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Today on the blog we’re leaning into the weird and wild side of roadtrippin’ in America: the quirky, whimsical roadside attraction!  We remember how hard it was to be a kid taking a summer road trip, forced to sit in the car for long stretches of time with nothing to do but stare out the window.  That’s what inspired us to make a fun blog collecting all the weird and wonderful things you can find along the way as you travel with your families this summer. Your kids will not soon forget 100 foot tall dinosaurs, giant elephants, whimsical sculptures of their favorite characters, and all the photos to prove they’ve seen it! Check it out on Classic Toyota of Waukegan's latest road trip guide to weird and whimsical roadside attractions to visit with your families! Cabazon Dinosaurs in California is one of the world’s most iconic roadside attractions, for more than 30 years. Featuring more than 100 handmade sculpted and painted dinosaur pals created by Artist Claude K. Bell, and features 2 mega dinos Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr Rex, this unique destination in California is perfect for goofy family photo ops! Plus, it’s been featured in multiple classic movies and has a huge place in pop culture, so it’ll be a great conversation starter for years to come. Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation and sculpture in Amarillo Texas along Route 66. The installation was created by a group of artistic hippies from San Francisco, and has been an ever-evolving interactive exhibit for more than 2 decades.  The vehicles were installed in1974 and were either older cars at the end of their life or used junked cars.  Fun Fact: The cars are inclined at the same angle as the pyramids of Giza!  Visitors are also invited to join in the collaborative project and leave their mark on the cars with some art of their own. Luray Caverns is located in Luray, Virginia, and is the largest cavern in the Eastern United States.  It features unique natural formations called speleothems including mud flows, stalactites, stalagmites, mirrored pools, and more. It’s a fascinating look at our earth’s natural wonders and features an interior lair with 140 foot natural columns and colorful rock layers.  It’s definitely worth stopping by for at least one to three hours to get the full experience. Lucy the Elephant is a 6 story elephant crafted by James V. Lafferty of wood and tin, located in Margate, New Jersey.  Constructed in 1882, this structure stands 6 stories high at 65 feet tall.  Visitors can walk around the outside, inside, as well as stop by the local gift shop.  Restoration efforts to preserve the art piece are ongoing, but she remains open to the public still! The Big Duck is a duck-shaped building built in 1931 in Flanders, New York, though its original location was Riverhead. The building was constructed by Martin Mauer and used as a shop to sell his ducks, duck eggs, and dairy products from his farm and promote his duck farming business. The Original World’s Largest Garden Gnome in Kerhonksen New York is a tourist attraction featuring a 13.5 foot tall gnome known as Gnome Chomsky. Built in 2006 by NYC Artist Maria Reidelbach, he was later unseated as the tallest gnome by two taller entries in Portland and Iowa.  It’s still worth a visit as you can get great photo ops and then explore a beautiful Hudson River Valley farm, a unique miniature golf course, and curated gardens on the grounds. Dr Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden is located in Springfield Massachusetts, and features a gallery and garden devoted to the beloved children’s book author, first opened in 2002 followed by the Amazing World of Dr Seuss Museum in 2017.  It’s filled with whimsical sculptures cast in bronze that fill the courtyard of the Quadrangle museum complex. World’s Largest Collection of the Smallest Versions of Largest Things is a quirky attraction in Lucas Kansas dedicated to memorializing iconic roadside structures and sculptures.  Creator Erika Nelson photographs and visits unique roadside attractions such as “world’s biggest ball of yarn” or “biggest ketchup bottle”, photographs them, and then crafts an accurate scale sized miniature replica of the item.  Then she returns to the site of the large sculptural structures with the miniature item, and photographs them together.  What once started as a traveling museum and exhibit now has a permanent home base as of 2017 that you can visit today! The House on the Rock is a tourist attraction located in Spring Green Wisconsin. This building was erected in the 1940s, and officially opened to the public in the 1960s and features 80 architecturally unique rooms built atop a 60 foot rock face.  Now, the grounds feature ticketed tours of the home and its curated collections of souvenirs and art.  Take a self guided tour and view unique items such as the world’s largest carousel, a 200 foot sea creature, the most incredible views, and so much more.  There’s also an on site golf course, spa, restaurant, and entertainment The Oz Museum is located in Wamego Kansas and is wholly educated to preserve the histopry of all things Wizard of Oz from L Frank Baum’s Oz series of books later adapted to multiple films for Hollywood.  Follow the yellow brick road through the museum to learn more about 100+ years of Oz history and view rare artifacts, collectibles, and historic documents! Honorable mentions go to: World’s Largest Basket, World’s Largest Ball of Twine, World’s Largest Popcorn Ball, World’s Largest Buffalo, World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle, World’s Largest Rocking Chair, World’s Largest Pistachio, World’s Largest Jackrabbit, and World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock

Put-In-Bay on Lake Erie in Ohio is a gem of a local island getaway!  This quaint and cozy village is located on South Bass Island, and it’s one of the top spots for locals. Put-In-Bay Island is a 397 acre playground and Key-West style paradise!  With a rich and storied past in the War of 1812, there’s also plenty of historic sites to explore! You can access the island via two Ferry services from Catawba Island, Kelleys Island, Port Clinton, Lorain, and Sandusky.  The Jet Express Ferry will drop you off in the heart of downtown and also offers late-night services for those who wish to travel after the work day is done.  The Miller Ferry is the local freight transport and the only option if you’re looking to take your vehicle with you on your getaway, but most residents and visitors travel by golf cart.  If arriving by Ferry is not your speed, the island also makes provision for private boat travel and propeller-driven aircraft. Here are some Great Things to Do in Put-In-Bay, Ohio! Stonehenge Historic Estate is a preserved 1800s estate that encapsulates the history of Put-In-Bay. Schedule a historic home tour and explore the 7 acres of manicured grounds and gardens, and enjoy the local scenery and on-site gift shop. Stone Laboratory on Gibraltar Island is a working freshwater field station since 1895, and is a part of the Ohio Stat University group. The Island is also home to the Aquatic Visitors Center and South Bass Island Lighthouse! Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center - This is an all encompassing family fun destination: nature, mini golf, mining, and so much more!  Explore the 208 foot long limestone cave, hidden 52 feet below the surface.  Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the caves, and fun facts about the location itself.  There’s also a mini golf course, a maze, and a rock climbing wall! The Butterfly House - located inside the Family fun center, this aviary is home to beautiful butterflies and gorgeous flowers, featuring 4000 square feet of space with more than 50 species of butterflies from around the world. The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society  Museum and Resale Shop has a wide array of rotating exhibits on the island’s history, local wine making history, Victorian architecture in the region, historic artifacts and souvenirs, and so much more!  The Lake Erie Islands location is also the site of the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813. S cheef East Point Nature Preserve encompasses more than 8 acres of land and one of the last natural settings for travelers along the Lake Erie Islands.  Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the map of native flora and fauna, and avian aficionados will love bird watching along the 2,205 foot looped trail along the shores. South Bass Island State Park offers ample opportunity for outdoorsy activities like camping, swimming, picnicking, fishing and boating with breathtaking views of the Bay and lake!  Accessible by the local ferry, with opportunities to bring your own boat or kayak to the boat launch, as well as a small beacn. Entry to the park is free, and it spans 33 acres of shoreline. Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center features interactive nature and wildlife exhibits, plus optional events, workshops, and guided tours! Check out their summer programming and year round efforts to promote conservation and education about the local nature and wildlife of Lake Erie and the bay. Put-in bay Tour Train will take you on a one hour guided tour of the area and give you plenty of time to take in the scenery whilst learning about local history and fun facts!  You’ll see about 80% of the island, and make little stops along the way. Jane Coates Wildflower Trail is a great opportunity to experience the great outdoors and have a magical jaunt through the woods with wildflowers all around you!  This half mile loop is located on the southern end of South Bass Island, and affords you ample opportunities to do wildflower identification and observe local wildlife and birds. Put-In-Bay Winery - I s a wonderful romantic day out for couples, and relaxing day out with friends for a group! This winery is small, intimate, and picturesque, and the ultimate experience for wine aficionados.  You’ll enjoy a tour and tasting room experience, as well as tours of the estate grounds and house. Heineman Winery - In operation since the late 1800s, this is a long-standing staple of the Put-In-Bay community.  The facility offers cellar tours and tastings, and also hosts an impressive geode on site for viewing, one with crystals that are up to 18 inches long!  Wines range from dry to sweet, making it easy to find the perfect match suited to your tastes, and you may also opt to enjoy the specially selected snack pairings while you enjoy the sunshine and wine. Rent a Put-In-Bay Golf Cart - Renting a golf cart that holds 2,4, 6, or even 8 passengers is a very fun way to explore and see the island!  Day rentals and longer-term rentals are available, and the town allows Golf Carts to ride along the regular roads. Hike the Scheef East Point Nature Preserve - This beautiful area sprawls across 8 acres of land and one of the last natural settings for travelers along the Lake Erie Islands.  Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the map of native flora and fauna, and avian aficionados will love bird watching along the 2,205 foot looped trail along the shores. Put-In-Bay Brewery & Distillery - This seasonal brewpub offers craft-brews made on site, creative spins on the usual bar food, and transforms into a very energetic dance club in the evenings and night time.  It’s the bay’s first brewery, and specializes in stouts and wheat beer, but does offer specialty cider as well as a selection of fine spirits. Saucy Brew Works Tiki Bar - This poolside oasis is open 7 days a week and is located inside the Bayshore resort.  The Brew Works offers tropical cocktails, specialty brews, frozen drinks, late-night eats, and even a coffee bar.  They also offer a range of non-alcoholic beverages and drink specials. The Shops at Compass Pointe - Perfect for a little day-time stroll and shopping!  Island Hardware and Market offers a charming one-stop shop for fresh produce, meat, eggs, milk, and desserts like donuts and coffee cakes. Take the Jet Express Ferry to Kelleys Island to Charles Herndon GAlleries & Gardens, Kelley Island Brewery etc - Just a few miles offshore from Put-In-Bay is Kelleys Island! Full of even more fun activities to enjoy, such as the incredible paintings, prints, sculptures and rotating exhibits of local artists at the Charles Herndon Galleries and on-site sculpture garden.  While you're on the island, you’ll also want to stop by to partake in some beverages at the Kelley Island Brewery!

We’ve been sharing quite a few road trip destination guides, but now it’s time to make sure you get there in one piece!  Today’s blog is all about helping you pack the essentials as well as some extra creature comforts for a successful road trip. Whether you’re heading out to the beach, a camping trip, an excursion to the national parks, or just a long trip to grandma’s house, you’ll find everything you need on this list to enjoy your time, stress free!  So go on and pack up your new car from Classic with confidence, and let’s hit the road.  Feel free to print out our checklist before your next big adventure so you don’t miss a single thing! Car Chargers and USB adapters. Make sure you have plenty of car chargers and portable chargers for your tablets, phones, and laptops! And no, one is not sufficient. Be sure to pack plenty of extras just to be on the safe side Physical Road Maps/Offline Maps. We’ve all become very reliant on our mobile phones and GPSs for navigation, but what happens when you trek off the beaten track?  What if there’s no reception and you’ve made a wrong turn?  Having physical copies of maps from the state, county, and local levels will serve you well, as will trail maps of any hiking areas you’ll be venturing into.  We also recommend downloading offline maps to your navigation smartphone app of choice, just in case the internet goes offline; download the maps to your device over wifi before you hit the road, and you’ll be all set. Portable Battery Chargers. Not only are these helpful for keeping your mobile devices charged on the road and on the trail, but some models are even powerful enough to jump start your vehicle.  This battery jumpstarter can come in handy if you’re driving to more remote locations or on rural roads where traffic may be sparse. Jumper Cables. Speaking of car batteries, a good set of jumper cables can save you from waiting hours for roadside assistance. Tire inflator and tire pressure gauge. Portable tire inflaters are a lifesaver you didn’t know you needed!  These plug into a battery backup, the cigarette lighter in the car, or a USB power adapter and can inflate your tires to pressure in minutes.  Likewise, having a spare tire or donut as well as a tire patch kit can get you out of a pickle very quickly. A Thorough First Aid Kit. At bare minimum your first aid kit should contain unexpired over the counter pain meds, a tourniquet, antibiotic ointments, various sized bandaids, paper tape, alcohol swabs and wipes, bandages and non-stick gauze, tweezers, scissors. Basic Toiletries. Carrying the basics of personal hygiene products can come in handy in case of emergency or if a rest stop is undersupplied!  Things like hand sanitizer, a box or two of tissues, a roll of toilet paper, a roll of paper towels, flushable wipes, hand napkins, travel friendly liquid soap, dry shampoo, sanitizing wipes, chapstick, sunscreen, and maybe even a trash bag or two. An Extra Set of Clothes and some clean towels. Whether you’re flying solo or you’re traveling as a group, make sure your vehicle always has at least 1 set of seasonally appropriate clothing.  You never know what emergency might come up!  Having a set of clean towels can also be useful if you’re caught in the rain or have a personal emergency. LED flares, a crank flashlight, LED flashlight, and/or headlamp. These can all come in handy not only if you’re stranded on the roadside at night, but also if you need to do any minor vehicle repairs under the hood or changing a tire. A cooler full of snacks and hydration. Long trips require lots of fuel, and we don’t just mean your car!  Staying hydrated and nourished on long journeys means your mind and reflexes will stay fresh and sharp.  Protein packed snacks like meats and cheese, granola bars, protein bars, trail mixes, or hydrating snacks like cut fruit, celery and carrot sticks, and prepackaged salads can really help boost your energy.  Shelf stable items like packaged snacks are also a great idea, as well as powdered protein and electrolyte sticks which make a great addition to bottled water.

