With over 880,000 inhabitants, Jacksonville, located in Duval County, is the most populous and largest city in Florida. It is located at the confluence of the St. Johns River with the Intercoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean; i.e. in the far northeast of the state. Despite its size, it looks very original and authentic – it is said that you can experience the “real” Florida here.

Tourism is becoming more and more important, but Jacksonville is even quieter compared to other hotspots in America. That’s why you will find a great mix of good tourist infrastructure and still enough space to look at the sights in peace and quiet and not be trampled down by hordes of visitors.

Particularly noteworthy is the nature in and around the city. Jacksonville is crisscrossed by a vast system of parks that not only offer the perfect opportunity for a break in the countryside, but also improve air quality and the urban climate as a green lung. A special highlight are of course the sandy beaches, which stretch over a length of more than 35 km and thus offer enough space for all water rats and sun worshippers.

This is what makes Jacksonville special

The city is best known for its authenticity and a relaxed, fun-loving ambience. Instead of mass tourism, you will find typical South American lifestyle and hospitality here. The open and friendly mentality of the “Jacksons”, as the inhabitants are called, creates a feel-good atmosphere and lets you immediately take the city to your heart. It is therefore particularly suitable for travellers who want to spend a carefree holiday. Another advantage is that it is a rather cheap American destination. Instead of pomp and ostentation, the focus here is on having fun in life and having a good time.

Pure nature and water as far as the eye can see

Jacksonville is considered a paradise for all those who like to indulge in the cool water. The large parks are peppered with lakes, there are numerous fountains and the water spectacles of the fountains enchant many a visitor. In the lush green spaces, residents like to take a little break from everyday life and let their minds wander and then plunge back into city life strengthened. A special feature is of course the Intracoastal Waterway and the St. Johns River, where boating enthusiasts and fishing enthusiasts get their money’s worth. No matter what kind of water sports; Jacksonville offers enough liquid surface and a variety of rental offers to plunge into the waves in every conceivable form. There are also many restaurants along the river where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood and fish.

Another highlight are the city’s beaches. The most famous among them are Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Mayport Beach, and Atlantic Beach. On the north side of the city are more remote stretches of coastline, which can be reached by a short ferry ride or a car tour via the scenic Heckscher Drive. More than 30 coastal reefs along the local Atlantic coastline offer divers the opportunity to explore a fascinating underwater world. You can rent the necessary equipment in one of the surf shops, which can be found on the beach sections.

What not to miss

If you come to Jacksonville for the first time, you will quickly notice that the city is not characterized by huge, historic buildings and magnificent landmarks, but rather by the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and way of life of the people. The true characteristics are art and culture, because the metropolis has a lot to offer of them.

The theater scene in particular is known far beyond the borders of Florida, as legendary Broadway shows regularly stop here. For a nostalgic touch, the Theatre Jacksonville, the oldest continuously active city theatre, still offers shows and performances.

Again and again, the city ranks among the 25 best cultural destinations in the USA, including the Jacksonville Symphony, the most famous orchestra in the state. Among the museums, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is probably the first port of call. Here, the great presence of nature in Jacksonville is taken up and combined with art and culture. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in the heart of the city is also one of the largest and most modern museums for contemporary art.

If you’re looking for vibes and music, head to the turbulent annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival. There, well-known jazz artists and newcomers will play on four stages in the city center, enriching the Memorial Day weekend with music of the highest level and a good atmosphere. The art market on the riverbank, the RAM, is also a popular destination. There, a wide variety of artists sell their works in a cheerful, colorful environment that invites you to browse and marvel. A trip is worthwhile not only for art lovers, but also as a family venture. The atmosphere is relaxed and child-friendly, usually there are small show interludes and performing arts in charmingly chaotic, cheerful surroundings.

