Category: USA

As David Guetta’s popular song proclaims, I’m in Miami, bitch… so put your hands in the air for this awesome party destination. Miami Beach is home to the rich and the famous, and you’ll find sexy beaches, hot babes and expensive cars wherever you go. It’s a bachelor’s paradise, but you and your partner will also find plenty to see and do in the Magic City. However, if you’re looking for something a little more family-friendly or that requires less exertion than partying all night, this list gives a number of interesting sites and scenes around Miami Beach.

Most people might think that Miami is part of Miami Florida, but it’s actually its very own municipality. Located on the barrier island east of Miami and Biscayne Bay, it is home to a large number of beach resorts, and it’s definitely one of the most popular party destinations in the world.

So, apart from having wild parties on those sexy beaches, what else can you see at Miami Beach?

Read more: Is Las Vegas Really the Ultimate Sin City?

Places to See at Miami Beach

Star Island Miami

Star Island is an artificial island within Miami Beach. It is located in Biscayne Bay, Miami.

A bridge connects the main city to this Island.

As the name suggests, the houses on Star Island are or once were homes to celebrities like Will Smith, Shaquille O’Neal, Lenny Kravitz, Gloria Estefan, Rosie O’Donnell, Madonna, P. Diddy and many more.

If you are planning a trip to Miami, this is a good bit of free sightseeing to do.

Read more: The Amazing Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island

Venetian Pool Coral Gables

The Venetian Pool is generally open from 11 am to 5 pm every day, but you should call to verify hours before going. In the 1920s, Denman Dink transformed this limestone quarry into a pool with a waterfall, an area for kids and an area for adults.

The water in this pool comes from a spring and is drained daily. In addition to the swimming facilities, there is a snack bar (you cannot bring outside food into the Venetian Pool) and lockers. Swimming lessons are also offered here.

The Venetian Pool is best known for having Esther Williams and Johnny Weissmuller (the silver screen’s first Tarzan) swim here. The prices are as follows: between November and March – $6 for persons 13 years and older, $3 for children under 13; between April and October – $9 for persons 13 years and older, $5 for children under 13.

Read more: Top Beaches in Venice

Frost Art Museum

The Frost Art Museum is generally open from Tuesday to Saturday between 10 am and 5 pm, and on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm. Located at Florida International University, the Frost Art Museum has a large variety of 1960s and 1970s American photography, pre-Columbian artifacts dating back to 200 to 500 AD, ancient African and Asian bronzes, and a growing number of Caribbean and Latin American paintings and artwork.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Here you can find a European-inspired estate in America. A tour includes the main house, which is filled with art and furnishings and ten acres of gardens on Biscayne Bay. It costs $12 for adults; $9 for Miami-Dade residents with ID, patrons using wheelchairs, seniors 62 years of age or older with ID and students with ID; and $5 children aged 6-12. Admission is free for children 5 years of age or younger.

The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The zoo is open daily from 9:30 pm to 5:30 pm. It is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida. This zoo houses over 1,200 wild animals and is a free-range zoo. Its climate makes the zoo like no other, allowing a wide variety of animals from Asia, Australia and Africa to live comfortably in the appropriate weather conditions.

Oleta River State Recreation Park

If you are a nature lover and want to have some fun in Miami, then this place is for you.

The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset. It is the largest urban park in Florida and has trails for biking, a beach for swimming, picnic areas and a playground for kids. Get a canoe or kayak to row to a mangrove island within the park. Several animals, such as eagles and fiddler crabs, also make their home here. Fourteen cabins with air conditioning are also on the premises, but bathrooms, showers, and grills are located outside the cabins and guests should bring their own linens. Entry is at $5 for a vehicle carrying up to eight passengers, and $1 for bicyclists, pedestrians and extra passengers ($50.85 a night in a cabin).

Jungle Island Miami

This is a lush tropical garden that features animal shows and exhibits. It can be a great outing for the family to enjoy.

Miami Sea Aquarium

This 38-acre tropical island paradise features marine shows and marine life exhibits. Expect to stay around two to three hours at the large aquarium. It’s located just ten minutes from downtown Miami.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

This Spanish Monastery was originally built in Segovia, Spain, in 1141. The monastery was supposed to be part of William Randolph Hearst’s property in California, but he encountered some problems importing the building.

Partly because he ran out of money and partly because the United States would not allow the monastery to be built in California, the monastery remained in New York Harbor until 1954, when a couple of businessmen bought the property and assembled it in Miami.

