Chugga chugga choo choo! Did you know that there are a few places where you can go on a train ride in Maryland? The following one is a favorite and even offers caboose rentals! Take your train excursion up a notch by renting out this charming caboose, where you can enjoy a more private experience with family and friends. Read on for the details and have fun! Head to Cumberland to begin your journey at Western Maryland Scenic Railroad....
Missouri sure does lay claim to plenty of unique, repurposed restaurants. In fact, we Missourians can dine in a 171-year-old stable; we can toast our meal in a former, historic train car; and we can feel like royalty as we await our dinner in a former castle. And, we can sit down in a cozy, former historic train station for a made-from-scratch meal at this charming Missouri restaurant. Tucked in Fredericktown, The Depot Cafe once served as a bustling train station - the historic Missouri Pacific Railroad Station - where passengers waited as they traveled to and from town....
Alaska surprisingly has a lot of WWII history right here in the state! As a jumping off point to defend against a possible Japanese attack, the US military built bunkers and barracks all over the state. There’s one beautiful one to explore at the end of Caines Head. Fort McGilvray is an abandoned fort that can be reached by one very cool kayak tour! There is some fascinating World War II history all over Alaska....
The state is full of water parks. But there’s one type of water attraction that was missing – a natural lagoon. Luckily, American Resort and Treehouses realized our need for one and built it. Much more than a lagoon, though, it features a waterfall, grotto, and more. The new attraction is unlike any other in the state. Amazingly unique, a visit is sure to make your summer epic. Take a look:...
Tucked away in southern Ohio, you’ll find a special town that’s worth a drive from any corner of the state. The historic riverboat town of Marietta, Ohio is known as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory—and it’s unbelievably charming. The town borders West Virginia and is nestled along the banks of both the Muskingum and Ohio River. It’s known for its Victorian-style houses, rich history, European ambience, brick streets and sternwheelers....
After the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered the incarceration of nearly 120,000 people of Japanese heritage who lived on the west coast. Many of them came to Utah, where they lived at Topaz – an internment camp – for just over three years. The Topaz Museum is located near the site of that camp, and everyone should pay it a visit to learn more about this sad time in Utah’s, and our country’s history....
You can never get used to the beauty of Wyoming – but you can keep finding new ways to experience it! A Snake River float trip is one of the most incredible ways Wyomingites have been taking in views of Grand Teton National Park and a float trip is the perfect adventure to kick off your summer! Check out the tubing in Wyoming, offered by Barker-Ewing based out of Jackson. It’s a neat experience that offers up some of the most beautiful views of the Cowboy State along the Snake River....
The Palmetto State is a favorite retreat for vacationers from far and wide and our beaches are a huge part of the allure. So much so, that if you live in or near a beach community, you may think twice about heading to a crowded beach where you may or may not find a parking spot, let alone a quiet spot on the sand. Little do they (the visitors) know there are a few hidden beaches in South Carolina where we can escape the crowds and enjoy a day in the surf....
IF there’s one thing we know about Minnesotans, it’s that most are big fans of themed restaurants. The Land of 10,000 Lakes is home to train-themed restaurants, superhero pizza joints, and even quirky country club-themed spot with its own Ferris wheel. But themes don’t need to be elaborate to be interesting. There’s one pig-themed restaurant in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, that proves just that. The delightful theme pairs well with the incredible food, making for a truly wonderful experience....
Whether you’ve lived in Idaho your whole life or you just moved here, chances are you’ve heard of Craters of the Moon National Monument near Arco. You may have even visited it once or twice. It’s no secret that this special destination is one of the most unique landscapes in the entire Gem State. And that means it’s also home to one incredibly unique campground. Located on an actual lava field, camping here feels like camping on a different planet....
Once upon a time folks from down below us – oops, I mean down there in Illinois – decided they’d derisively make fun of Wisconsinites and call us Cheeseheads. Being the laid-back, easy-going folks we are, we didn’t really see it as an insult. We took it in stride and turned it around. Heck yeah, we’re Cheeseheads and proud of it! One smart cookie on Milwaukee’s south side decided he needed a chapeau to proclaim his birthright as a Cheesehead and an iconic Wisconsin item was born....
Can you think of anything more magical than a hot air balloon? Just the mere sight of a hot air balloon – floating high above us – can make us feel like a kid again. But, only one thing might be able to rival the magic of a hot air balloon – a hot air balloon glow. Admire the sheer beauty of 20 colorful hot air balloons aglow against the nighttime sky at this hot air balloon glow in Pennsylvania....
In the small state of Rhode Island, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been everywhere there is go. But if you haven’t paid a visit to Monastery Park in Cumberland, then you’ll want to add this unique spot to your bucket list. With an interesting history, gorgeous architecture, walking trails, and a bookstore, this picturesque park has something for everyone. Our Lady of the Valley Monastery was founded by twelve Nova Scotian monks in 1900....
Summertime is coming up, and it’s about time we all figure out our warm weather plan! Tennessee tends to get incredibly hot, humid and muggy during the summertime, even in the midst of heavy mid-season showers. If it gets too hot, don’t hide away in your air-conditioned home! Get outside, fall in love with Tennessee’s waterfront parks and truly experience all the warmer weather has to offer. Reelfoot Lake State Park - Tiptonville Kelly Stewart - Flickr Reelfoot Lake is the only natural lake in Tennessee, formed during a series of earthquakes in the early 19th century....
Austinites are used to seeing the occasional armadillo or roadrunner, but those aren’t the only animals roaming through the land. You might be surprised to learn what kind of strange critters have been reported in Central Texas. Some, in fact, can be dangerous if you get too close. Keep your eyes peeled. These five out-of-place creatures have been spotted around Austin and you’ll want to steer clear. Antelopes Sadie Hart/Flickr...
Everyone knows that South Dakota is as wholesome as it is historic, but sometimes it can get a little, dare we say, weird? If quirky is your thing and you enjoy roadside attractions, you are in luck, as these 7 in South Dakota are worthy of both a pilgrimage and a photo or two: Petrified Wood Forest (Lemmon) Flickr/Matt Lemmon When you think of forests, what comes to mind? Lots of trees?...
Searching for a fun way to appreciate the great outdoors while getting in your daily dose of exercise and exploring one of our state’s coolest cities? There’s one pathway here in Michigan that combines nature and downtown life in the prettiest way possible. Grab your bike or your walking buddy and head out for an unforgettable adventure along this unique trail in the Great Lakes State. The Alpena Bi-Path is a true gem situated in the waterfront city of Alpena....
Let’s go shopping today, Austin! But, we’re not going to go to the typical big box stores or strip mall, all of which offer the traditional shopping experience. We’ve been there, done that, right? Instead, set your GPS for a spectacular thrift store in Austin that features a generous selection of high quality items at surprisingly affordable prices. Even better? One hundred perfect of the net-proceeds from every purchase you make goes directly to help homeless animals at threat of euthanasia....
When it comes to unforgettably beautiful drives, there is no better place to be than Colorado! Whether you crave the sights of Rocky Mountain majesties, the colorful plains, dazzling cityscapes, or even rugged slopes, you are guaranteed to find a landscape to love here in the Centennial State! If you are interested in driving a road that is as historic as it is gorgeous, however, there is only one that stands out as being the best, which is this old Colorado road that just opened for the season:...
If you’re not able to hike long trails that take forever to finish, then this waterfall is perfect for you. Honestly, the hike to this spot is almost too short to be called a hike at all. Of course, you’re welcome to explore and make things a little more interesting, but what’s better than a waterfall? This amazing waterfall is your reward after only a little bit of hiking to get there....
