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We’re very excited to announce that today is National Skyscraper Day, and being as we live near one of the greatest cities in the US, we’re celebrating Chicago Architecture!  The world’s first skyscraper, The “Manhattan Building, was built in Chicago in 1888-1891 as designed by William Le Baron Jenney.  Although The Manhattan Building was but a mere 138 feet tall, it originally towered well above the rest of the city’s surrounding buildings. more The Rookery Building is a historic office building completed by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root in 1888, with help from Frank Lloyd Wright and William Eugene Drummond, and is one of their most iconic buildings and at the time of erection was one of the tallest buildings in the world at 11 stories high!  Once the home of their architectural firm Burnham and Root, it’s now a functional office building for multiple Chicago businesses and organizations.  Tourists are welcome to go into the lobby to observe its gorgeous architecture. Chicago Cultural Center building opened its doors in 1897 as the city’s first public library and Civil War Memorial, and was designated a Chicago Landmark historic building in 1976.  This Neoclassical style building.  It’s currently operated by Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and remains the official reception venue for all diplomatic meetings of the Mayor of Chicago and their esteemed guests.  Currently, it houses art exhibits, free programs and community events, and remains open to architectural tours. The Wrigley Building is located in the city’s Magnificent Mile, right across from the Tribune Tower.  Construction began in 1920 by architects Graham, Anderson, Probst, & White, and was completed a year later in 1921 in the impressive Spanish Colonial Architectural style, inspired in part by the Giralda Tower of the Cathedral in Seville, Spain  It soars high above the city with an impressive clocktower, and 6 stunning shades of white that increase in brightness as the building rises.  The facade is illuminated each evening and through the night to provide a glimmering beacon for the city.  It was officially entered as a Chicago Landmark in 2012. Tribune Tower was originally built in 1868 and destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, and and rebuilt over the course of two years from 1923-1925 in the Neo-Gothic/Gothic Revival style; In 1922, the Chicago Tribune held a global competition for design firms to submit their best design for the press’ new headquarters, and with more than 250 entries from more than 20 countries, the powers that be selected a design by Raymond Hood, John Mead Howells, John Vinci, and Edward J. Burling.   It was sold off in 2016 by Tribune Media to a group of developers, and is currently repurposed as luxury housing. Other Buildings of note include: TheMART (formerly Merchandise Mart), Marina City, Willis Tower (formerly The Sears Tower), Aqua Tower, St. Jane, Auditorium Building, NBC Tower. Want to tour the city’s architecture, but not break the bank with a paid tour? Check out this great Free Tours by Foot video on YouTube: Learn more about Chicago’s First Skyscrapers from the Chicago Architecture Center:

We’re back with the latest edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  Whether you’re looking to occupy your Labor Day Weekend with fun-filled activities, or you’re planning ahead for weekend breaks from Back to School wackiness, we’ve got you covered! more On September 1st at Hinkston Park, stop by with your special someone for “Pop-Up Picnic in the Park Couples Date Night. On September 1st, 2nd and 3rd, enjoy a Guided Museum Tour of the African American Museum at England Manor at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM! On September 2nd, enjoy First Friday on Mainstreet in Libertyville from 10AM to 9PM for an entire day filled with community bonding, art, shopping, food, live music, and so much more! On September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th the Downtown area of Highwood is transforming into Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row for its 5th Annual Nashwood Music Festival! It’s three whole days of FREE live music with country, bluegrass, southern rock flare.  There will also be plenty of delicious food and drink specials throughout the weekend, and 25 different venues including 10 outdoor spaces! On September 3rd shop your heart out at the Back to School Pop-Up at 12912 Cheyenne Road in Waukegan and check out the plentiful wares of local vendors and artisans! On September 3rd in the evening from 6PM to 8PM, head over to the Plant House in Waukegan for an evening of Therapeutic Art Making and experiential art making!  You’ll get to socialize, try new materials and mediums, and take a creative approach to self expression for your mental health. On Saturday September 3rd,  head over to the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce office from 5PM to 11PM for Wauconda’s 23rd Annual Street Dance event! On September 4th at the Belvidere Discount Mall, the gearheads among us will get their engines revving for the Cars & Elotes Labor Day Celebration event! September 4th at Art Pop in Lake Forest you can stop by anytime between 10AM and 5PM for “The Inside Art Show at Art Pop” September 3rd through 5th is the last weekend for the Bristol Renaissance Faire of Lake County IL. September 8th in Lake Zurich, stop by in the evening around 5PM to the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for a super exciting “Cruisin’ Lake Zurich Car Show” event! September 10th from 9AM to 1PM enjoy a morning filled with fun classic cars at t he Grayslake Rotary and Fop Car Show Cruisin’ on Center at Downtown Grayslake Center Street. September 10th and 11th is the very exciting 11th Annual Mundelein Arts Festival, from 10AM to 5PM you can enjoy arts, music, food, shopping, and much more! Free admission and free parking. Sunday September 11th at the Impact Fuel Room is a wild and joyful “Drag Me to Brunch” event in Libertyville! Fun, food, and entertainment! On September 15th, 22nd, 24th, 29th starting at 5PM, head over to Waukegan BMX to catch the Local Race Single as part of the local race series for just $15. On September 17th in Lake Forest at the Gordon Community Center from 5PM to 7:30PM come on out for the Annual Block Party 2022! On September 21st at Green Town on The Rocks, come catch some wonderful live music from 6PM to 9PM at the lakefront with Billy Garner. September 24th at Cuneo Mansion & Gardens is a wonderful support charity event “Bottoms Up for Babies” with live music and a live speaker event starting at 6:30! Come on down to the Waukegan Public Library’s NonFiction Book Club on September 28th from 5PM to 7:30PM and learn a little something new! On September 30th from 6PM to 9PM at Dandelion Gallery & Studio, come over and paint with Artist Cody Madura for an “Adult Paint Social: Autumn Inspired” class! September 30th at the Genesee Theatre from 6:30 to 7:30PM, get a jump start on the season of scary with a Ghost Wauk Tour!

