Gerrish Lopez

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

There’s nothing like waking up to the rich aroma of chicory coffee and the promise of a great meal. In New Orleans, breakfast is as revered as any other meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and culinary tradition. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple pastry and café au lait or a feast of praline bacon, pecan waffles and eggs Benedict, there’s no shortage of ways to start your day right. The best breakfast spots in New Orleans deliver. Cozy neighborhood cafés, bustling diners and legendary restaurants serve up everything from classic Southern comfort food to inventive, locally inspired creations. You’ll find influences from Creole, French and Italian cuisines woven into every menu, whether it’s in a plate of shrimp and grits, a fluffy omelet packed with Gulf seafood or a warm beignet fresh from the fryer. So, rise and shine—these top breakfast spots are worth getting out of bed for (but if you need more time, there's always brunch). RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in New Orleans

If you're visiting New Orleans, you're sure to find a hotel that suits your vibe, but choosing a neighborhood is also a big decision. The French Quarter is, of course, iconic, but there are several other charming neighborhoods that will give you a look into what makes the city tick. Whether you're into nightlife or a quiet escape, here's where to stay in New Orleans. Each area of the city offers a different slice of that signature New Orleans soul, from the bohemian Bywater to the elegant Garden District. Find an artsy, unique edge with live music and divey bars and restaurants in the Marigny, or stay among historic mansions, family-run restaurants and iconic attractions in Uptown and the Garden District. And for a serious local vibe, Mid-City offers a down-to-earth mix that’ll have you feeling like an insider in no time. Wherever you choose to stay, remember that New Orleans is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Let the music, food and culture sweep you up. Pick your perfect neighborhood, soak it all in and get ready for a New Orleans adventure you won’t soon forget. 🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans💰 The best cheap hotels in New Orleans

Live music is a way of life in New Orleans—it is the birthplace of jazz, after all. The live music calendar at clubs around the city is packed every night of the week with local musicians of all genres. Festivals, large and small, celebrate local and regional music, from zydeco and blues to funk and brass. But there’s something special about hearing jazz—both old-school and contemporary—in the city where it all began. There are many places to hear jazz in New Orleans; here are the spots where you can fully immerse yourself. Whether you prefer smooth contemporary jazz or the toe-tapping energy of a traditional jazz band, there’s always a spot to catch a set. Legendary local artists like Kermit Ruffins, Jeremy Davenport, Doreen Ketchens and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band keep the scene alive, performing in intimate lounges and historic venues across town, while up-and-comers are given the spotlight to shine. After dining at a top restaurant, dancing the night away to the sweet sounds of jazz is the best way to burn off those calories. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🍻 The best bars in New Orleans🍴 The best restaurants in New Orleans🏘️ The best neighborhoods in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Atlanta attracts a mix of leisure and business travelers throughout the year, so you know it’s always bustling with activity. From historic landmarks and lush green parks to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife scene, the best things to do in Atlanta will please everyone (kids, too). Atlanta has done well to preserve its history and culture, from its arts and industry to music and theater, not to mention the history of the Civil Rights movement. Once you’ve explored all that Atlanta has to offer, dive into the city’s culinary offerings, where you’ll find a slew of renowned bars and restaurants ranging from local favorites to ones with a coveted Michelin star. No matter what you choose to do, Atlanta guarantees a fun time.  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. RECOMMENDED:🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta🍷 The best bars in Atlanta 🐟 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta 🌳 The best treehouse Airbnbs in Atlanta🏠 The best Airbnb cabins in Atlanta

New Orleans is a city where cultures collide in the most delicious way possible. Its food scene is a bold, flavorful blend of French, Spanish, Italian, African and Caribbean influences. This combo is reflected not just in its iconic dishes, but in every corner of the city. From old-school favorites to trendsetting newcomers and cherished neighborhood spots, the best restaurants in New Orleans offer an unforgettable culinary journey. This is the place to savor classics like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys and beignets at the very institutions that made them famous. But the city’s dining scene doesn’t stop there—expect a vibrant mix of global flavors, from Haitian and West African to Vietnamese and Honduran. Whether you're indulging in a white-tablecloth experience or grabbing a bite at a hole-in-the-wall joint, one thing is certain: every meal here is a celebration. RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in New Orleans🍩 The best beignets in New Orleans🍳 The best brunch in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏨 The best hotels in New Orleans

New Orleans is world-renowned for its food scene, with must-dine restaurants located all throughout the city. The French Quarter is no exception, with a concentration of eateries ranging from iconic to trendy. From classic Creole dishes and fresh Gulf seafood to overstuffed po’boys and international flavors, this one-square-mile neighborhood delivers. With so many options it can be hard to choose, but here are some of the best restaurants in the French Quarter for a legendary dining experience. The historic French Quarter is home to elegant, old-school restaurants with white-tablecloth service, but there’s still room for buzzy newcomers. You can sample the city’s rich culinary heritage at the country’s oldest continually-operating restaurant or check out newer spots that have received well-deserved accolades. Many of these spots also boast excellent cocktail programs, worth a visit for drinks alone. When you’re done touring the can’t-miss attractions in the Quarter, you can settle in for an amazing meal at any of these restaurants. Don’t worry about the calories, you can dance them off at a jazz clubs when you’re done. RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in New Orleans🎷 The best spots to see jazz in New Orleans🍻 The best bars in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏘️ The best neighborhoods in New Orleans This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities in

Whether it’s food, music, festivals or nightlife, New Orleans gives it 100%. You can feel its energy in every corner. Food lovers will find paradise in the city’s legendary dining scene, where Creole classics meet modern innovation at restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning chefs. Music pulses through every street, from intimate jazz clubs to epic street parades. And if you’re here to raise a glass, New Orleans delivers—whether it’s a classic Sazerac at a historic bar, a local craft beer or a fine wine enjoyed under the glow of a gas-lit balcony. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from museums and historic homes to cemeteries and neighborhoods. The unique art and architecture of New Orleans is a feast for the eyes, and outdoor activities abound. If you don’t know where to start, here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans. This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans

Surrounded by the sea and towering mountains—and with some of the mildest weather in Canada to boot—Vancouver is justifiably high on the list of must-visit destinations. Canada’s western metropolis ticks all the boxes, from inspiring nature to fascinating history, with a conveyor belt of bars, restaurants (many recently getting the Michelin nod), beaches and indoor and outdoor attractions. Long story short? Vancouver is brilliant. Follow our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver and see why this Canadian city truly lives up to the hype. RECOMMENDED: 🍔 The best restaurants in Vancouver🎡 The best attractions in Vancouver🏨 The best hotels in Vancouver🏠The best Airbnbs in Vancouver

Let’s face it—by the time your kid is a teen, they’re not interested in summer camps that feature finger painting and juice breaks. Active, adventurous camps for teens are a better fit, as are college prep programs that can help them prepare for the next big step in their educational journey. These camps for teens in NYC range from fashion camps and sailing camps to intensive, college-level programs in journalism and art. If you’re looking for somewhere to send your teen this summer, here are some great options that are both fun and fulfilling and can help them get on the right track for college.

Super Bowl LIX is coming to town this February, and along with it comes a starry slew of parties, concerts, experiences, activations and fun-filled watch parties at bars around town. The Big Game—with Kendrick Lamar headlining the halftime show—kicks off at 6:30pm (local time) on February 9, but the fun starts well in advance. Even better? New Orleans will be in full carnival mode, decked out in purple, green and gold with all the standard celebrations leading up to Mardi Gras and plenty of king cake to go around. If you’re not lucky enough to snag tickets to the game, don’t sweat it. New Orleans knows how to throw a party. From epic tailgates to citywide celebrations, there will be no shortage of ways to revel in the festivities. Here are the best events happening Super Bowl weekend in New Orleans, with plenty more to come. Between events, be sure to check out all the top restaurants, bars and things to do in New Orleans while you’re here.

Carnival season in New Orleans begins on January 6 (aka Epiphany, aka Twelfth Night) and aside from marking the start of this celebratory season, January 6 means it’s time to eat king cake—a lot of it. From Twelfth Night until Mardi Gras (the day before Lent), New Orleanians indulge in this traditional confection on the regular. There are so many places to get king cakes in New Orleans, and everyone has their favorite. For those unfamiliar, a king cake is—in its most typical form—a sweet, braided wreath of cinnamon-laced brioche dough covered in icing and adorned with sugar in Carnival colors: purple, green and gold. There are, of course, plenty of variations, some on the simpler side and some more decadent. Some king cakes are filled with cream cheese, fruit or other sweet fillings. Some bakeries whip up savory versions. Inside every cake, regardless of flavor, is a tiny plastic baby. Whoever gets the piece with the baby is king or queen for the moment and must bring a king cake to the next party. Some locals will spend the entire Carnival season trying as many variations as possible while others are dedicated to one king cake only. You can’t go wrong with any of these king cakes, but remember one hard and fast rule: never eat king cake before January 6. Ahead, find the best spots for king cake in New Orleans. 

