Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 10 iconic music venues to visit in your 20s and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2021/11/iconic-music-venues/.CaptchaSubmit Brian CicioniNovember 30, 2021 Leave a comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips. Live music is back. Thanks to COVID vaccinations, most of us can now hop on a plane, dine indoors, and see a live show. If you’re ready for it, and appreciate smaller, iconic spaces where legendary acts like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana played to audiences of just a few hundred on their way up, this list for you. We’ve chosen 10 venues where 20-somethings, and other music fans on a budget, can afford to see a show for less than the cost of a rush hour Uber ride. RELATED: Get your concert tickets, even for sold out shows, through CheapTickets! 9:30 Club: Washington, D.C. Flickr CC: Valerie Hinojosa The 9:30 Club opened at the corner of 10th and F streets just as punk was giving way to new wave. Local bands like Bad Brains and Minor Threat helped put this 199 capacity venue on the map for punk and hardcore fans. Stadium and arena acts like The Police, and Red Hot Chili Peppers played here on their way up. The latter played a surprise show here back in 1998, to mark the return of guitarist John Frusciante. In early 1996, the club reopened in a 1,200 capacity space at the corner of 9th and V streets. The Smashing Pumpkins, who were at the height of their commercial success, played the inaugural show. Since then, everyone from the Foo Fighters (Dave Grohl spent part of his childhood outside DC) and Radiohead to the Beastie Boys and ZZ Top have played special occasion or secret gigs here. You can catch a 2007 Pumpkins gig from the 9:30 Club on their If All Goes Wrong DVD. But in 2021, you are much more likely to catch an up-and-coming indie rock or hip hop act at the 9:30 Club. Tickets are typically between $25–35, which will set you back less than the cost of an Uber after the Metro stops running. For those looking to catch the vibe of the original location, former DC-suburb dweller Dave Grohl recently announced plans to open a replica of the original next to the current location. Nearest Metro station: Shaw-Howard Cafe Wha?: New York City Flickr CC: Carl Mikey Looking at the list of legendary NYC venues that have closed is about as uplifting as sitting alone in a tiny studio apartment after a bitter breakup and blasting Joy Division to drown out the noise coming from the party on the floor above. CBGB is now a clothing store. L’Amour is now a general event space. But there’s still Cafe Wha?. This 325-capacity venue can barely hold all of the people who work for Bruce Springsteen the day of a stadium show. But he played here before he was anointed “The next Dylan.” And Bob Dylan himself played Cafe Wha? the year before releasing his debut album. Jimmy James and the Blue Flames did a residency here in 1966 before their frontman went off to London to record one of the most influential debut albums of all time. Founder Manny Roth was a legend in his own right. But he had an even more famous nephew who fronted Van Halen. A couple years before Manny’s death, Van Halen came back here to play. Several legendary comedians like Lenny Bruce, Joan Rivers, and Richard Pryor performed here, as well. Today, you can see a local rock band, comedy act, or tribute band at Cafe Wha?. The rest of the time, you can catch the house band for a $15 cover charge, which you can pay via Eventbrite. Closest subway station: W 4 St – Wash Sq RELATED: America’s most awesome vintage record stores Central Saloon: Seattle One of the last grand old saloons, the Central dates back to the 1890s. The venue opened just three years after Seattle’s great fire. Before Alice in Chains, Nirvana, and Soundgarden headlined arenas and festivals around the world, they all played the Central Saloon. So did Seattle-area native Jimi Hendrix. The walls are lined with photos and concert flyers from the days that led up to the brief period when Seattle seemed like the center of the musical universe. The venue is similar in size to the former-CBGB and currently hosts indie, hip hop, and local rock bands. Tickets are usually under $20. Nearest light rail station: Pioneer Square The Fillmore: San Francisco While the building at 1805 Geary Boulevard dates back to 1912, the shows that most of us associate with The Fillmore started in early 1966. Dozens of psychedelic rock bands and soul acts passed through here during the last half of the 1960s. The Grateful Dead alone played more than 50 shows at The Fillmore before 1970. By the early 1980s, the venue (by then rechristened The Elite Club) was an obligatory tour stop for punk bands like Black Flag and local outfit Dead Kennedys. After damage from a 1989 earthquake, the club was remodeled. It opened back up in 1994 with a surprise gig by the Smashing Pumpkins. And in 2011, hometown heroes Metallica played four 30th-anniversary shows at The Fillmore to fan club members only. Live Nation currently operates the 1,300-capacity venue. They’ve created several spinoffs in cities like Denver, Philly, Charlotte, and Miami. Nowadays, you are most likely to see up-and-coming acts, with the odd legacy act thrown in every month or so. Tickets start in the high 20s, which is quite a bargain considering that San Francisco tops nearly every list of most expensive cities in the country. First Avenue: Minneapolis Flickr CC: Tony Webster In 1970, Joe Cocker played the inaugural show at this historic 1,500-seat venue, which is housed in a former Greyhound Bus Depot. You’ve likely heard of First Avenue because of Prince, who began playing here in 1981. Purple Rain was filmed here and before his untimely death, Minnesota’s most famous performer since Bob Dylan was scheduled to play nine shows at the club he helped make famous. The 531 stars on the venue’s exterior list many of the past performers. Nirvana played here a few weeks after releasing Nevermind. U2 supposedly wrote the title track from their sophomore release during a 1981 soundcheck at First Avenue. And local acts like The Replacements and Soul Asylum got their start playing here, too. Since COVID, they’re returned to nearly nightly entertainment. You can see a lesser-known act for under $20. $30 is closer to average. You can double that when someone like Elvis Costello passes through, but it’s worth it for the intimate setting. Nearest Light rail station: Warehouse Hennepin Franklin Music Hall: Philadelphia Philly may often be overshadowed by D.C. and New York, but the local concert scene is every bit as exciting. The former Electric Factory changed ownership back in 2018, but the location and purpose remain the same. Elton John, Pink Floyd, and the Grateful Dead played the original location, which closed in 1973. Following the 1995 reopening, Alanis Morissette, Radiohead, and No Doubt played here at the height of their commercial success. In 1996, The Ramones played their final Philly show at the Electric Factory. And no less than Bruce Springsteen did a show here during his time away from the E Street Band. Before the name change, this legendary 3,000-capacity venue made a cameo in the first Creed movie. Bianca performed as an opening act. Nowadays, you can catch everything here, from metal and punk to hip hop and funk. Tickets can be as low as $20–25 for lesser-known acts. Double that when a reunited Bikini Kill or a combination of Wu-Tang Clan members come to town. Nearest SEPTA station: Chinatown Metro: Chicago Flickr CC: VXLA The Metro opened just up the street from Wrigley Field in a former Swedish Community Center back in 1979 (just like the Chicago-based Smashing Pumpkins song). This legendary, 1,100-capacity North Side venue is a stone’s throw from the Blues Brothers’ fictitious address in the 1980 classic Chicago film. R.E.M. and Metallica played here in the early 1980s as up-and-coming acts. In the early 90s, Jane’s Addiction, Nirvana, and Soundgarden passed through here on their way to the arenas. Pearl Jam did a live radio broadcast from the Metro in early 1992, which was a popular bootleg throughout the decade. Today, you’ll find mostly alternative and indie bands playing here. Most shows start at under $30. Thanks to the Metro’s proximity to Wrigley Field, you can check off two popular Chicago bucket list items in the same day. Nearest L station: Addison Paradise Rock Club: Boston In 1977, Joe Strummer sang, “no Elvis, Beatles, or The Rolling Stones.” The Paradise Theater opened along Commonwealth Avenue that same year, just as punk bands like the Sex Pistols, Ramones, and The Clash were offering an alternative to 20-minute drum solos and 15-foot-high stages. During the early days, Blondie, Iggy Pop, and Tom Petty played this 1,000-seat venue. The version of “Last Child” that ended up on Aerosmith’s first live album was recorded at the Paradise in August 1978. Local acts like The Cars and Buffalo Tom played here more than a dozen times each. Letters to Cleo holds the current record with 20 (and counting) Paradise performances. As the currently-named Paradise Rock Club is located a stone’s throw from Boston University, they attract a largely student audience looking for an affordable night of entertainment. Nearest T station: Babcock Street Ryman Auditorium: Nashville Flickr CC: Jim Rhodes No list of music venues is complete without at least one legendary spot in Music City itself. Although this late-19th-century Tennessee landmark is still known to most for its Grand Ole Opry, you can also catch hard rock and comedy acts here. Since 2000, Neil Young and the Foo Fighters have shot concert footage at the Ryman. And in 2019, the Wu-Tang Clan became the first hip hop group to perform at this 129-year-old venue. Ticket prices are a bit steeper than the other places in this list, but the Ryman is also a much more comfortable venue. You can get a tour of the building for $30, including fees. Nearest RTA station: Riverfront Troubadour: West Hollywood Picking the best legendary concert venue in West Hollywood is a bit like asking a New Yorker where to find the best pizza under the Brooklyn Bridge. There are several very worthy choices within close proximity including the Roxy and the Viper Room. This 500-capacity venue started as a place for ’60s folk legends to master their craft. James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Joni Mitchell, and The Eagles all played the Troubadour before hitting the big time. Buffalo Springfield played their first gig here. And the Troubadour is also where Elton John made his legendary American debut. The Troubadour’s history is also replete with legendary comedy acts. Steve Martin, and Cheech and Chong, performed here in the early 1970s. The Troubadour is also the place where Lenny Bruce was arrested for using the word “schmuck” on stage. And during his lost weekend, John Lennon (along with Harry Nilsson) was ejected from the club for heckling the Smothers Brothers. Punk, new wave, and glam bands all made the obligatory stop here during the 1980s. You can still catch a variety of rock, folk, and comedy acts at the Troubadour on any given night at prices as low as $15. If you are more into the local history, check out this rock tour of the Sunset Strip. Tagged: California, Cheap City, USA, Cheap Tips, Chicago, City, Destinations, L.A., Music, New York City, seattle, Top 10 list, Types of Travel, Washington DC Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Brian CicioniBrian is an NYC-based travel writer and tour guide. You can see his work at CheapTickets, Matador Network, and USA Today 10 Best. He also has his own blog, where you can find practical tips on what to see, where to eat, and how to explore major cities along public transit lines. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Latest posts by Brian Cicioni (see all) 10 iconic music venues to visit in your 20s - November 30, 2021 12 things tourists get wrong about New York, according to an NYC tour guide - April 14, 2021 Related Posts 8 Insta-worthy outdoor staircases around the U.S. By Laura Studarus 9 fantastic events that are definitely happening this summer By Zach Cunning 10 really fun neighborhoods to rush to when you turn... By Zach Cunning America’s most awesome vintage record stores By Donald Liebenson
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 9 holiday attractions that will blow up your Insta feed and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2021/11/9-holiday-attraction-shots-that-will-blow-up-your-instagram-feed/.CaptchaSubmit Jennifer AgressNovember 3, 2021 Leave a comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently-changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state, and local advisories before scheduling trips. The holidays are just around the corner, which means it’s almost time to fill your Instagram feed with perfect shots of colorful Christmas trees, holiday cookies, nauseating mistletoe kisses, you and your friends in ugly sweaters, and even that snow angel you tried, and failed, to make. Why? Because it’s the season, and it’s tradition! Read below to find 10 must-do holiday photo ops that even Santa would “like.” RELATED: 7 over-the-top holiday lights displays you’ve got to see An iconic Christmas tree When the holiday season comes around, every big city and small town boasts an iconic Christmas tree. You know which one we’re talking about—that tree that you can snap a photo of and your neighbors (or even people from afar!) know exactly where it is. Take the tree at Rockefeller Center, for example, which is strung with 50,000 colorful LED lights and topped with a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star. Stand in front of Channel Gardens, where you can catch the 12 winged angels lined up in front of it, et voila! That’s your shot. Find a great NYC hotel here. A holiday train ride Flickr CC: J Diaz Christmas-themed trains have become a trend, and for good reason: They’re beautifully decorated and have dancing elves, jolly waiters serving hot cocoa and marshmallows, Christmas tunes and of course, Santa Claus himself. In Grapevine, TX (known as the Christmas Capital of Texas), you can even take the North Pole Express® all the way to the “North Pole,” where a snowy winter wonderland and Santa’s workshop are waiting when you arrive. If you’re not in Texas, hop on the official THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, which can be found in 50 cities, from Miami, FL all the way north to Canada. Browse hotel deals near Grapevine here. A winter wonderland Ice skating at Maggie Daley Park | Photo: Courtesy of Choose Chicago Ice skating is a charming winter pastime, especially during the holiday season. Grab your friends or that special someone and find an ice rink in your city where you can capture some yuletide cheer! On the ice skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park in downtown Chicago, skaters can wind their way through an alpine forest while snow falls over the surrounding city skyline. If you don’t want to skate, buy a cup of hot cocoa and watch everyone else do it. The view alone is worth going for. Check out great downtown Chicago hotels here. A holiday parade Flickr CC: Jeff Kern Parades are a fun way to celebrate the season—and lucky for holiday revelers, there’s always one nearby. Watch as ornaments, furry reindeer, elves, snowman and marching Nutcracker soldiers parade down the street, paving the way for Santa’s grand entrance. Some of the most magical holiday parades are at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, and march right past Cinderella’s Castle as it glows with thousands of Christmas lights. Reserve your Disney hotel right here. A festive hotel Flickr CC: Pyro Spectaculars by Souza We love how every city always has one (if not many) hotels that really get into the holiday groove. Think twinkling lights, tinsel galore, a giant gingerbread house in the lobby and, of course, a can’t-miss Christmas tree. If you don’t know what we’re talking about, just look at the Mission Inn in Riverside, CA. This SoCal stunner attracts visitors far and wide for its hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights, giant nutcracker statues and its extravagant, 19-foot Christmas tree. Book the Mission Inn or a nearby hotel here. A Christmas market Who doesn’t love a Christmas market? There’s mulled wine, handmade ornaments for sale, mulled wine, animals, holiday music and… did we mention mulled wine? For the perfect Instagram photo, wear a cozy winter hat, grab a piping hot cup of vino and strike a pose in front of a festive chalet. If you don’t know what we’re talking about, take a peek at Bethlehem, PA’s famous Christkindlmarkt. Here, you’ll find 50-plus artisans selling their handicrafts, live Christmas music, an appearance by St. Nick himself and, like we said, mulled wine. Check out hotels near Bethlehem here. A holiday “fun run” Flickr CC: Me!bourne Mermaid There is never something not funny about hundreds of people dressed as