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This City Was Just Named the Most Accessible in the U.S.
That said, there are destinations that are welcoming and accessible to all who are leading the pack—and Wander is here to celebrate them. "At Wander, we understand that true luxury means inclusive travel experiences," the company shared in its new study looking into the most accessible destinations across the U.S.
To help travelers find the most accessible destinations in the U.S., it first created a seed list of the nation's top cities, then analyzed each on its "number of wheelchair-accessible attractions, walkability, reliable public transport, and internet connectivity." It gathered this data from companies like GetYourGuide, AllTrails, Story Maps, Walk Score, and the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.
After looking at all that information, it named Detroit, Michigan, the most accessible city in the U.S., scoring a whopping 9.7 out of 10.
"Detroit stands out as the most accessible U.S. city based on a combination of key factors, despite its relatively small size," the team shared in the findings. "Detroit earned a perfect record on ADA compliance for public rail stations, with zero percent of stations being inaccessible, indicating full access for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, the city has 5.53 public transport stations per 100,000 people, providing decent transit options to its residents."
It noted that the city's share of wheelchair-accessible attractions is lower than in other destinations around the U.S., at just 16.67 percent; however, this was balanced out by its high number of wheelchair-accessible outdoor trails, making the city "one of the best options nationwide for inclusive outdoor activities."
Coming in a close second is Baltimore, Maryland, which scored a 9.61 out of 10 thanks to its "many accessible attractions and strong infrastructure for people with disabilities." The website added that it's also a relatively walkable city, scoring a 64 out of 100, "making it easier for individuals using mobility aids to navigate the city safely on foot."
Rounding out the top three is Seattle, which scored a 9.55 out of 10. It won high praise thanks to its fantastic public transportation and plentiful accessible public spaces. "Over a quarter of its walking trails are wheelchair accessible (31 out of 119), making Seattle one of the more outdoor-accessible spots," they added. "The focus on green space and nature access makes the city a great option for residents and tourists alike."
Two Texas cities, Houston and Dallas, took home the No. 4 and No. 5 spots, respectively.
See where else travelers can expect plenty of accessible options around the nation at wander.com.
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34 minutes ago
- Yahoo
America's Best Small Arts & Culture Town Is In Tennessee–and It's Got a Legendary Summer Music Festival and Writers' Conference
A community with a reputation for supporting the arts, Sewanee, Tennessee, is more than a college town; it's a destination that launches careers, hones crafts, and inspires intellectuals of all pursuits. Even with the majority of the University of the South's undergraduate population gone for the summer, there's a creative energy humming in the town of Sewanee. I visited in July, during the second week of the annual Sewanee Writers' Conference, and went to hear author Melissa Febos give a talk on non-fiction. A small crowd filled the university's Guerry Auditorium, eager to hear her advice on writing, research, and cultivating creativity. Creatives of all kinds have ties to Sewanee, a small town on Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau (Sewanee is commonly used to refer to both the town and the university.) Some of the 20th century's most notable authors, including T.S. Eliot and Flannery O'Connor, appeared in the pages of The Sewanee Review, America's oldest continuously published literary quarterly. Today, it's still a bastion of American literature, where writers like Lauren Groff and Sigrid Nunez publish stories and essays. Others have led workshops or done public readings during the Sewanee Writers' Conference, a program partially funded by the Tennessee Williams estate, which the famed playwright left to the university. Musicians are also drawn here; the historic Sewanee Summer Music Festival, a month-long training intensive, stages concerts each summer, and the University Choir performs every Sunday at All Saints' Chapel during the academic year. Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Sewanee, including what to do, where to stay, and when to go. Sewanee, Tennessee Stay at The Sewanee Inn, an elegant 43-key property within walking distance of the central campus of the University of the South. Embrace Sewanee's scholarly atmosphere by picking up the latest edition of The Sewanee Review, educating yourself on local Black history, or attending a performance by the University Choir. Reserve a table at chef Julia Sullivan's latest restaurant, Judith. Align your trip in July with two of Sewanee's annual celebrations of the arts: the Sewanee Summer Music Festival or Sewanee Summer Music Festival. Or plan your visit over the fall, when the humidity has subsided and the foliage begins to change. Why Sewanee Is the Best Arts & Culture Town in the U.S. for 2025 When I visited Sewanee to hear Melissa Febos speak, she offered a powerful message about the importance of artistic self-expression and exploration. Acknowledging how writing, and creativity in general, can seem futile in this current climate, she reassured the audience: 'Our work is how we make sense of the world and situate ourselves inside of it,' she said. 'It's how we're able to live, to connect, to grow, and to help others.' Sewanee is a place that supports art in all its forms—books, poetry, music, architecture, dance, theater—and invites visitors to engage in the arts, often free of charge. 'Sewanee looks like a sleepy college town lost in the woods, but there is something happening here just about every day and throughout the year,' says Woody Register, professor of history and director of the Roberson Project on Slavery, Race, and Reconciliation at the University of the South. The Sewanee Writers' Conference and Sewanee Summer Music Festival are marquee events each year, and while university life is central to Sewanee's culture, it's just one part of the narrative. 'Until the work of the Roberson Project began in 2017, local Black history was not publicly recognized or visibly honored at the University of the South,' says Register. 'Today, the Roberson Project works with the people of the historic Black St. Mark's neighborhood and others in the area who grew up there to preserve its memory and honor its residents' important contributions to the life of Sewanee, the town, and the university.' More on the project's work—including a heritage walking trail and key historic sites—below. Where to Stay The Sewanee Inn 'The Sewanee Inn is fantastic, with gorgeous bluff-side seating for cocktails, a lovely bar and restaurant, two fireside sitting rooms, and a view of the golf course, where you can grab a burger and a beer at Green's View Grill,' says Adam Ross, novelist and editor of The Sewanee Review. Terralodge Monteagle Treehouses If you're interested in going the glamping route, book one of the well-appointed Terralodge treehouses or domes. Recently opened in 2024, the 'treehouse resort' is located on 30 acres in nearby Monteagle, and each of the accommodations comes with a hot tub and a fire pit. Stayframe 'There are also a lot of Airbnbs and rentals. There's one in particular, Stayframe, that is well curated and beautiful,' says Julia Sullivan, chef and proprietor of Judith, one of the most exciting new additions to Sewanee's dining scene. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom space comes with a soaking tub, a gas fireplace, and full kitchen, and access to a private lake and waterfall. St. Mary's Sewanee 'For something completely different, visit St. Mary's Sewanee, a convent also known as the Ayres Center for Spiritual Development,' says Ross. 'The retreat center welcomes individuals and groups for overnight stays, and the Anna House enjoys especially cozy rooms. It's a great spot to stay in the wintertime.' Things to Do Learn about local Black history. 'The South Cumberland area of Tennessee has a rich Black history, and a good way to see its impact on the region is the Grundy County History Museum in nearby Tracy City,' says Register. He also notes that Grundy County was the epicenter of the development of convict leasing in the 1880s and 1890s and, in the 1950s, the area was central to the Civil Rights Movement as the home of the Highlander Folk School. Sewanee's Jessie Ball duPont Library currently has a small exhibit on Highlander Folk School, which was founded in 1932 with the goal to 'educate leadership for democracy and promote the general welfare of all people in the South.' Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr. were among those who, says Register, 'studied the tactics of nonviolent resistance' at the interracial institution. Visitors can also learn about the Roberson Project's important work by walking the St. Mark's Heritage Trail through Sewanee's historic Black neighborhood. 'From one end and back, it is about 1.75 miles long and shady all the way,' says Register, noting there's also a 'driving tour of the major historic sites in the St. Mark's neighborhood.' Places like the 'Negro Swimming Pool' and the site of Kennerly School, the only school for Black children on the mountain before desegregation, are noted with historical markers. Enjoy Sewanee's access to the outdoors. 