Who says you need to skip town for a tropical paradise when the temps drop and the snow starts to fall? Lots of cities around the country make winter their business — here are just a handful of locales that thrive in the cold weather. Aspen, Colorado It’s no surprise that this ski capital is a great place to hit the slopes and enjoy a hot toddy or two, but there’s plenty here to enjoy even if winter sports aren’t your thing. With tons of upscale shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, you could easily spend an entire week here without strapping on your skis. Historic charm abounds, too ..read more

Taking over 404,000 acres of the southern Sierra Nevada in California, Sequoia National Park is one of America’s most beautiful national parks, attracting millions of visitors every year. Famous for its awe-inspiring Sequoia trees, breath-taking waterfalls, and many caverns, Sequoia National Park offers endless attractions and lodging that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re planning on visiting for a day or a week, start planning your trip to Sequoia National Park with these top places to stay and things to do: Things to Do: General Sherman Tree The General Sherman Tree is America’s largest t ..read more

It’s nearly 90 years old. It crosses eight states, three time zones and spans 2,448 miles. Nat King Cole, the Rolling Stones and John Mayer have sung about it. It’s been dubbed “the most famous highway in the world.” So, what is it exactly? It’s Route 66, of course. Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles (Santa Monica) and passes through desert, prairies, canyons and historic towns along the way. Although it has undergone a number of changes since its initial construction in 1926, more than 80 percent of the road remains drivable today.  In fact ..read more

The Blue Ridge Mountains should be on everybody’s bucket list. Here are 5 reasons to pack your bags immediately and head out on this scenic 469-mile adventure that goes from Virginia to North Carolina. 1. It’s Pretty Quiet The first reason is, it’s pretty quiet. If you’re wondering why that’s such a big deal- you will understand when you get there. Because there is a speed limit of only 45 mph and big trucks are not allowed, cars are free to coast along at a comfortable pace. So, roll down those windows, turn up that bluegrass, and enjoy the ride! 2. There Are Plenty of Stops   Vie ..read more

Halfway between Sacramento, California, and the world’s biggest little city, Reno, Nevada, is one of the most popular outdoor destinations. Lake Tahoe, one of the better-known lakes in the country, can be found where bustling California meets Nevada in the Sierra Nevada region. Outdoor Recreation Destination Lake Tahoe is perhaps the best way to escape the glitz and glam of shopping and casino lights. As one of the largest lakes in the country, it is almost as large as the Great Lakes. This breathtaking outdoor area can be enjoyed almost all year. Sure, the winters get cold, but the rolling hi ..read more

It’s that time of year when lattes, pies, breads, and halloween decorations are all about that pumpkin. Get into the spirit with a visit to one of these spots that celebrate this carve-able crop. The Great Pumpkin Farm (Clarence, NY) Located outside of Buffalo, this patch lives up to its name and then some. In addition to a huge pumpkin spread, you can navigate your way through a corn or hay bale maze, say hello to the animals at the petting zoo, watch a magic show, or even just enjoy some cider and donuts. This year they are celebrating their 26th annual event!  Cool Patch Pumpkins (Dixo ..read more

Nestled in Central Florida, Orlando is a great place to enjoy a memorable vacation with your family and friends. With a climate that never deviates too much from warm, it is among the best places to enjoy your vacation. The City Beautiful  Because of its tree-lined neighborhoods, rich performing arts scene, fantastic gardens, parks and museums, colorful night life and overall lazier pace, the city has earned a nickname. It is called the “The City Beautiful.” See and Do Orlando has matured into a vibrant cultural destination. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, from family res ..read more

Kancamagus Highway Scenic Drive is a trip along New Hampshire’s highway 112 from Conway to Lincoln. The 34-mile long scenic byway winds through the White Mountain National Forest, much of the way following the course of the Swift River. Along the way, one can explore and enjoy Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, Rocky Gorge, Champney Falls, and the Kancamagus Pass on Mt. Kancamagus. About Kancamagus Kancamagus was a real person. The name means “The Fearless One.” He was the grandson of Passaconaway or, “Child of the Bear”. Passaconaway united over 17 tribes within central New England in 1627. Th ..read more

As the warm days of summer lead into the cool nights and brisk mornings of fall, there comes a time when that perfect combination of weather makes for spectacular scenery across many parts of the country. Know what we’re talking about? Fall leaves. From late September through late November, you can take a trip to places from Maine to Minnesota and see the highways and byways dotted with brilliantly colored fall leaves in red, yellow, and orange. But, if you really want to surround yourself with nature’s beauty, head off the highway and into the National Parks. There, you’ll be blown away with ..read more

A visit to the beautiful Roan Highlands of North Carolina and Tennessee takes the visitor to some of the most lovely mountain settings east of the Mississippi River, including the longest stretch of grassy bald in the Appalachian Mountains. Asheville to Boone   Your visit can be accomplished by setting out either from Asheville, North Carolina, and heading north, or from Boone, North Carolina, and heading south. We are suggesting the route from Asheville to Boone, but you could just as easily travel in the opposite direction. Get Started  Asheville is famous for Biltmore Estate ..read more