1-Day Universal Orlando Resort Trip Itinerary | Solo Trip to Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios

November 25, 20241 Comment

A few weeks ago, I had a spontaneous idea to take a last-minute solo trip to Universal Orlando Resort. I have a Universal Military Freedom Pass (highly recommend if you’re eligible—it saves hundreds!) that expires in December and I already visited earlier this year but wanted to take advantage one more time.

Plus, I’ve never visited the theme parks around the holidays and wanted to see all the festive decorations! On a whim, I booked a same-day, roundtrip flight from North Carolina to Florida and started planning my 1-day Universal Studios itinerary. Here’s how I pulled it off:

3am – time to wake up! I live about an hour from the Raleigh-Durham International Airport and had to hit the road around 3:30 to get there in time for my 6:30 flight.

5am – arrive at RDU. Since I was only parking there for about 15 hours, I splurged on Premier ($32/day) which was super convenient. The walk from my parking spot to security only took a couple of minutes. I grabbed a water and a Clif bar to hold me over so I could head straight to Universal after landing.

6:30am – wheels up, time to catch some ZZZ’s.

8:15am – we arrived early in Orlando (which never happens, I’m usually delayed!) and I immediately grabbed an Uber to the park.

8:50am – arrive at Universal, head straight to Velocicoaster in Islands of Adventure. Most people opt for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, but I prefer Velocicoaster and wanted to hit it first thing. I walked through Seuss Landing to get there, and the Christmas decorations were adorable!

1-day Universal Orlando Resort trip itinerary, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

I ended up waiting in the Velocicoaster line for about 45 minutes which was 100% worth it. It’s my favorite ride in Universal and I forgot how much fun it is. There’s no better way to start the day!

10:15am – get in line for Hagrid’s. This was my longest wait of the day at around 90 minutes. Hagrid’s is a really fun ride with some unexpected drops, backwards movements, and accelerations. I wouldn’t wait more than 90 minutes for it (sometimes, the lines are 120+ minutes), but it’s definitely worth a ride at least once.

12pm – lunch at the Three Broomsticks. I could have saved time grabbing a quicker bite to eat elsewhere, but it was nice to give my feet a rest while enjoying my meal of fish and chips and a Hog’s Head Brew (an amber ale). Some of the ride wait times also dropped a bit while I was eating, so it ended up working out that my lunch break took around an hour.

1pm – hop over to Universal Studios. You can take the Hogwarts Express from one park to the next, but it was faster to walk. I headed for Revenge of the Mummy and used the single rider lane, so I was in and out within 30 minutes. Revenge of the Mummy is a fun, nostalgic ride I remember from my first trip to Universal as a kid 10+ years ago!

1:50pm – head to Diagon Alley. I grabbed a butterbeer at The Fountain of Fair Fortune and made my way to Escape from Gringott’s. This ride also had a lane for single riders, so I only had to wait for about 30 minutes.

3pm – visit Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes and pick up some treats at Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop. I got a bag of mixed candy for myself and a ginger newt cookie and pumpkin pasty to bring home for my husband. I had a bite of the ginger cookie and it was delicious—my husband said the pasty was pretty good but “he’s had better.” (They’re really easy to make at home and much better fresh, when the dough is crispy and the filling is warm.)

3:05pm – walk by Shrek’s Swamp. Seeing this area made my heart so happy, I just wish it had a dedicated ride! The theming for the meet-and-greet area looked amazing as I passed through on my way back to Islands of Adventure.

3:30pm – get in line for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. I took the single rider lane and pretty much walked right on!

3:45pm – ride Velocicoaster again. When I got in line, the wait was around 75 minutes. However, they opened the single rider lane about 30 minutes into my wait. I switched over and ended up getting on the ride after roughly another 20 minutes.

4:45pm – back to Hogsmeade for a second cup of butterbeer—I couldn’t resist! I got a pretzel to balance the sweetness and it was the perfect snack to end my day at Universal.

5:30pm – Uber back to Orlando International Airport. I had plenty of time to grab a margarita and some food at Bahama Breeze before my 9pm flight. Delta upgraded me to first class which was amazing—although I just slept the entire way back! I ended up getting home at midnight and passing out.

