I visited on a rainy weekend in April, flying in from Dallas after work on a Friday night and staying until Sunday. By the time I landed at Philadelphia International Airport, it was around 11:30 p.m., and by the time I made it to the rideshare pickup area, it was basically midnight. I was tired, it was cold, the rain was starting, and I was immediately reminded that late-night arrivals can make even a good city feel rough at first.

I chose Philadelphia because I wanted to start checking off more of the East Coast on my 50-state journey. I had heard good things about the city, especially that it was a more manageable East Coast urban destination than New York. I thought it might be a better fit for someone like me who likes people, wants to take things slowly, and usually connects more with places that feel a little more relaxed. I also wanted to visit because of the history. With America approaching its 250th birthday, Philadelphia felt like one of those cities I needed to see for myself.

And, of course, I wanted to try one of Hilton’s best properties in Philadelphia: The Inn at Penn.

A Rough Late-Night Arrival in Philadelphia

My first impression of Philadelphia was honestly tough.

I flew Frontier into PHL, and the airport felt disorienting to me, especially trying to get from the gate to the Uber and taxi pickup area downstairs. To be fair, it was basically midnight, I was exhausted, and I was arriving after a full workday and a flight from Dallas. But even with that in mind, the airport felt like it needed a refresh. The internet was also basically inoperable the entire time I passed through, which made something as simple as downloading movies more of a project than it should have been.

By the time I got outside, it was cold, rainy, and not exactly the kind of welcome that makes you fall in love with a place immediately.

That was my first real reminder on this trip that East Coast cities move differently. They feel older, faster, denser, and a little more intense. Coming from recent trips out West and in the Southwest, that was a major shift.

Staying at The Inn at Penn

I stayed at The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania in University City.

As many of you know, I am a Hilton loyalist, and I was not going to pass up the chance to stay at one of Hilton’s stronger Philadelphia properties. The hotel seemed to be going through some kind of lobby renovation while I was there, but based on the sketches of what it should look like when completed, I think it will turn out great.

The check-in process was fine, especially considering how late I arrived, but the front desk service left a lot to be desired. It was not a very warm welcome. Barely a hello, honestly. After a long travel day, that stood out.

Once I got past that, though, the actual stay was much better. The rooms were comfortable and had the more polished feel you would expect from a four-star Hilton property. I ordered room service numerous times, and that was solid. The bed was comfortable, the room felt upscale, and the location was excellent if you want to be near Penn, Drexel, nearby restaurants, and University City.

That said, if you are visiting Philadelphia and want to be right in the middle of the city’s historic core or closer to the hustle and bustle of Center City or Old City, I probably would not stay here. The Inn at Penn is a great fit if you want a quieter University City base, especially if you have business around Penn or just want a more campus-centered stay.

For this trip, it worked well for me. After checking in, I crashed. I turned on The Office, which has basically become my favorite hotel comfort show, and I was knocked out.

A Rainy Saturday Detour to Wilmington, Delaware

The next morning, I woke up and decided to take advantage of how close I was to Delaware.

Wilmington is not far from Philadelphia, and since I had never been to Delaware before, I figured I might as well turn the trip into a two-state weekend. That is one of the best parts of traveling in the Northeast. States are much closer together than they are in Texas or out West, so you can sometimes check off more than one place without making the trip feel impossible.

I drove down to Wilmington and headed to Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront, a restaurant I had already heard about several times in the short amount of time I had been in the area. It had also come up in my Google searches for restaurants near Philadelphia and Wilmington, and even my Uber driver on the way there acted like I had made the right choice. He was right.

I was seated quickly and started with some kind of dip served with saltine crackers. I still do not know exactly what that dip was, but whatever it was, it was delicious. For my main meal, I ordered the crab cakes and fries, and that ended up being an amazing choice.

The food was great, but the setting helped too. Big Fish Grill sits along the Wilmington Riverfront, and even on a rainy weekend, the views of the Christina River gave the meal a nice sense of place. After lunch, I walked around the riverfront, took in the views, and stopped into Riverfront Market for coffee before heading back toward Philadelphia

Wilmington was not the main point of the trip, but I am glad I made the detour. It gave me a chance to check off Delaware, eat a great meal, and see a small piece of a city I probably would not have visited on its own right away.

Back to Philadelphia for the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

After Wilmington, I headed back to Philadelphia for the historic part of the trip.

First up was the Liberty Bell. I was expecting a long line, but for my April weekend visit, it was not bad at all. That was a relief because I had heard from others that the lines can get much longer during peak summer travel, especially around the Fourth of July.

Seeing the Liberty Bell in person is one of those things that feels almost required if you are visiting Philadelphia for the first time. It is not necessarily something that takes hours, but it is absolutely worth doing. The bell has become one of the country’s most famous symbols of liberty, and seeing it in the city where so much of America’s founding history happened made the stop feel meaningful.

After that, I went over to Independence Hall for my National Park Service ranger-led tour.

This was the highlight of the Philadelphia part of the trip.

Independence Hall is one of the most important historic buildings in the country. It is where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed, and standing inside a place that central to American history felt especially important with the country approaching its 250th birthday.

The ranger tour was great. It gave the building context and made the experience feel more alive than just walking through a historic site on your own. For any first-time visit to Philadelphia, I would say the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are must-dos.

Even if you are only in the city for a short weekend, make time for them.

What Surprised Me About Philadelphia

Philadelphia was not exactly what I expected.

I thought it might feel like a more manageable East Coast city compared to New York, and in some ways, it probably is. But it still felt fast, older, grittier, and less relaxed than I expected. The people were not as outwardly friendly as what I experienced in places like Atlanta, Denver, Tucson, or even some of the other cities I have visited recently.

That does not mean people were rude everywhere or that the trip was bad. It just felt different.

Traveling across the country has made me realize how much regional culture matters. Cities do not just look different. They move differently. They talk differently. They treat strangers differently. They carry different energy.

