Matador Network's Blog, page 1142

New Harry Potter ride at Universal

Harry Potter fans have yet another reason to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at the Universal Orlando Resort. A new Hagrid-themed attraction is opening on June 13, and Universal is calling it “the most highly themed, immersive coaster experience yet.” Those are some pretty high expectations, but all signs point to the ride meeting them.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is equipped with seats that look like Sirius/Hagrid’s magical motorbike and its sidecar. They are designed to allow passengers to “feel the freedom of flight” as they blast at 50 mph “into the Forbidden Forest and brave the mysteries and thrills beyond the grounds of Hogwarts castle.” Because the ride is meant to be part of one of Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures class, you’ll encounter some rare magical beings, such as a majestic Centaur, a swarm of mischievous Cornish Pixies, and, of course, Fluffy, the three-headed dog.

Tickets aren’t available yet, but you should probably sign up to get updates and receive special deals for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

H/T: Thrillist

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The post A Hagrid-themed ride will soon take you into the Forbidden Forest at the Universal Orlando Resort appeared first on Matador Network.

JFK assassination tour of Dallas

Whether you’re a history buff or a conspiracy theorist, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy has fascinated Americans for decades. During a presidential motorcade on November 22, 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald (allegedly) fired the shot that killed JFK as he rode through Dallas’s Dealey Plaza. The ensuing controversy surrounding the shooter’s identity and motive, as well as the political repercussions, have made the tragedy one of the most widely recognized and debated in US history. Although JFK wasn’t a native Texan, by looking at the vast number of tributes, memorials, and museums in Dallas, you’d think he was. Dallas might have been where the former president was tragically killed, but the city is certainly doing its part to preserve Kennedy’s memory. To learn everything about the JFK assassination right where it happened, here are seven sites in Dallas you need to visit.

These spots were all recommended by travelstoke® user Alicia Butler. travelstoke® is a new app from Matador that connects you with fellow travelers and locals and helps you build trip itineraries with spots that integrate seamlessly into Google Maps and Uber. Download the app to add any of the spots below directly to your future trips.

Dealey Plaza

Photo: Philip Lange/Shutterstock

Any JFK-themed tour of Dallas needs to include Dealey Plaza — the site of the president’s assassination. The plaza is a city park in the West End district and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993 in commemoration of the tragic incident that occurred there. When JFK’s car slowed down to make a turn here, Oswald seized the opportunity to fire the fatal bullet. A white “X” on the pavement of Elm Street marks the exact spot where Kennedy was shot.

Where: West End, Dallas, TX 75202

The Grassy Knoll

Photo: Kokulina/Shutterstock

No site associated with the JFK assassination is as famous as the Grassy Knoll, and it might have had nothing to do with the assassination at all. Located right across from Dealey Plaza, the Grassy Knoll serves as a focal point for conspiracy theorists who believe it was from this grassy area that a second mysterious gunman shot the president. The little hill rose to national prominence when Albert Merriman Smith of United Press International, who had been riding in the press pool car, sent a dispatch from the scene after the shooting that said, “Some of the Secret Service agents thought the gunfire was from an automatic weapon fired to the right rear of the president’s car, probably from a grassy knoll to which police rushed.”

Where: West End, Dallas, TX 75202

Hilton Fort Worth

Photo: Hilton Fort Worth/Facebook

This is the hotel where Kennedy stayed the night before his death. Prior to the assassination, Kennedy had breakfast in the ornate Crystal Ballroom and delivered a speech to 2,000 visitors. While some might find it morbid to stay in the same hotel as the doomed president, real history enthusiasts will enjoy the site’s historic significance. At the end of each promenade on the second floor, old photographs are displayed depicting the former president’s time at the hotel and in Dallas just before his death. Opened in 1921, the hotel was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. There’s also a bronze memorial statue of Kennedy outside the hotel. Real JFK fanatics with deep pockets can shell out $2,500 to stay in the massive JFK Suite, which isn’t even where the president stayed; the decor was inspired by Jackie Kennedy’s interior renovation of the White House during her stint as First Lady.

Where: 815 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102

JFK Memorial

Photo: f11photo/Shutterstock

This memorial erected in honor of JFK might not be among the country’s most recognized monuments, but it’s certainly an integral part of Dallas’s history. Dedicated in 1970, the JFK Memorial, located a block from Dealey Plaza between Main and Commerce streets, resembles an open tomb. It’s 30-feet high, 50-feet wide, and is supported by eight columns each of which end in a light fixture. The design is meant to symbolize JFK’s freedom of spirit. The memorial is open seven days a week, and tickets are $18 for adults.

Where: 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202

Ruth Paine House Museum

Photo: City of Irving, Texas – City Hall/Facebook

A 20-minute drive from Dallas will bring you to a little-known site connected to the Kennedy assassination. The Ruth Paine House Museum in Irving was where Lee Harvey Oswald spent the night before the assassination. Oswald’s family had been lodging there temporarily, and he used the garage to conceal the rifle he used to shoot the president. In the wake of the incident, law enforcement descended on the residence of Ruth Paine, the unwitting housewife and proprietor. Now the house has been converted into a museum, educating visitors about the assassination through dramatic vignettes, with actors portraying Ruth Paine, Lee Harvey Oswald, and his wife. Tours run Tuesday through Saturday, and reservations can be made on the museum’s website.

