Choosing a travel nurse assignment destination can be difficult. We have put together a list of 4 cities that would make excellent travel nurse destinations this spring and summer. We have also included information on things to do while on assignment there and the weather during these spring and summer months.
Hot travel destinations:
Richmond, VA
Richmond is an excellent option for travel nursing because the community is a healthcare hub with so many travel assignment opportunities. You won’t have a hard time finding things to keep you busy. Richmond offers a rich culture and scenic destinations that you can even explore on Segway tours!
Segway Tours-
There are many options for Segway tours. Some of these tours include a Richmond Landmark tour, Hollywood cemetery tour, Civil Rights History tour, Women in Richmond Tour, and Street Art tour. Most of the tours take about 2 hours to complete.
The Maymont Mansion-
According to their website, The story of Maymont began in 1893, when a wealthy Richmond couple, James and Sallie Dooley, completed their elaborate Gilded Age estate on a site high above the James River. Upon their deaths and according to their wishes, Maymont—including its architectural complex, the 100-acre landscape, and a collection of exquisite furnishings—was left to the people of Richmond.
Richmond is a great city for your next travel nurse assignment if you are interested in history. Richmond has many museums, monuments, historic cemeteries, and the Virginia Capitol building. As the capital of Virginia, it is also one of the oldest cities in the United States.
Weather-
The weather in Richmond during the spring is comfortable, and the temperatures range from 40-75 degrees. If you enjoy the warmth, summer in Richmond is perfect for you. The temperatures in June, July, and August average around 87 degrees.
Wichita, KS-
Like Richmond, Wichita also offers a variety of opportunities for travel assignments that are sure to deliver something to offer for anyone! The city’s tourism website highlights activities available in the area, including Arts & Entertainment, Family Fun, Shopping, Nightlife, Sports, and Outdoor & Wildlife. These attractions include museums, art galleries, public art, concerts, comedy, movies, and performing arts.
Public Art-
Public art is a big deal in Wichita. Many forms of public art are featured in the community. According to their website, “Wichita is a pipeline of creativity and expression, with a raging art scene adding color to the city. From public art like murals to miniature sculptures of the iconic Keeper of the Plains, Wichita grows talented artists of all mediums, and the community often comes together to celebrate their work.” A few options for public art are; murals, Keepers on Parade, Alley Doors, Bronze sculptures downtown, Art Garden at Wichita Art Museum, and even a few more options as well!
Outdoor and Wildlife-
Wichita offers zoos, waterparks, and parks for outdoor and wildlife fun. Wichita is home to the area’s largest waterpark, Rock River Rapids. They are also home to Splash Aqua Park, an inflatable park that sits in the middle of a 27-acre lake in southwest Wichita and features swings, ramps, jumps, trampolines, inflatable slides, and all sorts of aquatic fun.
Weather-
Spring is mild in Wichita. The average temperature during the spring months is 70 degrees. Summers get pretty warm, with the average temperature peaking at 92 degrees.
Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville has a large healthcare presence like the other cities on our list. It is a great city to start looking for an assignment that offers you so many things to do while you are in town. Visitjacksonville.com put together a list of the top 22 things to do in Jacksonville. Some of the top places to experience include; The Jacksonville Zoo and Garden, The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, Little Talbot Island, Big Talbot Island, and Kingsley Plantation.
Jacksonville Zoo-
Zoos are always a great way to get out on your day off. According to Visit Jacksonville, “the zoo has something for everyone with over 2,400 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants. Grown-ups and little ones alike will love feeding the giraffes at the African Overlook and watching the otters float along in the Wild Florida exhibit. The zoo also houses an Australian Adventure featuring colorful birds called lorikeets. Tigers roam overhead at the Land of the Tiger exhibit, and Jaguars steal the show at their award-winning exhibit. During your visit, step onto the zoo’s scenic Trout River dock. You might even spot a manatee!”
Big Talbot Island-
If you enjoy hiking or biking, Big Talbot Island is a great place to visit. It has wetlands and marshes, 2 beaches, and several bike paths. You can also take guided kayak tours or go for a hike.
The Beaches-
Let’s be honest; if you take an assignment in Florida, you have to visit the beach, especially when it is so close! Jacksonville offers 4 city beaches that are just a short drive from downtown. These beaches include Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and Mayport Beach. Each beach offers something different. Jacksonville Beach was voted the top beach of Jacksonville by Hotels.com.
Weather-
Jacksonville is obviously warmer, but that is why you consider assignments in Florida. The average temperature during the spring is 80 degrees. The summer months get a bit hotter, with an average temperature of 90 degrees.
El Paso, TX
El Paso is home to a bustling healthcare community offering a wide variety of travel nurse assignments. There is also a lot to do in El Paso, with many state parks, the El Paso Zoo, museums, and theaters, to name a few. Also, don’t forget to try some authentic Tex-Mex while you are on assignment in El Paso!
Franklin Mountains State Park-
Franklin Mountains State Park tops the list of things to do in El Paso. Including one on planetware.com. According to their website, “Easily accessed on the north end of the city and one of the country’s largest urban parks, the 27,000-acre Franklin Mountain State Park is a popular venue for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Other fun things to do at this sprawling state park include geocaching, ranger-led programs, and wildlife watching opportunities. For those pressed for time, the Franklin Mountains offer a variety of scenic drives, too.”
The Plaza Theatre-
The Plaza Theatre is also named on several lists of things to do in El Paso. They host many types of events, including expos, concerts, and even Broadway performances. The pictures of the theatre on their website are breathtaking, and the decor is very fitting for the location.
Weather-
The weather in El Paso in spring can vary based on the month, ranging front the low 70s to the upper 80s. Spring is a great time to visit if you like mid-to-warm weather. Summer months are quite a bit warmer, with an average temperature of 96 degrees. Because El Paso is basically in the desert, the air is dry, but hot is hot. So, if you enjoy the heat in summer, El Paso would be great for you!
We hope you found this article on hot travel destinations for spring and summer helpful. Discover more about HWS Specialty Travel Program here.
Are there any travel destinations you love to go to in the spring or summer for your travel nurse assignments? Comment them below.
Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing board.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
It’s a beautiful year to explore some incredible new locations, travelers. And when it comes to spots for your next travel nursing assignment, the cool thing is that every traveler is looking for something different, which means great-fitting jobs for everybody! Or, as Amy Poehler says, “There’s a lid for every pot.” When it comes to travel nurse assignments, there tend to be locations so popular that they’re nearly universal and always sought after, those simply in high current demand, and those hidden gem locations that only the savviest travelers will discover.
Here are our top 20 travel nurse destinations for 2022!
1. Anchorage, AK
Travel nursing assignments in Anchorage offer great adventure with Alaska’s unique location, culture, and otherworldly natural beauty making it a fantastic travel nurse destination. As the state’s largest city, Anchorage offers a neat blend of both wild and urban places to experience. Here you can explore trails, peep wildlife like moose, bears, and whales, see (and hear!) glaciers, and tons more in the wild. Explore the indigenous culture at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, or shop for Native crafts and art, fresh seafood, or other wares. Bonus: Shopping in Anchorage is tax-free! And yes, it gets cold here. But bundle up, and you might see the northern lights or midnight sun, go dogsledding, take a day cruise, kayak with expansive views of unspoiled nature, and so much more. It’s an enjoyable place to spend 13 weeks building your career in care! Barrow, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Soldotna are a few other incredible cities for Alaska assignments.
2. Jacksonville, Florida
On the other hand, this hotspot in northern Florida is the largest city in the Sunshine State and a heavenly place for your next travel healthcare job. From downtown high rises to the most extensive urban park system in the nation, JAX (as the locals call it) has something for everyone to enjoy. Originally dubbed “The River City by the Sea,” the presence of St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean make JAX a water lover’s dream indeed. Think sun, sand, boating, fishing, and diving — plus arts and culture, a lively music and nightlife scene, foodie-approved dining, fun riverwalks, and tons more. Also, the cost of living is solid in this city, so blessed by beaches! Explore Jacksonville travel nursing assignments and see if this sunny hotspot is the right fit for you.
3. Falls Church, Virginia
This charming town of approximately 15,000 offers travelers a little bit of everything. It may be small, but it’s just a 25-minute drive to everything Washington, D.C. has to explore — including some of the nation’s top tourist sites, museums, and more. However, this quaint, historic town has plenty to explore, too, like classic Victorian architecture, arts and entertainment, great dining and shopping, parks and hiking, Great Falls and the Potomac River, and so much more. Enjoy access to the big city but only when you want to venture in and spend the rest of your assignment in this adorable enclave! Explore Falls Church travel nurse jobs and see if this is the Goldilocks spot for you.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
The larger Phoenix area is a conglomeration of suburbs and cities, so this entry comes with many bonus location options and tons to do and see. Phoenix travel nursing jobs are a great choice this year for travelers who want to escape colder weather, explore the Southwestern U.S., golfers, hikers, nature lovers, art lovers, and others. Nearby Chandler is also a popular spot for an Arizona travel healthcare assignment. Not in the mood for a major metro area but still feeling a location in the Southwest? Check out Show Low, Arizona.
5. Tacoma, Washington
With a location just south of supersonic Seattle, many travelers will choose a healthcare travel job in Tacoma this year. Like its famous neighbor to the north, Tacoma has great art (it’s known in particular for glass art), creative culture, and it sits on the Puget Sound. But it all comes with a lower cost of living — which can go a long way for travelers’ take-home compensation! This is a hidden gem and an excellent spot for a travel assignment. Nearby Gig Harbor, Washington (just 20 minutes away) is also a prime location. On your days off, you can explore everything the Evergreen State offers — from the Seattle city scene to the natural beauty of its many mountain peaks and forests.
6. Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia should be on your mind when it comes to your travel nurse career. With its consistently available jobs and chock-full of Southern charm attitude, most travelers find Atlanta travel nurse assignments to be just as sweet as a peach! This capital city has many exciting features like pro sports teams, fantastic dining, shopping, history, and more to explore on your days off. Check out the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, the Fox Theatre, Stone Mountain, World of Coca-Cola, and Piedmont Park.
A travel nursing assignment in the Aloha State is a dream for many travelers for obvious reasons. Make your dreams come true with a travel nurse job in Honolulu! There’s probably no need for us to explain why Hawaii is on this list of popular travel assignments for the year. But to nutshell it for anyone who doesn’t know, this city and its surrounding area are known for surfing, beaches, lovely tropical climate, Pearl Harbor, lush flora, volcanoes, rich Polynesian culture, nightlife, and tons more. It’s basically paradise, OK? Hilo, Waimea, and Kealakekua are a few other great cities for Hawaii travel jobs.
8. Morgantown, West Virginia
Morgantown is an incredible little city (population just over 30,000) in north-central West Virginia, not far from the Pennsylvania and Ohio borders. The city sits along the Monongahela River and is known for its arts culture, mountaineer history, great people, and a strong food and drink scene. It’s a college town — the Art Museum of WVU, Mountaineer Field, and WVU Core Arboretum are big draws for those who take travel nurse jobs in Morgantown. And also a nature town — explore Cheat Lake, Coopers Rock State Forest, WV Botanic Garden. About 150 miles east is Martinsburg, another excellent travel nursing location to consider in West Virginia.
9. Santa Cruz, California
Sun, sand, surf. If these are a few of your favorite things, talk to your recruiter about a travel nursing job in Santa Cruz. Many people visit this charming seaside destination, but it’s a real treat to spend 13 weeks (or more!) really exploring and taking it all in as a traveler. There’s so much to do and see here; let’s do a quick roll call: the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (complete with rides, entertainment, dining, and attractions), lots of great beaches like Main Beach and Cowell Beach, the Santa Cruz Wharf, whale and dolphin watching in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, great surfing and a surfing museum, quaint Downtown Santa Cruz, historic Santa Cruz Mission, Mystery Spot, incredible hiking and views, and all just a quick drive to the famous Highway One route along Monterey Bay. The San Francisco/Oakland area, just about an hour-and-a-half north, is another excellent area for travel jobs — or day trips!
10. Redding, California
California’s so huge and full of hidden gems that we’re giving The Golden State two spots on the list. Nature lovers will adore Redding, Northern California’s largest city north of Sacramento, with a population of 91,000+. Redding sits at the Sacramento Valley’s north end, just an hour south of Mount Shasta. The natural beauty is stunning and plentiful when you take a Redding travel nursing assignment, but the cost of living is low! Redding is known for the fact that hundreds of miles of State and National Parks and Forests are within just a 30-mile radius of the town. Must-sees include Sundial Bridge, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lake Shasta, and many more. Redding is nicknamed the “Gem of the U.S. Trails System” and the “Trails Capital of California.” We weren’t kidding when we said this place was a gem!
11. Lewes, Delaware
This hidden gem sits right where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean in the state’s beautiful Cape Region. Lewes is a tiny, picturesque town, and it’s perfect for travelers who love the sea, sand, and sun! The town’s also got a walkable historic district with cute shops, restaurants, museums, and more. And despite its small-town quaintness, the medical facilities in Lewes are excellent. The town’s known for its great cost of living, and the state’s well known for being a tax-friendly place — always a plus for travelers. There’s a biking/hiking trail to Rehoboth Beach, which is a mere six miles away, plus Lewes is adjacent to Cape Henlopen State Park, which boasts lots of beautiful beaches and more. Ready for a travel nursing job in Lewes?
12. Terre Haute, Indiana
Located in west-central Indiana, just 5 miles east of the Illinois border, this city of 60,000 sits along the Wabash River and is known as “The Queen City of the Wabash.” Terre Haute is family-friendly and known as an educational hub. Culture, art, architecture, football, dining, outdoor activities, and more beckon when you take a travel nurse assignment in Terre Haute. The cost of living here is well below average, allowing travelers to make their compensation stretch. Terre Haute is also just about an hour’s drive each to Bloomington and Indianapolis and about a 3-hour trip to Chicago. So, it’s a great home base for regional trips!
13. White Plains, New York
White Plains is just northeast of New York City near the Connecticut border. This outer suburb of The Big Apple is known for top-notch shopping and dining and also for great schools, culture, and healthcare facilities. It sounds like the perfect spot for a traveler who may want to explore NYC but doesn’t care to live in the city that never sleeps. When you take a travel nursing job in White Plains, you can access all of New York City’s culture, dining, theater, sightseeing, and more after just a quick half-hour train ride down. Also, White Plains has some pretty great stuff to explore itself, like the White Plains Performing Arts Center, Saxon Woods Park, Battle of White Plains Park, Percy Grainger Home, Westchester Mall, White Plains Farmers Market, and more. Daring travelers may also enjoy a helicopter tour of the NYC metro area!