Today we're covering some of the most interesting and exciting places to visit in nearby Fort Wayne, Indiana!  Did you know that in just a few short hours you can explore a whole new state and see gorgeous artwork, explore historical sites, take in natural wonders, and enjoy a night out on the town?  If you're looking for an affordable road trip to take with family and friends, Fort Wayne has so much to offer.  Check out our latest Travel Guide and find some new destinations to visit and make lasting memories with your loved ones! more Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo first opened its doors in 1965, and this impressive 40 acre facility is now home to 1,400 animals.  It’s a wonderful way to spend some time outdoors, learning new facts about animals, meeting critters up close and personal, and enjoying some quality family bonding for all ages.  It’s budget friendly as well, with tickets under $20 (babies are free!) Science Central is a regional museum dedicated to inspiring young minds to explore the sciences and STEAM activities with hands-on learning!  Tickets are affordably priced between $10-$12, with kids 2 and under free.  Where else could you check out mastodon bones, walk on the moon, and perform science experiments live?  There’s also lots of great physical activities including a two-story slide!  Perfect place to bring your high-energy kids to get the wiggles out. The Genealogy Center and Lincoln Collection is a unique experience for those who love a more scholarly destination.  Enjoy a tour of the facility with a knowledgeable guide for personal exploration or research purposes.  Ask the Genealogy Librarians questions about researching your family tree, or schedule a personal consultation for a 30 minute in-depth one-to-one meeting. Debrand Fine Chocolate is a super sweet way to have some fun and a delicious reward at the end!  This artisanal chocolatier offers guided tours to visitors of all ages where you’ll watch a short informational film, sample some of the finest confections, get a behind the scenes look at operations, and then exit through the most delicious gift shop there is! Sweetwater Music Store is the largest purveyor of instruments and music gear in the United. States.  Want to try your hand at “Stairway” on a spectacular electric guitar? No one will stop you from rocking out, here!  Open 7 days a week, this incredible musical supercenter is a musicians dream. The Embassy Theatre was built in 1928 as a movie theatre, but was later converted into a music hall and performance center. It’s now the official home of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra.  Stop by and book tickets for an upcoming show and enjoy some stand-up comedy, musical theatre, live concert, and so much more. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is a wondrous place to behold! This enclosed nature conservatory is located in downtown Fort Worth and is a lush, tropical paradise filled with bold blossoms, waving palms, and a cascading waterfall.  With three indoor gardens covering 24,500 square feet, you’ll have plenty of exciting things to see.  There’s also a whimsical goldfish pond that’s sure to delight curious minds! The Fun Farm is a one-of-a-kind memorable experience with 100 square feet of space to explore in each unique playhouse!  Rent an individual play house for your family and friends and spend the day laughing, making memories, and enjoying all sorts of cheerful entertainment.  You can opt in to balloon art, face painting, caricature drawing, and even visits from costumed pals! Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in nearby Auburn is a must see for automotive fans!  Dedicated to preservation of Auburn Automobiles, Cord Automobiles, and Duesenberg Motors Company.  With a combination of both rotating and permanent exhibits, there’s always something new and exciting to see when you visit.  Whether you’re enjoying car themed artworks, exploring vintage vehicles, or learning about automotive engineering, we’re sure it’ll be a hit on your vacation. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art’s focus is collecting, preserving, and exploring decades of history in American Art, and encouraging the public to engage in these unique perspectives. With both permanent and rotating traveling exhibits, visitors can observe and appreciate artwork from the 19th century through today. Escape Rooms in the Fort Wayne area include “Fort Wayne Escape Room”, “ Escapology”, “LockedUpLife” and “Hysterium Escapes” with themes and difficulties of numerous levels tailored to your party’s age group.  A great exercise for teamwork and camaraderie as you work to solve a puzzle, solve codes, and explore mysteries all before the clock runs out! Artlink Contemporary Art Gallery is a regional non-profit organization that supports the creative arts through exhibitions, workshops, classes, and events!  The gallery provides free admission for all to enjoy the work of local Indiana state artists. Lindenwood Nature Preserv e is an outstanding 100 acre wooded preserve with a gorgeous open-air pavilion, 4 different hiking trails to explore, picnic facilities, and a sparkling lake. Lakeside Park and Rose Garden is a stunning facility with 2,000 rose plants,a fish pond, and 25.8 acres of space for enjoying recreational activities such as trail walks, tennis, basketball, fishing, skating, picnics, and more.  It has been open since 1908 and named a National Rose Garden in 1928.  It’s a wonderful place to rest, relax, and even enjoy a little romance! Bread and Circus Gallery is committed to highlighting community connection to art through artist residencies, local and regional art exhibitions, and international and national artist mentorships.  It’s the place to be if you want to have your finger on the pulse of emerging and newly established artists on the rise. Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum is located in a former engine house, and showcases artifacts, gear, memorabilia, and even fire trucks from days gone by!  It’s going to delight and impress even the youngest in your midst, especially the fire truck enthusiasts. You’ll have a chance to take a journey back in time through two floors of exhibits, and can even opt into a special workshop to get some safety training of your own! Hanson Quarry Observation Deck is an impressive and thrilling viewing deck above a 1,000-foot-deep hole in the ground known as “Indiana’s Grand Canyon.  You don’t have to be a geological expert to enjoy the magnificent sight of this limestone quarry!  It’s a gorgeous photo op for the whole family to enjoy. Have you got a favourite place to visit in Fort Wayne, Indiana that we’ve left off this list? Let us know in the comments on our social media and we may include it in a future road trip guide! Walking Downtown Fort Wayne Indiana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxwdG-JthFc Things to Do in Fort Wayne Indiana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P9YFF_VQXA

There’s no better way to say farewell to summer and hello to the pending fall weather than a great campout!  And of course, as the nights get cooler and the days shorter, a great campfire is an absolute must! Today is national campfire day, and we thought it fitting to share fun and easy ways to camp in your vehicle!  No matter if you’re just taking a little nap on the side of the highway on an epic road trip, or you’ve made plans for a wilderness adventure as a weekend getaway, you’ll find lots of useful content on today’s blog.  We’ve got tips and tricks for campfires, campsite meals, gadgets and gizmos to camp in your car without a tent, and more. more Here’s some easy hacks to staying safe while using your car as a campsite: Make sure the space you choose for your car campout is a legal parking area; some spaces may require temporary passes, permits, or registration. Choose a flat, shaded area so your car will be stable and cool, and make sure the parking brake is engaged to avoid accident or injury. Adhere to posted signage and any warnings for roving wildlife, natural disaster prone areas, areas available to hunters/bowman, etc. Charge your electronics while you’re driving and ensure they’re fully powered before you turn in for the night.  Otherwise, choose a portable solar charger or battery pack for your car and electronics. Ensure all of your food is safely stowed in a container with a secure lid or a cooler. Hang a battery operated headlamp or battery operated lantern nearby for safety especially in case you need to take a bathroom break, check on your pets or human companions, or just do a little late night reading. Make sure your windows are open to provide proper ventilation and air circulation; you can DIY your own mesh window covering or buy a car tent mesh window cover. Make sure you have given your location to a family member or friend for safety, and check in with them before you turn in for the evening, and again when you wake up, for safety precautions. Check out this really cool camping conversion for a car: Great Car Camping Gadgets Buffing Hero’s Non-Inflatable Car Mattress is under $200 and a great portable mattress for backseats, hatchbacks, and more. Portable Camping an with LED Lantern and 40H Battery Life is great for circulating air and keeping cool while resting for less than $20. EcoNour  Car Window Screens for Camping 2 Pack is under $20 and keeps the bugs and pests out but lets fresh air in and is under $20 a pair. Tips and Tools for Making a Great Campfire: Adhere to any posted signage that allows or prohibits bonfires, firepits, grilling, etc. Follow one of the 5 methods of building a campfire. Check out Smokey the Bear’s tips for maintaining a safe and sustained campfire. Do not light a campfire or ignite anything near a vehicle as it is a fire hazard. Learn how to choose the right area of a campsite to build your campfire or fire pit. Snag yourself these essential campfire tools The Campfire Pocket Torch on REI.com A good pair of fire gloves from REI.com Campfire utensils from REI.com A Cast Iron Fire Pit Griddle A Cast Iron Dutch Oven Wonderful Campfire Recipes to Try on Your Next Campout Vegan Camping Meals Campfire Fish Recipe Campfire Trout with Herbs and Bacon Mini S’mores Grilled Corn in Husk Camper’s Breakfast Hash Skillet Herb Bread Get-Up-And-Go Granola

There’s only a few short weeks left until the season ends and school begins again, so let’s make the most of it with one last memorable camping adventure of the Summer! Today we’re highlighting some of our best picks for gadgets we’ve found for those who seek to elevate their road trip to the next level.  We’re covering must-have gadgets for globetrotting “glampers” who want a taste of that instagrammable “Van Life” with all the modern amenities.  You’ll find everything from portable power units that can run your whole car or camper, outdoor friendly furniture and sleeping mats, and upscale GPS options for your offroad dreams.  Let us help you make the best of your last blast of summer in the coming weeks. more So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy that warm summer breeze while you can! If you’ve tried any of the items on this post, or have a suggestion of your own?  Feel free to chime in with a comment on our social media.  We’d love to hear what you have to say! YETI’s GoalZero portable power generator is a must-have for those who prefer to live off-grid on their road trips and campsites.  This plug-and-play option has solar powered charging, so you’ll never have to worry about the dangers of transporting fuel tanks or making a pit stop at a gas station to keep it powered.  It powers everything from laptops to tablets to gaming devices and phones, as well as featuring wall outlet options for lights and small cooking appliances.  Perfect for travel bloggers to keep their devices charged while recording beautiful scenery and vistas!  Works in weather conditions as chilly as  32º or as warm as 104º! Luno’s Air Mattresses are a top tier choice when it comes to inflatable mattresses for car camping and van life.  No matter what vehicle you’re using for your road trips, you’ll find one that fits perfectly for your exact make and model.  The company also makes a variety of additional accessories to make life more comfortable on the road. The Tread Powersport Navigator by Garmin is the ultimate accessory for your off-road adventures.  Gone are the days of shaking your phone in exasperation as the signal drops out again.  Forget about waiting for the infotainment system to load with its 1 bar of service.  With Tread, you’ll have seamless transition from road to rugged terrain along with a group ride option with radio and tracking for up to 20 of your pals.  You can sync the data across several wireless devices, too. It's perfect for traveling off the beaten track, with its weather resistant features and topographic mapping options.for North and Central America as well as US Forest Roads, Motor Vehicle Use Maps, and street makes of North America.  It highlights land boundaries and national parks and much more. A portable shower like the NEMO is an essential device for all hikers and campers to keep in their vehicle. Bid farewell to dirty boots, gear, and car mats;  rinse your equipment off before stowing it for the ride home, or wash your boots after hitting the muddy hiking trails.  Or keep it on hand at your next off-grid campout, so you can have a nice warm shower with fresh clean water!  It’s even great for hosing down your pets after a day in the mud or the sand!  No need to hang it off your vehicle like standard gravity showers, this one is easily portable and convenient with a foot pump and pressurized waterflow. The Belkin Magnetic Wireless Apple Compatible charger is the lowest priced item on our list, but certainly a must-have for tech savvy travelers. It’s compatible with the newest iPhone models from the 12 onwards, and uses USB-C and works with official MagSafe cases. The Carsule is an amazing pop-up camping option that fits most small to medium vehicles with hatchbacks or upward swing tailgates.  It easily folds and stows away in your trunk with space saving features.  Photographers and travel bloggers will enjoy the flexibility of being able to work on their photos, videos, and posts on the go. Campers and hikers will love the convenience for rests in between long hikes or day-to-day campsite rotation.  It’s a great budget friendly option with quick assembly that’s great for solo travel or couples.

Welcome to another Summer Edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  We’ve done our best to round up some super fun events and family friendly fare.  You’ll find something for everyone in your social circle to come together and enjoy in our last full month of summer. So what are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present to appreciate the little moments with your loved ones. more On August 3rd at te Bonnie Brook Golf Course Clubhouse enjoy some live music and fantastic food for just $10 a meal at the “Chillin & Grillin Event with Matt Meyer” from 5PM to 8PM. On August 4th at Waukegan Municipal Beach from 7AM to 10AM stop by and enjoy the local Bird Walk event and learn more about local wildlife. Shorebird migration is abundant in early August, and there’s lots to varieties of our fine featured friends to observe. On August 5th at BMX Waukegan, all ages and skill levels of enthusiasts are invited to join in the fun for a BMX clinic hosted by 2x Olympian Nic Long. Registration in advance is required. August 5th starting at 5:30 is Afro-Caribbean Night at Stretch’s Sports Bar and Grill!  The kitche n will be serving up delicious jerk chicken, curries, oxtail with red beans and rice, cabbage, and mac and cheese. At 9PM you can catch some hot tracks with DJ Rickybobby Moore and DJ Hypnosis. Start your day with some calm on August 6th with Yoga at the Beach with Marlene at the Stiner Pavillion sponsored by Waukegan Park District! Bring your own mat and yoga blocks and of course, some chill vibes. The session is open to all levels of practice! Catch the last free Waukegan Band concert of the season on August 9th at 9PM at the Stiner Pavillion sponsored by Waukegan Park District.  Bring a chair, blanket, your favourite eats and your best pals and enjoy an evening of beautiful music from “Prismatic Spectrum: The People’s Choice.” On August 10th you can enjoy a workshop on buying and selling homes from the comfort of your current one! Join the Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim from 11AM to 12PM for “Fiscally Fit: Get Moving: A 60 minute Home Buying Workout” that’s tailored to buyers and sellers alike.  Learn more about the process and have your questions answered in this virtual meetup. August 13th is a great day to head over to the Kids’ Fair 2022 from 9:30AM at the Foglia YMCA of Lake Zurich for some great family fun. On August 15th beginning at 11AM over at Briarwood Country Club you can enjoy a beautiful day of golfing and fundraising for the 20th Annual Golf Outing for A Safe Place, to benefit domestic violence outreach and support in Chicago/Chicagoland area. On August 17th head over to Bevier Park for the “GO Waukegan Glow Walk” and enjoy an hour long community wide event from 7PM to 8PM, weather permitting. Head over to Bown Park on August 20th between 12PM and 4PM to celebrate literary great Ray Bradbury’s birthday with the 2022 Ray Bradbury Dandelion Wine Arts and Music Festival on Saturday! On August 26th the Waukegan Public Library is hosting another wonderful Summer Courtyard Series performance with artist John Nepper Bone Appetit from 12PM to 1PM with free admission! On August 27th head over to Maplewood Park in Deerfield for FAmily Field Day with your loved ones from 10AM to 12PM. Got an event coming up that you think our readers would enjoy? Let us know in a comment on our social media and we may included it in a future update for the following months!

Check out our picks for great gearhead content on YouTube! In case you haven’t noticed, we really really love cars!  In fact, when we’re not here on the sales floor or in the auto group office, you’ll find many of us out on the road or in our garages working on our own cars.  But even the most enthusiastic Gearhead today’s post comes in.  We’ve rounded up our picks for some of our favorite channels on YouTube for car enthusiasts of all skill levels. more Whether you love to be hands-on under the hood and live the DIY lifestyle, or you prefer the adrenaline rush of track day, there’s something for everyone on today’s blog.  Check out these Car Vloggers and feel free to suggest your fave in the comments and we may feature your picks on our next YouTuber Roundup #1 Donut Media This channel’s content is educational, extensive, vastly interesting, and cleverly presented with a sense of cheeky humor.  Donut Media is the channel for those who want to “nerd out” about cars including fun facts, Top 10 lists, product comparison videos, car news, and so much more. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a more lighthearted approach to automotive topics and education. The team at Donut clearly love what they do, and no matter if you love new cars, old cars, or something in between - Donut Media has a video for you! #2 Mighty Car Mods This charming dynamic duo of Aussie gearheads, Marty and Moog, hves some of the most entertaining content from the other side of the globe.  From beaters to brand new cars, they do it all on their own, always adding their own personal stamp and spin to their projects.  Not only do they modify and mend their favourite cars for racing and daily driving, but they also make movies and music.  What’s not to love about a pair of best friends bonding over what they love? We could all use a little more of their jovial personalities and uplifting attitudes! #3 Engineering Explained Have you ever wondered where combustion engines will be in 10 years?  Curious about the chemical reaction that takes place under the hood of your car?  Want to know how each part of the engine fits together and why it was designed that way? Engineering Explained sets out to break down the most basic question: “How does it all work?” Thanks to Engineering Explained, car enthusiasts of any level will find even the toughest topics broken down into easy to understand tidbits.  Jason Fenske presents his knowledge in a straightforward, easily-digestible way so that you can gain a little insight into how your fave cars work and run, and become a better car owner in the process. #4 Tavarish Tavarish is knowledgeable, opinionated, a big personality, and his personal car collection is a perfect match to his vibe.  You’ll find a wide variety of content on his channel, including some super fun crossover content and challenges with his fellow YouTube Vlogger pals!  This Russian-born and New Jersey-raised car enthusiast has a delightful collection of videos on modifying and repairing cars.  His playlist of 60-Second reviews is perfect for those with short attention spans!  Get the scoop on the latest and greatest cars out there. Looking for inspiration on designing your garage? Check out his dream garage build where he takes you from start to finish in revamping it to fit his needs!  Watch as he buys cars off of Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other local outlets and whips them into shape as the “whip of his dreams.” #5 The Hoonigans Known by collectors, drivers, and enthusiasts alike - the Hoonigan channel has really carved out a name for themselves in the automotive industry.  This team lives for track day, and consistently impress again and again with their tricks, stuns, and Don’t try this at home, folks; many of the stunts and adventures The Hoonigans partake in are dangerous to the inexperienced driver! Stay safe at home and boost your adrenaline by watching from your phone, tablet, or laptop. #6 Gears & Gasoline With more than 1 million subscribers on YouTube, this channel is perfect for vehicle enthusiasts of all kinds.  This passionate team of vloggers has dedicated their channel to chronicling their car modifications, test drives, track days, and even road trip recaps.  With cars ranging from budget friendly options to high end sports cars, there’s plenty to keep you intrigued and subscribed to this channel! Who doesn’t love a little Sunday Drive ASMR? Count us in, that’s for sure!

Summer Vacation is all about having fun, and what could be more entertaining than celebrating National Zookeeper week at some of the most amazing Zoos in the area! We're taking a look at the best zoos in Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri that are worth visiting while taking a little family getaway. We've also rounded up some additional picks in each state as well as closer zoos in Illinois and Wisconsin, and highlighted what great brand initiatives our vehicle makers have implemented. Check it out on today's blog! more Exploring Great Zoos Worthy of A Little Family Road Trip INDIANA Indianapolis Zoo in Indianapolis is an accredited 64-acre non-profit zoo with an on site public aquarium and botanical garden nestled along the riverbanks of White River State Park. It's home to more than 1400 animals, and the facilities are also home to the Global Center for Species Survival dedicated to conservation efforts. Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville was Indiana's very first zoo, and is now an accredited 50-acre zoo and botanical garden complex with 700 different animals from across the globe! In addition to its permanent residents, the museum also holds special events, presentations, workshops, and special guests. Black Pine Animal Sanctuary in Albion is an 18-acre permanent refuge and rescue for exotic animals who have retired from performances, public entertainment, or even captive-bred “domesticated pets.” It's considered a Professional Animal Retirement Center; it's also the only accredited Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries organization in the state of Indiana and the Midwest which is home to multiple animal species. The venue is open to the public and aims to educate visitors on being responsible animal caretakers and how best to support conservation efforts and animal welfare. Other notable zoo and wildlife facilities in Indiana include: Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City, Fort wayne Children’s Zoo in Fort Wayne, and the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend IOWA Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines is a 49-acre zoological facility in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and is the only accredited zoo in Iowa. With more than 100 animals on site, the venue is dedicated to furthering the education of the public in regards to species preservation, environmental conservation, and scientific research in Biology and Zoology. Families will love visiting the baby animal exhibits and hands-on feedings. There are also numerous special events throughout the year such as Zoo Brew running June through August, the Safari Soiree 2022, and special Members only events. National Mississippi River Eco Tourism Center, Museum, and Aquarium in Dubuque is a unique facility with a focus on preservation, conservation, education, and research centering on Mississippi River wildlife and environment. It's part aquarium, part museum, part science center and 100% fascinating! You'll find an 8,000 gallon aquarium dedicated to local fish, plants, and aquatic species. It also hosts an ever changing collection of exhibits and lecture series intended to inspire visitors and youth to explore stewardship and scientific research! MISSOURI St Louis Zoo in St. Louis offers free admission and access to its whopping 89 acre property where it houses its accredited facilities in animal management, conservation, and a research and education center. The St Louis Zoo boasts a collection of over 14,000 animals from 500 different species at any given time. It's one of the country's top facilities with realistic and natural looking displays and habitats, and known for its innovative strategies for animal care and wildlife conservation. Sophia M Sachs Butterfly House inside the Missouri Botanical Garden in Chesterfield is an unconventional wildlife center and research center accredited with the Association for Zoos and Aquariums. Instead of focusing on reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and aquatic pals, this is an 8,000sq foot glass conservatory containing beautiful species and varieties of butterflies and insects. The Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center and rescue that focuses on preserving and reintroducing endangered wolves, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Their mission is to provide the general public with an up-close-and-personal experience to educate and raise awareness for conservation efforts. The goal is to provide safe shelter and care for injured and sick wolves with an end goal of returning them to the wild whenever possible. Other notable zoo and wildlife in facilities in Missouri include: Dickerson Park Zoo in Springfield, Kansas City Zoo in Kansas City, Grants Farm in St. Louis, Kansas City Zoo in Kansas City, Branson's Promised Land Zoo in Branson A cute little monkey sitting with a young man Planning a Trip with a little less mileage? We've got you covered. Check out these lists of Zoos in Illinois and Wisconsin: ILLINOIS Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield Peoria Zoo in Peoria Henson Robinson Zoo in Springfield Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington Scoville Zoo in Decatur Cosley Zoo in Wheaton The Niabi Zoo in Coal Valley WISCONSIN Racine Zoo in Racine Irvine Park Zoo in Chippewa Falls Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee Menominee Park Zoo in Oshkosh NEW Zoo and Adventure Park in Suamico Here at Classic Auto Group we're pleased to know that the brands we sell are equally committed to preserving biodiversity and environmental conservation. And we're doing our part to ensure that our dealerships can reduce our carbon footprint over time, and lead the way to a greener tomorrow. TOYOTA And Conservation efforts, and WHC BIODIVERSITY partnerships. KIA's Endangered Turtles Campaign and Kia's Wildlife Trust partnerships. General Info on Wildlife Conservation Efforts

