In this final episode of our Orlando series for States of Discovery, we explore an entirely different side of Orlando—one that goes far beyond theme parks and into the heart of Central Florida’s adventure, charm, and creativity. This itinerary-packed episode blends outdoor thrills, scenic waterways, small-town flavor, and immersive fun into one unforgettable journey.

The day kicks off in Clermont at Revolution Adventures, a 230-acre off-road park where guests climb into amphibious Mucky Duck vehicles to tackle muddy trails, splash through water crossings, and experience Florida’s wild side firsthand. It’s high-energy, hands-on, and a surprisingly rugged way to start the day.

From there, the pace shifts to the water with Catboat Escapes on the Clermont Chain of Lakes. Piloting your own catamaran-style boat, you glide through open lakes, winding cypress tunnels, and moss-draped wetlands. When a storm blew in, we experienced a different side of the lake, one that got us soaking wet.

Lunch brings us to Twenty Pho Hour, a MICHELIN-recommended, 2D-style noodle bar that perfectly represents Orlando’s creative food scene.

The episode wraps up with a festive stay at Villatel Orlando Resort during Hallowee-kends, featuring haunted villas, spooky movie nights, themed cocktails, and family-friendly frights.

This episode highlights the many layers of Orlando—adventurous, scenic, historic, and playful—proving the city’s magic lives well beyond its most famous attractions.

Huge shout out to Visit Orlando for having us!

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery on your favorite podcast platform. We love hearing from our listeners, so share your own stories and suggestions for future episodes with us!

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• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: [email protected]

In this episode of States of Discovery, we continue our Orlando adventure with a journey through the city’s soulful mix of food, art, and local culture. From a MICHELIN-recommended brunch spot to a stroll through Mister Rogers’ beloved alma mater, and from Tiffany glass masterpieces to a Filipino fine dining experience, this episode captures the creativity and community that make Orlando truly one-of-a-kind.

Join hosts Marisa & Sara as they explore the heart of Orlando and Winter Park through the voices of the people shaping its story—chefs, curators, and community leaders who remind us that the city’s magic isn’t just found in its theme parks, but in its neighborhoods, kitchens, and art galleries.

Featured Stops in Orlando:

• Se7en Bites (Milk District, Orlando) – Chef Trina Gregory shares her story behind this MICHELIN-recommended spot serving nostalgic Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
  📱 @se7enbites | se7enbites.com

• Rollins College (Winter Park) – Jo Marie Hebeler leads a walk through Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, exploring how his time at Rollins shaped his legacy of kindness.
  🌐 rollins.edu

• The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art (Winter Park) – Arielle-Christine Courtney introduces the world’s most comprehensive Tiffany collection and the story behind American artistry.
  📱 @morsemuseum | morsemuseum.org

• Boca Winter Park – Dipika Hernandez of Visit Orlando discusses the city’s thriving farm-to-table movement over locally sourced bites and drinks.
  📱 @BocaRestaurants | bocarestaurants.com

• Park Avenue (Winter Park) – A stroll through boutiques and cafés like Rifle Paper Co., The Impeccable Pig, and Peterbrooke Chocolatier captures the district’s small-town charm.

• Alfie’s HiFi (Mills 50 District) – Keith Mawardi explains how this retro vinyl bar revives the disco-era vibe through design, cocktails, and curated sound.
  📱 @alfies.hifi | alfieshifi.com

• Kaya (Mills 50 District) – Filipino fine dining meets Florida ingredients in a soulful, community-driven experience that redefines “kaya natin” — “we can.”
  📱 @Kaya.Orlando | kayaorlando.com

• Cocktails & Screams (Downtown Orlando) – A lively nightcap spot to end the day, celebrating Orlando’s creative and eclectic nightlife scene.

Our Orlando journey officially begins with a day filled with indulgence, imagination, and unexpected twists. From a luxurious villa check-in to soaking in hops at a beer spa, we discover the playful identity that gives The City Beautiful its name. We also swing by the world’s most over-the-top McDonald’s and end our night surrounded by artists and tapas at Café Tu Tu Tango. This episode sets the tone for a series packed with wonder, whimsy, and Florida fun you won’t want to miss.

Main Takeaways:
• Villatel Orlando Resort blends private-villa comfort with unique perks that elevate your entire stay.
• The World’s Largest Entertainment McDonald’s is a neon-glowing, game-buzzing experience you have to see to believe.
• Beer Spa Orlando proves relaxation pairs perfectly with craft brews and sudsy self-care.
• Café Tu Tu Tango celebrates Orlando’s creative soul with small plates, live art, and nonstop energy.

Episode Summary:
Day 1 kicks off with a smooth arrival and a jaw-dropping check-in at Villatel Orlando Resort, where comfort meets elevated style. We dive into Orlando’s eccentric side at the World’s Largest Entertainment McDonald’s, featuring wood-fired pizza and more arcade games than some theme parks. The adventure slows down into pure bubbly relaxation at Beer Spa Orlando as we learn why beer baths are the self-care trend we didn’t know we needed. Dinner at Café Tu Tu Tango surrounds us with art, flavor, and local creativity at every turn. If this is how the trip starts, imagine what’s yet to come.

Call to Action – Join the Adventure:
Subscribe to States of Discovery to catch Day 2’s episode full of thrills, nature encounters, and more Orlando surprises.

Leave a review to help fellow travelers find the show. Share this episode with your travel-obsessed friends so they can join the journey, too.

You can also read our companion article and see all the photos on the Day 1 Itinerary at Only In Your State.

Orlando isn’t just the land of theme parks; it’s a city bursting with creativity, flavor, and unexpected adventures. In this special three-part States of Discovery series, we’re teaming up with Visit Orlando to uncover the experiences that make this Central Florida destination shine.

In this introductory episode, we’re setting the stage for what’s to come: three full days of exploration that take you from sunrise to sunset, diving into local neighborhoods, outdoor escapes, culinary delights, and undiscovered gems that go far beyond the roller coasters. We sit down with some beloved local chefs, tour incredible museums, and even get swallowed up by Lake Minnehaha and an unexpected storm.

Over the next three episodes, you’ll get a front-row seat to our Orlando adventure:

• Episode 1: A full day of discovery, from breakfast bites to after-dark surprises.
• Episode 2: The city’s vibrant mix of nature, art, and innovation on full display.
• Episode 3: Wrapping up our Orlando journey with hidden gems and unforgettable memories.

Even if you’re a frequent visitor to the city or planning your very first trip, this series will show you a side of Orlando you’ve never seen before. Subscribe now so you don’t miss a single stop along the way!

Presented in partnership with Visit Orlando.

Buckle up, States of Discovery listeners—this one’s all about the ride, not just the destination. In this 30-minute episode, we dive headfirst into the quirks, hacks, and downright bizarre realities of modern travel. Ever heard of “raw-dogging” a flight? Wonder why 8 AM mimosas feel perfectly normal in an airport? Or if that shiny travel credit card actually pays for itself? We’ve got you covered.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

• The Traveler’s Mindset: The ultimate do’s and don’ts, plus pet peeves that can make or break your trip (armrest hogs, we’re looking at you).
• In-Flight Habits & Etiquette: From screen-free flyers to the worst snacks you can bring onboard.
• The Psychology of Air Travel: Why airports feel like lawless wonderlands and how altitude affects that glass of wine.
• Deals, Perks & Memberships: Frontier’s “All You Can Fly” pass, loyalty programs, and whether premium credit cards like AmEx Platinum are worth the hype.
• Quickfire Travel Hacks: Packing hacks, price-drop alerts, and the apps every savvy traveler should have.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone who just wants to make their next trip less stressful, this episode is packed with tips, laughs, and insights to help you travel smarter.

🎧 Tune in, and don’t forget to share your weirdest travel hack or biggest travel pet peeve with us—we might feature it in an upcoming episode!

Join us on a delicious journey as we explore the diverse and unique pizza styles found across the United States. From the deep-dish delights of Chicago to the thin, crispy slices of New York, and the unexpected flavors of California, this episode uncovers the rich history and regional twists that make each style special. Whether you're a pizza aficionado or just love a good slice, this episode is sure to tantalize your taste buds and expand your pizza palate. Tune in for mouth-watering insights and stories from pizza makers and enthusiasts nationwide!

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery on your favorite podcast platform. We love hearing from our listeners, so share your own fair memories and suggestions for future episodes with us!

Connect With Us:

• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: [email protected]

Thanks for listening to States of Discovery. Until next time!

In this special 10th birthday episode of our podcast, Sara and Marisa take a nostalgic look back at a decade of Only In Your State. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest travel brands dedicated to uncovering America’s hidden gems, we’re reflecting on where we started, what we’ve learned, and where we’re going next.

Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just discovered your state’s page last week, this is an episode made to celebrate YOU—our readers, travelers, and local lovers.

• The origin story of Only In Your State
• Behind the scenes of how we write and curate articles
• The most unforgettable moments from the past 10 years
• What’s coming next for OIYS (spoiler: we’re just getting started!)

• A huge thank-you to our incredible writers and editors across all 50 states
• Special mention to readers who’ve shared feedback and travel tips with us over the years
• Our OIYS community for helping us build a local travel brand like no other

• 🔗 Explore Your State
• 🔗 Join Our Newsletter
• 🔗 Follow us on Instagram

Dive bars - they’re more than just a spot for cheap drinks. They’re community hubs, cultural icons, and spaces brimming with stories. In this episode of States of Discovery, Marisa and Sara dive into the charm, history, and evolving culture of dive bars. From their roots as literal underground hangouts to their role as inclusive, welcoming spaces, we explore why these beloved establishments hold a special place in our hearts.

Episode Highlights:

• The Dive Bar Vibe: Discover the history of the term “dive bar” and how these establishments evolved from disreputable dives to cherished community spaces. Learn why dive bars resonate as places of authenticity, camaraderie, and connection.
• Evolving with the Times: Dive bars have always been inclusive, but they’re adapting even more to modern times. We discuss the rise of mixology in these unpolished gems and the growing popularity of non-alcoholic options like those we discovered at The Agency in Milwaukee.
• Stories That Define Them: Behind every dive bar is a tapestry of tales—from the owners who pour their passion into these spaces to the regulars who make them feel at home.
• Looking Ahead: With changing neighborhoods and rising costs, we examine the future of dive bars and how they’re finding ways to stay relevant for new generations.

Special Features:

• Clips from dive bar enthusiasts and owners sharing their unforgettable experiences.
• Personal favorites from Marisa and Sara, including dive bars from their travels.
• Industry insights into the non-alcoholic beverage trend, a growing force in the bar world.

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery on your favorite podcast platform. We love hearing from our listeners, so share your own fair memories and suggestions for future episodes with us!

Connect With Us:

• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: [email protected]

Thanks for listening to States of Discovery. Until next time, cheers! 🍻

In this episode of States of Discovery, we're diving headfirst into the world of extreme travel. From sand dune boarding in the Southwest to white water rafting in remote canyons, thrill-seekers across the U.S. are redefining what it means to take a vacation. But what's behind this hunger for adrenaline? And why are others content to sit back and play it safe?

Join us as we explore the psychology of sensation seeking, the most daring destinations in the United States, and the ways we balance risk and reward in travel. Whether you’re a storm chaser, a solo survivalist, or just curious about what drives people to leap from planes or dine suspended in mid-air, this episode is for you.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Today’s extreme travel trends: from unique accommodations to once-in-a-lifetime thrill rides
• Adrenaline-fueled U.S. destinations, including National Parks and beyond
• The spectrum of adventure: comparing casual risk-takers to extreme thrill-seekers
• The psychology of thrill-seeking and insights from Psychology Today
• How to test yourself on the Sensation Seeking Scale – past and present
• Real examples of high-risk travel: ice climbing, storm chasing, deep wilderness survival
• The role of cost, comfort, and access in choosing your adventure

Resources Mentioned:

• Sensation Seeking Scale – Zuckerman Test (Classic Version)
• Updated Sensation Seeking Personality Tests
• Psychology Today Article on Thrill-Seeking Behavior

Connect With Us:

• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: [email protected]

Subscribe and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts!

Listener Question:
Are you an adrenaline junkie or do you avoid risk altogether? Share your most extreme travel experience—or your most grounded one—by emailing us or tagging us on Instagram!

In this delightfully offbeat episode of States of Discovery, Sara and Marisa take you on a road trip through America’s weirdest museums—the kind of places that make you do a double-take and say, “Wait… this is real?” From preserved medical oddities to mustard-themed exhibits, we explore the strange, specific, and surprisingly educational corners of the museum world.

You’ll learn about:

• The Mütter Museum in Philadelphia, home to giant colons and soapified bodies
• The hilariously sincere Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts
• Idaho’s love letter to the potato at the Idaho Potato Museum
• Extraterrestrial encounters at the International UFO Museum in Roswell
• Neon nostalgia at the Neon Museum in Las Vegas
• And yes—even the National Mustard Museum in Wisconsin

Plus, we dig into how these wonderfully weird places actually stay open—spoiler: it involves passionate collectors, creative funding, and a whole lot of merch.

Why You'll Love It:

If you’ve ever taken a roadside detour to see the world’s largest ball of twine, this episode is your jam. It’s a celebration of niche passions, local flavor, and the power of the peculiar. Whether you’re into science, food, folklore, or just good ol’ fashioned weirdness, there’s something here for every curious traveler.

Stay Curious:

Got a favorite bizarre museum in the U.S.? Know a hidden gem with an eyebrow-raising backstory? Send it our way! We’re always on the hunt for America’s strangest attractions.

Connect With Us:

• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: [email protected]