With an estimated 1.5 million Americans of Czech descent, it's no
surprise cultural traditions of the Czech Republic are thriving.
Across the United States, pockets of Czech influenced communities
celebrate time honored old world customs, while giving them a delightful
21st century twist. And for anyone who appreciates good food and an
enjoyable, leisurely getaway, there are several places where you'll hear
a hearty "vitame vas", which means "we welcome you".
Let's take a look at three travel destinations where you'll find not only an ample dose of Czech culture, but all sorts of other affordable and interesting attractions. But before we explore, you should know that it's very likely there's a Czech influenced community within a half days drive anywhere in the United States. Illinois, Texas, Nebraska, Arizona, and California are just a few of the states with a large Czech-American population.
Omaha: Blending Tradition And Progress
If you've ever had the chance to visit Omaha, Nebraska, chances are you've enjoyed a great steak or some equally sizzling live music in one of the city's up and coming venues. This cosmopolitan midwestern city respects its past, yet remains firmly focused on the future. Redevelopment and economic growth set the tone in Omaha, with signs of progress everywhere.
Just south of the central business district along south 13th Street, you'll find one of Omaha's oldest family run restaurants, The Bohemian Cafe. Owned by a Czech American family, this friendly, welcoming establishment has been pleasing diners since 1924. Try the svickova, a unique style of sauerbraten, or the goulash, with meat so tender you'll wonder how they do it.
Up and down 13th Street, you'll notice all sorts of independent shops and restaurants that will appeal to any cultural palate. Just a few short blocks north is one of Omaha's most well known dining and shopping districts, the Old Market. Spend a day here and immerse yourself in the friendly vibe of this wonderful city.
Cedar Rapids: Scenic River City Beckons Travelers
Situated about 35 miles north of Interstate 80 is the charming river city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Cedar Rapids has one of the largest Czech American populations in the country and actually has a complete district devoted to the culture. You can visit several bakeries and restaurants serving hearty, satisfying cuisine or walk amidst a variety of one of a kind shops.
Located in an area south of downtown Cedar Rapids along 16th Street, you'll find a charming store offering one of the Czech Republic's most valued exports, Bohemian crystal. This is the Czech Cottage, a treasure trove of fine glass and crystal. Just steps away is one of the best restaurants in town, Zindrick's, with traditional cuisine and rollicking live music.
Just minutes outside of Cedar Rapids are the renowned Amana Colonies, where Amish tradition abounds. It's an easy excursion from Interstate 80, and there are numerous places to stay overnight. Children to senior citizens and everyone in between will find something to delight them in both Cedar Rapids and the Amana Colonies.
Chicago: My Czech Kind Of Town
There's not much to write about Chicago that hasn't already been written, from beautiful Lake Michigan to the spectacular architecture and world class dining and shopping. But in the near western suburbs of Berwyn and Brookfield, you'll find another thriving community well worth exploring.
Just 20 minutes west of downtown, both Berwyn and Brookfield are home to some of the best eastern European restaurants in America. The two suburbs are practically adjacent, so it's easy to visit both in one day and still have time to make it back downtown for a theater production or live sporting event.
In Brookfield, a personal favorite restaurant is Moldau on Ogden Avenue, whose inexpensive prices delight the budget diner. Roast duck is a house specialty and the dumplings are worth the trip alone. Just east of Moldau in Berwyn is the Czech Plaza, serving the best of Bohemia for almost 50 years. Try the outstanding pork tenderloin and wash it down with one of the many frothy beers on tap.
Summary
For those seeking to explore their Czech roots, these three destinations offer great food, unique shopping, and warm hospitality. Get to know them and experience authentic Czech culture up close and personal.
Let's take a look at three travel destinations where you'll find not only an ample dose of Czech culture, but all sorts of other affordable and interesting attractions. But before we explore, you should know that it's very likely there's a Czech influenced community within a half days drive anywhere in the United States. Illinois, Texas, Nebraska, Arizona, and California are just a few of the states with a large Czech-American population.
Omaha: Blending Tradition And Progress
If you've ever had the chance to visit Omaha, Nebraska, chances are you've enjoyed a great steak or some equally sizzling live music in one of the city's up and coming venues. This cosmopolitan midwestern city respects its past, yet remains firmly focused on the future. Redevelopment and economic growth set the tone in Omaha, with signs of progress everywhere.
Just south of the central business district along south 13th Street, you'll find one of Omaha's oldest family run restaurants, The Bohemian Cafe. Owned by a Czech American family, this friendly, welcoming establishment has been pleasing diners since 1924. Try the svickova, a unique style of sauerbraten, or the goulash, with meat so tender you'll wonder how they do it.
Up and down 13th Street, you'll notice all sorts of independent shops and restaurants that will appeal to any cultural palate. Just a few short blocks north is one of Omaha's most well known dining and shopping districts, the Old Market. Spend a day here and immerse yourself in the friendly vibe of this wonderful city.
Cedar Rapids: Scenic River City Beckons Travelers
Situated about 35 miles north of Interstate 80 is the charming river city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Cedar Rapids has one of the largest Czech American populations in the country and actually has a complete district devoted to the culture. You can visit several bakeries and restaurants serving hearty, satisfying cuisine or walk amidst a variety of one of a kind shops.
Located in an area south of downtown Cedar Rapids along 16th Street, you'll find a charming store offering one of the Czech Republic's most valued exports, Bohemian crystal. This is the Czech Cottage, a treasure trove of fine glass and crystal. Just steps away is one of the best restaurants in town, Zindrick's, with traditional cuisine and rollicking live music.
Just minutes outside of Cedar Rapids are the renowned Amana Colonies, where Amish tradition abounds. It's an easy excursion from Interstate 80, and there are numerous places to stay overnight. Children to senior citizens and everyone in between will find something to delight them in both Cedar Rapids and the Amana Colonies.
Chicago: My Czech Kind Of Town
There's not much to write about Chicago that hasn't already been written, from beautiful Lake Michigan to the spectacular architecture and world class dining and shopping. But in the near western suburbs of Berwyn and Brookfield, you'll find another thriving community well worth exploring.
Just 20 minutes west of downtown, both Berwyn and Brookfield are home to some of the best eastern European restaurants in America. The two suburbs are practically adjacent, so it's easy to visit both in one day and still have time to make it back downtown for a theater production or live sporting event.
In Brookfield, a personal favorite restaurant is Moldau on Ogden Avenue, whose inexpensive prices delight the budget diner. Roast duck is a house specialty and the dumplings are worth the trip alone. Just east of Moldau in Berwyn is the Czech Plaza, serving the best of Bohemia for almost 50 years. Try the outstanding pork tenderloin and wash it down with one of the many frothy beers on tap.
Summary
For those seeking to explore their Czech roots, these three destinations offer great food, unique shopping, and warm hospitality. Get to know them and experience authentic Czech culture up close and personal.
If you're looking for other great Czech American travel destinations or just seeking to further explore Czech culture, be sure to visit us at http://www.czecheverything.com.
You'll find insider recommendations and access to our brand new, one of
a kind Czech Marketplace, dedicated to the storied traditions of the
Czech Republic.
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http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Hofman
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