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If you’ve got a phone, you’ve definitely received one of those infamous spam calls: “Hello, I’m contacting you to talk about your vehicle’s extended warranty!” “Hi there, I’m calling about your upcoming expiring vehicle warranty!”  While those calls are generally part of a phishing scam, your car’s manufacturer warranty is a genuine and real-deal thing, provided you’ve purchased through a dealership or certified pre-owned retailer. But chances are, you may not know all the ins-and-outs of the warranty process. Good news: in today's Automotive Terminology entry, we’re taking a look at the various ways your car may be covered by various warranty options. more Each manufacturer offers different warranties which cover your new or preowned vehicle for repairs or replacements if your car experiences any breakages, malfunctions, or mishaps due to a fault in manufacturing.  This offsets any cost of repairs, replacements or adjustments that would normally fall to the customer, and instead is covered by the dealership or manufacturer.  It is important that you thoroughly understand and read  our various warranties; in some cases, you can void a manufacturer warranty or guarantee by making aftermarket or off-brand upgrades or adjustments to your vehicle. To prevent accidental violations of contract, many warranties stipulate that your car is regularly serviced by certified mechanics or dealerships to ensure no work violates your warranty.  It’s worth noting that these warranties do not and will not cover any errors made to your vehicle by you, the consumer, or a non-certified mechanic, or from wear-and-tear unless specifically noted in the warranty guidelines. For this reason, we recommend you do not alter your vehicle with aftermarket or personalizations until after these warranty periods have passed, so you can receive your maximum claim benefit if any issues should arise.  There may be restrictions to warranty coverage for commercial or combined-use (personal/commercial) vehicles, so you will need to double check the warranty parameters on that as well. Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s take a look at what each of these terms means, so you can understand which ones apply to your vehicle or which are worth opting for in addition to default depending on your driving and lifestyle needs. Various Types of Warranties and What They Provide Basic/Bumper to bumper warranty A vehicle warranty that covers everything except items that are subject to wear and tear or replacement in the ordinary course of vehicle ownership, such as oil and air filters, wiper blades and brake pads. Tires and batteries are often excluded, but usually have their own warranty provided by the manufacturers of those items. Emissions equipment is required by Federal law to be covered for two years or 24,000 miles. Extended warranty A vehicle warranty sold by the manufacturer of the vehicle or a third party that extends the vehicles basic warranty beyond its original Limited warranty A vehicle warranty that is in effect for a specified number of years and/or miles driven. Powertrain warranty (Drivetrain Warranty) Also referred to as the "drivetrain warranty." A vehicle warranty that covers most of the parts that make the vehicle move, including the engine, transmission, drive axles and driveshaft. As with a basic warranty, "consumable" parts such as hoses and belts are not covered. However, most of the internal parts of the engine, such as the pistons and bearings, which are also subject to wear and tear, are covered by a powertrain warranty. Rust & corrosion warranty A warranty that covers the repair or replacement of the vehicles sheet metal in the event of damage from rust or corrosion that is severe enough to cause a hole. Surface rust is not covered. Scheduled maintenance warranty A warranty that covers service procedures recommended by the manufacturer at predetermined intervals to preserve and/or prolong the life of a vehicle. Technical Service Bulletin Technical service bulletins (TSBs) are issued by the manufacturer for problems that affect the normal operation of the vehicle. Sometimes called "secret warranties," TSBs cover known problems and provide repair instructions for service technicians and accordingly are distributed to all of the manufacturer's dealerships. Unlike recall-related repairs, which are performed on a no-questions-asked basis, TSB repairs are made only to resolve problems that can be verified by dealer service technicians. And generally these repairs will be free of charge only if the vehicle is still under warranty. How do you file a warranty claim? A few things of note before we detail the claims process: You may be responsible for a deductible amount, depending on your plan or the claim being filed. Most warranty claims must be made within a specific date range or timeframe after you notice the issue, so don’t dilly-dally in reporting the error or defective part to your service provider. Note that you may need to take your car to a specific authorized repair facility, so make sure that if it’s a warranty covered claim you don’t bring it to a mechanic until you receive specifics from the warranty company. Stay on top of your regular mileage maintenance and service calls; warranty repairs and claims may be denied if your vehicle has not been well-maintained with regular tune-ups and fluid maintenance. Filing the Claim You’ll need to consult your paperwork which should specify who the warranty provider is, and how to contact them directly; generally you’ll find a company portal, a phone number to call or text, or an email form to fill out. You’ll next be asked questions such as explain the issue in detail, provide your VIN, when the issue started, share relevant repair history, and furnish documentation that you are the vehicle’s owner. Your warranty claim servicer will then guide you through the necessary steps for scheduling a service to remedy the claim. Your dealership or other authorized mechanic will inspect the vehicle and make an estimate which you will then submit to your warranty servicer, which will be reviewed and then subsequently approved as needed.  Once your warranty claim has been approved, they’ll go ahead with the repairs and service your vehicle as described.  Make sure you maintain a copy of this service bill for your records and keep it in a safe place for future reference! If for some reason you feel that an error has been made during the claims process, you may be able to file a claim dispute; check your paperwork for details on the procedures for filing the dispute.