Read more: Top Spanish Towns with Beaches

Parts of the monastery have not been assembled because the government removed the pieces from numbered boxes and then placed the wrong pieces in the wrong boxes. Today, the monastery is a church as well as a popular marriage location. As seen on the History Channel show, Weird U.S., adult admission is $5, senior and student admission (with valid ID)is $2.50, and child admission is $2.

Introduction to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

For years, I idolized Jackson Hole before going there. The place is legendary for its expert terrain, amazing backcountry, and its most famous run, Corbet’s Couloir. I made it up for my bachelor party in January. Unfortunately, Corbet’s was closed on during our visit but Teton Gravity Research breaks it down in this video.

Jackson Hole is a playground for training and improving your skiing and riding- if you can shred Jackson, you can shred any resort in the world. The inbound acreage is 2500, of which only 10% is beginner terrain. The backcountry gates offer an additional 3,000+ acres. 4,139’ of vertical drop from a summit elevation of 10,450 feet. The tram is infamous here- taking 100 people bottom to top in nine minutes. Get in there quickly to get a window view because the ride is spectacular. Have your phone out to snap some photos.

Getting There

American Airlines, United, and Delta all fly right into Jackson from many major cities around the United States, but it isn’t cheap (upwards of $600-1000). If driving from east, south, or west, take I-80 to Rocky Springs, Wyoming and head north on US-191. Once in town, there is frequent bus service to Teton Village (the base of the resort) for $3 one way. Some lodging options have free buses to the mountain, some don’t. The town itself is walkable. Once we parked at our hotel, we didn’t use the car again until we left.

Where the locals are riding

I quote here from the resort’s website- “Jackson Hole neither encourages nor discourages backcountry touring.” What this means is, go for it but have your shit together. It is not uncommon to see locals riding up the tram or lifts with their backcountry gear.

The access gates lead to some of the best terrain in the world, and they know where to find it. I took a run out of Gate #3 with a handful of other people after heading down Rendezvous Bowl from the top of the tram. The run was the best of the season-untracked, deep, and depending on the line you take, very challenging.

We had to make sure we kept heading left to ensure ending up back at the resort and after looking at the map, it looks like we rejoined inbounds terrain around the middle of South Hogback. The traverse back to reality and the Union Pass Quad Chair took about seven minutes but more than worth it. If heading out of bounds, make sure you have a beacon, probe, and shovel and give yourself enough time to get back in case hiking is involved. Riding with a local or someone who has been out the gate before is the smart way to go.

The Teton Quad Chair just opened in 2015. My crew and I spent literally an entire afternoon lapping this area in two feet of powder during a storm in mid-January, 2016. The tree runs are steep enough to maintain speed, which is good because this lift accesses mostly glade runs that return to the lift. They are the best glades I have ever ridden at a resort.

The powder was endless and even in spots where tree cover prevented some of the snow from reaching until the wind hit, there is so much terrain that powder stashes are readily available everywhere. To get to the Teton Quad from the base, take the Teewinot Quad Chair to the Après Vous Quad Chair and head skier’s right.

Here, keep your eyes out for two of the mountain’s four Burton Stash Parks- terrain park features made from local wood and set up so that a well-placed run in can provide massive air off a step up jump or smooth transition onto a rail, satellite, or other jib without needing a drop in point or transition.

Basically, they have redeveloped the concept of the terrain park to necessitate less maintenance and have less environmental impact. These parks are typically not very crowded and can be tough to find – keep your eyes peeled for the signs.

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Where to eat and drink

On Mountain

On-mountain dining is expensive everywhere and Jackson Hole is no exception. If you can’t pack a lunch or wait till you get back to town, check out these spots:

The waffles at Corbet’s Cabin are on point. Made to order and full of whatever you want in them.

Off Piste is a decent spot for pizza and beer. The place has a market in case you forgot sunscreen or energy bars, as well.

Nick Wilson’s Cowboy Café is a great spot for a beer break. Good local beer and cocktails with a patio, good mix of locals and tourists. They’ve got food too, but it is ridiculously overpriced and nothing special.

In town

For a town of about 10,000, the food scene in Jackson is rocking. Thai Me Up Restaurant & Brewery is a prime spot for dinner and drinks. Excellent Thai food and craft beer- an unlikely combination but it actually works out. The price point is affordable.

Bubba’s Barbecue is the place to get your meat fix. It amazes me that Wyoming doesn’t have the barbecue reputation of the south. Just use some common sense- this is ranching country. They should know what they’re doing just as well as Austin or Kansas City and Bubba’s proves it.

