Meet Kimberly Swett | Entrepreneur & Travel Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly Swett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born, raised, and educated in Nashville, so I’m what they call a unicorn. After completing my education at Fisk University with a degree in Political Science, I embarked on a career in campaign management and fundraising, traversing various locations across the country.

Throughout a 15-year career on the road, my passion for exploration and discovery never waned. With each campaign, I made it a point to immerse myself in the local culture and experience everything the area had to offer. Upon returning to Nashville and meeting my husband, who shared my love for travel, my adventures took on a new dimension. Together, we explored numerous countries across four continents,

In 2021, amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, I made a pivotal decision to transform my passion for travel into a thriving business venture. Drawing from my extensive experience in planning trips for family and friends, I recognized an innate talent for crafting detailed itineraries that ensured unforgettable travel experiences. It was at the suggestion of my best friend that the name for her platform was born: “The Itinerary Queen.”

My platform aims to transcend mere sightseeing and provide my audience with a deeper understanding of the world. In essence, my travel content platform is not just about showcasing destinations; it’s about inspiring others to step outside their comfort zones, break free from the constraints of their zip codes, and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and adventure, echoing my journey from a girl in Nashville to a global explorer.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art and professional journey are deeply intertwined with my diverse life experiences. Growing up in the inner city shaped my perspective and resilience. I have always been intellectually curious, not fearing the unknown, and often took the initiative to teach myself various topics. This curiosity and drive led me to a career in training and development.

Initially, I had plans to go to law school after majoring in political science in college. However, life had different plans for me. My career began in TN state government, where I volunteered on campaigns, eventually becoming a political consultant and traveling across the country for about 15 years. A significant part of my role involved training candidates, volunteers, and staffers.

When I decided to move back home to Nashville, I took a job in HR. After four promotions, I became a training manager—a role I truly enjoy. My career story doesn’t end there. In 2021, my husband, brother-in-law, and I started a food service business, where I serve as the chief people officer.

My path was certainly not easy and came with many trials and errors. However, my career in politics taught me a valuable lesson: in a high-stress, fast-moving campaign environment, mistakes are inevitable. Once you realize a mistake, you must correct it quickly and keep moving forward.

What sets me apart is my ability to adapt and learn from every experience, no matter how challenging. I want the world to know that my journey is a testament to resilience, continuous learning, and the power of embracing diverse experiences. My story and brand reflect a commitment to growth, both personally and professionally, and a dedication to making a meaningful impact through my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration
Morning:
Breakfast at Ellen’s – A great spot in the West End Historic District known for its Southern comfort food.
Dallas Museum of Art – Explore one of the largest art museums in America, with an extensive collection from around the world.
Afternoon:
Klyde Warren Park – Enjoy this urban park built over a freeway, with food trucks, outdoor games, and a beautiful green space.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science – A fun, interactive museum for all ages, featuring exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space.
Evening:
Dinner at Reunion Tower’s Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck – Dine at the revolving restaurant with stunning 360-degree views of Dallas.
Drinks at The Midnight Rambler – A chic underground cocktail lounge in The Joule Hotel.
Day 2: Arts District and Uptown
Morning:
Breakfast at Yolk – Start the day with hearty breakfast options in One Arts Plaza.
Nasher Sculpture Center – Wander through this tranquil museum and garden dedicated to modern sculpture.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Savor Gastropub – Enjoy lunch with a view of Klyde Warren Park.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden – A beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll with stunning displays of seasonal flowers and plants.
Evening:
Dinner at Uchi Dallas – A unique dining experience featuring contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Drinks at The Tipsy Alchemist – Known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in Uptown.
Day 3: History and Culture
Morning:
Breakfast at Bread Winners Café & Bakery – A cozy spot with a great brunch menu.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza – Learn about the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Pecan Lodge – Enjoy some of the best BBQ in Dallas at this Deep Ellum favorite.
Bishop Arts District – Explore this trendy neighborhood with its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and cafes.
Evening:
Dinner at Lucia – A small, intimate Italian restaurant known for its handmade pastas and rustic dishes.
Drinks at Bishop Cider Co. – Sample a variety of ciders at this local cidery in the Bishop Arts District.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation
Morning:
Breakfast at The Rustic – Enjoy a hearty Texas breakfast in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
White Rock Lake – Rent bikes or take a leisurely walk around this picturesque lake.
Afternoon:
Lunch at The Lot – A casual spot near White Rock Lake with great outdoor seating.
The Adolphus Hotel – Enjoy afternoon tea in this historic, luxurious hotel.
Evening:
Dinner Truck Yard – A funky, outdoor beer garden with food trucks and treehouse seating.
Drinks at Cidercade Dallas – An arcade bar featuring over 140 games and a variety of ciders.
Day 5: Shopping and Sports
Morning:
Breakfast at Mercat Bistro – Enjoy a French-inspired breakfast in the Harwood District.
NorthPark Center – Spend the morning shopping at one of the premier shopping malls in Dallas.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Eataly Dallas – Experience a taste of Italy with a variety of dining options and a marketplace.
AT&T Stadium Tour – Take a tour of the impressive home of the Dallas Cowboys in nearby Arlington.
Evening:
Dinner at Texan Station Sports Bar & Grill – A great spot for dinner and drinks with a sports bar vibe.
Drinks at Happiest Hour – Enjoy the largest patio bar in Dallas with great views of the city skyline.
Day 6: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Morning:
Breakfast at The Wild Detectives – A unique bookstore café in the Bishop Arts District.
Trinity Groves – Explore this vibrant area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Luck – Local Urban Craft Kitchen offering a great selection of craft beers and farm-to-table cuisine.
Dallas Heritage Village – Step back in time at this living history museum showcasing pioneer and Victorian life.
Evening:
Dinner at Tei-An – Experience high-end Japanese cuisine with a focus on soba noodles in the Arts District.
Drinks at The Balcony Club – A cozy jazz club in Lakewood with live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 7: Farewell Day
Morning:
Breakfast at Dream Cafe – A charming spot with a diverse breakfast menu in Uptown.
George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum – Explore the exhibits and learn about the life and presidency of George W. Bush.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Café Momentum – A nonprofit restaurant providing culinary training to at-risk youth.
Trinity River Audubon Center – Enjoy nature trails and bird watching in this beautiful nature preserve.
Evening:
Dinner at Al Biernat’s – A classic Dallas steakhouse perfect for a memorable farewell dinner.
Drinks at The Library Bar – End the trip with sophisticated cocktails in this elegant, old-world bar.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband who has encouraged me to pursue entrepreneurship after failure with that journey right before I met him.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theitineraryqueen

Other: https://tiktok.com/theitineraryqueen

Image Credits
KBL Photography
Photowalk Nashville
SB Photography