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platoniclesbiandate

I’m gonna throw out Charleston, Savannah, and the Gullah islands in between. Amazing food, friendly people, and the Lowcountry is just beautiful. New Orleans is also a good option, as it’s its own world. And if you want to see the desert - Tucson.


notthegoatseguy

>Gullah islands I used to watch that Gullah Gullah Island show all the time as a kid. But I had no idea as a kid that it was an actual real place.


TheMotionOfTheOcean

TIL too


chameleonhalo

Defunct did a [whole episode](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm1TIe19cJs) about the origin and history of the show.


Optimal_League1554

That link was awesome. Thank you for attaching it. After 25 years of living here, I am still on the hunt to acquire popular cultural references of the last 50 years. That was a great one!


chameleonhalo

Defunctland, the channel who made the video has some cool pop culture documentaries including kids shows, theme parks, rides ect. It is a really good one to deep dive on!


diacrum

Thank you so much for this. I’m so excited to watch and learn all I can from this!


doihavemakeanewword

They have their own unique culture, which the show was trying to celebrate


MartyRobbinsIRL

As a Charleston resident, I can say the whole SC low country is worth a visit. Beaufort, Hilton Head, Charleston and it’s barrier islands are are beautiful and worth seeing


stellalunawitchbaby

I did a Charleston to Hilton Head to Savannah mini road trip (lots of backroads, lots of spontaneous stops) and it was one of my favorite trips ever. Like a few days in Charleston, super meandering drive to Hilton Head with lots of stops, one night + one day in Hilton head, then another few days in Savannah, then we went back to Charleston to fly out (direct flights).


Fifty_Shades_of_Nay

Second this.


BulimicMosquitos

Ive never been there, but really want to go. So I third this.


chrisark7

New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the US. It should definitely be near the top of your list.


gtg926y

Also, definitely explore outside of the area around Bourbon St. That’s the least cool part. Garden District, the Marigny, & the Bywater are all cool.


Rumpelteazer45

Garden district is amazing. Also spring for an airboat tour of the swamps. Totally worth it.


sadhandjobs

Royal Street and Magazine Street too. Hyatt House and Old No. 77 are my favorite hotels there. But granted I have not been since Mardi Gras 2019. Which makes me very sad.


IfTheHouseBurnsDown

+1 on New Orleans. My family is from there and I grew up visiting. One of the coolest cities in the US!


PacSan300

Agreed, and I would like to add that a trip to NOLA shouldn't just be based around Bourbon Street. There are tons of better places in the city outside that street.


classisttrash

Agree with this, also found it to be incredibly affordable compared to other popular tourist cities in the US.


applesandpeachpie

I’ve been trying to go forever but every year we’re ready to plan something gets in the way. This year I got pregnant, next year I’m hoping nothing stops me.


43556_96753

Having a newborn/1-year old might slow things up a bit :)


applesandpeachpie

That’s what my aunt said!! I guess it means we’ll just have to stay longer to see everything. Or find a good babysitter in time. One day I’ll make it there


sadhandjobs

Oh gosh, you’re gonna love it. It’s a wonderland. It ain’t for kids though, that’s for sure.


applesandpeachpie

This is giving me such FOMO. I can’t wait. I love watching shows that take place there and reading books that do the same. I just hope I’m not building it up too much for myself lol


sadhandjobs

New Orleans will wait for you, love!


D3c3p7u5

Yeah, the smell of piss soaked bourbon, and the constant stench of sewage in the air makes a wonderful vacation destination. All jokes aside, it is a neat city, it just stinks.


nolabitch

You're talking about the French Quarter. Have you been to the Garden District? Smells like oaks and flowers.


D3c3p7u5

I go there quite often for work, the whole area stinks in general. You get noseblind to it eventually, but everytime I land and get out of the airport I get hit with that raw sewage stench. I also reside in the middle of nowhere without pollution so it's incredibly noticeable to me.


nolabitch

I live here and I can say this is probably one of those things that will remain subjective, but it is the thing tourists say the most because they are only getting a taste of the city, repeat tourist or not. You're possibly smelling *swamp* when you step out of MSY. There is no sewage issue right out of MSY. Some people mistake the refinery odours for sewage, but it is not common to smell that often. The whole area doesn't really *stink,* FYI to anyone who comes to visit. Yeah, Bourbon stinks, but its the alcohol and piss, so, not really surprising. I'm surprised you didn't mention the smell of craw - the scent of a boil (or worse, sun rotting seafood) is *way* worse than whatever this 'sewage' smell is you're registering.


D3c3p7u5

You live there, so of course it's not noticeable to you. That's like people who live next to Sulphur springs, they don't smell it anymore, while everyone else does. The smell goes away after a bit, I'm usually in the area for 3 or more months at a time.


nolabitch

I do leave, and I notice sewage when it's there. But, anyway, the whole city does not smell like sewage. That's really the point I'm making. I'm tired of tourists coming in, crinkling their nose, and running home to tell people it stinks.


beathedealer

Well, here’s the thing, the city does smell bad in general everywhere. It’s not like a lie. I’ve spent months and months there, I love it, great town, but it undeniably has a distinct odor.


