Category Archives: City Culture

Settle Into One of These Seattle Neighborhoods

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Downtown Seattle apartments offer great views of the waterfront.

Downtown Seattle apartments offer great views of the waterfront.

Former Seattle mayor Greg Nickels referred to the city as “a city of neighborhoods” in 2005, so it’s no surprise that you can find Seattle, Wash., apartments spread throughout this beautiful Pacific Northwest city. From the free-spirited charm of Fremont to the trendy grunge of Ballard and Capitol Hill, each neighborhood possesses its own unique personality, but they manage to mingle seamlessly to create a city as diverse as its hilly, water-filled landscape. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Seattle, here are a few neighborhoods to consider.

Start your apartment search today!

Downtown
Downtown Seattle is a lively area booming with industry and tourism, which means that residents of Seattle apartments in this part of town have no shortage of things to do to keep them entertained.
• Pay a visit to the world-famous Pike Place Market, which is the oldest continuously operated farmers market in America. You’ll find hundreds of stores and vendors offering the best in fresh fish, cheeses, produce, souvenirs and much more.
• From Pike Place, visitors can walk down the Harbor Steps to Seattle’s vibrant waterfront area, with its quaint boutiques, art galleries and seafood restaurants. You’ll also find the Seattle Aquarium here.
• Art lovers will enjoy the Seattle Art Museum, which includes an impressive permanent collection of American, African, Australian Aboriginal, Asian, Native American and European art while featuring rotating exhibitions from all over the world.

Capitol Hill
The Capitol Hill neighborhood continues to defy stereotypes. Leather-clad punk rock types mingle with young professionals in coffee shops, local pubs and some of the city’s best restaurants in this neighborhood that specializes in nightlife and entertainment.
• Two of the city’s best-known movie theaters are in Capitol Hill—the Harvard Exit, which is housed in the former Women’s Century Club, and the Egyptian Theatre, in a former Masonic lodge—so make sure to catch a flickand soak in the ambiance.
• Take a break from the nightlife in the expansive, 48-acre Volunteer Park, which includes a conservatory, a fenced-off reservoir, several sculptures and a water tower with an observation deck, which offers stunning views of the Space Needle on a clear day.
• Seattle is known for its independent book stores, and there are seven in this neighborhood, including Twice Sold Tales, Spine and Crown Books and Elliot Bay Book Company, which moved from its historic Pioneer Square location.

Fremont
Originally founded as a separate city, Fremont was annexed to Seattle in 1891. Today, this neighborhood holds the unofficial motto of “Freedom to be Peculiar,” which is a nod to its creative, bohemian roots.
• Unique public art is one of the most noticeable things about Fremont. You can still see a controversial statue of Lenin that was brought over from Slovakia by a local art lover. Stumble upon the Fremont Troll, an 18-foot concrete troll that is tucked under the north end of the Aurora Bridge.
• The Fremont Arts Council sponsors several popular events in the neighborhood, including the Summer Solstice Parade & Pageant, which is famous for its nude Solstice Cyclists, and Trolloween, a Halloween party hosted at the Fremont Troll.
• Foodies will have a field day in Fremont. This neighborhood is home to the country’s only 100 percent organic, fair-trade chocolate factory, and the Fremont Sunday Market offers tasty goodies like wood oven-baked pizzas, crepes and fresh produce.

West Seattle
Outdoorsy apartment finders in Seattle might consider a move to the West Seattle neighborhood, which is located in the hilliest part of the city and offers great views of the Olympic Mountains and Cascade Range.
• Alki Beach is a favorite among residents of Seattle apartments due to its laid-back vibe and gorgeous views of the Puget Sound. Unwind by people watching or get some exercise by taking a stroll along this peaceful beach.
• West Seattle is chock full of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Take a dip at the heated saltwater pool in Lincoln Park, go for a hike through an old-growth forest at Schmitz Preserve Park or explore the four-mile nature trail along Longfellow Creek.
• For lots of fun indoors, check out The Junction, occurring at the intersection of California Avenue and Alaska Street. Whet your appetite at a number of great restaurants featuring options like sushi, craft beer, steaks and cupcakes. Sundays bring the popular West Seattle Farmers Market, which happens year-round.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/espiegle

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Which Richmond Neighborhood Fits You?