Mr. or Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, an elf or even Olaf running through town. If you’re near Virginia Beach, VA, head to the Surf-n-Santa 5 Miler, the largest Santa run in the entire world, and you’ll see what we mean. Every major city has a holiday fun run at this point, so join one wherever you are and capture the holiday hilarity in all its glory. Get great deals on Virginia Beach hotels here. A themed-out holiday festival Flickr CC: Selena NBH Instead of travel shots, how about a time-traveling shot? Find a themed-out holiday event in your hometown where everyone gets into character. We love the annual “Dickens of a Christmas” festival in Victorian Village in Franklin, TN, where you’ll mingle with Father Christmas, carolers, locals in full Victorian garb and characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist. Even Ebenezer Scrooge will be there! Book a room near Franklin right here. Over-the-top downtown décor When a whole city gets into the season, it’s hard not to feel the holiday magic. (It makes for great photos, too.) St. Augustine, FL proves that you don’t need cold temperatures to feel the Christmas spirit! Every year, its Spanish-style historic downtown comes alive with “Night of Lights,” an award-winning activation with over three million Christmas lights, carriage rides, restaurants and bars decked out in holiday trimmings, and more. Check out great hotels in St. Augustine here. An impressive neighborhood lights display Sure, NYC is famous for Dyker Heights Lights and LA has its Candy Cane Lane, but if it’s a decked out holiday ‘hood you want, there’s probably one in your own hometown. Take, for example, McAdenville, NC—otherwise known as Christmas Town USA. In a town with less than 700 residents, a half million people visit every December to see homes with Hallmark Channel-worthy Christmas decorations and more than 500,000 Christmas lights. Book your stay near McAdenville here. Tagged: Events, Holidays, Seasonal, Top 10 list, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Jennifer AgressJennifer is a Miami-based writer and editor who loves good food, a better martini and traveling every chance she gets. She writes about luxury travel, dining and lifestyle for Travel Weekly, Private Air Luxury Homes, Preferred Travel, Modern Luxury Weddings, INDULGE Miami, Thrillist, NUVO Magazine and more. When she’s not on a plane, she’s likely plotting her next adventure—follow @JenniferAgress on Instagram to see where she lands. Latest posts by Jennifer Agress (see all) 9 holiday attractions that will blow up your Insta feed - November 3, 2021 Beautiful Barcelona on a budget – no hostel required - November 28, 2018 Cheap eats downtown Miami: Top 10 lunches under $10 - June 13, 2017 Related Posts 9 fantastic events that are definitely happening this summer By Zach Cunning 8 perfect spring break destinations for beach haters By Dalia Colon 7 of the best New Year’s Eve beach parties around... By Laura Studarus 10 great holiday attractions that are still happening By Compass + Twine
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 9 fantastic events that are definitely happening this summer and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2021/06/9-fantastic-events-that-are-definitely-happening-this-summer/.CaptchaSubmit Zach CunningJune 8, 2021 Leave a comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently-changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state, and local advisories before scheduling trips. With more than 50% of U.S. adults at least partially vaccinated, it’s finally time to put on some real clothes and get back out into the world. But with every state seemingly at a different level of reopening, and many events still canceled or postponed, what is there to do? We’ve got a list of nine great events, from music festivals to immersive art exhibits, to make this summer one to remember. RELATED: 10 destinations that are huge bargains this summer Lollapalooza: Chicago Chicago’s biggest and best-known music fest is making its triumphant return to Chicago’s Grant Park this summer. Featuring Miley Cyrus, Foo Fighters, Post Malone and Tyler the Creator, plus more than 170 other artists, the festival runs July 29– Aug 1. Full vaccination or a daily negative COVID test are required. Get your advanced festival tickets here. Book your Chicago hotel soon. Austin Asian American Film Festival: Austin The Austin Asian American Film Festival (June 4–20) features tons of short form, documentary, and feature length new Asian and Asian-American films. The two-week event’s centerpiece film is Mei Makino’s coming of age story, Inbetween Girl. The film follows teenage artist Angie Chen as she navigates the fall out of her parents unexpected divorce. Tickets for both virtual and drive-in screenings are on sale now. Book your Austin hotel right here. Smorgasburg: New York City “The largest weekly open-air food market in America,” Smorgasburg is starting their reopening small. Two of their four locations—World Trade Center and Jersey City—are currently open. There’s dozens of vendors across the two locations and seating for up to 500 at Jersey City. The New York Times calls Smorgasburg “the Woodstock of eating.” Find a great NYC hotel here. Cinespia: Los Angeles Having traded headstones for headlights at a drive in near the Greek Theater in LA, Cinespia will be screening the best in cinema all summer long. Grab some friends, load up the car, and head out for a night of film under the stars. Upcoming films include Beauty and the Beast and Thelma & Louise. Find a fantastic Los Angeles hotel here. Pride in the Park: Chicago The first major event in Chicago this year, Pride in the Park is kicking off the summer festival season. Held once again in Chicago’s Grant Park, the fest runs June 26 and 27 and will be headlined Saturday by Tiësto and Sunday by Chaka Khan and Gryffin. With the city’s Pride Parade holding off until October, Pride in the Park looks to be Chicago’s one big summer event to celebrate the LGBTQIA community. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test is required. Browse great Chicago hotels here. Breakaway Music Festival: Grand Rapids, MI Like so many other festivals, the multi-city EDM/Hip Hop festival Breakaway was forced on a year long hiatus in 2020. This summer, they’re bursting back on the scene with their first American dates August 26-27 at Grand Rapids’ Belknap Park. Featuring the likes of Illlenium, Quinn VCII, Gryffin, Big Wild and Chelsea Cutler, this is a can’t miss for electronic and pop fans. Book the perfect Grand Rapids hotel here. Van Gogh Immersive Experience: Various cities Van Gogh epitomizes the romantic, tortured artist. Unappreciated in his time, it was only in the decades following his death that his works gained their much-deserved notoriety. The Van Gogh immersive exhibition presents the artist’s works in all their vibrant, colorful emotion as never seen before. Tickets are on sale for several major cities around the US, but selling fast! Get your advance Van Gogh Immersive Experience tickets here. Find fantastic hotel deals right here. National Mall and Smithsonian Museums: Washington, DC Though the Washington Monument and US Capitol Building remain closed for tours, a day on the National Mall is always one well spent. Visit the Lincoln Memorial, grab a picnic on the sprawling grassy areas, and then head for the myriad Smithsonian Museums—an easy walk from the Mall. Eight of the Smithsonian Museums are currently open, including the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, the National Portrait Gallery, the Renwick Gallery and the National Gardens, and the remainder are gradually reopening. All museums require are free, but require an advance reservation. Get a good DC hotel deal here. Food Truck Wednesdays: Miami Come out to Miami’s Pelican Harbor every Wednesday from 5-10pm for a weekly festival showcasing the best food trucks South Florida has to offer. Enjoy outdoor seating, free parking and a location that’s hard to beat. Snag a Miami hotel deal here. Tagged: California, Cheap Tips, Chicago, Destinations, Events, Festivals, Florida, L.A., Music, New York City, Texas, Texas, Top 10 list, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Zach CunningZach’s love of travel has led to him walking Roman roads along the Camino de Santiago, bartending throughout South America, surfing the Atlantic coast of Morocco and teaching backpackers everywhere the fine art of shaking up the perfect margarita. When he’s not traveling, Zach lives, works and studies in Chicago. Latest posts by Zach Cunning (see all) 10 really fun neighborhoods to rush to when you turn 21 - September 27, 2021 9 fantastic events that are definitely happening this summer - June 8, 2021 Great podcasts for every length of road trip - June 1, 2020 Related Posts America’s most awesome vintage record stores By Donald Liebenson 10 great holiday attractions that are still happening By Compass + Twine 8 Insta-worthy outdoor staircases around the U.S. By Laura Studarus Do go chasing these beautiful U.S. waterfalls By Michele Herrmann
