Colorado’s beautiful, mountainous views make it a great travel destination.
There are so many amazing things to do in Colorado to keep you outside on your vacation every single day.
In the spring, summer and fall, zip-lining, rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and whitewater rafting are all some of the best Colorado adventures to do there.
It is very important that you are prepared for the change in altitude from your home destination.
However, the incredible, breath-taking, spectacular scenery also comes with high altitude levels. These high levels often cause adventurers to experience altitude sickness traveling to Colorado.
As a traveler looking to visit one of the best mountain states in the U.S., you need to properly prepare for a new elevation level to fully experience the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Colorado Springs.
Read this post to learn how to prevent altitude sickness in Colorado.
Visit Your Doctor Beforehand
Before you find cheap flights for your Colorado trip, you may want to consult with a doctor.
Express your concerns for dealing with altitude sickness during your trip. Your doctor regularly prescribes medicine to patients in your position. These medicines offer answers to travelers wondering what to take for altitude sickness in Colorado.
The most common prescription for altitude sickness is Acetazolamide. This drug is known to drastically minimize your chances of getting altitude sickness. It reduces headache pain, prevents tiredness and decreases nausea.
Since these are all symptoms of altitude sickness visiting Colorado, taking this prescription works well for prevention purposes.
Schedule a doctor appointment to put your mind at ease and avoid getting sick during your upcoming trip to the mountains.
Reduce Your Caffeine Intake
Unfortunately, drinking coffee while traveling to Denver Colorado is not the best decision.
When going to higher altitudes in Colorado, caffeine is not your friend.
Drinks with large amounts of caffeine in them act as mild diuretics. Beverages like coffee and tea dehydrate you. Since dehydration puts you at risk of feeling ill, limit your intake of caffeine.
Then, you can reach the top of each mountain free of any dizzy feelings or nausea. Use this tip to avoid altitude sickness in Colorado.
Stay Hydrated During Your Trip
Additionally, stay hydrated during your Colorado adventure.
I adjusted nicely, and I could do all of those amazing outdoor adventures without feeling ill because I stayed hydrated and limited strenuous activity until day three of my trip.
This is one of the main things to know before traveling to Colorado for climbing and hiking. It is easy to forget to drink your ounces among the beautiful scenery. However, Colorado’s air is much drier than other state’s.
You can get dehydrated much faster when exercising in the dry air. Set a timer to drink water during your strenuous hikes. That way, you can feel great and enjoy your trip.
Take It Easy The First Day
Prevent altitude sickness by taking it easy on your first day in Colorado.
Right when you get off of the plane, your vision will be overwhelmed with mountains that just need to be hiked. Unfortunately, kick-starting your trip with a great hike is not the best option.
Our bodies do not easily adjust to changes in altitude. Typically, it takes between 24-36 hours in Colorado.
So, rather than spending your first day in the mountain state hiking, take some time to relax. Visit Denver’s local shops, the US Mint or Larimer Square. Consider taking a walking tour or dining at the best restaurants.
Spend your first day or two exploring the town and taking photographs of the mountains from afar.
Your body will thank you later. It may even allow you to climb Pikes Peak without issue.
Avoid Salty Foods
Great mountain trips call for delicious foods. However, salty foods do not work well for travelers trying to avoid altitude sickness.
More specifically, find accommodations near healthy food options. The best restaurants in Colorado usually offer low-sodium dishes that make for good altitude sickness-preventing meals.
If you find yourself at a restaurant with seemingly high-sodium foods, balance your plate. This is one of the best methods for what helps altitude sickness in Colorado.
Order a side of broccoli instead of french fries. Request nutritious fruit with your breakfast in the morning. These foods balance your electrolytes, promoting proper hydration.
To feel good when in Colorado, you need to eat good food. Keep your sodium intake low to prevent altitude sickness.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Finally, limit your alcohol consumption during your Colorado trip.
Similar to caffeine, alcohol dehydrates you. It, therefore, can increase your chances of getting elevation sickness in Colorado.
I didn’t have a problem in the 15 days I was in Colorado because I hydrated like crazy.
I even felt the information I read before I arrived, and advice from people, exaggerated altitude sickness. However, even though it didn’t affect me, the effects are legitimate.
Now, I am not saying that you should avoid the local breweries in Denver. Simply avoid overindulging when you plan to hike Colorado’s mountains.
That way, you can reach the peaks without having to take an extra breath.
Always Stay With Your Travel Companion
Whether you are visiting Colorado with friends, your spouse, or on a family vacation, you should always remain with at least one travel companion. You need somebody by your side to monitor you for any symptoms of altitude sickness. Often, travelers are not able to self-diagnose symptoms of altitude sickness until it’s too late. If you or your travel companion begin experiencing shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, or wheezing, you need to lower your altitude levels immediately. Reach a low altitude as quickly as possible and remain there for some time.
Descend When Possible
If you are able to, descend to a lower altitude. Denver, CO sits at roughly 5,280 feet of elevation. However, many nearby mountains such as Pike’s Peak, Mount Evans, and the Flatirons can reach altitudes exceeding 14,000 feet. Traveling a few thousand feet lower will often help you rebalance and quickly reduce symptoms of altitude sickness. Of course, do not attempt to descend altitude if you are driving. After all, it can be incredibly dangerous when battling symptoms like dizziness and nausea. If you are less of a hiker and mountaineer, check out these amazing hidden California beach towns, which you’ll definitely want to add to your bucket list.
In order to take advantage of the time you have in the state, take precautionary measures. Also, consider taking some travel safety essentials along with you.
Consider consulting your doctor to inquire about getting a prescription medication. Drink coffee and other high-caffeine beverages minimally. Drink enough water to feel good in Denver Colorado as well.
Take it easy within your first 24-36 hours in the state and keep your sodium levels low. Furthermore, avoid overindulging in alcoholic beverages as they dehydrate you.
Use this advice to properly prevent altitude sickness in Colorado. Don’t let potential altitude issues keep you from your next adventure. Use this guide to stay ahead of this battle!
-Kentucky Horses and Racing: Breeding, Breeding, and More Breeding
-Kentucky Boxing: Legend Cassius Clay / Muhammad Ali
-Kentucky Baseball Bats: Louisville Slugger
–Birth of Chicken Franchise
-Cave Hill Cemetery to Pay Your Respects to Kentucky’s Most Famous
-Phenomenal Murals
“I was sixty-six years old. I still had to make a living. I looked at my social security check of 105 dollars and decided to use that to try to franchise my chicken recipe. Folks had always liked my chicken.”
-Colonel [Harland David] Sanders
Kentucky Bluegrass Music
A Kentucky bluegrass music resurgence has taken much of the country by storm and the birthplace of one of the most beautiful music genres is KY.
If you want to get more specific, it was born in the rolling hills of Ohio County and the village of Rosine, where Bill Monroe — father of bluegrass — was born and raised.
🔴AMAZING Value Alert 🔴
–> The Bluegrass Concerts at Red Barn Radio and Woodsongs. Both are in downtown Lexington every week.
It’s a low cost way to enjoy an evening of entertainment up close and personal.
Live Blues concert by Kentucky-born singer Cody Lee Meece and the Catdaddies band.Every Monday night on the radio to 177 countries and over 500 radio stations. Live studio audience in Lexington. This was such a treat. Heard some great Country Gospel and Canadian Roots groups.
Red Barn Radio
A Red Barn Radio concert in an intimate indoor venue in downtown Lexington is spectacular.
It is only $10, and is on Wednesday nights.
Join the audience for a performance of Bluegrass and traditional music that is recorded for the live broadcast.
Their website is Redbarnradio.com
Cody Lee Meece and the Catdaddies Kentucky Blues band. I was in the first row soaking it in.
Woodsongs Old-Time Radio Hour at the Lyric Theatre in Lexington
Join in the fun of a music show taped live and broadcast around the world.
Nationally known Bluegrass acts join a line up of traditional and folk music year round.
There’s only one home of bourbon- 14 distilleries within 45 minutes of downtown Lexington.
One surefire way to pester a Kentuckian is to confuse bourbon with whiskey.
True bourbon is made only in the States. Kentucky produces 95% of Bourbon and the best place to try is along the bourbon trail, which takes you to different distilleries.
The label can’t say “bourbon” unless it is distilled in the US, and it can’t say “Kentucky Bourbon” unless it is distilled in Kentucky.
The only thing you can add to Bourbon is water: no added colors or flavors allowed. Bourbon can only be aged in new, charred American white oak barrels. That other stuff can age in re-used barrels.
Bourbon must be at least 51% corn. The rest of the recipe might contain other grains, but the exact mash bill is top secret.
By law, bourbon must go in the barrel no higher than 125 proof and be bottled no lower than 80 proof.
Just about every distiller adds water to the final product, not to save money but to balance the ABV, flavor and color. Some bourbons get bottled up uncut.
So many variables can affect the outcome of bourbon — from the weather to the location of a barrel in a warehouse — most distillers blend a range of barrels to create an end bourbon that’s fairly consistent. Unless it’s single barrel.
That means no blending — what came out of the barrel goes into the bottle (with maybe a touch of water).
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year
90.4 Proof • Extremely Limited • Frankfort, KY
They release stock once a year and retailers lucky enough to carry it hold lotteries to decide who gets to buy a bottle.
After that, resellers ask upwards of $2,000.
Why the heavy price tag?
Connoisseurs call it the best bourbon whiskey in the world.
Should you get a hold of some, expect a velvety-ish smooth texture, notes of leather and smoke, with a balanced finish.
Maker’s Mark Distillery – Loretto, KY
This is a favorite tour on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for several reasons.
The tour gives a fabulous insight to the making of bourbon; the property is gorgeous and the bourbon is delicious.
To get to Maker’s Mark you’ll drive through rural Kentucky.
One lane roads snake through the hills and farms, and you may wonder if you are going to the right place!
Seemingly in the middle of nowhere is the beautiful property of Maker’s Mark.
Before bourbon goes into the barrel to age, it’s clear, fiery, and not delicious. The magic of the barrels brings the mellowness, the vanilla, the amber color and the depth.
The limestone shelf where the distillery is located is key to crafting the unique taste of Maker’s Mark – the only distillery with its own water source and watershed.
Kentucky limestone filters out iron from water, which is unpleasant in bourbon.
The pure calcium- and magnesium-rich water surrounding the distillery makes better drinking water and a better sour mash in which yeast can flourish.
Star Hill Provisions is located on the campus in the beautifully renovated Distiller’s House. The menu offered at the distillery’s restaurant changes seasonally and features locally sourced and inspired ingredients.
I absolutely loved the menu there!
If you visit one distillery on the Bourbon Trail, make sure it is Maker’s Mark with lunch at the café.
Give yourself two hours minimum here. The grounds are beautiful and the tour itself is interactive and takes you throughout the entire process.
Woodford Reserve Distillery – Versailles, KY
Nestled amid the rolling hills of bluegrass and thoroughbred farms sits the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery.
It’s one of Kentucky’s oldest and smallest distilleries.
They also boast one of the few heat cycled barrelhouses in the world, ensuring every drop seeps into the charred and toasted white oak, giving Woodford Reserve its color and signature flavor.
That is really a key contribution to its phenomenal taste.
Glenn’s Creek Cafe is a small cafe in their Visitors Center where they serve sandwiches, salads and soups and bourbon trail chili. There is a patio right outside the cafe where you can eat and relax.
Woodford Reserve is a first-class tour on the Bourbon Trail. Guides take the time to explain the entire process of making small batch bourbon. Woodford is the smoothest-sipping bourbon I’ve had.
Bill Murray signed this barrel at the distillery just days before I was there.
This is a distillery to put high on your list.
Horses and Racing: Breeding,
Breeding & More Breeding
There’s only one horse capital of the world and that’s Lexington.
There are 450 horse farms and it is the center of the thoroughbred breeding universe.
VALUE TIP*****
To help you navigate through all of your horse-related touring options, go through the portal Horsecountrytours.com.
These tours are reasonably priced and you can line up your whole vacation in one shot. You just need to show up at your allotted time at the farm location.
I used them for all three of the tours I selected and it went seamlessly.
Mill Ridge Farm
You’re able to see mares, foals, and yearlings up close and in the pasture. I could pet across the fence and fed carrots to them.
The grounds were impeccable and the interaction with the horses is a highlight of the visit.
I felt the passion, pride, and love for horses in this sixth-generation farm.
While on tour and learning about breeding horses and what life looks like for a racehorse, the home-grown authenticity of Mill Ridge and their values was inspiring and exciting.
Old Friends Retirement Farm- Georgetown, KY
A tour of the Old Friends Farm in Georgetown, just north of, Lexington, is a remarkable place to spend an afternoon.
To some, it triggers a rush of highlight memories of some of thoroughbred racing’s greatest stars. Those horses are now in retirement there.
The last time we saw these greats were while winning Breeders Cup races and other marquee events. War Emblem and Silver Charm are the biggest names.
Superstar Silver Charm 1997 Derby and Preakness winner. The amazing thing is he was edged out for the Triple Crown by Touch Gold who now spends their retirement days together at this retirement farm.
They each won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes but both fell short of winning the Triple Crown.
I learned Touch Gold, another well-known horse, isn’t as warm as his paddock neighbor, Silver Charm. But to say it was cool to be with both would be an understatement.
The tour is thorough, intimate, educational and memorable.
Hall of Fame jockey Kent Desormeaux made a surprise appearance at this retirement farm while we were there. He won Derby and the Preakness three times each! He wanted to spend some time with his old friend who he was the primary jockey through the years.
Popcorn Deelites, whose only claim to racing fame was starring in the film Seabiscuit, also lives there.
Coolmore at Ashford Stud
It was one highlight of my trip being able to tour while American Pharoah and Justify were in residence this spring.
American Pharoah- Triple Crown winner 2015The one and only Justify. Triple Crown winner 2018. He retired undefeated. He was purchased as a Yearling for $400,000 and was sold after his Triple Crown for 72 Million!
It thrilled me I could see both recent Triple Crown champions, and if you go, you can. Just double check if they are in residence when you plan on going.
Kentucky Boxing: Legend Cassius
Clay/Muhammad Ali
The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville celebrates the life of Cassius Clay/Muhammad Ali, one of Kentucky’s favorite sons.
A boxing robe – a gift from Elvis
The “People’s Champion” spent much of his post-boxing life traveling the world, spreading wisdom and the message of world peace and harmony.
You’ll learn about that, but also get to take a brilliant stroll through Ali’s fighting history, from his Gold Medal victory in Rome as Cassius Clay, to the Frazier trilogy of fights, to his stunning win over George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
Leroy Neiman’s artwork of a Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier fight
The movies in the museum bring him to life, and I felt like I learned so much about him when I left that museum.
Over fifty years after he burst upon the scene as a gold-medal winner at the 1960 Olympics, in Rome, Muhammad Ali remains a magical figure, known and loved throughout the world.
His accomplishments in the ring were the stuff of legend. But there was always far more to Muhammad than what took place in a boxing ring.
Muhammad’s life and career played out as much on the front pages of national and international newspapers as on the inside sports pages.
His early embrace of the Nation of Islam and his insistence on being called Muhammad Ali instead of his “slave name,” Cassius Clay, heralded a new era in black pride.
He was the recipient of countless awards, one of the most notable being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Baseball Bats: Louisville Slugger
Allow around two hours to enjoy the museum and factory experience.
Guided factory tours depart every 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the season. Factory tours last approximately 30 minutes. Guests will see bats being made on every tour.
Everyone receives a miniature souvenir bat at the end of the tour!
According to company legend, a 17-year-old Bud Hillerich for Pete Browning created the first pro bat in 1884. Browning was a megastar on Louisville’s major league team, the Eclipse.
One afternoon, Bud skipped out of work to watch the Eclipse play. He saw Browning break his bat and offered to make a new one at the woodworking shop.
According to the story, in the next game Browning got three hits with the bat Bud made. Pete Browning’s nickname was, “The Louisville Slugger.”
The Hillerich’s baseball bat business grew. The name “Louisville Slugger” became their registered trademark in 1894.
The success of the growing bat company took another leap in 1905 when Honus “The Flying Dutchman” Wagner, a superstar shortstop for the Pittsburgh Pirates, signed a contract as the first player ever to endorse a bat.
His autograph was also the first to be used on a bat and the first time a professional athlete endorsed an athletic product.
H&B’s wood bat business branched out into aluminum bats in 1970 and moved its factory just over the Ohio River to Southern Indiana from 1970 to 1995 when the company needed more production room.
The corporate headquarters always remained in Louisville.
H&B owns about 6,500 acres of timberland in Pennsylvania and New York.
I learned at the factory that the best timber comes from parts of Pennsylvania, New York and other northeastern states where the terrain and climate are most favorable to its growth.
Birth of Fried Chicken
688 US Hwy 25W, Corbin, KY
Dine where it all began – at Harland Sanders original restaurant in Corbin.
Built in 1937, Sanders Cafe is like stepping back when the Colonel created his secret of 11 herbs and spices for that “finger lickin’” good chicken.
There are exhibits featuring artifacts and memorabilia from the early days of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
He had many professions including running a gas station in Corbin.
He was cooking his own fried chicken and selling it to his customers as they filled up their gas tanks and found that the sales of his chicken were surpassing the money he was making on the fill-ups.
By 1932, he had to create a restaurant because of the popularity of Sanders Café Chicken and in 1952, renamed Kentucky Fried Chicken.
In 1964, he sold the whole empire and agreed to be the chain’s mascot and making appearances. He died in 1980. The city of Corbin unveiled a life-sized bronze statue of him in Sanders Park in Corbin.
Cave Hill Cemetery – Louisville
Clay/Ali, a Louisville native, was laid to rest on June 10 at Cave Hill Cemetery.
He originally had a simple marker, under his wish to remain humble, but in Oct. 2016 his grave was given a more elaborate monument.
Muhammad Ali’s Grave Site – Section U
Follow the green line on the cemetery roads and it will take you right to the spot.
Colonel Harland Sanders’s Grave Site – Section 33
Colonel Harland Sanders is clear across the property.
The Colonel has his own line, in chicken yellow.
His monument, which includes a bronze bust designed by his daughter Margaret, is suggestive of the KFC headquarters building.
Pete Browning – Section A
A professional baseball player and one of the best right-handed hitters and fighters ever.
Used John Hillerich’s bats to create the Louisville Slugger.
Patty Hill – Section G
A kindergarten teacher who wrote the “Happy Birthday” song. She wrote it with her sister Mildred.
According to the sisters, they penned the “Happy Birthday” melody in the 1890s for Patty’s kindergarten students. At first, they called it “Good Morning to All,” and sung each morning in class.
When a student’s birthday arrived, the class would replace the “Good Morning to All” lyrics with “Happy Birthday to You.”
Take A Hike In Red River Gorge
Before you leave Louisville and Lexington, spend some time hiking at Red River Gorge. This beautiful canyon system is located right in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Of course, hiking trails are most widely recognized for their spectacular caves and rock formations. At the same time, the Red River, which runs directly through the gorge is a magnificent sight to see. For photos, stop by the Natural Bridge. This impressive sandstone arch stands at over fifty feet high and seventy-five feet long. Also, you’ll see plenty of rock climbers in the area. If you are a climber or mountaineer yourself, check out our guide on preventing altitude sickness in Colorado.
Phenomenal Murals
Kentucky Rushmore 1583 Bardstown Rd, Louisville
At the corner of Bonnycastle and Bardstown Rds.
The Kentucky Rushmore mural depicts Kentucky icons Muhammad Ali, Abraham Lincoln, Colonel Sanders and Secretariat.
Originally conceived to be a giant mountain sculpture, the project failed because of budget issues but artist Margaret Morely has brought it to life.
247 Water St, Lexington
Kentucky Theatre is 214 E Main Street, the street behind is Water St.
A 60-ft tall mural painted in 2013 by artist Eduardo Kobra depicts DC’s Lincoln Memorial sculpture overlaid with hallucinogenic colors and checkered clown pants.
Magnificent Work by Brazilian Eduardo Kobra. He specializes in images of people who make the world a better place. 60 feet tall Lincoln Memorial in hallucinogenic colors
On the corner of West 6th Street and Bellaire Avenue in Lexington, art seekers can find a large mural of horses created by street artist Gaia. Known for his use of animals in various forms, Gaia is a Brooklyn native but creates art in public spaces around the world.
This large mural features five thoroughbred horses leaping and you can find it in front of West Sixth Brewery.
Jennifer Lawrence
East Louisville/Kammerer Middle School – Nice area to visit and drive through to trace her roots.
At 14 years old, during her 2004 NYC summer trip, Lawrence impressed agents with her auditions. She spent that summer in New York City.
Her home is off Blankenbaker Lane while going to school nearby at Kammerer Middle School. Her parents still own the house and Jennifer visits often.
The highest-paid actress in 2015 and 2016 is one of the most famous people to come from Louisville.
One of Louisville’s Hometown Heroes, Jennifer Lawrence
Toyota Camry Tour – Georgetown,
I HIGHLY Recommend
Go through the factory tour to learn about car parts, days and evenings of work at the factory, to learn how many cars they complete in a day, among many other car-lover’s tidbits.
I am not a car-lover, but I loved learning more about production on the Toyota Camry and the inner workings of the factory.
Make reservations weeks in advance because they fill up quickly for this free tour. No walking involved. You are driven around with a knowledgeable driver/guide. 16 people to an open air vehicle.
Eats
Star Hill Provisions Loretto, KY – Maker’s Mark Distillery. The menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced and inspired ingredients. I loved the chef’s fried chicken special and the bourbon slushie.
Breakfast at Rick’s White Light Diner Frankfurt, KY – Good food and you get to listen to owner Chef Rick solve the problems of the world. Seats around ten but it is the place to eat to interact with the locals.
This diner became popular after “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” featured it.
Don’t let the looks of the place deceive you. It adds to the experience, and it is downtown Frankfort.
It is small, counter seats for like 7-8 and 3-4 tables that seat roughly four. There are a few seats outside.
Rick is a cool guy.
Broom Wagon
It’s a bike shop, café and a beer garden. Monday nights they have live Bluegrass music.
The coffee and cafe menu are both terrific. It’s a can’t-miss experience in Lexington.
Carson’s – Downtown Lexington
It’s a combination of retro, hip and gourmet. It is pricey, so what I recommend is going for happy hour menu at a fraction of the cost.
The food is fabulous. I loved the bourbon-infused sweet and spicy ribs.
It is pretty close to the Woodsongs show if you end up doing that on a Monday night.
Varanese – Louisville
Fantastic menu in this nice restaurant with Bourbon-infused dishes.
Walk around the Historic Clifton neighborhood before you eat. Quaint, little neighborhood.
Fava’s Restaurant – Georgetown, KY
It’s a family-owned restaurant with a nice menu for breakfast or lunch. I loved the Country Boy breakfast meal.
Good place to combine with the Toyota factory or Old Friends Retirement Farm.
Kentucky Cave Country
When you travel to Kentucky, you must check out world-famous cave country. Cave country is located in Kentucky’s South Central region. The South Central region of Kentucky is home to other famous attractions like the southern shorelines of Jamestown, Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, Somerset, and Green River Lake. Visiting Cave Country, you need to pay a visit two Mammoth Cave. Located in Cave City, KY, Mammoth Cave is the second oldest tourist attraction in the entire United States. Mammoth Cave is a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. The cave offers over 4,000 miles of passages along with 400 miles of mapped passageways.
🔴Don’t Waste Your Time ALERT 🔴
Abraham Lincoln was born in nearby Hodgenville.
In fact, it was here where he had his earliest memories, and where he shaped his life’s vision of what was possible – a vision that even today, continues to inspire others.
From his humble Kentucky beginnings, Abe Lincoln grew to become one of the best loved, most highly revered figures in American history.
And throughout his too short life, he often looked back fondly on his Kentucky roots.
BUT, the sixteenth President, and one of the most iconic figures in the history of our nation lived in Kentucky for only a short time early in his childhood before his family moved to Illinois.
Note – The Log Cabin is a replica, and he was born there but did not live there past age 7.
“Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.”
The Kentucky Derby, only known as “Derby” in Kentucky, offers one hell of a time.
But you will enjoy it a lot more if you prepare for it in advance, gathering the things you need for the event before you travel.
I went to the historic Derby number 145 in May 2019 and want to relay what I learned about how to maximize this day in terms of value cost and the experience.
No reason to overpay!
Follow my lead, and I believe you’ll have a calm, stress-free, and cost effective day at Derby when you go. To help you master travel to the Derby, and many other destinations, check out our guide to the art of travel planning.
Table of Contents:
Buying the Clothes to Wear
Tickets
What I Did (In my Ticket Strategy)
Lunch
When It Rains, It Pours
What Else Not to Forget
Parking
What To Know Going into the Race(s)
Placing Your Bets
Events to Pair The Derby With
Where To Stay
Set A Budget
Buying Derby Wear
Do not wait to buy the clothes that make up your Derby outfit until days before you arrive in Kentucky.
The prices will be up-charged right around Derby week because of the supply and demand for them in local stores or online.
The solution: Buy them way in advance.
This is a tricky outfit comprising color combinations and accessories you most likely do not have in your closet.
It also saves you time so you can enjoy your Kentucky visit without the hassle of needing to include clothes shopping to cut into your trip.
Bring Your A-Game
You want to make sure you’re looking brilliant from head to toe!
I usually would not advocate caring about what other people think, but in this case, if you don’t want to feel out of place, there is no such thing as being overdressed for Derby.
Ditch Denim
Derby day is a day for spring dresses (both long and short), suits, leather shoes and heels.
If you insist on wearing pants, make sure it’s fancy and includes eye-catching accessories.
Jeans won’t cut it based on the outfits I saw.
Bold, Bright, Blossom
The brighter the better, as it is that type of fashion showcase.
Pastels, pinks, yellows, whites, baby blues are all nice choices. Spring is your canvas.
Look to spring flowers and shades in your bold clothing patterns to stand out or fit right in, whichever you prefer.
**DON’T** Wear High Heels
Although my opinion goes against many others’, this is not the day to be uncomfortable walking around.
On Derby day, you will walk a ton, possibly in dirt and mud with the trend it has rained on Derby day, and you will stand most of the day.
Although I saw thousands of women and looking excellent in high heels, they did not look comfortable walking around and standing for eight hours.
For footwear, dress for comfort.
Yes, there is the argument you need to be elegant from head to toe in whichever style you enjoy. High heels, if a priority, is as crucial as the hat you choose, so go for it if you can handle discomfort.
If you choose heels, I read that getting a pair of Solemates High Heelers for your heels helps prevent you from sinking in grass, dirt, or getting your high heels caught on cobblestone or pavement cracks.
Men Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Wear Unique Color and Suit Patterns
Men will want to choose bow ties over standard neckties. Loud, fun socks and well suited hats along with excellent-looking cufflinks –> perfect!
Take spring fashion to the next level, push the envelope and avoid playing it safe!
Get just as dressed up and decked out as the ladies!
Sun-drenched, tropical colors in bold stripes or busy plaid and bright pastels steal the limelight.
Although, if you want a more polished look, a classic navy or seersucker blazer is always in style.
Men could turn to sun-drenched pants in vibrant colors like Key Lime, Ocean, Bermuda Pink, and Citron.
Any of these colors paired with the right shirt and blazer will make you stand out.
A great dress shirt in a complimentary color will go a long way. Grab a fun gingham or striped shirt to turn it up. This is the one day of the year where “more is better.”
The jacket brings everything together and you can’t go wrong with the classic navy blazer. If you want to have a little fun on top though, a nice chalk stripe can make the ladies’ big hats turn.
The 3- button side vent is more polished than the 2-.
For shoes, there are many types of loafers out there. You should wear them without socks.
Top it all off with a fedora or bowler hat for the complete Derby look. Most men’s Derby hats are solid and inspired by the style from the Roaring Twenties (1920s).
Women (and Men), Show Off Your Elegant Jewelry
“You can show off elegant pearls and costume jewelry, or take your own accessories to the extreme with bows, broaches, scarves, hats, earrings, flowers and more…
…You’re all on the red carpet today, you will want to give them something to remember!”
Source: TheSolemates.com
Choose the Hat First, THEN Pick the Clothes to Match It
For Women:
Hat can be both large and over-the-top,
Or paired with the dress as an accessory,
You can’t go wrong with the hat you choose, which is one of the best parts about this day!
For Men:
Solid in color.
I thought Derby was Mostly about the Races, but I was Wrong
It’s the fashion!
Tickets
Book your Trip without Derby Tickets
In my case and most other cases, prices drop like a rock in the days leading up to the Saturday, especially if rain is in the forecast.
Even though I can’t predict the future, it has rained at half of the 145 Derby days.
The Tickets I Wanted
1st Floor Grandstand- MY RECOMMENDATION : These are bleacher-style seats, no backs and typically the best value seat option. The further away from the finish line the less it will cost.
It is a reserved seat and trackside.
You won’t get full-track views but it really doesn’t matter. The crowd there is terrific.
Take note, make sure you look at the section numbers.
Seats in 128, 127, etc. are way on the end of the grandstand.
Although the Derby will take off right in front of you, your views of the rest of the track are fairly limited.
The best reason to get a reserved seat is you do not have to arrive early.
It is a long day, with the big race starting at around 6:30 PM.
No need to arrive before noon even though gates open at 8 AM.
Besides a couple of races you are not missing much at this point in the day.
In my case, I compared what the resale ticket market looked like (for a grandstand ticket) a month before, a week before, a day before, and the morning of.
A Month Before
Average of $485 per ticket.
A Week Before
Average of $400 per ticket.
A Day Before (with rain expected in the forecast)
Average of $200 per ticket.
Same Day
Better seats, closer to the finish line than I expected, for $140!
What You May Not Want To Do Your Only Time Going
The Infield. Yes, the Infield is lots of fun, it’s fratty and young, BUT, on a rainy day, it is super muddy out there. It’s a lot like Mardi Gras. Most importantly-you do not get a seat.
The fashion and comfort gets negated by the dirtiness.
It’s less expensive (under $100), but way more crowded, the view is limited, and in my first and probably only time there, I wanted to get reserved seats and be part of the more “refined” crowd.
What I Did
I grabbed a $140 reserved seat ticket.
By waiting til’ the day of, I saved over $345 to be in the heart of the action. I knew I was going anyway, so I used the rain in the forecast to leverage the battle to get affordable tickets.
Lunch
I would suggest you plan on placing an order at any of the restaurants in town selling box lunches for the track. You may also pack your own in clear bags.
Saves money, time in food lines and gives you a better quality meal than you would find inside the facility. The food did not look that great and was expensive.
If you want to try a Mint Julep, skip the $15 one at the track and order a much better one for less at a fine bar in town.
When It Rains, It Pours
Knowing this, you’d think you should bring an umbrella with you to Derby, right?
They do not allow umbrellas at Churchill Downs.
Bring a clear poncho to cover(and still show off) your fancy outfit and hat should it rain. Do not forget this.
What Else Not to Forget
Cash for food, drinks and wagering.
Sunscreen if it’s sunny, a sweater if it’s chilly (and a poncho if it looks like rain).
With rain in the forecast you can’t let those fancy shoes get ruined!
Snacks or a boxed lunch. If you keep it in a bag or a container, make sure it’s clear and smaller than 18 inches by-18 inches.
Your own bottled water or soft drinks in a sealed, clear, unopened bottle.
A small towel. On the bleacher-style seating, sitting on the towel will keep your pants/dress clean.
Parking
If you are driving, you have two options:
Park at Cardinal Stadium, then make the short walk to Churchill Downs.
Park in the residential neighborhood surrounding Churchill Downs, then walk to the track.
Don’t get sucked in to expensive parking lots of $25 and up.
People will offer their driveways for $10 in most cases.
What You Should Know Going Into the Race
20 Three–year-old thoroughbreds gallop around the track for 1.25 miles at 35 MPH carrying 112 lb Jockeys.
The Jockey receives 10 percent of the horse owner’s winnings.
Derby is widely known as “The Greatest Two Minutes In Sports.”
Justify and American Pharoah won the Triple Crown in 2018 and 2015, respectively.
1904 – The red rose became the official flower of the Kentucky Derby.
1925 – New York sports columnist Bill Corum famously nicknamed the Kentucky Derby the “Run for the Roses®.
Each year, The Kroger Company sews a garland of over 400 red roses into a green satin backing with the seal of the Commonwealth on one end and the Twin Spires on the other.
In the world of sports, there is not a more moving moment than when the horses step onto the track for Derby post parade.
The band strikes up “My Old Kentucky Home.”
160,000+ people sing along.
“My Old Kentucky Home,” by Stephen Foster — Lyrics
The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home,
Tis summer, the people are gay;
The corn-top’s ripe and the meadow’s in the bloom
While the birds make music all the day.
The young folks roll on the little cabin floor
All merry, all happy and bright;
By’n by hard times comes a knocking at the door
Then my old Kentucky home, Good-night!
Weep no more my lady.
Oh! Weep no more today!
We will sing one song for the old Kentucky home
For the old Kentucky home, far away.
The Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and Derby for nearly a century.
That’s a feat that requires over 10,000 bottles of Old Forester Mint Julep Ready-to-Serve Cocktail, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint and 60,000 pounds of ice.
The Old Forester Mint Julep Recipe
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
Sprigs of fresh mint
Crushed ice
Old Forester Straight Bourbon Whisky
Silver Julep Cups
Placing Your Bets
Use The Churchill Downs Betting App/Twinspires.com
If you are at the Derby and are planning to place some bets, the lines can get loooooong.
The solution: bet online from your seat to skip the lines!
The app sometimes gives you a free $10 to use to bet as a welcome bonus.
Straight Wagers
Remember, with a straight wager, you only bet on one horse.
My suggestion is to stick to win, place, or show.
Don’t make your bets too complicated or the race won’t be fun for you.
Win–You’re betting that your horse will come in first place.
Place–When you bet on your horse to “place,” you’re betting that he will come in first OR second. Payout for a place bet is less than a win wager, but you have the security of being able to cash in if your horse finishes in the top two spots.
Show–You’re betting that your horse will come in first, second, OR third. Since you’re hedging your bets, you have a higher chance of winning, but the payout for a show bet is substantially less than a win or place wager.
Exotic Wagers – In My Opinion, Are Usually Sucker Bets
Exotic wagers allow you to bet on multiple horses in a single bet, allowing you to increase your profit potential.
They’re much harder to win than straight bets, can get expensive if you’re not careful, and require much more skill in handicapping horses.
Exacta–You’re betting on two horses to come in first and second in an exact order.
Trifecta–You bet that three horses will finish in first, second, and third in an exact order.
Superfecta–You bet that four horses will finish, first, second, third, and fourth in an exact order.
Factors to Consider When Picking Your Horse(s)
Jockey
The experience of the Jockey is huge. Some fans and experts consider Derby to be a “Jockey’s Race” because of the need to navigate thru a crowd of 19 other horses.
Surface Type
Horses perform differently on each type of surface. Some horses love dirt tracks, some like Turf (Grass). Some do well on Firm (dry) tracks and some do well in Sloppy conditions (wet) .The race day program tells you each horse’s past performance on the different surface types.
The Odds
If you’re looking for an easy way to handicap horses that gives you a good chance of a small return on your money, just bet the race favorite to show. It works 67% of the time.
If you bet the favorite to place, you’ll win 53% of the time.
If you bet the favorite to win, you’ll win 1 out of every 3 races on average (33%).
What to Say to the Teller at the Betting Window
Race number
Amount of your bet
Type of bet you’re placing
Horse’s assigned number
For example: “Race seven, $2 to win on number 4 or ‘on the 4’.”
Do Not Throw Away Your Betting Ticket Until the Race Results Become “Official”
Some who had wagered on Country House to win immediately tossed away their tickets at the close of the race, before Maximum Security’s disqualification, only to then scramble and frantically look around Churchill Downs for their betting slips (if it wasn’t ripped up already).
The Key Events to Pair Derby With
To make your Derby experience complete, go to the exceptional Champions’ Day and Derby Museum.
Champions’ Day
It’s Derby Week’s Newest Event.
Champions Day highlights the history and the sport of the Kentucky Derby!
Meet legendary jockeys and trainers and gain industry expert insights into Derby Week betting.
Event Highlights Included from this past Derby…
Autograph Session with Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, Steve Cauthen and Jean Cruguet.
Derby Week handicapping Seminar
Triple Crown Vault Photo Opportunity by the Kentucky Derby Museum
Mike Smith – The Hall of Fame jockey won aboard Justify in 2018.
Bob Baffert – Trained 2015 winner American Pharoah and 2018 winner Justify.
His horses have won five Kentucky Derbys, seven Preakness Stakes, three Belmont Stakes and three Kentucky Oaks.
– Steve Cauthen–known as “The Kid”, he became the youngest jockey ever to win the Triple Crown aboard Affirmed in 1978.
– Jean Cruguet–Rode Seattle Slew to Triple Crown victory in 1977.
– Elliott Walden–President & CEO, WinStar Farm and owner of 2018 winner Justify.
The Triple Crown Vault Photo Opportunity gave fans a chance to see –and have their photo taken with – trophies and other memorabilia from Triple Crown Winners War Admiral, Citation and Sir Barton.
War Admiral 1937–Jockey Charley Kurtsinger’s Preakness Jockey Trophy.
Citation 1948 –Kentucky Derby saddlecloth and trainer Jimmy Jones’ Triple Crown Trophy.
Sir Barton 1919–The Belmont Stakes Presentation Cup awarded to the first Triple Crown
You Will Hang with the Knowledgeable Locals
Many locals go to Champions’ Day and enjoy Churchill Downs without the chaos of Derby Day.
