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Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #CrispyCreations #CrispiestChicken #CollectiveBias Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches

Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches

The other day I was out running errands and realized I had completely missed lunch. As I drove around town I saw fast food restaurant after fast food restaurant, a crispy chicken sandwich was basically calling out to me. And while I do love a fast food stop every now and then, I do try my best to eat healthy. So, at that moment, I decided I would make my own version of a crispy chicken sandwich, but I would make it baked. I even got a little ambitious and decided I would make homemade biscuits to go along with my crispy oven fried chicken, the results were pretty darn amazing if I do say so myself. Plus, even though I made the biscuits from scratch and baked the chicken, dinner was still ready in under 45 minutes.

Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit

Now you may be doubting on whether or not you can actually get crispy fried chicken from your oven, and I am here to tell you that you can. The secret to getting the crispiest oven fried chicken is double-coating your chicken and using Argo® Corn Starch. Argo® Corn Starch isn’t just for baking and thickening your favorite sauces and homemade gravies! I used it in my batter for the chicken because it leaves you with an audibly crunchy and beautifully browned exterior while sealing in the juices of the chicken. Argo® Corn Starch just makes your chicken better! Why Argo? Argo Corn Starch is the leading corn starch brand with over 100 years of quality and trust over multiple generations. If you haven’t made homemade biscuits before, you will be surprised how easy it is, plus, you probably have all the ingredients at home. No need to run out and get some pre-made biscuits, trust me, you will like the homemade version much better. And if you haven’t made the crispiest oven fried chicken at home yet, you will also be surprised how easy it is! You won’t miss the deep-fried version…or that fast food drive-thru 😉

Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches

I drizzled my Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches with a simple honey and sriracha mixture, a little heat and a little sweet was delicious on the crispy chicken and buttery biscuits. Feel free to use whatever you would like though! Sriracha and mayo would be good too. Now, here is how to make the Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches, be sure to Print and Pin the recipe so that you can make it again and again.

Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches

Get the crispy texture you love, but without frying! Make homemade biscuits and top them with these oven fried chicken tenders for a delicious meal that is ready in about 45 minutes.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time28 minutes
Total Time48 minutes
Course: Lunch/Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Keyword: baked chicken, biscuits, chicken, fried chicken, from scratch, homemade biscuits, oven fried chicken
Author: Tracy

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients

Easy Homemade Biscuits

  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 6 tbsp very cold butter - salted or unsalted
  • ¾ cup milk - I used skim

Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 tbsp buttermilk - divided
  • ¾ cup Argo Corn Starch
  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • 2 tbsp of your favorite seasoning - I used Dust by Voodoo Chef
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

Easy Homemade Biscuits

  • Put the butter into the freezer
  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees
  • Line a cookie sheet with nonstick parchment paper or spray with non stick cooking spray and set aside
  • Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl

  • Remove your butter from the freezer and either cut it into very small pieces or use
    a grater (I used a cheese grater) to shred the butter into small pieces and then add to the flour mixture. You can put the grater right above the bowl and just butter fall into your bowl with the flour mixture.

  • Stir until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
  • Pour in the milk and use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir until combined. Be careful to not overwork the dough.
  • Place your biscuit dough to a floured surface and use your hands to gently work the dough together. Add flour if your dough feels too sticky.

  • Using your hands, fold the dough in half and gently flatten layers together. Rotate the dough 90 degrees and fold in half again, repeating this step 5-6 times. Be careful to not overwork the dough. These folding will give your biscuits flaky layers.

  • Still using your hands, flatten the dough to about ½ inch thick and lightly dust a 2 3/4 inch round biscuit cutter with flour. If you don't have a biscuit cutter, a cookie cutter will work just fine too, that's what I used!

  • Making close cuts, press the cutter straight down into the dough and drop the biscuit onto your prepared baking sheet
  • Repeat until you have gotten as many biscuits as possible and place less than 1/2 inch apart on baking sheet. I was able to get 7.
  • Bake for 12 minutes or until slightly golden brown on top

Crispiest Oven Fried Chicken

  • Leave the oven at 425 degrees
  • Line a baking sheet with foil, then place a wire rack over top. Spray rack with non-stick baking spray. Or spray baking sheet with non stick cooking spray. Set prepared baking sheet aside.

  • In a rectangular pan whisk the eggs and 2 tablespoons of buttermilk and set aside.
  • In a large ziplock bag add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and seasonings.
  • Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of buttermilk and shake well to create crumbs.
  • Dip each chicken strip into corn starch mixture, then into the egg wash then place back into the corn starch mixture. Make sure each piece is coated well.
  • Place chicken tenders on prepared baking sheet.
  • Place in the oven and bake for 16 minutes or until browned and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. If you are not using the wire rack, flip after 8 minutes.
  • Brush melted butter over the chicken tenders and place back in oven for 2 minutes.
  • Serve on homemade biscuits with sauce of your choice. We used a honey sriracha blend, see notes below.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

For the sauce I mixed 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of sriracha.  Easy peasy!

I hope you enjoy these Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches as much as we do!

Best Fried Chicken Biscuit Sanwiches

I know I won’t be tempted to swing through those drive-thrus anymore…these sandwiches are better than anything you will get from a fast food chain. Plus they are better for you! Tastiest Oven Fried Chicken Biscuit Sanwiches I told you all that my ‘secret ingredient’ that made my chicken extra crispy is Argo Corn Starch, and is arguably the most important part of my recipe. Argo not only will make your chicken extra crispy with an airy texture (baked or fried!) but it brings endless possibilities to the table and providing a worry-free solution to thicken, adjust texture and elevate your cooking and baking. From the crispiest chicken to thick gravy and sidewalk chalk to slime, Argo allows you to easily deliver delicious dishes and fun activities the whole family will love. Find more recipes that will wow your family thanks to Argo here.

Looking for another delicious baked chicken recipe?

Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders

In fact, be sure to check out all my recipes and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

 
 
 
 

 

Easy Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

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Sit down and relax with a cup of this easy to make hot cocoa.  Once you make this Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate, you will never open an envelope to make hot chocolate again. While this post is sponsored by Voortman Bakery, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Easiest Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Easy Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

How many of you have made homemade hot chocolate?  No envelopes.  I will admit that it’s crazy easy to open an envelope and dump it into warm water or milk, but know what else is crazy easy?  Making this homemade hazelnut hot chocolate.  Who doesn’t love the combination of chocolate and hazelnut?  Candies, spreads, cookies.  I mean you really can’t go wrong.  It’s also a delicious sweet combination for the holidays isn’t it?  Chocolate hazelnut.  Yum.

Tastiest Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

My Hazelnut Hot Cocoa has 4 simple ingredients and is ready as soon as the milk gets warm. I warmed mine on a medium to low heat, so it was steaming in about 5 minutes.  It is the perfect way to warm you up on those cool nights.  Now, we don’t get as cold as others here in Florida, but when the temperature reaches the 60s at night, that is perfect hot cocoa weather for us.  Hazelnut Hot Cocoa is the perfect warm to warm up and indulge, this season and beyond.  Who says hot cocoa has to be for just for fall and winter?

Best Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

To make Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate you need:

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Your choice of milk
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Vanilla extract

Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Simple. Delicious. Sweet. I served my Hazelnut Hot Cocoa with Voortman Bakery Chocolate Hazelnut Wafers. Voortman Bakery Wafers are baked with real cocoa and made with no artificial colors, flavors and no high-fructose corn syrup. Making them absolutely perfect for dipping into your Hazelnut Hot Cocoa. I even sprinkled some right on top of my cocoa, along with some whipped topping. So good. Just imagine that crunchy wafer melting into your hot chocolate perfection.