Jacksonville is the ideal destination for a relaxed, casual vacation filled with good humor and exciting activities. The inviting atmosphere makes you immerse yourself in the way of life of the locals after just a few days. Art and culture also enrich the trip with educational, fascinating and entertaining moments. All this, against the background of lush nature and great opportunities to get active, make a visit to the city a special experience that will make you forget the stress of everyday life.

General information

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida in terms of population and geographic area. It is a major economic and cultural centre in the region, offering a mix of urban flair and natural beauty, with several beaches nearby and the St. Johns River running through the town.

Climate

Jacksonville experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The city attracts visitors all year round, especially during the spring and autumn months when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Sights

• Beaches: Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach offer sunny excursions and water activities.
• St. Johns River: Great for boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: Offers an impressive collection of artwork as well as beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: A popular destination for families that showcases a variety of animal species as well as botanical gardens.
• Museum of Science and History (MOSH): Offers interactive exhibits that focus on the local environment, science, and history.
• Little Talbot Island State Park: A pristine natural paradise great for hiking, beach walks, and bird watching.

Activities

• Golf: Jacksonville is known for its world-class golf courses.
• Festivals: The city plays host to numerous cultural and music festivals throughout the year, including the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.
• Sports: Home of the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL), attend a football game for real local atmosphere.
• Dining experiences: Explore the growing food scene, which ranges from fresh seafood to Southern specialties.

Culture

Jacksonville has a vibrant art and music scene. Annual cultural events and local museums, such as the Ritz Theatre and Museum, which showcases African-American culture and history, add to cultural diversity.

Gastronomy

The culinary scene in Jacksonville is diverse, with a strong emphasis on seafood freshly caught from nearby waters. Local specialties also include southern cuisine, which is deeply rooted in the region.

Journey

Jacksonville is accessible through Jacksonville International Airport, which offers direct flights from many U.S. cities. The city is also a hub for highways such as I-95 and I-10, which makes it easy to get there by car.

A drive along the legendary Route 66 offers adventure, a touch of nostalgia and plenty of photo opportunities. This historic journey manages the balancing act between impressions of our modern busy world and the time of departure in the land of unlimited opportunities. “Go West!” was the motto for many farmers and soldiers of fortune in the first half of the 20th century. Route 66 was one of the first paved cross-links they could use for this purpose. With covered wagons or motorized, they made it from Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois to the promising west coast in California.

The single-track and winding route was almost 4,000 km long. Today, this original route is called the “Mother Road”. It is not completely contiguous, but we as travelers are happy to accept the bypasses. Heavy traffic and rush hour traffic has long used the straighter, multi-lane interstate highways. Lucky for the tourist! Thus, on the “mother of all American roads”, you can discover the diversity of the country and the eventful history of its inhabitants in peace.

Increased heartbeat at the starting point and varied scheduling

A slightly accelerated pulse and a lot of anticipation set in at the starting point. The sign with the inscription “Begin Historic Route 66” stands in Chicago in the middle of high-rise buildings on East Adams Street between Michigan and Wabash Avenues. The sign hangs high up so as not to fall into the hands of enthusiastic souvenir hunters. The exact starting point was moved several times within two blocks when one-way traffic was introduced in several streets years ago. Before our road trip, there is already a lot to see in Chicago, whether it’s the luxurious Magnificent Mile, a view from the observation deck of the John Hancock skyscraper or a performance in one of the numerous theaters. From our own hotel accommodation or from the car rental office, we drive towards Cicero on the day of departure and automatically merge onto Route 66.

The duration of the tour organized or planned by the tour operator can vary greatly. If you only have limited time and resources available, you can complete one of the interesting sections. The path from Seligman to the west is particularly popular. For the whole route from Chicago to Los Angeles , you can calculate about 10 days, depending on the number of detours and breaks. A good idea is for two drivers to take turns. After all, the road trip leads through eight states and the road winds its way up to an altitude of over 2,000 meters in New Mexico and Arizona . So the project is not a piece of cake. For Chicago and Los Angeles, no matter in which direction the route is completed, at least one full day each should be planned for sightseeing and acclimatization.

