Gerrish Lopez

No one throws a party like New Orleans. The city lives for music, food and culture—and it doesn’t miss a chance to celebrate any of it. There’s a festival for just about everything here, from jazz and zydeco to gumbo, beignets and crawfish. Whether it’s in honor of a neighborhood, an iconic dish or a musical tradition, New Orleans knows how to turn it into a full-on event. The best festivals bring it all together: great music, incredible food, local art and plenty of dancing. Mardi Gras is the best-known celebration—though Carnival (the period leading up to Mardi Gras) is a whole season rather than a single festival—but it’s far from the only game in town. No matter when you visit, odds are some sort of festival is on the calendar. Spring into early summer is “peak festival season” with French Quarter Festival and Jazz Fest as highlights, but fall is packed with plenty of smaller fests. If you want a true taste of New Orleans, these are the festivals that deliver it all in one place. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans has its own unique style, from its music and dining scenes to festival fashion and very local decor. The city’s shopping scene reflects this quirky style with shops that sell everything from vintage gems to contemporary art. The French Market and French Quarter are great for souvenirs, but if you explore a bit further when you’re shopping in New Orleans, you’ll find one-of-a-kind items you won’t get anywhere else. Browse eclectic bookshops, record stores, costume shops, art galleries and clothing shops that ooze New Orleans charm. Big-name brands are around—Canal Place has upscale fashion and the Riverwalk covers outlet basics—but the real appeal is in the local businesses in New Orleans’ unique neighborhoods. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to clothes designed right here in New Orleans. If you want to shop like a local, these are the best places to shop in New Orleans. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

Atlanta attracts a mix of leisure and business travelers throughout the year, so you know it’s always bustling with activity. From historic landmarks and lush green parks to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife scene, the best things to do in Atlanta will please everyone (kids, too). Atlanta has done well to preserve its history and culture, from its arts and industry to music and theater, not to mention the history of the Civil Rights movement. Once you’ve explored all that Atlanta has to offer, dive into the city’s culinary offerings, where you’ll find a slew of renowned bars and restaurants ranging from local favorites to ones with a coveted Michelin star. No matter what you choose to do, Atlanta guarantees a fun time.  June 2025: It’s an excititing time to be in Atlanta. You can catch a FIFA Club World Cup match, kick off summer with the appropriately-named Summerfest, spend an after-hours evening at the High Museum of Art, stroll an Alice in Wonderland-themed exhibit at Atlanta Botanical Garden and mark Juneteenth at Piedmont Park. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Festival season continues in New Orleans as we barrel into summer with rising heat and humidity. But summer temps can’t stop this city from celebrating. Some of the best things to do in New Orleans in June—like the Creole Tomato Festival—are outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to stay cool, from catching river breezes to enjoying a snoball to taking a dip in a hotel pool. While crawfish season might be winding down, the food scene stays hot. The iconic dining scene is enhanced in June by the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience and Restaurant Week. Otherwise, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans to feel the city’s vibe. New Orleans’ music calendar is packed, so you can dance the night away to whatever you’re into, from jazz, blues and brass to funk, soul or hip-hop. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from museums and historic homes to cemeteries and neighborhoods. The unique art and architecture of New Orleans is a feast for the eyes, and outdoor activities abound. Here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans to soak up the culture and flavors of the city. This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans

"So where are you eating?" This is a question that is regularly asked of both locals and visitors. Everyone has their lists of standards, favorites and new spots to try. The best restaurants in New Orleans keep people coming back again and again—even for generations. Dining out here goes beyond the food; it’s a deep expression of the city’s heritage, shaped by generations of Creole and Cajun cooking and infused with the traditions of all the cultures that make the city great. Iconic restaurants like Dooky Chase’s, Commander’s Palace, and Brennan’s aren’t just popular—they’re part of the city’s culinary foundation, turning out classic dishes and legendary chefs who helped put New Orleans on the map. At the same time, the food scene is evolving as new spots and new chefs bring fresh ideas, adding modern flavors to strong culinary roots. Here's where to eat in the best food city in the world. June 2025: Summer is just around the corner, and that means the heat and humidity that we all know and love. Snoball stands are open and buzzing, and many restaurants are adding more salads and chilled dishes to menus. It’s a great time to seek out spicy flavors that cool you down—Saffron and Queen Trini Lisa have plenty of options. And speaking of Saffron, keep an eye out for Kingsway, the new restaurant opening soon from the same team. RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in New Orleans🍩 The best beignets in New Orleans🍳 The best brunch in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏨 Th

There is a neighborhood and bar scene to satisfy every kind of night out in Atlanta, you just have to know where to look. Looking for an epic dive for a night out with friends? Bars in Edgewood and East Atlanta have the go-to spots. In the mood for an upscale vibe with high end cocktails to match? Midtown and Buckhead have you covered, including some of Atlanta’s best bars that we’ve listed below.  Of course, we can’t forget Atlanta’s institutions, bar mainstays that’ve now survived new development, recessions and economic booms, plus a whole pandemic. Iconic Atlanta bars like Northside and Eddie’s have seen Atlanta through many stages, and we thank them for their ongoing service.  That doesn’t mean that we don’t celebrate the newcomers—some of the best bars in Atlanta are bringing a new flavor to the city, making for a robust nightlife scene with as many options as there are flavors at your favorite wing spot.  May 2025: We’ve refined our list for this Atlanta bar guide while doing our best to cover it all, from dives to sports bars to upscale spots. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to imbibe this spring. 

Living alone can be liberating—freedom to decorate however you want, eat cereal for dinner (without judgment) and truly live life on your own terms. But without someone to share the cost of rent, groceries or utilities, the solo lifestyle can get pricey. As rent continues to rise across much of the country, single renters are feeling the pinch more than ever. Fortunately, some cities rise to the top when it comes to affordability. RentHop, an AI-powered apartment search platform, has released its annual Singles Index, breaking down the housing burden in major U.S. cities—that is, the percentage of a single renter’s income that goes toward renting a studio apartment. The report blends rent prices with median incomes to spotlight where solo dwellers can stretch their dollars without sacrificing quality of life. While you might expect a few Midwestern staples on the list, there are some surprises too—tech hubs like Seattle and Austin are proving to be more accessible than coastal heavyweights. And these cities aren’t just affordable—they’re packed with culture, cuisine and community, offering the ideal backdrop for an independent lifestyle. So if you're flying solo and want to make the most of your paycheck, these are the top 10 cheapest cities in the U.S. for singles to call home.

Las Vegas has plenty of places to grab a drink. It’s a city built on vice, after all. But what visitors are finding out is that Vegas is a much more sophisticated drinking city than one would think. Mixologists are digging deep into the ingredient bible and crafting amazing cocktails—some enhanced with theatrics such as smoke and fire. These techniques are not only great for Instagram but purposely add a depth of flavor to enhance the cocktail. Ready for an elevated drinking experience? Below, you'll find the best bars in Las Vegas right now, from dive bars and speakeasies to rooftop lounges and resort bars. Raise your glass to these spots! April 2025: So many bars in Las Vegas are upping the ante and getting more creative with their mixology programs. We’re no longer just a beer and wine and city, and it shows with a couple new openings on this list, including Petite Boheme and Doberman Drawing Room. RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in Las Vegas🍤 The best buffets in Vegas🥑 The best brunches in Las Vegas📍 The best things to do in Vegas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Vegas This guide was updated by Las Vegas-based writer Ryan Slattery. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

The po'boy is the number one sandwich in New Orleans, but it's more than just a sandwich. As with many iconic dishes in the city, it represents history, family and plenty of good times. Generations of locals are loyal to their favorite po’boy shops, many of which are small, family-run operations. Patrons rate their po'boys not just by what's between the bread, but by the bread itself: a po’boy loaf is a particular size and shape, and each shop sticks with its preferred producer, whether old-school bakers Leidenheimer or Gendusa, or the Vietnamese bakery Dong Phuong for a more recent twist. Classic po’boys are stuffed with everything from fried shrimp or oysters to hot sausage, roast beef or french fries, but you’ll find plenty of variation, including some modern and even vegan options. Ask for your po’boy "dressed," which means topped with lettuce, tomato, mayo and pickles. Whatever you’re in the mood for, here are some of the best po’boys in New Orleans. Last updated April 2025: Most po'boy shops offer seating inside, but now is the time to take your po'boy to go and enjoy a picnic and the perfect weather. But don't wander too far from the source, especially if you've ordered a roast beef po'boy with juicy debris.