We’re back with another Community Calendar of events for Lake County!  We’ve gathered up the best classes, workshops, conventions, and more all in one place.  Scroll our picks to find some great activities to enjoy with family and friends this month!  Usher in Spring with some outdoor fun, try your hand at some painting, impress your friends with a wealth of knowledge at trivia night, and all sorts of other exciting things to do. more March 5th at the Lake Forest Public Library is Pasta Palooza! Head on over to the library at 7PM to 8PM and join  Chef Cherise Slattery as she teaches you how to make 8 different pastas and several classic Italian dishes. March 5th at the Heller Nature Center of Highland Park, it’s time for Stories in the Woods! Enjoy an interactive storytime with a naturalist and then learn about the signs of spring around the forest and prairie on a short guided hike with hands-on fun!  Pre-registration is required. On March 6th, Station 51 Bar and Grill is hosting “From Grape to Glass: A Night of Wisdom” where attendees will enjoy a flight of 4 wines paired expertly with a small plate tapas-style pairing.  And don’t miss out on the wine bottle raffle, too! On March 7th from 5:30 to 8PM at the Grayslake Community Park District, visitors aged 4 through 7 will enjoy a day of St Patrick’s Day fun at “Leaping Leprechauns” event! Make a St Paddys day craft, go on a hunt for gold, learn an Irish Jig, and enjoy some pizza and Green River Floats!  Fee is $23-$28. On March 8th, Libertyville High School is hosting Second City Live Comedy Night starting at 7:30PM.  All proceeds benefit local charities and nonprofits! With Sunrise Rotary and the Second City.  Cash Bar and After Party at Mickey Finn’s Brewing at 10:30PM. On March 8th, the Shire Law Group is hosting “Art in the Shire” on the third floor from 10AM to 3PM. Come meet the local artists and enjoy a catered meal. Family friendly event! March 8th and 9th from 10AM to 4PM, $45 gets you into an incredible class at Pete Patterson Glassworks to make your very own lucky shamrock or flower from real glass! March 8th and 9th at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, enjoy a full jampacked day of shopping at the Grayslake Antique Vintage Market event! March 9th at the Volo Museum in Volo it’s National Barbie Day from 11AM to 3PM and you can enjoy fun photo ops in the Barbie Box, enjoy sing-alongs, enjoy Barbie Storytime and meet barbie! Dressing up in your best Barbie look is encouraged. On March 12th, parents and children aged 2 through 6 can enjoy a day out at the Heller Nature Trail to celebrate St Paddys Day! Enjoy a surprise craft and a kid-friendly scavenger hunt. March 14th is Shamrock Skate Night at Centennial Ice Arena in Highland Park with an all-ages celebration for $10 per skater, skate rental included, where you can enjoy green lights, irish music, and shamrock inspired excitement. On March 14th, it’s a Wicked Night Out at Clay Monet in Lake Zurich! For just $25 per person, you can enjoy a pottery event with special silk screen promo. Pink and green outfits included and light refreshments served. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult and all attendees must be ticketed in advance; no walk-ins. March 16th at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville is “Make a Fabric Upcycled Wreath” workshop . You’ll learn about the history of textiles past and present, and speak with both an environmental educator and history educator about the current Threads of Time exhibit and sustainability in fashion. Materials are provided but attendees may BYO scrap material. On March 16th from 2PM to 3PM, register to attend the workshop with Arts Educator Deb Levie as she presents an in-person lecture about the history and significance of Black artists from Chicago at the Lake Forest Library. March 22nd at the Romney Brown Candle Company of Grayslake, enjoy “Lights Camera Action movie night: Legally Blonde” from 6PM to 8PM. Enjoy a custom candle, themed topper and label, pizza, and more. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest pink outfit and Elle Woods inspired wardrobes. There’s so much more in store for you all across Lake County. Check out the full calendar of excitement at Visit Lake County!

Winter has us in our cozy era.  We’re thinking blankets and hot cocoa, hot stone massages and saunas, hearty meals like soups and stews, and cozying up by the fire.  We’re romanticizing our lives by relishing in the small moments, the little things that bring us joy. On today’s blog, we’re carrying that theme through to our next travel guide with romantic and cozy getaways in Minnesota. more Enger Lofts in Duluth offers historic boutique hotel accommodations by way of luxurious penthouse, roomy 2 bedrooms, and cozy studio lodgings.  We love that this hotel has leaned into local life by stocking each room with comfortable furnishings from local vendors and decorating with artwork and decor from local creators and galleries; it gives this stay a little bit of unique character. Can’t leave your beloved furry pal behind? That’s no problem; we’re happy to report this is a pet friendly hotel!  You’ll find an onsite marketplace including the delicious 190 Coffee & Tea shop with top tier pastries and coffee/tea options.  This historic building is located right in the heart of the Lincoln Park Craft District and across the street from some of the area’s top dining and entertainment options.  While you're in town, why not book a tasting flight at Bent Paddle Brewing Co or Wild State Cider and take a bottle or two back to the hotel for a cozy night in.  Stop by Lake Superior Art Glass and Gallery for an afternoon of creative glass blowing and glass art making.  Head over to grab a book at Zenith Bookstore and cuddle up for some evening reading together.  There’s so much to see and do when you’re in Duluth! The Birch Box Container in Crosby is a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway for two or a girls-weekend trip with your bestie.  This stunning container home is nestled deep in the birch woods near Cuyuna State Recreation Center and promises all of the cozy rest and respite you could ever want.  What makes this lodging so serene is that it’s the only cabin on the whole property, meaning you won’t have to worry about another soul cramping your style. Enjoy this peacefully decorated container home with its very own private hot tub with outstanding views of the natural surroundings. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and unwind away from city life.  The property does indeed have wifi, but the owners recommend unplugging as much as possible so you can immerse yourself in nature and detox from hectic daily life in this 420sq.ft. tiny home; to help you with this, the owners have also supplied a lovely selection of board games to play and enjoy.  The outdoor covered patio with hot tub and cozy fire pit lounge area allow you to lose yourself in the tranquility of the woods in winter.  You'll have plenty of room to cook up a cozy meal together and chat over dinner. The beautifully curated bathroom is the perfect place to take a nice hot shower to unwind at the end of the day before you cozy up together in one of the two luxurious bedrooms. Downtown Crosby is the perfect followup to your cozy night in as you stroll down mainstreet shopping charming stores, boutiques and antiques. The Cuyuna Brewing Company and a few games at Cuyuna Lanes make for a fun date night. And you can relax and feel rejuvenated with a session at Sisu Massage and Apothecary. Nature Link’s Spruce Cabins in Nisswa offers an unmatched backdrop with stunning scenery, incredible views of Clark lake, and unforgettable accommodations with a private island.  You’ll have your pick of 19 cabins on 14 wooded acres with 1,400 feet of shoreline along Clark Lake, and we’re super stoked to share that each cabin comes with its own private beach.  At the end of the property you’ll also have the opportunity to trek along the gorgeous multi-use recreational trail, the Paul Bunyan Trail, which connects the cities of Brainered and Bemidji.  The site also has its own event center hotel where you can host your wedding or private event, with new accommodations being expanded annually.  Newly added to the grounds is the Sauna House located right on the beach with a large window overlooking the lake, making for a relaxing afternoon of nature watching and meditation.  This truly cozy resort is also just a short walk or drive away from the area’s best coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries making it perfect for a girls trip or romantic weekend getaway.  There are multiple spas and wellness centers nearby as well, so you can enjoy an invigorating massage or spa treatment after a weekend of trail hikes and outdoor exploration at places such as Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park and Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area.  If you’re a golfer, you’ll find 8 different courses to choose from and enjoy, as well as whimsical mini golf courses like Nisswa Mini Golf and Pirates Cove Mini Golf. Looking to do a little shopping? Refresh your wardrobe or pick up some local gifts at The Shops at Downtown Nisswa.

It’s never too early to start planning your Spring Break Vacation and Mothers’ Day Weekend getaways!  Today on the blog, we’re sharing three fantastic destinations to check out for spring road trips in the Midwest. Each of these areas offers a truly unique perspective and energy, and celebrates the changing of the season from winter to spring in their own way. From fields of tulips to fun on the lake to lush green forests, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect destination for you and your loved ones to enjoy.  So, what are you waiting for? Hop on in your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road for some fun in the spring sun. more Holland, Michigan is by far one of the most beautiful cities to visit during the Spring.  Forget about expensive plane tickets and passport fees, you’ll be transported to the Netherlands right in the middle of the US!  The Holland Tulip Festival is one of the most memorable events in the Midwest, filled with vibrant blooms as far as the eye can see, and a charming Dutch style windmill and European architecture seal the deal. Veldeheer Tulip Gardens is prime viewing in May with 6 million tulips and 850 varieties! This year the Tulip Festival takes place from May 2nd through May 11th!  You’ll be transported to Amsterdam with a visit to Nelis’s Dutch Village and the charming little amusement park, cheese maker, and European style shops nearby! Locals love the Bowerman Blueberries Farm Market, which specializes in blueberry products such as ice cream, donuts, and specialty baked goods (they also offer limited gluten free items while they last!)  You’ll also find several historic homes to visit and beautiful parks to stroll and soak up that spring sunshine. Madison, Indiana is a great choice for an outdoorsy Spring Break vacation. Clifty Falls State Park is a must-see destination with ever changing scenery each season, making it worth visiting again and again. The park has 1,416 acres with 12 miles of trails, 70-foot gorges, and four magnificent waterfalls ranging from mega plunge falls to bridal-veil mists; it’s a true nature lover’s paradise. Cyclists will find incredible biking along the rolling hills and paths along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, and every skill level will find a ride to enjoy.  Anglers will enjoy some boating and fishing along the Ohio River or one of the local fishing holes. Book a river tour on the unique Rockin’ Thunder jet boat, the only one of its kind in the Midwest.  Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge nearby is home to numerous migratory birds, making it a great spot to do some birdwatching and nature photography, as well as enjoying some environmental education, fishing, hiking, and exploring. Put-In-Bay, Ohio is giving New England style island charm right here in the Midwest. This quaint town is surrounded by Lake Erie and features not one but two state parks (Kelleys Island State Park, Oak Point State Park), a half dozen nature preserves and parks, a lighthouse, and lakeside boardwalk.  We recommend leaving your car behind and opting for the golf-cart rental for your visit for an authentic experience.  The most popular times to visit are June through August, making Spring Break an optimal time for a more quiet, serene getaway.  Seeking a taste of tropical island weather during your vacation? We recommend checking out the Islander Inn Resort for your stay where you’ll find palm trees, swimming pools, and an island themed bar.  If you’re looking for something more low key, you’ll love the Hieneman Winery, with more than 21 different varieties of wine to choose from.

For today’s winter road trip destination, we’re branching out of our Midwest roots and venturing onwards to the West Coast for Winter Vacation in Lake Tahoe, in California and Nevada!  Even in the colder months this region nestled in the Sierra Nevada range boasts an absolutely magnificent natural environment to explore filled with glistening ice, ultra clear teal waters, impressive evergreens, and some of the most memorable landscape views.  The Lake Tahoe area covers 12 different unique towns and resorts: Alpine Meadows, Carnelian Bay, Crystal Bay, Donner Summit, Incline Village, Kings Beach, Northstar, Olympic Valley, Tahoe City, Tahoe Vista, Truckee, and West Shore; we won’t quite have enough space to delve into every single area, but we’ve cherrypicked some highlights for you as as jumping off point!  We can’t wait to visit, how about you?  Let’s hop in your new car from Classic and hit the road. more Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding in the Area Winter sports fun abounds at Palisades Tahoe (Palisades Tahoe + Alpine Meadows). This dual resort location offers 6,000 combined acres, 43 lifts, and 270 trails.  It’s also the only one in North America to offer a Gondola, a Funitel, and an Aerial Tram for enclosed lifts; and we can guarantee even the lift up the mountain will be memorable with unmatched views of the Sierras as you rise!  The Alpine Lodge offers family-friendly accommodations and dining options.  The resort offers unmatched Lake Tahoe views via the Lakeview Chair lift, with panoramic views of the mountain and lake.  You’ll find the area is accessible to all ability levels of winter sports, but is especially fun for intermediate and advanced skiers. The Village at Palisades Tahoe offers condo accommodations, several wine bars and coffee shops, and the latest and greatest in winter gear outfitters. Learn how to ski like an Olympian at the Mountain Sports School and receive coaching and guidance from the sport’s top instructors. Other top-rated ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area include Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Sugar Bowl, Boreal Mountain, and Sierra at Tahoe. Fun on the Shores of Lake Tahoe: Ice Fishing and Paddle-Boarding Book a trip with Adventures Lake Tahoe and enjoy a guided experience with lessons on Ice Fishing in the area. You’ll learn the ins and outs of ice fishing, proper safety precautions, what fish you’ll catch, and how to select the best spot for ice fishing.  You’ll need to snag a one-day sport fishing license fee for anyone 16+ years of age.  Visitors recommend checking out the South Shore of Tahoe in areas such as Red Lake, Caples Lake, and Silver Lake. Remember, ice fishing conditions will vary depending on temperature; you’ll need at least 6 inches of ice coverage on the lake in order to walk on it and fish.  Swing on by to Tahoe Fly Fishing Outfitters for rentals, ice augers, tackle, and fishing rods! While it might seem strange to suggest paddle boarding in the dead of winter, we couldn’t recommend it more. The crisp winter weather means there are less people traversing the lake waters, leaving you with an almost glass-like surface.  The clear, ice-blue water and pristine depths are a true sight to behold, and we can bet you’ve never seen anything quite like it.  The Winter sunshine can help warm the air into the 50s, making it a comfortable day out on the water for unparalleled views of the mountain range and evergreen forests.  You’ll still need to bundle up in appropriate layers and some thermal suits, because the water is still very frigid! Snowmobiling through the Sierras Snowmobiling through the Lake Tahoe Backcountry is exhilarating and impressive. You’ll fly across snowy fields and terrain against a backdrop of snow-tipped evergreens and glistening snow drifts.  Check out Lake Tahoe Adventures, Zephyr Cove Snowmobiling Tours, and Coldstream Adventure Tours Sledding, Tubing, Skating, and Hiking Looking for a family-friendly activity? Head on over to the South Shores and enjoy a day out sledding and tubing at places like Tube Tahoe, Hansen’s Resort, and Adventure Mountain. Soda Springs Snow Park offers tubing geared towards kids and adults 42” and taller at Tube Town; younger guests under 42” tall will have a blast at the Family Fun Zone and Planet Kids area. There are several hiking trails in the areas for when you’re ready to stretch your legs including Echo Lakes Trail, Tallac Historic Site Trail, Van Sickle Bi-State Park, and Rubicon Trail. Enjoy Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing through the scenic forests and along the lakeshore for some much needed seasonal respite from office life. Checkout Chickadee Ridge for some choice snowshoeing, and Monkey Rock for some prime winter hiking. Have a leisurely afternoon gliding across the ice at the Heavenly Village Ice Skating Rink, located downtown in South Lake Tahoe and within walking distance to shops, bars,and restaurants in the area.  Other ice rinks in the area include Northstar Ice Rink, Tahoe City’s Winter Spots Park, and the Olympic Ice Pavillion.

You don’t have to go too far to have a great time and enjoy an adventure.  We’re going to head into the city for the day, and explore all that Chicago has to offer. From sports to history to science, we’ve got a great list today of destinations and exciting activities to help you beat winter boredom. more Chicago Cultural Center is the first city-operated cultural center in the US! This stunning building highlights the cultural tapestry of the city, the rich history of urban architecture, the largest Tiffany Glass dome in the world, and so much more.  There’s a gift shop where you can purchase goods from local Chicago area artists, and take home some incredible souvenirs. Or stop by the Learning Lab with interactive exhibits and workshops for all ages. Peruse 3 floors of stunning exhibitions dedicated to the visual arts and contemporary culture.  It’s a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Adler Planetarium was the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, and remains a fixture in Chicago’s museum scene.  The facility houses not one but two dome projection theatres, and offers a fully immersive media experience for theatregoers, to experience space and our universe like never before; there are currently five films in screening: Niyah and the Multiverse, Destination Solar System, Imagine the Moon, Planet Nine, Skywatch Live, and One World One Sky.  The newest exhibit is “Other Worlds”, allowing visitors to get an “up close” look at the differences between the planets and their unique characteristics, as well as learning how we research our solar system. Make sure to bring your camera or snap some pics for the ‘gram at the museum’s multiple Selfie Spots on the floor, there’s 8 in total!  There’s also the Doane Observatory, where you can check out the largest public accessible telescope in Chicago! Shedd Aquarium is the third largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, and features 5 million US Gallons of water and highlights habitats and life cycles of 32,000 aquatic species.  Sign up for a 75-minute guided tour of the facility and you’ll get the inside scoop and behind the scenes look into operations.  Exhibits include Amazon Rising, Plankton Revealed, Wild Reef, the Polar Play Zone, the Abbot Oceanarium, Oceans Exhibit, At Home on the Great Lakes, Botanical Gardens, seasonal Terraces, and the seasonal Stingray touch pools. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is packed with not only fascinating engineering, tech, and scientific exhibits, but real life relics of history like the only German submarine on display in the US, the U-505 Submarine!  Check out the Giant Dome Theater and see a larger than life laser projection show at this state of the art facility. Visit the Henry Crown Space Center to take a journey through the history of space exploration and view artifacts from the Space Race.  Explore mathematics and geometry as you make your way through the Numbers in Nature Mirror Maze. Learn more about weather patterns and natural disasters at the Science of Storms exhibit.  It’s one of the most engaging, hands-on facilities full of creative learning opportunities for families and kids of all ages. WNDR Museum is a unique multi-sensory exhibit featuring contemporary art and interactive installations by artists including the captivating Yayoi Kusama, Keith Haring, HAZE, and more.  No two visits to this museum are alike, as the exhibits are always rotating and evolving!  Designed to inspire you to explore the meaning of creativity and connection of art to everyday life.  You’ll find more than 15 installations of fully immersive art and light displays, as well as a shop with a curated selection of artistic goods, and the Lounge featuring light refreshment and local craft beers. Chicago Sports Museum sprawls across 23,000 square feet of space along the Magnificent Mile, and celebrates the rich and storied history of sports in Chicago! Learn about first-hand accounts of what it was like to play in early days of national sports leagues.  Check out relics and collectibles from bygone eras and some of sports most memorable athletes.  Explore exhibits such as Measure Up, where you can test your own endurance, strength, and physical prowess against the stats of top tier athletes; Forensic Sports uses science and technology to fully examine infamous sports mysteries; the Fan Zone is dedicated to the greatest fans in the world; and our favorite Curses and Superstitions exhibit highlighting rituals and good luck charms of athletes and their teams.