Easy Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Now, grab that cup of Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate, grab a couple of Voortman Bakery Chocolate Hazelnut Wafers and sit down and relax.

Best Hazelnut Hot Cocoa

Oh wait, I guess you need the recipe first. Here is my Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

This Easy Homemade Hazelnut Hot Chocolate is the perfect way to warm up and relax this season.
Prep Time1 minute
Cook Time5 minutes
Keyword: chocolate, cocoa, drinks, fall, hazelnut, winter
Servings: 2
Author: Tracy

Equipment

  • Stove

Ingredients

  • 2 cups milk - I used 1%
  • ¼ cup chocolate hazelnut spread
  • 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • whipped topping and Voortman Bakery Chocolate Hazelnut wafers for serving

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a sauce pan and cook over medium heat until fully combined and steaming/hot enough to serve
  • Top with whipped topping and serve with Voortman Bakery chocolate hazelnut wafers
  • Enjoy!

Easiest Homemade Hazelnut Hot Cocoa

I hope you enjoy this Easy Homemade Hazelnut Hot Cocoa recipe as much as we do!

Tastiest Homemade Hazelnut Hot Cocoa

Have you made hot chocolate from scratch before? What is your favorite hot cocoa recipe?

Homemade Hazelnut Hot Cocoa

Looking for another delectable drink recipe?

Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

Orange Creamsicle Freakshake

Be sure to stay social with Voortman Bakery by following on Instagram and Facebook. And check them out online for all the delicious bakery-goodness.

While you are at it, follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Top Free Things to Do in Memphis

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If you are planning a family vacation or solo adventure to Memphis Tennessee, be sure to check out these top free things to do in Memphis. Save your money for all the delicious food!

Top Free Things to Do in Memphis

Top Free Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee is well known for its rich music history and its tourist appeal. The Western Tennessee city is the largest on the Mississippi River. Most people associate Memphis with blues and rock n’ roll, and for good reason – many great acts got their start here. Memphis is about a 12 hour road trip from Tampa and a pretty cheap flight, making it a fun travel destination for us here in Florida too.

I have been to Memphis twice, both times in conjunction with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The first time I went I was blessed with the opportunity to tour the hospital and spend time learning about all the amazing children there, the incredible staff and everything that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital does for the families’ of the patients. Did you know that St. Jude families never receive a bill. As in never. Never ever. They believe that the only thing you should worry about is your child and them getting well. Thank God. I will say that was the one of the most eye-opening trips I have ever been on. The children are so uplifting and cheerful, it really makes you realize just how blessed you are. Did you know that you can actually tour St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as well? Yes! Read on to get the details.

Best Free Things to Do in Memphis

The second time I went was for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Half Marathon. Again, an incredible experience. I ran with so many inspirational people, I almost forgot I was running at all!

There’s so much to see and do in Memphis, but not all of it is budget-friendly. Some of the city’s most visited attractions are rather expensive, but don’t let that stop you from visiting this cultural mecca. While you could budget for a vacation costing thousands of dollars, there are free things to do in Memphis that must be seen. Even by limiting your activities to those that don’t charge for entry, you won’t be missing out! Plus, you want to save money for all the delicious eats in Memphis.

Things to Do in Memphis

Top Free Things To Do In Memphis

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Tours

Guided tours of the hospital are available by appointment only, which is understandable, this is for the safety of their patients. Hospital Tours are available Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (excluding holidays) and the second Saturday of every month at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (excluding holidays). To schedule a hospital visit, contact 901-578-2042 or email [email protected].

Danny Thomas/ALSAC Pavilion tours pavilion and the surrounding area are open to the general public for self-guided tours, including visitors of all ages, tour buses and large school groups. All tour buses and large groups must schedule their visit in advance. Be sure to tour the Danny Thomas/ALSAC Pavilion, Danny and Rose Marie Thomas Memorial Garden and the ALSAC Gift Shop. I love the gift shop, it is filled with a lot gifts created with inspiration from original artwork from patients. You can also shop the Gift Shop online. Know that when you make a purchase, you are also helping the families at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. That’s a win-win in my book.

Pink Palace Museum

The Pink Palace Museum in Memphis offers free admission on Tuesday afternoons. Here, you’ll find art and other household treasures owned by the founder of the Piggly Wiggly grocery store chain. The museum (which is housed in his home) also features a Civil War exhibit, a planetarium, and a miniature circus display. Since there’s so much to see here, you could easily spend all 4 hours of the free admission period in the various exhibits!

Visitors can relax and have a picnic on the property grounds, so remember to pack some food. By not being tempted by the snack bar, you’ll save even more money.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

If you’re visiting Memphis over the weekend, take advantage of the Dixon Gallery and Gardens’ free admission morning! On Saturdays from 10:00am through noon, check out the collection of Monet, Pisarro, and Degas paintings on display. French and American Impressionalist artworks fill the museum, but the highlight of this estate is what surrounds it. Beautiful gardens will captivate you and your Instagram followers, so have your phone or camera ready to take some great photos!

On Tuesdays from 10:00am-2:00pm, the Dixon Gallery and Gardens offer a “pay-what-you-can” admission fee, where visitors can pay as little as they want to enter. If you can’t make it to the estate on Saturday morning, you can get in with some pocket change on Tuesday!

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

An NBA team used to play in this gigantic retail space. Now, it houses a bowling alley, a giant glass elevator, and even alligators. Of course, you’ll also find a giant Bass Pro shop within these walls. This shopping center is the perfect place for nature lovers to spend an afternoon. When the Memphis heat becomes too much to handle, head to the Pyramid to experience nature in a new way!

For $10, guests can ride the elevator to the top of the Pyramid, where they can take in some incredible sights over the Mississippi River.

Art Museum at the University of Memphis

This Egyptian art museum in Memphis is not random – in fact, Memphis was the name of Egypt’s ancient capital. Discover incredible artifacts, like the 2,200-year-old mummy and a loaf of bread made between 2134 and 1786 BC. Free guided tours are offered to visitors who book them at least two weeks in advance, so make sure you book your tour before your trip!

In addition to ancient pieces, this art museum also has some contemporary Egyptian works on display.

Graceland Meditation Garden

Graceland itself is expensive to visit, but the Meditation Garden is free to enter for an hour each morning. The historic home is visited by more 600,000 people each year due to its pop culture significance. During Graceland’s meditation hour, visitors can pay their respects to the King of Rock n’ Roll at his resting site. His grave is located within the Meditation Garden, which you can see on a paid mansion tour!

Elvis Week in August brings more free admissions opportunities to the Meditation Garden. During this week, you may even be able to visit in the afternoon.

Shelby Farms Park

Shelby Farms is five times the size of New York City’s Central Park! Head to this park for hiking trails, a playground for your little travelers, and free outdoor concerts. There are enough free things to do at this Memphis Park to keep your family busy for a few days. You won’t even have to do the same activities twice!

Shelby Farms Park has a visitor’s center with maps of the premises. Be sure to pick one up to see everything the park has to offer.

Wolf River Greenway

This greenway connects Memphis to the nearby city, Germantown. There’s a paved path that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll, bicycles, and other non-motorized vehicles. The surrounding greenery is highly valued as a natural resource, and the Wolf River Greenway aims to preserve it while allowing visitors to honor it.

Currently, 10 miles of the greenway are open to the public. After construction is complete, an additional 16 miles will open up for recreational use. That’s 26 miles of free outdoor fun!

