With their dark, seed-studded centers encircled by a fringe of sunny yellow petals, sunflowers spread cheerful goodwill as they follow the sun across the sky. But did you know these surprising facts about sunflowers? In Kansas, the land where the Wizard of Oz jokes never seem to end, no yellow brick road leads to Oz. But our state is renowned for its breathtaking fields of both cultivated and wild sunflowers.  The cheery flower that is our state flower: symbolizes happiness and vitality, keeps pollinators happy, positively contributes to the environment, and provides its seeds for su ..read more

Often referred to as the Golden State, California is famous for its long, stunning coastline that rivals other coastal states. From the iconic shores of San Francisco to the sandy havens of the south, here are some of the best beaches in California, each offering its own unique beach experience. There’s something about the ocean that mesmerizes me. Maybe it’s my Pisces blood. Or maybe it’s living in the most landlocked state in the country, about an equal distance from the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, after spending a few years in California. Either way, whenever I get the chance to return ..read more

Discover the delightful world of afternoon tea, a cherished ritual that offers much more than just tea and snacks. Explore the history, food, and etiquette that make English tea time a timeless experience as I answer the question, “What is afternoon tea?” As a German-American who’s never watched an episode of Downton Abbey and needs the subtitles turned on to understand The Crown, I did not grow up around afternoon tea time. But when my cousin married an Englishwoman, I was introduced to this delicious afternoon experience.   Two children and 20 years later, my cousin’s wife is n ..read more

Ready to explore St. Louis without breaking the bank? Awe-inspiring art, historical treasures, and more fill this Midwestern city with a wide range of activities that won’t cost you a dime. After paying for airfare and accommodations, admission to attractions can quickly become another considerable expense when traveling the world. Home to the Smithsonian Institute and towering monuments, Washington, DC, offers the most free things to do in the United States. And in America’s heartland, St. Louis is only second to the nation’s capital in providing the same. From impressive museums to histo ..read more

Explore the incredible beauty of the southwestern United States on an unforgettable road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon! As you leave the city lights, you’ll experience the stark beauty and vast landscapes of the American Southwest. The over-the-top excesses of Las Vegas and the impressive natural beauty of one of the world’s deepest canyons — could two experiences be more different? And, in a way, that’s part of the charm of road tripping from Sin City to the Grand Canyon. Just a few hours from the smoke-filled casinos and dazzling lights of Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon stretches ..read more

For a few weeks in the spring, a soft blanket of delicate pink and white blooms descends on the nation’s capital. Here are the best places to view the DC cherry blossoms.  Growing up in a military family meant moving around a lot, but it also meant that I had the unique opportunity to live in Washington DC three different times. Each stint in the city left me with unforgettable memories, from seeing Amelia Earhart’s plane at the Smithsonian to watching fireworks explode behind the Washington Monument on the 4th of July. But these memorable experiences pale in comparison to seeing the ..read more

Often celebrated for its beer and cheese, Milwaukee is a city brimming with fascinating facts and hidden histories. From groundbreaking inventions to unique cultural traditions, this article is packed with fascinating Milwaukee facts that showcase its rich heritage. Nestled on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a charming Midwestern city. Although it may be best known for its famous breweries and delicious cheese curds, Milwaukee has many more cultural, architectural, and culinary delights to explore. From the riverwalk’s picturesque views to its many festivals, Milwaukee is ..read more

In Travels with Charley, John Steinbeck penned that he had respect, recognition, and even admiration for 49 states,  famously admitting that he had a mega crush and nothing but true love for Montana. And if you’ve ever stood in a lush meadow in Big Sky Country, surrounded by wildflowers, listening to the calming sound of a rushing river while gazing at snow-capped mountains that seem to touch the clouds — you know exactly what the Nobel Prize-winning author meant. From its wide-open spaces to unique beauty, here are 16 impressive Montana facts. To help offset the costs of running ..read more

Alpacas are long-necked, doe-eyed creatures that look like a camel mixed with a Goldendoodle. And yes, they are as adorable as that sounds! Native to the Andes Mountains of South America, here are 10 interesting alpaca facts. My first encounter with an adorable alpaca was nothing short of enchanting. With their gentle eyes and fluffy coats, I was immediately captivated by the serene presence of these remarkable creatures at the Seven Stars Alpaca Ranch in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. So when I had a chance to hike with an alpaca at Clover Brooke Farm in Hyde Park, New York, a few years later, I j ..read more

Imagine exploring San Francisco’s vibrant streets, lush parks, and iconic landmarks, all without spending a fortune. In a city famed for its Golden Gate Bridge and bustling piers, these free things to do in San Francisco are not only easy on your pocketbook but also rich in culture and adventure, allowing you to experience the best of the City by the Bay, even on a shoestring budget. The City by the Bay may be known for steep hills and even steeper prices, but there are tons of cheap and free things to do in San Francisco for those on a budget. This guide will show you how to make the most ..read more