We love bringing our families along with us on our road trip adventures!  There’s something so magical about getting to see kids and teenagers experience the great outdoors, and reconnecting with nature for some screen-free excitement.  On today’s blog, we’re sharing some great activities for a peaceful, screen-free road trip with kids.  From road trip games to coloring books to travel board games and more, you’ll find lots of ways to entertain your offspring without needing tablets or smartphones (well, for a little while at least.) We’ve also included great gadgets that make entertaining kids on the go a real breeze, and what’s not to love about portable convenience and calm kids? Exactly!  Check it out and let us know your fave ways to keep your kids cheerful and occupied in the car/while traveling in the comments on our social media! Free Word Games to Play With the Whole Family The Alphabet Game (No Purchases Required!) Starting with the letter ‘A’, one passenger takes turns calling out a word that starts with that letter, and the next player’s turn responds with a word beginning with ‘B’ and so on and so forth until you get to the letter ‘Z’.  If you’d like an extra challenge, subsequent rounds can have a theme such as “plants” or “animals” or “foods” to correspond with each letter. Think Fast (No Purchases Required!) One person begins by suggesting a category theme (ex: Food, Animal, Places. etc) and a second player will have until the count of 10 to say (or shout) the name of an item that corresponds with that theme.  If the second player cannot think of something to name in the time it takes for a 10 count, they lose their turn and it passes to the next one.  If they come up with a word, it’s their turn next to pick a category and count for the next player.  For an added challenge you can use the rule of starting with alphabetical order “The Category is Flower, and you must use the letter A!” “Aster!” “The next category is Food and you must use the letter B!” “Blueberry” and so on until someone gives up, or you reach the end of the alphabet! Same Letter (No Purchases Required!) Begin with a category, just as you would with “Think Fast,” except this does not involve a count timer.  One category chooses a word that matches that category, and the following player must follow-up on that theme using the last letter of that word as the first letter of their next guess.  For example: “The Category is Birds!” “Seagull” “Lark” “Kestrel” “Lovebird” “Duck” “Kingfisher!” “Robin!” and so on until the group gives up and someone is stumped. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt (No Purchases Required!) Another great game that can be played with all car passengers and requires quick thinking, sharp memory, and alphabetical challenges A through Z.  The starting player will use the letter A, and will say the phrase “I’m going on a bear hunt, and I am bringing   The second passenger will follow by repeating the first item, and adding a second with the subsequent letter (in this case, ‘B’): I’m going on a bear hunt and I am bringing an avocado and a blueberry!  The third player will repeat those and add the next letter, and so on and so forth until you reach a point where someone cannot remember anymore, or you reach the end of the alphabet! Budget Friendly Entertainment and Accessories for Your Family Road Trip What Do You Meme?’s “Shotgun” card game is the perfect option for families on the go.  Designed for players 12+, this game can be played with 2 or more players.  Read the card aloud and follow the prompts until you reach your destination or stop at a rest stop. Game contains 200 cards and a convenient travel friendly carrying case. Priced under $20 on Amazon here. The Road Trip Travels and Activity Journal for Kids has a plethora of more than 100 Games, Mazes, Mad Libs, Scavenger Hunts, Word Searches, and so much more.  There’s also fun prompts to get your kids engaged with the road trip experience by writing about what they see and how they feel, and log their family memories.  It’s a wonderful alternative to screen time and allows them to connect with creativity. This National Parks Travel Edition for Yahtzee is perfect for planes, trains, and automobiles!  Families will love this update featuring icons and imagery of some familiar National Landmarks in the Parks System with unlimited hours of family game night fun. Families will love bonding with classic card games like Memory, Go Fish, Spoons, and more with the National Parks Playing cards, and parents will feel great knowing that funds from each sale of the minimalist Playing Card Deck go into helping fund America’s National Parks System.  Their bright geometric designs make them an eye catching delight to any games collection. The HeltekoBackseat Car Organizer comes in a set of 2  and fits over the back headrest of the front driver and passenger seating areas.  It makes a great portable way to stow your kids and teens belongings as well as snacks and beverages. An easy to reach solution so parents can focus on the road in front of them instead of driving distracted by trying to reach toys. Everything will be right at your kids fingertips! Priced under $30 on Amazon here. The Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray for the car is a must-have for parents and guardians traveling with kids. This convenient, portable lap desk comes in multiple color ways as well as two packs.  Priced under $40 for a pair and under $30 for singles, this lap desk and organizer can hold drinks, snacks, toys, coloring supplies, books, and more. Grab your travel lapdesk on Amazon here. We also love the coordinating Lusso Gear Car Seat Organizer which fits in the center seat of your rear seating area.  With 9 different storage compartments this really holds it all! From water bottles to stuffies to sunglasses to books and markers and more, you’ll have a convenient kid-friendly way to stow all their travel necessities. Available on Amazon in multiple colorways for under $30! The National Parks Coloring Book by artist Wyatt Hersey features 12 parks from across the US and is sponsored by Parks Project, which benefits the National Parks Conservation Association!  This 12x12 coloring book is perfect for kids, teens, and adults and priced affordably at $12. The Backyard Nature Coloring Book features 42 illustrations of wildlife spotted in urban and suburban parks and backyards.  You’ll find richly detailed illustrations with accurate features and characteristics.  Creative minds of all ages will enjoy coloring in insects, mammals, birds, amphibians and more.  Affordably priced at just $5 per copy. The Science and Nature Coloring Book is illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky, of the Women in Science and The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth books.  Featuring 40 charming and intricate illustrations across 80 pages that are as creative as they are informative, there’s plenty of educational content to color for all ages. Protect Our National Parks Coloring Book by Lantern Press contributes 1% donation of sales of this project to the national parks.  This collection is created by the Lantern Press team featuring original artwork and landscapes inspired by America’s National Parks System.  Priced at $13.99 for a 64 page illustrated collection.

Collaborations with MIT AgeLab revealed future ways to enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians and avoid potential collisions CSRC adds 10 new projects to research portfolio including four new research institutions Toyota’s Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC) announced the completion of its 100 th research project, a collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) AgeLab. The project characterized non-driving related tasks during highway driving, with and without driver assistance technologies. At a media event today in Michigan, the teams presented some of their discoveries and detailed the long-time research engagement between the two organizations. These also included CSRC and MIT AgeLab analysis of communication between vehicle drivers and pedestrians, which can help avoid potential collisions. “This is a significant milestone for CSRC and our commitment to pursuing Toyota’s vision of a future safe mobility society for all with the ultimate goal of zero traffic fatalities,” said Danil Prokhorov, CSRC Director. “Through our long-term collaborations with many esteemed and experienced research institutions in North America, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), we have made meaningful contributions to help inform future safety policies and the development of future products.” These latest projects build upon more than a decade of collaborative research with the MIT AgeLab. They used a novel real-world driving dataset collected from urban and suburban settings to explore behaviors of drivers and pedestrians as they interact with one another and with their vehicles and items inside the vehicle, like mobile phones. Research Impact and Achievements During the event, MIT AgeLab Research Scientist Dr. Bryan Reimer, also founder and co-director of the Advanced Vehicle Technology Consortium, shared the overall achievements made possible through this long-standing collaboration, including: Voice-based human-machine interaction: Identified relevant aspects of voice-based infotainment systems to help mitigate their cognitive and visual demands in studies with volunteers in vehicles on-road. Toyota helped launch the MIT AgeLab’s Advanced Vehicle Technologies (AVT) Consortium for study of driver assistance systems as a founding member. Created a Dataset of Driver-Pedestrian Interaction: Produced a comprehensive dataset of 348 naturalistic interactions to study the implications for traffic safety. Analysis identified the importance of motion cues as non-verbal communication between drivers and pedestrians to help avoid potential crashes. This dataset has also helped the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) create new ergonomic design guidance for external visual communication from automated vehicles to other road users. Analyzed Characteristics of Non-Driving Related Tasks: Annotated approximately 450 hours of driving data to identify over 154 hours of engagement in non-driving related tasks (NDRT) – e.g. mobile phone use, texting, talking to passenger, using the infotainment system, eating and drinking – to evaluate the influence that driving assist technology can have on the decision to engage in NDRT. Analysis revealed that drivers’ choice to participate in NDRTs is nuanced and varies based on the road type and several aspects of driver support features. Driver Assistance Systems and Behavior: Developed a dataset of more than 1000 highway driving trips to analyze complex interplay between lane centering performance, driver management systems, and individual driver behavior, which is ongoing. “Together, we have made significant strides in understanding driver and pedestrian behaviors to enhance traffic safety,” said Josh Domeyer, principal scientist at Toyota CSRC.  “I take pride in our contributions to engineering standards and the dissemination of our findings through impactful publications and presentations. The insights gained from analyzing non-driving related tasks and the intricate dynamics of driver assistance systems are helpful in our effort to establish a safer mobility society for all.” New Projects CSRC also announced 10 new projects, including collaborations with four new institutions: Oregon State University, Ohio State University Injury Biomechanics Research Center, University of Waterloo, and Auburn University. These projects are added to several ongoing research activities previously announced and represent important research questions that CSRC will continue exploring in its current five-year research phase that is focused on better understanding driver behavior, crash avoidance and crash injury mitigation: How do crash typologies, context, and driver profiles relate to the effectiveness of speeding countermeasures (e.g., expected crash reduction, driver acceptance, and behavioral modification)? (PROJECT TITLE: Analysis of Speed Assist Implementations and Context-Aware Improvements; COLLABORATOR: Touchstone Evaluations, Inc.) How do different implementations of L2 driving automation and driver monitoring system (DMS) interact with context to shape driver behavior? (PROJECT TITLE: Driver behavior adaptation to L2 automation; COLLABORATOR: MIT AgeLab) How do vehicle features, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and other technologies affect driving behavior, like risky driving, in various driving situations (such as weather and road type)? (PROJECT TITLE: Evaluating driving performance and behavior across varying vehicle specifications and driving contexts; COLLABORATOR: Virginia Tech Transportation Institute) Which safety critical areas can benefit the most from in-vehicle alerts? Do alerts in those situations improve safety? (PROJECT TITLE: Safety benefits of in-vehicle alerts and notifications; COLLABORATOR: Oregon State University) What is the threshold of the driver’s acceptance of pre-drive interacting with driver monitoring systems? (PROJECT TITLE: User Acceptance Factors for In-Vehicle Safety Systems Targeting Impaired Driving; COLLABORATOR: Impact Research, LLC) How do current global AEB assessments align with the U.S. situation? (PROJECT TITLE: Comparing applicability of global ADAS testing scenarios in the U.S. context; COLLABORATOR: University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute) Can future crash simulations be enhanced by understanding the relationship between bone geometry and external posture and shape while driving? (PROJECT TITLE: Skeletal data for anthropometry and posture; COLLABORATOR: University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute) How to improve lower extremity injury prediction by considering biological sex related internal geometry differences in material modeling? (PROJECT TITLE: Biological sex in ankle bone material properties; COLLABORATORS: The Ohio State University Injury Biomechanics Research Center & University of Waterloo) What design features of truck frontal geometry could enhance pedestrian protection? (PROJECT TITLE: Pedestrian Protection in high hood vehicles; COLLABORATOR: University of Virginia Center for Applied Biomechanics) How does the integration of different functions (e.g. infotainment, navigation) and control types (e.g., touchscreen, physical controls, or combinations) within in-vehicle HMIs influence driver distraction and driving performance? (PROJECT TITLE: Interacting While Driving: Evaluating Attentional Demands of In-Vehicle Interfaces; COLLABORATOR: Auburn University) Toyota created CSRC in 2011 to advance safety for the industry as a whole through open collaborations with universities, hospitals and other research institutions. Results from CSRC are published and openly presented for others to utilize and benefit from the research. Since inception, CSRC projects have served as training ground for the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) leaders who continue to address traffic safety in the United States and around the world. More than 400 students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff from the collaboration institutions have participated in CSRC research projects and received additional training through this hands-on research.  Several of these former trainees have gone on to help advance traffic safety through roles in academia, other OEMs, tech companies and safety stakeholders. Toyota Research & Development For more than 50 years, Toyota’s Research & Development groups in North America have participated in engineering projects for several of the best-selling Toyota vehicles on U.S. roads. Teams are now creating both next-generation vehicles and new and advanced mobility concepts that can better move people, goods and information. Toyota’s innovation has secured more patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office than any other automaker for the past 11 consecutive years (2,428 in 2024). Centered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Toyota’s North American R&D groups are pursuing Toyota’s mission to “Produce Happiness for All” by making life safer, easier and more enjoyable. Globally, Toyota spends approximately $1 million per hour on R&D to ensure that Toyota rapidly and continuously develops cutting-edge, high-quality, and appealing vehicles.

We’re leaning into that summer vacation mode with another installment of must-see road trip destinations!  Today on the blog we’re sharing some incredible roadways that are a vacation in and of themselves.  You’ll find old growth forests, sweeping mountainside views, gorgeous fields of wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and more.  Whether you’re looking to take a scenic drive with peaceful overlooks, or you’re looking to experience new adventures along the way, we know you’ll find what you’re looking for with these great spots.  So check it out! Hop in your new car from Classic and let's hit the road to memorable vacations! Going-To-The-Sun-Road in Montana, The Rocky Mountains A 50-mile scenic drive connecting the west and east ends of the park, it also crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass.  Located inside Glacier National Park, you’ll experience the heart of this region with its rainbow rock formations, crystal clear lakes and streams, colorful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife.  You’ll need to secure an Entry Pass and Vehicle Reservation to complete this trip unless you’ve booked a guided tour option.  Spring and Summer are peak visiting hours with quieter drives in Fall and Winter.  Along the way you’ll spot some hiking areas, most notably the Hidden Lake Overlook, Upper McDonald Creek, and The Highline.   Trail of the Cedars takes you on a trek along a boardwalk that weaves through lush green ferns, moss-covered trees, and a western red cedar forest.  Wild Goose Island Overlook is a picture perfect, must-see view of St. Mary Lake with a charming tiny island at its center, amidst a backdrop of alpine forest and mountains.  Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and designated horseback riding paths are also available throughout the national park for those seeking a little more adrenaline than a car ride. Utah’s Mighty-5 National Parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands Experience the most iconic canyonlands in the US and view astonishing geological formations and red rock landscapes.  This trip will take you through 5 of Utah’s best parklands where you’ll get to explore incredible hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.  Explore the ancient water-carved rock formations and view otherworldly red rock landscapes of state parks as you make your way to each national park.  You’ll experience national monuments, charming small towns, alpine forests and desert plains and valleys, sweeping vistas, and limitless blue skies.  Along the way you’ll find numerous stopping points for scenic overlooks, hiking trails, campgrounds, horseback riding, kayaking and rafting, backcountry camping, canyoneering opportunities, and so much more.  We can guarantee this will be a trip for the memory books, so investing in a good camera will be a worthwhile investment to your travel budget. US Route 93 Road Trip (Cross-Country US), Mexico, and Canada This border-to-border road trip is the ultimate cross-country adventure!  You’ll need to make sure your passports are up to date for this one, as border crossing into Mexico and Canada are part of the journey.  Your trip will take you into Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, and Kootenay National Park in Canada; Glacier National Park, the National Bison Range and Flathead Indian Reservation, and Bitterroot Valley/Mountains in Montaha; Salmon National Forest, Challis National Forest, and Sawtooth National Forest as well as Craters of the Moon National Park in Idaho; Humboldt National Forest, the Ruby Mountain Range, Great Basin National Park, Cathedral Gorge State Park, Desert National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, and the Hoover Dam in Nevada; Grand Canyon National Park, Prescott National Forest, Gila River Indian Reservation Coronado National Forest, Tumacori National Historic Park in Arizona, and then onwards to Mexico.  This is going to be a road trip to remember and you’ll want at least 10 days or more to fully experience everything there is to see! Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park in Blue Ridge Mountains This 100+ mile drive is the most leisurely drive on our list, with a 35MPH speed limit in most places due to abundant wildlife, and the main artery road through this national park. You’ll find helpful mile marker posts along the drive that can help you find overlooks, points of interest, and campgrounds.  As you drive you’ll be treated to some of the most spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and forests within the national park.  Begin your journey at Front Royal in the northern end of the park and make your way through to the start of the Blue Ridge Parkway for an additional scenic drive!  Along the way, you’ll find short hiking paths and trails, scenic overlooks perfect for photo ops especially at sunset, horseback riding options, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and access to the Appalachian Trail. The Overseas Highway from Mainland Florida/Key West Florida This stunning 113-mile highway consists of 42 bridges spanning across the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico, connecting Florida Keys to Key West via Route 1. It is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the whole US. This beautiful bridge crosses sparkling aqua hued waters, offering spectacular views of the islands and waterscape. There are several stops available along the way such as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Long Key State Park, Seven Mile Bridge, and then some. For families, locals recommend stopping at the Florida Keys Aquarium, or paying a visit to the charming Turtle Hospital in Marathon. Cascade Loop in Washington State Whether you opt for a clockwise or counterclockwise route, there’s no denying that traversing 440-miles through some of the Evergreen state’s most majestic forests and mountains is a real memorable experience. From the Seattle city skyline and salty sea air of Puget Sound to the grand scale of Stevens Pass Greenway and the stunning views of the North Cascades, there’s so many different regions to explore. Whidbey Island  is located north of Seattle in the Puget Sound, and offers beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and farmlands. Leavenworth offers a Bavarian-themed little enclave with charming shops and restaurants.  Skagit Valley is known for its magnificent spring time flower fields. The route is jampacked with numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, rivers and lakes for kayaking and paddleboarding, horseback riding trails, and more.  We recommend taking your time with a minimum of a 5 day journey, but 7-10 would be ideal!

Today on the blog, we’re celebrating the last few weeks of Spring, and gearing up for the start of Summer! You’ll find competitive fishing, DIY date nights, festivals and carnivals, live music and concerts, outdoor adventures and much more.  We can’t wait to get out on the town and enjoy some quality time with our friends and family in that warm, sweet air.  So check out our latest edition of the Classic Community Calendar and say hello to Summer! On Wednesday, June 4th at Winthrop Harbor’s 5th Street Pond, come on down for the 4th Annual Fishing Derby starting at 6PM, perfect for kids aged 5-17. No equipment needed. Learn the first steps towards cultivating your own culinary garden in beautiful clay pots. T he Chicago Botanic Garden is hosting a “Grow Your Garnish” workshop starting from 6-8PM in Glencoe. Bring your best lawn chair and picnic blanket to enjoy Live Music in the Parks in Lake Villa at The Lehmann Mansion on June 5th from 7PM to 8:30PM. The Romney Brown Candle Company is hosting Candles and Cannolis DIY event night in Grayslake at the shop from 6PM to 8PM on June 6th. The Summer Wine Walk is coming to Downtown Antioch on Saturday June 7th for $45 per person from 12PM to 4PM. (21+ event only) The 34th Annual Fishing Derby in Waukegan hosted by Waukegan Parks Distric t is taking place on Saturday June 7th from 8AM to 10PM at Bevier Park. Downtown Highwood is hosting the Highwood Kick off to summer Carnival for 3 days in June, from June 6th, 7th, and 8th in Highwood. The 3rd Annual Bully Bingo is coming to Half Day Brewing in Lincolnshire on Sunday June 8th from 12PM on, featuring adoptable dogs, raffles, and pizza! The 5th Annual Grayslake Pride Parade is happening in Historic Downtown Grayslake on Sunday June 8th from 12PM to 1PM with a family-friendly festive parade starting at Hawley Street.  Enjoy live music from a local DJ and check out the parade floats. It’s Taylor Swift Theme Night in Highland Park at Jens Jensen Park on Thursday June 12th from 4:30 to 8:30PM with a live DJ and Taylor Swift impersonator, Shake It Off!  Dress as your favorite Era for a family-friendly night out. The Grayslake Beer Fest is Back this year on Saturday June 14th from 1PM to 5PM in Grayslake. Lake County Libation Trail partners such as 9th Hour Brewing Co, Buffalo Creek Brewing Co, Tighthead Brewing Co and more will be present! Zion’s Nostalgia Days are headed to the City of Zion on Friday June 13th and Saturday June 14th from 8AM to 6PM. Come enjoy a day featuring the county’s longest running and largest car, truck, and motorcycle show!  There will be an antique and custom car show and cruise, kids and family activities, a live DJ, radio stations, vendors, and much more! Round Lake Beach Cultural Center is hosting the Fifth Annual PrideFest Event with food trucks, drag shows, vendors, live music and more from 12PM to 10PM in Round Lake. Hawthorn Pride is coming to Vernon Hills on June 21st from 2PM to 5PM. Celebrate the Pride Event and Market with free admission and open to the public of all ages. You’ll get to shop LGBTQIA+ and Ally Vendors, delicious food truck treats, live music and DJ, and fabulous drag performances.  In case of inclement weather, visit the Hawthorn Mall for the Pride Event indoors. Taste of Highland Park is coming back on Friday June 20th and Saturday June 21st from 5PM to 10PM at Port Clinton Square, the area’s premiere dining and music festival event!  You don’t want to miss this – last year the event saw 7,500+ attendees and 14 local Highland Park eateries participated  as well as hosting live performances from local DJs and performers. Head over to the Heller Nature Center with your kiddos aged 5+ to hatch a dragon egg! Participants will get to hatch their egg, name their dragon, and bring them along on a nature themed adventure outdoors; hatching on June 22nd in Highland Park. Wauconda Fest’s “Rock with the Best” Four Day festival with live entertainment, food, beer and food trucks, games and rides, and much more is coming to Cook Park from June 26th through June 29th.

