Destinations Archives - On the Road with Family

The Ultimate Tennessee Bucket List

Tennessee is a great state that has so much to offer, from the mountains in the east down to the Mississippi River Delta there is something for everybody. Here are 25 things in Tennessee that you just have to experience!

1) Museum Of Appalachia– Just south of the Kentucky border in Clinton, Tennessee is the Museum of Appalachia. You will need at least a couple hours to make the trip worthwhile because there is so much to take in. The museum was founded by one man who was dedicated to preserving the history of the Appalachian region. Many of the people that you learn about in the museum won’t be found in any history book rather most are regular people who embodied life in the region. This is truly a unique museum, unlike anything I’ve seen anywhere else.

2) Jack Daniel’s Distillery – Everyone has seen the famous black label of Jack Daniel’s Old Number 7 but in Lynchburg, Tennessee you can see how it is made! The tour starts in a small museum where you can learn a little bit about the man and the history of his concoction. Then it is off on a bus to see the distilling process in action. As the tour winds down, you get led through the barrel houses where the whiskey ages in custom barrels until they reach just the right age. At the end, you’ll be treated to samples to a few of the whiskey varieties that Jack Daniel’s has to offer.

3) Dollywood – Dolly Parton has become an icon the world over but her heart has always remained in the mountains of Tennessee. This love is on full display at her theme park in Pigeon Forge. This is a great park to spend the day in with the whole family (and if you have time, you can make it a weekend in by spending a day in the nearby waterpark). The park offers eight roller coasters and about twenty other rides. It’s not just an amusement park though, Dollywood pays tribute to the region with concerts, crafts and it’s even the location of the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame.

4) Spend the Weekend in the Smokies – Sometimes you need a break from all the hassle of city life and nothing is better than time spent in a cabin in the mountains. There are plenty of trails to hike and the views can’t be beaten.

5) Graceland – You don’t have to be an Elvis fan to enjoy the King’s castle. Graceland is one of the most visited homes in the United States and well worth a stop when you are in Memphis. The Graceland experience begins with a tour of the mansion where you can see Elvis’ living room, kitchen, the famous “jungle room” and more.

Elvis’ love for cars is on full display with a car museum on site featuring many of Elvis’ cars and motorcycles including his famous pink Cadillac. In addition to a couple of smaller museums, you can also board two of Elvis’ private planes. Allow yourself about three hours to see everything at a leisurely pace.

6) Go Shopping in the Pyramid – Memphis is home to the tenth largest pyramid in the world. It once housed an arena used for basketball and concerts but has since been converted into a gigantic Bass Pro Shop. Even if you aren’t in the market for hunting and fishing gear, this is a fun stop for the whole family. We spent over an hour just looking around the building. They have a stream of fish, an aquarium, a bowling alley, a restaurant and even a hotel. For about $10 you can take a ride to the top for an awesome view of Memphis and the Mississippi River.

7) National Civil Rights Museum – This Memphis museum is located at the site of the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum recently underwent a lengthy renovation, so if you have been previously, it is worth another visit. The museum tells the story of the American Civil Rights movement in a powerful way. Dr. King’s room has been preserved since the day of the death and you can view it on the tour. Additionally, there are replicas of the bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat and the Supreme Court room where Brown v. Board of Education was heard. There is so much information and history at this site, allow yourself about three hours to visit.

8) Sun Studios – Sun Records is best known as the record company where Elvis Presley first recorded but there is much more to it. Sun Studio owner Sam Phillips was interested in African-American musicians and began recording them in his Memphis studio, first as a studio for other labels and then on his own label, Sun. Phillips recorded what many consider to be the first rock and roll record, Rocket ’88. Later he would record Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lewis and a host of other singers. The tour includes an upstairs museum as well as a chance to stand in the studio with an “x” marking the spot where Elvis stood to record his first song. As a bonus, the tour guides are always a lot of fun and make the experience even more enjoyable.

9) Root for the Memphis Grizzlies – At the end of Beale Street is the FedEx Forum home to the Memphis Grizzlies. Seeing an NBA game is always a good time but it’s even better when the arena is located on a great street like Beale which is perfect for all of you pre or post-game celebrations.

10) Honky Tonkin on Broadway – If you like to listen to country music and have a few drinks, there is no better place than Broadway in Nashville. The street is lined with bars on clubs on either side all of which have great singers belting it out until the early morning. Many of the singers you will hear on Broadway today will be on the radio soon so you never know when you will catch the next superstar!

11) Catch a Game in Nashville – Nashville is home to two major league franchises, the NFL’s Titans and NHL’s Predators. The Predators arena is located on Broadway and the Titan’s home is just a short walk from there.

12) Watch The Grand Ole Opry At The Ryman – The Grand Ole Opry has shows every weekend playing primarily at the Opry House off Briley Parkway but the best way to catch the show is one of the few dates a year they play at the Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. The Ryman is the legendary home of the Opry where greats like Hank Williams and Patsy Cline performed regularly (before sneaking off to have a few drinks on Broadway after their set).

13) Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame – Nashville has a host of country music hot spots but the Hall of Fame downtown tells the whole story from roots of country music up to today’s stars. The exhibits are stunning and told in chronological order with great artifacts like Elvis’ gold Cadillac and Webb Pierce’s silver dollar car. Woven throughout the exhibits are many videos and listening stations where you can hear the evolution of country music through the years. This museum is worth a stop if you love music, even if country isn’t your particular cup of tea.

14) The Parthenon – You don’t have to travel all the way to Greece to see one of the most famous works of architecture in the world. The full-scale replica was originally built in Nashville in the late 1800’s. Inside you will find something that the Greek version doesn’t, the statute of Athena that once stood in Athens but has since been lost to history. Adults will love the history and appreciate the art and the kids will love the giant park where the structure is located. This is a great spot to spend a couple hours and maybe have a picnic.

