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A Road Trip to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

May 21, 2020

If you are looking for a fun, beautiful, and historical trip to take this summer, a road trip to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia may be in the cards! Harper’s Ferry is situated right on the border where Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia meet. This makes it a convenient spot for a day trip or overnight from the Baltimore/DC area.

What you’ll find are gorgeous views, a quaint and historic town, beautiful nature, and the gateway to the Loudoun County wine region. My husband Mike and I took our road trip to Harper’s Ferry last September to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and had a wonderful time! It was so nice to drive less than 2 hours from Baltimore and find ourselves in a completely different setting.

**Please visit HERE for most recent updates involving West Virginia health and safety updates and regulations including
openings and closures.
Make sure to check individual business websites for the latest information and availability of service. **

Getting to Harpers Ferry

Taking a road trip to Harpers Ferry is very easy if you live in the Baltimore or Washington DC area! The driving distance is an hour and fifteen minutes from each place, making the perfect destination for a day trip or quick weekend getaway.

It is also easily accessible from other Mid-Atlantic Destinations:

  • Harrisburg, PA: 1hr, 30 min
  • Richmond, VA: 2hrs, 30 min
  • Philadelphia: 2hrs, 40min
  • Pittsburgh, PA: 3hrs, 30 min
  • New York City Area: 4 hrs

Note that there is limited parking in the town itself, with street parking only. You can try your luck with street parking, but you will find it extremely difficult, especially during busy times. The best bet is to drive to the National Park Service lot (171 Shoreline Drive) where there is ample parking. There’s a visitor’s center as well as a free shuttle bus that will take you to the little downtown area.

If you live in DC and don’t have a car/want to relax on your trip without getting behind the wheel, both the MARC Train and Amtrak have service from Washington DC.

What to Do in Harpers Ferry

The tiny town of Harpers Ferry is absolutely adorable – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time! If you enjoy history, particularly early US History and Civil War history, you’ll definitely be in your element.

Walking through the town you will get a bit of a workout, as it’s perched on a hill (hence the amazing views of the surrounding landscape!) The town itself is very small with one main thoroughfare (High Street) filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sights. For a great spot to enjoy delicious food & drinks AND enjoy an amazing view of the valley and river, get a table on the deck of The Rabbit Hole (186 High St).

I would advise having lunch in the village versus dinner, as most restaurants close early. If you’re staying overnight in the area, there are a few neighboring towns that I recommend below.

After lunch, if you’re craving something sweet, head to True Treats Historic Candy Shop (144 High Street)! Even if you’re not a candy fiend, this shop is pretty much a museum, with typical candies dating back to biblical times, through the mid-1900s. There are also several other shops to browse along High Street selling locally made artisan items, historic knick-knacks, art, and other gifts.

If you continue down High Street you will approach the walk up to St. Peter’s Catholic Church, built pre-civil war, which has an amazing view over the entire valley. This church is also where the Ghost Tour meets if you’re interested in the spooky history of Harper’s Ferry!

You can continue walking up to Jefferson’s Rock, the lookout point where US President Thomas Jefferson once declared that the scene was “worth a voyage across the Atlantic.”

Harpers Ferry National Park

The town of Harpers Ferry is actually part of the Harpers Ferry Historical National Park! The whole park encompasses 4,000 acres and includes parts of West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia.

In addition to the historic village, church, Jefferson’s Rock, and historic demonstrations & museums, the park also offers guided tours and several hiking trails.

Make sure to check with the National Park Service before planning your trip to get up to date information on access to the park and health and safety regulations.

Where to Stay

Harper’s Ferry has a number of quaint and affordable Bed and Breakfasts within the village itself. The Cantula Inn comes highly rated by guests and offers modern comfort in a historic setting. The Lily Garden Bed & Breakfast is another great option, with 2 adorable suites situated in an old carriage house. The Light Horse Inn is also a great choice, offering modern amenities with historic charm (no children).

If you wanted to venture out of the village itself, there are lots of options in the surrounding area. Nearby Charles Town has more of the run of the mill chain hotels and will put you closer to late-night dining options and the Casino and Inn at Charles Town Races.

If you want a completely unique and wonderful Airbnb experience, I would definitely recommend the Historic Maison du Soleil Retreat, where we stayed during our visit (see photos below). We stayed in a private room within the hosts’ house and felt complete privacy and freedom throughout our visit.

The outdoor barn area they have set up is a dream – so tranquil and beautiful, it was hard to leave it to go and sightsee. The hot tub was especially nice to relax in. It’s close to the attractions at Harpers Ferry, as well as quaint Shepherdstown and plenty of wineries and hiking. Your stay also includes a wonderful breakfast cooked by the host, Henk.

Surrounding Activities in Harpers Ferry

Charles Town

Charles Town is another historic town less than a 15-minute drive from Harpers Ferry. While the town is more commercialized and not quite as quaint, you will find more here in terms of larger hotels, food options, grocery stores, the casino, etc. We mainly spent time here because of our Airbnb location, but we found the downtown quite charming as well in its own way.

A few highlights of Charles Town included dinner and live music on the patio at Abolitionist Ale Works, and the beautiful mural by Philadelphia artist Isaiah Zager (below).