For a nicer dinner, Nani’s Ristorante & Bar serves up good Italian food.

MacPhail’s Burgers is a local legend. Along those same ranching lines, it makes sense that finding a great burger in Jackson isn’t a hard thing to do.

Snake River Brewing is the place to chill over beers and grill-style food after a day on the mountain. They’ve also got decent pizza if you need to leverage that to reach a compromise- the beers will be your reward.

Where to stay

This is the deal- stay at the Cowboy Village Resort. A cabin with a bunk bed setup runs about $100 per night in winter and can sleep four people- two couples or those who don’t mind sleeping close to one another. There is also a couch.

The cabins are stand-alone buildings, meaning that loud kid in the next room isn’t going to keep you up all night. On the flip side, it is doable to hang out with friends until the wee hours without the front desk calling to shut you up. Plus, they have a hot tub and are walking distance from everywhere in town. The bus picks up right out front of the office to head to the mountain in the morning and drops back off about fifty feet away.

There is also The Hostel, where you can bunk up for about $20-30 or reserve your own room or a quad-sleeper room for $80-100.

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Where to party

In true mountain town style, Jackson knows how to party. A trip to Jackson is not complete without a stop at the Million Dollar Cowboy bar. They have live music on the weekends and the barstools are fashioned like saddles- the closest to being a cowboy as I’ve ever felt. I was in there on a Saturday night and the bar was packed and raging. The bouncers were consistently throwing people out. Seemed to be a pretty good mix of tourists and Wyoming locals.

If there is a show at the Pink Garter Theatre, go watch it- they are located on the main drag upstairs from the best pizza in town and host national acts as well as other events. The layout makes it easy to see the stage from anywhere and get up close if that’s your thing. Blackalicious played when we were there, for the local snowboarding magazine’s annual party. The place was packed with pro riders and I got the vibe that is not an uncommon thing. I watched from the corner as two of my hammered friends, on separate instances, made complete asses of themselves in front of Travis Rice.

Culture Guide- on mountain and in town

The town of Jackson, Wyoming offers access to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks as well as the resort and some of the best outdoors culture in the United States. If New York City is the best-dressed place in America, Jackson is the polar opposite. I can count on one hand the number of guys I saw not wearing a flannel shirt at the bar.

The rugged snowboarder look is all the rage in Jackson and they pull it off well- there are some damn good looking people around town (either that or I’m just trying to make myself feel better about my own dress code). It is a resort town, so fine dining and class are there if you look for it.

Dress warm on the mountain and in town. It’s always easier to shed a layer than freeze your ass off.

In recent years, escape rooms have skyrocketed in popularity, offering an exhilarating and distinctive experience. These immersive attractions challenge players to tap into their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, as they race against the clock to decipher puzzles and break free from locked rooms.

With numerous captivating escape rooms scattered across the United States, we’ve compiled a list of the absolute must-try destinations for avid fan of this thrill-seeking pastime.

1. THE BASEMENT – Los Angeles, California

THE BASEMENT in Los Angeles is not your average escape room.

It is a highly immersive experience that takes place in a dimly lit basement, where players must solve puzzles and unravel the secrets of a deranged serial killer that lurks within. The attention to detail in this escape room is unparalleled, and the clues are cleverly hidden throughout the room. You’ll need to work together with your teammates to escape before time is up.

2. Komnata Quest – New York, New York

Komnata Quest in New York City is not for the faint of heart. Their escape rooms are some of the most difficult around, with puzzles that require a lot of brainpower and attention to detail.

The themes vary, but some of the most popular include a film noir story, kidnapping by the Joker, and a post-apocalyptic bunker. The sets are incredibly immersive, and you’ll feel like you’re really in the world being portrayed. This is one of the most memorable offbeat activities you can choose in NYC.

3. Escapology – Orlando, Florida

Escapology has several locations in Orlando, and it takes escape rooms to a whole new level. Their rooms are technologically advanced, with sensors and gadgets that make the puzzles feel more immersive.

The themes range from a Sherlock Holmes mystery to a Western-themed bank robbery. There is a Scooby Doo room for younger players! The attention to detail is impressive, and you might find yourself visiting Escapology more than once.

4. MindEscape – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

MindEscape in Philadelphia is one of the most challenging escape rooms on this list. The themes are varied, ranging Jack the Ripper to a haunted house.

Read more: Spooky experiences in the US

The rooms are incredibly well-designed, and the puzzles are some of the most difficult around. This is not a room for beginners, but seasoned escape room enthusiasts will love the challenge.