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat.

The Grammy-nominated guitar virtuoso known for his electrifying solo career and roles in Vulfpeck and Fearless Flyers, drops by The Eastern on his latest tour. He’s been playing sold-out shows around the world, making a name for himself through content creation and fostering collabs with the likes of Apple and CBS.gerr

A round of golf in Truist Park? Yes, this once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience is happening in the legendary home of the Braves. Hit tee shots from the upper deck to custom greens on the field below. A clubhouse festival—featuring music, food, beer and golf challenges—bookends your round of golf.

This might be the most thrilling interpretation yet of the holiday classic. This is The Night Before Christmas as only Cirque du Soleil could imagine. The troupe’s first-ever holiday production, it’s a whirlwind holiday magic and festive fun that is sure to become standard holiday fare.

Urban Trivia puts a fresh spin on the classic trivia game, focusing on the latest and greatest in black culture. The game has been such a smash hit that the creators are taking it on the road with a live show. It’s a wild ride that celebrates black culture and will test the audience’s knowledge with tons of laughs on the side.

Experience the magic of the holiday season and shop for all your friends and family at the Euro-style Christkindl Market in the Buckhead Village District. There will be traditional German festivities with a dose of Atlanta spirit. This is old-world charm that’s just right for the season, with culinary delights and handcrafted treasures galore.

Touring the world for the first time since 2019, the Prince of Pop is making a welcome stop in Atlanta. Get ready to rock your body to all the hits, as one of the most celebrated voices in pop heads out in support of his latest album. From Cry Me a River to his newest single, “Selfish,” you know Justin Timberlake will bring the energy to this show.

Fans of Wicked won’t want to miss this chance to celebrate the release of the new movie. It’s a drag brunch retelling of the story of Oz, with musical numbers from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz and Wicked. The show features Boy Howdy, EllaSaurus Rex, Guyza Manelli, Hera Kane, Molly ALXNDR and Yutoya Avaze Leon.

A royal ghost drops some late-night gossip, and suddenly Denmark's royal family is doomed. Caught in the chaos, Hamlet spirals into an existential crisis—pondering life, love, death and revenge like only a moody prince can. Come see why this tragic masterpiece still reigns supreme as the greatest play of all time.

If you love the 1964 stop-motion animated special, you’ll love this puppet production. Follow Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Hermey the Elf as they set off on a merry adventure, tailed by the Abominable Snow Monster. It’s a holiday tradition that will warm the hearts of misfits of all ages.

The Fernbank Museum comes alive after hours for the holiday season as WildWoods: Aglow makes its annual return. Glowing displays are installed throughout the natural flora and fauna, creating a magical, zen-like wonderland. Hear original musical compositions as you walk through glowing garden towers, projections of nocturnal wildlife, larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms and more.

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat. 

For the second time in three years, Philly has snagged the top spot as the Best City for Street Art in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. A panel of experts made the nominations, and the people voted the City of Brotherly Love number one. The designation is not surprising, as Philly’s streets are graced with thousands of murals, sculptures and public art pieces around every corner. The accolades are due in large part to Mural Arts Philadelphia, an organization that’s been transforming the city since 1984. Over the past 40 years, they’ve created more than 4,000 works of public art, engaging local artists and communities in the process. Their efforts have officially earned Philly the title of “Mural Capital of the World.” On top of that, exploring it all is easy, whether on foot, on a bike or a trolley tour. RECOMMENDED: The best museums in Philadelphia Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Executive Director Jane Golden has dedicated her life to Philly’s street art scene. She told the Michelin Green Guide that art has the power to change lives, and she’s made it her mission to use creativity as a force for good in the city. Even the Michelin Guide raves about it: “Few North American cities have shown such consideration to art and urban planning... Philly is practically an open-air museum.” So next time you’re wandering the streets, take a moment to look up, look around, and appreciate the city’s vibrant, ever-evolving canvas. Philly’s got the art—and the wins to prove it. Best cit