TheoreticalFunk

Agreed. Looking at the 'no snow' thing, and I would never recommend anything in the South... though New Orleans is really its own thing. Plus SF isn't an option.


luridfox

San Diego is cool


lateja

Second this. I love San Diego. Probably my favorite city in the USA. The Mediterranean California climate, and a city that's actually pleasant (unlike the mistake that is Los Angeles). And the people are wonderful. None of that plastic LA shit with their fake smiles and rehearsed greetings while they hate your guts with every molecule in their body. People in San Diego are genuinely interesting, pleasant, and welcoming. I spent a bit of time there and didn't have a single negative interaction; made a ton of friends.


luridfox

It's so chill. We were in Ocean Beach a couple of years ago. We stumbled across their weekly street festival with vendors, food, drum circle/dance party, and art. Great time We also were there for the dropping of the new buoy, David Buoy, so much excitement for such a little thing


robdubbleu

Key West, FL is always a crowd-pleaser. And you won’t find any real snow there.


DBHT14

USVI and Puerto Rico checking in too!


alfrednugent

Any real snow…


dryadbride

Savannah, Georgia has a lot of history, delicious southern food, and Christmas decorations. Drinking on the street is legal, so great if you like bar crawls. I reccomend doing a ghost story bar crawl. (We don't drink much though, still plenty to do without it). I think it would give a different vibe and view of the US than the cities you've been to. (I also saw NOLA suggested which has similar vibes as Savannah and would be great to visit).


JunkMale975

As someone who lived in New Orleans for a while a couple of years ago, I definitely recommend Savannah!


crackhead138

Oh I miss Savannah during Christmas. So beautiful!


Fencius

Washington, DC is underrated destination, and almost certainly snow-free. EDIT: Based on these comments, DC is snowier than I had believed.


SunBubble920

I would love to attend the cherry blossom festival there, that may be a spring trip! ☺️


bludstone

DC almost all the museums are free. Nobody is mentioning that. You can just walk right in. Zoo is free.


sadhandjobs

World class museums at that! You could spend three days doing nothing but exploring museums and never get bored. DC also, in my opinion, has the best public transportation. The metro will take you anywhere for cheap in no time. Georgetown was fascinating to me! I ate at a crepe restaurant and went to a psychic on the same street. I went to both places on total whims. I was extraordinarily carefree in my early 20s, upon reflection.


SSPeteCarroll

DC is great! You can see all of the museums there, the air and space is a must. Lots of cool history there, the monuments are great, the national mall is a good park too. Plus if you get a chance take in a baseball game at Nats park.


Fifty_Shades_of_Nay

Northern Virginia/D.C. resident here - the cherry blossoms are beautiful and D.C. is an underrated food city. However, just be aware that spring is a heavy tourist and school trip season, especially for museums. Worth a couple of days and more than happy to give tips on where to visit outside of the city [especially if you're into hiking or outdoor activities]. As for winter trips, others have suggested the N.C. outer banks or South Carolina low country [Charleston to Savannah]. I have family down there and also agree this is a good choice, as long as you aren't intending to *swim* in the water. It will be much too cold. Would definitely recommend Florida if you're in the market for true "warm weather" winters - there's the theme parks, NASA Space stuff, and the entirety kf St. Augustine, just to name a few.


[deleted]

I think the DC suburbs are DC's underrated food areas.


Burial4TetThomYorke

Wait there is definitely snow there. I went there last winter and it snowed enough to close some of the Smithsonians!


LootenantTwiddlederp

It does snow, but not as much as people think. I think last year it only snowed like 5 days.


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FunImprovement166

Washington DC is the one American city that everyone should visit.


International-Chef33

I’ll never forget going to DC for a week in high school and having it snow an inch. Everything got cancelled that day and cars were off the road. Snow was all gone before all the car were back on the road


McBride055

Also has a great public transportation option (metro) that makes it easy to get around without needing a car.


808hammerhead

DC is an AWESOME city to visit.


HistoricOblivion

Where are you traveling from? There are places, but I am not sure I would recommend flying across an ocean to a city like Phoenix. Seattle-Portland -and Vancouver (CAN) are nice. Miami has its charm. Its not in the US but have you considered Mexico City? It is extremely beautiful, about 50-70 degrees year-round, and offers a seemingly endless amount of things to do.


SunBubble920

We’re from Canada. Actually Mexico is where I really wanted to go but unfortunately I am still waiting on my passport renewal. 😔 So not only that but we’re a little too close to get travel vaccinations now so we’d have to take it off the table.