Where: 801 W Irving Blvd, Irving, TX 75060

The Sixth Floor Museum

Photo: amadeustx/Shutterstock

If museums are your thing, this is the definitive Dallas museum dedicated to the JFK assassination. At the Sixth Floor Museum, you’ll learn more about the former president, the timeline of his assassination, and the associated controversies than you can handle. From historic photographs, films, and memorabilia to official government reports of the investigation, this museum has it all. For those who can’t physically make it to the museum, there’s even a museum webcam that gives a live view from the sniper spot. If you couldn’t guess from its name, the museum is located on the sixth floor of the Dallas County Administration building, the exact spot from which Lee Harvey Oswald is said to have assassinated the president. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and tickets are $18 for adults.

Where: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202

Food Tours of America Dallas

Photo: Kokulina/Shutterstock

This is Dallas’s only walking tour of the JFK experience, and since it involves food, you really shouldn’t miss it. After a 45-minute stroll through the Grassy Knoll and Dealey Plaza, your guide will bring you on a restaurant tour through Dallas’s West Village. It includes a series of food tastings punctuated by casual walks and even rail rides related to the JFK assassination. While JFK might not have personally eaten at the restaurants offered on the tour, learning about a presidential assassination and processing conspiracy theories are much more palatable with some delicious food in front of you. The tour is only offered on Fridays at 9:30 AM, lasts approximately four hours, and costs $72 per person. Visit the official website for more details, or to book a tour.

Where: Old Red Museum, 100 South Houston Street, Dallas, TX 75202


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Best Irish bars in New York City

New York City is a city of immigrants. From all over the world, people have come here seeking different things, whether it be a new and better life, the American Dream, or just a change. One group of people that makes up a significant part of the city’s population is the Irish, and NYC currently has one of the largest Irish-American communities in the US. The influence they’ve had on the city can be seen in many ways, but one of the main ones that people pick up on immediately is the number of Irish pubs that can be found in all five boroughs. Some are rather gimmicky, others have no fuss or frills, and a few are turning the classic Irish pub concept on its head with modern, whiskey-forward cocktail clubs. With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, here are the seven best Irish bars in New York City.

1. Kitty Kiernans

Fans of Spike Lee will love Kitty Kiernans, the Irish pub whose exterior the now-Oscar-award-winning director used in his film The 25th Hour. Opened in 1934 and now considered to be a local landmark with red walls, gaslight lamps, and a long wooden bar, the spacious interior feels straight out of Ireland — but in Brooklyn. There’s a TouchTunes jukebox, darts, and open mic nights every Thursday. There’s also a fireplace you can cozy up to, but you’ll probably be as warm as you can be from the fully stocked bar.

Where: 9715 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209

2. The Dead Rabbit

Photo: The Dead Rabbit

The Dead Rabbit brings the idea of a traditional Irish pub into the 21st century, and it’s that combination that has garnered it so much acclaim that it’s been named the world’s best bar twice in a row and a frequent runner up. With two stories, there’s plenty of space to post up comfortably. Each floor has a different vibe — the taproom on the ground floor feels more akin to a pub, with old photos on the walls and an unbelievably long whiskey list. Upstairs is the parlor, a self-proclaimed “cocktail cathedral.” The cocktail menu includes those with quirky names, like the Reality Check with scotch, cognac, togarashi, honey, vanilla, pineapple, coffee, and lemon.

Where: 30 Water St, New York, NY 10004

3. The Wicked Monk

The decor inside the Wicked Monk matches its name. Stone walls, stained-glass windows, and gargoyle-like statues all paint a picture of a Gothic monastery, with the original wood and stained glass actually being shipped from Greenmount Monastery in Cork, Ireland. The giant black wooden door with the word “Guinness” and the mural on the ceiling, depicting men holding beer mugs and floating beer barrels and bottles, add a touch of reality to remind you where you really are. There’s a number of draft and bottled beers on offer, with prices ranging from $6 to $10.

Where: 9510 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209

4. The Craic

Photo: The Craic/Facebook

The Craic is exactly what you’d expect an Irish pub in Williamsburg to look like. The hipster influence is evident, with plush leather seating, bookshelves, and abstract art on the walls. But then you’ve got a pool table and a good list of beers, wines, and spirits, and all’s right in the world. Prices start at a low $3, and the highest hovers around $25. The specials change depending on the day, but there are usually specials that run all day, as well as during happy hour from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Where: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003

5. Mugs Ale House

Mugs is as local as you can get in this neck of Brooklyn, with people from all walks of life stopping in for a drink here. The beer selection is on a rotating basis for both drafts and bottled, but the cheap prices stay the same no matter what. The food has a wide range here, from chicken wings to mussels. It’s a great place to stop in after a day of exploring Williamsburg or a preemptive move before you start your day; nearby is the fantastic East River State Park with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline.

Where: 125 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

6. Oscar Wilde

Photo: Oscar Wilde NYC

The Irish duo behind the popular NYC gastropub Lillie’s Victorian Establishment decided to open up the Oscar Wilde both to pay homage to the writer’s history and because of his friendship with Lillie Langtry. The gorgeous, eye-catching decor is a mix between an Irish pub and a Victorian bistro, with antique fireplaces, marble statues, and artifacts from all over hanging on the walls. It touts the city’s longest bar at 118.5 feet, so you have plenty of room to hug the bar and flag the bartender down for a drink without rubbing elbows with too many other people. The food and drinks menu is just as impressive, with over 300 types of whiskey, literary-themed cocktails, and different types of cuisine.