Philadelphia had history, food, density, and importance. But it also reminded me that I personally connect more with the West and especially the Southwest. I like the slower pace, the outdoor access, the desert scenery, the mountains, and the way those places give me room to breathe.

That realization may have been one of the biggest takeaways from the trip.

What I’d Recommend for a Rainy Weekend in Philadelphia

If you are visiting Philadelphia on a rainy weekend, I would build the trip around history, food, and a comfortable hotel.

The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are absolutely worth doing, especially for a first visit. The Liberty Bell is free and does not require tickets, but you still have to go through security. For Independence Hall, check the ticket situation ahead of time because tours can require timed tickets depending on the season

I would also think carefully about where you stay. The Inn at Penn was a strong hotel stay for me because I like Hilton properties, I wanted to try it, and I did not mind being based in University City. But if your main goal is walking to the historic sites, Old City or Center City would probably be more convenient.

And if you have time, consider a quick Delaware side trip. Wilmington was easy to reach, Big Fish Grill was excellent, and the Riverfront was a nice change of pace from rainy Philadelphia.

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia was not my easiest trip, and it was not exactly what I expected. The rainy weather, late arrival, rough airport experience, and faster East Coast energy made the first impression tough.

But I am still glad I went.

The trip gave me a chance to start checking off more of the East Coast, visit one of the most important historic cities in America, see the Liberty Bell, tour Independence Hall, stay at The Inn at Penn, and make a spontaneous Delaware detour for some excellent crab cakes along the Wilmington Riverfront.

That is the thing about travel. Not every city has to become your favorite for the trip to be worth it. Sometimes a place teaches you what you like, what you do not like, and what kind of traveler you are becoming.

Philadelphia reminded me that I love history, but it also confirmed that I am drawn more and more to places with outdoor access, slower moments, and landscapes that let me breathe.

Would I go back to Philadelphia? Yes, I would. I think the city deserves another visit with better weather, more time, and maybe a stay closer to the historic core.

But even on a rainy weekend, Philadelphia still gave me a trip worth writing about.

If you enjoy honest travel stories, quick weekend guides, and following my journey to all 50 states, subscribe to Mike On The Move and follow along

24/50 States Complete! 🇺🇸

This was my first national park hike, and I was excited. I had been wanting to see the giant saguaros in person for a while, and once I finally got to Tucson, I was ready to get out there. My flight from Dallas had been delayed because of heavy thunderstorms, so by the time I landed, checked into my hotel, and made my way to Saguaro National Park, I was hiking closer to the middle of the day. Not ideal.

But honestly, even with the heat, this hike ended up being one of my favorite travel experiences so far.

Where I Hiked in Saguaro National Park

I visited Saguaro National Park West, also known as the Tucson Mountain District. Saguaro National Park is split into two districts, one on the east side of Tucson and one on the west side. For this trip, I chose the west side because I wanted that classic Sonoran Desert scenery: giant saguaros, mountain views, cactus-covered hills, and the kind of Arizona landscape you picture before you even get there.

I started at the King Canyon Trailhead near the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum area and hiked a route connecting King Canyon, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine Loop. According to AllTrails, the route came out to about 2.8 miles with 423 feet of elevation gain.

AllTrails came in clutch on this hike, and I would absolutely recommend downloading your maps ahead of time. I lost signal several times while I was out there, and when you are hiking in the desert, you do not want to be guessing where to go.

My First National Park Hike

This hike felt bigger to me because it was my first time hiking inside a national park.

I had hiked before, including Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, but Saguaro felt like another level. My Albuquerque hike had around 100 feet of elevation gain on a shorter trail. This one was longer, hotter, more open, and more immersive.

The trail itself was not extremely difficult. Honestly, I thought it was pretty easy overall. But the setting made it memorable. There is something different about walking through the Sonoran Desert surrounded by giant saguaros, mountains, and wide-open silence.

The saguaros were massive. Some of them looked the size of houses. Seeing them online is one thing, but standing next to them in person is completely different. They give the desert character. They make the landscape feel alive.

That was the part that really stuck with me.

The Quiet Was the Best Part

Once I got past the trailhead, the hike was incredibly quiet.

There were a few people near the parking lot when I started, but once I was actually on the trail, it felt like I had the desert almost completely to myself. That gave me time to think, reflect, be religious, and connect with myself in a way that is hard to do when you are constantly moving from one thing to the next.

That is one of the reasons I’m starting to love hiking so much.

It is not just exercise. It is not just scenery. It is walking long enough to realize where you are.

And in Saguaro National Park, I really realized where I was.

I was in southern Arizona, surrounded by giant saguaros, desert mountains, bright sun, lizards, bugs, and some of the most unique scenery I have seen on this journey so far.

That was the moment I understood why people love national parks.

Hiking in 90-Degree Heat

Now for the part I learned the hard way…

Because of my delayed flight, I ended up hiking in the middle of the day, basically during the heat of the day. Tucson was close to 90 degrees, and while the weather looked beautiful, hiking in direct desert sun is different.

The desert does not play around.

I did bring plenty of water, which was the smartest thing I did. For Saguaro National Park, the National Park Service recommends drinking about 1 quart of water per hour of hiking on hot, dry days, and their hiking checklist recommends 1 gallon per person for six hours of summer hiking because there is no water available along most trails.

For a shorter hike like mine, I would still bring at least 2 liters of water minimum, and honestly closer to 3 liters if you are hiking in the heat, hiking midday, or know you drink a lot. I’d rather carry extra water than be out there wishing I had more.

What I did not bring was sunscreen.

Bad idea.

I got cooked to a crisp.

I also forgot bug spray, which was another mistake. I saw a Desert Spiny Lizard, which was cool, but there were also plenty of bugs on the trail. If I could do it again, I would have sunscreen, bug spray, and an earlier start time.

