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Today, we’re taking in the sights and sounds of Utah at these five grand national parks!  From lush,green forests to raging rapids and rushing rivers to magnificent ancient rock formations, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views and photo ops. So what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road to adventure! more Arches National Park - This incredible park features more than 2.000 arches made of ancient sandstone, as well as plentiful rock fins, pinnacles, and mysterious balancing rock formations, and whose red rocks cut into the pristine blue skies creating a truly magical site to behold. The busiest season for visitors is March through October, and you’ll want to pack plenty of water and have plenty of sun protection. Weather here can also change the terrain and safety of trails with great significance, so check online before you go for local weather and consult a Park Ranger for help as needed.  This park has very sparse cell phone service, so you’ll be relying heavily on maps and printed trail guides here. Even though there’s a singular campground at the park, it’s a great choice for a campsite for budding astronomers as it’s now a Certified International Dark Sky Park.  Visitors here list the must-see rock formations and locations as “Delicate Arch”, a free-standing arch that’s world renowned for its distinctive backdrop and large arch opening, best viewed in the morning to avoid crowds; “Balanced Rock”, a 128-ft tall boulder balancing atop a pinnacle; “Fiery Furnace”, a maze-like series of passages and very narrow sandstone canyons; “The Windows Section”, one of the most photographed regions in the park featuring North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch; “Sand Dune Arch Trail” gives visitors multiple options to enjoy sandstone arches and a narrow trail that leads to Broken Arch. There are numerous ranger led tours throughout the park as well as commercial tour options if you prefer a more guided approach to sightseeing. Bryce Canyon National Park - A sprawling alpine forest with red rock hoodoos as plentiful as the trees, offering a unique experience for hiking through the woods and rocky spires, camping at two different campgrounds, and plenty of exploration!  If you’re interested in seeing the park from a new perspective, you can try horseback riding in the summer, or perhaps some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter. Visitors here recommend checking out the drive to the“Bryce Amphitheater”, a collection of breathtaking irregular rock spires known as hoodoos, which allows magnificent views along the first three miles of the main road and is the most famous section of the park; “Rim Trail”, which offers hikes from Bryce Point over to Fairyland Point along the edge of the amphitheater site; “Southern Scenic Drive”, an 18 mile road through the park with 9 scenic overlooks and vehicle pull outs just perfect for photo ops and unique perspectives of the park’s geology and wildlife.  The Visitor’s Center offers a chance to explore exhibits featuring geological, ecological, and astronomical related displays, as well as a special Park Film, “A Song of the Seasons” every half hour when the center is open.  Birders will rejoice to learn that this is a top spot for  birdwatching with 175 different species of birds documented as residents or migratory birds, and wildlife photographers will rejoice to find more than 1200 species of animal and plant species to document. Canyonlands National Park - Marvel at the 527 square miles of deep canyons, mesas, pinnacles, cliffs, and spires that make up this incredible landscape of the largest national park in Utah. The park is divided into three unique regions The Needles, Island in the Sky, and The Maze; each region offers options to backpack and hike unlike anything else.  There are more than 70 miles of hiking, biking, and climbing.  Ranger-led tours and local guides will help you get the most out of your visit here, providing personalized insights and historical information about the park.  Thrillseekers will be delighted to learn there’s an opportunity to ride some Class 5 river rapids, and the rest of your party may enjoy coasting and floating along quieter waters of the rivers.  Campers and backpackers are welcome, with two different campgrounds to choose from :Needles Campground and Willow Flat Campground, and multiple backcountry camping sites (permits are required) to choose from for the experienced. The best time to visit is in the Spring and fall as they’re at a comfortable temperature; if you’re visiting in the summer months, be sure to bring plenty of water and strong SPF sunscreen.  Bear in mind that summer is also monsoon season which can and will cause flash flooding in different parts of the park, so exercise caution if rain is in the forecast. If you're short on time and looking for the must-see stops, visitors recommend “Mesa Arch”, a relatively short hike leading to panoramic canyon views and a natural arch, best viewed at sunrise if you can; take the 34-mile scenic drive nearly 1,000 feet above the valleys and lower areas of the park; “Horseshoe Canyon”, featuring Native American rock marking panels and artwork; check out the geological features and formations at The Needles such as “Tower Ruin,” “Elephant Hill”, and “Chesler Park.” Capitol Reef National Park - This stark, alien landscape is reminiscent of an otherworldly surface, filled with slot canyons, sprawling red rock hiking trails, large expanses of rock formations and soaring stone cliffs.  Visitors can explore the park by taking a 90 minute round trip scenic drive including Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge dirt road spurs; along the way you’ll get to see the Moenkopi Rock Formation, layers of rock cliffs in the Waterpocket Fold, Grand Wash canyon and the nearby Oyler Uranium Mine; Wingate Sandstone rocks, and more!  This park is also a peak spot for canyoneering and climbing, testing your limits by squeezing through tough spots on foot and others requiring special equipment to scale and climb through.  There are also plentiful hikes here with far less foot traffic than other nearby parks, affording you unmatched viewpoints of the local landscape unfettered by tourists and crowds; visitors recommend the Cohab Canyon Trail, Capitol Gorge Trail, Goosenecks Overlook, Fremont River Trail, Hickman Natural Bridge Trail just to name a few. Camping enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the Fruita Campground offers 71 campsites including tent and RV options, and some of the most gorgeous views and sunsets you’ll ever experience! Zion National Park - Breathtaking views of thousand-foot deep red rock canyons surrounded by verdant plants and trees and rushing river waters await you here!  This is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country, with a landscape so beautiful you’ll hardly believe your eyes. The park is home to 291 different species of birds, and you can grab a bird spotting checklist at the visitors centers to keep track of your findings. Grab your mountain bikes and get pedaling along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Pa’rus Trail. Book a guided horseback riding trail from March through October and trot along rocky trails, woodland areas, and through riverbeds. With more than 90 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of options for all skill levels from easy day hikes to moderate trails and strenuous, experienced hikes; visitors recommend moderate hikes such as Red Reef, Snow Canyon Overlook, Water Canyon.  Book a ranger-led tour of the park through one of the parks special programs for a unique look at the park’s history and wildlife. Do a little camping under the stars and appreciate the stunning views of the heavens.  Or dip your toes into the world of aquatic sports such as river rafting, canoeing and kayaking, and more along the Virgin River in Zion.

