Today might have felt like spring, but that didn’t stop me from celebrating National Chili Day the right way— with a warm, hearty bowl of chili from Trend Urban Cafe! And not just any chili… vegan chili! Now, before you side-eye me, let me tell you— if I didn’t know it was vegan, I never would have guessed. It was just that good!
Rich, flavorful, and packed with all the goodness, it hit the spot without me missing a thing. Whether you’re team classic beef or open to a plant-based surprise, a good bowl of chili is always a win.
So, did you get your chili fix today? If not, what are you waiting for? Let’s talk chili in the comments!
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!
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.
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!
This weekend, my daughter wanted to snap some cool photos in front of graffiti, and I knew just the spots! We hit up Krog Street Tunnel first, soaking in all the vibrant street art, then made our way to the Beltline for more scenic backdrops. But after a while, the Atlanta heat got the best of her—she was hot and tired (lol).
The city was buzzing with energy—so many people out and about, enjoying the Beltline vibes. Of course, I had to jump in for a few shots myself! One stop I’d been meaning to make? The Outkast mural—finally checked that off my list!
Now, I’m officially ready for warm weather and getting back to crossing things off my bucket list. Atlanta always keeps it exciting!
As January comes to an end, I can’t help but feel like time moved at its own pace—slow, steady, and full of lessons. It reminded me to appreciate the little things, embrace growth, and step forward with intention.
Now, we welcome February—a month rich in history, love, and fresh possibilities. It’s Black History Month, a time to honor the past and celebrate the present. It’s also the season of love, not just romantic, but self-love, friendship, and new connections. Most of all, February feels like a call to adventure—a push to step outside of comfort zones and embrace new experiences.
For me, that means continuing my journey of learning Spanish, crossing things off my bucket list, and sharing each moment along the way.
What’s on your February list? Let’s make it a month of bold moves, beautiful memories, and boundless opportunities!
This past Sunday marked the first meet-up of the year for my women’s group, and it was such a great time! We gathered at El Paso Taco and Tequila—my first time there—and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was nice, the food was delicious (no complaints from anyone), and to top it off, we enjoyed live entertainment from Mariachi en la Piel. They even stopped by our table to serenade us, making the evening even more special.
Some of the ladies drove an hour to join, and I was so glad to hear it was worth the trip. Good food, great company, and fun entertainment—what more could we ask for? I absolutely love when I can bring amazing women together to connect and enjoy themselves.
Our theme for the night was “Wear Some Boots,” and while I forgot to snap a group photo of our boots at the restaurant, a few ladies sent me their pics later, which was awesome.
I’m already looking forward to next month’s outing! Sometimes, it’s just nice to take a break, get away, and enjoy a fun ladies’ night. If you’re interested in joining us for the next one, let me know—I’d love to have you!
Today is National Chocolate Cake Day, and of course, I couldn’t let the day go by without indulging in a slice! I decided to try something a little different—a vegan chocolate cake—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Rich, moist, and oh-so-decadent, it was a sweet reminder that even plant-based treats can hit the spot.
So, as I savor this delicious moment, I encourage you to join in the celebration. Treat yourself to a slice of chocolate cake today—vegan or not—and let the chocolatey goodness brighten your day. After all, life’s too short not to indulge in a little sweetness, especially on a day like this!
This past weekend, I had the chance to celebrate one of my family members birthday at Vertigo Fun Park in Alpharetta, GA. Let me just say, this spot is perfect for bringing out your inner child! From the moment we walked in, it was clear we were in for a day full of fun and adventure.
Vertigo is essentially a massive inflatable playground—think bounce houses but on a whole new level. We spent hours laughing, jumping, and running around like kids again. It felt amazing to let loose and embrace the silliness, although I just knew I’d be sore the next day. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t!
Aside from the jumpy activities, Vertigo also has a fantastic arcade section. The vibe was energetic, and it was fun watching everyone get into the spirit of the day.
The highlight of our visit, though, was GellyBall. If you’ve never tried it, think of it as a cross between laser tag and paintball. We suited up in protective gear and dove into the action. It’s fast-paced, thrilling, and a ton of fun. There’s something about running around in a high-energy game that just brings everyone together. By the time we finished, we were all laughing, sweating, and ready to eat!
To wrap up our day, we headed over to 7 Tequilas Mexican Restaurant. Let me tell you—the food was fantastic! The restaurant itself is beautifully designed, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made it the perfect place to wind down after such an active day. We shared stories, enjoyed the food, and soaked in the good vibes before calling it a night.
Reflecting on the day, I can honestly say it was one for the books. Vertigo Fun Park is an incredible place to let loose, make memories, and just have fun, no matter your age. Pair that with a delicious meal at 7 Tequilas, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect outing. If you’re in the Alpharetta area and looking for a unique way to spend time with family or friends, I can’t recommend this combo enough.
Here’s to more days filled with fun, laughter, and quality time with the people who matter most. 🎉
This past weekend, my family and I decided to try out El Jinete Mexican in Snellville, GA, for the first time—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming, and the customer service was on point.
We all ordered different dishes, and not a single complaint was made (which is rare for us)! The food was flavorful, fresh, and super satisfying. By the end of our meal, everyone was full and happy—exactly what you want when dining out.
If you’re in the Snellville area and craving some good Mexican food, I highly recommend checking out El Jinete. It’s definitely worth a visit!
