(Newswire.net — June 5, 2020) —
Are you scheduled for a weekend jaunt to a new town but not sure what to do when you arrive? Or do you have a trip planned this year but are undecided on how to explore that city in a unique, exciting way? You’ve come to the right place.
Leave the boring old bus tours to someone else! Below we’ve outlined a number of ways you can see the real side of a city, even if you’re just staying a couple days. All you need is an open mind and an internet connection to get prepared.
1. Take A Solo Walking Tour
Let’s face it, when you are in a moving vehicle, oftentimes you are driving so fast that you can’t fully appreciate what you’re passing. Taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to start your trip off on the right foot, so to speak. Start in the neighborhood where you are staying, and take a stroll around the block. Just don’t forget to put a pin in your original location so you can meander at your leisure without getting lost! Let your instincts guide you as you go right or left depending on what suits you.
2. Dive Into The History
Start by going a little Googling or Wikipedia-ing prior to your trip. What’s this new city famous for? Where is its original downtown area? What events happened within the city walls to make it the special place it is today? Every town has a backstory. Start there! Go visit a famous part of the city or a historic zone, and give yourself a sense of what it’s all really about.
3. Take In The City’s Art
Seek out some of the town’s more memorable museums to see if any of them call to you. It’s always a fun experience to view art and sculpture that is intriguing and fresh! Remember, though, art comes in many formats. You could go to a play at a local theatre, check out the section of town with cool graffiti art, or attend a slam poetry event one evening.
4. Go on a Food Tour
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to learn about a new city – and thoroughly enjoy yourself – is to dive into the local cuisine. Research what treats the city is famous for, and begin with those! Whether it’s an undisputed hotdog country, jammed pack with coffee houses, or renowned for its blueberry pies, you can no doubt have a magical experience eating your way through the day. Yum! Some cities even have private food tour businesses.
5. Go On A Pub Crawl
If nocturnal sampling is more your style, try participating in a nice, responsible pub crawl while you’re in town. Pick a strip with a number of waterings holes that look appealing. Then, simply start at one end of the area and work your way down! You don’t need to simply drink alcohol at each spot – sample some finger food at a few places, play some bar games like pool or darts, and always drink plenty of water as well.
Note: Be sure to take advantage of the town’s taxis, public transportation, or rideshare options here. Never drink and drive.
6. Cheer On The Local Team
If you want to experience the intense highs and tragic lows of being a local, you must take part in the sporting events. Don a cap and head to a joint with big screens – or better yet, score tickets to a live match! Immerse yourself in the game as if your own livelihood depended on it. No doubt you’ll have an authentic, exciting night win or lose.
As you can see, every trip to a new city can be an opportunity to see something cool and interesting without breaking the bank or being too “touristy.” In fact, a good idea is to try out some of these suggestions in your own home town, and see the place you live in a whole new light. Practice makes perfect, so you’ll be raring to go when you reach your new destination. Have fun!