This post was updated on February 11th, 2026. If you are looking for a getaway a little less traveled yet filled with enough fun and interesting sites to keep everyone in your group entertained, we recommend Rochester, New York. While not exactly a hidden gem, it isn’t being touted by every influencer either. A weekend […]
South Carolina’s capital, Columbia, is well-known for its bustling atmosphere and urban attractions, but just beyond the city lies a collection of small towns in South Carolina that offer unique experiences of their own. If you’re seeking to escape the hustle and explore the heart of the state, these charming Midlands towns provide the perfect
This post was updated on February 11th, 2026. If you have been with us for a while, you already know that I love Puerto Rico. And while I love the entire island, I am head over heels crazy in love with Old San Juan. So much so that on my last trip to the island
If you’re looking for an easy day trip from South Carolina’s capital, Columbia to Congaree National Park is a perfect fit. A day trip to Congaree can easily be managed from not only Columbia, but from popular vacation cities such as Charleston, Savannah, Augusta, Myrtle Beach, Charlotte, or Asheville. You can spend a day in
This post was updated on September 8th, 2024. Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors each year, captivated by the thundering waters and breathtaking views. I truly love the falls, and have visited the city several times. In particular, I love that we can see Niagara Falls for free, and that so many things to do
South Carolina often gets overshadowed as a southern travel destination, being nestled in a small corner between two domestic traveler powerhouse states. Wedged in as it may be, South Carolina offers all kinds of intriguing wonders, from its slice of the Atlantic Coast and sliver of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Piedmont, the Lowlands, and
This post was updated on September 1st, 2024. San Francisco is a dream destination for many travelers, with its stunning seaside location, and iconic landmarks and attractions. It is a city that can fill weeks and still leave more to discover. But sometimes, our schedules don’t allow for that. Sometimes a whirlwind weekend in San
Panama City, Florida, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Panama City Beach, offers a unique blend of Old Florida charm, rich history, and vibrant local culture. The two are very different. Panama City retains its traditional old Florida appeal and offers more than theme parks and tee shirt shops. It’s real. Unlike the crowded
As a Midwesterner, and particularly an Illinoisan, I have always found it strange how often people overlook St. Louis in favor of bigger surrounding cities. Where are you going for the weekend? Chicago, Indianapolis, Memphis, Kansas City… They are all fabulous cities, but there are as many things to do in St. Louis, it is
Before there were cars and highways and even railroads to take travelers out west, early Americans forged their way into the western states on wagon trails, such as the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, and the Santa Fe Trail. Come along as we head out on a road trip on the Santa Fe Trail. But
This post was updated on July 28th, 2024. New Orleans is an enthralling city, rich in history and brimming with cultural treasures that cater to every type of traveler. It quite literally has everything a visitor could want, and something for every kind of visitor. It’s also an easy destination – easy to get around
This post was updated on May 27th, 2025. When I told people I was traveling to the African continent for the first time, they immediately assumed I meant Kenya, South Africa, or Nigeria. But Tunisia was the destination. Many had no idea where little Tunisia was, or what the country was about. Some said, with
This post was updated on May 21st, 2025. Just an hour’s drive from New Orleans lies Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, a quaint coastal town that’s recently been named one of the coolest coastal towns in America by USA Today. With its rich history, thriving cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, it is the perfect
This post was updated on May 18th, 2025. Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois, Galena is a charming city known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, vibrant downtown, and rich history. Sometimes referred to as the “city that time forgot,” entering the flood gates truly feels like entering another century. A weekend in Galena
This post was updated on May 26th, 2025. Long before Las Vegas became Sin City, Hot Springs, Arkansas was home-away-from-home to many of the mob rulers and shakers. After all, if soaking in the hot thermal springs is good for aches and pains, it should help heal old bullet wounds, right? Tracing the gangster history
This post was updated on May 18th, 2025. Recently my Grandson John and I had reason to celebrate with a little trip, and we decided on spending 5 days in New Orleans. When we told people we were planning this trip, they immediately asked if we were going for Mardi Gras, or to Bourbon Street.
This post was updated on May 26th, 2025. Raising children in the Midwest US, spending a weekend in St. Louis was always a great low-cost getaway, that entertained the whole family. There are just so many things to do in St. Louis, that our 3 days in St. Louis were always jam-packed. We always found
This post was updated on May 26th, 2025. Florida is one of those vacation powerhouse states, with big name destinations such as Miami, Key West, Orlando, and new hot spot Destin. Tampa is probably not the first option that comes to mind for a Florida vacation, and in fact, we always thought of it
This post was updated on May 26th, 2025. If you reside in the Midwest US, you might already know about Frankenmuth, Michigan, but then again, it might still be a hidden gem for you. Hailing from Illinois, just two states away, I had never come across its name until it was recommended as a weekend
This post was updated on May 18th, 2025. Las Vegas is one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States right now, and it is easy to understand why. There are hundreds of things to do in Vegas, and you can cater to nearly any interest you may have. But taking part in