New TRD Rally Package New available multifunction massaging front seats New available power tailgate with knee lift assist New Tow Tech Package includes antenna and Wi-Fi Trailer camera 8-way power-adjustable driver seat w/ power lumbar now standard on SR5 Available i-FORCE MAX® Powertrain, Produces 437 hp, 583 lb.-ft. 12,000-Pound Maximum Towing Capacity Available 14-inch Touchscreen Highlights Audio Multimedia System The Tundra is a full-size pick-up powerhouse and it enters 2025 with a new TRD Rally Package and new luxury features. The lineup for the 2025 Tundra offers something for everyone, with SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, TRD Pro and Capstone grades available. more TRD Rally Package This TRD inspired Rally Package uses Toyota’s Baja racing heritage as the cornerstone for its design. The iconic red, orange and yellow colorway is incorporated into the design of this truck. Engineers continued the enhancements with 18-inch TRD off-road wheels with unique center caps, all-terrain tires, Bilstein® shocks and skid plates to give this truck legitimate off-road chops. Add in an electronically controlled locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control and this truck is ready to take you on epic adventures. The exterior was not the only place that got exciting goodies, the interior also pays homage to Toyota’s racing heritage, showing off the iconic red, orange, yellow accents on the SoftTex®-trimmed seats and on the dashboard. The TRD Rally Package is available in four colors: Ice Cap, Magnetic Gray, Midnight Black Metallic and Celestial Silver. Massaging Seats Front seat passengers can now experience luxurious comfort with beautifully crafted available leather-trimmed seats featuring 10-way power adjustment and integrated massage functions. Tailor your relaxation with options for both upper and lower body massage, offering a range of intensities—all conveniently controlled via the intuitive 14-inch multimedia touchscreen. Massaging seats can be used whether driving or parked and are standard in 1794, Platinum and Capstone grades. TRD PRO Color All-new for 2025 is the color Mudbath, which is only available on TRD Pro grades. Impressive Powertrains The Tundra offers impressive powertrains: a twin-turbo V6 engine and a hybrid twin-turbo V6. Both engines team with a 10-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECTi). The 10-speed features a sequential shift mode, uphill/downhill shift logic and TOW/HAUL driving modes. The i-FORCE, twin-turbo V6 uses DOHC 24-valve cylinder heads and Dual VVTi systems to yield 389 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft. of torque. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain is available with 437 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, and an impressive 583 lb.-ft. of torque at a low 2,400 rpm. The i-FORCE MAX combines the twin-turbo V6 with a motor generator with a clutch located within the bell housing between the engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. The motor generator provides additional power through the transmission, while the engine start-up, EV driving, electric assist and energy regeneration are done via the hybrid components. Off-Road Prowess Standard on Tundra TRD Pro models and trucks equipped with the TRD Off-Road package are a slew of off-road upgrades that enhance off-pavement exploration. Multi-Terrain Select offers adjustable settings to help control wheel spin on a variety of terrain. Crawl Control functions as a low-speed, off-road cruise control that allows the driver to focus on steering while the Tundra maintains one of five selectable speeds. Downhill Assist Control helps the driver navigate tricky slopes by limiting the speed of the vehicle during descents. TRD Pro and Tundras equipped with the TRD Off-Road package come standard with an electronically locking rear differential to provide added traction in 4WD Low applications. Multi-Terrain Monitor also comes standard on TRD Pro and on TRD Off-Road Package-equipped models, allowing the driver to check the immediate surroundings for potential obstacles. Pressing a button on the console activates front, rear and side-camera views on the center display. Texas-Assembled Toyota Tundra is assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio. “Technical muscle” was a design mantra for the team, as it capitalized on the modern features of the truck while retaining a nod to the outdoor lifestyle at the core of Tundra ownership. High-strength steel is used throughout the chassis to help increase rigidity, while aluminum is used in key areas to help reduce weight. A front cross member is used for the steering, which adds rigidity while enhancing steering input and handling dynamics for the driver. For Limited grade and above, the cab is mounted to the frame with hydraulic mounts to help enhance ride comfort. The Tundra’s bed is lightweight and extremely strong thanks to its sheet-molded compound (SMC) construction and aluminum reinforcing cross members. The SMC bed helps offer added protection against dents, impact dings and rust compared to traditional steel decks. All Tundras feature a power release tailgate and newly available is the power close tailgate. Modernized Suspension The Tundra uses a multi-link rear suspension to help enhance ride comfort, straight-line stability and overall handling dynamics – not to mention it also helps with towing capability. The maximum towing capacity for Tundra is 12,000 pounds and the maximum payload is 1,940 pounds. Up front the double wishbone suspension helps enhance ride comfort, driving performance and overall durability. For TRD Off-Road Package-equipped models, Bilstein® monotube shocks help improve damping for on- and off-highway driving. For maximum off-road performance, TRD Pro grades are fitted with 2.5-inch diameter FOX® internal bypass shocks. The front FOX shocks provide the truck with a 1.1-inch front lift. The TRD Pro gains additional off-road features, including a TRD Pro front stabilizer bar, aluminum front skid plate, additional underbody protection, and unique all-terrain Falken® tires. A TRD developed upper control arm and red-painted suspension parts add a distinctive TRD design touch. The Tundra is available with a rear air suspension system with automatic and manual leveling functions and an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system. Adopted from the luxury-vehicle category, AVS is designed to continually adjust damping force based on ever-changing road conditions, enhancing both ride quality and handling. Premium Towing Machine Beyond the added chassis strength, the Tundra offers a slew of features to help make towing easier. For added visibility when trailering, the available Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) uses cameras to display a top-down view of the truck on the available 14-inch display. Views include the rear truck bed to check on cargo, a rear split view to show what’s nearby on each side of the trailer, and a hitch view to assist with trailer connecting. Newly available is the wireless trailer camera system (WCS). This option offers an enhanced towing experience with increased visibility and is only available as a factory installed option. Simply charge and attach the pre-paired Wi-Fi camera to the rear of your trailer and seamlessly stream a live view from behind your trailer on the digital rearview mirror. Camera playback can also be viewed on the multimedia screen. Available power extending and folding tow mirrors offer an improved view of a trailer, thanks to a taller profile and revised mirror curvature that helps enhance the driver’s field of view. The mirrors are heated and feature integrated turn signals and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) notification. They also house the cameras for the PVM/MTM systems. LED trailering lights on the mirrors are controlled from inside the cabin to provide light rearward toward the trailer when needed. When connected with Toyota’s integrated trailer brake controller, the Tundra’s available Blind Spot Monitor can recognize blind spots for both the truck and the trailer. The available air suspension system offers the ability to load-level the rear height to achieve the right balance between truck and trailer. TSS 2.5 Standard on All Tundras Tundra models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 on every grade. This advanced system includes: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) Road Sign Assist (RSA) Automatic High Beams (AHB) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is available. Plus, the available Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is designed to implement brake control when there’s a possibility of a collision with a stationary object, such as while parking. Automatic High Beams are designed to detect preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switch between high- and low-beam headlights. Road Sign Assist (RSA) is designed to recognize certain road sign information using a forward-facing camera and display the signs on the Multi-Information Display (MID). All Tundra models are equipped with Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder. This feature is designed to detect whether a rear door was opened within 10 minutes of the vehicle being turned on, or at any time after the vehicle has been turned on. Once detected, it flashes a reminder message in the instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by multitone chimes. Toyota Audio Multimedia The third-gen Tundra introduced Toyota’s Audio Multimedia system designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team. A Human Machine Interface (HMI) delivers advanced interaction through sight, touch and voice activation. The Toyota Audio Multimedia boasts five times greater processing power than the previous generation system. The comprehensive system features a centrally located standard 8-inch touchscreen or an available 14-inch touchscreen with high-quality, crisp visuals. It also includes more responsive touch functionality familiar to consumers, including the pinch and zoom functions used on phones and tablets. Certain to be a favorite among gloved Tundra passengers, the new system still uses a large, easy-to-grip dial for audio volume. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system also offers standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. The virtual Intelligent Assistant* available through a Drive Connect trial or subscription provides an easy-to-use virtual companion that is more advanced and personalized than ever before. Using simple wake-up phrases such as “Hey/Hi/Hello/OK Toyota” make connection easy and seamless. Intuitive and natural VA responses allow for audible replies by the user, creating a human-like conversation experience. *4G Network dependent. 