MIAMI, FLORIDA
Sun, sand, spa days, international cuisine, and the most colorful arts scene in America, Miami is a playground for the senses and a great mother-daughter trip, especially for a teenage daughter. A quick flight and you are in a mecca of learning experiences, from trying Peruvian cuisine to strolling among the bustling arts district of Wynwood.
EAT
La Mar by Gaston Acurio: Executive Chef Diego Oka prepares dishes from ceviche to causas to Whole Fish Nikkei. You will have a culinary learning experience like no other.
Le Jardinier: A meal to remember from start to finish. The modern, light-filled space welcomes you, but as lovely as the decor is, it's food and drinks at this Michelin Star restaurant that you and your daughter won't forget. Offering incredible mocktails for the younger ones.
Joe's Stone Crab: This icon needs no introduction. Stone crab season runs from October-May and for the best stone crab claws, this is the place. Be prepared to wait.
STAY
Mandarin Oriental Miami: This Brickell Key hotel offers spacious rooms with views of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami. Enjoy a gorgeous pool and its private beach. Soak up the sun and watch the beautiful boats in Biscayne Bay. Off the party scene of South Beach, this hotel offers a more serene atmosphere with a world class spa and cuisine.
PLAY
Wynwood Arts District: A must-stop is Wynwood Walls. Beautiful, colorful, funky murals cover entire walls, plus an array of boutiques like Frangipani and Aviator Nation as well as coffee shops and cafes line the streets.
Miami Design District: A mecca of art and fashion, this district will be a favorite of you and your daughter. Whether you shop 'til you drop or just window browse, it is a fun place to people watch and see fashion at its finest.
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
If you are raising a girl who loves the outdoors, there is no other place in the Southeast that offers the immersive nature experiences like the Great Smoky Mountains. On the itinerary any given day - fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, secret swimming holes, and white water rafting.
EAT
Sweet Onion: Located in downtown Waynesville, this restaurant has fans driving in from Asheville for its fare. Might we suggest the grilled trout as a great option for the localvore.
Suwana: Thai in the Smokies? Why not? This Thai restaurant nestled on Main Street in downtown Waynesville is superb.
The Patio: Great sandwiches, salads, and soups with a beautiful courtyard patio. Also dog friendly.
STAY
The Schoolhouse on Hemphill: This schoolhouse turned Airbnb was built in the 1800s, and was one of the first schools in the area. Off a main road, the schoolhouse has all the modern amenities - fully stocked kitchen, coffee bar, WiFi, copper bath tub - plus some not-so modern amenities like rocking chairs, a screened porch, and a mountain stream to relax by. Airbnb.com The Schoolhouse on Hemphill.
The Swag: The Swag is a Relais & Châteaux property with gorgeous alpine interiors, chef-prepared meals, the area’s best hiking trails right outside your door, and the best views.
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Downtown Waynesville - Picturesque downtown Waynesville offers great restaurants, antique stores, children’s boutiques, bakeries, art galleries and the iconic Mast General Store.
Cataloochee Guest Ranch: This ranch offers horseback riding through mountain trails reaching over 5,200 miles above sea level.
Hiking: With short hikes like Waterrock Knob, Art Loeb Trail, Graveyard Fields or Max Patch, or a longer venture like the Cataloochee Divide, there is so shortage of adventure in this part of Mother Nature’s playground.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
It is no secret that the Music City is beyond popular these days. So for residents and tourists that means there is tons to do. With the plethora of restaurants, activities, and hotels, we sought out the best of Nashville for you and your daughter.
EAT
Henrietta Red: Female powerhouse duo Julie Sullivan and Allie Poindexter joined forces to create one of the best restaurants in Nashville. This is an easy favorite of my daughter because she loves oysters.
Etch: Extra yum and extra convenient to all points downtown. If you are staying downtown for a Predators game or the Nashville Symphony, you can have a great weekend getaway without getting in the car.
STAY
Noelle: Sleek, beautiful hotel located downtown that is close to everything. The Noelle boasts a gorgeous lobby, coffee shop, and cool antique features. A plus for fur babies, it is pet friendly with no pet fee. Did I mention there is a water bar on each floor? Yes. Serving chilled, sparking, and ambient. Stay hydrated my friends.
Hermitage Hotel: If you are looking for a more traditional hotel whose opulence has stood the test of time, the Hermitage Hotel is an excellent option for you and your 'Southern Eloise'. Located in downtown yet tucked away from the noise.
PLAY
The Gulch: Shop Lululemon, Lucchese, and an array of unique Nashville shops.
Cheekwood Botanical Garden: Cheekwood is an excellent place for children offering treehouses, flower gardens, and summer camps. It also boasts various exhibits and special family events throughout the year.
Pinewood Social: A coffee shop, bowling alley, and in the summer their swimming pools are open. It is like a social club you do not have to qualify to be a part of.
