50 Things I've Loved in the US
It’s 50 days until I head back to the US again. My fifth time. I always head over for web (film) festivals then do some exploring. I always have the most times and with 50 days to go, thought it was time to countdown daily 50 things I’ve loved doing in the US.
50: Meeting John waters in baltimore
My first trip to the US happened in 2018. I was excited to attend the NYC Web Fest, and when I discovered that Baltimore Web Fest was just a few days beforehand, I knew I had to go.
After my first flight to the US, wow that is long, I got off my transfer flight from San Francisco and straight in an Uber. Checked into my hotel, had a much needed shower and then called another Uber and went to the Baltimore Museum of Art to go to a book signing with legendary director, John Waters. I had been a longtime fan, ever since I saw ‘Serial Mom’ in High School - and it’s still one of my all time favourite films.
It was a one night event and despite my tiredness, I knew I had to do it. I got there and bought the book, joining the line with a just a few behind me before they closed the cue. The wait was close to an hour, but it was worth it.
When I met John, he was a lovely guy, though I think he struggled with how thick my Aussie accent was, but we had quite a lengthy chat about Australia and how much he loved visiting. He signed my book and we got a photo. I didn’t think it was too bad that I had been off the plane less than a few hours and had met my first celebrity.
49: Paramount Studio Halloween Tour
In 2019, after visits to New Jersey and New York, I flew to the west coast and went to Los Angeles for the first time. One of the big highlights of the visit was a Halloween tour of the iconic Paramount Studio.
For Halloween, they run nighttime tours of the studio with ghost stories and then a visit to the cemetery next door. We started with a few champagnes before the tour started, surrounded by Oscars for film like, “The Godfather”, “Titanic” and “Forrest Gump”. As they were just starting for the season, it was a quiet night, which was better. In my tour group it was just me and an Irish couple, so naturally our tour got through that champagne. We had a great time together. In the studio we visited a great props warehouse and toured a few studios, we went on the set of “Frankie and Grace”, as well heading into the “Dr Phil” set by torchlight. We walked through the New York backlot set and saw the iconic water tower, as well as hearing about scandals and ghost stories.
Then we headed into Hollywood Forever Cemetery, again by torchlight. We went into some crematoriums and visited the graves of some great actors. We saw Jayne Mansfield’s grave site, as well as Chris Cornell and the original Vampira. I was quite moved by the statue of Anton Yelchin. There were some fascinating stories, and the 2.5 hours flew by.
48: Visiting the chicago fire firehouse
I had 24 hours in Chicago and knew I had to go visit the firehouse where Chicago Fire. Always been a big fan of the show and thought it would be fun to visit the firehouse. Caught a LYFT out there and sadly it seemed closed. Myself, and a couple from Puerto Rico, were there. We took photos for each other and they left. I called myself a Lyft back but as soon as I did, a truck arrived back and the door opened. The driver came out and said hello to me and invited me inside, along with another tourist family that had just arrived.
Got a tour through a lot of the firehouse and got to hop in a fire engine and have a photo taken. They said they enjoy having tourists come through, and while we couldn’t go into the kitchen where they film, but got to see it from a distance. Got to hold a few of the props they use, such a foam axe. Was a nice stop in my small visit to Chicago.
47: The Brooklyn bridge
It had always been on my bucket list to walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. It took until my fourth visit to do it. I’d heard it was best to work towards Manhattan, so that way you get a better view. So I caught a ferry to DUMBO (more on that for a future post) and then walked across. It was late morning and was packed but was still wonderful. It’s quite an easy walk and took less time than I expected. The views are incredible, you can see the Manhattan skyline and see the Statue of Liberty from the side.
There’s lots of places to stop and take photos, which many do. And I know many would say not to do it, but I bought a great subway map that had been screen printed with a picture of the Flatiron building. I love it and it is happily hanging next to me as I type this.
After I crossed the bridge, I walked further into new parts of NYC I hadn’t been to before. It was a great adventure on a Tuesday morning.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is definitely a must.
46: Museum of the Moving image
We got in an UBER and headed to Astoria Queens for the Museum of the Moving Image. I am a lifelong Muppets fan and was excited to check it out. It did not let me down, there was just so much to see. The Jim Henson exhibition had so many Muppets, as well as characters from Fraggle Rock and The Dark Crystal. It really did elevate me back to my childhood.
There were other incredible exhibitions there as well, including the figure made of Linda Blair in The Exorcist. It was well the trip out there, it really is for people of all ages.