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If you're a history lover, check out apartments for rent in downtown Richmond.

If you’re a history lover, check out apartments for rent in downtown Richmond.

As the capital of Virginia and one of the most notably historic cities in the United States, Richmond has something to offer everyone. From history buffs who will love exploring the city’s monuments and historical structures to arts and culture enthusiasts who will enjoy stopping into the museums and galleries in the Museum District, residents of Richmond apartments never get bored. If you’re searching for apartments for rent in Richmond, here are some great neighborhoods to check out.

Start your apartment search today!

Downtown
Downtown Richmond offers residents of Richmond apartments a unique mix of retail, commercial and residential development while paying homage to its historic past, making it an area of the city where you can truly live, work and play.
• The River District is home to Richmond’s 1.25-mile innovative Canal Walk, a popular tourist destination that meanders along the banks of the Haxall Canal and the James River and Kanawha Canal.
• The Jackson Ward neighborhood is a historically black neighborhood that was once known as the “Harlem of the South.” This lively part of town was once frequented by notable musicians like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole and James Brown. You’ll also find several historic buildings here, like the Hippodrome Theatre and the Maggie L. Walker House.
• Court End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Richmond, home to such historical structures as the John Marshall House, the Museum of the Confederacy and the Virginia State Capitol.

Central
Central Richmond includes some of the city’s most well-known attractions, including Hollywood Cemetery, several universities and the Carytown shopping district. It is truly the heart of the city, and those who live in Richmond apartments in this neighborhood can look forward to a dynamic mix of students, young professionals, artists and musicians.
• Just west of downtown Richmond, The Fan, named because of the way its streets fan out at an angle, is comprised of 85 blocks of beautiful and unique town houses. The campus of Virginia Commonwealth University is located in this neighborhood.
• The budding Museum District hosts events like the First Fridays Artwalk and Broad Appétit. This neighborhood also contains one of the city’s largest collections of early 20th century architecture, with 22 properties being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

East End
Richmond’s birthplace can be found in the East End, where residents enjoy historical attractions, the beauty of parks and fresh air and a family-friendly environment.
• True to its name, Church Hill is home to many churches, the most famous of which is St. John’s Episcopal, which was the site of Patrick Henry’s inspirational speech. As Richmond’s first historic district, this neighborhood includes many of the original 32 blocks of the town that were set in place in 1737.
• The Fulton neighborhood is tucked along the banks of Gillies Creek and overlooks downtown and the old Manchester docks. You’ll find a wide variety of architectural styles, from Cape Cod to Craftsman bungalows and everything in between. Richmond apartments in this neighborhood are close to the National Cemetery and Powhatan Hill Park, which offers views of the rest of the city.

West End
Life in the West End is a perfect combination of the excitement of the city coupled with the comforts of life in the suburbs. Historic tree-lined streets give way to quaint boutiques and world class dining destinations in this neighborhood that has its own distinct character.
• Windsor Farms is home to two of Richmond’s most famous historical attractions: the Virginia House and Agecroft Hall, both of which are English manor houses that were physically transported to the state and are now open to the public.
• Westhampton is known for its quiet streets and stately homes. Residents love exploring The Avenues, the neighborhood’s premier shopping district which features a great mix of boutiques and local cafes.

Northside
Despite being so close to the buzz of downtown, Northside neighborhoods possess an impressive amount of tranquil green space, making it the perfect place to settle down for some peace and quiet in your Richmond apartment after a long workday.
• The Ginter Park neighborhood spans 21 blocks and was one of Richmond’s first planned developments. Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” it was incorporated into the city in 1914 and still remains a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Bellevue architecture is some of the most varied in the city, ranging from Italianate to Spanish to American Four Square. Residents unwind and stay fit at the beautiful Joseph Bryan park, an expansive green space complete with walking trails, lakes and tons of natural beauty.

