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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you’re looking for gorgeous sand beaches without international travel or the high-traffic of Florida’s shores, then the Gulf Coast of Alabama is the perfect place for your next summer road trip.  From wildlife nature retreats to coastal shoreline to historic sites, this has the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and tourism to make a top tier vacation spot! more Can’t Miss Destinations: Nature Conservation, Wildlife Spotting, Historic Tourism and More! Take the ferry out to Dauphin Island to visit several local tourism spots. Fort Morgan is a national historic landmark from the Civil War and both World Wars. You and your family will be fascinated on the thorough guided tours highlighting the fort’s historical importance, historic artifacts on display, gorgeous architectural details, and the detailed accounts of soldier’s lives.  While you’re there, there’s a fantastic spot for fishing along Bon Secour Bay for fish such as speckled trout, redfish, and blue crab. You can also do some birding at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge while you’re there, as the area is also home to endangered species and plentiful migratory birds, as well as a protected habitat for local wildlife. Just a short drive away is the Alabama Aquarium, formerly known as the Estuarium, which highlights the four beautiful habitats of coastal Alabama – Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands, and Northern Gulf of Mexico; check out the exhibits, feeding time demonstrations, or book an excursion for an all-ages, hands-on experience about aquatic life on the gulf!  Then you can swing on over to Fort Gaines, Mobile Bay Battlefield, Fort Pickens, Fort Barrancas, and Historic Blakeley State Park and check out even more historic buildings. Just a short drive away is Gulf State Park and Gulf State Park Pier. Visitors can grab a fishing pass to fish off the 1,500+foot pier, or sightseeing pass to enjoy 3 miles of sandy beaches, 28 miles of hiking and biking trails, geocaching, paddling, boating, parasailing, kayaking, and so much more! Lake Shelby is a beautiful 600-acre freshwater lake located inside the park, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddling, and fishing.  The Gulf State Park’s Nature Center is an impressive conservation museum of live plants and animals native to the gulf coast. Visitors can enjoy weekly guided nature walks, beach walks, and pier walks at the center, and learn more about the Gulf Coast wildlife.  The facility also has numerous animal ambassadors including owls, turtles, snakes, gators, and many more. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is open daily and offers hands-on experiences like the Sloth Adventure, Lemur Adventure, Sulcata Tortoise feedings, Giraffe feedings, South American Adventure, and Madagascar Adventure.  There’s also a Zip Line, Carousel, Safari Cars, and a Kiddie Train!  The Zoo also offers a wide array of special events such as Summer zoo Camp, meet and greets, and rotating exhibits. Make Memories with Unforgettable, Unique Experiences only on Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Want to experience the Gulf in a whole new way? flyBama helicopter tours and Skydive the Gulf both offer unique perspectives from a birds-eye view of the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! And we can’t forget recommending you stop at the vintage Gulf Bowl Bowling Alley & Captain’s Choice Seafood Restaurant – a retro bowling alley with an arcade, sports bar, and grill in one! Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway makes a great mini-road trip within your road trip.  This 130 miles long roadway travels along the Gulf of Mexico and between two counties, Mobile and Baldwin, and takes you along beautiful beaches, charming downtowns, nature reserves, and some of the best seafood eateries you’ve ever enjoyed. The Hot Shop and Clay Studios at Coastal Arts Center offer demonstrations and hands-on workshops and classes to throw clay on a pottery wheel, learn to blow glass, and make your own sculpted works of art.  Need a little inspiration, why not peruse the fine arts gallery of Gulf Coast artists or check out the Coastal Arts Center’s Annual Festival of Art! FlightWorks Alabama is an innovative aerospace museum and education center with 15,000 square feet and more than 40 exhibits! The museum is only open Tuesday through Fridays, so plan accordingly so you don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.  The Airbus Foundation Discovery Space aims to teach the past, present and future of aviation, and visitors can experience the Cockpit Simulator Challenge, Drone Fly Zone, Flight Control Basics, the Aerodynamics Arcade, FlightPath Career Center, and then some. Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit is a free museum featuring a humongous remote-controlled model railroad, real historic train cars you can ride through Foley Heritage Park, and other interactive hands-on exhibits for the whole family!  The exhibit has different hours than the museum itself – Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10AM to 2PM, and train rides are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in the Summer and Saturdays the rest of the year. Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope is a family owned and operated working farm, and site of a historic farm from the 1800s that once grew cotton, sugar cane, potatoes, corn and livestock on over 300 acres.  Book a tour of the grounds, try your hand a little Skeet Shooting, attend a special seasonal event, attend a silent auction, or just spend the week resting and relaxing on the farm grounds. The Wharf at Orange Beach is an exciting, bustling waterfront area offering one-of-a-kind entertainment, plentiful shopping, amusement rides, and an amphitheater with live entertainment.  We bet you’ll love the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience or the Wharf Express Train experience!  If that’s not exciting enough, you may want to check out Arena the Next Level Arcade or Outer Limits VR. The Eastern Shore Art Center has a stunning array of fine art exhibits across its 5 galleries as well as 4 art studios offering year round classes, workshops, and lectures, a creative gift shop, annual outdoor art show, and an autumnal Plein Air painting event. As you can see, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement on the gulf shores of Alabama!

We’re continuing our series of road trip destination inspiration with a trip to California and one of this country’s finest National Parks!  This time, we’re headed to Joshua Tree National Park for unparalleled adventure, stunning sights, and magical memory making!  Featuring 2 completely distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, stargazing, rock climbing, 4x4 drives, nature photography, wildlife viewing, and more, Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating place. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast, looking to check off your bucket list of National Parks, or seeking to learn more about our country’s history, you’ll find it here and then some! more The park’s busiest season is October through May, with peak activity from March through mid-April, although the weather can be a little unpredictable.  Weather conditions can include extreme heat, heavy rains, flash flooding, high winds, hail and more, so be sure you’re prepared for the weather by checking reports before you head out to explore!  Also, be alert for rattlesnakes who love the spring weather as much as we do, and love to explore the trails. You’ll find 9 fantastic campgrounds in the park, perfect for reconnecting with nature and observing the stars.  Black Rock, Cottonwood, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, and Ryan campgrounds can all be reserved in advance, saving you the hassle and stress of “First come, first serve” rush of other campsites. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park certified by the International Dark-Sky Association, and offers visitors an outstanding experience to admire the Milky Way, glimmering stars, passing meteors, glowing planets, and other heavenly bodies.  Make sure you have a red-light flashlight or lamp with you, for optimal viewing. There are more than 300 miles of incredible trails in this national park, many of them wheelchair accessible and even year round access.  Opt for a horseback ride tour or bike ride through the trails, or head out on foot for a memorable hike.  Only the paved “Oasis of Mara Trail” is pet-friendly, but the rest of the many trails in the park are no pets allowed, so be mindful of this if traveling with furry friends in tow.  There are numerous short nature hikes in the park, with highlights including (but certainly not limited to) Arch Rock, Cap Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Hidden Valley, and Ryan Ranch.  Although summer time can be very rough, experienced hikers who take proper precautions will enjoy the moderately rated hikes such as Lost Horse Mine, Mastodon Park, and Split Rock Loop.  If you’re looking for a big challenge, you’ll certainly find a list of strenuous and challenging hikes, but it’s ill-advised to attempt them in the extreme summer heat – visitors who disregard warning have experienced significant injury requiring rescue, and those who are less fortunate have even perished in the extreme conditions; adhere to posted warnings carefully! If you’ve grown tired of indoor climbing gyms and are looking to level up, there are 8,000 established routes and 2,000 bouldering problems.  You will be able to book a local climbing guide to take you through the park, but make sure to choose one certified through PCGI and AMGA or similar for safety reasons.  Remember, the park does prefer you to adopt the “Leave No Trace” ideology, so tread cautiously and try not to disturb local wildlife and plants, as well as doing your best not to leave climbing equipment behind. Looking to take your new SUV from Classic for an extra spin?  Off-road equipped vehicles with 4x5 are permitted to let loose on the backcountry dirt roads!  These roads are also perfect for mountain biking, but ATVs/UTVS and dirt bikes are prohibited.  Good news: Fido can accompany you on the backcountry roads, but must remain on leash and may go no more than 100 feet beyond the roads.  Make sure you download offline use maps and carry printed paper maps with you as well, along with packing adequate supplies and a satellite phone for emergencies; planning ahead and being prepared is your best option as rescue may take awhile in case of any emergencies. This park is a nature photographer’s dream!  The flora in this national park is abundant, featuring 54 rare plant species, 2 of which are federally listed!  The Spring season brings with it some of the most brilliant displays of wildflowers in lush color palettes.  March through May is the prime season for Desert Dandelion, Desert Globemallow, Brittlebush, Indian Paintbrush, and Pincushions.  April through June you’ll find desert Mariposa, Blackbush, Beavertail Cactus, and Desert Fiddleneck.  Traveling during the cooler autumn months? You’ll still have a chance to spot some special desert blooms like goldenbush and desert willow if the conditions are just right!  As for wildlife, you’ll have the opportunity to catch migratory birds such as Nashville Warblers, Wilson’s Warbler’s, yellow warblers, and many more.  Year round you’ll find cactus wren, greater roadrunner,prairie falcon, Gambel’s quail and others.

⚡️ All-new, redesigned 6th generation RAV4 will be available in Core, Sport, and Rugged styles across seven grades, including a new-look Woodland and first-ever GR SPORT America’s best-selling compact SUV will now be 100% electrified, in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains First-ever RAV4 GR SPORT, developed in partnership with Toyota GAZOO Racing, with GR-tuned handling, aggressive exterior style, exhilarating PHEV powertrain with AWD, and more RAV4 Woodland grade available in HEV or PHEV with AWD standard, higher ride height, all-terrain tires, split grille, and more Debut of 6th generation PHEV powertrain with up-to 320 hp output and 20% more all-electric drive range of 50 miles (manufacturer estimated, 42 miles previously) RAV4 HEV models move to 5 th generation hybrid system and boost output to 236 hp on AWD models and 226 hp on FWD models – with FWD coming to RAV4 Hybrid for the first time Launch of Toyota’s Arene software development platform, which enables Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 and a new generation of the Toyota Audio Multimedia System more Toyota Motor North America announces the all-new, 2026 RAV4. For its sixth generation, America’s best-selling compact SUV will be available in three new designs that include Core, Rugged, and Sport styles – among which include a new-look Woodland grade and the U.S. market’s first-ever RAV4 GR SPORT model. The 2026 RAV4 also joins Toyota’s ever-growing list of exclusively electrified models, as it will be available in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains. RAV4 also launches new technologies for Toyota, including the Arene software development platform, a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and updates to the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite. “At Toyota, customer choice is paramount,” said David Christ, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “With three distinct styles, two highly efficient electrified powertrains, and available Front- or All-Wheel Drive, the all-new RAV4 offers something for everyone and is ready to take on all of life’s adventures.” The 2026 RAV4 Core design combines a sleek, paint-matched grille, with Toyota’s signature hammerhead front end for a modern take on RAV4. Wide overfenders with black cladding and an ascending belt line with chiseled body panels complement its SUV proportions. Wheel combinations vary, with 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels available, depending on the grade. Core models include the well-equipped LE, XLE, and Limited grades. The Rugged design is exclusive to the outdoor-inspired Woodland model, which now becomes a standalone grade to the RAV4 lineup. For the Rugged design, the peak of the hammerhead front end is slightly raised and its black, split upper and lower grille with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting give it an adventurous look. The model also stands about a half inch higher due to standard All-Terrain tires, has standard raised roof rails with crossbars, and a 1¼ -inch rear activity mount for travel-ready versatility. The Woodland grade will have standard AWD and be available in a HEV or PHEV powertrain. At the forefront of the Sport designs is the RAV4 GR SPORT. Designed with input from the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering division, it takes inspiration from motorsports for a model that is an expression of driving enjoyment. It prioritizes handling, with a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, enhanced body rigidity, and summer tires on unique 20-inch wheels with increased offset. It will be exclusively available with a PHEV powertrain and has a GR Functional MATRIX grille, along with front and rear wing-type spoilers for aggressive style. The XSE and SE grades round out the Sport designs. They will be available in HEV or PHEV powertrains and a choice of FWD or AWD depending on grade and have up-to 20-inch wheels, blue interior stitching, and available two-tone paint. The new RAV4 comes in PHEV and HEV models, with the PHEV models featuring a newly developed Plug-in Hybrid System that combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger compatible with Toyota’s latest sixth-generation hybrid. The HEV system increases output over the prior generation, climbing to 236 combined system net hp on AWD models (219 combined system net hp previously). RAV4 hybrid will also be available in FWD for the first time, and will have 226 combined system net horsepower, a 23 hp improvement over the prior generation’s 203 hp FWD gas model. The latest PHEV system also adds output, with up-to an impressive 320 combined system net horsepower, up 18 hp over the outgoing system. Variety is also the name of the game for PHEV models, moving from two to four grades in model year 2026, with the Woodland and GR SPORT models joining the previously available SE and XSE. All PHEV models will have standard AWD. The PHEV model also increases its all-electric driving range to a manufacturer’s estimated 50-mile range rating. The PHEV XSE and Woodland grades will have DC fast charging, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes*. New 2026 RAV4 models are expected to start arriving at Toyota dealerships across the U.S. later this year, and pricing will be announced closer to on-sale date. Two Great Powertrains with Available Front- or All-Wheel Drive The 2026 RAV4 HEV debuts Toyota’s fifth-generation Hybrid system on an SUV model. Powered by a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with the fifth-generation hybrid system, it has improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components, all of which contribute to its enhanced motor output. A new Plug-in Hybrid system will also debut on RAV4. It will have a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and high-capacity traction battery. For the new system, Toyota has adopted silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to achieve miniaturization and high efficiency. This change, in combination with the larger battery, has led to the increase in range. DC fast charging is also available, with the XSE and Woodland grades being capable of high-speed charging through an equipped CCS charging port. The SE and GR SPORT PHEV models will be equipped with a J1772 charging port. Charging at home or with standard public chargers can also be quicker with up to an 11-kW AC onboard charger available An increase in towing capacity on specific AWD grades adds to RAV4’s overall utility. The HEV XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, Limited and PHEV SE, XSE, and Woodland grades with AWD, will be capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. All FWD models and the LE AWD model will have a 1,750-pound towing capacity. A New Generation Inside and Out When RAV4 was first launched in the U.S. for the 1996 model year, it was a sign of what was to come for the SUV segment. Built on a unibody platform that was shared with the Corolla sedan, it tapped into a unique need for many drivers and offered easy handling with functional utility. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved through five generations and changed to fit life’s adventures for customers around the world. The all-new sixth-generation 2026 RAV4 keeps the model’s agile and functional spirit rolling. Built on the Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform, the newest RAV4 will receive structural rigidity increases due to reinforcement of the frame joints and the suspension mounting points, both benefiting handling and ride comfort. It also adopts a high-damping adhesive that reduces micro-vibrations and road noise. The exterior design highlights RAV4’s SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride, and highly usable rear cargo area. Whether it’s a Core, Rugged, or Sport model, each adapt the Toyota hammerhead front-end for a strong, modern take on RAV4. From the side, its fender flares give it a wide stance and chiseled door panels ascend to a stout rear. Stylish new LED signature taillights give the functional rear hatch a tech-forward feel, while also adding a sense of width. Additional details like front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4’s style across the grades. The 2026 RAV4’s interior prioritizes functionality, aiming for a harmonious blend of comfort and user-friendly technology. The center stack groups various functions together, like the touchscreen display, drive mode selection, and storage for a smartly organized space while the center console combines the shifter, cup holder with a removable divider, and arm rest/storage bin with a two-way closure. On select grades, the cockpit adds Toyota’s new shift-by-wire system, with a minimalist toggle switch that has intuitive operation and brings a futuristic feel to the new RAV4. Choice Across the Grades The 2026 RAV4 puts choice at the center of its model lineup. For instance, FWD is available on hybrid LE, XLE, and SE grades for the first time, and the previously available AWD system is offered on all grades. The following combinations will be available: A new, slim 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen gives the cockpit a clean, modern feel. Digital HVAC controls are a new feature integrated into the bottom of the touchscreen display and have a permanent home along the bottom of the screen. Across all grades, a new, standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will give drivers customizable options and integrated multimedia information. A Head-Up Display will be available on the Limited (HEV) and XSE (PHEV) grades. A six-speaker audio system will be standard, and a nine speaker JBL® Premium Audio system will be available, depending on the grade. Seating surfaces will range from fabric to SofTex® with available seating colors like black, light gray, or to the new Mineral color on the Woodland. The Woodland interior also adds other touches for a vibrant, outdoor inspired cabin, like uniquely patterned perforated soft-touch door and dash panels, red orange accents and standard, Woodland-branded all-weather floor and cargo mats. On the XSE and GR SPORT grades, perforated BRIN•NAUB® microsuede and SofTex-trimmed seating with colorful accents add a dynamic feel. The RAV4 GR SPORT model adds GR logos to the front headrests and steering wheel, while paddle shifters and aluminum sport pedals give it a sporty appeal. Exterior color options also bring standout style. The Woodland grade will have an all-new available Urban Rock exterior paint color, which is exclusive to the grade, while Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud colors join the RAV4 color palette. Favorites like Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blueprint will continue for the new generation. Available two-tone paint options are also carried forward, like the new combination of Meteor Shower with Black roof on the XSE or the GR SPORT’s exclusive pairing of Supersonic Red with a Black roof. New Tech The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. The introduction of Arene is Toyota’s first step toward fully software-defined vehicles. The platform will be the foundation for our most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for our customers on a global scale. The 2026 RAV4 will also launch the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which is enabled by Arene. Paired with the touchscreen display, the system will have standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity. The new system changes-up the user experience with a new home button that is always displayed regardless of whether it’s being operated in the native system, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The native Voice Assistant is also improved with quicker response times. Native map and navigation functionality will also be integrated into the digital gauge cluster. The Toyota RAV4 will also be the first Toyota model to receive the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) system, also powered by the Arene software development platform. The new version of Toyota’s standard active safety suite will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities. Additional details will be available closer to the on-sale date. Specifications Limited Warranty Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance.