Nice Kicks
Not all that many blogs wind up opening stores, and even fewer of those expand their operations into the brick-and-mortar world — so it goes without saying that Nice Kicks is unique in more ways than one. Still run by blog founder Matt Halfhill, this campus-area store offers a stellar selection of sneakers from the likes of Nike, Adidas, Vans, and more, as well as essential accessories to accent your new shoes. Just watch out for launch days, when the lines in front of the store can grow long enough to deter even the most desperate, shoeless shopper. [via]
Bing Crosby Estate
We're not sure what's more impressive: the house, or the list of people who've stayed there. Located near Palm Springs, the Bing Crosby Estate is a sprawling single-level ranch, offering six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a theater room with a projector, a chef's kitchen, and tons of indoor and outdoor living space. Rumor has it that President John F. Kennedy spent a weekend here with Marilyn Monroe back in the day; more recently, Daft Punk could be found relaxing poolside before venturing to Coachella to watch the premiere of the one-minute "Get Lucky" preview. Sounds like the perfect getaway spot for those times when you need to bring the whole family with you — or better yet, an ideal venue for a relaxed bachelor's weekend.
The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow
You didn't think it was just a story, did you? The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow is indeed the same one featured in Washington Irving's classic story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow". Built in 1685, it's the oldest existing church in the state, has been deemed a National Historic Landmark and is still used for services during the summer, on Easter, and on Christmas Eve. If you happen to stop by, be sure to visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetary next to the church, in which is buried Irving himself, as well as a number of folks who wound up being used in his stories. And, of course, keep your eyes out for headless horsemen.
Hugo's
Restaurants come and go perhaps more than any other business imaginable, so when one's been open for over ten years — awards, of which it has many, aside — you know it's the real deal. Hugo's has been serving up delicious Mexican to hungry Montrose resident from its 1920s-era building since 2002. The vaunted food is comprised of regional Mexican cuisine, encompassing everything from fresh seafood to Oaxacan moles and simple tortillas, with many standouts — including the chorizo-stuffed jalapeño peppers. As you might expect, they also serve up a mean margarita, and offer a huge selection of tequilas and mezcals for those looking for something a little more... straight forward.
Ambrose Vintage
Plenty of times when a store changes ownership, it completely changes course — so it's reassuring that after a change in the middle of last year, Ambrose Vintage is much the same as it was for years under its previous moniker, Stefan's Vintage Clothing. As you might have guessed from the name(s), this store offers up a host of vintage clothing for both guys and gals, with a focus on classic tees mixed in with stylish jackets, tops, hats, patches, buttons, and other goods. Oh, and be sure to keep an eye out for the store's namesake, Ambrose the shopcat.
Moulin Du Roc
Transport yourself to a different time with a stay at Le Moulin Du Roc. Set in the heart of Périgord, this fifteen-room property offers standard and deluxe rooms, as well as a junior suite and apartment, all distributed within the three parts of the converted 17th century mill, and connected by footbridges, terraces, and staircases. On site you'll also find a gourmet restaurant serving local products like foie gras, truffles, walnuts, beef from "La Coutancie", and duck, a tranquil pool, and lush green surroundings that serve as an ideal backdrop for a relaxing stay.
The Night Heron
Most modern speakeasies are tucked away in basements or hidden inside restaurants, but otherwise have little to do with their Prohibition-era kin. All of which makes The Night Heron special. This secret bar is sadly done for now — it ran for six weeks earlier this Spring — but the chances of a repeat make it worth sharing. Housed in a Chelsea water tower, you needed a ticket — in the form of a pocket watch that was sent to you — to enter, and had to climb a fire escape, cross a chasm, and negotiate a ladder to the tower's trap door to enter. Once inside, there was candlelight, cocktails, and live performances by various artists, including Amanda Palmer. Interested in being a part of the next one? We recommend signing up for their mailing list ASAP. [via]
Electric Fetus
Yes, it does have a very... interesting name. But that's not the reason Electric Fetus widely known. Instead, it's gained popularity for its role as a gathering place for local music/culture enthusiasts since the late '60s. Although there's now plenty of ways to find new music without even looking up from your phone, the Fetus has maintained its following thanks to its friendly, knowledgeable staff, fantastic selection of vinyl, and frequent in-store performances. And don't worry if you're not close to the original store — they have locations in Duluth and St. Cloud as well.
JM Curley
It's always nice to enjoy a night out without dealing with any douchbaggery, and when you visit JM Curley, it's virtually guaranteed. In addition to its rules — don't be a douchebag, no foul language, groping, grab ass, mauling, sucking face, canoodling, heavy petting, loud shrieking, shouting, bellowing, whining, barking, nose blowing, flatulence or obnoxious cellphone use — it also delights with its short but satisfying menu featuring fried chicken, a burger, cast iron mac & cheese, and seasonal treats like braised rabbit pizza and a high-end recreation of the McRib. Feeling a little more old school? Find your way to Bogie's Place, an intimate restaurant-inside-the-restaurant that's named after Humphrey Bogart and features a menu that's heavy on steaks and classic cocktails.
Money Museum
For something that pretty much rules most of our lives, we actually know very little about money. You can learn more with a visit to the Money Museum. Run by the American Numismatic Association, the multi-level museum features over 250,000 monetary objects, a permanent exhibit on the history of money, an interactive gallery of American gold coins, experimental pattern coins, and paper money, a minting gallery, and a rotating gallery, currently exploring the money of the Civil War. As you might expect, you'll have to add to their collection with common currency in order to visit.
The Hidden Vine
True to its name, The Hidden Vine has grown from a tucked-away alcove in a Union Square-area hotel to its own financial district space. Despite the move, the place has kept the same atmosphere, allowing wine connoisseurs and neophytes alike to enjoy themselves. The selection features a different region of the world each month, so there's normally something new for you to try — and if there's not, you might seriously be coming here too often — but beyond that, the place also offers something you're not going to find in many other wine bars: a bocce court.
Alila Villas Soori
Looking for a little more room and privacy than a typical beach hotel can provide? The Alila Villas Soori has you covered. Set along the coast of southwest Bali, this luxury resort offers 15 one-bedroom Beach Pool Villas, 15 one-bedroom Ocean Pool Villas, 8 one-bedroom Mountain Pool Villas and 6 residential villas, all tastefully furnished. The resort itself is nestled between rice terraces and black sand beaches, and isn't far from the Tanah Lot Temple. In addition to the private villas, the report is also home to three unique restaurants, a world-class spa, a boutique, a fitness center, and plenty of places to relax poolside and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