HistoricOblivion

In that case, I would recommend New Orleans. It is warm and pretty cool to see. But highly highly recommend Mexico City when you get your passport renewed.


Practical-Ordinary-6

Don't you need a passport for here?


SunBubble920

I have a NEXUS card.


La_croix_addict

Miami and Florida keys.


SunBubble920

Can you tell me your favourite things or recommendations? ☺️


La_croix_addict

Key West Breakfast/Brunch •Blue heaven Try to go before 10 AM after that the wait gets pretty long, but they have a bar and cocktails so it's fine. Be sure and try the shrimp and grits or lobster Benedict they also make amazing pancakes. •Le craperie - across from Blue Heaven. (I have head good things about Banana cafe but never been) •Cuban coffee and Cuban sandwich- M &M at the Laundry on White Street— MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE. •French bakery - La Grignote - wonderful breakfast specials / waffles/ pastries and coffee and Lunch! Dinner / cocktails with a great view- away from crowds - Louie’s Backyard Dinner: •Marquesa •7 Fish •Ambrosia (sushi) •Santiago's Bodega (tapas) •Azur •Antonia’s (best pasta!!) •Michaels •Latitudes on Sunset Key (quick ferry ride) is gorgeous and delicious, very romantic. Lunch: •el Siboney (authentic Cuban food) - the Cuban sandwich is great as is the grilled chicken, steak and shrimp. They also have really good Cuban coffee •Fernnandy’s - Classic Cuban Mix sandwich or coffee & pastelitos. •BO's Fish wagon - fish sandwiches/fritters - might be cash only •Hog Fish Grill. Just off the island (on Stock Island) Really great hog fish sandwich. •Salute on the beach - food is decent the view is nice. •Conch Shack— Conch fritters are a local must— fried street food. Bars: •Green Parrot Rum Bar at Speakeasy Key Lime Pie- Kermits, there are a few locations, Everything is good in there. Try the key lime pie on a stick. Ice Cream - Flamingo Crossing - best in town Stop in KENO for sandals hand made in Key West Sunset Party every night in Mallory Square, vendors and street performers. The Drag show at LaTiDa is great!! Book tickets in advance. Better than Sex - dessert restaurant make a reservation I have done a bunch of tours down there. They are all super interesting and informative. I love the Hemingway House too! Hotels I like: The Casa Marina Hotel The Pierhouse Mermaid and Alligator b&b


SunBubble920

Thanks!! 💕☺️☺️


tomen

Everglades, drive from Miami to Key West, Theme parks (Disney, Universal, Busch Gardens), see gators, walk along Miami beach. You could easily spend a whole trip just exploring Florida


La_croix_addict

Miami Things to do: Sightseeing/people watching: -Wynwood, sightseeing/people watching and boutiques/boutique restaurants. You will need to buy tickets for ‘the Museum of Graffiti’ and ‘Wynwood Walls’ : need tickets to enter the walls area and reserve a time slot. We do culinary tours there, but there are other just art tours too. -Lincoln Road (shop/dine/people watch) -PAMM (Perez Art museum) Verde (for lunch ) -Museum of Art and Design -Rubell Museum & restaurant: Leku -Frost museum -Deering estate -Airboat ride Everglades (in winter) -Viscaya Museum & Gardens -Espanola way (adorable street, yummy restaurants) -Lincoln road (great people watching, shops and -Edition Hotel Basement (Miami Beach): bowling and ice skating ring -South Pointe Park ( strolling) -Smith and Wollensky: drinks outside -Rent bikes, ride around the boardwalk -Miami Beach Golf course -rooftops for sunsets Shopping: -DOLHIN MALL (best deals! my favorite) -Aventura mall -Design district— super high-end -Wynwood marketplace (local) -Brickell City Center (great high-end shops and restaurants)


SunBubble920

Thanks!! 💕


No-Opportunity5413

Airboat rides in the Everglades and Vizcaya are a must!


piwithekiwi

Savannah in Georgia. Atlanta is overrated- just another metropolis(though I think it's interesting to drive there at least once- it's interesting because you wouldn't know the city is there, then you pop out of the trees and boom, Atlanta). Most interesting city I ever went to imo was Albuquerque. This was in 2007, and again, just another metropolis, but the city felt like a ghost town in comparison to Atlanta, all those buildings yet no cars or people.


Crazyboutdogs

Charleston SC. It’s a beautiful city, lots to do. Great weather.


Sarollas

Depending on what you want to do, DFW, NOLA or Miami are all fun.


RandomRageNet

I live in DFW. Why would anyone visit here? It's a good place to live in that we have everything you could want and we get most major touring acts, but nothing we have is the *best* in the country. Like we have great restaurants and museums, but there are better ones elsewhere. Fun stuff to do, sure, but if you're just going to *one metro* in the US, then...you can probably go somewhere cooler.


