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Virginia Gil

Virginia Gil

USA Editor

Formerly the editor of Time Out Miami, Virginia Gil oversees the editorial for Time Out USA. She joined Time Out in 2016.

From exciting destinations and hotels you need to visit to restaurants worthy of a trip, finding reasons to explore the country is all in a day's work for Virginia. In addition to covering domestic travel, she manages local content for dozens of Time Out cities across North America—keeping her finger on the pulse of what's happening in far-flung places like Vancouver, Canada and Providence, Rhode Island.

Virginia has worked as an editor for lifestyle publications such as Daily Candy, MIAMI magazine and Design District Magazine, and has spent the last 15 years writing about food, drink, travel and fashion in both Miami and New York. When she's not tracking down a story, she's planning her next vacation or sneaking away for a nap. She loves naps.

Reach her at virginia.gil@timeout.com or connect with her on Instagram: @virginwrites.

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Articles (236)

The best August events in Miami

The best August events in Miami

There’s only one word to describe August in Miami: hot. It’s scorching out, making an outing to the Miami beaches or an indoor air-conditioned activity about the only thing you’ll want to do this month. Lucky for you, we have plenty of both and other ideas in our picks of the best August events in Miami, which combine ways to cool off, essential Miami experiences and fun things to do with kids in Miami (read: how to keep them entertained until school starts again). We’ll be adding to this list as more cool things emerge so check back regularly. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Miami

The best September events in Miami

The best September events in Miami

Welcome to fall in Miami! Spoiler alert: it’s just like summer only you’re not running around the city looking for things to do with your kids in Miami because they’re back at school. It’s still hot, so your weekends will still consist of trips to Miami’s many beaches, but you might be inclined to sweat it out at a pumpkin patch in Miami—because fall. We get it, it’s tough to resist a seasonal outing even if our city and its weather just aren’t meant for it. And let’s not forget the build-up to Halloween—plenty of spooky happenings are headed your way. So, clear your calendars: these are the best September events in Miami. RECOMMENDED: Guide to Miami events

The absolute best fall events in Miami

The absolute best fall events in Miami

Fall in Miami is upon and there’s really no way to tell unless you just pulled up a calendar to check the date. The heatwave continues, weekends are still for lounging on a Miami beach and that visit to a Miami pumpkin patch you’ve been planning will require less clothing and more sunscreen. It’s a glorious season elsewhere in the country, but we’re in the throes of an extended summer. Still, fall in Miami is when the city really starts to come alive with things to do, from Wynwood to South Beach to Coconut Grove. Whether you’re up for a music festival on an island, a full week of literary events or a family-friendly craft beer adventure, Miami has it this fall. Take notes: Our guide to the best fall events in Miami has arrived, and willl be updated often so check back soon. RECOMMENDED: Miami events calendar

Where to watch the World Cup in Miami

Where to watch the World Cup in Miami

Footballers of Miami, are you ready? The 2022 FIFA World Cup kicks off this November in Qatar, bringing together 32 top national teams for the first-ever tournament to take place in the northern autumn as opposed to May, June or July. The new schedule bodes well for sports fans in the 305, since fall is when this town really heats up in tandem with the NBA and NFL seasons. Running from November 20 through December 19, the 2022 World Cup goes down in a reduced timeframe of around 29 days, so if tensions felt high before, just imagine all the alcohol you’ll need this time around to help you get through the action-packed ensuing weeks—which brings us to the topic at hand. Footie’s more fun when you’re watching with friends, preferably at a Miami bar, taking swigs of your beer every time your favorite team scores. If you’re losing, what better salve for a broken soul than booze? Whether you’re riding high on a big win or commiserating with fellow fans, we’ve scouted all the best spots to party and watch the 2022 World Cup in Miami. Recommended: Best sports bars in Miami

The best Miami attractions to explore right now

The best Miami attractions to explore right now

Contrary to popular belief, the best attractions in Miami are not its beaches or its glorious swimming pools. While those things are great, the Magic City is also home to a bevy of sites, points of interest and historical homes worth getting off the sand to explore. Trust us, you’ll appreciate winter in Miami so much more as you stroll through botanical gardens and other lush greenspaces. While summertime pursuits include sunny days spent going for a dip in the city’s only quarry or ducking from the rain and tucking into a delicious meal at Time Out Market Miami. No matter the season or the reason, our guide to the best Miami attractions has something for every type of curious traveler. RECOMMENDED: The best boat rentals in Miami