14. Omaha, Nebraska
Take a travel nursing job in Omaha, and you’ll see why more folks should stop and stay awhile in “flyover country.” This mid-sized city sits on the eastern edge of Nebraska with a population of around 475,000 and a metro area population nearing one million. The state’s most populous city, Omaha’s full of friendly faces, sees all four seasons and has plenty to do on your days off. The historic Old Market, Dundee, Blackstone, and Benson are hip neighborhoods to explore for a night out and some foodie fun. The famous Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a must-see. Sports fans can take in a Creighton Bluejays basketball game or make the 45-minute drive to Lincoln during football season to join the famous Nebraska Cornhuskers “sea of red.” Plant one foot in Nebraska and one in Iowa on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Admire art deco architecture at Joslyn Art Museum and Durham Museum. Hike Fontenelle Forest and Lauritzen Park. Omaha’s big enough to have great dining, shopping, art, music, museums, and theater, but also petite enough to have a slower pace than major cities.
15. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio may be known for The Alamo, but that’s not all you’ll remember from your time in this incredible city! In addition to warmer temps, travel nursing jobs in San Antonio come with lots of opportunities for historic sightseeing, shopping, dining, golfing, caving, day trips, and more. The must-dos are many here, but you’ll definitely want to see the Alamo, the famous San Antonio River Walk, Missions National Historical Park, the Pearl District, Market Square, and El Mercado. You can also take culinary classes at the Culinary Institute of America. Day-trippers will love jaunts to New Braunfels (a charming small town with a country music legacy) and Bandera (Cowboy Capital of the World).
16. Kansas City, Missouri
If you like BBQ, jazz, shopping, pro sports, and fine arts, consider K.C. This urban Midwest mecca sees all four seasons and has much to explore year-round, making it the perfect travel nurse destination. Here you can root for the Royals and cheer on the Chiefs, stroll Nelson-Atkins Art Museum and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, sample world-class BBQ and Beard-nominated fine dining, explore the American Jazz Museum, and tap your toes at local jazz clubs, have a blast at Worlds of Fun and a make a splash at Oceans of Fun — and tons more. Explore K.C. travel nursing jobs to find your perfect fit. Prefer to head a bit further south in The Show-Me State? Osage Beach is another great location that allows you to explore the Lake of the Ozarks!
17. Roseburg, Oregon
This gem in southeast Oregon has a population of about 25,000 and is known for its cool culture and stunning natural beauty. Roseburg sits in the heart of the beautiful Umpqua Valley. Its charming, walkable, historic downtown is known for unique shopping, restaurants, and galleries. On the outdoors tip, you can’t skip a stone around here without hitting an epic trail, waterfall, or forest. That means great rafting, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and scenic views. Luckily for you, this is also the land of historic, award-winning wineries and craft breweries galore if you’re thirsty after all of that fun in the great outdoors. Cheers to you because Roseburg travel nursing jobs are a great choice! Klamath Falls, about three hours southeast of Roseburg and known as the gateway to Crater Lake National Park, is another excellent location for travelers in Oregon. Roseburg is a great travel nurse destination for outdoor lovers.
18. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Travel healthcare jobs in Myrtle Beach come with the city’s famous 60-mile stretch of sandy beaches and boardwalks (part of the Grand Strand along the South Carolina coast), attractions, entertainment, golf, dining, and shopping galore! Broadway on the Beach is a bustling, touristy entertainment complex that’s a must-do for many. But from Vegas-style shows to more traditional theater to fine art offerings, there’s a bit of something for all tastes here in Myrtle Beach. The seafood, of course, is fantastic here, but you’ll find a full menu of foodie faves as well — from fine-dining sit-downs to boardwalk grab-and-gos to fresh ingredients you can whip up in your kitchen. In addition to the beautiful beaches, nature stuns everywhere in Myrtle Beach. Duck the beach crowds for some me-time at Myrtle Beach State Park, Huntington Beach State Park, Brookgreen Gardens, Conway Riverwalk, and Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. Also, whether you prefer golf or mini-golf, Myrtle Beach is a wonderful place to tee up on your day off.
19. Aurora, Colorado
If you love the mountains and city life, a travel nursing assignment in Aurora is an excellent travel nurse destination for you. Aurora is Colorado’s third-largest city, and it’s only about a half-hour drive from downtown Denver, so you’ll have access to all the world-class dining, art, sports, shopping, culture, events, and attractions that the larger Aurora/Denver metro area has to offer. But, the great thing about this location is that even though you’re surrounded by all the benefits of urban living, you’re never too far away from a serene mountain getaway here! So, you can add hiking, skiing, rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, golfing, fishing, and so much more to your to-do list when you work a travel job in Aurora. This is a fantastic location for nearly any traveler — the mountain air and majestic views of colorful Colorado will do wonders for your mental and physical health!
20. Augusta, Maine
This quaint New England town of about 20,000 sits right on the Kennebec River. Augusta is the Maine state capital, located just an hour from Portland. This adorable town is known for its historic downtown (it’s a nationally designated Main Street community!) and streets lined with Victorian architecture. Speaking of historic, the Augusta’s Old Fort Western is the nation’s oldest surviving wood fort, built back in 1754. Not far from the fort, you’ll find Waterfront Park and the Augusta Greenway Trail, which is part of the larger, 6.5-mile Kennebec River Rail Trail and is a great spot for strolling and biking. Travelers also love the 224-acre Viles Arboretum, with its six miles of trails. Now imagine hiking, biking, and strolling all of that with the iconic New England fall colors all around you. This travel nurse destination sounds like heaven! Nearby Lewiston, Bangor, and Portland are also great locations in Maine for travel jobs — or fun spots for day trips from your Augusta travel nursing job!
Hopefully, our list of top 20 travel nurse destinations for 2022 gave you some inspiration and got you dreaming of where care will take you this year and beyond! Even if none of these hotspots for travel nurse destinations feel right for you right now, you can keep them in mind for later down the road. Plus, we’ve always got tons of open jobs — with new ones added every day! Are there any travel nurse destinations we missed on this list? Comment them below.
Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
So, you took an assignment in Columbia, South Carolina. While the city is large, it may be difficult to find things to do on your day off. We have put together a few great places to visit while you are on your assignment in Columbia. We have also included a couple of restaurants. Below you will find just a few places to visit and things to do.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has something for everyone. If you enjoy seeing animals, the Zoo is an excellent place for you. According to their website, they are home to more than 2,000 animals that represent more than 350 species from around the world. If the Zoo isn’t your thing, you may enjoy the Garden. According to their website, the Garden blooms year-round, and more than 4,300 species of exotic and native plants bloom. This makes for a perfect living classroom for all visitors. The Garden also offers a 3-acre interactive children’s Garden if you have children traveling with you.
Cayce Riverwalk
If you are an outdoorsy person or like to be outdoors on your day off, the Cayce Riverwalk is a great option. Their website states that the Riverwalk is the ultimate “daycation” spot. It is “easily accessible from anywhere in the Midlands of South Carolina. Spanning 12 miles, it overlooks the beautiful Congaree River, right across from the capital city of Columbia, S.C., and it is a popular destination for walking, jogging, bicycling, birdwatching, picnicking, and taking in the natural beauty of the riverfront.”
The Riverwalk’s bridges, boardwalks, overlooks, and lighted, central path accommodate all levels of physical abilities. Parking is free. The paved paths are lighted and run through the shaded riverine forest. There are benches and picnic tables as well. You can also enjoy wooden boardwalks with great water views.
Folly Beach
While Folly Beach is a city that is about a 2-hour trip but is a highly recommended place to visit when you take an assignment in Columbia, Folly Beach is located between the Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean. It is just 15 minutes from Charleston, so you won’t have to go far if you want to visit a big city while you visit Folly Beach. There are many things to do in Folly Beach.
The Fishing Pier extends more than 1045 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. If you are interested in fishing, you can rent all the equipment you need from the shop on the pier. If you’re a wildlife lover, you will see loggerhead turtles nesting, dolphins playing in the water and even bald eagles soaring in the sky.
Folly Beach has many options when it comes to dining. From gourmet meals and seafood feasts to a quick sandwich, the restaurants in Folly Beach have you covered.
Folly Beach also has many local shops that offer bathing suits, souvenirs, surfboards, and gear.
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park contains over 20,000 acres of federally designated wilderness that visitors can explore by foot, kayak, or canoe. So, if you enjoy the outdoors, the Congaree National Park is a great place to visit. There are many things to do, including hiking, camping, canoeing & kayaking, fishing, and walking. Please note that you need to bring your canoe or kayak. These can be rented in shops in Columbia. If you enjoy hiking, Congaree National Park offers many trails that vary in level of difficulty from easy to difficult. If you are looking to spend the night camping at the park, make sure to make your reservations ahead of time. Reservations for the frontcountry campgrounds must be made through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Alodia’s Cucina Italiana
Alodia’s Cucina Italiana is rated very high on Yelp. According to their website, “Alodia’s Cucina Italiana is a restaurant born from the love of an Italian family. Proprietor Adam Huneau’s first restaurant has been wowing taste buds in Irmo with his authentic Italian Cuisine comprised of recipes that have been pulled from the pages of his family’s cookbook.
