With respect to the former, Chicago residents have long embraced the trend of taking their workouts to the great outdoors.  

And with good reason.  

Through the We Move Chicago initiative, the scenic Chicago Park District – which covers more than 8,000 acres of open space and is comprised of nearly 600 parks including the popular Grant Park, Millennium Park, and Lincoln Park – promotes, educates, and motivates Chicagoans of all ages and abilities to adopt a healthier lifestyle by moving more and eating better. Offering fitness and nutrition classes taught by certified fitness instructors and former military personnel within the parks themselves, as well as over 70 fitness centers fitted out with state-of-the-art equipment, the Chicago Park District delivers a high-quality, low-cost alternative to commercial gyms for anyone in search of a convenient path to increased physical activity. 

Likewise, Chicago offers a plethora of options for biking, jogging, running and active walks against the backdrop of the city’s iconic landmarks and well-preserved natural treasures. Take for example, the Chicago Lakefront Trail, the grand dame of the local running scene, which not only affords runners an 18-mile paved path, but also phenomenal views of the lake and Chicago skyline alongside notable sights such as the Navy Pier, the museum district, and Soldier Field. Similarly, a run through the city’s venerable Hyde Park neighborhood offers a picturesque 5 to 7-mile  tour that encompasses the University of Chicago and some of Chicago’s most historic townhomes, while the Bloomingdale trail, popularly referred to as the  606, serves up a scenic path for local walkers, runners, bikers, and families with multiple access points across four of Chicago’s most well-trafficked neighborhoods — Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Humboldt. 

Beyond traditional fitness activities, however, Chicagoans, like Americans across the country, have adopted the notion that wellness must necessarily include a concerted focus on overall mental and spiritual well-being in addition to building muscle and burning fat through physical exertion. In recognition of this fact, mindfulness and meditation studios have popped up all across the city, providing urban dwellers with a sanctuary to escape the chaos and cultivate inner peace through guided meditation sessions, mindfulness workshops, and stress-relief programs that assist patrons in finding balance in a fast-paced and relentless world. 

While wellness spas like Lume, located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, offer services ranging from cryotherapy, NAD+, vitamin IV drips and lymphatic compression to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, massage and red light therapy, Insight Timer Chicago offers a meditation community with scores of instructors who work to help patrons develop a mindfulness practice that can help to minimize the effects of stress and sleep disorders, restore spiritual harmony and balance, and improve mental health and personal productivity. 

Meanwhile, Aire Ancient Baths, located in a restored factory from 1902 in River West, takes guests on a candlelit journey through the traditional Roman, Greek and Ottoman ancient experience of baths via a series of thermal pools, warm marble beds and a wide variety of treatments ranging from an Ultimate Blossom Ritual complete with floral scrub and a floral mask with Hindu sacred flower clay to a Himalayan Salt Ritual which includes a Himalayan salt body scrub and massage, for the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. Elsewhere, Galos Caves in Chicago’s Irving Park delivers a version of salt therapy that has been popular in Eastern Europe for centuries as it is believed to provide relief from respiratory and digestive ailments while also acting as a balm for arthritis, skin diseases and more. 

Even Chicago’s culinary scene is embracing the philosophy of wellness as many restaurants and cafes now offer nutritious and balanced meal options that cater to various dietary preferences. Additionally, cooking classes and workshops focused on healthy eating habits have become popular, providing residents with the knowledge and skills to make mindful food choices. 

With its abundance of unique offerings, Chicago’s urban wellness scene caters to every taste and need. Whether you’re seeking affordable fitness options, enticing jogging trails and bike paths, a relaxing spa experience, or a mindful practice, the city has something for you. As Chicago continues to evolve, it continues to be a destination where residents and visitors thrive not merely materially, but also spiritually thanks to a bevy of wellness havens that reflect a universal desire to lead healthier, more balanced lives. 

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With a history that dates back to the earliest settlers of Jamestown in 1609, winemaking in Virginia predates the earliest known instance of wine production in California by nearly two centuries. Moreover, the planting of the first vines in Virginia precedes California statehood by a similar amount of time. 

Despite this significant head start, the road to Virginia’s current status as one of America’s leading wine-producing states has undeniably been a rocky one – notwithstanding the relentless efforts of everyone from the colonial settlers to our nation’s founding fathers Thomas Jefferson and George Washington to early pioneers like Dr. Daniel Norton who, in the early 19th century, finally succeeded in developing a Virginia-native grape variety that proved to be both resilient to the challenges posed by local pests and diseases and capable of producing wines of such quality that one vintage won an award for “best red wine of all nations” at the Vienna World Fair in 1873. In fact, but for prohibition, Virginia winemaking might have come to more significant prominence sooner thanks to Dr. Norton’s efforts. That said, fortunately, prohibition was only a mere bump in the road on the 400-year odyssey that has brought the state of winemaking in Virginia to where it is today. 

Over the past half-century Virginia has witnessed a remarkable resurgence and transformation in its winemaking industry and Loudoun County has been front and center throughout. What was once considered an unlikely region for viticulture has blossomed into a thriving hub for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. 

Beginning in the late 1970s, a handful of pioneering winemakers and vineyard owners decided to once again test the waters and plant vines in what was still seen as an inhospitable environment given Loudoun County’s humid climate and clay-heavy soils. Though their efforts were met with the same skepticism that had plagued their forebears, the unrepentant commitment to experimentation of this latest band of determined adventurers laid the foundation for what was to come. 

As winemakers learned to navigate the region’s unpredictable weather patterns and clay soils, they began to recognize the potential for crafting exceptional wines that showcased the distinct attributes of Loudoun County’s unique terroir – the combination of climate, soil, and topography that defines the characteristics of the grapes and subsequently, the wine. What were once seen as challenges evolved into opportunities as winemakers honed their skills, developed strategies to enhance grape quality and embraced the diversity in grape varieties and wine styles that Loudoun County could produce. 

