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The Must-Dos of the Rockies and Fort Collins, Colorado! #NashvilleBuyLocalTravels

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We took a trip recently out west and what did we find in Colorado? Glorious scenic drives through mountains, babbling brooks, tasty treats, trains, swift rivers, and even a little bit of Disney Magic!

#1. Our first must-do of Colorado is to look out of your window!

This is a road tripper’s paradise with a new view at every turn. We loved looking at the changing scenery of the gigantic mountains and perfectly soothing rivers below. The Rocky Mountain National Park is full of spots to pull over and take in the epic views. A favorite of ours is Lily Lake. This lake offers gentle trails, beautiful scenery, wildlife, and perfect areas for a picnic. While driving the winding roads, keep an eye out for Bighorn Sheep!

#2. We also stumbled upon the Colorado Cherry Company. This small, local shop has all things cherry and all things delicious. We enjoyed Black Bing Cherry Juice, a fresh cherry hand pie, and homemade chocolate cream pie. The Cherry Juice was our favorite of the drinks. 

#3. Don’t miss seeing the Idarado Mine Red Mountain Mining District. The surrounding creeks are contaminated from mines with metals such as zinc, copper, cadmium, and lead. This leaves a bright orange stain on many stream beds. Through the Red Mountain Project, these lands are now permanently protected and are undergoing restoration. The views are breathtaking and give you a glimpse of mining efforts in the mid-1900s. 

#4. We made some quick stops in Durango and Silverton but would definitely spend more time here on a future visit. Durango is full of cute shops and quirky art pieces that are placed throughout their downtown district while Silverton boasts quaint shops and restaurants on the main strip with epic views of the surrounding mountains. This area is most notably known for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad which offers train ride journeys through some of Colorado’s most rugged mountains that are not accessible by roads. Both time and COVID did not allow this adventure for us but we’re adding it to our future travel plans. 

#5. Another scenic not-to-miss area is Telluride. This city is best known for alpine skiing and the annual Telluride Film Festival but there’s so much more to do in this picturesque city. We visited during the summer months and enjoyed people watching on busy Main Street. There you will find loads of galleries, boutique shops, and local restaurants. We enjoyed Detroit-style pizza at Brown Dog Pizza while gazing upon the San Miguel River, which freely flows throughout the town. The film festival and other concerts and social events were canceled due to COVID when we visited but that didn’t stop a lot of tourists from enjoying this destination. 

#6. We did not expect to find Disney on this trip, so we were quite surprised when we found ourselves on the street that inspired Disneyland’s Main Street U.S.A. History tells us that Harper Goff, an art director from Fort Collins and employee of Disney, showed Walt Disney postcards of his hometown and told vivid stories of his childhood there. Walt liked what he saw and used parts of the imagery to create Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A., including the courthouse and red brick fire station. In addition to finding Disney magic, Fort Collins is a large city with loads of shopping, restaurants, museums, and history and nature exhibits and should not be missed. 

#7. Our next must-do is to find the obscure. There are plenty of things that make this area unique and we’ll share some of our favorite finds. The Baldpate Inn, in Estes Park, is on the National Register of Historic Places and really is a must-see. Off of the lobby, they gave a room FULL of different keys from all over. Lots of the keys are hanging from the ceiling while others adorn the walls. Each key has an information tag attached to it let you know where the key came from. There are over 20,000 keys to look through including keys to the White House, Frankenstein’s castle, and Hitler’s bunker. The keys are the focal point here but we also enjoyed watching numerous hummingbirds sneak sugar water from feeders on the porch as well as a family of chipmunks scurrying at our feet. 

#8. In Loveland, we stopped by the largest heart-shaped love lock sculpture in the US. You can lock your love for one another by purchasing a lock from the Visitors Center, have it engraved, and lock it on the sculpture. So sweet! 

#9. And thanks to Atlas Obscura, we took the road less traveled to Calahan, Colorado to see the Paint Mines Interpretive Park. These multicolored wonders of nature are where Native Americans collected clay for pottery 9,000 years ago. These brightly colored bands are caused by oxidized iron compounds and are found throughout the many different layers of clay. To view these natural wonders is well worth the drive. 

Whatever you do, take your time. The one thing we weren’t able to do was to spend enough time exploring everything on this trip. Future trips (when Covid is over) we will be able to explore the cities more and take tours of all that Colorado has to offer.

Your New Home Awaits at 1134A Cahal Avenue.

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NEW LISTING AT 1134A Cahal Avenue. Incredible location in close proximity to Gallatin Ave. Within 5 minutes of major East Nashville hotspots and 10 minutes of Downtown. Gorgeously remodeled 1920s Craftsman home with an open layout, beautiful hardwoods, stunning bathrooms. and original restored coffered 10-foot ceilings. Large first-floor Master Suite, Breakfast Nook/Mudroom off back. Two-car fenced-in parking pad in the back of the house. Fenced in the front yard with a spacious covered front porch.

Elementary: Inglewood Middle: Isaac Litton High: Stratford Comp. This property is listed at $675,000. Consult your local real estate agent to see.

The Must-Dos of Medora, North Dakota from #NashvilleBuyLocalTravels

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Always wanted to visit “The Wild West?” You’re in luck, it still exists! When you visit Medora, North Dakota, you will be instantly transformed because this REALLY a quintessential western town. This charming vacation oasis is full of historic architecture and is loaded with Western culture and fun for the family. It’s full of western saloons, book stores, and local stores full of western wear and fun knick-knacks. Theodore Roosevelt called this city and region one of his favorite places, and his presence is still visible all over this town, including names on buildings, shops, and statues of him on practically every corner. Not to mention the gorgeous National Park named after him.

We even purchased a “Teddy” Roosevelt to bring back home. 

So soft and cuddly

We stayed at The Rough Rider Hotel, named after the volunteer cavalry unit that was led by Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States. Western charm meets comfort at this hotel and included comfortable beds and a large walk-in double shower.

In the lobby, you can enjoy sitting by a cozy stone fireplace surrounded by tons of books including the private library of Theodore Roosevelt and many books about this former president.

This was the first time we had a dine-in experience since COVID-19 began so we were super excited for this meal at the hotel’s restaurant and it did not disappoint. We had both breakfast and dinner here but slightly preferred breakfast, even though both were delicious. The French Toast and Omelet were standouts. There are also many handwritten letters from Teddy Roosevelt that adorn the walls of this restaurant, making it a most unique dining space. 

The next morning, we got up early with hopes of seeing lots of wildlife as we drove through the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This beautiful area is where the Great Plains meet the Badlands. We took the Scenic Loop Drive and enjoyed the landscape as well as the wildlife who live there. We spent time watching feral horses, adorable prairie dogs and white-tailed deer. However, the prize encounter was the behemoth king daddy bison who was luckily just chilling.  Don’t miss the South Unit’s colorful Painted Canyon.

The Badlands Overlook is a great way to see the changing colors pf the canyon. Another historic place to visit is Elkhorn Ranch. We traveled through rain and mud and beside a pair of playful donkeys to see the Maltese Cross Cabin, where President Roosevelt once lived. Only the entry gate remains.  After Theodore’s mother and wife died on the same day and in the midst of grief, he discovered this ranch where he built a cabin and would sit on the porch to read, write and enjoy nature. Visiting this area makes it obvious why President Roosevelt found solace there. 

We visited during COVID-19 and we had a bit of rain, so we missed two popular activities of the region, the Medora Musical and the Steak Fondue Dinner. What is Steak Fondue? Huge steaks are stacked on a pitchfork, dipped in boiling oil and then grilled! Next time….

A Locals Guide to The Perfect New York Walking Tour of Manhattan if you have 2 days. #NashvilleBuyLocalTravels

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We’re often at the mercy of the websites and apps to plan our trips in most cities. We’re taking some time over the next two weeks to talk with two locals about the ‘must-sees’ and ‘must-eats.’ Now I will warn you our friend Adam (A Kentucky Native) in New York City is going to give you a history-focused direction to see New York City. If you are looking for shopping and pop culture entertainment this may not be for you. BUT, he’s never strayed us wrong from seeing something beautiful and teaching us something. So here is his map of a great day(s) walking through Manhattan Island. Much of this is his words:

Ok, the biggest tourist mistake everyone makes is trying to go across the city for everything. Find what you want to do and make a map of where it is and time out the walking. The city is huge and you don’t want to spend all your time getting somewhere.

Koreatown

First Stop, check out Koreatown in the ’30s (street numbers). It’s just kind of cute and the food hall is a great spot for a bite. I think I would suggest either walking down Broadway from there and just feeling out the street culture. You will hit Flatiron (one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers and a quintessential symbol of New York City)/ Madison Square Park/ Union square.

That’s about 20 blocks you will have walked.  Maybe an hour or more if you look at all the cool street stuff and architecture. You can jump on the 6 at union square and get off at Broadway/Lafayette.

From there head south and you are in Soho. Known as an artists’ getaway in the 1960s and ’70s, Manhattan‘s hip SoHo neighborhood is famous for its cast-iron architecture, trendy shops, and innovative art galleries. SoHo spans the area from South Houston Street to Canal Street, and is bounded on the east by Lafayette Street.

From there keep heading south to Chinatown. I would see if you can get a tour of Lower East Side Tenement Museum, it’s actually my (Adam) favorite Museum in NYC.

If you can, also get some beef at McSorley’s Old Ale House! Stop at McSorley’s or Hill Country Barbecue for lunch.

Once you get to Canal you are in Chinatown. This is a great way to end the day. Explore the whole area. It’s a great way to experience not only a historical part of New York City but also to catch a great part of the city.

Now, if you have 2 days here is a great second day in Manhattan!

Make sure to take the sky tram! The Roosevelt Island Tramway provides the most modern aerial tramway in the world, running every 7-15 minutes from 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan to Tramway Plaza on Roosevelt Island.

Here I made you a walking map of lower Manhattan. Click Here

That covers City Hall Park, 911 Memorial, Wall Street, Federal Hall, Southstreet seaport, Stone street, (eat at and see the meusuem at Fraunces Tavern), Bowling Green, Battery Park, The west side river walk, and the irish hunger memorial

Make sure to see the bomb damage from the famous Wall Street Bombing as well:

Wall Street bombing:

The Wall Street bombing occurred at 12:01 pm on September 16, 1920, in the Financial District of Manhattan, New York City. The blast killed 30 people immediately, and another eight died later of wounds sustained in the blast.

(Adam who created this path lived on that path for like 4 years)

Lower Manhattan is the best bang for your buck. There is something cool on every block.  DO NOT GO TO THE STATUE OF LIBERTY it wastes an entire day. That is my advice with 2 days if you had more I would suggest the museum row and stuff in Brooklyn, but that’s your best bet. Oh, if you have time walk out to the first Pier on the Brooklyn bridge the views only get marginally better and it’s a long way. Also, don’t forget to get wafles (correct spelling) at Dinges at city hall park,  Get something with speculoos on it!

Adam’s Editorial: “I love NYC its just too expensive.’

There is a brief look into a local’s picks for a 2-day venture into Manhattan!

Live A Better and Healthier Life Following the Recipes of Chef Charity Morgan!

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Better Health in 2021 is easy! Are you a Chef Charity Morgan email subscriber? Great emails arriving daily right now that are and will help you live a healthier life. #plantbasedholidayrecipes -ChefCharityMorgan.com

•Triple check your email and spelling.
•If you already subscribed no need to do it again.

Your New Home Awaits at 503 Almonte Ct

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NEW LISTING AT 503 ALMONTE COURT. Don’t miss this beautiful all-brick Green Hills townhome! This well-maintained end unit features hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, tile, granite, stainless appliances, recessed lighting, a private two-car garage, large windows, ample natural light, and plenty of storage space. The primary bedroom on the main floor and all bedrooms have en-suite baths and walk-in closets. Access to Hillsborough clubhouse and pool included!
Elementary: Julia Green Middle: John T. Moore High: Hillsboro Comp. This property is listed at $629,900 ($374.00/Monthly association fees). Consult your local real estate agent to see.