I even loved our adventure heading home. The UBER had taken so long and was expensive, so I was determined to master the subway. With the help of people with directions, buying tickets and where to change, we got back to our hotel on three trains in record time. Was a great adventure.
45: The B52s in Central Park
As I was preparing for my 2nd trip to the US, my good friend Nathan, who now lives in the US, messaged and asked if I’d like to join him seeing the B52s in Central Park. It should have been a rhetorical question, because, yes, yes I did want to see B52s in Central Park. It was the final show in the Summer Series and also had Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Berlin on the bill.
Met Nathan and we walked through Central Park. We went to the fountain, that I hadn’t seen before and then went to the very full concert. Berlin were right in the middle of their set as we arrived. I had seen them once before in Sydney and Terri Nun is such a great vocalist. OMD were next, and they were great also.
Then it was time for the main act. Nathan is a big B52s fan and had seen them many times, it was my first time. And they were brilliant, was such a fun show. Highlights of course were the big hits, Love Shack, Roam and Rock Lobster, but also loved hearing Deadbeat Club. It was such a great gig and a wonderful memory.
And what a perfect venue. The night was beautiful, it was quite a warm fall evening. The crowd were friendly, we chatted to a few different people in between sets. There were food and drink trucks and the atmosphere was great. A brilliant memory.
44: katz delicatessen
On a Tuesday morning in 2023 I took a lovely walk from Chelsea to the Lower East Side. I love walking through new neighbourhoods and stopping off at great shops (found a great store selling RuPaul cocktails with a free fan). First I hit Beastie Boys Square and took a few pics and then walked the few blocks to Katz.
This place often has a wrap for being rude but I thought everyone was nice. I got there mid morning and the lines were already massive. I waited in line, while deciding what to get. I ordered the beef brisket sandwich, and they give you a sample of the meat as they make the sandwich, it was delicious.
The sandwich was HUGE and I saw many people sharing, but my mother didn’t raise a quitter. It was delicious, though I think I did get the meat sweats afterwards. Paired it with a really nice black cherry drink. For some reason, when I am in the US, I cannot get enough of cherry flavours.
Sure it was a little expensive, but it wasn’t just sandwich, visiting Katz is an experience and was glad to tick it off my NYC bucketlist.
43: High roller in las vegas
Last year I went to Las Vegas and stayed at the Flamingo. It was that the High Roller was essentially next door to the resort.
On an incredibly warm Friday afternoon I took the roller. It has very nig compartments, which takes away the fear of going so high. I shared a pod with a young German family. It was actually good to have them there as they could take photos for me! It does get very high, the informative recording inside the compartment tells us it reaches higher than the Statue of Liberty.
It’s a very smooth ride with great views and even though I wasn’t sure at first if I should do it, I’m glad I did.
42: NYC WEB FEST
I had always wanted to visit the US but have never really had the finances. When I made my web series, ‘After Nightfall’, I said that if we made the NYC Webfest I would attend. And when we received the official selection, the decision was already made. It was a wonderful festival, and even better because amongst the contingent from ‘After Nightfall’ were my two best friends, Charlene and Jacinta. How incredible to share New York with them.
We went to the opening drinks and saw some people I’d met at the Baltimore Web Fest and made lots of new friends, many of whom are still friends to this day. Attended some great workshops and a big highlight, being screened in New York. I was so nervous before the screening, worried people would hate it, but had a great response.
Then came the big gala awards night, which took place at the Chelsea Bell, which had an open bar. My idea of heaven. It was such a great night. Everyone was dressed up and the awards were fab. I truly did not think we were going to win. I was so nervous all I heard was a ringing in my ears when the award for Best Mystery / Thriller Series was being handed out. I didn’t realise we had won until i saw people looking at me and clapping. It was even more special that it was presented by the festival director, Lauren. It was a wonderful night that was one of my best ever. It was the culmination of my first US and New York adventure and it was wonderful.
41: Ross Mathews Drag Brunch
As a massive fan of Drag and the TV show Drag Race, I was keen to book in for my first ever Drag Brunch. It was a Saturday morning in LA, and I went across early and had some coffee, did some shopping and sat in a cafe and did some writing. Then went in to my brunch. You are given a bottle of bottle of mimosa before midday, which really is something I enjoy when on holiday. Ordered lunch and got ready for the show. I was sat next to a lovely straight couple and it was his birthday, though I think this event was all her idea. They were great and we had plenty of laughs all day.
The show was great. The host was the very talented Jackie Beat, who is a drag icon and a very, very funny host. Sherry Vine was also on the bill and her songs were great. The other Queens were ones I didn’t know, but were all incredibly talented and I got a chance to meet them after the show and take a pic.