'The legendary Perimeter Trail is an approximately 26-mile loop at varying degrees of difficulty through some of the most gorgeous rock formations you'll ever see,' says Ross. 'There are also remarkable views of the surrounding valley at Green's View, the Cross, and Morgan's Steep.' As far as other hikes, Sullivan recommends the 3-mile Lost Cove Trail, as well as Foster Falls and Fiery Gizzard. For a relatively short hike, Ross adds that the 1.2-mile winding paths' of Abbo's Alley shouldn't be missed. 'It was named after legendary professor Abbott Cotten Martin, who first cultivated the ravine. The rustic walk passes over bridges and streams. You might even catch a salamander or two in the summertime.' Explore the university's central campus. 'Any visit to Sewanee demands a stop at All Saints' Chapel, one of the most beautiful and grand places of worship in the Southeast,' says Ross. Its splendor is apparent all year round, but Sullivan is especially fond of the chapel during the Festival Service of Lessons and Carols, which she calls 'one of the most special experiences' she's had in Sewanee. With a copy of Under the Sun, a guidebook to Sewanee, in hand, continue past the chapel, admiring the 19th and 20th-century sandstone and limestone structures around campus; Breslin Tower, Convocation Hall, and St. Luke's Chapel are particularly notable. 'Visit the Ralston Listening Room—more formally known as the William Ralston Music Listening Library—on the second floor of the University's duPont library,' adds Ross. 'Here, with state-of-the-art equipment and unparalleled acoustics, you can enjoy any of its 20,000 LPS and 20,000 CDs.' Read, write, and appreciate art. Even if your undergraduate days are well behind you, there's no reason not to work on your manuscript or dive into the latest Pulitzer Prize-winning novel—all you have to do is find an unoccupied Adirondack chair or bench on campus. Or, simply admire the talent that manifests throughout Sewanee. 'There are presentations by artists, scholars, and writers throughout the academic year, and all University-sponsored events, such as public speakers and student theatrical performances, welcome visitors and usually without charge,' says Register. Where to Shop The Lemon Fair For gifts and local artisan items, like clothing and jewelry, Sullivan recommends The Lemon Fair. Stock up on tea towels, All Saints' Chapel Mugs, stickers, ornaments, and all sorts of unique Sewanee souvenirs, many of which are emblazoned with the Sewanee Angel. University Bookstore 'Be sure to also stop at the campus's local bookstore, whose shelves feature local authors,' says Ross. Swing by to pick up the latest edition of The Sewanee Review, or novels written by faculty; you may recognize the works of New York Times best-selling author Kevin Wilson, who currently serves as an associate professor in the English & Creative Writing Department. Mooney's Market & Emporium A short drive from Sewanee, Mooney's Market & Emporium comes recommended by both Sullivan and Ross. 'It has everything from organic foods and farm fresh eggs to antiques and knitting supplies,' says Ross. Spread across several small rooms, the shoppable collection is more than worth a quick browse before you leave town; you'll likely leave with an art print, small piece of pottery, or T-shirt to commemorate your time on the Cumberland Plateau. Where to Eat and Drink LUNCH 'LUNCH, on University Avenue in Sewanee's 'Village,' is a must for breakfast and, of course, lunch,' says Register. Although the food menu rotates, you can expect fresh, filling items, such as a daily quiche, a country ham sandwich, and marinated shrimp skewers paired with orzo and summer squash. Judith Judith, the recently opened restaurant by the great Nashville chef Julia Sullivan, can't be missed. 'Grab a tahini Caesar salad, a smashburger, and a glass of wine at the bar, and you'll see why Sewanee is fast becoming a foodie destination,' says Ross. The restaurant's name is a nod to Judith Ward Lineback, who in 1969, became the first woman to matriculate at the University of the South. Stirling's Coffee House Warm, welcoming, and brimming with plenty of tables and chairs for writing, reading, or catching up with a friend, Stirling's Coffee House is a Sewanee staple. 'It's a really sweet place to walk to in the morning and get coffee and pastries,' says Sullivan. Their speciality iced Sewanee Morning—coffee with mint and Swiss chocolate flavoring, topped with half and half—is much appreciated on a hot summer day. Shenanigans 'For the classic college bar-restaurant experience, grab a pitcher of draft beer and some fried fare at Shenanigans,' says Ross. The institution dates back to 1974, and the sizable subs, hearty burgers, and homemade pizzas are the perfect way to celebrate the end of a long hike along the Perimeter Trail. The Best Times to Visit 'Fall is unquestionably the best because of the foliage and the remarkable views,' says Ross. The colorful show is put on by the broadleaf deciduous trees, mainly oaks and hickories, that dot the Domain. Sullivan agrees that autumn is one of the finer times in Sewanee, but she also has a penchant for the warmer months. 