You may know Door County as the premiere leaf-peeping destination in Wisconsin, but did you know it’s prime real estate for the perfect summer vacation getaway?  Today, we’re sharing our favorite places to go and things to do in the Door County region of Wisconsin. Our neighbors up north offer so much fun, excitement and entertainment just a short drive away, even if you’re just seeking a weekend getaway to Door County!  There are more than 50 public beaches, plenty of gorgeous historic lighthouses, lots of art galleries and shopping, charming wineries, state parks and hiking trails, and then some.  We guarantee you’ll have an amazing summer vacation experience in Door County, Wisconsin!  Let’s check out all there is to offer, starting with the perfect places to enjoy a beach day. While we can’t cover all 50 beaches in the county, we’ve narrowed it down to some of our top favorites to get you started.  First up is Sister Bay Beach in Sister Bay, the largest beach and beachfront park in the whole county; with 1,900 linear feet of continuous waterfront, and 600 feet of sandy beaches, this is the spot to be for classic summer fun.  Here you may enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, tanning on the shore, as well as picnicking and barbecuing. Next up is Nicolet Bay Beach in Fish Creek; this beach is located within the boundaries of Peninsula State Park and offers 944 feet of sandy shorelines.  This beach offers a snack bar, camp store, bicycle and boat rentals, a playground, paddleboard rentals, sand volleyball courts, and picnic facilities, making it a perfect place for families to spend a few days! Ephraim Beach in Ephraim offers 175 feet of sandy shoreline, with a much quieter and peaceful vibe; this is the place to be if you’re looking for that “private island” experience without the hefty price tag.  The beach is also just a short drive or bike ride away from the quaint downtown area of Ephraim, home to some of the most delicious eateries! Ridges Beach in Baileys Harbor is located within Ridges County Park, and is a top destination for families in the area.  There are plenty of sand bars and more shallow waters, perfect for kiddos to learn the ropes of swimming and get comfortable in the water.  A little further out from teh shoreline and sandbars, you’ll find a perfect lakeside retreat to enjoy plenty of watersports such as kiteboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.  There’s plenty of parking, convenient picnicking areas, and restrooms on site. Whitefish Dunes Beach in Sturgeon Bay is a mile-long sandy beach along the shores of Lake Michigan, and is located within Whitefish Dunes State Park.  The picturesque shoreline is bordered by every-changing sand dunes, and they’re just perfect for a beach day trek.  The beach also offers a boardwalk, nature center, fishing pier, playground, volleyball courts, and picnic areas, making it one-stop-shopping for summer vacation excitement!  Plus, there is an ADA Accessible beach access point, as well as offering dog-friendly beach facilities in a designated pet-friendly area. Explore the area with a unique perspective of the Peninsula and islands with Door County Kayak Tours.  Enjoy an afternoon of paddle boarding, parasailing, kayaking, or jetskiing for some extra excitement on the waves.  Rent a boat and go tubing or waterskiing off of Washington Island or Rock Island. Get the family together and put on your best hiking shoes and go on a geocaching treasure hunt.  Take a tour on the Washington Island Ferry Line from Ellison Bay.  Book a private campsite and sleep under the stars for some extra fresh air and nature in one of the state parks or local campgrounds.  Or create unforgettable memories with a once-in-a-lifetime Shipwreck Diving Tour, and take a scuba or snorkeling excursion of the more than 275 shipwrecks hidden in local waters. Looking to stretch your legs after getting a little waterlogged at the beach? Head to dry land and check out these amazing hiking spots!  Horseshoe Island can be reached by kayaks or boats from the Nicolet Bay Beach, offering a “two-for-one” outdoor experience. The 1 mile trail is set two miles in from the mainland and encircles the entire 38 acre island. Whitefish Dunes State Park has nearly 15 miles of hiking trails to enjoy including: 1.5 miles of sandy beach shoreline; the second longest trail, the Black Trail loop through the hardwood forest; Brachiopod Trail which offers a fun fact-filled trail through multiple environments; Green Trail which treads along a lowland area of the forest and along the dune; Red Trail which brings visitors past “Old Baldy”, the park’s tallest dune at 93 feet above lake level; the Yellow Trail which is the area’s longest trail that leads through a red pine plantation and back through the dunes. Peninsula Park has 20 miles of trails to enjoy which offer various views of the park’s terrain, environments, and wildlife. The park also offers the opinion for an outdoor track wheelchair on certain days depending on availability, which you can do through the Friends of Peninsula Website.  Eagle Trail is a local favorite, and one of the more challenging options, but it’s worth it for the 2 mile trek along the water and over stunning rocks and past the caves to a scenic overlook.  Nicolet Bay Trail is a good moderate choice for intermediate skilled hikers and a wonderful choice for nature enthusiasts and birders. Ahnapee State Trail is 48 miles long and offers an 8-10 foot wide hard-pack gravel surfaces perfect for biking, hiking, trail running, and even horseback riding. This scenic trail spans from Sturgeon Bay to the Door/Kewaunee County lines, and features forest landscapes and gorgeous views of the water. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t direct you to checking out the 11 incredible historic lighthouses of Door County! These lighthouse locations make the perfect photo op for your summer vacation snaps, as well as giving you a chance to learn more about the local history and architecture of maritime structures. Sherwood Point Lighthouse is only open to the public in the second weekend of June, as the rest of the year it is an active rental for members of the US Military.  Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light is located at a fully operational US Coast Guard Station, and visitors can explore the lower-level walkway. Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Light is accessed in the same area, and the grounds are open to the public during Lighthouse Walk weekend, the 2nd weekend in June.  Old Baileys Harbor Lighthouse is known for its unique bird-cage lantern room, and is now privately owned.  Baileys Harbor Range Lights grounds are open to the public, but the structures are closed.  Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is located in Peninsula Park.  Cana Island Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in all of Door County. It’s now operated as a museum by the Door County Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Preservation Society.  Chambers Island Lighthouse is accessible only by boat, and located on Chambers Island.  Pilot Island Lighthouse is only visible by water as its owned and operated by the Coast Guard.  Plum Island Lighthouse can be seen from the Washington Island Ferry.  Pottawatomie Lighthouse is located in Rock Island State Park, and is the first established lighthouse in Door County. It’ll be open daily during the summer season. Door County is also  known for its incredible galleries and local boutique shops with unique and artisan goods and fine gifts!  Explore the local towns in between beach days, and you’ll find a rich culture of fine arts, creativity, and unmatched potential for unique souvenir gifts!  You’ll have even the chance to get up close and personal with local artists in their studios, learn more about the creative process, and support local farms and businesses all at the same time.  Edgewood Orchard Galleries offers a gallery experience with shoppable items, as well as boasting a spectacular sculpture garden.  Popelka Trenchard Glass offers bespoke glass artworks, and often has demonstrations of the artist at work.  Off the Wheel Pottery offesr multiple local artists’ work on display.  Lily Bay Pottery is a beautiful gallery of custom pottery nestled on the impeccably kept grounds maintained by a Master Gardener.  There are truly just too many to list in one blog post, so you’ll just have to go see and explore for yourselves!

