Many times in our professional lives, we have enjoyed work trips as a way to spend time in major cities around the US for low to no out-of-pocket cost. That’s because the major expenses are covered by one of our employers. Generally, this includes airfare, hotels, transportation, and per diem for food. However, this does come at a cost. Schedules are long, starting early in the morning with limited breaks throughout the day, and often going well into the evening with dinner sessions, networking receptions, etc. Oftentimes, most of the time is spent inside windowless rooms, absorbing information, and toting around vendor swag (but hey, I’ve gotten some great freebies!)

As we have both gotten a bit older, we are starting to question whether or not this type of travel really adds to our cup and the overall experience it offers despite the cost savings. I think this is especially true this year as both of these work commitments of mine actually got in the way of some personal trips we wanted to take. This caused us to miss out on about 3 months of travel opportunities where we would have rather done something else. This is something we will continue to evaluate moving forward.

But, for now, here’s a glimpse into these two SoCal work trips.

San Diego

I’ll admit, I had some hesitation leading up to this trip. I wasn’t really excited about the training I was going to and there were other places I would have rather been. But I decided to embrace it for what it was. I spent the next week barely leaving my hotel. Although I was completely mentally exhausted, each night I made it a point to go on a 30–45-minute walk around the area just so I could get some fresh air and exercise. I enjoyed getting out and about, even if briefly, but I do wish I was closer to the Gaslamp Quarter and Seaport Village. I also ended up DoorDashing more meals that I normally would, but again my schedule didn’t allow for much casual time. Nonetheless, San Diego is such a beautiful city, and the weather couldn’t have been better!

My trip to San Diego just happened to coincide with this year’s spring break travel season. That meant dealing with chaos at the airports as TSA was in the midst of the longest government shut down in history, causing major travel snarls and lines that wrapped around buildings. After a really intense and exhausting week, I had an early morning flight back home and really wanted to make sure I made it home as planned so I could decompress. The early morning flights out of San Diego had a tendency to be some of the worst times at the San Diego airport. Since I was awake and ready to go just after 3am, I headed to the airport to see what kind of experience I was in for. When I arrived at the airport for my return flight, the lines weren’t great, but they also could have been worse. After about an hour, I was through security. I was also able to spend a bit of time in the new Chase Lounge before my flight, which I really enjoyed. Luckily, I made my flights home that day (even with a tight connection) and crashed as soon as I got settled back in at home.

Trip Type:

Work Training

Destination(s) Visted:

San Diego

Where I Stayed:

San Diego Hilton Garden Inn Downtown/Bayside

Favorite Memory:

Because of the nature of this trip, I really didn’t have much time to explore on my own. However, I did get out a bit in the evenings. Along the way, I was reminded of how lovely the overall downtown area in San Diego truly is. I love the harbor and embarcadero! When you come from a landlocked state, there is something so magical about staring out over the ocean. No matter how many times we see the Pacific, I don’t think I’ll ever get over its vastness.

Little Italy is also fun – I enjoyed seeing all the people out strolling around. We had gone through there and enjoyed dinner several years ago, so it was nice to revisit this fun spot again. This time, I had a bit of ice cream and also stopped for a celebratory cocktail once I found out I had passed my certification training. I also made friends with some local dogs before heading back to the hotel to pack up and get ready to go home.

Would We Go Back:

Yes, San Diego is one of our favorite US cities.

Photo Dump:

Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)

Once upon a time, I wanted to move to Los Angeles. Fast forward so many years and now I can’t imagine living in the city. We visited the city prior to a cruise in 2017 and then again earlier this year. When the opportunity to go to a conference there came up, I can’t say I was thrilled to go back, but I really wanted to attend the conference itself regardless of the destination. The bad thing about conference travel is the days are so packed it leaves little time to explore the city on your own terms. I also wanted to limit my time away from home for this particular conference. I took a gamble and flew into LAX the morning of the conference, which started later that afternoon. We don’t recommend this, but luckily it worked out this time around. I had enough time to get to my hotel and drop my bags before wandering over to the LA Convention Center for check-in.