It was my first US drag show and was a great experience. Though I needed to go back to my place and have a nap before continuing on for the day!
40: Ghostbusters firehouse
I never realised that the firehouse from ‘Ghostbusters’ was actually a working firehouse. Before my trip I was looking through Google Maps for things to do in New York and I came across this firehouse. This was a great photo opportunity and I love that they have Ghostbusters logos out the front. No, you can’t go inside the firehouse, but you can take as many photos as you like outside. There were a lot of tourists there and everyone was having a good time. Glad I went and it gave me a kick a few months after this when I saw the trailer for the last ‘Ghostbusters’ film and you see the firehouse at the start.
39: A Taping of the Kelly clarkson show
I am a big Kelly Clarkson fan. A few years ago I missed a taping of her show by a day when in LA, so when the show moved to NYC, I was determined to attend a taping. I was set to arrive early but on the way they were taping voxpops for the Jimmy Fallon show and got asked to be in it. Was great to do, but got me to Kelly later than I wanted, still, got a good seat. It is a big process getting in and takes a while but it is worth it once you’re sitting in the studio ready for the taping.
Kelly sings first, even though it comes last in the show. She only did one rehearsals, and then taped the song, in one take, and sounded phenomenal. She did The Beatles, ‘Come Together’, and she owned that song. Incredible. Guests were Al Rooker (we got given his cookbook) and Shanola Hamilton, who I am a BIG fan of. Lots of lovely people in the audience to chat to when waiting and in between segments.
Kelly is a true professional and it was great to watch the show being taped. Got to tick another item off my ‘To Do’ list.
38: Sleep no more
‘Sleep No More’ was a theatre institution in New York and something any theatre fan needed to do when visiting. It is such a great concept, audience wander through a massive multi-level warehouse, where roaming actors are performing. The actors are so good, especially when so many of the audience don’t understand or abandon theatre etiquette in this situation. It was an enjoyable show and an experience I was glad I went to.
A few funny memories for me from the show:
1: During a bar scene I was standing at the front and one of the cast members who was on the floor was using my body to help her get off the floor and accidentally grabbed my crotch. I saw the panic in her face and I had to laugh and say, ‘All good’.
2: While I was at the bar ordering cocktails, my best friend Charlene accidentally dropped a bunch of cash in the toilet. She panicked, and tried to flush it, and it just wouldn’t go down. The lovely bar staff felt bad for us and gave us two cocktails for free. And then a staff member got the money out and handed it back in a damp envelope. Charlene was horrified. I have never let her forget it.
The show has finished now, and while it wasn’t my favourite I’ve seen, I’m glad I did see it.
37: Chelsea market
On my second time in the US I stumbled across the Chelsea Market when I was on my never ending quest to find good coffee in the US. I went a street too far from the café I was looking for and found Chelsea Market. So after coffee I went back and had a look and ended up staying for a couple of hours. There was just much to do and see. Some great shops and when I was there, there was even a big open space where a lot of small creators had a table selling cool items - bought some presents there. There was lots of food as well. I sat down for a lunch and had a great burger and a boozy milkshake. It was an unexpected stop that I thoroughly enjoyed.
36: Croton on Hudson
This story starts well. In 2023, after a three nights in New York, I took a train from the beautiful Grand Central Station and went to Croton on Hudson to spend the evening at the house of my good friend, Laura Dowling Shea. What a stunning area. We visited the New Croton Dam, which is stunning. Then later in the day we went for a walk around the gorge, it was totally gorge! That night our other good friend, Jessica Alexandra Green came down from her place and we went out for dinner at a beautiful Mexican restaurant. Then went back to Laura’s and had a bottle of Aussie Chandon bubbly and had a good laugh.
It was the following day when it all fell apart. As I was on a train back to NYC, to head to LaGuardia Airport that I got an email that my flight was cancelled due to rain, and then a message came on the speaker, Grand Central was flooded and we needed to get off earlier.
I got off in Yonkers and tried phoning Flight Centre, a 90 minute call that resolved nothing. So I caught the train back, but the flood was going up the river and we had to get off at Tarrytown. I was stuck. The wonder that is Laura drove through floods to rescue me and take me back to Croton on Hudson. We had dinner and a bottle of French bubbly and then spoke to someone good at Flight Centre who got me on crazy AM flight from Connecticut. Laura, the trooper she is, drove me to another state, leaving at 3am. And on the way we nearly hit a Moose in the highway - and a year later, a podcast was born. It was a stressful visit but I can’t help but look at it fondly.