Since I’d already been to Universal Orlando Resort earlier this year, I had a pretty good lay of the land and knew exactly what I wanted to do while there. There are some other fun rides worth checking out (like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit), but Velocicoaster and Hagrid’s are definitely my top choices.

I’m so glad I took this fun little solo trip and got to see the theme parks decorated for the holidays. I’ll definitely be back next year once the Epic Universe opens!

10 Solo Things to Do Around the Holidays | Solo Holiday Activities

November 18, 2024November 18, 20241 Comment

If you’re experiencing a period of loneliness, my heart goes out to you. Whether you moved away from home for work or school or you don’t have a close relationship with family, I can only imagine how bittersweet this season feels. Movies portray the holidays as a perfect time of year when everyone comes together and is happy, but life is much more complicated.

Check out my video How to Deal with Holiday Loneliness for more tips

Regardless of your circumstances, I want to share some tips for making the most of your time alone. My husband is in the military, so I’ve spent many months getting comfortable with doing things solo. Just last year, we spent most of the holiday season separated while he was on an overseas deployment.

Here are some of my favorite solo things to do around the holidays to get in the festive spirit and embrace the alone time:

Solo things to do around the holidays, by lifestyle blogger Wandering the Gap

1. Drive around and look at the Christmas lights

One of my favorite holiday activities is driving around with my dog and a cup of hot cocoa to admire the Christmas lights while listening to festive music. It’s a super cheap, fun way to celebrate and embrace the season. I find it virtually impossible to be in a bad mood while looking at Christmas light displays!

2. Have a cozy night in

While I think it’s important to get out of the house and socialize, I also think it’s healthy to stay in and relax every now and then. I appreciate nights where I can kick back with a glass of wine, watch a movie, order takeout, put on a face mask, and savor my solo time. Brainstorm a few things that help you feel refreshed and set aside a night to indulge in whatever recharges you.

3. Try a new hobby

Taking a Lyra class with Shangri-La Aerial Arts

Being alone is, in my opinion, one of the best opportunities to pursue new interests. I like to make the most of my extra free time by branching out and trying things out of my comfort zone. This could be anything from signing up for a pottery-making class (which is on my list of must-try solo activities!) to tackling a DIY project or exploring upcoming local events.

4. Go to the movies

I love watching movies and take any chance I get to go on solo movie theater dates. Usually, I’ll try to go during the week or a weekend matinee so the theater isn’t too crowded. It can feel awkward to see a movie by yourself, but I’ve done it many times now that it’s obvious no one really cares or even notices. Grab your favorite drink and snacks, settle in, and enjoy the experience.

5. Volunteer

Volunteering at the 2023 Emma Crawford Coffin Races and Festival

I find volunteering to be an excellent use of solo time, especially around the holidays. Get plugged into your community to find organizations needing your time for various projects. Volunteer work isn’t always glamorous, but it’s incredibly fulfilling to pour into others and give what you can to a cause that’s greater than yourself.

6. Cook a new recipe

When I know I’m flying solo because my husband will be away, I like to experiment with new recipes and meals. I’m definitely guilty of cooking the same things over and over again—I don’t want to waste time and money on a recipe that doesn’t turn out! It’s easier for me to justify cooking new foods when I’m alone since I won’t be wasting as much food if I don’t end up liking it. For instance, my favorite recent recipe find was a tofu pumpkin curry that I’ve now incorporated into our weeknight dinner rotation.

7. Challenge yourself physically

My first solo Colorado 14er, Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans)

From festive races to holiday-themed fitness classes, now is the perfect time to push yourself physically. It can be tempting to spend the season curled up on the couch bringing Christmas movies and splurging on sweet treats.

While I can only speak from experience, I feel much better—physically, mentally, and emotionally—when I’m getting active on a regular basis. Activities like yoga, rock climbing, running, hiking, aerial silks, barre, and CrossFit have made a significant difference in feeling healthy and fulfilled while I’m alone.

8. Reach out to someone

There have been several phases of my life where I’ve felt lonely, especially after moving halfway across the country from our closest friends and family. Being physically separated from your support system can make it hard to connect with loved ones, leading to feelings of isolation.