This was the largest conference I’ve even been to. Let’s say that after the days filled with walking, learning, etc. I was a bit more pooped than usual at the end of each night. I mostly stuck in the immediate LA Live area, although if I had more time and energy I would have loved to have checked out some nearby hotspots in DTLA like the Angels Flight funicular and Central Market next door. Nonetheless, I was glad to have some food options near the hotel. I did at least make it to the hotel pool for about an hour one night.

Trip Type:

Work Conference

Destination(s) Visted:

Downtown Los Angeles

Where I Stayed:

The J.W. Marriott at L.A. Live

Favorite Memory:

Because of the nature of this trip, I really didn’t have much time to explore on my own. However, I must say a trip like this is a simple reminder of how small the world really is. A few months ago I attended the training in San Diego mentioned earlier. The training was small – 20 participants from around the US, Australia, and Europe. Fast-forward to the conference in Los Angeles 2 months later – on my first night there, wandering through the expo hall, I ran into one of the participants from my training in San Diego. It was great to see a familiar face!

I also enjoyed seeing the memorial statute for Kobe and Gianna Bryant. While I wasn’t a fan by any sorts, it was touching to see the lovely tribute.

Would We Go Back:

Yes, but not necessarily to DTLA. If we were to return to the area, it would likely be somewhere else in metro Los Angeles (most likely the cruise port).

Photo Dump:

So, after taking a bit of time to think about both of these experiences, I’m glad I went. I found the training to be grueling, but I may be a bit smarter now (lol), and the conference was inspiring. Attending both of them was incredibly beneficial to me. I am also glad I went on each work trip for other reasons too. I generally travel with my hubby, but navigating large cities and facing LAX (an airport that has always given me a bit of anxiety) by myself helped challenge me in other ways too. I was also reminded of my self-reliance. Again, we will continue to evaluate the role of work-related travel in our lives, but for now we are just rolling with it.

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We were looking for a relatively inexpensive and easy getaway for just a few days. After lots of comparison, we finally found an option on Expedia that worked with our schedules and desired price-point. A few clicks and we were on our way!

Trip Type:

Food, Sightseeing, and Cityscape

Destination(s) Visted:

New Orleans, Louisiana

Where We Stayed:

The Crowne Plaza French QTR – Astor

Favorite Memory:

New Orleans is such a fun and vibrant city. It truly feels different than many of the other US cities we have visited. We really enjoyed our impromptu riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat Natchez. It was the perfect way to see parts of the city and surrounding area that we may have missed, and it gave us a break from the rain for the day. We also really enjoyed the history and how many businesses repurposed old historic buildings into bustling and kitschy hot spots. Some memorable items to note:

• Laffite’s -A former blacksmith shop and the oldest bar in the United States
• Trying absinthe for the first time – at Old Absinthe House
• Our first time seeing the Mighty Mississippi

Would We Go Back:

Yes! But not any time soon… We really enjoyed the city – it was very different from many of our other travels and a nice break in the routine. However, we also covered quite a bit of ground while there and we did many of the touristy things including:

• Ample time spent on Bourbon Street
• A stroll through the French Market
• A visit to the waterfront
• Exploring Frenchman Street
• An attempted yet unsuccessful visit to one of the historic cemetaries
• A cruise up the Mississippi River
• Visiting the National WWII Museum
• Eating and drinking
• Sightseeing
• Pool time

Cramming all that into a 4.5 day trip packed a punch, and we feel we had a great experience in New Orleans. The only thing we would do differently upon return is a swamp tour. We wanted to go on one, but the rainy weather wasn’t conducive to it. While we really enjoyed this city, we aren’t in a rush to go back. It’s a fun spot but not any place that is high on our list to visit frequently.

That said, whenever it is we return again, we will not be staying at the same hotel. For those reasons, we also aren’t including this on our list of hotel recommendations. Choosing this hotel (and flying basic economy) allowed us to keep the price pretty cheap on this trip but… you get what you pay for! It’s not that the hotel was bad per say, but it really didn’t meet a lot of our expectations/standards. It is a great location on the corner of Canal and Bourbon Streets though.

We were both so glad our little trip to New Orleans worked out. This was my first visit to the city and state and brought my “states visited” to 38/50!

Photo Dump:

Learn more about the recent changes to our blog posts here.

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Trip Type:

Road Trip

Destination(s) Visted:

Longmont, Southwest Denver/Littleton, Morrison, Black Hawk, and downtown Denver

Where We Stayed:

• Fairfield in Denver Southwest/Littleton
• The Monarch Resort
• Sonesta Denver

Favorite Memory:

We were lucky to score two tickets to the Lewis Capaldi concert at Red Rocks. This was a huge deal as he took a few years off to take care of himself and, when he announced his US tour, he only planned 11 cities. Tickets sold out so quickly that a second night was added. When it was time for the show, the weather wasn’t the greatest. It was cold with rain/sleet and even some wind. We donned what we thought would be warm enough gear (after all, it was a lot of the same stuff we took to Iceland), and grabbed seats in the 11th row. Turns out the weather wasn’t in his favor either… or was it!?! Technical difficulties likely caused by the rain resulted in a slight delay and ultimately the most magical concert imaginable. Lewis Capaldi… completely acoustic… at Red Rocks Amphitheater… in the rain. It was moody and moving and magical. Even as he said, it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience as he has never done that before. We will never forget that night.

Would We Go Back:

Absolutely, yes! We actually have a few other trips to the Denver area coming up later this year. Red Rocks is our favorite concert venue, and we feel it is worth the drive from out of state to get there. We generally always enjoy spending time in downtown Denver as well. This was our first trip to Black Hawk, a popular gambling town located in the mountains just outside of Denver. This town (population 106) is really cute and the size of some of the large gambling resorts really surprised me. Keep in mind, if you don’t gamble, there isn’t a whole lot else to do, but it’s fun to walk around and we also enjoyed the rooftop hot tub at the Monarch Resort. We also like the occasional opportunity to watch professional live sports, and Denver allows us that opportunity. We hadn’t been to a Colorado Rockies game at Coors Field in 9 years until scoring free tickets to a game. We couldn’t pass that up.

Photo Dump:

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For years, this blog was where I shared detailed travel stories, tips, and long trip recaps designed to help inspire and educate others. I loved documenting our adventures, but over time the pressure to write full SEO-friendly and detailed posts, edit photos, as well as keep up with engagement, and AI, and TikTok’s popularity, etc… It started to feel more like work than fun. And when travel blogging starts to feel like a job, it’s easy to stop posting altogether.

But here’s the thing… we still love having a place to record our travels. One day, I’m confident we’ll enjoy having these records to look back on with fond memories.

So instead of letting the blog fade away, I’ve decided to give it a refresh.

Going forward, this space will be more of a travel log than a traditional travel blog. Posts will be shorter and simpler: quick snapshots of where we went, where we stayed, a few highlights from the trip, and maybe a handful of photos.

Think of it less as a travel guide and more as a running archive of our adventures.

The goal is to make it easy (and fun) to keep documenting our travels without turning every trip into a big writing project. It also gives us a place to look back later and remember the little details that tend to fade over time.

So, if you’ve followed along over the years, thanks for sticking around. Hopefully you’ll continue to do so! I’m excited to start sharing again but in a way that feels a little more relaxed and sustainable.

More travel snapshots coming soon. Cheers!

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The exhibits here are mesmerizing. Some transported me to a serene, starry night, while others placed me in a glowing jungle where my own artwork came to life. Each room is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, and the added element of scent took the experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re an art lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a cool way to spend an afternoon, ARTE MUSEUM delivers an experience you won’t forget.

Getting There and Tickets

ARTE MUSEUM LAS VEGAS is conveniently located just off the strip at 3716 South Las Vegas Boulevard, on the second floor of 63 CityCenter. The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with the last admission at 9 PM.

Tickets start at $50.00 for adults, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and locals. You can purchase tickets on-site or online, but we recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid waiting in line.

You’ll need to plan about 1.5 hours in the space.

Exhibit Highlights

In this dark space, exhibit after exhibit winds down hallways, around corners and up to different levels. You never know what might be waiting around the bend. Not only are the exhibits visually appealing, but you’ll also notice different scents and sounds that match the theme of the space. Curious about some favorites? Check them out below!

Star Raindrops

One of my favorite exhibits, Star Raindrops, transforms the space into a celestial dreamscape. Hanging paper stars illuminated in various colors create a stunning display that feels peaceful and expansive all at once. The soft twinkling lights are paired with a fresh, calming scent that enhances the tranquility of the room, making you feel as though you’re floating among the stars.

Living Sketchbook: Night Safari

In Living Sketchbook: Night Safari, you can unleash your creativity in an engaging and interactive way. Visitors are invited to draw animals, which are then brought to life as animated characters on a massive screen, wandering through a digital jungle. The earthy aromas of the space add depth to the exhibit, making the lush jungle surroundings feel even more immersive and lifelike.

Waterfall

Imagine standing beneath a massive waterfall—except this one is made entirely of light and sound. The projections flow down the walls in a mesmerizing illusion of rushing water, while a fresh, misty scent fills the air, making the whole space feel cool and refreshing.

Flower

If you love vibrant colors, this exhibit is a must-see. Digital flowers bloom and shift in color as you walk through the space, and the air is filled with a soft floral fragrance. It’s like stepping into a magical garden that’s constantly changing before your eyes.

Musee D’Orsay Collaboration

ARTE MUSEUM LAS VEGAS is also had a collaboration exhibit with the renowned Musée d’Orsay during our visit. This exhibit brings famous Impressionist paintings to life in a way you’ve never seen before. Masterpieces by artists like Monet and Van Gogh are transformed into immersive digital environments, allowing you to step inside the brushstrokes. The warm, nostalgic scent of aged canvas and fresh paint adds another layer to this already captivating experience.

Other Must-See Exhibits

There are plenty of other exhibits to see along the way. Each exhibit feels like a portal to another world, with something for everyone to enjoy. Add in a stop at the ARTE CAFE for an extra special treat.

A Feast for the Senses

What sets ARTE MUSEUM apart from traditional art museums is its thoughtful integration of all five senses. Every room combines visual art, ambient composed soundscapes, and specially crafted fragrances to create a fully immersive experience. The scents, developed by a renowned French perfumer, harmonize perfectly with each exhibit’s theme, making the museum feel alive and engaging on every level.

You can even stop by the gift shop and purchase items in matching scents!

ARTE MUSEUM is a refreshing and unique attraction that offers a break from the city’s typical hustle and bustle. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply curious about immersive experiences, this museum delivers something extraordinary.

From the starlit tranquility of Star Raindrops to the hands-on fun of Night Safari, and the sensory delights of every exhibit, it’s an adventure for the mind and soul. Don’t miss this must-see destination on your next trip to Las Vegas—you’ll leave feeling inspired and enchanted.

If you are looking for other things to do in Las Vegas check here.

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Beyond the casinos and nightlife, the Las Vegas area is home to incredible natural attractions that many visitors overlook. Places like Red Rock Canyon and nearby Mount Charleston offer a refreshing contrast to the desert heat and city energy, making them perfect for a scenic day trip.

Getting To Red Rock Canyon & What to Expect

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is about 30 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip. The highlight of the park is the 13-mile Scenic Drive, a one-way loop that takes you through some of the most breathtaking desert landscapes in Nevada. You’ll need to pay an entrance fee or use a National Park Pass to access the area. Timed entry reservations may be required during peak seasons, so it’s best to check their website and book in advance if needed.

Before starting your drive, consider stopping at the Visitor Center, located near the entrance. Here, you can learn about the geology, wildlife, and history of Red Rock Canyon. The center also has restrooms, a gift shop, and helpful rangers who can provide maps and advice on the best viewpoints.

The Scenic Drive Experience

The drive itself is well-paved and easy to navigate, with plenty of designated pull-off points where you can stop to take in the views, snap photos, and explore a bit on foot. Even without hiking, you can still experience the beauty of the red sandstone cliffs, Joshua trees, and dramatic desert scenery up close.

Some of our favorite stops included:

• Calico Hills – One of the first viewpoints on the drive, this area features striking red rock formations. We walked around for a bit and marveled at the contrast between the red sandstone and the deep blue sky.
• High Point Overlook – As the name suggests, this is one of the highest spots on the loop, offering panoramic views of the entire conservation area. A great place to just soak in the scenery!
• Pine Creek Canyon Overlook – A quieter stop with impressive canyon views and a different perspective of the landscape.

The area is full of trails to hike, plus you will notice bicyclists. There are even wild burros although we didn’t see any during our time.

Why It’s Worth the Visit

Even if you’re not planning to hike, Red Rock Canyon offers a fantastic way to experience Nevada’s natural beauty. The drive is relaxing, the scenery is unforgettable, and it’s a great way to take a break from the non-stop action of Las Vegas.

If you’re visiting Vegas and looking for an easy yet rewarding outdoor adventure, put Red Rock Canyon’s Scenic Drive on your list!

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Exploring the Neon Museum at night is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows you to step into the glitzy past of Las Vegas. The glowing signs, both restored and unrestored, provide a striking contrast against the night sky, immersing you in the glamour of yesteryear.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a design lover, or simply seeking a unique evening adventure, the Neon Museum offers a memorable escape into the artistic legacy of this iconic city.

Getting There & Safety Considerations

The Neon Museum is located at 770 Las Vegas Blvd. N, just a short drive from the Strip. You can reach it easily by rideshare, taxi, or car, with on-site parking available.

While the museum itself is a well-lit and secure space, the surrounding neighborhood isn’t the best, so it’s a good idea to remain aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting at night. If you’re taking a rideshare or taxi, consider waiting inside the museum entrance area until your ride arrives. There is security onsite as well.

Cost and Tickets

Admission for a night visit typically ranges from $28-$45 per person, depending on the type of tour you choose. Tickets must be booked in advance, as evening tours often sell out quickly.

Beyond the ticket cost, a visit to the Neon Museum helps support the significant expenses associated with preserving these historic signs. Restoration is a labor-intensive and costly process, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars per sign. Some of the largest restorations, such as the Hard Rock Café guitar or the iconic Moulin Rouge sign, have required hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding. Each restoration involves careful research, metalwork, neon tubing repairs, and electrical rewiring to ensure authenticity while making the signs safe for display. Our visits help fund this important work.

Sustainability Through Preservation

The Neon Museum is more than just a display of vintage signs—it plays a vital role in sustainable tourism. By rescuing, preserving, and restoring these neon relics, the museum prevents significant amounts of metal, glass, and other materials from ending up in landfills. Instead of being demolished or discarded, these signs are given a second life, allowing visitors to appreciate their craftsmanship and historical significance for years to come.

Restoration efforts prioritize original materials and techniques, ensuring that the artistry and integrity of each sign remain intact. Additionally, many of the functioning neon pieces use updated technology to reduce energy consumption while maintaining their classic glow.

Exploring the Neon Boneyard at Night

The museum’s main exhibition space, known as the Neon Boneyard, is an outdoor collection of iconic signs from legendary casinos, hotels, and businesses that once lit up the Las Vegas skyline. Some signs have been lovingly restored to their original brilliance, while others remain in their weathered state, offering a raw and beautiful glimpse into the city’s past. I notices plenty of more recent and easily recognizable signs. Others date back to the 1950’s. Either way, it is a fun bit of Las Vegas nostalgia.

One of the highlights of visiting at night is seeing how the illuminated signs transform the space, casting colorful glows across the desert landscape. Even the unrestored signs, though dark, add to the atmosphere with their striking designs and faded beauty.

Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff

Throughout the museum, you’ll find friendly and knowledgeable staff members eager to share the history behind the signs. Whether answering questions about a specific piece or offering insight into the restoration process, their passion for preserving Las Vegas history is evident. They help make the experience more engaging, ensuring visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s neon legacy.

Tips for an Amazing Visit

• Reserve Early: Night tours are popular, so book your tickets online in advance.
• Check the Weather: The museum is outdoors, so dress appropriately for evening temperatures.
• Be Mindful of the Neighborhood: Stay aware of your surroundings and consider taking a rideshare or taxi directly to and from the museum.
• Ask Questions: The staff is incredibly knowledgeable—don’t hesitate to chat with them about the history and restoration efforts.
• Capture the Glow: Photography is encouraged, so bring a camera or phone to snap some incredible nighttime shots.

A Glow You Won’t Forget

Visiting the Neon Museum at night is more than just a walk through vintage signs—it’s an experience that connects you to the history, artistry, and sustainability efforts behind Las Vegas’s glowing past. The dazzling lights, the stories behind each sign, and the dedication to preserving these artifacts make it a must-visit destination. If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful way to experience the city after dark, the Neon Museum is well worth your time.

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Wyoming is filled with sagebrush, mountains and cowboys. Not tropical plants like banana and papaya trees. Believe it or not, there is an opportunity to see this type of plant, as well as many other wonderful features, right in Wyoming! Better yet a visit to the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is free!

Getting There

Cheyenne is located in the southwest corner of Wyoming. While in the total opposite corner of super-popular tourist spots like Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks, there are still plenty of reasons you might be in the area.

Cheyenne is merely 100 miles north of Denver. It is also a crossroads city by major interstates I-25 and I-80. There are plenty of reasons you might be in the area, and we found the Cheyenne Botanical Garden to be a nice stop from the ordinary.

The Cheyenne Botanic Garden is located in Lions Park, which is right in the heart of Cheyenne. This area is most well-known for the nearby grandstands that host “The Daddy of Them All” – a.k.a. Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo.

If you’re like us and rodeo isn’t your thing, there’s still lots to do in this vicinity. The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is one thing you won’t want to miss whether you’re visiting the city or just passing through.

A Tropical Escape in Wyoming

At the center of the experience is the Shane Smith Grand Conservatory, a stunning structure housing a variety of tropical plants, including an impressive 34-foot palm tree. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world as you wander through the lush greenery and breathe in the fragrant air of the orchid collection​.

The Conservatory is perfect for relaxing while enjoying the surrounding beauty. The peaceful ambiance is enhanced by the sounds of flowing water from the water garden, with its tranquil pools, fountains, and water features.

The koi fish and turtles, Yertle and Squirtle, are also fun to watch as they enjoy their habitats.

Diverse Gardens and Landscapes

Beyond its tropical heart, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens feature a range of landscapes that highlight both local and exotic flora. Explore the Kabeiseman Succulent and Cactus Conservatory, a perfect spot for those who appreciate desert plants and xeriscaping.

The exterior grounds consist of many fun gardens and plazas which allow plenty of opportunity to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The adjacent children’s village area is also a beautiful spot filled with beautiful flowers, wading pools, and lots of great biodiversity.

More Than Just a Garden

The Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is also a symbol of innovation and sustainability. The gardens are renowned for their use of renewable energy and commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Over the years, they’ve been recognized with awards from U.S. presidents for their unique volunteer programs and dedication to sustainability​. They grow everything in their onsite greenhouse.

The space is also filled with incredible art by Wyoming artists, sculptures, water features, and even a labyrinth! This is also one of the spots in town to see one of Cheyenne’s Big Boots!

Whether you’re exploring the tropical conservatory, walking through the peaceful gardens, or learning about the gardens’ eco-friendly efforts, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens offer something for every traveler looking to connect with nature.

Plan Your Visit

With free admission and year-round access, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens is a destination not to miss while in Wyoming. Whether you want to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by greenery or dive into the world of tropical plants, this is a must-see stop on any trip through Cheyenne.

Hours: The gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk, with specific hours for the Conservatory​.

Admission is free and the grounds are pet friendly too!

Get your Cheyenne Hotel recommendations here!

Make the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens part of your next adventure and discover a tropical paradise in the heart of Wyoming!

Want to explore more botanic gardens? Check this post to learn more about the Desert Botanical Garden outside of Phoenix, AZ!

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Cheyenne has a unique way of showcasing its local culture and history through its “Big Boots.” These 8-foot-tall boots, each beautifully painted by local artists, are scattered throughout the city. The artwork highlights many aspects of Wyoming and Western life, from ranching and rodeo culture to the state’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re just passing through or planning to spend a few days here, hunting down these boots is a fun, free way to explore Cheyenne.

Getting There

I stopped at the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which serves as the city’s visitor center, and grabbed a map highlighting the locations of all 30 boots. The friendly staff was eager to help get me on my way. With the map in hand, I set out to see how many I could find.

The Hunt Begins: Exploring Cheyenne’s “Big Boots”

Starting at the Depot Museum, I followed the map and quickly spotted some of the boots in high-traffic areas directly around the Cheyenne Depot Plaza. Some are a little further away including great spots like the Botanic Gardens! Each one is brightly painted and showcases a piece of Wyoming’s identity, from its wide-open landscapes to its cowboy heritage. The boots are truly works of art, crafted by talented local artists who bring the state’s spirit to life.

Even though I didn’t find all 30 boots, I had a blast uncovering the ones I did. Some of the newer boots weren’t yet on the map, which added a surprise element to the hunt. Others offered audio guides, allowing you to hear directly from the artist. It’s like an outdoor art gallery and history lesson rolled into one!

While a few boots were inside businesses I chose not to enter, others were located on streets too busy to safely stop and admire up close. Despite these challenges, the adventure kept me engaged and made me appreciate how Cheyenne uses public art to share its story.

Why You Should Add the “Big Boots” to Your Cheyenne Itinerary

The “Big Boots” hunt is a budget-friendly (free), creative way to see Cheyenne. It’s perfect for visitors of all ages, and you don’t need to spend a dime. While some of the boots are located indoors or in tricky spots, the ones you do find will offer plenty of photo-worthy moments and stories to share.

The artwork on each boot celebrates the history and culture of Wyoming, especially the aspects of Western life like ranching, railroads, and rodeos. This scavenger hunt will lead you to some of Cheyenne’s best spots, including local landmarks, scenic areas, and hidden gems.

Plan Your Boot Hunt in Cheyenne

If you find yourself in Cheyenne, grab a map at the Cheyenne Depot Museum and set off on your own boot hunt! Whether you find 10 like me or all 30, it’s a fun, free way to explore the town, enjoy some incredible art by local artists, and learn about Cheyenne’s rich history and Wyoming’s Western spirit.

Don’t forget your camera—these boots make for great photo ops and memorable moments. Happy hunting!

The post Discovering Cheyenne, Wyoming’s “Big Boots” appeared first on By Land And Sea.

Miami Beach is a 9-mile stretch of soft sandy shoreline. The three primary areas are North Beach, Mid Beach and South Beach.

South Beach is not only renowned for its pristine sandy shores and vibrant night life, but also for its iconic lifeguard stands that adorn the coastline. These structures not only serve as a crucial safety measure but also add a unique charm to the beachscape. This is the colorful world of Miami Beach’s lifeguard stands in the South Beach area, each with its own personality.

These little stands are so full of color and uniquely designed. Coming from the Rocky Mountain region where everything tends to be similar in terms of structural design and earth toned hues, seeing these eclectic stands is always fun when we visit the area.

Origins and Evolution

The history of Miami Beach’s lifeguard stands dates back to the early 20th century when the city began to emerge as a popular resort destination. Initially, simple wooden structures provided lifeguards with a vantage point to monitor the beaches and ensure the safety of swimmers.

Art Deco Influence

During the 1920s and 1930s, Miami Beach experienced a boom in Art Deco architecture, characterized by bold geometric shapes, pastel colors, and decorative embellishments. Many of the stands erected during this period showcased Art Deco style. This is the perfect complement to the buildings along Ocean Drive.

If Art Deco is your thing, make sure to also stop by the Art Deco Museum, located nearby.

Preservation and Restoration

In recent decades, efforts have been made to preserve and restore Miami Beach’s historic lifeguard stands, ensuring that they remain integral components of the city’s coastal landscape. Many have been replaced in recent years.

If you aren’t sure if you should pick Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale Beach, read this post!

The Stands

These iconic lifeguard stands dot the beach from South Pointe Park to 86th Street. There are 36 in total! Many of the the stands are named after the street closest to their location. We usually spend our time directly in the South Beach area and love checking out the fun stands along that stretch of beach. They are also more heavily concentrated in this area. Here are some of our favorites!

Be mindful of these towers and your proximity to them when you find your spot to lounge on the beach. Many have the area directly in front roped off or marked with cones, allowing lifeguards quick access to the water in the event of an emergency.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that if you catch the shadows just right, the shade from these stands might give your feet a bit of relief from the hot sand as you make your way up and down the beach.

Without these, this long stretch of beach just wouldn’t be the same. They are more than just functional structures—they are tangible symbols of the city’s rich history, cultural diversity, and artistic expression. From their humble beginnings to their status as iconic landmarks of the city, these colorful beacons have witnessed the evolution of Miami Beach’s coastal culture and continue to captivate residents and visitors alike.

If you want to learn more about these, check the entire list here. As vibrant symbols of the city’s unique identity, Miami Beach’s lifeguard stands serve as reminders of its colorful past and vibrant spirit, inviting all who visit to experience the magic of this tropical paradise.

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