Named after his Great-Grandmother, Alodia’s fare and ambiance resound with the smells and tastes of Old Italy. Fresh sauces and homemade pastas are the foundation of the menu that brought generations together. Adam is devoted to making his restaurants as inviting and warm as his own family’s kitchen.”
Their menu offers many traditional Italian dishes, from Baked Ziti to Eggplant Parmesan. They offer soups and salads as well as chicken and seafood entrees.
Cola’s Restaurant
According to Cola’s website, the restaurant is “Located in a lovingly restored 1930’s RC Cola bottling plant, Cola’s is a “casual” fine dining bar/restaurant specializing in seafood, steaks and other culinary creations influenced by a broad range of ethnic cooking. There is an emphasis on fresh ingredients and locally grown food where possible. Weather permitting, two garage doors open up the restaurant to views of the Statehouse and allow our guests to enjoy the bustle of downtown Columbia. Cola’s boasts a 40-foot long bar that houses our extensive wine selection. If preferred, try one of our house cocktails or choose a brew from our large selection of bottled beers. Cola’s has ample room to host your private functions in either of the two private dining rooms, seating up to as many as 50. Large booths adorn the main dining room, and table seating for small and large parties.”
Cola offers four different menus: dinner, dessert, and a wine list and bar menu. The dinner menu offers appetizers including oysters Rockefeller, shrimp options, and even a fondue option. The dinner menu also includes salad options, poultry, seafood, and beef options as well. Their dessert menu has quite a few different options, including cakes, brownies, cheesecake, and tortes, to name a few.
About Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia is the state capital and largest city in South Carolina, with a population of 132,000. Columbia is the primary city of the Midlands region of South Carolina. It lies at the confluence of the Saluda River and the Broad River, which merge at Columbia to form the Congaree River, which is a popular destination for paddlers and kayakers. Columbia is home to the state’s largest university, the University of South Carolina. Columbia features a revitalized downtown area, which contains many art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Rich in cultural and literary arts, Columbia offers theatre, museums, ballet, a philharmonic orchestra, jazz, opera, choral, and a circus. The city sponsors numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Lovers of the outdoors truly appreciate the many scenic parks, lakes, rivers, and creeks in this region. Golf enthusiasts welcome the warm climate, which gives them the opportunity for a year-round play on the excellent local courses!
We hope you found this list of 6 things to do in Columbia, South Carolina, helpful. We will continue to bring you articles with things to do in different cities. Is there a city you would like to see an article on things to do? Comment the city below. If you would like to contribute an article about things to do in a city, please click here to email our Content Strategist.
Are you looking for an assignment in Columbia, South Carolina? Click here to view the assignments on our job board. If you need to housing click here to search our housing page.
Nashville is Tennessee’s capital and home to some of the most incredible music and landmarks that the state holds. The opportunities and activities to do within Nashville are endless, ranging from beautiful venues to museums that just about anybody could enjoy.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
While in Nashville, one of the most visited and well-known locations in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. As Nashville and Tennessee as a whole are known for their popping scene in the country genre, this museum is a must-visit. Within the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, there are tons of exciting exhibits that capture the role country music has interpreted. This music hall also has tours that the highly well-informed workers guide at this location.
Another must-visit while in Nashville is the Grand Ole Opry, which is located in the Ryman Auditorium. The Ryman Auditorium seats well over two thousand people, perfect for the famous Grand Ole Opry tradition. The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly concert held in Nashville that displays not only country music but also dabbles in folk, gospel music, and comedy performances. This tradition started back in the 20s where they would host fantastic concerts for their audience to enjoy. And if you weren’t personally at each show, the performances were broadcasted weekly, and WSM solidified the tradition countrywide, with it being streamed every Saturday. The Grand Ole Opry had such an impact on the Ryman Auditorium that the auditorium was announced a national historic landmark because of its effect on popularizing country music.
Gaylord Opryland Resort
The Gaylord Opryland resort and convention center is a stunning hotel within Nashville. This hotel was previously known as the Opryland hotel. This resort is beautifully designed with dazzling lights and a central garden. During the holidays, the location offers lights and decorations that are put on display each year. The hotel is also ideally located with lots of shopping and restaurant opportunities surrounding the area. Not only is this hotel a beautiful location to visit, but it is also one of the 30 largest hotels in the world, with 2888 rooms for guests to stay in.
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
If you enjoy American history, there is a perfect landmark located within Nashville, Tennessee, for you to visit. This landmark is Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. A Hermitage is an estate, and in this case, it is transformed into a museum honoring the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson. There are self-guided tours of the grounds along with a tour of the mansion. This historical site is exceptionally well preserved and has tons of outbuildings to visit. The estate is a must-see for those who enjoy learning about parts of American History.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon is a stunning landmark in Centennial Park in Nashville, Tennessee. The landmark is a replica of the original Parthenon located in Athens, Greece. The centerpiece in Centennial Park was built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee centennial exposition. Although, these days, it operates as an art museum. On the first floor, it is a half art museum and half history exhibit. The location holds the History of the ancient Greek temple, although it lies in Nashville. The art displayed in the museum is spectacular, ranging from artists local to art from the 1800s. This landmark is crucial while exploring the different sights Nashville has to offer.