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 7 new “eat streets” to check out in U.S. cities this summer and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2020/06/new-pedestrian-eat-streets-coming-to-us-cities-this-summer/.CaptchaSubmit Robert SchraderJune 22, 2020 1 Comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips. As the U.S. slowly emerges from COVID-19 restrictions, restaurants have proven to be a bridge back to the world we all lived in before. However, given the necessity for social distancing and the importance of avoiding enclosed spaces, eateries have had to walk a difficult tightrope to meet CDC guidelines while giving guests a safe dining experience. Enter “eat streets,” or “streateries,” where in some cases, entire city streets have been closed down to create European-style pedestrian thoroughfares that allow for more sidewalk seating. The move reflects out-of-the-box (out-of-the-building?) thinking that’s helping America exit lockdown safely and in good taste. RELATED: 12 great American roadside attractions Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA As stay-at-home orders lift in the city of Brotherly Love, one food destination opening to diners is the Broad Street thoroughfare. Sidewalk dining at Gabi feels particularly appropriate, allowing you to enjoy the French fare the bistro serves up in an atmosphere befitting of Paris. The menu at Scannicchio’s, meanwhile, represents a different part of the Old World (namely Italy—try the famous stuffed artichoke), but the romantic ambiance of food and drink in open air is very much the same. Where to stay: The three-star Cambria Hotel sits right along the Broad Street Line of the Philadelphia subway, and just steps from iconic Philadelphia City Hall. Broadway Street in Chicago, IL Perhaps the most extensive of all the streateries emerging across America, Chicago’s Broadway will see a whopping 32 restaurants re-open when it closes to traffic as part of the city’s “Make Way for Diners” program. In the beautiful Lakeview neighborhood not far from the shores of Lake Michigan, Broadway offers an eclectic variety of dining options. Chow down on modern Mexican cuisine at Chilam Balam, which prides itself on sustainability, or on vegan bites at Kitchen 17. Where to stay: Rest your head at the historic Willows Hotel, which is convenient not only to the Broadway streatery, but to famous Wrigley Field. Central West End in St. Louis, MO There’s no experience in St. Louis quite like outdoor dining near the corner of Maryland Plaza and Euclid Avenue, especially not in the first weeks of summer. The sun is sure to feel even sweeter these days, whether you prefer the sumptuous American-style diner fare on offer at Kingside, or prefer to eat your way around the world with international cuisine from El Burro Loco (Mexican) and Medina (Lebanese). Where to stay: Chase Park Plaza is perhaps St. Louis’ most classic hotel, in the Central West End or anywhere else in the city. Hyde Park Village in Tampa, FL The Hyde Park Village retail complex in South Tampa has always been a wonderful spot to enjoy shopping, dining and drinking in a breezy, outdoor setting. These days, as you wash down Mexican street snacks with margaritas at Bartaco, or enjoy pasta and wood-fired pizzas at Forbici Modern Italian, the fresh air you once took for granted will make your next meal all the more unforgettable. Where to stay: Feel like a South Tampa local with a stay at the Epicurean Hotel, part of Marriott’s exclusive Autograph collection. Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, CO You’re never far from nature in the eco-friendly mecca of Boulder, including when you dine post-COVID at the Pearl Street Mall. Have a meal befitting of the mountains at Spruce Farm & Fish, where trendy New American cuisine contrasts with the timeless ambiance of the historic Boulderado Hotel. Bohemian Biergarten, meanwhile, might have you feeling like you’re at Oktoberfest, even if you end up dining here in June or July. Where to stay: Stay at the aforementioned Boulderado, or consider booking a room at the stately St Julien Hotel & Spa. South Congress Avenue in Austin, TX Let’s be honest: Having a beer or burger on one of the famous patio of Austin’s South Congress Avenue was never a bad idea, even in the days of the “old normal.” Now, however, you’ll truly appreciate the views of the Austin skyline as you look down the hill toward it, whether you enjoy the famous chips and queso on offer at Guero’s Taco Bar, or try out burger-and-milkshake combos at Hopdoddy, an Austin institution that’s celebrating its 10th birthday this year. Where to stay: In addition to being a fixture of Austin for more than a decade, Hotel San José puts you within walking distance of the entire South Congress entertainment district. State Street in Santa Barbara, CA The only thing better than a visit to Santa Barbara, that charming city by the sea, where it always feels like spring? Dining outdoors amid perpetual warmth and sunshine, of course! The city has decided to stop cars from driving on State Street between Haley and Sola, which has allowed several restaurants that were previously closed to re-open. Visit Benchmark for New American fare and craft cocktails, or Sama Sama for a journey through Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine. Where to stay: Housed in a classic Spanish-colonial style building, Kimpton Canary Hotel pairs an unforgettable location with an ambiance that is unmistakably Santa Barbara. The road back to normal is going to be a long one, but cities across the country are doing their part of make the journey more tolerable. Whether along the Pacific in Southern California, or in the hippest neighborhoods of Austin and Chicago, eateries are expanding their dining rooms outdoors, literally into the streets in some instances. On the other hand, while not all the neighborhoods on this list are “streateries” by definition, they ensure a delicious meal that’s also safe. After all, is there anything in better taste these days than supporting your local economy while also making sure our healthcare heroes don’t get overloaded? Tagged: Cheap Tips, Food & drink Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Robert Schrader Latest posts by Robert Schrader (see all) 7 best summer jobs that let you live someplace great - May 3, 2021 7 new “eat streets” to check out in U.S. cities this summer - June 22, 2020 3 perfect days in Guadalajara, Mexico - December 27, 2017 Related Posts America’s most amazing meals for $10 or less By Elisa Drake 6 eats iconic to their city for $10 or less By Ally Marotti 7 cities to summit on a budget By Ally Marotti 9 craft beer fests worth traveling to in 2020 By Matt Lynch