Route 66 – From Illinois to the Land of the Red Man

Leaving the vibrant metropolitan area of Chicago in a southwesterly direction, we pass the city of Cicero by car or motorcycle. This is where Al Capone moved his criminal empire to escape the Chicago police departments. Capone liked to go to the casino in Joliet, which we cross after an hour’s drive from Chicago. Route 66 now leaves densely populated area. Time passes more slowly as farms, vast wheat fields and idyllic villages pass by. We are located in one of the most fertile grain-growing and livestock regions in the United States. In Springfield, the capital of Illinois, there is a lot to learn about President Abraham Lincoln, his former home with the address “413 South Eighth Street” can be visited.

The next stage leads across the wide Mississippi to St. Louis in the state of Missouri. The population of this city is half white and half African-American. The “Gateway Arch” memorial near the river is worth seeing, with a 192-metre-high walk-in archway and an underground visitor centre. On gently rising hills, the journey continues towards and through Oklahoma, in German: “The Land of the Red Man”. This is where the casual gliding on the asphalt begins with little oncoming traffic.

We see water towers on the roadside, steppe landscape, fantastic sunsets and listen to country songs on the radio, to name just a few of the atmospheric impressions. After the encounter with the restored blue whale of Catoosa, a landmark of US Highway 66, Oklahoma City greets. On the Bricktown Canal, city tours are offered with water taxis. If you prefer the fast-paced, the Frontier City amusement park with its fast roller coasters and varied live shows is the right place for you.

Cadillacs rammed into the ground and desert highlands

The 58-meter-high “Groom Cross” is the first sight on the dry plateau in the state of Texas. Steve Thomas has erected the cross as a contrast to the many erotic display boards on the interstate. A little later, a few kilometers west of Amarillo, we reach not only the geographical center of the original Route 66, but also the famous Cadillac Ranch, which has already been featured in several music videos. This is a field with half-buried tailfin models from the 50s. The artist group Ant Farm from San Francisco wanted to use this artwork to visualize profound messages about the freedoms that the automobile produced. Visitors are encouraged to leave their own traces of paint on the graffiti-painted Cadillacs.

At the town of Glenrio, the border to New Mexico and a new time zone (Mountain Time) is crossed. Glenrio is almost deserted, the town was deprived of its economic basis with the construction of the Interstate. After continuing our journey, we reach the fast-growing, largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque. It was founded as a Spanish colony in the desert highlands. The old town is still adorned with some historic clay buildings. Further west comes the transition to the state of Arizona. Established in 1949, the Yellowhorse Indian Trading Post is a recommended stop for original souvenirs.

From the high mountains down to the city of angels

We reach Flagstaff. This winter sports resort at 2106 meters is called the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”. The surrounding area was shaped by volcanoes. A detour from here to the Grand Canyon National Park to the north is possible. The distance is 120 km, plus the return trip. Closer attractions include Walnut Canyon, 15 km away, and Barringer meteorite crater. The next destination on the route is a must: the town of Seligman. The town calls itself the “birthplace of the historic Route 66” and is a true pilgrimage town for fans. Seligman’s hairdresser, who successfully fought against the decline of his town, has long since transformed his salon into a flourishing souvenir shop.

Through breathtaking landscapes, over the winding Sitgreaves Pass and past the old gold mining town of Oatman, we reach the Colorado River and finally the state of California. In Needles, we’ll have to adapt our clocks to the Pacific time zone. The bottle garden in “Elmer Long’s Bottle Tree Ranch” is perhaps the last personal, uncrowded and historic-looking sight before the modern and fast-paced world slowly envelops us again with the tentacles of a city of millions. Route 66 technically ends west of Los Angeles at Santa Monica’s sunny piers, but not before it has left a lasting impression on every driver and passenger.

General information

Historic Route 66 was officially established in 1926 and originally stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, for approximately 2,448 miles (approximately 3,940 kilometers). It crosses eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.

Meaning

Route 66 was an important trail for those who moved west during the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, and it has gained an almost mythical status in American pop culture, immortalized through literature, music, and television.

Sights

There are numerous historical and cultural attractions along Route 66, including:

• The Start in Chicago: Start at the official start of Route 66 in Chicago and explore the metropolis.
• Meramec Caverns in Missouri: A limestone cave system that is said to have served as a hideout for the notorious outlaw Jesse James.
• Cadillac Ranch in Texas: An artistic installation consisting of Cadillac cars half-buried in the ground.
• The Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma: An iconic water attraction and a popular photo stop.
• Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona: Known for its large amounts of petrified wood and its picturesque desert landscapes.
• Santa Monica Pier in California: The official final destination of Route 66, a great place to experience the Pacific.

Activities

• Road Trips: Route 66 is the ultimate road trip experience that allows you to experience the diversity of American landscapes and cultures.
• Photography: The street offers countless opportunities for impressive photographs of classic American scenes, historic buildings, and natural beauty.
• Local cuisine: Sample the diverse culinary offerings along the route, from classic diner dishes to authentic regional specialties.

Cultural significance

Route 66 represents freedom, adventure, and the search for a better life, which has made it an enduring symbol of American dreams and values. The conservation efforts help to keep this heritage alive for future generations.

Journey

Although many sections of the original Route 66 have been replaced by the modern Interstate Highways, the historic routes are well-marked and accessible to travelers who want to experience historic America.

This information provides a comprehensive overview of Route 66, ideal for an online travel magazine that wants to educate its readers about this legendary American road.

Located on the Mississippi River in Tennessee , Memphis is a special attraction for musicians, music lovers and history buffs. The southern city inspires with its very special atmosphere, because the port city combines the proverbial hospitality of the south with historical features. Not only the music was shaped by Memphis, but also the story of the civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King is closely interwoven with the city. Those who decide to travel to Memphis have the opportunity to explore a unique city that manages to captivate every visitor.

In the footsteps of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll”

The southern city of Memphis became famous worldwide, not least because of the career of Elvis Presley . The rock ‘n’ roll legend lived in Memphis from 1948. Here he benefited from the diverse musical influences and got to know numerous musical greats from the field of blues and soul. The first recordings were made in the Sun Records recording studio. Today, music fans can tour the studio. Not far from the studio there is also an Elvis statue, which is one of the most popular photo motifs in the city. But the absolute highlight is a visit to Graceland, the residence of the artist, who died in 1977 at the age of only 42.

At the age of only 22, the exceptional artist bought the property for himself and his parents and had a true palace built according to his taste. A tour of Graceland gives insights into the artist’s life and takes visitors back to a time long gone. Today, there is also a restaurant on the estate. Among other things, the famous pink Cadillac can be visited and a separate exhibition has also been dedicated to the star’s aircraft. A special recommendation is a visit to the Arcade Restaurant, a true institution in the city, because Elvis Presley ate here regularly and prefers a peanut butter and banana sandwich.

Today’s music scene in Memphis

Since 1977, Memphis has officially been able to call itself the “home of the blues” and then as now, the city magically attracted the best blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll musicians. Therefore, it is a good idea to follow the sounds of the music and spend one or the other evening in the clubs, cafés and restaurants. Because especially in Beale Street there are locations where fantastic artists are on stage every evening. In addition to good music, you can also enjoy Southern cuisine with all its special features.

But even during the day, Beale Street is one of the places to go. Different shops and music studios are lined up here. If you’ve always wanted to be in the recording studio yourself, you can easily fulfill this dream in Memphis. Music fans can easily expand their collection of sound recordings in the numerous record stores. The artists themselves also like to sell their latest records and CDs.