I’d also treat a desert hike like this as something you prepare for, even if the mileage looks easy on paper. Bring a hat, sunglasses, salty snacks or electrolytes, a small first-aid kit, and a portable charger. An emergency blanket is not a bad idea either because it weighs almost nothing and can help with sun exposure, shock, or an unexpected delay.

When to Hike Saguaro National Park

If you are planning to hike Saguaro National Park, I would aim for early morning or later afternoon, especially during warmer months.

I hiked in the middle of the day because that is how my travel schedule worked out, but I would not recommend that timing if you have a choice. Early morning would probably be the best option. The temperatures are cooler, the light is better, and you can enjoy the desert before the sun gets too intense.

Late afternoon could also be a great time, especially if you want that golden light on the saguaros and mountains.

The main thing is to respect the environment. This is not a shaded city park. It is desert hiking. Bring water, use sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, download your maps, and give yourself enough time so you are not rushing.

What I’d Recommend for Hiking Saguaro National Park

If you are visiting Saguaro National Park for the first time, I would 100% recommend the King Canyon, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine Loop route.

It gave me exactly what I was hoping for: giant saguaros, desert views, Tucson Mountain scenery, quiet trails, and that classic southern Arizona landscape. It was easy enough to feel manageable, but still rewarding enough to feel like a real hike.

My biggest advice is simple: go prepared. Download your maps ahead of time, bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, bring bug spray, and avoid hiking in the middle of the day if you can. I learned some of that the hard way.

What made this hike special for me was not just the scenery, though. It was the quiet. I had time to think, reflect, be religious, and really take in where I was. That is becoming one of the biggest reasons I love hiking.

Hiking is not just about getting steps in or reaching a viewpoint. For me, it is walking long enough to realize where you are.

My Final Thoughts

Saguaro National Park was absolutely worth visiting.

This was my first national park hike, and it ended up being one of my favorite moments of the entire 50-state journey so far. The trail itself was not overly difficult, but the experience stayed with me because of the landscape: the giant saguaros, the desert heat, the mountains, and the stillness.

It also confirmed something I had already been feeling. National parks, monuments, hiking, and outdoor places are going to be a much bigger part of this blog moving forward.

I came to Arizona wanting desert scenery and a good hike. I got both, but I also got one of those travel moments where you stop, look around, and realize exactly why you’re doing this.

And in Saguaro National Park, I was exactly where I wanted to be.

Currently: 23 out of 50 states complete. 🇺🇸

If you enjoy honest travel stories, hiking guides, and following the journey toward all 50 states, subscribe to Mike On The Move and follow along.

I do not say that lightly either. I have had some great trips already, from Denver to Albuquerque to Atlanta, but Tucson hit differently. The desert scenery, the hiking, the food, the people, and the overall vibe all came together in a way that made this trip feel special.

I went to Tucson in April to check off Arizona, hike Saguaro National Park, and spend some time in the American Southwest. I already knew I loved desert landscapes, but this trip made that even clearer.

Tucson was the kind of place that reminded me why I started traveling more in the first place.

Getting to Tucson After a Rough Start

The trip started with a delay in Dallas because of heavy thunderstorms.

That kind of travel day can throw everything off, especially when you are trying to make the most of a quick Saturday-to-Sunday trip. But once I finally landed in Tucson, the whole mood changed. Dallas had storms. Tucson had sunshine.

It was almost 90 degrees when I arrived, hotter than it was back home, and honestly, after sitting through delays, it felt like a relief to step into warm desert weather.

Tucson International Airport made a strong first impression too. It is not the biggest airport, but I liked that it actually felt local. There were local restaurants, artwork, and Southwestern touches throughout the concourse. There was even an El Charro location near my gate, which felt like a preview of what the rest of the trip would be

I always appreciate when an airport gives you some sense of place instead of feeling like it could be anywhere.

Tucson did that immediately.

Where I Stayed: Graduate Tucson Near the University of Arizona

After arriving, I headed straight to my hotel: Graduate Tucson near the University of Arizona.

This ended up being one of the best choices I made on the entire trip.

The hotel is basically right across from the University of Arizona campus, and the location was excellent. I was able to walk around campus, find stores nearby for things I forgot to pack, grab food, and still feel like I was in the center of everything.

The area felt active, safe, and easy to enjoy. There were students, visitors, restaurants, shops, and plenty of people walking around.

Graduate Hotels are now part of Hilton’s brand portfolio after Hilton announced the acquisition of the Graduate brand in 2024, and as someone who is a Hilton loyalist and Diamond member, I really like what Graduate brings to the lineup. They are usually located in college towns and designed around the personality of the university and local community.

Graduate Tucson fit that perfectly.

The room had that chic, college-dorm-inspired feel, but in a way that actually worked. It felt stylish without being stiff. The customer service could not have been better. And the rooftop bar and pool were easily one of my favorite parts of the stay

After hiking later that day, coming back to that rooftop pool was exactly what I needed.

I could honestly write a separate post just on Graduate Tucson. It was that good.

Why I Came to Tucson

The main reason I chose Tucson was Saguaro National Park.

I was excited to see the giant saguaros in person, and this was also going to be my first time hiking inside a national park. That made the trip feel bigger than just checking Arizona off my list

I have been realizing more and more that hiking is becoming a major part of how I travel. I do not just want to visit a city and stay downtown the whole time. I want to get outside, see the landscape, and experience what makes that place physically different from anywhere else.

For Tucson, that meant desert mountains, giant saguaros, warm weather, and hiking trails.

That is exactly what I got.

Saguaro National Park Was the Moment Everything Clicked

After dropping my bags at the hotel, I made my way to Saguaro National Park.

I visited the Tucson Mountain District, also known as Saguaro West. The park has two separate districts, one on the west side of Tucson and one on the east side, and both protect Sonoran Desert landscapes and the giant saguaro cactus. The National Park Service describes the saguaro as the universal symbol of the American West, and Tucson is home to some of the largest cacti in the country

Saguaro was first protected as a national monument in 1933 and later became a national park in 1994. The park preserves a landscape that is not just scenic, but deeply tied to the Sonoran Desert and the identity of southern Arizona.