Beale Street Historic District

Since the 20th century, Beale Street Historic District has been a hotspot for blues music. The neighborhood is lined with bars, restaurants, and other popular venues that have hosted blues greats like B.B. King. A walk through this iconic street provides window shopping, food, and great music at any hour!  I actually got to run down Beale Street very early in the morning the day of the race, it’s an amazing district to walk through no matter what time of day you are there 😉

After 9:00pm, any visitors under the age of 21 must be accompanied by a legal guardian on Beale Street. After 11:00pm, only those who are over 21 with an ID are allowed in the area.

March of the Peabody Ducks

Twice a day, you can watch an adorable duck parade! At 11:00am and 5:00pm each day, ducks pop out of an elevator and waddle across a red carpet before hopping back into the water. This tradition dates back to 1932, with Duckmasters being named since 1940. Arrive to the parade early to get a great spot for photos. If you get there early enough, your child just might be named the Honorary Duckmaster!

Levitt Shell

At Levitt Shell, free events are always happening. From no-cost concerts to movies under the stars, this venue makes entertainment accessible to all of Memphis. Their free concert series features artists from different genres, but you’re likely to catch a jazz or blues act. The events are family-friendly, so there’s no need to leave your kids at home!

Although Levitt Shell has concessions for purchase, you can also bring your own adult beverages with a valid ID.

Trolley Ride

Now, the trolley ride isn’t completely free, but you can get a ride for just a buck.  It’s a fun way to get around the city and see a few things if you want to give your feet a rest.  Trolley buses operate along Front Street and Riverside Drive to Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. This shuttle operates about every 40 minutes. Trolley base fare is $1 and trolley passes will be accepted.

Top Things to Do in Memphis

There’s plenty of things to do in Memphis. You could spend unnecessary amount of money on popular attractions, but the free things to do in this Tennessee city can easily fill your entire trip itinerary. Memphis is a city that can be enjoyed on any budget, so there’s no need to max out your credit cards on your vacation!

Free Things to Do in Memphis

Have you been to Memphis?  What are some of your favorite things to do in Memphis Tennessee?

Looking for another travel destination in Tennessee?

Free Things to Do in Nashville

Top Free Things to Do in Nashville

Looking to travel outside of Tennessee but don’t want to go too far?

Things To Do In Atlanta

Top Free Things To Do In Atlanta

Be sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for fun things to do, healthy recipes, and more.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

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This Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake is the easiest pumpkin dessert recipe you will ever make. This dump cake recipe is prepped in less than 10 minutes and makes enough to feed the whole family.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

Have you made a dump cake before? I know lots of people like dump cakes because they are easy to make and so versatile. But I have never made a dump cake until this past weekend. And in all honesty, my daughter did most of the work. She loves to bake, especially cakes, and she has been wanting to make something “Fall”, so I suggested she try her hand at a dump cake. She did let me help some 😉 It was fun to cook with her and do a little baking experiment.

This Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake is really easy to make and has all the flavors of Fall baked in. Well, chocolate may not be a “Fall Flavor” per se, but I say that chocolate is a flavor for every season.

Easy Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

 

To make this Pumpkin Chocolate Dump Cake you need:

Pumpkin Puree
Evaporated Milk
Brown Sugar
Eggs
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Cinnamon
Vanilla Cake Mix
Butter
Graham Cracker Crumbs
Chocolate Chips

We actually had all the ingredients expect the evaporated milk right in the pantry.

Tastiest Pumpkin Chocolate Dump Cake

You bake this Pumpkin Chocolate Dump Cake for about 45 minutes, and the house smells so good while it’s baking. We served ours right out of the oven with vanilla ice cream. We put the leftover dump cake into the refrigerator and had it again the following night and we all decided that we liked it cold better. Don’t get me wrong, we loved it warm, but when it was cold the flavors seemed to be more pronounced. We still served it with ice cream 😉

Now, here is how to make this easy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Dump Cake, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

This easy Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake is delicious and has all your favorite flavors of Fall. This dump cake makes enough for a crowd!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Resting Time10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food, Fall, Thanksgiving
Keyword: baking, cake, dessert, dump cake, easy recipe, pumpkin
Author: Tracy

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients

  • 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 10 oz can evaporated milk - I used fat free
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 box vanilla cake mix
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • ¾ cup chocolate chips - I used semi-sweet
  • 1 stick butter - melted

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees
  • Spray 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray
  • In a large bowl add the pumpkin, milk, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon and mix well
  • Pour the pumpkin mixture in baking dish
  • Sprinkle the vanilla cake mix over the top
  • Sprinkle on the graham cracker crumbs
  • Sprinkle on the chocolate chips
  • Drizzle the butter over the top
  • Bake for 45 - 50 minutes or until edges are golden brown
  • Allow to cook for 5 - 10 mintues before serving. If you can wait that long!
  • Enjoy!

Notes

To make the graham cracker crumbs, I put about 7 graham crackers in a ziploc bag and smashed them with the back of a spoon.
We served ours with vanilla ice cream.
Refrigerate leftovers.  I recommend trying it cold too!  We actually liked it better cold than warm.  Don't get me wrong, we loved it warm, but we were pleasantly surprised that it was even better cold.

Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

I hope you enjoy this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Dump Cake as much as we do!

Did you know that pumpkin is actually good for you?  It is loaded with vitamins and fiber.  Now, I can’t say the same for the chocolate, butter and sugar, but at least you know you are getting a serving of goodness in this delicious fall dump cake too.

Easiest Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Dump Cake

Have you ever made a dump cake before? What is your favorite dump cake?

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Top 17 Free Things To Do In London

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London England is over 2000 years old, with all that history, there are plenty of Free Things To Do In London. Be sure to add this list of free things to do in London to your travel itinerary.
Top Free Things To Do In London

Top 17 Free Things to Do in London

London is the capital of England, a country filled with history. With landmarks ranging from medieval churches to modern film locations, the city’s attractions cover centuries of life in the United Kingdom. London also has an active nightlife scene, with bars that double as theaters and other late-night activities. Unlike Amsterdam, though, the city is suitable for kids. The streets are less rowdy and it’s easy to find food for picky eaters.

Since London is so expensive to visit, a trip here doesn’t get crossed off of many people’s bucket lists. A family vacation to this bustling city could cost families $9,500! Traveling with just your partner will cut the costs in half, but you’d still be looking at a $4,750 trip. That being said, you can greatly reduce the cost of a trip to London by cutting out expensive activities. The average family of 4 spends $1,200 on activities and attractions in London, but you don’t have to.

Whether you’re traveling with your family or just with your partner, the best way to save money in London is to stick to free activities, visiting the free museums in London and more. You can see many of London’s landmarks for free, so build a daily itinerary around those free activities in London for incredible savings. Once you see the cost of lodging, you’ll be glad you won’t be falling for the pricey tourist traps!

Best Free Things To Do In London Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge

You can’t go to London and not see the iconic Tower Bridge.  The Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous bridges.  The Tower Bridge was built between 1886 and 1894 and is a combined bascule and suspension bridge that crosses the River Thames. If you want to access the glass walkways or steam engine room, you will need to purchase a ticket. Kids under 5 are free and there are a variety of affordable ticket options. You will save a little if you buy your ticket in advance.

See The Changing Of The Guards as a Top Free Thing To Do In London

Changing of the Guard

This ceremony is a hit with London’s tourists! As the guard in front of Buckingham Palace switches shifts, you’ll see a parade of brightly-dressed soldiers and a full military band. The band plays everything from traditional marches to showtunes at this 45-minute-long event.

Best Free Things To Do In London

Watch the changing of the guard on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10:30am. Since this is such a popular attraction, arrive an hour early to get a good view of the fanfare.

Top Free Parks In London

Regent’s Park

London is home to eight Royal Parks, including the 395-acre Regent’s Park. The park is filled with many attractions, and most are free. Check out the 12,000 roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens, any of Regent’s Park’s playgrounds, and the winged lions in the Avenue Gardens – all without spending a dime.

Regent’s Park is open from 5:00am until 9:00pm. If you plan to stay for a few hours, consider grabbing food at the Broad Walk Café on site.

Strawberry Tours

Many European cities offer a free walking tour featuring famous landmarks. London can top that – it has 11! Join Strawberry Tours for any of their unique walking tours of London, including some themed adventures. If their complete, 6.5-hour tour of London is too much for you, try their 2.5-3-hour tours of attractions in specific parts of London.

If you’d like to take a more personalized tour of London, try their free Harry Potter or Jack the Ripper walking tours. Free Harry Potter Tour of London The guides are fantastic, with in depth knowledge about the actors, films, books.  So if you are a big Harry Potter fan, be sure to not miss this free walking tour in London!

National Gallery

Visit this free art museum in London to see the works of Leonardo DiCaprio, Vincent Van Gogh, and plenty of other artists. Rotating exhibits showcase European artists and their work in great depth, and there’s usually 1-2 free ones. The National Gallery also hosts free events for families and adults, so check out their event calendar to see what’s going on during your trip!

The National gallery is open until 6:00pm every day except for Friday, when hours are extended until 9:00pm.

Science Museum

The Science Museum in London has seven floors of artifacts, galleries, and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. The constantly-changing installations cover interesting topics, like genetics and space. If you’re visiting London with kids, bring them to the children’s garden. Sometimes, you can even ride a flight simulator!

While some of the Science Museum’s attractions have ticket fees, most of the museum’s installations are free. Plan to spend a few hours here.

Wellcome Collection

Explore the human experience at the Wellcome Collection. Within this free museum, you’ll learn about life’s ups and downs from a medical perspective. Visit the collection to think, learn, and become grateful for all that your body does (and doesn’t do!)

The Wellcome Collection is hosted in an accessible building with step-free access, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair access.

Top Free Things To Do In London Kings Cross

King’s Cross Station Platform 9 ¾

There’s plenty to see at King’s Cross Station, but among this rail station’s most popular attractions is Platform 9 ¾ from Harry Potter. Since the original platforms 9 and 10 were separated by train tracks, you can find Harry’s luggage trolley in the station concourse. Travelers and tourists can take a photo with the trolley, but arrive early in the day – many other tourists will also be trying to get a Harry Potter photo souvenir!

There’s a professional photographer at Platform 9 ¾, but visitors aren’t required to pay for a photo. Instead, have your travel buddy (not a stranger) take your photo on their phone.

British Museum

The British Museum houses global artifacts, like Egyptian mummies and samurai armor. While there are typically 80,000 items on display, the permanent collection has 8 million items! It’s no surprise that this is the largest museum in the country.

A visit to the British Museum is free, though some special exhibits cost extra. Book ahead if you’re visiting London with 10 or more people.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a contemporary art museum with works by Warhol, Picasso, and Pollack. Not only is this attraction free, but it’s open late – on Fridays and Saturdays, it doesn’t close until 10:00pm! Performance artists frequently take space at the museum to examine societal issues through comedy, interaction, and fashion. A visit to the Tate Modern is unlike any other art museum you’ll visit.

Most displays and attractions at the Tate Modern are free, but certain special exhibits are ticketed. You can typically see a performance artist and a wide range of exhibits free of charge.

Best Free Museums In London

Natural History Museum

You will find everything from dinosaurs to human evolution in the galleries at the Natural History Museum.  This is another of the extraordinary free museums in London, however there may be admission charges for some of the special exhibitions and events.  But there is plenty to see and do for free.

The Natural History Museum is open everyday (expect December 24 – 26) from 10:00 until 5:50 and the last entry is at 5:30.

Kensington Gardens

This Royal Park features statues that are well known by London’s locals. Take a stroll around the 265-acre park to see the Peter Pan statue, contemporary art and architecture at the Serpentine Gallery, and Prince Albert’s memorial monument. Kids love the wooden pirate ship and play sculptures, too!

The Kensington Gardens are open from 6:00am until 6:45pm.

Covent Garden

The Covent Garden used to be a fruit and vegetable market but is a very popular tourist spot located in the Central Building. You will find several pubs, cafes, shops and a craft market to browse.  They also have events from time to time, so be sure to check the event calendar.

Camden Market

I love markets! The Camden Market is located in Historic London has over 1000 unique stalls selling anything and everything from fashion, local eats and art items.  This creative selling market has been open since 1974 and is a popular destination for locals and tourists.

The Camdem Market is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., the busiest times are the weekends where crowds can reach up to 100,000.

St Martin’s in the Fields Free Lunchtime Concerts

St Martin-in-the-Fields is a famous Anglican church that is located at the north-east corner of Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster. There has been a church on the site since the medieval times. St Martin-in-the-Fields has a long tradition of choral and classical music. It has been a concert location for over 250 years. The lunchtime concerts are free and open to the public, they offer are a wonderful way to hear world-class musicians perform. You can also tour the church when there is not a service or concert in session.

You can find a free lunchtime concert most days at St Martin in the Fields, but be sure to check the schedule here to make sure there is one going on during your visit to London.

Free Things To Do In London England

Ceremony of Keys at The Tower of London

The Ceremony of the Keys is a free event, but a very popular one.  You must register for your free ticket to this a 700-year-old ritual in which all the doors of the Tower of London are locked every night. Those free tickets sell out months in advance, so if you would like to witness the procedure, you must plan ahead. The Chief Yeoman Warder conducts the short theatrical ceremony, but is interesting to see, if you can get tickets. If you can’t you can walk around the Tower Of London, but to get in admission prices are £24.70 for adults.

Top Free Things To Do In London England

Westminster Abbey

While it is pretty costly to visit Westminster Abbey it doesn’t cost anything to attend the worship, held on Sundays and religious holidays. Or to walk around! You must take a picture of Big Ben after all, I think that is a must for every London tourist. Westminster Abbey has history dating back to 960AD, has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of over 3,000 great Britons. The church is a prime example of Gothic architecture.

Top Free Things To Do In London Telephone Booths

While some of your vacation expenses will be harder to cut back on, your London itinerary doesn’t have to be expensive. London’s free attractions offer just as much value as the pricier ones, and there are enough free things to do in London to keep you from buying a single overpriced ticket. When London is expensive enough already, why pay more than you have to?  While in London, be sure to check out these Things To Do In Greenwich.

Did you know that Paris was just a 2.5 train ride from London?  If you have some flexibility in your travel plans, be sure to see the City of Lights and add these Free Things To Do In Paris to your travel plans.

Top 17 Free Things To Do In London | London England is over 2000 years old, with all that history, there are plenty of Free Things To Do In London. Be sure to add this list of free things to do in London to your travel itinerary. For more travel tips and budget travel plans visit foodwinesunshine.com

Have you been to London?  What is one of your favorite free things to do in London England?

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips and experiences, healthy recipes, and travel tips.

Top 14 Free Things to Do in Nashville

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If you are planning a trip to Nashville Tennessee, then you are going to want to add these free things to do in Nashville to your activities.  Turn up the music and have fun on your trip to Tennessee!

Best Free Things to Do in Nashville

14 Best Free Things to Do in Nashville

When you think of Nashville, Tennessee, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most people, it’s country music. Nashville is the birthplace to many types of music and well-known musicians’ careers. Nashville is known for its music scene. If you’re looking for musical tourist attractions and incredible BBQ dinners, this Tennessee city is the place to visit.

Whether you are visiting the Nashville area for the first time or have made it to Music City U.S.A. on previous occasions, the downtown area of the city is one of the hottest areas in the city that you are sure to want to visit. Businesses, restaurants, and clubs in the downtown area are constantly changing, and it is important to know what is new, what is still around, and the best spots to spend your time in town.

Since Nashville is a tourist city, activities aren’t always cheap. To fully take advantage of what Nashville has to offer, fill your trip itinerary with free things to do. Don’t drop your money on flashy attractions – save it for all the delicious food instead! Just be careful when you try the Nashville Hot Chicken…when they say hot…they mean HOT.

All of the bars we went into had no cover, but we always left before 10 PM, so just double-check! Broadway is THE tourist strip for bars in Nashville, you will find a ton of live music and drinks…all boosting one of your favorite country music stars.

The Wildhorse Saloon is one of downtown area’s most exciting place to be, no matter the day of week you are here. The 66,000 square foot, three level arena has become a mecca for great live music, dancing, good drinks, and great food. The CMT network tapes live shows from the Wildhorse, and the food at the club has won both regional and national awards.

While it is true the Wildhorse is known for outstanding country music performances, there are many other genres making their way inside. The party is always alive inside, and coming to Nashville is made more pleasurable knowing you have been to the Wildhorse.

A small, cozy environment filled with some of the best blues music in all of Nashville, there is no cover to come inside and enjoy the live performances. Each night offers a different performer, and if you are lucky, you might even catch the King himself. Delicious food is available, with a nice selection of moderately priced drinks.

A Nashville honky-tonk tradition, many of country music’s most popular names made their starts here. On any given night you might find yourself sitting at the bar beside Willie Nelson or even Kid Rock. This is as country as it gets, and the jukebox reflects it. Live music is available on many nights as well. A visit to Tootsie’s is a must for any fan of real country music.

Live bands come to Legends Corner every night, and you will be treated to an eclectic mix of sounds, from bluegrass to rock n’ roll. Lined across the walls of Legend Corner is an impressive collection of records that you will want to take a look at. The bar is open until 2 a.m. each night.

Live music can be heard in clubs and bars, as well as several various locations throughout the city almost every night of the week.

Don’t worry if bars aren’t your thing, everything I have listed below is free and there’s no dancing required!

Top Things to Do in Nashville

Best Free Things To Do in Nashville

  1. Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum never charges an admissions fee. This educational attraction features permanent exhibits that highlight the Civil War, natural history, and Tennessee’s state history. Temporary exhibits often feature exciting topics like food and music. Visiting a state museum at the beginning of your trip offers a great introduction to your destination!

Don’t be afraid to bring your kids to this museum – there’s a children’s exhibit that’s designed just for visitors ages 3-8! The Children’s Gallery will give your kids a fun, hands-on history lesson.

  1. Music City Walk of Fame

If you can’t make it out to Hollywood, Nashville’s Music Mile is just as exciting! Here, you’ll find the Music City Walk of Fame, with tributes to important industry figures. Take some photos on the star-studded walkway, which features Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley!

Every star on the Music City Walk of Fame is dedicated to someone with connections to Nashville, which means you’ll see plenty of country and classic rock icons. Check out the complete list of names here.

  1. Cooter’s Place Museum

This museum is dedicated to the hit TV show, The Dukes of Hazzard. Who else remembers this show?  I used to love watching it with my dad.  You can check out some artifacts from the show, like costumes, a 1969 Dodge Charger, and props. There’s also a shop attached, where you can buy merchandise based on the show. You may even run into Ben Jones, the owner of the shop and the actor who played Cooter!

  1. Fort Negley

Dig into some Civil War history at Forty Negley, the largest inland stone fort from that time period. Take a self-guided tour to learn about the 1862 surrender of Nashville, or watch one of two 20-minute videos on the topic. There are 20 different panels on this 4-acre property, so you’ll want to set aside an hour and a half to see it all!

Since there is plenty to see outside, wear comfortable walking shoes during your visit to Fort Negley. There are boardwalks within the fort itself, as well as a blacktop path that encircles it.

  1. Fannie Mae Dees Park

“Dragon Park” is a children’s play area, complete with a dragon sculpture that weaves in and out of the ground. Within the park, Lily Garden has a wheelchair-accessible swing set and playground. Older kids will enjoy the large climbing area, and everyone will love the small water area that’s open during the summer. Parents can relax in the shade or join in on the fun!

The parking lot at the park is small, so your best bet is to find parking between 26th and 24th Avenues.

  1. Midnite Jamboree

The Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree is a radio show based in Nashville that hosts a live taping on Saturday nights. The taping is free and open to the public, and it features a wide variety of up-and-coming acts. There’s a chance you’ll see some well-known artists as well. When you watch a live taping of Midnite Jamboree, you just might be witnessing the night an artist skyrockets into fame!

Midnite Jamboree’s live show is on Saturdays at 10:00pm, with the show airing at midnight.

  1. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen

Get your hands on some free samples at one of the best candy shops in the South! When you step into Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, you’ll be met with a wide variety of pralines, gophers, chocolate, and other signature items. Although their products are rather pricey, it’s free to explore the shop and grab a sample. You might be tempted to leave with some candied nuts or gourmet popcorn!

  1. Live Music at the Vineyards

Arrington Vineyards hosts live performances for 6 months out of the year. Every weekend, you’ll have an opportunity to hear some bluegrass or jazz for free at Music in the Vines. Twice a month, you can also hear live music at Sumner Crest Winery. For a livelier show, head to Beachaven Winery’s Jazz on the Lawn. Between May and October, they have food trucks, games, and a DJ on select Thursdays and Saturdays!

These wineries are free to enter, although you’ll have to pay for drinks. Beachaven Winery offers free tours and is child friendly. You can also bring your kids to Sumner Crest Winery’s musical events.

  1. Honky Tonk Highway

Nashville is filled with live music, and Honky Tonk Highway is the best place to find it. By walking down Lower Broadway, you’re bound to find a party at any time of the day or night. The bars don’t make you pay a cover charge, so it’s completely free to listen to the music and dance the night away!

If you’re lucky, you can run into a celebrity on Honky Tonk Highway. After all, this is where legends like Willie Nelson and Dierks Bentley got their start!

  1. College Football Games

Local colleges play football throughout the spring, and four of them host a free game day. Vanderbilt’s Black and Gold game, MTSU and TSU’s Blue and White games, and Austin Peay’s Red and White game are free to the public. There are often fun activities scheduled around these game days, so check out the teams’ schedules to find out what’s happening!

  1. Hike Percy Warner Park

Along with it’s connected “brother park”, Edwin Warner, the parks cover 2,684 acres right in the middle of town! There are short trails on pavement and long trails through the woods. I think the fall is the best time to go hiking here since the bright, colorful foliage creates a canopy above your head. However, summer was a beautiful time to visit!

  1. Visit Percy Priest Lake

There are hiking trails around the lake, scenic picnic sites and designated swim areas. The water is nice and warm in the summer, allowing hours of swimming and floating around to cool off. The best part is, you can be at the lake in about 15 minutes from downtown Nashville! It’s an easy spur of the moment activity.

  1. Take a stroll around Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Not only is the Farmer’s Market right next door, but you can walk to the mall from downtown. It’s a great spot to have a picnic (hey, pick up your fresh food from the farmer’s market!) or take a stroll.

There are often free special events happening around the park, and the park rangers offer free information sessions on Tennessee attractions. The best part about the Bicentennial Mall is the fountains. These fountains are newly renovated to the delight of school-aged children everywhere. Kids are often seen running through the water that sprouts up out of the ground, giggling and smiling. I’ve even seen some adults sneak through 🙂

  1. See Centennial Park

The crown jewel of Centennial Park, the replica of the Parthenon, was built for the 1897 Centennial Exposition. It is the only exact replica of the tattered Parthenon in the world. It’s quite impressive.