1-year trial included on all grades except for SR and SR5 on which it is available. Cloud Based Navigation for Down-to-Earth Adventures The cloud-based native navigation system* also available through a Drive Connect trial or subscription offers real-time Over the Air (OTA) updates for mapping and Points of Interest (POIs), as well as integrating Google POI data for up-to-date search capability. The navigation system allows drivers and passengers to use the voice-activated commands or the touchscreen to search for directions, find points of interest or explore local businesses. Toyota Connected Services helps offer peace of mind and convenience to Toyota owners. Safety Connect* offers added reassurance for when unexpected emergencies occur by connecting vehicle occupants with a 24/7 emergency response agent. The agent can quickly request dispatch of emergency services to a vehicle’s exact location or assist authorities in locating a stolen vehicle. An up to 10-year trial included. Service Connect* provides drivers with personalized maintenance updates, vehicle health reports and maintenance reminders. An up to 10-year trial included. A Wi-Fi Connect* subscription provides 4G connectivity for up to 5 devices by turning Tundra into an AT&T Hotspot. An Integrated Streaming feature allows linking separate customer Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle. 30 day/3 GB Wi-Fi Connect trial included. *4G network dependent. Big Screen for Driver There are two instrument panels on Tundra: the available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster or a combination meter that includes a 4.1-inch digital Multi-Information Display (MID) with analog readouts. Aside from vehicle diagnostics, the displays also provide access to safety features, navigation, audio controls, off-road features, and towing functions. On the combination meter, the 4.1-inch MID screen toggles between multiple screen options that include navigation, audio selections, vehicle diagnostics and more. Surrounding the MID screen are analog gauges that include tachometer, speedometer, oil and fuel gauges. Standard with the i-FORCE MAX powertrain, the 12.3-inch display illuminates when the vehicle is powered on to display one of five rotating Tundra animations that fill the screen. The display features digital gauges, including a tachometer and speedometer. Selectable content includes tow gauges, pitch and roll displays and powertrain performance gauges. The display’s appearance also changes with drive modes, and it provides specific information for off-road and towing functions. Options, Options, Options As before, the Tundra is offered in a wide variety of configurations, based on two four-door options, Double Cab and CrewMax. Double Cab models offer the choice of a 6.5-foot bed or an 8.1-foot bed. CrewMax models can have a 5.5-foot bed or 6.5-foot bed. Available on SR5, Limited, Platinum and 1794 models, the TRD Off-Road Package includes 18-inch TRD wheels standard on SR5 and unique 20-inch wheels for Limited, Platinum, and 1794. Also included is a TRD grille, TRD off-road suspension, skid plates, mud guards and a TRD leather-wrapped shift knob. The TRD Off-Road Package-equipped models also feature electronic rear differential lock, Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and Crawl Control. The 2025 Tundra’s roster of standard and available exterior colors includes Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Celestial Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red, Lunar Rock, Terra, and Blueprint. In addition, Smoked Mesquite is exclusively available on Limited and 1794 grades, and Mudbath is a TRD Pro exclusive color, new for 2025. Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare 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 corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. Tundra also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Welcome back to another fun travel blog from Classic! We’re traveling to Minnesota to explore another great installment in the National Parks tour bucket list: Voyageurs National Park!  This certified International Dark Sky Park is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, a hot spot for wildlife spotting, and prime real estate for camping and other outdoorsy adventures. It’s also world-renowned for its pristine waters, making it the best spot to visit for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding enthusiasts. The best time to visit is in August for the Perseid meteor shower, and in September and October, when the 218,000 acres of local trees and plants are at their fall foliage finest.  So, what are you waiting for? Charge up those camera batteries and let’s hit the road in your new car from Classic as we set off to make some memories. more What to See at Voyageurs National Park Explore the Rainy Lake Ethnobotanical Garden, a painstakingly maintained restoration project aimed at cultivating local, native plants and reducing any invasive plants near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Stroll through the Ellsworth Rock Gardens, created by self-taught artist Jack Ellsworth, blending the natural environment with fine arts and natural elements. Visit Anderson Bay and marvel at the exposed white granite cliffs jutting out 80 feet high and into the water, and enjoy spectacular views of the bay as well as Rainy Lake. Marvel at the stunning sheer granite cliffs of Grassy Bay which rise 125 feet above the surface of Sand Point Lake, and reach high into the sky for one of the tallest points within the park. Take a hike through 50 plus miles of hiking trails on any of the 16 different options ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty.You can hike them on your own with a map, or join in any of the ranger-led activities to learn more about the area and get a unique perspective of the park’s cultural and natural histories. Enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing and more along the various lakes including Rainy Lake, a freshwater lake along the Minnesota and Canada border with a third of the lake’s area located inside Voyageurs National Park; Namakan Lake, half of which is located within the limits of Voyageurs National Park; Sand Point Lake which is on the border of Minnesota and Ontario, and half of which is situated within the Voyaguers National Park; Kabetogama Lake which is entirely nestled in the National Park limits and has an impressive 78 miles of shoreline and 200 islands.  There are also 26 smaller inland lakes, which when combined with the aforementioned contribute to a third of the park’s total area! For Lodging, you’ll want to check out Kettle Falls Hotel, a historic hotel and the only formal lodging within the Voyageur limits; a fun fact about this location is that it’s only accessible by water!  To enjoy the great outdoors, you can select from any of the Frontcountry Campsites, which include water access, private and public boat launches, picnic tables, bear lockers, outdoor privies, and fire rings.  There are also two primitive camp site options located along the Kab-Ash Hiking Trail; these are accessible by land.  If RV camping is more your style, there are premium, preferred, and standard level campsites which are TV friendly. Keep a Lookout for Local Plants and Wildlife This area is absolutely teeming with wildlife, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Nat Geo documentary.  Keep your eyes peeled for the local critters and you might spot some otters, hares, porcupines, moose, wolves, bald eagles, and more!  The park is also known as prime fishing spot and one of the best in the country, where you can glimpse or catch more than 50 different species of fish and aquatic life including lake sturgeon, walleye, northern pike, black crappie, smallmouth bass. The forests and plant life here are part of a transitional area between boreal forest and a temperate deciduous forest; there are more than 50 different tree and shrub species, more than 40 fern and moss species, 200 plus grasses, and plentiful wildflowers! There are more than 400 different types of wildflowers here, with native options including lady’s slipper, bunchberry, red columbine, twinflower, and marsh marigold.  (The park has an abundant wildflower population, but reminds visitors they’re for observing and not for picking to help preserve and conserve habitats.) Mushroom hunters will be delighted to learn that there are abundant species of fungi and mushrooms, which thrive in the park thanks to its many lakes and ponds, so many in fact that they are too plentiful to quantify and number. Learn more about the park from the Voyageurs Conservancy:

Today’s road trip guide is all about the Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drive!  Running from Duluth Minnesota to the border of Canada at Grand Portage, there’s so much to see and do along the way. Add this beautiful drive to your bucket list road trip destinations if you love beautiful beaches, miles of glistening lakes, small town charm, lots of fishing, and general maritime excitement.  What are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic and let’s explore these great American towns together! Got a favorite spot along the North Shore that we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments section and we might include it in a future blog update! more Begin Your Journey in Duluth and enjoy the ship watching! We’re starting off strong with two budget friendly activities that cost exactly “Free-Ninety-Nine!” Yep, that’s right, $0 entertainment right from the get-go, it doesn’t get any better! First, stop near the Aerial Lift Bridge so you can check out the 1000-Footers and oceanbound ships that pass through the harbor. It is quite a sight to see when the bridge rises up to its full height in less than a minute!  Then head on over to the Lake Superior Maritime Museum to check out the history of these impressive boats as well as lifesize replicas of a ship’s cabin, pilot house, and steam engine. Just a short drive away from the bridge and museum, head over to the beautiful Brighton Beach with cobblestone shores, or Park Point for traditional sandy beaches. Enjoy some shipwatching, wading for gemstones, a beautiful picnic lunch, and some relaxation.  Continuing on our quest for beautiful lake views, check out McQuade Harbor Rest Area for an opportunity to BYO Kayak, boat or canoe, and do a little fishing to enjoy the sunshine.  Blue Bird Landing Beach is another few miles further, and offers an opportunity to do some trout and salmon fishing as well as whale watching! Make a stop in Larsmont and Two Harbors and check out the lighthouses! We recommend stopping for a little overnight rest at the Larsmont Cottages on Lake Superior resort in one of the charming cabins with scenic views.  While you’re in town, take a little visit to the Little Red Schoolhouse, a historic building and community center for the local area.  It makes for some truly picturesque photos. A mere 5 miles away from the schoolhouse you’ll find the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota, the Two Harbors Lighthouse. Take a tour of the Fog Horn Building, learn about shipwrecks, and learn more about local history.  Once you’re done with the lighthouse, you can head over to the Sonju Trail from Agate Bay to Burlington Bay and enjoy the Railroad Depot Museum, the Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum and Gift Shop, observe the working iron ore docks, and enjoy a picnic lunch. When you’re done touring, you simply must visit Gooseberry Falls State Park; marvel at the  spectacular 4-level waterfalls, lush scenic overlooks, top notch fishing, birding, trails to hike through the woods, and some all around top-tier immersion in the great outdoors!  Then it’s on to the next beachside location, the gorgeous Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area featuring a truly magnificent site: a pink rhyolite beach!  Please note that there are strict rules for recreational activities here, in order to protect local wildlife and plants, so be mindful.  Then meander over to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park for some more hiking, biking, and sightseeing including the historic Split Rock Lighthouse. Onwards to Beaver Bay for shopping, snacks, history, and hiking! Outdoorsy folks will enjoy exploring the granite cliffs of Palisade Head with incredible views of Lake Superior and lots of options for rock climbing, as well as a short walk to appreciate the impressive views of the nearby Beaver Falls and Beaver River. Black Beach offers a truly memorable site with its taconite crushed rock shores and nearby agate beach for some gem hunting; as of 2020 there’s also a new campground nearby. Head downtown for a bite to eat, a little R&R at the local spas, and shopping for souvenirs at places like the Beaver Bay Agate Shop, Second Hand Rose Gift Shop, The Cedar Chest, Shipwrecked Gift Shop, Skipping Rocks Shop, Christmas-Up-North, Quilt Corner, and more. Shuffle on over to Shroeder to explore state parks and nature centers and the surrounding area! Visiting Sugarloaf Cove provides another unique experience along the North Shore. This craggy rock nature trail takes you along some unique geological formations as you walk across billion-year old lava!  There is an Interpretive Center with exhibits, artifacts, and historical displays about the area, and the site is a Scientific and Natural Area.  We also recommend stopping by the Cross River Heritage Center, Father Braga’s Cross area, and Temperance River State Park.  There are plenty of opportunities in this area for hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and more. Only a few miles away is the unique “ghost town” of Taconite Harbor; once home to families working the local Erie Mining docks and power plants, it has since been abandoned and left to the elements. You can follow down the road south of Highway 61 and take in the sites on your way to a small outdoor exhibit chronicling the area’s history and lore.  You can also stop at the nearby Shore Commercial Fishing Museum to learn more about the local Scandanavian settlers and fishing traditions before you hit the road again. Let’s take a look at Lutsen’s gorgeous mountains, state parks, and historic spots. Make sure you stop by Lockport Marketplace and Deli for a Bite to eat, and grab a few bottles of wine from North Shore Winery. Experience the Midwest’s only true mountain ski experience in the winter, beautiful views of mountain wildflowers and verdant green hills in spring and summer, and blazing autumnal colors during the autumn at Lutsen Mountains. The Gondola Ride takes you up to the top of the summit, and as an added bonus it is also dog friendly (though they can’t go inside the Summit Chalet restaurant).  The four interconnected peaks provide unmatched views of Lake Superior!  The nearby Cascade River State Park has plenty of hiking trails, camping, mountain biking, and more, as well as being a prime local spot for photography. Get out and stretch your legs in Grand Marais for hiking, biking, and more! Bike or hike along the Gitchi-Gami state trail in downtown Grand Marais, and do some agate hunting and enjoy a picnic lunch at Cut Face Creek Rest Side Area. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a local favorite for its canoeing water trails and gorgeous views.   Take a walk out onto the lake at Artist’s Point island and enjoy the nearby cobblestone beaches and the Grand Marais Lighthouse.  Want to catch some of the migrating whales? Then you’ll also want to make sure you stop by Five Mile Rock about 6 miles away. The local Grand Marais RV Park and Municipal Campgrounds offers the absolutely beautiful Sweetheart’s Bluff trailhead for gorgeous wooded hiking and glacial carved basalt rock areas, and views of the local harbor.  Pincushion Mountain REcreation Area is located along the Gunflint Trail, or you can opt for the Superior Hiking Trail for some serious mountain biking and scenic overlooks! Do some shopping downtown at Sivertson’s Gallery, Lake Superior Trading Post, Drury Lane Books, Dappled Fern Fibers, The Sweetwater Co, and more, as well as plenty of local coffee shops and restaurants for a bite to eat.

Texas inspired 1794 grade expands to Sequoia Available Massaging front seats TRD Pro exclusive color – Mudbath New Tow Tech Package includes antenna and Wi-Fi Trailer camera Standard Hybrid i-FORCE MAX Powertrain Offers Power, Efficiency i-FORCE MAX: Impressive 437 hp, 583 lb.-ft. of Torque Maximum Towing Capacity of up to 9,520 lbs. Assembled in U.S.A. at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas in San Antonio The Toyota Sequoia like the mighty trees that share its name, continues its growth and expansion. For 2025, a new grade, optional massaging front seats and an exclusive TRD Pro color will be introduced. This vehicle offers families an ‘adventure in style’ ride with incredible utility, modern technology and heart pumping performance, all from an efficient hybrid powertrain. more 1794 Grade: Embraces Texas Roots Introducing, for the first time on Sequoia, the 1794 grade. This is a special luxury grade that draws inspiration from the Lone Star state where it is assembled. In the year 1794, a ranch near San Antonio was established and on that same land the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia are assembled today. This grade pays tribute to its San Antonio heritage with its design themes. The 1794 Sequoia incorporates real American walnut wood grain interior trim, unique leather trimmed heated and ventilated massaging front seats and sleek 1794 badging. It rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, has 2 nd row captain’s chairs, a panoramic roof and a tow tech package that all come standard. TRD Pro Color: Stand Out Exclusivity All-new for 2025 is the color Mudbath, which is only available on TRD Pro grades. Massaging Seats Front seat passengers can now experience luxurious comfort with beautifully crafted available leather-trimmed seats featuring 10-way power adjustment and integrated massage functions. Tailor your relaxation with options for both upper and lower body massage, offering a range of intensities—all conveniently controlled via the intuitive available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen. Massaging seats can be used whether driving or parked and are standard in 1794, Platinum and Capstone grades. Premium and Powerful All 2025 Sequoias will feature the powerful twin-turbo V6 hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain. This exceptional hybrid produces 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. i-FORCE MAX isn’t just big on power, as this cleverly engineered powertrain features a unique motor generator within the bell housing between the twin-turbo engine and the 10-speed automatic transmission. This design provides both maximum performance and efficiency, and it is designed and built with heavy-duty performance and demand in mind. Sequoia will be offered in 2WD or part-time 4WD on SR5 and Limited grades. Part-time 4WD is standard on 1794, Platinum, TRD Pro and Capstone grades. The part-time 4WD system relies on a transfer case, controlled via a selector on the center console. Setting Sights on the Open Road The Sequoia uses an advanced body-on-frame chassis with a fully boxed frame that shares architecture with the Tundra. The core objective of this platform is to provide excellent handling, comfort, and impressive capability. This three-row SUV offers a range of configurations for seating and cargo. Depending upon the grade, second-row passengers get bench seating or captain’s chairs, either of which recline for passenger comfort or fold down/tumble forward if larger cargo space is needed. The third-row passengers benefit from a spacious reclining backseat with available power folding, but the third row also gets one of the most noteworthy features on Sequoia: the Sliding Third Row with Adjustable Cargo Shelf System. This feature allows the third row to slide with 6 inches of adjustment range. The third row can also fold down to complement the different storage positions of the new Adjustable Cargo Shelf System: a removeable shelf that can be set in a variety of storage positions depending upon the situation. Since full-size SUVs need to do it all, and towing – whether it be a trailer, boat or RV – is high on that list of demands. That’s why the Sequoia offers an impressive 9,520-pound maximum towing capacity. Towing can be an intimidating proposition for some drivers. Not to worry! Towing becomes a less daunting task thanks to the impressive technology available on Sequoia. The Tow Tech Package, available on all grades but standard on TRD Pro, Platinum, 1794 and Capstone, offers a suite of features that include Trailer Backup Guide to aid in backing up the SUV with a trailer, Straight Path Assist which helps provide steering control to keep the trailer straight on its intended path when backing up. Newly available is the wireless trailer camera system (WCS). This option offers an enhanced towing experience with increased visibility and is only available as a factory installed option. Simply charge and attach the pre-paired Wi-Fi camera to the rear of your trailer and seamlessly stream a live view from behind your trailer on the digital rearview mirror. Camera playback can also be viewed on the multimedia screen. The view around this stunning SUV is enhanced as well due to Sequoia’s several cameras, displaying multiple exterior angles that are viewable from the available 14-inch touchscreen or the available digital display rearview mirror. Those trailering will appreciate the Panoramic View Monitor, which displays a top-down view of the SUV and the area around it. Options include a rear split view to show what’s nearby on each side of the trailer, and a hitch view to assist with trailer connecting. Factory available power folding, extending and retracting tow mirrors can provide added peace of mind when pulling a trailer. Three Rows, Six Grades Sequoia offers space for families who need it – whether that be to haul passengers, gear, or both. It will be available in six grades that include SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, TRD Pro and Capstone. Each grade has its own unique look and feel. Sequoia’s grade lineup starts with the well-equipped SR5 that offers a strong foundation of power, efficiency and technology. It touts impressive standard features that include the i-FORCE MAX powertrain that is mated to the standard 10-speed automatic transmission, standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, available Panoramic Moonroof, available heated and ventilated first-and second-row seats and more. It also features a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and Panoramic View Monitor (PVM). When upgrading to the SR5 Premium package, Sequoia adds the 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia display, power third row, hands-free liftgate, SofTex®-trimmed seats, and cabin and cargo 120-volt power outlets. Also available on SR5 models is the TRD Sport package, which upgrades the standard 18-inch wheels to 20-inch matte black TRD wheels. To complement sporty handling, it adds TRD sport-tuned Bilstein® monotube shocks and TRD-tuned springs. Inside TRD accents include aluminum pedals and a red TRD push-button start. Limited builds upon the SR5 with a clear emphasis on added convenience. Not only does it gain a standard 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, but it also adds standard heated/ventilated front seats with memory settings, standard heated steering wheel, power-folding third row and hands-free power liftgate. Limited Sequoia’s give you the choice of a bench seat or captains chairs for the second row. To keep the back half of the SUV sun-free there are standard second- and third-row manual sunshades. Available for SR5, Limited, Platinum and 1794 4×4 models is the TRD Off-Road package. Whereas TRD Sport is more focused on the on-road qualities, TRD Off-Road enhances off-road capability with the addition of a selectable locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. TRD Off-Road also comes with Multi-Terrain Monitor to help provide a better view of hard-to-see spots for the driver. TRD-tuned Bilstein monotube shock absorbers and TRD-tuned springs are added. Stepping up to the Platinum grade puts an emphasis on added comfort and premium features, thanks to massaging front heated and ventilated seats, second-row captain’s chairs, standard 14-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system, standard panoramic moonroof, standard Head-Up Display and more. High-grade LED headlights and taillights are added, along with sequential turn signals. Rain-sensing wipers are added to Platinum, as well as standard Qi wireless charging. New for 2025 the 1794 grade is expanding to the Sequoia lineup. This luxury grade provides premium features that draw inspiration from its Texas roots, offering a unique look both inside and out. Inside we see real American walnut wood-grain trim pieces with “1794 EDITION” etched on the dash and unique 1794 floor mats. Front row passengers are treated to beautifully crafted, massaging seats that can be used while driving. Also included in these leather trimmed front seats are heated and ventilated capabilities with 10-way power adjustment. Not forgetting about the rear passengers, this Sequoia comes standard with captains’ chairs, a panoramic roof and the 14 in- speaker JBL sound system. On the exterior you are greeted with 1794 badging, chrome accents and grille as well as stylish 20-inch wheels. The tow tech package with Wi-Fi trailer camera is also standard. TRD Pro is a great option for adventure-minded families that plan to get off the beaten path regularly. TRD Pro is not just an off-roader though, as it is loaded with premium features such as standard second-row captain’s chairs, TRD heated steering wheel and TRD accents on the seats and shift knob. TRD-tuned FOX internal bypass shocks offer a smooth on-road ride, but most importantly, they can confidently handle off-road terrain when the trail gets rough. A 1/4-inch aluminum TRD front skid plate offers added trail protection. Sequoia TRD Pro also offers additional trail capability with a standard selectable locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control. TRD Pro proudly sports a heritage-inspired “TOYOTA” grille with an embedded TRD light bar and marker lights toward the top of the grille. It’s equipped with Pro-specific black 18-inch TRD alloy wheels with an increased offset to provide a wider stance. A dual TRD Pro exhaust tip provides added growl and visual appeal. The Capstone grade sits atop the Sequoia lineup, building upon the great features of Platinum while adding additional top-shelf features to make it the most luxurious Sequoia to date. Capstone features unique chrome-finished accents to provide an upscale appearance, with the most eye-catching feature being the standard 22-inch dark chrome finished wheels – a first for Sequoia and exclusive to Capstone. The premium cabin experience begins at first step with standard power running boards that provide access to the standard semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats. Not only are the seats luxury-grade, but they also tout stylish perforation and a Capstone-exclusive black-and-white color combination. The center console and passenger-side dash are accented with authentic American Walnut trim with an open-pore finish that highlights the wood grain. On the dash, the Walnut pieces surround a Capstone logo that is accentuated with LED mood lighting when the doors are opened. To help provide an even quieter cabin, Capstone is the only Sequoia grade to feature acoustic glass in the front doors for more exterior sound deadening. A wide variety of colors are available on the Sequoia, including Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Celestial Silver, Lunar Rock, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Blueprint, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red, Terra and the TRD-exclusive Mudbath. Premium paint colors†* Wind Chill Pearl and Supersonic Red are available. †*Premium paint colors will be available for an additional cost. Pricing will be available closer to the on-sale date. Toyota Audio Multimedia Sequoia will be fitted with the new multimedia system first launched in Tundra. It is headlined by a large 8-inch or available 14-inch touchscreen that controls the Toyota Audio Multimedia system designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team. The system offers an enhanced user experience thanks to new sight, touch and voice activation. With Intelligent Assistant available through an active Drive Connect* trail or subscription, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice-activated commands to search for directions, find POIs, adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. The cloud-based native navigation system offered through Drive Connect allows for real-time Over the Air updates for mapping and Points of Interest (POI), and Google POI data is integrated to ensure up-to-date search capability. It also supports standard wireless Apple CarPlay ® and Android Auto™ compatibility. 1-year Drive Connect trial included on all models except for SR5 on which it is available. *4G network dependent Active Safety System: Toyota Safety Sense All Sequoia grades come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. This active safety system includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection that features multiple enhancements over the previous generation, including not only detecting the vehicle ahead but also a pedestrian in low light, bicyclist in daytime, an oncoming vehicle and a pedestrian at intersections when making a turn. At intersections, the system is designed to detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in certain conditions. Emergency steering assist is an additional function designed to detect pedestrians and stabilize the driver’s emergency evasive steering maneuvers and help prevent lane departure. Sequoia will be equipped with Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist is designed to notify the driver via audible and visual alerts and slight steering support if it senses the vehicle is leaving the lane without engaging a turn signal. When DRCC is set and engaged, Lane Tracing Assist uses visible lane markers or a preceding vehicle to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Automatic High Beams are designed to detect preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switch between high beam and low beam headlights. Road Sign Assist is designed to recognize certain road sign information using a forward-facing camera and display them on the Multi-Information Display (MID). In addition to the TSS 2.5 system, other standard features include Blind Spot Monitor, which is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert can offer added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning. The Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is designed to implement brake control when there’s a possibility of a collision with a stationary object, approaching vehicle or while parking. Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder comes standard on all 2025 Sequoias. The feature can detect whether a rear door was opened within 10 minutes of the vehicle being turned on, or at any time after the vehicle has been turned on, with a reminder message in the instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by multitone chimes. Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare 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 corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. Sequoia also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Today we’re sharing our picks for incredible places to visit and things to see along the Nebraska Sandhills Scenic Byway, a must-drive road for the road trip enthusiast, especially during the spring season when the annual Sandhill Crane migration begins!   This stunning roadway winds its way through a stunning landscape of mixed-grass prairies and grassy sand dune landscapes, lush and abundant farmlands, wetlands featuring plentiful rivers and lakes and streams, and open landscapes of the Great Plains. The Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway spans 272 miles, East to West, along historic Nebraska Highway 2, and affords you some of the most stunning views and photo ops!   Hop in in your new car from Classic Auto Group in Waukegan and let’s hit the road to adventure and make some memories! more The area includes 19,300 square-miles of vegetated sand dunes, which are a critical environment and habitat for migrating waterfowl and wildlife.  The local creatures and wildflowers have the Ogallala Aquifer to thank for the verdant fields and grasslands, and it also helps create habitat and water sources for local fish and amphibians.  While you’re driving along the Byway, you’ll be able to spot more than 300 species of birds including wild turkeys, pheasant, grouse, prairie chickens, bald eagles, sandpipers, herons, pelicans, and of course, cranes.  (Trust us, you do not want to miss the absolutely breathtaking Spring migration where more than 500,000 cranes travel through; it’s quite the spectacle.)  The Sandhills are also home to some very interesting mammals including jackrabbits, pronghorn antelope, red foxes, badgers, coyotes, and prairie dogs. Places to See As You Road Trip Along the Nebraska Sandhills Scenic Byway Grand Island - Stop by the Crane Trust and Nature Visitor Center to get a glimpse of the migrating cranes, and learn more about their natural habitat; you can hike and walk along the short trail, enjoy beautiful river views, stop by the museum, and shop at the small crafts market. If you’re a history buff you’ll love the Stuhr Museum’s living history experience, featuring more than 200 acres of land, 100 structures, and an incredibly immersive experience! Swing by the Prairie Pride Brewing Company for a craft beverage and a light dinner. Stroll through the UNDRground Contemporary Arts museum and gallery exhibition space. Ravenna - Take a stroll through the beautiful green space of Annevar Park and check out the local monuments. Visit the Veterans Memorial Wall to learn more about the history of Ravenna! Grab a cup o’ Joe as you pass on through the Wild Blue Coffee Co shop. Broken Bow - This may be a small town but it’s certainly not short on fun, entertainment, and interesting things to see and do.  Visitors recommend checking out the unique and quirky Boneyard Creation Museum to explore its collection of gems, minerals, rocks, and fossils.  The Custer County Museum offers an opportunity to explore local history and the wild west including a collection of photographs, artifacts, and knowledgeable volunteer staff. Stop in for a bite to eat at the Kinkaider Brewing Co, and then have a little rest overnight at the historic Arrow Hotel. Dunning - Get your hiking boots out and your camping gear ready, because the Nebraska National Forest is ready for your next adventure! While you’re in town you will also want to swing by the Sandhills Heritage Museum and learn about the local history of farms and ranches, check out local artifacts and photos and genealogy charts, and history of the Wild West.  The Hereford Crossroads Exhibit is another unique opportunity to connect with farming and ranching history as it chronicles the history of the Hereford Cattle and the local beef industry. Halsey - Continue your camping and hiking at the Victoria Springs State Recreation Center and get a good look at the local forests and landmarks from the Scott Lookout Tower.  Stop in for a steak at The Lonely Grill before continuing on to your next stop. Thedford - Make sure you schedule some time to peruse the Thedford Art Gallery which showcases local artists and artisans paintings, sculptures, castings, carvings and more. Book an excursion experience with the Sandhill River Trips group and enjoy some tubing, kayaking, tanking trips down the Middle Loup River.  Enjoy some local grub at Cowpoke before you head on out of town. Mullen - The Visitor Center at the Bowring Ranch State Historical Park offers travelers a chance to enjoy an inside look at ranch life up close with photographs and artifacts, and the park’s 7,202 acre ranch is preserving history since the turn-of-the-century. Stop in for some fine American cuisine and barbecue specialties at Hyannis Hotel Inc Restaurant  or the Bunkhouse Bar and Grill. Have a little R&R in the great outdoors at the Sandhills Motel & Campgrounds. Alliance Nebraska - Home of the free tourist attraction known as Carhenge, a replica of the famous Stonehenge but this time made of defunct automobiles!  This Great Plains town is also home to the Alliance Knight Museum and Dobby’s Frontier Town, both chronicling the history of the west and American settlements.

Looking for a fun way to exercise your brain while being fully entertained? Look no further than these creative and fun science museums!  Today’s blog is all about interesting destinations to visit for both kids and the kid at heart, and learn a little more about our world at the same time. Whether you want to learn more about the earth sciences through fossil exploration or historic artifacts, or you want to try your hand at a science experiment, or maybe you’d like to wonder what it’s like to wander amongst the stars, you’ll find a little something to satisfy every curious mind.  Check out our picks for great science museums in the midwest and plan your next family fun outing. more Great Science Museums in the Midwest for Families to Visit Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago IL - Plan on spending a full day exploring at this incredible science museum. There are so many incredibly immersive exhibits, films, and experiences to try that you will never want to leave!  For those who love the trending VR experience, check out the “VR Transporter” or the “Flight and Motion Simulators.”  Catch a film in the theater and learn about history and science including “D-Day: Normandy 1944”, “Superhuman Body” or “Space: The New Frontier”. Learn about the power of music on the human brain at the “Notes to Neurons” exhibit, step into a fantasy world with “Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle” and find the intersection between math, art, and creativity at the “Numbers in Nature Mirror Maze” exhibit. Currently on display through the end of October, the 007 Science exhibit explores the inventions, gadgets, cars, and props utilized in the James Bond film franchise, so make sure to visit ASAP to catch that fun!  There are so many interesting things to see here that we could spend hours describing them all, but it’s best that you go experience it in person for yourself. The Science Center of Southern Illinois in Carbondale IL - This hands-on, fully interactive museum is designed with families in mind, specifically with kids aged 3 through 13.  We love this exploratory center because there’s something to satisfy scientists of all ages in its 65+ exhibit repertoire.  Enjoy activities such as fossil and rock exploration, learning about the sun and solar energy for electricity, view insects and animals up close and personal at their special demonstrations and events, learn about dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, and take a hands-on approach to practical science and chemistry aimed at budding young scientists. You’ll want to spend at least half a day here to get the full experience and come back again and again for the updated exhibits and demos. Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines IA - Featuring a 50-foot planetarium called the Sun Theater, this incredible center in the downtown area features multiple science exhibits, special live programs, educational film series, a conservatory with plants and flowers, science demonstrations, and much more.  Permanent Exhibits include “What on Earth”, “When Things Get Moving,” “Why the Sky”, “Small Discoveries”, “Brick by Brick: LEGO”, and the “Makers Studio” each providing a different perspective on science and creativity.  Be sure to check the schedule and catch one of the live demos to enjoy a snapping turtle feeding, experience the science behind fireworks, a live demonstration with liquid nitrogen, and even more exciting presentations. Most visitors spend about 2 to 4 hours here with plenty of time to explore and participate in hands-on activities. Imagination Station in Toledo OH - Where to begin when it comes to exhibits at this fine facility? With more than 300 different exhibits and displays to see, this is a top notch facility for not only kids but the kids-at-heart!  Many of the exhibits are experiential and encourage hands-on exploration and participation from visitors. Your kids will be so busy having fun they won’t even realize they’re getting an educational experience!  You can defy gravity and ride a bicycle 20 feet off the ground on a 1 inch cable for a truly memorable experience, or perhaps you’d like to ride the virtual coaster at the Simulator Theater for even more thrills and chills. Try your hand at creating a unique cardboard creation such as a structure for the future, a miniature theatre for shadow puppets, and push boundaries by creating stained glass works of art and sculptures with cardboard.  The museum also specializes in a unique brand of demonstrative experiments with the exciting “Extreme Science Demonstration” area, putting a new spin on the basic fundamentals of each of the sciences.  There’s also a movie theater on site and a rotating calendar of special events and plenty of unique photo-ops like the Ames Room! You can easily spend all day here and still not see everything, making it a wonderful day out for families. If you’re short on time, you can still see and do plenty in about 2 to 4 hours, though. Looking for even more cool science museums to check out? Here are some others to explore: Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum in Kalamazoo MI Discovery World in Milwaukee WI Center of Science and Industry in Columbus OH St Louis Science Center in MO Science Museum of Minnesota Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland OH Michigan Science Center in Detroit

· Kia excels in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. APEAL Study with five model-level awards · Study reveals Kia is third highest-ranking brand among Mass Market competitors · The K5 secured a model-level award for fourth consecutive year · Both EV6 and Carnival earned model-level awards for the third consecutive year · EV9 earns segment award in its first year on sale, while Forte completes Kia’s impressive tally more J.D. POWER 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study Kia America leads the J.D. Power 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study with five Kia model-level winners, the highest number of awards received by a single brand in this year’s study. Additionally, the J.D. Power APEAL study reveals Kia is the third highest-ranking brand among Mass Market competitors. For the fourth consecutive year, the K5 was the highest-ranked Midsize Car, while the all-electric EV6 (Compact SUV) and Carnival (Minivan) topped their respective segments for the third year in a row. Reflecting the J.D. Power APEAL study’s findings that excitement among legacy automaker’s BEV owners is at an all-time high, the EV9 earned its first segment award (Upper Midsize SUV) after its first year on sale. The Forte completes Kia’s award count in this year’s study as the highest-ranked Compact Car for the second consecutive year. J.D. POWER 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study “We are thrilled to stand out in this year’s J.D. Power APEAL Study with the most segment-leading winners, particularly with the K5, EV6, Forte, and Carnival earning consecutive awards,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. “Moreover, the recognition of the EV9 in its debut year highlights our commitment to understanding and responding to our customers’ needs across various vehicle segments – be it a Compact Car, SUV, or all-electric vehicle.” The J.D. Power 2024 U.S. APEAL Study is based on responses from 84,569 owners of new 2024 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was conducted from July 2023 through May 2024 based on vehicles registered from April 2023 through February 2024.

Turning off your brain with a little R&R at the beach can be a wonderful, and of course much needed break from the hustle and bustle of the typical American’s day. However, there’s something to be said for a vacation that also gives us a chance to learn, explore, and immerse ourselves in the history of our country and global cultures. Today’s blog is dedicated to exploring different art museums that are just a short road trip away from Waukegan! more Check out these incredible institutions and challenge yourself to see the world through someone else’s eyes, learn a little bit about how art reflects the human experiences, and get in touch with your creative side!   Here are four must-see Art Museums you should visit this summer and fall! Art Institute of Chicago Our very own home state of Illinois is home to one of the most world-renowned museums, and the second largest in the US. It was founded in 1879 and is located at the Art Institute of Chicago’s Grant Park building,!  The Art Institute of Chicago houses more than 300,000 pieces of art and a jampacked schedule of events and special limited exhibitions. Its collection includes Vincent Van Gogh’s “The Bedroom”, Grant Wood’s “American Gothic”, El Greco’s “The Assumption of the Virgin” and a whole lot more.  You’ll want to allow at least 3 to 4 hours for your visit, though most visitors say they spend their entire day here due to the expansive collection of fascinating historical and cultural exhibits. Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago Established in 1967 on the North Side of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is classed as one of the world’s largest venues for contemporary art.  All of the pieces you’ll see here are created from 1945 and beyond, as well as special performance art pieces from around the globe.  The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is that the museum building itself is a striking work of art, designed by renowned architect Josef Paul Kleihues; the architecture works in tandem with each gallery of artwork to create a seamless, holistic experience for viewers.  You don’t want to miss the permanent collection featuring Icons of Modern Art including the infamous Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, among others. Most visitors recommend spending at least 1 to 3 hours here, but your mileage may vary depending on special exhibitions on display and what areas interest you the most. Toledo Museum of Art in Toledo While Toledo may seem an unlikely place to find a world-renowned art museum, its collection of 30,000 artworks tells a different story. Featuring artwork from places as far reaching as Egypt, Greece, Rome, and parts of Asia, as well as European and American paintings, this is a truly varied art experience. The museum is also the “birthplace” of the Studio Glass Movement, and thus holds one of the most expansive and comprehensive collections of glass objects in the world; make sure that you catch one of the highlighted daily glassblowing demonstrations for an unforgettable experience.  There is also an outstanding Sculpture garden featuring works from Ellsworth Kelly, Jaume Plensa, Alexander Calder, Deborah Butterfield, and more. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville Situated on 120 acres of land in the Ozarks with 5 wooded hiking trails, this gorgeous piece of architecture is a true masterpiece of blending art and nature.  The Art Trail features beautiful sculptures, native plants, and waterways and connects the museum’s south entrance to the Crystal Bridges Trail.  The East Terrace Switchback features a sculpture by Celeste Roberge and a zig-zagging trail through wildflowers, flowering shrubbery, and beautiful trees. It’s a certified and accredited arboretum, focusing on native plants and natural landscaping. The rest of the museum itself showcases American Artworks and Artists from all different time periods. Also worth visiting on the same property is The Frank Lloyd Write “Bachman-Wilson House”, relocated to the grounds in 2015. You’ll want to spend at least two to three hours here, bare minimum, but you can easily spend at least a whole day exploring the trails and sculptures and architecture. Other museums worthy of a road trip include: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City Des Moines Art Center + John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis Cleveland Museum of Art Detroit Museum of Arts Midwest Museum of American Art Walker Art Center Minneapolis Milwaukee Art Museum Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Today we’re taking a look at some of the most scenic mountains to visit across the US. Whether you’re into camping, hiking or cycling, nature photography, or just exploring American wilderness, these peaks and valleys are sure to tickle your fancy. So pile up your pals and your pets, because we’re taking you on a tour of the greatest mountains that you’ll not soon forget. more Mount Denali in Alaska This breathtaking mountain peak stands at 20,310 feet, making it the highest peak in all of North America, and with a summit so tall it’s snow capped all year round! Located in Denali National Park, this peak and surrounding lands are home to some of the most magnificent wildlife including black bear, grizzly bear, moose, caribou, wolves, foxes, marmots, and Dall sheep, just to name a few. The park sprawls across more than 6,000,000 acres of interior Alaskan wilderness, and features tundra environment, spruce forests, glaciers, and miles upon miles of trails to hike.  Visitors recommend touring the park by driving along Denali Park Road by bus, or a rental bike/e-bike so you can tour at your leisure.  If you’d like to get a birdseye view of the park, you can book a unique “flightseeing tour” which allows you to go by plane over the summit and parklands.  You can go dog-sledding year round (yes even in summer), or perhaps navigate the Nenana River with a raft adventure tour.  There’s no shortage of brilliant vista points, wildlife spotting, nature hiking, and plenty of photography ops at this giant park. Maroon Bells (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak) in Colorado Together, the pair of peaks rise 14,000 feet above the Maroon Creek Valley and next to Maroon Lake. Prime real estate for camping, hiking, and biking along six spectacular trails (pet-friendly!) that weave in and out of several diverse habitats including alpine tundra, conifer forests and aspen groves, wildflower and mountain meadows, rocky cliffs and lakes. It’s home to abundant wildlife including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, moose, red fox, coyotes, porcupines, bobcats, mountain lions, and black bear. Visitors love exploring the West Maroon Bells Pass that provides picturesque views of the Maroon Bells and the Snowmass Wilderness; the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail that takes cyclists to a 2,000 foot vertical elevation on the 10 mile trail; Maroon Lake which offers crystal clear sparkling alpine lake waters surrounded by verdant fields and wildflowers and lovely views of the mountain peaks. Mount Mitchell in North Carolina Standing tall and proud at 6,684 feet, it may be the least dramatic but no less spectacular thanks in part to its densely covered spruce-fir forest. This type of forest is only found in the Southern Appalachian mountains at high elevations. The mountain is dotted with red spruce, Fraser firs, fire cherry trees, yellow birch, mountain ash, and mountain maples. There’s a 360 degree observation deck in Mt Mitchell State Park that allows for the most breathtaking views of the mountain and landscapes.  There are a wide variety of trails of differing experience levels, making it a perfect park for both experienced and novice hikers.  Nature enthusiasts will love the abundant wildlife here including black bears, striped skunks, gray foxes, bobcats, white-tailed deer, peregrine falcons, saw-whet owls, and so much more. Visitors rave about the nearby iconic waterfalls including Setrock Creek Falls, Roaring Fork Falls, Glassmine Falls, and the natural year-round garden area Craggy Gardens.

