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The Best Things to do in Downtown Las Vegas Besides Gambling

The Creative Adventurer — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 18:58:27 +0000

For many, the main strip on Las Vegas Boulevard is the only place they’ll visit on a trip to “Sin City.” But what few people think about when planning their trip is that there is so much more outside of Caesar’s Palace and the MGM Grand! Downtown Las Vegas, as it is now called, is the area north of the main strip on Las Vegas Boulevard. This is the historic centre of Las Vegas, where the entire idea of “Las Vegas” was born. And yet, this part of town is oft forgotten in place of the glitz and glamour of its southern, younger, more popular sister.

But in recent years, Downtown Las Vegas has seen a boom in popularity, and people are more and more choosing to venture up to DTLV (as it is now conveniently called) to seek out the city’s origins and the alternative scene found there. Here is my list of the 21 best things to see and do in Downtown Las Vegas, along with a handy dandy map at the bottom so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Table Of Contents

Breakfast at the Peppermill Restaurant

The Peppermill Restaurant in Las Vegas is a retro-lovers dream. It feels like one of those restaurants you could only find in Vegas. The restaurant and lounge are decorated so perfectly that it feels like stepping back in time. So much so you’d swear you just saw Elvis sitting at the bar, smoking a cigar and swirling a colourful drink in front of the fireplace (and yes, indeed, there is a fireplace). When you walk into the Peppermill, you step into sensory overload. Bright purple lights almost blind you, and blue velvet carpets and walls get you feeling cozy.

There are pink flamingo-stained glass lampshades and a swelling cherry blossom tree growing out of the middle of the restaurant. There are GIANT fishbowl drinks as colourful as the decor; even the sugar in the dispenser is multicoloured! The cocktails are all beyond fabulous, and the friendly servers make the entire experience one of a kind.

Shop at the Bonanza Gift Shop

No visit to Vegas is complete without visiting the Bonanza Gift & Souvenir Shop. This landmark is known worldwide as the World’s Largest Gift Shop, with over 36,000 square feet of shopping space. They specialize in kitschy souvenirs, and you’ll find everything from cheesy Vegas snow globes, eclectic postcards, hilariously themed playing cards, Elvis-themed items, religious icons plastered on burlap purses and miles and miles of plastic flip-flops. You might walk out with nothing, but walking around those hundreds of aisles is attractive.

Watch Newlyweds at the Little White Chapel

The trip to Las Vegas is complete without stopping to see the Little White Chapel. This tiny building is covered in hearts and surrounded by white wrought iron filigree. The church has been the site of over 800,000 quickie weddings since it opened in 1951. It is open 24 hours a day and has a drive-thru tunnel of “vows” where couples can wed without leaving their vehicle! It is a charming piece of Las Vegas history, and I adore the intentionally tacky aesthetic. Although it might never be where I could see myself getting married, it is a fun place to watch people.

Get Spooked at Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum

Las Vegas is known as a place for the wild and weird, and what is weirder than a haunted museum? Zak Bagans’ Museum is located inside one of Las Vegas’s most haunted houses and features a variety of spooky and scary items, all of which have been known to be haunted. If you’re interested in the paranormal, this place is worth checking out, if only for the weirdness factor.

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Enjoy the Multicoloured Metals at The Neon Museum

Neon signs are synonymous with Las Vegas. Imagine walking down the strip with only simple street lamps lighting your way. It wouldn’t have the same effect, would it? Neon has been a part of Vegas since its inception, and the Neon Museum, founded in 1996, made it its mission to preserve these historical pieces of the city, even after their useful life was over or their original buildings were torn down. Dubbed ‘The Neon Boneyard,’ this large plot of land north of the city is where you can find the Neon Museum, a non-profit organization which collects, preserves, studies and exhibits a variety of old Las Vegas signs for educational, historical and cultural purposes.

They do tours of their collection during the day and at night. While most of the neon here is long past being able to be lit up, they have spent a lot of money restoring some of their more important pieces. Visiting the collection is not only a feast for the eyes, but the stories the curators tell you as you walk through the boneyard make the history of Las Vegas come alive, and every single rusty letter seems to have its own story to tell.

Go back in time on Fremont Street

Fremont Street is the site of the original “strip” where all the top casinos in Vegas once stood before the expansion in the mid-1980s that saw newer, swankier hotels opening up along Las Vegas Boulevard. Now, Fremont Street offers visitors a taste of vintage Vegas at its finest. Walking these neon streets feels almost more authentically ‘Las Vegas’ than the current strip with bells and whistles. Here you’ll find some of the oldest-running casinos, with the most history seeped deeper within their walls.

Fremont Street feels a little bit more laid back, rougher and tumble and with a lack of polish that I find incredibly charming. Throughout the pedestrian street, you’ll find various stages where local musicians entertain crowds throughout the evening. Each is surprisingly talented and provides the audience with a mini-concert every evening. During certain times of the year, they’ll be themed to the season and visiting during Halloween provided us with dozens of “spooky” soundtracks to get us in the mood.

Watch the ‘Viva Vision’ Light Show

The best place to walk off a big dinner or stretch your legs is along the Fremont Street canopy, where they project the ‘Viva Vision‘ light show. Every 30 minutes, you’ll be mesmerized by the electronic canopy which covers the majority of Fremont Street pedestrian area. The Viva Vision light show was installed in 1995 and is 1,500 feet long and 90 feet wide. The 6-minute show twinkles and shines above you, beginning at dusk and ending at midnight. There are over 12.5 million energy-efficient LED lamps which dazzle viewers with the music of artists like The Who, Bon Jovi and more.

