States of Discovery

Fayetteville, Arkansas sits in the Ozark Mountains with direct flights, a major university, and Walmart's Bentonville headquarters less than 40 minutes away. But the real surprises start once you're on the ground: 4,000 acres of parkland, 120 miles of trails, and a UCI Bike City title that no other American city holds. We wandered through vintage shops like Aunt Bill's, Grey Dog, and Fayetteville's Funky Flea, ate our way through Hugo's and The Guisinger, and enjoyed a Pride celebration with history that goes back to 1975, nearly fifty years before the first official NWA Pride Parade rolled down Dickson Street. This one's proof that some of the best stories are hiding in plain sight.

Northwest Arkansas Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations in the South, and its roots run far deeper than most visitors expect.

The first NWA Pride Parade rolled down Dickson Street in 2004. But local Pride history reaches back to at least 1975, with the Miss Gay Fayetteville Arkansas America pageant hosted at George's Majestic Lounge, Arkansas' oldest live music venue. That's nearly fifty years of community history behind a celebration many outsiders assume is a recent addition to the South.

This year marked the 22nd Annual NWA Pride Parade, with events including a Hi-Tea Dance & Pool Party at Mount Sequoyah. Northwest Arkansas Pride Weekend is presented by the Tyson Family Foundation and produced by Northwest Arkansas Equality, Inc., a detail that loops right back to the Tyson and Walmart corporate presence just down the road in Bentonville.

• A Taste of Thai, a Fayetteville staple since 2000
• Little Bread Company, an artisan bakery and sandwich shop tucked on Block Street
• Hugo's, a basement burger joint off the square that's been a local favorite since 1977
• Maxine's Taproom, a historic Fayetteville bar
• The Guisinger (pronounced GY-zing-er), a cocktail bar inside the historic Guisinger Music Building on the Fayetteville square

Direct your audience to our companion article, Why Fayetteville, Arkansas Is One of the South's Most Surprising Small Towns, for the full list of restaurants, shops, and links we mention in this episode.

• 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!

States of Discovery is officially back, and Marisa and Sara are wasting no time catching up. After a behind-the-scenes hiatus, they're diving straight into what they've been up to, from a music festival in Salt Lake City to solo adventures in New York and LA. This episode covers the OIYS articles that have been turning heads lately, some genuinely great travel tips, and a big announcement about where the two are headed together at the end of June.

Life Updates & Recent Travel:

• Sara is deeply invested in the 50 Best Sandwich Shops series (and yes, she knows how that sounds)
• Marisa shares why she can't stop thinking about Diablo Lake in Washington's North Cascades and the wild reason its water is that shade of turquoise
• From a hidden omakase spot in New York to a J-pop festival in LA, Sara's solo trip itinerary will make you want to book a flight immediately
• Marisa makes a strong case for Salt Lake City, including an Evo Hotel with an indoor rock climbing gym, a dry sauna she didn't know about until check-in, and a laundromat connected to a pizza shop

Timestamps:

• 00:12 - Welcome back! The hiatus is over and summer travel is on
• 01:47 - Sara's love letter to the 50 Best Sandwich Shops series (Delhi, Ohio represent)
• 05:06 - Marisa's Caribbean water obsession and why Diablo Lake stopped her cold
• 09:02 - Kilby Block Party, lime scooters, and the thrift-to-laundromat pipeline in Salt Lake City
• 17:22 - Sara's solo New York and LA trip: hidden izakaya, MoMA's fallout shelter exhibit, and a J-pop festival
• 28:08 - The big announcement: Marisa and Sara are heading to Fayetteville Pride, one of the biggest Pride festivals in the Southeast
• 35:14 - "Tree trunk travel": how anchoring a trip around one event leads to the best discoveries

Episode Summary:

Marisa and Sara are back on the mic and picking up exactly where they left off. The episode moves fast, from gushing over reader-nominated sandwich shops to trading notes on recent solo travels that each turned into something way more interesting than the original plan. Marisa's Salt Lake City trip is a great reminder that staying at the right hotel, being willing to do laundry in a new city, and just wandering with a color challenge can be its own kind of adventure.

