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The start of summer is just days away, and we’re getting ready for all of the adventures and excitement!  Join us in learning how to best prepare your car for the ultimate road trip getaway, so you can be safe, on the ball, and ready for whatever the road throws your way.  From service pointers to must-have organizers to safety gear, we’ve got you covered. more Must Check Automotive Service Points Before Your Next Road Trip Check your battery. Dead batteries are the worst!  There is no worse feeling than being halfway to your destination at a rest stop with a car that just won’t start.  Get your battery checked out by your local service center, and ensure that it is properly conditioned, especially if it’s older than 2 years. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the connectors are showing no signs of corrosion and the connection is tight. Your trusted service technician can also help you clean the corrosion if you notice any. Have your brakes inspected. Have your service technician give the brakes system a good once-over. If you’ve noticed any squealing or squeaking or whistling sounds coming from your vehicle’s brakes, it may be a sign that parts are wearing down and in need of replacement soon. Make sure that any odd noises are examined by your mechanic, and serviced prior to embarking on your journey. If your brake pedal feels spongy or soft when depressed, it may indicate low brake fluid.  If you’re noticing longer stopping times, you may need new brake pads. Check the fluid levels. Be sure to check all of the vital fluids in your vehicle including the engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, engine coolant, and wiper fluids.  If you’re just about due for an oil change, go ahead and get that scheduled a little earlier prior to your trip. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Clean and change your filters. If you’re getting an oil change that filter will be swapped out at the same time. You’ll also want to check the engine filter and air filter while you’re there. Test all lights and signals and change bulbs as needed. With all the driving you’re about to do, especially if part of your journey will be at night or during inclement weather, it’s vital to make sure they’re fully functioning for visibility and safety. Plus, you don’t want to receive any unnecessary traffic tickets for dysfunctional turn signals or brake lights.  Check the interior lights as well and replace those bulbs as needed. Change your wiper blades. On average you should be replacing your wipers every 6 months, but it would at least be a good idea to replace them before your trip if you haven’t done so in a while.  Select wipers that have an aid of hydrophobic coating to aid even clearer visibility during rain and misty weather. Check your insurance, license, and registration. Don’t get caught without proper paperwork on hand! Ensure that you’ve renewed your license, printed or received your newest up to date insurance cards, and have renewed your vehicle registration and all paperwork is stowed safely in your glovebox or center console.  We also recommend checking if your insurance provider has a phone or tablet app available as those can come in handy in a pinch! Be Prepared for roadside emergencies. Stock your emergency roadside kit. We’ve already covered car emergency kits and roadside assistance in previous blogs, but here’s a short refresher of our recommended necessities. At bare minimum, you should always have the following in your car when traveling long distances: a solar or hand-cranked flashlight; jumper cables; portable battery packs; hand sanitizer and flushable wipes; a tire patch kit and portable air compressor; paper copies of maps for each of your destination regions; flares or LED warning lights; bottled water and shelf stable snacks (protein bars and granola bars are a great option);emergency contact numbers written on a piece of paper in your glovebox or wallet or stowed in your emergency kit; a basic first aid kit. Travel with charging options. Grabbing a few extra USB cables or wireless chargers is a great idea.  Make sure you have portable batteries and their recharging cables as well.  Additional wall connector bricks are another key option. Keep one in your glovebox with a charge cable, and one in your backpack or purse or other luggage.  We also recommend a portable smartphone mount for hands-free navigation and emergency use. Take advantage of fueling stations along your route whenever possible. There’s nothing more nerve wracking than being caught in stop-and-go traffic and having the fuel light tick on, especially if you’re not sure when the next rest stop is or nearest fueling station!  Ensuring that you’re traveling with no less than ½ a tank of gas at all times can give you a very good buffer for emergencies and unexpected delays. When traveling on highways and byways and especially in unfamiliar areas, it’s always best to top off your tank when you have the opportunity. You never know when you may hit a snarl of traffic, unexpected detour, or may even miss a GPS direction and take a wrong turn. Remember to pack your medications and OTC pain relief and emergency medications. When traveling, remember to keep your vital medications and inhalers on your person. Make sure your travel companions know where to find them and how to access an emergency list of medications if needed.  If you use an Epi Pen, bring that with you and ensure everyone knows how to use it in case. Additionally, Benadryl is a great medication to travel with in case of surprise allergic reactions. Travel with all the necessities and creature comforts. You’ll never go wrong with packing a few extra rolls of toilet paper along with wet wipes. Heaven forbid the bathroom is understocked, or you have to make an emergency roadside pit stop.  A portable toothbrush and toothpaste and some anti-nausea medication can relieve motion sickness.  Reusable camping utensils and portable plates/cups are always a help!  Along with a cooler filled with fresh fruit, premade lunch items, and other fresh snacks to save you time and money from making pit stops.  A small travel pillow and blanket will come in handy if you need to take a catnap or swap off with another driver for some rest.  If you’re traveling with pets, we recommend quick-dry towels, a spare leash and collar, portable collapsible pet bowls, a portable litter box (if applicable) and some spare snacks. What do you like to bring as a road trip essential?  What are your go-to emergency kit items in your experience? Let us know in the comments on our social media!

The Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you find the best ways to view the parade up close and personal. This year’s annual procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM.  Today we’re covering some details on this year’s performances, when to arrive for both VIP and free access, and how to secure the best spots for viewing. Special staged appearances this year are scheduled in the main stage area between Washington and Randolph Streets from 8AM to 9AM with: American Blues Theater, Chicago Korean Dance Company, Cirque Experience, Country music recording artist Donnie Lee Strickland, Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline, Danza Azteca Xochitl-Quetzal, Jesse White Tumbling Team, Music Theater Works. There will also be marching bands from 19 different schools and colleges/universities, as well as multiple Equestrian Demonstrations, and dozens of floats and gigantic helium balloons!  And of course, dear ol’ Saint Nick will be bringing up the close.  Esteemed and honored guests this year also include Monica Nia-Jones, crowned Miss Illinois 2022, and Mia Fritsch-Anderson, crowned Miss Outstanding Teen 2022 You can catch the parade from the comfort of your own couch on its new home of CW26 hosted by Jen Lilley and Jesse Hutch, but VIP tickets are available for a close-up look at the fun for just $60 per person VIPs will have private portable restrooms and general admission bleacher seats for maximum comfort;  VIP opens at 7AM, and it’s recommended to arrive no later than 7:30!  Otherwise, the parade is free to attend, but it should be noted that it may not be the most accessible for disabled attendees due to high crowds, lots of walking and standing for three hours or more  in order to view.  People begin lining the streets starting around 6AM, and many bring folding chairs and blankets to keep warm (it’s not called the Windy City for nothing, after all!)  Dress in layers, wearing plenty of warm winter weather attire,and consider wearing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent your face and lips from becoming chapped in the cold!  Expect long lines for exiting at 11AM, and plan your afternoon accordingly. Public transit and local area hotels/restaurants will be very busy! Veteran parade viewers recommend sending out a few adult representatives from your group to go on up ahead and save space so younger family members can take a little extra time to walk and meet them.  After the parade, you can stop over to the Christkindl Holiday Market at Daley Plaza at 50 W Washington Street, which will be open on Thanksgiving day from 11AM to 4PM. Looking for a direct live stream of the parade to watch at home from your laptop or tablet? You can check out this Official Live Stream of the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on YouTube which goes live at 9AM! ​​

We’re back with some more helpful service tips for winter weather driving!  It’s essential to prepare for wintry conditions and hazards of inclement weather.  Our handy guide is chock full of reminders and pointers to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape for chilly temps and then some. more Make sure you have a winter emergency kit stocked up and ready to go. In a bin, box, or duffel bag we recommend keeping the following on hand in your trunk or backseat: thermal blankets and fleece blankets, a clean set of warm clothes, extra winter hats & gloves, kitty litter and/or small container of rock salt, a small portable or foldable snow shovel, flares, hand-crank LED flashlight or LED lantern, hand warmer packets, jumper cables, a fully stocked first aid kit, an ice scraper and snow brush, and a tow rope. These can all help you should your vehicle become stuck in any ice or encounter any other inclement weather related accident. Check your front and rear brakes, emergency brake, and brake light system.  Do not skimp on this checkpoint. A  good solid set of brakes and quality rotors can be the difference between a safe stop and total decimation of your vehicle and serious injuries.  It is important to make sure that your braking system and brake light are in perfect working order before you’re faced with a split second decision to swerve, stop short, or avoid dangerous snowbanks or black ice.  If you hear any sort of scraping, whining, or squealing when you brake, bring your car in for a service call straight away. Check your tires.  Check your tire pressure and make sure the PSI matches the manufacturer requirements (can be located in your manual or on a label on the side door pockets or frame.)  Look for signs of wear and tear such as bulges and bubbles, cracks or small tears, or significant tread wear leaving bald spots.  