I’m here, once again, to encourage you to go outside. It isn’t that I’m particularly invested in your getting Vitamin D, it’s that there are some places in the Natural State that you need to see with your own eyes. There are at least 11 seriously popular places in Arkansas nature that are surrounded by a lot of hype, and you’re going to believe the hype as soon as you feast your eyes on these wonders....
There are some stereotypes about Illinoisans that have been going around for far too long now. It’s hard to believe that some people actually think these things about us, and it’s time to set the record straight. Here are 12 things you’re probably getting wrong about Illinoisans. Check it out before you offend anyone. We all live on farms Wikimedia Commons/David Wilson Although most of Illinois is covered in fields, not all of us live on a farm....
The Hawaiian Islands are home to unsurpassed natural beauty, and while there are some wonders that can only be seen via strenuous hiking trails, or even helicopter tour, there are others that simply require a vehicle — as well as a camera and killer driving playlist. The views of the islands from your windshield while on any of these 13 roads will absolutely astound you. The views from inside your car, in fact, are so incredibly jaw-dropping that there is no need to make any stops, though we’re positive you’ll want to....
Minneapolis and Saint Paul are very diverse cities, and as time moves forward it becomes increasingly pertinent to celebrate multiculturalism within the Twin Cities. Throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul’s history, we have often provided refuge for our country’s immigrants and Minneapolis has remained a sanctuary city for those in need. Of course, we’re not perfect and there is room to grow in our policies, mindsets, and beliefs, but these seven festivals in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, celebrate diversity in the best way possible....
What does winter in Washington mean to you? For many of us, it’s well-known holiday events like the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival and skiing or snowboarding down one of our majestic mountains. But there are also plenty of things to do this time of year that somehow stay under the radar. Here’s how to expand your horizons before spring. Challenge yourself with a winter hike to Gothic Basin. Reid Webster / alltrails....
Philadelphia has a strong Quaker heritage and was central to the Abolitionist movement in this country. It’s no surprise that many influential Philadelphians worked tirelessly to assist runaway and fugitive slaves on their road to freedom. Today, there’s evidence of the struggle for basic human rights in many of the city’s neighborhoods. Take a few minutes to read about these historic places along the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia. Belmont Mansion, Fairmount Park Facebook / Belmont Mansion and Underground Railroad Museum Judge Richard Peters lived at the beautiful Belmont Mansion, and he frequently purchased slaves in order to free them....
Unless you live in western Nebraska or are a dedicated train enthusiast, you may not know about one of our state’s most fascinating attractions. Located in North Platte, this rail yard is the largest of its kind on the planet – but most people outside of Nebraska have no idea it exists. Bailey Yard covers more than 8 miles and 2,850 acres. It’s the world’s largest railroad classification yard. TripAdvisor/clemc...
An hour’s drive outside of the city will show you picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and hill country charm. Visit the idyllic town of Blanco, Texas and soak up all of the natural beauty surrounding you. There’s more to the Austin area than just high rises and condo buildings. This charming town near Austin is known for its spectacular views. Enjoy the journey! texas1emt/Flickr Blanco, Texas is about an hour west of Austin, and the stunning view will take your breath away....
There’s really nothing better than randomly coming across a hidden gem you never knew about before. Even if you’ve lived in Idaho all your life, it seems there is always something new to explore. The Japanese Pavilion in Idaho Falls is one of those parks you randomly stumble upon, but quickly becomes your new favorite place. The park is absolutely stunning. You’ll feel transported to a fairy tale world instantly upon entering....
Step straight into a magical world of hobbits, elves, and good versus evil when you visit Loyalsock State Forest. Or, at least feel as though Merry, Pippin, Frodo, or Legolas might be traveling through the state forest, carpeted with lush green and protected by towering trees. Are you ready for a trip to Pennsylvania’s very own Middle Earth (and, in some spots, the Shire)? Loyalsock State Forest spans more than 110,000 acres through three counties: Bradford, Lycoming, and Sullivan....
If you’re looking for authentic Italian food, look no further. We’ve found the perfect place to indulge in all the pasta, pizza, and bread sticks you can eat. This hidden gem might just be one of the best kept secrets in New Orleans–let’s take a closer look. You’ll find the Mona Lisa Restaurant tucked away on Royal Street in the French Quarter. googlemaps.com Off the beaten path, you can easily pass by this place if you’re not looking for it....
Most New Orleanians have a Lucky Dog story. If you’ve ever spent any time in the French Quarter, you’ve seen these iconic 7-foot carts on the streets, and you’ve probably waited in line to get your hands on one in the wee hours of the morning. But most people don’t know the history of this iconic street vendor, so let’s take a look at how Lucky Dogs came to be and how they became a symbol of the Vieux Carre....
If there were a popularity contest between all the meals of the day, it’s safe to say that brunch would run away with the delicious prize. This in-between meal seems to be a favorite of just about everyone and restaurants everywhere have taken notice. Whether you enjoy sleeping in a bit or love the variety of a menu that includes both breakfast and lunch food, chances are you enjoy a good brunch spot....
The railroad system is a large part of Kentucky’s rich history, which may explain our state’s fascination with this nostalgic mode of transportation. Of course there are still plenty of trains running throughout the state, but many of the historic stations have long since closed. Some of these buildings remain, while others have been torn down. Thankfully, one former station is Versailles has found a new life as the Nostalgia Station Toy Train Museum....
The only thing better than the cooler temperatures that come along with fall, are the incredible festivals held throughout the season. From delicious food to one-of-a-kind crafts, the fall festival season in Mississippi has something for everyone. Towns all over the state are prepping for their annual autumn celebrations and just to be sure you don’t miss a thing, we put together this list of some of our favorites. Read on to see if your favorite fest made the list....
With spring less than two weeks away, there’s no better time than right now to make plans regarding where you’ll go and what you’ll do. One of the best ways to experience spring in Alabama is to explore the state’s beautiful outdoors. Listed below are 11 outdoor attractions in Alabama that are perfect for visiting this spring. Did any of your favorite places make the list? Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve — Tuscumbia facebook/Friends of Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, which covers approximately 700 acres, is located in Colbert County and is one of Alabama’s most scenic areas....
Wild horses roaming free bring to mind the American West and the desert, not rural Alaska. Nonetheless, there is a band of wild horses in Unalaska that graze along the beautiful coast of this Aleutian Island. Head to this amazing and remote spot to see the wild horses that have made their home in this glorious setting. You may think you’re dreaming, but there really are wild horses living free on Unalaska Island....
Travel out to precisely the middle of North Dakota and you will find its heart. Actually, you’ll find the town that claims to be the heart of the Peace Garden State. This charming small town is a bit of a drive for some people and can be considered in the middle of nowhere, but it is so worth the journey to visit. Check it out for yourself and see what makes it so special and deserving of a look:...
Fall is here, and it is now time to gather around bonfires, sip apple cider, and carve pumpkins. It’s also time to get ready for one of the best holidays of the year: Halloween. Of the many fun harvest festivals in Minnesota, there is one in particular that will help you do just that. Pumpkin Nights is a magical two-week pumpkin festival at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. It’ll get you excited about fall – and about Halloween....
North Dakota’s history is widely centered around the railroad. A vast majority of each major city and small town was founded when the railroad reached the next point in its journey west. The power of trains is still essential in the Peace Garden State. They haul oil, coal, grain, and many other loads of the state’s resources. Needless to say, trains are a big deal here. So it’s not surprising that there are places in ND where you can explore the history – past and present – of trains yourself, including in this awesome train park and museum in Mandan, ND....