The Memphis Pyramid – the city’s extraordinary landmark

Memphis is simply a very special city and so it is hardly surprising that the city claims a very special landmark for itself with its pyramid. The complex, which opened in 1991, was once a sports and concert arena – today the pyramid inspires visitors from all over the world with its viewing platform. This guarantees a magnificent view of the Mississippi River. In addition, the interior of the pyramid was extensively rebuilt and an interesting shopping paradise for outdoor fans was created. In addition, ten aquariums with over 1,800 fish can be admired. A highlight is also the hotel located in the pyramid and of course there is also a restaurant in the upper part of the building, as well as the highest glass free-standing elevator in the USA brings the guests.

The museums of the historic city

The southern city presents itself with a high density of sights, so that even a longer stay in the music metropolis will not be boring. There is a lot to discover, because even away from Graceland, Memphis inspires with a unique atmosphere.

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music

On 1,600 square meters, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music offers fascinating insights into the music world of the USA. Over 3,000 exhibits, most of which are interactive, make a visit to the museum a unique experience. The exhibits include original instruments by well-known artists, original video recordings, almost historical stage costumes, unique memorabilia and, of course, lots of records by great soul artists.

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

As the only offshoot of the famous Smithsonian Institute, the museum is one of the city’s attractions. The museum tells the story of Rock ́n ́ Soul in detail. Located in the centre of Beale Street, music fans will also find fantastic suggestions on which clubs steeped in history they should not miss.

The National Civil Rights Museum

History was not only made in Memphis on a musical level, but also politically. The National Civil Rights Museum is dedicated to this fact. Housed in the historic rooms of the former Lorraine Motel, the museum is located south of the city center. In the former motel, the civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King was murdered. Today, the building presents itself in a lovingly restored condition, because the civil rights movement created a place of remembrance here that resembles a monument and is still dedicated to relevant topics today.

General information about Memphis

Climate

Memphis experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures in summer can often rise above 32°C, while winters are rarely very cold, but occasionally snow falls.

Sights

• Graceland: The former home of Elvis Presley and now a museum that is one of the most visited private residences in America.
• Beale Street: Famous for its vibrant music scene and historical significance in the blues, it offers numerous clubs and restaurants.
• National Civil Rights Museum: Housed in the former Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. It is a central museum dedicated to the history of the American civil rights movement.
• Sun Studio: A recording studio where legendary musicians such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King began their careers.
• Memphis Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the USA, known for its numerous animals and exhibits.

Activities

• Music events: Attend live music events in the many bars and clubs along Beale Street.
• Cultural Festivals: Memphis hosts the annual Memphis in May Festival, which includes music, culture, and barbecue competitions.
• River Activities: Enjoy boat rides on the Mississippi River or relax in the parks along the river.

Culture

The culture in Memphis is heavily influenced by music, especially blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. The city plays a central role in the history of music and has produced many of the greatest musicians in American history.

Gastronomy

Memphis is famous for its barbecue, especially the slow, smoky ribs and pulled pork. Local specialties also include hot chicken, soul food, and various fusion cuisines.

Journey

Memphis is accessible via Memphis International Airport, which offers many direct flights from major American cities. The city is also easily accessible by car via several major highways.

In the United States of America, every child knows what happened on July 4, 1776 in Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia . In the “Hall of Independence” there, the Declaration of Independence of the USA, which was largely written by the later US President Thomas Jefferson, was signed on this day.

In it, 13 English colonies on the American continent proclaimed their separation from the British motherland. Pennsylvania is therefore considered the birthplace of the United States of America as we know it today and is also known as the “State of Independence”. Only eleven years later, on September 17, 1787, the new Constitution of the United States was signed in the same place. Today, the Hall of Independence is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also depicted on the back of the US $100 bill.