Bunk down at the Golden Nugget Casino and Hotel

The Golden Nugget was initially built in 1946, making it one of the oldest casinos in the city. This monolith of white arches and golden lights is like the White House of Nevada. Everything seemed to start with the Golden Nugget, and so many hotels and casinos attempted to replicate its gravitas over the years. Staying here, you can find deals for as low as $60/night without compromising style and comfort.

Most of the rooms have been lovingly renovated, and there is even the new Rush Tower which is brand new, yet its rooms are complete with decorative touches that evoke an old Vegas ambience. The first time we stayed in Vegas, we stayed on the strip and paid a pretty penny for a small room without a view, but here on Fremont at the Golden Nugget, we got an enormous room complete with a soaker tub and even a little sitting area with a great view for half of what we paid on the strip!

Relax in ‘The Tank’

Inside the Golden Nugget, you’ll find one of the most award-winning pools in the city. Pools and Las Vegas are two peas in a pod. Perhaps because it gets so hot outside in Nevada, people wanted to find a way to party without overheating, so they moved out of the clubs and into the pools. To our surprise, the Tank is a three-story aquarium filled with sharks! Along with the sharks are an array of other sea creatures. A giant three-storey water slide runs through the aquarium, making you feel as though you’re right in there with the sharks themselves. There are a few firepits outside burning during the colder months, and in the summer, there are loungers right inside the pool, so no matter when you visit, it’s a great place to grab a few cocktails and relax.

Get Fine Dining for Less at Vic and Anthony’s Steakhouse

There are many choices for steak dinners in Vegas, each one boasting
their specialties and seemingly impossibly low prices. But I think there is only one *real* choice, and that is Vic and Anthony’s Steakhouse. Labelled as one of the best steakhouses in the USA, this place will never disappoint in its upscale Vegas atmosphere and phenomenal food. Be sure to make a reservation and make mention of the Distinctive Dining menu.

The Distinctive Dining menu costs $49.95/person and features a three-course prix fixe meal. This deal is unreal since a single steak itself could run you that much without any of the other offerings you’ll get with this deal. There is no skimping on the portions, either. We started with the Lobster Bisque, chose the Petite Filet served with Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes as the entree and ended with the Crème Brulee. Just be sure to print out the menu or mention it when making your reservation since. Otherwise, you won’t be able to get the deal. This is sort of like a little secret that only those who’ve done their research are rewarded with!

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Watch the Sigma Derby at the D Casino

Inside the slightly dull-looking facade of the D Las Vegas Casino, you’ll find one of the most engrossing vintage games in the city. The classic Sigma Derby slot machine can be found on the casino’s second floor. You can usually find your way there through the screams and cheers of the people surrounding it. You don’t need to spend any money to enjoy the experience of watching other wagers on their favourite metallic jockeys. Up to ten players can place bets on five minature horses with quarters. These machines were Japanese-made and built in the 1980s. Only two of the hundreds produced are still in working order, and one can be found here in Fremont.

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Main Street Station Hotel and Casino

The Main Street Station Hotel and Casino opened in 1978, yet its architecture and decor evoke a historical sensibility. It feels more like a wild west saloon than it does a retro casino. While the casino is the major draw to this place, what I love most is the self-guided tours you can take of their antique and artifact collection. The casino has amassed an incredible anthology of curiosities worldwide over the years. You can pick up a “Guide to Artifacts, Antiques and Artworks” at their front desk to use to lead yourself around the collection. Their gallery includes pieces of the Berlin Wall, stained glass from the Lillian Russell Mansion, doors and facade from the Kuwait Royal Bank, doors from the George Pullman Mansion, Louisa May Alcott Pullman car and chandeliers from the Coca-Cola building and Figaro Opera House.

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Pose with with Cowboys and Girls at Glitter Gulch

I think some of the best modern neon signage can be found on Fremont street, and the crowning glory is the area around the “Glitter Gulch.” The two most popular flashing signs are on either side of the street. Vegas Vic stands casually atop the Pioneer Gift Shop, his sturdy winking smile beckoning in customers. Opposite Vic is his female companion, complete with a matching cowboy hat above the “Glitter Gulch” strip club. While the strip club might not be your thing, the flashing lights of the sign are enough to attract at least a few curious minds.

Admire the old Fremont East District

Fremont East is outside of the canopy and pedestrian mall. It is a hipster mecca where you’ll find uniquely themed restaurants and bars. This area was left previously unloved for years, but thanks to a multimillion-dollar investment by a private partnership, this part of Fremont is now home to some hippest lounges and happening art scenes. As soon as you step out from under the electric canopy, you feel like you’ve entered another world. This place almost feels more like Brooklyn than Nevada. And for those looking for more eclectic, less touristy scenes, this is a welcome addition to Las Vegas.

Admire some Vintage Neon Revival

The Las Vegas Neon Museum has been raising money and working with the city to restore some of the historical and awe-inspiring neon signs from years past. Thought to be only good for scrap metal and left to rot, the museum restored these iconic signs, which are now on display in this “urban gallery” along Fremont Street East. We saw on our walk the incredible Silver Slipper. Formerly on show in 1950 outside the Golden Slipper casino, it now stands in its full glory at the gates of Fremont East. We also saw the Hacienda Horse, built in 1967 and installed at the Hacienda Hotel on Las Vegas Boulevard South. Seeing these retro signs in working order is a great way to make history come alive, and we felt especially thankful for organizations like the Neon Museum.

Have a Drink at the Commonwealth Bar

If you’re looking to grab a drink in the East District, head over to Commonwealth. I was first drawn to this bar because of its laid-back upstairs terrace, but the entire downstairs bar is equally as impressive. The decor inside is inspired by the era of prohibition, covered in dark leather, ornate chandeliers, exposed ancient bricks and an entire wall dedicated to displaying their collections of antique whiskey bottles. If you want a more relaxed environment, head here in the earlier portion of the evening as the party starts late at night.

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Fuel up at Le Thai Restaurant

Although this favourite dinner joint can get busy, with a waitlist of over an hour, it’s well worth the wait. You can also spend your time waiting at any cool bars nearby. Inside the unassuming brick and corrugated metal facade, you’ll find one of Vegas’s best-priced and best-tasting restaurants. The Le Thai classics include larb salad (made with ground chicken, lime juice and fresh herbs) and their famous three-colour curry! This food will give you that much-needed boost to keep your energy up all night long!

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Admire the Urban Design of Container Park

Container Park is one of the newest fads in urban development, and parks like this have been popping up throughout the country. Vegas’ Container Park is an open-air shopping centre built from repurposed shipping containers. Here you can find boutique shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Greeting you at the door to the park is a giant 55-foot metal praying mantis sculpture which even shoots flames on special occasions. Even if you’re not in the mood for shopping or food (although there’s lots of that if you are), this park is unique and a great place to walk around and window shop. Some of the park’s attractions are geared towards children, but the park has a 9 pm curfew for kids, after which it’s adults only. One of my favourite parts of the park is the Sweet Spot, which sells vintage and classic candy.

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Get the Dirty Details about Vegas’ Past at The Mob Museum

Crime and Casinos go hand-in-hand; as such, Las Vegas has a torrid history with the mob stretching back as far as its inception. If your interests lie in this area of history, then the Mob Museum is your place! The Mob Museum is spread across three floors, each providing the viewers with high-tech theatre presentations, iconic one-of-a-kind artifacts and interactive, themed environments. You’ll undoubtedly recognize different gangsters’ names throughout the museum, but their real histories are much different than their Hollywood dramatizations.

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Chow down on pastries at the Donut Bar

The Donut Bar in downtown Las Vegas is one of the hottest spots for sweet treats. So hot that on most days, the shop closes before mid-afternoon because they’ve already sold out! One of the big reasons this place is so popular is because of its vegan doughnuts as well as its indulgent and opulent flavours and designs. You can try the famed Harry Potter Butter Beer doughnut, a Pop Tart doughnut complete with jam filling, and yes, you can even get a Monte Crisco made with a doughnut and stuffed with ham and cheese!

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Find Street Art

Fremont Street is one of the most popular areas to search for some incredible street art. This rebellious part of the city is covered in dazzling graffiti that makes this previously quiet area downtown come alive. You can wander up and down the side streets to discover new and old works from local artisans. The best time to take this walk is during the day since the murals aren’t lit up at night, and it’s best to see them in all their colourful glory.

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Downtown Las Vegas is truly a unique spectacle, and if you’re visiting the city, it’s a shame to miss out on the historic nature of this district and all the awesome sights to be seen therein. Let me know if you’ve visited Downtown Las Vegas and what your favourite thing to do there was!

Happy Travels Adventurers.

The post The Best Things to do in Downtown Las Vegas Besides Gambling first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

The Best Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg, the city of the Sound of Music

The Creative Adventurer — Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:21:19 +0000

Salzburg is not only a historical and picturesque baroque utopia but also the setting for the classic film The Sound of Music. Any place deemed charming enough to be the backdrop for such an extraordinary film is undoubtedly worth your time. Seeing the actual locations where this quintessential movie was made is a treat for cinema lovers and music aficionados.

Table Of Contents

Mirabell Gardens
- Hedge Theatre
Zwergerlgarten
Salzach River
Mozartplatz
- Royal Residence
Cafe Tomselli
Fisch-Krieg Fish Market
Balkan Grill
Getreidegasse
Mozart's Birthplace
Franziskanerkirche
St. Peter's Cemetery
Hohensalzburg Castle
History of the Castle
Augustiner-Bräu

Mirabell Gardens

The best place to start your walking tour is in the Mirabell Gardens. Before arriving, stop by any local cafe or bakery to grab a few snacks and a hot (or cold) cup of coffee to enjoy while inside. Here, you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your Austrian breakfast in one of the most elegantly designed royal gardens in Europe. The park gates open at 8 am, so we are sure not to arrive before then. Mirabell Gardens is a serene oasis that has long been the secret gateway for the Austrian aristocracy.

The palace that served as the garden backdrop was built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. He had the heavenly white mansion designed for the love of his life, Salome. The Prince ensured the gardens were as impressive as the interiors since Salome adored being outdoors. In 1721, after a fire destroyed many buildings, Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach had it redesigned by the famous Baroque architect Lukas von Hildebrandt who integrated all the various structures that were spread out into one self-contained complex. This allowed the gardens to surround the palace and flow alongside it like a river so that no matter where you exited, you were always greeted with lush greenery and brightly coloured flowers.