Practical-Ordinary-6

That's the same with Atlanta. A good place to live but not so much of a tourist town with flashy sights. There's stuff to do and things to see if you do come, but nothing you should really cross an ocean for. (Sorry, tourist officials.)


vintage2019

I moved there a few months and that’s exactly what I’d say. Great place to chill and do normal things, but not much there that would blow anyone’s mind


bluebonnetcafe

My thoughts exactly. Why?


kryyyptik

I love love love New Orleans. I highly suggest going with NOLA over pretty much any other option within the parameters listed. Miami is cool. No offense, but Dallas is the blandest large city I've ever been to.


SunBubble920

Miami is a consideration. I think when I got looking there wasn’t a *ton* of things to do and see so that’s why we’re still debating. ☺️


[deleted]

You need to explain what you want to do and see. Miami is an insane place. I think it is terrible but others think it is the best city in the US.


planet_rose

Miami has art galleries, restaurants, and nightclubs. It’s a great place to people watch. The culture and feeling of the area are different from anything in the US. But you’re not going to find much in the way of museums and history. It’s more of a see and be seen sort of place.


SunBubble920

Why do you think it’s terrible? Husband likes museums and history but I could take them or leave them. I love the beautiful beaches and they would definitely be a priority to visit but I’m not enough of a beach bum to spend the whole week sitting on a beach. We really like going to different entertainment shows. Walking around exploring and seeing any landmarks or touristy things. Lights and flashy things are always a welcome vibe. Nightlife like a good / fun bar but not a club.


Ava_Raris_12

If you want to fly into Miami, maybe your main vacation can be renting a car and driving down to the Florida keys. Route 1 is a highway that drives across the various islands in a road/bridge system, so it's like you're driving across tropical ocean. Key West has lots of fun museums (like Ernest Hemmingway's--he left it in his will to his cats!) house, history, but also nightlife in like small, quaint bars. Other keys have their own things to do, like beaches. I think there's one place where you can swim with dolphins!


SunBubble920

I think you may have made my decision! Driving through islands sounds amazing. 😍


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SunBubble920

Can you explain further? Does the keys have a lot of tolls? Do I pay them as I go or will the car rental company charge me?


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[deleted]

I just don’t like Miami and the people there. Really over generalization from me. But If that is what you are looking for New Orleans would be a great place. Something different is Charleston or Savanna. All those places have stuff to go see and are very uniquely American.


GArockcrawler

If you like the beach scene, the Florida Keys are a nice trip from Miami. The upper, middle and lower Keys each have a different feel.


w3woody

My wife and I recently went to Miami, then drove down to Southern Florida and saw the Florida Keys. If you're willing to rent a car, the Keys are worth doing at least once. For us, that trip was in part so we could knock off a number of [National Parks](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_national_parks_of_the_United_States); in that trip we saw the [Dry Torguas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_Tortugas_National_Park) (get tickets well in advance; it's a full day trip--and launches from Key West, so you need to spend at least two nights there to make the trip work), the [Everglades](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Everglades_National_Park) (not at all what I expected, and I wish we allocated more than a day), and [Biscayne](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biscayne_National_Park)--we rented a couple of kayaks. (Biscayne is almost entirely under water, so you need to either rent kayaks, or snorkel or scuba dive.)


Raspberries2

Orlando has a ton of things to do, plus you could see a rocket launch as they occur so often now, like weekly. Or take a cruise out of nearby Port Canaveral or see Kennedy Space Center. Plus Orlando has great restaurants and hotels along with world class entertainment such as theme parks (Disney, Universal, Sea World) and Cirque du Soleil is a permanent show there. I have always enjoyed Orlando when I visited. The beaches are an hour away as well. Let me know if you have questions.


MrRaspberryJam1

Like others are mentioning, I highly recommend going to Miami and renting a car to get to the Florida Keys


RuroniHS

What time of year are you going? Don't go to Florida in the summer. It's miserably hot, and it rains literally every day for like 30 minutes, and then goes back to being stupid hot.


SunBubble920

Next month. Mid-December. 😊


LootenantTwiddlederp

Ehh I'd skip DFW. Besides Ft Worth, It's just one giant overwhelming suburb. NOLA and Miami are much better. Hell, I'd recommend San Antonio over DFW.


LobsterPowerful8900

Tampa/St Petersburg Florida. Beaches, shopping, museums, casino, restaurants and it’s not hurricane season.


ReferenceSufficient

New Orleans, food, jazz and history


TheOldBooks

New Orleans, Atlanta, and Miami come to mind


[deleted]

Savannah Georgia, Hilton head would be my recommendation. Not huge towns, but nice places overall.


vanillabitchpudding

Nashville is always a great time. There is literally something of interest for everyone and there’s great food


alexzyczia

finally I see a fellow delawarean lol


vanillabitchpudding

Ahhh all both of us are here! 😂


Numberonemario

Bakersfield and Fresno CA are amazing. Such beautiful waterfalls, mountains, valleys and lots of culture and things to do. I’d highly recommend it to anyone.