History, culture, innovation – that’s Philadelphia

But Philadelphia offers much more! Other sights include the famous Liberty Bell, symbol of American democracy, which can be found just a few meters next to the Hall of Independence. Or up what is probably America’s most famous staircase to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, whose 72 steps Sylvester Stallone once stormed as “Rocky”. Once at the top, unlike Rocky back then, you should also visit the museum’s exhibitions. Over 240,000 exhibits from a wide variety of art movements want to be admired. Other museums and galleries, such as the Rodin Museum or the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, are also worth a visit. But in Philadelphia, you don’t have to go to a museum to experience art. The metropolis is also considered the world capital of mural painting, called “Mural Arts”. More than 4000 such murals can be found on house walls and walls throughout the city.

In addition, visitors can expect a rich offer of culture, exceptional food and, of course, (almost) unlimited shopping opportunities. Because in the entire state of Pennsylvania, unlike in the rest of the USA, no taxes are levied on the sale of clothing and shoes. Shopping here is particularly easy on the wallet and makes Philadelphia a true shopping paradise with its many shops and boutiques. If you need a break, you can relax in one of the countless outdoor cafés or visit the Reading Terminal Market. The oldest still operating farmers’ market in the USA offers a huge selection of different specialties from all over the world with its almost one hundred stalls.

Green and pedestrian-friendly: Philadelphia is ahead of its time

The best way to explore all this is on foot. For the car-loving USA, this is certainly unusual. But “Philly,” as Philadelphia is affectionately known by locals, has the largest public city park system in the world, making it not only the greenest city in the U.S., but has also been recognized several times as being particularly pedestrian-friendly.

Also suitable for families: Experience Pennsylvania’s beautiful nature

But Pennsylvania is also worth a trip away from the big cities and is a real Eldorado, especially for hikers. Endless forests, rolling hills, waterfalls and lakes characterize rural Pennsylvania. Numerous wilderness trails in different lengths invite you to discover the flora and fauna. They are usually well developed and therefore also ideal for families with children. The extensive deciduous forests are particularly beautiful during the “Indian Summer”.

In the months of September and October, the leaves of the trees change colour and make the forests shine in warm yellow and red tones. By the way, Pennsylvania owes its name to these forests – and to a man named William Penn. In 1681, he was given a larger area in the American wilderness by the English king and was appointed governor there. His name “Penn” and the Latin word for forest “Silva” eventually became Pennsylvania.

Discovering and preserving tradition: the Amish people

William Penn himself was a Quaker and accordingly decreed extensive religious freedom in his new state, which attracted numerous followers of religious minorities who were oppressed or persecuted in their European homelands. The best-known group is certainly the “Amish People”. From 1709 onwards, they emigrated from southern Germany and Switzerland to America and settled mainly in liberal Pennsylvania. Even today, their descendants live there according to the rules of the religious community and are known for their extensive renunciation of modern technology and media. In the villages and farms of the Amish you can learn more about their way of life. Their language has also survived to this day as “Pennsylvania Dutch”. This is not Dutch, but a German dialect that you can understand quite well with a little concentration if you otherwise speak High German.

A special experience: the sound stones from Upper Black Eddy

About 70 kilometers north of Philadelphia lies the small town of Upper Black Eddy. But it’s not the town itself that is an attraction, but the nearby Ringing Rocks County Park. On an area of about three hectares there is a huge boulder field. The special feature: when you hit one of the stones with a hammer, different sounds are heard. However, only about a third of the stones produce sounds that are perceptible to humans. All others produce pitches that are too low for human hearing. Incidentally, it has not yet been possible to fully clarify why the sounds are created at all. If you want, you can bring a hammer with you during your visit and give your own “rock” concert.

Varied Pennsylvania – always worth a trip

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh in particular have a huge cultural offer, such as museums, concerts, events and the opportunity to experience American history up close. In addition, there are countless restaurants and the best shopping opportunities. Outside of the centers, 121 state parks are great for family-friendly hiking, kayaking or biking. In Pennsylvania, everyone really gets their money’s worth!

General information about Pennsyvania

Pennsylvania, one of the 13 founding states of the United States, is located in the northeast of the country and borders New Jersey, New York, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. The capital is Harrisburg, but the most famous and largest cities are Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

Climate

Pennsylvania has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and can be humid in some parts of the state, while winters are cold, especially in the northern and western regions that experience snowfall. Autumn is known for its vibrant foliage and spring for mild temperatures and blooms.

Sights

• Philadelphia: The city of brotherly love is steeped in American history. Highlights include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
• Pittsburgh: Known for its steel industry history, the city now boasts a vibrant cultural scene and is famous for its unique geography, nestled among three rivers and numerous hills.
• Gettysburg National Military Park: An important site of the American Civil War, where the decisive Battle of Gettysburg took place.
• Amish Country: Lancaster County offers glimpses into the life of the Amish community, known for its simple way of life without modern technology.
• Hershey: The city is famous for its chocolate production and amusement park.

Activities

• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The Appalachian Trail and numerous state parks offer excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping.
• Cultural events: Attend music festivals, theater performances, and museums like the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh or the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia.
• Historical Exploration: Pennsylvania has a rich history that can be explored in many historic sites and museums.

Culture

Pennsylvania is a melting pot of cultures, with strong influences from German, Irish, Italian, and Polish immigrants, as well as a significant Amish community. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, festivals and daily life.

Gastronomy

Pennsylvania is known for its diverse cuisine, including Philadelphia cheesesteak, pretzels, and Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Pittsburgh offers unique culinary creations such as pierogi and primanti brothers sandwiches.

Journey

Pennsylvania is easily accessible through major airports such as Philadelphia International Airport and Pittsburgh International Airport. In addition, the state is easily accessible via a well-developed network of highways and rail services, which makes it easier to travel within the USA.

A visit to Nashville is an Elvis and country fan’s dream. The city has always been a stomping ground for up-and-coming bands, promising country starlets and music producers with the right nose – a place of dreams, the Hollywood of the American music scene. There’s even a joke about the city’s real estate ads: In other cities, expect “two bedrooms plus office.” In the capital of Tennessee , the bonus room is a music studio hidden behind the garage… and your favorite album was probably recorded there.

Music City in a nutshell: The best neighborhoods in Nashville are full of hidden gems and surprising features. From exceptional restaurants and bars to live music venues and kid-friendly activities, the city is waiting to be discovered by you.

The following five districts are the most visitor-friendly and surprise with unexpected sights. And the best part? If you stay here, you don’t need to rent a car, because you can reach everything on foot.

1. Downtown Nashville

Downtown is Nashville’s economic and tourist center, as well as the city’s geographic center. This is where the heart of Music City beats. Some say that Broadway has become a kind of bourbon street of New Orleans, and it’s true that the Lower Broad is lined with so-called “honkytonks” who belt out Western swing music almost at any time of the day. But this area doesn’t just attract partygoers. In addition to some of the city’s biggest attractions, Downtown is also home to glamorous hotels, restaurants, and great views of the Cumberland River. This location is particularly interesting for tourists who want to explore Music City on foot and without a car.

Tip: Gray & Dudley’s seasonal menu satisfies appetites, while the location at the 21c Museum Hotel energizes the soul with its sophisticated, innovative (and free) art exhibits.

2. East Nashville

East Nashville has a love-hate relationship with the “hip” nickname it’s earned over the years. This gentrified neighborhood east of downtown is home to stylish vintage boutiques and vendors of handmade goods, not to mention many of the city’s tastiest restaurants and best pubs. On its shores is Nissan Stadium, which hosts NFL football games and concerts. Neighboring Inglewood isn’t quite as densely populated, but it’s increasingly home to the same quirky restaurants and vintage shops.

Tip: Wood-fired pizza with edible flowers – that’s the kind of variety you’ll find at Folk, a seasonally focused restaurant in an old grocery store. The basement of The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club is also a great place to linger: a speakeasy that’s especially popular with vegans.