5. 60out Escape Rooms – Los Angeles, California

Voted TripAdvisor’s #1 escape room in LA, 60out Escape Rooms in Los Angeles offers some of the most technologically advanced rooms around. The themes range from a time-travel adventure to a carnival-themed room.

What sets 60out apart is the use of technology in their puzzles – you’ll need to use gadgets like infrared cameras and UV lights to solve the mysteries of the room.

6. The Great Escape Room – Royal Oak, Michigan

The Great Escape Room in Royal Oak is a unique escape room experience, with themes including:

• Moriarty’s Gameroom: The Hunt is Afoot!
• Infirmary: Surgical Crisis
• Poker Night at The President’s Bunker

This escape room is perfect for high-energy groups.

7. Palace Games – San Francisco, California

Palace Games in San Francisco is not your typical escape room. It takes place in a historic building and offers several rooms with different themes, including one that is centered around a real-life puzzle that was found in the Palace of Fine Arts.

Read more: Cool museums to visit in the US

You’ll find games honoring Houdini, Edison and more! The attention to detail and historical accuracy in this escape room is impressive, and the puzzles are challenging and engaging.

8. Red Door Escape Room – Plano, Texas

Red Door Escape Room in Plano offers a variety of rooms with different themes, including a treasure hunter-themed room and a warrior room. They also have virtual reality escape rooms for a unique experience — check out their personality quiz to get started.

9. Fox in a Box – Miami, Florida

Fox in a Box in Miami offers several rooms with creative themes, including a zombie apocalypse and a prison break. The puzzles are challenging and the rooms are designed to fully immerse you in the experience.

An excellent choice for team building and other group excursions, Fox in a Box can host 42 people at once!

11. Mission Escape Games – Anaheim, California

Mission Escape Games in Anaheim is an exciting escape room that takes place in a variety of themed rooms. From a hunting lodge to a bank heist, there’s something for everyone here.

What sets Mission Escape Games apart is the attention to setting detail. Note that some of the escape rooms (e.g. the apocalypse one) feature flashing lights, which could be a health hazard.

12. EscapeHouse – Chicago, Illinois

EscapeHouse Chicago offers an immersive escape room experience where players become part of thrilling narratives. Step into themed rooms, such as “The Hotel Detective” and “The Mob”, and challenge yourself with a series of intellectually stimulating puzzles and logic games.

With detailed sets and props that transport you into a different world, EscapeHouse Chicago provides an engaging and immersive adventure. Whether you’re looking for a fun outing with friends or a team-building activity, this is the perfect destination for an unforgettable escape room experience.

Test Your Problem-Solving Skills 🕵️‍♀️

After reading about these amazing and creative escape rooms, it’s hard not to be excited about giving them a try! Add an escape room adventure to your bucket list and you might just end up hooked on the experience.

With so many options out there, you’re sure to find one that fits your interests and experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned escape artist or a newbie looking for a fun new experience, there’s an escape room out there for you.

As you plan your travels across the United States, you’ll discover an astonishing number of attractions and experiences, from stunning natural wonders and bustling metropolises to historic monuments and museums. For travelers who seek offbeat and quirky experiences, there are a variety of weird museums in the US that are worth a visit. Here are some of the most amazing and unusual museums to add to your itinerary.

1. International Spy Museum, Washington D.C.

The International Spy Museum in Washington D.C. is a must-visit attraction for fans of espionage, James Bond or Tom Clancy novels. The museum offers a fascinating look at intelligence gathering and spying, with exhibits that cover the history of spying from ancient times through to the present day. Interactive exhibits delve into the technologies and techniques used by spies, visitors can practice their own skills with interactive challenges. With more than 7,000 artifacts on display, the International Spy Museum is an entertaining and educational one-of-a-kind experience.

2. The Mütter Museum, Pennsylvania

The Mütter Museum in Philadelphia is an intriguing museum that features a collection of medical oddities and specimens. From conjoined twins in jars to human skulls, preserved organs and medical equipment, the Mütter Museum is a glimpse into the history of medicine and the human body.

Visitors can learn about the pioneering doctors and researchers who paved the way for modern medicine. It’s both a strange and captivating museum that is a must-see for horror enthusiasts.

3. The National Mustard Museum, Wisconsin

For mustard aficionados, the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin is a must-visit destination. With more than 6,000 mustards from around the world, the museum is dedicated to the celebration of the humble condiment. Visitors can learn about the history and science of mustard from the exhibits, as well as browse through a vast collection of mustards. You can also attend the annual Mustard Day festival, which includes live entertainment, games, contests, and plenty of mustard tastings. It’s a quirky and fun museum that is sure to appeal to those with a love for all things tangy.

4. Museum of Bad Art, Massachusetts

The Museum of Bad Art, located in Dedham, Massachusetts, celebrates artwork that is so terrible it’s actually amazing. Featuring almost 700 pieces, this museum is dedicated to the appreciation of creative expression, no matter how unsuccessful it may be. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces that provoke laughter and awe. From awkward portraits to bizarre landscapes, the Museum of Bad Art is an excellent example of how even the most terrible art can be appreciated in the right context.

5. The Museum of the Strange, Colorado

The Museum of the Strange is located in Silverton, Colorado. It displays collections of strange and bizarre objects from around the world, including a Fiji mermaid – a mummified creature with the tail of a fish and the torso of a monkey, a two-headed calf, and an ancient Chinese fertility statue. The museum also features exhibits on haunted objects and ghost stories from Silverton’s past. Visitors can explore the dark corners of the museum and experience the unexplainable.

Read more: 5 remarkable things about the US

6. The American Visionary Art Museum, Maryland

The American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, is a museum dedicated to self-taught artists and outsider art. The museum’s collection includes works of art by artists who are untrained or have unconventional training, often creating work that is experimental and avant-garde.

The museum features whimsical and thought-provoking exhibits that showcase a variety of mediums, from sculpture to painting to interactive environments. The American Visionary Art Museum is a captivating and inspiring place that challenges traditional ideas of what art is and can be.

7. The Museum of Death, California

The Museum of Death, located in Los Angeles (as well as New Orleans), is not for the faint-hearted. This museum showcases the dark and macabre side of life and death, with exhibits that explore topics such as serial killers, cults, and executions. The museum houses a collection of artifacts related to death and dying, including a variety of skulls, mummies, and preserved human organs. Visitors can also view exhibits on famous murder cases and explore the morbid history of death rituals.

8. The Bunny Museum, California

If you’d like to try out something sweet instead of (or right after) the spookiness, consider the Bunny Museum, located in Pasadena, California, is a museum dedicated entirely to the celebration of bunnies. The museum houses a collection of over 30,000 bunny-related items, including stuffed animals, figurines, and paintings. Visitors can also meet the museum’s live bunny residents and learn about the history and culture of bunnies around the world. It’s a delightfully whimsical museum that’s perfect for bunny-lovers of all ages.

Read more: Best things to do in California in the winter

9. The Museum of the Weird, Texas

The Museum of the Weird, located in Austin, Texas, lives up to its name by showcasing some of the strangest artifacts in the world. Visitors can explore exhibits on topics such as shrunken heads, Bigfoot sightings, and paranormal phenomena. The museum also features an array of oddities such as a cyclops pig, a two-headed cat, and a vampire-killing kit. It’s a fascinating museum that’s like nothing else you’ve ever seen.

10. The Museum of the Dog, New York

The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog, located in New York City, is a museum dedicated to man’s best friend. Visitors can explore the history of dogs in art and culture, including exhibits on dog breeds, dog training, and canine athletes.

The museum’s collection includes a variety of dog-related artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and antique dog collars. The Museum of the Dog also features a virtual dog show simulator, where visitors can get a taste of what it’s like to be a professional dog handler. It’s a fun and educational museum that will delight dog-lovers of all ages.

11. The Spam Museum, Minnesota

The Spam Museum, located in Austin, Minnesota, is a museum dedicated to the history and legacy of Spam. Visitors can learn about the origins of this beloved canned meat, as well as view exhibits on Spam-related pop culture and advertising. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including a Spam cooking demo and a Spam carving contest. It’s a fun and quirky museum that celebrates a unique aspect of American cuisine.

12. The Museum of Jurassic Technology, California

The Museum of Jurassic Technology, located in Culver City, California, is a museum that defies description. Visitors can explore exhibits on topics such as memory, illusion, and the history of science. The museum features a variety of oddities, including miniature paintings on the heads of pins, an exhibit on the history of the Soviet space dog program, and an exhibit on the lives of trailer park residents in the American Midwest. It’s a surreal and thought-provoking museum that’s sure to challenge your perceptions of the world around you.

These are just a few of the many amazing and weird museums you can find across the United States. Whether you’re interested in death, bunnies, Laika, or Spam, there’s sure to be a museum out there that will capture your imagination and inspire your curiosity.

Summer is the perfect time to explore cozy, less-visited towns across the US. If you’re a fan of antiques, vintage clothing, and unique finds, then you won’t want to miss America’s best flea markets.

These markets offer a charming atmosphere, friendly people, and the chance to find a one-of-a-kind treasure. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the top flea markets in some of the most underrated towns in the US.

1. Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market – Shipshewana, Indiana

Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is a must-see destination for those who love Amish culture and handmade crafts. The market opens every Tuesday and Wednesday from May through September, and it has over 900 vendors offering everything under the sun. You can find Amish quilts, handmade furniture, fresh produce, and much more. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the famous Amish peanut butter spread or a slice of homemade pie.

2. Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market – New Milford, Connecticut

Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market is a charming outdoor marketplace with over 500 vendors selling everything from unique home decor and vintage clothing to antique furniture and collectibles.

Visitors can wander the picturesque stalls while live music plays in the background. The market is open every Sunday from April through December, with admission available for a small fee. New Milford is a hidden gem of Connecticut, with many wonderful shops, restaurants, and attractions. Don’t miss out on the hiking trails and the picturesque town green.

3. Brimfield Antique Flea Markets – Brimfield, Massachusetts

Brimfield Antique Flea Markets are a mecca for flea market enthusiasts. This market is the largest in New England, and it attracts antique dealers from all over the country. With over 20 different fields spanning one mile, Brimfield has something for everyone.

In addition to vintage clothing and decor, you can also find rare books, unique jewelry, and antique furniture. The market is open only three times a year, in May, July, and September. Check out the current dates here.

4. Hillsville Flea Market – Hillsville, Virginia

The Hillsville Flea Market is held every Labor Day weekend in the charming town of Hillsville, Virginia. It’s one of the largest flea markets in the state, with over 2,000 vendors offering a wide range of goods. You can find everything from handmade knives to antique toys, from vintage clothing to homemade fudge. The market attracts over 500,000 visitors each year, so make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds.

5. First Monday Trade Days – Canton, Texas

First Monday Trade Days is one of the oldest and biggest flea markets in the US. It’s held on the Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before the first Monday of every month, except in July and August. With over 7,000 vendors, it’s a market like no other.

Read more: 4 attractions at a flea market in the US

You can find everything from rare coins to handmade crafts, from vintage clothing to delicious food. The market attracts over 100,000 visitors each month, so don’t miss the chance to experience the excitement.

6. Junkstock – Waterloo, Nebraska

Junkstock is a one-of-a-kind outdoor market that’s held on an idyllic farm in Waterloo, Nebraska. The market is a celebration of all things vintage and handmade, with over 200 vendors selling items such as repurposed furniture, artisanal food, and unique jewelry.

In addition to the shopping, Junkstock features live music, food trucks serving up tasty treats, and even a Ferris wheel for visitors to ride. The market is held three times a year – in the spring, summer, and fall – and attracts visitors from across the region.

Visitors to Junkstock can also take in the picturesque surroundings of the farm, which features a rustic barn, sprawling fields, and plenty of photo opportunities. Nearby, visitors can explore the vibrant city of Omaha – known for its museums, shopping, and dining – or head out to the scenic countryside for a more relaxed adventure.

7. Junk Jubilee – Des Moines, Iowa

Junk Jubilee is a unique and lively flea market held annually in the city of Des Moines, Iowa. The market features over 150 vendors offering an array of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. You’ll find everything from old fashioned toys and tools to repurposed furniture and other decorative items. The market offers a festive atmosphere, with a live band, food trucks, and outdoor seating areas. It runs for three days in late April and early October.

While visiting Des Moines, be sure to check out the Living History Farms, located just fifteen minutes from downtown. The site offers visitors an interactive look into the lives of Iowa’s early settlers, with authentic recreations of farm life since the 1700s.

8. Round Top Antiques Fair – Round Top, Texas

The Round Top Antiques Fair is an upscale flea market held bi-annually in Round Top, Texas. The market features over 350 vendors and spans across several venues and shops in the small town. It’s known for its unique offerings and high-quality antiques, such as one-of-a-kind jewelry, early American furniture, and rare art pieces. The market also offers a selection of designer clothing and other home décor items. The fair runs for roughly one week in the early fall and late spring.

9. Opryland USA Flea Market – Nashville, Tennessee

The Opryland USA Flea Market is a must-visit destination for fans of country music and vintage finds. The market is located in the heart of Nashville and hosts over 150 vendors selling antiques, collectibles, and other unique items.