15) Check Out Minor League Baseball – Every summer night, all across the country, young men are playing their hearts out hoping for a shot at the big leagues. You can watch it in person and you won’t regret it. Tennessee hosts several minor league teams: The Nashville Sounds, the Sevierville Smokies, and the Jackson Generals. Minor league baseball is an inexpensive night out and is typically very kid friendly

16) Eat at the Loveless Cafe – The Loveless Café is just south of Nashville and is home to some of the best country cooking that you’ll ever have. The dining area is small so wait times can be long but it’s well worth the time. The biscuits and country ham are some of the best the south has to offer. There are small shops in the complex to spend some time while you wait for your table. If you are in a hurry and the weather is nice, get your order to go and enjoy your meal on one of the several picnic tables outside.

17) Lunch at Jack’s BBQ – Jack’s has three locations in Nashville and if you like barbecue you have to make this stop a priority. I recommend the sampler platter so you can try three different varieties of smoked meat. The downtown location can get really crowded around lunch or dinner time so if you can’t wait around, I’ve never had an issue getting in and out of the Trinity Lane location, located conveniently right off I-65.

18) The Hermitage – Andrew Jackson was one of the most controversial presidents in US history. A visit to his home and surrounding grounds are a great opportunity to get to know about Jackson the person and his role in American history. His house has been beautifully preserved and the tour guides are very knowledgeable. The grounds and museum are self-guided with an audio tour. They also offer an audio version for kids which our kids really enjoyed.

19) Shiloh National Military Park – One of the biggest battles of the Civil War occurred in South Tennessee and nearly 4,000 acres have been preserved. You won’t want to miss the breathtaking Iowa Monument and the National Cemetery on your trip. Also, stop and see the Shiloh Indian Mounds which date back to approximately 1,000 B.C.

20) World’s Fair Park – Knoxville was the site of the 1982 World’s Fair and the park hosts a large playground and water fountains that kids love to run through. Our kids could have stayed there for hours. Nearby is the famous Sunsphere that was built specifically for the World’s Fair (if you’re a Simpsons fan, you’ll remember the family visited the Sphere which a fictional hat shop). When we stopped the elevator ride to the top was free and offered great views of the area

21) Rock City/Ruby Falls – If you are an adult of a certain age, you no doubt remember the signs that used to litter the highway for these attractions. We spent an entire morning just doing Rock City so if you want to hit Ruby Falls as well, plan your day accordingly. The kids loved walking through Rock City and taking in all of the views including the spot where it is said that you can see seven states. Rock City involves a lot of walking and is not for anyone who is scared of heights (especially the famous lover’s leap). Ruby Falls is nearby and gives you the chance to take a cave tour to see an amazing underground waterfall.

22) Blood Stained Crypt of Nina Cragmiles – Located just a few minutes off of 75 in Cleveland, Tennessee lies a unique mausoleum located in the middle of town. This is the final resting spot of Nina Cragmiles who died as a young girl in a carriage ride. The legend is that blood covers the tomb in various places despite attempts to clean it. Indeed, if you walk around it, you will see several areas that look like blood streaks. If your kids are into ghost stories, they will love this stop. It’s free to see and only takes a few minutes to walk around.

23) Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch – A little over an hour south of Nashville down I-40 is Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch. Loretta Lynn’s music spoke to a generation of women in the 60’s and 70’s with bold songs that defied the norms of a male-dominated country music industry. Her home (which is said to be haunted by Confederate soldiers), as well as a museum and the replica of her childhood home (used in the movie “Coal Miner’s Daughter), are part of the tour. Also on the site is a campground where you can kayak or canoe.

24) Cummins Falls – Located in Cookeville is Cummins Falls which has been ranked among the top swimming holes in the US. The park is over 200 acres and is a great place to spend the day, especially if you enjoy hiking. Be warned, however, that the trails can be rugged and aren’t recommended for small kids.

25) Cumberland Caverns – There are over thirty-two miles of caves so there are plenty of adventures to be had for the whole family. They offer a variety of tours including an overnight in the caves. Also, the Caverns are home to the Bluegrass Underground which is a concert series that can be seen on PBS.

HONORABLE MENTION: Rock and Soul Museum in Memphis, Opryland Hotel in Nashville, seeing a Volunteers football game at Neyland Stadium, Buford Pusser Home and Museum in Adamsville, Ober Gatlinburg and the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge.

A Weekend in Niagara Falls

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

If you love nature and beautiful scenery, Niagara Falls is for you. Recently we took the kids there and since leaving they have been eager to go back. There’s plenty to do to keep you busy but most of the highlights can be done in ample time that you can make this trip a long week. You can also spend a weekend in Niagara Falls and still get a wonderful family trip out of it!

Here are some of my recommendations:

1 – Get a Passport – You can no longer enter Canada from the United States without a passport. We didn’t have one so we missed out on all the adventures that Canada had to offer. If you are planning a trip several months out, you should have time to get a passport. If you don’t plan to do any travel outside Canada or Mexico then you can save some money and get a passport card.

San Diego in a Weekend

A Weekend in St. Augustine

How to do New York City in a Weekend

2 – Buy the Discovery Pass – The Discovery Pass gets you into all the main attractions at Niagara Falls. It is $45 for adults, $34 for children and kids 5 and under are free. It is well worth the price of the ticket, with a discovery pass you will get admission to:

Cave of the Winds – This was the kids’ favorite stop by far. On the Cave of the Winds tour, you can walk under and behind the falls. Be prepared to get wet (the tour gives you a poncho) and cold. Our kids would have stayed there getting wet all day, they didn’t seem to mind that was water was freezing!
Maid of the Mist – The famous Maid of the Mist boat takes you right up to the falls and is a great for taking pictures. Again, you are going to get very wet! After the boat trip, you can climb a short trail for more awesome views of the falls.
Aquarium of the Niagara – It’s a fair walk to get to the aquarium but it is worth a visit. It’s not nearly as large as some of the aquariums that we have been to but the brief show with the train seals was enjoyable and seeing penguins is always fun.
Niagara Gorge Discovery Center – This museum is somewhat dated and didn’t have much appeal to the younger kids. They try hard with an elevator ride to teach you about geology but the technology was well past its prime and the kids weren’t very into it. The discovery center does serve as the trailhead for four different hiking adventures so if love to hike, you have some great options here.
Niagara Adventure Theatre – Any indoor (air conditioned) video is a happy stop for parents who have been trying to keep up with kids in the summer heat but this video is an interesting look at the history of Niagara Falls – It kept the attention of all the kids, they loved talking about the people who ventured over the falls throughout the years.

3 – Enjoy the Falls at Night – Every evening the falls are illuminated in different colors and make for a spectacular sight. Select nights during the year also feature fireworks over the falls.

4 – Take a long walk and enjoy the beauty of the falls – As they say, the best things in life are free and it doesn’t cost anything to just walk around and enjoy the majesty of the Niagara. If you don’t have time to take the tours but you are traveling through the area, it is well worth a short detour to walk around and take some photos.

5 – Explore the Town – Niagara Falls, NY has a variety of shops, restaurants, and unique oddities. Our kids took a quick walk through a haunted house (yes, in the middle of summer) and we enjoyed a street festival that was going on. For adults, there is a casino within walking distance of the falls.

The falls are stunning and we know your family will love them as much as we do!

Three Days in San Francisco

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

San Francisco is a city rich in history and diversity. It makes a great place to spend a long weekend.

I’ve laid out a three-day itinerary but we tend to cram a lot of travel into a short amount time so if you’ve got extra time to spend and like to pace yourself, you might want to stretch it into four days.

BEFORE YOU GO:

If you are hoping to catch a game, San Francisco has professional football, baseball and basketball, you should check the schedules and ticket availability. If your dates are flexible you might be able to schedule your trip around your favorite teams in San Francisco. Big ticket games can sell out so if you absolutely don’t want to miss the game, buy your tickets early.

If you want to visit Alcatraz (and you should) get your tickets as soon as you know the dates of your trip. Don’t even think about trying to buy tickets once you arrive in town because you will miss out. I wanted to take a night tour and couldn’t get a ticket a month in advance.

If you are flying into town, decide if you need to rent a car. San Francisco has great public transit including a subway station that you can catch at the airport. The city is walkable to a degree but some areas are extremely hilly and difficult to walk. If you are going to rent a car and are traveling on a budget, check with your hotel about parking costs. At the hotel we stayed at, parking a car overnight was $80!

Look into whether or not you want to invest in a City Pass. In full disclosure, our friends at City Pass gave us two complimentary passes to try it out. If you are interested in the destinations provided and plan on using public transportation it’s worth the $89 investment ($66 for kids). Note, the pass includes buses and cable cars but not the subway.

Bring a sweater or jacket! Regardless of the time of year you visit, San Francisco can get cold and be very windy. We went in June and found that it could be extremely warm and chilly in the same afternoon.

Now, with the preliminaries out of the way, let’s talk about your trip.

DAY ONE:

1) Aquarium of the Bay – The aquarium is included in your City Pass. The Aquarium primarily features creatures native to the Bay Area. It is a small aquarium and it won’t take you very long to get through it. We enjoyed the otters and the exhibit that lets you touch a starfish. One benefit to the aquarium is that you can re-enter as many times as you like during the same day which is a good reason to do it first. If you have kids and downtime, it makes sense to go through again later.

2) Alcatraz – You pick up the cruise ship to Alcatraz very close to the aquarium. Obviously, the timing is all going to depend on the time of the ticket you purchased. In our trip, they wouldn’t let us board the ship earlier than our ticketed time.

Once you get in line you will board a boat for a brief cruise to Alcatraz Island. Once you arrive on “The Rock” you can move about at your own pace and the entire tour is self-guided. We’ll talk about the cell house tour momentarily but don’t neglect walking around the island and checking out the beautiful flowers and birds that make the island their home. There are a lot of good photo opportunities and it is a very nice place to enjoy nature.

The cell house tour was simply amazing. You are given a headset and as you walk through the building your tour is narrated by guards and inmates who spent time at Alcatraz. This method brings the old building to life in a unique way. You will see the cells of the prisoners who made the famous escape as well as the warden’s office, recreation yard and more. You’ll even get a chance to step into the cells for a unique photo op.

Depending on the day, you might get to see a unique presentation. The day that we were there a lady who grew up as a child on Alcatraz was giving a talk. I was surprised to learn that Alcatraz housed dozens of children in private homes away from the prison area.

Getting to hear stories from someone who lived the history is an experience you won’t want to miss.

San Diego in a Weekend

A Weekend in St. Augustine

How to do New York City in a Weekend

3) Explore Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf – This part of town is touristy but it’s still worth checking out. There are a bunch of places to eat in the area. I really enjoyed Boudin’s which is famous for its sourdough bread. The location in this area offers a tour of the bakery and in addition to lunch and dinner, you can buy special breads and pastries to take back with you. We also had a great dinner at Nick’s Lighthouse. Nick’s has been around since the 1930’s and the restaurant is small with an old school feel. Prices were very reasonable. I had a delicious steak sandwich on sourdough, my wife loved the pasta and clam chowder.

Optional stops. This area has a Madame Tussaud’s as well as a Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Don’t get me wrong, these are fun places to go and if you’ve never been to a Madame Tussaud’s wax museum you need to check it out but if you’ve been to one somewhere else, I would pass.

4) Have a drink at Pier 23 – If you didn’t bring the kids on the trip and you would like to have a night cap before heading to the room, Pier 23 is a great place to stop. It’s an older bar with reasonable drink prices. When we stopped in they had a guy playing old music on the piano. It closes early so you can’t pull an all-nighter here but a bus stop is directly across the street so it’s convenient to move on to the hotel or your next place after you leave.

DAY TWO:

1) The Exploratorium – If you brought your kids with you, this is a must do and it’s included on the City Pass. If you didn’t bring the kids, no reason why you can’t still enjoy it but the City Pass gives you the option to use the ticket for admission to the DeYoung Museum (you can do both if you go on the same day if you are very adventurous).

The Exploratorium has tons of interactive exhibits based on science. You could spend hours here and your kids could probably make a day of it. If you kids are old enough to read, they can do a bunch of the exhibits on their own but you are going to want to participate too. I recommend making it your first stop of the day, after breakfast, because it can get crowded. We went on a Wednesday in summer and it quickly filled up with school groups.

2) Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruise – If you bought the City Pass, a cruise on the Blue and Gold fleet is included. The tour was an hour long and takes you past Alcatraz, Angel Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge. The day that we went, the water was very choppy and made it difficult to get great pictures. We also found it to be extremely windy so the jacket or sweater you packed will come in handy. If you didn’t buy the City Pass, you can still get a ticket on the Blue and Gold but there are other companies that offer similar cruises. We didn’t have to make reservations and were able to walk right into a line for a ride. I recommend you check in advance just to make sure because this may differ if they are busy.

3) Musee Mecanique – .On Fisherman’s Wharf is the Musee Mecanique which is a museum fit for all ages. It is a large collection of mechanical games from the 1900’s to the present day. It is free to walk in the museum but most of the games cost between a quarter to fifty cents. We probably spent an hour checking out the different games, especially the ones from a bygone era most of which I had never seen before. I had a ball playing a baseball game from the 1930’s. Be sure to check out the huge replica of a carnival that comes to life for a few coins, I guarantee you will be blown away.

4) Ghiradelli Square. A short walk from the Wharf is Ghirardelli Square where you can watch how they make their famous chocolate inside the ice cream and while you are there, treat yourself to one of their delicious ice cream sundaes.

5) Ride the cable car. If you think of San Francisco the cable cars are probably one of the first things that come to mind. You will already be in the area to board and your trip isn’t complete until you’ve been on one. The cost of $7 one way but it’s included in your CityPass. You can also take the bus or street cards with the Pass.

6) Check out the Giants. AT&T Park is consistently rated one of the top parks in MajorLeague Baseball for its aesthetic beauty. At the end of a full day, a night game is a great way to unwind. If you aren’t a big baseball fan, I recommend checking Stubhub.com to see if you can grab a cheap ticket (the day I went, tickets were as low as $7) and spend a few innings checking out the park. You’ll notice McCovey Cove outside of right field where people are sitting in boats and kayaks in the Bay waiting for a home run. There are a bunch of unique food choices but I recommend you try the garlic fries which they conveniently serve with a couple of mints.

DAY THREE:

1) Haight-Ashbury. If you were in town in the mid to late 1960’s if you were at the intersection of Haight and Ashbury you would be in the epicenter of the hippie movement. Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, the Grateful Dead and more roamed this area and people were all over in search of peace and love. Today, some of that feeling still lives on.

There are some great vintage clothing stores and Amoeba Music boasts one of the most extensive music collections anywhere. You could easily spend a couple hours browsing the shops and taking in the vibe of the area.

2) Golden Gate Park – Haight Street runs into Golden Gate Park which is a great place to unwind. You’ll see people napping in the park or playing music. Venture further in and kids are playing ball or enjoying a large playground. Also on site is the California Academy of Sciences (Admission is included with a City Pass). The Academy has an awesome rain forest dome as well as a small aquarium, penguin exhibit as well as several other displays.

3) Walk the Golden Gate Bridge – Don’t be fooled by the name of the park, it is a good distance from the bridge so I would recommend public transit or taking an uber. While you are walking the bridge spend some time at Presidio National Park. There are so many things to do in the park you could easily spend an entire day there. Your kids certainly won’t get bored and will wear off any extra energy before heading back to the hotel.

4) If you are kid-free for the weekend, head up to the SOMA district to the Marriott Marquis which is the home of The View. This bar boasts panoramic views of the entire city.

The drinks are priced reasonably for a big city bar (beers are about $7 which is about the average in town) and it makes for a very romantic evening. If you want to get your pick of the tables, get there when it opens at 4 although seeing the city after dark is breathtaking.

If you have extra time:

There are so many great places to eat, drink and see that it is impossible to do in one trip, especially if you only have a long weekend. If you have a little extra time you certainly want to check out the hairpin turns walking Lombard Street.

Muir Woods National Monument boasts impressive redwood trees.

10 Must See Family Vacations

by Angela Richter 1 Comment

There are so many great places to see in our beautiful country but there are some that are extra family friendly and fun! I have put together a list of 10 must see family vacations.

1. Washington DC – There are so many national monuments and museums in DC, and who can forget the White House? Most people do use the Metro (like a subway system) for getting around but I have found that it is quite easy once you get used to it. I have been there a few times and I have always enjoyed the visit!

2. The Great Smokey Mountains in TN – I love the Great Smokey Mountains, we are actually headed that way in a few weeks! Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are only a couple of miles from each other and there is so much to do as a family! There are waterparks, nature hikes (you may even spot a real bears ), beautiful cabins, and Dollywood. There are a TON of things to do there!

3. Cincinnati, OH – I live in Northern Ky, very close to Cincinnati, OH and it is such a big part of who I am so I couldn’t leave it off the list. There is an awarding winning zoo, an incredible museum center which includes a kid, science, and history museum in one building, a huge amusement park (Kings Island) or a smaller one (Coney Island) and more! There is so much to this great city and if you stop by make sure to have some Cincinnati chili together, it is to die for!

5. Orlando, FL – Well, this one speaks for itself. The home of Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios and more! There are so many family attractions and the ocean is not too far away. You can have an action packed vacation here!

6. Kentucky – I know, this is a whole state. Well, what can I say, I’m biased. This is where I’m from. If you are looking to explore caves, see a beautiful aquarium or waterfalls, or see incredible historic sites Kentucky is the place. This state is truly beautiful, just driving through it you will see rolling hills and beautiful scenery.

7. Williamsburg, VA – There is so much history in Williamsburg, VA. I have not been there for years but I would love to go back. It is like stepping back into the colonial days where you will see workers dressed in old time clothes and beautiful, old, historic homes!

8. Myrtle Beach, SC -Myrtle Beach has all of this:

60 miles of wide, soft sandy beaches
Savory restaurants and family-friendly dining
- Amusement and water parks
- Live entertainment theaters and exciting nightlife
- Thrilling water sports
- The best golf courses in the south
- Cultural activities and historic sites
- Outlet malls, specialty boutiques, flea markets, and specialty stores
- Freshwater, ocean and deep sea saltwater fishing and much more

9. Chicago, IL – has a skyline bristling with skyscrapers such as the iconic John Hancock Center, sleek, 1,451-ft. Willis Tower and neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. The city is also renowned for its museums, including the Art Institute and its expansive collections, including noted Impressionist works. The “Windy City” has so many things to do as a family, you can plan a whole week or just a weekend there!