Southside
The Southside of Richmond is known for its natural beauty as well as its quiet atmosphere and well-kept homes. The area is quiet and cozy, with many shady parks where residents of Richmond apartments go to unwind and get some exercise.
• Named for the Westover Plantation on the James River, home of William Byrd, the founder of Richmond, Westover Hills is a quiet neighborhood characterized by its winding, tree-lined streets and friendly residents.
• The Fawnbrook neighborhood blends the spirit of old Richmond with new, modern sensibilities in its architecture and amenities. The expansive Pocosham Park is located just south of this neighborhood, offering a peaceful environment complete with walking trails.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/traveler1116

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Maine for Francophiles

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Travelers to certain parts of Maine can experience culture with a unique French influence.

Travelers to certain parts of Maine can experience culture with a unique French influence.

Are you a lover of French culture? The beautiful language, gourmet food and artistic contributions of the French can be found in many pockets of the United States including Aroostook County and the St. John Valley in Northern Maine. Travelers to this region can experience the rich heritage of the local Maine Acadian culture with its unique French influence.

Maine’s Acadian culture can be seen in the predominance of French names, the local architecture, the cultivation of potatoes and buckwheat and in local arts. It can also be tasted in traditional foods and heard in casual conversations.

Some Maine Acadians still speak “Valley French,” a mixture of old French and English with some Québécois terms from neighboring Canada. “Valley French” is mainly spoken rather than written.

The Acadians can be traced to 1604 near the St. Croix River, between what is now Maine and New Brunswick. Here, St. Croix Island held France’s first settlement in l’Acadie – or Acadia in English.

Franco-American culture also flourished in 1860 when thousands of French Canadians from Quebec and New Brunswick immigrated over the border to work in Maine’s growing mill and lumber industries. Many of these French Canadian immigrants changed their names to English translations to blend in with their American neighbors and escape prejudice.

Today, 30 to 40 percent of Mainers are estimated to be of French Canadian ancestry, and French makes up more than 60 percent of languages other than English spoken in Maine.

To experience the lasting influence of Acadian culture today, Francophiles can visit the Acadian Village (U.S. Route 1, Van Buren, ME 04785) where 17 reconstructed buildings dating from 1785 to the early 1900s overlook the St. John River. Each building also contains historic furnishings.

The Franco American Heritage Center (46 Cedar St., Lewiston, ME 04240) is also a great resource for keeping up-to-date with local events, education and heritage related to the region’s Franco-American culture.

The annual Acadian Festival (Madawaska, ME 04756) is a multi-day celebration that includes a reunion of Maine’s Acadian founding families with over 5,000 far-flung descendents from around the globe attending in some years. An even bigger party will occur in 2014, when the World Acadian Congress convenes in the St. John Valley.

To experience a taste of an original Acadian recipe, check out Bouchard Family Farms (3 Strip Road, Fort Kent, ME 04743). For generations, the Bouchard Family has been milling a light buckwheat flour to prepare “Ployes,” which resemble crepes or pancakes. Their recipe is based on one created by the French Acadian exiles who settled in Northern Maine. For store locations or to order online, visit ployes.com.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Lebazele

Give Back This Holiday Season in Kansas City, Mo.

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This holiday season, give back in Kansas City through these volunteer opportunities.

This holiday season, give back in Kansas City through these volunteer opportunities.

Are you a new arrival in Kansas City, Mo.? Want to use your talents, skills and expertise to make a difference this holiday season? You’re in luck! There are plenty of organizations in the Kansas City area who are looking for caring volunteers just like you. Here’s how to find them.

Voolla.org
Do you have a specific skill that you want to put to use to help make the world a better place? This website matches you with people needing those skills, and the money they pay goes to charity. Register your skills for free today and get started.

Volunteermatch.org
Find tons of volunteer opportunities in your area. Many organizations in your own backyard need help with everything from party planning to data entry.

Youth Volunteer Corps of Greater Kansas City (www.yvckc.org/)
This is a great resource if you have kids who want to volunteer. The YVCKC offers youth between the ages of 11 and 18 the opportunity to improve their community by volunteering. They offer plenty of after school, holiday, weekend and summer volunteering projects that are sure to fit you and your child’s schedule.

Volunteer Opportunities in Kansas City (www.americantowns.com/mo/kansascity-make-a-difference)
Part of Americantowns.com, this site links you up with local volunteer organizations in more than 27 categories. This is the one-stop shop for volunteering.