When I begin to fill down about missing friends and family, I try to reach out and let them know I’m interested in catching up. Sure, it’s not the same as physically being with them, but it comes pretty darn close. Maintaining those long-distance relationships takes effort, but it makes you value the times you do see each other in person so much more.

9. Explore somewhere new

Travel is another huge love of mine, and I’ve been fortunate to take some incredible solo trips in the past to places like Washington, D.C. and New Mexico. Visiting somewhere you’ve never been before is so exciting and enlightening.

I’ve created many lifelong memories during my solo travel experiences, even if I was just taking a day trip somewhere nearby or exploring a neighborhood in my area. Of course, you should always put safety first—but I highly encourage anyone interested in traveling alone to go for it!

10. Handle something you’ve been procrastinating

This last tip isn’t the most glamorous, but it has been one of the most helpful in navigating alone time. Seize this opportunity to finally tackle that house project, random task, or annoying to-do that you’ve been putting off.

I completely understand not wanting to spend an afternoon reorganizing your closet, getting your teeth cleaned, or sitting on the phone with your insurance company. However, I promise you’ll feel relieved and accomplished after taking care of it once and for all.

Hopefully you’re inspired to seek joy as much as possible during the holiday season, even if you are spending it alone! At the end of the day, it’s a chance to learn more about yourself and get comfortable being independent—so maximize it to the fullest extent.

Hot Springs + Asheville Weekend Trip | Post-Hurricane Helene Western NC Travel Guide

November 11, 2024February 22, 20262 Comments

Solomon and I just returned from a relaxing weekend in the mountains, and I’m sharing everything we did and saw while away! We knew ahead of this weekend that most of the towns in North Carolina we were interested in visiting would still be dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Since we just wanted a chill fall getaway to unwind, we figured it would also be a good excuse to give our business to an affected town. We settled on Hot Springs because we found a beautiful cabin available for the weekend, and the owner was encouraging visitors to support the handful of local businesses that have reopened.

Some towns throughout western NC have been completely devastated and are shut down for the foreseeable future. However, many have begun welcoming visitors and are eager for the tourism and financial support. Also, portions of North Carolina’s wilderness areas, like Pisgah National Forest, remain closed.

Do your research before traveling to western NC to avoid unintentionally putting strain on already struggling communities. Tourism is a major revenue source for some towns, but it’s essential to remember the local residents and organizations are just trying to make ends meet one day at a time. Be a conscious and responsible traveler—give your business to the places that need it the most!

Day 1: Hot Springs

Breakfast at Smokey Mountain Diner

Hot Springs and Asheville weekend trip, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

We kicked off Saturday with breakfast at Smoky Mountain Diner. Everyone working at this casual, homey spot was warm and welcoming. They made sure to let us know they had cinnamon rolls available (Saturdays only), so of course we had to order one.

Let me tell you, this was the best cinnamon roll of my life! It was soft with a slightly crispy exterior, full of cinnamon spice, and covered in an irresistible icing. We enjoyed it so much, we ordered a second one. I ordered a breakfast plate with eggs, sausage, hashbrowns, a biscuit, and gravy, and it was all scrumptious.

Hot Tub Time

Photo credit: Hot Springs Treehouse Cabins, NC.

Our stay at the Treehouse Cabins was cozy and relaxing. Cabin #2 had a stunning mountain view and everything we needed for a comfortable getaway. The best part was the hot tub overlooking the town of Hot Springs. It was chilly and overcast after breakfast—perfect weather to soak for a bit.

Hiking Along the Laurel River Trail

After watching a Harry Potter movie and playing some solitaire at the cabin, it was time to enjoy the crisp fall weather. We set off on the Laurel River Trail, an easy path that meanders along the river. Walking beside the water was scenic and peaceful—we stopped a few times to sit on the rocks and watch for fish swimming around. The entire trail is a little over seven miles roundtrip, but we headed back early, hiking around four miles total.

Stocking Up at Tobacco Road Burley & Brew

Tobacco Road is the local beer and wine store in Hot Springs. We swung by to grab an assortment of hard ciders and were surprised to see a rooster hanging out inside! (It actually wasn’t our first of the trip—earlier, a group of five or six roosters cruised by hunting for bugs while we were enjoying the hot tub.) Tobacco Road had an impressive selection, and we chit-chatted with some friendly locals on our way out. There was live music and a bonfire just outside, and it was cool to see the community united and in high spirits.

Dinner from Tin Can Pizzeria

Tin Can Pizzeria, an Asheville-based eatery, was serving slices from a food truck down the road. They have a fundraiser to continue their mission to provide complementary meals to towns like Hot Springs affected by the hurricane—I highly recommend donating! The pizza was really tasty, especially the sourdough crust.

Day 2: Asheville

Sauna House

Photo credit: Sauna House.

On our way home on Sunday, we swung by Asheville to see some friends. They suggested we visit Sauna House since the resort in Hot Springs was temporarily closed. Sauna House was a totally new experience for me, and I loved it. We started with 10-15 minutes in the sauna before rinsing off and taking a cold plunge. I’ve swam in cold water before, but that plunge was next level!

After what felt like an hour (but was probably only a minute), we moved to the heated seating area to let our body temperatures self-regulate and return to normal before repeating the process twice more (minus the cold plunge on the last round). While going from the steaming hot sauna to the icy pool was a shock to the system, it felt mentally and physically amazing afterward. I definitely have a newfound respect for those who do daily cold plunges.

Brunch at Mother

After about two hours at Sauna House, we headed next door to grab food at Mother. This eatery has a small but delicious menu of cafe classics like quiche, grilled cheese, and soup. I had the daily special—a twist on an old-fashioned tuna melt—and it was to die for. The highlight, aside from the tasty tuna filling, was the bread: two thick slabs of perfectly toasted sourdough that I’m still dreaming of.

Coffee for the Road from Farewell

Since Mother was only serving cold brew coffee, we walked up the street to Farewell. Everyone got pumpkin spice lattes (which were divine—heavy on the spices without tasting sickly sweet or artificial), and I tried an ube latte. I’ve never had ube-flavored anything, so I had no idea what to expect. It had an earthy, slightly nutty taste that I enjoyed, though the group was 50/50 on liking it. Armed with our coffees and refreshed after the Sauna House visit, we hit the road for home!

As sad as it is to see so much destruction from Hurricane Helene, I’m amazed by western NC’s resilience and know the affected towns will return even stronger than before.

Top 5 Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs | Colorado Travel Guide

November 4, 2024November 3, 20241 Comment

With so many fun free things to do in Colorado Springs, it’s among the best budget-friendly Colorado destinations. Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a history buff, or an art enthusiast, Colorado Springs has something for everyone to enjoy at no cost. Maximize your travel budget and plan the ultimate Colorado vacation with the top free things to do in Colorado Springs.

Looking for more Colorado Springs activities that don’t cost a dime? Check out this Colorado travel guide I was recently featured in: Free Things to Do in Colorado Springs, CO | Rent.

1. Walk around Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City is one of my favorite areas of Colorado Springs to explore. The historic neighborhood has tons of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops lining Colorado Avenue. It’s also a popular hub for free events, like farmer’s markets, holiday light shows, and concerts—not to mention an ArtWalk offered on the first Friday of each month.

2. Stroll through Garden of the Gods

Free things to do in Colorado Springs, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

Garden of the Gods is a must-see when visiting Colorado Springs. Park entry is free, and there are trails appropriate for hikers of all experience and fitness levels. The visitor’s center is also worth seeing if you want to learn more about the garden’s history, cultural significance, geology, and native wildlife.

3. Visit a Museum

Dive into the local history of Colorado Springs at one of the many free museums located throughout town. The Peterson Air & Space Museum boasts multiple aircrafts and missiles—perfect for those interested in aviation.

In the heart of downtown, you can learn about the Pikes Peak Region’s rich past at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. Other fun options that cost nothing to visit include the Rocky Mountain Motorcycle and Penrose Heritage Museums.

4. Go Hiking

Colorado Springs has many scenic outdoor areas worth exploring on foot. Red Rock Canyon Open Space, North Cheyenne Cañon Park, and Palmer Park are some of the most popular free places to go hiking. For more of a challenge, consider tackling Pikes Peak, an iconic Colorado 14er.