A Local’s Guide To Eating in Seattle. #NashvilleBuyLocalTravels

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We’re looking at spots we have not been and one of those places is Seattle. It’s strange because my Grandmother was born in Washington and my family has deep silver mining roots in Northern Washington and I have yet to visit. Plus, we have friends that live there working in the tech industry. That’s why we asked for 5 Local Seattle spots to eat on a future visit. These are their picks, not ours so if you have your own, hit us in our email:

Paseo (or Un Bien) – Paseo is/was the best sandwich in Seattle, The Caribbean Roast Sandwich.  A few years back they went through some trouble and the sons of Paseo’s founder and the original owner took the recipes and started up a competitor called Un Bien.  Either way, you can’t go wrong.

The Lorenzo brothers, Julian and Lucas, sons of Lorenzo Lorenzo, have opened a new place on 7302 15th Ave. NW, Seattle called Un Bien. This is their Caribbean Roast, $9.75. This is their Caribbean Roast, $9.75. Photo via www.seattletimes.com with full story.

Top Pot Donuts – Started in Cap Hill, the donuts are huge and heavy.  Unlike Voodoo Donuts where it’s all about what they can glue to the top, Top Pot puts all their flavor in the donut. (Portland we are sorry for the shade from Rob. We love your donuts.)

Canlis – This is the $$$$$ fine dining spot.  If you want a table with a view of Lake Union, the men in your party had better be wearing coats and ties. The food is incredible. During Covid, they started doing Pop-up style offerings on their property outdoors.

* Restaurant Marche – Take the ferry over to Bainbridge and it’s just a half-mile walk to a great French restaurant. It’s a bit of France in the heart of Winslow, and this upscale Bainbridge Island option offers fantastic takes on traditional Gallic dishes crafted with local sourcing; with attentive service in a colorfully charming setting. It’s a lovely little escape that’s worth a ferry ride and also can be on the somewhat “expensive” side.

* Tacos Chukis – Traditional Mexican taco spot. “They’re just perfect,” says Rob. Currently operating in Capitol Hill & South Lake Union, Beacon Hill, and the Central District. I love the back story: “A broke student who had recently graduated from UW, and who had no prospects for a job to speak of, decided to invest in a bicycle and ride it 1,700 miles down the coast to visit his hometown of Tijuana. Upon arriving, he was greeted by family and was quickly taken to eat tacos, tacos which he had so dearly missed and could not find back home in Seattle, delicious tacos which he craved during his entire trip. Once he returned to Seattle he met a friend who, upon being told of his quest for tacos, told him that he used to be a taquero (a taco artisan, if you will) in Mexico City. Tacos Chukis was born and that broke student now has a job.”

One extra not from Rob but that we’ve also had suggested. Now, this last one is going to be the fast, cheap, and local spot. When we go to a place we like to find the local option for fast food. Think Pal’s in Eastern Tennessee or Western Virginia.

*Dick’s Drive In- Dick’s Drive-In, or simply Dick’s, is a fast-food restaurant chain located in the Seattle, Washington area. It was founded in 1954 by Dick Spady and others. It currently operates seven locations in the Puget Sound region. It features fast-food staples such as hamburgers, hand-cut french fries, and individually made milkshakes. Dick’s is particularly well known for the “Dick’s Deluxe,” which includes lettuce, mayonnaise, and chopped pickles.

Spring Has Arrived at High Class Hillbilly!

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Spring finds at High-Class Hillbilly are not only amazing they are downright transformative for your look and your feelings. You’ll walk a little taller knowing you are buying quality vintage looks from one of the best curators of vintage in Nashville! Shop in-store or online now, highclasshillbilly.com. Open Wed-Sun / 12-6pm