The beloved bulk retailer is kicking off March with a bang, opening several new warehouses and officially surpassing 900 global locations. Back in December, the Issaquah, Washington-based giant revealed its plan to open 29 new stores during its 2025 fiscal year, which runs through August 31, 2025. Now, six of those new locations are set to open next month across the U.S., bringing Costco’s total count to 903 warehouses worldwide. Costco currently operates 897 locations, with 617 in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The warehouse club's presence has gone worldwide with 109 locations in Canada, 41 in Mexico, 36 in Japan, 29 in the U.K., 19 in Korea and more—even reaching as far as Iceland, New Zealand and Sweden. But the store openings aren’t the only big change on the horizon. In case you missed it, Costco is also shaking things up at its food court, swapping Pepsi for Coca-Cola fountain drinks starting summer 2025. Where is Costco opening new stores in 2025 in the U.S.A.? Here are the new Costco stores set to open in March and April: Brentwood, California—March 7 Highland, California—March 8 Sharon, Massachusetts—March 12 Genesee County, Michigan—March 13 Prosper, Texas—March 14 Weatherford, Texas—March 15 Stuart, Florida—April 2025

Just in time for the Oscars, Time Out has released a list of the world’s most beautiful theaters. These are theaters that go beyond crisp, clear pictures and surround sound speakers. They are stunningly designed, and add drama to the proceedings. Many are historic, and worth exploring before the movie starts. Twelve theaters in the U.S. made the list, and California leads the pack with six. The Village East Cinema in New York was named the number three most beautiful theater. This ornate theater was built in the ‘20s with Moorish Revival design. Other New York theaters that made the list are the Metrograph and the Paris Theater. California is home to six stunning theaters—TCL Chinese Theatre, New Beverly Cinema, Orinda Theatre, Avalon Theater, Egyptian Theatre and Grand Lake Theatre. Also making the list in the U.S. are the Music Box Theatre in Chicago, Coolidge Corner Theatre in Massachusetts and Plaza Theatre in Atlanta. Find the full list of the world’s most beautiful theaters here. The most beautiful movie theaters in the U.S. And their ranking among the 50 most beautiful in the world 3. Village East Cinema, New York15. TCL Chinese Theatre, Los Angeles18. New Beverly Cinema, Los Angeles23. Orinda Theatre, California26. Music Box Theatre, Chicago28. Coolidge Corner Theatre, Massachusetts29. Metrograph, New York City33. Plaza Theatre, Atlanta34. Avalon Theater, California35. Egyptian Theatre, Los Angeles42. Paris Theater, New York50. Grand Lake Theatre, Oakland

Apple is making a bold move with a $500 billion investment in the U.S. over the next four years. This massive commitment will fuel manufacturing, artificial intelligence and workforce development, creating thousands of jobs and cementing Apple’s role in advancing American tech. Apple announced plans to open a 250,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Houston by 2026, producing energy-efficient servers for Apple Intelligence. This expansion brings critical AI infrastructure back to U.S. soil, enhancing security and performance. Additionally, Apple is doubling its U.S. Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion, including a multibillion-dollar investment in TSMC’s Arizona plant for advanced chip production. The site already employs over 2,000 workers, highlighting Apple’s commitment to reshoring semiconductor manufacturing. To bridge the skills gap, Apple is launching a manufacturing academy in Detroit. In partnership with Michigan State, the academy will train workers in AI and smart manufacturing techniques, offering free courses on production efficiency and process optimization. Apple is also expanding STEM education, working with 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs and FIRST Robotics to provide coding and engineering training for young innovators. The company’s New Silicon Initiative now includes UCLA, preparing students for careers in chip design. Over the next four years, Apple will hire 20,000 employees, primarily in AI, silicon engineering and software development. Major invest

A new invasive species has surfaced in Texas: the Australian redclaw crayfish. Native to northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, this freshwater crustacean has been spotted in the Rio Grande Valley, nearly 8,000 miles from home. Environmental officials are concerned, and of course we need to know if this invader is friend or foe. So how did this crayfish get here? The first U.S. sighting occurred in 2013 in Los Angeles, recorded on the website iNaturalist. Nearly a decade later, a second was found in a Texas apartment complex pond in 2022. That discovery led researchers to find three more nearby. Now scientists, including Texas Parks and Wildlife Aquatic Biologist Dr. Archis Grubh, are investigating its spread in Southern Texas. Each female can lay up to 5,000 eggs annually, though officials haven’t yet confirmed widespread breeding. To track their movement, researchers have set traps with hot dogs—a snack the critters seem to love—around Brownsville. How the species arrived remains unclear, but experts suspect "aquarium dumping"—owners releasing unwanted pets into the wild. Texas Parks and Wildlife’s senior scientist Monica McGarrity warned that such releases can introduce invasive species that threaten native ecosystems. Is it dangerous? While not dangerous to humans, redclaw crayfish pose a threat to local wildlife. Growing up to two pounds within a year, they can outcompete native species for food and habitat. They may also carry a parasite known as crayfish plague, whic

