Blog

In case you haven’t heard, it’s National Dash Cam Day! These pocket sized cameras are rising in popularity, and are a great secondary or tertiary way to provide extra safety and security in your vehicle.  It can save you money and time during accidents by providing law enforcement and insurance companies with footage instead of relying on “he said/she said/they said” of bystanders, onlookers, and drivers.  Experts are also highly recommending that parents equip their teen or young driver’s car with these handy mini cameras to provide an extra layer of protection and driving habit monitoring. So let’s take a look at some great options in Dash Cam technology that won’t break your bank or set your wallet on fire, clocking in under the $200 mark! more BlauPunkt HD Dash Cam with Night Vision and 720P available on Amazon for $18.16 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Lightweight and compact design Built-in Microphone and G-Sensor Continuous Loop Recording 4GB MicroSD Card included 1080P HD onn. Brand Black Dash Car Cam, 2.4” LCD Screen via Walmart.com for $29.88 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: 110-degree Wide Angle Lens Easy Set-Up and Operation in minutes Can be hidden from driver view behind rearview mirror Motion activated 1080P FHD 3 Inch Car Camera with Wide Angle Screen Dash Cam sold at Home Depot, $39.83 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Easy to Set-Up and user-friendly design Super Wide Angle Lens Super Night Vision Capabilities Seamless Loop for uninterrupted recording Front and Rear Facing views Built in microphone and speaker Rove R2-4K Dash Cam with Built In WiFi GPS Car Top Dashboard Camera Recorder with UHD 2160P and Night Vision available on Amazon at for $99.99 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Built-In WiFi via the ROVE App to view recordings instantly on your smartphone Dash Cam with GPS to record your driving location and speed F1.8 apertures and 150 degree wide angle lens G-Sensor and loop cycle recording Superb clarity in low-light situations and Super Night Vision Technology for clearer footage Car and Driver 1080P Full HD or 4K Dual View Dash Cam available on Amazon for $170.99 or $199.99 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: 1080P camera features Dual front and rear cameras for multipoint viewing 3” OLED Touchscreen Drivesmart Alert System G-Sensor Collision Detection 4K Camera option features Super Wide Angle Lens with 170 degree angles Drivesmart Alert System 3” IPS Touch Screen Secure magnetic hold with 360 degree mount

Today is National Assistance Dog Day, celebrating the many tasks and jobs that hardworking pups do across the globe as service animals to their handlers!  Let’s take a look at some of the dos-and-don'ts, ins-and-outs surrounding the different things you need to know about Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs including how they travel and use public transportation. more What is a task trained Service Dog versus an Emotional Support Animal? A service dog is task-trained to provide assistance and/or mitigate a person’s disabilities.  They have been individually trained to perform a task such as retrieve, alert, mobility assistance, etc.  Service Animals require a specific temperament and personality, and are federally protected working animals.  The work or task they perform must be specifically related to the handler’s disability. This includes Guide Dogs/Seeing Eye Dogs, Hearing or Signal Dogs, Psychiatric Service Dogs, Sensory/Social Signal Dogs, Medical/Seizure Response Dogs, and similar Alert Dogs.  A persons disability may be visibly apparent, or may be considered an “invisible disability or invisible illness” meaning signs may not be overtly obvious; service teams of all kinds are valid, regardless. There are no limitations to size or breed of service animals, so you may see the typical options (Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Goldendoodles, German Shepherds) or you may see more unconventional breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies, or mixed breed rescue/shelter animals! A doctor’s note or letter does not certify animals as a service animal, rather they have been through a rigorous program of obedience and behavior management and explicitly specific task training classes.  Service animals are not required to be labeled or vested, though many handlers do opt to do so for easy travel and to help the public understand not to interact with these task-trained animals. There is some confusion between the designation of An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) versus a Task Trained Working Service Dog. An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is not the same nor equal to a service animal.  In contrast to a task-trained Service Animal, ESAs merely provide comfort and emotional reassurance, but have not been trained to perform any specific tasks or behaviors to assist an individual’s disability. ESAs are not afforded the same public access rights, although a medically certified ESA may be allowed to override “no pet” policies in housing and lodging.  You cannot bring your ESA into public areas that are not specifically designated as Pet Friendly. Specially trained and task-oriented Service Animals are considered as vital to a disabled person’s functionality as any other mobility aid or medical device, and thus will be allowed into most spaces where your pet or an ESA may not be permitted.  Falsely labeling your animal as a service animal can cause serious harm or injury to working animals. Bringing your Pet or an ESA into unpermitted public places can interfere with working Service Dog Teams and cause issues. Please be respectful and mindful of these parameters and policies so you can continue to help keep Service teams safe! Many service dogs perform life-saving tasks, and interfering with or distracting these animals can mean the difference between safety and injury or death of the handler. Let’s all do our part to learn the etiquette of being a member of the public within the vicinity of a working team. If you see a service animal in a public environment or on public transportation, here are some do’s-and-don’t’s: Do not approach or distract the animal; if you have a question, approach the handler only. We love dogs as much as the next person, but it’s important to know this is not your average dog, but it’s not appropriate to make kissy noises, whistles, or other physical or verbal cues to get a Service Dog’s attention. You may approach the handler respectfully if you have questions, but please be aware they may not be able to respond to you or may not wish to answer questions.  A resting or sleeping service dog is still on duty. Assume that every dog you meet is a working canine, and never touch a service dog without permission first. Likewise, do not allow your dog to walk up to other dogs without asking permission or speaking to the handler to verify. Service dogs may not be vested or tagged at all times, and it is not a requirement of ADA regulations that they do so.  Be mindful of interactions with dogs in public and always ask a handler if it is safe to pet or approach the animal. It may be someone’s mobility aid or medical device!  Allowing other dogs to interact without permission can cause irreparable damage to this working team. Don’t judge. Service dogs undergo an average of 2 years worth of training before they’re fit for the job, and it requires rigorous training and public access tests.  If you see a working dog in an unexpected place such as a food establishment or public transportation, they’re allowed to be there and the establishment will handle it.  Although service dogs are trained for public access, they’re still dogs and may have days off the same as you and me even if they’re doing their best!  You do not need to interfere with the handler by correcting the animal; the handler will take necessary steps. An Unattended Service Dog is a sign that its handler needs help. If you see a service dog wandering around without its handler and it approaches you, follow the dog and it will lead you to its owner.  You can identify the handler, assess the situation, check for medical info, and call 9-1-1 if needed.  A service dog may nudge, paw, or bark at you to alert you to an emergency situation. How do Service Dog Teams Travel safely in cars and on public transport? Chartered car services and public transportation may not refuse service to a passenger due to the presence of a task-trained working service dog; service animals must be allowed public access same as the owner, even on ride share services such as Uber or Lyft or private taxi/limo. Service dogs will usually be trained with a catchphrase for loading and unloading into the vehicle, and must sit quietly after doing so.  They should not be allowed to roam from front to back. They should remain calm and quiet when someone approaches the vehicle Secure your service dog with a car harness and short tether.  Special seatbelts and tethers can be purchased for your dog that click into seat belt attachments and keep your dog secured to the vehicle backseat or inside their car seat in the event of an accident. Secure your service dog with a car harness and long tether. A long tether allows your canine to sit securely in theri car seat or a vehicle backseat, or to lay down on the floor beneath your feet safely. Use a travel kennel to secure your service dog. Special hard-case plastic or metal travel kennels are a great way to secure and protect your service dog while traveling. Tether the kennel to the vehicle’s cargo area or back seat to prevent jostling or being tossed around in event of an accident.

Summer is winding down. Back to School energy is in full swing!  And we’re here to help ease the transition from high school to college with this handy guide for inbound college students.  Let us help you take the stress out of packing your car as you embark on your journey from home to school, either for the first time or a return to your dorm/apartment.  There’s always room to improve your packing skills and learn something new!  So let’s get started so you can get on the road to independence faster. more If you’ve got a tip that can help incoming students learn what they do and don’t need for their college experience, feel free to drop us a line in the comments on our social media to share your thoughts!  We’d love to hear from our clients and customers on what worked best for you and your students. Tip #1: Label your boxes, bags, and baskets and write up an inventory list! Packing lists aren’t just for moving houses and apartments, but they can also be a great tool for organizing your belongings on road trips and for school travel.  Sit down and create a list of items you’ll need to bring, and organize them into categories such as “Bedroom”, “Clothing”, “Study Gear”, “Electronics”, “Kitchen”, etc.  Group similar items together and assign them a color code and/or number to make it easier for you to unload and unpack when you arrive at your housing or dorm.  This will also make it easier to determine where in the vehicle your items will go, with heavier items placed at the bottom and lighter items on the top, or cargo space versus trailer versus roof rack! Tip #2: Learn the limits of your vehicle’s tow capacity as well as interior weight limits for transporting passengers/cargo! It’s tempting to try to cram as much as you can into the hatchback of your SUV or hybrid, or to jam pack your truck or van’s cargo space to the end of its limits.  But did you know that meeting or exceeding that weight limit can cause irreparable damage to your car as well as your goods?  You can greatly affect your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, steering, and tires if you overload the weight capacity.  Check the load capacity in your owners’ manual to make sure you don’t over stuff it!  If you’ve got towing options or a roof rack, remember to factor that in as well.  And, of course, before you hit the road, give your tire pressure a check to make sure the air pressure hasn’t changed and adjust as needed. Tip #3:  Pack efficiently and leave non-essential items behind. While it’s tempting to stuff your luggage and pack for every single scenario and season, you’ll save a lot of time, energy, money, and fuel if you pack efficiently.  Consider the seasons and weather conditions for your college town, and pack appropriately. If you’ll be coming home between semesters or on holidays, consider packing seasonal wardrobes that you can swap out on your visits home instead of lugging 365 days and 4 seasons worth. College schedules don’t just include studying, tests, and papers but also social events, parties, day trips, and more, so make sure you’re only taking items with you that you’ll use in your down time.  It can be tempting to haul suitcases worth of books, games, and other entertainment with you, but be realistic about how much time you’ll be spending using those extraneous items you’re hankering to take with you. Tip #4: Secure your cargo in baskets, bins, and bags, and use cargo anchors or straps to avoid piling up loose items, but remember to leave room for clear visibility! Make sure that all of your belongings are safely stowed and secured with little to no chance of movement.  Before you hit the road, you should give it some due diligence to ensure that everything is tightly secured down so it shifts as little as possible during your journey.  In the event that you need to stop short, heavy loads may shift or come loose and could impair your vision or even become dangerous projectiles in an accident. Don’t block windows or pile loose things over the height of your rear seat.  Be mindful as well that anything blocking or covering up your views of any mirrors or rear windows may be considered an “Obstruction of View” and lead to a traffic ticket! Tip #5:  Keep your essential items within reach for easy access and emergencies. Make sure that items such as your first aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency car kit, flashlight, and other essentials are within easy reach at a moment’s notice.  Make sure that your charging cables are organized neatly in the center console or other accessible area so you’re not fiddling for items while on the road.

Looking for something fun to watch on your lunch break? Can’t get enough time in the garage and need more car content to keep you going between sessions? Doing a little research on the best gear, tech, and gadgets for your ride? We’ve got you covered with today’s fun car post filled with Gearhead YouTube Videos! That’s right, it’s time for another edition of Classic’s Youtuber RoundUp. more We really appreciate this video by Donut Media called “Testing Real vs. Counterfeit Car Parts” where the crew compares brand name products to their fake/replica counterparts.  Learn which items are worth their salt, and which ones may pose a risk to your safety and security on the road.  The Donut team is testing them out so you don’t have to! If you’re looking to stock your car with great emergency gear that’s efficient, safe, and legitimate, we think you’re going to like this next video from Donut Media where they review “$20 vs $2000 car Jacks” for your entertainment and education! In the market for a pre owned or used vehicle for your high school or college student? Well, then this video by Car Wizard on Youtube is going to be just your speed.  He’s got a great lineup of School Cars to Buy and Not to Buy that will give you a great starting point on your shopping journey. Maybe you’re looking for some inspiration to motivate yourself to clean your vehicle. Maybe you just enjoy some car detailing videos for the satisfaction of before and after. Either way, you’ll love this video from The Detail Geek where he explains “What Happens When You NEVER Clean your Vehicle”! Sarah-N-Tuned is sharing another fun video of her 1980s collectible Supra (which you can enter to win via her channel!) where she is giving 40+ years of dirt, grime, and grease the ol’ heave ho with a massive under car detailing job! Check it out. Want to learn more about the 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum and what sets this car a cut above the rest? Well, have we got the video for you!  Host Jerry Reynolds of CarPro is sharing his thoughts on this outstanding luxury sedan and what gives it such value for your dollar. And following up that video Matt Maran Motoring is giving us an insider look at the 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum Hybrid MAX to see what it’s like to use it as a daily driver in his week-long drive.  Check it out and see what you think!

We’re back with another fun community calendar of events for Lake County and the Greater Chicago Area with plenty of fun events, festivals, concerts, and more to enjoy with your family. So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic Auto Group and let’s hit the road to adventure and fun for a last blast of Summertime fun! more August 1st and 2nd sees the return of the annual Lake Forest Day in West Park over at Lake Forest. You’ll enjoy family friendly fun games and rides, entertainment, fun summer foods, a 5K run, parade, and carnival. From August 4th through the 6th, head over to Foss Park in North Chicago for “North Chicago CommUNITY Days” and enjoy a parade, car show, live music and entertainment, a family friendly kid zone with games and activities, delicious food and beverage, fireworks and so much more!! Morgan Park Roots Throwback Music Festival is rolling up on August 5th at Ada Park Playground in Chicago, families can get ready for a free event packed with good food, live music, line dancing, and so much more. There will be plenty for families and children to enjoy too, including games, events, and more.  Running from 12PM to 7PM! Gurnee Days are back in Gurnee from August 12th through the 13th with the annual festival of fun including live music concerts, entertainment, contests and competitions, food vendors and food trucks, fireworks, a parade, and so much family fun you’ll never run out of things to do! August 10th and 11th is going to be an unforgettable, memory filled experience at the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe for the annual Kite Festival. You’ll enjoy an opportunity to attend the kite-making event, and then experience a kite-flying performance! It is free entry to attend the festival but there are parking fees. The Brazilian Festival is coming to town August 12th from 11AM to 6PM in Lake Zurich at Paulus Park. Enjoy live music, special attractions, local and specialty vendors, delicious food, and so much more. On August 17th from 11AM to 1PM enjoy Family Yoga on the Farm with Yoga Nova and Growing Home at 59th and Honore. On August 19th from 9AM to 1PM at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, sign up for the Chicago/Milwaukee Rugged Maniac Race! It’s an obstacle mud runner race with the World’s Largest Mud Pit and 25 obstacles in between you and the finish line! And it all culminates in an exciting festival and after party you don’t want to miss. On August 19th and September 15th, head over to Gallery Guichard in Chicago to enjoy the Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour 2023.  You’ll have a chance to attend events and view beautiful artwork at Blanc Gallery, Bronzeville Artist Lofts, Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery Guichard, and the Southside Community Center Saturday August 19th at Skokie Village Hall from 10AM to 5PM is ROXSTAR’s Rockin Vintage Fest where cinephiles of all ages can share a love of classic films and filmmaking along with a chance to shop collectibles, vintage fashion, vinyl records, and so much more. There will also be lots of live music, events, and dancing! August 24th through 27th in Lindenhurst is the ever so fun Lindenfest! A four day festival jam packed with enjoyment including carnival rides, games, bingo, live music and entertainment, battle of the bands, mayor’s auction, a pageant, and a parade! On September 8th through September 10th at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, head on out to the Lake County RV Outlet Show hosted by RV Outlet Shows for a free event and get some inspiration to plan the cross-country RV trip of your dreams! Save the date on September 9th to enjoy the 2023 Moon Festival at Pacifica Square in Aurora, IL organized by the Global Friendship Exchange Program for food, games, prizes and giveaways, contests and competitions, performances celebrating Asian cultures, lanterns, and of course: moon cakes!

Is your teen ready to hit the road in their very first car?  Your recent graduate heading off to college on their own and in need of a reliable vehicle?  Let the experts here at Classic guide you on your journey to selecting the perfect car for your teen driver. more We’re here to help you navigate the ins-and-outs of selecting a car, by highlighting three easy talking points for families to jumpstart your shopping. When you’re ready to buy, just head on into our dealerships and our trusted, experienced sales staff will have your teen behind the wheel of the safest, budget friendly vehicle in no time! Easy Car Buying Guide for Teens and Families Many families will share cars with new drivers, or will pass down an older model as parents upgrade their ride.  But if you’re buying your first car outright, make sure you settle on a comfortable price point. Decide on your budget. Paying for a car up front can save you a lot of money in the long run.  Set a budget that you can comfortably afford to pay via cash or check, and avoid costly interest fees on loans.  Remember to include title fees/transfers, registration costs, and initial insurance payments in that budget. If you need a loan, younger drivers will require a co-signer due to lack of credit history and less stable employment history.  Be sure to talk this out as a family, and decide the best course of action ahead of loan applications. Many loans also come with title fees, a down payment requirement, and other costs, so be sure to do your research on that. Read all financial paperwork and sales agreements very carefully. If you’re a younger driver, be sure to bring along a parent or guardian who can help you navigate the agreements and negotiate your best deals. Most new drivers opt for budget-friendly used cars, but there are pros and cons to each.  Sit down together and list out the potential costs and benefits of new versus pre-owned, and it will give you some perspective on operating costs. Decide whether you’re going for a new or used ca r. Newer cars are the most advanced options, and have lower associated repair costs, but they do require financing or leasing and more expensive insurance. Older used cars can be a more economical option up front, you’ll have a wider variety of makes/models to choose from, but there is always a higher risk for repairs and maintenance. Weigh both as a family and decide which you prefer. Make sure all of your car searches factor in the following: safety features, reliability and longevity, fuel economy, tech and digital features, vehicle resale value. After you’ve reached a budget plan, it’s time to consider a few things, such as what will be your daily usage, what features do you need, are you the sole driver or sharing, etc. Do thorough research on your options. Decide what features are must-haves and what you can do without. Each make and model year of car has different features and amenities. It’s up to you and your lifestyle to find the right match of indispensable electronic and convenience features. Consider things like: Do you need a GPS?  Can you do without satellite radio or do you require digital interfaces?  Will a hybrid, all electric, or gas vehicle be best for your daily driving needs?  Do you need room for equipment such as sports gear, bikes, luggage, school supplies, etc? Figure out your daily mileage (home to school and back, school to work and back, average weekend visits with friends) and determine your average gas costs. Choose a car that fits your monthly budget with good gas mileage or higher electric charge mileage. Research average insurance coverage costs and payments for the make/model of cars you’re looking at, and best coverage that ensures your safety and fits within your budget. This can be a monthly, quarterly, or yearly expense depending on payment plan selection. Do you have a first-time car buying tip that helped your family find the right fit financially and practically for their young drivers? Let us know in the comments of our social media post for this blog.

It’s National Wine and Cheese Day!  Wisconsin is the Cheese capital of the world, and for good reason; the state is home to six hundred different cheeses. And of course, what goes better with cheese than an incredible wine? That’s right!  Wisconsin is not just Cheese Central, but it’s also an iconic destination for wine enthusiasts. Wisconsin is home to a variety of specialized grapes which do quite well thanks to the unusual soil composition of the Niagara Escarpment, the climate of the Mississippi River Valley, and the eastern-facing vineyards with lake effect air from Lake Wisconsin and the Wisconsin River. more So for today’s post we’re taking you to “Wisconsin Wine Country” as we explore some of the region’s best wineries.  We’re going to highlight some of the beautiful vineyards and breweries in the area, so you can plan a weekend escape for rest, relaxation, and fine wine and cheese for you and your favorite humans. The Door Country Wine Trail is a local favorite among Wisconsinites, and it’s easy to see why!  You’ll tour eight different wineries along the edge of Lake Michigan , sampling everything from chardonnay to dessert wines to specialized fruit wines.  It includes a visit to Door 44, Red Oak, Von Steihl, Door PEninsula, Simon Creek, Lautenback’s Orchard Country, Harbor Ridge, and Stone’s Throw! Wollersheim Winery and Distillery is a sprawling 30 acre vineyard and retreat in Prairie du Sac.  It’s been in the business since the 1800s!  We highly recommend opting in to the guided tour which includes a full experience of this hillside vineyard, and ends in an exquisite wine tasting featuring award winning wines.  Grab a bite to eat at the end of your tour at the on-site Bistro for some delectable treats, too! Cedar Creek Winery is perfect for your end of summer/early fall getaways with their annual Wine and Harvest Fest 2023, running from September 16th and 17th.  Not only will you get to sample their incredible wine selection, but it also includes local artisans and vendors, top notch food and beverage, and live music on the main stage. Brambleberry Winery is one-stop shopping if you’re looking for a romantic getaway for couples.  This winery is nestled on the grounds of a gorgeous country estate, with luxury accommodations, a medieval themed tasting room, and a speciality Reiki healing suite. Three Lakes Winery is the second oldest winery in Wisconsin, and is the premier destination for Wisconsin Cranberry Wine since the 1970s.  They offer tours of the facility and wonderful wine tastings! Chateau St. Croix Winery is modeled after a traditional French Chateau to give you a cozy yet elevated tasting experience.  Wine tasting flights will allow you to sample 5 different offerings. It’s also dog friendly provided your pup is on a leash and well-mannered. Looking for even more wineries and vineyards to add to your trip? No problem! Here’s some additional destinations to explore: Check out these wonderful wineries with locally grown, locally harvested, and locally aged wines in Wisconsin: Best vineyards and wineries in Wisconsin: Staller Estate Winery in Delavan WI Botham Vineyards & Winery in Barneveld Fawn Creek Winery in Wisconsin Dells WI Hawk’s Mill Winery in Browntown WI Spurgeon Vineyards & Winery Timber Hill Winery in Milton Aeppeltreow Winery in Burlington WI Pieper Porch Winery & Vineyard in Waukesha Northleaf Winery in Milton WI Fermenting Cellars Winery in Janesville WI Edwin Brix Vineyard in Juneau SoLu Estate Winery & Meadery in Cascade Cambridge Winery in Cambridge Two Brothers’ Wines in Richfield

It’s the “National Day Of Motoring”, a special day to celebrate the Great American Road Trip!  Today, we’re sharing some of our picks for incredible routes that you’ll want to add to your Road Trip Bucket List.  You’ll find no shortage of excitement here on these roads, and plenty of amazing opportunities to take amazing photographs, too.  Grab your besties and pile into the car!  Pack your family up into the minivan and hit the road!  There’s memories to be made and adventure to be had on these Six Incredible Road Trip Destinations Across America. more There’s something fun for everyone on this list, whether you choose to make the driving your full experience, or prefer to stop off and book a stay to explore the regional areas for a lengthier getaway.  Got a favorite spot on the map by these roadways? Let us know and perhaps we’ll add it as a spotlight in one of our future Drive Over Country Travel Blog posts. 7 Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys - The Florida Keys is as close to a tropical island vacation you can get without ever leaving the United States!  The Keys are an island chain about 120 miles long.  US Route 1 connects each of the islands together across the land and sea; Knight’s Key and Little Duck Key are connected via the 7-mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges on the planet!  Driving the Overseas Highway and 7-mile Bridge will take about 4 hours one way, but we highly recommend making a few stop offs along the way!  It’s worth it to make this scenic drive a bit longer affair so you can really absorb all the sights and beauty of the Keys.  The water underneath the bridge is crystal blue and runs from shallow depth up to 7 feet.  7-Mile Bridge was completed in 1912, and was once known as the “Eighth Wonder of the world” for being such an ambitiously large project.  The bridge has been reconstructed and improved for safety and longevity, but you can still view the old bridge as you drive along the modern updated one.  We recommend stopping off for a break at Bahia Honda State Park. North Shore of Superior in Minnesota - This 150-mile drive up Highway 61 stretches from Duluth, Minnesota, all the way up through to the Canadian border along the shores of Lake Superior, and it is a quintessential American road trip destination.  It makes its way through eight state parks and through small shoreline towns filled with local seafood eateries, art galleries, and truly unique shops to explore.  There are numerous historic sites dotting the map including the Split Rock Lighthouse, Grand Portage National Monument, the Great Lakes Aquarium, and much much more.  You can explore the sights and sounds of nature and embrace the wilderness on Superior Hiking Trail, Mountain biking, waterfalls, and gorgeous cliffside vistas. US Route 6 in Massachusetts - Route 6 stretches all the way from Massachusetts in the Northeast across the US through to California out West!  Once known as the longest highway in America, it originally spanned a whopping 3,652 miles from Cape Cod to Long Beach; now it ends in Bishop CA, but it’s still the longest continuous highway in America, crossing through 14 different states.  Route 6A makes its way through the gorgeous coastal areas of Cape Cod and Provincetown, exploring local beaches, shore towns, historic landmarks, and plenty of fresh air.  If you’re interested in the arts and music, this is the perfect road trip for you!  Full of inspiring marshes, sand dunes, fishing towns, and gorgeous panoramic views of Cape Cod National Seashore, this is the creative traveler’s dream. Blue Ridge Parkway through the Carolinas and Virginia - This gorgeous winding 500-Mile blacktop roadway winds its way through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as the Shenandoah National Parks. It’s a popular year round travelway due to its ever changing landscape such as lush green canopies of the dense forest or rolling hills of fiery oranges, yellows, and reds in the autumn.  In the wintertime, the hillsides are dotted with ski slopes and snow capped mountainscapes.  It is also home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains of New Hampshire - The prime time to hit this location is during the Autumn season, and you’ll want to keep a close eye on the current foliage forecast.  During peak leaf-peeping season, the rolling mountain hills are covered in blazing oranges, ruby reds, deep mustard yellows of the deciduous trees dotted with rich emerald greens of the evergreen trees.  Along the way you’ll find numerous scenic overlooks with picturesque views and skylines.  It’s a great drive year round, too, winding its way up north through granite cliffs and boulders as glorious vivid green treetops roll bye. Pacific Coast Highway in California - Clocking in at 656 miles, it’s the longest state route in California. It snakes southerly along the coast stretching from Washington State all the way through to the end of California.  If you’re driving the California portion only, the trip will take you about 5 hours to complete all 123 miles.  Recommended stops include Crescent City, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Half Moon Bay, the intimidating Devil’s Slide Trail, Shark Fin Cove, Davenport Beach, Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf and 17-mile drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur.

Lake of the Ozarks is a gorgeous man-made lake, created by impounding the Osage River in the northern part of the Ozarks and central Missouri.  Thanks to the Bagnell Dam, this 54,000 acre lake opened to the public in the early 1930s, and has become a fixture for locals and tourists alike ever since. Lake of the Ozarks is very special, seeing as it is the largest man-made, non-flood control lake in the United States, and boasts 1,150 miles of shoreline. It’s also one of the Midwest’s premier vacation destinations, touching 7 different cities with plenty to see and do when you’re not on the water. more Let’s explore some of the wonderful natural attractions and exciting sources of entertainment the area has to offer for visitors and families. If you’re into the Great Outdoors: We’ve gathered up some gorgeous and fully immersive excursions and locations to soak up the sun and appreciate mother nature.  Whether you prefer something more guided or wish to wing it and explore on your own, you’ll have lots to choose from. Stark Caverns offers a wealth of opportunities to see nature like never before.  From touring underground caves, learning about stalagmites and stalactites, mining for fluorescent minerals, and cracking your own geodes, there’s no shortage of educational entertainment!  You’ll explore the incredible geological formations and glowing caverns, get an up close look at Bear habitats, and even explore Native American artifacts and historic items.  As an added bonus, you can choose from regular daily tours or blacklight tours, or opt for the escape room experience for an extra challenge. Top of the Rock Road is where it’s at for an unforgettable experience and unparalleled panoramic views.  Enjoy a guided nature walk up to the top, wander in awe through the cathedral of nature, or visit the top of the rock lost canyon cave via electric cart!  When you’re done, you can grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on site, or take the family on an educational journey to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. Fantastic Caverns is a unique opportunity to visit America’s only ride-through cave tour!  This Jeep-drawn tram ride lasts about an hour and takes you along the path once carved out by an ancient underground river!  This magnificent cave exploitation experience is one of only 4 of its kind in the world, making it a truly unforgettable experience for you and your family.  Glittering minerals, sparkling clear water, natural columns and formations will leave you breathless. Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park is open year round, and offers an opportunity to combine adventure and thrill seeking travelers a chance of a lifetime.  Formed over millions of years, this natural wonder has truly stunning onyx stone formations and outcroppings, and a gorgeous underground turquoise hued lake!  Head into the caves for a traditional guided tour, or opt for the “historic reenactment style” lantern tour, as they did 150 years ago (comes with a souvenir LED lantern!) Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a thrilling combination of natural wonders and a time capsule of history!  You’ll find no shortage of nature trails, geologic formations, Missouri’s 12th largest spring, an impressive natural bridge, sinkholes, caves and caverns, and stunning views of Lake of the Ozarks as well as Ha Ha Tonka Spring.  And for the history buffs, we bet you’ll have a blast exploring the historic castle and grounds. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers ample options for outdoor activities including biking, hiking, caving, fishing and horseback trail riding.  There’s an open-air tram for sweeping aerial views of the park, or you can opt for a Segway or Jeep tour!  You’ll certainly want to bring your camera along, too, in case you spot any of the impressive wildlife from Texas Longhorn to elk to bison, not to mention the magnificent waterfalls and caves, and flora. Lake of the Ozarks State Park is a must-see stop on your vacation to Missouri’s Ozarks.  This is the largest state park in all of Missouri, with more than 17,000 acres of wilderness and shorelines to explore.  Enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, fishing, or perhaps just relax on the lakeside with a good book and a beverage.  For those who like to camp, this is a premiere destination offering both basic campsites for those who prefer tradition, or modernized electric campsites with additional amenities.  There are two swimming beaches and an aquatic trail, affording you lots of ways to explore the 89 miles of shoreline in the park.  Your furry pals are also allowed to visit with you, but please bear in mind that it is required they are leashed.  It’s such a beautiful, undeveloped stretch of land that it’s plain to see why it receives millions of visitors each year. If you prefer a more organized entertainment itinerary: We’ve rounded up our picks for the tourists among us that prefer a structured set of activities!  Enjoy everything from miniature golf to museum tours to laid back wineries or adrenaline pumping auto races.  You’ll find a little bit of everything here on this list. Adrenaline Zipline Co. is the ultimate in adrenaline pumping unique tourism opportunities.  This one-of-a-kind 2 hour tour takes you across the canopies of Camdenton, MO.  Visitors of all ages will find something suited to their sense of adventure, with 8 different zipline courses and a swinging bridge to explore. Old Family Farm Trail Rides offers 60 to 90 minute guided trail rides through Macks Creek, MO, where riders of all ages will get to explore and enjoy the lush forests of the Ozarks! Jolly Charters Calypso is a family friendly excursion where you get to see Lake Of the Ozarks from aboard a real Pirate Ship!  This boat tour lasts just under 2 hours and includes a treasure hunt! Big Surf Waterpark and Kolly Mon Indoor Water Park offer plenty of cool, refreshing aquatic fun if you need to beat the heat for a day or two!  With wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers and so much more, these water park destinations are a great way to spend the day with your family. Lake Ozark Speedway and Lucas Oil Speedwa y are the perfect choice for the gearheads in your group. These dirt track facilities offer so much fun and high-stakes races for the whole family to enjoy! Pirates Cove Adventure Golf in Osage Beach is a campy, cheerful miniature golf course with pirate themed obstacles and decor. Your family will learn all about pirate history and have a blast on the mini golf course. History buffs will love to explore the local museums, including the Morgan County Museum, Miller County Historical Society and Museum,  and the Willmore Lodge and the Bagnell Dam Historical Museum, just to name a few. Adults will love a day of rest and relaxation and learning about the regional vineyards and wineries in the area such as: Dale Hollow Winery, Seven Springs Winery, and Shawnee Bluff Vineyard. There’s also a great local brewery and distillery for those who enjoy spirits instead, the Ozark Distillery and Brewery!

Put-In-Bay on Lake Erie in Ohio is a gem of a local island getaway!  If you’re looking for a great nautical adventure with Key West vibes without the flight, this is the place for you. Put-In-Bay Island is a 397 acre playground and paradise for those who love the great outdoors and fun-in-the-sun vibe. This picturesque coastal village is located on South Bass Island, and it’s one of the top spots for locals. It’s got a rich and storied history as a significant location for the US Navy in the War of 1812.  Naval Commander Oliver Hazard Perry used the port as a launch point to engage the British in the famous Battle of Lake Erie.  There’s a lot of incredible history to be explored as much as there are aquatic sports and recreational activities. more You can access the island via two Ferry services from Catawba Island, Kelleys Island, Port Clinton, Lorain, and Sandusky.  The Jet Express Ferry will drop you off in the heart of downtown and also offers late-night services for those who wish to travel after the work day is done.  The Miller Ferry is the local freight transport and the only option if you’re looking to take your vehicle with you on your getaway, but most residents and visitors travel by golf cart.  If arriving by Ferry is not your speed, the island also makes provision for private boat travel and propeller-driven aircraft. Put-In-Bay is also home to some of the most wonderful waterfront and bayside eateries the area has to offer.  You can grab some island inspired cuisine or enjoy a fresh seafood dinner.  If you’re looking for kitschy fun and games you might even want to check out the swimming-pool tiki bar, or some of the lakefront live music. Let’s check it out. Here are some Great Things to Do in Put-In-Bay, Ohio! Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center - This is an all encompassing family fun destination: nature, mini golf, mining, and so much more!  Explore the 208 foot long limestone cave, hidden 52 feet below the surface.  Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the caves, and fun facts about the location itself.  There’s also a mini golf course, a maze, and a rock climbing wall! The Butterfly House - located inside the Family fun center, this aviary is home to beautiful butterflies and gorgeous flowers, all set to soothing music. You’ll get an up close and unforgettable experience with them in person.  It’s 4000 square feet of space with more than 50 species of butterflies from around the world! Put In Bay Winery is small, intimate, and beautiful and the ultimate experience for wine aficionados.  You’ll enjoy a tour and tasting room experience, as well as tours of the estate grounds and house. S cheef East Point Nature Preserve encompasses more than 8 acres of land and one of the last natural settings for travelers along the Lake Erie Islands.  Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the map of native flora and fauna, and avian aficionados will love bird watching along the 2,205 foot looped trail along the shores.  There’s also lots of opportunities for shoreline fishing for the anglers in your midst. South Bass Island State Park offers ample opportunity for outdoorsy activities like camping, swimming, picnicking, fishing and boating with breathtaking views of the Bay and lake!  You’ll find this retreat accessible by the local ferry, with opportunities to bring your own boat or kayak to the boat launch, a small beach for sunbathing and play, and other outdoor fun. Entry to the park is free, and it spans 33 acres of shoreline and nature. Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center features interactive nature and wildlife exhibits, plus optional events, workshops, and guided tours! Check out their summer programming and year round efforts to promote conservation and education about the local nature and wildlife of Lake Erie and the bay. Lots of family friendly fun and photo opportunities, as well as a chance to explore the turtle pond, fox snakes, a live bee hive, and so much more. Put-in bay Tour Train will take you on a one hour guided tour of the area and give you plenty of time to take in the scenery whilst learning about local history and fun facts!  You’ll see about 80% of the island, and make little stops along the way. It’s a great bite-sized view of the whole area in a family friendly environment. Heineman Winery is one of the area’s most long standing wineries in operation since the late 1800s.  The facility offers cellar tours and tastings, and an impressive geode on site with crystals that are up to 18 inches long!  Wines range from dry to sweet, and you can choose from paired snacks as well as you soak up the sun (and the drink!) Jane Coates Wildflower Trail is a great opportunity to experience the great outdoors and have a magical jaunt through the woods with wildflowers all around you!  This half mile loop is located on the southern end of South Bass Island, and affords you ample opportunities to do wildflower identification and observe local wildlife and birds.  Great for families with younger children as it’s a short walk and quiet stretch of trail. Other activities of note in the area include: South Bass Island Lighthouse Put In Bay Parasailing Swimming at the Beach at South Bass Island Put in bay golf cart tour The jet express Ferry Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum Skips Antique Car Barn Put In Bay Brewery and Distillery Kelleys Island Brewery Lake Erie Island Microbrewery

Once a popular beach destination with the locals, the Indiana Dunes has been adopted as one of the US’s newest National Parks!  Located along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find no shortage of outdoor thrills and activities here.  From exploring the sand dunes to hiking the trails to biking and bird watching, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.  Let’s take a look at some of the top attractions and activities to try while you’re there! Have you been to the Indiana Dunes National or State Parks? Tell us about your favorite things to see or trails to hike in the comments! more First, some notes: Indiana boasts 45 miles of shoreline along southern Lake Michigan; the Indiana Dunes encompass 15 miles of National Park Land and more than 3 miles in the State Park.  As of March 2022, there is an entrance fee of $25 to enter any National Park site, and it’s valid for 7 days once purchased.  You can also opt for yearly passes. When entering the Indiana Dunes State Park, vehicles with Indiana License Plates will pay a $7 fee; all other cars pay $12 daily entrance fee. You’ll want to make sure you check in at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to pick up a Park Map, check for any trail/road closures, ask for suggestions and directions from the guides, get your “National Park Stamp”, and check out the educational short films. What to check out while you’re there: Diana of the Dunes Dare and Dunes Succession Trail - On this hike you’ll choose from a 0.9 mile loop or a 3.4 mile option depending on your personal preference and time constraints.  The trail is not for the faint of heart, as it includes a fair amount of stair climbing (270 steps!) as well as trudging through sand.  It’s one of the best hikes in the Dunes, though, and a great opportunity  to explore nature as well as the local history of Alice Gray, known as Diana of the Duns. If you can make it, though, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive lookout over the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Paul H Douglas Trail Hike - This trail option takes you through Miller Woods, where you’ll experience multiple ecosystems such as an Oak Savannah, Wetlands, and Shoreline Beach.  It’s absolutely gorgeous in the lake spring and early summer, when the area is not only lush and green but carpeted in truly spectacular Lupine Blossoms! West Beach - It may be the most visited beach in Indiana Dunes NAtional Park, but it truly is popular for a reason.  It’s a very wide swathe of shoreline with beautiful views of Lake Michigan.  There’s also a posted lifeguard in the Summer months, as well as a bathhouse and top tier facilities. Explore the Bailly Homestead National Historic Landmark and Chellberg Farm - This trail allows you to visit two historic sites in one fell swoop.Once the home of Joseph Bailly de Messein, a fur trader and one of the first settlers in the region whose trading post served as a meeting point for those traveling between Detroit and Chicago.  The trail here is about 2.5 miles, leading you past the homestead and cemetery and through the forests and on to the farm.  You’ll follow a stretch of the Little Calumet River, and check out the recently restored Mnoke Prairie!  The Chellberg Family were swedish immigrants who farmed the land from 1870 through the early 1900s. It’s a live working farm, and you can also enjoy tours! Walk along Lake Front Drive and e xperience the Century of Progress Homes – These 5 historic homes were originally built for the Chicago World's Fair (1933).  While interior tours are only available for the homes on very specific dates, you can still appreciate the view and check them out from the outside.  You’ll see the Cypress Log Cabin, The House of Tomorrow, Florida Tropical, Armco Ferro, and the Wieboldt-Rostone House.  Each house was built to reflect the “Century of Progress”, featuring modern appliances, innovative new materials, and new construction processes and techniques.  They were relocated from the fairgrounds to the Northwest Indiana shoreline by barge, and have been going through restoration thanks to private funding and a partnership with Indiana Landmarks.