While traditional French grape varietals like Chardonnay, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc found their place, Loudoun County also witnessed the introduction of lesser-known grape varieties that thrive in its unique conditions along with French-American hybrids like Seyval Blanc and Chambourcin and, of course, the native Norton grape. By 1984, Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, Loudoun’s original winery, which sits atop Mt. Gilead in a rustic 19th century red barn overlooking Loudoun Valley, produced its first wines and immediately won awards. It was a trend that would continue for the sumptuously positioned winery which has since won hundreds of medals in national and international competitions alongside the rapidly expanding community of winemakers that has since sprouted up around it. 

One such winemaker in that community is Jim Law, a pioneer of Virginia winemaking, who is often credited with putting Loudoun County on the wine map. In the 1980s, Law recognized the region’s potential and established Linden Vineyards on the site of a long-abandoned apple orchard in the Blue Ridge Mountains, 60 miles west of Washington, DC. With a deep understanding of terroir, Law introduced European winemaking techniques to create wines that reflected the unique characteristics of the land and by 1987 Linden Vineyards released its first commercial vintage. Since that time, Linden Vineyards has gone on to produce internationally praised single vineyard bottlings of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Bordeaux variety red blends that are considered to be among the finest wines produced in the county. Meanwhile, Law himself is revered, nay idolized, by local winemakers for his commitment to his craft, which has also earned him plaudits from noted wine writers including Jancis Robinson, editor of the authoritative The Oxford Companion to Wine, and longtime Washington Post wine columnist Dave McIntyre, who once described Law as “the Virginia wine industry’s oracle.” 

Another influential figure, and indeed pioneer, in Loudoun County’s winemaking scene is Doug Fabbioli, who along with his wife, Colleen Berg, established Fabbioli Cellars on a 25-acre parcel of land in the southern Lucketts area, just north of Leesburg in Loudoun County in the early 2000s. Notable for producing superior red wines, particularly Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Fabbioli Cellars has also won multiple awards for a diverse range of wines including Petit Manseng, Tre Sorrelle, Tannat and Chambourcin, reflecting Fabbioli’s passion for experimentation and commitment to innovation.   

Conversely, Jennifer McCloud, another prominent Loudoun County winemaker, chose to stake her claim on history rather than innovation per se. In 1998, after acquiring a picturesque tract of land nestled in the bosom of the Bull Run Mountains, she established Chrysalis Vineyards with a focus on the Norton grape, the native American variety first developed by Dr. Daniel Norton in the 1820s. Under McCloud’s guidance, Chrysalis Vineyards has become a pioneering force in reviving and championing the Norton grape, which she designated and trademarked as ‘The Real American Grape™’.  

Through meticulous research and experimentation, McCloud and her team showcase the potential of this native varietal, crafting wines that capture the essence of Virginia’s soil, climate and, perhaps most importantly, history. Today the winery is part of a 412-acre working farm known as the AG District which is home to the world’s largest planting of the Norton grape and encompasses two other food businesses – the Locksley Farmstead Cheese Company and the Little River Bakehouse. For her efforts in reviving the Norton grape and her commitment to preserving Virginia’s viticultural heritage, McCloud has garnered acclaim as Chrysalis Vineyards has become a shining symbol of Loudoun County’s dedication to authenticity. 

The aforementioned pioneers collectively carved a path that has since been followed by a wave of new winemakers who have come to prominence in Loudoun County in recent years. Take for instance, Slater Run Vineyards, a solar-powered winery in majestic Upperville, Virginia started in 2010 by Christopher and Kiernan (Slater) Patusky, and Kiernan’s parents Bob and Alice Slater, continuing a 300-year tradition of farming by the Slater family along Goose Creek. With more than 12 acres of vines, including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, Slater Run specializes in making premium Virginia wines in a dry French style under the careful guidance of French born and trained winemaker Katell Griaud. In a relatively short period of time, Slater Run Vineyards has emerged as a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts seeking a blend of natural beauty and exceptional wine craftsmanship. 

Speaking of hidden gems, Zephaniah Farm Vineyard, is yet another family vineyard tucked away on a working farm. Beginning in 2002, the family began planting grapes as a way to preserve the family farm. By 2014, Zephania Farm Vineyard had been born and the family was producing a Cabernet Franc of such quality that it won silver in the prestigious Virginia Governor’s Cup. It was a feat that they would repeat in 2015. The charm of Zephania Farm is that the winemaking process is completely managed by the family from beginning to end with a commitment to quality over quantity. The result is wines that exemplify the expertise and passion of the family, making every sip a journey through the unique flavors of the land and its rich and wonderful history. 

Lastly, no discussion of Loudoun County’s winemaking scene would be complete without mentioning Nate Walsh, a visionary winemaker and rising star who represents a new generation of vintners.  After studying winemaking in New Zealand, Walsh returned to his family’s estate in Loudoun County to establish Walsh Family Wine in Purcellville in 2014. With rapid fire speed, Walsh became known for his hands-on approach and commitment to precision and the wines he produced reflected both traits and more. Local acclaim and international recognition soon followed, and many would say today that Walsh Family Winery is the go-to winery in Loudoun County because of Walsh’s efforts. 

Adding fuel to the growth of Loudoun County’s winemaking in recent decades has been the fact that it has coincided with the rise of the region as a destination for culinary tourism and cultural attractions. As wineries gained recognition for their high-quality wines, they also became magnets for visitors seeking a holistic experience. Many wineries incorporated tasting rooms, farm-to-table dining, and cultural events, enriching the county’s cultural tapestry. The integration of wine with local cuisine and art further elevated Loudoun County’s appeal, drawing visitors not only for the wine but for the immersive experiences offered. Today, as Loudoun County celebrates 40 years of winemaking, the county can proudly claim to not only be the home of more than 50 wineries, but also a burgeoning cultural mecca in the heart of one of the most picturesque and visually arresting corners of America. 

The evolution of Loudoun County’s winemaking industry over the last 40 years stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, ingenuity and audacity. From the tentative steps taken by the early pioneers to the vibrant and diverse wine landscape that exists today, the journey has been one of growth, adaptation, and innovation. Loudoun County’s winemaking success story is an inspiration for regions that dare to dream beyond conventional boundaries, showcasing that with determination, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the land, even the most unlikely locations can thrive in the world of wine. As the county continues to raise its glasses to the future, it does so with a legacy of passion, excellence, and a commitment to continuously uncork the potential within its flourishing vines. 

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“My wife is the architect and designer, as well,” Dang explains of the dynamically laid out space noting that the design of the restaurant was very much a family affair. “We joined two buildings together. [The] tables and chairs [were] made by my aunt and uncle in Vietnam. The metal doors came from Vietnam, as well. They were handmade in the ’30s…They are what Vietnam used to have, to protect the house(s) …and whatnot,” Dang continues. 

However, despite his recent triumphs, things have not always gone smoothly for Dang on his journey to culinary acclaim. Born in Vietnam, Dang and his family immigrated to America and settled in Virginia, where they worked tirelessly to create a better life for themselves. Uncertain of his future, Dang belatedly took the advice a high school teacher and enrolled at L’Academie de Cuisine in Maryland. That experience combined with his love of cooking earned him a place in series of top restaurants from D.C to Chicago, where he honed his craft.  

Finally, at the age of 27, Dang opened his first restaurant, Embeya in Chicago’s West Loop, with the help of his family and a few partners. Like HaiSous, Embeya, which focused on “Progressive Southeast Asian” cuisine, was an out of the gate hit. In its first year Dang’s debut hotspot was named Best New Restaurant in America by Esquire magazine and began attracting attention from many corners of the culinary world. 

Then things went horribly awry. 

“Long story short, my partner embezzled all my money and left the country on me,” Dang states flatly. 

“It was crazy. Talk about a dark place in life, “Dang says of the difficult two years that followed the ordeal, which found the burgeoning culinary superstar unemployed and consumed with legal actions. “But at the time, Danielle [my wife] and I, all we had was each other. And she said, ‘You know what? We could always do it again. And no matter what, it was your talent that got us here, and so let’s do it again. And I’m going to design your restaurant for you.’” 

And that is precisely what they did and continue to do. Only this time, Dang and his wife are in complete control. 

“Our work here still continues,” Dang replies reflecting on his current success and his past professional pitfalls. “We learned a lot. I always tell people that it’s like getting your master’s [degree]and paying a big tuition. But the plus side is [now]I don’t have a partner. I don’t have someone that is not in the operation, that tells me when the dividends are coming…when the profit-sharing is coming. When is this and that? I lost a lot… [But now] I have a lot of freedom. I can do whatever I want, my wife and I. But we take it one day at a time, and we build our team up and show them that anything is possible.” 

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“Chicago is one of the top culinary destinations in the world—one which we’ve been excited to join 

for many years,” remarked José Andrés on the opening of his newest Chicago outposts. “We can’t wait to add these new concepts to the city, and there’s no better place to do so than from the Loop and overlooking the Chicago River!” 

And based upon the initial reception received by the two radically different concepts, Chicago has also been eager to embrace Andrés’ latest offerings. Spread over two floors of prime real estate and anchored in the gleaming new Bank of America Tower, the tallest commercial building to be added to the Chicago skyline in 30 years, Chef José Andrés stunning new restaurants take the notion of surf and turf to an unprecedented new level. 

Bazaar Meat, which dominates the top floor of the space, is a carnivore’s dream wrapped in a theatrical reimagining of a traditional steakhouse. Unlike the previous iterations of Bazaar Meat, the Chicago edition was not designed by Phillippe Starck but instead by Barcelona-based designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán who has created over 40 distinguished interiors for some of Spain’s most successful restaurants, boutique hotels and retail establishments. 

“We love Philippe,” says Bazaar Meat General Manager, Christopher Bugeya. “[But] for this Bizarre, I think they really wanted to…go Spanish. Lázaro Rosa-Violán… has done a lot of restaurants and things of that nature so I think that matching up with Catalonians for a restaurant ended up working out well. They love to play with texture and height and it’s dramatic. The colors and the space really look like you’re walking into the hearth, the fire, these blowing embers on the inside.” 

The notion of Bazaar’s dining room evoking the sense of blowing embers is actually a very real one as a handmade IPSOR oven, one of only two in the U.S., provides a dramatic “fire stage” used for preparing the suckling pig that is one of the highlights of the meat intensive menu. This handsome and dramatic oven, which took three Spanish gentlemen three days to build and install is also used to grill and/or roast everything else on the menu from poultry and fish to vegetables and the exceedingly rare Vaca Vieja (Spanish for “old cow”), which is prepared using hand-selected eight- to ten-year-old working cows, known for their more pronounced flavor. 

In stark contrast, on the first floor at Bar Mar, the more accessible of the two eateries where guests are initially greeted, the menu focuses primarily on beautiful seafood and cocktails, served in a spacious, airy space with a buzzy, Mediterranean vibe. While a massive octopus, also designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán, hangs from the ceiling acting as a showstopping centerpiece in the dining room, 40-foot floor-to-ceiling windows peering out over Upper Wacker Drive play their own part in adding drama to the Bar Mar experience. Atmosphere aside, it is ultimately the food that takes center stage at this unique boîte. Menu highlights include the Everything Bagel Airbread served in the shape of a fish, filled with cream cheese espuma and topped with smoked salmon, the Not so Po Boy José! featuring a fried oyster with Platinum Malassol caviar and tartar sauce in a steamed brioche bun, a Margarita Oyster, and Cobia “Rosa” Ceviche. 

Despite the differences in the two spaces, however, they are both bound by their innovative cuisine, the sense of whimsy that has become one of the hallmarks of José Andrés establishments and, of course the legendary service for which those establishments have become known.  