The best April events in Miami

The best April events in Miami

Spring is in full swing and it doesn’t feel like the city’s skipped a beat. The best April events in Miami signal that the hottest days are still ahead of us here in the Magic City as we look forward to a month of spectacular theater performances, museum exhibitions and citywide festivals. Miami Beach Pride returns for its biggest-ever schedule this April, featuring drag shows, fundraisers and the epic parade as part of its spectacular weeklong celebration. It’s also a great time to revisit the best clubs in Miami and the best Miami beaches now that the spring breakers have all returned home. Whether you’re looking for a low-key activity or some high-energy fun, our list of the best April events in Miami have you covered. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Miami

The best May events in Miami

The best May events in Miami

The best May events in Miami bring a mix of thrilling action, edge-of-your-seat excitement and captivating performances. In short, if you're looking for fun things to do in Miami this month, you're in luck. The weather is perfect for polo championships, single-seater car races and aerobatic demonstrations, which is just some of what you can expect in the weeks ahead. May also bumps up against the rainy season in Miami and that means finding ways to stay entertained during our regular downpours. Luckily, plenty of the best May events double as great things to do in Miami when it rains, including a night at the ballet, a visit to a Miami museum and an evening of immersive theater. For more of the best things to do this month, check out our picks below.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Miami 

The best June events in Miami

The best June events in Miami

The weather's been warm for months already, but June marks the official kickoff of slow season in the city, and we have the best June events in Miami to keep those summer doldrums at bay. Miami Beach Pride came and went in April, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do it all over again on the mainland as part of National Pride Month. Beyond the LGTBQ+ fun to look forward to this month, there’s lots of fresh theater, exciting exhibitions and concerts to get excited about—not to mention that visits to a Miami museum make for an excellent thing to do in Miami when it rains (it tends to do that quite a bit in June). It’s also the start of hurricane season in Miami, so brace for that too. Find a list of the best June events in Miami below. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Miami

Emily May shares her best career advice for young professionals

Emily May shares her best career advice for young professionals

Emily May is the executive director of Right to Be (formerly called Hollaback!), a non-profit that endeavors to end harassment in all forms with free and incisive educational programs. Since its founding in 2005, the global organization has expanded to more than 20 cities around the world and has helped legions of people feel empowered to tackle harassment head-on. As part of a team of “educators, motivators and facilitators [who are] listening, guiding and cheering [folks] on,” May knows quite a bit about providing support. Recently, she made time in her very busy schedule to do just that as a virtual mentor for the future seekers we profiled here. This group of hardworking, community-oriented young people shared their questions about work, life and career with May, who got real about her work in stamping out harassment, how she defines success and what keeps her motivated. Photograph: Jon Premosch What do you consider the most important factors for longevity in a career? I need to be on a constant learning curve. The second I stop learning or being challenged is when I disengage. Sometimes what this job teaches me is beautiful, and sometimes it’s downright painful. Sometimes I find myself screaming to the universe, “Can I have just a really boring day, please?!” But I know that’s not what I’m here to do. How do you stay inspired, and how do you tackle creative blocks? I have always been able to see, hear, smell, and touch what a world without harassment would feel like. I

The best hangover food in Miami to bring you back from the dead

The best hangover food in Miami to bring you back from the dead

Miami nightlife is among the best in the world, which means that any good Miamian knows how to party. The only downside? Nasty hangovers. Like, really nasty ones. Like, holy-crap-did-I-really-drink-an-entire-bottle-of-champagne nasty. Luckily, the best restaurants in Miami cater to our worst headaches with miracle eats that bring us back to life. So if you’re not the type to cure a hangover with more booze at a bottomless brunch in Miami, try your best to get out of bed and find one of these soul-soothing dishes which—we hope—will ease your recovery. So go ahead and have another drink—we’ve got you covered.  RECOMMENDED: The best cheap eats Miami has to offer

The best food halls in Miami for people who love variety

The best food halls in Miami for people who love variety

Does anyone remember three years ago when there were zero food halls in Miami and now suddenly we have many? That’s Miami for you: when we like something, we really like something—just look at all the omakase restaurants in Miami that seemingly sprouted overnight. Food halls are a welcome explosion, giving us a place where we can sample some of Miami’s best Cuban sandwiches, the best Chinese food in Miami and polish off an ice cream cone all in a matter of minutes. Normally that sort of dining would require teleporting, which we haven’t quite figured out yet. Here at Time Out, we know a thing or two about food halls: we curated our own food-and-culture destination in South Beach, Time Out Market Miami. Below, you’ll find a little bit more on ours plus a few more great spots for communal dining throughout the city.