Hedge Theatre

The Mirabell Gardens are truly a preserved treasure of a bygone age. The Hedge Theater, created between 1704 and 1718, is one of the oldest hedge theatres in the northern Alps and is the same hedge theatre used in the film The Sound of Music. The Von Trapp children can be seen running through it during the “Doe A Deer” musical number.

Zwergerlgarten

Another ancient oddity still lingers within this garden is the Zwergerlgarten, or “dwarf garden.” This small alcove is located just up the stairs from the Pegasus statue. Most visitors pass right by it but make sure you make a point to explore. Within this petite corner is a collection of exquisite, yet grotesque, figures of dwarves modelled after actual people who lived in the palace in the 17th century. Back then, it was thought to be good luck to employ a dwarf. The Archbishops of Salzburg adored them so much that he even had their likeness cast into stone. Nowadays, we might look at these statues and feel like they are slightly offensive, but at the time, they were meant to be an honour and were revered by all those who passed by them.

Flowers in the Gardens

The original landscape designer went to great lengths to create a sumptuous structure for the garden beds, which could be seen from the palace and the top of the hillside Fortress. This way, all those around Salzburg could see the greatness that was Mirabell Palace Gardens. The gardens are always changing up their flower designs and colours for guests and locals alike, so there’s consistently something new to discover.

As you circle the perimeter, you’ll notice towering white statues acting as the garden’s guardians. Sculpted by Gerard van Opstal, a skilled artist of classical mythologies from Antwerp, these glorious scenes of lust, triumph and pain, while not as proficient as some pieces from Italy’s Renaissance masters, are nonetheless wonderfully powerful works of art.

Salzach River

As you finish your tour of the Gardens, pass through the Northern Exit, which will lead you towards the Salzach River. Walk southeast along the river’s edge, where you’ll find a pretty pedestrian walkway. This little trail is a great place to admire the cake-topper, pastel baroque houses which dot the riverside. Soon, you’ll reach the Mozartsteg bridge, a great place to stop and watch tourist boat putter by, much as the salt boats would have floated up and down this same river hundreds of years ago. Salzburg’s mines were rich with salt, a hot commodity as early as the 8th century. Salt is the reason the city became wealthy, and as such, gave the town its name. Salzburg means “Salt Castle.”

Mozartplatz

After you get off the bridge, head down to the Mozartplatz or Mozart Square. Mozart Square is named after Salzburg’s most famous resident, you guessed it, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The statue looming in the middle of the square, dedicated to the legendary composer, was unveiled on September 5, 1842, by sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler. Although Mozart wasn’t alive to see it, his sons were present as the entire city came together to honour their father’s work. The buildings surrounding Mozartplatz are lovely examples of 16th and 18th-century architecture so take a minute to sit and admire the surroundings.

Residenceplatz

Residence Square is located nearby and comprises the New Residence of the Princes of the Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral, various aristocratic townhouses and a dozen famous bakeries and cafes. In the middle of the square stands the centrepiece, the enormous Italian Baroque fountain of Tommaso di Garone. It is one of the most magnificent baroque fonts in Europe. Four horses burst out of a rocky mound, rearing up their legs as water shoots from their mouths. Triton stands upon the rocks, holding up a scalloped upper basin that three dolphins balance atop.

Royal Residence

While exploring Residence Square check out the Royal Residence courtyard. Although you can also explore the interior, this might be better left for a more extended stay. From the exterior, you can still see where the Royals would have lived during their time in Salzburg and get a glimpse of their lifestyle in Austria.

Salzburg Cathedral

Next, it’s over the famous Dom zu Salzburg or Salzburg Cathedral for some spiritual awakening and awe-inspiring architecture. The first Christian church was built in here Salzburg in 774. The original foundations of that church remain here today, underneath the new DOM. When that first church was built, it was one of the largest sacred buildings in Europe. But in 842, lightning struck it and burned it to the ground.

History of the Cathedral

In 1181 a late Romanesque structure was restored, but it was also burnt down in 1598. Some say the fire wasn’t an accident but was initiated by the then Prince-Archbishop, Wolf Dietrich, who wanted to build a new church in his preferred style. But his plans were thwarted, and Italian architect Santino Solari oversaw the current design. It was consecrated in 1628 by Archbishop Paris Count Lodron. The Salzburg Cathedral is one of Germany’s best examples of early Baroque architecture. Its imposing Untersberg marble facade is framed between two twin towers with bright green domes. Atop the towers are four statues; Peter and Paul hold a key and a sword, respectively and Salzburg’s two patron saints, Rupert and Virgil, each clasp a salt vessel (the symbol of the city) and a model of the church.

Exterior

The church’s exterior has a huge bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands outside to greet visitors. She is flanked by various other expressive characters, and her loving embrace of her son warms your soul on even the coldest day.

Interior

Three doors allow you to enter the church, each one illustrating a theme; Faith, Hope and Love. The interior of the church is both minimal and elaborate at the same time. The church’s structure is painted a soothing and peaceful shade of white. Despite the simplistic white paint, ornate stucco designs in baroque shapes are embedded onto the walls, columns, archways and ceiling. We have brightly painted frescos along the roof, their colours sharply contrasted against the white of the rest of the Cathedral.

Near the entrance is a Romanesque font where Mozart was baptized. The font is made entirely of bronze and decorated with reliefs of various biblical saints. Be sure to take a moment to study the magnificent organ. Many of Mozart’s compositions were written for this very instrument. They were initially meant to be played in this very place.