5. Explore Manitou Springs

About 20 minutes outside Colorado Springs lies the charming town of Manitou Springs. This quirky city features stunning mountain views and beautiful Victorian architecture.

Spend an afternoon wandering around Manitou Springs and browsing its various shops, galleries, eateries, and public parks. The Manitou Incline, a brutal hike that gains over 2,000′ of elevation in under one mile, is another free activity to add to your Colorado Springs itinerary.

I highly recommend visiting Colorado Springs during your next trip to Colorado, especially if you’re traveling on a budget!

Phoenix to Joshua Tree Road Trip: 72 Hours in the Southwest

October 21, 2024February 22, 2026Leave a comment

Last year, I embarked on a brief but epic journey through the Southwest with my cousin-in-law, Jessi. We explored Phoenix for a day before hitting the road for Joshua Tree National Park. It was my first time visiting Arizona and California, and the experience was unforgettable! Here’s what we did during our 72-hour Phoenix to Joshua Tree road trip:

Day 1: Phoenix

I landed bright and early in Phoenix and we immediately hit the ground running. Jessi, the incredibly talented owner of Jessi Casara Photography, was location-scouting for an Adventure Couple Session, so we first headed to South Mountain Park and Preserve. I immediately fell in love with the picturesque desert landscape—especially the cacti.

Phoenix to Joshua Tree road trip, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

After taking a scenic drive through the preserve, we headed into downtown Phoenix and walked around a bit. The temperature reached 107° so we took a break from the heat to enjoy some tacos and margaritas before setting off for the Apache Wash Trailhead in the Sonoran Preserve. Golden hour was setting in at this point, enhancing the area’s rugged beauty.

Jessi and I then grabbed some drinks at Front Pourch Brewing and made our way to Piestewa Peak Park for sunset. The park had amazing views of the Phoenix skyline and the colors of the sky were spectacular.

After a long day of sightseeing, we refreshed at our Airbnb and hit the town for drinks at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour. The bar is cozy and plush, with a huge selection of unique cocktails. Check out this drink topped with an edible wafer that was printed with a funny cat image!

Day 2: Phoenix to Joshua Tree

The next morning, it was time to say goodbye to Phoenix and make our way to California. It’s only a three-hour drive and the scenery along the way was stunning. We made it to Joshua Tree National Park early in the afternoon and were ready to explore!

Psst, check out Jessi’s guide to spending 24 Hours in Joshua Tree for more photos and details of our trip.

Our campsite was in the Jumbo Rocks Campground, conveniently located near some of the park’s coolest spots. After setting up camp, Jessi and I made the short hike to Skull Rock. The formation was really busy so we didn’t stay for long, but it was super cool (and easy to see how it got its name).

As the sun began to set, we headed to the Cholla Cactus Garden. This is a beautiful area to walk around, but there were TONS of gnats flying around. Also, be sure to watch your step so you don’t get stuck by the cacti of varying sizes.

Once it was dark, we returned to camp and stayed up late to stargaze. I’ve never seen so many shooting stars as I did that night! It was one of my favorite experiences from our trip and definitely worth losing some sleep over.

Day 3: Joshua Tree to Los Angeles

On the third and final (for me) day of the trip, we got up early to go on a morning hike. Our destination was Arch Rock, an iconic sunrise spot. The trail there was relatively easy and short at only around a mile long, weaving through many interesting boulders and Joshua Tree plants that the park is famous for.

A few other people were hanging out at Arch Rock when we arrived, and everyone was really friendly which made things even more fun. Jessi even shot a spontaneous Mini Session with an adorable couple who watched the sunrise with us!

Afterward, it was time to make our way to Los Angeles so I could catch a flight home. On our way out of the park, we stopped for breakfast burritos at Castaneda’s Mexican Food in Twentynine Palms. They were huge and SO delicious topped with the restaurant’s homemade salsa.

I’m so grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime trip—hopefully I can return and spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park!

