Black Lives Matter Part 3: Black History Entertainment Travel

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts”- Mark Twain

The historical and cultural legacy of African-Americans is often overlooked by much of the country. Traveling through the United States, there are hundreds of locations where vacationers can learn about African-American heritage. Being that some of the most notable writers, musicians, actors and actresses, writers and politicians were African-Americans born in the U.S, learning about their contributions to their entertainment industry throughout your travel is an absolute must. Historical traces of these famous men, women, and children can be found in just about every one the 50 U.S States. In fact, there is probably an abundance of historical destinations within driving distance of your home. If you are planning on driving between destinations, you can even check out our ultimate RV travel guide to help plan your trip. Read on to learn about supporting the Black Lives Matter movement through travel.

Soul Food In New Orleans

Head to New Orleans for some good food. You can find some of the best restaurants in New Orleans for soul food. You will find traditional Creole specialties at Dooky Chase’s. Dooky Chase’s Chef, Leah Chase, has been presiding over the kitchen for over sixty years. She specifies her cooking style to be Creole-soul, not to be confused with the famous Creole-French found throughout much of New Orleans. The famous Ray Charles had songs where he sang about Chase’s food. Even more, famous individuals like Thurgood Marshall and Louis Armstrong had their favorite orders there. An absolute must on your visit to New Orleans Louisiana.

Another great option is Willie Mae’s Scotch House for fried chicken and soul food. Willie Mae’s is famous for their crisp, tightly battered, and juicy fried chicken offerings. For some other famous soul food destinations in NOLA, consider making a stop at Roosevelt’s Black Pearl, Two Sisters in Da East, and Li’l Dizzy’s Café.

More Presidential History

Want some modern quirky Black History? Go to the Hyde Park neighborhood in Chicago and see where the Obama’s lived at 5046 S Greenwood Ave. Visit the exact spot where they had their first kiss while having ice cream in the summer of 1989 in front of the Baskin-Robbins which is now a Subway restaurant at 53rd and S Dorchester. Look for the commemorative plaque on the rock there. Don’t miss where the first Black President Barack Obama got his regular haircut from Zariff, his favorite barber for 20 years, at the Hyde Park Hair Salon for $21. The chair he used to sit in is now preserved there in plexiglass.

Famous Historical Figures

Not all black history is heavy and serious stuff. See The Jackson 5 family home in Gary, Indiana. You will see a two bedroom house for the entire family of two parents and nine kids. Not sure how they pulled that off! No wonder why they needed to get out of the house to perform. This family produced one of the greatest entertainers we have ever seen. Gary is only an hour from Chicago. Gary is easy to get around too, making it the perfect destination for your solo travel experiences.

Outside the Jackson family home.

African American Sports History

Go see the amazing dedication to the greatest basketball player of all time, The Michael Jordan Sculpture in Chicago which is now housed inside the United Center.

Want to learn all about the all but forgotten Negro Leagues? Go learn the history at The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in downtown Kansas City. Most of these players were good enough for the Major Leagues but were shut out until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947. Head over to Jones BBQ for a meal. The Jones sisters still carry on their father’s legacy of smoking meats and making their family’s secret BBQ sauce from scratch daily at their restaurant in Kansas City.

Entertainment & Music History

In front of the Motown Studios/Museum

The Motown Museum in Detroit takes you through the history of the Motown Sound, by black artists like Steveland Morris (Stevie Wonder), Smokey Robinson, The Supremes and The Four Tops. The Motown Sound changed the world in the 1960’s until today. They had over 180 #1 hits! Founder Berry Gordy started Motown with a $ 800 loan from his family. On your visit to the Motor City, there are dozens of additional iconic cultural tourist attractions in Detroit Michigan.

 

This is the recording studio where all the Motown magic happened.

Run to the STAX Museum in Memphis. This is one fun place! Dancing is allowed in this museum while you are experiencing the “Memphis Sound” of the early 1960’s. Before I went there I had never heard of STAX but now listen to the music all the time. Listen to the music of Carla Thomas, Sam and Dave, Booker T and the MG’s, and of course, Otis Redding. Otis, age 26, died in a plane crash soon after he finished recording “Sittin’ On The Dock Of The Bay”.

One of the major cities to learn about African-Americans’ contributions to the music and entertainment industry, you need to visit Minneapolis. Minneapolis was changed forever by hometown child Prince Rogers Nelson.

He was born and raised here and his music left an imprint everywhere in this city and around the world. Visit Paisley Park which is 30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis. Stop by the downtown First Avenue club where many scenes of the 1984 Purple Rain were filmed.

Reading Some Of The Tributes Left At First Avenue Night Club.

The Harlem Renaissance

Perhaps the most important period of cultural exploration was the Harlem Renaissance. Beginning in the 1920s, there was an explosion of poetry, fiction, music, theater and visual art which sought to define and express black identity.

See a show at the well-known Apollo Theatre in NY. It is located in the heart of Harlem, at 253 West 125th St. It has played a major role in the emergence of jazz, swing, bebop, R&B, gospel, blues, and soul — all quintessentially American music genres. Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, Sammy Davis Jr., James Brown, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, D’Angelo, Lauryn Hill, and countless others began their road to stardom on that stage. Maybe before visiting The Apollo you can head to Sylvia’s Restaurant for some soul food. The restaurant has been around for over 60 years.

Black History In Hollywood

As you plan you travel, it is important to learn about Black History in Hollywood, California. Hollywood is one of the most important cities for entertainment in the entire United States. Visiting Hollywood, there are dozens of landmarks that honor African-American’s contributions to various forms of entertainment. One of the most prominent sites you can see is Marvin Gaye’s Hollywood home. You can additionally see Nat King Cole’s former home, and even the Banks residence from the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air at 251 North Bristol Ave. In addition, be sure to check out all the names of famous African- Americans immortalized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Some of the most famous celebrities include Michael Jackson, Muhammad Ali, Louis Armstrong, and Snoop Dogg.

Boxing History

In Louisville, Kentucky visit the well done Muhammad Ali Center and see the impact one boxer , Cassius Clay, had on the world of Civil Rights. Hungry? grab a bite at Shirley Mae’s Cafe and have some soul food. It is located in the oldest African American community in Louisville. While you are in the area, there are dozens of additional attractions to experience in Louisville and Lexington Kentucky.

Cassius Clay childhood home

Explore the impact that Heavyweight boxing champion legend Joe Louis had on the city of Detroit. He was the heavyweight champion of the world from 1937-49. The sculpture of Joe Louis’s fist in downtown Detroit is very powerful.

The Joe Louis Fist in Downtown Detroit, Hart Plaza.

African American Murals

As you visit cities around the United States, there are dozens of beautiful murals to honor African-American history and notable figures. Every city has some amazing, artistically crafted murals to check out. In Philadelphia, there is the famous Mural Mile Walking Tour, often considered to be the world’s largest outdoor art gallery. If your visiting Chicago, there is the famous mural ‘My Passion’s Humanity’ which depicts African-American masks and the local population. The murals of Prince in Minneapolis and of the Jackson 5 in Gary are additional must-see stops. There are even over 200 murals in Southern California that honor the life of the recently-passed Kobe Bryant.

African American Arts & Culture

Of course, there are plenty of locations to learn about African American arts and culture in the United States. Some great destinations include the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington D.C., The African American Museum in Philadelphia, and the Museum of African American Art and Los Angeles. Some other great destinations include, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington D.C., the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, and the Studio Museum in Harlem. Here, you can see some incredible showcased works from famous African American artists, musicians, and writers. Certainly, there are so many notable destinations to learn about African American arts and culture. For fans of art and music travel, be sure to check out our guide on how to experience traditional Fado in Lisbon Portugal.

Top Rated Tourist Destinations When Visiting Medellin Colombia

Walking Tours

Medellin was once famous for being called the most dangerous city in the world in the early 1990’s with 17 murders daily, but now it is a completely different story. Get your orientation to the city of one million people on your first day by taking the free Medellin Walking Tour. It will give you a great feel to Medellin and help you figure out a game plan for the rest of your stay there. It is 3 ½ hours. www.realcitytours.com

Getting Around The City

Medellin is in a valley surrounded by mountains, and the city is pretty large. Skyscrapers, parks and villages are built right into the mountains. Medellin is easy to get around with a terrific metro system and cable cars. The cable cars link the settlements in its hills to a metro system in the valley below. The metroline and the metrocable (gondolas) in Medellín are a real source of pride for locals. For tourists riding the public transportation up the mountains and into the valley is definitely a highlight of the visit to Medellin. It is a very inexpensive way to get around and see the city.

Ubers In Medellin

For the times when you do not want to take a cable car, and no longer have the energy to walk, you may be wondering about Ubers in Medellin. Traditional taxis in Medellin can be incredibly expensive, leaving you to assume that Ubers would be a valuable option. Unfortunately, Ubers are illegal in Medellin. Fortunately, these restrictions do not stop many Ubers from still driving. Since they are still technically illegal, drivers may ask you to sit in the front seat with them, and act is if you are a friend or family member.

Local Sites, Tours, & Attractions

When walking around the city a good place to start may be the Old Quarter at Botero Plaza. There you will see over 20 sculptures donated by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Next to the plaza is the great Museum of Antioquia and the Rafael Uribe Palace of Culture. The museum is 18000 COP and includes a one hour guided tour starting at 2 PM. www.Museodeantioquia.co Maybe then head up into the hills riding the escalator system through Comuna 13 and see the street art and colorful homes. Here are two tours to consider: The Comuna 13 graffiti tour is four hours at 85000 COP. Contact them by EMail at Comuna13tours@gmail.com. The other tour is the La Sierra Medellin Barrio tour. 80000 COP and is 4-5 hours. Contact them at lasierratour@gmail.com. Another place to go is the area of El Poblado, where there are good restaurants and shops. To maintain you value travel itinerary, there are even a number of completely free tours you can sign up for. Several enthusiast in Medellin offer free walking tours that essentially operate just like the Chicago Greeter Program.

Pablo Escobar History In Medellin

Intrigued by the famous local drug lord Pablo Escobar? At his peak he was earning over 350 million dollars/week. They supplied 80% of the world’s cocaine. He died in 1993 in a gunfight with the Columbian police.. Catch a tour offered by www.paisaroad.com to see a peek into his life as founder and leader of the Medellin drug cartel. There are multiple tour companies to choose from so look for the best deal. Locals all have an opinion on him. Most not very good and they look down on these tours that glorify his life. Most citizens have had their life impacted in some way by his Cocaine business. To see the impact he had on the city and the armed conflict that took over to make it so dangerous to live there, go to the Museo Casa de la Memoria. Check schedule for guided tours. www.museocasadelamemoria.gov.co

Go To A Soccer Game

Before you leave Medellin, you need to go to a soccer game. Soccer is like a religion in this region. These events provide an exhilarating, heart-pounding gameday experience. In Medellin, the two popular local teams are Independiente Medellin and Atlético Nacional. The fans of each time position themselves strategically on opposing sides of the stadium. To visit a great game, you can often find tickets for less than 40,000 COP, or just under $13.

Local Columbia Museums

When you vacation to Medellin, you need to consider visiting several famous museums along your trip. One of the most famous is the Medellin Museum of Modern Art, or MAMM, located in the Ciudad del Rio neighborhood. Additionally consider the Museum House of the Memory which explores Colombia’s past, collective progress, and aspirations for the future. This free to enter complex provides historical collections of drug and paramilitary violence, as well as Medellin’s fight to acheive unity and peace.

Eating In Medellin

For your travels to Medellin, you may be wondering about what foods you should eat. The must try dish and Medellin, and just about all of Columbia is bandeja paisa. This famous dish consists of mainly pork, egg, fried plantains, vegetables, rice, and avocado. At the same time, you need to visit the Minorista Market to sample an abundance of exotic vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Another famous restaurant in Medellin is Cafe Zobra, famous for their delicious pizzas. Due to the language barriers, make sure to properly fill out an allergy card in Spanish. If possible, consider the easy ways to plan a trip around food allergies.

Flying To The City

Before you book your arrangements, you will need to arrange a flight to Colombia. With flights from North to South America being notoriously expensive, this can often be a daunting task. Medellin’s International Airport is José María Córdova (MDE). Other major international airports in Colombia include El Dorado Airport (BOG) in Bogota, and Cartagena’s Rafael Núñez Airport (CTG). If you are considering where to fly out of, the most feasible cities are New York, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. You will commonly find flights offered from major airlines like Spirit, Avianca, and Aeromexico.

Ready To Experience Colombia in 2021?

Take the time and overspend out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg hand you the information.

Colombia 2021 is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. This is EASILY one of the best destinations in the world! Head to Colombia’s Coffee Triangle for some of the best coffee in the world and the Amazon Rainforest in Colombia for an unforgettable jungle experience. Get to the heart of Colombia and officially begin your journey now!

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on Colombia’s iconic sights, and will introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots, tours, shops and exotic lodging that few tourists know to visit.

Colombia 2021 is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit – Bogota, Cartagena,Santa Marta, San Gil, the Colombia Coffee Triangle, the Amazon Rainforest, Medellin and Guatape (and surrounding areas of all of the aforementioned). Complete with a detailed map and concise descriptions, this travel guide will help you plan your trip with ease. Join Grasshopper Greg in exploring one of the most spectacular vacations in the world!

So whether you’re going to be going to the Emerald District of Bogota, the Getsemani area of Cartagena for some impressive murals and street art, the jungle of Parque Tayrona, the outdoor adventure capital of Colombia, see the sculptures of Medellin’s Botero Plaza and take part in Colombia’s most popular traditions and games, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of Colombia you’ll find.

Grasshopper Greg’s 2021 Value Travel Guide to Colombia

Black Lives Matter Part 2: Supporting Slavery Education Travel

“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating  that all peoples cry, laugh,eat, worry and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.”- Maya Angelou

When you plan your future trips, why not include learning about the black history in that location? Almost everywhere you go, there have been pivotal black history events that you can learn about. There are dozens of cultural attractions in Detroit Michigan, Louisiana, Alabama, Virginia, South Carolina, and almost every other U.S. State.

Alabama

Walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama and feel the experience of 25 year old future congressman John Lewis had in 1965. I am stunned to discover that this bridge was named for the head of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan!

In 1965, 50% of the population there was black but only 2% were registered voters. The four day march from Selma to Montgomery led to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. While these attractions may not as provide as much excitement as the Las Vegas strip, it is important in order to open up your horizons and expand your perspectives.

Louisiana

Slave Cabin At The Whitney Plantation.

If you want to see slave life on plantations, Louisiana is a good place to target many sights on the same trip. Most slaves worked sunup to sundown. Life was hard. You will find the majority of the plantations had slaves work the sugar cane fields, Tobacco, indigo plants for dye, and cotton.

There are a bunch worth visiting between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. St. Joseph Plantation, Whitney Plantation, Laura Plantation and Evergreen Plantation all tell different stories of plantation life so you will get a well rounded view. Evergreen even has 22 slave cabins on the property.

Slave Accommodations.

You will either have a guided tour or a self-guided tour. There are tour companies based out of New Orleans and Baton Rouge that will do all the driving for you and take you to multiple plantations in one day. That is probably the most efficient way to do this type of trip.

Chicago

To learn about slavery and African-American injustice, you need to visit several cultural highlights and landmarks in the city of Chicago. One of the most important historical sites in Chicago is the Pullman Historic District. Pullman is a historic, industrial town that was originally founded in May 1880. Its founder, George M. Pullman originally planned the town to create a model community for working-class citizens. Within the district today, there are several sites, memorials, and monuments commemorating the town’s history. When you visit, be sure to check out the Pullman factory and Hotel Florence. At the same time, you need to stop by the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, which is dedicated to teaching the history of African-American labor in the United States.

South Carolina

Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston, South Carolina.

As you plan a historical trip to educate you about African-American history, you need to pay a visit to South Carolina. Visiting South Carolina, you need to visit the Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston. At one point in time, Charleston was the point where roughly 35% to 40% of African slaves entered the United States. Many of the employees who work at the Old Slave Mart Museum, are able to trace their family lineage directly back to Charleston slaves. When you visit, be prepared to spend at least half a day soaking in the different images, artifacts, posters, and excerpts that fill the museum. Also stop by the Avery Research Center in Charleston to learn all about southern slavery. The McLeod Plantation will show you how slaves lived through the generations. Coming in 2022 is the International African-American Museum at Gadsdens Wharf. This was the landing spot for over 100,000 Africans who were then sold into slavery. If you are in Charleston on a Friday, celebrate Black Food Fridays where Black-owned restaurants are highly suggested to support.

Virginia

In order to further educate yourself about African-American history and culture, you need to visit historical attractions in Virginia. In Virginia, not far from Norfolk and Virginia Beach, head to the Hampton University Museum. Enter the African-American fine arts galleries and you are in for a treat. Here you will encounter something unique. You will see the history of Black America through art. Africans brought distinctive artistic traditions and skill to this country. In this museum are excellent examples of paintings by some of the early 20th century artists. They were true pioneers in their struggles to overcome discrimination in their profession, in opening doors for the generation which followed them.

One of the most important attractions you can visit is the Freedom House in Alexandria, VA. The Freedom House was built in 1812, and served as a residence for Brigade General Robert Young. After 16 years of ownership, the property was leased to the slave dealing firm Franklin and Armfield. Under their ownership, the Freedom House became a slave pen, holding enslaved men, women, and children that were traveling to plantations. In the modern era, the Freedom House serves as a museum sharing exhibits, perspectives, interpretations, and other unique artifacts.

Florida

Kingsley Plantation in Jacksonville, Florida.

To learn more about slavery and African-American history, there are additional historic sites to visit in Florida. Visiting Jacksonville, Florida, one of the most important attractions you can see is the Kingsley Plantation. The plantation is named after its former owner, Zephaniah Kingsley, who lived there for 25 years. Visiting Kingsley Plantation, you are able to tour the full property, including the 23 slave cabins, barn, waterfront, kitchen house, interpretive garden, and plantation house from 1798. It is approximately 39 miles from Jacksonville. In addition to the Kingsley Plantation, there are several additional sites commemorating African-American history in Florida. Other sites in Jacksonville include the Bethel Baptist Institutional Church and the American Beach Historic District. Bethel Baptist was church of choice for many slaves who worked nearby on the plantations. Of course they needed to get permission to attend from their master. American Beach was one of the few resort/beach areas in the U.S. for African-Americans. When your visit, be sure to check out the Howard Thurman House and Mary McLeod Bethune Home in Daytona Beach. Howard Thurman was one of the original thinkers of the Civil Rights Movement and was an influence on Dr. King. They offer tours there on Friday and Saturday every week. While your in town, you can additionally pay a visit to Kennedy Space Center and Florida Space Coast.

Washington D.C.

How about a museum focused on black history and civil rights? The National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington DC is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African-American life, history, and culture. The Museum opened up in 2016 as the 19th and newest museum of the Smithsonian Institution.

Tennessee

The fantastic National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis takes you at the end through the attached Lorraine Motel room balcony where Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. Very powerful museum. You will need many hours to go through the permanent exhibits. They cover Slavery, Student Sit-Ins, the Montgomery Bus Boycott,  Freedom Rides and Black Power. If you are planning a trip, read our complete post-COVID travel guide to help eliminate some of your vacation stress.

Georgia

Speaking of Dr. King, head to Atlanta to see everything KIng. The Martin Luther King,Jr. National Historical Park consists of his boyhood home, his Ebenezer Baptist Church, monument, rose garden and his tomb. In the church’s sanctuary you can hear some of his sermons and speeches. Allow 2-3 hours.

The Herndon Home in Atlanta is also inspirational. Alonzo Herndon was born into slavery, eventually freed, opened up a string of barber shops, purchased failing insurance companies and ended up being one of the wealthiest black men in Georgia. See his incredible story.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights Museum in Atlanta will blow you away. You learn about the history of the Civil Rights movement in the U.S. and around the world. Allow for two hours minimum.

Heading south three hours from Atlanta you arrive in Albany, Georgia. Plenty of pivotal Black History there. Start at the Ray Charles Memorial. It is located downtown and you will see a revolving, illuminated, bronze statue of Ray Charles seated at a baby grand piano. As water streams down the sides of the statue, his music plays in the park there. Georgia made his “Georgia On My Mind” the state anthem in 1979.

The statue is next to two walkways designed as keyboards with benches. The walkways connect to the Albany Riverwalk.

Ray Charles Robinson was born in 1930 in a section of Albany then known as “Flower City”. At age seven, he lost his eyesight to glaucoma. He was orphaned at age 15. Ray Charles persevered and went on to become one of the most successful performers of his time, applying his own style to blues, jazz and big band as a vocalist, pianist and saxophonist.

His success is reflected in his 12 Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honor and becoming one of the first inductees in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The Albany Civil Rights Institute really tells a different story. Most civil rights memorials celebrate minor or major victories.

There was no triumph here. This is the city where Martin Luther King Jr. lost. But his failure in 1961 to integrate this city played a crucial role in the progress of the Civil Rights Movement. King learned from his mistakes and honed his non-violent protest strategies.

It’s also the city where the Civil Rights struggle literally found its voice. Next door you will find Mt. Zion Baptist Church. This is where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke to a crowd of thousands in 1961. The first mass meeting of the Albany Movement was held in Old Mt. Zion Church on 11/17/61. One month later he spoke to a crowd of 1,500 that overflowed the church, filling the streets and the Shiloh Baptist Church. After the meeting, he walked across the street to Shiloh Baptist Church and started Albany’s Famous Civil Rights March to the Trailways Bus Station.

That brings us to what became known as the Albany Movement. King was invited to town to help what was a broad protest against segregation. By December 1961, there were more than 700 protesters sitting in jail cells across the region. The conditions in the rural county jails were atrocious, making the ordeal harder on those arrested. From King’s perspective. he failed. But he did not fail. This attempt attracted the nation’s attention in the first mass movement in the modern civil rights era with the goal of desegregation of an entire community.

Mississippi

In Jackson, Mississippi you will find the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum as well. It shows the stories of the movement in the state that changed the country. You will see eight interactive galleries that lead you through history. $ 15 adult but free on the third Saturday of every month.

Arkansas

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site in Arkansas is the only High School designated as a historic landmark. This is where nine Black High School students tried to go school for the first time in a white school with tremendous courage facing an angry mob of over 300 white people. The Governor ordered the military to stop them from entering the school  on Sept 4, 1957. After the federal government stepped in, after tremendous pressure, the “Little Rock Nine” went into the school unescorted and protected on Sept 25. Learn the stories there of these brave young students and their parents.

Kansas

The Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, Kansas commemorates the U.S. Supreme Court decision that ended racial segregation in public schools. Start in the auditorium where a 30 minute movie traces the history of racism and segregation.

There are other exhibits that walk you through the barriers Blacks faced while trying to receive a formal education from the early 19th century to the 1954 U.S. Supreme Court decision. You can see seven different short films and the Hall of Courage, which displays historic film footage.

While in the city, stop by the Great Wall Of Topeka murals. You will see incredible works of art depicting some of the black history of the city, including the landmark Brown vs Board of Education decision.

Missouri

Of course, you will need to pay a visit to Missouri in order to complete your slavery education travel journey. There are several major historical landmarks to visit in Missouri. In the city of St. Louis, you can visit the Shelley House, which commemorates the focus of one of the most famous equal protection cases in all of history. While you are still in the city, be sure to stop by the Old Courthouse, where many landmark Civil Rights cases were tried throughout history. If you still have some time on your trip, it is absolutely vital to head over to Independence, Missouri. Here, you can visit the Harry. S Truman Presidential Library & Museum, which reflects on many landmark events in the struggle for Civil Rights.

Other Major Museums & Historical Centers

Other major museums to explore the African-American experience are The Harvey Gantt Center in Charlotte and the Charles Wright Museum of African-American History in Detroit. Exhibits in both of those museums are always changing. Harvey Gaant was the first black student admitted into Clemson in 1963 (his wife was second) and he was Charlotte’s first black mayor.

The relatively new Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Canada will blow you away. It has seven floors and will take at least half a day to go through. It covers all types of global injustice that has taken place .

To educate yourself about the history of African-American racial inequality, injustice, and slavery in the United States, there are several historical sites to visit. Start your trip by visiting Selma, Alabama, home of many historical movements combating racial injustice and voting rights. Pay a visit to Louisiana where you can visit dozens of historical attractions, museums, and memorials. At the same time, you need to visit several historical sites in the city of Chicago. In addition, consider visiting historical sites in Virginia and South Carolina. Moreover, there are dozens of cultural attractions to visit in Florida. You can likely even find several historic sites to add to your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary. Consider the above sites and attractions to learn about how you can support Black Lives Matter through travel.

The 2020 Kentucky Derby COVID-19 Version Without Fans

This year has been very unusual in almost every way and the running of the Kentucky Derby will be no different. The ”Run for the Roses” was postponed and moved from the first Saturday in May to September 5th.

Change To September 5th

They did not feel that the regular date in May would work because, without the fans, the excitement would have been muted. The Kentucky Derby racetrack is all about the energy of the fans in attendance. Kentucky authorities felt by moving it to September, health conditions possibly would show improvement, fans would be welcome and feel safe at the track.

September 5th was chosen as the alternate date because of the very limited sports competition on TV on that day. September is also a slower tourism period in Kentucky and there would be plenty of lodging availability in Louisville and surrounding areas.

Changes At Churchill Downs

Make no mistake , it will be very different at Churchill Downs regardless. Tickets are not available at the box office and can only be purchased online. You can only gain entry with mobile tickets. The number of fans in attendance will be limited as well. There will be social distancing requirements.

Masks will be required. Menu selections will be reduced and individually prepared. There will also be hand sanitizer dispensers all around Churchill Downs. Most importantly, all bathrooms, handrails, seating, and elevator buttons will be cleaned constantly throughout the day.

They can’t be sure that this will go off without a hitch. If virus cases go through the roof leading up to the big day, will they have to hold the event without any fans in attendance? No one seems to want to think about that option but it is always a possibility. A lot can happen in the month of August.

Saving Money At The Derby

What I do know is that this all-week event brings in tremendous revenue for Louisville and the state of Kentucky. I get that. It will have to be very bad for them to resort to having a silent Derby day without thousands and thousands of Mint Juleps being sold. Hopefully the medical experts will have a bigger say than the politicians in Kentucky.

If you have plans on attending, these tips will save you lots of money and also ensure a great experience for you. With the proper value travel tips, you can experience more in Louisville and Lexington Kentucky. First of all, don’t overspend on your accommodations. You can spend a fraction of it as a result of some smart planning and prep beforehand. When you come for Derby week in Louisville, consider staying 70 miles away in Lexington for better deals.

Kentucky Derby Fashion

You may think Derby is about the big race but you will see it is about fashion and the tradition! From 12 until 2:30, keep an eye to see which celebrities have arrived on the red carpet for the big race! Plenty of A-listers have been in attendance in the past.

In the sports world, there is not a more emotional moment than when the horses step onto the track for Derby post parade at 6:35 PM which is approximately 15 minutes before the race starts. At that point everyone in attendance sings the traditional “My Old Kentucky Home.”

What Should You Wear?

When you are considering what you will be wearing that day, keep in mind that clothing prices will be higher in the weeks leading up to Derby week because of the demand for them in local stores or online. This is an outfit involving color combinations you may not currently own. Remember that your face mask color can also play into the overall look! There is no such thing as being overdressed for Derby but it is worse to be underdressed. Derby day is a day for dresses. Jeans are not the clothing item of choice this day. Pastels, pinks, yellows, whites, and light blues all work.

For footwear, dress for comfort. Consider not wearing high heels. You are on your feet all day, you will be walking a lot, and it will get uncomfortable. Men will want to look for a bowtie. Fun socks fit in well also.This is definitely not the day to play it safe! Men could focus their pants or shirt with tropical colors like Key Lime, Ocean, Pink, and Citron. The sports jacket is important and you can’t go wrong with a navy blazer. For men’s shoes, loafers are a good choice. You should wear them without socks if you can’t find colorful fun ones. Most men’s Derby hats are solid and inspired by 1920s style.

For the women, choose the hat first then the outfit. Hat can be both large and over-the-top. Don’t overthink it, you cannot make a bad choice. You will see all types of hats there.

Purchasing Affordable Race Tickets

In terms of purchasing tickets, the 1st floor grandstand area, sections 127 and 128 are our recommendation. These are bleacher-style seats, no backs and typically the best value seat option. They are trackside and trackside is where you want to be. The further away from the finish line the less it will cost. The best reason to get a reserved seat is you do not have to arrive early. You will thank us later. Bring a small towel. On the dirty bleacher-style seating, sitting on the towel will keep your pants/dress clean. If it rains you can use it to dry off your seat.

Stay Prepared

It is a long day, with the big race starting at 6:50 PM. As long as you have a reserved seat, no need to arrive before noon. 12:03 is post time for race #4 and the big race is #12. I suggest you plan on picking up a boxed lunch at any of the restaurants in town selling box lunches for the track. You may also pack your own snacks or lunch in clear bags. Make sure it’s smaller than 18’’ by 18’’. Bottled water can save you a lot of money by bringing it in a sealed, clear,and an unopened bottle. Limit of two, 24 oz. bottles per person. No cans, glass bottles or containers. Not only do you save a lot of money because of the very overpriced options at the track, it saves you from standing in very long lines for food. With social distancing it may be even slower. Certainly, by staying prepared, you can avoid the common travel mishaps on your journey.

What About The Mint Juleps?

If you want to try a Mint Julep, skip the $15 one at the track and order a much better one for much less at a fine restaurant that offers outdoor seating.

Prepare For Inclement Weather

They do not allow umbrellas at Churchill Downs so invest in a clear poncho and you still get to show off the outfit you worked very hard on. The poncho may be the most important clothing accessory you cannot afford to forget. It’s a long day so don’t forget your sunscreen. After you see the weather forecast for the day, you will know exactly which items will be needed.

Parking At Churchill Downs

If you are driving there, you have two very good options: Park at Cardinal Stadium, then make the short walk to Churchill Downs or park in the residential neighborhood surrounding Churchill Downs, then walk to the track. Most people do that and save that money. Don’t get sucked in to expensive parking lots of $25 and higher. People will offer their driveways for $10 in most cases and it is easy-in, easy-out.

Flying To The Derby

If driving to the Derby is not a feasible option for you, you will need to plan a flight. Flying to the Derby, landing in Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is likely your best option. Even though SDF is an international airport, beware it primarily serves domestic destinations. The easiest cities to get a flight to Louisville from are most often Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte. If you are planning a flight, the airport is only roughly six miles south of downtown. Of course, if you are lucky enough to be within driving range, you may want to consider renting a van or RV for your journey. To help you get prepared, check out our ultimate RV travel guide.

What Else To See On Your Visit

If you are making the trip all the way to Kentucky for the Derby, you should see several sites during your visit. To increase your knowledge about the race, pay a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. The museum is located right at Churchill Downs, and offers an abundance of exhibits, artifacts, history, and experiences. In addition, Lousiville, Kentucky is home of world famous boxing legend Muhammad Ali. The Muhammad Ali Center in Downtown Louisville honors his life and legacy through an interactive museum. In addition, be sure to check out his childhood home on Grand Avenue, famous for its bright pink color. In addition, be sure to check out the best local live entertainment and Kentucky Bluegrass music for your upcoming trip.

Predictions For 2021

As of now, the 2021 Kentucky Derby is still on schedule to go as planned. That being said, the current date for the Derby is Saturday, May 1, 2021. However, ticketing capacity for the 20201 version of the Kentucky Derby will still be limited in anticipation of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. If you are interested, you can sign up for your 2021 Kentucky Derby tickets today. Tickets are currently set to start a $3,800 for premium boxes of 6-8 people. Therefore, this may not be the best destination for your solo travel experiences.

Stay safe, wear your mask, watch your social distancing and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime event!

Part 1: Supporting The Black Lives Matter Movement Through Travel And Value Tourism

“History will not be kind to us. So you have a moral obligation, a mission and a mandate, to speak up, speak out and get in good trouble. You can do it. You must do it. Not just for yourselves but for generations yet unborn- John Lewis

This is the first post of an upcoming five part travel series supporting the Black Lives Matter movement…

During this time, I’m taking some time to reflect and think.

I am white, and some of us feel ashamed. White people are not perfect. White people have done some REALLY bad things to other people. Don’t even get me started on what we did to the Native Americans just for the pursuit of land and financial gain. In fact, you can check out our Native American tourism guide to learn more about that.

Even my grandmother did not realize she was being racist when she wore blackface impersonating Al Jolson when she was younger. She was one of millions who saw “The Jazz Singer” featuring one of the world’s best entertainer of his generation. Al Jolson was well known to wear blackface in his performances. The ironic thing about it is that he had a reputation for helping fight racial discrimination in his day.

My grandmother impersonating Al Jolson in a talent show.

Peaceful Protests Across The Globe

We have seen peaceful marches and protests around the world for the Black Lives Matter movement in virtually every city and many are wondering what they can do to support it?

Actual marches can be risky because of the loss of social distancing and people who go to work sometimes can’t find the time to join these groups. Here we try to address some ways to address that while you are starting to make travel plans again for next year. If you are stressing about travel plans and are apprehensive to travel or protest during COVID-19, there are several ways for you to still get involved. For example, share on social media, donate, sign petitions, and speak with your local representatives in government.

Learning Through Travel

Why not combine travel with learning this important history of our country? Going to beaches, amusement parks and wineries are all great and fun but these types of Black History trips will touch you in your core and possibly change you forever. Learning about oppressive history when you visit these sites is essential for travelers of all ages, even during your family vacations.

There are dozens of diverse museums, monuments, and cultural centers across the United States that allow you to learn about, reflect on, and connect with moments in Black History. Visiting these cultural attractions, you can better learn about the country’s horrific history of racial injustice.

As you go to new places, this movement may come up a lot in conversation as you meet more and more people. When Black people you meet want to engage in a conversation with you on the subject, the best thing you can do is NOT try to relate to their situation. If you are not Black, there is no way you can relate what they and their families feel and have gone through. Just be a good listener and learn about their experiences. Ask questions.

If you want to go back to the beginning of African-American history, it all starts with slavery. We have to admit that most white people had never heard of Juneteenth before June 2020.

Why?

We don’t recall it ever being taught in school or making it into our textbooks. Slavery ended on June 19, 1865 and it took until 2020 for most people to realize that was a really important moment in the country’s history. To this day, we cannot get all 50 states to recognize this important day. Did we know that the Civil War in part was about the South wanting to hold on to slavery? What do we know about the transition from Negro, to Colored, to Black, and then African-American? Here is something I came across as one definition. Black vs. African-American: African-American to describe people (groups/individuals). Black to describe an experience, culture. Black with a capital B. When is it appropriate now to use Black vs African- American?

Cultural Insights

Visiting these historic sites, you can obtain a cultural insight into the lives, past, history, and culture of African-American men, women, and children. Visiting these places provides a sense of connection, reflection, and education to visitors of all ages. Every year, American’s travel all over the globe in search of new cultures. Visiting cultural attractions in the U.S provides an understanding of a heavily mistreated and neglected culture within American borders. Consider visiting cultural centers, historic monuments, and museums to develop a cultural insight of racial disparities, injustices, and atrocities that have occurred throughout time.

Black LIves Matter Martin Luther King

Follow The Civil Rights Trail

If you are looking to educate yourself on Black History through travel, one of the best ways to start is by following the Civil Rights Trail. The Civil Rights Trail is a national trail expanding across 15 states and offering approximately 100 historic locations. Visiting the stops on this trail educates visitors about the long, imbalanced, and ongoing struggle for African-Americans’ to achieve equal rights. Some of the most famous stops along the trail include the Washington D.C National Mall, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the location of police confrontations in Selma, Alabama, as well as the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge. Did you know Edmund Pettus was the head of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan? Would’nt be something if they changed the name of the bridge to honor the late John Lewis? I will suggest in detail specific stops to make and black-owned restaurants to eat in while there.

Make New Connections

make new connections

Educating yourself through African-American travel experiences, you can develop a number of strong new connections. While it is impossible to directly relate to the issues that African-Americans have faced throughout history, you can still make connections throughout your experiences. As you visit cultural centers, museums, and monuments, speak with additional visitors, learn about their experiences, their personal history, and that of their families. As you plan African-American travel experiences, be sure to look for ways to build new connections.

Create A Travel Pledge To Fight Racial Injustice

Of course, when you visit new places, it is crucial to create a travel pledge to fight racial injustice. As travelers, we should understand the importance of educating ourselves on different perspectives, cultures, beliefs, and experiences. To start traveling better, stay committed to educating yourself on marginalized groups and underrepresented people when you visit new places. When possible, participate in local protests, have open conversations, and make donations to areas in need. This way, you can continuously work to expanding our learning, and improve the world for more like-minded value travelers.

Travelers all across the globe are planning vacations that honor and show support to the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. Throughout your travel, there are dozens of cultural landmarks and highlights that you need to visit.  Taking the time to visit these sites empowers you to learn through your travel, follow cultural insights, and make new connections. Consider the points mentioned above to learn about Supporting the Black Lives Matter movement through travel.

strengthen relationships

How Will Your Disney Theme Park Experience Be Impacted By COVID-19?

I rarely write about places like Disney because I focus on Value Travel destinations. I focus on ways to do the best things in travel for a fraction of the cost. Disney is a top dollar trip, very expensive, but I appreciate it for what it means to the world. Factor in admission, possible upgrade experiences, food and drinks all day long, and gift shops, it will cost a small fortune.

Despite all that, it is without a doubt something you should do once or twice in your life. Here is the big question. How do you relax and enjoy your dream day at the theme park if you don’t know for sure you are not interacting with people with the virus? All it takes is one person there out of the thousands who you come across. The rules state you should not enter if you have any of 11 symptoms listed. Do you really think that will stop someone who has planned this trip for a long time? Does anyone really know if they have been in contact with asymptomatic people in the past 14 days? The Coronavirus has changed everything. From the Disney theme park experience all the way to the COVID-19 version of the 2020 Kentucky Derby.

Disney During The Virus

Let’s face it- Disney may never be the same. Will it be magical? It is everything we DON’T want it to be right now. NO social distancing, people walking around you, by you, with you, waiting in line somewhere near you. Wearing masks all day long is tough in brutally hot and humid weather. Young kids are exhausted running around the park all day as it is, with a mask on they will be miserable. Yes, it is the happiest place on earth, but is it when you are always thinking about the virus? When you park how will you get to the park entrance? Shuttles normally are packed. Monorails and buses will have the same issue. Will the wait times be much longer for transportation , food and rides due to limited capacity? As parks prepare to open, more Disney vacationers are stressing about travel plans amidst pandemic conditions. Many travelers are unsure whether to feel safe, if they should still travel, and what precautions they should follow. Without a doubt, Disney wants to capitalize now on the summer season when families usually travel. Not so sure it is the right plan considering public safety issues.

The Return Of International & Out-Of-State Travelers

As you prepare for post-COVID travel, you need to know about the return of far-traveling visitors. Will the international customers come? Will out-of-state residents fly to Orlando? Florida residents seem to be a safe bet to return early on. Expect aggressive marketing campaigns to draw those locals back early and often.

We need to analyze how this is all going to work. Disney keeps talking about reopening plans but always needs to prepare to delay that based on current health conditions. The trends for illnesses change by the week. They not only have to be concerned about the safety of the visitors, but also the thousands of employees potentially exposed at all the theme parks, gift shops, restaurants and offices.

Disney Cruises & International Destinations

There seems to be more questions than answers at this point. The situation is fluid and can change many times. Virus conditions in Florida, California, Shanghai, Tokyo, Paris, Disney cruises out of Florida and all of the other Disney locations are all different, which make it very complicated. All Disney cruises have been suspended until September 15th at the earliest. 255 people on the Disney Wonder have tested positive for COVID since March 1st. As cruises are experiencing shut downs nationwide, many Disney-goers are wndering about the cruise travel predictions post Coronavirus. Each individual location will have to make its own decision. No decision will be uniform corporate-wide.

The Possible Return Of Disney Parks

The great news is that Disney fans have pent-up demand. They want to get out and have fun again, they want to do family vacations again. Disney is normally the choice for all of that. Expectations will also be very high for the same or similar experience that they are used to.

When the Disney theme park of your choice finally reopens, you may not recognize it. Disney World and Disneyland Paris just opened up in mid-July. Mobile ordering of all food and beverages needs to be done instead of standing in long lines. Mask wearing is mandatory while you are running around in less than ideal weather conditions on most days. Enforced social distancing with signs everywhere telling you where to stand in line, even in the bathrooms and gift shops. Limited capacity in all areas, including the parks. Limited dining options? Maybe 25% to 50% capacity instead of packed to the gills?

They are planning “rest areas” where you can have a drink and take off your mask for a few minutes. You will definitely see hand sanitizer and hand washing everywhere.

Current Disney Reopenings

One place that opened months ago is Disney Springs. Masks are required and they check your temperature. You have to wait to get into stores based on occupancy. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Disney in Shanghai has opened up with online reservations only with limited capacity. They are doing temperature screenings and have closed down all interactive activities, children’s play areas, shows in their theatres, and no photo opportunities with characters. Shanghai Disney, which is 43% owned by Disney, will have contactless payment solutions, masks for everyone 11 years and older, sanitizing and hand washing stations everywhere, and online reservations for admittance to the park. Disneyland in California cap capacity as well. For Disney World you will have to make reservations for dining by phone. No more online. Cashless payment options are now preferred. Germ-filled currency is high risk and unnecessary to take.

Disney Water Parks

Walt Disney World has reopened one of the most popular water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, two years after being shut down due to COVID. Disney visitors will be able to enjoy the lazy river, wave pool and water coaster. However, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park still remains closed. At this time, you do not need to reserve a spot to visit Typhoon Lagoon, though, requirements may change as COVID continues.

Predictions For The Future

In the future, will you have to make reservations to go to a park? Will your entrance ticket be for certain hours instead of all day- all night? That might be the way Disney can make money by charging many customers with turnover throughout the day. How does this affect annual passes and multi-day passes? They will probably have to extend the dates of the annual passes because of all the closures. Special events like the Halloween and Christmas events are up in the air. For those to be profitable you need to fill the park and you know that can’t happen. Parades and fireworks shows may be eliminated to avoid massive crowds at the end of the night all leaving at the same time. Character Meet and Greets are history. Of course, Disney has health restrictions just like there are COVID health restrictions in Miami.

Pricing Concerns

Here is the BIG question. If you charge regular pricing will the customer come? They are definitely getting a more subdued experience and definitely not the experience they have been accustomed to. Can Disney afford to discount if they are only filling half the park? Disney parks historically do not discount at all.

Rides will need to go half empty for distancing. Normally the on-premises hotels offer incredible perks like early admission and if you purchase in gift shops they delivered to your room. How will all this change?

Obviously if Disney still plans to charge full price that may be a risk. They may discount ancillary items like hotel rooms, and other discounts when you are out of the park and in a Disney hotel. They will need to get creative and aggressive. They have just come out with a 4 day pass for $ 49 per day for Florida residents. Attendance must be disappointing if they are willing to be that aggressive.

Face Covering Regulations

With more Disney parks planning on opening up again very soon, it is essential to research the specific face covering restrictions. Being that Disney is an incredibly busy, high traffic amusement park, there are several restrictions you must follow. The thin, flimsy mask you wear to the grocery store still may not be enough to enter the Disney park. If you plan on visiting, familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines. First, anybody over the ages of two, including Disney staff members, must wear a face covering. The mask must fully cover your nose and mouth. Coverings must fit snugly so that you can be fully covered, while remaining hands-free. Required masks must be secured with ties or ear loops to ensure they are secured and fastened at the same time. Disney World had to change their mask policy soon after opening. Now you cannot take off your mask to eat or drink while walking around.

Should You Feel Safe?

Even with the stringent rules and regulations in place, many travelers are still worried on whether or not they should feel safe. Ultimately, deciding on whether or not to vacation during the pandemic is at the discretion of the traveler. Of course, Disney parks, hotels, restaurants, and travel companies are taking the required precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. However, these daily precautions can never fully eliminate the chance of contracting the virus. If you are contemplating visiting the Disney parks, beware that employee temperatures are checked prior to the start of their shift. If employees have a temperature exceeding 100.4 degrees, they are immediately sent home. At the same time, employees that have displayed any flu-like systems are additionally required to stay home. Furthermore, Disney Park officials are committed to wiping down railings, rides, and other frequently touched surfaces as frequently as possible. Before booking your vacation, consider whether or not you will feel safe in the park.

Remember that if you do not feel safe, you should leave immediately, regardless of if you already paid. Ultimately, your safety and peace of mind is more valuable than the cost of a ticket. If this is the case, try experiencing some other local attractions as well. For example, you can always visit Florida Space Coast and Kennedy Space Center.

COVID Character Interaction

Amidst the virus, there are changing regulations for character interaction at Disney Parks. Meeting Mickie and Minnie Mouse, along with all the Disney Princesses has always been a favorite for children visiting Disney Parks. These character interactions were an essential component of family vacations visiting Disney. Unfortunately, up close interactions have been placed on hold throughout the Coronavirus. You will still be able to see your favorite Disney characters from a distance. However, you will not be able to receive the same up-close interactions, hugs, high-fives, and signatures. Currently, at Disney Springs, only the Storm Trooper characters are available performing these modified interactions.

Positive Changes At Disney

Of course, there are many positive changes that can be expected at Disney after the shutdown reopening. First and foremost, the Cinderella Castle has gone bold, flashing new colors of purple, regal, and gold. To help you remember, the castle used to be mainly light grey and pale blue. This was done in honor of the Cinderella movie turning 70 in 2021. Certainly, the royal makeover of Disney’s staple castle will be a positive change to look forward to as you prepare for the post-COVID theme park experience.

You see many more questions than answers. Time will tell over the next few years how this will play out. You may even see Disney locations close and reopen a few times based on the threat of the virus affecting their immediate area. The virus will decide how many years the happiest place on earth will be affected. Ultimately the consumer will make that decision. If demand is lower than expected due to COVID spikes and COVID-19 travel advisories, the company will have no choice but to shut down again.

Popular Places To Add To Your New Mexico Road Trip Travel Itinerary For A 7 Day Vacation

A scenic, relaxing roadtrip through New Mexico is an excellent route for your slow travel vacation. If you want to travel through the heart of New Mexico here is a good itinerary:

You can start with the San Ildefonso Pueblo. You just head East from Los Alamos on SR 502. Just right over the Rio Grande you will see it. They are known for its traditional black on black polished pottery, as well as their red and polychrome pottery. There are also painters, jewelry makers, weavers, carvers, seamstresses, and moccasin makers there. Normal hours of visitation are 8am-5pm, Monday thru Sunday, the Museum opens 8am-4pm, Monday thru Friday. A reservation is not required to visit. The Pueblo’s fees are $10 per carload, $10 fee PER camera permit, $20 fee for video permit. The artisans shops operate out of private homes and open and close at their own discretion.

Call ahead if you have any questions at 505-455-3549 www.sanipueblo.org

Nambé Falls Recreation Area

Next, head further east from there  on SR 502 to Pojoaque exit North onto US 285/84 and drive one mile and turn right onto SR 503. Drive four miles to the Nambe Pueblo on SR 101. It is in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  The Nambé Falls Recreation Area which is nearby, offers swimming, fishing, a double-drop waterfall and camping. Go to the Governor’s Office for information on self-guided tours. If you want some exercise you can hike to Nambe Falls (open April–Oct.).  The falls offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints that are a must-see on your roadtrip.

Call ahead for more information about your visit at 505-455-2036

Santuario De Chimayó

Continue on to SR 503 for 10 minutes and go on to SR 98 to Chimayó. Santuario de Chimayo is well known to the thousands of people who make the annual pilgrimage to this 1816 church for healing and touching the miraculous dirt there. Chimayó is also home to several famous weaving families like the Ortega’s, shops and galleries. Grab a meal at Rancho de Chimayo for some native New Mexico specialties. You will most likely notice roadside stands to pick up the local specialty, red chile powder. Chimayo is the Red Chile capital of the region. You can also get it and other local items at The El Potrero Trading Post which is family owned. They have religious articles, traditional artwork and food specialty items there.

Truchas & Trampas

We are not done traveling yet! Continue on SR 98 and turn right on SR 76. You are now ready for some scenery. With breathtaking, serene viewpoints, this is even an excellent spot for solo travel destinations and experiences. Head to Truchas which is where the movie “The Milagro Beanfield War” was filmed. The town is considered remote due to its high elevation of 8000 feet, did not have paved roads until the 1970’s and it is relatively unchanged throughout time.

Las Trampas is worth a stop to see the very well preserved San Jose de Gracia church. It is a great example of Spanish Colonial architecture. The town itself dates back to the 18th century.

By the way, if you have interest in a fabulous three hour tour, you can get a guided tour that departs from the Santuario de Chimayó location to the historic churches in Córdova, Truchas, and Las Trampas. These three churches, which are rarely seen by non parishioners, are particularly outstanding for their historical and cultural importance and their conservation of santeria altar screens. Frank Graziano, author of HISTORIC CHURCHES OF NEW MEXICO TODAY runs the tours. To see dates available check out www.nuevo-mexico-profundo.com. Tours are $25

Visiting Wineries

Heading west on SR 75 you will find vineyards and other towns worth visiting. At SR 68 turn left and head through Velarde.

Black Mesa Winery In Velarde Is a good stop. They are open Mon- Sat 11-6, Sun 12-5​
Stop by their tasting room to enjoy some of the best wines in New Mexico. All of their wine and hard apple cider are made right on the premises, using only their own and other New Mexico fruit. You can choose from over 30 wines to taste. Of course, ensure you know what kinds of wines you can drink when traveling with allergies. They have hard apple cider on tap, along with New Mexico craft beer. They have daily tours. Call in advance at 505-852-2820.

This adventure is a four hours of driving time round trip.

Chaco Canyon

Chaco Canyon is a must-see destination on your New Mexico roadtrip. The world famous canyon is home to some of the most incredible ancient ruins in the entire United States. One of the best parts about Chaco canyon is that it is never packed with tourists. Therefore, visiting always offers the opportunity to be an amazing profound, intrinsic, and spiritual experience. Visiting at night, you can view an abundance of beautiful stars amongst the incredibly scenery. Of course, remember to bring a travel phone backup battery so you have enough energy to document your day. In the day, Chaco canyon is an excellent spot for guided tours, hiking, biking, camping, and education. As you plan your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary, be sure to make a stop at the famous Chaco Canyon.

Take The Scenic Byway

Planning your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary, you need to plan on taking the High Road Scenic Byway. The most popular route along the High Road Scenic Byway is traveling from Santa Fe to Taos. This is an excellent route to add to your car or RV travel guide. While most roads traveling towards Taos offer incredible views, none are as spectacular as the scenic byway. The scenery presents dramatic rock formations as you climb the Truchas Peaks. Offering over 65 miles of incredible scenery, the High Road Scenic Byway is a must-see destination on your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary.

Las Cruces

Las Cruces is the southernmost city in New Mexico. More so, it is the jumping off point to reach White Sands National Park, the Organ Mountains and Desert Peaks National Monument. Its a picture perfect location for both sunrise and sunset. In fact, you can watch the sunset while on a hike in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. There are many popular spots to stop to eat including The Shed and the Spotted Dog Brewery. Certainly, consider visiting Las Cruces while on a New Mexico road trip.

White Sands National Monument

Throughout planning your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary, you need to make a stop at the White Sands National Monument. Be sure to calculate the route beforehand. This way, you avoid the most common travel mishaps. White Sands is located approximately fifteen miles South of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The best route is likely by taking Highways 70. Visiting White Sands, bring your sled or purchase one before you arrive. This way, you will be able to hike across sand dunes and sled down sandy, powdery hills. At the same time, there are may tours going around the park if you would like to see more. Planning your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary, you need to visit White Sands National Monument.

Visit The Hot Springs Of Truth Or Consequences

Before you leave town, be sure to soak in the Hot Springs of Truth or Consequences. The town is actually named after the 1950’s game show Truth or Consequences. During the show’s tenth anniversary, the host offered to broadcast live from any town willing to officially name itself Truth or Consequences. Eventually, the town of Hot Springs New Mexico accepted the challenge and officially changed their name. Here, you can experience some of the most breathtaking views, atmosphere, and serenity in all of New Mexico. Certainly, relax as if you were getting a deep spa treatment in French Polynesia. Peacefully surrounded by the Turtleback Mountains, the hot springs are certainly a can’t-miss stop on your itinerary.

Ready To Experience New Mexico?

Ready to experience the best New Mexico offers? Take the time and overspend out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg bring you up to speed with the information.

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer an up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on the breathtaking and iconic sights of Albuquerque, Taos, Los Alamos and the terrific surrounding towns. Grasshopper Greg even offers full coverage of the best Santa Fe tours and museums for your New Mexico vacation.

They’ll introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots and tours that few tourists are aware of.
Grasshopper Greg’s Value Travel Guide to New Mexico is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, the Value Travel Guide to New Mexico will help you plan your trip with ease.

So whether you’re going to see the world-class art exhibits, museums and hot-air balloon experiences in Albuquerque, heading to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, deciding whether to eat red or green chile, taking the amazing turquoise trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, enjoying unmissable experiences in Santa Fe, Taos or Los Alamos, visiting tribal communities or celebrating over 30 incredible festivals with them that locals participate in, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of New Mexico you’ll find.

Value Travel Guide to New Mexico

The Best Santa Fe NM Museums And Tours To Add To Your Visitor’s Guide

The first day in Santa Fe it is good to get an orientation to the city using Loretto Line Tours. You get all the highlights over 1 hour and 15 minutes and you will see 10 miles of the city. It is open air and shows you many historical spots, Canyon Road and the art galleries, the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the Museum Hill area and the Palace of the Governors. New Mexico is an excellent tourist city for slow travel vacations. This will give you a good idea on where you want to go back to during your stay in the city.

The tram can pick you up at two different locations in downtown Santa Fe: La Fonda Hotel and the Loretto Chapel. There are three tours daily and no reservations required.

$20 for adults.
www.toursofsantafe.com

Sante Fe Museums

There are many great Santa Fe museums and galleries to choose from that one visit won’t be enough. Just choose a couple so you can also enjoy being outdoors in New Mexico. This is a great city to walk. If you begin at the Plaza and just wander you will discover the city.

One of the must-see’s is spending some time at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. She is well known for her New Mexico landscapes. One of the most significant artists of the 20th century, Georgia O’Keeffe (1887-1986) focused her work on the colors of architectural and landscape of northern New Mexico.

The Museum shows 140 O’Keeffe oil paintings, 700 drawings, and other works from 1901 to 1984. The Museum highlights her entire career, which went for 60 years. They feature portraits she made in her youth all the way to her final watercolor paintings in her 80’s.
Admission is $13, free for under age 18. Try to download the museum app prior to arrival to use the free self-guided tour.

217 Johnson St
www.okeeffemuseum.org

Additional Sante Fe Museums & Galleries

The oldest public building in the US holds the Governors and New Mexico History Museum. This museum covers the history of Santa Fe as well as New Mexico, and is a great place to start for people interested in the history on what you are seeing on your trip. Prepare to spend a half day there. The museum is an excellent stop for couples, friends, or even family vacations.  Call in advance to check on docent-led tours at 505-476-5100.

This also may be a good spot to pick up some authentic souvenirs as well. Native American artists and craftspeople offer Indian jewelry and crafts under the portal facing the downtown Plaza. Some of the artisans travel long distances to sell there. There are only 76 spaces to sell there and it is done by lottery. Tribes from all over the state are represented there. You will find the prices are more favorable than in the galleries and stores. Another plus is that you may meet the artist directly and can ask questions about their works. This is not a place to bargain because you may be insulting them. Many of these items have been done by hand and they feel they price items fairly. If you feel something is too expensive, move on.

There are also $ 10 downtown walking tours that meet at the Blue Gate on Lincoln Ave.

Mon-Sat, 10:15am-noon
April through October
www.palaceofthegovernors.org

The New Mexico Museum of Art is another popular, cultural attraction in Santa Fe. At the New Mexico Museum of Art, you will see the works by regional artists. Check the website on what is being exhibited about New Mexico’s multi-cultural history. The museum is always adding more collections relating to the heritage of New Mexico.

107 West Palace

www.nmhistorymuseum.org

Want to see some Folk Art? The Museum of International Folk Art has the world’s largest collection. Take the guided tour and no reservations are required. They have three tours starting at 10:30 daily. To confirm the time of the tours for your day, call 505-476-1204.

www.internationalfolkart.org

A great museum to dive deeper into the Native American history is The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. It specifically focuses on the history of the Pueblo, Navajo and Apache populations.

www.indianartsandculture.org

If you are looking for a tour, Stefanie Beninato is one of the tour guides in Santa Fe. She provides entertaining, informative and historically accurate tours. There are many different tours to choose from. Tours start at $ 25.

She even offers a downloadable 87 minute walking tour of Santa Fe for $ 17.50. It is an introduction to New Mexico’s history, culture and architecture.

www.swguides.com

You can also visit the Spanish Colonial Arts Society. Located at 750 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505, you can access a variety of activities and public spaces. They have a museum campus that provides an exhibition display of galleries and offices for executive staff. Of course, the campus is decorated in Santa Fe Style with highlighted architectural features and furnishings. More so, there is a permanent collections center that holds about 4,000 devotional, utilitarian and decorative units. Certainly visit the Spanish Colonial Arts Society for a taste of the Santa Fe and Spanish culture.

https://www.spanishcolonial.org

More Historical Sites Of Santa Fe New Mexico

Even with an abundance of amazing museums and galleries to see, there are still dozens of additional must-see stops on your New Mexico travel itinerary. First, make sure to visit El Rancho de las Golondrinas. El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a historic rancho, now serving as a history museum. The museum is located on what used to be the Camino Real, which was a Royal Road extending all the way to Mexico City. At the same time, you need to visit Pecos National Historical Park on your visit to Santa Fe. The Pecos National Historical Park explores the cultural exchange, geographic features, and historic Indian pueblos that define the rich history of Pecos Valley.

Annual Historical Santa Fe Traditions

Visiting historical attractions in Santa Fe New Mexico, there are several traditional celebrations to take part in. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly so that you can partake in all Santa Fe’s yearly festivities. One of the most famous yearly events is the Burining of Zozobra. Every year, Santa Fe residents gather to watch a massive marionette be destroyed by a ritual burning. It is said that setting this massive marionette aflame rids Santa Fe of gloom, doom, and bad luck for another years to come. Dating back to 1924, the firey tradition is an amazing historical celebration still taking place every year in Santa Fe. If you are looking for more to experience in New Mexico, make the trip for the Albuquerque hot air ballooning festival.

Visit Santa Fe Historic Chapels

As you plan your vacation to Santa Fe New Mexico, you need to set time aside to visit some historic chapels. These amazing chapels provide incredible history, stories, and must-see scenic viewpoints. Santa Fe is home to some of the oldest religious institutions in the entire United States. Originally built in 1636, the San Miguel Mission Chapel is an original Adobe structured with a number of authentic statues and high alters. At the same time, be sure to visit Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. This structure is located only a block from the world famous Santa Fe Plaza. Presenting a beautiful Romanesque, breathtaking architecture, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a must see when visiting Santa Fe.

Soak Up Some Living History

Of course, you should soak up some living history whenever possible on your visit to Santa Fe New Mexico. Take a New Mexico road trip and view history in real life. Living history provides you a live demonstration of everyday life. In Santa Fe, the best place to experience this is at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas. Located at a former Spanish ranch from the 1700’s, the living history museum features a variety of homes, barns, chicken coops, a schoolhouse, and a general store. Here, you can learn about everything from spinning, cooking, weaving, farming, and blacksmithing.

Ready To Experience New Mexico?

Ready to experience the best New Mexico offers? Take the time and overspending out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg bring you up to speed with the information. Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer an up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on the breathtaking and iconic sights of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Los Alamos and the terrific surrounding towns.

They’ll introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots and tours that few tourists are aware of.
Grasshopper Greg’s Value Travel Guide to New Mexico is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, Value Travel Guide to New Mexico will help you plan your trip with ease.

So whether your on a solo travel destination or with a group going to see the world-class art exhibits, museums and hot-air balloon experiences in Albuquerque, heading to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, deciding whether to eat red or green chile, taking the amazing turquoise trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, enjoying unmissable experiences in Santa Fe, Taos or Los Alamos, visiting tribal communities or celebrating over 30 incredible festivals with them that locals participate in, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of New Mexico you’ll find.

Value Travel Guide to New Mexico

A Skaneateles Travel Guide With Top Finger Lakes Attractions And Activities

Skaneateles Lake is a good place to start in the Finger lakes region. On the northern edge is the village of Skaneateles. The lake offers dozens of scenic viewpoints and amazing activities to enjoy.

Skaneateles is 16 miles long and 1-2 miles narrow which makes it a “long lake”. A trip to Syracuse is only 18 miles away from its northern end.

Visiting Downtown Skaneateles

Downtown you will find plenty to keep you busy including boutiques, galleries and café’s. There are three parks along the lake- Clift, Thayer, and Shotwell . Clift Park is a good place to catch a cruise from Mid-Lakes Navigation.

They offer a 50 min daytime cruise and an occasional moonlight 50 min cruise as well. Each one is $18/adult. There is also a three hour mail delivery cruise that runs $30 and you can bring your own lunch. 11 West Genesee St.

www.midlakesnav.com

Clift Park also offers swimming to non-residents for $5 starting in mid-June for the summer.

Skaneateles Art Galleries

A nice art gallery stop in town is the Barrow Gallery. John Barrow (1824-1906) is an artist who is well known for both portraits and landscapes. Barrow moved to Skaneateles when he was 15. The majority of his paintings are of people and places located in or near this area. 400 of barrow’s works are on display in the gallery.

Barrow is best known for sketching Abraham Lincoln when he spoke at Cooper Union in 1860. It is currently owned and displayed by the Chicago Historical Society. Barrow would be classified as a “second generation” Hudson River School artist.

$2 admission. 49 East Genesee St.
www.barrowgallery.org

If shopping is your thing, try the Skaneateles Artisans Gallery Under the Stone. It is a gallery located in the historic Old Stone Mill in town. Be sure to take your time and browse all of the local gallaries, remember, you are on a slow travel vacation.

They carry high-quality art from more than 100 Finger Lakes and New England artists. When you shop, you will find fiber art, faux-painting, furniture, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery and sculpture.

You can meet the artists on the first Friday of each month. Check the schedule prior to going there. 3 Fennell St- Lower Level.

www.skaneatelesartisans.com

Dining In Skaneateles Finger Lakes

The Krebs is a fine dining restaurant located in town and dates back to 1899. It sources much of its menu locally, supporting both local farmers and Finger Lakes wineries. We recommend it for brunch since it has a pricey dinner menu. 53 West Genesee St.

Located across from Skaneateles Lake, the Mandana Inn provides casual fine dining. It is open Wed thru Sunday. 1937 West Lake Road.

If you are looking for a good burger you will find an extensive menu at Johnny Angel’s Heavenly Burgers. This restaurant is also kid friendly, making it an excellent choice if you are on a family vacation.

The restaurant at Elderberry farm is overlooking the orchards, vineyards and seasonal vegetable plantings. The menu features fresh produce, pasture raised meats from their farm and other organic or sustainable farms. On the farm there they produce a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers on 36 acres.They also grow over 100 varieties of apples including some specifically for baking and others for sweet and hard cider production.

Open Wed through Sun (Mid Mar – Dec). They have a main dining room that seats approximately 40, and a sunroom that seats 20. Good choice for lunch since pricey for dinner. 3728 Center Street Rd, Auburn

www.elderberrypond.com

The story of Anyela’s Vineyards began in Eastern Europe and continues today on the hillside high above the lake. They combine experience with the cooler climate patterns and soil to grow their select grapes.

Tastings are first come first served since they do not take reservations. You can also stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the view. They offer two types of tastings. $ 5 feature five wines they choose. $10 to choose five wines from their offering. 2433 West Lake Rd,

www.anyelasvineyards.com

Additional Skaneateles Finger Lakes Outdoor Activities

When visiting the Skaneateles Finger Lakes, there are several additional outdoor activities to partake in.  If you are a fan of hiking, be sure to check out Charlie Major Nature Trail and other pet-friendly travel destinations. At the same time, be sure to check out the Baltimore Woods Nature Center for excellent hiking, art, and additional outdoor recreation. This can be a great place for solo travel experiences. Be sure to additionally check out Sycamore Hill Gardens for breathtaking sculptures, gardens, and scenery.

Visit Skaneateles Lake

Of course, you should spend some time checking out Skaneateles Lake during your trip. This is one of New York’s biggest finger lakes, spanning 16 miles. In fact, “Skaneateles” translates to “long lake” in Native American languages. If you’re into bicking, hiking or boating, make this one of your must-do activities during your getaway. Take in the waters, fresh air and greenery that NY has to offer!

Admire The Lavender Farms

Lavender Farms are one of the premier attractions when traveling to Skaneateles Finger Lakes. As you plan your visit, one of the most popular destinations is the Lockwood Lavender Farm. The farm features over one-hundred acres of lavender that create spectacular views surrounding the Skaneateles Lake. Every year in mid-July, the Lockwood Farm hosts the Finger Lakes Lavender Festival. As you plan your visit to Skaneateles Lake, be sure to plan activities at the famous New York Lavender farms. Of course, come prepared with environmentally friendly travel accessories to leave the farm as it was when you came.

Indoor Skaneateles Activities For Rainy Days

On the unfortunate event that it rains during your Skaneateles Finger Lakes vacation, there are several indoor activities to make the most of rainy days. With an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities, you never have to stress about travel plans when visiting the Finger Lakes. For food and drink, be sure to check out Angela’s Vineyard or the Last Shot Distillery. At the same time, you should check out the John D Barrow Art Gallery for an exciting activity for the entire family. For something simpler, you can look to indoor mini golf, laser maze challenges, cinemas, or family fun centers in the nearby area. As you plan your visit to Skaneateles Finger Lakes, be sure to plan some outdoor activities in the event of rainy days.

During The Winter Seasons

Unfortunately, not every month brings warm weather and sunshine for enjoying the Finger Lakes water. Fortunately, there are dozens of fun travel activities to do during the winter season. Generally speaking, the winter season runs from December through March. During this time, travelers can experience some of the best cross-country and downhill skiing or snowboarding in the country. In fact, it is a great vacation idea for families with teenagers. Of course, there are dozens of places to additionally experience snowshoeing and tubing. For winter accommodations, most vacationers choose to stay at the two largest year-round resorts: Greek Peak and Bristol Mountain. Here, you can experiences all the activities mentioned above and many other exciting outdoor adventures you need to try.

The Ultimate Kyoto Japan Travel Guide For A Full Itinerary

This Japanese city is full of history, breathtaking temples, architecture and an atmosphere that represents the best of Japan. On you Kyoto Japan visit, there are several tourist destinations, adventures, and sights to see. The city is loaded with zen gardens and temples among the most picturesque in the country. It is also an old city where you can discover the world of Samurai and Geisha. Kyoto is a beautiful city and destination for your slow travel vacations.

Kyoto has 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Golden Temple of Kinkaku-ji and the historic district of Gion, which has tea houses and restaurants in it’s narrow streets and old wooden buildings. There is a very good chance you will see a geisha walking around. It is the center of cultural Japan. If you are interested in the ultimate Kyoto Japan travel guide, read on to learn about the essential ways to live Kyoto to the fullest.

Spend Time Wandering Through The Gion District

When you visit Kyoto Japan, be sure to spend time in the Gion District. You can spend a day or two here exploring. Most Kyoto travel guides advise dedicating at least a day to visiting the Gion District. You just don’t know what you will discover. Window shopping, architecture, geisha walking to work, checking out the different narrow streets, it is all mesmerizing.

Immerse Yourself As A Maiko

Almost all Kyoto Japan tourism guides recommend immersing yourself as a Maiko. The women may want to dive into the local culture and go for geisha treatments. Go all out and have full make-up done and wear a kimono for the day. Photos taken that day make for a memorable souvenir. Be sure to immerse yourself as a Maiko for the ultimate Kyoto Japan tourist activities.

What a great way to learn about the ancient geisha tradition. Most people from the west are unfamiliar with the traditions learned and studied by the Geisha. Whatever most tourists know comes from the movies. Geisha study for many years(start out as a Maiko somewhere between age 17-20), learn specific skills, graduate from level to level and are entertainment artists: They are skilled in traditional arts such as fan dancing, singing traditional songs, playing traditional instruments, and learn how to host and are masters of social etiquette. The population of geisha’s have dropped dramatically. The profession peaked 100 years ago but there are many who keep the tradition alive in today’s Japan. They are authentic. They make sure to keep it alive and the business is thriving with Japanese Arts and crafts methods remaining the same.

Most geisha live and work locally and are known as geiko. Gion is Kyoto’s geisha district with a large concentration of traditional tea houses where the geiko entertain visitors.

Don’t have it in your budget to splurge in this area of exploring the geisha world? If you are lucky it won’t cost you a dime to catch a glimpse of a geisha for free. In Gion, they are out and about heading to appointments to entertain and they are walking through town. Do not ask them to take a photo with you. That is frowned upon because they take their profession very seriously. They are not a tourist object. The suggestion is to join a teahouse ceremony where you can meet and interact with one. A group is much less costly than arranging a private one. If you are going there, factor that into your budget as a can’t-miss experience. Consider that a small price to pay for the years of grueling education they go through to please you.

Kinkaku-ji

On your Kyoto Japan visit, it is essential to visit the Kinkaku-ji. Kinkaku-ji has a wonderful teahouse and gardens but gets crowded. This is an essential cultural attraction for your Kyoto vacation. Weekday morning is best. Open from 9-5 and costs 400 yen. To see the best Kyoto Japan tourist places, be sure to check out Kinkaku-ji.

Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Visiting Kyoto Japan’s tourist areas, be sure to check out Fushimi Inari-Taisha. Fushimi Inari-Taisha is a Shinto shrine from 711 AD. Some of it is made with gold leaf. Combine it with Tofuko-Ji with its beautiful garden and Buddhist temple. To see the most Kyoto Japan tourist activities, be sure to visit Fushimi Inari-Taisha.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visiting Kyoto Japan’s tourist areas, be sure to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera Temple is another can’t-miss temple. It has structures from the 17th century. Don’t miss the main hall. Famous for its wooden stage, it has a great view of Kyoto. Go see the Otowa no Taki waterfall, visit the Jishu Shrine and the “womb of the bodhisattva” tunnel . Just soak in all the beautiful architecture. Sometimes tours are offered so grab one if you can. Opening hours are 6 AM so if you are an early bird may be a good idea before the afternoon crowds.

There are buses 100 or 206 from Kyoto station (15 minutes, 230 yen). Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop, and then a short 10  minute uphill walk right there.to the temple.

Another way to get there. Kiyomizudera is a 20 minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station along the Keihan Railway Line.

Go To Arashiyama

Visiting the best tourist attractions of Kyoto Japan, be sure to go to Arashiyama, absolutely beautiful. It is 30 minutes from downtown Kyoto and easy to get there. Combine it with the Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple. Allow extra time to enjoy the garden.

Go across the Togetsu Bridge. It goes over the Katsura River and is wooden. It will lead you to the bamboo forest of Arashiyama. Allow extra time to go to the Monkey Park of Arashiyama. There are over 180 Japanese Macaque monkeys there. Feed the monkeys or just enjoy the view of Kyoto from there.

Visit Nijo Castle

While in Kyoto, you may want to visit the Nijo Castle. It’s a beautiful solo travel destination. Construction started in 1603 as the first Kyoto residence for the original shogun of the Edo Period, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Then, 23 years later, the castle was completed by his grandson Iemitsu. More so, the castle was used an an imperial palace after the fall of Tokugawa Shogunate in 1867. Next, it was donated to the city of Kyoto and opened as a historic attraction site. In fact, its building is one of the best surviving examples of Japan’s feudal era castle architecture. Visit Nijo Castle to experience the history of Kyoto Japan.

Tea Ceremonies

Visiting the largest Kyoto Japan tourism places, be sure to check out authentic Japanese tea ceremonies. As mentioned earlier, an authentic tea ceremony is a great way to experience the tradition of the area. One great suggestion is the Camellia’s garden area. The scenery and atmosphere there enhances the total experience. The house is well over 100 years old and it is a traditional structure from that time period. In addition to incredible tea ceremonies, there are even several signature spa treatments to experience on your visit to Japan.

It is very close to Ryoan-ji. It is well known for its outstanding rock garden, one of the best in the world. Since it is a zen temple, and this goes for any temple, it is important to know some important guidelines when attending a tea ceremony. You will be taking off your shoes when you enter a tearoom. Pack plenty of white socks for your trip to Japan. Traditional socks worn by Japanese are called Tabi. Modest clothing is also appropriate when visiting temples. 500 yen. Visiting the tourist activities in Kyoto Japan, be sure to attend an authentic tea ceremony.

Camellia Tea Ceremony

One of the biggest tourist attractions in Kyoto Japan is the Cemllia tea ceremony. It is approximately 45 minutes long and done in English. The cost you will pay to be part of a group is 3000 yen for adults. There are multiple time slots each day so it can easily work around the rest of your day. www.tea-kyoto.com

Tea Ceremony Room Juan is a tea room surrounded by a small Japanese garden for 2,850 yen. They will teach you some history and terms concerning the ceremony. The location is near Kyoto Station. Multiple time slots daily. The Tea Ceremony Experience in Kyoto En is a 45 minute group lesson and it is a five minute walk from the Gion bus stop. 2500 yen.

www.teaceremonyen.com

Tea Ceremony Experience KOTO not only has the tea ceremony but also offers ikebana( Japanese flower arranging) and origami (paper folding) The group tea ceremony is 2,700 yen and if you add the Origami is an additional 600 yen.

teaceremony-kyoto.com

Once a tea ceremony starts you will not be allowed in so factor in some extra time to get there. No matter which tea ceremony you experience, keep in mind it takes many years of training to be a master in leading a tea ceremony. This art has been around for over 500 years and has a very special place in Japan.

The Kyoto Free Walking Tour

The Kyoto free walking tour  is a great activity to arrange in advance for your first day for orientation to the area. They take you through the Higashiyama and Gion districts. A local guide takes the group around for 2-3 hours showing the highlights and their favorite spots. This is a no-brainer and you sign up online.

The advantage of going with them is they will give you information about Japanese culture, religious, food recommendations, and of course good history. You will see shrines and temples. Walk through the geisha quarters of Gion and Higashiyama district. They also offer an additional free tour in the evenings at 5:30 ofFushimi Inari. Check out Kyoto free tours on your visit to Japan.

www.kyotofreewalkingtour.com

If you want something geared toward geisha everything, look at Kyoto Sights and Nights. It is a 90 minute tour in the late afternoon from 4:30-6 and the cost is 3000 yen.

www.kyotosightsandnights.com

Keep in mind the following important information and you will fit in nicely. Do not smoke at any of the religious structures. No eating and/or drinking while walking anywhere. It is frowned upon in Japan. To help you better understand eating etiquette on your next trip, be sure to check out our visitors guide on eating out.

How Long To Stay?

As you prepare for your Kyoto Japan travel, you may be wondering how long to stay. On average, the trip to Kyoto takes about two to three days. Often, Kyoto is used as an add-on when visiting Tokyo. However, with all the natural beauty, culture, and history that this city offers, it may be worth it to consider a better balance between the two. If you are visiting Japan for two weeks, try to perfect the art of travel planning. Consider spending 7 days in Tokyo, and the remaining 7 in Kyoto. This will give you the flexibility to visit, Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, tea ceremonies, and have extra time for a ‘flex’ travel day.

Ready To Experience Japan in 2021?

Take the time and overspending out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg hand you the information. Japan 2021 is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date value travel advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. This is  one of the best destinations in the world! Try Unagi, Takoyaki and Udon, learn the ancient Japanese art of Ikebana, enjoy the Geisha bars, watch two enormous guys try to push each other out of a circle, and sample lots of different Sake types. Get to the heart of Japan and officially begin your journey now!

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on Japan’s iconic sights, and will introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots, tours, shops and exotic lodging that few tourists know to visit. Of course, they will also update you on covid-19 travel advisory information and risks.

Japan 2021 is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit  – Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Matsue, Nara, Hakone, Tsumago, Takayama and Sanmachi Suji. Complete with a detailed map and concise descriptions, this travel guide will help you plan your trip with ease. Join Grasshopper Greg in exploring one of the most spectacular vacations in the world!

So whether you’re going to be going to virtual reality theme parks, cos-play go-karting, the Tsukiji Fish Market, stay in a Ryokan or soak in an Onsen, enjoy the extremely underrated Kanazawa, spend time in the Gion District of Kyoto, attend possibly the most authentic tea ceremony at Camellia’s Garden Area, have some Kobe Beef Teppanyaki, see one of Japan’s most famous castles in Matsumoto, get introduced to Buddhism in Nara, among so many more Japanese highlights, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of Japan you’ll find.

Grasshopper Greg’s 2021 Value Travel Guide to Japan