Darley Newman Shares Hidden Travel Gems on FOX Dallas
Travel expert and TV host Darley Newman appeared live on FOX Dallas’s KDFW to share her favorite hidden gems for travelers seeking unique adventures across the U.S. and abroad. The Emmy Award–nominated host of Travels with Darleyhas spent more than a decade exploring the world, and with the launch of Season 12 of her PBS and streaming series, she’s unveiling surprising spots that inspire road trips and far-flung journeys.
U.S. Hidden Gems
Darley highlighted unexpected destinations close to home that can turn a simple getaway into a memorable experience:
Illinois Great River Road Trip: A journey between Chicago and St. Louis offers surprising finds, from goat trekking in Galena and staying in a treehouse to touring a working Dutch windmill and visiting a French fort. Don’t miss legendary 17th Street BBQ in Murphysboro and the sweeping views at Inspiration Point in the Shawnee National Forest.
Spy-Themed Cabin Stay in Virginia: Just outside Washington, D.C., Prince William Forest Park is home to cabins once used by OSS operatives—future CIA agents—during World War II. Today, visitors can stay overnight and pair the history with local flavors, from Turkish baked goods to a pint at the spy-inspired Eavesdrop Brewery.
North Dakota’s Sunflower Trail: Travelers who love wide-open landscapes will be wowed by fields of golden blooms, quirky roadside attractions like the world’s largest Holstein cow, and Bismarck’s vibrant street art and coffee shops like Udderly Caffeinated.
Global Adventures
For travelers ready to pack their passports, Darley also shared standout international stays:
South Korea Temple Stay & Busan Beaches: Visitors can immerse themselves in Buddhist traditions by staying at temples, including the one featured on Chef’s Table with nun Jeong Kwan, who also offers cooking classes. From Michelin dining in Seoul to traditional rice wine–making in the mountains and relaxing on Busan’s beaches, South Korea offers both serenity and adventure.
Quebec’s Wellness Retreats & Musical History: In Old Quebec, travelers can find peace and value at a historic monastery hotel, offering yoga and healthy cuisine. In Montreal, music fans can splurge at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel by booking the John Lennon and Yoko Ono Suite, where the iconic couple staged their famous bed-in and penned Give Peace a Chance.
Where to Watch
Season 12 of Travels with Darley is now airing on PBS stations nationwide and streaming on platforms like Tubi. Fans can also tune in to the Travels with Darley podcast on iHeart, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, and more. For real-time inspiration, follow @darleynewman and @TravelswithDarley on social media.