Go to the Derby Museum at Churchill Downs
This museum has an incredible surround screen presentation you won’t want to miss, “The Greatest 2 Minutes in Sports.”
Lots of displays and interactive exhibits.
Some are permanent and others are special exhibits.
Walk through a starting gate, call a race, ride a simulated race, learn how to bet, see fashions through the years.
With two floors of interactive, family friendly exhibits, the Museum takes visitors through every stage of a Thoroughbred’s life, from birth to the First Saturday in May.
Learn about all the great history of the race dating back to the inaugural running in 1875 to our most recent Kentucky Derby champion and experience all the traditions that have transformed the race into what it is today.
Don’t Make the Luxurious Derby Experience Topsy-Turvy.
Thoroughly soak in this one-in-a-lifetime event as a result of some smart planning and prep beforehand!
Where To Stay
When you visit the Kentucky Derby racetrack, you need to consider where to stay. While Louisville, Kentucky is home to some spectacular, unique, and vintage hotels, it is unlikely these are feasible during the derby. As the derby approaches, nightly rates at hotels skyrocket. At the same time, vacancy rates drop severely as more and more tourists come to town. To find reasonable lodging accommodations, it is best to get out of the city altogether. Consider surrounding towns like Lexington Kentucky. Roughly 70 miles away, the ride to Lexington crosses the famous Kentucky Bluegrass, making a spectacular ride. To maximize your lodging strategies in every destination, check out our recent hotel travel guide.
Set A Race Day Budget
Now, you are ready to set a budget to save money on the Kentucky Derby race track. Remember, you can have a great time on the track even while keeping a budget. Set a maximum amount to spend on betting, food, and drink. Say $50 to be conservative, or $100 if you want to spend a little bit more. Take out all the cash beforehand to avoid deviating from your budget. This way, you can avoid the constant $3 or $4 ATM fees. Certainly, setting a budget is key to have a good time without letting the Kentucky Derby race take control of your wallet. If you didn’t make it out last year, check out our post on the 2020 Kentucky Derby COVID-19 version.
The North Carolina vs. Duke game on Feb 20, 2019 was as close as college basketball gets to Super Bowl magnitude.
There arguably had not been a college prospect like Zion Williamson before, as he was a big reason fans were willing to spend Super Bowl prices to see this regular season rivalry matchup.
I was not one of those people.
BUT…
I was willing to go for $400 or less, as opposed to $2,500 and up which was the market price.
The rational event spectator in me felt it would be easy to walk away from an expensive ticket offer from someone trying to sell me a ticket for the tiny basketball venue that’s Cameron Indoor Stadium.
“If you’re interested in squeezing into Cameron Indoor Stadium to watch the first installment of the legendary rivalry in 2019, you’ll have to spend $2,500, the price of the cheapest available ticket.
Between Zion Williamson, a No. 1 ranking and this being one of the biggest rivalries in sports, there’s intense demand,” “There’s also a limited supply of inventory, which is having a major effect on price.
When you factor in that the floor seating is reserved for students, you’re left with a short supply — and massive demand.”
*Source: ESPN Pre-Game Preview
Why So Expensive?
Duke is a team fans love (and hate* – but are still intrigued by) around the world and would travel to see.
Most expensive ticket in college basketball.
Duke stars Zion Williamson, R.J. Barrett, Tre Jones and Cam Reddish are all going to be NBA talents, three of which are likely to be drafted in the top five of the upcoming NBA Draft despite declaring after their freshman year.
North Carolina stars Luke Maye, Coby White and Cameron Johnson are an exciting “Big Three.”
Duke was ranked number one overall, and UNC was number eight.
Same conference, long rivalry history; some feel is the top rivalry in all of sports.
Big Nationally televised game on ESPN.
Intra-state/Intra-tobacco road region.
A UNC-Duke game at Duke is on many sports fans’ bucket lists, including mine, BUT with me, it has to be at the right cost.
#10: Duke’s Basketball Pedigree Will Have Sellers Raising the Price of Tickets
Duke University, as academically centric the university’s students may be, their men’s basketball team absolutely is the main reason individuals around the world talk about it so much.
The Blue Devils have won four NCAA championships and over 20 ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) tournaments and produced dozens of All-Americans and nine national players of the year, all in addition to having a Hall-of-Fame coach in Mike Krzyzewski.
I read getting a Duke Basketball ticket is the toughest ticket in college basketball because of the team’s historic success and small capacity of Cameron Indoor Stadium (9,314 seats).
I felt it was a situation where I was just going to suck up the larger-than-normal cost of a big-time basketball game, but worth it.
#11: “Cameron Crazies”
“Cameron Crazies” – The undergraduate students that occupy the side of the court on the lower level across from the team benches and scorer’s table.
*Source – Duke Athletics Website
Because they occupy a large space, it’s ultra-competitive to try to get the other seats at the tiny venue at a decent price (let alone, any!).
But the small capacity of Cameron Indoor Stadium is part of what makes it so great. You witness 9,314 screaming Duke fans giving it to the other team at all times.
Opposing fan bases make fun of the Cameron Crazies, but they are one of the best, if not the best, undergraduate student body fan bases in the country.
They come prepared with chants specific to each opponent and they keep the energy going from the get go.
My “Dilemma”
I say dilemma in quotations because I was just lucky to be there and to spend the day enjoying the beautiful campus with my good friend Daniel who lives near there.
There was no “do-or-die” dilemma.
I am not a fan of overspending on a three-hour event. When you’re having fun, it goes by so quickly.
So I tried to get in to the game. And I did a lot to try to make this happen!
Before: What I Did to Try to Get In to the Game
I Became an Iron Duke(!) – Marketing Bait, Right?
Absolutely not! Being an Iron Duke was the highlight of my entire Duke day, and I will explain later on.
I gave a $100 donation to the Duke Alumni Association, so I could:
Be invited to one of the best pre-game parties on campus ($16 to attend), with the Duke basketball band, all-you-can-eat western-style barbecue (FOOD IS ALWAAAYS ON MY MIND!), nice alumni, and basically an indoor tailgate.
Get myself to the front of the line for affordable tickets should an alumnus or alumna sell a ticket back to the box office. They then go to the Iron Dukes waitlist.
Be given numerous Duke apparel to wear to the game.
Duke Ticket Office Waitlist
I put myself on the Duke Ticket office waitlist for $137 to have access to great seats should they pop up through that marketplace.
The key here was the money was refundable if I wasn’t selected.
TickPick Bid
Since I would have been happy ending the night having spent $400 on this incredible event I placed a lower-level seat bid for $400 on the TickPick app two weeks in advance.
It’s my favorite secondary market ticket app, since there are more discount codes and all the ticket prices you see are with fees included. No trickery, no misleading costs.
A Cool Pre-Game Activity to See on Campus Before the Big Game
Duke has built up some great basketball history in the last 40 years.
A popular local opinion is the best place to experience that is at the Duke Basketball Museum & Sports Hall of Fame attached to Cameron Indoor Stadium.
(**video was an instagram story, so it couldn’t rotate for this format**)
You can walk through to see mementos of the National Championship teams, articles from former players, and trophies from the in-season tournament the Blue Devils have won.
There’s also an area where you can experience old sounds from great Cameron Indoor moments. I love their fight song.
I spent about two hours there.
Right outside is the tenting in Krzyzewskiville, the tent area named after Coach K.
“Krzyzewskiville, or K-ville for short, is, the line for students hoping to get the best seats in the house for major home games.
But that line forms well in advance and may better described as a “tent city.”
Students camp out to be the first in Cameron Indoor — and those doors won’t open until about an hour and a half before tipoff if they get tickets.
During [Part One: Iron Dukes Pre-Game Dinner and Rally].
I stepped into the beautiful Blue Devil Tower overlooking Wallace Wade Field.
People painted their faces white and blue, some nervous about how the Duke game would go down in two hours.
I asked those at my table why they were nervous in a matchup where Duke was favored comfortably.
“I skipped work so I can sleep all day to prep for this crazy game,” one said while giving his wife a guilty look.
She laughed and seem to approve of his decision 100% because she too was a diehard.
“I skipped work just so thinking about this game tonight wouldn’t distract me from performing my duties at work,” another said while chugging beer.
I asked my typical Grasshopper Greg question:
“You guys know anyone who’s looking to get rid of an extra [ticket]?!”
For the first time EVER, after canvassing around 10 people who tried hard to find me a ticket thru their extensive Duke contact base, they COULD NOT!
I loved the people at my table.
They taught me so much about the University, told me some of their stories partying way back when they were students, how much the upcoming game means to them and we also networked.
Their careers and businesses fascinated me!
The food was delicious, and it was a terrific experience.
It was like a Duke-themed celebration.
The Takeaway from the Party
If my attempt to get into the game at a “reasonable” cost was unsuccessful by the end of the evening, I had so much fun at this party and the day I had on campus that I would be A-OKAY with skipping the game.
Other Neat Pre-Game Spots At or Near Duke
There aren’t that many options for good pregame fun before Duke Basketball games. There’s no true gathering spot where Duke fans chill before games.
The Bull Durham Bar at the Washington Duke Inn (aka WaDuke) is really your only option for something walkable.
It’s generally a gathering of somewhat older alumni and fans and is only a 10-minute walk from Cameron Indoor.
People end up there right after games as well.
You can always go to classic Duke sports bars like Satisfaction Restaurant and Bar, but the pick is the Washington Duke.
During Part Two: The Ticket Search
I waited near the main security entrance of the arena, separating myself from the others looking to buy.
Thousands of people of all ages walked past me as I held up the innocent finger as in “I’m looking to buy one!…
…If you’re looking to sit next to someone nice, I’m that guy!”
But Duke basketball is SUCH A BIG DEAL that the average fan would not sell a ticket to the game for $2,500 and would rather go.
A few people stopped to ask me the price I was looking for. And be prepared to have some laugh at you.
“How much you looking to spend?,” said one guy.
“I’d get in for $250,” I said. Guy instantly walked away.
I countered with $315. He thought about it, but rather went inside with the ticket.
Another man comes by and made the mistake of asking me what tix were going for (bad negotiation question which gives the power to the buyer).
I told him the secondary market ticket trend from the day, going from $3,000 to about $1,000 and less.
He didn’t believe me, so I pointed out to him (I took a screenshot) of a ticket from the secondary market listed at $700.
It surprised him, and I said, “you have an easy sale at $300.”
He said, “let’s double that.”
I walked away (kindly).
He said, “let’s settle at $500.”
I said, “$400.”
He said “I’m walking away at anything less than $500.”
I gave it some thought, but as a value traveler, I wouldn’t feel good blowing $500 (for a single ticket) on a three-hour event. And it was something I could watch on TV.
And as I thought about that, it hit me:
“I’m happy with the day I had and the time I had at that party where I don’t even need to go to the game.”
The Takeaway from The Ticket Search
I would much rather go on a 17-day trip, or a couple of shorter trips, for $2,500 than to use it on an event.
I have learned through the years it is comfortable to walk away from something tempting feeling great about following your instincts.
This was one of those times.
Where I Went to Watch the Game
I walked right across the plaza to the team store, where it had a humongous-sized tv with movie theater sound inside and a seat. To me, there was no better place to watch the game at this point, and it was right there!
Getting To The Game
Once you have figured out your ticket strategy, you need to figure out how you will get to the game. Luckily, getting to Durham, North Carolina is relatively easy for much of the Eastern and Midwestern United States. The closest, easiest airport to access is likely Raleigh-Durham International, roughly twenty-minutes away from Duke’s main campus. At the same time, Raleigh is still within a reasonable drive of major cities like Charlotte, Richmond, Washington D.C, and Atlanta. Before purchasing your gameday tickets, be sure to figure out a plan for getting to the game.
The Big Game
33 seconds into the game…the TV play-by-play guy says:
“Zion [Williamson] is down! He slipped but I’m not sure how…
…Oh, his shoe BROKE.”
His Nike shoe split in half while planting his foot. He went down hard, as his knee injury forced him off the court to the locker room.
Team doctors ruled him out for the rest of the game. Fans saw him run up and down the court once and that was it.
I felt horrible for him and for the fans who spent a fortune to see him play.
I know I would not have enjoyed much of the rest of the game knowing I paid way too much not to see him play over 33 seconds.
But I felt a slight sigh of relief being on the TV spectator side of things having saved my money on a game that was supposed to be the game of the year, but like any sporting event, NOT guaranteed to be worth the money.
This game flat out wasn’t.
You don’t know when a player you pay to see gets hurt, winds up on the injury report at the last minute, gets rested by his coach because of “load-management,” or has to take personal leave.
That’s why I don’t buy tickets in advance with exception to a small percentage of times.