Alter Markt

Now, I bet you’re getting slightly hungry after all this walking. So it’s time to start searching for something to eat. Walk over to the Alter Markt, where you have various options. During the middle ages, farmers from all over the country would come here to sell their goods. The St. Florian Fountain in the middle of the square was built in 1488, with the Salzburg’s coat of arms emblazed. The buildings surrounding the marketplace date back to the middle ages, designed in the old burgher’s style of architecture.

Cafe Tomselli

There are many different cafes to grab a bite at, but if you have a few extra euros to spend and want an exceptional experience try Café Tomaselli. This cafe is over a hundred years old, and Mozart used to come in here to drink, of all things, almond milk. The cafe is full of history and is decorated with old paintings curated by their various owners. The stories this place could tell if only the walls could talk. But this atmosphere comes with a price. If you still want a chance to visit but are short on cash, simply order a coffee and split a simple pastry with a friend.

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Fisch-Krieg Fish Market

If you decide that the Alter Market is too rich for your blood, head to Fisch-Krieg Fish Market. This adorable restaurant along the water is half fish market, half restaurant. All you need to do is pick which variety of fish you’d like, choose how you want it cooked (grilled or fried), and they will serve it up to you alongside one of their many traditional Austrian salads. All their dishes are very reasonably priced, and they have a great taste of traditional Salzburg cuisine. The shop’s interior, with its unique plastic tree growing right up through the floor, is one of those unforgettable touches that will stay in your memory forever. I cannot recommend this place more!

Balkan Grill

Lastly, if you’re looking for something really, really inexpensive that’s just as delicious as it is authentically Austrian, you have to check out the Balkan Grill. Balkan Grill is located at 33 Getreidegasse, one of the city’s most upscale neighbourhoods. They have been serving sausages in this tiny booth for over 50 years, and there is always a line-up. They only have one thing on the menu: a grilled pork sausage covered in your choice of; onions, fresh parsley, and a secret blend of spices served on a white bun with some curry mustard and ketchup. There is something about the fresh parsley that really brightens up the greasy sausage.

Getreidegasse

Once you have sated your hunger, take a few moments to explore Getreidegasse. Getreidegasse, or “grain lane,” is Salzburg’s most prestigious shopping street. It’s most recognizable for its tall and narrow houses, which seem to lean over the sidewalk below.

Ornately designed wrought iron signs hang off the sides of the buildings. These signs were wordless symbols in the middle ages to help citizens who couldn’t read find bakeries, cobblers or butcher shops. The signs have been updated with logos featuring iconic fashion brands, but they have kept up their antique look.

Mozart’s Birthplace

One building worth a second look at is #9 Getreidegasse. This is Mozart’s “Geburtshaus,” or Birthplace. Its golden yellow exterior makes it unmissable as you walk along the street. The Mozart Family lived on the third floor of the “Hagenauer House” from 1747 to 1773. Mozart spent his childhood in Salzburg, developing his incredible musical talent. Inside is a small museum which still holds many objects from the Mozart household and recreations of what the home would have looked like in the 18th century.

Franziskanerkirche

Once you’re finished exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The FranciscOnce you’re exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The Franciscan Church, or Franziskanerkirche, is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.an Church or Franziskanerkirche is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.

History of the Franciscan Church

The first church built on these grounds was erected in the 8th century. It was frequently ravaged by fires and rebuilt time after time. The Salzburg middle class of the 15th century was reasonably well off. When their church needed renovation, they gathered up the required funds themselves. They hired the famous architect Hans von Burghausen to design a newer and more magnificent church. His work was a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Throughout the church, you’ll find slender, dark marble columns that reach up to the sky and open into refined rib vaulting, like a pair of hands whose fingers open to the heavens.

St. Peter’s Cemetery

Continue onwards to St. Peter’s Cemetery. St. Peter’s Cemetery is the oldest in Salzburg. Looking at the gravestones, they don’t appear so ancient but take a look behind the headstones, along the rockface, to see where the real history lies. Carved into Mönchsberg are a set of caves which served as catacombs for the earliest settlers. The oldest surviving tombstones inside date back to 1288. If you decide to go inside, you can climb up the 48 steps to see the “Gertrauden Chapel,” which dates back to 1178.

Back on the ground, you can see several crypts flank the nearby church’s exterior. These elegant wrought-iron fences protect the crypts of some of Salzburg’s wealthiest families. These crypts also were the setting for one of the iconic scenes in The Sound of Music when the Von Trapp family was hiding from the Nazis during their daring escape.

Hohensalzburg Castle

To end your walking tour, head to the Mönchsberg funicular, which will take you all the way to the top of the hillside to the crowning glory of Salzburg, the Hohensalzburg Castle.

History of the Castle

The first castle built on this site was raised in 1077 and was little more than four wooden walls. It was made high up on the hills to serve as a lookout post to protect the city against Imperial troops from the Holy Roman Empire.

Over the years, towers were built, stone walls were added to fortify the castle, and the fortress grew in size. Inside the castle, the portrait gallery is the first room you’ll pass through. It’s filled with more than a dozen portraits of all the Prince whose legacy it was to grow the size and strength of this impressive Castle Fortress. Unlike many others across Europe, modernization has not touched this building. Salzburg was never subject to attack, so its historic castle was never destroyed or rebuilt. This treasure of the past is truly a unique experience to walk through.

