Malai Bhog is a famous sweet dish of Lucknow that you can find near every popular attraction. Vendors stand out with covered cauldrons kept on ice that keeps the dish cold. It has sweetness comparable to that of an ice cream but with extra nuts and a silky smooth “malai” texture that leaves you craving more. It’s an authentic flavor of Lucknow that one must try on their visit to this city. 

The 1090 chauraha - more commonly known as Marine Drive, is the hidden alley in Gomti Nagar where you can savor the local street food. Vendors from all over the city gather here after 5 p.m. to sell lip-smacking spicy delicacies that can compete with Delhi’s street food any day. Try out the vada pav, pani batashe, basket chat, biryani, paneer 365, and other delicacies.

To reach Marine Drive, you’ll either have to drive here or take a cab. 

Gomti River Front is within 5 minutes of this hotel. You'll have a stunning night view of the park from the hotel skydeck, but I recommend coming down here late at night. I take strolls or sometimes sit by the water to relax and escape the city rush. And if you completely want to avoid the crowd, come down around 5 am. 

The best time to visit this park will be after 4 pm. Spend a few hours exploring until the lights come on. It's a magnificent site during the daytime, but it is equally, if not more, stunning at night. Also, all the street food vendors open late in the day. 

If you're staying anywhere near the airport or railway station, the best way to reach Hajratganj is the Metro. Get off at the "Hajratganj" underground station and walk up to the main market. Also, if you're shopping on a budget, the best place will be Love Lane, a small, hard-to-spot street next to The Hazlenut Factory. The whole market is known for high-end luxury shops, but Love Lane is the spot for college-goers. I exclusively shopped there when I needed a big wardrobe on a budget. 

There's this small cafe called "The Coffee Crest" within 5 minutes of this place. My friends and I frequented it for its ambiance and trendy vibes. The food is a bit on the pricey side, but the taste and atmosphere absolutely make up for it. You should definitely check it out - especially in the evenings when it's all lit up. 

While you're at the State Museum, take some time to visit the Tagore Library, just 10 minutes ahead on the same road. Most people will overlook this, but if you’re an art and culture enthusiast, make sure to have this on your itinerary. One of the oldest libraries in India, it is the main information bank of the University of Lucknow. Aside from the abundance of books, the library also houses age-old manuscripts, ancient coins from the Mughal era, century-old paintings, and other art pieces.

It is located within the University of Lucknow and can be reached via the metro. Board the train and stop at the “University” station. Exit from the left gates, and you’ll find yourself standing right in front of the gate no. 4 of the University’s entrance.