nashville - see #50 then head south on #122 The Music Trail and complete your round trip in New Orleans.
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You could The Appalachian Way - #50 and drive up to New York seeing the myriad of highlights along the way and then even heading into Canada or Chicago and doing #66 Route 66. or Montreal to St. Johns.
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Or you could go the other direction and do the #28 Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico combined with Belize and the Cays. From their you could also head over to #16 Cuba. So many choices. Don't worry about which one you make - you can't go wrong.
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Go to Key West Tours 1
THE MUSIC TRAIL 21N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Blues - Country - Bluegrass - rhythm & blues - zydeco - Elvis - Rock 'n' Roll - Indie - Jazz - Soul - Gospel - Rockabilly - Acadian - swamp pop - Cajun - creole
Nashville 3N
Fall Hollow 1N
Memphis 4N
Clarksdale 1N (The Crossroads)
Vicksburg 2N
Natchez 2N
New Orleans 3N = 21N
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Gruesome Gertie
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Music City
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Graceland
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The Crossroads
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Grand Old Opry
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Natchez Trace
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Elvis's birthplace
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Memphis Pyramid
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World's Best Gumbo
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Alligator Cheesecake
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The (other) Parthenon
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Mud Island River Park
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B.B. King's Blues Club
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Home of Tabasco Sauce
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The Honkytonk Highway
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Cajun & Creole specialties
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Country Music Hall of Fame
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Hal and Mal’s Jackson Blues
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The four Major Cotton Ports
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Follow the Gold Record Road
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Under-the-Hill-Saloon Natchez
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Crawfish Capital of the World
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World famous Peabody Ducks
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Vicksburg National Military Park
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Songwriting Capital of the World
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Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
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Loveless Café World Famous Biscuits
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The Country Music Capital of the World
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The Birthplace of the Blues and Rock ‘n’ Roll
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The most famous Recording Studio in the World
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Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero Blues Club #1 in the Nation
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Puckett's Grocery famous famous handmade cobbler and ice cream
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Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Glen Campbell, Patsy Cline and many other museums
1- 3 Nashville - 3N
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Fly into Nashville and out of New Orleans airport to whichever major connecting airport you decide to go with. Pick the car up🚗 at the airport here here and drop it off at New Orleans Airport when you arrive, on the way out. You'll need it for about 18 days.
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If you love music and food you're on the right trip. You will be travelling through and visiting the birth places, world capitals and homes of nine of the worlds genres of music. Nashville is known as "Music City" and the "Song writing Capital of the World". There are a slew of musical museums around town that will have some interest for you. As should the Music City Walk of Fame.
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You can tour the city on a hop on and off Trolley Bus, by Segway, do a dinner and music cruise on the General Jackson Showboat and see some of the major league sites like the Grand Old Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Lower Broadway with it's Honky Tonks and Dance Halls among many other highlights. You will be walking in the footsteps of many famous personalities. In fact you can do a Pub Crawl drinking in their bars.
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Stay 1 mile away from Broadway across the river at Comfort Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown - Stadium ** - free parking, great location 10 minute walking distance to Lower Broadway over the pedestrian bridge, guitar shaped indoor pool, free buffet breakfast, minimart, ATM
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See the sights during the day and the bands at night. Your stomach won't be neglected either as Nashville has some great food. Don't miss local institution Puckett's Grocery, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, French Dipped Roast Beef at the Mitchell Delicatessen, Jack's BBQ, the Sun Diner - by Sun Records and Nashville's oldest restaurant Varallo's - Since 1907.
Photo by Frédéric Barriol on Unsplash
Memphis
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Go to Nashville Tours 1
4 Fall Hollow - 1N / 92 m
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Head out towards the Natchez Parkway - the American Music Trail. First stop is breakfast at the Loveless Café (best biscuits ever). Get here before 9 am if you can to avoid the wait. Bring an appetite. It's quite an establishment so you may want to pick up a few souvenirs and supplies for the road. This is the northern terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway which roughly follows the old Natchez Trace. It was essentially a trade route between the eastern states and the south. Originally cleared by prehistoric animals and then the native American Indians who followed in their footsteps. It is very scenic and filled with reasons to get out of your car such as historical sites, interesting walks, picnics and horse riding etc. The speed limit is 40 mph and the sights are located by mile markers.
