1) Swim With Manatees in Crystal River, Florida
This funky, old-school town on Florida’s Nature Coast never disappoints. Manatees are the main attraction, but there is so much more. Great dining, golf, a myriad of recreational opportunities puts this perennial favorite in this year’s top ten again! Want more info? Check out my itinerary and manatee swim info. Start by clicking here.
2) The Big “D” – Dallas
Everything’s bigger in Texas! From first-class museums, world-class shopping, incredible public art, Tex-Mex and BBQ, even a live cattle drive, you’ll find something for everyone in the Dallas-Forth Worth area.
3) Denver, Colorado
Three words. Fabulous fall foliage. Any time of year Denver is a great city, but fall is perfection. Perfect weather for baseball, beer, and outdoor recreation. Hiking at Rocky Mountain National Park is not to be missed. I stepped outside my comfort zone on a trek to Sky Pond, check it out here.
4) LeConte Lodge, Great Smoky Mountains
It’s worth the hassle to get reservations to stay the night in this one-of-a-kind lodge atop Mount LeConte which is reached on foot. For details on the property as well as the hike to and from click here.
5) Senoia, Georgia
Huh? This one’s not for everybody, but if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead it is a must-do. Located about an hour south of Georgia, Senoia offers set tours, shopping, and sipping; you may even spot a zombie or two.
6) Supai, Arizona
You’ve seen the brilliant turquoise waterfalls flowing over red cliffs on Instagram, right? They’re even more gorgeous in person. You can read more about them here.
7) Mardi Gras Magic in Gulf Shores
Bet you didn’t know that Mardi Gras originated in Alabama! It did, and Gulf Shores has a family-friendly celebration. If you’re lucky you’ll run into Lucy Buffet (yep, Jimmy’s sister) at the boat parade.
8) New York City
Is there anything more magical than NYC during the holidays? I don’t think so. Visiting at this time of year has been on my list for a while. It didn’t disappoint.
9) Asheville, North Carolina
Craft beer. Plenty of it. Fabulous scenery, excellent eateries, tons of outdoor recreational opportunities. You’ll love it.
10) Austin, Texas
New Year’s Eve in Austin. Incredible way to end 2018 and kick off 2019. A show at Esther’s Follies on 6th St. is not to be missed. Their NYE Year-In-Review extravaganza was hilarious and the complimentary glass of champagne turned into bottles being passed throughout the show.
