20 Mar 12 Ways To Really Experience the Beating Heart of America
Today’s post is for all the Americans out there; for those who feel trapped because they can’t travel abroad at the moment (and also anyone planning a trip to America, hoping to really get a feel for the culture). We’re here to bring light to some of the most iconic experiences in America, in hope of inspiring a little local escapade and proudly American adventure.
If you’re the type who likes to experience different things, or you’re the fan of off-the-beaten-tracks, you know that it’s all about experiencing that sense of magic in a place. There are many countries that already exude that sense of magic and mystery. Countries like Ireland have that magical factor. Peru, India, and Thailand too. But Americans don’t necessarily think the same when it comes to America, so we’re going to try convince you otherwise. Let’s show you some of the best ways to truly experience America.
The Mix of Missouri
Missouri is one of those places that wouldn’t necessarily be called “magical” by most people. But the great thing about Missouri, is its ability to straddle the balance between the metropolitan and the rural. While there are bigger destinations like Kansas City, Branson MO is the perfect way to get a sneak preview of what small-town life is like. Missouri in general is a great sneak preview of the South. It’s always a very impressive place, and Missouri is definitely worth your time.
The Food Trails
Food is a through-line that runs deep in America. From the truck stops across the country, all the way through to fine dining experiences, if you want to experience America, you can do it via the plates it provides. You don’t have to dine at the top of the Seattle Space Needle either, but if you really want to get down and dirty, you have to go to Buffalo. The Anchor Bar – the birthplace of Buffalo wings – is said to be the best place to begin. When you are experiencing that small-town feel in places like Buffalo, and you are dining out on wholesome, soulful food, this is truly the taste and feel of heartland America.
Boating in Maryland
You may consider places like Niagara Falls to be the best way to experience life on the water. But for those people seeking a tranquil experience (but also want to go and see the sea life), you can head up to Cantler’s Riverside Inn in Annapolis, where you can eat blue crabs on the water – it’s tranquil, and a place for anybody to experience a serene sense of calmness that you do not get in any built-up area. There’s nothing quite like drifting away, in mind and soul, on places like the Susquehanna River.
Watching Baseball at Wrigley Field
Love or hate baseball, there is nothing quite like experiencing a blissful summer’s night, watching a baseball game, eating hot dogs, and seeing just how happy America can be in the simple moments. Wrigley Field can be a tourist trap because they are the home of the Chicago Cubs, but for those people who have never experienced baseball, this is by far the best place to start.
The Jazz Stylings of New Orleans
Cliched, but once you hear Ella Fitzgerald’s “Summertime” in this environment, it completely makes sense and gives you a whole new perspective of hot balmy nights. Jazz is something that is a refined taste, but when you experience a blending of influences over ragtime and blues, New Orleans can switch you onto another plane. Preservation Hall is a place steeped in history, and while it is one of the most famous jazz venues in the world, you have to compare this with the jazz you experience on every street corner. Pitch up at a table in one of the many bars, and let the experience wash over you.
The Leaves in New England
Peak foliage season is around October, which is the ideal time to venture to the Green Mountains or New Hampshire and see the dark red leaves flutter to the ground. The wide variety of farmland and forests can help you experience fall in a whole new way, and as HFFH said during their visit to Vermont, “There’s no bustle or traffic (like that in the big city), no glam or bright lights…just pure nature hugging all the small towns. You feel that sense of relaxation and escapism almost instantly.”
The Road Trip Experience
America is replete with road trip opportunities, but if you want to stay away from the traditional Route 66, and go for something truly breathtaking, head from Miami through to Key West. You will cover 113 miles, 42 bridges, and once you get to the Florida Keys, you have earned your right to party the night away in South Beach.
Experiencing The History Of America
Whether you learned about the Alamo in school or not, it’s completely different when you see it in front of you. Besides, you need to experience San Antonio in all its glory. You can head over to the Alamo, but you can also experience American history by traversing the restaurants and bars. It’s a great way to live like a native and find the beating heart of Texas beyond the Alamo.
Be Joyous in Memphis
Religious or not, the power of gospel music cannot be ignored. The best place to enjoy the depths of gospel music is always in a church environment. Head to Memphis and sit in the Full Gospel Tabernacle, to experience this momentous Sunday service. It’s easy to see why people keep coming back as soon as you get caught up in the moment.
Eat Pizza in the Right Places
With over 61,000 pizzerias in the United States, you’ve got to find the right ones. The best is, undoubtedly, in its cultural heart, New York City, so head into Brooklyn as the pizzeria Di Fara comes recommended by the best of the best.
Head to Coney Island
The American boardwalk is something that encapsulates so much about the USA. Coney Island is one of the more traditional destinations, but there’s a reason why it is still pulling in the crowds – it’s a place that’s full of nostalgia. Pull up a bumper car, wander around the carousels, and take in the aroma of freshly made popcorn for one of the best American experiences.
Celebrate Native American Culture in Albuquerque
A native American powwow is the best way to experience America at its most traditional. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate native American culture and get up close and personal to see an evolving culture that is embedded deeply into the hearts of America, and Albuquerque might just be the best place to do that.
We can experience America through traditional tourist traps, or we can embody a combination of methods to ensure that we burrow beneath the surface and understand what America is really all about. Here’s to your American adventures.
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