I got the opportunity to travel a lot in 2022! (Some for work and some for personal.) Thanks to these opportunities I got to catch up with friends, face my fear of flying and make memories that’ll last a lifetime. Below are six trips I went on in 2022 and five must-do’s for each destination!
Phoenix, Az.
Did you know Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the United States? I went to Phoenix, Arizona in April for Simpleview Summit and got to explore some of the city while I was there. Although my visit was short, I really enjoyed my time in Phoenix. I felt safe walking around by myself and met lots of very friendly locals.
Top 5 Phoenix recommendations:
- Self-guided mural tour at Roosevelt Row
- Brunch on the outdoor patio at Palma
- Admire the Victorian-era houses at Heritage Square
- Catch a game Phoenix Suns game at The Footprint Center***
- Grab coffee at Press Coffee
Savannah, Ga.
Gosh, I love Savannah and was so happy I got to go again this year! (I had spent some time in Savannah for my best friend’s bachelorette in 2021.) Savannah is so full of rich culture and southern charm! Plus, I love learning about the city’s history and ghostly stories. Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in America and can definitely get pretty spooky at night.
Top 5 Savannah recommendations:
- Take a late-night ghost tour (definitely!!!)
- Tour of The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
- Lunch at Taylor Park’s Hitch
- Walk through Forsyth Park
- Catch a show at The Savannah Theatre
- Drinks at Bar Julian
Indianapolis, Id.
I flew into Indianapolis for a tradeshow in October! I decided to make a little vacation out of the work trip though and ended up crashing on my long-distance BFF’s (super comfy) couch for a couple days. I stayed in Downtown Indy during my work trip, but more so enjoyed my time in Broad Ripple with Rae. The Broad Ripple area is filled with cute local stores, great restaurants and a laid-back vibe.
Top 5 Indianapolis recommendations:
- Eat at Indianapolis City Market
- Stroll and shop on Mass Ave.
- Attend a First Friday at Circle City Industrial Complex
- Walk along the Downtown Indy Canal Walk
- Grab a drink at Bottleworks Hotel
Carolina Beach, N.C.
I feel lucky that my parents live in Carolina Beach and I get to visit often. Carolina Beach is an easy ~2.5 hour drive from Raleigh + offers some of the best beaches, food, and experiences IMO. And while some may think that summer would be the best time of year for a Carolina Beach trip, I enjoy visiting Carolina Beach at any time of the year. (During the Fall/Winter, I like that there is less crowds and more mild temperatures.)
Top 5 Carolina Beach recommendations:
- See a concert at Live Oak Bank Pavilion
- Go on a Cape Fear River Cruise
- Eat a donut from Britt’s
- Ride a bike along the boardwalk
- Spend an afternoon at The Fort Fisher Aquarium
Philadelphia, Pa.
Growing up in New Jersey, I spent a lot of time in Philly. I hadn’t been to Philadelphia in 6-ish years and I wanted to show Ryan the city. We drove from Raleigh, N.C. to Philadelphia (about 9 hours) in September for my 28th birthday. While our trip was nice, we ended up coming home a little early. We stayed at Sonder at The Queen and weren’t very happy with the experience.
Besides our accommodations, the city was pleasant and we enjoyed tons of great food.
Top 5 Philadelphia recommendations:
- Explore Philadelphia Art Museum
- Stroll and shop on South Street
- Have breakfast, lunch and dinner at Reading Terminal Market
- See the Liberty Bell
- Get spooked at The Eastern State Penitentiary
Charlotte, N.C.
Slowly but surely, Charlotte is growing on me. I’ve visited Charlotte a few times this past year and enjoy learning/discovering more about Queen City. I’m hoping to spend more time in Charlotte this summer at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.
Top 5 Charlotte recommendations:
- Amélie’s French Bakery & Café
- Have a picnic in Freedom Park
- Enjoy a round of mini-golf at The Puttery
- Explore all the artwork at The Mint Museum
- Grab a drink at Wooden Robot Brewery
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