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 9 craft beer fests worth traveling to in 2020 and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2020/01/best-craft-beer-fests-worth-traveling-to-in-2020/.CaptchaSubmit Matt LynchJanuary 14, 2020 Leave a comment It may seem like craft beer festivals are a dime a dozen these days, but that doesn’t mean they’re all created equal. Certain craft celebrations still separate themselves from a crowded field in ways that make them not just a fun diversion if you happen to be in the area, but bucket list-worthy attractions any beer lover should consider planning a whole trip around. When you’re putting your 2020 calendar together,* keep these 9 exceptional beer gatherings in mind. *Dates and prices are approximated based on 2019 data, so keep tabs on the relevant websites for updates. RELATED: America’s 7 hottest neighbeerhoods (that’s beer neighborhoods) Extreme Beer Festival: Boston, MA (Late January, early February: $75–$100) Beer Advocate has been hosting this celebration of boundary-pushing brews (each brewery is tasked with creating an “extreme beer”) since 2003, and given how many boundaries have been pushed since that time, it’s no wonder this Boston fest continues to be one of the most interesting annual looks into where the industry is going. Bonus: Yes, it’s touristy to have a drink at Boston’s Bull & Finch, the bar that inspired Cheers, but if you like beer and you’re in Boston, don’t you also kind of have to pay homage to Norm? WakeFest Invitational: Miami, FL (Mid February: $60-$350) Standout Miami brewer J. Wakefield has evolved its anniversary celebration into quite the event, drawing 120 breweries from around the nation who reliably put their best foams forward at this popular shindig. Expect to taste plenty of rare, sought-after suds, fill up at a sea of food trucks, dance like no one’s watching (if that’s how you roll) and have a generally fantastic time. Bonus: For most of the country, Miami weather in February doesn’t require much of a sales pitch. Savor: Washington, DC (May: $135–$175) The food quality at beer festivals can vary (which is why you often see attendees subsisting on a pretzel necklace), but there’s nothing to worry about with Savor, which feels more like something out of a Top Chef episode than a typical beer fest. The 90-plus breweries in attendance work up specific food pairings for their beers on offer: think barrel-aged stouts with coconut-chocolate macaroons and fruited sours with curry squash samosas. You won’t leave hungry. Bonus: DC has plenty of tourism opportunities that other cities simply do not: The Smithsonian, the Lincoln Memorial, the chance to yell at your congressman … The possibilities are endless! Firestone Walker Invitational: Paso Robles, CA (June: $90–$200) 2020 will be the ninth iteration of this Paso Robles event from industry heavy hitters Firestone Walker, which draws in some of the biggest worldwide names in brewing among the event’s 50 entrants, not to mention an always impressive lineup of brews from the hosts themselves. If the opportunity to rub elbows with some of the biggest names in brewing with a little live music providing the soundtrack sounds appealing, this is for you. Bonus: If your beverage interests aren’t limited to beer, you’re smack in the heart of wine country. Green City: Brooklyn, NY (June: $100-$300) Arguably no brewery in the country has distinguished itself in the recent East Coast IPA boom the way Other Half has, so it’s no surprise the festival they throw in Brooklyn in celebration of all things hoppy has emerged as a must-do. More than 70 breweries participate, and if you have people in your party who aren’t necessarily hopheads, fear not, as they also have other styles on offer. There’s also professional wrestling. And a pig roast. Truly something for everyone! Bonus: The outer boroughs are home to NYC’s best beer gardens. Read all about them here. Modern Times Festival of Dankness: San Diego, CA (August: $50) While the East Coast has attracted much of the IPA notoriety in recent years, beer drinkers shouldn’t forget their roots, and the industry-sweeping influence the West Coast IPA wrought on contemporary beer palates. So get yourself to San Diego for this celebration of the preeminent beer style in one of America’s preeminent beer cities, with a festival lineup that can hang with absolutely anyone. Bonus: Need some grub to wash down those suds? The fest location in Waterfront Park is just a stone’s throw from the buzzy Little Italy Food Hall, featuring six food stations and an outdoor patio. The Great Taste of the Midwest: Madison, WI (August: $60) Along with GABF, Great Taste is one of the country’s OG beer festivals (having debuted just one year later in 1983) and it’s aged like a fine wine. Or barrel-aged stout, to be more on-topic. The lakeside location in Madison is gorgeous in late-summer and the 190-plus Midwest breweries in attendance represent some of the industry’s best—no wonder tickets sells out in a hurry. If you struck out, it’s worth noting that local bars run all kinds of exciting tap takeovers and other events the night before on “Great Taste Eve,” so you can still have yourself a fine time. Bonus: Few American states understand beer drinking with the depth that Wisconsin does. If you don’t make reckless bratwurst and cheese curd consumption a part of your visit, you’re doing it wrong. Great American Beer Festival: Denver, CO (Sept 24–26: $85 per session; $70 for Brewers Association members) The granddaddy of all beer festivals is truly an experience every beer lover should have at least once, and having started in 1982, it predates many of its attendees and competitors at this point. The sheer scope of the Denver event remains unparalleled (nearly 10,000 different beers entered in 2019), and the level of interaction and access you can have with the brewers is also second to none. Make a weekend of it and make use of the GABF app—with so many beers to try it’s likely that your memory of what you tasted will be a little hazy by that third day. Bonus: Tack a hike onto the end of your trip to mitigate some of the health aftereffects from your weekend of revelry. Festival of Wood and Barrel Aged Beers: Chicago (November: $85) Barrel-aged beer has become one of the singular objects of beer geek obsession in recent years, and FOBAB (as it’s typically abbreviated) has become the preeminent celebration of them since debuting in 2003. The Chicago event has grown to feature hundreds of breweries tapping rare and unique beers that’ve spent time developing additional character in bourbon barrels, wine barrels, rum barrels—you name it, they’re trying it. It’s a coveted ticket, so be sure to keep an eye on the website for the 2020 release date. Bonus: If things break right you might catch a Bears, Bulls, or Blackhawks game while you’re in town. If they don’t, you might catch a flight cancelled in a fall snowstorm. Live on the edge! Tagged: Food & drink Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Matt Lynch Latest posts by Matt Lynch (see all) 7 ways to have a blast in Ireland on a budget - November 30, 2021 9 craft beer fests worth traveling to in 2020 - January 14, 2020 Related Posts 6 eats iconic to their city for $10 or less By Ally Marotti Everything you need to know about off-season travel By Dalia Colon 7 new “eat streets” to check out in U.S. cities... By Robert Schrader
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 5 strangely amazing concert venues and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2019/12/5-amazing-ly-weird-concert-venues/.CaptchaSubmit Jesse BetendDecember 27, 2019 Leave a comment When it comes to live music, atmosphere is key. There’s nothing like seeing your favorite band while surrounded by fans. These concert venues however, take the experience to a whole new level. Here are our six top suggestions for totally unique (and weird) places to catch a concert. RELATED: America’s best vintage drive-in movie theaters A natural rock formation Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado is a gigantic outdoor concert venue built seamlessly into natural rock formations about 30 minutes outside of Denver. From above, Red Rocks looks almost like a giant crater, but the circular rock arrangement creates natural acoustics and serves as a stunning backdrop for performers. The space has been used as a gathering place throughout history, starting as early as 1906 with the Ute tribe, who called it “The Garden of the Angels.” The venue’s unique history and beautiful landscape have made it a favorite location for music videos and concert recordings, including some by John Denver, U2 and, famously, Jethro Tull. Interesting fact: The latter event incited the “Riot at Red Rocks in 1971,” when thousands of ticket-less fans showed up and then attempted to charge their way into the venue. An abandoned steel mill Flickr CC: Discover Lehigh Valley SteelStacks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania looks like the backdrop to a post-apocalyptic steampunk movie. It also has a pretty cool origin story. The Bethlehem Steel Mill once employed more than 10,000 workers, supplying steel that built bridges and skyscrapers across America. When the mill closed in 1955, rather than abandon their main source of industry, the town came together to turn the plant into an arts center. SteelStacks’ arts campus now hosts more than 1,000 shows and 8 festivals annually. The town’s sense of community, combined with SteelStacks’ stunning backdrop, create an atmosphere that shouldn’t be missed. ALSO: Book your trip and your concert tickets all in one place—CheapTickets even has tickets to sold out shows! A decommissioned cargo ship Flickr CC: Shawn Spencer-Smith That’s right. The