Who says the fun has to end just because the summer season is winding down? There’s still plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors and schedule a fun camping trip.  We’ve found some wonderful campgrounds that are family friendly, pet friendly, and also perfect for some peace and solitude for solo travelers.  So get out there and enjoy the crisp fresh air next to these beautiful sparkling lakes and sprawling green forests and preserves, and make the most of the final days of summer and start to autumn! more Mill Creek Park in Marshall, IL Mill Creek Park is a county park facility located in Clark County. You’ll find 2,600 acres of land to explore as well as 811 acres of lake to enjoy boating and fishing, a campground with shower facilities and a playground offering 139 campsites, 15 miles of ATV trails, dock facilities with fuel, cabin and boat rentals. There are also 4 shelters and 3 more playgrounds to enjoy. Starved Rock Family Campground in Utica, IL This family owned and operated campsite is open all year round, and conveniently located just 4 miles outside the official entrance to Starved Rock State Park. There are options for both RV and tent camping sites, and the property is pet friendly (up to 3 dogs per campsite allowed, with hopeful future plans to add a dog park!)  The facilities on site include a pool open from 9AM to 9PM, laundry and bathrooms and a shower house on site, open from April 2nd through October 31st, wifi available at the internet cafe in the main building and camp store, and a picnic area with pavilion. Camelot Campground Quad Cities in Rock Island IL If you’re looking for one-stop shopping family fun, this is the place to be! With 150 acres of family owned and operated campgrounds, there's no shortage of cozy camping and fun to be had!  If you’re interested in kayaking, fishing, canoeing, paddle boating, and hanging out by the shore you’ll have a blast on the 50 acres of lake to enjoy!  There’s a jump pad, water splash park, a heated swimming pool, a beautiful playground, miniature golf course, volleyball court, horseshoes, and basketball court to keep you active. It’s wi-fi enabled as well as offering amenities such as a community room, laundry facilities, showers and bathrooms, firewood, a pavilion, and a snack bar. And be sure to check out the calendar of special events for even more family-friendly activities and weekend fun. Sun Retreats Millbrook in Millbrook, IL Escape from suburban and city life in the quiet rural village of Millbrook and the lush verdan forests of the Sun Retreats Campgrounds.  Book a seasonal campsite for a home-away-from-home all season long, or a short stay in a cabin or one of the short-term RV rental sites. Open seasonally from APril 19th through October 31st, it’s a great all-ages getaway that’s also pet friendly with their very own dog park! Amenities include an on-site swimming pool, a delightful playground with climbing equipment, planned activities at the park and community center, a GaGa Ball Court, community fire pit, Gem Mining Station, volleyball court, outdoor ping pong, basketball court, rec field, Cornhole court, and game room. Plus, there’s a general store with basic necessities and a snack bar for convenient meals, facilities equipped with showers and bathrooms and laundry, as well as wi-fi access. Turkey Run State Park in Indiana Turkey Run Camping grounds offer more than 200 campsites with electric and other amenities such as restrooms, showers, dump stations, and water spigots.  There’s a camp store on site offering firewood, ice, and other convenience items.  The campsites are equipped with their own fire pit ring, picnic table, parking area, and cooking grills. Plus, there are 6 ADA Accessible campsites for accommodating visitors with disabilities and mobility aids.  The main area offers two playgrounds for families and children to enjoy including slides, monkey bar and climbing equipment, bouncers, and more.  You can drive-in and park next to your campsite and opt for tents, cabins, tent-cabins, Yurts, RVs, or even a group campground option!  The site is both pet friendly and equestrian friendly (on the equestrian marked campgrounds).  You’ll have wifi and great cell reception as well with Verizon, AT&T, and T-mobile specifically.  There are numerous hiking trails, as well as the site being accessible by boat and watercraft. Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin This beautiful state park offers multiple camping options for your conveniences for solo campers, family camping, and even group camping trips. The family campgrounds offer 109 campsites as well as a sanitary dumping station for campers, as well as drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers, and trash collection facilities. The outdoor group camp has 5 sites with a capacity of up to 130 people. The Hugh Harper Indoor Group Camp is designed for large organized groups and features a full dining area, commercial kitchen, and rec room.  There’s a boat ramp that’s perfect for bringing your kayak, canoe, small watercraft, and paddleboard. Plus a playground for the kiddos and a beautiful nature center.  Visitors highly recommend choosing the Wisconsin Ridge campground over Homestead, as it has much better views of the nearby hiking trails, mountains, and waterscapes.

It’s National Book Lovers Day! And what better way to celebrate than bulking up our end of summer reading list at some fine indie bookstores.  Today, we’re sharing our picks for great roadtrip worthy bookstores across the Midwest that could use your patronage. Hop in your new car from Classic Auto Group and let’s hit the road as we begin a quest to find your next favorite book. more SemiColon Books in Chicago, IL This Black-Woman-Owned indie bookseller has a mission to promote literacy and bridge the gap amidst marginalized communities through increasing access to and building interest in books.  This unique bookseller is focused on empowering the community to connect with literature on a personal level, and to create not just an educational but also a social experience around books. The bookstore is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, providing another avenue for book-lovers to give back to the community! The store also offers a hybrid art-gallery setting and hosts numerous special events and signings.  Be sure to check out their calendar frequently and follow them on social media for more information. A Room of One’s Own in Madison, WI Another indie shop focusing on inclusion and elevation of marginalized and underrepresented voices in the literary community and beyond.  What once began with its roots in a 1970s feminist lit bookstore, the stock and mission has expanded to also focus on LGBTQ and anti-racist titles, as well as increasing the overall scope of stock in marginalized voices. The bookstore has a wonderful section dedicated to children and young adults, aimed to encourage young readers to explore new perspectives and expand their curiosity.  They even have a selection of graphic novels, local interest topics, and women’s studies books. Once Upon a Crime Books in Minneapolis, MN Specializing in a particular genre of books, crime and mystery enthusiasts will surely be in all their glory with a visit here!  This shop hones in on the thrillers, action mysteries, police procedurals, cozy mysteries, detective novels, and other related adrenaline fueled adventures. Be sure to check out their calendar of events to catch a glimpse of your favorite genre author live in person, listen to a book talk, or even catch a signing. Loganberry Books in Cleveland, OH Your one-stop shop for books of all kinds from rare and collectible books to new, used, and special order curated.  Located in the historic Larchmere neighbourhood, this bookstore is jampacked from floor to ceiling and then some with more than 100,000 tomes and volumes.  The exterior is also embellished with a stunning book spine mural by artist Gene Epstein  on individual panels, and makes a fantastic backdrop for your bookish photo ops! Red Balloon Bookshop in St. Paul, MN Nestled along the historic Grand Avenue, this women-owned indie bookstore is dedicated to children, teen, and young adult books, as well as educational toys and gifts for all ages.  They run weekly storytime events, host regular book talks and author and illustrator meet-and-greet, and other fun activities.  The store aims to inspire families to come together and find a sense of community, while fostering an inspired desire to read, explore, and join a space that’s wholly intersectional and welcoming.  The store hopes to provide diverse viewpoints for younger readers, and help them build a wholesome library that increases empowerment and empathy. Source Books In Detroit, MI If you’re on a quest to expand your mind and increase your knowledge, this is the stop for you!  Focusing especially on a unique niche in non-fiction books, you’ll find a fascinating collection of educational material. Topics at this shop include history and culture, health and well-being, spirituality and religion, books by and about women, and more. They also specialize in unique hand-selected gift items and snack items including raw snacks, fair trade chocolate, specialty world maps, oils and incense, and other fine gifts.  Throughout the year they offer various book and author talks from both local and national authors, wellness and spirituality classes, yoga and qi gong, group chats and conversational topic events, and so much more. It’s not just a bookstore but a living, breathing community of curious minds.