Matador Network's Blog, page 444
July 21, 2022
Sleep Like a Condor in Peru’s Only Cliff-Hanging Capsule Hotel
When my friend Rachel asked me to fly to Peru to celebrate her 30th birthday, I immediately thought of a bucket list trek to Machu Picchu or an opportunity to scale the staggering Ollantaytambo ruins. Rather, with wide eyes and a smirk, she cautiously revealed her ambition to climb the very vertical Via Ferrata to reach what every Peruvian lamented as plain loco. After all, the Skylodge Adventure Suites welcomes only those daring enough to spend the night suspended 400 meters above Cusco’s Sacred Valley.
The Skylodge first launched in 2013 as the first-ever hanging hotel in the world with its gravity-defying glass pods. These cliff-side capsules are the brainchild of an adventure company, Natura Vive, which wanted to make mountain and climbing excursions more accessible to those self-professed bold and daring travelers. It’s true – the panoramic views are unmatched, but the only way to reach these capsules is to conquer the dizzying and arduous climb to the top.
The Skylodge’s spectacularly steep location is also not by chance. Hanging above Peru’s Sacred Valley provides views of a wealth of nearby historical wonders and riches. The jagged Urubamba mountains starkly contrast the lush agricultural fields that border the snaking Vilcanota River. Archeological sites are also abundant throughout this Andean valley, including the famed Machu Picchu. This entire area is a cultural gem not to be missed, and you will experience it in an entirely unique way if you add the Skylodge to your itinerary.
We hope you love the Skylodge Adventure Suites in Peru! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
What to expect and what to pack for the Skylodge
Photo credit: Tiffany Eastham
Photo credit: Tiffany Eastham
Photo credit: Tiffany Eastham
Photo credit: Tiffany Eastham
Many adventurers in Peru make nearby Cusco their home base. Local transport comes pre-arranged for the hour and forty-minute ride deep into the valley. You’ll find three capsules clinging to the side of a sheer rockface with an intricate network of cables that attempt to reassure your confidence in their construction. Not to worry, though, because the pods are all crafted out of aerospace aluminum and weather-resistant polycarbonate to ensure you don’t hear a single creak or feel a slight rattle even in the valley’s super windy conditions.
Each pod measures 24 feet in length and eight feet in height and width, making it a comfortable space for a one-night stay. The pod itself is technically one massive window, but you’ll still find a handful of ventilation ducts and curtains that can be pulled closed or kept open to stargaze at night.
Each capsule is also equipped with a private bathroom that includes a dry ecological toilet and sink, a modest (but limited) supply of fresh drinking water, and a lighting system powered by solar panels. Down comforters on plush mattresses also make for a cozy sleep as it will get quite cold inside the capsule. We were there in June – the middle of the Peruvian winter – and nighttime temps dropped to around 35 degrees Fahrenheit. You won’t be roughing it too much, though, as both dinner after the ascent and breakfast the following morning are provided in the designated dining pod.
No matter the time of year, you’ll want to wear layers and comfortable, athletic clothing and shoes to ensure you can maneuver freely while climbing. You’ll also be carrying up your own backpack, and that was enough incentive for me to pack pretty lightly. There’s no shower at the Skylodge, so just a change of clothes, your toothbrush, and a water bottle should suffice.
The climb to Skylodge Adventure Suites
Photo credit: Tiffany Eastham
Of course, travelers rave about the photos they see online. Witnessing sunrise over the Sacred Valley from your glass pod is the ultimate Instagram-worthy shot, but you have to get up there first. Though Natura Vive advertises this as no climbing experience needed, remember that you’ll be battling high altitude, windy conditions, and (likely) some fear. Imagine it’s like stomping up a stair master machine at the gym for two hours straight.
So despite our complete lack of climbing experience and general aversion to extreme heights, we found ourselves standing at the base of the Skylodge about to conquer the most exhilarating and hardest physical challenge of our travels.
Before the climb even begins, you’ll get a safety briefing on how to manage your carabiners and the harness itself. Our guide, Ramone, swiftly tossed his harness onto the ground, shimmied into it in a matter of seconds, and provided some instructions for us to don them ourselves.
I took one look at the tangled mess of harness straps, cables, and clips on the ground in front of me and did my best to step through the correct loops and search for the right straps to fasten. After a few minutes of struggling, Ramone approached me with a big smile, “You’ll not want it on backward or upside down like it is now.”
Great.
I watched Rachel take the first step onto the hanging metal ladder that initiated our ascent, and we were officially at the point of no return. The higher we climbed, the more the wind whipped at our backs, and I soon realized that my legs were no longer shaking from adrenaline, but from exhaustion.
I think I feared most that my foot would slip off of the narrow iron rungs, or that my hand’s grasp would fail from fatigue – that was until we were faced with the suspension bridge. At this point, cars were just a grain of rice passing on the road below. I found myself hyper-focused on my left shoelace to block out the fact that I was shimmying across a literal tightrope with nothing behind or below to support me except my trusted cable.
We continued for another hour with a mix of iron rungs and natural rock to pull ourselves further to the top. The sun began to set over the valley, and if I were to do this again, I think I could appreciate the stunning view more the second time around. We switched on our headlamps as the darkness grew, and I could see the dining pod lit up in the distance. We were almost there.
Dinner was spent enjoying the company of the other climbers while we all marveled at the faint car lights passing far below. Our panoramic view was obscured by the darkness, but I think this is to ensure that your first glimpse of the valley from above is at sunrise – and it did not disappoint.
Ziplining down the following morning was a breeze compared to the day before, and many of their lines were so expansive that you couldn’t see the end. We snaked our way back down the mountain, one zip line after another, until my feet finally touched the ground for the first time in almost 24 hours.
Conquering the Skylodge was an adventure that I didn’t even know I had wanted to do before embarking on this trip. If you find yourself traveling through Peru, whether or not you’re an experienced climber or an avid adventure seeker, don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most thrilling challenges with the reward of staying in one of the most unique accommodations in the world. 
From Beaches To Boat Tours, Lake George Is the Perfect Family Destination in Upstate New York
The Adirondack mountains are a favorite getaway destination for people who enjoy spending time outdoors. This region is welcoming to everyone, whether you’re an experienced hiker or you’d rather spend all day boating, if you came to town with a big family or if you’re looking to relax at a secluded cabin with a book and no phone service. And one town in particular in the Adirondacks is worth visiting if you’re traveling with kids: Lake George, New York.
Lake George is a resort town on the surface, but there are so many layers to this stunning area. There are massive lake front homes and private islands reserved for the wealthy, groups of rustic cabins that share a communal pool, and campgrounds for those who prefer the more rustic approach. And that’s just where to stay. Activities in Lake George cater to families with kids in their teens and younger in particular.
If you’re craving fresh air, a swim in cool waters, stunning views, and quality time with the people you love, here’s what to should expect – and everything you should fit into your vacation – when you get to Lake George.
Things to do in Lake George
Photo: majicphotos/Shutterstock
Lake George Village: Though downtown Lake George is probably where you’ll start your trip, it’s not the highlight of the area. Here you’ll find lots of activities to occupy older kids, like arcades and mini golf. This is also where you can take a boat tour of the lake and rent a pontoon boat.
Photo: Actium/Shutterstock
Lake George Lakefront Walkway is a 1,700-foot paved path in the village that offers beautiful views of the lake and marina and is a good place to start your day. There are a number of restaurants overlooking the marina where you can stop for lunch. Lake George Beach Club’s chicken and shrimp pasta is exceptional and there are fun tropical themed cocktails on the menu. But with so much to do in Lake George, you won’t want to spend too much time in the crowded souvenir shops.
Beaches: There are eight beaches in or around Lake George, and though small, they are well worth visiting. The water is clear, warm, and exceptionally clean – a large trout once swam by me as I was wading the lake. The relatively small trenches of sand here, where you can set up a small umbrella or set out a towel or two, is actually a benefit in this case – limited space means the beaches don’t get overcrowded.
One of the best public beaches in Lake George, especially for kids, is Shepard Park Beach in Lake George Village. There is a shallow wading area for little ones, and an unobstructed view of the mountains. The other beach in town, Million Dollar State Beach, is larger and more accommodating to big groups, but it gets busier than Shepard Park.
Photo: Colin D. Young/Shutterstock
Hiking: There are 12 mountains surrounding the lake and all have hiking trails. Prospect Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in Lake George. At three miles round trip, the summit offers clear views of the entire lake. For an easier hike that might be better suited to families with kids, try Black Mountain. Pilot’s Knob is another family friendly option, where you can hike to a waterfall and a gazebo overlooking the lake.
Photo: Enrico Della Pietra/Shutterstock
Boat tour: If it’s your first time in Lake George, book a steamboat tour of the lake. The Lake George Steamboat Company offers one hour and two and a half hour tours. It’s an easy, laid back way to get a deeper view of the lake’s many islands and inlets, and the knowledgeable captain will give you a history lesson on the many important figures, from artists to politicians, who once lived there.
Photo: Robert Michaud/Shutterstock
Water sports: Paddle boarding, jet skiing, and parasailing are among the most popular water sports in Lake George – jet skiing on lake george is particularly exhilarating. Chic’s Marina is a 15 minute drive from Lake George Village and offers jet skiing and tubing excursions.
Head to LG Boat Rentals to rent a pontoon boat for the day. This is a great way to get a closer look at all the nooks and crannies of the lake, and you don’t need previous boating experience to operate this type of boat. With expansive space for many occupants, you can take your family on an exploration of Dollar Island and the Lake George Narrows.
The Island Paradise Tour run by Lake George Narrows Boat Tours takes people out to a private island where you can picnic, swim, and relax – you just need to bring the food. There’s also Tubby Tubes River Co., which offers a two hour lazy river tubing experience open to kids 2 years and older.
Bolton’s Landing: You might be too busy playing on the lake to take a drive, but Bolton’s Landing is worth visiting. Just 20 minutes from Lake George Village, Bolton’s Landing has more small town charm. A quiet flower garden greets everyone entering the town, and there’s kayaking, beaches, and a zipline park in Bolton’s Landing if you want to spend more time there. For lunch, head to the Bolton’s Landing Brewery Co..
Lake Luzerne: Lake George gets all the hype, but the nearby Lake Luzerne is worth a detour. Head to Wayside Beach, a 15 minute drive from Lake George Village. This slice of secluded paradise offers a grassy hillside and small beach where kids can swim and a ramp where locals push off their boats and kayaks. The water is cool and inviting, there are never too many people around, and an idyllic-looking wooded island in the middle of the lake is visible from the shore.
Photo: majicphotos/Shutterstock
The Sembrich: Inevitably, you will need to escape the constant activities that a family vacation entails. That’s when you need to take a trip to the Marcella Sembrich Opera Museum, or the Sembrich for short. Opened in 1922 by a singer for the New York City Metropolitan Opera as her retreat and space to teach music, today the property features a museum where you can learn more about Marcella Sembrich’s life in Lake George. But the real draw of the Sembrich is the peaceful, stroller-friendly hiking trails where you can go out around the lake with hardly any other person in sight. It’s truly a place to calm your mind, reset, and embrace the splendor of the wooded and mountainous Lake George landscape.
Where to stay in Lake George
Photo: Huttopia
Lodging in Lake George is abundant – there are cabins, resorts, cottages, and campgrounds peppering the perimeter of the lake, so everywhere you turn, there is somewhere to stay. Staying in Lake George Village isn’t recommended – you’re better off finding a resort or a cabin lakeside, or in the woods surrounding the lake, where it’s more secluded.
There’s lodging on the lake side of the road that winds around the perimeter (where you’re more likely to get private beach access) and on the opposite hillside. These closely packed cottages usually share a pool and have the close knit feeling – all of them welcome families. With names like Golden Eagle Cottages, Bear’s Den, and Kathy’s Resort and Cottages, it’s not hard to find a place to stay.
The newly opened Huttopia is where you should stay if your family is looking for a balance between camping and a rustic cabin. At Huttopia, you’ll find 109 canvas tents, equipped with a wooden deck and a grill. Inside the tent, you’ll find a full size bed and a bunk bed, a kitchen sink with running water, a wood stove, and a shower and toilet.
Photo: Huttopia
Huttopia has a distinct summer camp vibe – the adjoining lodge features a pool and serves a breakfast menu of crepes, and for dinner, pizza. When we stayed there at the height of summer, there were groups of kids running around all over the place, so you know it’s welcoming to families. Plus, you can ask for a kit of baby friendly items which includes a pack and play, a high chair, and a bathtub – life savers for parents who don’t want to pack these hefty items in their luggage.
Photo: Huttopia
Cars aren’t allowed to park near the tents, which means there are no car alarms blaring in the middle of the night or headlights blinding you as you try to make a fire. The downside is that you have to haul your belongings up to the tent in an unwieldy wagon up a rocky hillside (my recommendation is to leave your stroller in the car) which is not easy.
Other than that slight downside, Huttopia makes it easy for parents to immerse their families in nature without the hassle of pitching their own tent. You can get the peace and calm of nature, with nearby Lake George offering the opportunity for adventure. Huttopia is situated between Lake George and Lake Luzerne, so you can experience both towns without subjecting your energetic little ones to too much time in the car.
I found retreating to our tent at the end of a hectic day in Lake George to be a relief, and being able to soak in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks in a way that felt safe for my young daughter was a huge plus.
A Visual Guide To Every Building in the Chicago Skyline
Chicago’s skyline has not always been filled with gleaming skyscrapers. The Great Chicago Fire in 1873 wiped out most of the city, displacing one-third of its residents. Though a tragedy, the fire led to improved building materials and fire codes, which paved the way for the age of the skyscraper.
The skyline you see today is an amalgamation of more than a century of various architectural styles, building materials, attainable heights, and sustainability efforts.
Impressive from any angle, the Chicago skyline is best viewed from Lake Michigan. Take an architectural river cruise on the Chicago First Lady or Wendella boat an hour before sunset to witness the sky turn pink and orange behind the skyline from the lake and watch the city transform from day to night as you head back on the Chicago River.
If a boat cruise isn’t your thing, head to the Museum Campus for a slightly less panoramic view along the shoreline between the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. Or you can go to one of Chicago’s two public observation decks for 360-degree views stretching more than 50 miles.
Regardless of your location for observing the Chicago skyline, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the most prominent buildings. It’ll help you plan your Windy City adventure and impress your friends with your in-depth knowledge of the historic city.
Photo: AevanStock/Shutterstock
1. 311 South Wacker DriveAddress: 311 S. Wacker Dr.Floors: 65Height: 961 feetFun fact: At one time, it was the tallest reinforced concrete building in the worldWhen you see the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan – hands-down the best vantage point for viewing it – the first prominent building on the left is 311 South Wacker Drive. This skyscraper is known for its illuminated and distinctive crown: a 105-foot-tall, translucent cylinder surrounded by four smaller cylinders. The crown’s color changes to mark holidays and local celebrations.
While there’s no observation deck at the top, there’s plenty to do at ground level. The five-story lobby has an impressive fountain, as well as a glass-ceilinged atrium. On the northwest side of the building is a one-acre park – the largest open green space in the Chicago Loop. It hosts everything from farmers’ markets to cultural festivals to concerts throughout the year.
2. Willis Tower
Photo: Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower
Address: 233 S. Wacker Dr.Floors: 103Height: 1,450 feetAlso known as: Sears TowerFun fact:The tower’s average sway is about six inches, but it’s designed to sway up to three feetIn as quickly as 60 seconds, you can go from sea level to 1,400 feet in the air to visit the top of Chicago. The Skydeck on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower offers impressive views of the Chicago skyline and visitors can see up to 50 miles. On clear days, you can see four different states, but the best time to go is an hour before sunset. That’s when you’ll witness the city’s colorful transformation from day to night.
While enjoying the views, take it one step further – literally – on the Ledge. The glass-bottomed platform, raised 1,353 in the air, offers a chance to walk over the city, looking down onto Wacker Drive and the Chicago River below.
3. Chicago Board of TradeAddress: 141 W. Jackson Blvd.Floors: 44Height: 604 feetFun fact: A statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, sits atop the building.If you plan to visit Chicago’s financial district, check out the Chicago Board of Trade (CBT) building at the head of the LaSalle Street Canyon. Inside, grab a bite to eat at the Ceres Café while you appreciate the lobby’s marble, three-story walls lined with elaborate murals.
You’ll need to take a tour to explore beyond the lobby. The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers an art-deco tour of buildings in the Loop that includes the CBT, and the Chicago Merc (CME) offers tours of the trading floors.
Outside, you can recreate scenes from your favorite movies as the building’s façade is a favorite among filmmakers. The streetscape was a backdrop in movies like Man of Steel, Road to Perdition, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, and The Untouchables. You may recognize the CBT from the memorial scene in Batman: The Dark Knight, where the Joker makes his attempt on the life of Gotham City’s mayor.
4. 111 South Wacker DriveAddress: 111 S. Wacker Dr. Floors: 51Height: 681 feetFun fact: This building is LEED-certified on multiple levels and was the largest LEED-platinum-certified building in the US when it earned the award in 2019This relatively new (2005) office building is recognizable in the Chicago skyline by its panes of blue glass. The first seven floors of the skyscraper house a dramatically lit spiraling ramp that reflects down into the 44-foot tall lobby below. The spiral theme continues through the lobby and onto the pavement outside. It’s closed to the public but worth admiring from the outside if you’re into sustainable architecture.
5. Franklin CenterAddress: 227 W. Monroe St. Floors: 60Height: 1,007 feetAlso known as: The Franklin, formerly the AT&T Corporate CenterFun fact: The Franklin has rotating featured artists on display open to the public midweekBeyond the elaborate lighting fixtures and lobby’s marble floors and walls, there’s not much for the public to see here. The building contains retail and office spaces. In the Chicago skyline, it stands out thanks to its gigantic presence, spiked roof pinnacles, and illuminated setbacks on the exterior.
6. Kluczynski Federal Center
Photo: Busara/Shutterstock
Address: 230 S. Dearborn St.Floors: 42Height: 562 feetFun fact: This modern design is from the famed architect (also called star-chitect) Ludwig Mies van der RoheNamed after a former congressman, the Kluczynski Federal Center was designed without the usual lavishness found in civic buildings, but the Federal Center Plaza outside is worth a visit. This public square hosts farmers’ markets, festivals, and protests. It’s also home to the famed public art sculpture “The Flamingo.”
7. 333 South WabashAddress: 1333 S. Wabash Ave.Floors: 44Height: 600 feetAlso known as: Big Red, CNA TowerFun fact: It’s one of Chicago’s most recognizable office buildings, for the obvious reasonPainted bright red, 333 South Wabash stands out on the Chicago skyline day or night. The windows are often used to display lighted messages for holidays and local celebrations. There used to be a popular dining hall inside, but it closed in early 2022.
8. Metropolitan TowerAddress: 310 S. Michigan Ave.Floors: 30Height: 475 feetAlso known as: The Beehive Building, formerly the Straus BuildingFun fact: It was the first building in Chicago with 30 or more floorsIf you pose with the famous lion statues guarding the Art Institute of Chicago, you’ll glimpse the Metropolitan Tower up-close. The U-shaped condo complex sits on Michigan Avenue facing Grant Park.
The Metropolitan Tower stands out in the Chicago skyline at night thanks to a 40-foot pyramid on the roof, adorned with a 20-foot glass “beehive” ornament that emits a bright blue light.
9. Chase Tower
Photo: Felix Lipov/Shutterstock
Address: 10 S. Dearborn St. Floors: 60Height: 850 feetFun fact: There’s a mosaic by Marc Chagall in the outdoor plazaIf you’re in the Loop, head to Chase Tower. If you’re nearby, stand close and look up for a unique view of the distinctive curved shape; it’s hard to appreciate looking at the Chicago skyline from afar.
The building and adjacent plaza cover an entire city block. Inside is the Chase Auditorium, the long-time home for NPR’s news quiz show Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! In front is the Exelon Plaza, a sunken space that marks the geographic center of the Loop.
10. 55 East MonroeAddress: 55 E. Monroe St.Floors: 49Height: 583 feetAlso known as: Mid-Continental PlazaFun fact: This building was originally planned to be two 40-story towersThis is an office building with 10 floors of condos at the top. It’s also the home of what’s currently Forum 55 Food Hall, though be sure to check the hours before you go as they’ve opened and closed several times since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
11. The Legacy at Millennium ParkAddress: 60 E. Monroe St. Floors: 72Height: 5822 feetAlso known as: Legacy TowerFun fact: The building’s narrow design ensures great views for all residentsThis tall, blue-glass member of the Chicago skyline is a condo building and has classroom space for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Besides admiring from afar, there’s nothing for the public to do.
12. Richard J. Daley Center
Photo: Victoria Lipov/Shutterstock
Address: 50 W. Washington St. Floors: 31Height: 648 feetAlso known as: Chicago Civic CenterFun fact: It’s the tallest flat-roofed building in the world with fewer than 40 stories (thanks to the high ceilings needed for courtrooms)While the Richard J. Daley Center building is interesting from an architectural point of view, the real draw is the Daley Center Plaza, which houses fountains and a 3D, 50-foot-tall cubist sculpture by Pablo Picasso. Often referred to as “The Picasso” or “The Chicago Picasso,” the sculpture is officially unnamed and makes for a fun photo op.
Every weekday at noon, the plaza offers a Noontime Event, which features free cultural programming at the Picasso.
13. Grant Thorton TowerAddress: 171 N. Clark St.Floors: 50Height: 756 feetAlso known as: Chicago Title and Trust CenterFun fact: It won the Chicago Athenaeum’s “Best Building” Architecture Award in 1990Located on the former site of Chicago’s Greyhound Bus Station, the Grant Thornton Tower is a skyscraper known for its unique roof. The east side of the roof features a steep slant, while the west side looks like something topping a Mayan temple. Both sides are illuminated brightly at night, making the tower stand out in the Chicago skyline.
14. 77 W. WackerAddress: 77 W. Wacker Dr.Floors: 50Height: 668 feetAlso known as: R.R. Donnelley Building, United BuildingFun fact: The building has rooftop inspired by ancient GreeceFans of the film The Negotiator will recognize 77 West Wacker as the offices for the movie’s Internal Affairs Division of the Chicago PD. In real life, it’s a post-modern office building on the Chicago River.
The ground floor has a 59-foot tall atrium – a fairly modern concept – but the roof has triangular gables akin to those you’d find on ancient Greek buildings.
Directly next to this building, but hard to see, is the Pittsfield Building, with 38 floors and a height of 557 feet. The building is named for the town in Massachusetts where department store founder Marshall Field first worked. It was built in the 1920s and stands out in the Chicago skyline with its traditional setbacks and green pyramid-shaped roof. Inside is a five-story shopping area lined with balconies and stores. Be sure to come hungry, as the Pittsfield Café is known for delicious skillet meals and bloody Marys.
15. 35 West Wacker
Center, right of KEMPER building. Photo: Joaquin Ossorio Castillo/Shutterstock
Address: 35 W. Wacker Dr. Floors: 50Height: 635 feetAlso known as: The Leo Burnett BuildingFun fact: Square windows show off one version of the “Chicago windows” common to the Chicago Style of architectureRemember the Discovery Channel special feature where professional daredevil Nik Wellenda successfully crossed the Chicago River on a high wire? He began at the west Marina Tower and ended at 35 West Wacker (then known as the Leo Burnett Building).
The general public can visit Catch 35, the upscale seafood restaurant on the first floor of 35 West Wacker. In addition to delicious cuisine, the Catch 35 has live jazz music Tuesday through Sunday evenings.
16. The Heritage at Millennium ParkAddress: 130 N. Garland Ct.Floors: 57Height: 631 feetFun fact: It’s the tallest purely residential building in the LoopDesigned by the same firm as Legacy Tower, The Heritage is on the west side of Millennium Park. It has a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the Chicago skyline, lake and parks, as well as the bi-weekly summer fireworks. Unfortunately, the terrace is not open to the public.
17. Crain Communications BuildingAddress: 150 N. Michigan Ave Floors: 41Height: 582 feetFun fact: This building was featured in the 1980s classic Adventures in BabysittingOwing to its diamond-shaped flat top with a vertical gap down the center, the Crain Communications Building is known to most Chicagoans as the Diamond Building – or, to some, the Vagina Building. Urban legend claims the building was designed to combat the typical phallic shape of skyscrapers, but the man who designed the building claims it’s a coincidence. Regardless of what you call it, you’ll have great views of it from Maggie Daley Park or Millennium Park.
The diamond-shaped-roof is outlined in white lights and often displays illuminated messages to celebrate sporting events and holidays.
18. AMA Plaza
Photo: Michael Rosebrock/Shutterstock
Address: 330 N. Wabash Ave. Floors: 52Height: 695 feetFun fact: This building was featured in the first episode of Ozark, as well as Batman: The Dark KnightLocated on the Chicago River, the AMA Plaza is home to the Langham, a high-end hotel with two restaurants you won’t want to miss. Travelle serves upscale American seasonal breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while Pavillion hosts the popular Langham Afternoon Tea, starting at noon on weekends.
19. Trump International Hotel & TowerAddress: 401 N Wabash Ave. Floors: 98Height: 1,388 feetAlso known as: Trump TowerFun fact: Originally planned to be the world’s tallest building, it was scaled down after the September 11th attacksBuilt on the site of the former Chicago Sun-Times building, Trump Tower is on the north bank of the Chicago River next to the iconic Marina Towers (shaped like corn cobs). The tower hosts a hotel and condominiums, as well as great views of the buildings lining the Chicago River.
Trump Tower was designed to fit in with and visually complement the surrounding buildings. It has a unique, asymmetrical shape and sticks out on the Chicago skyline thanks to its flat roof and off-centered spire. And yes, there are significant efforts underway to rename the building.
20. Two Prudential PlazaAddress: 180 N. Stetson Ave. Floors: 58Height: 995 feetFun fact: The building and its plaza make a cameo in the 1994 movie Richie RichAs the sister skyscraper of One Prudential Plaza, Two stands out in the Chicago skyline thanks to its chevron-shaped setbacks and an 80-foot spire set on top of a 45-degree rotated pyramid.
21. Aon Center
Photo: Lyubov Timofeyeva/Shutterstock
Address: 200 E. Randolph St. Floors: 83Height: 1,136 feetAlso known as: Standard Oil Building, Amoco BuildingFun fact: The building was completely refaced at a cost of $80 million after Chicago’s massive temperature swings caused a chunk of marble to fall off the buildingPlans are underway to create an observatory and restaurant atop the Aon Center, accessible to the public via an external glass elevator projected to be the fastest in the country. The observatory will feature a ride called Sky Summit, which will take riders over the edge of the roof for a unique view of the Chicago skyline.
Aon Center also has plans to create a family-friendly entertainment center on its lower levels.
22. Blue Cross Blue Shield TowerAddress: 300 E. Randolph St.Floors: 54Height: 744 feetFun fact: This building was constructed in two different phases across two decadesWhen the Blue Cross Blue Shield Tower was originally constructed, the owners intended to expand it upward. More than a decade later, builders added another 24 floors. The tower frequently acts as a Chicago skyline message board on the side facing Grant Park, addressing healthcare issues and cheering on local sports teams.
23: 340 on the ParkAddress: 340 E. Randolph St.Floors: 62Height: 672 feetFun fact: 340 on the Park briefly held the title of “tallest all-residential building in Chicago”If you’re near Millennium Park and have a taste for seafood, check out Brown Bag Seafood Co. inside 340 on the Park. The restaurant aims to “bring seafood to the masses” (meaning it has reasonable prices), and the skyscraper itself is one of the most eco-friendly in the Chicago skyline.
24. Park TowerAddress: 800 N. Michigan Ave.Floors: 70Height: 844 feetFun fact: It’s one of the tallest non-steel structures in the worldPark Hyatt Hotel makes up the lower portion of Park Tower, while the upper floors house condominiums. Within the hotel is a fantastic restaurant – NoMI, a nod to its “North Michigan” Avenue location.
The restaurant has three parts. “The Kitchen” offers upscale American cuisine and “The Lounge” is a sushi bar, wine cellar, and spacious bar. “The Garden” is an open-air terrace. If you’re looking for views of Chicago’s historic water tower, Lake Michigan, or the Chicago skyline, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat.
25. 900 MichiganAddress: 900 N. Michigan Ave.Floors: 766Height: 871 feetFun fact: 900 Michigan hosts everything from art installations to cooking classes and musical performances in the mall area throughout the year900 N. Michigan lights up the Chicago skyline with four rooftop lanterns that stand out at night along the Magnificent Mile. Inside the building is a Four Seasons Hotel and the 900 North Michigan Shops (a large, upscale shopping mall).
The mall has a six-story atrium with luxury retailers, restaurants, and a TopGolf Swing Suite where you can do everything from working on your swing to playing zombie dodgeball.
26. Park Tower
Photo: Alex Cimbal/Shutterstock
Address: 875 N. Michigan Ave.Floors: 100Height: 1,128 feetFun fact: Park tower pioneered the use of x-bracing — using crossed, X-shaped bars to resist movement from wind875 North Michigan Avenue, widely still referred to as the John Hancock Building, is home to one of Chicago’s two observation decks. 360 CHICAGO offers views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and up to three states from its position on the 94th floor. The ride to the top takes less than one minute.
360 CHICAGO has an enclosed platform, called TILT, that leans riders out over Michigan Avenue from 1,000 feet above street level. You can also grab a drink at Bar 94, Chicago’s highest bar.
27. Water Tower PlazaAddress: 835 N. Michigan Ave.Floors: 74Height: 859 feetFun fact: It’s named after the nearby Chicago water tower, which is one of the few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871Water Tower Place is a vertical shopping mall with eight retail floors on the iconic Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue – an area known for shopping. The skyscraper also houses a Ritz-Carlton Hotel and condominiums.
Water Tower Place is an important part of the Chicago skyline because it opened the Magnificent Mile to middle-income shoppers by bringing economically mainstream stores into an area long dominated by upscale luxury brands.
28. Lake Point TowerAddress: 505 N. Lake Shore Dr.Floors: 70Height: 645 feetAlso known as: Lake Point Tower CondominiumFun fact: It’s the only skyscraper east of Lake Shore DriveLake Point Tower is well known for its tinted glass framed in gold metal that reflects sunlight off Lake Michigan, giving the building a golden glow. Its curved shape is said to have inspired the Chicago-born designer of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world.
Lake Point Tower has an upscale restaurant on its top floor, Cité, which features unbeatable 360-degree views from its sky lounge. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset behind the Chicago skyline and witness the city come alive after dark.
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How To Make the Most of Your Visit To the WNDR Museum in Chicago
You’ve been to the standard art museums — the Louvre, the British Museum, New York City’s MoMA. The ones that keep you at a distance from the artwork and are, sorry to say, a bit stodgy. Well, the WNDR Museum (short for “Wonder”) in Chicago is nothing like that. This museum blends art and technology in a way that’s available and interactive for everyone. The museum in Chicago’s West Loop opened in 2018 as a pop-up but has morphed into a permanent art experience.
“We really want to convey that we are all artists,” says Ryan Kunkel, president of WNDR Global. “Every person is an artist in their own way and I think that’s what makes our experience so unique. Our art and our experience is incomplete without you interacting, participating, and becoming part of the art that we deliver. We want you to come explore, touch, interact, engage, and really ignite your curiosity.”
To help you get the best experience at the WNDR museum, we took a tour and compiled the best tips for your visit — along with input from Kunkel. Just remember to come back often, because the exhibits are all semi-permanent — There are ten new ones throughout every year.
The #1 piece of advice for visiting the WNDR MuseumWNDR Museum hours of operation and ticketsThe best times to visit the WNDR Museum ChicagoHow to get to the WNDR Museum and where to parkHow long you should budget to visit the WNDR Museum ChicagoWhere to start your visit at the WNDR MuseumSpecial events at Chicago’s WNDR MuseumThe WNDR Museum gift shopThe 5 best exhibits at the WNDR Museum ChicagoWhat you can skip at Chicago’s WNDR MuseumA warning for those with sensory sensitivitiesThe #1 piece of advice for visiting the WNDR MuseumPlan to spend some time inspecting the museum’s nooks and crannies. There’s a prescribed path to get through it, but you’ll want to be sure you give yourself enough time at each stop to find what you might not see at first glance.
“Find the surprises,” Kunkel says. “There are lots of little hidden easter eggs throughout the space. There are lots of small touches that could be easily overlooked if you’re not on the lookout for them.”
Watch out for things like hidden doors, unique door handles, and even a secret handprint from the Blue Man Group.
WNDR Museum hours of operation and tickets
Photo: WNDR Museum
WNDR Museum hoursThe WNDR Museum is open every day, but hours vary. On Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, it’s open from 10 AM to 8 PM. On Tuesday and Wednesday, it’s open from 12 noon to 8 PM. And on Saturday, it’s open from 10 AM to 9 PM.
WNDR tickets and discountsFor WNDR Museum tickets, you have two options:
General Admission: $32 ($38 during peak hours). Kids from three to 12 are $22 ($28 during peak hours), and children two and under get in for free. There is no student discount at the WNDR Museum.VIP Experience: $50. This option lets you get in quicker and allows a second lap through the exhibits (general admission gets one walkthrough only). You’ll also get a limited edition collector’s pin, a photo, and a 10 percent discount at the gift shop.You can also choose to add on a Collector’s Pack for $15 when you order your tickets online. You’ll get a pin, a water bottle, a holographic sticker, and a keychain. You’ll pick them up at the gift shop when you’re done in the museum.The best times to visit the WNDR Museum ChicagoIf you want to avoid the biggest crowds and the highest prices, go during the off hours. Peak hours are 12 noon to 4 PM on Monday through Thursday; 12 noon to 8:30 PM on Friday; and all day on Saturday and Sunday. Keep in mind that even with small visitor numbers during off-peak hours, lines can form for some of the exhibits.
How to get to the WNDR Museum and where to parkThe WNDR Museum is in Chicago’s West Loop, a part of the city notoriously known for limited parking options. Your best bet is to take public transportation. The Green, Pink, and Blue lines stop nearby, as do several buses. Use the Chicago Transit Authority’s trip planning site to plan your route. If you absolutely must drive, WNDR Museum parking by valet is available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 2 PM to 8 PM for $15 per car. Or, you can reserve a parking spot through the museum’s dedicated SpotHero parking page.
How long you should budget to visit the WNDR Museum ChicagoGive yourself two hours to visit the museum. Pay attention to the larger exhibits, being sure to read all the signs because some of them have instructions for interactivity. And remember on your way through to look for the smaller hidden treasures. Which of Kunkel’s easter eggs can you find?
Where to start your visit at the WNDR MuseumIt’s easy to know where to start your visit at the WNDR Museum — because the entrance leads you right to the beginning of the path. Follow the arrows on the floor, but do take the time to enjoy each stop fully.
“We want to create different types of sensory experiences as you traverse the space,” Kunkel says. “There is a general path and flow that we think effectively ignites your curiosity and your senses as you move through the space, but we also want you to have enough flexibility to pause and dabble as you see fit.”
Special events at Chicago’s WNDR MuseumEvery month, the museum hosts special events called WNDR After Dark. The series is held after opening hours of the museum and pulls in a live DJ for entertainment as you walk through the exhibits. If you’re 21 and over, you can buy alcohol, too. WNDR also has “a lot of seasonal transformations such as turning the entire space into Winter Wonderland from Thanksgiving to New Years, or Trick or Treat programming around Halloween,” Kunkel says. The calendar of special events is on the website—be sure to buy tickets in advance.
The WNDR Museum gift shopIf you’re in the market for some unique gifts — either to treat yourself or someone else — don’t miss the gift shop. The products are just as interactive as the museum itself. Some of the highlights include an art oracle, Chicago neighborhood puzzles, a kit to make flipbooks, and Miracle Berries, a snack that alters your sense of taste.
The five best exhibits at the WNDR Museum ChicagoYayoi Kusama’s Infinity RoomPhoto: WNDR Museum
Get a sense of infinity in this room, the first and only infinity room in the Midwest. You’ll be surrounded by mirrors on the walls and on spheres hanging from the ceiling. Be sure to look into the center column for an even more intense experience.
Try to Get Higher
Photo: Hannah Shanker
This is Kunkel’s favorite exhibit. You enter a large room with a keypad in the center made with arcade buttons. Every button you push triggers a different sound and a different projection on the screen in front of you.
“What’s most impressive about this piece is that there’s no combination that sounds poorly,” Kunkel says. “Essentially it allows everyone to create a beautiful track.”
WNDR Light Floor
Photo: New Pixel Films
On the WNDR Light Floor, every move you make that touches the floor triggers a colorful and flowing LED light display. Try standing, stopping, running, and jumping to see how the floor changes with each move. Limit your time at this exhibit if you have severe motion sickness.
The Wisdom Project
Photo: Bryan Colindres
According to Kunkel, this is the most underrated exhibit in the entire museum. It’s a full wall that visitors create by answering the question, “What do you know for sure?” You write the answer down on a slip of paper and add it to the wall.
“To take the time and read the messages from other guests is truly profound,” Kunkel says. “It’s a personal favorite experience of mine, to pause and reflect on what’s on our guests’ minds. To understand the underlying sentiments left there is powerful.
Other things you shouldn’t miss at the WNDR MuseumDon’t skip a chance to peek your head both down the hallway to the first bathroom and into the first bathroom itself, or to reach for the door handle at the second bathroom. If you see a sequined wall, take the time to touch it and flip the sequins around to be part of the art yourself. Watch out for work by Keith Haring, and grab a selfie in the photobooths. Pro-tip: Some of these things are more fun with two people, so bring a friend along on your visit.
What you can skip at Chicago’s WNDR MuseumBecause every exhibit at the WNDR Museum is on your path, it’s easy to see and experience all of them. That being said, some of the exhibits just don’t have the same wow factor. If you’ve been to a lot of the immersive art exhibits popping up around the country, you can probably skip the Flux room, which pairs art video with music. The Secret Chord exhibit, based on Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” lost some of its appeal because music from other parts of the museum was leaking in. You may also choose to skip the Projection Dome, which displays a cloudscape into a dome. The main issue with this exhibit is that it’s high up in the corner, so you have to crane your neck a bit to see it, and there’s not much else to it other than clouds.
A warning for those with sensory sensitivities
Photo: WNDR Museum
The WNDR Museum is a sensory experience, so by nature, there’s going to be a lot of light and sound. If you or someone you’re going with has sensory sensitivities, budget in some extra time to take breaks and get out of the artwork before continuing. The best place to do that is in the Secret Chord exhibit, where you sit in a dark room listening to a virtual choir perform Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” The other cool thing about this exhibit, aside from the calming break, is that the choir you hear changes based on how many people around the world are currently listening to the song. You can see a count of listeners on the ceiling.
July 20, 2022
This New Art Installation Shows What It’s Like To Be Inside an Icelandic Volcano
Volcano eruptions are unpredictable. While you definitely don’t want to get caught near one, if you’re fascinated by the thought of what it would be like to hear, smell, and feel what happens when a volcano erupts, you’re not alone. Icelander and multi-disciplinary artist Jón Þór “Jónsi” Birgisson’s 2021 art installation Hrafntinna (Obsidian) has made its way to the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Canada. And while there are plenty of volcanoes you can see up close, for those uninterested in hiking, Jónsi’s installation is meant to simulate the real thing.
Jónsi created Obsidian to pair with his 2021 album release of the same name. When the artist couldn’t see the eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano in Iceland due to the pandemic, he reimagined what it would be like to be inside one, according to a press release. Guests will find themselves in an immersive “dark ring” that uses the senses to make the experience come alive.
Inside the art installation, viewers are surrounded by 195 speakers that grumble and sing through a 16-channel composition inspired by Icelandic choral music mixed with the natural sounds of lava flowing and rocks crumbling. You’ll even hear Jónsi’s voice. Guests will also get a whiff of the sweet and smoky scent of fossilized amber. And above, a circular light represents the volcano’s summit, where guests will experience light that breaks up the dark.
The exhibit at AGO opens on July 22, and is located on Level two in the Signy Eaton Gallery. Admission is free for AGO Members, AGO Annual Pass Holders and visitors ages 25 and under. Otherwise, general admission tickets are $25, and for $10 more, you can become an annual pass holder. The exhibit will be on display through 2023.
10 of the Quirkiest Hotels You Can Stay at in California
California has always been America’s capital of quirk. Sometimes it manifests itself as bizarre roadside attractions in the desert. Sometimes it’s spending a weekend learning tantric sex. Whatever the reason, the creative spirit of California runs deep, and that extends to the world of hotels too. Whether it’s airstream trailers set out in the desert or a wine country retreat with classic cars in your room, the state has some altogether unusual places to stay. Here’s a look at 10 California hotels with the most personality.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
The Victorian Mansion in Los Alamos
Photo: Booking.com
Themed suites aren’t anything new in the world of wine country bed and breakfasts. But themed suites with classic cars for an ensuite drive-in movie? That’s only at “The Vick,” which has 1950s-themed rooms that offer said drive-in, plus old diner tables, a snack bar mural, and a bathroom with 1950s-style graffiti. Other suite themes include the captain’s quarters of a pirate ship, a weekend in Paris, and a Roman empire room where your bed is a chariot. The hotel also offers wine tasting packages through Santa Barbara, and in-room massages should the need strike.
Hicksville Trailer Palace in Joshua TreeTrailer parks get kind of a bad rap, what with all the tornadoes and exploding meth labs. This one deep in the California desert, however, makes the trailer park cool with a family of airstreams surrounding a shuffleboard court, swimming pool, and plenty of Astroturf. The cozy trailers range in theme from space alien to horror movie, some with kitchens, some with no bathrooms. The setting is so unusual it’s rented out for photo shoots almost as much as for overnight lodging. Need more convincing? Lana del Rey thought enough of the place to shoot her video for “White Dress” there.
Relight Historic Bunk House and Speakeasy in Truckee
Photo: Booking.com
It’s one thing to take an old brothel and rehab it into a boutique hostel. It’s quite another to take original windows, doors, and other fixtures and recreate the experience as legally as possible. That’s the gist of the Redlight, which has a ground floor bordello-themed cocktail lounge that feels like a trip back to California’s rough and tumble mining days. The rooms are hostel-style, which means shared bunk rooms and privates all adorned in crimson curtains to keep with the theme. The lone studio apartment is covered in a local, nature-inspired mural with dark wood furniture and red floors. Downstairs, the bar includes red velvet wallpaper, the same style discovered on the wall during renovations.
Treebones Resort in Big SurLuxury yurt living with stunning views of mountains and water isn’t reserved for the depths of Patagonia. You’ll also find it in Big Sur at this cliffside glamping resort. Each yurt offers an ocean view, and though they don’t have private bathrooms everything is a pretty short walk away. The biggest draw, however, isn’t the yurts but the “human nest” campsite — a perch crafted from spiraling tree branches by a local artist. The food isn’t simple camping food, either, with a full-service sushi bar onsite and gourmet restaurant serving three course dinner nightly.
Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo
Photo: Booking.com
The inside of this palace along the California coast brings to mind the video for “Material Girl.” But despite its abundance of pink, the hotel isn’t named for the pop star or the Virgin Mary. It gets its name from founders Alex and Phyllis Madonna who built the place in the 1950s. The outside brings to mind storied gilded age hotels, like the Claremont in Berkeley or the Grand in Mackinac Island. But the interior is a strange journey into mid-century kitsch and creativity, with 110 themed rooms and rock waterfalls, spiral staircases, and impeccable design. They’re an appetizer for the main course at the Gold Rush Steakhouse, a posh meat palace done up in oversized pink booths and gold trim. You’ll also find a bakery making over-the-top cakes onsite, and a beach-entry cool complete with its own waterfall. As anyone who has been before knows, you should be sure to check out the world-famous bathrooms.
Kate’s Lazy Desert in LandersThe West Coast outpost of the Kate’s Lazy Meadow in the Catskills is a collection of artist-designed airstreams just outside Joshua Tree National Park. Each one feels like setting up a trailer in your own private corner of the desert, with themes ranging from tiki to Alaskan. The most recognizable, however, is the “Hairstream” trailer, a trippy tribute to the tour bus days of the B52s. This might seem a little superfan creepy, until you realize Kate of Kate’s Lazy Desert is Kate Pierson, who you may remember from her atomic hairdo and the vocals for “Love Shack.”
The Saguaro in Palm Springs
Photo: Booking.com
If you’ve seen pictures of Palm Springs pool parties, or unique photo shoots with colorful hotel doorways against a towering desert mountain backdrop, then you’ve seen the Saguaro. The hotel has become a symbol of the city, a mid-century gem done up in rainbow hues that match the desert sunset. Rooms are awash in bright colors too, evoking a sort of cartoonish Roger Waters version of the 1950s. Its unusual style has made the Saguaro a destination for pool parties, and if you’re in town for the weekend you’ll likely end up here at some point sipping cocktails.
Featherbed Railroad B&B in Clear LakeRows of red cabooses sit neatly inside a grove of oak and pine trees, almost as if an abandoned train had been left in the middle of the forest. But these vintage Santa Fe railroad cars aren’t relics of a long-forgotten derailment. They’re themed trains that transport you from Casablanca to a Caribbean beach house without ever getting on a track. The nine cabooses are each experiences of their own, some with private hot tubs and individual bars. The signature feature – aside from the whole “being inside a caboose” thing – are the goose down featherbeds that make for a legendary night’s sleep. The property also has its own boat ramp and beach, and is only a short drive to the heart of Lake County wine country.
Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino
Photo: Booking.com
During the dawn of the American road trip, few symbolized the Route 66 experience like the chain of roadside Wigwam motels. One of the three that remain sits just inside San Bernardino, where 19 individually appointed wigwams welcome road-weary travelers. Inside, they’re basically motel rooms, with some western touches like wagon wheels and Native American-inspired décor. The Wigwam is also the rare Route 66 motel with a swimming pool, where you can lay out in the sun surrounded by tee-pee relics of a bygone era.
Metro Hotel & Café in Petaluma
Photo: Booking.com
When the Metro Hotel tells you it’s “a little trip to Paris in Sonoma County,” it’s not an exaggeration. Most of the objects that occupy the rooms and common areas, from the trademark goose lamps to the eclectic collection of gnomes, came from flea markets the owner frequents in France. Walls in the rooms are adorned in vintage French school posters, and the café-style dining room indeed evokes a Parisian vibe. You’ll find quizzical objects everywhere at the Metro, whether it’s a doll in a French maid’s outfit or a plastic flamingo outside one of the hotel’s airstream trailers. There’s also a full crepe breakfast every morning, to put the finishing touches on your Californian trip to the continent.
More like thisArt + ArchitectureThis Chic California Hotel Has a MET-Worthy Art CollectionThere’s a Tiny Portion of Yellowstone National Park Where You Can Literally Get Away With Murder
It might sound a little like The Purge, but a slight discrepancy in the law might make you think differently about Yellowstone National Park. In 2005, Michigan State law professor Brian Kalt discovered a loophole in the United States Constitution that made it impossible to prosecute any crimes in a small section of the park. He named it the Zone of Death.
The Zone of Death is a 50-mile area of Yellowstone National Park, where the park spills over from Wyoming into Idaho. In Kalt’s 2005 Georgetown Law Journal article, The Perfect Crime, he explains that the sixth amendment says that federal crimes must be prosecuted under the state and district that the crime was committed in. However, in the case of Yellowstone, the federal district of Wyoming has full jurisdiction over the entirety of the park. So, if you committed a crime in the Zone of Death, you’d only be able to prosecute that person using the population of people who live in that 50 miles. The number of people who live there is zero.
Since Kalt discovered the loophole, he’s set out to get Congress to fix it by creating legal framework that either makes Idaho’s portions of Yellowstone inside the District of Idaho or for residents of Wyoming who live in the federal district to be able to prosecute. But Kalt was told this was not high on Congress’ priority list, according to Vox.
In 2007, the courts had the opportunity to address this issue head on, but they left the loophole unfilled. There’s a similar portion of land that’s in Montana, but the difference is people do live in the area, making it difficult but not impossible to host a trial with a jury of your peers. Michael Belderrain illegally killed an elk inside the Park’s jurisdiction and used Kalt’s article as his defense. Prosecutors decided to offer a plea deal that gave Kalt a lesser sentence under the condition that he wouldn’t be able to appeal.
The hypothetical situation seems pretty unlikely since no one has been arrested for crimes committed in the Zone of Death at this time. However, even if you thought you could get away with the perfect crime, it’s likely you’d be charged with crimes they could prosecute you on somewhere else like conspiracy or gun related charges. I wouldn’t recommend finding out anytime soon.
Where To Find the Best Korean Hot Dogs in Houston
Over the years, Americans have perfected carnival food. Options are usually fried, often on a stick, and typically can be eaten on the go. And of all the carnival foods that fit this description, perhaps none are as well-known as the corn dog. A hot dog fried in cornmeal batter, it might seem like an American food through and through. And yet Americans have not mastered the corn dog: The Korean hot dog is actually the peak version of this portable meat-on-a-stick snack.
What are Korean hot dogs?In Seoul, you’ll likely see Korean hot dogs referred to as K-dogs or gamja hot dogs. Americans will probably recognize that a Korean hot dog is closer to what we think of as a corn dog than a traditional hot dog, and most shops stateside will label them as such.
What is a Korean hot dog made of?
Photo: Theerawan/Shutterstock
Korean hot dogs are a popular street food in Seoul night markets. A Korean hot dog consists of a sausage dipped in batter and deep fried, however there are crucial differences: First of all, it’s sometimes filled with mozzarella cheese instead of a sausage or hot dog frank (or some combination of both), and the batter is a sweet flour-based batter. In South Korea you might also see fillings like squid ink or spam.
The best part of the Korean hot dog experience might be the toppings though. This type of corn dog is all about the crunch, so it’s often fried in a layer or breadcrumbs, or rolled in crunchy corn flakes or dried ramen noodles. Cubes of potato are another popular topping. After it’s been fried, the outside of the corn is often coated in granulated sugar. Then it’s drizzled with ketchup and mayonnaise.
Where to eat a Korean hot dog in HoustonHouston (and the suburbs just outside of Houston) is one of the best places in the country to try a Korean hot dog. The city has been shaped by immigration, and today many different cultures influence the diverse cuisine available there. The Korean population in Houston is small but mighty (around 14,000 people) but there’s no doubt that Houstonians have come to embrace Korean food and culture.
Here’s where you can find the best Korean hot dogs in and around Houston.
Oh K-DogView this post on InstagramA post shared by Oh K-Dog (@ohkdog_houston)
At Ok K-Dog the speciality is deep fried K-dogs and egg toast. Options include a deep fried stick of mozzarella or rice cake, the classic beef hot dog, and a beef hot dog wrapped in a slime of cheese. In one especially interesting version of the Oh K-Dog, the batter is dyed with black squid ink.
Where: 1302 Blalock Rd, Houston, TX 77055
Two Hands Corn DogsThis chain has locations all over the United States, including four in Texas. At Two Hands, you can experience the classic K-dog. The shop sells versions fried in crispy rice puffs or potato cubes, which can be drizzled with ranch dressing. The spicy dog is rolled in Hot Cheeto powder.
Where: 9393 Bellaire Blvd Suite F, Houston, TX 77036
KrazydogView this post on InstagramA post shared by KRAZYDOG (@krazydog_cypress)
Krazydog gets creative with its toppings: Here you’ll find condensed milk and basil pesto drizzles, soybean powder, and cubed sweet potato. This spot also features a spicy option dusted with Cheetos. For dessert, you can try another Korean street food street, called the croiffle – croissant dough cooked in a waffle maker and topped with treats like cream cheese or maple syrup.
Where: 7160 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77433
Ugly Donuts and Corn DogsThis Korean street food shop specializes in kkwabaegi (twisted donuts), bubble tea, and corn dogs. The corn dogs are loaded with toppings – the Classic American topped with relish, fried onion flakes, onion powder while the pizza version is filled with mozzarella and topped with tomato sauce, basil pesto, garlic powder, and parsley.
Where: 11200 Broadway St suite 1210, Pearland, TX 77584
Sul Bing SuView this post on InstagramA post shared by BingSu + Mochinut (@bingsukaty)
At Sul Bing Su, visitors can pick up boxes of mochi donuts and glass jars of bubble tea. The restaurant also whips up Korean hot dogs from Chung Chun, a Canadian chain, rolled in classic and more innovative toppings ranging from layers of crushed Cheetos, blue Takis, and dried ramen noodles. The shop also specializes in Korean shaved ice, piled high with fruit and whipped cream.
Where: 9798 Bellaire Blvd Ste E Houston, TX 77036
The 7 Best Beach Bars in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Beach was the birthplace of spring break, and despite the city’s efforts to shoo it elsewhere, it still lives on. On any given day, you can saunter into any one of the many Fort Lauderdale beach bars and find yourself next to someone who came on spring break in 1981 and never left. And they’ve got the football-colored skin to prove it.
People like that are part of why drinking on the beach in Fort Lauderdale is as much about the colorful characters as it is the tropical drinks. You’ll find everyone from old-timey locals to live performing mermaids in bars that run the gamut from dives to upscale cocktail lounges in the Ritz Carlton. No matter your style, there’s a Fort Lauderdale bar with views of the Atlantic Ocean for you.
Elbo RoomView this post on InstagramA post shared by Elbo Room FT. Lauderdale Beach (@elbo.room)
Any discussion of beach bars – or any bars – in Fort Lauderdale must always begin with the Elbo Room. This landmark beach dive on the corner of Las Olas Boulevard and A1A has been around since 1939, serving sunsoaked bad decisions to visitors and “colorful” locals as the city grew up around it.
During high season, it’s ground zero for spring break, a title it first gained from its appearance in the spring breaker movie Where the Boys Are that was then cemented with an iconic Life Magazine photo of a student hanging from a street sign. Even when America’s best and brightest aren’t downing tequila shots at the bar, Elbo Room hosts live bands and daylong beach parties that draw all walks of life. The ocean view from the top deck is one of the best in Fort Lauderdale, too.
Blondie’sView this post on InstagramA post shared by Blondies Sports Bar (@blondiesflb)
Blondie’s would stand as one of America’s great dive bars even without a beach across the street. It’s a place where you wander in off the beach at 2:00 PM, order a beer and a shot, and somehow end up walking out at midnight. Sobriety is not the strong suit of anyone sitting inside, partly because many of said barflies have likely been posted up on their stool since the place opened at 11:00 AM.
The bar’s back section is filled with pop-a-shot machines and other arcade games, which are especially entertaining to watch when people who can’t see straight attempt to play. Blondie’s isn’t a beach bar to soak up the sun, but if you want to hide from the sunshine, no beach bar in Fort Lauderdale is better.
Burlock Coast
Photo: Burlock Coast
On the other side of the beach bar spectrum from Blondie’s is Burlock Coast, a rum-heavy cocktail bar and restaurant on the front patio of the Ritz-Carlton. Is it full of salty beach people who’ll happily regale you with stories about their spring break glory days? No. But does it boast, without question, the best cocktails on Fort Lauderdale Beach? Yes. So if your idea of a great beach bar is sipping rare rums with a front row seat to the ocean, this is the place to go.
The name comes from a bag Captain Bill McCoy used to smuggle rum during Prohibition, and accordingly the lineup of rum drinks is outstanding. The must-try is the Burlock Punch, a secret mix of unusual rums and fresh fruit juices that tastes like vacation in a glass. One is probably enough, but if you want to continue gazing out at the ocean they’ve also got a dozen local craft beers to choose from.
Wreck BarView this post on InstagramA post shared by B Ocean Resort (@boceanresort)
Perhaps no experience is more quintessentially Floridian than witnessing a live mermaid show. You can check both “mermaid show” and “drinking by the ocean” off your Florida to-do list at the Wreck Bar, a landmark ship-themed tavern inside the B Ocean Hotel. The bar is famous for its mermaids, who swim past underwater “portholes” behind the bar with daily family friendly shows.
Admittedly, the Coral Reef mermaid show isn’t exactly Disney with a daiquiri, but it is an entertaining, all-ages revue that kids can go to without raising a lot of uncomfortable questions. But since this is still Fort Lauderdale, those looking for an old school burlesque experience can drop in for the adults-only show at 8:30 PM on weekends. Or there’s the all-male Aquamen Boylesque show, the only underwater men’s revue in America. There’s also a mimosas and mermaids brunch on weekends.
Bamboo Beach Tiki Bar and CaféView this post on InstagramA post shared by Bamboo Beach Tiki Bar (@bamboobeachftl)
Surprisingly, Fort Lauderdale is a little limited when it comes to tiki bars on the actual beach. If that’s your vibe, you’ll only find it behind the Ocean Manor Resort on Galt Ocean Mile, slightly north of the main strip. Venture behind the resort and you’ll find this funky spot right next to the pool deck, where you can grab a rumrunner cocktail and step right onto the sand.
You may recognize the bar from Season 2 of Bar Rescue, when Jon Taffer came through and transformed it into the Bamboo Beach Club. It’s back to its original name of Bamboo Beach Tiki Bar and Café, but still going strong with a standard menu of beach bites and cocktails. The crowd runs surprisingly local for a resort bar, but ultimately you’ll still be sharing space with plenty of people from out of town. Still, no one seems to care, as the warm tropical breeze and cold drinks makes everyone forget what lies on the other side of the hotel.
McSorley’s Beach PubView this post on InstagramA post shared by McSorley’s Beach Pub and Rooftop Lounge (@mcsorleys_ftl)
On the Emerald Isle, you’d be hard pressed to find a pub with palm trees in the front. But what this beachfront Irish pub lacks in authenticity it makes up for in location. If you’re the type whose idea of a beach day refreshment is a tall pint of Guinness, you can order one at McSorley’s brick-lined bar and then take it outside to continue enjoying the ocean views.
The bar’s rooftop has even better vistas, and at night it turns into a scene of its own. It’s the odd Fort Lauderdale Beach bar that draws locals who aren’t there for whiskey for breakfast.
Aruba Beach Cafe
Photo: Aruba Beach Cafe
A little north in the seaside hamlet of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea you’ll find Aruba Beach Cafe, the town’s destination beach bar that sits right on the sand. It’s equal parts bar and restaurant, where leisurely lunches with your toes in the sand are the big draw. Or, at least, tied for the biggest draw with the restaurant’s regionally-famous Bimini Bread.
The menu of Caribbean favorites is far more than the sweet and buttery bread, though, with options like conch fritters and jerk chicken wings transporting visitors from Florida to an island in the Caribbean. It’s also a popular after-dive spot for people exploring the wreck park just offshore, but draws families for beach days and sun-seeking tourists as well.
20 Airbnbs in and Around Fredericksburg To Experience the Best of Texas Hill Country
Fredericksburg, Texas, gives you the best of Hill Country’s wineries, boutiques, and outdoor pursuits. Opt to stay downtown among the German heritage buildings and restaurants or whisk yourself away to a remote ranch or cabin. Unique Fredericksburg vacation homes include farm stays, treehouses, and more. We’ve rounded up the best Airbnb Fredericksburg TX rentals to save you the hassle.
Unique Airbnb Fredericksburg Treehouses and CabinsFredericksburg vacation rentals with a poolRemote Texas Hill Country cabinsPet-friendly Texas Hill Country AirbnbsRemote Texas Hill County Airbnbs with poolWe hope you love the Airbnb Fredericksburg stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Unique Airbnb Fredericksburg Treehouses and CabinsModern A-frame cabin in nature
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
A convenient 10-minute drive from the attractions and amenities of Main Street, this swanky chalet makes it easy to strike a balance between exploring and getting your share of downtime. The cabin consists of two bedrooms, a bathroom, a well-stocked kitchen, and a lounge with views. Connect with nature from the heated stock tank pool and spend long nights under the stars with s’mores around the fire.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $375 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This unique Airbnb Fredericksburg TX treehouse is a dream come true for couples. Whimsically decorated with delicate fabrics and kitsch details such as a vinyl turntable with a Bluetooth speaker, the rental marries convenience with romance. The upper deck is fitted with a hammock while the outdoor hot tub overlooks the surrounding nature from a different perspective. Remember to pack a book and a deck of cards to enjoy from the book nook.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $495 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This peaceful Airbnb Fredericksburg cottage is centrally located yet offers the solitude of a remote getaway. The farmhouse has been beautifully converted to resemble a boutique hotel with chic contemporary fixtures and thoughtful touches including fireplaces. A private patio is fitted with an outdoor TV, fire, and hot tub that offer an eyeful of the fields. This one is a haven for honeymooners and special anniversaries.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $455 per night
Traveling to Texas? Check out Matador’s Texas accommodations guides:The best Texas Airbnbs to experience Lone Star cultureThe best Dallas Airbnbs, from a Deep Ellum warehouse to a family ranch9 San Antonio Airbnbs within walking distance of the riverwalkThe 9 most exciting boutique hotels in DallasThese 9 luxurious Houston Airbnbs are the best in the heart of the cityThe best Austin Airbnbs for large groupsEnchanted tree house with cedar tub
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Nestled among the oak trees a short drive from Main Street, this Fredericksburg Airbnb treehouse is one of eight bespoke rental plots in a sublime patch of forest. This treehouse consists of a double bed, a bathroom, and a kitchenette. The space includes a private deck with a cedar soaking tub that peers over the woodlands. Communal amenities include swings, an outdoor heated pool, a sauna, and a fire pit.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $760 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Sited a 10-minute drive from Main Street, this brand new A-frame chalet is perfect for groups seeking an all-round experience of downtown, hiking, and wineries. This family-friendly Airbnb Fredericksburg vacation home comprises two double bedrooms and two twins as well as a full kitchen and bathroom. Besides the private spa tub on the deck, you’ll appreciate access to the shared sauna.
Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $475 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Situated on the bank of Barons Creek, this restored 1895 German rock and log homestead offers outstanding views from the dock. Swimming isn’t permitted but the life-size Connect 4, shuffleboard, arcade zone, and other games more than make up for that. Interiors are cozily appointed with an old-fashioned freestanding bathtub for that much-needed R&R. Bursting with personality, this fun Fredericksburg Airbnb suits sociable – and playful – groups and families.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $280 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The Ginger Ranch is set upon 65 acres a mere 10-minute drive from downtown Fredericksburg and consists of a farmhouse plus five individual cabins. The main house contains a full kitchen and lounge. Those sleeping in the cabins will share an external bathhouse that comes with an al fresco vintage tub. Amenities include a private swimming pool, hot tub, games barn, playground, and fire pit. This one-of-a-kind ranch Airbnb Fredericksburg is available for weddings.
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,395 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Luxury meets history at this 1848 ranch, reimagined for the modern traveler with state-of-the-art appliances and fixtures. The backyard features a swimming pool (heated on demand), hot tub, and fire pit. Views stretch for miles over the farm fields and you can expect to spot local livestock roaming around your plot as you soak up the environment. Situated a 10-minute drive from downtown Fredericksburg.
Fifteen guests, five bedrooms
Price: $1,405 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This luxurious downtown Fredericksburg TX Airbnb with a pool benefits from an expansive sun terrace and a covered dining zone. A mini golf course provides endless entertainment and the chance to sharpen your swing. Interiors are neatly stylized with quality linens and attractive pieces of art. With heaps of space inside and out, this is a top choice for families and groups alike.
Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $820 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Slap bang in the heart of downtown, this Fredericksburg Airbnb near Main Street will suit those hungry to explore the local restaurants and sights. Originally a 19th-century German stone home, the property has undergone major expansion and modernization to transform it into a deluxe vacation rental. A fenced backyard comes with a pool, fire pit, and covered dining area.
Fourteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $780 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This bohemian-themed spacious Fredericksburg Airbnb family vacation home is handy for downtown as well as the regional wineries. The open concept property revolves around a back patio complete with a pool, hot tub, and cornhole boards. An elegant kitchen is a joy to prepare meals in that can be enjoyed from the external dining area. Bedroom suites follow a monochrome style with fetching paintwork and oversized showers in the attached bathrooms. Help yourselves to fresh eggs from the coop.
Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $460 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Check out this beautiful cabin with ten acres and gorgeous views of the surrounding hillsides. This cabin is n excellent getaway from the busy city scene where you can walk along the creek and watch deers pass by, relax by the fire pit, take a dive in the hot tub, explore the treehouse, and get lost in the stars.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $155 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Indulge yourself in quiet at this off-grid cabin. All furnishings are antique, second-hand, or vintage, a nod both to the host’s sustainable ethos as well as to the charm of Texas Hill Country. The kitchen is fully functional, and the bathroom uses filtered rain water and a composting toilet. Sitting on 37 acres of beauty, immerse yourself in this gorgeous Texas Hill Country cabin.
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $130 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This peaceful cabin is just what you need for a quiet getaway away. Take in the scenery by relaxing on the porch and balcony or snuggling up in the cozy living room or bedrooms. This home provides the convenience of being tucked away but is not a far drive to wineries, Cypress Creek, Bee Cave, West Cave Preserve, and more.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $145 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
This unique glamping tiny home is just the spot for you and your four-legged friends. This home is pet friendly, and it’s located just 24 miles from Downtown Austin. Situated on 24 acres of beauty, you’ll enjoy modern amenities like a spacious and open living whole, a fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $136 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Experience a truly unique stay at this Texas Hill Country Chapel. The little chapel sits above Lone Man Creek and provides all the necessary relaxation and amenities, with the quirkiness of being a formerly functioning church. The chapel has high ceilings, and each room is furnished with antiques and modern furniture, an open kitchen, and a living room area, and you can enjoy the outside air on the furnished deck.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $225 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Here is a spacious tiny home perfect for a unique Texas Hill Country experience. The house sits on a hill at Wandern’ Star farms, looking out towards the beautiful landscape. This tiny home consists of large windows bringing in natural lighting, a fully equipped kitchen, a bedroom and loft area, and a porch to sit out and relax on.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $148 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Welcome to the home where mid-century meets modern desert resort. This spacious, cozy home features a spacious floor plan with lounging, dining, and entertaining areas. Enjoy the outside private oasis with a cocktail pool, spa, dining area, seating, and lava rock pit. It’s a good spot from which to adventure outside as downtown Fredericksburg and the famous Wine Rd 290 are 20 minutes away.
Fourteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $887 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Gather your family or friends and take a vacation to this Hill Country cabin on 14 acres. This cabin has everything you need to enjoy your getaway. It has an open floor plan with a living room and kitchen all tied together by a Danish wood-burning stove. Check out the outside area with a private pool, hot tub, and a deck overlooking the hill country landscape. Hang out on the back porch area, warm up by the fire pit, have a glass of wine, and look up at the stars.
Ten guests, four bedrooms
Price: $575 per night
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Looking for the ideal solo or couples retreat? This is the perfect contemporary getaway. This modern contemporary-style home features a plush day bed that you can relax on, a simple kitchenette, a comfortable bedroom, and a shared outdoor pool space.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $274 per night
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