Thekla in the Mud Dock area of Bristol, United Kingdom is an actual former cargo ship now serving as a floating nightclub and moored concert venue. Thekla was built in Germany in 1958, and served as a commercial shipping vessel before running aground in Gatesend, Norfolk. For seven years Thekla sat vacant and rusted, before being renovated and sent back into service, this time as an entertainment vessel. Renamed The Old Profanity Showboat, she featured jazz, theater, comedy and cabaret shows. Today, she’s the Thekla once again and hosts performers like Franz Ferdinand, Pete Doherty and X Ambassadors. A Wild West movie set In 1946, a group of film producers built a Wild West movie set called Pioneertown in California. Production designers outfitted Pioneertown‘s “Main Street” with a replica bank, saloon, chapel and cantina. The location got a lot of work, appearing in more than 50 films, including Warner Baxter’s The Cisco Kid. In 1972, Pioneertown became home to Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace, a self-described “honky tonk tavern” and music venue. Notable performers have included Paul McCartney, Queens Of The Stone Age and The Arctic Monkeys. Robert Plant once famously stopped by for a surprise show. Pappy & Harriet’s has also been credited with being a main source of tourism in the area. A SXSW-produced documentary claimed Pappy & Harriet’s Hollywood history and unique atmosphere “sings life into an otherwise deserted California ghost town” although Pioneertown is currently experiencing a tourism renaissance. A cave Flickr CC: Harrison Walter Measuring 32 miles long, Cumberland Caverns in McMinnville, Tennessee is the second largest cave in Tennessee and also one of the ten largest in America. Located 333 feet under McMinnville, Tennessee, the caverns are home to Bluegrass Underground, a monthly concert series produced by PBS. Stunning acoustics and an other-worldly environment make Cumberland Caverns a one-of-a-kind experience. Staff even encourage concert goers to explore the massive cavern before the show. If you get lost, don’t panic—just follow the sound of screaming fans. Tagged: California, City, Destinations, Family, Festivals, Flights, International, Music, Seasonal, Tips & advice Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Jesse BetendJesse is a writer and radio producer in Chicago. He is the Executive Producer for the embarrassing storytelling podcast "We Still Like You" and writes for the Chicago Sun-Times. Latest posts by Jesse Betend (see all) 5 strangely amazing concert venues - December 27, 2019 The 8 most epic Super Bowl halftime shows ever - December 20, 2016 The 9 best holiday festivals for foodies - December 8, 2016 Related Posts Lollapalooza, plus 8 more summer music festivals you can still... By Michelle Schuman 7 reasons to drop everything and go to Oktoberfest Zinzinnati By Krista Burton Why Sacramento might actually be your new favorite California city By CheapTickets Blog Editors America’s most awesome vintage record stores By Donald Liebenson
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called America’s best vintage drive-in movie theaters and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2019/05/americas-best-vintage-drive-in-movie-theaters/.CaptchaSubmit Donald LiebensonMay 7, 2019 1 Comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips. This article was updated May 14, 2020. Don’t be sad that there were once more than 4,000 drive-in theaters in America; be delighted that there area still upward of 400 left, keeping alive the glorious tradition of watching movies under the stars. In fact, these outdoor entertainment spaces have enjoyed an unexpected resurgence since social distancing has become a normal part of our daily lives, and they deserve our support now more than ever. After all, no one owns a drive-in to get rich. “It’s 100% passion,” says Mark Freeman, who with his wife, Jennifer, co-owns the Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre in North Carolina. Freeman does it because he loved going to drive-ins as a kid, because he loves introducing a new generation to drive-in culture and because he especially loves it when older couples tell him they frequented the Raleigh Road when they were young and now they’re bringing their grandchildren. Here are seven vintage venues that refuse to let drive-ins go quietly into that good night. RELATED: These are the 9 coolest motels in America Flickr CC: vhines200 66 Drive-In: Carthage, MO At last count, there are only 10 drive-in theaters left along America’s Main Street. The 66 on Route 66 in Carthage is celebrating its 70th anniversary. In 2003, it was added to the National Registry of Historic Places. With it’s neon sign, the distinctive 66-foot-high steel-framed screen housing, the original playground and stucco concession stand, it “looks and feels very much as it did when it opened for business,” according to the National Park Service website. Some contend that the 66 inspired the vintage design of the Radiator Springs Drive-in in the Pixar film, Cars. HI-Way Drive In Theater Hi-Way Drive-In: Santa Maria, CA This single-screen Hi-Way is located smack dab between Los Angeles and San Francisco, about 30-minutes south of San Luis Obispo. Opened in 1959, it boasts an irresistible iconic red neon sign and its ricos nachos served in the snack bar are almost as big a draw as the nightly double-feature of new releases. The movies can be heard on your car radio, but for old school patrons, old-fashioned speakers are available in the first eight rows. The Mahoning Drive-in Theater: Lehighton, PA Pennsylvania is home to America’s oldest drive-in (Shankweiler’s in Orfield), as well as this plucky survivor that boasts the largest CinemaScope screen in the state. The Mahoning Drive-In in Lehighton is the subject of a lovely 2017 documentary, At the Drive-In, which chronicles a make-or-break summer in the drive-in’s 70-year history. The traditional opening night double feature is Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and The Wizard of Oz. This Memorial Day brings the fifth annual Zombie Fest; nine movies in three days. The Outdoor Theater drive-in in McHenry, IL The McHenry Outdoor Theater: McHenry, IL The McHenry Outdoor is the last drive-in theater standing in the Chicagoland area, and one of less than a dozen operating in Illinois (The Cascade in West Chicago just closed this year). It opened in 1951 as the Skyline Drive-In and after a renovation, re-opened as the McHenry in 1977. What it lacks in flash and dazzle, it makes up for in history and generational connection, so much so that in 2013 the locals voted in numbers big enough to earn the 800-car McHenry a free digital projector from Honda’s Project Drive-In. Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre: Henderson, NC Mark Freeman and his wife, Jennifer, have co-owned the Raleigh Road in Henderson since 2001 and it’s been quite an odyssey. Renovations and digital upgrades aside, this drive-in is still pretty much setup the same as when it opened 70 years ago as the Moon-Glo. It’s got the same 1949 bunker-style snack bar (with a full menu that includes Philly cheesesteaks). The Raleigh Road shows primarily new releases, but in later summer, the double-bills include classics and cult favorites primarily from the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s like The Goonies. Last year’s pairing of the original Halloween and the reboot was a big hit. “I truly love movies and if we can put on a good show and the people come out, we’ve done our job,” Freeman says. The Skyway Drive-In in August of 1960 Skyway Drive-In Theatre: Fish Creek, WI The Skyway Drive-In sits across from Peninsula State Park in Wisconsin’s Door County, a popular Midwest vacation destination known as “the Cape Cod of the Great Lakes.” The theater opened in 1950 and is reportedly the longest continually operating drive-in in Wisconsin. It’s pure old school with one screen, two movies and vintage “Let’s go to the snack bar” interstitials and commercials. The Skyway not only runs the vintage ads for Pic mosquito repellent (“Light it and forget it”), but the coils are for sale at the concession stand (and it actually works!). Blue Starlite, Austin BONUS: Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In: Austin, TX This charmingly funky labor of love has a terrific origin story. Josh Frank started his mini-boutique drive-in to impress the woman who would later become his wife; on their sixth-month anniversary, he projected Grease on an alleyway wall. Eight years later, the Blue Starlite comprises three DIY screens on a rented plot of land. The main screen accommodates 25 cars and 25 pedestrians and shows family fare. A side screen showing cult faves can be viewed by eight cars and 30 pedestrians. A back screen in a forested area is for pedestrians only. Concessions are served out of an RV. There is a second location in Vail, CO. Tagged: California, Cheap City, USA, Cheap Tips, Chicago, Events, Family, Top 10 list, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Donald Liebenson Latest posts by Donald Liebenson (see all) America’s most awesome vintage record stores - August 20, 2019 America’s best vintage drive-in movie theaters - May 7, 2019 Related Posts 9 fantastic events that are definitely happening this summer By Zach Cunning 8 perfect spring break destinations for beach haters By Dalia Colon Why Sacramento might actually be your new favorite California city By CheapTickets Blog Editors Do go chasing these beautiful U.S. waterfalls By Michele Herrmann