Where: 45 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

7. Rambling House

Several neighborhoods in the Bronx were inhabited (and continue to be!) by early Irish immigrants, and their influence can still be seen today. Rambling House is one such example and a perfect place to grab a pint or two — especially after exploring Van Cortlandt, one of New York City’s biggest parks. The menu is Irish-American, with food like shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and steak and eggs. Also on offer are karaoke and pub quiz nights, where you can belt your heart out or win some prizes. Rambling House also gives back to the music community via spotlights on different artists; local acoustic bands play on Tuesdays, DJs on Thursdays and Fridays, and rock, pop, and dance bands on the weekends. Time it right and you can get well-priced drinks, dinner, and a show.

Where: 4292 Katonah Ave, Bronx, NY 10470


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St. Patrick’s Day parades in the US

Admittedly, it’s fun to get out and slosh yourself silly in green beer on St. Patrick’s Day. And in some cities — like Chicago, New York, and Boston — you’ll find millions of people who agree with you crowding the streets for the rowdiest St. Paddy’s parties of the year. The problem, of course, is that most of those people had Guinness for breakfast too, so by parade time things can get a little… sloppy. There are, however, smaller destinations around the country with celebrations that are just as fun but not nearly as manic. Here are five worth checking out this weekend.

1. Rockford, Illinois

Photo: Go Rockford

This city about an hour and a half west of Chicago throws a full on PaddyFest for St. Patrick’s Day, complete with a monstrous parade where locals deck themselves out in green and sample Irish food along the route. It ends at the Prairie Street Brewhouse where a mere $10 gets you live entertainment on five stages, including a bagpipe group, the McNulty School of Irish Dance, and multiple bands. It also has beer tastings and traditional Irish dishes to eat. With far-more-manageable crowds than Chicago, you won’t miss the green-colored river.

2. Delray Beach, Florida

Imagine enjoying St. Patrick’s Day in a t-shirt and shorts, drinking ice-cold green beer to refresh yourself on an 82-degree afternoon. That’s the scene in America’s best warm-weather St. Paddy’s parade in oceanside Delray Beach. This city between Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach throws the Sunshine State’s rowdiest celebration, where the bars along Atlantic Ave are teeming with green-clad patrons all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the odd St. Paddy’s you can combine will a full-on beach day, then finish off watching college basketball at outdoor sports bars like Boston’s on the Beach and Bru’s Room.

3. Dublin, Ohio

Photo: Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau

Maybe you can’t quite make it across the pond for the St. Paddy’s madness in the original Dublin. But the birthplace of Wendy’s does a pretty solid job itself, with a fraction of the crowds. The day kicks off with the local Lions Club serving green shamrock pancakes, which while not filled with square-patty beef are still the perfect base for your day of debauchery. The party continues with a citywide parade featuring marching bands, pipe and drums, a bugle corps, an equestrian team, stilt walkers, clowns, and disturbingly large balloons.

You can continue the revelry along the Celtic Cocktail trail where 14 Irish-inspired drinks are on the menu at bars around the city, including the new rooftop bar at the sparkling new AC Hotel. For families, kids can search Historic Dublin and Bridge Park for magical fairies along the Fairy Door Trail.

4. El Paso, Texas

Nothing makes you feel a little less awful about stuffing yourself with Guinness and Jameson than starting the day with a calorie-crushing 5k. Out in the West Texas town of El Paso you can do exactly that, as each year locals begin St. Patrick’s Day with a 5k run. After that, you can take a cultural tour of the city’s striking St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which also has a carnival out in its courtyard that’s perfect for families. For those looking for something a little less family-friendly, you’ll find a daylong party out along Mesa Street where the Texas sunshine lets you party outdoors on a pleasant spring afternoon.

5. Rochester, New York

Photo: Visit Rochester

Though the weather in Western New York can be questionable in mid-March, combine the right layers with the right drinks and you’ll be perfectly comfortable enjoying Flour City’s massive parade. It includes over 100 different marching units, including 14 bands and part of the Buffalo Bills drumline, marching its way down Main Street and East Avenue. Afterwards, you can stop into the Rochester Riverside Hotel, which’ll have a comedy variety show, Irish storytellers (who are not part of the comedy show), Irish dancers, and pipe bands. The whole day kicks off at 9:30 AM with the annual Running of The Green, a 5k race winding along the Genesee River that officially kicks off running season in Rochester.


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The post 5 great St. Paddy’s Day parades you didn’t know existed appeared first on Matador Network.

The best restaurants in Miami

There was a time when there was no such thing as traveling to Miami just for good food. Restaurants were either flashy, expensive, and about as appealing as a corner table, or they were locals-only, hole-in-the-walls. Oh how things have changed over the last 10 years.

Today, Miami is very much a food city. It’s attracted chefs from around the world, and restaurants are blending influences from the Magic City’s diverse population. You can easily find Thai tapas, Nikkei cuisine, and guava everything.

“I’ve always said Miami’s food culture is a few years behind everywhere else, but in recent times Miami’s really stepped up to the plate with the influx of new residents that’s brought new chefs from around the world,” Geoff Lee, the chef at Byblos Miami, said. “We are starting to see the food culture develop to what you’d normally find in Chicago, LA, Toronto — more diverse types of food and smaller sharing style dining.”

To get a feel for the best of Miami’s food, we caught up with three chefs working in the city. Each are notable in their own right and run restaurants worth a visit. Our experts are Lee, Jose Icardi, executive chef at Diez y Seis at Shore Club South Beach, and Richard Hales, chef at Bird & Bone at The Confidante Miami Beach.

The best time for eaters to visit Miami

There’s not really a bad time to visit Miami, but oppressively hot summers make April through October less than ideal.

For food lovers, fall through spring is when “you’ll find the freshest seafood, delicious seasonal ingredients, and of course, amazing weather. You really can’t beat enjoying a great meal outdoors with a breathtaking ocean view.”

Photo: Bird & Bone at The Confidante Miami Beach

You should especially pay attention to the latter half of that time range.

“January to March, the weather is amazing,” Hales said. “It is our season for great vegetables and stone crabs too.”

The must-have cuisines in Miami

“I wish it was seafood but it’s not,” Hales said. “Cuban roast pork rules Miami, my favorite besides Cuban pork is Haitian griot.”

When it comes down to it, follow the food of the population. That means, in many cases, Latin food.

“Latin food is an obvious type of food I believe Miami does best,” Icardi said. “Being the melting pot of many Latin countries, it is a no brainer that most cuisines in Miami are in some way or another infused with a Latin flair.”

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Photo: ChunChang Wu/Shutterstock

Specifically Peruvian and Mexican. “Miami has a really good grasp on Peruvian and Mexican cuisine,” Lee said. “There are a ton of great places to grab some amazing bites. Miami has a vast Peruvian population, so, naturally, they brought their unique customs and delicious cuisine along with them. As for the Mexican culture, many of the workers in various industries are of Mexican origin. And again, the easiest way to share culture is through cuisine, so many chefs grab hold of that cuisine and express it in their own distinct way.”

Where chefs eat on their day off

“I typically eat close to home and I don’t go out much to the fancier type restaurants so I enjoy eating at a few of the small eateries close to my house,” Lee said. “One place in particular is an Argentina steak house called Puerto Madero. You can’t go wrong with a classic skirt steak accompanied with a side of rice and plantains.”

When you work the Miami scene day in and day out, it can be nice to get away from the Miami scene for a change.

Photo: Mandolin Aegean Bistro/Facebook

“In my opinion, Mandolin is a true Miami staple,” Icardi said. “Besides the food being delicious and fresh, they take the guests’ dining experience to an entirely new level with their beautiful outdoor dining terrace. The design and ambiance of Mandolin’s outdoor terrace area creates an atmosphere that seemingly transports you to the Greek islands. Additionally, if I’m looking for good authentic food, Macchialina is another one of my go-to’s. Macchialina offers authentic Italian food with an intimate setting.”

Along those same lines, simple is sometimes best.

“I like to hit up David Garcia’s La Camaronera or Captain Jim’s,” Hales said. “El Mago de la Frita and the new Citadel Food Hall is nice too.”

Where to eat a quick meal in Miami

“Honestly (I kid you not), I’ve been asked this question a lot and people are always surprised by my answer,” Lee said. “I love Popeyes chicken! If I’m not at Popeyes, you can find me at a small sushi spot on Miami Beach grabbing some salmon nigiri and a small bottle of dry sake.”

We all have our vices. Luckily there are plenty of places in Miami where the need for speed doesn’t disqualify good food. Icardi’s choice is Fiorito, a place for “simple Argentinian food with a hint of Italian flair. The place is cozy. The wine is good. The food is great!”

If nothing else, know that you can pick up something to go.

“An hour or two?! That sounds luxurious,” Hales said. “I go home and eat Cuban Pizza from Tio Colo with my kids.”

The Miami chefs to look out for

There are plenty of big-name chefs to follow in Miami. Equally worth watching are their proteges, said Hales. “They are the next big stars, like Karla Hoyos, who is now under chef Jose Andres [at Bazaar]. Her suckling pig is out of this world.”

For Indian cuisine, Lee’s a fan of Niven Patel, the chef at Ghee. Then there’s Michael Lewis, the chef at the Asian-inspired restaurant KYU. “I think that group understands the business and the culture, and their food is spot on without being over the top,” Lee said.

Photo: Makoto/Facebook

With all of the talent in Miami now, it’s hard to pick just one. Icardi lists Ryan Brooks, chef at Makoto, Guillermo Eleicegul, chef at Leynia, and Atilio Padra, chef at Diez y Seis. Padra studied in Mexico and “offers a lot of outside the box ideas and techniques that have made a huge impact in Diez y Seis’ menu,” Icardi said, “offering a more modern twist to the Mexican style cuisine we serve.”

As Miami grows, the list of incredible chefs will only grow with it.

“Miami right now is blooming — with areas like Wynwood, the Design District, Brickell, downtown Miami,” Icardi said. “All these areas are growing more and more each day. People are investing and moving down from all over the world, creating a demand for unique experiences and an undeniable opportunity for fresh talent to showcase themselves.”


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The post Where to eat in Miami, according to Miami’s best chefs appeared first on Matador Network.

The ultimate Baltic road trip guide

The three countries that make up the Baltics — Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania — all gained their independence in 1991. Since then, they’ve pretty much been an uninterrupted Eastern European success story. The region’s newfound status as an economic and cultural hub — combined with the appeal of its expansive forests, sandy beaches, and medieval town squares — have attracted visitors from all over the world. Add in hospitable locals and a strong commitment to traditional cultures, and you have the recipe for an incredible summer road trip. Here are the details.

Know before you go

Photo: LeManna/Shutterstock

First, there’s a bit of an elephant in the room here. The Baltic countries are just to the south of Finland and west of Russia. That probably doesn’t sound like the most appealing climate to spend your summer holiday in. In reality though, you can expect up to 20 hours of sunlight per day during the height of summer, as well as temperatures to rival their more southern European neighbors.