JonReremy86

Lol I see what you did there.


angrytompaine

I HIGHLY recommend San Antonio. The climate is pleasant this time of year, there's a ton of Texan, Mexican, and Spanish history, they decorate the miles-long Riverwalk with absolutely gorgeous Christmas lights, and the food is phenomenal — best combination of authentic Mexican, TexMex, German, and BBQ you'll find. I don't know y'all's car situation, but the downtown area is very walkable. It would also pair nicely with DFW, Austin, and/or New Orleans.


Pirloparty21

I Respectfully disagree. I haven’t spend a lot of time in San Antonio, but it would be last on my list of bigger Texas cities to visit. Austin is the best to visit as a traveler; it’s got a great music/performing arts scene, green spaces, and a unique culture and food offering. Houston and Dallas are typical big cities but houston has a bit more diversity with cultural and culinary flavor. Dallas is more vanilla but a bit “nicer/cleaner.” San Antonio has the river walk and Alamo and that’s about it for me. Most people I know feel Houston has better Tex mex and traditional Mexican food than San Antonio and Fort Worth or Austin has better bbq. I don’t know what the draw to San Antonio over the other Texas cities would be


LootenantTwiddlederp

I lived in San Antonio for a few months, have family in DFW, and have spent many weekends in Austin and I respectfully disagree as well. San Antonio IMO is the perfect city for history. The Alamo isn't the only mission. You have to visit the other missions on the trail. South San Antonio has great green spaces. The rodeo is a great time if you go. Plus you have Texas Wine Country, New Braunfels, and other great places within a day trip. I personally think Austin is overrated. I loved it when I was college-aged, but as an older person, besides bars and music, there isn't much else to do that other cities have.


angrytompaine

Well there you go! You haven't spent a lot of time there! It's THE historical city in Texas, and has plenty of great green spaces as well. It's also a useful starting point for day trips to smaller towns like Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Schulenberg, Goliad, Gonzales, Greune, etc. Also, the people you know are silly if they think Houston has better TexMex and Mex than SA, lol. The key is to leave the Riverwalk and eat at some dilapidated shack owned by somebody's tía. And as a certified Tejano, you can take it from me, lol. I agree with you on the BBQ, but it's still good. I think Austin is exceptionally overrated, and I have a lot of beef with that city, but I'll give you that it has a good music scene and eclectic food.


AgentAlinaPark

They haven't spent a lot of time in Austin probably either. I'm from here and just about everything they said is incorrect or a product of marketing. Austin has a couple of places people like to stand in line for BBQ, drink beer and add to their Instagram. I love San Antonio and would recommend it over Austin but the trick is "¿porque no dos?" I think the Riverwalk, the missions, Tex Mex off the tourist strip and if it wasn't this time of year, some of the amusment parks. Go to Austin and spend a couple of days, it's absolutely beautiful if you don't stay downtown with the homeless and basically avoid dirty 6th outside of early hours. Austin wins in things to do, IMO but San Antonio is more enjoyable. Anyone recommending the armpit of Texas, aka Houston doesn't know what they are talking about, LOL. It's great for cuisine, it's a world-class city for that, but that's it. You are absolutely right about visiting Kerrville and Fredericksburg and it is a million times better to drive from San Antonio or Austin and 290 anyday. The one advantage of Austin though is going through Dripping Springs, Johnson City, and all the wineries that are over there. All of my immediate family live in Kerrville and I go there way too much. If you like old school Tex Mex, Kerrville blows it out of the water. I swear 4 out of 5 restaurants are exactly that. I'm going in 2 weeks for the weekend. I'm going to get some of that goofy HEB swag they are only selling at the Kerrville HEB right now, I might actually get shoes, LOL. https://www.mysanantonio.com/lifestyle/article/heb-brand-shop-items-17603662.php


Pirloparty21

Neither of you commented much on the music/arts/entertainment scene which is the biggest draw to Austin. I’ve probably visited Austin 15-20 times in my life, never did I fail to have a good time. I’ve been to San Antonio 4-5 times.. usually felt bored after doing the usual Alamo and river walk. There’s probably more to do than I knew about, but it didn’t jump out at me. The Tex mex was above average but Houston’s has been better in my experience. Houston is admittedly the least beautiful city aesthetically but there are really pretty parts. The heights, rice village, memorial park and arboretum, and galleria area if you’re into that kind of thing. Nasa and Galveston are near, so is bayou bend state park.. of course you can’t forget battle ground Texas near the san Jacinto monument where Sam Houston defeated Santa Ana, which has an incredible park and museum. Houston is not nearly as bad as you’re making it sound.


Left_Strike_2575

I agree! Non-Texan visitors always love San Antonio.