Sara's New York visit hit differently once a Marcel Duchamp exhibit led her straight into a fake Cold War fallout shelter. The episode closes on a genuinely exciting note: both hosts are heading to Fayetteville, Arkansas for a three-day Pride celebration, and they want listeners along for the ride.

Stay tuned for the Fayetteville Pride episode dropping in early July. Have a Pride festival recommendation or a sandwich shop worth a road trip? Leave us a message at 805-298-1420 or email [email protected]. If you're listening on Spotify, drop a comment. Subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery so more people find us.

What if the best part of your next trip isn't on any "Top 10" list? In this episode, Marisa and Sara make the case for neighborhood-first travel — ditching the tourist traps and leaning into the quirky, culturally rich pockets that give a city its real soul.

• Why "landmark-first" travel is holding you back — and what to do instead
• The do's and don'ts of wandering — how to bake unstructured time into your trip without getting lost (literally and figuratively)
• The sociology of quirky neighborhoods — why artists, creatives, and culture tend to cluster in the same kinds of places
• Are hidden gems going mainstream? — the gentrification question nobody wants to ask

🌿 East Hill – Pensacola, FL A cool older neighborhood with a glow-up. Think front-porch culture, golf carts, indie coffee shops, craft cocktails, and a seriously community-driven vibe.

🎨 Tremont – Cleveland, OH Cleveland's smaller, scrappier arts district — and one of the Midwest's best-kept secrets.

🎸 Fishtown – Philadelphia, PA Industrial-cool turned creative hotspot. Converted warehouses, dive bars next to trendy cocktail lounges, street art on brick walls, and some of Philly's best live music and food.

🏔️ Taos Downtown – Taos, NM An artsy ski town gem tucked between Santa Fe and the mountains — rich in culture, history, and unexpected energy.

• Go 2–3 neighborhoods out from the city center — that's where the real character lives
• Look for street art — it almost always signals a creative, culturally active community
• Ask locals — bartenders, baristas, and rideshare drivers know things Google doesn't
• Skip the chains. If you spot a Warby Parker or an Anthropologie, keep walking
• Don't over-plan. Leave room to wander — your best travel story probably isn't scheduled
• Try the most random restaurant you can find. The most authentic spots are often the least "Yelp-able"

• Google Maps – Use the "zoom-in" explore feature instead of just searching
• Only In Your State – Discover hyperlocal gems by state
• Yelp & TripAdvisor – Useful for finding independent local businesses
• Reddit – Search city-specific subreddits for honest, local recommendations

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Stay curious, stay traveling — and we'll see you next time on States of Discovery.

In this lightning-round episode of States of Discovery, we’re diving into the quirky, surprising, and uniquely American details that make exploring the United States endlessly fascinating. From iconic regional foods and cozy winter getaways to overrated tourist traps and unforgettable hiking trails, this episode celebrates the small discoveries that shape how we travel—and how we see home.

After returning from an adventure-packed trip to Orlando (which turned into three full episodes!), we’re switching things up. Instead of focusing on one destination, we’re covering a mix of travel insights across the country—perfect inspiration for your next road trip, weekend escape, or bucket-list adventure.

What to Expect From This Episode

• Iconic American Foods & Regional Culinary Traditions
• Winter Getaways, Cozy Mountain Towns & America 250 Inspiration
• Overhyped Tourist Attractions (And Better Alternatives)
• Charming Small Towns Worth the Escape
• Bucket-List Hikes Across the United States

Listen Now

If you love uncovering hidden locales, debating tourist hype, chasing cozy winter destinations, and dreaming about your next great hike, this episode is packed with inspiration. Tune in, explore a little deeper, and let your curiosity lead the way.

In this final episode of our Orlando travel series on States of Discovery, we explore an adventurous side of Central Florida that most visitors never see. From off-road outdoor experiences and scenic lake adventures to MICHELIN-recognized dining and festive resort celebrations, this episode showcases the incredible diversity of things to do near Orlando.

Join hosts Marisa & Sara as they travel beyond the city center into Clermont, Florida, a beautiful lakeside community known for outdoor recreation, water sports, and scenic landscapes just outside Orlando.

Along the way, we meet the people and businesses bringing creativity and adventure to the region while discovering why Central Florida is quickly becoming a destination for food lovers, outdoor explorers, and curious travelers alike.

Revolution Adventures (Clermont) – A 230-acre outdoor adventure park where guests climb into amphibious Mucky Duck vehicles to drive through muddy trails, splash through water crossings, and experience one of the most exciting off-road adventures near Orlando.
📱 @revolutionoffroad | revolutionoffroad.com

CatBoat Adventures (Clermont Chain of Lakes) – A scenic boating tour where visitors pilot their own mini catamaran-style boats across the Clermont Chain of Lakes, weaving through cypress-lined waterways and moss-draped wetlands.
📱 @catboattours | catboattours.com

Twenty-Pho Hour (Orlando) – A MICHELIN-recommended restaurant known for bold noodle dishes, famous crispy pho, and one of the most unique dining interiors in Orlando.
📱 @twenty_pho_hour| twenty-pho-hour.com

Villatel Orlando Resort – Hallowee-kends (Orlando) – A festive seasonal event featuring haunted villas, spooky movie nights, themed cocktails, and Halloween activities for families and travelers visiting Orlando in the fall.
🌐 villatel.com/orlando

This episode highlights the adventurous, scenic, and creative side of Central Florida, proving that some of the most memorable experiences in the region can be found far beyond the theme parks.

A huge shoutout to Visit Orlando for hosting us and helping showcase the incredible attractions, restaurants, and outdoor adventures across the region.

Subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

We love hearing from our listeners, so share your travel stories or ideas for future destinations with us.

Connect With Us:

• 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.

In this first episode of States of Discovery, our Orlando adventure begins with a day filled with indulgence, imagination, and unexpected experiences across some of the most unique attractions in Orlando, Florida. From checking into a luxury private villa resort to visiting the world’s largest McDonald’s, soaking in a craft beer spa, and dining at one of Orlando’s most creative restaurants, this episode explores the playful personality behind The City Beautiful.

Join hosts Marisa & Sara as they uncover fun and surprising things to do in Orlando beyond the theme parks, highlighting the restaurants, attractions, and local experiences that make the city such a dynamic travel destination.

From immersive dining to quirky wellness experiences, this first day sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through Orlando’s food scene, nightlife, and offbeat attractions.

Villatel Orlando Resort (International Drive Area) – A luxury villa-style resort offering spacious private homes with pools, themed bedrooms, and resort amenities ideal for families and group travel visiting Orlando.
🌐 villatel.com/orlando

The World’s Largest Entertainment McDonald’s (International Drive) – One of the most famous roadside attractions in Orlando, featuring an enormous arcade, custom menu items like wood-fired pizza and pasta, and a neon-lit dining experience that’s become a must-see stop for visitors.
📱 @mcorlando | mcorlandofl.com

Beer Spa Orlando (International Drive) – A relaxing wellness experience where guests soak in beer-infused baths made with hops, barley, and herbs while enjoying unlimited craft beer in a private spa room.
📱 @beerspaorlando | beerspa.com/orlando

Café Tu Tu Tango (International Drive) – One of the most creative restaurants in Orlando, serving globally inspired tapas while local artists paint live inside the dining room, blending food, art, and culture into one unforgettable experience.
📱 @cafetututango | cafetututango.com

Join us as we kick off our Orlando journey exploring International Drive attractions, unique restaurants, and unforgettable experiences that prove the magic of Orlando lives far beyond its theme parks.

Subscribe to States of Discovery so you don’t miss the next episode as we dive deeper into Orlando’s neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and local food scene.

Leave a review to help fellow travelers discover the show and share the episode with your travel-loving friends.

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!