Read more: Romantic things to do in Tennessee as a couple

You’ll find vintage cowboy boots, old-fashioned guitars, and plenty of other country-themed memorabilia. The market is open every weekend of the month, and parking is free.

10. Renninger’s Twin Markets – Mount Dora, Florida

Located in the charming town of Mount Dora, Florida, Renninger’s Twin Markets are a treasure trove for antique and art lovers. The first market is the Antique Center, which houses over 180 dealers selling everything from antique furniture and pottery to vintage clothing and jewelry.

The second market is the Farmer’s and Flea Market, which offers a varied selection of fresh produce, food, and unique crafts. Visitors can find handmade soap, wood carvings, and ceramics, in addition to the standard flea market fare. The market is open every Saturday and Sunday from dawn to dusk, and admission and parking are free.

Renninger’s Twin Markets also hold special events throughout the year, including a popular antique show in February and vintage bicycle and motorcycle shows in November.

An Unforgettable (and Affordable!) Adventure

Flea markets are rich treasure troves that continue to captivate shoppers and tourists alike in small towns across America. Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind antiques, local fare, or collectibles, these underrated markets offer the perfect opportunity for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Kids also love the opportunity to try new snacks and explore new places. Best of all, you’ll come home with mementos that will brighten your home or give your wardrobe a unique flair!

I haven’t met a single person who doesn’t enjoy seeing the ocean. I know they exist, but I haven’t met them. I think that’s a good thing.

As one who grew up a quick walk from the Norwegian coastline, I have always loved the ocean. Especially the waves.

Seeing powerful, angry waves during fall storms is my favorite.

Uninterrupted ocean breeze

I never thought I would live far from the ocean.

Sort of a bit like those who say “New York or nowhere” or those who never see themselves leave a family farm, except for me it was near the ocean or nowhere.

I do live far from the ocean (never say never), so now, each time I am near it, it brings me a little bit of happiness.

The blue against the sand is one of the most beautiful things on earth.

It’s a bit different than the typical loud and buzzy Jersey shore beaches, the one in the photo you see above. It feels somewhat less commercialized and calmer than many others. It’s also the closest beach within driving distance from where we live, making it doable to do day trips.

Location: Belmar, New Jersey.

A community park trail

Living in the suburbs, I’ve come to appreciate every single inch of natural green space I get. In a classic suburb, it feels like everything is made with convenience in mind and things often feel too planned.

Does that make sense to anyone but me?

From the way trees are planted to how playgrounds and trails are created and neighborhoods are put together. It feels a bit odd, kind of like a cookie cutter, sometimes.

This is not that:

It takes me about ten minutes to walk to this spot from my house. My kids will sometimes bring their bikes. They will always bring a football.

I love my kids but I prefer to walk this trail alone.

This spot is peaceful and noisy, but not from the sounds of people or cars. The noise is from the squirrels running around in the woods, always on the hunt for food. There are usually birds, too. Depending on the seasons, there may be some bunnies. One time, we saw a dear. The poor dear ran for its life once it spotted my kids and me.

The community park trail feels wild and authentic and I love it.

Location: Somewhere in Central Pennsylvania.

Quaint small towns

Take your pick, there are many.

Although there are more than enough strip malls and Walmarts and all that, there are some hidden gems within the United States landscape.

Read more: Experiences from a country flea market

Those gems are the kind of towns where the shop owners have time to talk to you and they gladly take their time. Where people say hi, how are you, when passing you on the streets and actually mean it. Where you are allowed to sit and eat for hours in a restaurant or a charming cafe without feeling pushed to leave.

As a Scandinavian, these towns feel like the icing on the cake.

The one in the photo above is a small town in Pennsylvania, and we stopped by on a whim on our way to visit family. Haven’t been back since but it created wonderful memories that stuck with me. There was delicious pizza, too.

Location: Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Bustling city streets

We have a history, this city and I. It was the first place I lived abroad. In a tiny four-person dorm a stone’s throw from Union Square. Poor and without a worry in the world (except being terrified of rats), New York City was everything.

And then some more.

I met the love of my life, and after several years of living together in Norway, we realized we missed the city. The diversity, the food, the long walks on the bustling city streets.

This time, the kids were along for the ride and it was different, but just as wonderful. Being in this city always puts a smile on my face.

The wallet, not so much.

Location: Somewhere in New York City.

A hike with a view

I truly appreciate mountain hikes.

There aren’t a ton of mountains around where I live. Ok, who I am kidding — there are none.

So when we did a road trip one recent summer to Georgia, hiking slash driving up one of the mountains where you can see more than one state, was a breathtaking experience.

Photos don’t do it justice but here’s one:

It’s different from the Norwegian mountains where you often see the bare rocks. This was a green and lush wonderland. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Also, I loved hearing the southern accent everywhere we went.

Location: Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia.

From ocean waves to forest squirrels

What I am left with after writing this is that the United States is a lot.

In my bubble, I often think about cultural differences, pondering over things I appreciate and also things I wish were different. Debating whether Scandinavia is the better place to be and changing my mind immediately whenever I check the weather forecast.

Read more: Ways Norway has changed over the years

Although it’ll probably never rank as a happiness haven, there are things to smile about in the United States. Sometimes, you’ll find yourself smiling while traveling, and other times, simply being home will do that for you.

Usually, like most things in life, it’s about what you make of it.

I went to a country flea market last week. Ate a cheeseburger, and noticed a little bit of everything. What really got to me were the stark contrasts. On one stand, you had farmers dishing up baked goods. A few feet away, you had knives and tasers, and on another stand there were all these statement accessories. There was a prayer tent, too.

The flags

If you can believe it, the owner of the featured stand above sold some of the nicer flags. There were so many divisive and rude slogans. The kind where I thought “I hope I don’t ever run into an argument with you.”

Another vendor had “F*ck” Biden on his accessories. Flags and hats, mostly. My 7-year-old saw it and was shocked. He has heard swearwords before but knows not to say them because we just don’t.

“Mommy, look at that. That is so, so mean to say about someone,” he said.

I explained that it is, in fact very mean to say that to someone or about someone, including a president, but sometimes adults say and do mean things simply because they don’t agree with each other.

“Sometimes, kids know better than adults,” I said.

I don’t see the point in all those far-right and also far-left slogans on everything. It is so polarizing. We live in the same country, and a flag like that is not going to help anyone get along and certainly not unite people.

Boozy pies

I mean, the creativity!

I never would’ve thought to put alcohol in a dessert but this is America; The United States, where everything is possible. I am not sure how these cute little pies taste because although the desserts looked intriguing, I enjoy my alcohol in the form of the occasional glass of wine.

Also, I had my child with me and didn’t want to eat alcohol in front of him in the middle of the day.

Read more: Tips for traveling with kids

The boozy pies, I was told, are a version of a grown-up whoopie pie, a local specialty, with liquor, beer or wine in the filling. Everything from vodka to rum. Apparently, they are a popular party treat in the area.

Homemade, with love

This vendor is the neighbor to the stand with the flags and knives.

The women took great pride in selling their homemade products. They were smiling and having a good time, interacting with each other as well as the customers. I couldn’t quite relax knowing the other vendor were selling knives on a table in the open just a few feet away.

Seeing this stand was a nice contrast to the mass-produced desserts you find in grocery stores. I got the impression that everything they sold was truly made with love.

They were creating what looked like the most delicious baked goods with seasonal fruits and probably lots of sugar. It looked like they loved their lifestyle. That in itself was refreshing to see.

Too many dresses

Seeing this made me a little sad. There’s so much. Feels like too much. It’s the typical cheap dress — lasts a season if you’re lucky and then it ends up in the dump. The owner hadn’t even packed up all his stuff and by the time we left the tables were filled with clothes as well.

Fast fashion is a legit problem, and it is for sure taking a toll on our environment. I’ve written about this earlier; the volume of clothing Americans throw away each year has doubled in the last 20 years from 7 million to 14 million tons.

Why? Retailers produce inexpensive clothing that’s not made to last. It is all about meeting the high demands of the latest trends and people feel they need to keep up. Textile production requires significant amounts of chemicals, water, energy, and other natural resources. And get this; according to the World Resources Institute, it takes 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt. In other words, not sustainable.

Although this was a flea market with plenty of antiques and second-hand items, the dresses were brand new. Not quite a fan of the style itself with the all the patterns and flowers, but I am sure the dresses will end up being sold, one after one, because there’s a “need” for them.

Oh, the contrasts…

Exploring places like inspires me but also there’s a sense of hopelessness to it. With all the polarization in this country and then seeing people profiting from it all — it just feels so unnecessary.

Seeing the women selling old-fashion root beer and fresh strawberry pies were the perfect contrast to it. As one who loves anything homemade, their sweet stand put a smile on my face. You would never find country markets like this in Norway, and perhaps that’s why I find it so interesting.

It shows both good and bad sides to the United States, all in one place.