Some vacations are for adventure.
Others are for rest.
A place full of memories, of promise.
A place that automatically puts your mind and heart at ease.
These eight Americans were kind enough to share their most treasured places with us.
Maybe their stories will inspire you to visit one of these spots.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, San Diego
So few things in life are permanent.
The house I grew up in got torn down.
People come and go.
But Sunset Cliffs is a forever place.
I was recruited to college in San Diego on a football scholarship.
Coming from the hot and dry agricultural town of Bakersfield,Sunset Cliffsfelt tropical and exotic.
Ocean waves crashing on the rocks.
A sea cave with a hole open to the sky.
It gave me hope that I could be happy again.
I wrote my first songs at Sunset Cliffs.
The title of my first album isWater.
After my brother died from COVID in 2020, I went back.
At Sunset Cliffs, you could cast your cares upon the water.
Just being there makes me feel lighter.
Stroll sandstone cliffs atLa Jolla Coveas seals lounge about on the rocks.
Wander theUSS Midwayto learn about life on an aircraft carrier; most of the docents are veterans.
The Old Mill, T.R.
Ive probably been there more than 50 times; I still take friends there.
Its a really special, unusual, beautiful place.
Its like the physical manifestation of all these worlds that I used to love to dream about.
While youre in North Little Rock …
Drink an award-winning Victory Pale Ale atDiamond Bear Brewing Co.
Drive toEmerald Parkfor scenic views of the Arkansas River.
Enjoy the pulled pork and brisket atLindseys Hospitality House but dont skip the catfish.
The lobby would bustle with tourists from other parts of the Midwest.
Im delighted the Palmer House is still there.
They dont have that coffee shop anymore, but I love the memories.
I think the ashtrays are gone now too.
Walk to theArt Institute of Chicago, home to American Gothic and Nighthawks.
VisitThe Ledge, a glass balcony at Willis Tower.