3. The Gulch

“Gulch” means “gorge” and the district was named after it: in this gorge are the railroad tracks that ran through this area. It’s perhaps Nashville’s most modern neighborhood when it comes to construction, with high-rises, hectic city life combined with retail space. The Gulch is within walking distance of Downtown, SoBro, and Midtown, but packed with attractions of its own, mostly focused on shopping, food, and drink (what else do you need?).

Tip: Gertie’s Bar is one of the few pubs in Nashville that takes its cue from the West Coast, with an impressive collection of spirits and an appealing design. Shop at Two Old Hippies, a shop selling souvenirs, guitars, clothing, and more. And because we’re here in Nashville, the store also serves as a venue for live music five nights a week (as seen in the Nashville TV series).

4. SoBro

The epithet means “south of Broadway” and this downtown neighborhood has changed dramatically in recent years. It houses the ice hockey arena, the symphony, the convention center and much more. Like its northern neighbor, it is a neighborhood very accessible to tourists, but with a slightly more unusual vibe.

Tip: No trip to Tennessee is complete without a delicious barbecue. Get your portion at Martin’s Bar-B-Que. Follow the neon sign to indulge in buttery meat.

Afterward, enjoy an amazing collection of contemporary art (all for sale) that is just as good as the specialty cocktails on the menu of this gem called Bar Sovereign. In SoBro, those interested can also learn about the history of country music. Both the Johnny Cash Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will give you an in-depth look at the genre’s roots. Whether you’re a self-confessed country music fan or not, you’ll love these cultural destinations.

5. Germantown

Historic Germantown is crammed with boutiques, chef-run restaurants, and bars that locals love to visit. The adjacent Buchanan Street is an up-and-coming neighborhood with restaurants, artists’ studios, galleries and shops. The leafy streets are perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Tip: Browse the market stalls selling locally grown goods, then feast at the Nashville Farmers’ Market.

Wood-fired pizzas and barbecues are among the favourites. The Patio Bar at 5th and Taylor is a cozy, clubby place to sip craft cocktails and make new friends. The city’s baseball team, the Nashville Sounds, play in a stadium with a guitar-shaped scoreboard and a miniature golf course just off Jefferson Street. And if you’re in the mood for shopping, Germantown is home to pretty boutiques, including Wilder, where you’ll find a variety of hip homewares.

Nashville is definitely worth a visit and convinces even non-music fans with countless curiosities and sights that will make your stay very entertaining.

Important information about Nashville

Climate

Nashville experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Average summer temperatures are often above 30°C, while winter temperatures usually fluctuate between -1°C and 10°C.

Sights

• Grand Ole Opry: A famous stage and radio show that is considered the heart of country music. The Opry offers regular concerts and is a must-see for music lovers.
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia associated with the history and stars of country music.
• Ryman Auditorium: A historic venue known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” which is also appreciated for its exceptional acoustics.
• The Parthenon: A complete replica of the Parthenon in Athens, located in Centennial Park, is both an art museum and a popular photo opportunity.

Activities

• Music events: In addition to the well-known venues such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, there are numerous smaller venues where live music is played daily.
• Dining experience: Nashville is known for its specific twist on Southern comfort food, including hot chicken, a spicy deep-fried chicken that’s a local culinary highlight.
• Shopping: The city offers a variety of shopping options, from trendy boutiques to large shopping malls.

Culture

Nashville has a vibrant arts and culture scene that goes far beyond music. There are numerous galleries, theatre productions and an active nightlife.

Gastronomy

Nashville’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Southern culinary tradition, with a special focus on barbecue, soul food, and innovative fusion cuisine. Restaurants and street stalls offer a wide range of taste experiences.

Journey

Nashville is accessible through Nashville International Airport, which offers direct flights from many major cities in the U.S. and some international destinations. It is also possible to travel by car or train, as the city is well connected to the national transport network.