Knowing that background made the hike feel even more meaningful.

I hiked King Canyon, Sendero Esperanza, and Gould Mine Loop. According to AllTrails, the route came out to about 2.8 miles with 423 feet of elevation gain. AllTrails definitely came in clutch on this trip, I will note if you’re using your phone for navigation to be sure to download all maps and info you need as cell service is spotty.

This hike was a step up from my Albuquerque hike at Petroglyph National Monument, where I had about 100 feet of elevation gain on a shorter trail. Tucson felt like the next level for me. And honestly, it was incredible.

The saguaros were massive. Some of them looked the size of houses. Seeing them online is one thing, but walking among them in person is completely different. They make the landscape feel alive in a way that is hard to explain until you are actually standing there

It was quiet, peaceful, and wide open. I had time to think, reflect, be religious, and just take in where I was.

That is what hiking is about for me.

There was a point on the trail where I looked around and realized I was surrounded by giant saguaros, desert mountains, and total Southwestern scenery. That was the moment Tucson became my favorite trip so far. It made me realize I want national parks and monuments to become a bigger part of this blog.

When to Hike Saguaro National Park

Because my flight was delayed, I ended up hiking closer to the middle of the day.

That is not necessarily what I would recommend for everyone, especially in the desert. Tucson was pushing close to 90 degrees, and when you are hiking in direct sun, you need to take that seriously (really…bring lots and lots of water).

The weather was beautiful, but the desert does not play around.

If you are planning to hike Saguaro National Park, bring water, wear sunscreen, wear bug spray, and please pay attention to the time of day. Early morning or later afternoon would probably be more comfortable, especially if you are visiting when temperatures are high. Also let people know where you are, where you’re hiking, and when you expect to be back.

That said, even with the heat, I would do it again. The hike was the highlight of the trip and one of the best things I have done on the entire 50-state journey.

Tucson Felt Like the Arizona City I Wanted for Hiking

One thing I kept thinking during this trip was that Tucson felt like the Arizona city I wanted for hiking.

Phoenix has its own scenery and outdoor options, but for what I was looking for, Tucson felt like the better fit. Saguaro National Park is right there, the mountains frame the city, and the desert landscape feels central to the entire experience.

Tucson did not feel like a city where nature was far away. It felt like nature was part of the city’s identity. That is what made it work so well for me.

Dinner at El Charro Cafe

After hiking Saguaro, I went to El Charro Cafe in downtown Tucson for Sonoran food.

El Charro is a Tucson institution. It was founded in 1922 and is widely known as one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in the United States continuously operated by the same family. The restaurant is also closely tied to Tucson’s food history and Sonoran-style cuisine.

I ordered the famous carne seca in a burrito with rice and beans.

Carne seca is sun dried beef, and at El Charro, it is one of the dishes the restaurant is especially known for. It has a very specific texture and flavor, and I think it is one of those things you either really love or you do not. They actually hang the beef in cages in the desert air above the restaurant. I thought it was pretty good.

The waiter told our table it would melt in your mouth, and honestly, it did not quite do that for me. I would not want to eat carne seca by itself, but having it in a burrito with everything else worked well.

The real star of the meal, though, was dessert. I had the apple pie chimichangas, and those were 100 out of 10. The hype is absolutely real on those.

If you go to El Charro, I would definitely recommend getting there before the dinner rush. When I left, the wait was already close to an hour. That tells you something.

The University of Arizona and Tucson’s Vibe

The next morning, I took an early walk around the University of Arizona campus. Since the hotel is right by campus, it was easy to explore without needing to plan much. It was April and close to graduation season, so people were out taking senior pictures and enjoying the morning.

I loved the energy of the area.

It gave Tucson a college-town feel, but not in a way that took away from the city’s Southwestern identity. It felt active, youthful, relaxed, and still very much like southern Arizona. Another reason this trip stood out was the people.

I am a people person, so the way a city treats you matters to me. Tucson was one of the friendlier places I have visited so far. Compared to Albuquerque, Tucson was much friendlier to me. Compared to Denver, I would say Tucson was about the same, maybe even a little friendlier.

People went out of their way to be kind, whether it was fellow hikers, hotel employees, Uber drivers, or people I met along the way. That matters because travel is not just about places. It is also about how those places make you feel.

Tucson made me feel welcomed.

Final Thoughts and What I’d Recommend in Tucson

Tucson beat Denver and Albuquerque for me because it combined almost everything I love about travel: great hiking, desert scenery, memorable food, a strong hotel stay, friendly people, and that bigger feeling of discovering a place that fits your travel style.

If you are visiting Tucson, you cannot miss Saguaro National Park. I was honestly surprised to hear that some people live in Tucson and have never been. I get that locals sometimes overlook what is nearby, but Saguaro is too special to skip.

I would also recommend El Charro Cafe, especially if you want a Tucson institution and a real Sonoran food experience. The carne seca is worth trying, but the apple pie chimichangas were the highlight for me.

And if you are looking for a hotel near the University of Arizona, Graduate Tucson is easily one of my favorite hotel stays so far. The location, rooftop pool, campus access, and overall vibe made it a major part of why the trip worked so well.

I packed Tucson into a quick Saturday-to-Sunday trip, but I would recommend at least a full weekend if you can. There is enough here to justify more time, especially if you want to hike more of Saguaro National Park, try more restaurants, and explore more of the city.

This was one of those trips where I would do the itinerary all over again exactly how I did it. The only thing I would change is adding more time.

Saguaro National Park was the highlight, but Tucson as a whole worked for me. It gave me my first national park hike, one of my favorite hotel stays, a strong food experience, and the kind of peaceful outdoor moment that makes travel feel worth it.

Some trips are good because they are fun. Others are good because they show you something about yourself. Tucson did both.

