Cece In The City

Tag: 50 states with Cece

  • Exploring My 50-State Journey – Stop #2: Tennessee

    Hey everyone! As you know, I’ve started fresh with my blogging and vlogging journey, traveling to all 50 states. My first stop was Georgia, and I hope you all enjoyed that adventure. Now, let’s dive into State #2: Tennessee!

    Although my trip was cut short due to a family emergency, I know I’ll be back—especially since I still need to explore Nashville! But for this visit, we made our way to Chattanooga, a city rich in history and scenic beauty.

    Ruby Falls: A Hidden Wonder Beneath the Earth

    Our first stop was Ruby Falls, home to the tallest underground waterfall in the U.S. The journey through the cave was a bit of a workout, but seeing that breathtaking waterfall made it all worth it. The water cascades down, changing colors as lights illuminate it, creating a magical scene.

    Lookout Mountain: A View Like No Other

    Next, we visited Lookout Mountain, a place steeped in both natural beauty and history. Though it was getting chilly, we managed to take in the stunning view. From the top, you can see seven states—Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. It’s incredible to think about standing in one spot and gazing across so many states at once!

    A Stay at the Historic Hotel Chalet

    We checked into the Hotel Chalet, a charming spot with a unique twist—train car hotel rooms! Unfortunately, they were all booked, but I did get a chance to see them up close. Just imagine staying inside a vintage train car turned into a cozy hotel room. Next time, I’m definitely staying in one!

    Dining in a Piece of History: Stir at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex

    For dinner, we headed to Stir, a restaurant located inside the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo complex. The food was amazing—I had shrimp and grits along with some oysters. If you’re ever in Chattanooga, I highly recommend it!

    Walking Across History: Walnut Street Bridge

    Even though it was a bit too cold to take a full stroll, I got to check out the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges. I can’t wait to go back when the weather is warmer and take in the views at a leisurely pace.

    Bonus: A Book, a Breakfast, and a Story

    For breakfast, we stopped at Big Bad Breakfast (BBB)—and let me tell you, it was delicious! I had French toast and scrambled cheese eggs, and I even got a taste of my daughter’s pancakes. The service was top-notch. But here’s the cool part—the founder, Chef John Currence, has a deep passion for breakfast, and he even wrote a book called Big Bad Breakfast. Of course, I had to get it! The book is filled with stories and recipes, blending food and storytelling—right up my alley!

    Also get book here

    https://amzn.to/3XiWown

    The Soundtrack of Tennessee: ‘Tennessee’ by Arrested Development

    Every state needs a song, right? For Tennessee, I had to go with “Tennessee” by Arrested Development—such a classic! Fun fact: I actually had the chance to interview Speech, one of the members, for my Where It Begins magazine. I’ll drop the link below so you can check it out!

    Listen to song

    https://youtu.be/6VCdJyOAQYM?si=TiAMlBi_6Rq3T1iw

    Check out article

    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_june_2022_final

    Check out YouTube

    https://youtu.be/xaAZd363iZc?si=ohQKbgmE9_KCdJpU

    2 states down, 48 to go! Where do you think I’m heading next? Stay tuned for my next adventure, and if you’d like to support my journey, visit buymeacoffee.com/ceceinthecity. See you in the next state!

  • Georgia Bucket List: Must-Visit Places on My Journey

    As I travel the states, I’m creating bucket lists for those who love exploring new places. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Georgia has so much to offer! From nature escapes to iconic landmarks, here’s a list of must-visit spots I recommend.

    Top Places to Explore in Georgia

    Atlanta Must-Sees

    • Georgia Aquarium – One of the largest aquariums in the world.
    • Atlanta Botanical Garden – A beautiful green oasis in the city.
    • Stone Mountain Park – Perfect for outdoor lovers and breathtaking views.
    • World of Coca-Cola – A fun, interactive experience about the history of Coke.
    • Centennial Olympic Park – A tribute to the 1996 Olympics, great for sightseeing.
    • Mercedes-Benz Stadium – A must-see for sports fans.
    • Braves Stadium (Truist Park) – Catch a baseball game and enjoy The Battery.
    • Atlanta Beltline – A scenic trail lined with art, restaurants, and parks.
    • Piedmont Park – Ideal for picnics, festivals, and outdoor activities.

    Museums & History

    • Fernbank Museum – Perfect for science and history lovers.
    • The King Center – Dive into the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
    • Atlanta History Center – Explore Georgia’s past through engaging exhibits.
    • High Museum of Art – A hub for art lovers.
    • Michael C. Carlos Museum – A hidden gem filled with ancient artifacts.
    • Trap Music Museum – A unique museum celebrating hip-hop culture.

    Scenic & Outdoor Adventures

    • Blue Ridge Mountains – A peaceful escape with stunning views.
    • SkyView Ferris Wheel – The best way to see Atlanta from above.
    • Atlanta Zoo – A great spot for animal lovers.
    • Six Flags Over Georgia – The ultimate thrill-seekers’ destination.
    • Rosewell Mill – A picturesque hiking spot with waterfalls.

    Hidden Gems & Culture

    • BAPS Mandir – A breathtaking Hindu temple.
    • Ponce City Market – A trendy food and shopping destination.
    • Krog Street Tunnel – A must-visit for street art lovers.
    • Atlantic Station – Shopping, dining, and events all in one place.

    This is just the beginning of my journey. I’ll be sharing more travel guides, hidden gems, and recommendations as I continue exploring all 50 states. Follow along and support the adventure at buymeacoffee.com/ceceinthecity. More to come—stay tuned!

  • Exploring Georgia: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Hidden Gems

    Welcome to the first stop on my journey to visit all 50 states and beyond! Since Georgia is home, it’s only right to kick off this adventure in the Peach State, a place rich in history, culture, and must-visit spots. Whether you’re a local or a traveler passing through, these are some gems that should be on your list.

    1. Six Feet Under

    Perched with a beautiful rooftop view, Six Feet Under is a seafood restaurant that offers not only great food but also a fantastic atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail while overlooking the city or indulging in some fresh seafood, this spot is a must for any foodie exploring Atlanta.

    2. Atlanta Botanical Garden

    A true urban oasis, the Atlanta Botanical Garden transforms with the seasons, offering stunning themes throughout the year. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting during their Trolls, Alice in Wonderland, and Garden Lights exhibits—all breathtaking in their own way. If you love nature and art blended into one, this is a must-see.

    3. The World of Coca-Cola

    A paradise for soda lovers, this interactive museum lets you dive into the history of one of the world’s most iconic beverages. The highlight? Sampling flavors from around the world—some delightful, some… let’s just say, an acquired taste. A perfect stop for tourists and families!

    4. Stone Mountain Park

    Steeped in history, Stone Mountain Park offers hiking, breathtaking views, and year-round events. Reaching the top is a rewarding challenge, and the panoramic scenery is worth every step. The park also hosts light shows, festivals, and historic exhibits, making it a cultural gem in Georgia.

    5. Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins

    For a peaceful getaway, Blue Ridge cabins are a must. Nestled in the mountains, these cozy retreats offer hot tubs, pool tables, and plenty of space for a group escape. Whether you’re here for hiking, relaxing, or just soaking in the mountain air, this is the ultimate retreat.

    Bonus – Buc-ee’s

    A gas station might not seem like a must-see, but Buc-ee’s is more than that—it’s an experience. Imagine a mini-Walmart meets a gourmet snack shop, all wrapped in a super-clean, super-sized store. If you’re on a road trip through Georgia, a Buc-ee’s stop is essential.

    Book Highlight: Leaving Atlanta by Tayari Jones

    A gripping novel set against the backdrop of the real-life Atlanta child murders of the late 1970s, Leaving Atlanta follows three children as they navigate growing up amidst fear and uncertainty. Tayari Jones paints a powerful and emotional picture of resilience and childhood innocence lost.

    Get book : https://amzn.to/3CXcbdr

    Song of the State: Welcome to Atlanta by Jermaine Dupri ft. Ludacris

    Listen Here:

    https://youtu.be/j5W73HaVQBg?si=6Azt7o3tCtvbPqTJ

    No Georgia trip is complete without vibing to this classic anthem. It perfectly captures the energy, culture, and Southern pride that make Atlanta an unforgettable place to visit.

    From city rooftops to mountain retreats, Georgia has something for everyone. This is just the beginning of my 50-state adventure—stay tuned for the next stop!

    Support the Journey

    If you enjoy following along on my travel adventures, consider supporting my journey at buymeacoffee.com/ceceinthecity. Every little bit helps me continue exploring and sharing hidden gems with you all!