Shares10Shares10Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called America’s 7 secretest speakeasy bars and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2017/03/americas-7-secretest-speakeasy-bars/.CaptchaSubmit Steve HeislerMarch 6, 2017 Leave a comment Speakeasy bars during the Prohibition era were everywhere. And nowhere. Boozers were required to remain hush-hush, lest their favorite backdoor moonshine distillery be discovered by the police and promptly shut down. Today, we are free to enjoy a cocktail or seven wherever we please. But in choosing the perfect barstool, a sense of danger adds appeal to throwback speakeasy bars. Think secret entrances behind bookshelves and phone booths, and well-guarded passwords. Of course, it’s hard to keep secrets in the epoch of Instagram and “location services enabled,” but these seven bars have raised, well, the bar on maintaining mystery. RELATED: 11 secret restaurants you don’t know but should Photo courtesy of Adults Only Adults Only (Los Angeles, CA) Adult video stores are fairly irrelevant, thanks to the advent of the Internet. Yet this one in Los Angeles thrives off Sunset Boulevard in the ritziest, most enticing of locations: behind a Burger King. Gather your mettle (aka a Whopper), head into a storefront with “XXX” proudly displayed, and through the back sits an immaculately designed throwback to the 1920s. Woodwork and dark wallpaper conjure images of hiding from the police, and extravagantly designed, lush couches provide comfort—even if the cocktail names are unsettling: The “Money Shot,” “Rusty Trombone,” and “Dirty Sanchez” are demonstrated both in the bookstore and at the bar. And given the “Dirty Sanchez” is a sweet and spicy concoction of mezcal, sweet cucumber, and zesty serrano chili, we’ll opt for that one. For now… Photo courtesy of @kai_____c Angel’s Share (New York, ) So undercover it doesn’t have a website, Angel’s Share stands out amid the infinite speakeasy bar scene of New York (there are…a lot). To find it, head into a bustling Japanese restaurant in the East Village, get out of the way of servers with plates full of sushi, enter an unmarked door, and you’re in a Narnia of candlelit tranquility. Angel’s Share takes no reservations, asks patrons to keep their voices down, and the wait for even a spot to lean against the bar is typically an hour or more. Stick around. And shut up. Sipping a “Summertime,” made with jasmine-infused rum, over hushed whispers, is the epitome of calm. Photo courtesy of @melissawv5 The Owl Bar (Baltimore, MD) This one in Baltimore doesn’t take major sleuthing to find (or minor sleuthing, for that matter), but earns points for its history of ingenuity. A statue of the eponymous owl took up residence in the lobby of the 1902-built Hotel Belvedere (now condos) to give thirsty lawbreakers the signal. When its eyes were lit up, the hidden bar, nestled way in the back, was open for business. The Owl Bar now serves legal drinks, of course, but its classic look remains. The patterned bricks in the high walls have been preserved, as has the immaculate molding of windows and archways. The statue, too, remains. ALSO: It’s no secret, Orbitz Rewards is the best way to earn free hotels faster! Chapter Room (Atlanta, GA) Congratulations! You have been accepted to Brewniversity! No SAT scores required! Atlanta‘s Taco Mac (Southern-style taco and chicken wing joint) already boasts a nice selection of craft beers, but to gain access downstairs in the Chapter Room, you must download Brewniversity’s mobile app and enroll, tuition-free. Admittance allows you access to the vaunted beer-bastion Chapter Room, located downstairs. The beer list is far more robust and international, plus the bar’s hiding an impressive list of whiskeys. Ironically, you can use technology to track how much you drink, using the app, and earn points toward nothing in particular—except to redo college drinking doppelbocks instead of Miller High Life. Photo courtesy of @mashdpotaylor The Drifter (Chicago, IL) The Drifter in Chicago serves up a freshly caught red herring: It’s located in the basement of what has now become another bar called Green Door Tavern. You thought you were done drinking? Think again. Head downstairs to the bathrooms, stumble through an unassuming wooden door between the men’s and women’s rooms, and you’ll find an actual former speakeasy. The Drifter space is small but cozy; rubbing elbows with other drinkers transports you a century back in time, when liquor was at a premium and everyone wanted in. The drinks that will be served that night are pulled from a tarot card deck. So if you loved a particular cocktail, don’t expect the same next time. But always expect elaborate woodwork and—occasionally—burlesque dancers to complete the time travel back nearly a century. Photo courtesy of @drinksanford Hanson’s Shoe Repair (Orlando, FL) Two decades from now, we seriously doubt anyone will remember voicemail. It’s tedious to not only leave one, but to listen. And who wants to hear voices?! Suck it up, though, and call Hanson’s Shoe Repair—a hidden Orlando bar and occasional music venue worth the inconvenience. Potential visitors call and are asked to leave a message with the time they’d like their “shoes repaired” (no promises on preventing falls while wasted) and how many pairs they’re bringing in. If all seems well, Hanson’s will provide the password for entry that night. The code changes each night, so hold onto it preciously to enjoy craft cocktails in what looks like, well, an old-timey shoe repair shop. The best part: Passwords arrive via text. The future is now. Photo courtesy of @jeremy.pistachio Bourbon and Branch (San Francisco, CA) “Please speak-easy” is the first rule of Bourbon and Branch (the second rule isn’t, “You do not talk about Fight Club). This raspberry-tinted San Francisco bar—with working-man decor ranging from books to barrels—is rigid about its policies, but it’s all in the interest of providing the 20 or so patrons a relaxing, reflective experience. See, within this particular speakeasy is yet another secret room in the back, behind a bookshelf. There’s a password to enter, “books,” and inside is an impressive library for your party to enlighten themselves and sip delicious cocktails . Just don’t order a cosmo. House rules. Tagged: Food & drink Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Steve Heisler Latest posts by Steve Heisler (see all) 10 can’t-miss summer music festivals - April 17, 2017 14 can’t-miss summer events - April 3, 2017 Phoenix on the cheap for the Final Four - March 27, 2017 Related Posts Everything you need to know about off-season travel By Dalia Colon 7 all-you-can-eat buffets for your all-American appetite By Dalia Colon