Follow My Journey!

I’m currently 23 states into my goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states, documenting the real experience along the way—food, cities, hikes, hidden gems, and what’s actually worth your time.

Subscribe for my US Travel Guides just like these in your inbox! 🇺🇸

But I’m going to be honest: my first impression of the city itself was not amazing.

There were parts of Albuquerque, especially around my hotel, that had some serious urban decay. That does not mean the entire city felt that way, but it was noticeable enough that it shaped my first impression. Albuquerque was quirky, scenic, rough around the edges, and beautiful all at the same time.

That is what made this trip interesting.

It was not a perfect city for me, but it gave me exactly what I came for: desert landscapes, a peaceful hike, historic Old Town, and one of the best burritos I’ve had in years.

First Impression of Albuquerque

I flew into Albuquerque on American and got upgraded to first class, which was a nice way to start the trip.

The Albuquerque International Sunport ended up being one of the more unique airports I’ve visited. It is easy to get in and out of, it has one main terminal, and from inside the airport you can see the Sandia Mountains through the windows. It immediately gives you that desert Pueblo-style feel, and it felt different from any other city I had visited on this journey.

That part of Albuquerque impressed me right away.

The city itself was more complicated.

Once I got out into the urban areas, especially near where I stayed, Albuquerque felt more underwhelming at first. There were parts that looked worn down, and it did not have the same welcoming feeling I got in places like Atlanta or Denver.

Still, the scenery was there immediately. The Sandia Mountains tower over the city, and the desert landscape gives Albuquerque a look and feel that is hard to confuse with anywhere else.

Where I Stayed in Albuquerque

I stayed at a SpringHill Suites off Central Avenue.

The hotel itself was fairly new, but the area around it was not what I expected based on how it looked online. There was homelessness nearby, a sketchy motel down the street, and the general area did not feel like somewhere I would recommend to a first-time visitor.

This is one of those travel lessons where the hotel can be fine, but the surrounding area matters just as much.

If I were visiting Albuquerque again, I would be more careful about where I stayed. I would not recommend staying along that stretch of Central Avenue if it is your first time in the city.

And yes, this is one of those moments where my Hilton loyalty started making even more sense to me, but that is a story for another post.

Frontier Restaurant Was a Letdown

After getting settled into the hotel, I went to Frontier Restaurant for lunch.

Frontier is one of the most well-known restaurants in Albuquerque, so I had pretty high hopes going in. Unfortunately, it did not live up to the hype for me.

I ordered the green chile omelet and a Frontier sweet roll. The omelet was disappointing, and the sweet roll honestly tasted like something that had been warmed up in a microwave. I know that’s blunt, but that was my honest reaction.

The layout also made the experience more frustrating. Even though I was by myself and it was only mid-morning, I had a hard time finding seating.

I can understand why Frontier has a reputation. It has that college-town, casual, inexpensive, local institution kind of feel. If that is your thing, maybe you would enjoy it more than I did.

But for me, it was not memorable in the way I hoped it would be.

At that point, I was almost ready to write off Albuquerque’s food scene.

Thankfully, Old Town changed that later.

Petroglyph National Monument Was the Highlight

After Frontier, I headed to Petroglyph National Monument, and this is where Albuquerque really started to shine for me.

Petroglyph National Monument protects one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in North America, with more than 25,000 images carved into volcanic rocks along Albuquerque’s West Mesa escarpment. The monument was established in 1990 and is managed by the National Park Service and the City of Albuquerque Open Space Division.

That context matters because this is not just a place with pretty views. It is a historic and culturally significant landscape. The petroglyphs were carved into dark volcanic boulders, and many are connected to the ancestors of modern Pueblo people and other Native communities in the region.

I hiked the Boca Negra Canyon area, specifically the Macaw Trail and Mesa Point Trail

This was my first major hike with an elevation gain of around 100 feet, and honestly, it was a turning point for me. This was the moment where I really started to realize that I love national parks, national monuments, and hiking.

The hike was not just about checking off a place. It was peaceful. I was able to reflect, clear my head, and just be outside with the landscape.

The views were incredible.

From Mesa Point, you get these wide-open views of Albuquerque, the desert, and the Sandia Mountains rising over the city. It gave me that exact Southwest feeling I came for. The city may have underwhelmed me at first, but Petroglyph National Monument reminded me why I wanted to visit New Mexico in the first place.

This was easily the highlight of the trip.

Old Town Albuquerque Turned the Trip Around

Later that evening, I headed to Old Town Albuquerque.

Old Town was one of the better parts of the trip. It had that historic Southwest feel, with adobe-style buildings, quiet streets, shops, restaurants, and the central plaza area.

One thing that surprised me was how many restaurants and businesses were closed on Valentine’s Day evening. For a tourism-heavy area, I expected more places to be open later, especially on a night when people would be out. That part was strange.

But overall, Old Town gave me more of what I was hoping to feel in Albuquerque.

I visited San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church, one of the most important historic landmarks in Old Town. The original parish dates back to Albuquerque’s founding era in 1706, and the present church building was constructed in 1793 after the earlier church collapsed. Today, it remains one of the defining landmarks of Old Town Albuquerque.

Seeing a place like that gave Old Town more depth. It was not just a tourist area. There was real history there.

Church Street Cafe Saved Albuquerque’s Food Scene for Me

After walking around Old Town, I found Church Street Cafe just a block away from San Felipe de Neri.

This is where the Albuquerque food scene completely turned around for me.

I had one of the best burritos I’ve had in years, topped with authentic New Mexican red and green chile, served with rice and beans. After the letdown at Frontier Restaurant earlier in the day, this was exactly the kind of meal I was hoping for in New Mexico.

The service was outstanding, and there was a live mariachi band playing while everyone was eating. That made the whole experience feel even more memorable.

I also had sopapillas, which were good too.

Church Street Cafe had the atmosphere, the food, the service, and the location. It felt like the kind of restaurant you hope to stumble into when you are traveling.

