• History,  Iowa

    Family Fun in Pella, Iowa: Where Dutch History Meets Midwest Charm

    Did you know you can feel like you have traveled to the Netherlands without leaving the Midwest? If you’re looking for a unique and enriching family travel experience, consider visiting Pella, Iowa. Our family had a wonderful visit exploring this charming town filled with Dutch heritage, stunning architecture, and family-friendly attractions. In this family vacation guide to Pella, we’ll share the best things to see and do while providing tips on how to plan your perfect getaway. Disclaimer: Pella Convention…

  • Hiking,  History,  Illinois,  Indiana,  Michigan,  Minnesota,  Missouri,  National Parks,  South Dakota

    15 Must-See Midwest National Park Sites

    When most people think of National Parks, they often think of the famous sites like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon. While those parks out west are truly amazing, the Midwest is also home to its own stunning National Park sites. From rugged mountains to rolling prairies and unique history, the Midwest has something for every park enthusiast. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of our must-see Midwest National Park sites to add to your family travel bucket list.…

  • Hiking,  History,  Missouri

    Discover Lakes, Trails, and Bunkers at Busch Memorial Conservation Area

    August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in St. Charles County, Missouri has an interesting past. Tucked among the dozens of lakes and miles of hiking trails at can be found concrete bunkers once used to store TNT. What once was used as a munitions plant to support World War II, is now a great place for recreation. August A. Busch Conservation Area History The Conservation Area land was used by the Department of Army as a TNT munitions plant to…

  • Hiking,  History,  Kids,  Missouri,  St. Louis

    Explore the Times Beach Ghost Town at Route 66 State Park

    Missouri’s Route 66 State Park has a complicated and unique history. The area that is now a state park was once the home of the community of Times Beach. In the early 1980s it was discovered that the oil used to control the dusty streets of the town was contaminated with the toxic chemical dioxin. The entire town was condemmed and the residents forced to evacuate. After an extensive environmental cleanup, the area opened as a state park to celebrate…

  • Day Trip,  Hiking,  History,  Illinois,  Kids

    Explore a Prehistoric Settlement at Millstone Bluff

    Millstone Bluff is a historic gem tucked within the Shawnee National Forest of southern Illinois. This archaeological site is not very well known, but worth a visit to view the remains of a prehistoric Native American village. A short and easy trail circles that site and is suitable for the whole family. History of Millstone Bluff The topography of Millstone Bluff rises 320 feet above the valley below. At the top of this mesa-like bluff, the Mississippian peoples constructed a…