Consider rotating your tires if you’ve not done it in awhile.  Any damaged tires should be replaced, and any summer tires swapped out for all-weather or winter tires should be considered if you live in an area that gets particularly rough winter weather! Inspect your wiper blades and ensure they are clean and not showing significant signs of wear.  As the weather gets colder, it’s vital to your safety that you have properly working wiper blades to clear away frost and snow or other inclement weather. Before it gets too cold out, consider applying a thorough application of a water-repellant such as RainX to the glass surfaces on your vehicle to aid in visibility during storms. Check your heater and blower.  It’s important to check the defroster and heat blower functionality, as these two elements must be functioning properly to ensure wiper efficiency and clear visibility.  When cars are iced or frosty, gradually warming the window to loosen the ice before scraping can save you from windshield damage and scratches. Additionally, it can save you time by melting the frost and ice as well as bringing your car to a comfortable temperature for driving.  If you become stranded or broken down for an extended period of time, the heat can also keep you safe and comfortable. Check your car battery.  Colder months mean we’re more apt to leave our car running to “warm it up” so we don’t face a frosty morning commute, but this also means a higher potential for draining the battery through accidental means.  Cold weather can put additional stress on your battery, and can cause it to lose around 20-30% of its charge when the weather hits 32 degrees.  If a vehicle is going into or coming out of storage, the battery should definitely be checked and replaced as they do lose charge while sitting. Clean your headlights and replace any dim or broken bulbs.  There is nothing more frightening than encountering a white-out storm or horizontal icy rains and not benign able to see more than 2 feet ahead of you.  Having bright, clear headlights is going to make all the difference in getting where you’re going safely and in one piece.  Be sure to apply a headlight cleaner and swap out your bulbs for bright clear ones if yours are not up to par. If you’ve got any questions about vehicle maintenance or wish to schedule a service appointment, please reach out to our representatives.  We would be happy to get your vehicle winter-weather ready!

Art is everywhere and Art is for everyone!  We’re celebrating International Artist’s Day  by highlighting some great reasons you should support The Arts in our local community, and fantastic places to view local art. So hop in your new car and let’s hit the road on an amazing quest to find the most interesting artwork around. more What is art? Why are The Arts important to culture and society? International Artist Day celebrates the wonderful contribution that all artists make to society by promoting and raising awareness for the arts and increasing their visibility as creative professionals both locally and internationally. Artists and the arts are an integral part of society, helping us frame the world in creative ways so we can better understand humanity. Artists and the arts are an integral part of society, helping us frame the world in creative ways so we can better understand humanity. Everything from industrial design to culinary arts to engineering and architecture revolves around Art.  The phones you use, the cars you drive, the tech gadgets you depend on, the movies you stream, the shows you binge...all of them were created by someone who was passionate about the arts!  The songs you listen to and music videos you stream are all created by performance artists and musicians who have a passion for self-expression and creativity. How do we interpret art? What makes something art? How does art make you feel and how do we explore the world through art? Let’s take a look: Without creativity and ingenuity provided by exploring the arts, we would not be enjoying the wonderful road trips and joy rides we take in our cars!  To create the vehicles and technology we use today, many teams of designers, engineers, and creative minds had to work together from concept sketches to completion of physical manufacturing; from the vehicle itself to the machines that made it, they were all designed using visual plans and creative ingenuity. A thriving Arts district vastly improves local communities on multiple levels: aesthetically, via tourism, economically, and also socially!  Art can beautify and unify a community through public art installations, group art events, classes, and more.  It provides citizens with a common ground to communicate and express themselves, and understand each other on a non-verbal level.  The Arts can also provide income via local tourism to view exhibits, installations, markets, and local businesses, galleries, and museums. Let’s check out some of the most influential painters of yesterday and today: Immerse yourself in the arts and enjoy these wonderful public art sites and exhibits across Illinois and Wisconsin: Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park in Skokie Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park at Cedarhurst in Mt Vernon West Street Sculpture Park in Galena The Jay Pritzker Pavillion in Chicago Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural in Morrison ArtsPartners of Central Illinois in Peoria Oak Park Arts District in Oak Park Downtown Jacksonville Walldog Murals in Jacksonville Metropolis Murals in Metropolis Downtown Elgin Public Arts Tour in Elgin The Oregon Sculpture Trail in Oregon Scofill Sculpture Park in Decatur Ace Sign Company Museum in Springfield The Murals of Ottawa in Ottawa International Walldog Mural and Sign Art Exhibit Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural in Oswego Frank Lloyd Wright’s B. Harley Bradley House in Kankakee Rock Falls Sculpture Walk in Rock Falls Macoupin Art Collective in Staunton Walldog Murals of Streator Stevens Point Sculpture Park in Stevens Point, WI Dr. Evermor’s Sculpture Park in North Freedom, WI Lynden SCulpture Garden in River Hills, WI Bobrowitz Sculpture in Colgate, WI Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips, WI James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden in Sheboygan, WI Jurustic Park in Marshfield, WI Paine Art Center and Gardens in Oshkosh, WI

Our last haunted road trip guide for Halloween is covering our neighbors in Missouri.  We’ve scoured the state for the scariest and most haunted places, and gathered them in one place so you can plan the creepiest car ride from destination to destination.  Some of these sites are stuff of local legend, but others have been verified by professional paranormal investigators. What do you think? Let us know in the comments if you’ve visited these sites and had an experience! more Lemp Mansion in St. Louis This haunted home and brewery site is considered one of the ten most haunted places in the United States!  Visitors can opt in for a historical ghost tour, or even participate in a paranormal hunt after hours during “The Lemp Experience.”  Unfortunately, not one, not two, but three members of the Lemp family committed suicide on site, and a fourth off site.  William Lemp Senior and William LEmp Junior both shot themselves in the same room, 18 years apart, in an extra office space at the Brewery.  It later became a boarding house in the 1940s, and several residents reported hauntings and spiritual encounters,  Additionally, other spirits have joined the Lemp Family and use the mansion as a way station to the afterlife.  There have been reports of figures circling the bed, leaning over and looming near visitors, and general unnerving discomfort. Beattie Mansion in St. Joseph The original owner of this historic residence was the first mayor of the city, and a wealthy Victorian businessman Armstrong Beattie, and his wife Elizabeth, who lived there until their deaths  in 1878 (Armstrong) and 1880 (Elizabeth.)  Without any heirs, the home was sold off to the Ladies Union Benevolent Association, and used as a group home for the houseless, aged, and displaced residents of the city.  Later, it was converted to a home for the elderly, mentally ill, and addicts.  In 2004, it passed hands with plans to be converted to a bed and breakfast, but any renovations were thwarted by paranormal activities and experiences.  Disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and full body apparitions unnerved the contractors and construction was halted.  Professional ghost hunters have confirmed the presence of Eliza, a child spirit, and multiple unidentified apparitions.  You’ll experience ghosts that tease and taunt, giggles and disembodied laughter, and footsteps in rooms that have no other presence. Pythian Castle in Springfield This historic castle has a dark and storied history with nefarious connections to torture, suicide, and medical violence.  Originally built as an orphanage in 1913, it was later commandeered by the US military for prisoners during WWII.  Visitors can book a history tour during the daytime to learn the unnerving history, or participate in a nighttime ghost tour and chance an encounter with a malevolent spirit.  Ghost hunters and visitors alike have reported disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and an unnerving atmosphere. The Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs This hotel and spa was subject to two destructive fires in 1989 and 1910, and although no one died in either blaze, it’s long rumored that a dastardly spirit may be the culprit.  Guests have reported encounters with visitors from the spirit realm in the lap pool, which was once the site of a Speakeasy during the days of Prohibition.  The hotel has embraced its ghostly guests, and hosts tours where you may encounter the spirit of a gambler, a spiritual advisor from the 1920s, and other gracious, gentle spirits. Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph This unusual museum is a dark and macabre, and frankly disturbing, look at our past treatment of those with mental illness and disorders of the brain.  At one time, it was home to some 3,-000 patients at any given time over teh decades, but now it’s a nineteenth century time capsule of our country’s strange medical history, founded in 1967 by the Missouri Department of Mental Health.  You’ll find bizarre exhibits such as 1,000 items removed from a patient’s stomach, strange medical equipment, and unnerving tools of the trade for psychiatric practitioners.  Some say the grounds are haunted by patients who have passed on during their stay, and ghost hunters host limited tours o n special event nights at the museum for visitors with a taste for the paranormal. Union Station in Kansas City This active and in-use railroad station is not just open to the general public, but also a whole rotating cast of spectral characters.  As you head off to your destination, you may spot the figure of notorious criminal Frank Nash, who is said to wander the station faceless, or other strange and hauntingly faceless figures with shined, polished shoes and classy wardrobes, or a figure of a woman in a black dress walking down the stairs after hours, and spirits dragging their suitcases down the halls.  At sundown, the paranormal presence increases as the ghosts of those who are still waiting for their train take over. Other terrifying destinations in Missouri to explore on your trip through the state: Vaile Mansion in Independence, Rivercene Mansion in New Franklin, Belvoir Winery in Liberty, STL Haunted History Ghost Tours in St. Louis, St. Charles Ghost Tours on Main Street in St. Charles

We love things that go bump in the night and give us a chill of fright!  That’s why we’re exploring even more fun haunted road trip destinations.  Today, we’re traveling to nearby  Michigan.  Why stop at exploring haunted sites like graveyards and theatres when you can book a stay with a surprise ghost as an extra guest?  We’ve got plenty of haunted hotels, inns, and resorts that are still open to the public today.  Check it out on today’s blog and see for yourself! more Doherty Hotel in Clare This 1924 redbrick hotel once housed the town’s library, a soda shop, and even a barber shop!  It was a notorious hangout for infamous gangsters of the 1920 and 1930s.  And, as is the case with so many unsavory personalities in one place, it became synonymous with illegal gambling and even murder.  Numerous visitors to the location have reported seeing the ghost of Isaiah Leebove, of the former Purple Gang, wandering the halls.  Other ghostly apparitions have been seen locking and unlocking doors, and knocking on doors and walls with no other possible explanation. Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo Often touted as one of the top ten haunted places in Michigan, you’ll find no shortage of spectral shenanigans here!  Step through its doors and you may be greeted by the castle’s original owners Frank and Mary Henderson.  Wander its halls and you may find Calre Burleigh, a Spanish-American War veteran who served alongside Hendersons’s son in battle.  Other apparitions include that of an unidentified little girl, and even a rogue dog!  You may find opening and closing doors, disembodied voices, figures at the top of the stairs, and other ghastly activities.  You’ll just have to come investigate for yourself! The Landmark Inn in Marquette If you’ve ever wanted to book a room in a haunted hotel, we think you’ll really get your jollies from a stay in the Lilac Room, one of the Inn’s most reportedly haunted rooms.  You may catch a glimpse of the Librarian who lost her one true love to a shipwreck at sea who peers out the window waiting for her betrothed’s impossible return.  Or perhaps you’ll find unexpected trinkets nestled in the sheets or blankets that weren’t there at check in, such as one guest who reportedly requested housekeeping remove screws from the sheets.  Even the front desk has experienced unexpected happenings such as phantom phone calls from the Lilac Room even without guests lodging! Spooky…. The Terrace Inn in Petoskey Michigan This historic inn offers 38 rooms to choose from, 1 restaurant on site, and at least 2 resident ghosts.  Book a stay at the Terrace Inn and you may encounter the Lady in White or the Man in Tweed.  Wander downstairs in this Victorian Era hotel and you may even bump into the Boy from the Basement!  Rumor has it, there may even be more aloof apparitions to be found if you keep your eyes open.  Ask the front desk and they will gladly share with you the book of Ghost-Tales from past guests and visitors! Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island…and more Mackinac Island is such a special place it’s known to be a paranormal activity hotbed, so many, in fact, that some speculate there may be more specters than residents at this point. Check out these videos from MattsRadShow on Youtube to learn more about a few of the haunted happenings on this iconic resort island: Masonic Temple in Detroit The Detroit Masonic Temple is the largest Masonic Temple in the world. This impressive and quite imposing piece of Gothic Architecture has more than 1,000 rooms as well as a cathedral, multiple chapels, 2 ballrooms, lodging facilities, a library, and even a 4,000 seat auditorium.  Visitors report seeing the specter of George Mason himself going up and down the stairs, but that may just be a Halloween Tale of Terror.  You’ll just have to see for yourself! Mary Mayo Hall in Lansing The oldest residence hall on campus is located on the West Circle are aof Michigan State University’s northern end.  It was built in 1931 and named after Mary Anne Mayo, a leading member of several organizations on campus, and a thoughtful leader with progressive views on womens’ education.  Though rumors swirl that her death was caused by murder, ill-will, or even self-inflicted injuries, she actaully passed away of illness in 1903off-campus.  Nevertheless, after years of campaigning for womens’ equal access and housing on campus, students report seeing her ghost wander the halls of the dorm. Other areas of note for ghost hunting in Michigan: South Manitou Island in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, H ell’s Bridge near Grand Rapids Rockford, Calumet Theater in Calumet, Felt Mansion in Saugatuck Holland, David Whitney House in Detroit, Fayette Ghost Town in Fayette, Holly Hotel in Holly, Fort Shelby Hotel in Detroit, Bowers Harbor Inn in Traverse City, Seul Choix Point Lighthouse in Gulliver, White River Light Station in Whitehall

With Halloween just around the corner, we thought it would be fun to explore some of the strange haunted happenings across the state.  What could be better than an autumnal road trip to chase down the ghosts of days gone by?  It’s a perfect way to spend the weekend or enjoy a late-night exploration. more We love exploring as much as the next, but be mindful, please.  Make sure to adhere to any posted signage as some areas may be off limits or be part of private property.  We recommend doing additional research to find out which sites offer tours or are open to the public and when.  We do not condone trespassing! Your Guide to Haunted Sites in Illinois The Englewood Post Office and H. H. Holmes True Crime aficionados will be fascinated to know that this modest post office branch sits on the site once home to serial killer H.H. Holmes and his infamous “Murder Castle” Postal workers at this location have reported hauntings throughout the building.  The basement area especially is noted to fill visitors and employees with an intense fear of dread, and it is advised any tasks in that room be quick and timely to avoid anxiety. The Chicago River and the SS Eastland In 1915 the SS Eastland passenger ship was docked along the Chicago River when it suddenly capsized.  Sadly, 844 people lost their lives in the incident.  Today, visitors to the area and patrons of local restaurants have reported looking out from the windows or down from the Clark Street Bridge and report seeing the ghostly faces or bodies of people in the water, reaching out for help. The Couch Tomb in Lincoln Park Chicago Lincoln Park sits on the former grounds of City Cemetery, with the Couch Tomb the only remaining tomb surviving the Great Fire of 1871. The tomb was sealed for decades, leaving many to speculate what may lie buried there.  In 1998, a team of workers and researchers opened the tomb and discovered around 80 bodies entombed within!  Visitors to the area often claim to see and hear strange apparitions and experience strange occurrences in Lincoln Park, but especially near this tomb. Resurrection Cemetery in Justice This is one of the largest cemeteries in North America, sprawling across nearly 540 acres with 152,000 graves and 5,300 crypts in the mausoleum.  Consecrated as a cemetery burial ground in 1904, it officially opened to the public in 1912.  This site is purported to be hte site of Chicago’s infamous “Resurrection Mary” who haunts these grounds, the surrounding highway, and the nearby Willowbrook Ballroom.  You may catch a glimpse of her dancing at the foot of the Resurrection of Christ monument next to the on site chapel.  Keep your eyes peeled for a lithe woman in a flowing white dress and blonde locks! McPike Mansion of Alton The McPike Mansion, sometimes referred to as Mount Lookout, is a historic and haunted property on the former 15-acre estate of Henry Guest McPike.  The 16 room mansion features a vaulted wine cellar in an Italianate-Victorian style.  In 1994, the home was purchased at auction by Sharyn and George Luedke, with plans to restore the mansion to its former glory!  Sharyn herself has reported ghostly sightings of servants and residents or guests of the mansion while removing items from the home, making repairs, and restoring the house.  She and George have also caught a whiff of lilac perfume wafting through the hallways of the third floor.  Some people claim the house was built on hallowed grounds, still others report the happenings only began after McPike and later owners’ passings.  Either way, this is a truly special site for otherworldly occurrences! The Woodstock Opera House in Woodstock This beautiful historic performing arts venue and opera house is the reported site of local spectral visitor, Elvira.  Elvira’s tale is a sad one, with big dreams of making it big on the stage and landing the lead in an upcoming ballet perfor. Unfortunately, she was passed over for the part which was handed to another girl in the company.  In her grief of shattered dreams,, she leaped from the Opera House’s highest tower, and fell to her death on the streets below.  Visitors have reported sights of a forlorn young woman with long, golden hair wandering the halls and aisles.  Some have even caught a glimpse of her in seat 113, and those who sit near it report the seat lowering on its own and sad sighs in the air.  Additional reports include props falling down with no one nearby, and even things disappearing from the stage and backstage areas.  Book at ticket and see for yourself! Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet The Rialto Square Theatre opened its doors in 1926, and a parade of spirited guests have wandered in and out of its halls and auditorium over the years. That’s right, it’s haunted!  We won’t spoil the backstory here.  Why? Because this vaudeville venue and movie theatre turned performing arts center offers Paranormal Tours of the theatre where you can spend two hour learning about the lost souls of the Rialto!  Come see a show and book a tour.  You can bring your friends and your family along for the fun and may even have some unexpected guests join your party. Other notable places with real spirit include: Haunted Abingdon Middle School in Abingdon, The Old Milton School in Alton, Robinson Woods in Chicago, Haunted Tours at the Museum of Science and Industry German U-505 Submarine, The Haunted Glessner House Museum, The Haunted Red Lion Pub in Chicago, Greenwood Cemetery in Decatur, Ridge Cemetery in Williamsburg, Aux Sable Cemetery in Alton

It’s no secret that we here at Classic love to get involved in our community and meet new people!  That’s why for World Tourism Day, we’re sharing some of the wonderful places newcomers and visitors can explore when visiting our area. We want you to get to know our towns and cities as well as we do, and enjoy all of the things that make it so great to live here!  Let’s show the world all of the incredible things that the Lake County Illinois and surrounding area have to offer. Feel free to chime in with your picks in the comments on our social media, too. We’d love your input and feedback! more Genesee Theatre in Waukegan hosts year round events, concerts, shows, and live music.  It’s one of the best venues in town! Waukegan Municipal Beach is a 400-acre lakefront with a mile-long stretch of beach. It’s open 6AM to 9PM all 7 days a week, and s free to the public on a daily basis from Labor Day to Memorial Day, making it a great budget friendly option to visit in the off-season and enjoy some time in nature. ZumBier Bier Halle in Waukegan is a great way to spend a few hours and support a local small business!  Schedule a tour, visit the taproom, or take advantage of their wide array of products for sale or buy and fill a growler to take home and share with friends. Waukegan Harbor Lighthouse is located at the end of “Government Pier” on Lake Michigan. It’s a great destination for photographers and tourists! Lyons Wood Forest Preserve is a gorgeous 272 acre park with prairie and forest areas that’s just perfect for hiking, cycling, trail running, and wildlife viewing. Three Brothers Theatre is a local non-profit independent venue that offers an intimate theatre going experience.  It thrives on diverse and inclusive programming that’s “brash, brave, and bare”, producing shows that are driven by the artist and creator, providing audiences with a truly unforgettable experience! The Anderson Japanese Gardens are 12-acres of meticulously manicured Japanese garden grounds in Rockford Illinois featuring peaceful Koi Ponds, winding paths and scenic bridges, trickling streams, cascading waterfalls, and award winning botanicals. The Kenosha North Pier Lighthouse in nearby Kenosha, WI is not just a gorgeous coastal lighthouse open for tours, but it is also home to the Kenosha Lighthouse Studio, an incredible community of artists and art enthusiasts. Geneva Lake Museum in Lake Geneva, WI is a one-of-a-kind local history museum filled with an indoor replica of a historic town, local relics, and interactive exhibits inside a historic waterworks building!  It’s a great destination for tourists to spend the day and learn a little about the local area! Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha, WI is an absolute must-visit on your list for kids and the kid-at-heart!  It’s a unique science museum exploring not just the history of carnivorous dinosaurs and their biology, but also their connection to modern birds and raptors.  It’s a small but truly fascinating location with impressive dinosaur skeletons and educational displays. Where are some of your favorite local and regional destinations to visit? What would you recommend tourists put on their must-see list? Let us know in the comments and we may feature them in future updates!

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.

What better way to celebrate National Wine and Cheese Day than a post highlighting our neighbors to the North: Wisconsin!  Wisconsin is the Cheese capital of the world, and for good reason; the state is home to six hundred different cheeses. And of course, what goes better with cheese than an incredible wine? Good thing that Wisconsin is home to some of the area’s best vineyards, too.  So for today’s post we’re taking you to “Wisconsin Wine Country” as we explore some of the region’s best wineries. more Welcome to Wisconsin’s Vineyards: We’ve already covered a little bit of the history of Wisconsin’s dairy farming industry, but did you know it’s also an area where wine grapes flourish?  Wisconsin is home to a variety of specialized grapes which do quite well thanks to the unusual soil composition of the Niagara Escarpment, the climate of the Mississippi River Valley, and the eastern-facing vineyards with lake effect air from Lake Wisconsin and the Wisconsin River. Check out these wonderful wineries with locally grown, locally harvested, and locally aged wines in Wisconsin: Best vineyards and wineries in Wisconsin: Wollersheim Winery & Distillery in Prarie du sac Staller Estate Winery in Delavan WI Cedar Creek Winery in Cedarburg WI Botham Vineyards & Winery in Barneveld Three Lakes Winery in Three Lakes WI Brambleberry Winery in Taylor WI Fawn Creek Winery in Wisconsin Dells WI Hawk’s Mill Winery in Browntown WI Spurgeon Vineyards & Winery Timber Hill Winery in Milton AEppelTreow Winery in Burlington WI Pieper Porch Winery & Vineyard in Waukesha Northleaf Winery in Milton WI Fermenting Cellars Winery in Janesville WI Edwin Brix Vineyard in Juneau SoLu Estate Winery & Meadery in Cascade Cambridge Winery in Cambridge Two Brothers’ Wines in Richfield Why do we love to pair wine and cheese? Here’s a little inside look into the science behind these iconic flavor profiles from usualwines.com! Wondering how to pair cheese and wine for an expert flavor profile?  Check out this blog from winecoolerdirect.com and learn more! Looking to pair your local wines with local cheeses? This Wisconsin Cheese Guide will do just the trick! Best places to snag artisanal cheese to host your own Wine and Cheese night: Best of Wisconsin Shop in Oregon WI Fromagination in Madison WI Wisconsin Cheese Makers in Egg Harbor WI Wisconsin Cheese Mart in Milwaukee The Cheese Wedge in West Bend Alp & Dell Cheese Store