If someone asked me where to eat in Albuquerque based on my trip, Church Street Cafe would be my first recommendation.

For me, it was a must-visit.

What Albuquerque Felt Like

Albuquerque was not the friendliest city I have visited so far.

On the trails, people were lovely. But outside of that, locals did not really go out of their way to be warm or welcoming in the way I experienced in Atlanta or Denver.

That does not mean people were rude. It just did not have the same immediate friendliness.

The city itself felt very Southwestern, but also rough around the edges. There were beautiful parts, historic parts, quirky parts, and parts that honestly made me question where I was staying.

That is the truth of the trip.

Albuquerque was not polished. It was not one of those cities that immediately won me over from the street level. But when I got out into the landscape, hiked at Petroglyph National Monument, saw the Sandia Mountains, and spent time in Old Town, I started to understand what makes it special.

This city is at its best when you lean into the desert, the history, the food, and the scenery.

Would I Go Back to Albuquerque?

Overall, I enjoyed my time in Albuquerque because I got what I came for.

I wanted scenery, hiking, petroglyphs, mountains, and a taste of New Mexico. Albuquerque delivered on that

.

Would I rush back immediately? Probably not.

It would likely be some time before I returned, but I would love to come back for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. That feels like the kind of event that could show the city in a completely different way.

I also think Albuquerque could be better as part of a bigger New Mexico trip, maybe combined with Santa Fe, more hiking, or more time exploring the Sandia Mountains.

Final Thoughts on Albuquerque

Albuquerque is not for everyone, but it is definitely interesting.

It is a city with desert beauty, historic roots, strong New Mexican food, and some rough edges. My first impression was honestly underwhelming, but the trip improved the more I got outside and the more I leaned into what makes New Mexico different.

Petroglyph National Monument was peaceful and memorable. Old Town gave the city more charm and history. Church Street Cafe saved the food scene for me. The Sandia Mountains made the whole city feel more dramatic.

This trip also helped me realize something important about how I travel.

I love being outside. I love hiking. I love national parks and monuments. I love places where the landscape feels like part of the story.

And Albuquerque gave me that.

It may not have been my favorite city overall, but it deepened my love for the American Southwest.

And if you follow Mike On The Move long enough, you are definitely going to see more of that.

Currently: 23 out of 50 states complete. 🇺🇸

Follow My Journey!

I’m currently 23 states into my goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states, documenting the real experience along the way—food, cities, hikes, hidden gems, and what’s actually worth your time.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @itsmikeonthemove

I went in with an open mind. I did not have some major preconceived idea of what Denver was supposed to be. I just knew it was the Mile High City, I knew people talked about the altitude, and I knew Colorado was known for the outdoors.

As someone who loves hiking and tries to build most of my trips around being outside, Denver felt like a natural fit.

And after just one short weekend, I can say this: Denver is absolutely worth visiting, but I left wishing I had given myself more time.

First Impression of Denver

I flew into Denver International Airport on Frontier, and honestly, I had a great experience.

I know the internet loves to joke about Denver’s airport, especially the long walks, trains, and going down into what people call the “dungeon,” but I thought it was pretty easy to navigate. I was able to get food, find my way around, and get to my Uber without any real issues.

The airport does feel far from the city, but it did not feel difficult.

The best part was landing.

Seeing the snow sitting on the mountain tops from the plane was one of those moments that reminds you how beautiful flying really is. That first view immediately told me this trip was going to feel different from my recent trip to Atlanta. Atlanta had the Southern city energy. Denver felt like a place where the outdoors was going to define the whole experience.

Where I Stayed in Denver

I stayed at a Hilton Garden Inn in the Cherry Creek area, near Glendale, Colorado.

The hotel itself was great. The check-in experience was not anything special. Reception kind of seemed like they had somewhere better to be, but the room made up for it. It was clean, comfortable, and I had a mountain view, which was a nice way to start my first Colorado trip.

(I’m a Hilton loyalist, but that is a story for another post.)

The Cherry Creek and Glendale area felt like somewhere I would explore more if I had extra time. Since this trip was built around hiking and getting outside, I did not spend as much time in the neighborhood as I could have.

Would I stay there again? Yes.

But if your main goal is to visit Red Rocks, hike, or spend more time closer to the mountains, I would seriously consider staying in Golden or even Estes Park depending on your itinerary. For what I did, Cherry Creek worked fine, but next time I would probably stay closer to the mountains.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Was the Highlight

After checking into the hotel, I made my way toward Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.

This ended up being the most memorable part of the entire trip.

Red Rocks is one of those places that is hard to fully understand until you are standing there. Yes, it is a famous concert venue, but it is also a park, a hiking area, a piece of music history, and one of the most unique outdoor spaces I have visited so far

The amphitheatre was built into the natural red sandstone formations just outside Denver near Morrison, Colorado. The City of Denver purchased the area in 1927, and construction of the amphitheatre as it exists today began in 1936. It was built with help from New Deal-era Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration workers and was formally dedicated in 1941. The venue is known for its natural acoustics, created by the massive rock formations around the stage and seating area.

That history made the place feel even more impressive.

You are not just looking at a concert venue. You are looking at a public project, a natural landmark, and a place where generations of people have gathered to hear music.

I could only imagine what it would feel like to hear someone like Stevie Nicks, U2, or The Eagles perform there. Standing in that amphitheatre, surrounded by red rock and open sky, it made sense why people talk about Red Rocks the way they do.

Hiking the Trading Post Trail

While I was at Red Rocks, I hiked the Trading Post Trail.

This was the moment where Colorado really clicked for me.

The trail was beautiful, and the views were 100% worth it. From parts of the trail, it felt like you could see all of Denver: the skyline, the airport, planes flying in and out, and cars looking tiny in the distance

That was the moment I thought, “This is why people come to Colorado.”