Interior

Inside you’ll get to see some of the furnishings used by the royals who once lived within these walls. Opulent wallpaper, lush bedding and even the most ornate heaters you’ve ever seen. In addition to exploring the life of the royals, there are also various exhibits displaying the might of their army. Armour, weaponry and even medieval torture devices are displayed for viewers to discover.

After exploring the castle, take advantage of the vantage point atop the mountain and walk along the pedestrian path toward the perfect dinner destination. As day turns to dusk, you’ll have a wonderful view of the city’s lights as you make your way toward the Austinger Brau.

Augustiner-Bräu

The Augustiner-Bräu is an old beer hall frequented by locals and tourists alike. If you arrive on a colder night, don’t be surprised if you walk in and think it’s closed (that’s just because all the action is happening downstairs, as the beer garden is only open in the warmer months). Head down the stairs and turn the corner. Any silence you might have experienced upstairs will be broken by laughter and the occasional singing accompanied by the smell of cooking sausages and freshly poured beer. This place is indeed the ideal location to finish your day exploring Salzburg! If you’re lucky and the beer garden is open, you’ll enjoy food and drink beneath a canopy of ancient Austrian trees under the starry sky.

How to Order

But first, you’ll need to know how to serve yourself. Yes, that’s right. There are no waiters here. To get a beer, go to the register and pay for as many drinks as you’d like; they will give you one ticket, which you use to trade in for a stein and another for your beers. Once armed with your stein, hand the barman your drink ticket to fill er’ up! The trade for doing all this yourself? Cheap beer, which tastes great. Once you’re done drinking as much as possible, wash out your stein and place it on the rack for someone else to use.

The food available is a traditional Bavarian fair. Small vendor stalls are located in the basement. They have everything from appetizers to desserts. Perfect for whatever you’re craving! Once you’ve got your food and beer tray, find a table and make some new friends. We witnessed friendly Austrians singing happy birthday to a group of tourists to welcome them into the country.

No doubt this tour has worn you out, but after a few Austrian beers, all you’ll feel is that warm fuzziness from good friends and a beautiful day in a fantastic city.

The post The Best Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg, the city of the Sound of Music first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Your ULTIMATE Guide to Exploring Osaka in 24 Hours

The Creative Adventurer — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 22:02:26 +0000

Osaka is one of the most vibrant cities in Japan. While it’s also one of the largest, exploring key parts of this historic town can easily be accomplished in one day. While spending more time here is always recommended to get to know the inner workings and subtleties of the city, if you’re just stopping over, you can easily fill your day with exciting things and amazing places to eat.

History

In 645, Emperor Kōtoku made Osaka the capital of Japan, and Osaka prospered and grew for years. Eventually, the capital was moved to Tokyo. But Osaka continued to be a flourishing port city and commercial centre for Japan. Today, many people flock onto its streets for one main thing: the food!

Osaka Castle

Start your morning off at Osaka Castle. The history of Osaka Castle dates back to 1583. However, the building you see today is far from the original. Wars, sieges and bombing raids destroyed the structure many times over the years, and the current incarnation is a reconstruction from 1995. The castle is now used as a museum dedicated to the history of the castle and Osaka. While the museum is pretty interesting, for our purposes today, we’re just going to take a walk around the grounds. You can still see so much of the castle from down below. The incredibly beautiful moats and tree line passageways surrounding the castle are a relaxing way to start your morning rather than crammed into a line to see inside.

Surrounding the castle are various food stalls selling some of Osaka’s culinary specialties. I would opt for the yakisoba, a delicious noodle dish covered in oyster sauce and topped with pickled ginger. Strangely enough, it makes for a delicious and decidedly Japanese breakfast. You can get it to go and eat it in front of the picturesque castle moat which surrounds the entire castle.

Kuromon Ichiba Market

The next stop is the Kuromon Ichiba Market. The Kuromon market has been open as “the nation’s kitchen” since 1601. Its bustling narrow alley serves fresh sushi and sashimi, meat, produce and a collection of housewares and souvenir shops. Although there are plenty of grocery stalls, there are also dozens of small restaurants along the alley where you can grab a delightful little lunch.

Try to arrive before or after 12 pm to ensure it’s not too busy and you miss the lunch rush! While Tsukiji in Tokyo is most notable for its fresh fish, Osaka is famous for its choice of sliced Wagyu and Kobe beef. You can pick your desired cut, and certain shops will cook it right up for you then and there! Just add a little salt and get ready for a transcendent taste experience.

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Nambayasaka Shrine

After stuffing your face at the market, work off all those calories with a short 15-minute walk over to Nambayasaka Shrine. If you’ve been in Japan for some time now, you might think, “another shrine?” but trust me, this one really stands out. Approaching it, even from afar, you’ll notice it right away. The shrine was designed in the shape of an enormous lion’s head. The area of Osaka we’ve now entered is Namba, and this is its main Shinto shrine. While many temples in Japan are Buddhist, brought to Japan by the Chinese, Shinto is Japan’s native religion. Each Shinto shrine worships a particular spirit or “kami.” At this temple, the spirit lion is said to swallow evil spirits and bring good luck to those who come to pray. So if you have any evil spirits to get rid of, this is the place to do it!

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Hozenji Yokocho

Walk up through the charming side street of Namba towards Hozenji Yokocho. Hozenji Yokocho is a tight little alleyway whose architecture has been preserved as a relic from the Edo period. Stepping under the gates, flanked on either side by bright red lanterns, you enter a peaceful oasis. Study the architecture tightly squeezed in on either side.