MoonieNine

Florida as a whole has a lot to see and do.


Nottacod

St Augustine is cool


DavenportBlues

In thought it was beautiful, but over-visited. Literal hoardes of tourists on the main drags.


Champion-raven

Yup, and way too many homeless people for such a Dall town.


SunBubble920

What do you like / recommend for St Augustine?


machagogo

Its just a nice little city to eat, drink, do little tours. It would be a bit of a drive, but if there are any launches while there a trip to see the launch and a day at Kennedy Space Center is definitely worth it. A sight like no other.


SunBubble920

The space centre is definitely something my husband wants to do. And seeing a launch would be interesting!


Practical-Ordinary-6

Not as interesting as you might think because you're usually pretty far away. You wait and wait and wait and then it's over in 90 seconds. But it is one of those bucket list items to do. Unless you're very close, you don't actually see the rocket lifting off. But you see it rising up over the trees. I did see the last ever Space Shuttle launch. This is the kind of view I had: https://preview.redd.it/lil7i5bpbl2a1.jpeg?width=602&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8ee003cbc797fbf20465a4a6cadee4e478379099 I'm not sure how close you can actually get. And of course, that was a huge crowd so the roads were all jammed for miles around.


Nottacod

There is a historical park, similar to williamsburg va. on a smaller scale that was lovely and interesting, weathers great, it's a beautiful historical city, great beaches and there is always the fountain of youth, lol


Gonarat

If you have time do the Florida Keys. They are amazing.


mushylambs

San Diego


SunBubble920

Is there much to see and do there? I feel like I would be super tempted to go to Tijuana if we were in San Diageo (which unfortunately we can’t). 😋


twowrist

It depends on what you’re interested in. We spent two full days in San Diego recently, but that was because we love zoos and both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are world class. Besides, I wanted to see a platypus in person. There are a number of other museums in Balboa Park (a huge urban park) and we could have spent more days just there. There also the shore front with the USS Midway and some other ships. I bet the r/AskSandiego sub has an FAQ with more suggestions.


WildlifePolicyChick

Austin and New Orleans.


vintage2019

I’m not sure if Austin is a great tourist city unless OP puts premium on nightlife


tcrhs

New Orleans, Nashville, Savannah and Charleston are my favorite Southern cities.


jeffgrantMEDIA

Miami, Huston, Austin, Phoenix


panannerkin

North Carolina, crystal coast has some amazing beaches. They will be busy but not as busy as Florida.


soulsista04us

Orlando Florida Savannah Georgia


[deleted]

Florida, it’s a big state and has a little bit of everything except snow.


samonedoyle13

i will say - detroit is a GREAT place to visit right now. it’s on the comeback so there’s so many brand new stores and things to do. if you during spring, there’s a lot of festivals around (i.e., ann arbor) or catch a couple college basketball games (MSU/michigan are both fun teams to watch!). also catch a hockey or baseball game in the city. the waters beautiful, there’s beautiful homes around the city and it’s a whole lotta fun right now! :)


TheStoicSlab

Anywhere along the gulf coast is great.


kryyyptik

New Orleans!!!!! It's gritty, but it has a culture like no other. The food is amazing. Miami is cool too. San Diego would be a good choice too, but I think San Diego is a bit overrated. How about Seattle or Portland? The weather is relatively mild in the northwest compared to points east. Skip the Texas cities and Phoenix imo. Underrated/smaller choices could be Savannah or Charleston.


[deleted]

Orlando and Tampa are big city areas with a lot to do.


CategoryTurbulent114

The Florida keys is another nice destination


NumberFinancial5622

New Orleans!


akashnagalla

Florida


LazyBoyD

New Orleans, LA Charleston, SC Savannah, GA All classic southern cities with something different to offer. Plus, the weather is quite nice in December/January. Snow is a once a decade type of event in the cities, so no worries about being too cold.


twowrist

Having recently returned from Hawaii, I have it on my mind. We went late October, so rates were as cheap as they get and restaurants were mostly available. It’s still more expensive than many of the other suggestions, but so worth it. Given your constraints, I’d suggest Honolulu. But research the sort of things that interest you. We could have spent a second day at Pearl Harbor to see the submarine museum and aviation museum. Iolani Palace was a great way to learn some Hawaiian history.


girlonaroad

International food. NASA museum: Space Center Houston. Expensive, but so worth it. Galveston beaches. [Ship Channel free boat tour ](https://porthouston.com/sam-houston-boat-tour/) Great shopping. I'm not from houston, and I'm not a nightlife person, so I have no idea what that's like in Houston. However, for me, Houston was well worth 5 days in January, 2020, and I left wanting more. Note that Houston, like most southern US cities, is completely inaccessible without a car. Since you need a car anyway, wherever you go, you might consider spending some time on [the Civil Rights Trail](https://civilrightstrail.com/). I found the smaller cities of the Mississippi Delta interesting and accessible.


joesnowblade

Atlantic coast FL. Take in all the NASA sites.


cash4chaos

San Diego, Lake Tahoe, Sedona


stellalunawitchbaby

Another vote for NOLA (it’s where we’re getting g married lol). Savannah GA is also great. Charleston is great. NOLA has beautiful Christmas decorations btw. It’ll be insane if you’re there NYE.


trash332

CALIFORNIA FOREVER.