Weekend Recap: Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama Road Trip

October 14, 2024February 22, 20261 Comment

I had the most wholesome fall weekend exploring parts of Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama—here’s a recap of where my adventures took me…

Technically, this was a “work” trip with my incredibly talented cousin-in-law Jessi, the owner of Jessi Casara Photography. I’ve been helping Jessi behind the scenes for a few years now, and her skills constantly blow me away. The weekend was so fun, it didn’t feel like work at all!

Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama road trip, by travel blogger Wandering the Gap

Things kicked off Friday evening at Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia, where Jessi photographed a gorgeous couple session. I’d been to Cloudland Canyon once before for the Georgia Canyon Climbers Club Challenge, and it was just as beautiful as I remembered it. We followed the Waterfalls Trail down into the canyon before heading to the Main Overlook for golden hour. I loved hiking around the park and watching Jessi do her thing—I can’t wait to see her pics from the day.

After the session, we headed back to our hotel for the night, The Groovy Nomad. This is an adorably quirky roadside motel in Trenton. The 70s theming was perfect, and our room had tons of cute Cuban-inspired elements.

Jessi and I freshened up and made our way to downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee for (very spicy but delicious) Thai food and the main attraction of the night: Harry Potter World at Unknown Caller Bar. Unknown Caller is a cool speakeasy-style bar you can find by looking for a neon purple light. While we had to wait in line for about an hour to get into the pop-up, it was 100% worth it. The entire bar was decked out with Harry Potter decor, and it had a special menu with drinks like Butter Beer (which was super tasty), a Nimbus 2000, a Golden Snitch, and more.

Once Saturday morning rolled around, it was time for the Fall At the Farm festival in Valley Head, Alabama. This was Jessi’s first time being a festival vendor, and I’m glad I was able to be there for the experience. The festival was hosted by Town Creek Field and Farm, a gorgeous property known for its you-pick flowers. There were a ton of cool vendors, pumpkins, flowers, food, coffee, live music, and (my favorite) a baby mini Highland cow! It was a huge success and Jessi met a ton of new people. The vibes were so wholesome, and all the festival-goers seemed to have an amazing time.

Big thanks to Jessi for inviting me along on this amazing weekend!

Staying at The Stanley Hotel | The Real-Life Hotel That Inspired The Shining

October 7, 20243 Comments

Did you know the hotel that inspired Stephen King’s classic horror novel The Shining is in Estes Park, Colorado? I’m a huge Stephen King fan and have always wanted to spend a night at the supposedly haunted Stanley Hotel. Earlier this year, my husband and I finally had the chance to stay at the property, and it was incredible!

The historic Stanley Hotel has a rich and storied past, opening in 1909 as an upscale destination for visitors to the Estes Valley. Its reputation was beginning to falter in the 1970s until King’s fateful stay. After having a vivid nightmare while spending the night at the hotel, he was inspired to write The Shining, and the rest is history.

Nestled among Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the Stanley Hotel is a beautiful property. You’ll begin to understand the spooky legends surrounding the hotel as soon as you step foot into the lobby. It boasts plush furnishings and dark wood accents that pay homage to its over 100-year-old legacy. Upon check-in, my husband and I were given a sheet detailing some of the hotel’s most famous paranormal encounters, such as a ghostly cowboy spotted in Room 428 and an unwelcoming male presence in Room 401.

We had an attic room on the fourth floor that was comfortable and chic, with cozy, vintage-inspired furniture and large windows. After settling in, we decided to explore the property, which features a miniature hedge maze and a pet cemetery. It’s also home to the world’s first Cryonics Museum, which was sadly closed during our visit. Of course, we had to swing by Room 217, where King stayed during his visit.

Like King, we were also there during the offseason (in February), so the hotel was fairly quiet and partially snow-covered. The grand staircases, elegant rooms, and long hallways definitely have an eerie atmosphere after dark. It’s easy to immerse yourself in the hotel and imagine you’ve stepped back in time to when it first opened.

After grabbing dinner in Estes Park, we stopped by the hotel’s Whiskey Bar for a nightcap. We had fun chatting with the bartender, and he created some custom drinks for us which were uniquely tasty. The lobby had a roaring fire and ample seating, adding to the cozy vibes. Sadly (maybe luckily), we didn’t encounter any spirits that night…

The next morning, we enjoyed breakfast at Brunch & Co., located in the Lodge next door to the main hotel. It has a stunning dining area overlooking the mountains, and the food was delicious—you must try the sourdough hotcakes! Then, it was time to head home and return to reality.

