Explore 267 UCPlaces digital self-guided tours in English

Welcome to Buffalo, New York! I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this drive through one of America’s most surprising cities — a place where big history, bold architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods all come together along the waters of Lake Erie. Before we hit the road, let’s talk a little about Buffalo itself. The origins of the city’s name go back to the late 1700s, when settlers first arrived at the mouth of a small creek flowing into the Niagara River. That creek became known as Buffalo Creek, and the community that grew up around it took the same name. No one knows for certain how it got that name — some say French explorers called it Beau Fleuve, meaning “beautiful river,” which over time morphed into Buffalo. Others argue it was simply named after the American bison, or buffalo, though no buffalo ever actually roamed this area. Whatever the true story, the name stuck, and by the early 1800s, Buffalo was officially on the map. The village of Buffalo was incorporated in 1813, but it really came into its own after the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. That canal connected the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, turning Buffalo into a booming gateway for goods, people, and industry. In just a few decades, Buffalo went from a small frontier outpost to one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. By 1900, it was the eighth-largest city in the country — bigger than Washington, D.C. or San Francisco at the time. Buffalo also earned the nickname “The City of Light” in the early 1900s, thanks to its pioneering use of electricity from nearby Niagara Falls. It became the first U.S. city to be fully illuminated by hydropower — imagine the impression that made on visitors to the 1901 Pan-American Exposition, when the entire fairground glowed with electric lights. And through it all, Buffalo has lived up to another of its nicknames: “The City of Good Neighbors.” From its early immigrant communities to the proud Buffalonians who live here today, this city has always been defined by its warmth, resilience, and sense of community. Over the course of this tour, you’ll see landmarks that tell the story of Buffalo’s rise, its challenges, and its exciting revival. From theaters and art museums to parks, neighborhoods, and the mighty waterfront, Buffalo has more to share than most people realize. So buckle up, relax, and get ready to experience Buffalo — its history, its surprises, and its pride. We’ll start right where the city has come full circle: on its revitalized waterfront, at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park.

Welcome to Orlando, Florida—better known as The City Beautiful. Most visitors know Orlando for its theme parks, but there’s so much more to this city than roller coasters and castles. Today, on this driving tour, we’ll explore the Orlando that locals know and love: a vibrant blend of history, culture, sports, shopping, and yes, a little bit of quirkiness along the way. The city’s story stretches back to the mid-1800s, when it was little more than a military fort and a few scattered homes. There’s still debate over the name—some say Orlando was named for a soldier, Orlando Reeves, who died here during the Seminole Wars. Others insist it comes from Shakespeare’s character Orlando. Either way, the name stuck. For decades, Orlando grew slowly as a hub for cattle and citrus groves. In fact, by the late 1800s, this was one of the top citrus-producing regions in the country. Everything changed in the 1960s when Walt Disney quietly bought thousands of acres of Central Florida swampland. In 1971, Walt Disney World opened, and overnight Orlando transformed from a modest agricultural town into one of the most visited cities in the world. Today, more than 70 million people come here every year, making it one of the top tourist destinations on the planet. But what makes Orlando truly special is its variety. The city is home to over 100 lakes, including Lake Eola downtown, famous for its swans and lighted fountain. It has professional sports teams, a thriving arts scene, world-class shopping, and some of the most diverse communities in Florida. You’ll find neighborhoods full of history, dining districts with flavors from around the globe, and entertainment that goes far beyond theme parks. On this tour, we’ll start downtown, visiting cultural landmarks and historic sites, then roll past modern sports arenas and quirky attractions. From there, we’ll cruise down International Drive, Orlando’s entertainment corridor, before wrapping things up near the theme park resorts at Disney Springs. So buckle up, relax, and enjoy the ride. By the time we’re done, you’ll see Orlando in a whole new light—not just as the theme park capital of the world, but as a city with heart, history, and a unique personality all its own.

Welcome to New Orleans, the Crescent City—where history, culture, and music flow together like the mighty Mississippi itself. I’m your guide today, and we’re about to take a driving journey through one of the most unique cities in the world. As we make our way through town, you’ll see the French Quarter with its colorful balconies, hear echoes of jazz from Tremé, and roll past grand oak-lined avenues where streetcars still clatter along. We’ll discover elegant mansions in the Garden District, stroll in spirit through historic cemeteries, and enjoy the calm beauty of City Park and the lakefront. This city is more than Mardi Gras and beignets—though you’ll catch a glimpse of those too. New Orleans is about resilience, creativity, and a rhythm that never stops, no matter what life throws its way. Every neighborhood has a story, every street corner hums with tradition, and every stop on this tour will help you understand why locals say New Orleans isn’t just a place—it’s a way of life. So, buckle up, keep your eyes open, and get ready to experience the Big Easy from behind the wheel. Our journey begins in the heart of it all, the French Quarter.

Welcome to Atlanta, Georgia — a city of history, culture, and constant reinvention. Known as the “City in a Forest” for its canopy of trees, Atlanta blends Civil War history, the Civil Rights Movement, Olympic legacy, and a modern skyline into one dynamic story. The name Atlanta itself comes from the Western & Atlantic Railroad, with the city growing first as a rail hub and later as a crossroads for business, music, and culture. Today, it’s the capital of the New South — a place that honors its past while embracing the future. On this tour, we’ll guide you through some of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks: the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park, world-class attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, historic sites such as the Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center, cultural destinations like the Fox Theatre and the High Museum of Art, and green escapes from Piedmont Park to the Atlanta Botanical Garden. As you drive, you’ll hear stories that connect Atlanta’s history, architecture, and culture, and we’ll point out the best spots to stop, look around, and experience the city. So buckle up and get ready to explore Atlanta — a city that’s always moving forward, but never forgets where it came from.

Welcome to Minneapolis, the City of Lakes — and the start of your self-guided driving tour through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The name “Minneapolis” blends the Dakota Sioux word mní, meaning “water,” with the Greek word polis, meaning “city.” Together, it means City of Water — a fitting name for a place defined by its rivers, waterfalls, and more than 20 lakes. As you drive, you’ll discover how Minneapolis grew from a riverside milling town into a modern cultural hub. We’ll pass historic sites like the Foshay Tower and Stone Arch Bridge, cultural landmarks such as the Guthrie Theater and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and outdoor gems like Minnehaha Park and the Chain of Lakes. You’ll also see stadiums, neighborhoods, and riverfront views that showcase the character of this great river city. Take your time, follow along at your own pace, and enjoy exploring Minneapolis from behind the wheel.

Welcome to Sacramento, California’s capital city, and to your UCPlaces driving tour! Today, we’ll explore a city where Gold Rush history, political power, and cultural landmarks all come together. Sacramento was born in 1848 at the height of the Gold Rush and quickly grew into the western terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad. By 1854 it was chosen as the state capital, a role it still plays today, shaping decisions for nearly 40 million Californians. But Sacramento isn’t just about politics — it’s a city of stories, art, and everyday charm. Along the way, we’ll see Victorian mansions, historic parks, and world-class museums, as well as the riverfront where fortune-seekers once arrived by the thousands. This driving tour will take you from the Governor’s Mansion to the California State Capitol, through the lively Old Sacramento Waterfront, past landmarks like the Tower Bridge, Crocker Art Museum, and more, ending with a perfect photo opportunity at the Capitol itself. So buckle up and get ready — we’re about to experience Sacramento’s history, culture, and hidden gems, all from the comfort of your car.

Welcome to Portland, Oregon—the City of Roses! Today, we’ll guide you through a driving tour that blends the historic, the scenic, and the wonderfully weird sides of this city. As you follow along, you’ll pass elegant landmarks, lush parks, iconic bridges, and neighborhoods that each tell their own story. Along the way, you’ll hear about Portland’s past, meet some colorful characters, and discover why this city is loved for its creativity, charm, and just the right touch of quirk. From rose gardens and river views to hidden corners and record-setting oddities, this tour is your chance to see Portland the way locals know it—layered, lively, and always a little surprising. So when you’re ready, start your engine and let’s hit the road. Portland has plenty of stories waiting for you.

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a grand Tennessee road trip! This self-guided GPS audio driving tour is your golden ticket to exploring the heart and soul of the Volunteer State, stretching approximately 487 kilometers from the vibrant streets of Nashville to the legendary rhythm of Memphis. Designed for both first-timers eager to hit the highlights and returning tourists looking to delve deeper, this itinerary promises a captivating journey through music history, presidential legacies, natural wonders, and cultural icons. You'll kick off your adventure at the Country Music Hall of Fame, then loop through Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium and the majestic Parthenon. From there, the open road beckons westward, leading you through the serene landscapes of Montgomery Bell State Park and the legendary Loretta Lynn's Ranch. Discover the tranquility of the Buffalo River, pay homage at the Tina Turner Museum, and step back in time at Casey Jones Village. As you approach Memphis, you'll encounter the natural beauty of Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, before some essential stops in downtown Memphis, including Beale Street, Sun Studio and much more. And Finally, culminate your journey at the iconic Graceland. Get ready for an unforgettable exploration of Tennessee's most popular spots, must-see places, iconic landmarks, and plenty of Instagrammable selfie opportunities! Let's get going! Please follow your navigation to the Country Music Hall of Fame. I'll see ya there!

Welcome to Detroit! Welcome to Detroit, the Motor City! I’m excited to take you on a drive through one of America’s most storied cities — a place where innovation, music, sports, and culture have all made their mark. On this tour, we’ll explore the very heart of downtown, starting with the lively Campus Martius Park, the stunning Art Deco masterpiece of the Guardian Building, and the inspiring Spirit of Detroit statue. We’ll roll by the Philip A. Hart Plaza and the towering General Motors Renaissance Center, a modern landmark on the riverfront. Sports fans, get ready — you’ll see Comerica Park, home of the Tigers, and the legendary Fox Theatre, a crown jewel of live entertainment. We’ll also stop at the iconic Michigan Central Station, a powerful symbol of Detroit’s comeback story. Of course, no visit would be complete without paying tribute to Detroit’s musical soul. We’ll visit Hitsville U.S.A., the birthplace of Motown, before moving on to the majestic Fisher Building, the historic Detroit Public Library, and the world-class Detroit Institute of Arts. We’ll also celebrate the city’s cultural legacy at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. To round things out, we’ll explore the flavors and energy of Eastern Market, and finally, relax with some natural beauty at Belle Isle Park, Detroit’s island gem in the river. So buckle up — this tour will give you a taste of Detroit’s past, present, and future. By the time we’re done, you’ll see why this city is not just about cars — it’s about resilience, creativity, and spirit.

Welcome to Phoenix, Arizona! Get ready for a journey through the vibrant heart of the Valley of the Sun. This tour will take you through a blend of Native American heritage, modern culture, stunning architecture, and the desert beauty that makes Phoenix so unique. We’ll start with the Heard Museum, internationally renowned for its dedication to Native American art and history. From there, we’ll dive into Phoenix’s cultural pulse at the Phoenix Art Museum and cruise through the Arts District. As we move downtown, you’ll see architectural gems like the Orpheum Theatre and City Hall, before pausing to honor history at the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza and the Arizona State Capitol Museum. Sports fans will love seeing the homes of the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks at the Footprint Center and Chase Field. We’ll also pass the serene St. Mary’s Basilica, explore the charming Heritage Square, and step back in time at the Pueblo Grande Museum. Finally, we’ll cap off the tour with one of Phoenix’s most iconic natural landmarks — Papago Park’s Hole-in-the-Rock, where the city meets the desert in breathtaking fashion. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s explore Phoenix together — a city where history, culture, and desert landscapes create an unforgettable ride.