Today we’re taking a trip to our next door neighbors in Indiana!  We’re going to explore different winter weather activities you can enjoy in just a few short hours drive away.  From ice skating to skiing, snowboarding to tubing, Indiana has got it all and then some.  So let’s check it out!  Pack up your skis, your sled, your skates, and we’ll hit the road in your new car from Classic on our next winter road trip! more Skate Your Way to Glory: Best Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks Whether you want to skate the day away under the warmth of the sun, or you prefer to skate under the stars, we’re sure you’ll love these outdoor ice rink options. The gorgeous Central Park Plaza Ice Rink is located inside the William E Urschel Pavilion in downtown Valparaiso.  This 12,000 square foot open-air pavilion centers around a beautiful 80’x120’ ice rink which features a colorful lights display with swooping curves and waves in the outdoor rink’s ceiling.  The glowing lights and mood music will inspire you to try your best triple axle and ice ballet maneuvers!  Plus there’s a great concession stand with primetime viewing of the rink so you can watch your friends and fellow skaters as you thaw out.  There’s also a series of rotating markets and events each season. Howard Park Ice Trail and Pond offers a 16,000 square foot ice trail featuring gently rolling hills and soft curves for a unique skating opportunity.  The ice pond is located just off the ice trail, and is tailored to a more traditional ice skating experience; there is an isolated area dedicated to beginners and first-timers, as well as an area to play “broom ball” on the ice.  You can skate the area 7 days a week, and every Friday Night you can enjoy DJ Skate Night from 6PM to 8PM. Open 4PM to 6PM Weekdays, extended hours on Friday/Saturday/Sunday. NIBCO Water and Ice Park is a beautiful outdoor skating rink that you’ll not soon forget. Set against the backdrop of the Elkhart River, this beautifully landscaped ice path with skating rink is a twinkling winter wonderland! The charming Riverside Skating Center is bringing some vintage vibes and Hallmark movie energy to West Lafayette for two decades.  The rink is open Tuesday through Wednesday from 6PM to 9PM; Fridays from 4-6PM and 7-10PM; Saturdays from 1-3PM, 4-6PM,  7-10PM; Sundays from 1-3PM; 4-6PM, and 7-9PM.  Private lessons and rentals are available!  If you love hockey, then you’ll be delighted to know the rink also offers Adult Hockey pick-up games on Wednesdays from 9PM to 10:30PM and Saturdays/Sundays from 8PM to 10PM! The bustling aquatic summer resort turns into a 14,500 square foot ice experience at Skate the Plaza at Deep River Water Park! Hit the Slopes for Superior Sledding, Skiing and Snowboarding We’ve already done some great guides for skiing and snowboarding, but we’re all about the one-stop travel guide! Check out our suggestions for best skiing and snowboarding in the state. Fort Harrison state Park offers some superior winter tobogganing and sledding options and one of Indianapolis’ largest sledding hills! Enjoy some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Indiana Dunes National Park through the 15 miles along the Glenwood Dunes Trails  or traipse through the habitats of Tolleston Dunes Trail. Likewise, Indiana Dunes State Park offers sledding options at the “Devil’s Slide” hill as you look out at panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Koteewi Run is Indiana’s only groomed snow-tubing trail with 700 feet of groomed lanes in specialized custom snow tubes, complete with tow line back to the top for a repeat experience! Paoli Peaks offers ski trails for all skill levels as well as snowboarding, plus snowtubing at the Arctic Blast Tubing Park. Perfect North Slopes is a 100 acre snowpark that offers all-ages and all-experience levels a great time, with downhill skiing and snowboarding across 23 trails and 2 terrain parks, plus snowtubing! Pokagon State Park offers the Midwest’s first and only refrigerated toboggan run over a course with plenty of dips, curves, hills, and valleys and a thrilling 90-foot drop over a quarter mile. Experience the Great Outdoors for the Snow Loving Adventure Seeker Hang up the skis and try your hand at something a little more exhilarating like snowmobiling through the forest or a romp through the woods on horseback!  Level up your familiar hiking grounds as you trek through snow and ice across familiar landscapes transformed into snowcovered hilltops and glistening frozen forests. Enjoy some winter cave spelunking and explore a new side of Indiana!  Book a trip to one of these incredible Grottos: Evansville Metropolitan Grotto in Jasper; Northern Indiana Grotto in Granger; Saint Joseph Valley Grotto in Elkhart; Bloomington Indiana Grotto in Bloomington; Central Indiana Grotto in Indianapolis; Eastern Indiana Grotto in Elwood; Western Indiana Grotto in Poland. Visit Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg and book a Guided Trail Ride on horseback through 78 acres along the banks of White Lick Creek; open daily, weather permitting. Enjoy more than 200 miles of snowmobile trails including Buffalo Run Snowmobile Trail (68mi); Miami Snowmobile Trail (61mi); Salamonie Snowmobile Trail (40mi); Heritage Snowmobile Trail (34mi); Potawatomi Snowmobile Trail (32mi). Hikers of all experience levels will enjoy the numerous trails across the state including Putnam Nature Trail, People Pathways Trail, Vandalia TRail, DePauw Nature Park Trails, McCloud Nature Park Trails, Sodalis Nature Park, McCormick’s Creek State Park, Turkey Run State Park, Shades STate Park, and many more.

Did you know that wine tastings aren’t just for sunny days on the patio and sipping as you watch the sunset?  There’s plenty of wineries in the Midwest open all year round! Wind down from your work week and warm up this weekend with a visit to one of these winter season wineries. more Enjoy a winter wine travel experience along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Pomona, IL area!  While it’s considered the “off-season” we highly recommend making the trip. You’ll have a much more quiet, intimate experience at the wineries and enjoy the snow covered Shawnee Hills National Forest with its stunning waterfalls and sandstone formations. Wineries along the trail include: Alto Vineyards, Blue Sky Vineyard, Feather Hills, Hickory Ridge Vineyard and Winery, Honker Hill Winery, Kite Hill Vineyards, Owl Creek Vineyard, Peach Barn Winery, Pomona Winery, StarView Vineyards, Von Jakob Vineyard, Wichmann Vineyard. The White Winter Winery in Iron River, WI offers award winning artisanal beverages from Meads to Ciders to fine Spirits.  For more than 20 years, the winery has been cultivating specialty beverages featuring locally grown berries, cherries, pears, and apples to add to their award-winning handcrafted, small batch honey wines. Bailey’s Run Vineyard and Winery in New Glarus, WI is open year round, 7 days a week and offers an assortment of local, live musicians both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting.  Nearby sister company the Whiskey Run Distilling Co for craft distilled spirits. Chateau Chantal in Traverse City, MI is located on a sprawling 65-acre estate and offers a tasting room with a spectacular scenic view!  Sit back and relax with a casual tasting or book a tour of the grounds to learn more about how they craft more than a dozen different wines.  Plus, there are special events throughout the season and cozy lodging on site to make a weekend out of it. Rove Estate’s Vineyard and Tasting Room in Traverse City, MI is located at one of the highest points in the area, with beautiful sunlight and rolling southern slopes leading to some of the best grapes in the area.  The winery offers wine tastings and tours with live music options, so check their calendar for the current musical performance lineup. Resort Pike Cidery and Winery is located in Petoskey, MI and is a self-proclaimed “carbonation country”, producing some of the finest “bubbly” around.  The ciders and specialty sparkling wines often feature blends of sweet fruits and tart berries. 12 Corners Winery and Vineyards in Benton Harbor, MI harvests apples and grapes from its 30 acres of orchards and grapevines in order to make handcrafted specialty ciders and craft wines.  The tasting room can certainly serve a crowd so feel free to bring a friend where you can enjoy a peaceful wine flight or cider flight overlooking the snowy vineyards. Filipo Marc Winery in Clinton Township, MI has a whopping 70 varieties of wines, including a “make your own” area where you can craft your own specialty blend for you or your loved ones! Threefold Vine Winery in Stephenson, MI is a family owned and operated venture, located in the picturesque historic town.  Enjoy free wine tastings and purchase a bottle of your favorites when you’re ready.