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Justin Timberlake has a house in the quaint and quirky little town of Leiper's Fork. Keith and Nicole did have a house here but they've sold up. Stop by and see what the attraction is. It was the location of the original Puckett's Grocery now called Fox and Locke. Stop where ever you feel like and finish up at Fall Hollow where you will spend the night. Plenty to see, do and eat along the way.
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Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge - scenic Birdsong Hollow Bridge
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Primm Springs Horse Riding - for beginners to expert riders
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Fisher's Off Road Rentals - 4 hour guided tour
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Baker Bluff to Jackson Falls Walk - half hour moderate walk
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Tobacco Farm and Old Trace Drive - 10 minute walking loop then a 2 mile drive on the old trace
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Stay in a cabin (electric or primitive) or Bed and Breakfast Room if you want a bit more luxury at the Fall Hollow Resort Campground and B&B - porch with creek view, tell them you need linens for the cabins, firewood and ice is available, there is a restaurant onsite as well as some other dining options in nearby Hohenwald. Not on Booking.com.
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Image by Falkenpost from Pixabay
The Natchez Parkway
5 - 7 Memphis - 4N / 201 m
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Stops today include the Meriwether Lewis Site and the Outpost Pickwick Dam which has great homemade pies, cakes and the best BBQ around. Have a picnic lunch by the dam. Nearby is the Shiloh National Military Park where you can do a self guided car tour of a major battlefield in the Civil War. Carry on to Memphis the birthplace of rock n roll and stay at the Peabody Memphis with the famous ducks. If it is out of your budget range just come to see the ceremony and stick around for Sunday Brunch or High Tea. You will want to stay near Beale Street the Home of the Blues where the night time action happens. One famous name here is B.B. King who has a Blues Club with a big neon guitar outside.
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Stay at or near MOXY Memphis Downtown *** - private parking onsite for average rate, excellent location downtown on Main Street by the park and a 10 minute walk from Beale Street, welcome cocktail, outdoor fire pit, cocktail and espresso bar, pinball machines, clean and modern, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, night club, terrace, outdoor furniture, tour desk, barber / beauty shop
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Splurge at the Peabody Memphis **** - reasonably expensive parking, no reservation required, excellent location in downtown 5 minutes away from Beale Street, world famous ducks, fine dining, indoor pool, fitness centre, full service spa, ATM, bar
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Memphis has a few claims to fame including the first supermarket, drive in restaurant and Elvis Presley. The Mud Island Riverwalk is one of the main attractions and it is a scale model of the lower section of the Mississippi river. The Museum of Science & History explores a diverse range of subjects and has an interesting history. Other must see sights are the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jnr was assassinated, Sun Studio - the birthplace of Rock n Roll, Memphis Music Hall of Fame, the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum, see what's on at the Fed Ex Forum and of course Graceland.
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Beale Street - Memphis
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Marlowe's BBQ was Elvis's favourite restaurant and they are the best BBQ place in Memphis. Another one he loved was the Arcade Restaurant where he used to get the famous fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. It is the oldest café in town. There are quite a few other historical restaurants you may like to try.
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Beale Street is ground zero for night life in down town. In mid town Overton Square is the centre for night time entertainment. You could also head out onto the Mississippi on a river boat for something different.
8 Clarksdale - 1N / 79 m
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Turn back the clock to 1924 and have breakfast in Tunica at the Blue and White Restaurant for an authentic taste of the south. They have all day breakfast so no rush. It's a 45 minute drive south of the city on Hwy 61 - the Blues Hwy. Continue on to the Crossroads at Clarksdale (the #7 US historic city) where it all began. Have some afternoon smoko at Daylight Donuts later on.