35: Drag Race live
I had been wanting to head to Las Vegas for a few years to see Drag Race Live and took the plunge last year. Drag Race is my favourite show and was excited to see the Vegas extravaganza. I was staying in the Flamingo, where the show was happening, so just had to head downstairs to see the show.
The venue was incredible and the atmosphere was pure excitement. I adored the show. Carson was having his first night as host, and while you could tell he was still reading some lines from his iPad, he was engaging and hilarious. The Queens for the night were Kennedy Davenport, Lawrence Chaney, Derrick Berry and Jorgeous. They were all fantastic and the show is a full on production with great original songs. The dancing was amazing and Lawrence was hilarious. I screamed, shouted and cheered. I loved every minute. Oh, and the pit crew were gorgeous. Such handsome and talented men. The production values were incredibly high and being in the second row made the experience even better.
And decided that if I was going all that way I may as splurge for meet and greet tickets. After the show I got to head back in and meet the Queens and Carson. They were lovely, especially Carson. When I said, “I’m from Australia’, Lawrence responded, ‘I am so sorry’. Very, very funny Queen. A great experience.
34: marie’s crisis cafe
A few people had recommended Marie’s Crisis Cafe to me. It is a very fun bar where one performer sits and plays so many different musical theatre numbers on the piano and sings, and the patrons of the bar are encouraged to sing-along.
I went as soon as the bar opens on a rainy Tuesday and it wasn’t as packed as I hear it can get. There is no cover charge, but there is a two drink minimum. They free pour and my two spiced rums and Cokes had me feeling quite boozy. I had a great time. The performer on my day was very talented and I was singing along to the songs I knew. You could drop some cash in the fishbowl and request a song or musical, naturally I picked Evita. He sang both ‘Don’t Cry For Me Argentina’ and to my great surprise, ‘Another Suitcase, Another Hall’. I sang along very loudly. Had a wonderful late afternoon in this very fun place.
33: Summit One vanderbilt
I had been on top of the Empire State on my first trip to New York, and last time I thought it was time to check out another observation deck. I did some searches for the best and while all had their pros, people seemed to love Summit One Vanderbilt. So off I went. I had booked the first session of the day, and when I got there the line was already packed. Quick tip, you need to book, so many people were just showing up and being told there were no spots left.
It is quite incredible inside, all glass with picturesque views of the New York skyline. That alone would make entry worth it, but they make it fun. There is a room with giant metallic balloons, and another room where they show a video screen and if you look carefully, the photo they took of you as you enter appears in the clouds.
This is a really great New York experience, but my tip, go to the earliest sessions. I was able to get good positions for photos because there weren’t as many people, I imagine during the day the best vantage spots are hard to get.
32: Jimmy Fallon Show taping
On my first trip in NYC, Charlene, Jacinta and I took a tour of the NBC Studio, which was great. During the tour they said that Jimmy Fallon is always fully booked, but if you line up early in the morning you get given a number and if enough people don’t show up, you get to be in the audience. Apparently some days everyone shows up and then on other days, there are lots of spare tickets.
So the next morning we got up early and got in line with just a few people in front of us, we heard the first people saying they got there at 5am. Eek. By the time 9am rolled around, the line was quite full. We gave our names and then off we went, being told to return at 3pm.
When we returned, we had to wait in line as assigned by number. We watched as audience arrived and ticked their name off. Then they started to admit the waiting list. By the time they got to us, we were 7, 8 and 9, and we got in. They stopped at 13. There was a group that would have been broken up, so they let the two people behind them in.
It was great watching the show, Eddie Redmayne was the guest on the day. Was great to see such a big production unfolding, and even though our seats were separated, we had a great time.
31: Twenty Sided Tavern
While looking for something interesting to watch last year while in New York, I saw ‘Twenty Sided Tavern’, a Dungeons & Dragons show. And while I haven’t played D&D for a long time, I thought it would be a fun show to watch. I went and had some light dinner and a cocktail from Beast and Butterflies and then went to the theatre.
It was such a fun show. I was sat next to a woman from Norway, who was a big D&D fan. The show was interactive and we got to vote on our phones, and had one of the characters assigned to us by colour. It was a great laugh and a really good and different night at the theatre.
30: Harbor 360 - duluth
This is a bit of a fun one, and not the usual tourist attraction but I do love a revolving restaurant - I just had my 50th in one. In the hotel where I stayed in Duluth, Minnesota, there was a revolving restaurant at the top. My first night I went and had a burger and cocktail there, food was good. They had great specials and the following night was Taco Tuesday, with VERY cheap tacos and margaritas. My friend Meagan and I went, and we got two margaritas and since the bar tender had made too much, he gave us an extra big glass - bargain. At there a third time on the Wednesday with a bunch of filmmakers from the Minnesota Web Fest.
Best place to eat? No. But they had good prices, really lovely views and I do love the retro novelty of spinning around while I eat (and at first getting lost when looking for the exit or bathroom).
29: DUMBO
Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a great place to visit with picturesque views and one of the most iconic places to take a picture in New York. I had read that it was best to take a ferry over and walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to get back to Manhattan, and what a great idea. The ferry over the East River was cheap, quick and had glorious views. Then you get off the ferry and walk down the beautiful cobblestone streets. There’s a lot to look at, but no matter the time of day, the street where you get a perfect view of the Manhattan Bridge is packed. Careful, it is a working street with cars driving down it.
The Timeout Market there is incredible. It sits on the waterfront and has two levels of food. The ground level is jam packed with any food you can think of. I went to the roof, where the food is incredible. I got a pulled pork burger (I’d seen this place on line beforehand) and got one of the nicest and booziest spiced rums I’d ever had. A really lovely morning and lunch spent in DUMBO.
28: sweeney todd
Originally I had tickets booked for the Britney Spears musical, ‘Once Upon a One More Time’, but it closed before I got there. Instead I decided to book and see ‘Sweeney Todd’. I had been a fan of the Tim Burton film and was really keen to see how they handled the throat slicing in a big stage production.
What an incredible show. The production design and set construction was incredible. The scenes where the Demon Barber of Fleet Street slit the throats of his clients was incredible, he pulled a lever and the bodies slid down a level into the furnace. What a spectacle.
The cast were incredible, I knew Josh Groban had an amazing voice, but he also a great actor. Annaleigh Ashford was a wonder as Mrs Lovett, absolutely hilarious in her role and it was great to see ‘Stranger Things’ actor, Gaten Matarazzo, as the orphan.
With a great seat, I totally enjoyed seeing this show.
27: Drag The Musical
I was excited to find out that ‘Drag the Musical’ was opening when I was in New York, and even more excited to pick up tickets for the first preview. I knew Alaska was in the show, and was one of the writers. Also chuffed to find out Joey McIntyre was also the in the cast. Plus, more Drag Race legends, Jujubee and Jan Sport, plus was pleasantly surprised to see Luxx Noir London in the cast too. What a great show, so funny and entertaining. The production numbers were bold and glorious and all performances were brilliant. Was such a fun night at the theatre.
I was happy that I was sat next to two of the show’s producers. We struck up a conversation before the show and they were lovely. They asked me if I enjoyed it as soon as curtain went down, and I didn’t have to lie when saying ‘I loved it’.
26: The Stonewall Inn
I’d always wanted to visit Stonewall, it is such an iconic place in gay history. I loved the whole Christopher Street area, and there were some wonderful monument for gay rights and the AIDS epidemic. Yes, it may seem like any old pub, but it’s more, it’s a historical landmark.
The first time I went in was in 2023. I had met some Canadian ladies outside, and we took photos for each other. Then I chatted to them at the bar, as well as a couple from Pennsylvania, who were mid transit as stopped by. It was great, everyone was just chatting and enjoying the space. I had a frozen margarita and the staff were nice and friendly. It was a good stop.
I went again last year, and again had a great time. Chatted to the bar staff and a couple of patrons. Always feel very comfortable there, and the drinks are great.
25: Hollywood Hills tour
I usually am a tour fan, I like to get out of my own and explore but on my only trip to LA, I took a Hollywood Hills Bus tour and had a great time. . I got on last, which meant that I was in the passenger seat up front, and I wouldn’t have wanted to have been anywhere else. I had the best view and had personal commentary from the driver.
It was a great trip. We went up Mulholland Drive, which the David Lynch fan in me loved and up to a lookout where we saw the Hollywood sign better. Then around Beverly Hills and loads of celebrity houses, including Katy Perry, Gwen Stefani and Leonardo DiCaprio. We passed the inspiration for ‘Hotel California’. We went down Rodeo Drive and back along Hollywood Boulevard. It was a great experience and I felt the most tourist I ever had.
24: Flaming Saddles Saloon
Last year on my first night in New York, before I headed to watch ‘Drag the Musical’, I went to Flaming Saddles Saloon. What a fun place it was. On a late Monday afternoon it wasn’t too busy, but still had great ambience. Had some tasty food, and they had a great drinks special. Met some tourists from Columbia, and had a great chat.
The fun part, the bar staff hop on the bar and dance, Coyote Ugly style. The gents were handsome, but were also lovely. A great afternoon, and I stayed longer than I was planning as I was having such a great time.
23: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
New World Stages really has become a favourite venue of mine to see shows. While most places are closed on Monday nights, it always has shows on. And I’m always in NYC earlier in the week. I saw this hilarious show in 2013 and loved it thoroughly.
I didn’t have a ticket this time, decided to try my luck at box office at 3pm for a RUSH ticket. Got one very cheap with an obstructed view. However, when I went to the show the usher said if no one sat at the back by the time started, all of us in that small area could move. Which we got to, and the set was perfect.
What a funny show, so many laugh out loud moments. It never takes itself too seriously and was beautiful to watch. The cast is incredible with so many pulling double duties, plus lots of people playing the opposite gender to hilarious effect. And as for Dracula, I mean just look him.
Stunning looking man, but amazing talent as well. I thoroughly enjoyed this show - one of my favourites I’ve seen in the US. And what a great venue.
22: Big Gay Ice cream
One of my favourite things to do before visiting somewhere is to just take a look through Google Maps and see what is around. I did this in 2019 before my second NYC visit. That’s when I saw the name, Big Gay Ice cream and I knew I had to visit. I’m big, I’m gay, I like ice cream. Seems perfect. In fact, it was the first thing I did after I settled into my hotel. Took a walk there and for a mid Monday afternoon, there was a line. It was a very hot ‘fall’ day, that trip was the warmest I’ve been in New York.
The long queue gave me time to choose my ice cream flavour and was pretty happy with my ice cream. Very tasty and what a great place. Definitely recommended!
21: Amtrak
My first ever visited US city was Baltimore in 2018. After an amazing few days there, I was headed to New York, where my best friend would meet me at Penn St Station. I thought taking the Amtrak would be fun, and a lot cheaper than the plane. At just under 3 hours, it actually made sense instead of traveling to airports.
It was a really lovely journey. The train station at Baltimore was nice, got a coffee and donut and got on my train. As I was on early enough, I got choice of seats. It was comfortable and so much more leg room than a plane. I listened to music and did some work on my laptop, with constant stares out the window as we travelled through Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and finally New York (though Jersey to NYC is just tunnel).
An older couple got on after a few stops, she sat next to me, he was across from us. She was looking at me taking photos of a few train stations and asked why I was doing that. I explained it was my first time in the US and these were places I’d heard of and wanted a photo. As soon as she knew I was an Aussie everything changed. Her and her husband loved Australia, and have visited a few times for business. We ended up having a great chat. And then when we got to Penn St Station, I asked which way to a certain exit to meet my friend. They didn’t just give me directions, they walked me to the exit to make sure I found it. Lovely people and a lovely ride.
Caught the train many times from New Jersey to New York, and always enjoy the trip.
20: Minnesota Web fest
In 2023 I travelled to Duluth, Minnesota to attend the amazing Minnesota Web Fest. It was a festival I’d been wanting to go to, I was a fan of the team running it, George and Meagan. It was a smaller festival than some I had been to, but everyone who went was so friendly and was having a great time.
There were some great workshops and the screenings were wonderful. The highlight was our nightly mixer, where we got together at a local brewery and had some great drinks and lots of chats. Was lovely getting to know all these awesome people.
And a plus, Duluth is such a great place, so very picturesque. On the final day, we took a cruise around the harbour and I had the best time.
The actual gala awards themselves was an amazing night. I love to dress up and walk a red carpet. And the lovely thing, I won the alumni award, which was very special. Loved my little visit to Duluth.
19: Kit Kat Lounge Chicago
Chicago is known for its drag, so when I had one evening in Chicago, I knew I needed to go see some drag. It was a Sunday night and I caught the train to the Kit Kat Lounge. They had dinner and drinks specials, and I settled at the bar to have a great night.
I wish I could remember the name of the performer but she was wonderful. The staff were friendly and the food and drink were all fantastic. I may have had three different cocktails and each one was amazing. Met some locals and had a blast - I see why people love Chicago drag.
18: Maroon 5 at the MGM Grand
When I went to Las Vegas last year I knew I’d be seeing Drag Race Live but I also wanted to go to a Vegas residency. I had a look who was on and chose Maroon 5. It was a very warm Friday night in Vegas and I walked along the strip to the MGM Grand - that place is massive. I got a delicious (and big) frozen margarita and went into the arena. It was massive as well, couldn’t believe the size.
The gig was great. The band sounded awesome and Adam Levine is a charismatic and talented front man. They performed their many hits and had everyone up dancing. Was really glad that I went and can tick Vegas Residency off the bucket list.
17: Beast & butterflies
On the rooftop of the M Social Hotel, hidden from the street, is a great bar, Beast & Butterflies. It may be a secret to a lot, but it’s certainly a popular bar. It has such great views of Times Square, and very tasty cocktails. I have been twice, and had a blast both times.
First time I went was in 2023 with my friend, Caris, who introduced me to the place. We met there on a windy evening, grabbed some drinks and had a really great chat. We were joined by more friends, and it was lovely to have a laugh and a chat with such a beautiful of the Times Square surrounds at night.
I returned again last year by myself. I had some time before a show, so decided to stop by for something to eat and a drink. Ordered some fries and a cocktail and went out to the balcony. It was busy but got a good seat. It was a lovely view and sat back and really enjoyed my food and drink.
Definitely would recommend this place to any visitor to Times Square.
16: the imbible: a spirited history of drinking
The New World Stages is my favourite venue to visit in New York. There are some great shows that are always a little different from the norm. My first visit there was in 2019 was to see, ‘The Imbible: A Spirited History of Drinking’. It seemed ideal for me, a musical about drinking, where they actually serve drinks.
I had bought VIP seats at the bar, which meant the best view, and a bonus drink. I was sat next to a lovely couple from Florida, who were celebrating a wedding anniversary and we had a great chat before the show.
The show was a lot of fun and the performers were very talented. It all took place in, around and on the bar. And the making of the drinks was part of the show. The four drinks were beautiful (the fourth one for being a VIP was actually the best). I had such a great time with this show and left with a little buzz. We need more shows where drinks are part of the show!
15: discovering king tut’s tomb - Luxor
In high school I studied 3 Unit Ancient History and was a big fan of Ancient Egypt. So when I saw there was a King Tut exhibition at the Luxor Resort in Vegas, I knew I had to go. I caught the monorail up there and walked through the Excalibur Resort, which was quite fun.
The exhibition was great, you wonder through rooms looking at the cool displays. The Year 12 Wayne in me was ecstatic. It really was quite fascinating.
This was such a unique experience and a great way to spend my last day in the US in 2024.
14: Come to my window - melissa etheridge
Now this truly is one of my favourite memories from my US adventures, seeing Melissa Etheridge’s one woman off-Broadway show, ‘Come To My Window’.
To see it, I was going to have to travel from Montclair, New Jersey, on a Saturday. I thought, easy, catch the train, but no, that line doesn’t operate on the weekend. So I had to catch a long bus, and then a train to Penn St. It was pouring that day and I got drenched on the way. I was wondering if it was all worth this hassle.
I was starting to forget it all as I was in line and chatting to other fans, and by the time the show started I had forgotten the struggle to get there.
The show was amazing, Melissa is such a gifted storyteller, with her words and music - and we heard both on the night. Melissa talked about her life, intercut with her many songs. Her story was enigmatic, detailing her early years, her success, her relationships and the lose of her son - a part that saw me sobbing. This is one of the best theatre experiences I have ever seen.
I really was having the best time. I had made friends with the ladies next to me, they were teachers from Philadelphia. And then when the show finished, I got a tap on my shoulder, I thought, ‘Oh no, is someone gonna complain about me getting up and dancing at the end?’. I turned, and the woman said, ‘Hi, I’m Melissa’s wife and you looked like you were having such a good time. Here are some guitar picks’. She handed me some signed guitar picks and then she was gone. I gave some to the teachers and kept two for myself. What a night.
I hurried to Penn St Station, just made the train, the next one was 30 minutes later. Had to wait a while for the bus, but then learnt it was the last one - phew. Got off just as the New Jersey web fest people were leaving a pub. Perfect night!
13: Record runner
I’d always heard that Record Runner had a lot of Madonna vinyl, and in 2019 I went and checked for myself. Yes, yes they did have a lot of Madonna vinyl. I was in heaven. It’s a small store, but it filled with so much. It is quite pop orientated, but that is perfect for me. On my first trip I managed to get ‘Confessions on the Dance Floor’ on pink vinyl, something I’d been wanting for a while. I went back again last year, and managed to get some second hand singles, got a great German version of ‘Like a Prayer’ 7”single. It is worth chatting to the owner about what you want, because he went out the back and brought out some Madonna singles he had in storage. He’s great to chat to and the store is worth return visits.
12: NBC Tour
On my first trip to the US I was excited to do an NBC tour. I am a big fan of so many shows that have been produced in that building. So myself and my friends, Charlene and Jacinta, went on the tour. It was great seeing the history of the building and going through various studios, including SNL and the Seth Meyers set. We even got to record our own version of the Tonight Show where Jacinta was host and I was the guest. A lot of fun.
11: Baltimore Web Fest
Every time I have been to the US it is to go to a Web Fest. My first trip to the US was to go to the NYC Web Fest, but when I heard Baltimore were having theirs a few days before, I decided to go there as well. And so glad I did. I had the absolute best time at this festival and made some friends who have become some of my closest friends.
It was such a special festival because everyone really spent time getting to know everyone. We had a few days of screenings and workshops, then amazing after parties. This may have been where I started my reputation as a hard drinking Aussie. So many laughs with so many wonderful and inspiring people. A shout out to Elena, who ran a wonderful festival.
The final day saw us have screening in the afternoon and then the awards. It was quite emotional for me to receive my first international award in person, receiving one of the amazing glowies. Then we had an incredible night at the after party, where I really did have the time of my life and cemented my love of web fests!
For any filmmakers, this is such a great festival to attend.
10: Times Square
I know many people complain about Times Square, but there really is nothing like it. And yes, I agree that you should never get accommodation near there, but it’s such a great place to visit. Your first time really has a wow factor. Everyone has seen it in TV and films, but to experience it for yourself is awe inspiring. And every time I have been I have walked through Times Square, because to see a show, you usually have to walk that great strip.
I had only been during weekdays/nights, so when I walked through there on a Saturday night, it was jam packed and full of life. It was incredible.
Of course remember, never take anything from anyone and don’t take photos with the characters unless you are prepared to pay. A lot of scammers in the area, so try as much as possible to look like a local.
9: the Vessel
I know the Vessel is quite controversial, but as a tourist, I am a fan. I loved it since I saw it on Project Runway and a Lennon Stella music video. It’s a shame it was closed for some many years due to many tragedies. But it was great to visit and see just how beautiful it is. Also had a good walk through the shopping centre next door (though the new Dylan’s Candy Bar is not as good as the original building). Enjoyed my Vessel visit.
8: Statue of liberty
Every visitor to New York needs to go to the Statue of Liberty, one of the best tourist landmarks ever. Even catching the ferry across from Battery Park is a wonderful experience, seeing the Statue get bigger and bigger as you approach. As the ferry crosses the front of the statue, it is stunning.
Then the walk from the dock to the statue is a great experience. Getting the base is great enough, its a great view and there’s a wonderful museum. I was lucky enough to book early and get entry to the crown. It’s quiet the walk up some very narrow steps (I did a lot prep work on stairmasters before leaving Australia). Got to the top and was surprised it was smaller than I thought. But how wonderful to be able to reach up and touch the inside of her head and look out the window and see her raised her arm next to you. It was an incredible view.
This was an incredible place to visit and highly recommended for all tourist.
7: Hollywood Walk of Fame
While the Hollywood strip may not be the magical place many think it is, it’s still a great experience to walk down the strip and read all the names of the stars you love, and sometimes loathe. I spent a few days walking up and down, looking at the many different names. Plus, there’s Mann’s Chinese Theatre where you can see handprints of some great stars, like Marilyn Monroe. I was so excited to find both her star and her handprints. Another item it was good to tick off the bucket list.
6: apologia / meeting stockard channing
My bestie and I went to see a show while in New York, it was my first show in the US, and a great off-Broadway show. The play was ‘Apologia’ and starred Stockard Channing and Hugh Dancy. What an incredible play, an inspired production and set and a brilliant cast. Enjoyed the show thoroughly,
The best part came after the show. Charlene and I decided to head to stage door after the show. Everyone was waiting for Stockard to come out. It became apparent she was not in a hurry. the large crowd started to dissipate. We kept waiting until we were the last ones. We were starting to walk away when the door finally opened. We casually approached. She clearly did not want to chat, which was fine. So I just said, ‘We’re actors here from Australia and just wanted to say how incredible your performance was’. She looked me and up and down, then looked Charlene up and down and took off her glove and presented her hand to me. It was like meeting royalty.
We spoke for a small time before she went off, but it was a great moment. She was a true diva, in the best possible way. I’m glad we stuck around to briefly meet and chat to Stockard Channing!