Shepherdstown

I LOVED Shepherdstown and would definitely recommend checking it out! Another unbelievably quaint town, located 20 minutes from either Harpers Ferry or Charleston. Definitely worth spending a few hours walking the main street and all the local shops. There are also lots of yummy and unique dining options should you choose to stay here.

For Civil War Buffs and history enthusiasts, Shepherdstown is also close to the Antietam National Battlefield (Sharpsburg, MD), the sight of the bloodiest day in US History during the Battle of Antietam in 1862.

Loudoun County Wineries

Just south of the Harpers Ferry area, Loudoun County, Virginia is a beautiful, sprawling, hill covered destination with 40 wineries! You could really spend your whole weekend just touring vineyards and tasting rooms, but it’s also fun to pop down here and have a relaxing afternoon at one or two of them.

Hillsborough Winery, Brewery & Vineyard is a great option if you are coming from Harpers Ferry or Charlestown, only around 20 minutes away from either place. The views were absolutely gorgeous and you can enjoy their wine and/or beer along with food selections they offer on-site if you sit on the patio or in the tasting room. If you choose to bring your own food, there is a picnic area where you can sit.

As you can see, this area area has a TON to offer, making a road trip to Harpers Ferry a great idea for this summer or fall! I hope you enjoy the local charm, history, eats and shopping of this beautiful place.

Looking for more local travel ideas on the US East Coast? Check out my Guide to Camping with Wild Horses on Assateague Island and my guide to Charming Photo Spots in Baltimore!

Don’t forget to PIN this article to help you plan your trip.

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Maryland Travel USA

Camping with Wild Horses on Assateague Island

May 17, 2020

As summer approaches and the future of international (and even cross-state) travel remains uncertain, US travelers are itching to go somewhere, ANYWHERE where they can experience adventure. Now that National Parks are opening up, why not consider camping with wild horses on Assateague Island?

Yes, you read that right: you can camp with wild horses! A tiny strip of land that runs along the coast of Maryland and Virginia, Assateague Island is a unique destination that is easily drivable from the Baltimore/DC area, and an accessible summer road trip destination for most East Coasters.

**Please visit HERE for most recent updates involving park health and safety updates and regulations including openings and closures. **

Why Assateague Island?

Assateague Island is a haven for natural beauty. If your experience or impression of middle Atlantic beaches involve commercialized boardwalks, amusement parks, and overcrowded beaches, get ready for a breath of fresh air.

I have to admit, I haven’t had much experience camping but this place really blew me away! Sleeping in a tent over sand is much more comfortable than the hard ground, as the sound of the waves at night was so relaxing.

Sunrise at Assateague, near our campsite

Assateague State Park vs Assateague National Seashore

Assateague Island is home to Assateague State Park AND Assateague National Seashore. All camping is on the Maryland side of the Island. Camping is allowed in both areas but there are slight differences in pricing, amenities, and rules:

Assateague State Park

  • More crowded together campsites (less private)
  • Better amenities: Hot showers & Flushing Toilets
  • Electric campsites available
  • Bayside campsites only
  • NO Drinking Alcohol
  • Pets Allowed on Certain Campsites
  • Prices are $28 per site, $38 per electric site/per night

Assateague National Seashore

  • Campsites are more spaced out and private
  • More primitive amenities (non-flushing toilets and cold water showers)
  • No electric campsites
  • Oceanside campsites available (less buggy and right on the beach)
  • Drinking alcohol allowed
  • Pets Allowed, must be leashed
  • Prices are $30 per sight/per night

For all the rules and regulations as well as health and safety updates for each park, check out the links above.

When to Visit Assateague

The park is open year-round, but the best and most popular time to go camping on Assateague Island is summer, to utilize the beautiful beach. This also means that it’s the most crowded time and campsites book up well in advance. You will definitely have to plan ahead if you want to make sure you have a campsite reserved, especially if you want to camp on a weekend.

Luckily, sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance! You can check availability and make your reservations HERE. While summer is the most popular time, early fall can also be nice with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Getting to Assateague Island

Assateague Seashore is a great road trip destination from many spots on the East Coast! Of course the driving times below are approximate and don’t account for stops or traffic.

  • Baltimore: 2hrs 45min
  • Washington, DC: 2hrs 45min
  • Philadelphia: 2hrs 30min
  • NYC Area: 4hrs

The biggest obstacle for travelers from Baltimore, DC, or other parts of Maryland (minus the Eastern Shore) is the Bay Bridge, which often has large traffic backups, especially on the weekends. Consider going during a weekday if possible if you want to try and avoid this.

Closest Airports: BWI, IAD, DCA, PHL or SBY (Salisbury)

What to Do Around Assateague

The main appeal of camping on Assateague Island is to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural scenery and wildlife. After you arrive and set up your campsite, definitely take advantage of the beach (if it’s early enough in the day), and enjoy the sunset over the marshy bayside if you can. Build a campfire, fire up the grill, and enjoy the food you brought with you, or as an alternative, you can drive 5-10 minutes offsite to the Assateague All You Can Eat Crab House.

Besides the obvious of enjoying your campsite and the beach, there are also hiking trails you can take advantage of!