Attention Blackpink fans: start working on your summer plans now, because you have just a few chances to catch the K-Pop phenomenon in the U.S. on their world tour. The Korean girl group—Lisa, Rosé, Jisoo, and Jennie—has found success and broken records as a group and as solo artists. In 2023 they were the first K-Pop group to headline Coachella. Now, they’ve announced a world tour that kicks off at Goyang Stadium in South Korea this July. Looking to see them stateside? The group is playing just three dates in the U.S. Here’s everything you need to know about the Blackpink 2025 U.S. tour dates. What are the Blackpink 2025 U.S. tour dates? July 12: Los Angeles—SoFi StadiumJuly 18: Chicago—Soldier FieldJuly 26: New York—Citi Field How to get tickets to the Blackpink 2025 tour Tickets go on sale for the general public on Live Nation on February 27. North American dates will be available for purchase at 3pm local time. Tickets are limited, so mark your calendars to snag prime seats! Check resellers such as Stubhub, too.

Wendy’s is kicking off Girl Scout Cookie season with a frosty new twist. Starting February 21, fans can indulge in the Thin Mints Frosty, a delicious mashup of Wendy’s iconic frozen treat and the minty, chocolatey goodness of one of the most beloved Girl Scout cookies. For a limited time, this cool and creamy delight will be available nationwide—just in time for National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend. The Thin Mints Frosty takes Wendy’s classic Chocolate or Vanilla Frosty and swirls in a rich, minty cookie crumble sauce inspired by Thin Mints. Whether you're a chocolate devotee or a vanilla lover, there’s a version for you. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Wendy’s is supporting its partnership with Girl Scouts of the USA by helping local troops reach their goals. More than 4,200 Wendy’s locations will serve as official Girl Scout Cookie booths, giving fans the chance to stock up on cookies while enjoying their Thin Mints Frosty. For even more fun, Wendy’s is launching the Thin Mints Frosty Adventure game in its mobile app on February 24. Play daily for a shot at free food prizes—or even the chance to win $10,000. It’s a sweet season for Thin Mint fans, but—like Girl Scout cookie season—this Frosty flavor is only available for a limited time, so grab yours now.

Washington, D.C. is about to throw one of the biggest Pride celebrations yet. This summer, Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan are headlining the WorldPride Music Festival at RFK Festival Grounds on June 6 and 7 alongside a mind-blowing lineup of talent for the ultimate global dance party. The festival is the crown jewel of WorldPride 2025, a three-week, citywide celebration that lands in D.C. after stops in Sydney, Rome, Madrid, New York and others. This year’s event is even more special, marking the 50th anniversary of Pride in the nation’s capital while honoring the city’s legacy as a hub for activism and LGBTQ+ rights. Produced by Dreamland's Jake Resnicow—named one of OUT100's Most Influential LGBTQ People of the Year—in partnership with Capital Pride and Club Glow, the East Coast's longest-running electronic music promoter, the event is set to be a showcase for LGBTQ+ culture and music. And it wouldn’t be a proper Pride party without an all-star lineup. Expect performances from Grimes, Tinashe, Kim Petras, Zedd, Raye, Rita Ora, Marina, Sofi Tukker, Galantis, and Purple Disco Machine, plus appearances from icons like Paris Hilton and RuPaul. Beyond the music, festival-goers can immerse themselves in cutting-edge art installations and interactive experiences that showcase LGBTQ+ culture in all its vibrant glory. Proceeds from the event will benefit Capital Pride Alliance and other local LGBTQ+ organizations. “WorldPride Music Festival is a moment the world will remember,” says