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Hozenji Temple

Stop by the nearby Hozenji Buddhist temple, which dates back to the 17th century. This temple gives the name to the area. It features an ancient statue of Fudomyoo, which is covered in moss. Blessings are given by pouring water over the statue, keeping the moss nice and healthy, and, best of all, bright green! It really looks like a tree sculpture instead of a stone statue.

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Amerikamura!

Our next stop is over in “Amerikamura.” While some places might send you to the more popular Shinsaibashi shopping arcade, I find it rather commercialized and lacking the, sometimes odd, characters that Amerikamura has. You might think it odd to visit somewhere inspired by America if you’re looking for a Japanese experience, but this is Japan’s idealized version of America. Studying if you have lived or have ever been to the US before is fascinating. Colourful and quirky shops line the street, and even more quirkily dressed teenagers relax outside hip coffee shops and lively bars. This is the best place to find well-priced and fantastically curated thrift shops and indie clothing brands.

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Hokkyokusei

If you’re a little hungry before dinner, stop by Hokkyokusei, where you can sample the now internet-famous omurice. Omurice is an omelette stuffed with rice and slathered in a thick red sauce. When you cut it open down the centre, the entire thing melts down the middle sensationally pleasingly. It’s delicious and the perfect little bit to eat to tide you over before dinner.

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Dotonburi

As night begins to fall, it is time to make your way over to the neon streets of Dotonburi. While the biggest highlight inside Dotonburi is the food, the architecture and spectacular light show are nothing to scoff at. At night, the entire area comes alive, and the lights of the buildings dance on the water along the Tombori River. “Dotonbori” is named after Yasui Doton, whose vision in 1612 was to create two canals connecting this area to the Kizugawa River, thereby increasing its commercial and trading power. War greatly affected his plans; unfortunately, he died before seeing his vision come to fruition. His cousins took over the concept after Yasui Doton’s death and named the area after him.

Glico-Running-Man

One of the most famous neon signs in Dotonburi is the Glico-Running-Man. This billboard has been located here for over 70 years and is the oldest sign on the street. It is over 33m tall and stands imposingly over the iconic Ebusu-bashi bridge. Glico’s primary business is manufacturing confectionery products, so it might seem odd that its mascot is an athlete, but that’s just how Japan is, unexpected.

Ebisu Bridge

Be sure to stand on the Ebisu Bridge and look at the river and the beautiful flashing signs on either side. This is the perfect spot for a photo opportunity or just to take a moment to drink in all the incredible imagery which Dotonburi is so famous for.

What to Eat?

Takoyaki

But there is one reason you probably came to Osaka: to eat, and Dotonburi is the place to do it. What’s great about Dotonburi is that all the food options here are small, unlike huge meals, so you can sample a myriad of Osaka’s culinary treasures in one night. The first stop on your food tour should be Takoyaki.

This iconic ball-shaped delicacy is the most popular treat from Osaka. Made from an egg batter and filled with a juicy piece of octopus, the batter is then poured into round pans and shaped into adorable little balls. Then it’s covered in savoury sauce, mayo, pickled ginger and topped with bonito flakes. There are so many vendors, so just find the one with the biggest line (always a sign for the best food in Japan) and wait for your turn to dig in!

Kani Doraku Dotonburi Honten

Next up is the famous Kani Doraku Dotonburi Honten. This sign is one of the most popular photo spots in Osaka due to the 3-meter wide moving mechanical crab located on the front of the building. You can dine inside with views over the river, but you can also grab cheaper grilled crab legs right outside the entrance to the restaurant. They are not super cheap but juicy, sweet and incredibly fresh.

Osaka Ohsho

Next up is Gyoza at Osaka Ohsho. Once more, you’ll see giant versions of the gyoza plastered up on the front of the building as you enter. Ordering here is very simple since there is only one option (meat and chives), and you just need to tell them how many order’s you’d like. Get a seat at one of their tiny tables and dress your gyoza with their zingy sauces.xxxxxxx

Creoru Okonomiyaki

At the very end of Dontonburi is Creoru Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki where you can sample Osaka’s own version of okonomiyaki. Osaka differs in this dish by adding grated yam potato to the batter and not including noodles, as some Okonomiyaki in Tokyo and Hiroshima are made with. It is a simple and clean version due to the lack of carbs. It allows the sampling of many different filling combinations.

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Melon Bread Ice cream

After all these incredible savoury dishes, it’s time for something sweet. One of the most popular street sweets is freshly baked melon “pan” or melon bread filled with a giant scoop of ice cream. Despite the name, there is no melon inside. The crust pattern on top of the bread when it cooks gives it a melon-looking appearance, hence the name. The combination of the hot and cold is perfect for any day!

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Pablo Dotonbori

If you’re still craving something sweet, check out Pablo Dotonbori’s cheese tarts. These world-famous tarts are buttery, crispy and perfectly sweet. They often have a big line, but it moves quickly and is worth the wait. Various flavours exist, but the classic and the macha are fan favourites.

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Don Quixote Ferris Wheel

Don Quixote is a famous superstore across Japan. But the one in Osaka is even more popular because it has a giant, 77-meter-tall Ferris wheel on its exterior. Its bright red and yellow tracks and huge mascot characters on the facade made it a popular photo opportunity even though it went out of service years ago. But thanks to its fandom, it was recently renovated and reopened to the public. Take your chance now before it closes down again to jump in and experience stunning views across Dotonbori.