Next on our amazing list of perfect summer vacation road trip destinations in the midwest is New Buffalo!  Just a little over an hour outside of Chicago, this is the perfect weekend getaway for some fun in the sun. With sixteen miles of continuous shoreline, one-of-a-kind shopping and boutiques, artisanal eateries and cafes, waterfront boutique hotels, and the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, there’s no shortage of entertainment and fun.  This town nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan offers unmatched views of the lake, magnificent natural beauty with diverse landscapes, and a litany of outdoor summer fun including boating, hiking, swimming, fishing, and numerous watersports.  So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic of Waukegan and let’s hit the road! Whether you’re looking for novice walking trails, intermediate to expert hiking, or trails for cycling and running, you’ll find it here in New  Buffalo with nearly dozens of trails to choose from.  The Backroads Bikeway Trails offer 20 self-guided tours on paved roadways with lengths ranging from 5 miles to 60 miles, depending on your experience; hop on a tour with the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club or Apple Cider Century Bicycle Tours. The Chikaming Township Park and Preserve offers an astounding assortment of environments from wetlands to woodlands to prairies to riverlands across its 263 acres and a 5-acre lake to boot!  You’ll find it the perfect place to get in touch with nature, do some wildlife spotting, plant and flower photography, hiking and biking, birdwatching, and even fishing.  It’s a wonderful destination for families to explore together and get away from the screens for a while. Galien River County Park takes visitors through one of the most lush of the Great Lakes Marshes, a space that thousands of native plants and animals call home.  The region has a wide array of wildlife including nesting and migratory birds, frogs, reptiles, fish, and other animals.  This 86-acre preserve has a beautiful elevated boardwalk allowing you to walk above the water, cutting directly through the marsh for an up-close view of the habitat and its residents.  The park also has a 60-foot observation tower to enjoy panoramic views from above for a new perspective.  All trails but the “ridge trail” are ADA-accessible for those with disabilities and mobility aids, too.  Trails here are great for beginners and those looking for low-key hikes. The Robinson Woods Preserve is 80 acres of former agricultural lands, once used as orchard and row crops, which have now been overtaken by native plants and more than 100 years of tree and forest growth.  The preserve offers four different forest type regions to explore: a floodplain forest, southern hardwood swamp, mesic southern forest, and dry-mesic southern forest.  When coupled with neighbouring Flynn Woods Preserve, the two protected forests total 115 acres of protected natural area. Warren Dunes State Park offers a mix of natural forestlands, shoreline, and sand dunes for an unforgettable experience.  Enjoy 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline with 6 miles of hiking trails.  The park’s rugged dune formation rises to 260 feet above the lake for stunning views, and offers the unique opportunity to go hang-gliding (permits required)!  Head into the park and enjoy a mix of pristine beaches and undeveloped shoreline, richly forested dunes, large open dunes, and interdunal wetlands, making it a prime spot for migratory birds and strong biodiversity in wildlife.  The park also offers two campgrounds and a youth group camp ground. New Buffalo’s City Beach offers 800 feet of sandy beaches and City Boat Launch Harbor for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.  Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day from Thursday through Sunday 10AM to 7PM.  The Beach has an 18 acre recreation area, boardwalk nature trail through the dune lines, a full service snack bar, playgrounds and benches, and access for fishing at the Galien River Nature Preserve.  Enjoy a wide array of activities from swimming to paddleboarding to surfing to tanning on the sandy shores! Not interested in a BYO boat option? Not to worry!  The area has plenty of chartered options as well as rental opportunities for a day out on the waters of Lake Michigan.  Companies such as Captain John’s Boat Tours, Salmon Hunter Charters, New Buffalo Sailing Excursions, and the Oselka Marina Boat Rentals will have you covered for fishing and sailing activities.  You can also rent wave runners, kayaks, and paddleboards at Oselka Marina, Uncle Jib’s and Third Coast Paddling. Family-friendly activities aside from the beach include golfing, horseback riding, clay shooting, yoga, and more.  Explore the local farmers markets in the spring and summer seasons to shop for locally grown produce, locally made food, artisanal wares, and handmade gifts.  Explore the local historic sites and museums such as The Region of Three Oaks Museum, Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve, and New Buffalo Railroad Museum.

This weather has us thinking about basking in the late evening sun, sipping on a crisp, fresh glass of wine harvested right here in the Midwest. That’s right, folks, you don’t need to travel to the West Coast or to Europe to sample some of the finest vintages of vino.  The midwest is home to quite the variety of wineries and vineyards, and our climate in this region gives us a unique advantage to growing some of the finest grapes around. Today on the blog, we’re sharing our picks for great midwest wineries and wine trails to explore.  We recommend utilizing these as a springboard for a 4 day weekend road trip, as you travel and experience all the local regions have to offer, and sample unique wines and beverages.  It’s the perfect time to plan a romantic summer getaway with someone special.  So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from classic and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a romantic sunset with some rose or perhaps a few mimosas over brunch in the summer breeze! pouring different wines into the glasses arranged for the wine tasting on the counter The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Illinois features 11 award-winning wineries, including some of the state’s oldest and most celebrated!  While these wineries are shining stars in the region, there are more than 100 wineries and 450 vineyards, making our home state the 12th largest wine producing state in the US.  This 40-mile trail will take you through the scenic route introducing you to plenty of charming towns with wonderful eateries, shops, boutiques, and galleries to explore as well. The Heart of Illinois Wine Trail takes enthusiasts through 9 central Illinois wineries, celebrating that homegrown, hometown feel of the region.  You’ll stop by Lewistown, Galesburg, Oakford, Mackinaw, Canton, Washington, and Petersburg.  Ask any winery how to get your Wine Trail Passport and a list of giveaways and special events! The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail features 9 different wineries across central Indiana for a one-of-a-kind experience.  You’ll sample the finest wines there are to be found in the nearly 5,000 square mile grape-growing region called the Indiana Uplands Wine Country. Learn about the history of the land, how wine-making came to the area, and what makes it the perfect place to cultivate grapes! The Driftless Wine and Cheese Trail in Wisconsin takes visitors on a tour through 7 wineries and 7 cheese producers, for a total of 14 exciting culinary destinations. The trail aims to showcase the best of the best in Wisconsin’s history and agricultural treasures!  Meet local business owners and family run vineyards and creameries and learn about the history of the region’s wine making, cheese mongering, and passion for local eats. (Wine and cheese are of course included!)  It’s a great way to delve into local history and celebrate this iconic Midwest region. The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail in Michigan features 10 wineries with a diverse range of flavors and profiles you won’t find anywhere else.  You’ll experience some of the most breathtaking views along Grand Traverse Bay, and the unparalleled beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula region.  Visit during the spring and summer months and you’ll be treated to a wide selection of live events, special tastings, and limited engagements.  Plus, the region is also known to be home of the Brys Estate and their sprawling lavender garden, featuring more than 6.000 lavender plants and shrubs. The Leelanu Peninsula Wine Trail is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Old Mission, and brings you 20 more award winning vineyards and wineries!  Along the way you’ll experience that small town charm with quaint little towns and villages offering lots of unique shopping and eateries.  If nature is what you’re after, you’ll find an abundance along the drive featuring sprawling vineyards, farms, and forestlands, as well as at the wineries themselves with lush, verdant hills.  It’s no wonder that it’s become one of the top destinations in the Midwest for wine enthusiasts.

This weather has us thinking about basking in the late evening sun, sipping on a crisp, fresh glass of wine harvested right here in the Midwest. That’s right, folks, you don’t need to travel to the West Coast or to Europe to sample some of the finest vintages of vino.  The midwest is home to quite the variety of wineries and vineyards, and our climate in this region gives us a unique advantage to growing some of the finest grapes around. Today on the blog, we’re sharing our picks for great midwest wineries and wine trails to explore.  We recommend utilizing these as a springboard for a 4 day weekend road trip, as you travel and experience all the local regions have to offer, and sample unique wines and beverages.  It’s the perfect time to plan a romantic summer getaway with someone special.  So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from classic and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a romantic sunset with some rose or perhaps a few mimosas over brunch in the summer breeze! Couple having wine over lunch The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Illinois features 11 award-winning wineries, including some of the state’s oldest and most celebrated!  While these wineries are shining stars in the region, there are more than 100 wineries and 450 vineyards, making our home state the 12th largest wine producing state in the US.  This 40-mile trail will take you through the scenic route introducing you to plenty of charming towns with wonderful eateries, shops, boutiques, and galleries to explore as well. The Heart of Illinois Wine Trail takes enthusiasts through 9 central Illinois wineries, celebrating that homegrown, hometown feel of the region.  You’ll stop by Lewistown, Galesburg, Oakford, Mackinaw, Canton, Washington, and Petersburg.  Ask any winery how to get your Wine Trail Passport and a list of giveaways and special events! The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail features 9 different wineries across central Indiana for a one-of-a-kind experience.  You’ll sample the finest wines there are to be found in the nearly 5,000 square mile grape-growing region called the Indiana Uplands Wine Country. Learn about the history of the land, how wine-making came to the area, and what makes it the perfect place to cultivate grapes! The Driftless Wine and Cheese Trail in Wisconsin takes visitors on a tour through 7 wineries and 7 cheese producers, for a total of 14 exciting culinary destinations. The trail aims to showcase the best of the best in Wisconsin’s history and agricultural treasures!  Meet local business owners and family run vineyards and creameries and learn about the history of the region’s wine making, cheese mongering, and passion for local eats. (Wine and cheese are of course included!)  It’s a great way to delve into local history and celebrate this iconic Midwest region. Wine and cheese served for a friendly party in a bar or a restaurant. The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail in Michigan features 10 wineries with a diverse range of flavors and profiles you won’t find anywhere else.  You’ll experience some of the most breathtaking views along Grand Traverse Bay, and the unparalleled beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula region.  Visit during the spring and summer months and you’ll be treated to a wide selection of live events, special tastings, and limited engagements.  Plus, the region is also known to be home of the Brys Estate and their sprawling lavender garden, featuring more than 6.000 lavender plants and shrubs. The Leelanu Peninsula Wine Trail is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Old Mission, and brings you 20 more award winning vineyards and wineries!  Along the way you’ll experience that small town charm with quaint little towns and villages offering lots of unique shopping and eateries.  If nature is what you’re after, you’ll find an abundance along the drive featuring sprawling vineyards, farms, and forestlands, as well as at the wineries themselves with lush, verdant hills.  It’s no wonder that it’s become one of the top destinations in the Midwest for wine enthusiasts.

Our Gearhead Guru Guide series is designed to help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to care for your vehicle inside and out.  We want to make regular maintenance and basic troubleshooting as easy as possible by sharing our wealth of knowledge!  From washing and detailing your car, to organizing your garage, to preparing your vehicle for the ultimate road trip, we’ll be covering a little bit of everything. Today’s topic is focused on your vehicle’s HVAC system, and  how to diagnose and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.   Even with regular maintenance, your vehicle’s AC is bound to break down or need repairs.  Especially when the weather warms up and it’s used more frequently. Let’s take a look at some of the basics of how the AC system works, and key terms you need to know! A/C compressor An engine-driven pump in the air conditioning system that increases the pressure of the refrigerant. A/C drain hose A hose used to drain condensation from the air conditioner evaporator. Air conditioner refrigerant The liquid used in air conditioning systems, which has the property of boiling at ambient air temperatures. Air conditioning The cooling and dehumidification of a vehicle's cabin air. Air conditioning filter A device that removes contaminants from external air entering the ventilation system. Air filter A device that filters incoming air fed to the engine. Climate control The computer-controlled regulation of heating and air conditioning systems to accommodate a user-specified temperature setting. HVAC Heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Radiator core & AC condenser The part of a vehicle's radiator and air conditioning systems made up of small-diameter tubes with a series of thin, heat-conducting fins in between. Rear HVAC The climate-control system used to regulate heating and air conditioning for the area of a vehicle behind the front row seating. Your vehicle’s climate control system is a complex combination of components that include the compressor, condenser, receiver/dryer or an accumulator, a thermal expansion valve or orifice tube, and an evaporator. The compressor helps pressurize refrigerant to cool the air, and can sense the temperatures both inside and outside the vehicle, moves air to the condenser, etc.  The condenser helps reduce the temperature and the pressure of any hot gasses emitted from the refrigeration system, and moves cold liquid refrigerant to your receiver/dryer or the accumulator. If you notice that the air coming out of your car’s vents is not as crisp and fresh as it usually is, there may be trouble brewing.  The most common parts to need service are the compressor and the condenser, followed by electrical shorts and broken fans. Additionally, low refrigerant (can be caused by leaks), a worn or broken v-belt or serpentine belt (helps the compressor function), or a malfunctioning compressor switch can sometimes also be at fault. Let’s learn more about how to gain a better understanding of what’s happening to diagnose the issue before you bring it in to your trusted technician. First, we’ll do a quick visual once over.  Then turn your car on, put the temperature dial to the coldest setting on a high fan. Observe if the system is producing any air, how cold it is, if there are any odors.  Listen closely to assess if there is reasonable air flow and no mechanical or other abnormal noises are present.  When you bring the vehicle into the service center, this will help your mechanic or technician troubleshoot further.  Let’s take a look at some of the other clues that can point you in the right direction for a diagnosis. If the air comes out of the vents cool but not quite cold enough… this may indicate you need a recharge of your AC refrigerant.  If your technician checks the refrigerant and it’s at an adequate level ,it may be a sign that you have a blocked or failed condenser unit; the condenser may have a blockage or be damaged, reducing or stopping its ability to convert the refrigerant from gas to liquid, leading to inadequate temperatures.  It may also be a result of a failed clutch switch, rendering the air compressor inoperable, and preventing it from condensing liquid refrigerant into gas. If the vents are producing tepid air and it isn’t cold at all… This is a sign that you may have a refrigerant leak in your system. A leak can happen at any time, and is most often caused by a puncture hole or broken hose, a malfunctioning compressor or condenser, or even the evaporator.  You’ll need to take the vehicle to your trusted service technician; they’ll perform a special test utilizing a black light to look for the location of the refrigerant leak. Once they find the location of the leak, they’ll recharge the refrigerant and it should blow cold air again. If your AC smells stale and mildewy…. You’ll need to replace your air filter. As you drive, the air filter collects dirt, dust, water, and other pollutants and particulate matter. After some time, this can lead to build up and produce a stale odor. You can generally remedy this by replacing the air filter! If that doesn’t alleviate the problem, you can ask about antibacterial cleaning treatments. You should be checking and cleaning your air filter out at least every 3 to 6 months, with a replacement every 10-12 months. If there is no air coming out of the vents at all… it’s time to take the vehicle into a trusted service technician. In general, no air flow from the AC can point to a much larger problem such as a blown fuse or bad relay, blocked air intake (either at the exterior windshield vents or in the recirculation process), damaged belts or detached belts, broken or blocked hoses preventing airflow from the vents, damage to the blower motor or blower resistor. If you’d like to try troubleshooting at home, you can replace the fuses or the relay yourself with a little elbow grease.  However, if the problem persists your mechanic will administer a test to the other components and replace them as needed. If your AC system makes a terrible noise when you turn it on… indicates a larger component in the system has started to malfunction or debris is blocking the airflow.. The system should be virtually silent with very little sound minus the flow of air from the vents.  If you hear anything like rattling, banging, squealing, or other unusual noises , book a service appointment ASAP and avoid using the AC until you do.  Your mechanic will perform a very thorough inspection to determine exactly which components are failing, blocked, or damaged and replace them.