There are walking routes throughout the park, as well as a large pond, often filled with ducks and swans. There’s a bandstand that hosts Movies In the Park during the summer. They show free movies on the big screen. Most people bring blankets and a picnic dinner to kick back and watch the movie. It’s great for all ages.

Best Things to Do in Nashville

There’s plenty to do in Nashville that won’t cost you anything. Despite this city being the starting point for many celebrity careers, it’s always been welcoming to everyone. On your next vacation consider heading to Nashville where you will experience some of the best food and music in the country!

No matter what you decide you want to do while visiting Nashville Tennessee, you will always find an adventure lying ahead. It will be a memorable experience no matter what your choice may be. You can visit parks, play golf, see wildlife as well as several amusement parks located in or near downtown Nashville. Visiting Tennessee in general is an experience of a lifetime!

Top Free Things to Do in Nashville

Have you been to Nashville?  What are your favorite things to do in Nashville?  Be sure to let me know so that I can check them out and add them to my list!

Looking for some more fun places to travel?

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10 Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home – No Equipment Required

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Sometimes we don’t have time to go to the gym or hit a fitness class but we still want to get some physical activity in. These are 10 Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home or anywhere!

Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home

10 Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home
No Equipment Required

When we think of exercising to stay physically fit, and particularly when we are thinking about weight loss we tend to think that we have to spend hours devoted to our physical fitness. A long walk or gym session is certainly going to help you reach your fitness goals, but what about when you are running short on time? Is there any benefit to just squeezing in a quick work out?

The answer is unequivocally yes! You don’t always have to spend hours each day working out in order to get the benefits of physical activity. Even short periods of physical activity are very beneficial for you in the long run, they will help increase muscle mass and increase your metabolism. This is especially true if you combine these short workouts when you don’t have time with those longer gym sessions or go to exercise class when you do. So what are the best exercises that you can do to improve and maintain your health when you are short on time?

Here are just a few exercises that you can combine for a quick workout when you don’t have time to head to the gym.  Having a yoga mat or lying on the carpet will make these exercises a bit more comfortable.

Simple Exercises You Can When you are short on time

Glute Bridge

Lie flat on your back with your knees bent about hip-width apart, arms shoulder-width apart by your sides with your palms facing up. Keep your feet on the ground a few inches from your rear end. Push up through your heels, raising your hips while squeezing your glutes tight. Hold this position for two to three seconds and then slowly lower your hips back down to the floor. Work your way up to 20 repetitions. This exercise focuses on toning your glutes and your core.

Body Weight Triceps Dip

To start, sit on the floor with your knees bent, feet out in front of you, gently resting on your heels. Place your palms on the floor slightly behind you, directly under your shoulders with your fingers pointing towards your body. Now straighten your arms to lift your rear end and then bend your elbows to lower yourself back down but not all of the way to the floor. Work your way up to 20 repetitions. This exercise will target your pectoral muscles and your triceps.

Push-ups

To begin get down on the floor on your hands and knees. Straighten your arms and legs out, and place your hand’s palms down on the floor approximately shoulder-width apart. Slowly lower your chest down until it is nearly touching the floor and then slowly come back up for one repetition. If doing a push-up this way is too difficult, you can do a modified push-up from your knees. Push-ups target your pectorals, triceps, and abdominal muscles.

Wall Push-ups

Stand one to two feet away from the wall, extend your arms out in front of you and place your hands on the wall a little wider than shoulder-width apart. Keep your legs still, bend at the elbow and bring your chest and chin close to the wall. Now take a deep breath, exhale, and push away from the wall until your elbows are slightly bent, and your chest and chin are away from the wall. This completes one repetition. Try to complete 20 more. This exercise targets your biceps, triceps, and shoulders.

Arm Circles

Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms raised out to your sides at shoulder height. Begin making tight forward circles with your arms, complete as many repetitions as you can, and then make tight backward circles for as many repetitions as you can. Give your arms a break and then try for one more set both forward and backward. This exercise focuses on your biceps, shoulders, and triceps.

Abdominal Crunch

First lie on your back with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your feet about 12 to 16 inches away from your rear end, and your knees bent. Cross your arms in front of your chest (this prevents neck strain from interlocking your fingers behind your neck), and slowly roll your shoulders up off of the floor. Hold this position for one second and then slowly roll your shoulders back down to the floor. This completes one repetition. Try to build up to two or three sets of 20 repetitions. This exercise targets your core and abdominal muscles.

Bird Dog Crunch

Begin on the floor on your hands and knees with your wrists under your shoulders, and your knees under your hips. Slowly extend your left arm forward, and your right leg back while squeezing your abs tight. Now come back to your starting position and reverse sides extending your right arm forward and your left leg back. Continue for as many repetitions are comfortable. This exercise focuses on your glutes, core, deltoid, and trapezius muscles.

Forearm Plank

Place forearms on the floor with elbows aligned below shoulders and arms parallel to your body at about shoulder width. If flat palms bother your wrists, clasp your hands together. Hold this position for as long as you can. For some, that may be 10 seconds, for others it may be 1 minute. The forearm plank exercise focuses on strengthening your core.

Leg Lift

For your starting position lie on your back with your legs extended out in front of you and your arms palms down on the floor beside you. Keeping your legs together, slowly raise them towards your face until they are nearly vertical. Now slowly lower your legs back down towards the floor. This completes one repetition. Try to work your way up to 20 repetitions. The leg lift exercise focuses on strengthening your core.

Bicep Curls

Start by standing up straight, arms extended out in front of you with your palms facing up. Make a loose fist with your hands, as if you were holding on to hand weights. Slowly bring your fists up until your curled fingers touch your shoulders. Hold there for one second and squeeze your biceps before lowering your arms back down in front of you. Try for one set of 20 repetitions. This exercise focuses on your shoulders, biceps, and back muscles.

Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home without equipment

All of these exercises are a great way for you to get a workout in even if you don’t have a lot of time to spare. None of these exercises require any equipment and you can perform them at home or just about anywhere as your schedule allows. Combine these exercises with a short, brisk walk and at the end of the day, you have gotten in a pretty good workout to help you increase and maintain your health and fitness.

Need a reminder to get those simple exercises done?  I understand!  That’s why I made this free printable.  Print out this Fitness Goals Printable and toss it on the fridge, in your purse, anywhere that you will see it so that it reminds you to get it done.

Free Fitness Printable with Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home - No Equipment Required | Sometimes we don’t have time to go to the gym or hit a fitness class but we still want to get some physical activity in. These are 10 Simple Exercises You Can Do At Home or anywhere! Read more healthy living tips, healthy recipes and fitness tips on foodwinesunshine.com | Food Wine Sunshine #healthy #healthyliving #healthylifestyle #wellness #lifestyleblogger #foodblogger

Print the Fitness Goals Checklist HERE or by just clicking the image above.

What simple exercises do you do at home to help maintain your fitness goals?

Exercises You Can Do At Home

Be sure to check out all my healthy lifestyle tips and recipes and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more fitness motivation tips.

Top 12 Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

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Planning a trip or a family vacation to Fort Lauderdale Florida? Then be sure to add these Top Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale to your travel itinerary.
Top Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

Top Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

A trip to Florida wouldn’t be complete without making a stop in Fort Lauderdale. This southeastern city is just 28 miles north of Miami, making it possible to visit both of these beautiful cities on the same trip. With an average year-round temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, there’s never a bad time to visit The Sunshine State. Now, we do get much hotter than 75 degrees in the summer, and we cool down beautifully in the winter, so plan your visit to the south when the temperature suits you best.

Even if you’re not traveling on a budget, why spend more on activities and events than you have to? After all, you’ll already be spending your trip fund on food and lodging. Thankfully, there are plenty of things to do in Fort Lauderdale for under $10, in fact, there are plenty of things you can do for free. From must-see attractions to delicious food, a ten-dollar bill goes a long way in this sunny city!  There are some fun things to do when in rains in Florida on this list, we are definitely known to get our fair share of afternoon showers here in Florida.

Best Free Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

Top Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale for Under $10

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

This period museum will take you back to the early 20th century, when plantation-style properties covered the Southeast. The Bonnet House is also home to a garden with one of the only native barrier island habitats in Florida. In addition to tropical plants, you can also expect to find a variety of birds in the gardens. Get your camera (or your smartphone) ready – you’ll want to take photos of every ecosystem on the property!

Admission to the Bonnet House Gardens costs $10 per person, and does not include admission to the museum.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Head to the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for tons of outdoor activities. Take a short, leisurely hike through a tropical ecosystem on the Coastal Hammock Trail, swim at the beach next to the park, and spot hundreds of different animal species. On Fridays and Saturdays, you and your family can join a park ranger for an informative walk through the park. Each week, the guide will cover a different section of the park, so call ahead to see which week will be highlighted during your trip!

The park charges $6 per vehicle with 2-8 people inside, $4 per single-occupancy vehicle, and $2 per bicyclist or pedestrian. The walking tour on weekends is included with your admission fee.

Antique Car Museum

The Antique Car Museum in Fort Lauderdale has preserved vehicles that date back to the early 1900’s. Each vehicle is relevant to the history of the automobile, whether it was the first of its kind or it’s one of the last in existence. This museum has the largest collection of Packard cars and memorabilia from 1900 to the present day!

Entry to the museum costs $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12, and is free for children under 5 years old.  Since the Antique Car Museum is a non-profit operation, donating beyond these amounts is appreciated.

Circle House Coffee

This coffee shop was founded by a former Miami Dolphins player in Flagler Village. Here, you can get a cappuccino with a selfie printed on it (or a picture of your dog – whoever’s face you want to spam your Instagram followers with). You can also munch on some pastries or opt for tea while playing a board game at this community-oriented small business. Fill up on something yummy before you move onto your next activity!

Circle House Coffee routinely gives back to the Fort Lauderdale community, so they often host charity events. Check out their website to see what’s going on while you’re in town.

SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch

Sunday Jazz Brunch is a free, live, outdoor concert series that hosts the area’s best local jazz artists.  It is located right along the scenic Riverwalk. Sunday Jazz Brunch is on the first Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring the kids and your pets, pets should be on leashes.  If you think you will stay awhile, feel to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets to experience the fabulous entertainment. Be sure to take a Sunday stroll along the historic brick-lined walkway while checking out the local merchants and enjoying delicious eats from local restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale Beaches

You can’t visit Florida without going to a beach! The Fort Lauderdale area has 23 miles of sandy terrain to explore, all with amenities to suit anyone’s needs. Head to Lauderdale-By-The-Sea to go fishing 24/7 or to snorkel in a natural coral reef system. Get a great ocean view from El Prado Park or Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, two of the more popular beach fronts in the area. At the local beaches, you’ll find playgrounds, grilling areas, and so much more!

El Camino

From 4-7:00pm every day, this Mexican restaurant in Fort Lauderdale offers $2 beers, $2 tacos, and $5 margaritas. El Camino is often packed during those 3 hours, but thankfully, the deals resume after midnight. During both the early and late-night happy hours, appetizers are also on sale. Grab yourself some chips and salsa for just $2!

El Camino lets customers book a reservation, so be sure to do so before your visit to Fort Lauderdale.

FAT Village

Fort Lauderdale’s art district is filled with creative spaces and art studios, not flashy bars and overpriced tourist traps. On the last Saturday of every month, head to FAT Village for food trucks, pop-up bars, and even more art than what’s visible on a typical day. On any other day, take an afternoon stroll around Flagler to see the street art!

Gulfstream Park

Fort Lauderdale is known for hosting Thoroughbred horse racing events all year long. Although you can purchase tickets in advance, over 2,000 seats are available for free on a first-come, first-serve basis. Racing Ambassadors can explain the sport to those who are unfamiliar with horse races, even if you don’t place a bet. Watching a Thoroughbred race is fun for the whole family!

Although parking and admission are free at Gulfstream Park, valet parking is available starting at $10.

Notorious Creamery

When in Southern Florida, it’s hard to go wrong with ice cream. Notorious Creamery is a collaboration between a Grammy-nominated rapper and the general manager of a nearby lounge. They have a delicious assortment of sorbet and ice cream flavors, and there are even vegan options available!

Swap Shop

There’s plenty to see at the Swap Shop, including drive-in movies and a free Ferrari museum. Quirky vendors set up shop here to sell all kinds of goodies 365 days a year. Entry is free on Thursdays before 6:30am, $5 on Tuesdays, and $10 on all other weekdays. The drive-in movie theater is also open every day of the year, with tickets selling for $7 ($2 for children). The Swap Shop is a truly unique experience!

Secret Woods Nature Center

The Secret Woods Nature Center is 55 acres of nature that is among the endless urban development of South Florida. The park is set amidst a towering oak forest and surrounded by swampland.  While walking around, you will discover a butterfly house as well as an interpretive center featuring a working beehive and reptile habitat. After learning about nature, immerse yourself in beauty by strolling two scenic trails. Be sure to take a lot of pictures and leave only footprints.

The Secret Woods Nature Center is completely free.

Cheap Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

If you are planning a visit to Fort Lauderdale in November, be sure to grab tickets for the Gridiron Cook Off. The Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine & Music Festival is considered the best-valued food and wine event in South Florida! Therefore, making it one of my favorites.  This event features a grilling competition with Miami Dolphin legends and the best of the best South Florida restaurants, a BBQ Pit Master Competition and a concert featuring a nationally acclaimed artist. You can spend the day listening to live music, tasting gourmet samples grilled to perfection and sipping on the finest wines and spirits. The Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine and Music Festival is located at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater.  Ticket prices vary.

My family and I went to the Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine and Music Festival in 2018 thanks to Southeast Toyota Dealers and had so much fun!  We watched Cornhole tournaments, enjoyed the music and even voted for our favorite BBQ.  My husband and I also went through the 21+ years older Food and Wine part of the Festival and enjoyed some of South Florida’s finest foods!   I would say that it’s kind of obvious that I enjoy food, wine and sunshine 😉 and if you do too, the Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine and Music Festival in Fort Lauderdale is definitely a good place to enjoy all three.

Free Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

Florida is filled with tourist destinations. While Miami can get chaotic and Orlando can quickly become expensive, Fort Lauderdale offers fun-filled activities that won’t break the bank.

Best Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale

What are your favorite things to do in Fort Lauderdale?

Looking to travel to other parts of Florida?

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How To Choose The Right Yoga Class

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Ready to start practicing yoga? Yoga is not only good for your body, but your mind. It may be confusing or intimidating trying to choose the right yoga class, let me help you.

How To Choose The Right Yoga Class

How To Choose The Right Yoga Class

So, you are ready to choose a yoga class. You have read about the benefits of yoga and you have done some research on the different types of yoga and you are ready to see what yoga can do for you. Yoga is an excellent for your body and your mind, it is a challenging and beautiful form of exercise and meditation that has been practiced for centuries by all ages.