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Stay at or near Auberge Clarksdale Blues Motel - free public parking, excellent location in the centre of town and a 4 minute walk to Ground Zero, evening entertainment, shared bathroom, private rooms and dorm beds available
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Robert Johnson was a Mississippi blues singer and songwriter. As the story goes, at the stroke of midnight on a dark and moonless night he wandered down to the Crossroads of highways 49 and 61 and made a deal with the devil. In exchange for his soul the devil tuned his guitar. Doesn't sound like much of a deal but apparently his guitar playing improved greatly. Unfortunately he died early at the age of 27 and was said to be found on all fours baying at the moon the night he died. His songs have influenced such heavy weights as Muddy Waters, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones.
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Some of the other sights in town include the historic Riverside Hotel (you can stay in the room Bessie Smith died in), the Delta Blues Museum which is closed Sundays. A Delta Bohemian Tour with Chilly Billy is recommended. You can stay in a wide variety of accommodation including real share cropper's quarters at the Shack Up Inn. Eat real Southern food and hear live music 7 nights a week. Make sure you get to Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero Blues Club, the #1 in the land. Not to forget the intersection of Hwy's 61 and 49 - The Crossroads!!
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Abe's BBQ - is next to the Crossroads and has been around since 1924
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Hooker Grocery & Eatery - restaurant, bar and live music
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Our Grandma's House of Pancakes - just like Grandma used to cook
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Bluesberry Cafe - live music for breakfast
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Hambone Art & Music - art, music, people and fun
9 French Camp B&B Inn - 1N
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Back on the Trace today. Breakfast at Grandma's or the Bluesberry. Head back to the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitors Centre and pick up your souvenir patch among other things. This is a good place to learn all about the Trace. Take a hike to a to a nearby Chickasaw Village site on the Trace. Then go to the King's first home. Elvis was a twin but his brother was stillborn. You can see the two room house his father built and the associated museum. You can do a driving tour around town with 14 Elvis places to stop off at. Download the list here. Have a look at some of the murals around town and maybe grab a coffee at Johnnies drive in just as Elvis might have.
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Head down the road and spend the night at the historical log cabin village of the French Camp B&B Inn. They have a restaurant onsite.
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10 Jackson - 1N / 91 m
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Continue along the Natchez Trave Parkway to Jackson. Todays Soundtrack. Then you can visit the boardwalk over Cypress Swamp and maybe see an alligator or two. End up in the state capital of Jackson - "the City with Soul" for the night. Mississippi's largest city has good food, bars plus lots of live music in authentic Blues Clubs.
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Stay at or near the Hilton Garden Inn Jackson Downtown *** - private parking onsite for USD$20 per day - reservation needed, good location downtown walking distance to restaurants , bars and clubs, indoor pool and hot tub, minimart, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, ATM
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Jackson has two very good museums. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Museum of Mississippi History. Head down to the clubs on Farish Street in the evening. Also see what's on at the Brandon Amphitheatre about 20 minutes out of town.
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Ole Tavern on George Street - the oldest bar in Jackson
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Hal & Mal's - a fun place with the lot
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Mississippi Symphony Association - set the bar a bit higher
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Mayflower Cafe - since 1935, the oldest restaurant in the city and very close to the hotel
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F. Jones Corner - a registered historic place
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Alamo Theatre - since 1949
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Johnny T's Bistro & Blues - good food, times and music
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Fred's Soul Food Restaurant - get some soul food in the city with soul
11 - 12 Vicksburg - 2N / 47 m
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Start off at Fred's Soul Food for a good old fashioned country breakfast. Short drive today to the historic French built city of Vicksburg that sits on a cliff above the Mississippi. It is famous for being held siege during the Civil War. Many of it's antebellum (pre war) mansions survived the war and many of them are open to the public and also double as B & B's. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park to find out why it was an important battle in the Civil war. You can do a self drive tour. The first bottle of Coca Cola was bottled here and there is a museum.
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Stay at or near Studio 6 Vicksburg, MS - Downtown ** - free parking, great location downtown close to the rooftop bar & grill, BBQ facilities, snack bar, laundry
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For a bit more stay in the antebellum mansion Bazsinsky House *** - free parking, excellent location downtown near restaurants and bars, the home was completed 2 years prior to the siege of Vicksburg, free Full Southern Breakfast served family style, garden, tennis court, spa bath
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There is a wide range of activities for you to do here. You will find the food is starting to take on Louisianan characteristics. Be sure to try Rusty's Riverfront Grill and the Walnut Hills Restaurant. Take a tour of the most haunted places. Shopping is good here. 10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill is the place to be for sunset. Check out the Riverfront Murals.