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 7 best free museums to hit this fall and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2016/08/7-best-free-museums/.CaptchaSubmit Ally MarottiAugust 24, 2016 Leave a comment Museums are educational, entertaining and a great way to spend an unexpectedly rainy day when you are in a new city. When you can get into those museums for free, well, that’s just the cherry on top. Here are seven of the best free museums to check out on your next trip. Red penguins adorn the outside of the 21C Hotel Museum in Louisville. Courtesy of LuAnn Snawder Photography. 21C Museum Hotel 700 W. Main St. Louisville, KY 40202 This nine-room boutique hotel features contemporary art throughout the lobby and public spaces, as well as ina basement gallery area. Admission is free, and exhibits rotate. Grab a flight of bourbon in the hotel bar on your way out, because why not. 21C also has locations in Cincinnati, Bentonville, Ark., and Durham, N.C. An a cappella group sings in a grand room at the Chicago Cultural Center. Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602 The Cultural Center’s might among the Chicago’s museums is a little unexpected, especially since the city is so famed for its art and museum scene. But nestled along Michigan Avenue, the 1897 building could be an art exhibit of its own with this vaulted ceilings, mosaics and stained glass windows. Rotating art exhibitions incorporate the building’s beautiful spaces into their displays. ‘Eve Hearing the Voice’ by Moses Jacob Ezekiel, at Cincinnati Art Museum. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. Cincinnati Art Museum 953 Eden Park Drive Cincinnati, OH 45202 Cincinnati’s art museum is to die for. Before you’ve even made it into the main galleries, you will have already a mummy and a couple Van Goghs. It’s variety is reminiscent of London’s National Gallery (another fantastic free museum). Occasionally, a special exhibit will roll through town that costs you a couple bucks, but the rest of the expansive museum is free. A piece of artwork from the Museum of Bad Art on display in Taiwan. Courtesy of Connie Ma. The Museum of Bad Art 55 Davis Square Somerville, MA 02144 This collection of “offbeat” art is a community-driven effort, accepting both monetary and artistic donations. You can decide whether the art is bad or just, well, artistic. The museum is free daily. There are also locations in nearby Brookline and South Weymouth. T-Rex. Courtesy of Ally Marotti. American Museum of Natural History Central Park West and 79th Street New York, NY 10024 This free museum suggests you pay $22 to get in, but that is considered a donation and is not mandatory. You can donate any amount or nothing. Officials understand that those on a budget like to appreciate art and history as well. Check out millennia of history at this museum just off Central Park. See dinosaur bones and get a picture taken with a life-sized version of Teddy Roosevelt. A child takes advantage of one of the many interactive displays at National Museum of the United States Air Force. Courtesy of Marada. National Museum of the United States Air Force 1100 Spaatz St. Dayton, OH 45431 Near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, this interactive military museum gives visitors a look into Air Force vessels through the ages. Visitors can climb in and out of cockpits and see planes soaring overhead. There’s also a nice tribute to Ohio’s own flight pioneers, the Wright brothers. The Hope Diamond is on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. Courtesy of Ben_Lei. Smithsonian Institution Washington D.C. and New York City All 19 museums and galleries and the National Zoological Park run by the Smithsonian Institution are free and open every day of the year except Christmas. Not sure where to start? Head to the National Museum of Natural History (one of the best free museums on earth) at the corner of 10th St. & Constitution Ave. in Washington D.C. to see dinosaur bones, a solid gold Monopoly set and the famed Hope Diamond. Tagged: Cheap Tips, City, Family, FREE!, Last minute travel, New York City Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Ally Marotti Latest posts by Ally Marotti (see all) Free tapas: An insider look at Spain’s tastiest dining tradition - October 25, 2016 Cheap Right Now: San Juan, Puerto Rico in October - October 5, 2016 6 cheap hotels in San Diego you’ll actually want to stay in - September 9, 2016 Related Posts America’s best public Christmas trees By Ally Marotti Get more for less: Vacations under $500 By Michelle Schuman Cheap City, USA: By Kara Franker Budget hotels with some serious views By Ally Marotti
Shares2Shares2Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 5 best Labor Day getaways in America and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2016/08/5-best-labor-day-getaways/.CaptchaSubmit Ally MarottiAugust 22, 2016 Leave a comment Labor Day weekend may mark the unofficial end of summer, but it should be by no means depressing! That extra day off gives us a chance to squeeze in one more summer vacay, filled with barbecues, fireworks and plenty of All-American goodness. It’s a time to get outside, to explore, to cook out, to see a new city — and some cities know how to celebrate the end of summer much, much better than others. Here are the towns that top our list of best places to make the most of your Labor Day getaways. Fireworks over the Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati, Ohio. Photo: Chris Miller – Flickr Catch some serious fireworks in Cincinnati, Ohio The Queen City knows how to celebrate Labor Day: Riverfest, a big fireworks show that draws people from the whole tristate area to the surprisingly scenic Ohio riverfront. The show starts at 9:05 p.m. Sunday, but stake out your place and find somewhere to park early, because both the Kentucky and Ohio sides of the river are always packed full by showtime. Some restaurants along the river, like Moerlein Lager House, the Beer Sellar and Bar Louie host viewing parties, but get your tickets in advance. And check out a Reds game while you’re in town — they’re home all weekend. For food, try Eli’s BBQ along the river, Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria in Newport, or one of the many eateries in Over-the-Rhine. The Riverwalk in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Photo: MK Feeney – Flickr. Live your best life (and Labor Day getaway) in Chicago, Illinois Winters in Chicago come on hard and fast, and everyone there knows it, so the locals squeeze every last drop out of summer. On your Labor Day getaway, the beaches will still be popping, the outdoor patios at all the best restaurants will still be buzzing, and you can enjoy America’s pastime one more time since the White Sox are in town. You can grab a drink on a rooftop patio or stroll along the Riverwalk while the nights are still warm enough to do so. The Chicago Jazz Festival is also takingplace over Labor Day weekend in Millennium Park, and it’s free. Denver skyline. Photo: Sheila Sund – Flickr. Get your nature and city fixes in Denver, Colorado One could argue that any time of year is a good time to visit Denver, and you’d be right, but Labor Day is one of the best. The dry heat of summer is starting to break, and some of the aspens in the mountains are beginning to turn some gorgeous shades of yellow. September in the Rockies means less chances for natural disasters — wildfire risk has dropped, monsoon season has died down — which makes for some great hiking. And in the city, cooler September weather means more enjoyable craft brews on patios, and uninhibited views ofthe mountains. Downtown’s Civic Center Park is also hosting A Taste of Denver, so make sure you show up hungry. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Photo: Lee Cannon – Flickr. Show off your dance moves in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Philly throws a giant two-day Made in America Music Festival during your perfect Labor Day getaway. And what better time to not only be in a patriotic place, but dance your butt off at a patriotically-named fest? It’s the fourth year for the festival, which is held on multiple stages throughout the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Jay-Z curates the lineup, meaning it’s a must-see. Coldplay and Rihanna are headlining this year, with performances from Chance the Rapper, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and more. Make sure to get your tickets now. Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Photo: Steve – Flickr. Get back to basics in Midwestern Milwaukee, Wisconsin Time for your Labor Day cookout. The weekend wouldn’t be complete without a barbecue, so why not center your trip around some smoked meat? Milwaukee is throwing the Big Gig BBQ on Sept. 4, and it’s bigger and better than any backyard barbecue you’ve ever been to. There will be brisket, ribs and BBQ from 10 of the best local and national grillers. And in a city that’s home to storied beerslike Pabst Blue Ribbon, Schlitz and MillerCoors, it’s safe to say you’ll have some quality hydration with your grub. Tagged: Family, Festivals, FREE!, Holidays, Music Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. 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