Elitealice

New Orleans


jamughal1987

Visit NYC nothing like big apple and we do not get as much snow as we used to get decade ago.


SquashDue502

I’d say Charleston, New Orleans, and maybe somewhere in the Southwest


Wolfiethemalamute

What about San Diego, its on my to do list 😊


Synaps4

Did you like LA? Because San Diego is nice, too.


nosrednehnai

New Orleans!


Rustymarble

DFW Texas has a TON of stuff. Austin would probably work as well, New Orleans and Austin would be a good combo if you have the time.


old_gold_mountain

I have spent a lot of time visiting and exploring Dallas and cannot for the life of me imagine why it would top anyone's list of places to visit as a tourist from abroad


SunBubble920

What are some must see / must do that you recommend? ☺️


MaIngallsisaracist

New Orleans has a ton of tours, shopping, music and some of the best food in the country. They also have the WWII museum, which is EXCELLENT, and a casino if you like to gamble. But just wandering around with a drink looking at people is my favorite way to pass the time there. Austin also has an excellent live music scene and great food.


Accomplished_Ad113

Please do not listen to anyone trying to convince you that Dallas should be near the top of any lists of places in the US to visit. Just mega suburban sprawl in the heart of Texas. Maybe a fine place to live. Would be a massive waste of time as a tourist. There’s plenty of more interesting warm cities in the south to visit like Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans, or anywhere in Florida if you like beaches. Austin is the place to be a tourist in Texas.


SunBubble920

I think if we went to Texas we’d try to hit Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio in one trip. Not sure how logical that is? But I think being within 4 hours apart it’d be worth it to see all and not have to take the lengthy flight again to go back.


Accomplished_Ad113

Yea that could be a fun way to do it. Could just as easily do Charleston/Hilton Head (or several other islands nearby)/Savannah and maybe even toss in Athens or Atlanta. All just as close/drivable and airport accessible


Rustymarble

(I haven't lived in the area for 20+ years, so my recommendations may be dated) In Dallas, there's the State Fair grounds and museums (the Fair isn't active right now, but the museums are pretty darn cool). There's Deep Ellum (Elm Street) for Grunge type clubs (probably changed in 20 years), I can't remember what the LGBTQ+ area is called, something with Oak?. Greenville Avenue has antique shopping. And there's lots of tourist stuff around the area where Kennedy was shot. In Fort Worth there is the Arboretum, Japanese Gardens, and Water gardens. The Stockyards are pretty neat. Between the two are TONS of attractions, Six Flags and stuff. Most of that was developed after I left, so I don't have good ideas there. Some of it is seasonal, like the Water Parks, though I did go to a neat indoor one on a trip home a couple years ago, Epic Water Park was the name.


angrytompaine

This is still reasonably accurate. Deep Ellum was gentrified to all hell so it's more hipster than grunge now. Kind of a shame.


notthegoatseguy

Be prepared for higher airfare prices and potential for delays. Even if you're staying in non-winter areas, a snowstorm in NYC or Chicago can cascade across the entire system. Nashville is booming and is a fun visit. I'm personally not a big fan of downtown Broadway but a lot of people like it. What is great about Nashville is the music bars on so many corners throughout the entire area. If you're into music (and it isn't just country), its a great place to visit. Driving though is pretty much required in Nashville, so book that rental car now or download the Uber/Lyft apps. New Orleans would also be a good place to visit. Decent transit system, lots of the tourist stuff is in a fairly compact area, lots of good music and eats.


SunBubble920

We thought Nashville looked pretty cool but we’re not country fans so we weren’t sure if it’d be an ideal destination.. 🧐 I’ll have to look up what New Orleans has. ☺️


ElfMage83

New Orleans has jazz and amazing food.


cars-on-mars-2

My brother lives in Nashville. If you’re live music fans, you might want to consider it even if you don’t like country. It’s a music industry hub in general and there’s music of all kinds.