And you shouldn’t as well unless you are taking a family or group of four or more. You will spend more money on tickets than the day of the game.
Duke lost by 16 at home and both teams did not play well.
For this particular game, fans did not get what they paid to see.
But I wholeheartedly endorse trying to get into a Duke basketball game.
As you can see, there are ways to circumvent pricey events if you’re willing to be creative.
If you haven’t had your fill of the college basketball arena atmosphere, there are plenty of other incredible venues to watch hoops. The best venues are often categorized by Their current relevance, historical building significance, as well as the fanbase, or student section. Notably, some of the most popular arenas are at BYU, Purdue, VCU, and Kansas State. Also, you will love “The Barn,” home of the Minnesota Golden Gophers. For over twenty years between 1950 and 1971, this college stadium once held the largest seating capacity of any NCAA basketball arena. To experience more incredible sports travel experiences, check out our guide on the ultimate New Orleans Saints gameday experience at the superdome. Certainly, learning about other arenas is a great way to make the most of your Duke college basketball sports travel experience.
I experienced the party-like, fun and friendly atmosphere the New Orleans Saints, the city of New Orleans and the Superdome have to offer.
The Saints came back from a two-touchdown deficit to pave the way for the highlight of the team’s 2019 season, defeating the defending Super Bowl champs, the Philadelphia Eagles.
The week after, the Saints lost their place in the Super Bowl to the Rams after referees decided not to throw the yellow flag on a play that many are calling a glaring case of pass interference.
The non-call led to a Saints go-ahead field goal in the 4th quarter of the NFC Championship game and the Rams got the ball back with enough time to make a final drive leading to a FG to tie and subsequently, send it to overtime.
This was considered to be one of the worst officiating moments in NFL playoff history. Bill Vinovich will be a household name after this non-call.
As one of the premier NFL gameday experiences, it isn’t easy to beat that of the Saints.
I went to the thrilling comeback divisional playoff round win over the Eagles, but the day was an overwhelming success before the game even started.
Eat & Drink
Prior to the start of the game, you will need to choose somewhere to eat and drink. The true New Orleans gameday itinerary is a full day experience. To power through, you will need lots of energy. I suggest starting off in somewhere convenient near Downtown New Orleans. Downtown is conveniently located between the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, making it the perfect spot for whatever sports event you are watching. If you are looking for drinks, think a classic New Orleans sports bar with huge televisions and even bigger drinks. There are an abundance of options in close proximity to the Superdome for the ultimate pre-game experience.
Getting to the Game
Unless you plan on spending a substantial portion of your trip outside of downtown, I don’t see why renting a car is necessary.
The NORTA (New Orleans Regional Transit Authority) offers buses, ferries and streetcars to get you around and to downtown.
The Superdome is located in downtown, so these different methods will get you close to the stadium. Plus you will save big $$ on parking costs.
Driving to the game can also be a pain if you have plans to drive within downtown after the game. From my experience going there, the downtown streets near the stadium are filled by fans walking in it, almost like the feel of the city’s second line parades. If you are always seeking the greatest eats when you travel, check out our guide on the top destinations for Native American travel food experiences.
Before the Game
If you are interested in participating or observing tailgate action, many Saints tailgaters get to around the stadium early, maybe four or five hours before kickoff.
Really, there is no such thing as going too early to a game when there is so much action at each hour leading up to it.
Lots of Jazz bands play downtown, so if you are walking on your way to the game, you may be passing second line parades or another band performing.
Join in with the second line band! It is lots of fun doing it and walking with them. Wave your Saints towel, clap your hands, or wave to those you pass as if you are on a parade float! You can even throw out or catch colorful beads! If you appreciate the authentic music whenever you travel, you will love our guide on how to experience Fado in Lisbon Portugal.
Champions Square
It is an outdoor festival plaza right outside the dome where you can go to a pre-game concert, walk around, and take pictures with crazy fans in costumes.
Tailgating
Tailgating at a New Orleans Saints game is its own experience. Even better, you do not even need gameday tickets to join in and have a great time. Head over to the arena on Loyola Avenue and South Rampart Street. Here, you will quickly be able to identify and join in on the tailgating celebrations. Get involved with beers, music, and grilling. To have the most fun, bring your own entertainment, dress like you mean it, and stay positive (even with opposing fans). For more incredible sports travel experiences, check out our guide on the ultimate Duke college basketball gameday experience.
or are just curious about how to enjoy a vacation centered around urban areas in North Carolina…
…you’re in the right place.
1) things to do in north carolina this weekend
2) things to do in north carolina charlotte
3) free things to do in nc
4) things to do in raleigh north carolina
5) north carolina day trips
6) romantic places visit north carolina
7) things to do in durham north carolina
8) best restaurants in north carolina
Visit these following Places in Durham, Raleigh and Charlotte.
“I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
– Michael Jordan
Durham
TRANSPORTATION NOTE: will not need to rent a car if your accommodations are anywhere near downtown.
The Bull City Connector is free from Duke University to the Golden Belt artistic hub, including Ninth Street and downtown Durham.
The bus runs every 17 minutes from Monday-Friday 6:30am-9pm, and Saturday 10am-9pm.
HISTORY HERE:
Durham has been at the forefront of pioneering ideas and inventions.
It’s the former home of the Lucky Strike Cigarette Factory, a historical landmark.
A one-million-sq.-ft. entertainment district with restaurants, a documentary theater, a basketball court.
Plenty of open green common space under the iconic Lucky Strike smokestack.
Art shows, pop-up shops, and free concerts in the summer.
Brightleaf Square District
Two tobacco warehouses renovated to house shops, restaurants, and nightlife in west Downtown Durham.
Nat’l Historical Landmark: Built in the early 20th century to store and age the tobacco produced by the American Tobacco Company.
It’s been called “a living museum of tobacco history.”
Washington Duke started his worldwide tobacco empire in a one room barn.
After learning of the demand Union soldiers had for brightleaf tobacco during his service in the Civil War, Duke built a small factory and began selling tobacco to the rest of the world.
You’ll see:
A mid-19th century Duke family home,
tobacco barns, original factory, and farm.
A museum to showcase the beginnings of the modern day tobacco industry with visuals of early farming techniques and manufacturing processes.
DO NOT mention the word “cancer” there!
Free: Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
See the 17-minute orientation film, “Legacy of the Golden Leaf.”
Highlights the history of the Duke family, the North Carolina tobacco industry, and the history of Durham.
Take the mostly outdoor 45-minute guided tour (offered daily)
See four historic structures: a tobacco curing barn, tobacco pack house, Washington Duke’s Third Tobacco Factory (1869), and his 1852 home.
City Center District
Home to the Carolina Theatre, Durham Arts Council and the Durham Convention Center.
The city center is the place to see historic landmarks, dine, shop and enjoy nightlife.
Central Park District
Check out Durham Central Park, Durham Farmers Market and Historic Durham Athletic Park.
Golden Belt District
It’s a historic textile mill campus reborn as a creative arts hub.
There’s unique dining options, good shopping, art studios and galleries and outdoor areas to hang out.
21c Museum Hotel
I loved the free contemporary art museum inside, and although I wound up there too late at night, unknowingly, I was told the former bank vault in the basement is worth seeing.
DPAC – Durham Performing Arts Center
In Downtown Durham
Fletcher Hall has been restored to its original 1926 décor.
Touring Broadway shows, big-time concerts and comedy performances, and the American Dance Festival in the summer.
Duke Lemur Center (DLC)
World’s largest collection of lemurs outside of Madagascar, where they are only native to.
BUT, absolutely take photos of them (no flash), they’re photogenic!
Duke University Campus
Founded in 1924, the Duke campus offers many interesting and historic sites, including Sarah P. Duke Gardens.
Named one of the top 10 public gardens in the U.S. by TripAdvisor
Winner of the 2013 Horticulture Magazine Award for Garden Excellence,
Stunning 55-acre public garden on campus of Duke University,
One of the premier university gardens in the country.
It’s free and is recognized internationally.
“Among its many features are Italianate terraces, an Asiatic arboretum, a garden of native plants, a white garden, water features, and an organic food garden.”
Duke Gardens also has a café, gift shop, and visitor center. It offers walking and trolley tours (reserved in advance).
Ninth Street Shopping District-
“This funky and eclectic dining and shopping district near Duke’s East Campus around historic Erwin Mill features nationally recognized restaurants and independent stores selling books, clothes, music and more.”
The district includes Erwin Square, Broad Street and Ninth Street North.
Source: DiscoverDurham.com
Durham Bulls
If you are there during the season, you’re in for a baseball treat.
Go see the Tampa Bay Rays AAA team play at an urban stadium (Durham Bulls Athletic Park) which reminds me of Camden Yards in Baltimore.
Check Out The Carolina Basketball Museum
When you visit Durham, and the North Carolina triangle region, it is essential to check out the Carolina Basketball Museum. No matter who your team is, there is something for everyone to appreciate at the Carolina Basketball Museum. The museum is filled with historic trophies, memorabilia, video footage, and autographed documents. One of the primary exhibits is Michael Jordan’s original signed national letter of intent. When you visit the North Carolina Triangle Region, be sure to check out the famous Carolina Basketball Museum. If you are a sports travel lover, be sure to check out our ultimate guide on going to Los Angeles Clippers games at the Staples Center.
Raleigh
This is a fairly easy city to get around without a car as well.
The R line is a free bus service and runs every 15 minutes in downtown Raleigh.
Warehouse District
Thrillist recently named it as one of 12 “neighborhoods across America about to get crazy popular.”
I also agree. It is so cool.
Hand-sewn denim store
Carolina barbecue,
Locally brewed beer,
A contemporary art museum,
Gourmet chocolate factory and more—all within a two or three-block radius.
Six blocks of iconic, red-brick, former industrial buildings…
…Some of which are now occupied by startups and other innovative businesses.
N.C. Museum of History
Every exhibit they have is incredibly detailed and interesting.
I browsed through some of them, but I only had time to focus deeply on one, the N.C. Sports Hall of Fame.
Admission is free.
Michael Jordan, Jimmy V, Coach K, Arnold Palmer, Catfish Hunter, Dean Smith, Curly Neal, Bob McAdoo, Gaylord Perry, Ron Francis, Rod Brind’Amour…
I’d say North Carolina has produced quite the crop of athletes amongst all sports.
It also includes in-depth Charlotte and Durham food coverage.
You will read just how varied Raleigh’s food scene is, and I would not be surprised if you went ahead and booked your flight to NC directly after seeing the presentation of this food.
Charlotte
I do not like Charlotte as a city to “do things” in. The caliber of their main attractions lack excitement and historical significance.
I will, however, go there if there is a big event in town, as it is an affordable big city. There are really good restaurant choices there as well.
In the vlog and blog link above, you’ll see details.
I attended the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte recently and I will have thorough coverage on that to follow.
Best North Carolina Beaches
Even in North Carolina, travelers can get out an relax on the beach. Undeniably, one of the most famous beaches in the Tarheel State is at the Outer Banks. In the OBX, visitors will enjoy lush beaches, surfing, as well as shipwreck diving. Other great destinations include Carolina Beach and Nags Head. For a more peaceful destination, head over to Corolla, where you can admire the spectacular Currituck Lighthouse. If you have extra time, also stop by Emrals Isle, Bald Head Island, and Cape Hatteras. Then, check out some of these best secret Caribbean islands without cruise ships for your next beach getaway.
Recap
There is a high chance you will enjoy urban North Carolina if you visit these places in Durham, Raleigh and Charlotte.
“To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. And number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy.”
– Jim Valvano
Was awarded the inaugural Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award at the first ESPY Awards.
Died following a nearly yearlong battle with metastatic cancer two months after his famous speech in 1993.
Known for his excellent basketball coaching career, mainly at NC State University.
Several cities in North Carolina such as Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham are developingreputations for their variety and quality of restaurants.
The culinary experiences I had on this nine day trip left me wanting more every time.
In fact, here are restaurants you should not miss out on so you can have a gastronomic North Carolinian experience!
General tip:
If you want to diversify your palate and try local specialties wherever you go,
***Set a budget for your meal and ask your server the following question:
“Within this price range of $_____ and $______, if you are an out-of-towner and can only have one meal here, which would you suggest?”
Charlotte
The Asbury
You cannot complete a Charlotte trip without eating at The Asbury housed in the city’s only historic hotel, The Dunhill.
Charlotte Magazine named it one of the top five restaurants in the city in 2018.
The Daily Meal also picked The Asbury as North Carolina’s top hotel restaurant for 2019.
Executive Chef, Mike Long, celebrates the different seasons by blending seasonal ingredients into his unique Carolinian, Modern and Southern restaurant menu offerings.
“There is a strong tie to heirloom ingredients native to our area, lost to time and modernization, and specialty items grown by small, family farms throughout the local region,” according to The Asbury Dining press details.
I got to enjoy their delicious food during brunch one day, and dinner on another.
I had NBA All-Star weekend media commitments on the day I attended brunch, so since my time was limited, I only sampled one item. Speaking of the NBA, check out this recent guide on the ultimate Duke college basketball gameday experience.
I chose the brunch sandwich.
Braised bison, gochujang slaw, over medium fried egg, with warm kale salad (with bacon included, yummmmm…..).
Kale is so much more delicious served warm.
The bison was tender and flavorful for those who have never had it. It didn’t taste gamey at all.
I thought the gochujang slaw was a delicious, tangy and sweet fusion between American and Asian flavors.
I returned for dinner, which afforded me the time to eat more of Long’s delectable and memorable dishes.
By the way, Chef Long is one of the most personable and creative chefs I’ve ever had the pleasure to eat the food of.
I started off with the smoked duck hearts.
Gochujang vinaigrette instead of beet-maple puree (for my dairy allergy purposes), winter vegetables and spiced walnuts.
Sweet potato mash (instead of whipped potatoes for my dairy allergy purposes), apple and mustard demi.
The Nadia wine from Santa Barbara, CAwas suggested by the server to accompany the pork cheeks.
I finished up with the hibiscus and lychee sorbet.I have sampled many unique sorbet flavors in my travels, but this was my first hibiscus and lychee dessert.
It had a smooth texture and was low on the sweetness scale. I enjoyed this because I don’t favor the sickeningly sweet sorbets on the market.
The concept of seasonal dining is on trend and makes perfect sense if the goal is serving the freshest local ingredients for exquisite dishes that also support the local community farmers and suppliers.
Each dish was appealing to the eye and the palate.
The decor was comfortable and homey and made me feel like I was eating in someone’s dining room.
Everything was satiating, delicious and the dining ambiance is one you won’t want to leave.
In keeping with supporting the local community, The restaurant’s artwork is from regional artists featured in the local Sozo Gallery.
When the seasonal menu changes, the restaurant features a new exhibition of artwork on the wall.
The staff comprises true, friendly professionals, and I had fantastic experiences with Chef Mike Long and waitstaffKristen andPatrick.
Break free from the chain restaurants and treat yourself to the unique and mouth-watering dishes served at The Asbury.
Mert’s Heart and Soul
When I was growing up, restaurants I visited used dairy in their barbecue, so I couldn’t eat it. Because of this, I was hesitant to try barbecue in my travels.
However, I learned in trips to Austin, New Orleans and Carolina that the best restaurants use better ingredients than butter.
While butter is used in some of their foods, according to staff member Kierra at Mert’s Heart and Soul (watch my video for my conversation with Kierra), there were many safe options for me. They offer vegan and vegetarian fare as well.
If you have a dairy allergy, or another allergy, the staff at some non-chain southern restaurants will take the time to work with you to ensure your meal will be safe. They were agreeable to customize dishes.
Like The Asbury, I suggest you include Mert’s on your priority A list for Charlotte restaurants.
I had a wonderful meal there.
First, I had an appetizer of the salmon cakes.
Fresh poached salmon blended with the Cajun Trinity (celery, onion and peppers) and spiced with their homemade remoulade sauce.
Next, I had the red beans and rice (no cheese) with smoked turkey sausage.
Then, I followed with a course of the green beans, the black-eye peas and the collardgreens.
Owner James, daughter Kiana and the rest of their family run such such a warm and welcoming vibe inside of Mert’s.
The ambiance includes a retro vibe including the artwork and music. If you are looking for eateries with a cool, trendy ambiance, you will love our visitor’s guide to the best restaurants in New Orleans French Quarter.
The Mayobird
The chicken salads, breads and coffees are superb!
They use a delicious mayonnaise for their chicken salads, and then you select the flavor you want with it.
I chose dill because I love me some pickles (or at least the flavors of a pickle)!
It is a great place to get work done on the road or meet with a friend, as it is a chill, funky breakfast and lunch spot.
Mimosa Grill
At Mimosa Grill, you’ll see a variety of fresh local ingredients and seafood on the menu.
I loved executive chef Thomas Marlow’s cooking.
An interesting tidbit, it was the first Charlotte restaurant to use regional ingredients back in 1996.
I had the Grilled Ancho Rubbed Chicken.
Tomato & avocado salsa – blackened tomato aioli, spicy jack cheese (I left the cheese off because of my dairy allergy), sweet onions & peppers.
And the bread was delicious.
There of plenty of small bites, southern food options, entrée salads, sandwiches, seafood and meat options and sides that’ll grab your attention on the menu.
It was fantastic!
The King’s Kitchen
The King’s Kitchen serves local, healthy and Southern food from Carolina farmers.
But get this… It’s a non-profit restaurant!
The profits and proceeds from The King’s Kitchen go towards feeding the homeless.
For that reason alone, it should be on your list of Charlotte restaurants to try.
Zada Jane’s Corner Café
Known for its soul food, you’ll find Zada Jane’s Corner Café, a turquoise-painted building, in the heart of Plaza Midwood.
They serve breakfast all day, including French toast, pancakes, omelettes, ground coffee and more.
And the lunch menu is extensive. You’ll see good soup, salads, and sandwich options.
They have two separate grills for the meats and vegetables, indicative of their half vegetarian and half meat menu.
Living Kitchen
Living Kitchen is one of the few vegan restaurants I found in North Carolina.
The menu also comprises raw foods with smoothies, juices, nuts and seed milks.
It’s perfect for those vegan travelers and those seeking a quick, healthy option during their travels.
Coffee Shops
Trade and Lore Specialty Coffee Shop
For a chill vibe, good breakfast and numerous coffee drinks, this is a good choice, especially if you desire vegan options.
Amélie’s French Bakery and Café
I loved their Café Marcotter.
Espresso, vanilla bean, almond milk, caramel sauce and sea salt.
The ambiance resembles a Parisian café.
Try their tartines. They look as good as they taste.
I had the bacon and fig, the portobello, and the tomato and pesto tartine, all dairy-free.
Raleigh
The Warehouse District in Raleigh is a great place to begin your culinary adventures.
The restaurant selection is tremendous and Raleigh is rapidly developing into a foodie city.
This six-block district has former industrial buildings, galleries, an art museum, a gourmet chocolate factory, Carolina barbecue, hand-sewn denim, coffee and sake shops, nightlife and locally brewed beer.
Fiction Kitchen
Tasting Head Chef Caroline Morrison’s food made my evening. If I weren’t leaving the next day, I definitely would have returned for more.
To start, I had a local baguette with vegan pimento cheese and onion jam.
Next, I tried the house-smoked bbq “pork” (vegan restaurant) with apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper and garlic, served with local smashed potato, sorghum molasses dijon slaw and I added black beans with chipotle “buttermilk” plus cilantro.
The Apple Cake Special caught my eye. It tasted even better than it looks!
Sliced apples, apple crumble, rum, coconut whipped cream, coconut ice cream, and it had a strong and delicious caramel-like flavor.
Smokey’s BBQ Shack
It’s in Morrisville, smack in between Raleigh and Cary, but is well-worth the extra time it takes to get there.
The menu items are a mix of Eastern and Western BBQ styles (below), containing platters & sandwiches of BBQ pulled pork, brisket & more, plus Southern sides.
Eastern North Carolina style – With chopped pork and a clear sauce of vinegar, pepper and salt.
Western North Carolina style – With chopped or sliced pork with a red sauce that includes ketchup and sugar, along with the other ingredients.
It is a family-owned, hole-in-the-wall restaurant where the staff is helpful, kind, authentic and knowledgeable about allergies and dietary limitations.
Some Raleigh and Cary locals say Smokey’s is their go-to BBQ spot. I totally understand why, because it’s very good.
I had the chopped brisket platter with their homemade fries. The chef makes some of their sides on shared equipment with the dairy ones, so I didn’t take my chances.
Martha is sweet, and so is the rest of her family who owns Smokey’s.
Jose and Son’s
Eating at this farm-to-table contemporary Mexican cuisine was a Raleigh highlight for me.
Mmm……
First off, it being in a warehouse building was unique. It was hip.
Second, the staff is wonderful and one in particular whom I bonded with was my waitress Ashley.
Third, the menu is attention-grabbing.
Lots of healthy options combined with innovative meat and sides selections made Grasshopper Greg happy.
Fourth, I loved the chips and salsa, the plaintainwich:
Jibbarito “Steak Plantainwich” – Crisp plantain, sliced hanger steak, lettuce, tomato, Duke’s Mayonnaise, chimichurri, queso fresco (I ordered without cheese), choice of side (I had the rice and black beans).
… and the house margarita.
It sets the bar high for all other Mexican restaurants. Since Jose and Son’s is farm-to-table, supporting the local community, this Mexican restaurant is a cut above.
I found it to be quite the culinary dining experience, a memorable one for sure.
Morgan Street Food Hall
There are over 60 upscale food stalls inside Morgan Street Food Hall.
With Cow Bar Burgers, Oak City Fish and Chips, Raleigh Raw and more, the variety is tremendous!
There is not much overlap in cuisine and everything from southern food, seafood, Japanese, Mediterranean, Indian and more can be found there.
I looked at the unbelievable dessert menu at Cocoa Forte Desserts and inquired if any were dairy-free.
When Nicole realized there were none, she got the pastry chefto make dairy-free dark chocolate covered strawberries. That was very sweet of her, and boy were they amazing!
The recent opening of the food hall was an exciting time for the Warehouse District neighborhood.
In creator Niall Hanley’s words:
“Raleigh’s a place where cultures come together. The community in the city is a welcoming one. It’s also expanding as new businesses flock to the area, including startups and Apple. It was time Raleigh had its own food hall, liken to those I grew up with in Ireland. I love that this is a place that brings people together; whether groups of friends or families, they’ll connect at this unique location through food and drinks that encompass a variety of cross-cultural cuisines.”
It’s cool how diverse cities in the deep south are becoming.
Vic’s Italian Restaurant
If you like family-owned, authentic, old-world Italian cuisine and atmosphere, this fits the bill.
Owner Mario Longo makes this a cozy, family-friendly restaurant locals love to frequent.
I ordered the Saltimbocca alla Romana, made of veal wrapped with prosciutto and sage; marinated in wine, oil and saltwater.
Roasted potatoes and fresh vegetables were the sides.
Soooo good!
The Pit
It’s Carolina-style barbecue. Need I say more?
Heirloom
I liked the exotic coffee roasts.
I had the Ethopia Worka from the Yirgacheffe region.
It contains jammy peach preserves, dark sweet berries and soft cocoa.
They have sandwiches and beer too! It is a nice place to catch up with a friend or get work done.
Heirloom
It’s a specialty coffee shop, tea house, and sake bar.
The food menu is Asian-inspired.
After tasting their hot sake and coffee, along with hanging out and getting invigorated by the upbeat, modern urban atmosphere, I understand why locals flock here.
Brigs
The brunch dining experience at Brigs is nice.
You’ll have plenty of breakfast and lunch options to choose from, as the menu spans many pages.
I read in multiple press news outlets they rated Brig’s as Raleigh’s (also other locations around the state) best breakfast spot. The staff is ultra-accommodating with food allergies and requests.
I had the Carolina Classic breakfast:
Eggs scrambled with zesty pimento cheese (I had avocado instead), smoked turkey, bacon and assorted bell peppers with their homemade BBQ sauce.
Durham
Bullock’s Bar-B-Que
Be awarethat the chopped and sliced pork, as well as the hushpuppies are uber popular. Get there early, so you don’t miss out!
Hand-chopped barbecue comes as a sandwich or platter. They also offer country ham, fried chicken and “Brunswick stew.”
Brunswick stew – thick and hearty mix of pulled pork, chicken (or turkey), vegetables, seasonings, tomato sauce, and BBQ sauce
The Skillet Southern Cookery – On Duke University’s Campus
It has authentic barbecue with their Lexington-style sauce.
From ribs and fried chicken to hand-chopped barbecue, Hog Heaven won’t let you down!
It has won several reader’s choice awards for outstanding quality.
The Skillet Southern Cookery – On Duke University’s Campus
The Skillet Southern Cookery combines the regional flavors of North Carolina cuisine, capturing the flare and character of local meals.
It’s in the West Union building. I found it to be the nicest college food hall I’ve seen by far! It was renovated a couple years back.