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The Biscuit Company of Vicksburg - food, drinks and live music, the Catfish specialists (near the Coke museum)
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Main Street Market Cafe - Betty's legendary biscuits
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The Historic Klondike trading Post - go for the food, stay for the fun
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Heavy D's Sports Bar & Pool Hall - you're amongst friends
13 - 14 Natchez - 2N / 81 m
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After a hearty southern breakfast drive down to Port Gibson the town that was too beautiful to burn. Make your way back to the Natchez Trace Parkway where you can see a portion of "the sunken old trace". You'll need to back track a little if you drive through Port Gibson or turn left on Hwy 18 and follow the signs. Stop in at the historic Mount Locust Inn and Plantation. It is one of the most significant historic sites on the Parkway. Carry on to another lovely southern riverside town, the hidden gem that is Natchez and the end of the Parkway. It is over 300 years old and it is beautiful and elegant. Stop off at the Forks in the Road on your way in to town.
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Mississippi Sunset - Natchez
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Stay at the Mark Twain Guesthouse - above the Under-the-Hill-Saloon if you can get a booking. They only have three rooms. This area was the improper side of town and had a reputation far along the Mississippi. This building is the only survivor of that historic era and is a must visit even if you don't stay here. It can get noisy here on a big night.
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Stay next door at River Edge Suites - 3 suites in a historic antebellum building
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Stay at or near Natchez Grand Hotel on the River *** - on-site parking, excellent riverfront location a couple of blocks from restaurants and bars and 10 minutes walk to the Under-the Hill-Saloon, beautiful sunsets, swimming pool, fitness centre, bar, free buffet breakfast
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There are some great walking trails to follow. Learn about the dark side of events that have happened here. There are many interesting tales. Tour the Rum Distillery and sample their wares. Eat at Jughead's Fish Fry, the politically incorrect Mammy's Cupboard and the Magnolia Grill which are all local icons. There are massive Antebellum Mansions here, some are museums, some are Bed and Breakfasts and some are said to be haunted. There are a few cooking schools that will teach you how to cook like a true southerner. Take a 3 mile hike along the longest stretch of the original Natchez Trace available. Great sunsets over the Mississippi. Riverboat gambling. This place has got the lot. Even a hop on hop off bus, but you're probably better off driving yourself around.
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Here are some more places if you are looking for a feed and some other bars around town. For sundowners head on up to the Rooftop Bar at Natchez Manor.
15 - 17 Breaux Bridge - 3N / 156 m
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Early start today if you're playing golf at the prison. Otherwise take it easy. Stop in at the L & M Bakery in Woodville for breakfast or morning smoko. Then on to the Louisiana State Penitentiary Museum. Aka Angola it started life as a slave plantation. See "Gruesome Gertie" the electric chair that has killed 87 people. This prison has a pretty horrific past and many of the inmates are serving 50 years to life or are on death row. As you can imagine there are other interesting exhibits here as well. Why not squeeze in a round at the Prison View golf course while you're out here.
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On to the Myrtles Plantation at St. Francisville which is said to be one of the most haunted places in Louisiana. Hear about the Legend of Chloe the slave girl apparition. It would be a good place to stop for lunch. Perhaps a final stop at the infamous Tiger Truck Stop for afternoon smoko before reaching the Crawfish Capital of the World - Breaux Bridge.
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Cajun Cabin - Louisiana
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This is the gateway to authentic Cajun culture in Louisiana. The Cajuns came from a group of French families who settled in Nova Scotia in the 17th century known as Acadians. The British arrived and started a policy of ethnic cleansing and other brutal measures. The Acadians were separated and scattered until some of them started finding their way to Louisiana where the Spanish welcomed them and word went out that there was a New Arcadie in the south. As they mixed with the other influences such as the Spanish, French, German and American Indians they became known as Cajuns. In Breaux Bridge you will feel like you have been in a time machine and gone back to another era.
