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One of the best things about New Orleans is that you have the best of both worlds. When you need an escape from city life, there are endless options for immersing yourself in a more natural setting. The next time you’re seeking an outdoor adventure, consider a road trip to one of these nature preserves near New Orleans. Barataria Preserve Kimberly Navarrete/All Trails The Barataria Preserve is part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, and it’s perfect for all ages....

When the weather is hot, hot, hot, the best way to spend the day is at a local pool, swimming hole, or one of the beaches in South Dakota. Here’s a list of the best swimming holes in South Dakota to help you stay cool! Angostura Reservoir, Hot Springs Angostura Recreation Area/Facebook The reservoir at Angostura Recreation Area boasts 36 miles of coastline, and several gorgeous, sandy beaches. The water is clear and clean, so jump right in and cool off!...

There are plenty of farms dotted all over Maine. In the fall, they’re great for apples and in the summer you might want to stop by to get stop by for fresh berries and flowers. This same beautiful landscape also makes it the perfect place to create and cultivate a thriving farm. But, if we had to pick our favorite — it might be this one. While we love apple cider, there’s nothing better than an adorable fluffly animal and this farm has plenty....

From the top of Mount Washington to the shores of our 13-mile coastline, there are so many ways to appreciate nature here in New Hampshire. While winter is great, it’s summer that we love most. This is when being outside feels like a necessity and when we can truly explore everything this great state offers. While you’re doing your own exploration this season, be sure to look for some of the off-the-beaten-path things....

Minnesota is most known for Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth. But there are more than a few towns in the Land of 10,000 Lakes that have a claim to fame all their own. One of the most famous small towns in Minnesota is in the east-central part of the state. Not only is the town charming, but it’s also considered the homemade pie capital of Minnesota. If you stop in at the right time, you’ll be overwhelmed by all of the fun festivities – and delicious pie options....

Northern California is an antiquing paradise. It seems like no matter what town you’re in, big or small, there’s always an antique shop that is worth perusing. If you’re the type of person that considers getting lost in a large antique shop the perfect way to spend a day, you’ll want to plan a trip to the 2-story shop featured here. This shop is absolutely gigantic and it’s loaded with one-of-a-kind treasures from yesteryear....

Colorado has some pretty cool antique stores sprinkled throughout the state, but not many offer multiple floors filled to the brim with treasures. Where does one find such a magical place? There’s a three-story shop in Greeley that will blow you away with its massive collection of one-of-a-kind items and unique antiques. Check it out: Welcome to the Lincoln Park Emporium! Google/Bryan Bean This 18,000-square-foot wonderland of unique treasures was established in 2009 and is housed inside a former department store....

Kansas has a rich history that’s well involved with Native American tribes, and though we often hear about the battles, we don’t often hear about the culture of the various peoples involved. For Kansas, one of the best spots to learn about Native culture and customs is this special spot.. If you’ve ever wanted to learn about some of the Native American tribes throughout America, you’ll find lots at this Kansas museum....

Once could easily travel to and explore a different destination in Kentucky each and every day of the summer season and still not see all that the Bluegrass State has to offer. While such a summer would be epic (and busy!), it’s also nice to find a spot that offers tons of activities to enjoy in one location. Venture River Waterpark in Eddyville is one such place – and it truly has it all....

While there are plenty of beautiful places to stay in Buffalo, this luxurious hotel is anything but ordinary. Besides being the ultimate getaway, it’s home to Buffalo’s first and only year-round hot springs. After you check in, dine at their five-star restaurant, and peep your spacious room, you can head on over to the large indoor/outdoor hot springs to feel completely relaxed. This boutique Buffalo hotel is the epitome of luxurious, and you’ll feel totally pampered by the end of your stay....

Camping in Kentucky is an experience like no other. That being said, as nice as it is to get away from it all, it’s still pretty great to have some amenities nearby while we’re enjoying nature. Luckily, when you go camping at Kentucky Dam Village in Gilbertsville, you’ll have the best of both worlds. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park has the largest marina in the park system, making it a perfect spot for boaters and other water sports enthusiasts....

A scrumptious Italian meal just goes hand-in-hand with a glass of wine, just like peanut butter and jelly naturally belong together. The longer the wine list, the better, too, right? Sit down to a simply delicious Italian meal at this charming Pennsylvania restaurant that also boasts an extensive wine list. Choose from a delightful menu of 150 wines. Treat yourself to an authentic Italian meal and your favorite wines at Panorama Restaurant and Wine Bar, tucked in Old City Philadelphia....

Guess what? Giant, soft pretzels aren’t just for ballgames and county fairs anymore! They’re meant to be enjoyed at any time of day and on any occasion – which is the perfect reason to head to the family-owned, local pretzel maker, Patriot Pretzel Co. in Kernersville. Patriot Pretzel Co. can be found in The Shoppes on S. Main in Kernersville. Just pop down the alley next to the Fed Ex store called, ‘Goin’ Postal’ and you’ll easily find this unique pretzel shop....

When you visit a zoo, all the animals are typically housed in enclosures that visitors can’t enter under any circumstances. However, OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale is breaking down that barrier with its Penguin Encounter, a unique activity that brings you face-to-face with everyone’s favorite arctic critters. OdySea is the Southwest’s single largest aquarium, spanning over 200,000 square feet and holding more than 2 million gallons of water. Facebook/OdySea Aquarium Over 30,000 animals across 500 different species call this incredible space home....

One of the best things about a good hiking trail is the variety of foliage you can experience, along with the brilliant color that comes along with it. In the wintertime, many trails lose this appeal, although they are still relaxing places to get some fresh air. But if you’re looking for a hiking spot in Kentucky that has beautiful green hues all year long, check out the Hemlock Garden Trail and other nearby paths around Pine Mountain State Resort Park....

Sometimes all we need for the perfect day is sunshine, cool water, and a slight breeze. We can pretty much find perfection in all corners of Missouri. And, this crystal clear lake in Missouri promises an idyllic backdrop for a memorable day outdoors – from the golden rays of the sun shimmering off of the water to the sun sinking behind the lake. Pack everything you’ll need - swimsuits, beach towels, bottled water, and a picnic - for your trip to Stockton State Park, a sprawling 2,176-acre park....

Few Illinoisans know that there is a majestic bridge hike hiding in Cisco, Illinois that leads to not one, but two bridges you’ve got to see. These lovely foot bridges will send you on an unforgettable adventure you wouldn’t expect to find in the Land of Lincoln. If you’re itching to get back outside this spring, let this trail be your guide back to nature. Check it out: The Sun Trail is accessible year-round and provides the perfect reason to get outdoors this spring....

When it comes to lava flows, it turns out that one that’s only 1,300 years old is just a babe in the woods. The Big Obsidian Flow, located in the Deschutes National Forest might be a youngster as lava flows go, but it’s also absolutely breathtaking, and you’re going to want to take this short, easy hike to see it up close. The Deschutes National Forest is a true beauty with its crystal-clear lakes and lush, thick expanses of trees....

Now that the weather is warming up, snow is melting, and ground is starting to dry, it’s a great opportunity to go explore the North Dakota outdoors. This particular state park has gorgeous trails that wind through forests and flower-filled meadows. Not only that, but you can also take the trails right to old homesteader farms from the pioneer days. This is an experience you’ll want to have. Check it out:...

Not every couple dreams of a giant, lavish affair for their wedding. In fact, for some, a quick elopement or ceremony in a tiny space with a few loved ones makes for a perfect day. Luckily, Wyoming has a chapel for that, and it’s delightful. Tiny Wedding Chapel is located at 1459 Holloway Ave. in Sheridan. Tiny Wedding Chapel Facebook The little building faces 11th St. between Bowman Ave. and Holloway Ave....