I love hiking, and I am realizing more and more that being outside is one of the biggest reasons I enjoy traveling. I do not want every trip to just be restaurants, hotels, and downtown areas. I want to actually experience the landscape of a place.

Denver gave me that immediately.

The Trading Post Trail was not just a hike. It gave me a real first impression of Colorado.

If you are visiting Denver for a weekend and only have time for one outdoor stop, Red Rocks should be high on your list.

Exploring Morrison, Colorado

After Red Rocks, I also got to drive through Morrison, Colorado.

It is a small, quiet town right near Red Rocks, and while it was calm when I passed through, I can imagine it being a completely different place during concert season or ski season.

It had that quaint mountain town feel. Since there are no major hotels right in town, it seems like more of an Airbnb or short-stay kind of place, especially for people trying to stay close to Red Rocks.

I did not spend a ton of time there, but it added to the feeling that Denver is not just about the city itself. A big part of the appeal is everything surrounding it.

That is why Denver feels like the Gateway to the Rockies.

Dinner at Sam’s No. 3 in Glendale

After Red Rocks, I headed back toward Glendale for dinner at Sam’s No. 3.

Sam’s No. 3 is a well-known Denver-area diner that has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. I had seen the hype, so I wanted to try it for myself

I ordered a burger and a stack of pancakes for dessert, which is probably one of the most diner-style meals possible.

The atmosphere was quirky and local. The service was great, and I always appreciate when a restaurant feels connected to the place it is in instead of feeling like something you could find anywhere.

The food was honestly solid. I would probably give it a 7.5 to 8 out of 10.

I have a thing with Food Network restaurants where they do not always live up to how they are presented on TV, and this one was good, but I would still want to see more of Denver’s food scene before making a bigger judgment.

Would I recommend Sam’s No. 3? Yes, especially if you like classic diners and want something casual with local character.

Would I say it was the best food in Denver? I couldn’t say that.

The People in Denver Surprised Me

One thing that really stood out was how friendly people were.

From other hikers to Uber drivers to random people I came across, people did not hesitate to welcome me to town, recommend places, or suggest spots to hang out.

That warmth stuck with me.

Sometimes people think of western cities as outdoorsy but maybe a little more reserved. Denver did feel outdoorsy, but it also felt welcoming. People seemed proud of where they lived and happy to point a visitor in the right direction.

That matters.

When I travel, I am not just trying to check attractions off a list. I am trying to understand what a place feels like. In Denver, the people added a lot to that experience.

What I’d Recommend

If you are visiting Denver for a short weekend, I would make Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre a priority. Even if you are not there for a concert, the amphitheatre, the views, and the Trading Post Trail make it worth the trip. I would also give yourself more than one night if possible, because Denver feels like a city where the best parts are spread out between the city, the foothills, and the mountains.

What I’d Do Differently Next Time

The biggest thing I would change is simple: I would stay longer.

Two days and one night was enough to get a taste of Denver, but not enough to fully experience it.

If I went back, I would probably stay closer to the mountains, maybe in Golden or Estes Park, depending on the trip. I would also make time for Rocky Mountain National Park, which I hate that I missed on this visit.

For someone planning a Denver weekend, I would recommend at least two nights if you can. One night works if you just want a quick introduction, but Denver deserves more than that.

I would also spend more time exploring the food scene and neighborhoods. Cherry Creek and Glendale seemed interesting, but I did not give myself enough time to really get into them.

Final Thoughts on Denver

Denver ranks well compared to the other cities I have visited so far on this 50-state journey.

It had its own personality. It felt western, outdoorsy, friendly, and full of places I did not have enough time to fully explore. It was also my first western city on this journey, and I am glad it was.

This trip showed me that I really love the American Southwest and western landscapes. You are definitely going to see more of that on this page.

If I had to describe Denver in one sentence, I would say:

Denver is a city that makes you want to get outside.

And for me, that is exactly the kind of place I want to keep visiting.

Follow My Journey!

I’m currently 23 states into my goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states, documenting the real experience along the way. Food, cities, hikes, hidden gems, and what’s actually worth your time.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @itsmikeonthemove

Currently: 23 out of 50 states complete. 🇺🇸

If you’re searching for a solo travel itinerary for Atlanta, Georgia, or trying to figure out what to do in Atlanta in 24 hours, this is a real breakdown of what it looks like to try and pack the city into a single day.

I visited Atlanta in early January to kick off my goal to travel all 50 U.S. states. I was solo, landing early on a Saturday morning after a 5AM flight from Dallas.

First Impressions: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta Airport

My first real experience with Atlanta started at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and it was immediate overload.

I landed the day after the Peach Bowl, so the airport was packed, loud, and moving fast. For someone who had never been to Atlanta before, it was disorienting. I even had to ask an airport attendant how to exit the concourse just to get my bearings...which was extremely embarrassing at the time.

Once I got out, I took the tram system, grabbed an Uber, and headed toward downtown to start my Atlanta 1-day itinerary

Centennial Olympic Park (Best Starting Point for Downtown Atlanta)

A strong first stop for any downtown Atlanta itinerary is:

Centennial Olympic Park.

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, it still functions as one of the main gathering spaces in the city. It sits right next to major attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, which makes it a good anchor point if you’re trying to see Atlanta quickly.

Spending time there gave me a good first impression of the city. Downtown Atlanta felt energetic and constantly moving, with tourists, locals, businesses, and history all blending together in the same area. It’s one of those places where you can immediately tell there’s a lot happening beyond just the main attractions.

Where to Eat in Atlanta: Mary Mac’s Tea Room (Must-Visit)

If you’re looking for some of the best Southern food in Atlanta, this is one of the most iconic stops:

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Open since 1945, Mary Mac’s is often referred to as the last true “tea room” in Atlanta and has become a staple for traditional Southern cooking.

The experience itself is part of what makes it memorable. You fill out a handwritten ticket with a pencil, which immediately sets a slower, more old-school tone before the food even arrives.