Woke up for a Sunrise Photoshoot! Sadly no horses.

Wildlife at Assateague

In addition to the famed wild horses, Assateague is home to a multitude of species to observe. Deer, frogs, toads, several species of crabs and snails, shorebirds, and waterfowl all inhabit the island. Assateague’s waters and marshes are also home to many species of fish as well as the popular Maryland Blue Crab.

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT THE WILD HORSES AT ASSATEAGUE

The horses you will see on Assateague Island are feral and have been inhabiting the island since the 1600s. All in all, there are about 300 wild horses that live on Assateague Island. There are a few legends about how the horses ended up calling Assateague their home, the most popular one being that they came ashore when a Spanish Cargo Ship sank. Another theory is that these horses are the descendants of the horses of early settlers that were allowed to run freely.

Please note that the horses are wild, so trying to feed or pet them is a huge no-no. They can and will bite and kick and could potentially carry disease. The Park Service regulations advise staying at least 40 feet away when viewing the horses. Personally, we didn’t see any horses on our campsite, we saw them closer to the other beach we visited that was open to daily visitors. They are beautiful and not scary (in case the above worried you a bit) if you maintain your distance and quietly observe.

There are also many signs throughout the campsite advising you to keep all your food in locked containers or in your car, as the horses will try to take it. They also advise to not give the horses any water. They have learned to adapt and thrive in their salty/marshy environment and have their own water sources. Humans feeding them could actually deter them from finding and protecting their own sources.

What to Bring to go Camping on Assateague Island

  • Bug Repellant
    • Now, most resources on Assateague and word of mouth information will advise you that the mosquitos on Assateague Island are BRUTAL. Personally, we did not have a big problem with them, and I think it’s because we got a beach/shoreside campsite in the National Park. It makes sense that the bugs would be more prevalent in the marshy bayside, so keep that in mind when making your reservations. It’s possible that we just got lucky. Regardless, make sure you bring good quality, strong bug repellant to ward off the pesky mosquitos and horseflies, should they be a bother.
  • Sunscreen
  • Layers
    • Prepare for it to get chilly at night, even if it’s hot during the day. Long layers will also help protect against bug bites during dusk, especially if you are planning on walking the trails.
  • Firewood/Starter Fluid for Campfires and Grills
    • Due to park regulations, all firewood must be purchased in the state of Maryland. You will see people selling firewood from their homes as you approach the park. There is a convenience store right before the entrance to the park to buy any camping supplies you may have forgotten.
  • Food/Water for the Duration of your Visit
    • There is limited availability to purchase food and water in the park, so it’s advisable to bring as much with you as you want. Make sure you are able to secure and lock your food, and wildlife will invade if it’s left unattended.
  • Portable Phone Charger
    • This is particular to camping in the National Park (no electric sites) or a non-electric site in the State Park. Service isn’t great but you will most likely want to take pictures of your experience and don’t want to run out of charge!

Ready to Go?

Whether you’re going as a couple, with friends or as a family, camping on Assateague Island is a truly unique experience for everyone. It is easily accessible from the East Coast by car and will provide lasting memories.

Ready for some other East Coast Travel? Check out my guide to Charming Photo Spots in Baltimore and a Neighborhood Guide to Hampden, Baltimore.

Don’t forget to PIN this post to help you with planning your trip!

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Baltimore Travel USA

Hampden, Hon: Your Guide to Baltimore’s Quirkiest Neighborhood

January 26, 2020

What do you think of when someone mentions Baltimore? Inner Harbor? (sure.) The crab cakes? (duh!) The Wire? (probably.) I’m going to tell you about a little pocket of the city you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Charm City: Hampden, Hon. I’ve made a guide to Hampden, Baltimore’s quirkiest neighborhood, which also happens to be my home.

Guide to Hampden: Some History

Before I get into my guide to Hampden, Baltimore I wanted to start you with a little history. Hampden is an enclave north of downtown that was originally built around the mills along the Jones Falls and millworkers that settled there. You can see evidence of this today in the old mills that have been restored into local businesses.

In the 90s it began to undergo a transformation when artists started moving in, making the neighborhood their own. Eventually, 36th Street, known to locals as “The Avenue” or simply “The Ave” filled with restaurants, hip boutiques, and thrift shops.

Today Hampden is known as Baltimore’s hipster haven and center of kitsch, where there’s always something fun going on and something delicious to eat.

What is this “Hon” Thing?

“Hon” is short for “Honey” and is an affectionate term made Balti-famous by the working-class women of the 1960s. A stereotypical Hon has the beehive hairdo, cats eye glasses and bright attention-grabbing clothing (think: Hairspray).

Hampden embraces this kitschy image and even pays homage in an annual HonFest every June, where women dress up in full “Hon” regalia and celebrate all that makes the neighborhood unique.

Honorable mention goes to the plastic Pink Flamingo: Hampden’s unofficial mascot.

Hampden Eats

First on the agenda in my guide to Hampden? Eating of course. This is a tough one because there are just so many good options! It’s really hard to go wrong, but I’ve listed some of my favorites below, categorized by meal.

Brunch/Lunch

Gertrudes | 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218 (Inside the Baltimore Museum of Art)

Open for also for dinner but brunch at Gertrude’s is a real delight! Beautifully set within the museum, the menu focuses on farm to table ingredients and local Chesapeake flavors. If you go during the spring or summer definitely try to sit outside where you’ll have a nice view of the BMA sculpture garden.

Chuck’s Trading Post | 1506 W. 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211

Chuck’s is a unique and casual spot – part grocery/general store and part restaurant/bar. Brunch delights like creative skillets and colossal pancakes are served in cast iron pans. A real local gem.

Golden West Cafe | 1105 W. 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211

A kitschy neighborhood staple where your wait for a table on the weekend will most definitely be a long one. Once seated though you’ll have a multitude of tasty options to chose from. The restaurant prides itself on “Southwestern comfort food” and it also has a large amount of vegan/vegetarian options. Come hungry!

Artifact | 1500 Union Ave, Baltimore, MD 21211

This aesthetically pleasing coffee shop/cafe is close to the Woodberry light rail and worth the extra walking. Featuring local baked goods, sandwiches, salads and a full coffee bar, it’s a great spot to have a cozy lunch.

Dinner

Grano Pasta Bar | 1031 W 36th St Baltimore MD 21211

Once featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners Drive-ins & Dives, Grano is my favorite restaurant in the neighborhood which is why it tops my list on the guide to Hampden. Super simple menu (pick your pasta, pick your sauce…voila), quaint interior and friendly staff, you can’t go wrong. Oh, did I mention it’s BYOB? Yep! So grab a bottle of your favorite vino and your date or friend and enjoy it. Just be prepared, for interior dining most tables are only for 2 people, there is one table for 4 and it’s first come/first serve. They’ve added more outdoor seating for warmer months for bigger parties.

Dylan’s Oyster Cellar | 3601 Chestnut Avenue Baltimore, MD 21211

“Oysters & Booze” is what this restaurant is all about with it’s sustainably sourced seafood and creative craft cocktails. The menu is small but mighty, obviously heavy on the seafood but they do feature a burger. I go for the small bites (the anchovy on baguette bite is my favorite!) and oysters of course.

Birrotecca | 1520 Clipper Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211

Rustic Italian with local ingredients, Birrotecca is housed in an old stone mill and has a cozy festive vibe. The food is phenomenal from it’s interesting pizzas to unique plates of pasta and everything in between. They also have quite a variety of craft cocktails and a HUGE wine and beer list.

Clavel* | 225 W 23rd St, Baltimore, MD 21211

Okay so this restaurant is not technically in Hampden, it’s in the sister neighborhood of Remington. I know, I know, this is a guide to HAMPDEN.

But since it’s so close and SO good, here it is. Clavel is a “family-owned Taqueria & Mezcaleria serving food deeply rooted in Sinaloan ritual.” It’s interior is sophisticated industrial chic and its margaritas are the best I’ve ever had (and I’ve had a few). It’s INSANELY popular with a no reservation policy so always expect a wait. My trick is to go for happy hour during the week (5-7) and enjoy $4 off margs and queso fundido.

Sweets

The Charmery | 801 W 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211

If you do one thing in Hampden, make sure you stop at The Charmery. Their ice cream is handcrafted from “super-premium” ingredients and is quite frankly delicious. They have their staple flavors (Old Bay Caramel anyone?) and then they switch it up with weekly and seasonal flavors. Some are somewhat standard and some are SUPER out there like Ritz Cracker. Either way, you’ll be able to find something that you love, and they let you sample as many as you want before making your final decision. During summer expect a line that wraps around the block.

Quality Snowballs (Seasonal) | 1014 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211

Quality Snowballs was new last year and features TONS of variations on the Baltimore classic dessert: the snowball (shaved ice with toppings.) You can do a regular snowball with syrup or a more involved snowball with a variety of toppings. Some examples include Cinnamon Bun & Salted Caramel Shortbread. Only open in Spring and Summer.

Hampden Drinks

There’s also no shortage of watering holes in Hampden, and many of the places I’ve mentioned already have excellent cocktails and wine lists. There are a few places I’d recommend especially for the drinks though, and I’ll share them below:

Bluebird Cocktail Room | 3600 Hickory Ave, Baltimore, MD 21211

I’m obsessed with the interior of Bluebird – like a gorgeous library where you can talk, drink and eat. Their cocktail menu changes seasonally and always has a literary theme to its drinks. Expect to pay between $12-18 for a cocktail but it’s all part of the decadent experience. They also serve food and lite bites if you feel like nibbling.

De Kleine Duivel | 3602 Hickory Ave, Baltimore, MD 21211

Below the Bluebird, this unassuming Beer Hall with a nice atmosphere serves only Belgian beer from an extensive list. They also have a nice selection of wine and often have events such as live music or discussions.

WC Harlan* | 400 W 23rd St, Baltimore, Maryland 21211

Another Remington Gem from the same owner of Clavel, WC Harlan is a unique speakeasy in a rowhouse with a door simply marked “Enter” in chalk. The Victorian decor is right out of Edgar Allen Poe’s era, giving it a cozy and spooky vibe. A great spot to grab a craft cocktail while you’re waiting for your table at Clavel.

Hampden Shopping

Clothing & Gifts

Next on my guide to Hampden, Baltimore? Shopping! Don’t come to Hampden with an empty wallet, that’s for sure. From home decor to clothing, to vintage finds, this neighborhood is a great spot to shop for yourself or for gifts.

Trohv | 921 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211

Your first stop if you need to buy an amazing gift – Trohv is a curated selection of home decor, stationery, housewares, books, art, bath, and beauty…the list goes on. There are two floors filled with unique merchandise, a lot of it locally made. But be prepared to drop some serious cash.

Brightside Boutique | 915 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211

A store with attitude – in the best possible way! Women-owned and one of several locations in the area, Brightside has a great selection of on-trend fashion (for men and women), accessories, cards, jewelry, and gifts. The store just makes you happier when you walk inside and I consider reason enough to check it out.

Double Dutch | 1021 W. 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211

Another unique boutique with brightly colored pieces & accessories, they also sell locally made beauty products, apparel, and stationary. There is a small vintage section as well alongside the new items.

In Watermelon Sugar | 3555 Chestnut Ave # 1, Baltimore, MD 21211

Another favorite spot for gifts, this store has a beautiful inventory of high-end bath and beauty products, books, candles, stationery and kids items. During the holidays they stock up on gorgeous decor and ornaments which they display in the most beautiful way.

Milk & Ice Vintage | 833 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211

One of several vintage shops on the Ave but this one I think has a particularly curated and special stock of clothes that they merchandise really well. They also have a small amount of other (non-clothing) vintage items for sale.

Food & Beverage

The Wine Source | 3601 Elm Ave, Baltimore, MD 21211

I’d be remiss if I left out the glorious Wine Source from my guide to Hampden. Not just a wine store, it’s stocked with a wonderful selection of beer, liquor, cheese, gourmet foods, locally baked bread and of course wine from all over the world. There’s also a tasting bar where you can sit and have a beverage and the staff is super helpful. A great spot to pick up a bottle to bring with you to BYOB Grano (see above).

Annual Events in Hampden

HonFest

As mentioned above, HonFest occurs every June and pays homage to the neighborhood and city’s “Hon” culture. The Avenue is blocked off with food and craft vendors and 3 stages of live music as well as a “Hon Pageant”. Expect to see lots of beehive hairdos and feather boas.

HampdenFest

A smaller version of HonFest, this one takes place in September. The Avenue is still filled with vendors and live music but the main show here it the “Toilet Bowl Race” (I told you Hampden was quirky!) where locals craft “racecars” out of toilets and compete in a dash down Chestnut Avenue. If you don’t believe me, check it out!

Miracle on 34th Street

Starting the weekend after Thanksgiving, the houses on Hampden’s 34th Street between Chestnut and Keswick are fully decked out in lights and holiday displays. It’s a magical spot (although I admit as a resident the extra cars during this time make parking pretty difficult). It’s certainly something to see during the holiday season. On New Year’s Eve, the whole neighborhood + visitors gather for a mini ball drop which signifies the end of the lights.

Visiting Hampden

Hampden is located north of downtown Baltimore. You can get there from downtown by hopping on Interstate 83 and taking exit 8: Falls Road. This will bring you right to The Avenue (36th Street). If you’re traveling by light rail, exit at the Woodberry Station which will leave you a 10-15 minute walk from the Avenue. If you’re taking the train down from New York or up from DC, Penn Station is also only a 5 minute Uber Ride from The Avenue.

Whether you’re a local who’s never been or a first time Baltimore visitor, I really hope you’ll consider heading to Hampden to experience its unique culture and amazing eats, drinks, and shops. I hope this guide to Hampden helps you plan your visit.

If you’re planning on exploring more of Baltimore, check out my Baltimore Street Art Map and my guide to my 5 Favorite Photo Spots in Baltimore.

Don’t forget to PIN THIS to help you plan your trip!

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Baltimore Travel USA

5 Charming Photo Spots in Baltimore, Maryland

January 25, 2020

Looking for the most Charming photo spots in Baltimore? Look no further!

Baltimore is the largest city in the US State of Maryland, and is also the place I call home. Despite it’s gritty reputation, Baltimore is a lovely “small city” with character and lots of charm. I love the diversity, quirkiness, art scene and waterfront local…not to mention the famous crab cakes!

I’m going to share some of my favorite photo spots with you, along with a map so you can find your way.

Fells Point

I love the Fells Point neighborhood for several reasons – one being it’s amazing waterfront location. You get great views of the Baltimore Harbor as you make your way down it’s quaint cobblestone streets.

One of Baltimore’s oldest neighborhoods and was once inhabited primarily by pirates! It’s also home to some of Baltimore’s best pubs & taverns and adorable boutiques (as a reward after you finish your photo session.)

Some of my personal favorites for photos:

  • Urban Garden near the corner of Thames and S. Ann Street
  • Row of pastel houses on South Ann Street between Alicanna and Lancaster
  • Thames Street storefronts
  • Sagamore Pendry Hotel (Courtyard & Pool Area)

Hampden & Woodberry Murals

Okay so I may be a bit partial because I live in Hampden, but I think we have some pretty amazing photo spots! Hampden is a quirky hipster ‘hood north of downtown.

Come to take photos and stay for the food because we also boast some of the best restaurants in the city (Woodberry Kitchen, Dylan’s Oyster Cellar, The Food Market, The Blue Bird, just to name a few). The thrift and vintage shopping is also on fire here, so don’t forget your wallet.

Hampden & it’s sister neighborhood have plenty of murals to keep you busy. Also check out the huge flamingo facade on Cafe Hon, it can’t be missed.

Favorite Hampden/Woodberry Photo Spots:

  • Baltimore & Charmery Wall Murals
  • 38th Street Pastel Houses
  • Creative Labs & Surrounding Walls

Graffiti Alley

It’s no secret this is one of my favorite photo spots in Baltimore, as it’s appeared several times on my social media feed. Graffiti Alley is in the Station North neighborhood, nestled slightly north of downtown (close to the train station and Maryland Academy and Institute of Art.)

The name says it all: it’s literally a tiny alley where graffiti has been made legal, making it a super colorful background for photos. Afterwards you can stop at the Showroom Bar for a drink or head to Joe Squared for amazing pizza.

Seton Hill Historic District

Seton Hill is one of my newer discoveries, although it’s been around for quite awhile!  

It’s located between Mount Vernon and Heritage Crossing, Seton Hill was also once known as the “French Quarter” of Baltimore, founded by priests fleeing the French Revolution. You can still see the influence in the Parisian style lampposts that dot some of the streets!
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There is an adorable row of pastel houses on Jasper Street, between Druid Hill Ave and George Street. You can also find some pretty colors on Druid Hill Ave between North Paca Street & Jasper Street.

Highlandtown Arts & Entertainment District

Another graffiti mecca, Highlandtown Arts & Entertainment district is a bustling part of the city plenty of colorful spots to photograph. It’s a large area that actually encompasses parts of several neighborhoods including Greektown, Patterson Park, Highlandtown and Canton.

It’s also home to the performing art space venue The Creative Alliance, which is definitely worth checking out.

Ready to go exploring? Check out this handy map for easy reference:

Want to find even MORE charming photo spots in Baltimore? Check out my Baltimore Street Art Map which I try to keep current with murals and colorful spots I find.

And don’t forget to PIN this for future reference:

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Denver Travel USA

My Favorite Spots in Denver, Colorado

June 29, 2018

Denver is a hip city located in the midst of amazing natural beauty. We have some really good friends in Denver so over the past few years we’ve had opportunities to visit and explore in both the winter, spring & summer seasons. I am sharing some of my favorite spots in Denver, as well as places to explore in the surrounding areas. (Pro tip: If this is your first time visiting Denver, just be aware that the altitude can cause symptoms such as nausea and dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy if you are doing any hiking.) ♥

STAY

River North Arts District

While we are lucky enough to be able to stay with friends when we visit Denver, we spend a lot of our time in this artsy neighborhood and it has plenty of great spots within walking distance.

Street Art in Rino

FAVORITE SPOTS IN DENVER FOR BREAKFAST

Thump Coffee | 1201 E 13th Ave, Denver, CO 80218 (Multiple Locations)

I’ve spent several mornings teleworking from this chill cafe. In addition to delicious coffee beverages they also offer breakfast & lunch options and local beer & kombucha on tap. Wifi is free and unlimited and there are plenty of spots to set up and plug in if you get there early.

Snooze an A.M. Eatery |  2262 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

This was a happening diner in a fun neighborhood, complete with bright & retro decor. Expect a wait and an amazing selection of egg’s benedicts, breakfast sammies and sweet treats.

Rosenbergs Bagels & Deli | 725 E 26th Ave, Denver, CO 80205

Don’t miss this authentic New York bagel shop on your breakfast rotation! Yes, the line is really long. Yes, maybe the sandwiches are a bit pricy. But you will not be disappointed with the quality! I mean, they import the water they use to make the bagels from New York, so you know it’s gotta be good. This is easily one of my favorite spots in Denver for breakfast.

LUNCH & DINNER

Sassafras American Eatery | 2637 W 26th Ave, Denver CO 80211

This restaurant has a 2 locations in Denver and one in Golden, Colorado and is also a popular spot. The Jefferson Park location is in an old house with eclectic decor and a cute outdoor dining area. The food is American Southern with a strong Cajun flair. I definitely recommend the “Maque Choux Grits” – sooo good with pimento cheese. They also have lots of creative cocktails, milkshakes & coffee drinks. Just beware the Sasafrass Bloody Mary is a bit spicy! When I couldn’t drink it they brought me the Garden Mary with no extra charge which I thought was really nice. We shared the beignets at our table which were pillowy and excellent. 

Los Chingones | 2463 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

Upscale Mexican in RINO district, has a nice outdoor dining area, creative tacos & good margaritas. 

Mizu Izakaya | 1560 Boulder St, Denver, CO 80211

Yes, landlocked Denver has a sushi scene! Mizu had an ultra trendy vibe and the sushi is great. They also have a lot of alternatives to sushi rolls & interesting appetizers, like the crispy brussel sprouts with candied walnuts & lemon oil. Delicious! 

SWEET TREATS

The Inventing Room | 4433 W 29th Ave #101, Denver, CO 80212

This place has the most interesting desserts – and they are all made with science! The ice cream is made with liquid nitrogen they combine with imaginative ingredients to create instaworthy (and drool worthy) masterpieces. I had the Coconut Rice Pudding Ice Cream with Tropical Fruits & Curried Rice Paper (Amazing). Other items include Creme Brulee Waffle with Grilled Strawberry Jam Ice Cream & Nutella and Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Cream & Vanilla Bean Cotton Candy. How could you skip this place?

NIGHTLIFE

Ratio Beerworks | 2920 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205

As you will discover, Denver and the surrounding areas have a lot of breweries, lots of which I have yet to visit. Ratio, however, has been a staple of ours during our time spent in Denver, located in the RINO neighborhood. It’s selection is simple and I enjoy their French saison the best. The outdoor seating area is really fun and has corn hole and usually cute dogs (with their humans of course!). There are rotating street trucks parked outside if you get hungry.

Avanti Food & Beverage | 3200 Pecos Street, Denver, CO

This whole “upscale cafeteria” with a bar trend has really caught on…and I like it! Avanti is one such place – a group of food vendors and a bar all under one roof. There is also a really cool porch/rooftop area where you can sip your cocktail (Paloma in my case) while looking out at the Denver skyline. I hear it gets crazy crowded for happy hour and at night, my friends and I visited during the week mid afternoon and it was lovely.

View from Avanti

DO

Venture Out of the City

I recommend you spend at least a day outside of the city, exploring the surrounding nature and towns. Some great places to visit are Breckenridge (great in the winter for skiing with a cute downtown), Golden (historic town with a river where you can go tubing in the summer), Boulder (college town with pedestrian shopping area and hiking nearby at Chautauqua Park). You can also visit drive up the Mount Evans Scenic Byway and take in the views at the top of this 14,000+ peak, or if you are more ambitious you can also hike it. Red Rocks is a large music venue right outside of the city and is breathtaking – definitely stop by and see it even if you can’t catch a show there.

Denver Cat Company | 3929 Tennyson Street, Denver, Colorado 80212

I have this thing where I now visit Cat Cafes in every city I go to. This isn’t 100% true but I have started racking up my experiences! As far as Cat Cafes go, Denver Cat Company rates really well. One thing I noticed was the lack of a strong discernible “cat smell” and they had tons of ADOPTABLE cuties to play with, some of which were kittens! There is also wifi and nice areas to sit, work & read. There is an $8 entrance fee to cover the cost of the foster program which I think is totally reasonable. Like most cat “cafes” in the US, this is not an actual cafe with meal service, although you can buy coffee, hot chocolate or snacks.

SHOP

Tennyson

This is a cute area where the cat cafe is and has some nice boutiques & vintage stores. Jolly Goods had a good mix of locally made art, gifts & clothing. SecondLove was also really cute – the interior had a really cool aesthetic and they had a really curated collection of designer and affordable consignment pieces. Lady Jones was a really nice boutique with a lot of trendy yet classy pieces that you could wear to work or out. 

RINO (see above) also has a few neat shops, notably Topo, the flagship store of high-design, colorful, USA-made outdoor gear, apparel & bags.

IN CONCLUSION

There are so many great places to go in this city, it’s hard to go wrong. I hope my guide to my favorite spots in Denver helps you plan an amazing trip!

Don’t forget to PIN this post to help you plan your Denver trip!

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Charleston Travel USA

A Girl’s Weekend in Charleston

April 27, 2018

Planning a girl’s weekend in Charleston? Well, I think you’ve chosen wisely. With it’s pastel houses, trendy cocktail bars, unique shopping and amazing dining, Charleston is a dream girl’s trip!

For the past 4 years, my high school friends and I have taken a trip to a different destination to reconnect and sightsee. This year we chose Charleston! I have to admit, while Charleston has already been on my radar for some time, I am an avid Bravo fan and watching their series “Southern Charm” really made me want to visit ASAP. Here are the highlights and recommendations to help you plan your fun girl’s weekend in Charleston!

STAY

Church Street Inn | 177 Church Street, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29401

When looking for a place to stay for your girl’s weekend in Charleston, you may have some issues. Charleston’s a very popular destination right now and we really struggled even months out to find a decently priced AirBnB in a good location. I found this one through Booking.com. The reviews were amazing and the price was surprisingly low for the location (under $200/night, split between 3 people). The rooms are 2 floor suites with a kitchenette, living area, 1/2 bath and TV downstairs and 2 beds, full bath and TV upstairs. The decor is a bit dated/old fashioned but it’s clean and the location is UNBEATABLE. We were right in the heart of the historic district, could walk to plenty of shops & restaurants and were right next to the Charleston City Market (see below). I would most definitely recommend this place!

Book your room now HERE!

CASUAL EATS

Charleston is SUCH a foodie city. Before we went I joked with my friends that we would have to eat 8 meals a day during our trip to get everything in. While we didn’t do THAT, we were able to hit some great spots during our time there. I’m still dreaming about the scallops at The Macintosh…

Second State Coffee (formerly Black Tap Coffee) | 70.5 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC 29401

Cute coffee shop a little off the beaten path downtown. Try the famed “Black Julep” – very refreshing! They also have wifi and plugs aplenty if you are trying to get some work done there.