“[Here] everybody’s a VIP. Every single person is important. We need everyone to leave here happy,” Bugeya emphasizes. “It’s just a fact. They’re going to leave here happy, whether or not they want to. We’re going to do everything within our power to make that possible.” 

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Tucked away in the heart of the greater Utah Valley, the scenic town of Provo resides against the dramatic and imposing backdrop of Mount Timpanogos — one of Utah’s most recognizable mountains noteworthy for its nearly 5,300 feet of prominence and 11,752-foot summit — which is widely considered to be the centerpiece of the Utah Valley stretch of the Wasatch Mountain Range. Consequently, it will come as little surprise then that the mountain is one of the highlights of any visit to Provo, particularly among hiking enthusiasts. 

Though the hike to the summit of Mount Timpanogos is not for the faint of heart – averaging around 7 – 10 hours to complete the grueling round-trip hike of approximately 15 miles – it is arguably Utah’s most popular mountain hiking destination. Two trails are commonly used to reach the summit. The first is the picturesque Aspen Grove Trail, which runs 8.3 miles one way, starting at the Theater-in-the-Pines picnic area on the mountain’s east side, passing several waterfalls along the way. The second is the Timpooneke Trail which also leads to the summit, running about 7.5 miles one way from the Timpooneke Campground in American Fork Canyon.  

Along both trails, expect to be wowed by the spectacle of nature. While wildflowers in abundance line both trails, wildlife is no stranger to hikers en route to the summit of the mountain. Mountain goats, deer and big horn sheep, all existing in their natural habitat, are just a few of the animals hikers can expect to encounter on the trek. In addition, as if the magnificent vistas and sense of accomplishment were not gratification enough, an Instagram-ready snowfield that never melts awaits on top of the mountain as an added bonus for the efforts of those that successfully complete the hike. 

All that said, if strenuous hikes are not your thing, Provo offers scores of other outdoor recreational activities to fill out the perfect itinerary for a visit to Utah’s third largest outpost that do not require the same amount of arduous effort. Provo Canyon, for instance, is home to Bridal Veil Falls, Vivian Park and the Provo River Parkway which, along with other stops, collectively provide an exceptional year-round destination for outdoorsy adventures.  

In the summer, Bridal Veil Park and its stunning 600-foot waterfalls serve as a picture-perfect backdrop for plentiful biking, mountaineering, rafting and hiking opportunities and in the winter morph into a must-visit destination for ice climbers from around the globe. An excellent way to experience all that the Canyon has to offer is to go for a jog or bike ride along the Provo River Parkway, a paved trail from Vivian Park in the Canyon to the Shops at Riverwoods, a collection of the area’s most unique local boutiques and restaurants nestled among prominent national retailers. In total, the journey runs about eight miles one-way along a very scenic route that follows the Provo River to the mouth of the canyon. 

The Parkway also conveniently flows directly into Utah Lake State Park. Known as Utah’s largest freshwater lake at roughly 148 square miles, Utah Lake provides a variety of recreation activities including swimming, boating, and paddleboarding as well as fishing access for channel catfish, walleye, white bass, black bass, and several species of panfish. Additionally, for campers who want to stick around for a while and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, the park hosts an RV campground consisting of 31 sites, complete with water and power hookups. 

Meanwhile, a different type of exploration and adventure awaits in downtown Provo which is the throbbing heartbeat of activity in the city. Brimming with everything from karaoke and comedy clubs to all manner of retail shops, downtown Provo is also the epicenter of the town’s diverse food scene. With more than 200 restaurants, Provo boasts one of the most eclectic multicultural food scenes in the Intermountain West thanks in no small part to substantial international student and faculty population at Brigham Young University where students hail from 46 different countries.  

Within the roughly mile and half downtown corridor, you’ll find Brazilian, Peruvian, Mexican, Native American, Indian, Korean, Pacific Islander, and Japanese eateries alongside a variety of other restaurants. From artisan woodfired pizzas, authentic curries and scratch-made kolaches to Native American Southwestern inspired hog jowl nachos, award-winning chocolate and old-fashioned ice cream, all these mouthwatering treats, and so much more, can be found in Provo. 

The other thing that you can expect to find in downtown Provo is history in the form of the Provo Downtown Historic District, a 25-acre area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This charming quarter is comprised of 43 buildings, the majority of which were built between 1880 and 1930. Though many of the buildings cannot be entered, self-guided tours of the district that offer a tremendous and interesting way to explore the history of Provo, and indeed the American West, through the town’s architecture are available. 

Other significant highlights on tap in Provo include the family friendly Thanksgiving Point, which is home to the Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life, one of the largest dinosaur museums of its kind, featuring one of the most valuable dinosaur collections of its kind, including a 150 million-year-old dinosaur egg and 60 complete dinosaur skeletons. Also with family fun in mind, there’s Evermore Park, a year-round fantasy adventure experience designed to mimic the look and charm of a classic old European village and hamlet. Complete with relics spanning the 15th to early 19th century, the park’s style is largely influenced by the art and culture of Medieval and Victorian times with a dash of ancient Celtic appearing in the gardens.  

So the next time you’re planning a trip to Utah, be advised that a world of wonder and brilliant new experiences that you may not have considered awaits in Provo, a gem of a town bursting with culture, cuisine, history, nature and wildlife. Now if that doesn’t sound like a most excellent escape, I’m not sure what does. 

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In this storied hood steeped in history, charming European-style cobblestone streets and alleyways like the iconic Captain’s Row, the oldest cobblestone block in the city, intersect with the 244-year-old Murray-Dick-Fawcett House, one of the earliest and least-altered homes in Alexandria, the existence of which can be traced back to the American Revolution. 

Likewise, Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant, one of the oldest taverns in the United States and the oldest restaurant in the City of Alexandria, first opened its doors in Old Town back in 1792 and frequently played host to George Washington and the first five presidents. Even the local newspaper, the Alexandria Gazette Packet, one of the oldest continually published newspapers in America, was originally founded in 1784. 

However, if there was ever a case of the past serving as prologue for a destination, Old Town Alexandria most certainly fits the bill. 

Today Old Town is more than an homage to the past. It is instead a vibrant hub and dynamic part of contemporary life in Alexandria seamlessly interwoven with a nationally designated historic district on a dramatically reimagined Potomac River waterfront. All of which helps to explain why Old Town was recently voted one of Travel + Leisure’s  Best Cities in the U.S. as well as a Condé Nast Traveler Top 5 Best City in the U.S. 2022. 

One of Old Town’s main draws is King Street, home to the largest collection of independent boutiques in the D.C. region. Along this walkable mile lined with centuries-old architecture, visitors and locals alike flock to the more than 200 restaurants and boutiques concentrated dab smack in the heart of downtown. From curated collections of antiques, stationery and vintage barware to jewelry, sustainable fashion and high-end consignment shops, expect to find a diversity of shopping options on or just off King Street. Correspondingly, and in keeping with the ‘old meets new’ ethos of Old Town, also expect to find popular national brands like Simon Pearce, West Elm, Lululemon and Warby Parker commingled with local favorites along this historic thoroughfare. 

Shopping aside, Alexandria’s bustling and ever-evolving waterfront is perhaps the area’s most seductive attraction. Blending historical authenticity with a multitude of new developments, Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront offers a magnificent vantage point from which to enjoy a stroll, take in scenic views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C.  or simply enjoy a cocktail while dining al fresco at one of the many exciting new restaurants and bars that have taken up residence along the shores of the Potomac. And if looking out at the view isn’t stimulation enough, set sail and get a change of perspective with water taxis and river cruises by City Cruises anchored by Hornblower, which offers scenic commutes between Alexandria and the National Mall, The Wharf, Georgetown, Nationals Park, George Washington’s Mount Vernon and National Harbor. 

Also located on the Potomac River waterfront in Old Town Alexandria is the world-famous Torpedo Factory Art Center. Built in 1918, this former naval munitions plant once manufactured torpedoes during WWII. Today, however, it is home to the nation’s largest number of publicly accessible artists’ studios under one brilliantly creative roof comprising 82 studios, seven galleries, and more than 160 juried artists working in a diversity of media, from painting to ceramics and from fiber to printmaking. While the studios offer patrons the opportunity meet and mingle with artists and get an up close and personal look at their work, the Target Gallery serves as the Torpedo Factory’s own exhibition space, which rotates exhibitions featuring national and international work. Meanwhile the Post-MFA Residency Studio allows patrons to explore the work of up-and-coming artists and the New Project Studio provides a destination for exploring the work of under-represented voices. So whatever your artistic bent or inclination, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is a venue rife with possibilities for discovery. 

Speaking of possibilities and discovery, Alexandria encompasses more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated green outdoor public spaces, several of which are located in and around Old Town on the historic Potomac waterfront and begging to be explored. Founders Park, for instance, is a peaceful riverside garden in Old Town Alexandria just three blocks north of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, where the public can stroll along the shore, walk their dogs, play volleyball, have a picnic and generally enjoy the splendid scenery of Northern Virginia. There’s also the dockside Harborside/Shipyard Park with its views of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and National Harbor; Jones Point Park, located just south of Old Town Alexandria on the Potomac River where you’ll find the last remaining riverine lighthouse in Virginia dating back to 1855; Waterfront Park, in the heart of Old Town, a peaceful respite with a statue of a ship builder, old anchors, and a monument to fallen policemen; and Tide Lock Park  home to the “Promenade Classique,” a neoclassical sculpture among waterfalls and pools by French sculptors Anne and Patrick Poirier. 

When it comes to accommodations in Old Town, the options reflect the neighborhood itself -ranging from the truly historic to the thoroughly modern. Among the more historic offerings is the famous George Washington Town House in the center of Old Town, just a one block walk away from King Street and a short walk to the waterfront, the museums, restaurants, shops, public library, farmer’s market and City Hall. Though the house itself is a reproduction of the original town house built by George Washington in 1769 (the original was unfortunately demolished in 1855), the property does sit on the original site used by George Washington primarily before the revolution. The town house offers three levels with two bedrooms on the top level, a living room and dining room on the main level, and a kitchen and family room on the English basement level. As an added bonus, the property also offers two parking spaces on the far side of the storage shed (formerly a stable) and off of “Washington Way” where Washington himself was known to have approached the property by horse.  

How’s that for history? 

Just around the corner on King Street, the past meets the present yet again as the cobblestone streets and storied buildings give way to the modern luxury of whimsical retreats like the Lorien Hotel & Spa and its award-winning restaurant, BRABO Brasserie; the stylish Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection, a boutique hotel bubbling over with yesteryear period charm; and The Grace, a thoroughly contemporary apartment hotel, ideal for extended stays. 

Meanwhile, over at the waterfront, the boutique Hotel Indigo takes a cue from Old Town’s original residents who found inspiration in the Potomac River. Perched on the banks of what was once one of the busiest ports in early America, both the Hotel Indigo’s sleek guest rooms and its rustic chic Hummingbird restaurant overlook the water taking full advantage of the history and majesty of the property’s environs. 

Finally, continuing the theme of old meets new, a multitude of buzzworthy dining options reflect both sides of the coin in Old Town. At King & Rye on King Street, a menu of seasonal Southern American cuisine made from scratch with the highest-quality regional ingredients, served alongside a fine selection of whiskeys and bourbons hearkens back to the simplicity of a different time albeit with a modern twist. Ditto for the waterfront’s Ada’s on the River, which draws inspiration from the ingenuity of Ada Lovelace, one of the greatest mathematicians of the 19th century, and features a menu highlighted by wood-fired prime steak and fresh seafood prepared in a custom wood-burning oven. 

In contrast, BARCA, one of Old Town Alexandria’s newest riverfront restaurants, brings a fresh Catalonian coastal influence to the neighborhood with a menu of Spanish-Mediterranean small plates, wine, sangria, and cocktails. While the acclaimed Vermilion helmed by chef Ben Pflaumer offers deceptively simple modern American cooking using local, farm-raised products in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. 

Something old, something new – Old Town Alexandria provides a shining example of why the two make a perfect marriage. 

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Moreover, the elegant and beautifully maintained 18th and 19th century row houses and Federal-style mansions that dot Georgetown’s quaint, tree-lined streets in tandem with the fact that this swanky corner of the District is also home to Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher education in the United States, go a long way toward explaining why Georgetown was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967 and is now included in the inventory of Historic Places, as well as the National Register of Historic Places. 

But that was then, and this is now, and Georgetown has not become the bustling hub of power, privilege and prestige that it is today by looking backward. Quite the contrary. Georgetown has emerged as one of the most recognizable neighborhoods in America because it has evolved, ever escalating its appeal in every way imaginable over the years. Hence the reason that there are a slew of new and exciting offerings in the neighborhood and even more on tap for the year ahead. 

Among the more exciting new offerings is a new range of Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal boat tours which began operation last spring. For context, Georgetown is an origination point for the historic C&O Canal, a National Park which runs 184.5 miles into Cumberland, MD. When ground broke in 1828, the Canal brought to life George Washington’s vision to open up the country to the west—connecting the port town to goods and materials that supported a local industrial economy unique to the region.  

Now, for the first time in a decade, several public boat rides are available throughout the day, Wednesday–Sunday through July 2, 2023, offering one-hour guided historical tours along the first mile of the C&O Canal National Historical Park (NHP). Over the course of the tour, visitors learn about the fascinating history, technology and culture of the Canal, and the surprising stories of the people who have lived, worked and played there over the past two centuries. 

Speaking of playing, with over 470 restaurants, shops and institutions, Georgetown has long been a mecca for good times in our nation’s capital, particularly where foodies are concerned. However, after experiencing a somewhat stagnant (if laudable) food scene for years, one might argue that Georgetown is experiencing a renaissance of sorts these days.  

Recent additions to the neighborhood include: Michelin-starred chef Michael Rafidi’s Levantine cafe Yellow; French brasserie L’Avant-Garde from renowned French chef Gilles Epié, the youngest chef ever to receive a Michelin star at age 22; the buzzy French bistro Lutèce helmed by Chef Matt Conroy, which was named one of the 50 most exciting restaurants in America by the New York Times in 2022; the über-glamorous Champagne and caviar bar, Apéro; Mediterranean lunch counter Green Almond Pantry from Turkish chef Cagla Onal-Urel; and the Southern France-influenced, New York City import Maman.  

And many more are on the way. 

This spring will see the opening of not one, but two highly anticipated new Japanese restaurants in Georgetown. The first is a Japanese cafe and omakase counter called Two Nine from Zach Ramos and Amy Phan of the wildly popular Ama Ami, a pop-up offering takeout chirashi bowls and private homakase feasts which took off during the pandemic. The second is Kyojin, an offshoot of the Arlington, Virginia-based Yume Sushi. 

Also coming to Georgetown is the anxiously awaited 2023 debut of a new M Street mega Italian restaurant and market from restauranteur Stephen Starr and Michelin-starred chef Nancy Silverton of Osteria Mozza fame. At a reported cost of $10 million, the new eatery is expected to feature wood-burning ovens for thin-crust pizzas and handmade pastas, as well as a prosciutto and mozzarella bar. 

Finally, for anyone with a taste for sweets, Arcay Chocolates, from self-taught, Venezuela-born chocolatier Anabella Arcay – whose exquisite selection of colorful chocolate bonbons filled with exotic flavors such as passion fruit, lemon basil, and blackberry cardamom exploded in popularity from its current location at the La Cosecha food hall near Union Market – will also be arriving in Georgetown this spring with a new outpost on O Street. 

All of these new hot spots, of course join classic Georgetown favorites like the venerable 1789; timeless Italian mainstays, Café Milano and Filomena; Chez Billy Sud and Dog Tag Bakery, a bakery, whose baked treats not only satisfy its patrons’ cravings for sweet and savory pastries, but also empowers the transitioning military veterans it trains and employs to redefine their future. 

In terms of nightlife, Georgetown has also seen a few new arrivals as of late, despite the neighborhood’s formerly restrictive tavern licensing caps. The Sovereign, a Belgian bar and bistro noted for its curated selection of 50 drafts and more than 350 bottles, entered the scene a few years back and continues to thrive. And more recently, the 23 and older nightspot Clubhouse (formerly Church Hall), a 9,000-square-foot space, with three bars on two levels and 16 video monitors has become a trendy all-day, all-night destination. 

Finally, with respect to accommodations, Georgetown has witnessed a bit of boom in terms of new and noteworthy hotel properties in recent years. Among them is the recently renovated Arc Hotel. Formerly the George Washington University Inn, the Arc is a modern boutique hotel situated within walking distance of the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts, George Washington University and Hospital, The National Academy of Science, The National Mall, and the DC Metro. Spacious guest rooms in excess of 300 square feet count views of the historic Foggy Bottom neighborhood and the Potomac River, among their many selling points. 

Meanwhile, the newest property serving Georgetown patrons is not actually in Georgetown, but provides wonderfully easy access to the neighborhood via a quick and convenient water taxi. Located on the banks of the Potomac River, Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf opened to much fanfare last fall and its 131 guest rooms, including 38 suites, as well as its signature Spa Pendry have been the talk of the town ever since. 

Likewise, the iconic Waldorf Astoria (formerly Trump International), opened its doors in Washington DC last summer on the site of the former Old Post Office, a short walk from the White House and the Capitol, but also conveniently accessible to Georgetown.   

As with restaurants and nightlife, these new hotel properties join Georgetown stalwarts including the Rosewood Washington, D.C., which is ideally located alongside the historic C&O Canal, features 55 exquisitely appointed rooms including 12 suites and six townhouses and houses Wolfgang Puck’s Cut, and the eternally elegant Four Seasons Georgetown, home to Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak, located at the entrance of Georgetown, steps from world-leading institutions and historic monuments. 

Bottom line: New or old, Georgetown never goes out of style. 

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On the historical side of things, it would be nigh on impossible to embark on an exploration of Capitol Hill without first highlighting the neighborhood’s hallmark institutions — of which there are many. While the magisterial Supreme Court Building, with its magnificent Corinthian columns and neoclassical design, occupies pride of place in this historic neighborhood, just across the street sits the equally impressive Library of Congress, which is comprised of three buildings, including the Thomas Jefferson Building, a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture renowned for its stunning and grandiose Great Hall. The nation’s oldest federal cultural institution, the Library of Congress is as notable for its impressive reading rooms as it is for its status as the world’s largest library complete with an unparalleled collection of books, manuscripts, and historical artifacts. 

For literary buffs, the Folger Shakespeare Library is yet another hidden gem tucked away in Historic Capitol Hill. Dedicated to the study and appreciation of William Shakespeare and his works, the library houses the world’s largest collection of Shakespearean materials, including rare books and manuscripts. Meanwhile, the Capitol Hill Baptist Church, with its historic red-brick facade and towering steeple, has been a spiritual cornerstone of the neighborhood since its founding in 1878.  

Beyond the acres of marble and granite monuments that dominate Capitol Hill, however, there is another side to this renowned corner of America’s capital city. While legendary institutions like the venerable Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington’s oldest saloon which first opened its doors in 1856, The Monocle, a go-to lunch or dinner spot for local politicians and lobbyists alike since the 1960s, and Martin’s Tavern, where John F. Kennedy purportedly proposed to the future Jacqueline Onassis, continue to thrive, a new wave of hotspots are becoming local institutions in their own right after having staked their claim in Capitol Hill. 

As minimalist, independent coffeehouses like Compass Coffee and Peregrine Espresso regularly pack in an overflow crowd of caffeine-addicted fans with artisanal brews, vintage stores like Clothes Encounter DC and the quirky DC-based brand, Relume, draw an eclectic swarm of shopaholics in search of singular, rare and fabulous items not to be found elsewhere in the city. Similarly, the esteemed Capitol Hill Books, with its three floors chock full of used and rare books, as well as first editions, attracts a literate following that includes everyone from scholars and collectors to casual bookworms who still have a fondness for print in an increasingly digital world. The aforementioned, taken as whole, are emblematic of the scene that lends a hipster ethos to this stalwart community. 

Likewise, Eastern Market, established in 1873 as a town center of sorts, is today the hipster heartbeat of Capitol Hill. A bustling hub of activity, filled with vendors selling meats, poultry, seafood, baked goods, flowers, handcrafted goods and artisanal cheeses throughout the week, the venue evinces a particularly rousing air on weekends when the streets and plazas surrounding it teem with all manner of vendors ranging from farmers and food trucks to local artists and jewelry designers from across the region. 

At its heart, Historic Capitol Hill is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a living testament to America’s past, present, and future. Steeped in history, but firmly moored in the present, it is a place where, in spite of the fact that every brick holds a story, every corner whispers secrets, and every sip connects you to the past, the lively drumbeat of modernity thunders on in perfect time with the tune of all that has come before it. 

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Go-go music is perhaps one of the best examples of Washington, DC’s unique flavor. Originating in the 1970s, Go-go music emerged as a unique fusion of funk, soul, R&B, and elements of Latin and African rhythms. Characterized by its emphasis on live performance, relentless percussion, punctuated by pulsating conga drums, syncopated cowbells, and driving rhythms from the drum kit, and extended instrumental breaks that keep the audience engaged and dancing, go-go is also equally defined by its call-and-response vocal interaction between the band and the audience. As the lead vocalist or frontman engages the crowd with chants, encouraging them to respond, they create an electric feedback loop of energy that transforms every performance into a communal experience.  

Over time, these call-and-response interactions have evolved into a platform for addressing social and political issues, making go-go music not only a sonic experience but also a means of expression and activism – particularly for the African American community who see the music not only as a genre but a living, breathing symbol of unity, resilience, and self-expression that fosters an environment where everyone feels connected, heard, and valued. 

In recent years, go-go music has transcended the city’s boundaries as artists from various genres have incorporated go-go elements into their music and collaborated with go-go bands, which has brought new life to the genre and introduced it to a wider audience. As evidence of go-go’s musical ascendancy and resurgence, the Rooftop Garden at Washington, DC’s Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Library played host to a month-long Go-Go on the Rooftop concert series this past summer in celebration of Black Music Month. 

The same spirit that fuels the sound of DC, also inspires the sights of DC as seen through the lens of the city’s vibrant and dynamic street art scene which is rife with murals that that capture the essence of city’s diverse identity and culture. 

Perhaps the most famous (and Instagrammable) mural in Washington, DC appropriately graces one of the city’s most famous and beloved eateries, Ben’s Chili Bowl. Renowned for its signature half-smoke sausage, the popular restaurant has been patronized over the years by a wide range of celebrity guests, including everyone from Ella Fitzgerald, Larry King and former president George W. Bush to Bono, Bruno Mars, and Mary J Blige.  Fittingly, the landmark was made even more famous in 2012 when Nigerian-born local artist, Aniekan Udofia, bedeckedthe exterior of the building with a spectacular mural that celebrates a wide variety of famous Black Americans – many with ties to Washington, DC –  to honor the city’s rich history of Black culture, including everyone from comedians and musicians like Dave Chappelle, Chuck Brown (the godfather of go-go music), and Prince to abolitionists, athletes and politicians including  Harriet Tubman, Muhammed Ali and Barack and Michelle Obama. 

Another famous mural in the city also adorns another local fave eatery, the hip and pet-friendly brewing pub and café, Dacha Beer Garden in Shaw. Created by Byron Peck, the 50-foot mural, features a mammoth image of film legend Elizabeth Taylor, whose trailblazing efforts helped to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, a scourge that has inordinately affected the DC Metropolitan area.  

Meanwhile, more recent additions to the street art scene include Voices of Change: Representation, Progress, and Hope, a commemorative public mural featuring Black leaders including DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., painted by local artists Shawn Perkins, Levi Robinson, and Dez Zambrano as part of the 2021 MLK Day of Service Project. There’s also a new go-go mural by DC native, Kaliq Crosby, at Florida Avenue and Seventh Street NW called GO-GO CITY which showcases a young person beating out a rhythm on an overturned plastic jug, which, according to the artist, is meant to tell “the story of people with nothing turning it into something.”  

These murals, like go-go music, represent the diversity, creativity, and history of Washington, DC, while simultaneously providing an avenue for local artists to express their perspectives and local communities to share their stories. As residents and tourists explore the signature sights and sounds of Washington, DC, they not only pay homage to the artistic talent that thrives within the city but also become enlightened about a larger narrative beyond politics and the corridors of power that simmers beneath and continues to shape and define our nation’s capital. 

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Founded in 1519 by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon, San Juan, is the oldest continuously inhabited city among United States territories and the second oldest in the entire Western Hemisphere. As such, the settlement that blossomed into a flourishing city, has witnessed the ebb and flow of centuries, from Spanish colonization to British invasions to its current status as a United States territory. Throughout it all, Old San Juan has stood at the heart of this evolution as its imposing forts, narrow cobblestone streets, singular blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture and vibrantly colored centuries-old buildings, complete with ornate balconies, will attest. 

Among the most iconic landmarks in Old San Juan are the forts: Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal. While El Morro, with its six levels offering jaw-dropping views at nearly every turn, is the most popular and beloved landmark in all of Puerto Rico, Castillo San Cristóbal, which was built over the course of a century and a half, is the largest fortification built in the New World. Together with the 500-year-old walls of the city and the small fortification known as, Fortin San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo), these landmarks form the San Juan National Historic Site which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Another of Old San Juan’s most notable landmarks is the capital’s first cathedral, La Catedral de San Juan Bautista (Cathedral of San Juan Bautista), which dates back to the 16th century. A spiritual and architectural landmark imbued with a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences, the cathedral is still open daily for services. Likewise, the Paseo de la Princesa, a picturesque palm-lined promenade renowned for its historic statues, elegant gardens, the beautiful Raíces Fountain and a charming array of shops and cafés is yet another local treasure. 

Speaking of local treasures, no discussion of Old San Juan would be complete without reference to the delightful array of traditional culinary delights the district has to offer. From Mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from deep-fried green plantain pieces mashed with garlic and either salt-cured pork or pork crackling, to Bacalaitos, crispy salted cod fritters, to Lechón Asada, a whole pig (lechón) marinated in adobo and then slowly roasted over coals for several hours until the meat is juicy and the skin crispy, there is no shortage of epicureans treats that will both tantalize your plate and sate your appetite in this historic quarter. And when it comes to cocktails, the piña colada, which was invented in Puerto Rico and considered to be the territory’s national drink, is the hands down favorite. Meanwhile Mavi, a fermented drink made with the shavings of the tree trunk of a Mavi tree, and the refreshing, non-alcoholic Piragua, a traditional treat made with shaved ice and tropical syrups are also popular libations. 

Cuisine, history and historic sites aside, Old San Juan boasts an abundance of natural riches, not the least of which are its magnificent beaches. 

Perhaps the most popular and impressive beach proximate to Old San Juan is Balneario El Escambón which is located in Puerta de Tierra between Old San Juan and Condado and frequently acclaimed as one of the best beach experiences in the Caribbean. Along the golden sandy shores of Escambrón (or Playa Escambrón as it is referred to among locals) there are two beaches, the most popular of which is simply referred to as Escambrón Beach. Located on the north side, the beach peers out over the Atlantic Ocean and counts among its charms a splendid natural coral wall that creates a pool of crystal-clear waters which regularly attracts scores of locals and tourists alike – along with schools of tropical fish whose presence in and around the rocky spots of the beach serve as an entirely separate attraction in and of itself. 

Meanwhile, on the south side of Escambrón sits Bateria El Escambrón or Poza Escambrón, a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving owing to its calmer waters teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish. Interestingly, it is also worth noting that, in addition to serving up stellar views of Condado, the south side of Playa Escambrón is also, as the name suggests, home to the Bateria El Escambrón, a notable battery built at the end of the 18th century to defend San Juan and later used as a shooting range before being occupied by the United States Army until 1925. 

Another beach alternative located just a short drive from Old San Juan is Condado Beach, which is conveniently and centrally located within walking distance of a bevy of luxury hotels, casinos, restaurants and shopping boutiques. Condado also offers beachside resort services and, like Playa Escambrón, features two distinct areas that will appeal to a variety of beachgoers. While Playita del Condado, with its calm waters, provides an idyllic space to swim and frolic, Condado Lagoon is a perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding and other water activities. Meanwhile, irrespective of your choice of beachside activity, both offer jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean that make the extra trek worthwhile. 

Speaking of treks, Isla Verde Beach, located just a short 15-minute drive or quick taxi ride from San Juan, showcases three beaches with distinctive traits, making it an exemplary location to for whatever beachgoing adventure your heart desires. Ideal for water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing, the beaches of Isla Verde, are also perfectly suited for lounging, swimming and family fun. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring historic forts, indulging in culinary delights, immersing yourself in the local art scene, or casually relaxing on one of the many sun-soaked neighboring beaches, Old San Juan offers an unrivalled Caribbean escape that promises to not only entertain but also enrich. More than merely another holiday destination, Old San Juan is a journey through time, culture, and cuisine where Old World elegance, timeless natural beauty and good vibes collide. 

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