We love creating new travel guides for our readers, and helping you find new, exciting, and interesting places to explore! Today we're highlighting some of our picks for great car museums that highlight transportation history and the evolution of the automobile. We've even included a helpful mileage guide so you can plot your adventure there and back, and find other stops along the route. Did we leave your favourite off the list? Let us know in the comments on our social media and we may just include your suggestions in a future post update. Amazing Automotive Museums to Explore: Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners , MI – 215 Miles from Classic Auto Group Just a short trip from our dealership is this gem of a car museum, chronicling the history of the American Automobile. The facility hopes that by sharing the history and heritage of automotive industry, visitors of all ages will be able to connect with the past and improve the future of transportation! What started in the early 1960s as the personal collection of Donald Gilmore was eventually grown into an incredible museum thanks to the ingenuity of his wife Genevieve. The non-profit foundation and museum have collected more than 400 vehicles and established a 90-acre historic campus including a vintage restored diner, working Shell Gas station, and additional smaller museums! Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, AL – 758 Miles from Classic Auto Group This incredible time capsule of transportation history showcases more than 1,500 motorcycles and cars including more than 50 Lotus Racecars! It's also home to the 3 day long Annual Barber Vintage Festival, one of the most renowned motorcycle events in the world! And if that's not enough, the facilities also include an on-site racing track. If you prefer the more educational side of things, a trip to the on-site Museum Research Library and archives is in order; you can take a gander at some iconic trophies, awards, toys, models, artwork, and so much more. Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, MA – 1,019 Miles from Classic Auto Group Located on a portion of the grounds in Larz Anderson Park, the facilities are home to America's Oldest Motorcar Collection! Two new exhibitions have been added to the 2022 roster, including “Hidden Treasures” and “Born of Necessity,” shown alongside the permanent exhibit known as “The Anderson Collection.” Visitors can get an up close look at historic vehicles and the evolution of the automobile since its inception, and can attend a series of workshops, lectures, and also observe memorabilia and literature on the subject. With the advent of warmer weather, the museum has also rekindled its series of outdoor driving events and car shows, so be sure to check out the calendar of events for updates! Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, FL – 1,141 Miles from Classic Auto Group This incredible automotive museum is truly one-of-a-kind and covers the history of the exhilarating sport of Drag Racing. Since 1976, the facility has been home to 300 cars on display in multiple galleries in 2 buildings. In addition, the facilities also house a collection of memorabilia and history presentations in racing sports history. It also houses the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, where you'll learn about top competitors across the globe! They're open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It makes a wonderful short stop-off on your next road trip or family vacation to Florida. National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV – 1,934 Miles from Classic Auto Group With an impressive permanent collection of more than 200 of America's most iconic cars from celebrity vehicles to champion race cars and limited edition collectibles, this is a Gearhead's Dream venue. Currently home to the “Cars of the Stars” exhibit and the “Batmobile Exhibit” to historic collections such as the “Thomas Flyer Exhibit” and “NASCAR Exhibit” you'll have a chance to explore many memorable and educational galleries. There's truly a car on site to impress just about everyone of any stage! Enjoy the life-like scenery and authentic recreations like a hardware store, vintage movie theatre, and more, each of which houses their own collection of memorabilia and artifacts. LeMay: America's Car Museum in Tacoma, WA – 2,222 Miles from Classic Auto Group With a 9-acre campus, 4-story tall building, and 165,000 feet of exhibition space, there's no shortage of things to see at the LeMay car museum. You'll enjoy a rotating and permanent collection of exhibitions and at least 350 cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Current collections include: “Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection”, “Route 66: See the USA in your Chevrolet”, “Classics and Custom Coachworks”, “Legends of Motorsports: The NASCAR Story”, “Lucky's Garage: A Tribute to Harold LeMay” and much, much more. Blackhawk Museum in Danville, CA – 2,231 Miles from Classic Auto Group Consisting of five different galleries exploring different eras and topics in history, the Blackhawk Museum includes an extensive collection of automobiles in “The Classic Car Collection.” Covering everything from luxury performance cars to rare classics and contemporary collectibles, you'll explore some of the world's finest, most luxurious vehicles in a magnificent setting. The collection features a rotating selection of more than 40 iconic classic cars from movies to sports to racing. Other Museums of note worth fitting in to your next Road Trip schedule: Auto World Museum in Fulton, MO Wisconsin Automotive Museum in Hartford, WI Wills Sainte Claire Museum in Marysville, MI Kemp Auto Museum in Chesterfield, MO Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum in MI The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum in Speedway, IN Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, TN National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum in Philadelphia, PA More Great Museums to Explore: The Hollywood Star Car Museum in Gatlinburg TN Vault Tour of the Peterson Museum Collection The San Diego Automotive Museum https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCefoCa-GNhYe-dmZNnvxcwQ

Today is Shark Awareness Day, a holiday created by marine biologists and scientists to dispel fear, myths, and misinformation around these incredible ocean dwelling creatures. Check out our post today to learn all about these amazing creatures, local aquariums where you can see them up close and personal, and other fun facts. more Here at Classic Auto Group, we're thrilled to not only be doing our part to move towards sustainability and protect these creatures, but we're honored to sell vehicles from brand manufacturers that have committed to the same! Thanks to combined conservation efforts, these majestic sea dwelling predators will continue to thrive in their watery worlds for many years to come. We hope that global conservation organizations and research teams will continue to find ways to care for and protect our oceans, and sharks will be around for hundreds of years more. If exploring the open ocean in person doesn't seem quite your style, you may wish to adventure more safely to these local aquariums! May all the budding marine biologists in our mist become inspired by outreach programs and in-person exhibits. Here are some wonderful facilities that are worth visiting this summer with your family and friends: The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is home to more than 20 sharks in its 400,000 gallon habitat! You'll find Blacktip Reef Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, Japanese and Spotted Wobbegongs, Zebra Sharks, Bamboo Sharks, Bonnethead Sharks, Horn Sharks, Dogfish, Leopard Sharks, and Swell Sharks! The field scientists of Shedd Aquarium are working tirelessly on conservation efforts, and currently conducting research in the Caribbean to learn about how to best safeguard these majestic ocean predators. Seven Seas at the Brookfield Zoo in Riverside has a wonderful aquarium feature with gorgeous bottlenose dolphins as their star attraction. It's also been home to two types the Horn Shark and the Leopard Shark, and has played home to a rotating cast of characters from the deep blue sea over the years! Oceans of Fun in Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee is host to a 28,000 gallon Pacific Coast Marine Aquarium featuring gorgeous landscaped habitats and touch-a-ray displays. It has been home to White-Spotted Bamboo Sharks and Bonnethead Sharks along with Sting Rays, and an ever-changing cast of creatures. Reiman Aquarium at Discovery World in Milwaukee has a many wonderful exhibits exploring all sorts of aquatic and marine life, and has highlighted several species of shark in the past, including a previous installation touch-tank experience with bamboo sharks! A visit to their Facebook page also explains how the staff helps train and feed the animals. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, IA is a pinnacle research center and museum associated with the Smithsonian Institution that helps connect visitors with the importance of the Mississippi River. Their “Rivers to the Sea 2.0” exhibit explains how major waterways across the US contribute to larger environmental and biological effects. You'll learn about aquatic environments and the different species that live in each, and even get to learn about how Great White Sharks breed. The facilities offer outreach programs to the Midwest including a mobile shark touch tank, and the Conservation Lab provides virtual and physical labs to connect folks with research and exhibits. Do you ever find yourself wondering how these incredible animals get transported from aquarium to aquarium or from rehabilitation centers back to the ocean? This is an incredible article from a few years back on aquatic transport that explains exactly that! Special transports and vehicles are needed to move aquatic animals around the world, and as automotive aficionados we find the whole ordeal really interesting! How Do Sharks Get to Georgia Aquarium: Moving A Shark into Audubon Aquarium: Have some budding marine biologists or automotive afficionados in your midst? Check out these amazing options in toys for young minds that will inspire them to connect with sharks and other sea creatures and protect their environments. Fisher-Price Go Diego Go Shark Rescue Car Animal Planet Shark Rescue Transport Truck Matchbox Marine Rescue Shark Ship

Video games may have started in the research labs of 1950s scientists, but they’ve since become a ubiquitous part of everyday life all across the world!  From cabinet games to console gaming to desktop to online MMOPRGs to phone games, you’re able to play your favourites on just about anything, just about anywhere.  Today, we’re celebrating Video Game Day with a list of some of our favourite recent racing themed games, and a fantastic selection of local area gaming centers.  Grab your doritos, mountain dew, and your bffs and let’s play! more The Latest and Greatest in Racing Games Gran Turismo 7 is the 8th installment to the Gran Turismo series of simulated racing games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual one, it’s a great option in racing sims.  Play single player in a campaign or in Arcade mode or enjoy online multiplayer with friends and family!  There are more than 400 cars available, with more unlocked as you clock achievements. KartKraft is the kart racing game officially endorsed by NASCAR.  Employing realistic game mechanics using real-world physics of racing, and utilizing VR technology for an immersive experience, it’s unparalleled in race games. This is better suited to older teens and adults who are adept at gaming, but may frustrate younger players. F1 22 is the 15th installment to the F1 gaming series, and is officially licensed by the 2022 Formula One and Formula 2 organizations.  The 2022 edition has been completely redesigned with new rules, new challenges, and plenty of ways to test your racing sim skills. Redout 2 hearkens back to days gone by of retro gaming, with a tribute to classic arcade gaming styles of early video game tech in this sequel to the ever popular original Redout.  Set in a dystopian, tech-filled future version of Earth, you’ll engage in a high-speed pursuit race against AI or play a high stakes race via split-screen with a friend. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe hardly needs an explanation or introduction, as it’s become a household name amongst gamers, and with good reason!  It’s easy and accessible to play for all ages, brings back beloved characters from Super Mario Bros, and encourages multiplayer with all of your friends on Nintendo devices. Hot Wheels Unleashed is based off the popular toy franchise by Mattel: Hot Wheels!  It’s one of the most fun in racing games on the market, with ample opportunity for players to collect their favourite cars from the Hot Wheels line, design their own race tracks, and compete in high stakes races. It’s a great blend of game mechanics, and perfect for those who want unlimited potential with building custom options! Looking to shake things up a bit and get out of the house for a game night? We have got just the place for you. Here’s a list of fabulous places in the Waukegan and Lake County area where you can enjoy community, camaraderie, and a little friendly competition. Did we miss one on your list? Let us know in the comments and we may just feature it in an upcoming post! The People’s Choice Family Fun Center in Waukegan Lakeside Recreation Center in Mundelein Bowlero in Vernon Hills Lucky Jack’s Gaming Cafe in Waukegan Nickel City in Northbrook IL Ignite Gaming lounge in Skokie Kristof’s Entertainment Center in Round Lake Beach IL Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield WhirlyBall Amusement Centerin Vernon Hills Looking to upgrade your gaming equipment at home for a more realistic racing experience? Check out these picks from gamers and tech YouTubers that fit every budget:

Saddle up your horses and let’s hit the road!  Today’s travel guide is all about Nashville, Tennessee! We’re going to check out some of the classic stops and sites to visit, but also some great places with more untapped potential.  We want to highlight some of the more unique and interesting places that are often left off travel guides, and we hope you’ll find them intriguing enough to explore on your own! more And of course, as always, if we’ve left your fave destination off our list, you can suggest it in the comments of our social media. We love hearing from you and looking into reader suggestions for future travel guides. Grand Ole Opry is synonymous with Nashville. This American Country Music stage has been open since 1925 when it began as a 1-hour radio show on WSM, and has since been host to just about every legend in the genre!  You can book a behind the scenes tour of the facility for an up-close look at the past and present of country music performance, and then snag tickets to a show after! Country Music Hall of Fame Museum is a leading institute for research and preservation of American Music History, and one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to music.  It has an incredible and extensive musical collection of more than 2 million artifacts from the industry. And it’s been building new exhibits and preserving more history year after year since the mid-to-late 1960s! Visit on your own self-guided, or schedule a tour with a local guide and group. Johnny Cash Museum is an amazing destination which commemorates the life, contributions, and career of the iconic music legend, and it’s one of Nashville’s top must-see attractions. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Garden Conservatory is more than just a beautiful place to stay!  In fact, you can enjoy it even if you haven’t booked your lodgings there.  The grounds are open to the public and managed by a staff of more than 20 horticulturalists. You can book a ticket and explore the grounds, visit the indoor and outdoor water park, and talk a walk through the historic hotel. The Nashville Parthenon at Centennial Park is an incredibly impressive full-scale replica of the Athens Parthenon in Greece, since Nashville was known as “Athens of the South.”  Originally built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Expo, the city tore the structure down in 1920, and rebuilt it from long-lasting materials in 1931. A $12million restoration and renovation project was unveiled in 2001, and it is now reopened to the public for all to enjoy.  The Parthenon is open 7 days a week to the general public with minimal entry fees. “Music Row” is set in the heart of Nashville, and is home to just about every record label, radio station, and recording studio in the Country Music industry.  Many streets in the area are even named in honour of country music stars!  You can take a sightseeing tour and get an in-depth look at the industry for a more intimate experience.  You’ll even find RCA Studio B, home to recording artists like Elvis and Dolly Parton!  And if you play your cards right, you might catch a glimpse of some of your country music faves as they head in for a session or stroll about the town. Tennessee State Museum is a wonderful new place to explore the history of Tennessee in depth!  The rotating series of exhibitions and permanent collections cover the rich cultural history of the state.  Enjoy lectures and workshops on the history of community, culinary traditions, entertainment and music, sports and so much more.  Explore and learn about the Civil War, check out artifacts and clothing, and get an up close look at history. Lane Motor Museum holds one of the largest collections of European Cars and Motorcycles in the whole USA!  This non-profit organization was founded by the Lane family to commemorate the family automotive business, and chronicle the automotive industry.  Explore the permanent collection and a rotating series of exhibits with memorabilia, media, and more.  Your whole family will love looking at the unique cars and vehicles and archival goodies! Frist Art Museum has been contributing to the preservation of arts and culture in the area for more than 20 years now.  Housed in the historical building a former US Post Office, this 24,000 square foot facility is dedicated to providing locals with a rotating collection of arts programming, historical artifacts, and in depth overview of art from around the globe.  You’ll find everything from paintings to sculptures to lectures to historical costuming!  It’s a fantastic place where fun meets curiosity and education. Texas Troubadour Theatre is a wonderful historic spot to enjoy live radio shows and musical performances, and is also home to a non denominational Sunday worship service if you’re into that sort of thing. It’s right across the street to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, which would be the perfect way to end your day, enjoying live music with the family! Natchez Trace Parkway is a historic forest trail and roadway that runs 400+ miles from Nashville down to Natchez in Mississippi, and is a great mini-road trip side step on your getaway.  This route commemorates the “Old Natchez Trace” route, originally created and used by Native Americans in the region for centuries,; later, European traders and American explorers used it as a trade/travel route between eastern states and southern frontier land with food and lodging stations dotting the way.  It’s now one of the most used Federal Roads in the entire National Parks System! Music City Escape Room is a popular stop-off for friend groups and families to enjoy a little break from all the sight-seeing and concert performances.  Keep your brains active and thinking caps on as you race against the clock to escape the many themed rooms and puzzles. Marathon Village is housed in the brick building of the former Marathon Motor Works automotive factory which was built in 1881! This historic building is home to a bustling creative community including small businesses, one-of-a-kind retail shops, a bourbon distillery, antiques shop, and is also the homebase for the folks at American Pickers on HIstory Channel!  The site is also host to many wonderful, vibrant special events, workshops, and series  open to the public. It’s a hotspot for eclectic nightlife activities and unique dining options. Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple of Nashville is a bustling cultural hub for educational and spiritual activities, and promotes a very welcoming environment to all folks from all social, religious, and cultural backgrounds!  Attend a meditation workshop, explore the beautiful architecture and artwork, and visit the cafe restaurant on site.  It’s a very unique stop on your trip! Nashville Food Tours, Pedal Party Bars, and Local Distilleries/Breweries are plentiful in downtown Nashville.  You can take a pedal tour and do a pub/distillery crawl, or visit such places as the Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Tennessee Brew Works,  and more! Looking for unique places to eat in the area? Here are some of the top recommendations from locals and frequent visitors: Bluebird Cafe Butcher & Bee on Main Street Arnold’s Country Kitchen on 8th Ave South The Stillery on 2nd Ave North The Continental Restaurant Once Upon a Time in France Henrietta Red Ellington’s Rolf & Daughters Hattie B’s Hot Chicken Midtown on 19th Ave Bolton’s Spicy Chicken Main street Prince’s Hot CHicken Shack South Nolensville Pike Biscuit Love Got a unique stop and destination in Nashville we might’ve left off our list or a fave local eatery we should know about? Tell us in the comments section of our social media, and your suggestions might make it into an updated Travel Guide! Check out these additional local suggestions and vacation tips: