Jodi Grooms

Seattle had never crossed my mind as a travel destination, but when a friend asked if I wanted to go, I said yes—and I’m so glad I did. The city surprised me with its stunning natural backdrops, from the Olympic Mountains to Mt. Rainier looming in the distance. We explored the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls, feasted on incredible seafood, sipped excellent coffee throughout the trip, and discovered a charming coffee shop in Bellevue near where we stayed. It was the perfect girls’ weekend full of beautiful surprises.

For years, Myrtle Beach was our summer sanctuary where our group became family and my stepfather became my greatest teacher. On these shores, he patiently guided my golf swing during sun-soaked days and taught me the art of euchre during our evening gatherings. Though his voice is now just a memory carried on the ocean breeze, Myrtle Beach remains the place where his love feels most real. It’s where I learned that some places don’t just hold memories—they hold pieces of our hearts forever.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of those drives where you find yourself constantly saying “wow” out loud—every twist and turn reveals another jaw-dropping view of mountains rolling endlessly into the distance. You’ll slow down not just for the speed limit, but because you might catch a glimpse of deer wandering through the meadows or even a black bear doing its own thing in the wild. The hidden wineries tucked into these mountains feel like discovering secret gems, each one offering tastings with views that make the wine taste even better. What makes it truly special is how it forces you to stop and breathe—there are so many overlooks showcasing pure, untouched beauty that you can’t help but pull over and just soak it all in.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

St. Louis will surprise you with how much there is to discover beyond that iconic Gateway Arch. You can spend hours wandering through breathtaking churches like the stunning Cathedral Basilica with its incredible mosaics, then head over to the Anheuser-Busch brewery for a behind-the-scenes look at how America’s most famous beer is made. The city’s full of these unexpected gems—from the wild, artistic playground that is the City Museum to cozy neighborhoods where you can sample amazing barbecue and live jazz. Once you start exploring, you’ll realize St. Louis has this perfect mix of Midwestern charm and big-city culture that makes you want to keep coming back for more.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

I fell in love with wandering Charleston’s historic streets, where every corner revealed stunning architecture and beautiful churches that took my breath away. The harbor cruise was a highlight of my trip, taking me out to Fort Sumter—where the Civil War began—while also giving me incredible views of the elegant Southern-style homes lining the waterfront. Magnolia Gardens was absolutely magical—the landscapes were so breathtaking that I found myself completely immersed in the natural beauty and tranquility. Charleston captured my heart with its perfect blend of rich history, architectural charm, and stunning scenery that made every moment feel special.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Nashville isn’t just a destination—it’s a city that wraps you in Southern hospitality and feeds your soul through every experience, from world-class museums and rich history to a food scene that’ll make you want to move there permanently. As a woman, I feel completely safe exploring everything from the honky-tonks on Broadway to hidden local gems, surrounded by genuinely friendly people who make you feel like family. Live music pulses through the city from noon until the early hours, showcasing not just country but also blues, rock, indie, and everything in between, creating a soundtrack that matches whatever mood strikes you. Between the vibrant arts scene, fascinating historical sites, incredible entertainment, and that unmistakable local vibe, Nashville has this magical way of making you feel alive and inspired. It’s a place that doesn’t just entertain you—it transforms you.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

This Royal Caribbean cruise to the Bahamas, St. Thomas (with a ferry excursion to St. John), and St. Martin delivered an incredible week of diverse experiences both onboard and ashore. The ship itself proved to be a destination in its own right, offering endless entertainment options including rock climbing walls, spectacular aqua shows, and vibrant nightlife that kept every moment engaging. One of the cruise’s greatest strengths was its variety—there truly was something for everyone, ensuring that boredom was never an issue. The extensive dining options provided plenty of culinary variety throughout the week, while the onboard activities catered to all interests and energy levels. The multi-destination format was particularly appealing, offering a wonderful opportunity to sample the unique character and attractions of each Caribbean island without the hassle of multiple flights or hotel changes. From the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas to the duty-free shopping and scenic beauty of St. Thomas/St. John, and the dual French-Dutch culture of St. Martin, each port provided its own distinct flavor and memorable experiences. Overall, this cruise successfully combined the convenience of unpacking once with the excitement of exploring multiple destinations, creating a well-rounded vacation experience that would definitely warrant a return trip.

Memphis delivered an unforgettable blend of music history, Southern charm, and unexpected surprises. The journey began at Graceland, where Elvis Presley’s legendary home offered an intimate glimpse into the King’s life, while Beale Street showcased the city’s musical soul with blues legends and vibrant nightlife. The whimsical daily duck march at the elegant Peabody Hotel and the massive Bass Pro Shops Pyramid—a transformed sports arena turned retail wonderland—proved that Memphis perfectly balances iconic experiences with delightfully quirky attractions. From paying respects to the King to watching ducks waddle down red carpets, Memphis created memories that were both deeply meaningful and memorably fun.

The views at Niagara Falls are nothing short of amazing, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful displays. There’s truth to the saying that the Canadian side provides the better viewing experience, with unobstructed panoramas of all three falls. This breathtaking natural wonder is an absolute must-see destination that will leave you speechless. The sheer force and beauty of the cascading water creates an unforgettable experience.

Stepping into Biltmore Estate feels like discovering a time machine to an era of unimaginable luxury and innovation. I was amazed by the sheer ingenuity of the 1890s—here was a home with an indoor bowling alley, a heated indoor swimming pool, elevators, and running water throughout, all cutting-edge technology for its time. The architecture absolutely took my breath away with its French Renaissance grandeur, intricate stone carvings, and soaring ceilings that you simply don’t see in modern construction. For me, Biltmore represents the pinnacle of what was possible when vision, craftsmanship, and resources came together during America’s Gilded Age, creating something truly extraordinary that still feels magical more than a century later.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

As someone who lives in the Dallas area, I’ve discovered that some of the best adventures are right in my backyard. Through exploring nearby destinations within driving distance, I’ve uncovered hidden gems and authentic experiences that many visitors miss. This itinerary reflects my personal journey of discovery, showcasing the diverse day trips and local treasures that make the Dallas region special beyond the typical downtown attractions.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​