Welcome to El Paso, Texas — the Sun City, where desert mountains meet the Rio Grande and two nations live side by side. I’m your UCPlaces tour guide, and we’re about to explore a city unlike anywhere else in America. Here, the border with Mexico isn’t just geography — it’s part of daily life. Just across the river lies Ciudad Juárez, and together these two cities form one of the largest binational communities in the world. The name El Paso means “The Pass” in Spanish — short for El Paso del Norte, “The Pass of the North.” Early Spanish explorers used this spot as a natural corridor through the mountains along the Rio Grande. It became a gateway for trade, migration, and culture — a role it still plays today. El Paso’s story stretches back hundreds of years — from Indigenous tribes and Spanish missions to frontier settlers, soldiers, and modern families who built a city that’s now a vibrant crossroads of cultures. Along this drive, you’ll see landmarks that tell that story: historic plazas and cathedrals, grand theaters, art museums, scenic overlooks, and mountain roads that reveal El Paso’s beauty from every angle. So settle in and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re here for the views, the history, or just a taste of that famous desert sunshine, you’re about to experience a city that truly bridges worlds — El Paso, Texas, The Pass of the North, where America and Mexico meet.
Welcome to Spokane, Washington — a city where nature and culture meet in the most dramatic way possible. I’m your UCPlaces tour guide, and we’re about to explore one of the most beautiful urban landscapes in the Pacific Northwest — a place where waterfalls roar through downtown, historic architecture lines the streets, and green parks seem to pop up around every corner. Spokane sits along the Spokane River, a force of nature that has shaped this city for thousands of years. The river powered its early industries, inspired its name — which comes from the Spokane Tribe’s word meaning Children of the Sun — and still provides the backdrop for everyday life here. On this drive, we’ll follow that river’s path through the heart of the city and into its scenic bluffs. You’ll see Spokane Falls thundering beneath bridges, the elegant Davenport Hotel — the city’s Grand Dame — the peaceful gardens of Manito Park, and the breathtaking overlook along High Drive Bluff, where the valley stretches endlessly below. Along the way, you’ll discover how this former frontier town grew into a vibrant, creative community — one that honors its past while embracing everything new and outdoorsy. So settle in and enjoy the ride — keep your eyes on the road, but make sure someone else in the car has their camera ready. Spokane’s full of sights worth remembering.
Welcome to Tulsa, Oklahoma — a city that blends history, music, and modern energy in a way few places can. Tulsa sits in the heart of what was once Indian Territory, a crossroads of Native American nations moved here in the 1800s. The city’s name actually comes from the Creek word “Tallasi,” meaning “old town,” a fitting nod to the people who first made their home on these rolling green hills along the Arkansas River. Tulsa began as a quiet trading post, but everything changed in 1901 when oil was discovered nearby. Almost overnight, this small frontier town became the Oil Capital of the World. Wealth poured in, skyscrapers rose, and Art Deco architecture transformed the skyline. Much of that golden-age design still shines today, giving Tulsa one of the most beautiful downtowns in America. But Tulsa’s story isn’t just about oil — it’s about resilience and reinvention. In 1921, the city faced one of the darkest moments in American history with the Tulsa Race Massacre, which devastated the prosperous Black community of Greenwood, also known as Black Wall Street. Today, that same neighborhood stands as a place of remembrance and renewal, anchored by the Greenwood Rising History Center. Tulsa is also a city of legends. It’s the home of musicians like Woody Guthrie, whose folk songs gave voice to the working class, and Leon Russell, whose studio drew icons like Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton. The city’s musical legacy still echoes at places like Cain’s Ballroom, once the home of Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys, and a venue where countless stars have played since. As we make our way through Tulsa, you’ll see landmarks that tell every part of this city’s story — from the whimsical Center of the Universe, to the architectural grace of the Philbrook Museum of Art, to the freedom of the open road along Route 66. By the time we finish at The Outsiders House Museum, you’ll have experienced the rhythm, history, and heart that make Tulsa truly one of a kind. So settle in, start your engine, and get ready to explore Tulsa, Oklahoma — a city built on dreams, defined by resilience, and forever driven by creativity.
Hello there, and welcome to this Ace RV Rentals tour from Orlando to Miami, Florida. Over the next few hours, we’ll travel south along I-95, passing through beaches, rivers, forests, and towns that each tell a piece of the state’s story. We’ll leave behind the lakes and theme parks of Orlando and move toward the ocean — through the rocket launches of the Space Coast, the wildlife of the Treasure Coast, and the golden sands of the Gold Coast. Along the way, we’ll meet the people, history, and natural beauty that make Florida so unforgettable. By the time we reach Bayfront Park in downtown Miami, you’ll have seen Florida’s many sides — its wilderness, its wonder, and its sunshine spirit. So settle in, and let’s begin the drive to the Magic City. Are you read? Me too! Just follow your navigation.
Welcome to San José, the heart of Silicon Valley — and one of the oldest cities in California. I’m glad you’re joining us for this tour, where we’ll explore how a little farming pueblo grew into a diverse, innovative city of more than a million people. We’ll start here in Old San José, at the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House Historic Site, the city’s oldest surviving buildings, right across from the lively restaurants and cafés of San Pedro Square. From there, we’ll make our way through downtown, past landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, the San José Museum of Art, and Plaza de César Chávez. Along the way, you’ll also see the modern side of the city — places like San José State University, The Tech Interactive, and the SAP Center, home of the San José Sharks. We’ll mix in cultural highlights too, like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, the Municipal Rose Garden, and the quirky, world-famous Winchester Mystery House. Finally, we’ll wrap things up at History Park, where you can stroll through historic buildings, hop on a trolley, and see how San José’s story has been shaped by its people, its orchards, and now its role as the capital of Silicon Valley. As always, please drive slow and safe. For the best experience, enjoy the ride and follow the navigation instructions carefully so you don’t miss a turn — or a story. Alright, let’s get started and step back in time to where San José began.
Aloha, and welcome to Honolulu! I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this self-guided driving tour of Hawai‘i’s capital city and its spectacular surroundings. Over the next couple of hours, we’ll explore a place that blends royal history, military landmarks, cultural diversity, and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery you’ll find anywhere in the world. We’ll begin right here in Waikīkī, the legendary beach where Hawaiian royalty once surfed and where Duke Kahanamoku introduced the sport to the world. From there, we’ll circle Diamond Head Crater, drive out along O‘ahu’s scenic southeastern shoreline, and stop at lookouts like Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and Makapu‘u Point. These places show off the volcanic origins of the islands and offer views that stretch all the way to the horizon. The route will also take us through sites tied to Hawai‘i’s monarchy and government. You’ll see ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, along with Kawaiaha‘o Church, King Kamehameha the First’s statue, and the Hawai‘i State Capitol. Each of these tells part of the story of how Hawai‘i transformed from an independent kingdom to an American state. Along the way we’ll share stories about Honolulu’s diverse neighborhoods — from historic Chinatown, shaped by waves of immigrants, to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, which today is a center for Hawaiian culture and world-class research. Our drive forms a loop, beginning here in Waikīkī and ending at Ala Moana Beach Park. That’s where we’ll wrap up with a recommendation to stretch your legs and walk out to Magic Island Lagoon, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. As you follow this tour, remember to drive slow and safe. For the best experience, take your time, enjoy the ride, and follow the driving instructions carefully so you don’t miss a turn or a story. So sit back, relax, and let’s get started exploring Honolulu — a city where history, culture, and stunning landscapes all come together.
Welcome to Kansas City! You’ve landed in a city that loves three things above all else — barbecue, jazz, and fountains. And trust me, you’ll see and hear plenty of all three on this tour. Kansas City is full of surprises. It’s a place where Count Basie and Charlie Parker made music history, where wide boulevards and shady parks earned it the nickname ‘Paris of the Plains,’ and where fountains pop up so often you might think the whole city is trying to stay hydrated. In fact, KC has more fountains than almost anywhere else in the world — second only to Rome. So if you find yourself counting, good luck keeping up! Along the way, we’ll drive past world-class museums like the Nelson-Atkins, lively districts like 18th & Vine and the Power & Light, and even some hidden gems you might never notice if someone didn’t point them out. From Civil War battlefields to jazz clubs, from historic boulevards to modern arenas, Kansas City has layers of stories just waiting to be told. We’ll keep it light, a little playful, and just the right length at each stop so you can enjoy the view without feeling like you’re back in history class. Think of me as your road trip buddy — the one who knows the local trivia, points out the cool landmarks, and maybe cracks a bad joke or two along the way. So buckle up, settle in, and get ready to discover Kansas City in a whole new way. By the time we’re done, you’ll see why this city has been called everything from the ‘Paris of the Plains’ to the ‘City of Fountains.’ And hey — if at some point you feel like saying, ‘Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore’ … don’t worry, around here we’ve heard that one before.
Welcome to Anchorage, Alaska, the largest city in the state and the gateway to the Last Frontier. This tour will take you through the places that define Anchorage — from its rugged beginnings as a railroad town to the cultural and scenic landmarks that shape the city today. Anchorage is a city of contrasts, set between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Here, skyscrapers share the skyline with snowcapped peaks, and salmon streams run right through the heart of downtown. It’s a place where you can spot a moose on the street in the morning and take in a Broadway show that evening. Our adventure begins at Ship Creek, the birthplace of Anchorage. This was the site of the original railroad construction camp in 1915, and today it’s famous for salmon fishing right in the middle of the city. From there, we’ll head to Historic 4th Avenue, Anchorage’s original Main Street, where frontier saloons, theaters, and hotels once bustled with railroad workers, and where the devastating 1964 Good Friday Earthquake left its mark. From those early foundations, we’ll follow the story of Anchorage through its parks, museums, trails, and scenic overlooks — all the way up into the mountains for our grand finale at the Flattop Mountain Scenic Overlook. So buckle in — our journey through the Queen City of the North starts now at Ship Creek.
Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina, the Queen City. On this driving tour, you’ll explore the heart of Charlotte and learn how this crossroads town grew into one of the South’s fastest-growing cities. The name Queen City comes from Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife of King George III of England. But despite that royal connection, Charlotte has always had a rebellious streak. During the Revolutionary War, locals resisted the British so fiercely that General Cornwallis called Charlotte a “hornet’s nest of rebellion.” That spirit is still part of the city’s identity today. As we drive, you’ll hear us refer to this area inside the I-277 beltway as Uptown Charlotte. Most cities have a “downtown,” but Charlotte is different. In the city’s early days, the intersection of Trade and Tryon Streets sat on the highest point of land in the area. People said they were going “up to town” when they headed here, and that phrase never disappeared. By the 1980s, “Uptown” was officially adopted as the name. So here, you don’t go downtown — you go Uptown. Today, Charlotte is known as America’s second-largest banking center, home to Bank of America and Truist, and as the capital of NASCAR, with most of the sport’s teams based nearby. But you’ll also find world-class museums, historic neighborhoods, vibrant parks, and a skyline that reflects the city’s growth and ambition. Over the course of this tour, we’ll highlight Charlotte’s landmarks, share its history, and point out some fun surprises along the way. Our route starts right here with a tribute to Charlotte’s need for speed — the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Welcome to Tampa, Florida, a city where history, culture, and sunshine all meet on the shores of Tampa Bay. From its cigar-rolling heritage in Ybor City to its modern skyline and waterfront parks, Tampa has always been a city of reinvention—a place shaped by the people and communities who came here to build a new life. On this tour, we’ll take you through Tampa’s most iconic sights and neighborhoods. You’ll see the Moorish minarets of the Gilded Age Plant Museum, explore the Latin roots of Ybor City, and discover vibrant gathering spots like the Riverwalk, Armature Works, and Sparkman Wharf. We’ll pass cultural gems like the Tampa Theatre, modern landmarks like Benchmark International Arena, and scenic stretches like Davis Islands and Bayshore Boulevard, before ending with a grand finale at Ballast Point Park, overlooking the wide waters of Hillsborough Bay. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of cigar rollers and immigrant families who built “Cigar City,” of Gasparilla pirates who still “invade” every year, and of the city’s transformation into a hub for sports, culture, and waterfront living. So get ready for a journey that blends Tampa’s past and present. From historic neighborhoods to sparkling bayside views, this tour will show you why Tampa is one of Florida’s most distinctive cities. Our adventure begins right here, at the University of Tampa, where old-world architecture meets modern campus life.