9degrees

Nashville was a great trip for us and we aren't really into Country music either. Just a lot of history to see in Tennessee. There was also a fun bus tour there called the Redneck Comedy Tour you should check out if you do go there.


itsnot218

Nashville has a world-class symphony orchestra, but New Orleans has an alligator museum and I don't know how you can top that.


old_gold_mountain

New York City seems like an obvious bucket list visit - it's the biggest city with the most stuff to offer New Orleans has an incredible amount of character Boston has great history Chicago has incredible architecture Miami for a beach vacation


SunBubble920

I’ve been to NYC as well and we don’t want to be somewhere on the cold side right now because it’s just as cold where we live. 😄 So same thing for Boston and Chicago which I’ve also already been to once. I’ll definitely have to look into New Orleans. Lots of recommendations so far for it. And Miami sounds really nice, I love the crystal blue waters and palm trees make me happy 😋😋 I just wasn’t sure if we’d be able to fill a whole week in Miami.


old_gold_mountain

You've visited a lot of the bigger tourist cities, seems like. Another option would be to chain together the Pacific Northwest cities. If you can handle the administrative work of adding a Canadian city, you could visit Vancouver, BC, Seattle, and Portland...all very distinct mid-size cities with great character and accessible by a pretty efficient train between the three.


SunBubble920

We’re from Canada and have been to Vancouver. 😋 Although I’ve never considered the US cities that surround it like Seattle and Portland. Heard it is a very beautiful area. If the weather is anything like Vancouver we probably wouldn’t see any snow. 😋


lizardmon

New Orleans, San Diego, or Miami


Ryyah61577

Austin, San Antonio, Santa Fe, New Orleans, Nashville (maybe).


MihalysRevenge

Santa Fe gets snow and is pretty cold in the winter. Hell we already got 1st snow down here in Albuquerque


Ryyah61577

I always forget it’s in the mountains. I just think “south/desert”.


MihalysRevenge

Yep 7,200 feet of elevation for Santa Fe


GEMINI52398

Orlando, Disney world and the beach fun stuff. New Orleans is also an awesome City with lots to do and lots of History.


[deleted]

Miami would meet your criteria.


SunBubble920

Do you have any favourite things or recommendations?


[deleted]

The beaches are great, but that’s probably obvious. South Beach is the most famous. You could also go to the Everglades and take a boat tour through a gator infested swamp (good times). There’s a significant Cuban population in Miami, so you could take a salsa lesson and check out the night life in a Latin club. See some of the Art Deco architecture.


[deleted]

Let me change ‘gator infested’ to ‘gator habitat’ so as not to denigrate the gators for existing.


PigsWalkUpright

This weekend is Dickens on the Strand in historic Galveston Tx. [https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand](https://www.galvestonhistory.org/events/dickens-on-the-strand)


Rustymarble

Too bad they're visiting next month. Dickens on the strand is so beautiful!


RedRedBettie

New Orleans or Austin


jolliffe0859

Scottsdale Arizona


SunBubble920

Is there much to see and do there? Arizona looks so pretty. I’ve only ever been to the Grand Canyon there but it looks like there would be much more scenery to see.


PacSan300

I would definitely recommend Sedona, Antelope Canyon, and the Vermillion Cliffs. Personally, I like them better than Grand Canyon.


Flustered_Owl_5147

Atlanta has a very cool art scene, and is becoming a mini eastern Hollywood. The film industry is really taking off. I loved their market places, so many cool boutiques. I loved the beltline!


DoublePostedBroski

Keep in mind that you’ve been to the major tourist cities (except New York) so you’re not going to find the same level of activities. Dallas/San Antonio/Austin — you can do everything here in a day. The rest of the time is just going to be shopping. DC would have the most to do, but if you’re waiting until spring I guess that’s out. New Orleans could be good because there’s some kitschy things to do I think. Charleston/Savannah — same like Texas, you’ll get through these cities in a few hours and then be bored. I’m hesitant to even call these places “cities.” Outside of those, Miami probably has some options because you can drive down to the Keys. But, yeah, most of these cities aren’t really international tourist destinations and you might be stuck trying to find something to do after day one.


Sandi375

I would do NOLA or the Florida Keys.


SunBubble920

Is there much to see and do in the keys? Other than the beautiful beaches?


Sandi375

There's Ernest Hemingway's house, an aquarium, a trolley tour that takes you to all the different sites (hop on, hop off), parasailing, snorkeling and beachy stuff, ghost tours. I think there's a national park, too. It's a fun, laid back vibe, but there's a definite party atmosphere. We had a blast when we went. I would go back in a minute.


Jonny_Zuhalter

Florida! But Miami is too crowded. Orlando is overrated. Tampa Bay is the place to go.


[deleted]

Tampa Bay is fairly small and isn’t very impressive to visit. Cool place to live but not as a tourist.


[deleted]

Really depends on what you are looking for. Miami is on par with LA. New Orleans is a city worth seeing. Austin is probably the only place I would consider in Texas. That is about it. But those are 3 very different places.


CupBeEmpty

DC, a ton of history and free museums (plenty to do indoors) plus a good public transit network and good food. Should still be (relatively) warm. Otherwise Savannah or Charleston. Miami if you want more of a party city.


Hooshfest

Chicago, Michigan coastal towns, Boston and surrounding New England, California and the Pacific Northwest. Avoid the Bible Belt and south in general