I ordered:

• Fried chicken

• Collard greens

• Dressing

• Georgia sweet tea

Everything came out exactly how you’d hope it would—simple, flavorful, and comfort-focused. Nothing felt overdone or modernized, which is exactly the point. It’s classic Southern cooking done right.

Beyond the food, the restaurant also carries real historical weight. Mary Mac’s was one of the first restaurants in Atlanta to integrate in 1962 during the Civil Rights era, which adds depth to the experience beyond just being a popular place to eat.

World of Coca-Cola (Is It Worth It?)

This is a key stop for most Atlanta tourist itineraries.

Located near Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola dives into the history of one of the world’s most famous brands, which was first created in Atlanta in 1886 by pharmacist Dr. John S. Pemberton.

The experience walks you through:

• the evolution of Coca-Cola advertising

• the company’s worldwide growth and cultural influence

• vintage branding and bottling history

• and a tasting room featuring Coca-Cola products from around the world

The most fun part for me was easily trying all of the international drinks.

My favorite was Inca Kola, which is from Peru. It’s extremely sweet and has a bubblegum-like flavor that you don’t really find in U.S. drinks.

Even if you’re not a huge soda person, it’s one of those classic Atlanta attractions that’s worth experiencing at least once.

MLK National Historical Park (Most Meaningful Stop in Atlanta)

If you’re planning things to do in Atlanta beyond tourist attractions, this is the most important stop:

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

This area includes:

• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s childhood home

• Ebenezer Baptist Church

• The historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood

After spending most of my day exploring downtown Atlanta attractions, visiting this area completely changed the pace and tone of the trip. It felt quieter, more reflective, and far more personal than a typical tourist stop.

Walking through the neighborhood where Dr. King grew up and being reminded about his life and legacy made this one of the most impactful experiences of the day. Visiting just before MLK Day later that month made it feel even more meaningful.

If you’re planning a trip to Atlanta, this is one place I genuinely think everyone should make time for.

What Surprised Me About Atlanta (Solo Travel Perspective)

Going into this trip, I had mixed expectations based on social media.

What I actually experienced was the opposite.

People were consistently friendly, helpful, and open to conversation. Uber drivers gave recommendations. Locals were proud of their city. It felt welcoming in a way I didn’t expect from such a large metro area.

For anyone planning solo travel in Atlanta, I would say the city feels easier to navigate socially than it gets credit for.

What I’d Do Differently

If you’re planning a realistic 24-hour Atlanta itinerary, here’s how I’d approach it after doing it once myself:

What worked:

• Starting at Centennial Olympic Park as a central downtown anchor

• Stopping at Mary Mac’s Tea Room for an authentic Southern meal

• Visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park as the cultural highlight of the day

• Doing the World of Coca-Cola for a fun, interactive experience

What I’d change:

• I wouldn’t try to fit everything into a single day again

• I’d slow the pace down and stay overnight so the city can actually breathe a little instead of feeling like a checklist

Atlanta isn’t a city you really “complete” in one visit. It rewards a slower pace and more time to explore beyond just the main attractions.

Final Verdict: Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

Atlanta surprised me more than any city I’ve visited in a while. Coming in, I expected a fast-paced city that might feel overwhelming and hard to connect with. Instead, I found a place full of history, great food, and genuinely welcoming people.

Even in just 24 hours, Atlanta managed to feel important. You can feel the weight of Civil Rights history, the influence the city has had on culture and business, and the pride locals have for where they live.

What stood out most to me wasn’t necessarily one attraction—it was how much there still was left to experience when the day ended.

Trying to fit Atlanta into a single day is ambitious and I felt that over and over again, but it also made me realize this is a city worth coming back to. There’s a lot more here than a quick checklist of tourist stops.

For a first visit, though, Atlanta delivered a little bit of everything:

• great Southern food

• meaningful history

• iconic attractions

• and a much friendlier atmosphere than I expected

It completely changed my perception of the city, and I left wanting to explore more of it the next time around.

Follow My Journey!

I’m currently 23 states into my goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states, documenting the real experience along the way—food, cities, hikes, hidden gems, and what’s actually worth your time.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @itsmikeonthemove

I’ve always had the travel bug, but it didn’t fully click for me until the start of 2026—after I finished high school.

That’s when I decided I didn’t just want to travel more casually. I wanted a real direction. A goal that would push me to see more of the country I’ve grown up in and understand it on a deeper level.

That goal became simple: visit all 50 U.S. states.

At first, it was curiosity. Then it turned into a challenge.

Why this matters to me

This journey is about perspective.

I’m trying to gain a better understanding of America—how different places think, live, and experience daily life. I think a lot of people would benefit from seeing more of their own country instead of only their own region or state.

There’s something powerful about realizing how much variety exists within the U.S.—not just in landscapes, but in people, culture, and mindset.

At the same time, it’s also a reminder that you don’t have to leave the country or fly across the world to experience beauty. It’s already here—you just have to go look for it.

What most people get wrong about travel in the U.S.

One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that domestic travel isn’t “real travel” unless it’s international or exotic.

I don’t agree with that at all.

Some of my best experiences have been right here in the U.S.—hiking in national parks, exploring historic sites, or finding small local restaurants that actually reflect the place you’re in.

When I travel, I usually focus on a few things:

• A great hike or outdoor experience

• Local food that represents the city

• History that helps me understand the place

That combination tells you more about a destination than anything else.

A few places that stood out

Two states that really changed my perspective early on were Colorado and Arizona.

Denver gave me a balance of city life and outdoor access that I didn’t expect to appreciate as much as I did. And Tucson surprised me completely—the Sonoran Desert was incredible, and the people there were some of the most genuinely friendly I’ve met on the road. Those trips made this feel less like an idea and more like something worth committing to.

I’m currently at 23 out of 50 states, and I’ll be sharing everything as I continue the journey.

If you’re here, you’re early—and I appreciate it.