Food tourism is on the rise, and for good reason—exploring a destination through its cuisine is one of the best ways to experience its culture. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, the local food scene is often a deciding factor in where to go. A new study from the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts has ranked the U.S. states with the most dynamic food scenes, revealing some surprising results. The study analyzed data from sources like the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Commerce, the National Restaurant Association and Georgia Tech’s Friendly Cities Lab. Factors such as restaurant density, tourist-to-restaurant ratio, number of culinary schools, number of independent restaurants and number of Michelin-starred restaurants all played a role in determining each state’s overall score. One key takeaway from the study is that great food isn’t just limited to major cities—small towns and across the country boast some of the best culinary experiences. While many might expect New York to top the list, it actually came in second. The number one spot? Hawaii, which scored a perfect 100. The report highlights the state’s impressive restaurant-to-tourist ratio, with 376 visitors per eatery, along with a strong independent restaurant scene. The study also uncovered fascinating state-by-state insights. Nevada residents allocate nearly half their food budget to dining out, Vermont leads in independent restaurants and California boasts the most Mich

With just five months remaining until its highly anticipated grand opening, Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key is nearing the finish line. Set to welcome its first guests on July 19, the sprawling beachfront destination on Grand Bahama is poised to redefine the cruise experience with its five distinct “portals to paradise.” This week, Carnival’s Chief Executive Officer Josh Weinstein, Chief Maritime Officer Lars Ljoen and President Christine Duffy offered a glimpse into the construction process as it enters its final phase. Commemorating the progress, they participated in a symbolic maritime tradition—placing commemorative keys into Celebration Key’s towering 10-story Suncastle, the heart of the new destination. The structure, located in Paradise Plaza, serves as a gateway to Celebration Key’s diverse experiences, ranging from the thrilling water slides of Starfish Lagoon to the adults-only Calypso Lagoon boasting a DJ and swim-up bar. Photograph: Courtesy Carnival Cruise Lines As excitement builds, more than 500 workers are on site daily, working tirelessly to bring Celebration Key to life. Sustainability remains at the forefront of the project, with 28 Bahamian companies playing a vital role in its development. Job creation and economic growth for Grand Bahama are woven into the foundation of this landmark destination. Photograph: Courtesy Carnival Cruise Lines Beyond the construction milestones, Carnival continues to unveil new features to elevate the guest experie

The ultimate birthday treat just dropped at Taco Bell, and it doesn't need to be your actual birthday if you want to indulge. Taco Bell and NYC-based dessert wizards Milk Bar have teamed up again and the results are nothing short of a celebration. Say hello to Milk Bar Birthday Cake Churros—a crispy, frosting-filled delight that’s topped with confetti sprinkles and giving major birthday energy. Available nationwide starting today, these churros are warm, fluffy, and loaded with Milk Bar’s signature birthday cake flavor. They add a fresh, festive spin to the classic Mexican dessert. They are available in two options: one for $1.99 or two for $2.99, making them the perfect little addition to your Crunchwrap Supreme (or, let’s be real, an excuse for a Taco Bell run on their own). This isn’t the first time Taco Bell and Milk Bar have worked their dessert magic together. Their 2022 collab brought us the Strawberry Bell Truffle, a crunchy, creamy, sweet-and-savory masterpiece. Now, with the Milk Bar Birthday Cake Churros, they’re pushing the boundaries of fast-food desserts once again. New Yorkers have another way to celebrate, as Milk Bar is giving away Churro Birthday Cake Truffles—a churro-fied remix of their signature Cake Truffles—free at their flagship store at 1196 Broadway on February 20 while supplies last.

A ferocious wave of Arctic air is gripping the central U.S., sending temperatures plummeting 20 to 50 degrees below average. Cold weather alerts now stretch from the Canadian border to Texas, with over a hundred daily record lows expected through Friday. The deep freeze is already making history. Baker, Montana, hit a bone-chilling 22 degrees below zero on Sunday morning, smashing its previous record of 13 degrees below zero from 2006. Subzero temperatures could push as far south as Oklahoma, while parts of Montana and North Dakota may see temperatures as low as 40 degrees below zero. Factor in the brutal wind chills, and it will feel as cold as 60 below in the Northern Plains—dangerous enough to cause frostbite in just five minutes. This Arctic assault isn’t stopping at the Plains. Florida will even feel the chill as cold air spills eastward. And it’s not just the cold—Winter Storm Kingston is moving in, layering snow and ice across the central and eastern states through late week. With these extreme conditions, experts urge caution: stay hydrated, eat regularly and rest to keep your body functioning in the cold. Limit time outside, as hypothermia and frostbite are real threats.