Nashville, Tennessee, is home to some of the most beautiful landmarks and activities that the state encompasses. Ranging from American History to Greek History to the uprising of country music, Nashville is filled with tons of places that you can not only learn from but enjoy while soaking in all of this information. Nashville should be considered a landmark within itself with all of the fantastic opportunities it has to offer.
After contending with the coronavirus for almost a year, travel nurses both need—and deserve—some R&R. Although international travel may not be safe yet, there are plenty of destinations within the United States that would make a perfect getaway. Treat yourself to beautiful vistas, spectacular weather, and sensational events.
January
In the month of January, escape the freezing temps by visiting idyllic Jekyll Island, Georgia, for a coastal getaway. The high temperature in January is in the low-60s, which means fairly uninterrupted beach time without the usual summer. As an added bonus, the island hosts an event called Island Treasures, which is a sort of hide-and-seek game where locals and visitors search for hidden glass globes similar to those fishermen once used to mark their nets.
February
Art lovers can rejoice in a vacation to Seattle, Washington, in February during the city’s Museum Month. Over 40 museums and cultural institutions participate in the event where admission is half-price. Visit exhibits like MoPop, the Seattle Aquarium, or the Seattle Art Museum, which have surely been on your bucket list for years.
March
If you’re looking for a quaint and cozy vacation during the month of March, then visit Newfield, Maine, during the maple season. Check out the famous sugarhouses and walk-through tiny cabins scattered in the woods as the scent of sugar wafts in the air. Try visiting on Maine Maple Sunday for free tastings.
April
Although the annual Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana, was canceled this year due to the pandemic, it plans to reopen in April 2021. The event includes live music from both local and nationally known artists. Enjoy local foods like crawfish beignets and alligator sausage po’boys to get an authentic taste of the bayou.
May
Looking to vacation somewhere a little more mainstream? Consider Louisville, Kentucky, in May for the annual Kentucky Derby. While the weather can sometimes be finicky, the event is a great excuse to put on your most elaborate hat and sip a mint julep while watching the horse races. Tickets are reasonably priced and give you access to vendors to buy cigars, drinks, foods, and to place a wager on your favorite horses.
June
In June, travel to Temecula Valley, California, to experience the Balloon and Wine Festival. Start your day with a sunrise hot air balloon launch, and then enjoy wine tastings, craft fair art exhibits, or wine barrel racing. The warm weather is inviting but not overbearing, making it the perfect time to sit outside while sipping on wine or local craft beer.
July
A hidden gem to visit during the month of July is Mackinac Island, Michigan. The relatively small island can only be reached by ferry, and upon arrival, you’ll find that there are no cars or chain hotels. It is the perfect destination for quality time outdoors if you want to hike, horseback ride, or relax on the beach by the Great Lakes.
August
Visit the nation’s largest state fair in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the month of August. Go on your favorite carnival rides or indulge in an assortment of foods served on sticks (like pickles or macaroni). It’s a fun time for kids of all ages.
September
Visiting San Francisco, California, in September is a great option because the city experiences one of its warmest and driest months. Take a stroll—without a large number of tourists—on the Golden Gate Bridge or go on a whale watching tour to see the migrating blue and humpback whales.
October
For something a little spookier, visit Salem, Massachusetts, in October for the annual Haunted Happenings Festival. There are parades, costume balls, ghost tours, haunted houses, and movie nights, all at the very location of the original Salem Witch Trials. If you are a bit of a history buff, make sure to check out the Salem Witch Museum or the Salem Witch Trials Memorial to learn more about the infamous witch trials.
November
If you want to escape the cold, November is a great month to visit Key West, Florida. Temperatures are in the high 70’s and low 80’s. There are plenty of aquatic activities to take part in besides enjoying the beach—you can rent a kayak, snorkel, or rent a boat and sail around the open waters. At the end of the day, enjoy a drink at Sloppy Joe’s, one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spots.
December
Enjoy the snow and ski season with a trip to Sun Valley, Idaho, in December. With picturesque and pristine mountains for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, Sun Valley is an ideal winter getaway. And when it is time to warm up, the area boasts incredible naturally occurring hot springs. Rent a cozy cabin and snuggle up by the fireplace after a long day embracing the outdoors.
Fun in New York all year
If you are a thrill seeker and are looking for adventure and excitement, New York is a great assignment location any time of the year! There is so much to do and see in New York that it makes a great location for an assignment. If you are looking for excitement, there are many options. New York City is full of exciting things to do. You could try indoor skydiving at iFLY Westchester, go on a ghost hunt at the Ghostbuster’s firehouse, take in a game at one of the many sports stadiums in the city. You can also enjoy the hustle and bustle of Time Square. If relaxing is more your style you could spend some time in Central Park. If you are looking for more outdoor adventures, while in NYC, you can watch & listen to the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, admire street art in Bushwick, and of course, you could always take in a show on Broadway. New York really is a great place to consider for your next assignment for any adventure.
You’ve moved into your new apartment in your new city for your next big travel nurse adventure. You’ve unpacked and gotten comfortable, and you’ve found your way to the office and back. You’ve made it, and you’re ready for your new assignment!
But … now what?
Now that you’ve gotten settled, it’s time to really branch out and explore your new temporary home. Half the excitement of being a travel nurse sees a brand new part of the world, so why not explore when you have the time? Here are five tips on how to properly explore and experience your new city:
1.) Be A Tourist
When it comes to exploring your new city, don’t shy away from the idea of becoming a tourist for a day. Particularly if you’re staying in one of the bigger metropolitan areas of the United States, there are plenty of sites and attractions that can fill up your days. If you’re staying in a smaller town, there are more than likely still some lovely tourist spots to check out.
Mostly, take advantage of whatever free tourist attractions there may be in your area. For example, if you’re in the San Diego area, there are plenty of free activities that draw in tourists from all over, including brewery tours, scenic beaches, beautiful historic parks, and nationally renowned forests just outside of town. Embrace your inner explorer, and take advantage of the local fare while you can. It might even help you find your new favorite restaurant or hangout spot!
If you’re willing to spend a little money, you can check to see if your town offers tourist passes. The passes vary depending on the city, but many of them combine public transportation, admission to popular museums, and discounts at shops all onto one card for a select amount of days (typically one to five days). This way, you can save money on the price of admission and get all your tourist travels out of the way in a single weekend.
2.) Create a Mission
When you arrive in your new town, you might feel a bit intimidated. Especially if it’s a big city, where are you supposed to start exploring?
One of the best ways to overcome this obstacle is to sit down and draw out a mission. Do you want to find the cheapest grocery store? Do you want to figure out the public transportation system? Maybe you want to try to find the rainbow bagels everyone is talking about in Brooklyn.
Whatever your mission is, sit down, plan it out, and then execute it. Use local transportation if it’s available to you to learn the ins and outs of the system. This will also come in handy if your car ever breaks down or wants to go out for drinks and not spend money on a cab. Also, make sure you have a way to find yourself in case you get lost. The last thing you need is to find yourself in an alleyway with no cellphone coverage and no idea which way is up.
However, creating a mission and setting out to do little tasks at a time can really help you fully explore the new city. You’ll be able to ground yourself, know your surroundings a little better, and find your way through tough situations if they ever arise in the future.
3.) Learn the History
Each town has its own story, and you won’t fully appreciate the town until you know its history. You might be able to find some of that history in the local parks and museums, but the real hidden gem of every city is its library.
That’s right: books! Whether you’re traveling with your family or just by yourself, take advantage of the free local library and read up on the town’s history. Most libraries will have sections devoted just to local legends and significant people, and librarians are more than happy to help you dive into the legacy of your new town. They also can suggest popular places to explore if you want to get more hands-on experience.
Although not every town will have an in-depth history like Boston or New York City, your new city will undoubtedly offer up some unique surprises. Diving into history will help you discover its hidden gems.
4.) Live Like the Locals
Once you get your tourism bug out of the way, you’ll want to get fully settled into your new town. Although you might only be there for a few months at a time, sometimes playing a tourist can be exhausting. Instead, start to make the transition to “local.” One of the best ways to do this is to chat with other locals in the area.
Ask your coworkers where their favorite spots to eat out are located, and chat with the people you meet around town for further suggestions. Find out what food is considered the “local fare” and explore the various restaurants that specialize in that food.
Visit the farmers market (almost every town has one in the summer), explore the outdoors around the town, and volunteer with local groups to really get comfortable with your new environment. Volunteering is not only rewarding but opens up plenty of opportunities to meet new people and help those in need. Additionally, it will help you become more familiar with the communities you’re serving and how they live their day-to-day lives as a nurse. It can help you improve your own cultural awareness. Join an interfaith group or volunteer for a “rake the town” event, and contribute to the community like a local.
5.) Be Spontaneous
In the end, don’t make plans, because one of the best ways to explore your new city is to go on spontaneous outings. Getting invited out to after-shift drinks with a work colleague? Have an opportunity to visit a museum for free? Or maybe you want to go on a walk and happen to find the perfect little coffee shop just around the corner from you? Embracing spontaneous outings might be the ticket to truly exploring your new city.
Wherever you are stationed for the next few months, every new town has its own host of hidden gems. Sometimes taking the time to explore those areas can be the best way to unwind after a long shift. Take care of yourself, become an explorer, and embrace your new temporary town!
Watch for part 2 of this series of the best ways to explore your new city.
If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:
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