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits | 476 1/2 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, Also in Charleston City Market

So good! We went to the location in the Charleston City Market as it was so convenient to our hotel. It was SUPER busy on a Saturday morning, so if you want to beat the line maybe try it during the week if you can. The wait was worth it though – I tried a 3 pack of their mini biscuits which was the perfect amount of food for breakfast. I had the Cheese & Chive, Blackberry & the Buttermilk Biscuit.

Bitty & Beaus | 159 Church Street, Charleston, SC

Another coffee place! A really special place where they employ people with physical and intellectual disabilities- it was so warm and inviting. The coffee was really good too! Please support this business if you can.

FANCY EATS

The Obstinate Daughter | 2063 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Oh my gosh – where do I begin? Our lunch here was epic. We got there right at noon (this was on a Thursday) and had our total pick of seating & we chose the porch. As we were leaving it had really filled up, so getting here early is good. Thee Pan Bagnat comes with the most delicious balsamic veggies and is AMAZING. The Chicken, Brussels & Farro is equally good if not better – everything is so flavorful and seasoned perfectly! I also had their Blonde Bloody Mary- not as salty as a normal bloody and made with yellow tomatoes, quite tasty and refreshing! Please eat here – you will not regret it.

FIG | 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

All my resources and everyone we encountered in Charleston said FIG is THE BEST. So of course, we had to try it for our girl’s weekend in Charleston. As soon as you know you are going to Charleston, go to their website and try to snag a reservation.

Wonderful ambience, amazing food (“elevated takes on Southern Classics”), awesome service. They change their menu frequently, but we got their pillow-like gnocchi as an app & the grouper and they were both excellent. It was pricy but not crazy, I think we payed around $100 for the both of us (just 2 of us on the trip went to FIG) plus wine. If you want to treat yourself, this is the place.

TIP: If there aren’t tables available, you can add an alert for yourself on the RESY app telling you if/when a table opens up for the date and time of your choice which is exactly how I was able to get us a table at 8pm on a Thursday.

The Macintosh | 479 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

This place was also VERY good. Hipster vibe with exposed brick and industrial lightbulbs. Our waitress knew a lot about food & wine and was really fun, suggesting things for us & making good conversation. It’s tapas style so the 3 it’s fun to share bunch of yummy treats. They also have the best scallops I’ve ever tasted. It’s a similar price point to FIG and closer to the bars and restaurants on King St for going out after if you choose. 

NIGHTLIFE

Republic | 462 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Okay I’ll admit – I dragged my friend here because they often go here on Southern Charm and I was hoping for a cast sighting. Honestly I thought it would be a little cheesy…but it was surprisingly cool! It was a Thursday when we were there and the outdoor patio was really nice, we were able to get drinks and a seat right away. There was also live music! The inside seemed less quaint and I can imagine it gets really busy and possibly annoying on weekends. 

The Commodore | 504 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403

This was another Southern Charm pick – cast member Shepard Rose is a co-owner. A little off the beaten path this place has a total retro 70s vibe. The staff was friendly, we got a seat right at the bar and they had good live music. TIP : Go early before they start charging a cover! It started getting crowded right as we were leaving.

Kamiskys | 78 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

This is a well known dessert place in Charleston. If you go for Happy Hour you can enjoy $5 dessert martinis with your decadent pastry! We all split the cherry crumble and each tried a different dessert martini. I had the Kahlua Espresso for a pick-me-up and my friends tried the Thin Mint & Chocolate respectively, all delicious.

DO

Sullivan’s Island Beach | Atlantic Ave, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

This beach was clean and pretty – there was a lot of wind when we were there but otherwise, it was very pleasant! Folly Beach is known to have a little more going on in terms of bars, restaurants, and shops but I like this quieter beach. It was also during the week when we went so I imagine it would be more crowded on the weekends/in the summer.

(From Top Right: Sullivan’s Island Beach, The Obstinate Daughter Restaurant on Sullivan’s Island)

SHOP

A girl’s weekend in Charleston HAS to involve some shopping, right? Walking up King Street you will find everything from antique stores, high end designers, chain department stores & local boutiques. Here are a few special spots:

The Charleston Preservation Society Shop |147 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Loved all the local flair at this shop! The owner/staff were so nice and they carried a variety of items made in Charleston as well as a large collection of books. I was obsessed with the Brackish Bowties, made entirely of feathers.

The Skinny Dip Charleston Edition | 345 King Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Beautiful space with clothing & accessories. They have such a nice collection of local Charleston designers and cute/preppy southern staples! Also, they have an upstairs which is a cafe/bar with a terrace! Hello? You have everything you need right here. 

The Charleston City Market | 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

This reminded me a bit of the French Market in New Orleans – a large (partially enclosed) corridor with vendors selling local products, food, art & souvenirs. The locally crafted famous Sweetgrass baskets are also for sale here and are a popular (but expensive) souvenir!

Skinny Dip: The Charleston Edition
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