'I think spring and early summer are really special. Every week, a different flower is blooming. It's been really beautiful to see this gradual change, and everything is just incredibly lush,' she says. Sewanee's summer wildflowers include harbinger-of-spring, bloodroot, great white trillium, pink lady's slippers, and mountain laurel. 'February is to be avoided—you'll deal with either soupy fog or ice and snow,' warns Ross, who also says it's critical to 'check the University calendar so as not to conflict with student arrivals or graduation' in May and August. How to Get There Sewanee covers 13,000 acres across the Cumberland Plateau—hence the phrase, 'on the mountain,' which students, alumni, and locals alike affectionately use to refer to life here. Travelers flying into the area can choose between Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) or Nashville International Airport (BNA) before driving the final hour or 1.5 hours to Sewanee. While much of Sewanee is walkable, having a car is helpful to reach trailheads and nearby towns, and it allows you the freedom to embark on scenic drives throughout the area. If you'd prefer to get around on two wheels, Woody's Bicycles has regular bikes and e-bikes available to rent. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Solve the daily Crossword
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Travel + Leisure
37 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
America's Best Small Food and Drinks Town Is the Bourbon Capital of the World—and It Has a Seriously Impressive Restaurant and Wine Scene, Too
Book a room at The Trail Hotel, which features a rejuvenation lounge with IV treatments, an oxygen bar, a sauna, and more to help you bounce back from travel (and perhaps a little too much fun on the Bourbon Trail). Start your day with Hadorn Bakery's signature 'Yum Yums,' twisted, chocolate-topped yeast donuts that frequently sell out well before closing time. Stock up on sippable souvenirs at Evergreen Liquors in the heart of downtown Bardstown. Take a detour to Bernheim Forest and Arboretum to explore some of its 40 miles of hiking trails and peek at more than 3,500 species of plants. Pair a bourbon flight with a taco dog or smash burger at Scout & Scholar Brewery. If you're new to the whiskey world and are just dipping your toe into distillery tours, Bardstown, Kentucky, might be one of those blink-and-you'll-miss-it towns you pass on your way to Lexington or Louisville. But in May 2025, Bardstown made a big splash when the area's first luxury boutique hotel debuted. I was one of the first guests to stay at The Trail Hotel, and my trip proved that Bardstown (population: around 14,000) is well worth a stop. Known as the 'Bourbon Capitol of the World' since the 1950s, Bardstown has been named 'The Most Beautiful Small Town in America' by several organizations. It's quickly becoming one of the most delicious small towns, too, thanks to restaurants with world-class chefs, creative mixologists, and top-tier sommeliers. Situated near the center of Kentucky, Bardstown is easy to get to from many corners of the country. And once you're here, distillery tours and tastings, unique shops, bakeries, restaurants, bars, museums, and more await. 'The fact that Bardstown is not a big metro area is part of its charm,' says Kentucky native Norma Smith, a bourbon butler at The Trail Hotel. 'Folks can come here, learn about bourbon's history, explore local businesses, and not have to feel the hustle-bustle of a large city. Bardstown is a small town with plenty of awesome things to do—and taste!' The Bourbon Capital of the World comes by its title honestly. There are 11 distilleries within a 16-mile radius of downtown Bardstown, and even if you're not big into brown spirits, there's plenty to tempt your taste buds here. During spring, summer, and fall, Bardstown hosts a robust farmers market and farm-to-table dinners. Throughout the year, buzzy events like Bardstown Burger Week and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival draw crowds. Any time you swing by, you can fuel up at a variety of seasonally-focused restaurants with bountiful bourbon selections (naturally), Kentucky-made beers, and seriously impressive wine lists (Oak & Ember, for instance, has a level-three sommelier on staff). The Trail hotel's Single Barrel Suite. Jessie Kriech-Higdon/Visit Bardstown Something old meets something new at Bardstown's freshest and most fashionable hotel. Co-owners Brook Smith, Will Hardy, and Nathan 'Ejo' Edmonds have fond memories of visiting this building in its former life as a Holiday Inn. When the then-closed hotel went up for auction in 2021, they cast the winning bid—and got to work on a complete renovation and redesign. Today, The Trail Hotel's 87 rooms and eight bourbon-themed suites form a U-shape around the pool, pool bar, and what is now the biggest hot tub in Kentucky. Inside the lobby area, guests can swing (at the high-definition golf simulator), sip (in the intimate speakeasy), and eat (at Oak & Ember, a restaurant specializing in healthy-ish Southern fare). Guests by the pool at the Bardstown Motor Lodge. Victor Sizemore/Visit Bardstown If you prefer to be within walking distance of downtown, 11-year Bardstown resident Newman Miller, chef and owner of Mr. Tubs and partner at Scout & Scholar Brewery, recommends Bardstown Motor Lodge. This mid-century-inspired, pet-friendly hotel is what I imagine the Schitt's Creek motel might look like with an HGTV glow-up. The rooms are small but mighty, with smart TVs, a mini fridge, blackout curtains, and premium bath amenities, and the shared space is equipped with fire pits, a pool, and a retro rec room. Traveling with a crowd? Try The Full Proof Penthouse. Owners Will and Alicia Hardy (yes, the same Will as The Trail Hotel) were featured on an episode of the Discovery+ show In With the Old, which chronicled their renovation of the Old Deatsville Inn in nearby Coxs Creek. The Hardys put their design superpowers to work to transform this downtown Bardstown three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment into a five-star vacation rental located in the downtown core. Laundry appliances, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, and private rooftop space make this a fantastic choice for families and groups of friends. A Bardstown Bourbon Company tasting. No visit to Bardstown is complete without at least one distillery tour, according to Smith. 'Each distillery has something distinct to offer,' adds Vince Metcalfe, the single barrel coordinator at Bardstown Bourbon Company, who was born and raised in Bardstown and has called it home for nearly 30 years. 'You can do tours, tastings, or just hang out at their bar and have a cocktail. It's very cool to see the unique history behind each brand.' Options abound in and around Bardstown, with notable names like Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, and Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience (home of Elijah Craig, Evan Williams, Old Fitzgerald, and more), as well as at under-the-radar hits and up-and-comers such as Chicken Cock Whiskey and Bardstown Bourbon Company. Smith particularly adores the 90-minute Bottled-in-Bond Warehouse Tour and Tasting at Heaven Hill and the one-hour Rickhouse Barrel Thieving at Bardstown Bourbon Company. Brown spirit buffs will delight in the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History. With free admission and tours, this museum is home to more than 1,500 highly allocated bottles of whisky and bourbon that the curators have been collecting for 40+ years. If you're new to the world of whiskey, this is a helpful place to start, as it offers an overview of the people, places, and techniques that make this spirit special. When you're ready for a break from the Bourbon Trail, navigate to 3rd Street. 'It's such a beautiful and quaint area with tons of local shops, bars, restaurants, and art studios,' Smith says. If you're in the mood for a savory snack, stop by Liam Ash Cocktail Emporium for a charcuterie board or 'Jake's Baked Balls' (sausage and Cheddar balls with a maple-bourbon glaze). If sweet is more your style, get the scoop at Big Wally's Ice Cream & More. While you're in the area, Smith suggests popping into Cactus Annie's to see the iconic Dolly Parton mural. Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. You can hop on a handful of hiking trails mere steps from downtown. But if you're up for taking a 15-mile detour outside of Bardstown, you'll find one of Metcalfe's 'favorite places to enjoy the natural beauty of the state of Kentucky,' Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. Pack a picnic for a 'great way to spend time when not drinking bourbon,' Miller tells us. While you're stationed in this lush landscape, trek through some of the preserve's 40 miles of hiking trails. If kids are in tow, turn them loose at the 17-acre natural playground. They'll also enjoy the massive Forest Giants scattered throughout Bernheim, which are crafted from repurposed and natural materials. Evergreen Liquors, and upscale liquor shop with a tasting bar inside. Steven Gray/Visit Bardstown To refresh your wardrobe with effortlessly chic apparel, Kaden Lake Boutique is a must, Smith says. 