The Kansas City Zoo (www.kansascityzoo.org/Volunteer) has plenty of volunteer opportunities for you animal lovers out there. If you love working outdoors in all kinds of weather, you just might be a good fit for this great organization.

Church or School Organizations
Check with your child’s school or your church for places you can help out. If they don’t have any openings, they will almost surely know of someone who does. So get out and ask around!

Finding volunteer opportunities in a new city can be scary, but with a little patience and diligence, you’ll quickly find something that fulfills you while giving something of value to your new community of Kansas City, Mo.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/PinkTag

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Green Business on the Rise in Sacramento

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Growing support for green business in Sacramento may also mean more jobs for the city’s residents.

The fast-growing green business industry has been attracting a lot of attention, and the spotlight is on Sacramento. California’s capital city is a hub for earth-friendly companies. With a state-wide focus on limiting emissions, Sacramento is leading the way by supporting green businesses and creating new green jobs.

Why so green?
Sacramento is known for becoming one of the greenest cities in the world thanks in part to legislation that requires utility companies to get one-third of their electric energy from renewable resources by 2020.  Several utility providers are already nearing this goal, with major provider Sacramento Municipal Utility District already sourcing about 25 percent of its power from renewable sources. 

But it’s not just energy companies in Sacramento that are going green.  There’s a growing green-tech sector in Sacramento, as well, and even small businesses are adopting environmentally-conscious practices. 

Characteristics of a green business
In Sacramento, companies that get a certification from the Green Business Bureau enjoy a reduction in operating costs and a reputation as a company that cares. Besides reducing their carbon footprint by relying on renewable energy sources, these businesses may also engage in sustainable business practices like recycling, using eco-friendly packaging materials and bags, or contributing a portion of their profits to charities which work to protect the environment.

For consumers, supporting these businesses means supporting companies which are actively trying to lower pollution and leave the world a better place.  It also means strengthening the local economy, as green businesses typically source materials and labor locally.

More upside for residents
Supporting Sacramento’s green businesses may also mean more jobs for residents. Between 1995 and 2008, Sacramento led the state of California in green job growth to the tune of 87 percent. During that time, green jobs in Sacramento grew at three times the rate of all jobs created in California—and they continued to grow even during the recession. As entrepreneurs capitalize on California’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gasses, you can likely expect to see green job growth continue to take off.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / dotshock

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Moving in San Francisco

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A San Francisco move has its ups and downs – on Lombard Street, literally!

Making a move to the City by the Bay?

Moving in San Francisco offers its own unique challenges. 

This 49-square-mile metropolis boasts more than 50 hills within the city limits, including the famous Lombard Street, with eight hairpin turns climbing a steep terrace. While the city’s famous cable cars boldly scale streets like these without a problem, you may not find it quite that easy to move your things in and around this picturesque city.

Hiring movers
San Francisco moving takes special skills to traverse the hilly terrain and navigate the city’s neighborhoods. You definitely want to make sure you choose a reputable company that is insured and knows the city well. Also, because finding the perfect apartment in San Francisco can take some time, you might want to choose a moving company that offers storage options.

Here are a few highly-rated San Francisco movers that have received complimentary reviews on Yelp: 

Settling in
The final frontier for a San Francisco move is getting your utilities and other necessities set up. Check out these links for a few of the essentials you’ll need to get settled in: 

Feeling at home
Some other ups and downs for residents of San Francisco are its high rents and low temps.

Living in San Francisco is typically expensive. On average, renters spend a higher proportion of their paychecks to rent an apartment than in many other cities. You’ve heard it’s easy to leave your heart in San Francisco: it’s likely you’ll leave your wallet there, too!

If you enjoy a cool climate paired with a mysterious, romantic fog, you’ll feel at home here. This chilly city averages 28 days a year where temperatures exceed 75 degrees. With mild temperatures and quick weather changes, locals advise newcomers to get rid of their heavy winter coats and invest in layered clothing. 