For this itinerary, ideally, you’ll be renting a car. There are other ways to get around. Hitchhiking is pretty common in the Baltic region, as well as ride sharing. There’s also the regional bus company Lux Express.

Still, a road trip isn’t quite the same without the feeling of being in control of your own schedule, and it’s hard to capture that without your own set of wheels. All of the major rental companies operate in the region, so be sure to shop around before you arrive to find the best deal at the time.

On a very practical level, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have all been in the EU since 2004. That means that they all use the euro, and you only need one visa to travel freely between all three. You also won’t need any extra drivers license accreditations or insurance to go back and forth across the borders during your trip. And yes, they drive on the right-hand side of the road — but you may find renting an automatic vehicle to be significantly more expensive.

Now, let’s get to the fun stuff. We’re working our way from south to north. We’re also accounting for a minimum week-long road trip, but the more time you can spend in each stop the better.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Photo: anjun/Shutterstock

Lithuania’s capital city, Vilnius, is a strong start to your Baltic road trip. Its leafy old town is Europe’s oldest and has even been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its medieval churches and cobbled streets are an ideal Insta opportunity. Or, if you prefer to do things a little more old school, their old-fashioned beauty can be enjoyed in the here and now. In any case, Vilnius is the type of city where simply roaming around the streets is an experience in and of itself.

Vilnius is also one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities, so it’s a chance to splash out and live a little bit more luxuriantly than you usually can on a road trip. For a high-end spin on traditional Lithuanian favorites, look no further than Amandus. The tasting menu and wine selection are about as good as you’re likely to find anywhere but for a fraction of the cost of the bigger European capitals.

While Vilnius is rich in street art and statues, special mention has to be given to the slightly bizarre bust of prog-rock hero Frank Zappa decorating the top of a tall metal pole.

Kaunus, Lithuania

Photo: TellyVision/Shutterstock

The student city of Kaunus is just over an hour northwest of Vilnius. While the city itself has a lot to offer, the absolute must-see is the haunting Ninth Fort Monument and Museum in the northern outskirts.

The 105-foot-tall monument was erected in 1984 to commemorate the suffering faced by Lithuanians during the Second World War and subsequent Soviet occupation. The fort and its surrounding grounds were used as labor camps during both periods. While this isn’t exactly the most light-hearted of experiences for your Baltic road trip, it is nonetheless a vital and enlightening stop.

Riga, Latvia

Photo: Olesya Kuznetsova/Shutterstock

Around three hours north across the border, you’ll find yourself in Riga, the capital city of Latvia. The largest city in the region, Riga has stood on the coast of the Baltic Sea since the year 1201. You observe this fact just by looking at the city’s skyline, with a mixture of medieval, art nouveau, and brutalist styles, as well as glass skyscrapers and traditional log houses.

You can also experience this rich history, as well as more recent international influences, in Riga’s Central Market. Inside the market’s four former zeppelin hangars, you’ll find local produce and generations-old recipes for traditional dishes, including all kinds of cured meats and rye bread. This is also a fantastic opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs like handspun knitwear.

Riga has developed its very own trendy and hip districts. None stands out more than Miera Iela and the surrounding streets. Here you’ll find some of the best craft beer joints in Eastern Europe, as well as innovative cocktails featuring the iconic Riga Black Balsam, a Latvian herbal liqueur.

Sigulda, Latvia

Photo: ronstik/Shutterstock

After time spent in the big city, you’ll be ready for something a little different. No road trip is complete without a chance to unwind in the countryside, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to do just that than Sigulda, arguably the most scenic area in the Baltics.

A visit to the Turaida Museum Reserve should be your priority. The reserve covers a large area of a medieval manor, with a castle, church, and other sites of historic, artistic, and archaeological interest spanning as far back as the 11th century. Aim to be there around June 21 to enjoy the famous Summer Solstice party. Summer nights don’t get any better than that.

For a little bit more excitement, check out the Sigulda Bobtrase, the former USSR’s only bobsled track. The wheeled summer bob can reach speeds of up to 53 mph during a one-minute ride. For a more family-friendly experience, there’s also the “soft-bob,” which reaches more moderate but no less adrenaline-inducing speeds.

Tartu, Estonia

Photo: Maya Afzaal/Shutterstock

The first Estonian stop on this Baltic road trip is Tartu, the region’s intellectual capital. About a fifth of Tartu’s 100,000 residents are students, many of whom come from far-flung corners of the globe. In fact, Tartu has been a center of learning for close to 500 years.

Naturally, though, all that studying also means that Tartu is kind of a party town. In the city center, pretty much every other storefront is a bar or cafe. There’s everything from long-standing, authentic Russian dives to ritzy modern night clubs.

However, the firm favorite with just about everyone in Tartu is Moku, which offers vegan food and an extensive range of beers and spirits at student-friendly prices. Even better, it’s something of a novelty in that they’ll willingly turn a blind eye to people drinking their own alcohol in the surrounding alley and courtyard. In the summer months, this is duly taken advantage of.

Tallinn, Estonia

Photo: Oleksiy Mark/Shutterstock

Finally, there’s Tallinn, Estonia’s capital. Located on the Gulf of Finland, this is the most upmarket destination in the Baltics. With a boom in tech start-ups over the last two decades, Tallinn is something akin to Eastern Europe’s Silicon Valley.

As you might expect, there are plenty of attractions suited to young professionals who have flocked to the city for work. Check out Estonia’s art museum, Kumu, for everything from traditional folk art to cutting edge contemporary creations.

For a moment of quiet reflection on everything you’ve experienced on your Baltic road trip, head up to Kohtuotsa viewing platform. Looking north, you can take in the city’s terracotta roofs, and on a clear day, you can gaze across the gulf to Helsinki.


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The post The ultimate Baltic road trip to take this summer appeared first on Matador Network.

Texas bluebonnet bloom

Not to be outdone by California’s super bloom, Texas is having a colorful flower bloom of its own this winter. Texas’s Big Bend National Park is in the midst of its largest bluebonnet bloom in decades. The local Texas Hill Country news site reported, “The bluffs and roadsides near and within Big Bend National Park are being overtaken by the strikingly beautiful Chisos bluebonnets.” According to this year’s Texas Bluebonnet & Wildlife Report, “Displays in some area will be well above average.”

The bloom is predicted to last about six weeks, i.e. until the first week of April, says Texas Travel to CNN. This year’s bluebonnet bloom, however, is different from the type of bloom normally found around Texas. This particular variety of bluebonnet, the Chisos Bluebonnet, is capable of growing up to three feet tall and arrives a few weeks earlier than other bluebonnets. This year’s early bloom is largely due to heavy rainfall earlier this year, as well as warmer temperatures.

If you’re planning on visiting Big Bend National Park, make sure to drive along River Road for some of the best bluebonnet viewing. Parking costs $30 per vehicle. To avoid the crowds at the national park — and the steep parking fee — you can visit Big Bend Ranch State Park instead, along Texas Highway 170 between Terlingua and Presidio, where the roadside bluebonnets are reported to be stunning.

H/T: Travel & Leisure

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Best Irish bars in Chicago

Few cultures are as synonymous with lively drinking and hospitality as Irish culture. Much of that is thanks to the ubiquitous nature of the Irish pub with its characteristic deep mahogany wood, food that sticks to your bones, beer on draught, and friendly bartender always ready with a bit of craic. That type of pub can be found around the country, but Chicago, it could be argued, is in a league of its own when it comes to pubs full of Irish charm.

If you’re in Chicago this St. Patrick’s Day (or any day, for that matter), make sure you don’t end up in some wannabe Paddy O’Fakey’s. Instead, choose from the best Irish bars in Chicago.

1. Emmit’s Irish Pub

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Sometimes you just want a good dive bar, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Emmit’s. With a true Chicago history that includes its share of gangsters escaping through subterranean tunnels, this place is a city institution. It’s also extremely photogenic and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Today, it’s owned by a couple of firefighters who do good pub grub and solid drinks, pretty much exactly what you want in a place like this.

Where: 495 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

2. Shinnick’s Pub

Chicago was one of the top cities that Irish immigrants came to when they arrived in America, and no neighborhood here saw as many arrive as Bridgeport on the Southside. For a real Chicago Irish (please don’t call it ‘Chirish’) experience, head down to Shinnick’s Pub, a great little dive that’s been run by three generations of the Shinnick family since 1938. Due to its location just a few blocks from Sox Park, it gets packed on game days. The rest of the time, you’ll find family members and a dedicated crew of regulars that’ll include a lot of cops, firemen, and other assorted Southside Irish (and honorary Irish) characters.

Where: 3758 S Union Ave, Chicago, IL 60609

3. Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant

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A pub named after an Irishman who became a 19th-century Chicago Police Chief is a good sign. A pub owned by two Irish musicians is an even better one. Chief O’Neill’s has everything you could want in an Irish pub, including live Irish music on Sunday nights, a great selection of Irish whiskeys, and terrific food. A huge outdoor patio makes it a great summer hangout while a roaring fireplace makes it perfect for those cold winter days.

Where: 3471 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

4. The Atlantic

The Atlantic is a Lincoln Square Irish pub where Chicago soccer fans go to drink and watch the game. This is the official bar of the Chicago Fire, so it tends to get packed during away games, as well as during any big European matches. The bar does solid pub grub, pours a proper Guinness, and offers a $6 PBR with a shot of Tullamore D.E.W. every day of the week. Sláinte!

Where: 5062 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

5. O’Shaughnessy’s Public House

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A favorite for people in the Ravenswood neighborhood, O’Shaughnessy’s Public House has a respectable selection of Irish whiskeys and some good Scotches, as well. Along with the standard Guinness, O’Shaughnessy’s has 13 other Irish and English draught beers and ciders, and a bottle list that includes some Belgian ales. The food is exactly what you want from an Irish pub. Don’t miss out on the full Irish breakfast, which is one of the best in the city.

Where: 4557 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

6. The Grafton Pub

If you want to find that pub with the Irish bartenders that you could just sit and listen to all day, The Grafton in Lincoln Square is the place to go. With a warm interior that succeeds in being modern Irish without being hokey, a whiskey list that runs 90 bottles deep, and a solid selection of craft beers, you won’t want to leave here. The burger is one of the best in the city, and the rest of the menu of Irish comfort foods is just as good. The Grafton is also one of the city’s best pubs for Irish music due to both scheduled performances and impromptu jams from students of the Old Town School of Folk Music located next door.

Where: 4530 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

7. Cork and Kerry

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The Far-Southside neighborhood of Beverly has always had a large Irish population. That’s still true today though now most residents are only Irish by ancestry. That doesn’t mean they’ve lost their Irish pride, though, and the place to go if you want to see that is Cork and Kerry. This place is a neighborhood institution, which means its a family-friendly place — especially on summer weekends when the huge patio fills up with locals, kids and all. The atmosphere will make you feel like you’re family, too. They don’t do food but often have food trucks at events.

Where: 10614 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60643

8. The Galway Arms

Lincoln Park has as many fake Irish pubs as just about any neighborhood in the city, but there’s one emerald in the bunch: The Galway Arms. With live traditional Irish music four nights a week, there’s a warmth and conviviality here that seems imported straight from Ireland. It helps that most of the staff are themselves Irish. The traditional food is great, the Guinness is always perfectly poured, and everyone’s always ready for a bit of craic.

Where: 2442 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

9. Mrs. Murphy and Sons Irish Bistro

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You might wonder what a bistro is doing on this list, but Mrs. Murphy and Sons Irish Bistro has earned its spot by doing some of Chicago’s best Irish cuisine. And lest you think this is just a restaurant, there’s a beautiful bar area with dark wood and green leather where you’ll want to sit and drink Guinness for hours. The bar has a very solid list of beers, wine, and Irish whiskeys.

Where: 3905 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613


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Hiking the Croagh Patrick pilgrimage

For out-of-towners, Ireland is usually summed up as the land of Guinness, craic, and cable-knit sweaters — a description that ignores many of the greatest aspect of the country, including hiking. As an outdoors destination, Ireland is totally underrated. The Camino may hog the spotlight when it comes to European pilgrimage routes, but make no mistake: A hike up Croagh Patrick is just as spiritual and the views just as spectacular. While the distance is much shorter than the Camino, the Croagh hike is plenty challenging. Here is everything you need to know to tackle this demanding but rewarding peak on Ireland’s west coast.

Why is Croagh Patrick such an important pilgrimage site?

Photo: Frank Bach/Shutterstock

Historians believe that pagan pilgrims climbed the 2,056-foot peak to celebrate ancient festivals such as Lughnasadh, the celebration of the harvest, as early as 3,000 BC. When Saint Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century, he fasted on the summit for 40 days, which led to the mountain getting its current name.

Every year, on the last Sunday of July, also known as Reek Sunday, up to 25,000 pilgrims climb Croagh Patrick, some of them doing it barefoot. Those who forego shoes do so to mirror the experience of their pagan ancestors; some do it in memory of someone they’ve lost, and others do it simply for the added challenge it brings. But whether barefoot or booted, religious or non-religious, this hike is a rite of passage for Irish people everywhere. On weekends or public holidays throughout the year you’ll see whole families — from young children to grandparents — heading up the mountain together.

Preparing for the climb

Photo: Douglas Gray/Shutterstock

The nearest town to Croagh Patrick is Westport, a well-established tourist hub with regular train service from Dublin and regular bus service from other regional towns. If you’re planning on spending some time in Galway, note that it takes fewer than two hours to get to Westport, so you can hike Croagh Patrick in an overnighter. If you’re driving the Wild Atlantic Way route along the west coast, both towns will likely be stops along the way.

The foot of Croagh Patrick is around 5.6 miles west of Westport. The easiest option is to get there by car or taxi since public transport is sparse. There’s a large pay-and-display parking lot, a pub, and a visitors center where you’ll find secure lockers, hot showers, a cafe and, of course, a craft shop. The high season is April through September. With the exception of the parking lot, everything is likely to be closed outside those months.

Ireland’s weather is unpredictable no matter the season and even more so among the mountains. So pack warm and waterproof layers in your backpack, along with the usual essentials. We strongly recommend you wear your toughest hiking boots and swallow your ego by using a walking pole. You can rent sturdy wooden poles from a hut in the parking lot. Every year, unprepared climbers end up injured or with hypothermia due to fast-changing weather conditions and the dangerous descent. Mayo Mountain Rescue is now advising pilgrims not to undertake the hike barefoot at all due to the increase in callouts for help and emergency airlifts from the mountain. In 2018, on Reek Sunday only, there were 17 people injured treated and assisted by Mountain Rescue teams and Order of Malta doctors on Croagh Patrick.

The route
Essential info

Photo: Aigarart/Shutterstock

The distance from the parking lot to the summit and back is 4.22 miles. It takes the average climber three and a half hours: two hours ascending, an hour and a half descending. Although you’ll see all ages along the route, keep in mind that the higher up the mountain you go, the more difficult the climb gets. As the terrain is mostly loose stones and gravel, it’s very easy to lose your footing, especially on the way down. Plenty of people only hike part of the way, so don’t be ashamed to join them if you find it too challenging.

Photo: Sir Uldrih/Shutterstock

The trail begins on a relatively flat country road, which gives way to a loose gravel path once you meet the statue of Saint Patrick. After that, it’s a steady ascent up to and along the shoulder of the mountain. If you’re hiking without a guide and have little or no mountaineering experience, the top of the shoulder is a good place to stop. From here, it’s a steep, slippery, and rocky trail along the upper slope to the summit. Using your walking pole is the best way to tackle this final zig-zag approach. Exercise extreme caution at all stages of the trail but especially on the descent or during busy periods like St. Patrick’s Day, Reek Sunday, and fair weather weekends during the summer months.

The summit

Photo: /Shutterstock

From the outset of the climb, you’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of Clew Bay, which is home to over 300 drumlin islands. From the summit, you can also look south over the Sheeffry mountains and north over the Nephin Beg range. However, due to the aforementioned unpredictable weather, Croagh Patrick’s summit can often be shrouded in low-lying clouds.

Photo: Sir Uldrih/Shutterstock

If you struggled to the summit only to have your view obscured by fog, you can still explore the chapel at the top. It was built in 1905 on the foundation of a stone oratory, which experts have dated to between 430 and 890 AD. On Reek Sunday, you can catch Mass inside if you’re so inclined.

After the hike

Photo: Campbell’s Pub

If you still have energy and time to spare after the hike, the nearby village of Louisburgh is undeniably picturesque. Clare Island, the largest in Clew Bay, or Achill Island, the largest in Ireland, are two great adventures if you have another day to spare in the area. Otherwise, settle into a seat in Campbell’s and enjoy that victory pint of Guinness while you wait for your transport back to Westport.


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Visit Indiana Dunes National Park

A whopping 330 million nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world visited US national parks in 2017. This summer, visitors will have a new park to explore, and they’ll have to venture to Indiana to get the newest stamp on their national parks passport. The National Park Service welcomed Indiana Dunes National Park to its roster on February 15, making it the country’s 61st national park. Just 50 miles from Chicago, the park is doable as a day trip or a multi-day adventure.

Located in northwestern Indiana along the shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes is the first national park in the Hoosier State. Its status comes after more than a century of lobbying that began formally back in 1916 in Chicago. Since 1966, Midwesterners have known the 15,000-acre area as Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. But with the signing of the omnibus appropriation bill in February 2018, the protected area finally obtained national park status.

The park is already Indiana’s most-visited site, with approximately 3.5 million visitors each year. That number is likely to grow as it attracts attention from beyond the Midwest, where most of its current visitors are located. Here’s what to know before you visit.

The park looks different every time you visit.

Photo: Delmas Lehman/Shutterstock

The park’s most impressive features are its towering sand dunes. Formed in the wake of glacial melt, the park’s namesake dunes can reach heights of almost 200 feet. Strong winds blowing off Lake Michigan continually shape and change the park’s 15 miles of shoreline, ensuring a slightly different experience each time you visit.

Beyond the dunes, though, the park is rich in biodiversity, not a quality you would generally associate with a state packed with seemingly endless cornfields. With 1,100 native species of plants, the park will change your mind about Indiana.

The warm months between the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends are the best time to take full advantage of the park’s beach. But the park is a marvel to behold in any season. To see beautiful fall foliage along the Glenwood Dunes Trail, plan your visit in autumn. Or bundle up and explore the park on cross-country skis in winter and enjoy far fewer crowds. If you visit in spring, walk the Heron Rookery Trail for budding plant life.

You can hit the trail and scale the tallest dune.

Photo: Anna Westman/Shutterstock

Fifty miles of hiking trails snake through the park, offering a sample of the shoreline, the dunes, and the flora and fauna that call the region home. But be warned: Hiking in sand isn’t for the faint of heart. If you and your calves are up for the challenge, Indiana Dunes’ hiking routes will take you over the park’s formidable dunes, as well as through wetlands, prairies, and forests. Start with the West Beach Trail System, a 3.5-mile loop showcasing the best the park has to offer. The moderate to rugged route gives visitors a chance to get work up a sweat and then relax at the beach. Tack on the one-mile Dunes Succession Hike for stunning views of Lake Michigan.

The most famous dune is Mount Baldy, and on certain days you can actually ascend this completely barren sand dune to enjoy open views of the surrounding landscape. On summer weekends, rangers lead daytime and sunset hikes to the top. Otherwise, access is restricted in order to protect against erosion. There is also limited access to the nearby Pinehook Bog. Like Mount Baldy, you’ll need to join a ranger-led weekend hike in the summer to see this unique glacial depression and its diverse plant life.

Photo: GoldenField/Shutterstock

Other outdoor activities at Indiana Dunes National Park include biking, bird watching, boating, and fishing. In order to cast a line, you’ll need an Indiana Fishing License plus a stamp to catch trout and salmon. Kayaking and canoeing are popular on the park’s Little Calumet River.

Of course, swimming in Lake Michigan is one of the most beloved activities, but it’s important to be mindful of changing water conditions. Like an ocean, Lake Michigan can be calm one minute and dangerous the next. Options to lounge lakeside on the beach are aplenty, with one of the most popular spots being just down from Mount Baldy.

You can spend the night at the base of the dunes.

Photo: Delmas Lehman/Shutterstock

The park’s Dunewood Campground has 66 campsites and is equipped with restrooms and showers. It’s first-come, first-served, and the fee is $25 per night. Open April 1 through November 1, the campground is just 1.5 miles south of Lake View Beach. Watch the sunset over Lake Michigan, then head back to Dunewood for s’mores and ghost stories around the campfire. Most public spaces within the park are open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM year round. In summer, the Visitors Center is open daily 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM at other times of year.

If you don’t want to camp, several other accommodations around Indiana Dunes don’t require sleeping in a tent. In nearby Chesterton, At Home in the Woods is a cozy, nature-inspired bed and breakfast that prioritizes eco-friendly practices and is adjacent to wooded acreage to explore. Beyond that, everything from bed and breakfasts to hotels and motels are available in Porter, Portage, Michigan City, Chesterton, and Valparaiso.

Getting to Indiana Dunes National Park

If you’re flying to the Midwest, the airports nearest Indiana Dunes are South Bend International in South Bend, about 45 miles away, and both Midway and O’Hare in Chicago. From Indianapolis, the drive is about 2.5 hours. The park’s main entrance is just off I-94 and is easily accessed from the Indiana Toll Road. Take the exit for IN-49 and you’ll pass right by the visitors center where you can park, head in to grab a map, and plan the day. The park fee is just $6 per vehicle and $80 for a season pass.


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