Do January and February feel like they’re 25 years long? Is the winter weather taking its toll on your summer-loving self?  Well, we’re here to rescue you from the doldrums with our amazing blog that will bring Summer Vibes even if it’s snowing outside. Today’s post is all about incredible indoor water parks and resorts to experience plenty of fun no matter what weather is happening outdoors.  From waterslides to wave pools to surfing simulators and lazy rivers, we have no doubt that you’re going to find something to suit your tastes.  So what are you waiting for? Time to hop into your new car from Classic and hit the road to waves and splash your way through the snowy season. more Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells is Wisconsin’s biggest waterpark resort, with 4 outdoor and 4 indoor water parks to choose from!  Your family will go positively gaga over the Wild West themed park, the impressive wave pool,a tubing slide, and so much more. The resort also has its own miniature golf course, bumper boats, indoor go kart racing, laser tag, and even zip lining!  As for food and lodging, you’ll have a wide selection of restaurants and cafes to choose from, and multiple accommodations to select from comfortable hotel rooms, private condos, villas, and even cozy cabins at different price points and amenity preferences. Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark at Grand Geneva is an all-season, all-suite family-friendly resort featuring a massive 50,000 square foot indoor waterpark.  Visitors of all ages can also enjoy the WELL Spa and Salon, including fantastic Mommy and Me packages or a Junior Spa option.  Looking to try something different? Head on over to Dan Patch Stables nearby for a bit of equine excitement, or a few rounds of games in the Crazy Coyote Arcade, Timber Ridge Bowling Alley, or The Bruce: Mini Golf Course.  Plus, there’s a brand new Fireside Terrace allowing for some stargazing and hot chocolate by a cozy fire, weather permitting. Grand Bear Resort in Utica is nestled right next door to the stunning Starved Rock State Park, one of our favorite destinations for exploration and adventure!  Keeping true to the area’s natural wonder and appeal, the resort has styled its 24,000 square foot indoor water park with plenty of natural looking features such as evergreens, rock formations, and waterfalls.  In addition, you’ll find 4 delightful restaurants to dine at along with a banquet hall and party room if you’d like to celebrate or host a family reunion. And when you’re feeling a bit waterlogged, you can unwind in the arcade for some good ol’ fashioned fun, or swing by the mini-golf course and challenge your loved ones to a round or two. Grand Harbor Resort and Water Park in Dubuque is open year-round and houses a 25,000 square foot indoor waterpark with rides, slides, and fun for all ages.  Enjoy some tubing rides, rope ladders, a lazy river, activity pool, 2 giant hot tub whirlpools, and multiple waterslides.  The resort offers complimentary breakfasts from 6:30AM to 9/10AM (check schedule for timings/days), as well as the onsite eatery Tony Roma’s Restaurant and Lounge.  Challenge your family and friends to a few rounds of Skee-Ball and more at the Arcade, or perhaps a rousing round of Laser Maze will be more your speed.  Plus, there’s an on site fitness center for the athletes in your midst, which you can enjoy after dropping off the kiddos at the Kidz Club activity center. Big Splash Water-Park in French Lick is jampacked with 40,000 square feet of excitement, including a very unique retractable roof for some indoor-outdoor fun (weather permitting).  This pirate themed park offers the Jolly Roger water slide, Pirate’s Plunder water slide, and the Lost Treasure Lagoon where you can enjoy some splash pad fun and basketball. Plus, there’s a wonderful lazy river feature called Lost River at Big Splash Adventure!  As you can see, there’s no shortage of excitement at southern Indiana’s biggest and best indoor water park.  Perfect for the kids and the kids at heart! Great Wolf Lodge in Mason offers an outstanding array of activities including a top tier indoor water park featuring 8 different pools and 13 impressive water slides!  Looking to take a break from the waterpark? You’ll love the MagiQuest Legacy and ShadowQuest interactive fantasy role play games, Northern Lights Arcade, Ten Paw Bowling Alley, Howl at the Moon Miniature Golf Glow Course, Oliver’s Mining Sluice, and a custom Build-a-Bear workshop.  There’s also 8 different eateries to choose from including a pizza place, wood fire grill, and ice cream parlor! Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park in Osage Beach is part of the Margaritaville Lake Resort, nestled in the stunning Lake of the Ozarks region.  This year-round indoor water park features 600 feet of water slides, an over-sized whirlpool, a lazy river, and an activity pool.  Families will also enjoy the Fin City Bowling Alley and Fin City Arcade, both of which offer extended hours of fun after you dry out from the water park.  For dining, visitors rave about the Landswhark Bar & Grill’s signature Landshark Burgers and Taco Nachos, but that’s not all there is to choose from. You can also check out the JB’s Boathouse Grill for a cozy and hearty breakfast buffet, the License to Chill Bar & Grill, and the upscale dining option Windrose Marker 26 for some Lakeside Dining. Avalanche Bay Water Park in Boyne Falls is the last entry on our list, but so very far from the least– clocking in at an impressive 88,000 square feet of fun, this is Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark that’s always a perfect 84 degrees and open year round.  Choose from the 4-lane Downhill Mat Racer Slide, The Big Couloir slide with a 360 degree Super LOOP, Vertigo Cannonball slide with a giant swirl feature, The Super-G Slide bringing you indoors and out and in again, and the Pink & Purple slides which are family-friendly for guests of all ages.  Then there’s the Splasherhorn Play Structure adventure park with 800-gallon water avalanche, Rip Zone Surf Simulator, Haute Route Water Crossing Challenge, Lazy River for lounging, the Glacier Hot Springs tubs, and two sizes of pools to choose from.  In the winter, the resort also offers MoonBike Tours on an e-bike snow vehicle, Zipline Adventures around Boyne Mountain, Winter Tubing Parks with 700 feet of lane, Sno-Go Biking, Fat Tire Snow Biking, Cross Country Skiing, and much, much more.

Looking for an exciting new destination for winter vacation getaways? Look no further than the stunning Glacial Lakes and Prairies region of South Dakota!  The winter weather transforms the beautiful landscape into glistening snow-covered prairies and sparkling glacial-covered lakes.  Located in northeastern South Dakota, this area is prime real estate for winter sports such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing!  So grab your winter gear and buckle up, because we’re hitting the road to fun and adventure on today’s blog. more Aberdeen While there’s no options here for downhill skiing, there’s still plenty of thrills and chills to be had.  Ice Skating is available at two outdoor rinks and 1 indoor rink: Lincoln Elementary School and Manor Park, and Odde Ice Arena (indoors).  Cross-Country Skiing is available on the groomed trails at Manor Park and Lee Park Golf Course.  The Curling League meets every Wednesday and plays at the Holum Expo Building.  Downhill sledding is free at Baird Park and Richmond Lake areas. Snowshoeing is allowed in all parks across Aberdeen except on groomed cross-country trails; it is also allowed in select areas such as Richmond Lake and Mina Lake recreation areas.  Snowmobiling is available on the 72-mile groomed trails circling round the Richmond Lake Recreation Area.  Forest Drive unit offers a scenic drive, multi-use trails, and a warming shelter that starts the local snowmobile trail; cross-country ski trails are groomed seasonally. The area is also a top destination for waterfowl hunters, and in select months you can join in on a guided buffalo hunt tour (Dec-Feb) at the Royal Flush Hunting Lodge. Pierre Fort Sisseton Historic State Park features original historic structures and military fort historic exhibits and relics, but it’s also a perfect destination to visit for some wintertime hiking and snowshoeing.  Take the Fort Sisseton Trail through the frozen wetlands and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Farm Island Recreation Area offers 3 loops along the Exploration Nature Trail for snowshoeing and cross country skiing and has a warming shelter if you need a break. You can also do some river fishing for walleye, northern pike, crappie, bluegill, perch and more; be sure to check out Lake Oahe to do some Atlantic Salmon ice fishing from a boat or on shore. Watertown and Webster Ice Fishing is a big pastime in the area at the multiple lakes in this region.  The Kampeska Lodge and Store and Doug’s Marina are hotspots for bait and tackle, so be sure to stop by and grab all your gear before heading out to the ice. Sandy Shore Recreation Area and Pelican Lake Recreation Areas offer a wide amount of walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, perch and more.  Bitter Lake and Waubay Lake are just a few miles apart and both offer some of the best walleye and perch in the country with a great catch rate; the Waubay National Wildlife Refuge offers 15,000 acres of land to explore including ice fishing on the Lake. Coteau Des Prairies offers more than 340 miles of trails through woodlands, lakes, and connects several communities together. Visitors recommend Four Lakes Trail, Sioux Trail, and Heartland Trail.

We’re taking a break from our skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing coverage to bring you an exciting change up in winter sports: fat tire biking!  Fat Tire biking features a frame similar to the typical mountain bike, but the key difference being the bikes are built to accommodate much wider, thicker tires: anywhere from 3.5” up to 6” in average width, and wheel sizes of 26”-27.5”.  These special tires allow cyclists to run the bikes at low pressure and afford additional grift on softer, slippery surfaces such as mud, sand, and snow.  They come in a standard pedal bike option as well as an E-Bike option. more What to Know When Starting Out Fat Tire Biking First, dress warmly in comfortable, stretchy layers of winter and water repellant clothing.  We recommend a wool base layer for insulation and a hard-shell outer layer for a wind/waterproof option.  You’ll want comfortable, grippy boots and UV protectant eyewear or goggles.  Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and an additional set of clothing in case you run into water, snow, or mud and need to change into something dry. Always pack a flashlight, reflective flags and flares, and a digital tire gauge/portable pump.  Charge all of your devices and bring a portable power bank as well, and in case of emergencies such as no signal or low power, we recommend purchasing or downloading a physical copy of trail maps in the areas you’re traversing.  Stay on marked and designated trails for your safety, especially in winter when ice and snow are potential hazards.  Stay alert for wildlife, other cyclists, snowshoe travelers, and fallen trees. Some trails allow you to bring your own bikes, while others request that you rent them (generally between $25-$100 for timed rentals, some offer by hour and some per day rate.) If you’re new to the sport, we recommend selecting well-groomed trails with easy terrain to start. Great Midwest Destinations for Fat Tire Biking: Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota Fat Tire Biking in Wisconsin The Northwoods and Lake Superior shoreline offer a beautiful scenic ride for fat tire biking. Check out the Jack Lake Mountain Bike and Winter Fat Tire Trail with 12 miles of trails. The CAMBA Trail System offers more than 50 miles of groomed fat tire biking trails!  You can also stop by during the special “Fat Bike  Birkie” event to access even more famous ski trails. Levis Trow-Mounds offer more than 20 miles of single track off-road bicycle trails and many of them are marked for winter fat-tire biking options.  Daily passes are required. Woolly Trail in St Croix offers a 6 mile loop with plenty of twists and turns along its singletrack trail. CamRock Trails in Cambridge offers 10 mule of Singletrack and 8 miles of multitrack biking that is perfect for all skill levels. Awassa Trail near St. Germain offers groomed trails for fat tire biking as well as snowshoeing. Kettle Moraine State Park offers select mountain biking trails converted to Fat Tire Biking trails, weather permitting. Silver Lake Park offers several loops of single-track trails and if conditions permit you may even see groomed trails across the lake in mid-winter season. Newport State Park in Door County offers 11 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails along the shores of Lake Michigan. Fat Tire Biking in Michigan Crystal Mountain resort offers 12 miles of groomed and packed trails on the property and connected to the nearby DNR Betsie River Pathway for 5 additional miles.  Trails are open daily! Bike rentals and trail passes are available for purchase. Boyne Mountain offers about 3 miles of groomed trail open 9AM to 4PM Wednesday through Sunday (closed Mon-Tue) and offers rentals for regular and electric fat tire biking for 1, 2, and 5 hour increments depending on bike choice. Boyne Highlands offers around 4 miles of groomed trail.  Bike rentals are available to rent for 2 and 6 hour rentals or an all-day pass. Trail passes are $5. Treetops offers a 3 mile groomed bike trail when weather conditions permit, and reservations are required. Bikes rent for 1, 2 or 3 hour increments. Marquette has more than 80 miles of shoreline along Lake Superior and offers 3 groomed trails to choose from: Noquemanon SBR, Noquemanon NSBR, or Ramba SBT trails.  Guided tours with bike rentals are also available Fat Tire Biking in Minnesota Giants Ridge has almost 40 miles of groomed Nordic Trails along the Superior National Forest and Gopher State’s Iron Range. Lift service for fat tire biking is available on marked trails when weather permits. Bike rentals are available for 4 hours or BYO, and trail passes with lift access are available. Minnesota River Trail, aka River Bottoms, runs parallel to the river for 11 miles. This is a very unique trail that winds through the river floodplain and is never the same experience twice, including sand, logs, and water crossings. Mission Creek offers 20 miles of single track trails through the woods west of Duluth.  If you’re looking for a challenge this offers rollers, berms, and bridges for additional excitement. Jay Cooke State Park offers nearly 6 miles of dedicated fat tire bike marked trails.  Icy conditions are common in this area, so use caution, but otherwise you’ll have a quiet, serene ride. Cannon River in Northfield has a looping 3.5 mile trail along with a skills park for practicing and testing your talents. Douglas state trail offers 12.5 mile blacktop trail and predictable, maintained trail terrain through the forests and local agricultural fields between Pine Island and Rochester.

We’re not in Dorothy Gale’s Kansas, anymore, ma!  Today on the blog we’re sharing some incredible places to visit across the beautiful state of Kansas, a real jewel of the Midwest when it comes to winter travel destinations.  There are plenty of beautiful sunny days to explore during the snowy season across The Sunflower State!  So, let’s take a page from the KC Chiefs and enjoy some rest and relaxation after a busy season, and explore some more of the fun things this great state has to offer besides a star football team and Taylor Swift sightings. more State Parks and Nature Areas Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park covers 330 acres of shortgrass prairies and incredible chalk formation rock structures; it’s perfect for hiking, nature photography, and scenic views. Cedar Bluff State Park encompasses two recreational areas with a total of 1,100 acres along the shores of Cedar Bluff Lake; you’ll have a grand time fishing, hunting, wildlife spotting, and hiking. Prairie Dog State Park is situated on the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir and sprawls over 1,150 acres; known as the home of the prairie dogs, nearly 300 of these quirky little guys inhabit the area. Webster State Park and Webster Wildlife Area consist of 8,000+ acres of gorgeous park land that migratory birds like the Bald and Golden Eagles call home for the winter; there’s a pickleball court and disc golf course, as well as plenty of options for hiking, fishing, and archery. El Dorado State Park has more than 4.000 acres to explore that are simply teeming with wildlife all year round!  Take a hike through the snowy trails and keep your eyes peeled for some majestic deer and maybe even a wily coyote or two. Lake Scott State Park is a popular destination for nature photographers thanks to its stunning rock faces and formations, and of course the magical look of the snowcovered lakeshore with frozen waters. Kanopolis Lake State Park has incredible hiking trails and caves just begging to be explored. And we bet those snowcovered red rocks will leave you breathless during your winter visit! Historic Sites and Museums The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is home to an impressive collection of live animals, fossils, and interactive exhibits.  Visitors will enjoy a replicated fossil dig site, hands-on activities in the discovery room, 5 permanent exhibits, and a multitude of special events and rotating exhibits. The Mid America Air Museum houses more than 100 aircrafts on display from warbirds to helicopters, planes, and experimental technology.  Explore each exhibit and learn about the history of air travel and transportation, and be sure to visit the Hall of Aviation Science for up-close-and personal hands-on learning! The Prairie Museum of Arts and History will transport visitors to the life of early prairie settlers with a replica sod house, one-room school, the largest barn in all of Kansas, a church, and a 1930s farmstead. In addition, the museum is also home to the World-Class Kuska Collection featuring more than 28,000 artifacts such as toys, glass, ceramics, coins, clothing, art and more. The Mid-American All-Indian Center is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Middle America’s Native American populations and tribes.  Learn about the history and heritage of local indigenous populations through a visit to the museum, gallery of nations, and interactive exhibits. You can even experience a real live pow-wow and learn more about Native American ceremony and customs, and shop for authentic creations and jewelry. Cosmosphere International Science Education Center and Space Museum is a unique aeronautics and space museum which houses the largest combined collection of both Soviet and American artifacts from space travel.  As the state’s only Smithsonian affiliated museum, it’s the only place in the Midwest to check out a real actual used aircraft from 3 manned space flight missions! Flint Hills Discovery Center is an interactive museum and science center dedicated to exploring and education of the area’s tallgrass prairies.  Visitors can enjoy an immersive theater experience that takes you through different areas and seasons on the prairie, interactive exhibits and hands-on learning about life on the prairie, and a beautiful Prairie Garden Terrace and Trail experience with native wildflowers and plants, informational panels, and gorgeous views. Little House on the Prairie Museum is the official home site of famous children’s author Laura Ingalls Wilder. This replica of Wilder’s 1870 cabin will take visitors back in time as they learn about the pioneer way of the Ingalls family that inspired her children' s books.  There’s also an authentic one-room schoolhouse and a turn of the century post office on site. Arts and Entertainment Karg Art Glass offers a unique gift gallery with hand-blown glass and art across all mediums.  Monday through Saturday at select times you can come by and watch hand-blown glass artisans work their magic live in person. Red Barn Studio Museum offers a unique experience to visit the working studio of professional artist and craftsman Lester Raymer.  You’ll get to tour the studio and view his artwork and craftsmanship in everything from painting to printmaking to ceramics and woodcarving, and so much more. Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University is the region’s premiere source for modern and contemporary art. Visitors will enjoy a large collection of exhibits featuring 20th and 21st century artists. Wichita Art Museum has curated an incredible collection of American Artists including the likes of Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, Louis Nevelson, Georgia O’Keefe and many more.  The stunning Art Garden around the museum features numerous outdoor exhibits and sculptural works as well. Vernon Filley Art Museum features a gift shop and gallery of more than 100 local and regional artists through three different indoor spaces and an outdoor courtyard.  Exhibits are rotated every four months to keep things fresh and exciting! Museum at Prairie Fire focuses on the intersection between science, art, culture, and natural history through a series of dynamic exhibits and interactive programming. Lawrence Arts Center offers a year round catalogue of performing arts events, artistic exhibitions, and innovative creative classes and lectures.  Artists in residence and visiting artists will contribute to an incredible collection of rotating exhibits and installations as well as performance art demonstrations.