10. Hershey, PA – We have been to Hershey a few times. You can go through the factory tour for free to see the history of Hershey and how the candy is made. You even get a sample to taste as you leave. They have an amazing souvenir shop and extra events always going on! There is even an amusement park! When you go to Hershey, you are not too far from Gettysburg or Lancaster PA so this is the perfect place to see many places in one trip! I love that! Pennsylvania is a beautiful state. There are many cities that are worth seeing there!

What places would you add?

Save

Tunica, Mississipp: The Las Vegas of the South

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

If you are like me, you love spending time in Las Vegas but if you live in the Mid-West it’s not always cost-effective to hop a plane to Sin City. Don’t fear, there’s a reasonable substitute just south of Memphis, Tennessee: Tunica, Mississippi.

Now let’s be honest, there’s only one Vegas and it’s impossible to replicate that experience anywhere else but Tunica brings a lot to the table and in some ways, it’s a better gambling experience. Let’s break down what it’s like to visit:

1) THE LAYOUT – There is no main “strip” in Tunica but several casinos are grouped together, in a couple areas, giving you the ability to easily walk between a few casinos at a time. There is not much else to do or many places to eat outside the casinos so it’s not the ideal spot to stay if you are looking for “touristy” things to do. Earlier this year, I spent a couple of nights there with the kids and loved eating in casino buffet (unlike some states, in Mississippi it’s ok for kids to walk across the casino floor to get to the restaurants) and enjoying the pool. That being said, if you bring your kids for more than a day or so you should be prepared to spend some time in Memphis where there are plenty of entertainment destinations for all ages.

2) THE GAMES – With the obvious exception of sports betting, if you can find it Vegas, you can find it in Tunica. Almost every casino has a wide variety of slot and tables and plenty of low limit tables for those of us on a budget. The Tunica Roadhouse offers $5 single deck blackjack and it’s not hard to find $5 craps or roulette. I have had a great experience with the dealers and found them to be extremely friendly. In my last visit, I spent time at four casinos and enjoyed my experience at the tables.

3) THE COMPS – To me, the comps in Tunica blow away any other place I’ve been too and are certainly better than strip casinos in Vegas. In my last visit, I played the tables at Resorts, Hollywood, Sam’s Town and Roadhouse and drink service was excellent at all hours of the day. If you are playing your drinks are totally free (a comp which used to be standard almost anywhere but is dying out in much of the country).

It also doesn’t require you to be a high roller to qualify for food comps. While playing craps at Resorts, my friend and I were offered free lunch and we were at the table playing $10-$15 games for about an hour. I’m not a high roller and in all of my years of playing casino games, I had never had a casino VOLUNTEER to give me free food.

At most places in Tunica if you are playing an hour or so, be sure to ask for a food comp. I have never been turned down. In my last two trips there, I haven’t paid for a meal. My friend gambles in Tunica a few days a year and regularly gets offers in the mail for free rooms. With comps, don’t forget to get a players card and show it when you start playing or put it in the slot machine. It’s the only way the casino knows how to track your play and without it, you likely won’t get comped.

4) THE FOOD – Every casino offers several food options and most have a buffet. All of the buffets that I went to were good but none were spectacular. For the best value, I would go for an early lunch where you still have some good breakfast options like made to order omelets. I didn’t go on my last trip so I’m not sure if it’s changed but Sam’s Town always had a good buffet that offered a variety of barbecue options like ribs and pulled pork. They also offered free beer as a drink choice.

Several of the casinos have a high-end steak house if you are in the mood for something a little more upscale for your night out. If you aren’t in the mood for either, I would recommend the bar at the Roadhouse. It had one of the best cheeseburgers that I’ve ever had and the price was right. I picked up a couple for the kids and they agreed, they still talk about the cheeseburger they ate in Tunica!

5) THE ENTERTAINMENT – Several of the casinos have theaters where they bring in big name talent. It’s not like Las Vegas where there are headliners nightly but most weekends you can find an excellent concert or comedy show. Being in the south, the entertainment tends to be more country oriented but not always. During the week many casinos will have live music in the casino.

6) THE HOTELS – If you want to gamble and especially if you plan to drink, I recommend staying in one of the hotels on the casino property. I have never had a bad experience staying in a hotel in a Tunica casino and I’ve stayed in most of them. I would recommend Hollywood and I’ve stayed there on my last two trips. The rooms are clean and the service is very efficient. Nearly every casino hotel offers cheap rooms during the week so it’s not unusual to pay $50 or less a night and even though they are starting to tack on “resort fees” they are cheap compared to Vegas prices. During the weekends, the rooms can get pricey so you should plan ahead. There are plenty of non-casino hotels nearby which are affordable. If you just want to spend a few hours at the casinos and do things elsewhere, it’s about a 30-minute drive to Memphis and your lodging options there are virtually unlimited.

A Weekend in St. Augustine, Florida

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest European settlement in the United States and it is a fantastic place to spend a weekend. There are so many things to do that’s it hard to pick a favorite but I’ll run through some of the best ways to spend your weekend…in no particular order.

1) Take a drive down the A-1A – Depending on where you are coming from to get to St. Augustine, this may not be a feasible option but if an entry to the A-1A is not too far of a detour, it’s a nice drive. The A-1A is a state route that follows the eastern coastline.

There are many excellent ocean views and beautiful homes to see as you drive along it. Since it’s a state route, its going to slow you down a little but if you have time to kill, it’s a nice distraction.

2) Walk around St. George Street and the surrounding shops – You can easily spend an afternoon strolling downtown St. Augustine and taking in the many different eclectic shops. There are a lot of nice restaurants and bars along the way, many have live music to enjoy while you relax. My favorite restaurant in the area is Scarlett O’Hara’s on Hypolita Street. They have a large menu of many southern favorite dishes at reasonable prices.

3) The Old Jail – I’ve been to Old Jail many times and it has always been worth the stop. The jail was in operation from the late 1800’s until the early 1950’s. The tour guide (typically playing the role of a deputy or an inmate) will take through the sheriff’s living quarters, the kitchen, the cells and the gallows where your guide will tell you about the hangings that once took place here. The tour is family friendly and our kids enjoyed the chance to get a photo op inside the cells or in the giant birdcage out back.

4) St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum – If you have never been inside a lighthouse, this is a fun stop. Be warned there are 219 narrow steps to the top so if you don’t think you can make the walk, you should pass and enjoy the beautiful flowers and visit the museum on the grounds. The walk to the top can be tiring but you be rewarded with a beautiful ocean view and a newfound sense of a appreciation for the men and women who would have to make the climb to the top carrying supplies for the lighthouse. The museum tour gives you a glimpse of what life was like living and working at the lighthouse as well as a general history of the area.

5) Ripley’s Believe It or Not – I enjoy really enjoy these museums, if you’ve never been to a Ripley’s then you should stop in (you should easily be able to find discount coupons either online or in various tourist magazines). If you’ve been to one in a different area there’s probably no compelling reason to spend your money. Inside you will find exhibits about the world’s tallest man, a mummified cat, writings on a piece of rice and other oddities. This is a very kid friendly tour and our kids want to visit a Ripley’s every time they see one in the area.

6) St. Augustine Alligator Farm – Across from the lighthouse is the Alligator Farm. This is a good stop if you are traveling with kids. You will see every crocodile species in the world (something you won’t find anywhere else) as well as a wide range of birds, lemurs, and alligators (even an albino alligator). If you are feeling particularly adventurous you can zip line across the park.

7) Castillo de San Marcos – This fort was originally built by the Spanish in 1672 and it changed hands many times over the years through treaties but it was never captured. Now part of the National Park system, its an educational stop for kids and interesting way to spend a couple hours for all ages. Inside you will learn about the history of the park through a self-guided tour. There are also demonstrations of the canons by actors dressed in period clothing throughout the day.

8) The beach – Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and St. Augustine is no exception. I would recommend Anatasia State Park which is a short drive from downtown St. Augustine. The park offers beautiful beaches, hiking, trails, and a campground.

9) Trolley Tour – There are a couple different trolley tours available in St. Augustine. I took the Old Town Trolley tour and really enjoyed it. If you have never been to St. Augustine, a trolley ride is a good idea because they will show you all of the highlights of the city and give you some history. I had been to St. Augustine many times and still learned about new sights by taking the tour. You can also get on and off the stops all day so it’s a great way to get around town. They also offer discounts to attractions if you buy them with your trolley ticket so do your homework on what you would like to see before you spend your money.

Save

The Must See Baseball Travel Bucket List

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

Baseball has long been the national pastime and if you love the game as much as I do, here’s the top ten baseball travel list that you need to do at least once.

1) VISIT FENWAY PARK – Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in the majors and it has seen some of the greatest of all time take the field. Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle and the list goes on and on of the greats who have played in this Boston landmark. The “Green Monster” in left field has stopped countless home runs and has set the scene for game changing homers like Bucky Dent in ’77 and Carlton Fisk in the ’75 World Series.

A visit to Fenway is so much fun and you will meet all sorts of passion Sox fans. Get there early and take the ballpark tour. Bonus points if you go there during a Yankees game. I went with a non-baseball fan and she was intrigued with the drama both on the field and in the stands for a Red Sox-Yankees matchup.

2) ALL STAR WEEK – The Mid-Summer Classic showcases the biggest names in the game every July but what you might not no is that there are plenty of festivities going on the weekend leading up to the game. The host city will hold a baseball fan fest that feature various legends of the game telling stories, taking photographs and signing autographs.

You will also see exhibits from the Baseball Hall of Fame, a memorabilia show and various events for fans of all ages. If you can’t afford a ticket to the big game, fan fest is a cheap way to spend a few hours enjoying your favorite sport. Another cheap ticket during All Star Week is the Futures Game (featuring prospects from every team) and the celebrity softball game where baseball legends team up with celebrities for an exhibition game.

The night before the big event is the Home Run Derby. The new timed format makes the event more fun than ever. Who can forget the actual game itself? Home field advantage for the World Series is on the line as the best for each league face off for an epic exhibition.

3) SPRING TRAINING – Nothing can beat a week in Florida except a week in Florida filled with your favorite teams in the fantastic spring weather. Spring training games are cheap and a great place to get up close and personal with the players. Autographs are usually easy to come by and if you time the day out right you can check out a couple different games in the same day. Spring training is a great vacation spot for kids as the games are very fan friendly. Some of my best memories growing up involved spring baseball.

4) A VISIT TO THE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME – Cooperstown, New York is a quaint little town reminiscent of Mayberry. Hidden in this sleepy town is the National Baseball Hall of Fame and it is an absolute must do for the baseball fan in your family. The exhibits are extremely well done and there is something for the fan of every team. Their collection of artifacts from both past and present is unmatched. I particularly enjoyed the exhibit on the old time ball parks and the display of every World Series ring in history. Bonus points if you go during induction weekend where nearly every living hall of famer will be in town.

5) MEET PETE ROSE – Love him or hate him, few people have had the type of impact on the game as Rose. If you are familiar with the game, you know Pete’s story but for about $50 you can hear the stories direct from the man himself. Pete spends at least 100 days a year in Las Vegas signing autographs for hours on end. Unlike a traditional autograph signing, Pete spends time with the fans in Vegas. His knowledge of the game, including today’s players, is strong as ever. It’s not unusual for Pete to spend 10 or more minutes with a fan chatting (and checking the horse races on his phone). Pete isn’t get any younger and with the salaries of today’s players, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever get this close to a baseball legend again.

6) SPEND THE NIGHT AT THE ROGERS CENTRE – You can see a game at any park but only one offers you the option to sleep there. The Rogers Centre (formerly SkyDome) in Toronto has a hotel built into the stadium. You can book a room with a view of the field and actually watch the game from your room. It’s an experience like no other.

7) WATCH A GAME IN WRIGLEYVILLE – It’s the second oldest park in baseball and is one of the most unique parks in the game. This is the field where Babe Ruth called his shot and where Harry Caray sung “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” on a daily basis. Plan your trip to Wrigley by getting there early and staying late. With all of bars and restaurants surrounding the park you won’t be in any hurry to get home. Bonus points if you attend a second game on one of the famous rooftops.

8) OPENING DAY IN CINCINNATI – Opening Day is a fun day anywhere but no one does it like Cincinnati. Home of the oldest baseball franchise, the City of Cincinnati treats opening day like a holiday, complete with a parade before the game. Numerous major leaguers have commented about how different opening day is than the other cities. You will want to start early because any good Reds fan will have called in sick for work and will be out in the crowd watching the parade and enjoying a few brews before the game starts.

9) SEE THE WORLD SERIES IN PERSON – Some fans wait a lifetime to see their team make it to the World Series. Every year is new chance for great memories to be made or hearts to be broken. We all remember the big moments: Kirk Gibson’s homer, Bill Buckner’s error, Randy Johnson pitching in relief, etc, etc. Unlike the Super Bowl, both competing teams will get at least two home games which gives you a few chances at an affordable ticket and a lifetime of memories.

10) CHECK OUT A MINOR LEAGUE GAME – Every summer night, all across the country, young men are playing their hearts out hoping for a shot at the big leagues. You can watch it in person and you won’t regret it. I recommend going to a game AA or lower. The tickets are dirt cheap and there will be plenty of fun going on between innings. Plus AAA tends to have more career minor leaguers shuffling back and forth between the bigs. I once went to a minor league game in Arkansas and paid about $2 for a great seat and got a team signed baseball in the gift shop for $10, where else can you find those deals?

HONORABLE MENTION: Watching the Yankees play the Mets at Yankee Stadium, Seeing the set of Field of Dreams in Iowa and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City are all worth a mention and worth seeing!

How to Do San Diego in a Weekend

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

If you are looking for a great weekend trip, it’s hard to beat San Diego, California. The weather is a perfect 70 degrees, almost all year long. If you have a hard time finding things to do, here are a few of my favorites. You can do all of these things in San Diego in a weekend!

1) USS MIDWAY – The Midway was an aircraft carrier in use for the United States military from 1945 until after the first Gulf War. It now serves as a museum on the San Diego Bay. Admission is a very reasonable at $20 and you could spend hours walking around and taking in all of the exhibits. I spent three hours aboard and could easily have spent another two. The tour is self-guided but you are given headphones to listen at each exhibit. The headphone tour makes it very special because you hear about the different aspects of life on the ship from the people who lived there. While touring the Midway you will see what life was like for the sailors who lived there. At times housing approximately 4,500 soldiers, the carrier was like a city at sea. You will see the barber shop, multiple dining areas, the chapel, various sitting areas, a dentist office, the sick bay, the brig and even an operating room. The stories from the soldiers really bring the museum to life.

On the other decks, you can see many of the aircraft that were in use on the Midway and some you can even board. There are flight simulators and a movie you can also watch. I also enjoyed that they had some World War II veterans at various areas on the ship to greet visitors, answer questions and tell stories.

2) VISIT OLD TOWN – Old Town San Diego State Park gives you a taste of what San Diego was like in 1850. There are several museums, like the First San Diego Courthouse and the School House, to see as well a wide range of shops. Old Town is also a great place for authentic Mexican food. After you eat there is live entertainment including a fantastic mariachi band. You could easily spend several hours exploring Old Town.

3) ENJOY THE GAS LAMP DISTRICT – The Gas Lamp district is approximately 16 blocks in San Diego known for the great food and entertainment. If you have your kids with you then you’ll want to stop at the New Children’s Museum or catch a baseball game at Petco Park, home of the Padres. If it’s a couple trip enjoy an evening of live music and drinks in one of the areas many pubs. If you’re hungry, you’ll want to enjoy the weather by dining on the sidewalk in one of the great restaurants. We enjoyed great food at Gaslamp BBQ.

4) TAKE A STROLL THROUGH CORONADO – You can take a ferry to Coronado from Harbor Drive in San Diego or drive across the bridge. If you want to spend time at the beach during your weekend, Cornodao has been acclaimed for having one of the best beaches in the nation. After you take a walk on a beach, walk through town which homes to many theaters and great shopping. Don’t forget to stop at the Hotel del Coronado which has had an impressive guest list over the year ranging from US Presidents to superstar athletes and actors. The movie Some Like it Hot with Marilyn Monroe was filmed there as well.

5) GO TO THE ZOO – San Diego Zoo frequently rates at the top of any list of best zoos in the country. You could spend all day enjoy the wide variety of species on display and with the great weather in the city you will love seeing everything the zoo has to offer.

There is a sky ride and a bus tour that are included as part of your admission. If you want to get an up close and personal experience at the zoo, plan in advance through their website where they offer a variety of options.

6) HAVE A DRINK AT THE BAR FROM TOP GUN – If you ever saw the movie, then you’ll remember Tom Cruise singing “You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling.” That scene was filmed in Kansas City Barbecue. Although a fire badly damaged the restaurant after the movie was filmed, it still makes for a fun time to grab some food or a drink.

How to do New York City in a Weekend

by John Hayden 2 Comments

You could probably spend a month sightseeing in New York City and still not be able to see everything the city offers and most of us are lucky if we have even had a full week to go on vacation. So if you want to go to NYC but don’t have much time, here are a few highlights that you won’t want to miss. This trip would be great for a couple or with kids, especially tweens and teens! There are so many educational things to see in the city! Here is how to do New York City in a weekend.

1) National September 11th Memorial & Museum – If you’re an American old enough to remember 9/11, you probably know exactly where you the minute you heard the news.

San Diego in a Weekend

A Weekend in St. Augustine

That moment and the following days are etched in the minds of everyone in the US. The museum is intense and extremely moving as it tells the story of how the day unfolded and how it transformed the city and the nation. The museum tells the story of the victims (sometimes in their own words through frantic voicemails) and the courageous first responders, many of whom lost their lives as well. The artifacts are extremely moving and sometimes hard to look at. This is no ordinary museum and its impact will stay with you for a long. If you could only do one thing in New York City, this should be it. Allow yourself at least three hours in the museum.il

2) Take a Water Taxi to see the Statue of Liberty – We took an evening cruise past the Statue of Liberty and it was a great way to spend an hour. The views of the skyline are breathtaking at night and while the water taxis won’t take you to the statue, you will get close enough for some fantastic pictures. We found a tour on Groupon at a very reasonable price and it included a drink. The tour guide on the boat was very helpful. Be careful before booking though, my wife and I had a great time when we went but she returned to NYC and took a cruise through a different company she said it was not nearly as well done. I recommend reading reviews before making your final choice.

3) Eat Some Pizza –Everyone has an opinion on whether New York or Chicago has the best pizza. There’s only one way to find out and you should grab a slice while you’re in the Big Apple. There are so many different pizza places to choose from and there are plenty of debates on the best but I would recommend trying Totonno’s for a slice of
authentic New York pizza.

4) Times Square –Times Square is iconic and you should check out all the lights. It is a great place to people watch and there are all types of characters there (both literally and figuratively). While you are walking around, stop in the giant Toys ‘R Us.

5) Central Park –Take a little break from the hustle and bustle of the city with a stroll through Central Park. There is a zoo on site, concert performances and great views everywhere. I especially enjoyed Strawberry Fields with the tribute to John Lennon.

6) Coney Island –The amusement park rides at Coney Island are a throwback to simpler times. The rides are independently operated so you only have to pay for the ones that you want to ride but its free to walk around and take everything in. During the summer months, the rides are open every day and there are fireworks on Friday nights. Nathan’s hot dogs are a New York staple and there’s no better place to enjoy one than its Coney Island location. While you are at Coney Island, take a walk on the beach and enjoy the Ocean views.

7) Fraunces Tavern –This is the oldest structure in Manhattan and was where George Washington gave his farewell address to his officers. There is an onsite museum but it is still an operating restaurant and bar. The food was very good and the prices were reasonable.

8) See a Broadway Show –Nothing compares to seeing a Broadway Show in New York, I highly recommend that you check one out while you are in town. I’m not a huge fan of plays but went to see Jersey Boys and was blown away. The atmosphere is fantastic and is a much different experience from seeing a Broadway show in your hometown.

Must See Attractions in Memphis

by John Hayden Leave a Comment

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Memphis is a great place for a vacation or a long weekend, here are some of my favorite things to do when I’m in the home of the blues. These things are what I would consider must-see attractions in Memphis!

1) GRACELAND – You don’t have to be an Elvis fan to enjoy the King’s castle. Graceland is one of the most visited homes in the United States and well worth a stop when you are in Memphis. The Graceland experience begins with a tour of the mansion where you can see Elvis’ living room, kitchen, the famous “jungle room” and more.

Tunica, the Las Vegas of the South

Memphis Barbecue

After leaving the house, you will tour a museum housed with Elvis’ many awards, hundreds of gold records and many of his signature suits. The mansion tour is supplemented with an iPad which allows you to see videos and hear stories about Elvis told by himself and his family. Elvis’ love for cars is on full display with a car museum on site featuring many of Elvis’ cars and motorcycles including his famous pink Cadillac.

In addition to a couple of smaller museums, you can also board two of Elvis’ private planes. Allow yourself about three hours to see everything at a leisurely pace. If you want to gear up for the trip, the book Inside Graceland is an interesting read as you learn about what it was like to live in Graceland told by Elvis’ maid. After I read the book, it made the tour so much more interesting. The book is called Inside Graceland: Elvis’ Maid Remembers and is well worth it!

2) BEALE STREET – Elvis learned a lot about music and fashion by spending time on Beale Street. Today Beale Street is still alive with music and you should spend some time down there listening to the many different singers that call the street home. In addition to that, you can sample some of the greatest barbeques in the world. At the end of Beale Street is the FedEx Forum home of the Memphis Grizzlies, NBA basketball team.

3) MEMPHIS ROCK ‘N SOUL MUSEUM – This museum is located on Beale Street right across from the FedEx Forum. It takes you on a journey of the musical progression of Memphis and the American south. The tour is self-guided and you are given headphones for the tour and to listen to the many songs that make up the rich musical history of Memphis from Elvis, Ike Turner, Issac Hayes and much more.

4) NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM – This museum is located at the site of the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum recently underwent a lengthy renovation, so if you have been previously, it is worth another visit. The museum tells the story of the American Civil Rights movement in a powerful way. Dr. King’s room has been preserved since the day of the death and you can view it on the tour. Additionally, there are replicas of the bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat and the Supreme Court room where Brown v. Board of Education was heard. There is so much information and history at this site, allow yourself about three hours to visit.

5) SUN STUDIO – Sun Records is best known as the record company where Elvis Presley first recorded but there is much more to it. Sun Studio owner Sam Phillips was interested in African-American musicians and began recording them in his Memphis studio, first as a studio for other labels and then on his own label, Sun. Phillips recorded what many consider to be the first rock and roll record, Rocket ’88. Later he would record Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lewis and a host of other singers. The tour includes an upstairs museum as well as a chance to stand in the studio with an “x” marking the spot where Elvis stood to record his first song. As a bonus, the tour guides are always a lot of fun and make the experience even more enjoyable.

6) TUNICA, Mississippi – While not in Memphis, Tunica is a relatively short driveway and makes for a great place to stay cheap at quality hotels. Tunica is home to many casinos and if you enjoy gambling, Tunica’s casinos offer low minimum bets, great comps and the prices of rooms (especially during the week) are hard to beat.

HOW TO DO LAS VEGAS…CHEAP

by John Hayden 2 Comments

Las Vegas is one of my favorite places to visit but if you are not careful your week in the desert could end up breaking the bank. There are many ways to do Las Vegas on a budget! Here are ten ways to offset some of the losses you’ll have in the casino.

1) RIDE THE MONORAIL AND WALK – I always choose a hotel near a monorail stop, this will save you a lot of money on taxi fares and will minimize the time you’re in the scorching sun. The monorail only travels on the Las Vegas strip so you will need to plan other transportation if you want to visit off strip sites like Fremont Street or the Hoover Dam. I recommend buying a multi-day monorail pass before you leave for your trip. Sometimes a quick Google search will turn up a monorail discount and you can save even more.

RELATED TOPICS