Atlanta’s restaurant scene is finally receiving the recognition it deserves as a standout culinary city. With the introduction of the Michelin Guide in 2023 and the surge of food influencers drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant dishes, Atlanta’s food resume is impressively well-rounded. And with a thriving bar scene and nightlife that doesn’t quit, this city knows how to keep things exciting.  There are plenty of options to fuel your way through the city, whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast after a long night out, or a creative take on sushi to tell your friends about. And in a place where Southern food is king, there’s no shortage of opportunities to indulge in fried chicken dishes, shrimp and grits and more. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, the city offers plenty of chic spots where the food is as innovative as the ambiance. From farm-to-table eateries to menus crafted by James Beard Award-winning chefs, these are the best restaurants in Atlanta right now.  April 2025: For this Atlanta restaurant guide, we’ve done our best to cover it all, from hearty cheap eats to showstopping fine dining. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to get you outside, now that the weather is warming up (for real this time) and since the A’s culinary scene is constantly changing. 

The South’s largest city boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sites, renowned restaurants and bars, music venues, a vibrant nightlife scene and an eclectic range of entertainment options that draw throngs of visitors each year. For those with little ones in tow, Atlanta can be just as entertaining. There are plenty of family-friendly activities and things to do with kids in Atlanta, with opportunities for kids of all ages (and attention spans) that are both entertaining and educational. Museums and markets can keep both kids and adults busy, while the Beltline, leafy parks and other outdoor activities are perfect for burning off energy. Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca Cola will hold kids’ attention for hours. Kids can appreciate the South’s rich history and charm, and these things to do with kids in Atlanta will make your next visit a memorable one.

Who said there’s nothing for kids to do in Las Vegas? Even though the city no longer markets itself as a family-friendly destination, this list clearly shows there are plenty of places parents can take their younger children and teens. From roller coasters and water parks to kid-friendly shows and an aquarium, this entertainment hub is full of fun for the whole family. Read on to discover the best things to do in Las Vegas with kids. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Vegas⛰️ The best hidden gems in Vegas🏨 The best hotels in Vegas

Brennan’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves indulgence, history and a touch of Southern charm. It's also the birthplace of Bananas Foster, the famed dessert that's flambeed tableside. Breakfast service is legendary, featuring iconic dishes like eggs Hussarde and eggs Sardou. The pastel-pink facade and lush courtyard make for the perfect NOLA backdrop, and the chandeliers, white-tablecloth service and lengthy history make Brennan's a timeless New Orleans tradition where every meal feels like a celebration.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Five years after the first COVID-era stimulus checks hit American bank accounts, financial relief is still on the table—at least for residents of three states. While the federal government isn’t issuing new payments, state leaders in New York, California and Colorado have introduced new stimulus programs to offset the sting of inflation. Here's who's eligible for these new stimulus checks in these three states. Governor Kathy Hochul announced New York’s Inflation Refund. With state coffers unexpectedly flush due to increased sales tax revenue, New York is sending money back to middle-class residents. Single filers earning up to $150,000 may receive $300, while joint filers earning up to $300,000 could receive $500. Over 8 million New Yorkers are expected to get a check, with payments already in progress as of late April and continuing through May. In California, a new round of payments up to $725 per household is targeting those who didn’t qualify for previous Golden State Stimulus aid. To qualify, you must meet income limits, be a legal California resident, have filed a recent state tax return and not have received Golden State Stimulus checks before. It’s a move designed to fill the gaps left by earlier programs. Colorado might just be the most generous of all. Thanks to a $1.5 billion surplus under the state’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), single filers could see up to $800 and joint filers a whopping $1,600. But there are eligibility requirements: you must have filed