The five coolest things visitors to Miami should do right now

The five coolest things visitors to Miami should do right now

We never thought we’d feel this way but, we miss tourists. Specifically, our international visitors who, as of November 8, are free to visit the U.S. and can make their way back to Miami once again. Sure, it’s been nice finding parking in Miami Beach and we can finally get a reservation at Miami’s best restaurants, but there are so many places that could benefit from the love of our far-flung guests. For instance, there’s been no one here to drink those oversize and overpriced margaritas on Ocean Drive or European travelers to pack our supper clubs of which there are more than ever before in Miami. Museums have reopened, festivals are returning and the city is ready to welcome back visitors with more things to do than we’ve seen all year. Below, a few ideas for your next jaunt to the Magic City.

Listings and reviews (652)

Smorgasburg Miami

Smorgasburg Miami

4 out of 5 stars

Eventually, most cool things find their way to Miami—but not before succeeding in New York City and Los Angeles first. Such is the case for Smorgasburg, the famous outdoor food market that started in Williamsburg over a decade ago and has since expanded to downtown L.A., Jersey City and beyond. Opened in the spring of 2022, Smorgasburg Miami has joined the list of locations where folks can find the country’s largest weekly open-air food market. Gaston Becherano Cohen, owner of the hospitality group Omotenashi, is at the helm of Miami’s outpost. Becherano Cohen became acquainted with Smorgasburg while a vendor at the NYC location with his business Bonsai, a Japanese shaved-ice concept he eventually expanded to a brick-and-mortar in the Lower East Side. “At its core, Smorgasburg allows vendors to launch their own successful food concept without having to take the risk and undergo the headaches associated with opening up a brick and mortar,” he says. Initial homegrown vendors of Smorgasburg Miami, including Ted's Burgers, Drinking Pig BBQ and Eleventh Street Pizza, have since gone on to garner massive acclaim, landing on multiple lists of the city's best burgers, barbecue and pizza, respectively. Aside from incubating local culinary talent, Smorgasburg Miami also hosts themed events and street food festivals, like a giant Fourth of July cookout, a Chinese New Year lantern festival and after-dark Art Basel parties, among others.

Calle Dragones

Calle Dragones

Supper clubs and Cuban restaurants are aplenty in Miami but a combination of the two is, surprisingly, rare. Calle Dragones on Calle Ocho aims to fill that void with an entertainment-fueled dining experience that’ll have you dancing at the table in between bites of roasted lechón. Its name derives from an iconic street in Havana’s Chinatown and, as such, the menu is a mix of Asian-influenced Cuban cuisine and somewhat traditional dishes reimagined to chef/partner Luis Pous’ estimation of what the country’s culinary landscape might be had it evolved alongside the rest of the world's. His vision translates into crab fricasé with Thai sofrito, crispy wontons stuffed with lobster, lechón dumplings and a Chino Latino fried rice served with chunks of pork and maduros. The cocktail program here is performative but doesn’t lack substance: you’re paying $23 for a stiff, flavorful drink that also looks good set on the table and posted to your Instagram feed. For instance, the Ave Fenix, their take on a dirty martini, is made tableside—mad-scientist-style—in a coffee siphon and served with a medley of pickled garnishes on the side. The real show, however, is on stage. Calle Dragones welcomes new entertainers for a different theme each night: flamenco on Thursdays, Havana nights on Fridays, salsa disco on Saturdays and carnaval on Sundays when the entertainment runs all day long. 

Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel

Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel

4 out of 5 stars

Hotels designed around a particular setting are abundant, but not every property captures the nuances of a place as well as The Kimpton Palladian. The Belltown property is a reimagined downtown landmark from 1910 whose bold architecture, kitschy design and 97 well-appointed rooms serve as subtle reminders of Seattle’s past—shimmering accents to take you back to the gold rush, raw wood harkening to the timber industry days and a fantastic sound system, lest you forget you’re in the birthplace of grunge. It’s a few blocks from the busy Pike Place Market but don’t expect to see a swarm of tourists in this lobby. During our stay, we encountered a few return visitors, several families with dogs (it’s a pet-friendly hotel) and first-time guests like ourselves gathered for the free wine happy hour that takes place daily from 5 to 6pm. It’s a thing across all Kimpton properties (so take note), as well as complimentary umbrellas and bike rentals, and a plants pal program that allows guests to check out a plant to keep in their room during their stay. Traveling with an infant made it impossible to care for one more thing while on vacation but we did opt for another relevant perk: a playard with a changing table. Kimpton Palladian has a partnership with 4moms to provide guests with all kinds of baby gear free of charge, including an infant seat and a tub with a built-in thermometer. It’s a real treat when you’re already toting a stroller, a car seat, a diaper bag and a week’s worth of s

21c Museum Hotel Bentonville

21c Museum Hotel Bentonville

4 out of 5 stars

When traveling to Bentonville, Arkansas—where one of the main attractions is the world-class museum Crystal Bridges—there’s truly no better place to stay than a hotel where art is the focus. Enter 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, a 104-room boutique property whose lobby, corridors and outdoor areas all serve as exhibition spaces. You’ll find artwork in a number of mediums, from photography and site-specific installations to sculptures and paintings. Some if it is interactive, altering the way guests behave in the hotel’s common areas. Don’t be surprised to find yourself idling near the front desk while your significant other spends what feels like a lifetime spinning a wheel to make the sand in a piece of art move. The next day, he’ll be waiting for you to snap photos of the coin-covered Cadillac parked at the entrance of the hotel. Neither of you will be annoyed nor will you be late for dinner reservations because chances are you won’t have made any. Bentonville is laid back like that.Head upstairs to your room and glass-encased artwork greets you just outside the elevator bank. The numerous vitrines make up “Elevate at 21c,” a temporary exhibition of works by regional artists. Key cards give guests access to the display on their floor but hotel staff is happy to arrange a visit to the works on other guest room floors. You’ll encounter one more piece before you make it to your door, and it happens to be our favorite.  Photograph: Stephen Ironside Giant green plastic penguins

21c Museum Hotel Bentonville

21c Museum Hotel Bentonville

4 out of 5 stars

When traveling to Bentonville, Arkansas—where one of the main attractions is the world-class museum Crystal Bridges—there’s truly no better place to stay than a hotel where art is the focus. Enter 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, a 104-room boutique property whose lobby, corridors and outdoor areas all serve as exhibition spaces. You’ll find artwork in a number of mediums, from photography and site-specific installations to sculptures and paintings. Some if it is interactive, altering the way guests behave in the hotel’s common areas. Don’t be surprised to find yourself idling near the front desk while your significant other spends what feels like a lifetime spinning a wheel to make the sand in a piece of art move. The next day, he’ll be waiting for you to snap photos of the coin-covered Cadillac parked at the entrance of the hotel. Neither of you will be annoyed nor will you be late for dinner reservations because chances are you won’t have made any. Bentonville is laid back like that.Head upstairs to your room and glass-encased artwork greets you just outside the elevator bank. The numerous vitrines make up “Elevate at 21c,” a temporary exhibition of works by regional artists. Key cards give guests access to the display on their floor but hotel staff is happy to arrange a visit to the works on other guest room floors. You’ll encounter one more piece before you make it to your door, and it happens to be our favorite.  Photograph: Stephen Ironside Giant green plastic penguins

Area 31

Area 31

4 out of 5 stars

Everything you need to know about visiting downtown Miami’s Area 31 Restaurant (270 Biscayne Blvd Way). Even if it didn’t boast one of the city’s most spectacular views—the Miami skyline is laid out in front of you from the 16th floor of the EPIC Hotel—Executive chef Sezer Deniz’s innovative, sustainable seafood offerings, much of it sourced from the waters you can gaze out upon, would surely be packing in the patrons. The menu changes regularly, but expect fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes like horiatiki (Greek salad), roasted scallops with kombu-infused smoked cauliflower and short rib cokertme (Turkish steak and chips), along with engaging tableside experiences.  Happy hour with a view Area 31’s Friday Social Hour is one of Miami’s most popular—it boasts one of the most impressive views of downtown Miami and Brickell Avenue. The deal runs from 5 to 8pm and features $8 to $10 cocktails and $10 bar bites, plus tunes from resident DJs and the occasional live musical guest. Another reason to dash here after work? Watching the sunset over the Miami skyline from the 16th-floor rooftop bar. 

Disney's Aladdin

Disney's Aladdin

Broadway Across America brings Disney's Aladdin to Miami this January. From the producers of the other mega Broadway hit, The Lion King, comes this thrilling live-action rendition of the cartoon classic, where a magic oil lamp and a boisterous genie make for an unforgettable ride. Expect to hear your favorite songs from the film, plus a flying carpet defying gravity right before your eyes.

Holiday Evening at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Holiday Evening at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Spend an evening strolling the grounds, specially decorated for the holidays just as they would have been more than 100 years ago when James Deering called the museum home. Wander through the Main House after dark (an opportunity that comes but twice a year), snap photos by the Christmas tree decked in charming, old-timey ornaments and make your way outside to celebrate the season with a walk through the illuminated gardens. Live holiday music, an all-ages lantern-making workshop and a gingerbread house competition are also on the agenda for 2022.

Mistletoe & Martinis

Mistletoe & Martinis

Cheers to the holidays! Raise your martini glass and nuzzle under the mistletoe at Deering Estate's festive yearly gathering. Expect a celebration similar to what the original residents might've enjoyed during the Gilded Age, including music, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Proceeds from the event benefit the Deering Estate Foundation so don't be afraid to lean into Christmas. Dec 9 7:30–11pm.

Miracle in Miami

Miracle in Miami

Countdown to Christmas with a cocktail in hand at Miracle in Miami. The international holiday-themed pop-up bar makes its way back to Wynwood this yuletide season for a month of festive drinks and naughty fun. Taking over the backroom at Gramps, Miracle promises more (fake) snow, more holiday hits on repeat (these guys must be beating some kind of record for the most consecutive plays of Mariah Carey’s "All I Want for Christmas") and fun new libations like the Christmas Cricket (blanco tequila, vanilla liqueur, minty amaro, coco pandan, cream, mole bitters, and dark chocolate) and the Holiday Spiked Chai (brandy, Jamaican overproof rum, coffee liqueur, amaretto, chai, almond milk, egg white, tiki bitters, and nutmeg.

MatzoBall

MatzoBall

Because eight nights of celebrations aren’t enough, the Society of Young Jewish Professionals is throwing the ultimate singles event—think of it as an IRL JDate on steroids. Dance, drink and connect with old friends and new prospects at this annual rager, which celebrates 36 years! In 2022, the party returns to its old stomping grounds, LIV, at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. 

Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Assemble along the 12-mile route to watch the "World's Most Watched Boat Parade," in which dazzling displays and illuminated vessels of all sizes travel down the Intracoastal Highway with the likes of Rudolph, Santa Claus and other Christmas favorites. Gates open at 4pm and the procession starts at 6:30pm, with live bands and radio personalities providing entertainment throughout the night. You'll also find opportunities to pose with Santa and grab a hot chocolate or a cocktail on the festival grounds. Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, 80 Las Olas Cir., Fort Lauderdale. Dec 10 4pm–midnight; $25, children $20. 

News (1057)

This stunning Omakase restaurant just opened in Coral Gables

This stunning Omakase restaurant just opened in Coral Gables

The proliferation of Omakase across the city continues with Shingo, a shiny new spot that opens in Coral Gables tonight. Chef Shingo Akikuni’s eponymous restaurant is located inside the iconic La Palma building, a historic property in the midst of a renaissance as it prepares to welcome Thomas Keller’s Bouchon at some point this year. First, though, is Shingo, and there’s a lot about it you’ve likely encountered before. The unassuming entrance, the restrained elegance of Japanese design, the intimate experience and perhaps even the chef, who some might recognize from Michelin-starred Hiden where he previously worked. There’s also quite a bit different and new about Shingo. For its apparent simplicity, Shingo’s aesthetic took years to conceive and come together—the 850-square-foot space was entirely designed and constructed by expert woodworkers in Kyto, who then deconstructed it and reassembled it in Miami. This includes building the Hinoki-wood, L-shaped counter, a striking reminder of Japanese culture. The material, which is considered sacred, only grows wild in Japan and Taiwan. The smaller bits are unique and memorable too, like the adorable chopstick holders fashioned in the shapes of various food (mine was an oyster) and the ceramic plates dotted with flamingos, palm leaves and other tropical motifs, which were specifically made for the Miami restaurant by Kyoto-based ceramicist Shin Murata. Photograph: Courtesy Shingo   None of it is meant to distract you from the fo

How to watch King Charles’ Coronation in the U.S., including start time, TV channel and live stream details

How to watch King Charles’ Coronation in the U.S., including start time, TV channel and live stream details

King Charles III will make his title official this week, when the entire world tunes in to watch the new ruler's coronation on May 6. Those of us in the States will be sipping coffee and watching the 2,000-person event unfold live from London's Westminster Abbey tucked in bed as it's going to be very early.  King Charles's coronation is a big deal: the last time a ceremony of this magnitude took place was on June 2, 1953, when Queen Elizabeth ascended the throne. Accordingly, May 6 will be a day that's expected to be filled with lots of tradition and symbolism, with (most of) the Royal Family front and center. For those new to the British monarchy, there's still time to catch up before Saturday's event. Our colleagues in London have done a fantastic job putting together a coronation explainer that answers frequently asked questions (like whether Camilla will be queen) and details the events of the weekend—yes, weekend. There’s a coronation concert, the Big Help Out (a call for volunteerism) and other happenings to be aware of. If you're crossing the Atlantic for the first time to see the king's coronation IRL, we have some essential tips that any American visiting England needs to know. How to watch King Charles III’s coronation in the U.S.? Cable viewers can watch King Charles III's coronation on ABC, CNN, Fox News and NBC. Non-cable subscribers can livestream the event on DIRECTV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV and Sling TV. CNN will provide special live coverage of the festivities

A NYC retail expert shares her tips for selling your pre-loved stuff

A NYC retail expert shares her tips for selling your pre-loved stuff

People in America generally have too much stuff. It’s spring, which means many of us are in the throes of decluttering or cleaning out our closets—or both. Maybe you haven’t started yet and you’re looking for motivation to finally tackle that pile of unread books or unworn clothes you’ve been staring down for months. The first question people ask themselves is, what do I do with all my stuff? The savvy thing to do (besides donating, of course), is to sell your pre-loved stuff. Sites like Poshmark and thredUP make it easy to rehome your favorite pieces and make a few extra bucks in the process. To help those new to the world of resale, we turned to retail expert Amy Abrams, who, alongside husband Ronen Glimer, co-founded the Artists & Fleas marketplace and the thrift shop Regeneration, where vintage sellers can pop up with their own curated collections of pre-loved wares. The couple also holds Shop Extraordinary Enterprises LLC, which includes Manhattan Vintage, New York City’s largest vintage show. Abrams shared her tips for online resale as well as IRL options that are available not just in New York City where she’s based, but also around the country. From the biggest mistake people make when selling items online to the clothing few people think to resell, here are a few basic rules to get you started. It's spring and we've (finally) cleaned out our closets. What now? There are several options: Create a clothing swap with friends Rent a rack at Regeneration (@re_generation

These are America’s most popular theme parks, according to the people who love them

These are America’s most popular theme parks, according to the people who love them

When deciding which theme park to hit on your family vacation, reviews are probably the last place you look for suggestions. The heart wants what it wants, and it won’t waver because Susy said the bathroom lines are long or John had a bone to pick with the guy who rung up his giant turkey leg. Still, validation is nice, which is why you’ll want to know if your next vacation includes a visit to one of the most popular theme parks in America. According to a recent list published by Family Destinations Guide, which uses reviews from Tripadvisor to come up with its ranking, Universal Orland’s Islands of Adventure is the country’s favorite. And as Thrillist reported, it comes as somewhat of a surprise considering the number of Disney diehards in the world. Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort comes in second, while Disney California Adventure Park is number three. Perhaps the biggest oddball on the list is number four, Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio. Around since 1870, the 364-acre amusement park is considered the second-oldest in the U.S. The rest of the ranking is standard, with picks from Orlando and California populating the list. Family Destinations Guide avoided the usual vitriol you find on the internet these days and combed through only positive reviews to determine its list. Instead, taking the 20 most visited amusement parks and calculated the percentage of glowing reviews left for each park on Tripadvisor. Did your favorite make the cut? Find the full list of p

Could a new Amtrak route from NYC to Dallas be in the works?

Could a new Amtrak route from NYC to Dallas be in the works?

Everything surrounding train travel is inherently slow, so it’s no surprise that a proposed route between New York City and Dallas has been more than 20 years in the making. But according to Travel and Leisure, it could actually happen in the near(ish) future. Amtrak’s recently announced partnership with the Southern Rail Commission points to the possible extension of the I-20 Crescent line, which would add rail service between New York City, Atlanta and Dallas/Fort Worth. The recent passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act created the opportunity to study possible expanded long-distance Amtrak service, in partnership with SRC.“This has the potential to be the first new Amtrak service of its kind in more than 25 years and it would come in an area that has long been underserved by passenger rail,” said SRC Chairman Knox Ross. “Now that we have a way forward for new state-sponsored corridor service between New Orleans and Mobile, the I-20 route has been identified by the SRC as its next priority.” So, what comes next? SRC and Amtrak apply for funding under the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Federal-State Partnership Program to prove a sufficient business case for the route. Should they succeed, Amtrak would partner with the SRC and others to seek federal capital and operating support to initiate the service. Don’t expect to hop a train from Texas to New York anytime soon but, at the very least, we can hope it won’t be another 20 years until the I-20 route is

Roll out of bed and into the bar when you book this Irish pub Airbnb

Roll out of bed and into the bar when you book this Irish pub Airbnb

If staying near bars and restaurants is essential to you while on vacation, you might want to bookmark this Airbnb for your upcoming travels. In Thortnon, New Hampshire, the folks behind local watering hole J.L. Irish Pub have turned their adjoining apartment into a charming one-bedroom loft. The unique accommodations are about as convenient as it gets—roll out of bed and into the bar in the morning, or stay out late and stumble right to bed. Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb Guests enter the ground-floor apartment through a private entrance where they’ll have access to a secluded patio and a grill, should dining next door get old fast. Though past guests do rave about the pub food. The space is also equipped with a full kitchen and TV and free parking on the premises. Nestled in the White Mountain National Forest, the Airbnb is five miles away from Waterville Valley, which offers excellent skiing in the winter months. Guests who tout the Airbnb’s location, share that it’s ideal for skiing, apres ski and, of course, drinking. Ready to book your stay? Click here. Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

These are the best Irish pubs in America, according to Yelp

These are the best Irish pubs in America, according to Yelp

St. Patrick’s Day is tomorrow and those who observe will likely find themselves at a pub. The truly devout will be interested in raising a glass at the very best, and for you, we have Yelp’s list of the best Irish pubs in America. The crowdsourced review site ranked the country’s top watering hole and narrowed it down to the best Irish pubs in every state, taking into account things like total volume and ratings of reviews. Users can sort the list of 51 places by recently added should they want to check out newer spots, distance to their home for a nearby place to drink or name if finding something familiar strikes their fancy. Outside of the continental U.S., Hawaii and Alaska are represented by Honolulu’s J. Dolan’s (it’s also known for its pizza) and Juneau’s Lucky Lady Pub, a beloved dive bar for locals. There are also many mom-and-pop joints, including family-owned O'Dwyer’s in Laramie, Wyoming. Chances are these places will not ply you with awful green beer, so whether it’s bangers and mash you’re after or a cold pint of Guinness, these are the Irish pubs to turn to for your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

10 lessons from a solo traveler who used Tinder to make friends on the road

10 lessons from a solo traveler who used Tinder to make friends on the road

Making friends as an adult is hard, but like everything else, most things these days can be helped by the internet. Kristine Ramirez, a personal concierge from Miami who’s spent the last year traveling the country in a camper van, seems to have cracked the code with Tinder. After what she describes as “feeling stuck in the same loop back home,” Kristine sold her condo, donated most of her belongings and hit the road alongside her adorable senior dog, Max. The next step in her U.S. adventure was signing up for Tinder to meet people along the way. “The experience has opened my eyes to so many incredibly different ways of life. I, never in a million years, would have been exposed to such hyper-local adventures had it not been for the app,” says Kristine, who cautions that not all Tinder meet-ups have been pleasant. “I’d be lying if I told you the entire journey was rainbow and butterflies, or that every new friend was an absolute gem.” Kristine is still on the road, still making friends and chronicling it all on her Instagram, @KristineDidIt. Her adventures crisscrossing the U.S. have made her a bit of an expert on the subject of spontaneous platonic relationships, and she’s sharing her tips with us here. —As told to Virginia Gil 1. Always say yes! If there is one major takeaway from my Tinder escapades, it is to always say yes to new adventures. Often times we overthink things and the fear of the unknown leaves us paralyzed. Saying ‘yes’ to adventure has led me to anywhere from

Amtrak Auto Train tickets are on major sale right now

Amtrak Auto Train tickets are on major sale right now

If you've ever driven south on I-95 then you know the journey is miserable. It's long and often congested, and the moment you pull into Florida, well, the views are pretty much nonexistent. The solution? You can leave the driving to someone else, thanks to Amtrak.  Amtrak just launched a limited-time sale on its Auto Train, which allows passengers to board their vehicles—including cars, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, small boats and jet-skis—and ride the train to their final destination. Drivers get to enjoy the experience as much as their passengers would all while their vehicle is in tow. This particular sale is for southbound travel from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida, just outside of Orlando. Travel dates are from March 10 through June 8, 2023, and a three-day advance purchase is required. If you're making your way south for spring break this year, perhaps taking the kids to Disney World, then this is a genius way to avoid the long drive. Tickets start at $29 per traveler for one-way fares in coach. Roomettes are $229 and a bedroom is $429, per traveler for one-way fares, respectively. The roomette offers comfortable seating for two with bedding and pillows, while the bedroom offers double the space and amenities for your overnight journey. We should note that tickets do not include the price of the vehicle, which isn't to say the sale is not a good deal. Regularly priced coach tickets are $95.  The Auto Train sale run through March 17, so interested parties better act fa

