The Sunshine City, Tampa, FL, is known for its beautiful beaches along the Tampa Bay, vibrant arts culture, and neighborhoods full of historic Spanish architecture. There are many reasons to consider moving to Tampa, from attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk, the Henry B. Plant Museum, countless historic districts, and professional sports teams.
With an average rent of $1,895 for a studio and $1,742 for a one-bedroom apartment, Tampa may not fit into your rental budget. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Tampa, we’ve got you covered. ApartmentGuide has compiled a list of the most affordable neighborhoods in Tampa to help you find the perfect place that fits your budget.
9 Affordable Neighborhoods in Tampa, FL
From North Tampa to University Square, these Tampa neighborhoods offer affordable options that won’t break the bank. Let’s dive in and explore the best neighborhoods for renters in Tampa.
1. North Tampa 2. University Square 3. Temple Crest 4. 40th Street Corridor 5. Terrace Park 6. Ybor City Historic District 7. Wellswood 8. Tampa Heights 9. North Hyde Park
Read on to see what each neighborhood has to offer its residents.
1. North Tampa
Average studio rent: $895 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,000 Apartments for rent in North Tampa
North Tampa is the most affordable neighborhood in Tampa, as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,000. There are many reasons to love living in North Tampa, from attractions like Busch Gardens and the University Mall to green spaces like Copeland Park. If you’re looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants to explore, showcasing Tampa’s food scene. For renters living in Tampa without a car, there are a few bus stops close to North Tampa.
2. University Square
Average studio rent: $1,200 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,050 Apartments for rent in University Square
University Square is a bustling area next to North Tampa. This affordable neighborhood has many attractions, such as the University Mall and Copeland Park. Busch Gardens, a popular theme park with rollercoasters, zoo exhibits, and more, is also nearby.
3. Temple Crest
Average studio rent: $990 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,162 Apartments for rent in Temple Crest
With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,162, Temple Crest is the third-most affordable neighborhood in Tampa. This neighborhood is a fantastic option to consider as it’s near attractions like Rowlett Park and Busch Gardens. There are also picturesque views of the Hillsborough River, so this area is great for exploring and enjoying Tampa. If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, you can find Temple Crest Center Playground in the area.
4. 40th Street Corridor
Average studio rent: $1,015 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,187 Apartments for rent in 40th Street Corridor
40th Street Corridor is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in Tampa and encompasses areas like Temple Crest. This neighborhood is a great option if you’re looking for access to plenty of shops and restaurants. For example, you can easily access the University Mall, Lettuce Lake Park, and the Museum of Science and Industry.
5. Terrace Park
Average studio rent: $1,000 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,300 Apartments for rent in Terrace Park
Just about 10 miles from downtown, Terrace Park is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live near downtown. Terrace Park is home to attractions like Busch Gardens, the Museum of Science and Industry, and Takomah Trail Park. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, such as the Yuengling Brewing Company and Petra Restaurant.
6. Ybor City Historic District
Average studio rent: $1,699 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,390 Apartments for rent in Ybor City Historic District
Next up is Ybor City Historic District, the sixth-most affordable neighborhood in Tampa. Ybor City is full of history and charm, with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and museums. This area also has plenty of parks, restaurants, and attractions, so you’ll have lots of explore. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Centennial Park, explore Ybor City Museum State Park, see a show at The Ritz Ybor, or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants. There’s something for everyone living in Ybor City.
7. Wellswood
Average studio rent: $1,225 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,400 Apartments for rent in Wellswood
Northwest of downtown, Wellswood is the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in Tampa. Wellswood has a friendly atmosphere and community feel, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along Armenia Avenue, such as Mambos Cafe and La Cabana Restaurant. You can also check out some of Wellswood’s green spaces, such as Wellswood Park. There are also several bus stops in the area, so living in the neighborhood without a car is possible.
8. Tampa Heights
Average studio rent: $1,275 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,450 Apartments for rent in Tampa Heights
Tampa Heights takes the eighth spot on our list of most affordable neighborhoods in Tampa. It’s a great area for renters new to the city, as it’s just north of downtown. Also, the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $1,450, making Tampa Heights a less expensive area. It has several attractions like Water Works Park, Armature Works, a famous food hall by the water, and Robles Park Center.
9. North Hyde Park
Average studio rent: $1,395 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,495 Apartments for rent in North Hyde Park
A well-known Tampa neighborhood, North Hyde Park takes the last spot on our list of affordable neighborhoods in Tampa. North Hyde Park near the Tampa Riverwalk and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, meaning there’s plenty to do throughout the week. You’ll find there are countless historic buildings in North Hyde Park, so make sure to explore the area’s charm. If you need to commute to work, there are lots of options as Kennedy Boulevard is nearby.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a neighborhood has average studio and 1-bedroom rent prices under the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com in March 2024.
Minneapolis is a city that effortlessly combines the warmth of Midwestern hospitality with an impressive selection of landmarks, outdoor activities, and culinary experiences. It’s a place where artsy types, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike can find their niche, making it a stellar home for a wide range of people.
From its iconic flour mills to the serene beauty of its many lakes and parks, renting an apartment in Minneapolis offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience.
Join us as we explore ten of the city’s most sought after sights and experiences, showcasing why Minneapolis remains one of the top spots in the Midwest, nay the country, to call home.
1. Mall of America
Minneapolis is home to the Mall of America, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States. This colossal mall is not just a shopper’s paradise; it’s a destination in its own right. With over 500 stores, a theme park, an aquarium, and a mini-golf course, among other attractions, it draws visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, seeking thrilling amusement rides, or just looking for a unique way to spend the day, the Mall of America has something for everyone.
2. Chain of Lakes
One of the city’s most beloved natural attractions is the Chain of Lakes. Comprising five major lakes connected by picturesque trails, it’s a hub for outdoor activities year-round. In the summer, locals and visitors alike flock to the lakes for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and biking along the scenic paths. When winter arrives, the lakes transform into frozen playgrounds for ice skating and hockey. The Chain of Lakes exemplifies Minneapolis’s commitment to maintaining green spaces and providing recreational opportunities for its residents.
3. Minneapolis Institute of Art
Art enthusiasts will find a haven in the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA). With a collection spanning 5,000 years of world history, MIA boasts an impressive amount of original artworks, from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. Admission is free, making it accessible to all who wish to visit. The museum’s many exhibits and special events, including artist talks and family days, make it a cornerstone of life in Minneapolis.
4. Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Minneapolis is also renowned for Walker Art Center, a contemporary art museum, and the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. The garden is famous for the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture, a symbol of the city’s artistic flair. Together, they form a premier destination for contemporary art lovers, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions, performances, and film screenings. The Sculpture Garden, with its blend of art and nature, offers a serene retreat in the heart of the city.
5. Prince and the Minneapolis Sound
Minneapolis holds a special place in the music world, thanks to its association with Prince and the Minneapolis Sound. This unique blend of funk, rock, pop, and new wave, pioneered by Prince in the late 1970s and early 1980s, put Minneapolis on the musical map. Fans can explore Prince’s legacy at city landmarks, including the famous First Avenue nightclub, which featured in his film “Purple Rain,” and Paisley Park, his recording studio and residence now open to the public as a museum.
6. Guthrie Theater
For theater enthusiasts, the Guthrie Theater is a must-visit. Known for its avant-garde productions of both classic and contemporary plays, the Guthrie is a pillar of Minneapolis’s arts scene. The theater’s striking modern building, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, features a cantilevered bridge with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
7. Minneapolis’ Flour Milling History
Minneapolis’s nickname, “Mill City,” harks back to its roots as the flour milling capital of the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Mill City Museum, built within the ruins of the old Washburn A Mill, tells the story of how Minneapolis rose to industrial prominence. Visitors can learn about the city’s history through interactive exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River and St. Anthony Falls, which powered the mills.
8. American Swedish Institute
Reflecting the city’s Scandinavian heritage, the American Swedish Institute is a must-visit. Housed in the historic Turnblad Mansion, the institute offers a glimpse into Swedish culture, art, and history through its museum, exhibits, and events. The beautifully preserved mansion and its modern addition also serve as a center for cultural exchange, celebrating the contributions of Swedish and other Nordic cultures to Minneapolis.
9. Mississippi Riverfront
The Mississippi Riverfront in Minneapolis is a testament to the city’s ongoing relationship with its most significant natural resource. The area has been revitalized into a lively district with parks, walking and biking trails, and historic sites. The Stone Arch Bridge, a former railroad bridge turned pedestrian walkway, offers breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline. This blend of natural beauty and urban development epitomizes the Minneapolis lifestyle.
10 U.S. Bank Stadium
U.S. Bank Stadium stands as a modern architectural marvel and the home of the Minnesota Vikings. Its striking design, featuring a transparent roof and large pivoting doors, ensures it’s a landmark not just for sports fans but also for those interested in contemporary architecture. The stadium also serves as a versatile venue for concerts, conventions, and other major events, embodying the city’s love for sports and its capacity for big entertainment.
The surge in inflation may have slowed, but the cost of everyday items is still high enough to put a strain on your travel budget. If winter already has you dreaming of a luxury beach vacation, it’s worth finding a destination where the U.S. dollar delivers more bang for your buck. Fortunately, there are several options around the world where five-star accommodations are surprisingly affordable, even without using travel rewards.
Travel search engines Skyscanner and Kayak both analyzed data on their platforms to rank the cities where you can book the cheapest five-star hotels. How cheap are we talking? All of the cities in this combined list feature five-star hotels for less than $200 per night.
Skyscanner looked at the average price per night for a five-star hotel room booked on its portal from January through June 2023. Kayak looked at average prices based on searches conducted across all its portfolio domains from July 2022 through June 2023 for travel from November 2022 through October 2023.
Here are the top five cities to consider for your next luxury getaway.
1. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Malaysian capital topped Skyscanner’s list at $102 a night for five-star accommodation and came in second on Kayak’s list at $175 a night. Five-star hotels in the city include chains such as Hyatt and Hilton, as well as high-end properties such as the St. Regis and Banyan Tree.
Known for its delicious cuisine, cultural attractions, street food markets, shopping, nightlife, skyscrapers and theme parks, Kuala Lumpur offers a mix of luxury and budget-friendly activities for all travelers.
2. Hoi An, Vietnam
This ancient port city on Vietnam’s central coast offers five-star luxury for $117 per night, according to Skyscanner data. Boutique luxury hotels include Little Riverside, Anantara and Amina Lantana.
Because of its trading history, Hoi An has a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese and European influences. At this offbeat Vietnam destination, you can enjoy everything from beautiful architecture in the Old Town neighborhood to seventh-century temples, farm-fresh cuisine, lush countryside and pristine beaches.
3. Tirana, Albania
The Albanian capital comes in third on Skyscanner’s list, with five-star accommodations available for $140 per night. Although not as popular as its European neighbor Greece, Albania is slowly opening up to more tourism.
Tirana, the largest city, is a haven for art and history lovers, featuring a bustling town square, an underground Cold War bunker converted into an art museum, mosques, palaces and fortresses.
Although it has a few big hotel chains, including a Marriott and a Radisson, most of Tirana’s five-star hotels are lesser-known, such as the Xheko Imperial and Mak Albania.
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
It’s no surprise that Thailand is a popular destination for travelers looking for both luxury and affordability. At $146 per night according to Skyscanner data, Chiang Mai boasts a large collection of five-star properties.
Marriott, InterContinental and Shangri-La are a few of the big hotel chains with locations in the northern Thai city. High-end boutique hotels include Chala Number 6, Cross Chiang Mai Riverside and Villa Mahabhirom.
The mountainous city of Chiang Mai offers a different landscape from Thailand’s famous beach destinations. Attractions include the country’s highest peak at Doi Inthanon National Park, Buddhist temples, botanical gardens and traditional villages against a backdrop of rice fields.
5. Hammamet, Tunisia
Kayak’s top affordable five-star destination is Hammamet, a beach town in the African country of Tunisia. A luxury stay here will set you back $151 a night, according to Skyscanner data.
Sheraton and Radisson Blu are two of the only chain hotels in this town. Luxury properties include The Sindbad, Medina Solaria & Thalasso, La Badira and Les Orangers.
Located about 40 miles from the capital of Tunis, Hammamet’s namesake beach features sparkling blue waters suitable for snorkeling and diving. History lovers can soak in cultural attractions from the ancient medina, a maze of alleyways bustling with shops and Islamic architecture, to fortresses and mosques. There’s even something for amusement park enthusiasts: Carthageland, a theme park inspired by the Carthage empire.
Other cities where you can find affordable luxury
Here are the other destinations that made it into Kayak’s top five:
Bogotá, Colombia: $192 per night.
Colombo, Sri Lanka: $210 per night.
Side, Turkey: $212 per night.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
For the first time, the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, has released its entire lineup of special events and limited-time festivals for the coming year at once, allowing vacationers more time to build their budgets and plan their trips.
The top Disneyland events in 2024
Here are some of the highlights coming to Disneyland in 2024 (you can view the full list with event descriptions at the official Disney Parks Blog), sorted by date:
Jan. 23 through Feb. 18: Lunar New Year.
Jan. 30: Pixar Place Hotel opening.
Feb. 17 and 24: Celebrate Gospel.
Feb. 22 and 23: Anaheim Ducks Days.
March 1 through April 22: Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival.
April 5 through June 2: Seasons of the Force (a Star Wars-themed festival).
April 26 through Aug. 4: Pixar Fest.
May 24: Nighttime show Fantasmic will return.
Aug. 23 through Oct. 31: Halloween time.
Aug. 23 through Nov. 2: Plaza de la Familia (a celebration of Día de los Muertos).
Nov. 15 through early 2025: The holidays begin here.
The launch of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is also expected sometime in 2024. The log flume-style ride will be a remake of Splash Mountain, but this time centered around the 2009 movie “The Princess and the Frog.”
And at the Downtown Disney District, the outdoor shopping and entertainment center neighboring the theme parks that doesn’t require a ticket to enter, new restaurants are set to open in 2024. That includes Paseo and Céntrico, which serve Mexican cuisine, and Din Tai Fung, a Chinese restaurant famous for its soup dumplings and noodles.
Disneyland has also committed to bringing back some of its most popular separately ticketed after-hours events in 2024, including the Disneyland After Dark series and the Halloween-themed Oogie Boogie Bash. Specific dates for those events haven’t been released.
Why getting the entire Disneyland 2024 calendar now is such a big deal
The news of Disney releasing its entire event lineup follows a similar change announced earlier in 2023 that visitors can now make theme park reservations as far out as 180 days in advance — an increase from the previous 120 days.
That change makes it easier for travelers to plan and pay for their next Disneyland vacation, particularly those who plan months in advance. (Planning early is generally considered a best practice in travel.)
After all, the lack of notice in previous years was sometimes frustrating for planners. For example, when the inaugural Pixar Fest kicked off in April 2018, dates were only announced six months in advance. For international visitors with a penchant for Pixar, a good airfare deal may have already passed.
According to flight alerts website Going, the best airfare deals are usually found one to three months in advance for domestic flights and two to eight months in advance for international tickets. By knowing what events are happening throughout the year, Disneyland fans now have more time to subscribe to flight alerts so they can take advantage of deals within those critical booking windows.
The increased notice might also give travelers who tightly budget more time to save for a vacation — and perhaps even to apply for a travel credit card. For people who time credit card applications around vacations to take advantage of increased spending rewards or introductory offers, the previous announcement window may have been insufficient time to maximize credit card rewards.
Having a calendar for all of 2024 should make it easier to plan (and budget for) a Disneyland vacation.
Other ways to save on a Disneyland vacation
Disney is running a few ticket discount promotions, including:
Tickets for kids as low as $50: Disneyland Resort theme park tickets for children ages 3 to 9 are being offered for as low as $50 per child with a special 1-day, 1-park ticket for dates between Jan. 8 and March 10, 2024.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Have you ever noticed that certain people take up a new hobby, and suddenly that’s all they’ll talk about? It’s not that their personalities are actually changing, but they’re certainly adapting to the situation at hand, and maybe getting a little hyper-focused or narrow-minded about it. We’ve asked our friends on Reddit to chime in on the most common hobbies or life-changes that people adopt, and then won’t shut up about.
1. Being a Military Wife
One user shared, “Wives of military men.”
Another user added, “You know they post about how brave their ‘hubby’ is daily.”
One commenter replied, “I hate the word ‘hubby’.”
Another Redditor commented, “Can confirm. Have a cousin like this. The husband is nowhere near seeing any kind of combat. She was stationed overseas in Germany for a couple of years, and she would never leave base to do anything but loved to complain about how bored she was. [She] had zero interest in taking in anything related to German culture, food, sightseeing, etc. She was also pregnant at one point. They were stationed there and insisted US hospitals were superior to German ones. She Said she was scared to have the baby in a German hospital because the US ones were better. You would’ve thought she was in a third-world country the way she went on about Germany and how scared she was to be there. Apparently, her friends on base were also all just like this.”
2. Obsessing Over Great Britain
“My Texas high school had a British club. I’m actually a British citizen, so I tried to join. Those people were nuts. They made Doctor Who and Sherlock their whole personalities,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “This is just the BBC version of the anime club.”
One commenter replied, “On Tumblr, they were called Teaboos sometimes.”
Another Redditor posted, “When I watched the BBC version of Sherlock for the first time as a teenager, I realized with horror that my brother had based his entire personality on it. He had the same coat, the same condescending and sardonic manner, everything. The only thing he couldn’t get right was the actual genius part, so he’d mutter very intensely about subjects not deserving of that intensity and confuse everyone. He’s actually still quite difficult to have a conversation with because he has no idea how to learn things from other people—it always has to be him explaining things to you and not the other way around. Otherwise, he’ll just walk away.”
3. Being in a Relationship
One Redditor shared, “Relationships. I have friends who legit have no clue who they are without a man by their side. Their self-worth is measured strictly by the ‘quality’ of the guy willing to stand beside them.”
One user replied, “This is painfully accurate. My sister graduated med school, but my mom didn’t tell her she was proud until she brought home a bf.”
One added, “My mom was the same. It didn’t matter what I did. She only ‘stopped worrying’ when I got engaged (to a complete bad person who I would never have looked twice at if he hadn’t swooped in during a very low point, including my mother’s terminal illness). God, I’d love to go back in time for a do-over on all of that.”
4. Refusing to Change
“Being a bad person. You meet a lot of people who are like, ‘Sorry, I’m an a-. It’s just who I am’,” one user posted.
Another added, “‘I tell it like it is.’ No, you’re just tactless and have no awareness.”
However, one user replied, “As someone who was like this who did a lot of self-reflection about why I was popular and when you’re popular, people laugh at you for being a bad person sometimes, and it feels good, if enough people validate it growing up without any social consequences, you learn to think it’s fine. At most, someone will go, ‘Haha, omg, you’re such an a-‘ and roll their eyes. Eventually, you get away from the group of people who accepted your a–h-lery and made you believe it was funny and go out in the world. Being a grown a- isn’t cute, so you either lean in and think everyone is just getting too sensitive, or you realize that you have to do more than just be a bad person to get people to laugh and like you.”
5. Watching Anime
One online user shared, “Anime. I like it, but many people take it to a new level.”
Another user commented, “I knew a woman like that. She lives in cosplay, and her kids are named after anime characters. Edit: Forgot to add that she says ‘Hello, minna-san!’ all the time.”
One Redditor added, “Yeah, tbh. I’m a mega-fan, but there’s a fine line where sharing what you love drifts into projecting it everywhere. The opposite is true where your passion is censored because it’s not ‘in vogue’ or breaks normalcy, so it’s a very fine line. Don’t name your kids ‘Gendo Ikari’.”
6. Smoking
“Smoking weed,” one user shared.
Another confirmed, “Hear hear. I smoke quite a lot myself, but I absolutely can’t stand stereotypical potheads.”
One commenter added, “Same. I’m the biggest stoner I know and people are always shocked to find out even after knowing me for months.”
Another user replied, “Most of my friends smoke. I’m down to one oddball that still wants to talk about terpenes, and how well this batch was cured or not, and the subtle hints of flavor that always make him assume the strain is something different than advertised. At least that only lasts 20 mins, and then we can talk about all the movies/music/shows that were so much better in our day (we’re 40).”
7. Loving Astrology
One user posted, “Zodiac signs.”
Another replied, “‘I’m a Virgo.’ ‘No, Kelly, you are just a [terrible person]’.”
8. Acting
“Theater,” one user posted.
Another user replied, “As somebody who does his theatre, I can confirm it’s frustrating and annoying.”
9. Being a Writer
One user shared, “Being a writer—even if they barely ever write.”
Another user replied, “‘I’m working on some plot holes, okay? So what if I haven’t touched my book in, like, three weeks?’… shut up…”
“I mean, three weeks can just be a healthy break from an activity!” one Redditor added.
One commenter added, “‘Oh, I know it hurts now, but look at the bright side: You have some new material for that novel you’ve been writing. You know…the novel you’ve been workin’ on? You know the one, uh, you’ve been workin’ on for three years? You know, the novel. You got somethin’ new to write about now. You know? Maybe a main character gets into a relationship and suffers a little heartbreak? Somethin’ like what… what you’ve just been through? Draw from the real-life experience? Little, little heartbreak? You know? Work it into the story? Make the characters a little more three-dimensional. Little, uh, richer experience for the reader? Do those two hundred pages really keep the reader guessing what will happen? Some twists and turns? A little epilogue? Everybody learns that the hero’s journey isn’t always a happy one. Oh, I look forward to reading it.’—Stewie Griffin.”
10. Using Propane
One user commented, “Propane and propane accessories.”
A user added, “I tell you what.”
11. Doing Crossfit
“CrossFit,” one user shared.
Another added, “The first rule of CrossFit is, you must always talk about CrossFit…”
One commenter replied, “I know a couple that loves CrossFit. They’ve never done it personally, but they are physical therapists, and the injuries from people emphasizing rep numbers over form has been great for their bottom line.”
12. Being a Hipster
“You’ll never meet a group of more infuriating w-nkers than when you meet the people who are really into the local indie music scene…” one user posted.
Another user replied, “Amen. However, as a reformed local indie rocker, I can confidently say that the worst offenders in this category were rarely the musicians themselves. I, for one, always forgot everyone’s names and proudly told them it was because I was just terrible at being a hipster…….. OH S- F-. IM RELAPSING. HELP!”
13. Loving the Office
One user commented, “The Office!”
Another Redditor added, “Also friends.”
One commenter replied, “Which friend character are you? Which friend’s character are you? Which friend’s character are you?”
14. Owning a Tesla
“Owning a Tesla,” one user shared.
Another added, “The only thing worse than a Tesla owner is a Jeep owner.”
One Redditor said, “Some Jeep owners, yeah. I’m on my fourth one. And I have loved them all. They’ve all been stock Cherokees except my current one. An 06 GRAND Cherokee. Oh yeah, baby. It’s got a headphone jack in the dash so I can plug my phone in, f—ing plush up in that b–ch. Got four cup holders, too. And keep your underwear on. It’s got a coolant leak as well.”
15. Declaring Your Sexuality
One user commented, “I’m sure I’m gonna get a lot of hate but sexuality. Being straight or being gay is not a personality trait. It’s just one aspect of who you are.”
Another replied, “Imma upvote you now before the haters show up.”
One user added, “I hard agree, but I also try to understand that some people have been denied what they are for so long that when given the chance, they’ll go all out. Like, I’m gay and dating a trans dude. But I’ve never felt persecuted for my sexuality. He has. I’d never tell him to stop waving his flags because I know he’s been in a place where he wasn’t allowed to. *Oh. They got gold for this take. Well, that’s… Worrying”
16. Being Sarcastic
One Redditor posted, “Sarcasm.”
Another added, “I hate this. People think ‘sarcasm’ makes them come off as interesting and intelligent, but a lot of it is just low-hanging fruit jabs or just being d–chy.”
17. Loving Disney
One user commented, “Disney.”
Another added, “I’m a physician. I had a senior while doing a year of general surgery training. My senior wanted to do trauma surgery. He was petty, mean, brilliantly smart, and a complete a-h- to anybody as or less intelligent:
“The precise moment that he would show a half second of relaxation: DISNEY TO THE TENTH EXPONENT. Writing notes: Disney theme park background music. Packed Lunch: Disney-themed pasta/sandwich combos. Going out for social hour: Disney watch/scarf.
“I always wondered how this dude could look at me so vehemently and still have such a cotton Candy, whimsical core. Great doctor and surgeon, though.”
One commenter replied, “Disney adults are strange people, man. My wife is a physician, and her other physician friend is getting married this spring. She’s a bit younger than us (4-5 years) and has had the luxury of making a physician’s salary while having very little in the way of actual life expenses due to having parents who continue to pay her bills for her.
“Anyway, she tells my wife and their friend group that she’s engaged and the wedding will be in Iceland. We’re pumped because we’ve always wanted to go to Iceland, and we’re fortunate enough to be able to afford to go to the wedding if we save up. It’s a year from now, so we have time to save up and also make it like a mini vacation. So a few weeks later, she texts her friend group that Iceland is off, and they’re getting married at Disney World.
“I’ll be honest: that was a head-scratcher for my wife because none of her friends knew she was that into Disney. We think it will be at one of the resort hotels around Disney World, with some pretty cool/nice hotels. Oh no, no, no. They are getting married in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom—and here’s the best part—it can’t be during park hours, so they were given the option of it happening at 8 am or 10 pm. They chose 8 am. Might I mention they are also paying $60,000 just for the ceremony?
“I get that having a destination wedding in another country is cost-prohibitive if you want a lot of friends and family there. Iceland would have been very cool, and, for admittedly selfish reasons, we were a little bummed about it not being there. But it’s understandable.
“However, with every new detail my wife gets from the bride-to-be, it seems like it will be a pretty terrible experience. Having to pay for an overpriced hotel and getting up at the crack of dawn to get dressed up and stand in the swampy humidity of Florida so two grown adults can be married by Mickey Mouse sounds like it’s going to be a total bad show. So yeah, Disney adults are strange.”
18. Breaking Up
One user posted, “One bad breakup…”
Another user replied, “This is true. I had a friend who would not care about a girl she dated back before COVID (f—ing 2020) who did some a- [things] to her up until a few months ago. At least now she’s dating again, so we constantly hear about her new partner most of the time…”
19. Working
“Their occupation,” one user shared.
Another user replied, “‘I’m a nurse. What’s your superpower…’ merch. yuck. Sincerely, a nurse.”
One Redditor said, “This was my first thought. I hate those ridiculous things! I work with a nurse with multiple nursing-related tattoos, coffee cups, handbags, and a license plate frame. So cringe.”
20. Owning Guns
One Redditor shared, “Guns.”
Another user replied, “As a gun owner, I can’t tell you how cringeworthy this is. I own firearms myself, but it is just a hobby, and that’s it. Most of the other time, I read books, work, be a dad, or play Diablo 4. I barely bring it up unless I am around others who happen to bring it up or discuss their experiences shooting firearms or what firearms they’re going to purchase. The minute I see gun owners rocking punisher skull s- or other tacticool stuff, I play dumb and just act as if I’ve never held a gun. Those people are annoying.”
Do you agree with the things listed above? Share your thoughts below.
Source: Reddit.
10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
Are you looking for a movie night with a twist? Look no further than these Reddit-voted top ten films where women take on the destructive bad guy role.
10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
10 of the Worst TV Series Ever According to the Internet
There’s Seinfeld, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, The Office, and other legendary shows. But have you considered that for each show that garners universal critical acclaim, there is an inverse show lurking on the other end of the IMDb rating scale?
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Sometimes, a cover of a song ends up doing far better than the original. Some covers are so good that we didn’t even realize the cover version wasn’t actually the original.
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These 11 Movies Are So Bad You’ll Wish You Could Unsee Them
The movies we love best are a combination of excellent characters, plots, stories and cinematography. But if these factors can make great movies, they can also make terrible movies—the ones that make people cringe, the ones we swear they’ll never watch again.
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People will always have preferences and something to say about celebrities. What you might love may not be the same for others. Whether it’s about their past behaviors, legal issues, or feuds with other celebrities, here is a list of celebrities people just cannot stand.
Pitting Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios parks against each other might feel like an effort in futility for some Disney enthusiasts.
Both Florida theme parks operate under the Walt Disney World Resort umbrella, but it has been said that Magic Kingdom is for children, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios caters more to adults. If you’re limited to visiting one park because of time or budget, here’s what you need to know.
Themes of Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios
Although the parks come with a healthy dose of the Disney atmosphere, Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios are distinct in their themes:
Magic Kingdom is quintessential Disney. It has a handful of fantastical lands with a broad range of characters from classic Disney films — Cinderella, Snow White and the like.
Hollywood Studios leans more heavily into Pixar, with such attractions as Toy Story Land and Pixar Plaza. “Star Wars” lovers will be drawn to Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios.
You may also want to take into account the difference in crowd volume. In 2022, for example, 10.9 million people visited Hollywood Studios while Magic Kingdom welcomed about 17.1 million visitors — about 57% more people.
Generally, Magic Kingdom experiences heavier foot traffic. It’s the more popular theme park — after all, it features the iconic Cinderella Castle — so you may want to factor that in if you’re looking for smaller crowds.
Rides at Hollywood Studios vs. Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom has more rides than any other Walt Disney World park, including Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom boasts 23 rides, while Hollywood Studios has nine.
In terms of newer attractions, Magic Kingdom is home to TRON Lightcycle/Run, a darker thrill ride based on the movie “TRON: Legacy.” Meanwhile, Hollywood Studios has Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Each park also has kid-friendly rides and attractions, although since Magic Kingdom has significantly more rides, it also offers the greatest variety of kids’ rides. Magic Kingdom includes classic Disney rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, Tomorrowland Speedway and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Meanwhile, at Hollywood Studios, younger visitors have options like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and Toy Story’s Slinky Dog Dash.
Shows at Hollywood Studios vs. Magic Kingdom
Both theme parks offer unique shows, including daytime experiences and nighttime spectaculars.
Hollywood Studios hosts the “Fantasmic!” musical, with Mickey Mouse directing the show from center stage. At Magic Kingdom, the famous “Happily Ever After” fireworks show serves as an iconic backdrop to Cinderella’s Castle.
Restaurants inside Disney Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios
Magic Kingdom offers 39 dining options, from table service to walk-up counter service options. At Hollywood Studios, visitors will find 30 dining options — certainly enough to choose from throughout the day, but still fewer than Magic Kingdom.
When it comes to fine dining, Magic Kingdom wins the match. You’ll find a three-course French menu at the Be Our Guest Restaurant, or you can reserve a table on a ferryboat cruise while enjoying dessert and an unbeatable view of the fireworks.
Additionally, Magic Kingdom offers two character dining experiences — Cinderella’s Royal Table and The Crystal Palace, where you’ll dine alongside Winnie the Pooh and friends. Currently, there’s one Hollywood Studios character dining opportunity at Hollywood & Vine, where you’ll be greeted by Minnie and friends.
Magic Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios: Which is better?
Magic Kingdom easily comes out on top in terms of the number of rides and live shows. It can take more than a day to experience them all.
But Hollywood Studios offers a couple of lands that are highly unique. If someone in your group is a die-hard Pixar fan, for example, it isn’t hard to imagine they’d prefer Hollywood Studios over Magic Kingdom.
Additionally, those who are part of the “Star Wars” fandom might clamor to visit Hollywood Studios to experience Galaxy’s Edge and the immersive experience that Batuu offers.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
The winter holidays are one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World. The parks and hotels are decked out in fresh decor and there’s no shortage of holiday-themed entertainment. Characters turn up for photos wearing winter garb while some rides get festive overlays (for example, the Jungle Cruise becomes the Jingle Cruise).
But the season also makes for one of the most crowded — and most expensive — times to visit the Disney resort, as Disney engages in variable pricing where tickets cost more on high-demand days. If you’re headed to Disney World this winter, these lesser-known tricks can save money and time.
1. Find the least busy day to visit
Disney trip planning site Touring Plans collected 43 million average wait times for rides over the past 13 years to best predict crowds by day. After rating days on a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being the least busy and 10 being the busiest), here are Touring Plans’ crowd predictions for the six days before and after Christmas 2023:
Tuesday, Dec. 19: 7.
Wednesday, Dec. 20: 7.
Thursday, Dec. 21: 6.
Friday, Dec. 22: 5.
Saturday, Dec. 23: 7.
Sunday, Dec. 24: 7.
Monday, Dec. 25: 8.
Tuesday, Dec. 26: 8.
Wednesday, Dec. 27: 9.
Thursday, Dec. 28: 9.
Friday, Dec. 29: 9.
Saturday, Dec. 30: 9.
Sunday, Dec. 31: 8.
If there’s one best day to visit, it’s Friday, Dec. 22. And in general, the week before Christmas is less busy than the week after.
2. Consider Disney’s dining promotion deal
If you’re staying at a Disney-owned resort, a limited-time dining promotion might sweeten the deal. You’ll receive a Dining Promo Card (for use at most Disney restaurants) when you book a minimum five-night stay, worth up to $1,000.
The card’s value is correlated to the price of your hotel room, so travelers who book rooms in the Deluxe tier of Disney resorts receive $200 per night, while rooms booked at Disney’s lower-cost hotels receive $60 per night.
Depending on the room you book, this promotion could be a deal. For example, NerdWallet found availability at one of Disney’s top-tier hotels, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, for under $500 per night on some nights in December.
While the package requires a minimum five-night stay plus park tickets, receiving a dining gift card ($800 if you book four nights at the Animal Kingdom Lodge) worth about 40% of the overall room cost might be appealing.
The promotion covers stays on most nights through March 5, 2024, including Thanksgiving week and the week before Christmas (arrival dates between Dec. 26 and Jan. 8 aren’t eligible).
3. Order small plates at the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
If you’re not staying at a Disney resort long enough to qualify for the dining promo, dine at the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.
Between Nov. 24 and Dec. 30, temporary food stands serve seasonal international dishes in line with the park’s global theme. For example, the Japanese-themed Shi Wasu Holiday Kitchen serves cranberry boba and the L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen serves potato latkes.
Epcot festival dishes are typically smaller than traditional restaurant entrees, but prices are lower. Many food items cost less than $5, and almost all are less than $10.
4. Replace theme park visits with free activities
Rather than buying a theme park ticket, take a free, self-guided tour past the massive and intricate gingerbread houses on display in the lobbies of six Disney-owned hotels. Among the largest displays is at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. According to Disney, the hotel’s pastry team spent 500 hours baking gingerbread and 480 hours decorating the house, which features 10,000 pieces of gingerbread.
Getting to each hotel can be an adventure in itself. Two hotels, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, are located on the resort’s monorail line, which doesn’t require a ticket to board. Almost all the resorts are also accessible by boat (again, no ticket needed), which can be a scenic and relaxing way to get around.
If you want another free Disney World activity, visit the resort’s entertainment district, Disney Springs. During the holidays, you might want to stroll past the shopping center’s 19 Disney-themed trees or visit Santa Claus.
5. Consider an after-hours party instead of a theme park ticket
Walt Disney World offers two sets of after-hours parties this year (both run a handful of nights throughout the season): Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Party ticket prices aren’t cheap, as both start at about $160 (and can cost more than $200 on peak nights). In fact, they often cost more than standard theme park tickets. But for certain travelers, they might be a better deal. That’s because capacity is more limited than during the day, typically resulting in shorter ride wait times (eliminating the need to pay for upcharges like Disney Genie+, which offers paid, express line access).
The parties also offer entertainment you can’t find anywhere else, and — at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party — you get complimentary cookies and cocoa.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Grab some popcorn, find the most comfortable seat in your house, and start counting down—we’ve collected our list of the best classic movies of all time! We’re talking timeless classics that are as relevant today as they were when they first hit theaters decades ago. From love stories to action-packed adventures, these films span a variety of genres that will keep you entertained for hours on end. Whether you want to relive the golden era of film or simply take a trip down memory lane, transport yourself back into an age where storytelling was king!
1. Jurassic Park
The OP opened the topic with, “Jurassic Park only recently, and I think it still works. In fact, it touches more subjects and problems and patches a lot more plot holes than a lot of today’s blockbusters.”
Jurassic Park is Steven Spielberg’s massive blockbuster franchise that revolves around two paleontologists and mathematicians. They are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. They later found out it wasn’t as safe as they thought when various ferocious predators break free and go on the hunt.
2. Inside Out
One Redditor replied to the OP and shared, “F— This post makes me feel old.”
Another user responded, “Personally, I think those old Disney flicks like Inside Out are really timeless. Edited twice for grammar.”
Another agreed, “Same. And I’m not even what you’d consider ‘old.’”
3. Chinatown
“Chinatown…..oooooh, I love me some noir. Also, if the early 90’s is classic, then Glengarry Glen Ross. Edit: the first Dirty Harry movie, also Escape from Alcatraz. Remains of the Day…I still cry a bit when I watch that. The first Superman movie with Christopher Reeve…sure, it’s got ridiculously dated effects, but the joy of Williams’ score and Reeve just being perfect for Clark Kent and Superman is always uplifting to me,” one usershared.
4. City Lights
One user highlighted some movies, “Good list. I’d throw City Lights, The Adventures of Robin Hood, Kind Hearts and Coronets, Rebecca, Rear Window, The Wicker Man, and The Last Picture Show on there.”
Another user replied, “Thank you for that. When I think of classics, I think of that time period; maybe I’m getting old.”
One Redditor commented, “Period films should always hold up… it is in their design.”
5. Citizen Kane
One user also shared another list, “When it comes to classic old movies that still hold up today, opinions may vary. However, here are a few examples that are often regarded as timeless:
“Citizen Kane (1941)—Orson Welles’ masterpiece is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. Its storytelling, compelling characters, and exploration of power and identity continue to captivate viewers.
“Casablanca (1942)—This romantic drama set during World War II is known for its memorable quotes, enduring performances, and timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and political intrigue.
“The Shawshank Redemption (1994)—Though not as old as some other classics, this film has achieved cult status and is considered one of the best movies ever made. Its gripping story, exceptional performances, and messages of hope and redemption have resonated with audiences worldwide.
“Gone with the Wind (1939)—This epic historical romance is still highly regarded for its sweeping scale, memorable characters, and lush cinematography. It remains a classic example of old Hollywood filmmaking.
“Psycho (1960)—Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller continues to be praised for its suspenseful storytelling, iconic shower scene, and groundbreaking techniques. Its impact on the horror genre is still felt today.”
6. The Godfather
One added, “The Godfather.”
This mob drama, based on Mario Puzo’s novel, follows the Italian-American crime family of Don Vito Corleone. Michael, the son, joins the Mafia, leading to violence and betrayal, affecting Michael’s relationship with his wife, Kay.
7. It’s a Wonderful Life
A user shared, “I’d say maybe most of Frank Capra’s films still hold up. Even if the world isn’t the same.”
Some of Frank Capra’s films are It’s a Wonderful Life (1946), It Happened One Night (1934), Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), Mr. Deeds Goes To Town (1936), and Lost Horizon (1937).
8. Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me
“Twin peaks fire walk with me. Still scarier than most of the so-called horror movies nowadays.”, posted by a Redditor.
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me is a 1992 American psychological horror film directed by David Lynch and written by Lynch and Engels. It is a prequel to the television series Twin Peaks, which combines detective fiction, horror, supernatural, offbeat humor, and soap opera tropes. The film has a darker tone, with most television cast members reprising their roles, but some notable cast members, such as Lara Flynn Boyle and Richard Beymer, did not return for various reasons.
9. Pinocchio (1940)
One user shared some movie names and posted, “Plenty still hold up in terms of artistic/entertainment value: Citizen Kane, 12 Angry Men, Strangers on a Train, Repulsion, Vertigo, Pinocchio (1940 version), The Great Escape, The 39 Steps, The Magnificent Seven, The Dirty Dozen, The Sting, Jaws, Romeo and Juliet (1968 version), All About Eve, The Grapes of Wrath, Cool Hand Luke, and Hud. Loads more too.”
10. White Heat
Another user commented, “Cagney in White Heat for sure, any of the original James Bond movies w SC of course, Taking of Pelham 123 (original version), 2001, Mr. Roberts, Far From the Madding Crowd, jeezz too many to mention, THAT is why TMC is so important to our continuation of literate culture… Movies are artwork and are the antidote to our mindless modern American culture. Hey, you kids out there, stop watching fascist corporate stuff, Captain Avenger-type stuff; it is destroying your minds!!”
Have you seen the films listed here? Do you agree that they should be given more attention? Let us know your thoughts!
Source: Reddit.
10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
Are you looking for a movie night with a twist? Look no further than these Reddit-voted top ten films where women take on the destructive bad guy role.
10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
10 of the Worst TV Series Ever According to the Internet
There’s Seinfeld, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, The Office, and other legendary shows. But have you considered that for each show that garners universal critical acclaim, there is an inverse show lurking on the other end of the IMDb rating scale?
10 of the Worst TV Series Ever According to the Internet
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The movies we love best are a combination of excellent characters, plots, stories and cinematography. But if these factors can make great movies, they can also make terrible movies—the ones that make people cringe, the ones we swear they’ll never watch again.
These 11 Movies Are So Bad You’ll Wish You Could Unsee Them
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All sorts of retailers are attaching the name “Black Friday” to sales, says Jane Boyd Thomas, a professor of marketing at Winthrop University in South Carolina.
As the Black Friday sales go on longer and expand into more categories each year, you’ll find deals you might not have thought about. Here are six offbeat Black Friday buys.
1. Tires
Can you see the top of Lincoln’s head? Car nuts will know the penny trick for gauging tire wear. And if you’re due for a new set, tire retailers and manufacturers are ready to sell you some new rubber at a discount. Nationwide retailer Discount Tire’s website says it will drop Black Friday tire and wheel deals Nov. 23-29 this year.
Look for deals on batteries and filters too. Your local car wash may even run a Black Friday promotion. Car stuff on Black Friday. Who knew?
2. Big-ticket baby gear
After the baby shower, stuff gets expensive to replace without the help of family and friends. Black Friday could be a good time to get a discount on something you use a lot that may be wearing out.
Thomas, who’s about to be grandmother, says it’s a category she wouldn’t have thought about otherwise at this time of year. She’s seen an influx of digital ads for strollers and highchairs lately, some of which were marked down by 50% for early Black Friday, she says. The week of Thanksgiving should bring deals from all sorts of baby brands like Owlet and BOB Gear.
3. Furniture
Rather than roll the dice on a gift your mom or dad might not use, give them a comfortable place to sit for the next gathering at your house. Furniture isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for a Black Friday score, but deals on couches, chairs and tables are in full effect this November. You can get up to 35% off at LoveSac right now, and over at Macy’s, the popular Radley sectional couch is marked down 47% through Nov. 25.
Your relatives should appreciate the soft seating at holiday gatherings.
4. Amusement park tickets
You may not be thinking about theme parks at the moment, but there are deals worth cheering for this time of year. You can save up to 60% on tickets and annual passes to SeaWorld Orlando, for example, or up to 50% on tickets to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Virginia. If a theme park visit is in your family’s future, look for a deal now.
5. Health and beauty supplies
Not everything has to be a big-ticket buy on Black Friday. You can also find good sales on smaller items like health and beauty products, for example. Thomas says it’s interesting to see how early retailers like Ulta Beauty have pushed out discounts.
Ulta deals are happening now and roll on through Nov. 25. Look for good discounts on items you need to restock, like shampoo and conditioner. Check the websites of your favorite brands for deals, too.
Also, look at your local drugstore on or around Black Friday for better-than-usual buys on toiletries and over-the-counter medicines.
6. Streaming services
Streaming services are getting pricey, and the cost of multiple subscriptions adds up. Last year’s Black Friday streaming deals included 50% off a Paramount+ annual plan and one year of an ad-supported Hulu subscription for $1.99 a month.
Check provider websites on Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday to make sure you don’t miss out. Note that offers may apply only to first-time subscribers.
Don’t let Black Friday break you
A great deal is still a bad reason to go into debt, offbeat buys notwithstanding.
NerdWallet’s 2023 holiday shopping report found that around half of Americans (52%) incurred credit card debt shopping for gifts last holiday season, and among them, nearly a third (31%) haven’t paid off these balances.
And if you’re taking on credit card debt to spend on a semi-discretionary item like a sofa, you may want to reconsider.
Even 50% off a $5,000 item is still a hefty $2,500 out of your budget, said Robert Finley, a certified financial advisor and founder of Virtue Asset Management in Chicago, in an email. Try not to be “seduced by a discount,” he added.
But let’s say you have the money saved for something you need — like tires — and you come in under budget on the purchase thanks to a holiday sale. Finley called what’s left over “found money,” and doesn’t recommend going shopping with it.
Instead, make sure to pay off credit cards to avoid interest, put savings toward student loans if you have them, and if anything is left, invest it, he said.
We won’t knock you if you still want to shop some, though. It’s Black Friday after all.
But while the masses are scrambling to save 20% on an air fryer, you might find something more useful on sale. Look around.
As the winter chill descends, homebodies might cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate. Travelers, meanwhile, may choose to indulge their sweet tooth with a full-fledged, chocolate-inspired vacation.
With the Dec. 15 release date of the movie “Wonka,” candy might be on America’s mind. Happily, you don’t need to win a golden ticket to get to experience one of America’s myriad chocolate factories, chocolate restaurants and even chocolate theme parks.
Here are six ways to have a zany, chocolate-inspired vacation in the U.S. this winter that are enough to impress Wonka himself.
1. Experience a chocolate theme park at Hersheypark
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hersheypark is a 121-acre amusement park originally created by Milton S. Hershey as leisure grounds for employees of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory. Today, it has cuddly, walking versions of candy to meet, more than a dozen roller coasters and family-friendly rides. Plus with ticket prices under $100, it’s a lot cheaper than competitors like Disney or Universal.
Visiting in mid-November through the end of December is particularly delightful as the park transforms into Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, which includes a Christmas light show and a “Kissmass Tree” display (named for Hershey’s Kisses). This year, marks the 40th year of Hersheypark’s annual Christmas experience.
Note that Hersheypark closes from January through March for off-season maintenance, though there are plenty of other year-round activities to do in Hershey during those months. Those include a visit to one of the city’s two spas, both of which offer chocolate-themed treatments such as a cocoa facial. There’s also Hershey’s Chocolate World, which is adjacent to Hersheypark and remains open throughout the winter with activities like a chocolate tour and making your own candy bar.
2. Dine on savory chocolate meals at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
Universal CityWalk Orlando and Universal CityWalk Hollywood
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is a 19th-century, Victorian steampunk-inspired restaurant with an over-the-top facade that looks like it was designed by Willy Wonka himself.
The chefs have managed to sneak chocolate into even stereotypically savory dishes, including fresh chocolate almond bread paired with salted caramel butter, and flash-fried chicken wings coated in a chocolate stout glaze.
You’ll find the restaurant in Florida and California, as it’s a staple of Universal CityWalk, which is the pedestrian-only, free-to-visit entertainment complex affiliated with Universal Studios theme parks.
3. Drink a candy cocktail at Sugar Factory
More than two dozen cities worldwide
Sugar Factory is a U.S. brasserie with a large menu of milkshakes, burgers, ice cream and more. But its most iconic feature is the bar that makes candy-infused cocktails, which are served in oversized goblets. Drinks can be made with or without alcohol, and they include lavish garnishment like gummy flamingoes to top the piña colada and lollipops stuffed into the peach lemonade. Drinks run about $40 each, but one beverage could easily serve a small group.
Sugar Factory has more than two dozen locations worldwide, primarily in tourist centers such as the Las Vegas Strip, Minnesota’s Mall of America and Times Square in New York City.
4. Take sweet selfies at interactive art galleries and museums
Cities nationwide
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of sweet, interactive art galleries that are designed with the selfie set in mind. Among those open now is the Sweet Tooth Hotel in Dallas. It’s definitely not a hotel, but rather an interactive art museum featuring rooms designed by different artists — most of which put candy at the forefront.
Also in the vein of the sweet selfie-centric museum comes the Museum of Ice Cream, which runs in major cities including Austin, Texas, Chicago and New York. Standout exhibits include a waterless pool filled with 100 million sprinkles made of antimicrobial, biodegradable material that visitors are allowed to “swim” in (but not eat, as these sprinkles aren’t edible).
5. Visit one of three chocolate locations at Ghirardelli Square
San Francisco
Nestled on the waterfront in San Francisco‘s Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square originally housed a chocolate factory established by Domenico “Domingo” Ghirardelli.
Today, the square is home to shops, restaurants and art galleries, as well as three outposts of Ghirardelli. Those three storefronts include the original ice cream and chocolate shop, a larger, more elaborate Chocolate Experience, as well as a quick, on-the-go shop.
6. Enter a hot chocolate race
Nearly two dozen cities nationwide
If you’ve filled up on carbs and are ready to put them to use, you might enter the Hot Chocolate Run. This series of 5K, 10K, and 15K races are held in nearly two dozen cities across the U.S., generally in the winter. The routes are centered around tourist attractions, like Chicago’s Navy Pier and Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Participants who finish the race receive not just a medal, but also a keepsake mug filled with chocolate treats.
The races are typically held in tourist-friendly cities, and the races themselves can be tourist attractions. Participants can join in a post-run party, but anyone can attend the Hot Chocolate Expo, which is held ahead of the event and also promises plenty of chocolate.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for: