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For many Illinoisans, winter hasn’t really arrived until Kris Kringle pays a visit. It’s a good thing, then, that coronavirus hasn’t canceled Antioch’s beloved holiday hotspot, Kringle’s Christmas Village. This annual event is still running at full spirit. Its sights and sounds are back to provide seasonal smiles, and its COVID-19 protocols mean you can partake in holiday cheer without fear. So, when the leaves are crinkling and the fire is crackling, take your family to Kringle’s Christmas Village and watch their faces light up like a decorated tree....

For being such a tiny town we really never run out of good things to say about our favorite little gem, Jasper. Although we do love the nearby camping along the Buffalo National River, there’s one local hotel that’s absolutely worth a weekend away. The Arkansas House has treated Jasper visitors with true southern hospitality for nearly 90 years! Pick a room and get ready to relax in this historic Ozark retreat....

Before there was Woodstock, there was the Atlantic City Pop Festival in New Jersey. The iconic summer of ’69 is known for several things – the Stonewall Riots began (June 28th), Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon (July 20th), the Manson murders made headlines (August 8-9), the Miracle Mets began a comeback that would lead them to the World Series (August 14th), and from August 15th-18th, one of the world’s most storied music festivals took place on a farm in Bethel, New York....

Deer Leap Overlook is a place in Vermont that has a beautiful view of the forest and rolling mountains the Green Mountain State is known for. You are sure to believe you are seeing something straight out of a fairy tale when you reach the top. This spot is located near Killington, Vermont and the trail up is rated as moderate to difficult. It’s worth the effort, though! Grab your hiking shoes and let’s head on up!...

If you live in Kentucky, hopefully you have a general idea of the geography of our state. Even still, many somehow don’t think about the fact that a part of our state’s border is made up of the mighty Mississippi River. A small portion of Kentucky that borders Missouri is where you can head in the Bluegrass to see a river that is filled with history. There are a few scenic parks in the area and one historic park in Kentucky that overlooks the river is perfect for a picnic....

There are few places in the world more magical than a discount store where you can browse not just items, but adventures. One such place here in our home state is Bank Books, the largest discount bookstore in West Virginia. You’re going to love exploring this well-organized emporium of adventure and knowledge. Read on to see what exactly is so special about Bank Books: You’ll find Bank Books in an old bank building in downtown Martinsburg, which is just as charming a location as you’re envisioning....

Are you ready to get out and see everything that the great outdoors of South Dakota has to offer? If you are a native, you have probably seen our famous landmarks more times than you can count, but there is another way to enjoy the Mount Rushmore State, which is via the 20 miles of incredible trails at the hidden Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park. Located in Rapid City, the Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park is an enchanting park that spans 300 gorgeous acres of Black Hills splendor....

In every season, Michigan is full of natural beauty. After all, our state offers everything from brilliant beaches to towering treetops and sprawling wetlands. If you love exploring the great outdoors, there’s one awesome park in West Michigan that certainly deserves a spot on your list of must-see natural locales. Grab a walking buddy and head out to immerse yourself in the beauty of our state. Hemlock Crossing is located at 8115 W Olive Road in West Olive....

One of the best ways to explore Arizona’s haunting history is by getting outdoors. Our state is brimming with hikes that lead through ghost towns, abandoned mine shafts, cemeteries, and old railroad tracks — or in the case of Fairbank Loop, all of the above. This desolate adventure is perfect for those who like their nature with a side of creepiness. Fairbank Loop via San Pedro Trail is an easy, 3....

Of all the states in the country, not a single one owns the idea of lobster quite like Maine! From north to south, east to even west, this state is known for this crazy crustacean. And, of course, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It means that we can find any number of lobster dishes just about anywhere we travel. And that’s a-okay with us! If you’re on the quest for great lobster in the perfect Maine setting, you’re going to want to take a trip to this spot....

Have you ever seen a porcupine? In the wild? In West Virginia? The answer to all three of those questions is “Yes!” for more people than ever before, according to a recent article in the WV Explorer. Porcupines seem like a common enough animal, but they actually aren’t, historically, in West Virginia. Mattnad/Wikipedia These rodents are native to Appalachia, but their home habitat has traditionally been farther north, in the Allegheny region of Pennsylvania....

If you consider yourself more of a “winter person”, the first appearance of snow can be an exciting thing. However, we can all pretty much agree that dealing with a snowstorm can be a hassle. Lucky for us, they don’t come very often. But when they do, it can be a huge setback. Nevada has seen several snowstorms during the last century or so, but none come close to the winter season when one region of the state saw the largest snowfall ever....

Something sweet in the midst of a long afternoon is the perfect way to beckon nightfall. If you’re in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, then the best spot to stop is truly Mattheessen’s. Located right in the heart of the city, this delicious sweet shop serves up decadent treats every day of the week (!!!). Learn more about it below, and perhaps even visit for yourself. Have you ever been to Mattheessen’s in Nashville?...

In a world that glorifies productivity and always being on the go, allowing yourself time to rest can seem, well, like work. If you find yourself teetering on the edge of burnout or even just want a reason to treat yourself, then you’ll want to pack up your bags and head over to this luxurious resort. Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort—previously known as Sunrise Springs—sits a short drive off Interstate 25 south of Santa Fe....

Maine is referred to as “Vacationland” for a number of reasons. From the beauty of the natural landscape to the quaint bed and breakfasts and upscale hotels that exist throughout it, there’s nothing better than heading to Maine for a vacation. But those of us who are here throughout the year are especially lucky. Even more fun than visiting Maine from away is exploring different parts of the state while already living here....

“Country roads, take me home to the place I belong: West Virginia…” Are you feeling that tug to escape for a while to the mountains that hold your heart? Well, maybe it’s time to book a stay at the Country Roads Cabins’ Tuscany Tree House in Hico. Nestled deep in the West Virginia forest not far from the New River Gorge is a small, cozy treehouse set 20 feet in the air and accessible only by a swinging bridge that crosses the canopy of this forest’s understory....

When it comes to weekend getaways in Louisiana, you’ve got plenty of options. From waterfront floating cabins to rustic houseboats in the middle of the swamps, Louisiana is just chock-full of incredible places to stay for a peaceful and relaxing weekend. While those cabins are certainly wonderful, how about kicking up the quirky factor and sleeping in a treehouse? There’s one incredible Airbnb in northern Louisiana that’s so unique, you just have to see it for yourself....

If there’s anything that birthed America’s road trip culture, it would have to be Route 66. That long highway snaked its way across the West and introduced travelers to incredible landscapes, landmarks, and regional cuisine. While most towns dotted along the old road have a classic diner serving burgers and shakes, New Mexico’s diners spice things up by serving green chile-laden favorites on menus. Here’s a look at a few diners located along Route 66 that you need to check out....

What could be more delightful for the little ones than an afternoon of trick-or-treating at a zoo? Now that’s a memorable experience they will never forget! Bring your family to North Dakota’s beautiful Dakota Zoo for their annual Zoo Boo this year, and you’ll have a story to tell for a lifetime. See animals up close and personal while getting tasty treats around the zoo all in one. Here is the rundown for this 2020 Halloween zoo event in North Dakota:...

Sometimes it’s nice to just go for a drive. Not driving to work, or driving for errands, or driving with some end destination in mind – just a relaxing cruise. If you get the opportunity to take such a drive, you’ll definitely want to take this scenic backway that’ll take you on a gorgeous journey through the North Dakota countryside. This 35-mile scenic drive follows the path of a river through small towns and farmland in the most spectacular way....