Planning a visit and looking for the best things to do in Paducah, Kentucky? This creative river city is one of only a handful of UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States, and you feel that artistic, innovative energy everywhere you go. Paducah is full of unique museums, local shops,…
As one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West, Red Butte spans 100 acres of themed gardens, desert plants, mountain views, and miles of walking paths. It was also the first garden we’ve visited outside our usual Midwest/Southeast bubble, so it felt extra fun to explore a totally…
Nestled in western South Dakota, Angostura Recreation Area is a water-lover’s paradise with breathtaking, scenic views. The name “Angostura,” Spanish for “narrows,” hints at the unique geography of this large reservoir, which stretches over 36 miles of shoreline and offers some of the finest sandy beaches in the state. Built…
Belle Isle feels like one of those places everyone in Detroit knows about, but visitors don’t always realize just how much is packed onto this little island in the middle of the river. We spent an afternoon exploring during a weeklong stay at Sterling State Park (Josh had a conference…
If you’re heading to Park City, Utah, one stop that truly stands out is the Utah Olympic Park, a living legacy of the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics. Whether you’re a sports fan, an adventure seeker, or just curious about Olympic history, this 400-acre venue offers a unique mix of…
If you’re looking for something festive that doesn’t require bundling up and walking through the cold, the Santa’s Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru might be your kind of holiday event. Set at the beloved Santa’s Village Amusement Park in East Dundee, this experience combines synchronized lights, music, and plenty of over-the-top…
If you’re searching for Chicago Christmas lights or holiday activities in Illinois that feel peaceful, outdoorsy, and a little more magical than commercial, Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is one of the best seasonal events to consider. This walk-through holiday light experience winds through a forest of colorfully…
If you’re looking at holiday light events around Chicago this season, you’ve probably seen Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo pop up. It’s the zoo’s annual winter lights festival, where the walkways and plazas are covered in glowing displays, themed light tunnels, and seasonal decorations. It’s one of the longest-running holiday…
One of my favorite things about traveling through Tennessee is discovering all the homegrown food brands that are actually worth bringing home. From century-old classics to newer artisan makers, Tennessee has some seriously fun (and delicious) gifts. If you’re putting together a holiday gift box, looking for something unique for…
If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay near the New River Gorge, Bear Mountain Cabins & Campground is a great option. Located just one mile from the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Visitor Center and only 3–4 minutes from downtown Fayetteville, it’s perfectly situated for exploring…