Any good San Francisco guide will point out the highlights of this vibrant place. Beautiful spots like the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square provide a backdrop for living in this city, setting a scene that is recognized worldwide. And San Francisco’s many unique neighborhoods make this city a fascinating place to explore. 

Fans of culture get their fill at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the San Francisco Opera, the San Francisco Ballet or the downtown art galleries. Sports fans have plenty of picks, too, as San Francisco is home to the 49ers NFL team and the Giants major league baseball club. 

San Francisco is a cool place to put down roots. Have fun getting to know your new — and historic — home!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / kevin connors

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Get Pet-Friendly in Lafayette and West Lafayette

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If you’re in need of a good groomer in Lafayette, look no further than Bark Avenue Dayspa.

Nicknamed the “Star City,” Lafayette, Ind. is the county seat of Tippecanoe County, located a mere 63 miles northwest of the capital city of Indianapolis. Just across the Wabash River lies West Lafayette, home to Purdue University. Together, these two cities make up the greater Lafayette area, where residents can take advantage of the charms of small town living while still taking advantage of big city amenities. Both cities are surprisingly pet-friendly, so if you’ve just moved to apartments in Lafayette with your furry friend or are looking for new places to explore with Fido, here’s our list of the top pet-friendly places in Lafayette and West Lafayette.

Restaurant – Copper Dog Café

With a name like the Copper Dog Café, it’s no surprise that this quaint and quirky establishment caters to patrons of the four-legged variety. Located in the heart of historic downtown Lafayette, the Copper Dog Café places a heavy emphasis on vegetarian cuisine, using fresh, healthy ingredients in their offerings, which range from lighter fare like soups and sandwiches to entrees like grilled polenta. And of course, patrons are welcome to bring their dogs on the patio.

Where: 660 Main St., Lafayette, IN 47901

Store – Buckles Feed Depot & Pet Supply

Buckles Feed Depot & Pet Supply offers everything that your small and medium-sized animals need to be happy and healthy. They carry many brands you won’t see at larger chain pet stores, which means you’ll find high quality, name brand food for dogs and cats, as well as bedding, leashes, shampoo/conditioner, toys, treats and even bird seed. The staff is always helpful and knowledgeable, offering friendly advice to customers who aren’t sure where to begin.

Where: 220 S. 4th St., Lafayette, IN 47901

Park – Shamrock Park Dog Park

Officially opened in 2006, Shamrock Dog Park has been a favorite of furry critters in Lafayette, attracting dogs and their two-legged owners from as far away as Illinois. The park itself is a large fenced-in, off-leash dog area where well-behaved dogs and their owners can play, exercise and socialize in a safe and fun outdoor environment. There are two fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, and plenty of benches and shady areas for owners who just want to watch the fun.

Where: 115 Sanford St., Lafayette, IN 47905

Boarding – Pooch at Play

As West Lafayette’s newest doggie day care, Pooch at Play offers a fun, safe play place for dogs to socialize while their owners are at school, work or on extended trips. Pooch at Play also offers grooming services and training classes for pups to look and be their best.

Where: 2060 U.S. 52 W., West Lafayette, IN 47906

Grooming – Bark Avenue Dayspa

Bark Avenue Dayspa was opened in 2005 by Kerri Wagner, a resident of Lafayette for 20 years who graduated from the Animal Arts Academy in Carmel, Ind. as a Certified Pet Groomer/Stylist. She’s also certified in Pet First Aid by the American Red Cross and a member of the National Association of Dog Groomers. This cute and clean pet spa offers grooming services for dogs and cats, as well as other animals like birds, rabbits, chinchillas and ferrets. Or, treat your pet to a dead mineral mud treatment, or a blueberry facial with mini face massage.

Where: 4100 Britt Farm Drive, Lafayette, IN 47905

Photo credit: iStockphoto/choja

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Omaha for Art Lovers

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Named after an American Indian Tribe, Omaha means “those going against the wind or current.” Today, the city is home to an eclectic mix of artists, musicians, and bohemian gathering spots. As its name implies, much of Omaha is anything but conventional.

Old Market

Set in an historic neighborhood, locals and visitors flock to Old Market for its unique clothing boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, pubs and entertainment. On the first Friday of every month, artists and art lovers stroll the area’s local galleries thanks to First Fridays – when gallery patrons enjoy free admission and light bites. Old Market also offers more than 30 restaurants and close proximity to Joslyn Art Museum and the Omaha Children’s Museum.

Where: Omaha, NE 68102

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

Omaha is also home to a record-breaking structural work of art – the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. As the longest pedestrian bridge to link two states (Nebraska and Iowa), it provides an illuminated arc over the Missouri River for walking and biking enthusiasts, connecting to 150 miles of trails on each side. The cable stay bridge is 3,000 feet long, including the landings, and carries pedestrians 60 feet above the river. At night, LED lights outlining the deck, cables and pylons are visible for miles. The design team also incorporated specific protections for migratory birds and added interactive sculptures to educate visitors about local endangered species.

Where: 705 Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE 68102

Orpheum Theater

Omaha’s celebrated Orpheum Theater has served as the home of the finest in local and national performing arts for almost a century, including the best of Broadway’s national touring companies. Located in Downtown Omaha, the Orpheum was renovated in 2002 at a cost of $10 million to upgrade the experience of patrons and performers, while also restoring the theater’s ornate splendor. A cornerstone of Omaha’s cultural history, this former vaudeville house was constructed in 1927.

Where: 409 S. 16th St., Omaha, NE 68102

Slowdown

Over the last decade, Omaha’s indie rock music scene and Saddle Creek Records have gained national attention. And many of the area’s well-known bands such as Cursive and The Faint played a gig or two at Slowdown. The venue was featured as the 2007 Esquire Magazine’s Club of the Year, and continues to showcase some of the city’s hottest new punk, hardcore and rock performances.

Where: 729 N. 14th St., Omaha, NE 68102

Illumina

In 2007, Omaha sculptor Matthew Placzek created “Illumina,” a $2 million public art project that now graces the grounds of the Qwest Center Omaha. The installation’s six bronze sculptures – including a 14-foot stilts walker – are reminiscent of an era in which performers were an active part of daily street life and local events. Numerous multicolored spheres are also placed in the arena lobby, adding depth and vibrancy to the sculpture. The entire project consists of more than 2,000 LED lights, 4,000 pounds of bronze, 28,000 pounds of stainless steel and 360 tons of concrete.

Where: Qwest Center, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE 68102

Omaha offers a vibrant arts scene for both locals and visitors. From the city’s diverse art galleries and thriving music venues to its public art installations, Omaha welcomes artists of all walks to America’s heartland.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/emptyclouds

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Day Trips from Atlanta to the Coast

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If you find yourself in Savannah, check out the lighthouse on Tybee Island for a quick getaway.

Soon after Atlanta was founded, it quickly became a hub of transportation. Railroads linked Atlanta to the port city of Savannah, and helped distribute goods to Chattanooga and points west. Today, Atlanta’s relatively central location within the state provides easy access for travelers or city-dwellers looking to schedule day trips to the northern Appalachian Mountains, or to the picturesque coastal towns to the south and east.

Many coastal destinations can be reached from Atlanta by car on one tank of gas. Here are a few spots that many Atlantans frequent when they’re in search of a convenient day trip and a break from city living.

Savannah, GA

Travel time from Atlanta: Four hours

The Atlantic coast lies only a few hours by freeway from the Georgia’s capital. Prior to Atlanta’s founding, Savannah was the capital of the state. Today, Savannah is still home to Georgia’s earliest history and stately southern mansions, but also offers eclectic shopping, fine dining and colorful nightlife. Discover local furniture and fashion designers along Broughton Street, or unique gifts for friends and family at the Savannah Bee Company or The Paris Market. Dining options range from casual comfort food to upscale cuisine options like Local 11 Ten Food & Wine with its chic rooftop lounge. Top off your night in Savannah with a walk along River Street or enjoy a live rock band and the city’s best vodka gimlet at The Jinx.

If you’re visiting Savannah for more than a night, cross the bridge to Tybee Island for a closer coastal experience. Enjoy a jog on the beach, try out a new water sport, or relax and explore the beach shops and boardwalk. Many local restaurants serve fresh fish, and be sure to keep an eye out for Gerald’s Pig and Shrimp – a funky food truck that serves homemade limeade and the tastiest lunch on the island!

