We visited Metropolis, Illinois- the official hometown of Superman. The town of Metropolis was founded in 1839 and was home to a 1700s fort before that. But it wasn’t until many years later that residents noticed that the town happened to share the name with Superman’s hometown. In 1972, the…
-
-
Visiting the Bucky Dome Home Museum: A Geodesic Wonder
We took a tour of the Bucky Dome Home in Carbdonale. This is the only dome home that Buckminster Fuller and his wife ever lived in. The couple lived here in the 1960s when Fuller was a professor at SIU. Today, the dome home is owned by the RBF Dome…
-
Exploring the Wonders of Giant City State Park: Guide and Review
We visited Giant City State Park, one of the more popular and famous parks in southern Illinois. Giant City is full of things to do- there are so many activity options, lots of hiking to interesting areas, a visitor center, a lodge with restaurant, and even campgrounds and cabins for…
-
A Nature Lover’s Paradise: The Ultimate Ferne Clyffe State Park Campground Guide
Ferne Clyffe State Park is in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest area of Southern Illinois. This state park is great for hiking, while also putting you near other amazing parks and wilderness areas. It features RV, tent, and equestrian camping. Our guide will tell you all you need…
-
The Complete Ferne Clyffe State Park Trail Guide
Nestled in the heart of southern Illinois, Ferne Clyffe State Park is full of awaiting adventures. The 18 trails in the park will take you through peaceful woods, over tall bluffs, and to cascading waterfalls. Ferne Clyffe is split into two sections, each with its own unique trails. Trails range…
-
Popeye’s Playground: The Best Things to Do in Chester, Illinois
Welcome to Chester, Illinois- home of Popeye the Sailor. Join us as explore this historic town nestled along the Mississippi River. Our guide to Things to Do in Chester, Illinois will give you a blueprint for your journey. You’ll encounter not only iconic Popeye sights, but also the history and…
-
Fort Kaskaskia and More: Historic Sites and Campground Guide
We spent a few hours exploring Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site and its satellite historic sites- the Pierre Menard Home and Kaskaskia Bell. We’ll share all about how to visit these three sites, as well as a guide to the Fort Kaskaskia campground. Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site Historic Areas…
-
Exploring the Rich Heritage of Prairie du Rocher, IL
An hour from St. Louis, near the Mississippi River, is the small town of Prairie du Rocher (French for prairie on the rock). We visited as part of our trip out to see Fort de Chartres and found small town charm, prehistoric shelters, French colonial history, and one amazing hike.…
-
Immerse Yourself in French Colonial Life at Fort de Chartres
Let’s step back in time and explore Fort de Chartres, a French colonial fort in southern Illinois. This massive stone fort is now managed by the Illinois DNR as a state park. Featuring the oldest building in Illinois, the fort is an important part of the history of the French…
-
Small Town, Big History: Exploring Route 66, Atlanta, IL
Our first drive as full-timer RVers would have been at least 6 ½ hours (probably more with towing) so we decided to split the drive into two days. We found a Harvest Hosts spot at almost the exact halfway point in Atlanta, Illinois on historic Rte. 66. (Read more about…