Visiting a city for the first time

As a travel expert, visiting a city for the first time can be as exciting but also a little overwhelming. You need to consider what types of activities that will allow you to explore beyond the tourist traps, see famous landmarks and sites, and also give you a taste of local culture. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation in a new city, add these five activities to your itinerary to make the most of your trip:

#1: Hit the Hiking Trails

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some time in nature. Seek out some hiking and nature trails near the area and head out for a few hours of trekking and exploring. Hiking and nature walking can help you explore the area from a whole new perspective, and also give you a break from the busy city life -- at least for a few hours.

#2: Plan a Healthy Foodie Tour

Learning about a new city through a culinary tour can be a great way to meet new people and also try some new foods. Locate some of the healthy restaurants and eateries in the area and set out on your own foodie tour. Make a pit stop at vegan or vegetarian cafes for a smoothie and healthy baked goods, enjoy a healthy meal at a popular lunchtime destination, and find a vegan or vegetarian restaurant that serves a buffet or specialty meals for dinner.

#3: Take a Segway Tour

Many cities are home to a handful of Segway tour operators, and a Segway tour can be a fun alternative to exploring a city by bike or on foot. Segway tours usually begin with a brief training session where you learn how to operate the Segway and can have any questions about the tour answered. These tours may run a couple of hours, and will take you around major parks, city sights and attractions. Take a Segway tour around the city to see famous landmarks, attractions and venues.

#4: Attend a Community Festival

Pick up a local newspaper or go online to visit the city's main website to check for current events in the area. Plan to attend a community festival or celebration so that you can mingle with the locals and enjoy some local traditions. Whether it's a Fourth of July party or a neighborhood festival celebrating the change of the season, these types of events can be a great way to soak up some new experiences in a in a new city, and even make some new friends!

#5: Map Out a Self-Guided Walking Tour

Instead of paying a tour guide to take you around some of the popular sites in the city, take some time to map out a self-guided tour. This can be a fun way to see sites that you are most interested in, and will also give you a good workout. Put on your walking shoes and head off on your own adventure! Grab a camera and capture some postcard-worthy pictures to share with friends and family when you get home