Charleston, SC

Travel time from Atlanta: Five hours

Drive north of Atlanta to explore another coastal town along the Atlantic – Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston played a major role in American history, but it’s also a sought-after destination for art and architecture enthusiasts. Named America’s most mannerly city, Charleston welcomes its visitors with friendly locals and a leisurely atmosphere.

Discover the city in style with a carriage tour, find out about Charleston’s connection to pirates on a walking tour, or head straight for its pristine beaches. Stay the night at one of Charleston’s charming bed and breakfasts, or head another 20 miles to the Kiawah Island Resort for a truly luxurious coastal experience. Whether spending time in Charleston or on Kiawah, visitors can relax on the beaches or enjoy a variety of water sports.

Set among Charleston’s beautifully-preserved Victorian architecture are art galleries and award-winning dining options. At McCrady’s, Chef Sean Brock serves the best new southern cuisine in the Southeast, yet the restaurant’s location at a registered historic landmark and the pre-prohibition cocktail menu proves that this evolving city is right at home with its past.

Destin, FL

Travel time from Atlanta: Six hours

From Atlanta, a day trip to Destin, Florida will bring visitors to entirely new coastline – the Gulf of Mexico. Also known as the Emerald Coast, this area is home to sparkling white beaches, challenging golf courses, and world-famous fishing. Make the most of your time on the coast with parasailing, dolphin-watching, or a stand up paddle board lesson.

Destin is also a popular destination for weddings and romantic weekends. Contrasted with the popular spring break mecca of Panama City just an hour away, Destin’s pace is slower and more relaxing. Travel to Destin to enjoy all of the natural beauty that the Gulf Coast offers, with the bonus of “creature comforts” like spas and fine dining nearby.

Traveling from Atlanta to the coast is fast and easy, and takes less than a day to find yourself a world away!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Ron_Thomas

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Things to Do With Your Children in San Francisco

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San Francisco is an amazing city, with lots to see and do. But what are some great places to go if you have children? Below are some of the best places in San Francisco for kids.

Musee Mecanique

Located on Pier 45 at the foot of Taylor Street in Fisherman’s Wharf, Musee Mecanique is one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of coin-operated mechanical musical instruments and arcade games. Every game is still in its original working condition, and you can play them! Admission is free every day.

Where: Pier 45, Shed A, San Francisco, CA 94133

CuriOdyssey

Formerly called Coyote Point, CuriOdyssey in nearby San Mateo is a place where kids can connect with the Earth and learn about the nearly 100 animals onsite—from golden eagles to rubber boas. They hold numerous activities throughout the year, and even host birthday parties. Find out more at www.curiodyssey.org.

Where: 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo, CA 94401

San Francisco Zoo

What child doesn’t love animals? Spend the day viewing hundreds of animals from all over the world. For hours and admission fees, visit www.sfzoo.org.

Where: 1 Zoo Road, San Francisco, CA 94132

Go for a Cable Car Ride

San Francisco is famous for its cable cars, and even if you’ve lived in the city your whole life, your children will still get a kick out of taking a trip on a national landmark.

Where: Visit www.sfcablecar.com for route information.

Chinatown

Have fun and learn a little about Chinese culture at the same time. Tour the many little shops, watch fortune cookies being made, or check out the amazing, colorful kites at the Chinatown Kite Shop.

Where: Grant Ave. and Bush St., San Francisco, CA 94101

Pier 39

Near Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 offers several attractions that will interest little ones. Children can ride the double-decker Venetian carousel, view several free performances on the stage at the end of the pier, and watch sea lions sunning themselves in the small marina beside the pier. There’s also the Aquarium of the Bay (www.aquariumofthebay.com), a unique underwater attraction featuring 300 feet of tunnels where you can view over 20,000 marine animals from San Francisco Bay and other nearby waters.

Where: The Embarcadero and Beach St., San Francisco, CA 94133

These are just a few of the many wonderful things you can do with your children in San Francisco. With a little research and creativity, you can find enough things to do in this amazing city to keep your kids busy every day of the year.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/jasantiso

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