It’s hard to resist the creamy, crispy, chocolatey combo of the trendy Dubai chocolate bar. But the viral sensation comes with a pretty hefty price tag. Enter Trader Joe’s. The chain is getting in on one of the internet’s swankiest snack trends, and in true TJ’s style it’ll be much more affordable. Dubai chocolate is making its debut, and fans are already going wild. Trader Joe’s fans can get their hands on Patislove Dubai Style Pistachio Dark Chocolate for just $3.99, starting this week. The limited-edition bar riffs on the OG Dubai chocolate, known for its luxe blend of pistachio cream, chocolate and layers of Middle Eastern pastry. While TJ’s spin ditches the tahini and opts for dark chocolate over milk, the vibe is just as luxurious. The bar is loaded with silky pistachio cream and crispy kataifi—those golden, hair-thin phyllo dough “noodles” used in desserts like knafeh. The result is a rich, nutty, crunchy bite that’s just as fancy but without the fancy price tag. Rumors of the drop started on Reddit after an alleged Trader Joe’s employee leaked a screenshot of the incoming SKU. Now it’s official, and the buzz is building fast. The company said the chocolate bar is available for a limited time, but demand will dictate whether it earns a permanent spot on shelves. At under four dollars, this chocolate bar might be the most affordable luxury treat around, so grab two (or 10) while you can.

Are you one of those fliers who cuts it close, getting through security and making it to your gate just as boarding begins? If you’re flying United, you might have to curb your last-minute tendencies. That’s right, another airline is making big changes with a significant impact. Southwest dropped its free checked bag policy, Delta is getting rid of Basic Economy and now United is cracking down on check-in stragglers. Here’s what you need to know about the new United check-in time rule. Starting June 3, United Airlines is tightening the window for domestic check-in. According to the new rule, all passengers on domestic flights without checked bags must now check in at least 45 minutes before departure, up from the previous 30-minute cutoff. Check in too late and you’re stranded, no exceptions. The airline says this change is about improving efficiency and giving agents more time to help passengers who do check in on time—whether it’s with seating, luggage or boarding logistics. Check-in deadlines for domestic travelers with checked bags (45 minutes) and international flyers (60 minutes) remain the same. So if you’re flying United, build in extra time. Avid travelers (and procrastinators) may regularly test the limits of the check-in time requirements, but you’ll have to give up those precious 15 extra minutes or you’ll be watching the plane take off without you.

There’s nothing quite like city living, with easy access to entertainment, art, culture, amazing food and so much more. But the hustle and bustle can be draining. Even the most diehard city dwellers need some fresh air every once in a while. Fortunately, many of the best cities in the world are home to beautiful parks, beaches, nature preserves and even mountains. According to a Time Out survey of locals that identifies the best cities for green space in the world, five U.S. cities rank in the top 20. Here are the U.S. cities with the most green space for locals to enjoy nature. Medellín, Colombia, ranks as the number one best city in the world for green space, but coming in second is Boston. Not only is Boston revered as the most walkable city in the U.S., but it’s also home to a wealth of public parks that locals can enjoy year-round. There’s Boston Common—the country’s oldest public park—and the Public Garden, home to the city’s beloved Swan Boats. Locals can stroll the Emerald Necklace linear park or get out to enjoy nature preserves and trails. Austin ranks fifth in the world, with Zilker Park and the natural spring and swimming pool being highlights. Denver comes in at number eight, home to not only fabulous parks but also offering easy access to nearby mountains. Chicago and San Francisco—both with world-famous parks—also make the list. Best cities in the U.S. for green space Boston Austin Denver Chicago San Francisco

This summer, Amtrak and Crayola are rolling out a vibrant new partnership that blends the magic of train travel with Crayola’s colorful creativity—just in time for family getaways. The collaboration brings kid-friendly deals, imaginative experiences and colorfully wrapped trains that turn the journey itself into part of the adventure. Heading to Orlando? Now through August 31, families on Amtrak’s Auto Train between Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL, can score a major perk: kids ride free in both Coach and First Class. That’s right—your little explorers can travel for free while you kick back and enjoy the scenic ride. Just book at least three days in advance. But that’s not all: With any Amtrak child ticket, kids can get free admission to Crayola Experience locations in Orlando, as well as Easton, PA; Mall of America, MN and Plano, TX. These immersive, hands-on creativity centers are a wonderland of color and play, perfect for a post-train stop to keep the fun rolling. Just show the ticket at the door anytime from May 8 through September 30. Even if you're not riding the rails, you might catch a glimpse of two Amtrak locomotives that have been transformed into rolling canvases. Wrapped in bright crayon hues, these ACS-64 Sprinters are decked out in limited-edition Crayola colors—Violet Blue and Dandelion—with one featuring crayon mascot "Dan D." Spot them blazing through the Northeast Corridor from D.C. to Boston, spreading the message: Creativity on the Go! So grab the kids and c

Just in time for the busy summer travel season, the J.D. Power 2025 North America Airline Satisfaction Study is out. Based on feedback from over 10,000 passengers, the survey highlights which airlines are getting it right—and which ones are falling short. Southwest Airlines has earned the number one spot in the economy category for the fourth year running. Whether the airline can hang on to that accolade is yet to be seen, however, as the recent decision to drop their free checked bags perk—which was met with widespread disappointment—wasn’t reflected in this survey. JetBlue dominated in first/business class, while Delta’s Comfort+ topped the premium economy category with its extra legroom, complimentary drinks and premium snacks. Alaska Airlines also made a strong showing in the premium categories. The survey also reveals the airlines that could stand to improve their customer relations. Spirit, Frontier, WestJet, Air Canada and American Airlines rounded out the lowest-ranked carriers in the economy segment. Despite chaotic airports and more frequent delays, overall airline passenger satisfaction has increased. Economy class made significant gains thanks to better interactions with airline staff. Frontline service and customer perks go a long way toward keeping customers satisfied. “Throughout our one-year study period, we’ve seen a slight decline in both ticket prices and passenger volume, which has helped keep overall passenger satisfaction levels high,” Michael Taylor, J.

If you're flying Delta this fall—perhaps through its busy hub in Atlanta—you'll notice a change when booking your flight. Starting October 1 (yep, heads up if you're planning holiday travel), Delta Air Lines is scrapping its Basic Economy class—at least in name. The no-frills fare that's cheap but comes with restrictions isn't going away, but it’s getting a new name as part of a rebrand of Delta's fare classes. Here's what you need to know. Why is Delta Air Lines getting rid of Basic Economy? According to the airline, the rebrand offers more flexibility and customization, allowing passengers to choose the experience they want. "As we listen and learn about what our customers want when it comes to their travel, we know that clarity and choice are paramount," SVP and Chief Digital Officer Eric Phillips said in a press release. "Our reimagined shopping experience gives customers more options and flexibility to pick the travel experience that works best for them, and a full picture of all the benefits of flying with Delta." What is replacing Delta's Basic Economy? The airline is folding Basic Economy into a revamped Delta Main category (formerly Main Cabin), which now features three tiers: Basic, Classic and Extra. Delta Main Basic is essentially the same stripped-down experience: no seat selection until check-in and last boarding position in Zone 8. But Delta hopes the new name signals a broader, more flexible ticketing system. Delta Main Classic comes with perks like free seat

Shake Shack just dropped a brand new side, giving the chain's legendary crinkle-cut fries a run for their money. Say hello to Fried Pickles with Ranch—and yes, they’re as addictive as they sound. RECOMMENDED: The best fast food restaurants in America These aren't your run-of-the-mill pickle chips. Shake Shack is using its own proprietary-brined pickles, sliced thin, coated just right, seasoned like a pro and fried until crispy and golden. Every bite hits that perfect sweet spot between tangy and salty, with a crunch that can't be stopped. Dunk one in their house-made ranch (or Shack Sauce if you’re wild), and you're tasting snack heaven. Pickles have long played the humble co-star in Shack burgers, but now they’re taking the lead. This new side is built for dipping, with plenty of crunch to stand alone. The best part? These fried pickles are a steal. The new side rolls out nationwide starting May 20, and prices start at just $3.99. It’s the perfect accompaniment to Shake Shack’s newly-launched summer BBQ menu. Shake Shack might be known for their burgers and fries, but these fried pickles are making a serious bid for superstar status, so get them while they’re hot.

This summer, your Chipotle obsession might just pay off—literally. From June 1 through August 31, Chipotle is rolling out its most rewarding season ever with Summer of Extras, a three-month extravaganza promising more than $1 million in free burritos, bonus points and exclusive prizes for Chipotle Rewards members. The program is simple but stacked with perks. Once you've joined Chipotle Rewards and opted in at chipotle.com/summer-of-extras, you can start unlocking milestones every month. With each milestone—from your first entrée to your seventh—you’ll rack up bonus points, sweepstakes entries and custom badges. Each month resets, giving you a fresh shot at rewards. Even better, Chipotle will randomly drop free burritos into the accounts of 10,000 opted-in Rewards members. Plus, one lucky fan in each of the 48 states Chipotle operates in (plus D.C.) will score free burritos for a year (that's where the sweepstakes entries come into play). Here's the breakdown:Buy 1 entrée, get 50 bonus points + 5 sweepstakes entriesAdd 2 more, get 100 points + 10 entriesAdd 2 more, get 200 points + 15 entriesAdd 2 more, get 300 points + 30 entries Daily purchases are capped at two, but you’ll want to come back often to stay in the game—and rise up the leaderboard. That’s right, there’s also a Superfan Dashboard where you can track your Chipotle streak, compare stats with fellow fans and find out whether you're Team Guac or Queso Blanco. "We've seen our superfans on social media documenting th

Hitting the road for Memorial Day Weekend? AAA says it's going to be another record-breaking travel period. Memorial Day weekend runs from Thursday, May 22 to Monday, May 26, and is set to kick off the summer travel season with a bang. According to AAA, 45.1 million Americans are expected to travel domestically for the holiday—that's 1.4 million more than last year. Air travel is up for the weekend—AAA is seeing a 2% jump in passengers—but more than 87% of people traveling at least 50 miles for the big weekend will be opting for road trips. That, of course, means traffic, but AAA has the scoop on the busiest and best days to drive for Memorial Day weekend. Why is Memorial Day weekend a busy travel time? Memorial Day weekend is known as the unofficial start to summer, and most people have a day of work. The long weekend is an ideal time to squeeze in a quick getaway. "Memorial Day weekend getaways don’t have to be extravagant and costly," said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, in a press release. "While some travelers embark on dream vacations and fly hundreds of miles across the country, many families just pack up the car and drive to the beach or take a road trip to visit friends." What is the busiest travel day for Memorial Day weekend? INRIX, a transportation analytics firm, warns that peak congestion will hit between 1pm and 9pm on Thursday, May 22 and from noon to 8pm on Friday, May 23. Saturday will see the worst traffic from 2pm to 6pm If you're traveling th

If you're planning a cruise this summer, you'll have to worry about more than just auto-gratuity increases: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant uptick in gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships in 2025. So far, 16 outbreaks have been reported—10 of them caused by norovirus. That's the highly contagious bug that can turn your dream vacation into a queasy nightmare. In the most recent outbreak, more than 150 passengers and crew aboard Holland America Line’s Eurodam fell ill. And with the year not even halfway through, 2025 is already trending worse than 2024, which saw 18 outbreaks in total. Why are cruise ships such hotspots? Tight quarters, shared buffets and lots of contact with new people. Cruises are one big petri dish for norovirus. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), despite recent staffing cuts, is still tracking outbreaks and encouraging transparency from cruise lines. The CDC says you can still cruise, but offers tips for protecting yourself. Start with the basics: wash your hands. A lot. Before eating, after using the restroom and anytime you touch shared surfaces. Hand sanitizer is helpful, but soap and water are your best defense. If you're feeling sick, report it to the ship’s medical center right away. Early detection helps staff contain outbreaks before they spread. And don’t be shy about steering clear of passengers who seem under the weather—social distancing isn’t just for pandemics. Finally, disin

Squishmallows are back at McDonald’s—and they brought a new friend. Starting Wednesday, May 14, the fast food fave brought the pocket-sized cuties, now available with every Happy Meal for a limited time. Included in the lineup is a brand-new Squish that's out of this world. This latest collection of Squishmallows includes fan favorites like Stevon the Dog, Cooky the Flamingo and Charles the Pickle plus a new cosmic-themed salamander that's never been seen before. Say hello to Halley the Intergalactic Axolotl. Each Squishmallow comes with its own character tag, complete with a backstory and a code that unlocks an interactive game. It’s a win for collectors and kids alike—and if past releases are any clue, these squishy plushies will be snapped up fast. "You’ve waited patiently for two years," McDonald’s said in a press release, "and we want to let all collectors know, there’s a new squad on the block you won’t want to miss out on." View this post on Instagram A post shared by McDonald’s (@mcdonalds) The chain introduced the plush phenomenon to select global locations in June 2023 with 24 exclusive, seasonal designs. U.S. fans had to wait until December to get their hands on that collection, which included a special Grimace Squishmallow. This latest launch follows McDonald’s Minecraft Movie Happy Meal, which debuted April 1 as a tie-in to Warner Bros.' pixel-powered blockbuster. But with Squishmallows, McDonald’s is showing a softer, squishier side. These specia