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Stay at the Bayou Cabins down by the Bayou Teche. Enjoy traditional Cajun hospitality as well as their traditional food.
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Don't waste a meal here in Breaux Bridge, try as much as you can. Go on a swamp tour. Visit some of the nearby historical towns. Learn about the culture in museums, cultural centres and other places of interest. Have a Zydeco Breakfast. Go to Vermilionville a living history museum. Get dancing to live Cajun and Zydeco music. Go to one of the last remaining dance halls and learn a few of the old steps. The locals will be more than happy to teach you. If you're here for Mardi Gras they have one of the more unusual ones. There is a Crawfish Festival in May. You are in for a real treat enjoying this really unique and friendly culture.
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Local places for a drink include these and there is also Lafayette 15 minutes down the road. Lafayette is also good for restaurants serving authentic Cajun.
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Antler Hooves - Bar & Grill with Live Music
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Buck & Johnny's - Zydeco Breakfast
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Lil Goldmine - Friday DJ and free food
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Hoppers Icehouse - Speakeasy
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Rainbow Daiquiris - Cocktails and Poker Machines
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Tante Marie - Restaurant, Bar & Cafe with Cajun Jam 11am - 1pm weekends
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La Poussiere - Authentic Cajun Dancehall
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John's Bar - Burgers and Nightlife
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Lil's on the Teche - DJ's, Karaoke and Live Music
18 - 20 New Orleans - 3N / 172 m
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En-route to New Orleans stop in at Avery Island for a tour of the McIlhenny Tabasco Factory. Pick up a few samples and souvenirs. Also have a look at the 250 acre Jungle Gardens on Avery Island. Have lunch at the 1868 restaurant there. Find something along the road for afternoon smoko. Arrive in NOLA aka New Orleans aka New Or-lins (as the locals call it) aka the Big Easy and get rid of the car and get into party mode as it's party central.
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It's a great place to eat, drink and party. It's mainly about the night time here but there is plenty to see and do during the day. Try the hop on hop off bus for a look around. Take a walking tour of the French Quarter. Maybe a rum distillery and tasting tour, Airboat swamp tour or a Katrina tour. Need a Voodoo Doll? The French market has them. What about a Steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River. On Sunday's they have a jazz cruise. Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo is a good place to pick up some souvenirs learn a little about it and maybe pick up the Hex your Ex kit.
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New Orleans
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Stay at or near the Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter **** - excellent location in the middle of the French Quarter and one block from Bourbon St, heated indoor pool and fitness centre, self-service laundry, 24 hour desk, restaurant, parking is expensive so drop the car off once you've dropped your luggage off
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Another good and cheap way to get around is on the street cars. If you're not here for Mardi Gras you can still go to Mardi Gras World and see what it's all about. If you are coming in any months other than December and January you'll need to make your bookings at least a year out.
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Food here is mainly Cajun and Creole. What is the difference between the two. That is a complicated question with many parts to the answer. A simplistic answer would be to say Creole is city food and Cajun is country food. It's a good idea to eat your meals at odd times here to avoid the crowds. There are many local specialities and iconic restaurants you'll need to try. Cafe du Monde for coffee and beignets (French donuts) and muffalettas (Italian style sandwich), breakfast at Stanley Restaurant, fried chicken from Willie Mae's, Po' Boys from Domilise's, (sandwhich with beef or fried seafood, often oysters), Crawfish Etouffee, Dooky Chase's for authentic Creole, Brennan's the inventors of Bananas Foster and the list goes on and on.
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You can drink cocktails in the bars they were invented in, listen to live music everywhere and find all manner of places to have fun. There are a few don't do's to keep out of trouble. There are the places tourist's go and the places local's go. It's the sort of place it would be hard not to have a great time. One of my favourite books ever is about a former citizen of New Orleans - Sam Zeemurray aka Sam the Banana Man. It's called "The Fish that Ate the Whale" and I highly recommend it.
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Time to fly home, or if you don't want the good times to end why not carry on to Key West via the Florida Pan Handle with itinerary #120.
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