Southern Fast Food Options
On your trip to North Carolina, it is essential to keep some Southern Fast Food options in mind. Not everyday do you have enough time to sit down and eat at classy restaurants. At the same time, your value travel budget may not allow for constant dining out. Luckily, there are some classic fast food staples you need to try either way. One of the most popular Southern food chains is Bojangles. Everything at Bojangles is Southern, deep fried, probably greasy, and delicious. Another North Carolinian staple is Cookout. Anything you order at a Cookout is guaranteed to be delicious. Especially since most Cookout restaurants are open 24/7, making it the perfect late night treat to end the night. Whatever you order, be sure to order a milkshake to wash it all down.
Biscuits
Before you leave North Carolina, you need to endulge in some delicious biscuits. Extra-large biscuits, sometimes called catheads, are a stable at many authentic local eateries throughout NC. Often, these are topped with fried chicken, country ham, gravy, cheese, and eggs. Surely, these delicious treats make for the perfect breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Top them off with some delicious maple syrup to add a sweet taste to this savory, gourmet item. If you are still hungry, check out these incredible Native American travel food experiences that you need to try this year.
Go to some of these restaurants to enhance your time in North Carolina!
Bourbon Street is flat out overpriced, uninspiring, overrated and avoidable.
Do not waste any of your precious vacation time there.
Here’s what you should do that’s “so New Orleans!” Read on to learn about the top must see cultural attractions and landmarks in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Stay Minutes from Downtown Across the River and Save Your Money for Food and Entertainment
I stayed outside the tourist district at an airBNB for $14 per night.
Yes, you read that right. Not $140, but $14.
Algiers is a beautiful village where the chances of finding a tourist is a needle in a haystack.
That traveler was me. I got to know so many amazing locals who live in the neighborhood. We all traveled for the seven-minute ferry ride across the Mississippi River to the heart of downtown, Canal St., for $2.
If you stay along General Meyer, General DeGaulle, Woodland, and Algiers in general, I found it to be very safe and easy to connect to a bus line if you prefer that over a ferry.
Other than getting into the Eagles vs. Saints playoff game for free, this was my biggest savings in my nine day New Orleans trip.
I suggest you be flexible and save a fortune to stay minutes away from downtown instead of right in it.
And I loved beginning my day with stunning views surrounding the Algiers Point Ferry.
Refer to my New Orleans food article and video for the top notch restaurants throughout the city, which won’t break the bank and are thorough with accommodating food allergies and dietary needs.
Second Line Parade Tradition
Experience a New Orleans Second LineParade.
They will include a brass band, jubilant dancing in the street and members decked out in a wardrobe of brightly colored suits, sashes, hats and bonnets, parasols and banners, creating a mix of a lavish function and the spontaneous energy of a block party, albeit one that moves one block at a time.
The parades are not tied to any particular event, holiday or commemoration; rather, they happen for those in the city to have a good time.
Second lines began in the 19th century and continue to this day on Sundays from 1-5 in the afternoon.
The locations where they are being held are advertised locally a few days prior to Sunday.
Frenchmen Street
Like I said, ditch Bourbon Street. It is catered towards tourists. Locals know better.
They usually head to Frenchmen, Marigny or Bywater instead. Here, you can find some of the best restaurants in New Orleans. That’s where I suggest you go if you really want to enjoy the locals.
Frenchmen Street is a four-block stretch of live music, bars, restaurants, night clubs and art galleries. Here, not only will you find fewer crowds , but you’ll also encounter cheaper eats and drinks, and better music.
I know some locals will be mad at me for revealing where they hang out because some want to get away from the loud, drunk, “try-hard” tourists!
The Spotted Cat (In Video Above)
Undeniably the Quintessential Jazz Club of New Orleans, it is also one of the best jazz clubs in the world.
It is a local favorite for live New Orleans music from Jazz, Blues, Funk, R&B and Klezmer, and from my experience there, the local crowd knew the local band members performing.
I saw “the Rhythm Stompers” and “Dominick Grillo & The Frenchmen Street All-Stars.”
Sometimes, if you can get to the venue before the headliner performs, you’ll avoid the $15+ cash cover.
Rebirth Brass Band
Try to catch them on a Tuesday night at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak St.
The band has evolved from playing the streets of the French Quarter to playing festivals and stages all over the world.
They’ve also added funk and hip-hop to the mix.
It will be one of the most memorable music performances you can see, as they are one of the top brass bands in the city. For live music travel lovers, check out our guide to the best local live Kentucky Bluegrass music venues.
Tremé
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, specifically Treme’.
The Tremé neighborhood happens to be the city’s oldest area.
Buddy Bolden, Jelly Roll Morton, Sidney Bechet,Louis Armstrong and Fats Domino are some of the musicians to come out of this area.
Rock ’n’ roll legend Fats Domino’s two-home compound at 1208 Caffin Avenue and Marais Street has been a landmark of the Lower 9th Ward since 1960.
Consisting of a pink-and-white split-level mansion on the corner and a white-brick shotgun house with yellow-and-black trim next door, Domino’s home is a symbol of the superstar’s attachment to his hometown.
New Orleans’ biggest musical export since Louis Armstrong, Domino sold more records from 1956 to 1963 than anyone but Elvis Presley and could have lived anywhere.
He chose, when not on tour, to stay in the neighborhood he grew up in, holding court over heaping pots of red beans and rice in a living room with a grand piano and a couch made from the back of a vintage Cadillac. Musicians, neighbors, relatives, and visiting dignitaries were in and out the door over the decades.
Armstrong’s “When The Saints Go Marching In” became a nationally known pop melody in the late 1930s and the unofficial anthem of New Orleans even today.
He was in a New Orleans tradition of turning church numbers into brass band and dance.
It was a commonly used song in traditional jazz funerals, but its popularity increased with the upbeat recording by Armstrong.
The New Orleans Saints football team was named in honor of the the song.
840 Rampart Street – plaque & recording studio start of Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard and Ray Charles.
Tremé or Faubourg Tremé is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. To hear more authentic, cultural music, check out our guide on how to experience Fado in Lisbon Portugal.
Historically, it’s a center of African-American and Creole culture especially the modern brass tradition. Here you can find some of the most famous restaurants in town, colorful homes and historic sites.
French Quarter Phantoms runs a really good tour of this district.
Head Over To The Bayou
Spend an afternoon on the bayou on your next trip to New Orleans Louisiana. The bayou, sometimes referred to as Driskill Mountain, is the highest point in Louisiana, only at a slight 535 feet above sea level. The Louisiana bayou is home to unique wildlife, a delicate ecosystem, and a cypress swamp. Travel the area by foot, or book a tour on an Air-boat to do something even more exciting. Many of these tours even allow you to hold rescued baby alligators at the end of your tour. If you are looking for the top cultural highlights on your next trip to New Orleans, be sure to spend some time in the Louisiana bayou.
Backstreet (Cultural) Museum
This happened to be one of my favorite attractions in New Orleans and gave me an appreciation of the customs of the city.
The collections of costumes, artifacts, memorabilia, photographs, films and other materials important to the African American culture of New Orleans made me feel like I have been a part of New Orleans forever.
I particularly liked the displays of the costumes and Mardi Gras Indian regalia used in the local parades in Tremé.
History Walk
Take a walking tour with a park ranger from the French Quarter Visitor Center, part of the National Park Service.
Rangers lead groups of 25 on hour-long history walks on Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9:30 AM.
Above Ground Cemeteries
Explore the famous above-ground cemeteries in New Orleans, including:
-St. Patrick Cemetery No. 2,
-Lafayette Cemetery
-and St. Louis No.1.
You can only go through these cemeterieswith a tour guide and there are a few good ones to choose from. French Quarter Phantoms is a good choice.
Museums
I want to highlight the Presbytère, the Cabildo and the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
You can get a 20% discount on any state museum(s) if you purchase tickets for more than one at the same time.
The Presbytère
Its two exhibits tell the Louisiana story of resilience and celebration.
Living with Hurricanes: Katrina & Beyond
– The rescue, rebuilding and renewal involved in/of the city.
When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans’ badly engineered and pretty much nonexistent levee system, it resulted in one of the worst disasters in American history, leaving 80 percent of the city flooded and hundreds dead.
The exhibit documents the event, the aftermath and southeast Louisiana’s ongoing recovery. With interactive exhibits and artifacts that showcase the spirit of the city’s residents, this is a collection you don’t want to miss in your New Orleans journey.
It is such a fascinating and excellent exhibit about Hurricane Katrina. It covered the personal stories as well as the environmental, engineering and planning aspects that contributed to the disaster.
Maybe since I was only 10 when Katrina happened, I did not realize how government at all levels was ill-prepared.
A lack of long-term planning combined with poor decisions and inaction before and after the storm delayed rescue efforts and the delivery of supplies.
The response was also disorganized. There was no plan to evacuate roughly 100,000 people who had no means of transportation. The state emergency office was underfunded and understaffed.
However, there were some signs of success for the future. The U.S. Coast Guard brought more than 24,000 to safety.
Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana
– Captures the fun and fantasy of this annual celebration.
It offers a (literal 3D) window into the annual celebration and riotous rituals of Mardi Gras, a festival that well represents Louisiana’s way of life and whose roots extend deep into the Middle Ages.
There is even a platform that positions you above ground as if you are throwing beads to the crowd on the top of a parade float!
There are parade floats to climb, costumes to see and historical throws on display as well as rare glimpses into the secretive social club society that set the precedent for how modern-day Mardi Gras krewes has evolved.
The Mardi Gras albums, records, sheet music and other parts of the collection were so cool to see.
With the city facing a huge debt, civic leaders promoted Carnival as a tourist attraction, hoping tourism would further evolved.
It sure did, and I learned at the exhibit that over a million and a half visitors come to New Orleans annually for Mardi Gras.
From costumed men dancing on horseback to dogs festooned with feathers, you’ll learn this multicultural celebration means almost as much to the locals, if not more, than the tourists.
People come in costumes that are comical, satirical, grotesque, theatrical and serious.
Mardi Gras, I learned, is determined by the Christian calendar. It’s the day before Ash Wednesday. The term “Carnival” refers to the season of balls and parades from January 6 (the coming of the Magi) thru Mardi Gras.
Through New Orleans’ trauma and on the flip side, the city’s annual celebration, the Presbyterè is a can’t miss visit.
The Cabildo
It is arguably the crown jewel of the French Quarter museums.
Why?
It’s where the Louisiana Purchase Transfer Ceremony took place in 1803.
You’ll find Napoleon’s death mask and a detailed exhibit on Louisiana’s early history.
Be sure to experience their new exhibition, “We Love You, New Orleans!,” which showcases people, places and things from New Orleans (mostly) celebrated history.
See Sidney Bechet’s saxophone, Indian suits worn for Mardi Gras, Pontachartain Park memorabilia, along with many more things involving music, food, drinks, architecture, nightlife, hangout spots, Mardi Gras.
New Orleans Jazz Museum
You will see just how much jazz means to the city where it was born.
The museum is interactive, educational, research-based, engaging and loved by many locals.
Check out the third floor where there is a beautiful performance venue. There are evening programs, concerts and events that take place there.
It is conveniently located in between the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street.
Whitney Plantation
There is so much more to Louisiana than just New Orleans.
This was easily one of my most meaningful experiences while in Louisiana, because unlike at most other plantation visits, this visit focused on the slaves’ points of view.
Resilience was a constant force in North America between 1526 and 1865, when over 300 slave uprisings occurred.
In Louisiana, enslaved Africans allied with free people of color, Native Americans and poor whites to fight against those who abused them.
Most sugar cane in Louisiana is produced in between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, so the enslaved workers focused on planting cane in the winter.
During the summer, they built levees and canals, cultivated food crops and gathered wood.
After emancipation in 1865, about 25 percent of the workers’ duties and lives continued at the plantation.
After slavery, plantation workers were paid wages daily and were provided with free-housing.
However, it was gut-wrenching for me to hear about the negatives of those “perks.”
The plantation owners stopped giving them food, medical care and clothing like they had during slavery. The workers had to produce or pay for these items themselves, almost guaranteeing them that they would not get to keep much, if not any, of their hard-earned money.
Seeing and reading about how steep their odds for success, health and happiness were really created a sad, but realistic experience on this tour. These stories and recalled events are true and exact.
Some lost family members and once they left the plantation to seek work in cities, they would often be devastated to not be able to find family members.
I won’t say more, but the Whitney Plantation is well worth the $70, but it was a half day, life-changing one.
This tour includes round trip transportation( 45 minutes outside the city) because you cannot go to this plantation on your own.
Don’t expect to come home happy (obviously), but to hear the African-American takes and opinions of how the workers were treated, is the most realistic point of view. It’s so important to learn about different cultures, and to appreciate each and every one of them for their ideals and beliefs.
It saddened me to see how racist and grossly the rich white plantation managers/slave owners/plantation owners treated these kind souls.
Stop By The Audubon Park & Zoo
Before you leave NOLA, check out the famous Audubon Park and Zoo. Located in Uptown New Orleans, visiting the park provides you a great opportunity escape the busy city. Here, you can see an incredible selection of domestic and exotic animals, making it a great stop on your USA endangered wildlife travel itinerary. Some of the most popular species here include jaguars, elephants, alligators, and rhinos. Afterwards, jump on the Swamp Train, which passess through the Lousiana Swmp Exhibit. On this journey, you will love the sea lions and reptile encounters.
Garden District
This suggestion certainly is not at the top of my list, but if you have a few hours where you would like to walk around and “get lost!,” a great place to do this is by hanging out in the Garden District. There are a number of free tour programs to better see all of the area if you prefer.
Start by heading to the “house of champions,” AKA NFL quarterback future hall-of-famers Eli and Peyton Manning’s childhood home with mother Olivia and famous father, Archie Manning.
While I was there I saw Olivia pulling into the house and I met their housekeeper out front.
Their address is 1420 1st Street. Keep on walking in that neighborhood, as it is known as the “Beverly Hills of the South.”
Great American Ball Park/Reds and Reds Hall-of-Fame
U.S. Bank Arena
Government Square
Fountain Square
Contemporary Arts Center
Aronoff Center – Theatre Performances
Gateway Quarter
Music Hall
Washington Park
Cincinnati Zoo
Cincinnati Art Museum
Graeter’s Ice Cream (Premium Ice Cream/Sorbet!)
Cincinnati Springfield Township Cemetery – Resting Place of Frederic Baur in his famous invention
Mica 12/v
Findlay for Foodies
12th and Vine is a happening part of Cincy
Praying to the Chili God(s) – The Best Chili in
Cincinnati
Chili is a religion in Cincinnati.
If you are looking for the best restaurants, Skyline Chili is the most unique food experience in Cincinnati chili.
It is derived from an Eastern European meat sauce and was introduced to residents in the 1920s.
The dish is known around the U.S. as “Skyline,“ after the largest local chain of chili parlors, which started just after World War II.
Many visitors and locals find it irresistible.
Zip’s Cafe, Camp Washington Chili, Gold Star and Pleasant Ridge are up there as well.
How to Get Around Cincinnati – The Cincinnati
Bell Connector
The Cincinnati Bell Connector is Cincinnati’s modern streetcar system.
It is a 3.6-mile loop that connects Cincinnati’s riverfront at The Banks, downtown and Over-the-Rhine.
You can hop on and off all-day for $2!
Great city spots make up this loop:
• Paul Brown Stadium
• Great American Ball Park
• U.S. Bank Arena
• Government Square
• Fountain Square
• Contemporary Arts Center
• Aronoff Center – Theatre Performances
• Gateway Quarter
• Music Hall
• Washington Park
Over-the-Rhine
Over-the-Rhine is one of the most culturally and historically rich neighborhoods in Cincinnati.
It contains many small shops and hideaways to explore within walking distance to one another.
Over-the-Rhine is an amazing arts spot to visit.
It is home to:
-the Cincinnati Symphony,
– Music Hall,
– the Cincinnati Opera,
– the Cincinnati Ballet,
– Know Theatre,
– New Stage Collective
– and Ensemble Theatre.
It is one of the most architecturally stunning neighborhoods in the region.
Over-the-Rhine is a unique neighborhood in the city where it is a good decision to buy your gift or city souvenir in.
Findlay Market Restaurants
Findlay Market is Cincinnati’s oldest public market, and the Goetta is THE thing not to miss.
It is fun for everyone, especially for the foodies. Speaking of foodies, be sure to read our recent guide on the best food in North Carolina.
There are over 40 vendors and a million visitors each year.
the Goetta = It’s a mixture of ground pork, beef, steel-cut oats, and spices. It is pretty much a German sausage grain.
Try it at Eckerlin Meats as they’ve been routinely been voted best in Cincinnati. Its also very affordable, so you do not have to break far from your value travel goals.
You will find fresh produce, meats, seafood, and bakery goods, along with specialty shops featuring unique arts and crafts.
The street performers add a vibrant flavor to the scene.
Try Some Buckeyes
In order to sample the best local food in Cincinnati, you need to try some world-famous Buckeyes. You likely know the Buckeyes as the mascot of the famous Ohio State University. In fact, the Buckeye is also Ohio’s state tree. The Buckeye tree produces nuts with a light inner section, surrounded by a dark outer shell crusting. Some of the most well-known and famous desserts in Cincinnati are modeled after these Buckeye nuts. The desserts consist of a peanut butter fudge dipped in dark chocolate. The center is exposed on top, so that you can see the difference in color as a traditional Buckeye would appear.
Cincinnati Zoo
I loved the Cincinnati Zoo.
It is the second-oldest zoo in the nation (opened up in 1875) and the press ranks it as one of the top zoos in the country year after year.
You can see over 580 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties, including the Gorilla Enclosure being one of its highlights.
Cincinnati Art Museum
Located in beautiful Eden Park, it has an unrivaled (intra-city) art collection of more than 60,000 works over 6,000 years.
If you are into traveling art exhibitions, this is a gathering spot for avid fans across the globe.
The Inventor of the Pringles Can
You may or may not know Fredric John Baur, but he invented the Pringles can for stacking potato chips, well-known universally.
Baur had a unique request in his will.
He asked if a portion of his cremated ashes would be sealed up in a Pringles tube.
Baur was a chemist who specialized in food storage research and development for Proctor and Gamble.
In the mid-60s, when almost every other potato chip came in bags, he felt, “the Pringles can was a revolution within the realm of snack food.”
His children helped make his final wish happen.
His son Larry stopped at a Walgreens on their way to the funeral home to buy a can of Pringles. They decided on the classic original flavor to send their father off in style.
His final resting place of Fredric Baur inside the can takes place in the Cincinnati Springfield Township.
This is something unique to Cincinnati.
Mica 12/v Cincinnati OH.
It is a shopping heaven for the local and visiting shoppers as the local press voted Mica 12/v as the number one gift shop in the city.
The family who owns it features local, regional, and international artists and designers.
Places to Eat Breakfast in Cincinnati
Taste of Belgium Cincinnati
If you are a fan of waffles and crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees and bakery goods, Taste of Belgium is where the locals love to go.
If you have a food allergy like I do, call ahead of time or when you arrive there in person, speak to the manager or owner to make sure they can accommodate your food allergy.
Collective Espresso
A modern coffee shop that could be one of the best in the city.
Ferrari Barbershop and Coffee Co.
This is undoubtedly a gem in Cincinnati.
Pamper yourself with a hot towel shave, a haircut or any other services offered.
Combine it with their excellent cappuccino and espresso selection.
Even if you are not using the barbershop for grooming, the coffee bar is open to the public!
It is family-owned and the locals rave about it!
Brown Bear Bakery
It’s a local fave as well! Go for the pastries and the atmosphere there. Before dining here, check out our guide on how to plan a trip around food allergies and still eat well.
French Crust
Locals highly frequent this place.
Has an excellent menu containing good carb and caffeine options, eggs, pancakes and more.
Where to Eat Lunch in Cincinnati
Three Places in Mind
Panino – A restaurant that was originally a food truck, it is a sandwich spot and a fancier restaurant at night.
Quan Hapa – A very popular pho spot at the market for Asian street food.
Eat during the stroll at the market at other restaurants or vendors!
Graeter’s Ice Cream
It is one of the best dessert places in all of Ohio, having such an extensive, creative dessert menu. There are other locations in Ohio as well, but it is on Vine St. in Cincy. Fancy flavors and toppings provide a delicious flavor and luxurious experience on your Cincinnati vacation.
The Graeter family business makes the ice cream in two-gallon old world French pot freezers, producing a creamy and rich ice cream taste!
They have excellent sorbet as well for those allergic to dairy.
Indulge In Amazing Seafood
Before leaving Cincinnati, check out some of the incredible seafood at the Anchor OTR. This amazing coastal eatery is well-known for delicious Crawfish Beignets, Octopus, and Trout BLTs. At the same time, be sure to try the Lobster Roll or a Bouillabaisse Pot Pie. Another specialty is the Cotija Cheese Oysters, along with a massive serving of Bourbon Chiptole Butter. If you are a food-loving-travel-enthusiast, check out our guide on the top destinations for Native American travel food experiences.
Choose the Chili City!
Since Cincinnati is also sports-centric, part two of the chili city coverage is coming right up!
– My phone says insufficient or low storage. Why is that?
– Ugh… why is my phone storage full?
– How do I free up space on my iPhone or android?
– How do I clear internal space?cre
– What are ways to get more space on your phone without deleting anything?
– Why is my phone battery draining and dying so quickly?
– How to find what is draining my phone battery.
– What is the best portable battery charger?
– Where can I buy a portable wireless phone charger?
– Is my phone safe and secure?
My guess is your phone has notified you of insufficient storage, and also a low battery, at a time you needed to use it.
Luckily, there are several travel hacks to get your smartphone vacation ready. While I don‘t know the exact answer to each of those questions above, I’ll tell you three “musts” to accomplish before heading on the big vacation!
Solution Number One: Tackle Your Phone’s “Low
Storage” Notification Before Your Upcoming Trip
It does not take much time. Go through your photo duplicates, any bursts you took, delete any videos you will not need to refer to, and store some of your current material in iCloud.
If you do not want to store some of your photos and videos into iCloud, move them to your computer, which will free up space in your phone.
When you are in a situation where you have to take a picture, you will be able to.
For instance, I had storage issues throughout a recent trip to Canada.
A lot of them were weather related and I should have kept my phone in my bag until I was ready for a video or picture.
I save so many photos and videos to the phone because I love to look back at them often.
I dislike deleting them but have been getting smarter about eliminating duplicates as soon as I notice them.
If you are in a venue, or outdoors in a restricted area and you want to “sneak” a picture while the security guard is about to chase you away, you only have one shot to do so.
The last thing you want to happen is to see a system error message appear on your phone saying, “your storage is full.” That would mean you would have to clear some.
That is bad news for the traveler looking to capture spontaneous and memorable moments.
The best picture of your trip could be an unexpected sight where you have a window of a few seconds to grab footage of it!
Speaking of pictures, you always want to capture special moments when you can on vacation.
Try to make sure, when possible, the sun or the lighting is not behind you and is facing you instead.
Your pictures will be so much better and the sun‘s presence won’t wash out the colors.
Solution Number Two: Solve the “My Phone
Battery is Draining and Dying so Fast,” Issue by
Buying a Portable Phone Charger
You need to safeguard your phone’s battery throughout your trip. With substantial battery, you can experience more through vacations. You can buy a portable phone charger on Amazon.com, Best Buy, Target or any other electronics store anywhere from $10 to $50.
It may be worth the investment to never worry about your phone running out of battery while you are on the run.
If you try to take pictures with your iPhone in frigid conditions, your battery will die.
Also, in scorching hot weather, you may receive a warning on the screen that your phone is getting too hot.
Keep your phone out of the extreme temperatures unless you are ready to take a picture. You do not want to get this notification right at the time you are looking to take a spontaneous shot.
You want to have sufficient battery to make calls to a place you are planning to visit that day, take pictures and videos, perhaps jot down notes or ideas for your activities. Once you get your phone ready, you can begin following the best travel packing hacks and tips.
Solution Number Three: Protect Your Phones Security
When traveling with your smartphone, you need to protect your phones security. Smartphones are very valuable, and can therefore be popular targets for pickpockets. Before you take your next trip, you should make sure your smartphone and its data are secure. Ensure that you have a lock screen on your phone. That way, if your phone is lost or stolen, they do not have access to your valuable data. Avoid carrying your phone in an all-in-one phone and wallet case. While incredibly convenient, if your phone is lost or stolen while in this type of case, you could simultaneously lose your money, credit cards, and identification. In order to pack and prepare your smartphone for travel, be sure to protect your smartphone security. This smart security tip will keep your phone safe in New York City, Los Angeles, or Miami’s Little Havana.
Solution Number Four: Photograph Your Credit Cards & Important Documents
Of course, be sure to photograph your credit cards and important documents. You never know when your identification, passports, or payment cards can get lost. This way, you will have recent copies of everything in case they get lost or stolen. For credit cards, this also allows you to cancel them immediately with your bank. At the same time, you can always retrieve your account if you think you may be able to find your card. Certainly, this will be especially helpful if you are visiting major cities or off the beaten path beach towns.
Be Prepared!
If you take care of these three unfortunate scenarios and prevent them from happening during your trip, you won’t have the unnecessary disappointment of phone limitations! Take these steps to ensure your smartphone is travel ready and you have the luxurious experience you deserve.