The world’s largest dating app for Black singles declares Black love is growing

The world’s largest dating app for Black singles declares Black love is growing

February 14 is Valentine’s Day, a holiday no greeting card company, flower shop or candy maker will soon let you forget. The day before doesn’t get as much attention but it’s also a cause for celebration: Black Love Day. Created to exemplify love, forgiveness and acceptance in the Black community, the holiday is getting lots of buzz on BLK, the world’s largest dating app for Black singles, which has tripled in membership since 2020 when Jonathan Kirkland took over as head of marketing and brand. “BLK is a resource for the community since there's no other app that serves the Black community at scale,” he says. As the man leading the charge for the fast-growing network, Kirkland is somewhat of an expert in all things dating, and someone you especially want to hear from on Black Love Day and Valentine’s Day eve. Here, he gives us his take on the state of Black love, what trends he’s seeing in online dating and how to make your profile truly stand out from the rest. This interview has been condensed for clarity. What is the state of Black Love? I'd say Black love is growing. It's always prevailed through time. It's resilient. You see, when I think about Black love, it's more than just romance. It's really about the community. Coming together as a community, that's a form of love. Coming together romantically, that's another form of love. When we've had these hard times [like we’ve seen in the past year], you see that people come together, and people relate, and people talk and pe

These are the 100 best pizza places in the U.S. and Canada, according to Yelp

These are the 100 best pizza places in the U.S. and Canada, according to Yelp

Where can you find the best pizza in the northern part of the continent? Not New York City. Or Chicago. Or Detroit. Basically, the best slice in the U.S. and Canada is not served anywhere you might expect. According to the fine people at Yelp, the best pizza spot is in Pasadena, California—specifically Sapori Di 786 Degrees. This finding comes to us courtesy of Yelp’s annual pizza ranking, which lists the best spots for pies and slices in the U.S. and Canada. To come up with this all-time list, the company “identified businesses in the pizza category, then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews.” The results are a mix of mom-and-pop restaurants, traditional wood-fired spots, by-the-slice favorites and popular family joints that have been slinging dough for decades. Following Sapori Di 786 Degrees, known for its internationally inspired pies, is Chelsea, Massachusetts’s Ciao! Pizza & Pasta in second place, which one Yelper calls “the best Italian restaurant they’ve ever been to.” The full list of restaurants is chock-full of surprising entries, including many Midwest mentions and places like Reynoldsburg, Ohio and Reno, Nevada nabbing mentions near the top. Curious about other restaurants that made the cut? Check out the top 10 pizza places below, with Yelp’s full list available here. 1. Sapori Di 786 Degrees, Pasadena, California 2. Ciao! Pizza & Pasta, Chelsea, Massachusetts 3. Zeneli Pizzeria & Cucina Napoletana, New H

These are the best family-friendly destinations to visit this winter

These are the best family-friendly destinations to visit this winter

You look like you could use a vacation right about now. Maybe it’s snowing and dreary where you are and you’re aching for warm, sunnier climes. Or maybe you’re stuck in Florida where it’s been summer year-round for seemingly 75 years and the idea of a polar vortex is actually appealing. Either way, you and the kids are in luck because the Family Vacation Guide just revealed the best family-friendly destinations to check out this winter. The list ranks the country’s top destinations, taking into account affordable accommodations, winter weather and snowfall and the average review score. Mammoth Mountain in Mammoth Lakes, California placed first, with an average review of 4.4 and 281 inches of snowfall each year, making for a sweet place to ski with the kiddos. It doesn’t hurt that the nightly rate is $356—affordable by ski resort standards—plus the property boasts an ice rink and an adventure center. Number two (Palisades Tahoe) and three resorts (Heavenly) are also in California and have average review scores above 4.0.  As for warm-weather escapes, Davenport, Florida ranks as the best winter sun destination in the U.S., boasting an average nightly rate of just $160. San Diego, long a popular place for parents and kids alike, came in second thanks to a near-perfect daily temperature of 65 degrees in the winter and lots of things to do for visits young and old. The full list of family-friendly winter destinations can be found here.  Photograph: ShutterstockSan Diego, CA