'The owner, Alicia Hardy, has curated such a great women's boutique. She's definitely got style.' When I walked by, I couldn't take my eyes off the beautiful clothes in the window. If your ideal souvenir is a drinkable one, you can't do much better than Evergreen Liquors. Keep an eye out for rare releases like Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked and Angel's Envy Barrel Select Sherry Cask. Smith likes to sample unique pours at the tasting bar 'while I decide how much of my income is reasonable to budget on more bottles of bourbon!' Stock up on uniquely Kentucky goodies like Monk's Road Coffee Caramel Chocolates, Kentucky Hot Mix trail mix, Bramble Ridge sorghum syrup, and Elixir Kombucha at 3rd Street's Taste of Bardstown Market. If you're staying at a vacation rental or are in need of picnic provisions, check out their Airbnb grocery packages for quick-fix breakfast, snack, and dinner spreads. Freshly baked treats from Hadorn's Bakery. Early birds don't get the worm here, but they do get the warm baked goods that have a cult following. No wonder the door of Hadorn's Bakery is plastered with a sign that reads 'Open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until sold out.' Arrive ASAP for the best chances of scoring 'one of their famous Yum Yums,' Miller advises. The $2.15 treat is a showy donut drizzled with swirls of milk and white chocolate. Take it to go or enjoy your Yum Yum in a rocking chair on the bakery's charming front porch. Mammy's Kitchen serves southern comfort food in Bardstown. If your day's agenda involves exploring the Bourbon Trail or hiking trails, 'Mammy's Kitchen & Bar should be your first stop to fuel up with a big country breakfast,' Smith says. They serve up Southern fare in a casual, country store environment, and I could eat bowls of their fried apples. Bring your appetite and some pals to share the Sunday special: 'Deep-fried Ginormous Cinnabon Roll' in a skillet. Or pull up a stool any day of the week for what Metcalfe calls 'the best Kentucky Hot Brown in the world.' For the uninitiated, this is an open-faced sandwich featuring sliced oven-roasted turkey, bacon, sliced tomatoes, and mornay sauce. Mammy's riff also piles on ham and eggs. For what Metcalfe declares 'the best beer in bourbon country, brewed right there on-site,' alongside locally sourced comfort food like bacon jalapeño cheeseburger hand pies, fried chicken tenders with tots, and chocolate chip bread pudding, Scout & Scholar Brewing Co. is a local favorite. Come for the food and drinks, and stay for the atmosphere. 'Their patio is one of my favorite places to hang out on a beautiful day,' Metcalfe adds. Some of Bardstown's best restaurants are tucked away inside distilleries, including The Bar at Willett inside Willett Distillery. 'The menu changes weekly to daily, so order whatever catches your eye. In my opinion, this is one of the best—if not the best—restaurants in Kentucky, and I've never been disappointed,' Miller says. If you happen to be there on a lucky day when the 'iconic' egg salad sandwich is on the menu, Smith says this is a must. A spread from Oak & Ember, a restaurant at The Trail Hotel. Jessie Kriech-Higdon/Visit Bardstown Cookbook author and Emmy-nominated chef Marvin Woods has also acted as personal chef for Oprah, Mary J. Blige, Barack Obama, and more. Now in his position as the executive chef at The Trail Hotel's signature 110-seat restaurant Oak & Ember and its lobby bar Embers, he can cook for you, too. Smith says that 'the salmon entrée has become a staple in my diet. The tuna sashimi is super flavorful, too.' I'm still dreaming about the Kentucky burgoo stew and beet salad I enjoyed during my May stay. Fall foliage in the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. The locals we spoke to boast that Bardstown is beautiful to visit any time of year, but according to Metcalfe, 'fall is when the community really comes to life.' Visit in September to take part in National Bourbon Heritage Month festivities, such as Bardstown's Kentucky Bourbon Festival (one of Smith's favorite weekends of the year). Or vacation in October for peak leaf-peeping and the Bardstown Arts and Crafts Fair. Spring is the runner-up season, Miller adds, since the weather is beautiful and 'there aren't as many people visiting as there are in the fall.' Translation: Lodging prices tend to be more affordable, and distillery and restaurant reservations are easier to come by. The Bardstown, Kentucky welcome center. Bardstown is approximately 45 minutes from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) and about 55 minutes from Lexington's Blue Grass Airport (LEX). Although quaint downtown Bardstown is extremely walkable, you'll likely want a rental car to get to this small town—and to navigate to nearby attractions, such as hiking trails and restaurants. If you don't have a designated driver, plan ahead for car service. The Trail Hotel and certain distilleries can help arrange this. While Uber lists Bardstown as a partner city, available drivers are sparse, so plan ahead for alternative transportation.
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Travel + Leisure
37 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
America's Best Small Shopping Town Is a Mecca for Indigenous Art, Jewelry, and Pottery
In northern New Mexico, where the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rise above the desert, the town of Taos unfolds. Many travelers come to visit the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States, or for a winter getaway to Taos Ski Valley. But the city is perhaps best known for its creative community and Indigenous-owned businesses. Walk the Taos Plaza and you'll find artisans selling handmade goods—Native-made jewelry, local artwork, and Southwestern-style clothing. In Taos, everything from shopping to dining is an act of connection with the land and people who have called it home for generations. This connection is just one of the reasons why Travel + Leisure readers rated Taos among the best U.S. cities in the 2025 World's Best Awards. 'This town isn't just special, it's sacred. The pace, the people, the land—it heals you if you let it,' said Maria Valdez, who is behind the beloved restaurant La Luna @ La Fonda, in an interview with T+L . 'Taos is a crossroads of cultures, histories, and landscapes. You feel it the moment you arrive.' Visit the Taos Pueblo to witness how Indigenous people lived—and still live—in relationship with the land. Stay at the art-focused Hotel Willa and have dinner at its restaurant, Juliette Shop for something 'Made aquí en Taos,' including sterling silver jewelry, at Atcitty's on Taos Plaza. Have brunch at Suchness, a new restaurant by a James Beard-recognized chef. Travel to the village of Arroyo Seco, a 200-year-old community that's home to artists and jewelers. Stores in downtown Taos, New Mexico. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure Taos is the best shopping town in the U.S. for 2025 because it is one of the few places where commerce feels like an authentic interaction with the people, the culture, and the land. The town is especially known for its handmade Southwestern art, jewelry, and pottery. 'Supporting local here really means something—you're helping preserve the spirit of Taos,' said Yvonne Swartz, owner of Artemisia Artwear, in an interview with T+L . Much of the shopping in Taos revolves around the Taos Plaza, which is lined with shops and galleries and serves as the center of the Taos Historic plaza also has a long history, one that dates back to1796 when the King of Spain gave the land to 63 families in the Taos area. The following settlement became a place where merchants traveled to display their wares—just as they do today. Today, that history lives on, in both the plaza and the surrounding streets, where shops — many of them Native-owned or family-run—sell unique, handmade items that can only be found in Taos. 'Taos doesn't cater to mass tourism. Visitors are welcomed into a living community, not a staged version of the Southwest. There's a deep respect for art, land, and culture that shapes every Interaction,' Swartz says. Silver jewelry sold at Atcitty's on Taos Plaza. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure Artemisia Artwear was founded 23 years ago, as a place for fiber artists to sell their handmade clothing. The clothing collection includes scarves, shawls, jackets, and tops made from linen, silk, and cotton. Atcitty's on Taos Plaza is Native-owned and -operated shop that's known for their sterling silver jewelry. It's run by Cherylin Atcitty, who started making jewelry as a young girl. Her creations are showcased alongside wearable art from the Taos Pueblo community, some of whom are her family members. Those searching for fine art will find it on the walls of many Taos galleries and museums, but one of the best places to buy it is Magpie, a shop that sells the work of 50 regional artists. The shop is owned by Georgia Gersh, who was born and raised north of Taos and grew up on one of the area's former communes. There's a little of everything at Moxie Fair Trade—gifts, home decor, clothing—but the one constant is that everything is either handmade or fair trade. Valdez says that Moxie is one of her favorites because it sells, 'Fair-trade goods sourced globally and locally, perfect for ethical shoppers.' A guest room in Hotel Willa. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure When it opened in spring 2025, Hotel Willa transformed an old 1940s motel into a new, 50-room retreat, with an artist-in-residency program and an aesthetic that is both modern and truly Taos. Valdez calls it 'Stylish, intimate, and artfully curated.' It's also home to one of the state's hottest new restaurants: Juliette, led by a chef who was raised in the Taos Pueblo and now has a James Beard Award nomination under his belt. With a distinct Taos feel, complete with adobe buildings and Southwestern decor, the El Monte Sagrado is a favorite of Swartz, especially if you want a little luxury. El Monte Sagrado feels like an oasis, with ponds and towering cottonwood trees. The greenery transcends into the property's spa, which features a serene saltwater pool. Valdez agrees that the hotel is perfect 'for a serene, wellness-focused vibe. It's slightly tucked away but beautifully designed.' The Taos Inn is the hotel Swartz often recommends to visiting friends and family. The hotel, often called'the 'Great House,' has served as the natural gathering place for both visitors and locals since it was built in the 1800s. The inn is centrally located near the Plaza, has nightly live music, and a beloved New Mexican eatery, Doc Martin's. The adobe-style rooms feature original wooden beams, antique furniture, and kiva fireplaces. A chapel in the Taos Pueblo. Kathleen Messmer/Travel + Leisure Just north of downtown Taos is Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a community of Native Puebloans, who still inhabit multi-storied adobe buildings that date back over 1,000 years. For a full immersion, book a tour with Whitefeather Tours, the only Native-owned and -operated tour business in Taos. The tour, led by Kevin Whitefeather, includes a visit to the Pueblo, a demonstration of ancestral arts like dancing and flatbread making, and a tea offering. The Enchanted Circle Drive circumnavigates Wheeler Peak, the highest mountain in New Mexico, and cuts through the lush Hondo Valley, past the Taos Pueblo, and into old gold mining towns. You can take a short detour to see Angel Fire Resort and Taos Ski Valley, two four-season resorts known for their skiing, and drive over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, the second highest bridge in the U.S. Highway System. Just over 15 minutes north of downtown Taos is the tiny village of Arroyo Seco. The community is a shopper's paradise, with renowned handmade pottery, vintage shops, and woodworking. A good place to start is at the Arroyo Seco Mercantile, which is packed with unusual finds. Taos may be an art community at its core, but Valdez recommends that first-time visitors also be sure to connect with nature. A great way to get acquainted with landscape is by floating its life source, the Rio Grande. Los Rios River Runners, New Mexico's original rafting company, offers daily rafting tours down the river, which is known for its rapids and epic canyon views. Two dishes from La Luna @ La Fonda. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure Not far off the Taos Plaza in a nondescript structure is Taos' newest restaurant. Helmed by Kevin Sousa, a James Beard-recognized chef, Suchness opened in 2024 and has since 'drawn serious attention from regional food lovers.' Dishes might include a corn porridge with poblano peppers, peach, lime, cilantro, and crispy quinoa, or a flank steak with fermented black bean garlic sauce, broccoli, sesame, and garlic scape. Suchness also hosts Sunday brunch, vegan takeover nights, and has a great menu of mocktails. Tucked into one of the most iconic and historic buildings on the Taos Plaza is La Luna @ La Fonda, a restaurant located in Hotel La Fonda de Taos. It's owned by Native American chefs Robin and Maria Valdez, who run a scratch kitchen that often features Indigenous ingredients. The Love Apple, housed in an old 1800s church, relies on organic, regional ingredients, like locally milled flour, produce from local farms, and cheese made in New Mexico and Colorado. Swartz adds that, 'My favorite place for lunch is Manzanita Market -- a little farm to table cafe, creamery and little sister cafe to The Love Apple.' There are two ways to experience Taos Mesa Brewing — by visiting their downtown tap room, which features their lineup of beer alongside wood-fired pizza, and by swinging by 'The Mothership,' the brewery's original location that now also serves as a concert venue, and is just far enough out of town to offer mountain views, sunsets, and stargazing. A family walking by shops in Taos, New Mexico. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure Taos is a true all-season destination, but late spring (May) and early fall (September or October) are hard to top. In the spring, melting snow and spring showers paint the landscape with wildflowers, and in the fall, scenic drives like the High Road to Taos and the Enchanted Circle showcase fall foliage. Summer visitors tend to head to the waterways or take to the skies in a hot air balloon. Valdez notes that 'hiking and camping in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains gives you access to some of the most beautiful alpine and desert views in the Southwest.' In the winter, Taos remains fairly temperate, but the surrounding ski areas (Angel Fire, Taos Ski Valley) welcome an average of 300 inches of snow that draws skiers and snowboarders. Cars driving through Taos. Mary Robnett/Travel + Leisure There are a handful of direct flights into Taos (SKX), including nonstop service from Denver and private charter flights with JSX from Dallas and Austin as well as a couple California hubs including Burbank. Santa Fe (SAF), which is less than 2 hours from Taos, has a more robust flight schedule, while the nearest international airport, Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), is 2.5 hours south of Taos. Many travelers fly into Albuquerque and spend time in Santa Fe before heading to the mountains of Taos. Downtown Taos, especially around the plaza, is walkable, but many of the attractions, from the Rio Grande Gorge to the Taos Pueblo, require a car.
