Summertime is such a perfect time to explore new places.
There’s more free time, it’s warm, there are more fun things to do, and there’
sunshine — and let’s face it, there is NOTHING better than driving around with
the windows rolled down and sunshine on your face. I’ve had the opportunity to
travel quite a bit recently, so I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite
spots. Unfortunately, the majority of my travels have been on the east side of
the United States, so this list doesn’t include any of the beautiful west that
I’d love to have the opportunity to explore more. However, if you live on the
east coast (or are wanting to take a very long road trip!), then this is for
you. Travel away, my fellow explorers!
Chicago
To those of you who have never had the pleasure of
experiencing the Windy City, all I have to say is GO. Now. Although I’ve never
been to New York City (which I am embarrassed and ashamed to admit), I like to
think of Chicago as a less intense and less expensive but still awesome version
of the Big Apple. As clichéd as it is, I never miss out on visiting Magnificent
Mile — it just has some of the best shopping there is. After you’ve discovered
the wonderful Michigan Avenue, don’t miss out on some of the amazing streets
around it as well; Michigan may have the best chain stores, but so many unique,
fun stores can be found in close proximity. If you’re looking for something a
little less upscale, check out one of my favorite parts of Chicago, Lincoln
Park. Located in an area that’s a little more hip, this part of the city is
perfectly quaint and has vintage stores galore. And once you’ve literally
shopped till you dropped (you will, trust me), take a quick nap and head on
over to Navy Pier, a huge tourist attraction but still very fun place to visit.
Another claim to fame this city has? Lollapalooza. And that’s as good a reason
as any to check out this awesome place if you haven’t already.
Savannah
Having spent a year in this place, it’s a town that is near
and dear to my heart. With its cobblestone streets, Spanish moss and countless
(okay 22) squares, it is stunning and haunting and filled to the brim with
beautiful places to explore. Savannah is extremely tourist friendly, so there
is never a shortage of fun activities, but I would recommend getting a little
off the beaten path. Curl up in one of its many quaint coffee shops (Foxy Loxy
is the best, hands down), go for a run in Forsyth Park while the sun rises, and
meander down Jones Street (arguably the prettiest street in Savannah) for a
little while to soak in some of that sweet Southern charm that Savannah has so
wonderfully mastered. And if you don’t stop for some ice cream at Leopold’s at
least once, you might want to rethink your priorities.
Charleston
Only a short little drive from Savannah, this charming city
is one you shouldn’t miss. With a plethora of bridges and views of the ocean
everywhere you turn, the beauty of Charleston is matched only by its Southern
hospitality. Be sure to spend a day on the beach while you’re there (there are
countless), because nothing beats the ocean in the beautiful low country. After
you’ve had your fill of sunshine, make your way to King Street in the heart of
downtown. This seemingly never-ending road is a shopper’s paradise, with tons
of stores surrounded by sweet old buildings and more of those adorable
cobblestone streets. Do some more wandering here (King Street can be a little
hectic) for a better view of the city’s architecture. And once you’re sick of
oohing and ahhing over pastel-colored buildings, ask a local where to eat —
they always know best.
Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana may seem like a random pick, but you’d
be surprised at how much this college town has to offer. Home to Indiana
University, this little town is surprisingly hip — and if you’re looking to
take a short day trip, you can’t find anything better. Kirkwood Avenue is the
place to start, with plenty of cute shops, cafés and restaurants to suit your
fancy. If you like eating healthy, this is the place to go; not only do they
have the cutest little grocery store ever (I am a health food nerd), they have
tons of vegan and vegetarian friendly restaurants to choose from as well.
Bloomington also has a lot of great concerts, so don’t forget to check out
upcoming artists before you go. Bloomington is fairly small, so if you want to
visit somewhere else to make your road trip a little longer, you’re in luck.
Columbus, Indiana is only a short drive away, and has another quaint downtown
area as well as LOTS of beautiful architecture — if you go, be sure to take a
tour. Indianapolis is close as well, and has some fantastic museums, parks, and
downtown fun to keep you entertained for days.
Nashville
While many know this place for its country music scene and
fantastic colleges, Nashville has so much more to offer. If you’re in the area,
head on over to East Nashville, a trendy little place I like to call
“Hipsterville” from time to time. But don’t let that nickname intimidate you —
everyone there is the nicest, coolest person you’ll ever meet. Before you do
anything, stop and grab a cappuccino from the popular Barista Parlor, a garage
turned café with some of the best coffee around. After that, the possibilities
are endless. Be sure to do some thrifting, as the vintage stores there are
pretty much unparalleled (and there are a ton). And when you’re finally
tuckered out from all that shopping, check the listings for concerts at the
beautiful Ryman Auditorium — because country music isn’t the only thing Nashville
does well.
XO,
Anna
@annavcoke