Space Station

End off your night with some retro fun at Space Station. This bar is filled with retro video games, cheap drinks and amazing company!

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Osaka is a city full of surprises and has a lot to offer visitors. With the help of this guide, you can make the most of your 24 hours in Osaka and experience the best of what the city has to offer. From traditional temples to delicious street food, there is something for everyone in Osaka. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and that you enjoy exploring this vibrant city.

The post Your ULTIMATE Guide to Exploring Osaka in 24 Hours first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

The Ultimate 24-Hours in Salzburg, Austria

The Creative Adventurer — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 19:04:00 +0000

Salzburg might not be at the top of your list of places to visit on your next European vacation, but it should be. If you’re travelling through Austria, it’s worth stopping for a day or two to see what this fantastic city offers.

Salzburg is not only a historical and picturesque baroque utopia but also the setting for the classic film The Sound of Music. Any place deemed charming enough to be the backdrop for such an extraordinary film is undoubtedly worth your time. Seeing the actual locations where this quintessential movie was made is a treat for cinema lovers and music aficionados.

The best way to spend 24 hours in Salzburg is to get here early in the morning, hopefully by overnight train from your last destination. This way, you’ll save one night’s accommodation and splurge a bit the next day. Overnight trains in Europe are excellent and are an experience everyone should have once in their life.

Table Of Contents

Map of Walking Tour
Salzburg Hauptbahnhof
Mirabell Gardens
Salzach River
Mozartplatz
Residenceplatz
Royal Residence
Salzburg Cathedral
Alter Markt
Fisch-Krieg Fish Market
Balkan Grill
Getreidegasse
Mozart's Birthplace
Franziskanerkirche
St. Peter's Abbey & Cemetery
Hohensalzburg Castle
Augustiner-Bräu

Map of Walking Tour

Salzburg Hauptbahnhof

After stepping off the train, your first stop should be at a local cafe. This doesn’t have to be anywhere fancy or famous. Train stations in Europe have marvellous cafes open as early as the trains start arriving, where you can sample all of Austria’s delicacies. Often, when merely transferring trains in a country I might not have visited, I will spend time waiting for my connection and sampling local treats. I’ve had legendary Belgian waffles in Belgium without stepping outside the station. Salzburg is most notable for its “Nockerln,” a cream-and-butter fluffy souffle served with a fruit sauce. So if you want to start your day off with a particularly Salzburgian flare, see if you can find one of these.

Mirabell Gardens

After grabbing a few pastries and coffee to get you started, head down to Mirabell Gardens. Here, you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your Austrian breakfast in one of the most elegantly designed royal gardens in Europe. The park gates open at 8 am, so we are sure not to arrive before then. Mirabell Gardens is a serene oasis that has long been the secret gateway for the Austrian aristocracy.

History of Mirabell Palace

The palace that served as the garden backdrop was built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. He had the heavenly white mansion designed for the love of his life, Salome. The Prince ensured the gardens were as impressive as the interiors since Salome adored being outdoors. In 1721, after a fire destroyed many buildings, Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach had it redesigned by the famous Baroque architect Lukas von Hildebrandt who integrated all the various structures that were spread out into one self-contained complex. This allowed the gardens to surround the palace and flow alongside it like a river so that no matter where you exited, you were always greeted with lush greenery and brightly coloured flowers.

Hedge Theater

Zwergerlgarten

Design of Mirbaell Gardens

Salzach River

As you finish your tour of the Gardens, pass through the Northern Exit, which will lead you towards the Salzach River. Walk southeast along the river’s edge, where you’ll find a pretty pedestrian walkway. This little trail is a great place to admire the cake-topper, pastel baroque houses which dot the riverside. Soon, you’ll reach the Mozartsteg bridge, a great place to stop and watch tourist boat putter by, much as the salt boats would have floated up and down this same river hundreds of years ago. Salzburg’s mines were rich with salt, a hot commodity as early as the 8th century. Salt is the reason the city became wealthy and, as such, gave the town its name. Salzburg means “Salt Castle.”

Mozartplatz

Residenceplatz

Royal Residence

While exploring Residence Square, check out the Royal Residence courtyard. Although you can also explore the interior, this might be better left for a more extended stay. From the exterior, you can still see where the Royals would have lived during their time in Salzburg and get a glimpse of their lifestyle in Austria.

Salzburg Cathedral

History of the Dom Cathedral

Interior of the Dom Cathedral

Alter Markt

Café Tomaselli

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Fisch-Krieg Fish Market

Balkan Grill

Getreidegasse

Mozart’s Birthplace

Franziskanerkirche

Once you’re exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse, to see the Franciscan Church. The Franciscan Church, or Franziskanerkirche, is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.

St. Peter’s Abbey & Cemetery

Hohensalzburg Castle

To end your walking tour, head to the Mönchsberg funicular, which will take you all the way to the top of the hillside to the crowning glory of Salzburg, the Hohensalzburg Castle.

Interior of the Palace

Salzach at Dusk

Augustiner-Bräu

How to Order at Austrian Beer Halls

No doubt this tour has worn you out, but after a few Austrian beers, all you’ll feel is that warm fuzziness that comes from good friends and a beautiful day in a fantastic city. Salzburg is a city that truly has something for everyone, from its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine and lively atmosphere. Whether you have just 24 hours or a little longer, be sure to take advantage of all this beautiful city has to offer.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate 24-Hours in Salzburg, Austria first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.