I loved staying at the Stanley Hotel. Even if you aren’t a fan of King or The Shining, it’s a beautiful place to spend a night or a weekend, and it’s conveniently located near Rocky Mountain National Park. I highly recommend visiting next time you’re in town!

How to Help Western North Carolina | Hurricane Helene Relief Effort Resources

September 30, 2024September 29, 20241 Comment

I’m doing something a little different this week and sharing resources to help those in Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. My husband and I just moved to NC and while Fayetteville wasn’t hit too bad, we have some friends and family in the Asheville area who are experiencing severe flooding and loss of power, rationing supplies, and are essentially stuck in place due to poor road conditions.

We were just in Asheville at the beginning of September, and it’s hard to fathom all the damage that’s occurred from the hurricane. I’m thinking of and praying for everyone in the affected areas—while we can’t physically be there to provide support, there are many ways to help from afar:

American Red Cross – the Red Cross has several Hurricane Helene initiatives for impacted areas throughout Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. You can visit their website or text HELENE to 90999 to make a donation. They also have resources for finding a shelter, locating loved ones, and giving blood.
North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) – the VOAD has compiled a list of contact information for statewide Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster, letting you find ways to support disaster relief efforts in your local county.
GoFundMe – while you should be cautious about donating to random GoFundMe pages, the company has create a hub of verified fundraisers for those affected by Hurricane Helene.
Operation Airdrop – on September 30, Operation Airdrop will begin flying essential supplies to areas of Western NC hit by Hurricane Helene. You donate money, supplies, or your time by volunteering at the flight staging area in Concord.
Samaritan’s Purse – you can donate or sign up to be a volunteer through Samaritan’s Purse. The organization’s headquarters are located in Boone, which has been severely impacted by flooding, downed trees, and loss of water and electricity.
Forsyth Humane Society – email foster@forsythhumane.org with the subject “Hurricane Helene Foster” or visit their website to help animals displaced by Hurricane Helene. They are partnering with the BISSELL Pet Foundation to assist the Asheville Humane Society, which urgently needs fosters.
North Carolina Community Foundation – donate to the North Carolina Community Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund, which supports mid- and long-term relief efforts in Western NC.
Appalachia Funders Network – this organization has launched an Appalachian Helene Response Fund to provide support to areas throughout the region most impacted by the hurricane. Check out the website to learn more and donate.

Please keep Western NC and all the other Southeastern areas hit by Hurricane Helene in your thoughts and help if/however you’re able to! Stay safe out there.

North Carolina Fall Bucket List | Fall Things to Do in North Carolina

September 23, 2024September 22, 20241 Comment

Autumn is officially here, and I created the ultimate North Carolina fall bucket list to celebrate! My husband and I recently relocated from Colorado, and it’ll be our first fall living in North Carolina. I loved fall in Colorado, but the South holds a special place in my heart since I grew up in Georgia, so I’m excited to be back for one of my favorite seasons. We’re still in the midst of moving and unpacking, but I’m itching to get out and experience all the fun fall things to do in North Carolina!

1. Get apple cider donuts from an orchard

Apple cider donuts are some of my favorite fall treats. While you can find them at most grocery stores this time of year, nothing beats authentic donuts from a local orchard. We didn’t have many apple orchards in Colorado, so I’m excited to check some out here in North Carolina.

2. Carve pumpkins

Every fall, my husband and I carve pumpkins to keep on our front porch around Halloween. I love getting creative with different designs and having a friendly competition to see whose turns out better. Once October 1 rolls around, it’s time to start brainstorming what we’ll carve this year!

3. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway

While I’ve driven along portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway before, I’ve never seen it in the fall. It’s one of North Carolina’s most beautiful roads, and I’ve heard it’s especially stunning when the leaves are changing. I can’t wait to go leaf-peeping along the parkway with a pumpkin spice latte while listening to my favorite fall tunes.

4. Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

It’s been years since I’ve visited Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and I’m eager to explore more of it now that we’re living in North Carolina. The fall foliage is supposed to be breathtaking throughout the park and there are tons of cool hikes, waterfalls, overlooks, and scenic drives to check out.