Before you walk into the yoga studio, be sure to research the classes that are offered. I am sure you will ask your friends and family what type of yoga classes they go to, or what studio is their favorite. And each person you ask will probably have a different answer. What is important is keeping your physical or spiritual goals in mind when looking for a new studio and class. If you Google yoga classes in your area, you will probably find a bunch. Due to the popularity of this type of fitness, yoga classes seem to be popping up in every gym, community center and even outdoor spaces. This actually gives you a fantastic opportunity to give yoga a try. Choosing the right class for you will take just a little patience. You may have to try a few different studios before you find the yoga class that is right for you.

When picking a yoga instructor for any learning experience, it is always advantageous to ask questions. While you are choosing your new class, consider talking to the instructor prior to joining the class, either give the studio a call, reach out on social media or send an email.

Here are three questions to ask your potentially new yoga instructor:

How long have you been teaching yoga?

Seems like an obvious question, but it’s always a good idea to find out if they are a professional instructor or if she has just recently joined the ranks of yoga teachers. Make sure that they has experience with your chosen style of yoga. Let them know why you are considering joining the class. Explain to the instructor that your goal is weight-loss, relaxation, to increase flexibility, or to simply try something new. By telling the instructor what you hope to gain from the class, they will also know what to expect from you. They can also let you know if they think the class matches your goals. The Yoga Alliance recommends that all instructors have at least 200 hours of training prior to teaching. If she does not meet these minimum standards, it might be time to search for another class.

How many people are typically in your yoga classes?

Learning complicated poses in a class of fifty students can be intimidating and hard. How will you get the attention you need if there are fifty other students? Is everyone else in the class more advanced than you are? If so, how will you keep up with the class? Large classes might make you feel a little more comfortable if you are the type to blend into the background, but may be harder to learn in. Small classes give the instructor more time to concentrate on each individual student. Choosing a smaller class might give you the results you are looking for, at a much faster rate.

Do you actively practicing yoga outside of the studio?

Yoga instructors should have a love of the discipline. If the instructor is into yoga purely to create a financial income, he or she is less likely to combine both the spiritual and physical aspects of yoga into a class. To get the full benefit of yogic poses, the teacher must explain each step of the pose. Many poses include positions which stimulate the body and the mind. An excellent instructor understands the poses and explains them to the class. The more they practice yoga, the better they become at understanding yogic principles.

How To Choose The Best Yoga Class for you

Most yoga studios will offer a free class to new students, be sure to take advantage of this. This will give you the opportunity to experience first hand if that particular yoga class and instructor aligns with your physical and spiritual goals. You will see how the instructor handles the class. Even someone who practices yoga on a daily basis might not be adept at teaching the skills. This applies to life in general, doesn’t it? Just because you are good at something, doesn’t automatically make you a good teacher. A good teacher will build a relationship with each student and ask you your goals and do their best to help you achieve them. Yoga is not only a physical pursuit; it affects the mind, as well. Having a teacher that you can trust is a wonderful way to begin the practice of yoga. This will make you more comfortable in class and will keep you coming back.

Choosing The Right Yoga Class

Do you practice yoga? How did you choose the yoga class that what right for you?

Looking for a healthy protein smoothie to make so you can refuel after your yoga class?

Pumpkin Apple Pie Smoothie

Healthy Pumpkin Apple Pie Smoothie

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Best Temperature For Serving Wine

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Have you wondered what is the best temperature for serving wine? Many serve it too warm or too cold. Read on to discover the ideal temperature for serving both red and white wine.

Best Temperature For Serving WinesBest Temperature For Serving Wine

Too often, fine wine is served at the wrong temperature. Taking the time to learn about wine serving temperature for favorite vintages will enhance wine taste and flavor.

Serving white wine that is too cold and red wine that is too warm are common mistakes. The complexity of the wine with respect to aroma, taste, and flavor is very dependent on wine temperature when served. That is why wine should be served at the proper temperature based on the type and particular vintage. Those who learn about wine optimal serving temperatures maximize the flavor and enjoyment of a favorite fine wine.

Best Temperature For Serving White Wine

White Wine Temperature Serving Suggestions

White wine should never be served directly from a refrigerator as the temperature will be far too cold. Refrigerator temperatures are often between 35° F and 40° F. While white wines may seem refreshing when served too cold, they will also be nearly tasteless. A full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay is best served at a temperature in the range of 50 to 60° F. Lighter, fruitier vintages like Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc are best served at temperatures near 45° F.

Serving white wine that is too warm will cause the wine to taste alcoholic and heavy. The trick with white wine is to serve it at the temperature that best showcases the unique and personal characteristics of the wine. Discard the myth about refrigerating all white wines and instead serve them at the ideal temperature based on the variety. Wine Intro has a handy wine temperature guide that can be used to find the ideal serving temperatures for all varieties of wine.

Best Temperature For Serving Red Wine

Red Wine Temperature Serving Suggestions

Another common but faulty rule of thumb when it comes to wine temperature is to serve all red wine at room temperature. Room temperature might be 68° F or even higher, not the ideal wine temperature for serving any wine.

As with white wine, there are ideal service temperatures for red wine based on the vintage. Serving red wine that is too warm causes the wine to taste too alcoholic and sometimes even vinegary. Serving reds that are too chilled produce an excessive tannic bite and much less flavor. The temperature guide provided above provides an ideal wine temperature for red wine varieties too. Generally, the range of 45° F to 65° F is best for red wine and not affecting it’s flavor profile.

How To Achieve Ideal Wine Serving Temperatures

The ideal storage temperature for all wines is 55° F. That fact alone rules out storing white wine in a 35° F refrigerator. Fine wine is perishable, and so storing wine in an environment that is too hot will cause it to lose its flavor. Storing it at a temperature that is excessively cold will also degrade the flavor.

Realistically unless cellared or stored in a wine cooler, most wines are stored at room temperature, both by wine retailers and consumers. This is not a real cause for concern since wine is typically consumed soon after it is purchased. Based on the room temperature assumption, wine generally will require chilling before it is served.

Refrigerators can be used to chill wine as long as the wine temperature is monitored, and the wine is not refrigerated too long. White wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and White Zinfandel can be chilled at refrigerator temperature for around an hour and a half before serving to achieve ideal temperature. As an alternative, wine bottles can be placed in an ice bucket with an ice-water mixture for about 20 minutes before serving.

Red wines stored at room temperature also need slight chilling since, on average, reds are most flavorful when served at about 65° F. Adhesive thermometer strips are available that can be attached to the outside of wine bottles for precise temperature management. But for those who do not wish to go to such extremes, a good rule of thumb recommended by Ursula Hermacinski, a former Christie’s wine auctioneer, is to put red wine in the refrigerator 20 minutes before it will be served.

For wine enthusiasts who do have an actual cellar and keep red wine at the ideal storage temperature, it can be warmed by removing it to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

A very handy appliance now available is the rapid wine chillers now available from many retailers. Wines can be chilled quickly to various temperatures in as little as one to six minutes, depending on the temperature desired. These wine chillers offer a very convenient means of getting wine temperature just right.

Best Temperature For Serving Wine

Ideal Wine Temperature Benefits

Regardless of the method uses, serving wine at proper wine temperature will reap many benefits. All too often, people extend the time and energy to choose a fine wine only to discover they are disappointed in the flavor or that it is not well received by guests. Many times the problem is not with the wine but the wine temperature when served.

Try serving wine at the ideal temperature for that next wine and cheese tasting get together to please and impress party guests.

Did you know that there ideal temperatures for serving red and white wine?  What temperature do you usually serve wine at?

Best Temperatures For Serving Red & White Wine

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