6 Tips For Your First Time In A New City

When it comes to exploring a new town, some travelers like to wing it. After all, there’s a lot to be said for a day without plans and the freedom to explore. But even if you’re a Type B traveler, you’ll appreciate facing that freedom armed with a little knowledge of how to get around—and maybe a dinner reservation to look forward to. Regardless of your personality type, we believe a little prep work goes a long way. Here are six tips for figuring out what to do in a new city.

Read up and get your bearings

Don’t waste time waiting on botched transportation or getting turned around in a new place. Before you go, take a minute to study a map. Get acquainted with the lay of the land and transportation options where you’re headed. What are the peak times to avoid public transit? Is there a subway? Do the trains stop running early on a certain day of the week? Does your destination offer ride-share programs or bike rentals? By finding the answers to these questions, not only will you save time (and your sanity), but you’ll also impress the locals with your new-city know-how.

Discover what the locals eat

Eat like a local in the Windy City with a Portillo’s Chicago dog.

And try it with an open mind. In Chicago, Illinois, for example, seek out Portillo’s Chicago dog—topped with mustard (never ketchup!), relish, celery salt, chopped onions, sliced tomatoes, pickle spears and sport peppers, all piled onto a steamed poppy seed bun—a very specific Windy City specialty. Embracing the charming tastes of a new city will supply you with great stories to tell when you return home.

Drink like the locals

Whether it’s a locally brewed craft beer or a somewhat odd drinking tradition, bottoms up! In Madison, Wisconsin, the cheese haven of the Midwest, locals top their bloody marys with cheese curds and chase them with a shot of beer. This kind of local flair sets places apart and makes them interesting.

Go out like a local

There’s always live music to be found in Nashville, Tennessee, but make sure you stop into The Station Inn. Photo credit: @FogoFoto

Another good way of figuring out what to do in a new city is to follow the lead of the locals. Seeing the sights in the Music City? Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its live-music scene, so hit up a bluegrass jam at The Station Inn or The Bluebird Cafe. Wherever your travels take you, if you’re stuck in a boardroom all day, your colleagues will appreciate the chance to dish on their town’s nightlife. Ask them where you can get an authentic dose of the singer-songwriter circuit—then get out there and explore.

Tech up

Dig around before you go to find out if there are local apps designed to help guide you through the city. Many places, like Charlotte, North Carolina; San Francisco, California; and Chicago offer historical walking tours you can download right to your phone. The Queen City’s Liberty Walk app takes you on a guided tour of Charlotte's key markers and locales dating to Revolutionary-era America. You’ll gain perspective on the new spot (and get in your steps!).

Seek out the must-try dining spot

Do your homework to find out which dining hot spots have the locals all abuzz—then call to make a reservation. Plan early to ensure your spot. In Asheville, North Carolina, Cúrate would make the cut. Chef Katie Button serves up authentic tastes of Spain at her highly sought-after venue. Take it all in, then return home with bragging rights. Go the extra mile and make a group reservation—you might win points by inviting local colleagues to a night out.

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