5. Have a scary movie marathon

A few years ago, I started an annual tradition of watching a scary movie every day in the month of October. Horror is one of my favorite movie genres, so it’s the perfect way for me to celebrate spooky season. I’m excited to rewatch some of my go-to horror movies and see some new ones.

6. Bake a festive pie

My husband is a wonderful baker and we usually make at least one pie every fall season. I love classic apple, pumpkin, and pecan pies—sometimes, we switch things up with a sweet yet tart cranberry custard recipe. I’m already dreaming of whichever pie we decide to whip up first!

7. Take a day trip to Old Salem

Old Salem is supposed to be an adorable area to visit during fall. I’ve never been, but the pictures I’ve seen make it look as pretty as postcard. I think it will be fun to take a day trip to the historic neighborhood to walk around, visit some museums, and do some shopping.

8. Spend a weekend in the mountains

There are so many quaint mountain towns throughout North Carolina that I want to explore, like Black Mountain, Boone, and Hendersonville. I definitely plan to take a weekend this fall to check one of them out when the foliage is at its peak. Nothing beats a relaxing getaway up in the mountains, especially when there’s a chill in the air and you’re surrounded by gorgeous red, orange, and yellow leaves.

Let me know your recommendations for enjoying fall in North Carolina!

Best Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado | Colorado Leaf-Peeping Guide

September 9, 2024September 8, 2024Leave a comment

As soon as September rolls around, I’m ready for all things fall—pumpkins, apple spice, spooky movies, and leaf-peeping at the best places to see autumn foliage in Colorado! There are many wonderful destinations throughout the state where you can spot colorful yellow aspens. These are my picks for where to admire fall colors and go leaf-peeping in Colorado.

Use this 9NEWS fall foliage map to plan your travels!

Colorado Leaf-Peeping Guide

Aspen + Maroon Bells

Aspen and Maroon Bells are the ultimate Colorado fall destinations. Aspen is an upscale ski town with luxury boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. Fall is one of the most popular times to visit, when the town is blanketed in golden leaves.

During your trip to Aspen, you must go hiking in the Maroon Bells area. The landscape is incredibly picturesque year-round but especially during autumn.

Estes Park

From Rocky Mountains National Park to the Stanley Hotel, Estes Park offers many fun fall activities. Explore outside by driving or hiking in the park before spending a spooky evening at the hotel that inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining.” Keep your eyes peeled—you can frequently spot herds of elk in Estes Park.

Leadville + Twin Lakes

Leadville and Twin Lakes are highly underrated areas in Colorado to see fall foliage. While Leadville is small, the downtown is cute and historic. Don’t miss the aspens at Twin Lakes—the sight of the water and the golden trees is as pretty as a postcard! Twin Lakes is a peaceful place to go kayaking, fishing, and picnicking.

Georgetown + Guanella Pass

I highly recommend taking a fall road trip through Georgetown and Guanella Pass. Ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a scenic train through the Rocky Mountains. Continue your sightseeing journey by driving along Guanella Pass, a gorgeous, high-altitude mountain road that provides easy access to trails like Mount Bierstadt and Silver Dollar Lake.

Winter Park

Winter Park is one of my favorite places to see fall foliage. This charming resort town has hiking, mountain-biking, scenic drives, and so much more. I enjoy hiking up to Rogers Pass—it’s a relatively easy trail but boasts sweeping mountain views.

Breckenridge

You can see unbelievably vibrant fall colors in Breckenridge. There are many aspen groves located throughout town that turn bright yellow in fall. Breckenridge is also an excellent home base to go hiking on trails like Aspen Alley, which are busy but breathtakingly beautiful during peak leaf-peeping season.

Colorado Springs + Pike National Forest

I’ve called Colorado Springs home for the past four years and can confirm it’s an excellent leaf-peeping spot. Garden of the Gods is a must-visit, and the yellow leaves contrast beautifully against the red rock formations in fall. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of local trails in Pike National Forest of all lengths and difficulties.

Where do you like to go leaf-peeping in Colorado? I hope you have an unforgettable fall season!