It’s National I Love My Horse Day, and we couldn’t think of a better place to appreciate horses than Kentucky!   Since the early 19th Century, Kentucky’s “Horse Country” has been the top destination for race tracks, feed mills, and horse breeding.  It’s full of sprawlings farmlands and impressive landscapes as well as plenty of races and bluegrass music to boot.  Kentucky is a must-see destination for “Horse Girls” and their family and friends alike.  It’s the horse capital of the world! more From visiting an Equine Veterinary Clinic to taking a tour of a Stud Farm of Kentucky’s finest racing horses to taking your very own guided ride or horseback riding lesson, there’s no shortage of horse themed fun where we’re headed.  So pack your saddle bags and let’s giddy-up to vacation fun! Kentucky Horse Park and International Museum of the Horse - A museum and facility like no other, you’ll get an up close look at the origins of horse keeping, horse racing, and other horse-related history!  The horse park is home to a series of seasonal live shows including Parade of Breeds and the Hall of Champions Show.  You’ll get to see real live equine presentations, as well as have a chance to do some horseback trail riding or pony rides yourself.  There’s also an on-site museum that’s one-of-a-kind.  Current exhibits include “AL-Marah Arabian Horse Galleries” and “Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf” and “Horse Drawn Vehicles” just to highlight a few of the 10+ exhibits open now.  There are also several permanent and rotating collections of artifacts!  Since 1978, the IMH has been devoted to building the nation’s largest equine related collection for educational and scholarly research purposes; there are now more than 16,000 objects on site from art to historical tack to trophies and more. American Saddlebred Museum – Tracing the history and origins of American Saddlebred horses, this gorgeous museum has the largest collection of Saddlebred artifacts in the world!  Also located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park, this museum has plenty of artifacts, trophies, tack, and artwork inspired by the American Saddlebred horses. The Secretariat Center - This special facility is also located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.  See what it takes to transition a former racehorse to a life of retirement or help them find a new career!  This special adoption center helps retired racehorses learn new skills through the facility’s retraining and reschooling program.  Tours are conducted rain or shine, so be prepared for all types of weather and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Kentucky Derby Museum – Located right on the grounds of the Churchill Downs track in Louisville, this museum first opened to the public in 1985 and has been charming visitors ever since!  In about 3 to 4 hours, you’ll be able to explore two floors jam packed with exhibits, history lectures, artifacts, photography, and more.  You’ll get an immersive tour of Hermitage Farm and the Derby Museum and spend the day learning everything there is to know about the famous Derby Race and the horses and riders who race it.  And you can stop by the Derby Cafe and Bourbon Bar for specialty themed food and drink, too! Hagyard Equine Medical Institute - Tours at this special facility are only done by appointment, so you’ll want to book in advance and plan ahead!  Get a rare, behind the scenes look at what it takes to maintain a fully functioning equine hospital, and check out the Davidson Surgery CEnter and McGee Medicine Center.  This state-of-the-art facility provides world class care to some of the most famous horses in racing, and provides visitors with an in-depth educational experience on what it takes for the 50 vets on staff to treat, care for, and operate on these majestic animals!  It’s an experience that you won’t soon forget. Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital - With tours being limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays only, this is another Book-Ahead attraction.  Established in 1982 as an ambulatory practice, and growing into a full-service equine hospital in 1985, they provide world-renowned, highly specialized veterinary care to these special animals.  You’ll learn all about the on-site facilities that provide surgery, reproductive care, and podiatry services to horses.  Featuring 9 barns on site, too! Hallway Feeds - It takes a lot of grain and feed to keep these racehorses healthy and strong!  Learn all about what it takes to maintain and manufacture special horse feed and the history of this family business!  You’ll get to hear plenty of history, personal stories and anecdotes, and get to touch, smell, and explore all about horse feed. Book your tours on select dates for a really unique experience for horse enthusiasts. If baby horses are your thing, you’re in for a real treat!  These selected farms and breeding facilities allow visitors an opportunity to learn about horse breeding, pet foals and mares, and of course get your fill of adorable baby animals.  You’ll need to book your tours in advance, so check out all your options ahead of time, or you can book a multi-day weekend option with Horse Country for their “Foal-Filled Weekend Itinerary”! Runnymede Farm Denali Stud Spy Coast Farm Gainsborough Farm Mill Ridge Farm Stonestreet Farm Jonabell Farm Coolmore at Ashford Stud Gainesway Farm Spendthrift Farm Land’s End Farm Airdrie Stud Why limit the horse-themed fun to just farms, tours, and museums? Check out these fun restaurants and establishments for more horse related excitement. The Horse and Jockey Pub Tack House Pub The Mad Horseman Bar Thoroughbred Restaurant Kentucky Grill and Horseshoes Saloon The Barn Door Grill and Restaurant Wagner's Pharmacy