Category Archives: US travel

A 1997 Tour of Savannah

I had just moved from Jacksonville, Florida to Raleigh, North Carolina and was missing my friend Ann.  We decided to meet somewhere in-between that would be convenient for both of us and agreed that Savannah, Georgia would be a perfect location.  Neither of us had ever been to this gorgeous southern gem, so we were excited to check out its fantastic architecture and southern-fried restaurants.  In preparation for our trip, I couldn’t resist reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt.  Based in the historic district of Savannah, this novel is full of scandal and outrageous characters.

The salacious story documents the true story of Jim Williams’ love affair with a local male prostitute whom he had allegedly killed at his home, Mercer House.  Danny Hansford, much younger than the antique dealer, was said to have frequented Williams’ mansion as rumors spread around town about their relationship.  Williams claimed to have shot Danny in self defense and after four trials between 1981 – 1989, he was acquitted.  Williams was instrumental in the restoration of many homes in Savannah which are referenced in Berendt’s novel, or as locals call it, “The Book,” so I knew I had to read it.

On the book’s cover is a photo of the Bird Girl statue from Savannah’s now-famous Bonaventure Cemetery.  Located along the Wilmington River, it is the resting place for many of the city’s most distinguished residents and considered one of the spookiest places in town.  The Mercer family, who owned the Mercer Williams house, has a family plot within the cemetery where singer Johnny Mercer is buried.

While the Bird Girl statue has been moved from the cemetery and relocated to Savannah’s Telfair Museums, the bench mentioned in the book as the location where “a Savannah grand dame and her guest drank martinis” remains in front of Conrad Aiken’s grave.

Located on Monterey Square is the infamous Mercer Williams House, mentioned in the John Berendt novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.  Once the residence of antique restorer Jim Williams, the historical home is now owned by Williams’ sister and is open to the public as a museum.

Tours of the Mercer Williams House boast of Jim Williams’ love of Savannah.  He is noted for preserving over 50 homes.  Shortly after restoring the Mercer Williams house, Jim moved to Savannah continuing his business in the carriage house on-site.  Williams was famous for hosting exuberant events at his home that included an interesting guest list of vivacious and shady characters, but it was the shooting of his lover Danny Hansford in 1981, that would bring him national fame.

Williams was eventually acquitted of murder after four jury trials.  Having returned back to Mercer-Williams house, Jim was found dead by his employee six months later in the study near the spot where Hansford was shot.  Williams had died from pneumonia and heart failure.

The Mercer-Williams house has a reputation for being haunted as Williams and Hansford were not the only two deaths which had occurred on the property.  In 1969, an eleven-year old boy, Tommy Downs tragically fell from the abandoned house landing on the wrought-iron fence.  Visitors today claim to have seen paranormal activity to include visions of Williams, Hansford and little Tommy Downs roaming the home.  Ghostly images have been captured in photographs of the Mercer-Williams home of a little boy with blond hair and have been shared quite frequently on the internet.  In addition to the sightings, voices and footsteps, reports of parties at the house have contributed to its reputation of being haunted.

While Jim Williams was one of the main characters of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, one of my favorite leading ladies, was Lady Chablis, a transsexual performer at Club One.  With her eccentric, flamboyant personality, she was certainly a star in the movie adaptation directed by Clint Eastwood. Her part in the movie brought hundreds of guests to the club during the nights of her performances until her death in 2016.

My final film location to visit was the Bonaventure Cemetery located at 330 Bonaventure Road.  While the Bird Girl statue no longer stands within the park, I enjoyed exploring the grave sites of local  celebrities such as Conrad Aiken (writer), Johnny Mercer (singer/songwriter) and former Governor Edward Telfair.  While the cemetery plays a supporting role in the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, you won’t find Jim Williams nor Danny Hansford buried here, but you may spot a ghost or two.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the charming town of Savannah? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my day trip to Savannah and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

Bonaventure Cemetery
330 Bonaventure Road
Savannah, GA  31404

  • Admission Fee:  There is no charge to visit the cemetery
  • Hours:  Open daily from dawn to dusk
  • Length of Visit:  1 hour to browse the grave sites

Telfair Museums
207 W. York Street
Savannah, GA  31404
Telephone:  912 790 8800

  • Admission Fee: $20 for Adults, $18 for Seniors (65+) and $15 for Students (13-25, with student ID) and $5 for Children ages 6 – 12;  Museum members and children under 5 are FREE.
  • Hours:  Open Sunday and Monday from Noon to 5PM; Tuesday – Saturday from 10AM to 5PM.  Contact the museum’s website for holiday closures.
  • Length of Visit:  1 to 2 hours, or additional time for special exhibits
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm that the museum is open, as it may be closed for holidays or special events.

Mercer-Williams House Museum
429 Bull Street
Savannah, GA  31401
Telephone: 912 236 6352

  • Admission Fee: $12.50 for Adults, $8 for Students
  • Hours:  Open Thursday – Sunday from 11AM to 5PM; Closed Monday and Open on Wednesday from 11AM to 9PM.
  • Length of Visit:  1 to 2 hours, or additional time for special exhibits
  • Amenities:  guided tour and gift shop
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm that the museum is open, as it may be closed certain holidays.

Club One
1 Jefferson Street
Savannah. GA  31401
Telephone:  912 232 0200

  • Admission Fee: $10 for Adults for the weekend shows.
  • Hours:  Open Monday beginning at 5:30; Tuesday – Sunday from 5PM;
  • Length of Visit:  varies, depending on your experience
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Visit the website for special events such as bingo, topless karaoke, happy hour, drag shows and dance floor access.

Where to Stay: 

East Bay Inn
225 East Bay Street
Savannah, GA  31401
Telephone:  912 238 1225

Where to Eat: 

Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
107 West Jones Street
Savannah, GA  31401
Telephone:  912 232 5997

Check out this historical restaurant’s menu with dishes to include fried chicken, black-eyed peas, cornbread dressing, okra gumbo and sweet potato souffle.

What to Eat:

  • Boiled Peanuts at roadside stands throughout Georgia
  • Chatham Artillery Punch is a cocktail made of champagne, brandy, rum and bourbon at Fiddler’s Seafood
  • Fried Green Tomatoes at Tubby’s Seafood
  • Peaches at roadside stands throughout Georgia
  • Pralines at River Street Sweets or Savannah Candy Kitchen
  • Shrimp and Grits at Tubby’s Seafood

What to Read:

  • Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, by John Berendt
  • Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews
  • Savannah from Savannah by Denise Hildreth

Photo Guide for Savannah:  

  • Collins Quarter is a coffee bar on Bull Street
  • Forsyth Park and its famous fountain are a must-see in Savannah’s historic district
  • Historic District with its cobblestone streets is a great place for a stroll among the city’s most memorable mansions.
  • Leopold’s Ice Cream has been serving up delicious flavors since 1919 and is located on Broughton Street
  • The Paris Market located on Broughton Street offers coffees, sweets and Parisian pastries
  • Perry Lane Hotel‘s rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the city.
  • Rainbow Row is a collection of pastel row houses on Bryan Street
  • River Street‘s cobblestone streets lead to the Savannah River for beautiful views of the Savannah Belle ferries

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Arlington National Cemetery, A Tribute to US Veterans

With the approaching Memorial Day holiday in sight, what better way to honor the brave Americans who have served our country and fought to protect our freedom than to plan a visit to Arlington National Cemetery?  The Cemetery in Arlington

Located in Arlington, Virginia, across from the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery has been the final resting place for American War heroes since the Revolutionary War.  Spanning over 612 acres, the site is a beautiful and serene location that reminds us of the lives that were given for America’s freedom…a nation where we are provided the opportunity for “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness”.

The endless rows of white headstones represent over 300,000 brave Americans who fought for the united cause of independence.  The numbers will continue to rise until we are no longer at war.  We have our military to thank for making our country what it is today, totally open to worship in the manner in which we choose and to voice our opinions for ideals for which we support.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

One of the most important events at the Arlington National Cemetery is the Changing of the Guard which takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  At every hour, on the hour, this ceremony takes place to pay due respect to all soldiers who have died during a time of American conflict.    In front of the tomb there are also graves of unknown veterans from World War II, Korea and Vietnam, identified by white marble slabs that are prominent among the brick foundation.

Preparing for Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Once the officer salutes the unknown soldier retiring from his post, another sentinel takes his or her position at the tomb.  The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, regardless of the weather.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, 1996

During my visit, there were several young children who seemed interested in the  service and began discussing the recent ceremony with the officer on duty.  I was deeply moved by their curiosity and impressed with the questions they were asking.

JFK Tomb

Among one of the most visited graves at Arlington National Cemetery is that of former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy.   At the request of his wife, Jacqueline, Kennedy was provided a final resting place on the Arlington National Cemetery grounds.  It was also her wish that an eternal flame be lit to mark his grave.  On November 25, 1963 at 3PM, the services began for her husband’s funeral.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Grave

Nearly 30 years later, in 1994, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis would be laid to rest beside her husband, her infant son, Patrick Bouvier Kennedy and their unnamed stillborn daughter.

Gravesite at Arlington Cemetary

Robert F. Kennedy, John F. Kennedy’s brother is also buried in the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, next to his brother.  A presidential candidate, Robert Kennedy was assassinated in 1968 as he left the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles.  Robert’s body was brought to Arlington National Cemetery from New York City by train to his final resting place.

Arlington Cemetery Headstone

There are a number of  monuments and memorials throughout the National Cemetery that are significant.   They are a reminder of many who died during times of war, near and abroad, and for those that gave their lives in service to the United States.  For a full list of monuments, visit the Arlington Cemetery’s website. Some of the more notable memorials include the Civil War Unknowns, PanAm Flight 103, Pentagon Group Burial Marker, Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial  (shown) and the Spanish-American War Monument.

Entrance to Arlington Cemetary

While leaving the cemetery, I could hear the faint sound of military taps being played in the distance.  I paused for a moment of respect as my eyes filled with tears and feeling grateful for these American soldiers.  It is important that I never forget….never forget that freedom isn’t free, because in the end, someone has given their life so that I could live in one of the greatest countries of the world.  I should never take that for granted.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Arlington National Cemetery?  What was the most significant aspect of your visit?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading my post about Arlington National Cemetery!  Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do: 

Arlington National Cemetery
Address:  Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA 22211
Phone:  877.907.8585
Hours:  Open 365 days per year
Cost:  Free, except for guided tours*

How to Get There:

  • Take the Washington DC area’s MetroRail’s Blue Line to the Arlington National Cemetery Station.
  • MetroBus stop on Memorial Avenue

*Arlington National Cemetery has partnered with Arlington Cemetery Tours, Inc. as the only provider of tour bus services within the cemetery.  $12 for adults; $6 for children; $9 for seniors and free for military personnel in uniform and disabled with valid handicap placard. (Please visit the Cemetery’s website to confirm admission fees).

The Welcome Center is located at the entrance to the cemetery and is open daily from 8AM to 7PM from April 1st to September 30th and closes at 5PM from October 1st to March 31st.  It is closed on December 25th.

You will find a number of resources at the Welcome Center as well as a bookstore.  Here you can find maps, kiosks and information services as well as restrooms and water fountains.   Extensive exhibits and displays document the history of the cemetery, from its beginnings as a gravesite in the backyard of Robert E. Lee’s home, Arlington House, to the formal designation of the land as a national cemetery.

Where to Stay:

Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Courthouse Plaza
1333 N. Court House Road
Arlington, VA  22201
Toll Free Number:  866 538 1314

Hotels in the Arlington area can be quite expensive, so if you can stay in close proximity to the Cemetery and take the Metro, I highly suggest it!

Where to Eat:

Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill
2424 Wilson Road
Arlington, VA  22201
Phone Number:  703 528 3030 (for reservations) or use Open Table

If you visit during a warm, sunny day, this rooftop restaurant is fabulous, located in the Clarendon area of Washington DC/Arlington area. They have an outstanding weekend brunch menu!

What to Eat: 

  • Fried Eggplant at Peter Chang
  • Smoky Barbecue at Rocklands
  • Chinese Hot Pot at Mala Tang
  • Spanish plates at Ser
  • Peruvian dishes at El Pollo Rico
  • Russian and Uzbek cuisine at Rus Uz
  • Filipino food at Bistro 1521
  • Best Wine Bar is Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro
  • For sweets its Buzz Bakeshop

Photo Guide for Washington DC:

  • Arlington Cemetery
    • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
    • Gravesites of John F. Kennedy and Jackie Onassis
  • Air Force Memorial
  • Netherlands Carillon

Visiting My First Winery in Sonoma, Viansa Winery & Italian Marketplace

Pouring ourselves glasses of champagne, we said goodbye to the city of San Francisco, boarded our limousine and continued our journey towards California’s wine country.  Not long after we had crossed the Golden Gate Bridge, the landscape opened up and we were greeted with vineyards as far as the eye could see.

Viansa Winery (Viansa Winery & Italian Marketplace), a small boutique winery in Sonoma, was the first stop on our wine tour. Reminiscent of an Italian village, we were looking forward to sampling their wines and shopping at their marketplace.  We arrived to the charm of the winery’s architecture and beautiful gardens.

Viansa Winery and Italian Marketplace was founded in 1989 by Sam and Vicki Sebastiani. The name is short for Vicki and Sam who are descendants of the Sebastiani family making wines in California since 1904.

We began our tour of the winery from the central courtyard, beautifully designed.  Passing a statue surrounded by potted plants in the center of the plaza, we entered the stately wooden doors reinforced with iron.  Inside, we had entered the wine cellar lined with large oak barrels.

We found the tasting bar, reviewed the list of sixteen wines (red, white and sweet) produced by Viansa and selected our samples for the complimentary tasting.   Our pourer was extremely helpful in assisting us with our wine selections.   Since I prefer the red wines, I began with the light “Piccolo” Sangiovese, a blend of Sangiovese grapes grown in nearby Sonoma Valley and Carneros.

The 2000 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is 99.4% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in a American and French Oak barrels for a period of 20 months. It was a “complex and full-bodied wine with well extracted fruit and tannins; aromas and flavors of raspberry, blackberry, plums, anise and spice. Barrel aging adds nuances of sweet vanilla and toasted coconut. This wine has balanced acidity and an appealing cranberry, wild strawberry and red currant finish that lasts.”

Chosen as Best in Class at the 16th Annual 2006 Jerry D. Mead’s New World International Wine Competition, the 2002 Samuele Cabernet Franc was awarded the Gold Medal.  It is described as a “rich elegant wine with aromas of violets and beautifully balanced tannins and acids.” A red blend consisting of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine is aged a total of twenty-six months in oak barrels.  Its flavors are comprised of blueberry and juniper making it a unique blend.

Another spectacular wine offered at Viansa is the Red Blend Riserva Anatra Rosso made with a combination of Merlot, Sangiovese and Teroldego grapes.  The 2000 Santerra Rosso is described as “a California grown Super Tuscan wine. Super Tuscan wines originated in the 1980s by a small group of producers in Italy’s Tuscany region who felt restricted by their country’s tough laws on blending and labeling. Super Tuscans are comprised mostly of Sangiovese and typically blended with varying amounts of Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Experts have rated the best of them as truly superior to traditional reds of the region, characterized by deeper color, fuller body, more depth and complexity of flavors, better balance and greater capacity for aging. The Santerra Rosso super Tuscan has a very smooth mouthfeel with appealing flavors of dried cherries, cranberry and sage. The fruit and tannins create a nice balance in pairing with a wide variety of foods. 42% Sangiovese, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Serve at 65 degrees.”

The following is a list of Viansa wines and descriptions that we did not sample.  The information was either provided by the winery or wine apps:

Ossidiana Red Bordeaux Blend, Sonoma County (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc) “crafted mostly from Cabernet Franc, is Viansa’s flagship wine…a rich, intense red that can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to 15 years.”

The Frescolina White Blend is described as a “delightfully refreshing blend of Muscat Canelli, Symphony, Viognier & Pinot Blanc, originally created as a dessert wine. The updated version is only slightly sweet and is a wonderful aperitif.”

The Viansa Nebbiolo Sonoma County (La Nebbia) comes from a “grape native to foggy Piemonte in Northern Italy. It is right at home in our Sonoma Mountain vineyard where it receives ample morning sun and afternoon shade. We blended in Primitivo (12.5%), Teroldego (2.3%) and Sangiovese (.2%) to round out this distinctive wine. A dry red with good acidity, our 2001 “La Nebbia” offers earthy flavors of tobacco and leather along with subtle notes of dried cherry and smoky oak.”

The Viansa Red Bordeaux Blend Sonoma County 2003 Lorenzo “has a nice entry with flavors of ripe boysenberry & blackberries. It boasts wonderfully balanced tannins and flows across the palate, with beautiful colors of blackberry with magenta hues. We suggest you decant for at least 1 hour before serving and can be cellared up to 5 years and would be at it’s best cellared for 1-2 years before enjoying.”

The 2004 Viansa Pinot Grigio Carneros Vittoria was an “Award winning Bronze Medalist for Chardonnay in the 2005 Pacific Rim International Wine Competition, Viansa’s Pinot Grigio has light flavors of apricots, pears and green apples with hints of orange and lingering nutty flavors reminiscent of hazelnuts and macadamia nuts.”

The Viansa Dolcetto Sonoma County Athena is “Crafted entirely from Dolcetto grapes, a varietal native to northern Italy. Viansa’s “Athena” Dolcetto is a fruity delight, an off-dry red bursting with notes of raspberry and cranberry and is a winery favorite, even of white wine aficionados. It pairs nicely with a variety of foods, varying from picnic fare to elegant entrees.”  This wine was awarded “a Silver Medal for its NV “Athena” Dolcetto, a delicious blend of three Italian varietals — Dolcetto, Muscat and Sangiovese.

After we completed our wine tasting and placed orders for bottles to be shipped home, we stepped outside to the most amazing views of the Sonoma Valley.  Vineyards stretched for miles and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking.  If the Sebastiani’s vision was to recreate an Italianate destination winery producing exceptional wines, they have certainly succeeded.  If there was a hotel on the property, I would probably never leave.

Have you visited Viansa Winery?  Did you love the wines and fabulous views?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reminiscing with me on my trip to Viansa and wishing you many Happy Travels!  Cheers!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Viansa Winery
25200 Arnold Drive
Sonoma, CA 95476
Telephone:  707 946 4735 (extension 5 for reservations)

    • Admission Fee:  No admission fee to visit
    • Hours:  Open daily from 10AM to 5PM;
    • Amenities: Restaurant, terrace, picnic tables, marketplace, wine store, stunning views of Sonoma Valley, private tastings & tours (reservations required 48 hours in advance) 707 946 4735 x5;  for same day experience or groups larger than six, please also call in advance, visitor’s center; Entertainment is provided during the summer from 12PM to 3PM on Saturdays.
      • Private Outlook Tasting ($75 per person): accommodates 2 – 6, 90 minutes in the custom outlook with a flight of reserve wines and locally sourced cheeses. Discount for club members.
      • Viansa Summit Tour and Tasting ($35 per person): accommodates 12, 45 minutes to tour the estate and enjoy a flight of wines
      • Savor Sonoma ($50 per person): accommodates 2 – 10, 90 minutes to relax in the rustic Logia with award winning Reserve Wines and a selection of cheeses;
      • Signature Experience ($70 per person): accommodates 2 – 10, 90 minutes to sample flights from their Signature Series wines, seated in the wine library.
    • Guided Tours:  Guided Tours are available at 11AM and 2:15PM
    • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours and an additional 1 hour if you intend to enjoy lunch
    • Tips for Your Visit:  Check the conservatory’s website for special events such as the Butterfly Exhibit and Orchids.  During the summer, the conservatory hosts a Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays.

Where to Stay:

The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa
1325 Broadway at Leveroni & Napa Roads
Sonoma, CA  94576
Telephone:  707 935 6600

Where to Eat:

The Girl & The Fig
110 West Spain Street
Sonoma, CA  95476
Telephone:  707 938 3634  x10

I love the concept of food and wine pairings in this charming brasserie. I would definitely order the fromage tower.

What to Eat in Sonoma: 

  • Dungeness Crab from nearby Bodega Bay, usually starting in November.  Call ahead to confirm as “crab catches can be unpredictable”.
  • Free-range chicken from Petaluma Poultry has been serving up juicy birds since 1969.
  • Goat cheese
  • Lamb at Marin Sun Farms
  • The Olive Press produces Sonoma’s second-largest harvest of olives.
  • Peaches in Healdsburg from Dry Creek Peach & Produce
  • Pekin Duck from Liberty Ducks/Sonoma County Poultry in Penngrove has been around for four generations
  • Pork from Front Porch Farm which offers a wide range of breeds to include European Mangalitsa, Mulefoot, Red Waffle and Tuscan Cinta Senses pigs.

What to Read: 

  • Divisadero, by Michael Ondaatje
  • A Fire Story, by Brian Fies
  • Into the Forest, by Jean Hegland
  • The Life She Wants, by Robyn Carr
  • The Road to Hope, Crissi Langwell
  • The Underside of Joy, by Sere Prince Halverson

Photo Guide for Sonoma: 

  • Armstrong Redwoods State Nature Reserve, Guerneville
  • The Barlow, Sebastopol
  • Domaine Carneros Villas and Vineyards for incredible views of the chateau and gardens.
  • Duncans Landing at Bodega Bay for coastal views and beach scenes
  • The Fremont Diner, Sonoma:  Check out the “Greetings from Sonoma” sign
  • Paradise Ridge Winery Sculptures, Santa Rosa for works of art throughout the estate
  • Petaluma Historical Library & Museum for its amazing interior
  • Petaluma Pumpkin Patch for the sunflower field and animals from the petting zoo
  • River’s End Restaurant in Jenner is perfect for photographing the sunset
  • The Russian River
  • Salt Point State Park’s Sandstone Hills showcases spectacular sandstone rocks and panoramas of the Pacific Ocean
  • Screamin’ Mini’s to photograph all of the ice cream flavors of the rainbow and interior
  • Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Santa Rose for beautiful waterfalls and spectacular nature
  • Tea Room Cafe in Petaluma for foodie photos

Sonoma’s Sebastiani, Continuing to Make Wine History

During a conference in San Francisco, my boss Joe wanted to thank a few of our clients for working with us over the years, renting a limousine to tour California’s wine country.

One of the wineries on our list was Sebastiani, located in the heart of Sonoma.  This historic winery has been providing some of the best wines in the region for over a century.  Opening in 1904, Samuele Sebastiani, an immigrant from the Tuscany region of Italy wanted to provide wines to San Francisco restaurants and his friends and family.

The only Sonoma winery to survive prohibition (they provided wine to the local churches), the winery was passed down from one generation to the next (August, Sam) and has grown to become one of the most recognized wineries in all of Sonoma.  We were so excited to visit the winery’s tasting room and explore the winery with an informational tour.

Today, Sebastiani is focused on developing its exceptional estate wines from vineyards with optimal terroir for wine production.  Daily wine tastings are offered for groups of six and less without a reservation from 10AM to 4:30PM.  The 30 minute tasting costs $20 per person and wines by the glass are offered as well ranging from $7 – $10.  In addition, the winery offers a wide range of educational tasting opportunities to include wine and food pairings in addition to locally crafted foods, cheeses and chocolates, the winemaking process, and the history of winemaking.

Have you had the opportunity to visit one of Sonoma’s oldest wineries?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my brief visit to Sebastiani and wishing you many Happy Travels!  Cheers!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery
389 4th Street East
Sonoma, CA  95476
Telephone:  707 933 3200

  • Amenities:  a hospitality center, barrel room with antique redwood tanks, grand event space and daily tours and tastings; culinary and wine tastings;

Where to Stay:

Silverado Resort and Spa
1600 Atlas Peak Road
Napa Valley, CA   94558
Telephone:  707 257 0200

Where to Eat:

The Girl & The Fig
110 West Spain Street
Sonoma, CA  95476
Telephone:  707 938 3634  x10

I love the concept of food and wine pairings in this charming brasserie. I would definitely order the fromage tower.

What to Eat in Sonoma: 

  • Dungeness Crab from nearby Bodega Bay, usually starting in November.  Call ahead to confirm as “crab catches can be unpredictable”.
  • Free-range chicken from Petaluma Poultry has been serving up juicy birds since 1969.
  • Goat cheese
  • Lamb at Marin Sun Farms
  • The Olive Press produces Sonoma’s second-largest harvest of olives.
  • Peaches in Healdsburg from Dry Creek Peach & Produce
  • Pekin Duck from Liberty Ducks/Sonoma County Poultry in Penngrove has been around for four generations
  • Pork from Front Porch Farm which offers a wide range of breeds to include European Mangalitsa, Mulefoot, Red Waffle and Tuscan Cinta Senses pigs.

What to Read: 

  • Divisadero, by Michael Ondaatje
  • A Fire Story, by Brian Fies
  • Into the Forest, by Jean Hegland
  • The Life She Wants, by Robyn Carr
  • The Road to Hope, Crissi Langwell
  • The Underside of Joy, by Sere Prince Halverson

Photo Guide for Sonoma: 

  • Armstrong Redwoods State Nature Reserve, Guerneville
  • The Barlow, Sebastopol
  • Domaine Carneros Villas and Vineyards for incredible views of the chateau and gardens.
  • Duncans Landing at Bodega Bay for coastal views and beach scenes
  • The Fremont Diner, Sonoma:  Check out the “Greetings from Sonoma” sign
  • Paradise Ridge Winery Sculptures, Santa Rosa for works of art throughout the estate
  • Petaluma Historical Library & Museum for its amazing interior
  • Petaluma Pumpkin Patch for the sunflower field and animals from the petting zoo
  • River’s End Restaurant in Jenner is perfect for photographing the sunset
  • The Russian River
  • Salt Point State Park’s Sandstone Hills showcases spectacular sandstone rocks and panoramas of the Pacific Ocean
  • Screamin’ Mini’s to photograph all of the ice cream flavors of the rainbow and interior
  • Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Santa Rose for beautiful waterfalls and spectacular nature
  • Tea Room Cafe in Petaluma for foodie photos

A Weekend of Whitewater Rafting the Lower New River, 1998

It was a long holiday weekend and our family decided to plan a whitewater rafting trip on the New River in West Virginia.   We would set up camp at a nearby campground finding a lot large enough for a couple of tents.

We contacted Wildwater (now Rivermen at Adventures on the Gorge), a whitewater rafting outfitter that would take us down the lower New River where we would pass underneath the New River bridge.  We learned that the minimum age to participate was 12 and my youngest sister and Mom would have to hang back at the campsite.

We opted to take the Lower New River Rafting Trip because not everyone had been rafting before.  According to the brochure, “the Lower New River offers one of the best whitewater rafting experiences in West Virginia . It is a large volume river with large shelf drops and boulders, creating the perfect combination of waves and hydraulics for a world class whitewater rafting experience.”

Our excursion would include a guide, life preservers and instruction on how to safely raft down the Class III and IV rapids.  The inflatable raft would hold up to eight of us including our guide.  The trip was to last anywhere from 4 – 6 hours which would be followed by a robust lunch.

We were instructed to bring a second change of clothes for after the trip, sunscreen, waterproof  bags to hold medication and other valuables.  The guides also have waterproof bags if the guests do not provide one.

After our safety requirements discussion, we were ready to head down the river! Here are the photos of our trip…

Our day on the river was more than fantastic with amazing rapids, scenic views and an exhilarating experience.  I look forward to returning again when my little sister can join us.  She would absolutely love it.

Have you rafted the New River or maybe the Gauley?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for perusing my photos of our rafting trip and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Rivermen Adventures on the Gorge
219 Chestnutburg Road
Lansing, WV  25862
Telephone:  888 287 4496

  • Rafting Fee:  Adults:  $99, must be at least 12 years old and able to swim
  • Hours:  By reservation;  contact their website for time slots available
  •  Amenities:  Guide, life preservers, plastic bags for valuables.
  • Length of Time:  4 – 6 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring sunscreen, plastic bags to protect valuables, remove jewelry and expensive items (do not bring them if possible), make advanced reservations

Where to Stay:

New River Gorge Campground
632 Milroy Grose
Lansing, WV  25862
Telephone:  304 658 3600

Where to Eat:

Rio Grande
571 Mall Road
Oak Hill, WV  25901
Telephone:  304 465 5434

I ordered the taco salad with beef and a house margarita.

What to Eat: 

  • Pepperoni Rolls (invented in West Virginia) is bread with pepperoni baked inside
  • Buttermilk Biscuits
  • Chili and Slaw dogs
  • Cornbread and Pinto Beans
  • Mexican cornbread
  • Morel mushrooms
  • Mountain Dew
  • Ramps are wild onions
  • Venison

What to Read: 

  • True West Virginia Ghost Stories, by Jonathan Moore
  • New River Gorge, by J. Scott Legg

Photo Guide for the New River Gorge

  • Bridge View from Tunney Hunsaker Bridge
  • Grandview
  • Fayette Station Road
  • Canyon Rim Visitor’s Center

Visit the Painted Desert in Arizona! 100 years of US National Parks

000 painted desert

On a week-long vacation that included the Grand Canyon National Park, I decided that I would include additional stops in the Four Corners region of the United States to include the Painted Desert, the Petrified Forest National Park, Montezuma Castle National Park and the historic ghost town of Jerome, Arizona.

Although I had not yet visited the Badlands in South Dakota, I learned that the Painted Desert is very similar in geology and covers more than 93,500 acres extending to the east end of the Grand Canyon.  I was fascinated with the layers of color that reminded me of the artistic sand jars that we would create as children.  I was surprised to learn that the colorful granule-like structures were actually three types of rock such as siltstone, mudstone and shale.  The erosion of these stones is what created the vibrant site ranging from hues of red to lovely lavender rocks. In addition, scientists have discovered dinosaur tracks in this desert as well as evidence of prehistoric man.

The desert was not difficult to find as I had just driven through the Petrified Forest National Park and they are both connected to each other.  In some ways, it was a challenge to see where the forest ended and the desert began, if it wasn’t for the colorful striations of plateaus and rock formations.  It takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to cover the 28-mile road through the park.  There are a couple of hikes through this area, not to mention the spectacular viewpoints such as Kachina, Tawa and Tiponi.

The route was barren, yet colorful.  I would have loved to have stayed another day to explore the hikes and vistas of this beautiful Navajo Nation.  The drive was therapeutic as I slowly inched my way along the route.  With the sunset approaching, I didn’t want to miss this lovely occasion to enjoy the sun’s reflection on the mesas where the colors were much more rich and radiant.

Have you ever passed up an opportunity to visit a place because you were limited by time?  I would love to hear about it.  And if you have had the chance to visit the Painted Desert in more detail, I would be interested in hearing about what you learned. Just leave a message in the comments section below and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Painted Desert
Painted Desert, AZ  86031

  • Admission Fee:  Painted Desert Entrance fees:  $20 for auto seven-day pass; $10 per person arriving by bike; $15 flat fee for motorcycle; annual pass is $40.
  • Hours:  The park is open daily with the exception of Christmas Day.  From September 15 – April 13:  8AM to 5PM; from April 14 to May 11:  7AM to 7PM; from May 12 to August 3: from 7AM to 7:30PM; from August 4 to August 31: from 7AM to 7PM and from September 1 to September 14:  from 7AM to 6PM.
  • Amenities:  Museum and bookstore
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph the colorful desert during the golden hours for spectacular photos
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  Don’t forget that your entrance fee also includes the Petrified Forest!

Where to Stay:

La Posada Hotel & Gardens
303 E. 2nd Street (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ  86047
Telephone:  928 289 4366

Where to Eat:

Fred Harvey Diner
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest National Park, AZ  86028

Order the Navajo taco….it is huge!

What to Eat: 

  • Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
  • Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
  • Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
  • Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig.  This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
  • Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Tamales!

What to Read: 

  • The Emerald Isle: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko
  • Grand Canyon, by Jason Chin
  • The Exploration of the Colorado River and the Canyons, by John Wesley
  • Over the Edge: Death in the Grand Canyon, by Michael P. Ghiglieri and Thomas M. Myers
  • The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey
  • I am the Grand Canyon, by Stephen Hirst

Photo Guide for the Grand Canyon: 

  • South Rim Viewpoints:  Yavapai Point
  • Mather Point
  • Desert View Drive
  • Shoshone Point
  • Yaki Point
  • Grandview Point
  • Navaho Point
  • Desert View Watchtower
  • Hermit Road
  • Horseshoe Bend
  • Bright Angel Point
  • Point Imperial
  • Cape Royal
  • Toroweap / Tuweep
  • Havasu Falls
  • Best places to watch the sunset:
    • Lipan Point
    • Navajo Point
    • Yavapai Point
    • Toroweep
    • Point Imperial
    • Cape Royal

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

A Copper Mining Ghost Town: Jerome State Historic Park

Surrounded by a sense of the paranormal, I approached the historical ghost town of Jerome.  Uninhabited, it felt as though the residents of this Arizona village had stopped in the middle of what they were doing, packed their belongings and took off without a moment’s notice.  As I pulled my car into the parking lot, I couldn’t help but look around and realize I was the only one visiting the park.  All alone, I quickly understood why Jerome has been called the largest “ghost town” in the United States.

Jerome State Historic Park is located between the towns of Prescott and Flagstaff. Founded in 1876, the population’s highest count was 15,000 in the late 1920’s, once the fourth largest city in the state of Arizona.

Among the remains of the old mining town is the hotel which is located on top of Cleopatra Hill.  Abandoned, it reminded me of the Stanley Hotel in Stephen King’s “The Shining.”

Jerome was once labeled the wickedest town in the west.  Known for its mining of copper, the industry eventually declined and locals had to leave to find employment elsewhere.  The city was later converted into a historic ghost town and eventually recognized as a National Historic District.  The spectacular views from the Jerome Grand Hotel overlook the sparsely vegetated mountains and deeply  excavated valleys.

Remnants of the mining town remained with only about 450 permanent residents calling Jerome their home.  With fabulous restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and a winery, the state park and local museum are dedicated to teaching visitors about the city’s rich mining history.

It was quite clear while visiting the State Park that Jerome had not changed much over the last 100 years.  Some of the historic buildings had undergone restoration with a few more projects set for the future.  The challenge has been the fact that the city sits along a hill at a 30 degree slope and some of the buildings have been damaged due to their sliding down the incline.  It is believed that the 88 miles of mine shafts may have contributed to the landslide.

In, 1962, the Douglas Mansion was donated to the city by the heirs of Jimmy Douglas.  It was used to create the Jerome State Historic Park.

For those that enjoy history, a visit to downtown Jerome is a must to explore some of the town’s historic buildings like the old jail and the “Cribs District” which was once a part of Jerome’s “prostitution row”.  It is located in a back alley across the street from the English Kitchen.

Jerome is a fascinating town that has retained much of its historical surroundings.  Located only 90 miles from Phoenix, it is a perfect day trip from several towns in Arizona such as Flagstaff as well as Sedona.  For now, I am ready to head back to my bed and breakfast but not before stopping at the Jerome Winery for a little rest and relaxation.  Somehow the silence has grown on me, and who knows, maybe I will see proof of life on my next visit.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Jerome, Arizona?  What did you think of your experience?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading about my side trip to Jerome, Arizona!  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jerome State Historic Park
200 Douglas Road
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 634 5381

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $7 (ages 14 and over); Youth:  $4 (ages 7 to 13);  Children:  Free (ages 0 to 6 ).
  • Hours:  The park is open daily from 8AM to 5PM with the exception of Thanksgiving (8AM to 2PM), Christmas Eve (8AM to 2PM) and Christmas Day (closed).
  • Amenities: Programs and events, Junior Ranger Program, Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Museum and Exhibits, Picnic areas, Video Presentation, Self-Guided Walk
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph  the Jerome Hotel
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  You may also want to bring a telephoto lens for photographs.  Be prepared for several stairs.

Bittercreek Winery (Cellar 433)
Prescott National Forest
240 Hull Avenue
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 634 7033

  • Hours:  The winery is open Monday through Wednesday from 11AM to 6PM and Thursday to Sunday from 11AM to 7PM.
  • Amenities: Group wine Tasting and Special Events; Menu, local Micro-Brews and amazing views of the Verde Valley.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Scenic View:  See the Verde Valley and Red Rocks of Sedona

UPDATE:  The Echo Canyon Winery is now permanently closed

Echo Canyon Winery
Prescott National Forest
419 Hull Avenue
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 649 9800

Where to Stay:

The Surgeon’s House
Prescott National Forest
100 Hill Street
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:  928 639 1452

A historical bed and breakfast located in Prescott National Forest.  Beautiful views!

Where to Eat:

Grapes Restaurant & Bar
Prescott National Forest
111 Main Street
Jerome, AZ  86331
Telephone:   928 639 8477

I ordered the Caprese Ring and it was fabulous and fresh!  The Create a Bowl of Pasta was perfect where I could select my own type of pasta, meat and sauce.  I created a fettuccine carbonara…yum!

Books to Read: 

  • After the Boom in Tombstone and Jerome, Arizona: Decline in Western Resource Towns, by Eric L. Clements
  • Home Sweet Jerome: Death and Rebirth of Arizona’s Richest Copper Mining City, by Diane Seward Rapaport
  • They Came to Jerome: The Billion Dollar Copper Camp, by Herbert V. Young
  • Lady Lost:  The Story of the Honeymoon Cottage in Jerome, Arizona, by Margaret Graziano
  • The Ghost of the Cuban Queen Bordello: A Story of a 1920’s Jerome Arizona Madam, by Peggy Hicks
  • Ghosts of Cleopatra Hill, by Herbert V. Young

Photo Guide for Jerome:

  • Shoot at dusk for the best lighting.
  • Photograph side streets for a different perspective
  • Search out local people to photograph
  • Places to photograph:
    • Jerome Grand Hotel
    • The Asylum, a local restaurant
    • Bisbee’s Copper Mine
    • Audrey Headframe Park
    • Haunted Hamburger

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Experience a Western Town by Visiting Rawhide in Arizona

Old Town Rawhide, AZ

It seems like ages ago that I spent the afternoon in the little western town of Rawhide,  in northern Scottsdale, Arizona.  With a fascination of learning more about the wild, wild west,  I decided it would be fun to explore this recreation with gunslingers and historical outposts.

I imagined the John Wayne movies and Clint Eastwood’s attitude as I was transported back in time to the 1880s with a stage coach, train rides, gunfights and a mechanical bull named Widowmaker.

While I’m not the gambling type, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to strike it rich panning for gold, while failing miserably at the shooting gallery.  After a few hours of reveling in the good ole days, I checked into the Rawhide Steakhouse for an authentic western-style meal with portions big enough to feed any hardy cowboy or a family of four.

Mike at the Rawhide, 1999

Entrance into the town of Rawhide is free, unless an event has been scheduled.   Visitors can check out Rawhide’s event calendar at calendar@rawhide.com.  The town attractions require tickets or a wristband to participate, but both can be picked up at the entrance located on-site.

the Town of Rawhide, AZ

Unique shops line the wide dirt road selling souvenirs or fashionable western wear.  Main Street is where all of the action takes place and at one point, I found myself in the middle of a gunfight.

Stagecoach in Rawhide, AZ

I suggest that visitors plan for a full day of fun participating in a number of interactive experiences.  If I had more time, I would have loved to have scheduled the desert train ride or watched a performance at the Spirit of the West Theatre.

After dinner, I had just enough time for one more activity and was having a difficult time deciding what I should do next.  It was a toss up between the burros and the mules and I finally made up my mind to take a mule ride in the Sonoran desert.  The excursion began at the Butterfield Stageline and was the perfect experience for watching the sunset.  The warm, beautiful sun gave off a soft glow as it disappeared behind the cacti the covered the desert floor.  Reflecting off of the ground cover in muted tones, we had plenty of time to return before dark of night.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Rawhide or a similar old western town? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to Rawhide and wishing you many Happy Travels!

UPDATE since my visit to Rawhide!

The location of Rawhide has moved from Scottsdale to Chandler, located on the Gila Indian Reservation, close to the Phoenix Airport.  In 2008, they reopened the Wild West Museum with featured exhibits and artifacts.

What to See and What to Do:

Rawhide Western Town
5700 W N. Loop Road
Chandler, Arizona  85226
Telephone:  480 502 5600

  • Admission Fee:  Free during Signature and Holiday events.
  • Hours:  Rawhide is only open for visitors during Signature and Holiday events which are listed on their website.
  • Amenities:  Restaurant, rides, shopping, entertainment venue, scheduled concerts and festivals as well as private events.
  • Length of Visit:  3 – 4 hours

Where to Stay:

The Boulders Resort & Spa
34631 North Tom Darlington Drive
Carefree, Arizona  85377
Telephone:   480 488 9009

Where to Eat:

El Encanto Mexican Patio Cafe
6248 E. Cave Creek Road
Cave Creek, AZ  85331
Telephone:  480 488 1752

This was such a romantic restaurant and I loved sitting out on the outside patio!

What to Eat:

  • Cheese crisps have a tortilla base with a generous layer of cheese, baked to crispy perfection.
  • Chimichangas
  • Mesquite flour is made from the mesquite tree and has a nutty flavor. Perfect for baking, try this local delicacy in sweets such as breads, muffins and pancakes.
  • Native American fry bread dates back to the late 1800s and is a fried dough used as a base for savory taco toppings or seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
  • Sonoran Hot Dogs are wrapped in bacon, set inside the bun and topped with pinto beans, onion, tomatoes, mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard.  This popular street food is easy to find on local menus.

What to Read:

  • Desert Noir, by Betty Webb
  • Desert Run, by Betty Webb
  • Desert Shadows, by Betty Webb
  • Desert Lost, by Betty Webb
  • Dead Heat, by Patricia Briggs

Photo Guide for Scottsdale:

  • Pinnacle Peak as seen from the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale must be photographed at night as well as from the resort’s patio
  • Greasewood Flat is a restaurant that was once a bunkhouse.
  • The architecture of Cosanti and Arcosanti in Scottsdale’s Paradise Valley
  • Old Town Scottsdale for authentic Wild West shots.
  • Camelback Mountain
  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Petrified Forest National Park is a Scientific Phenomenon

Looking out into the Petrified Forest

Located in northeastern Arizona, the Petrified Forest National Park hosts over 800,000 visitors each year.  Words cannot explain this surreal environment where scattered logs cover 170 square miles. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect on my visit, but what I witnessed was truly an interesting phenomenon.

Throughout the park, fragments of wood seem to have been strewn about for no apparent reason. At first glance, it seems impossible to understand exactly what took place here but scientists seem to have an explanation.  They believe that the area was once abundant with trees which had become fossilized and learned that there were other fossils to be found.  Paleontologists have been studying this area unearthing such fossils as large amphibians, phytosaurs (reptiles), Buettneria (amphibians) and early dinosaurs.

And if the geology of the park is not fascinating enough, there is also evidence of human life with over 600 archaeological sites and petroglyphs.  The petroglyphs are dated between 650 to 2000 years old.

Although seemingly barren, the park is also home to a number of protected mammals which include bobcats, coyotes, black-tailed jackrabbits, prairie dogs, foxes, squirrels, mule deer and pronghorn as well as deer mice.

000 Petrified Forest

I suppose the biggest question is, how did the wood become petrified.  Most of the explanations that I found in my research were way above my head, so I am making an attempt to explain it in laymen’s terms.  Throughout the area there were river channels in the park.  Trees that grew up near the channels, fell down, and ended up in the water.  Over time and on several occasions, residue that contained volcanic ash would bury these trees.  The water would dissolve the silica (silicon dioxide, a chemical) from the ash and would end up inside of the logs.  From here, the silica would form quartz crystals that would replace the living parts of the inside of the tree.  Some of this material would also remain on the outer layer of the tree, giving it its fossilized exterior.  Other substances, such as iron oxide would combine with the silica to create the various colors that appear in the petrified wood.

In addition to learning more about the Petrified Forest, there are many activities available for visitors in the park to include hiking and backpacking,  photography, sightseeing and driving through the park. There are seven hiking trails that range from a half a mile to close to three miles in length.  The trails are named Agate House, Blue Mesa, Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, Long Logs, Painted Desert Rim and Puerco Pueblo.

While humans are the major threat to the park, there are strict rules and warnings for the removal of petrified wood.  It is estimated by the park service that approximately “12 short tons of the fossil wood is stolen from the Petrified Forest each year”.  It would be a shame for future generations to miss out on such an interesting site, but lucky for us, the park was designated a National Park in 1962.

Have you visited the Petrified Forest?  What did you think of it?  I would love to hear about your experience in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

To further plan your visit to Petrified Forest National Park,  visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm.  It is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas, but has a variation in its schedule depending on the time that you visit.  Information about the Painted Desert is available at this website as well.

What to See and What to Do:

Petrified Forest
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest, AZ  86031

  • Admission Fee:  Petrified Forest Entrance fees:  $20 for auto seven-day pass; $10 per person arriving by bike; $15 flat fee for motorcycle; annual pass is $40.
  • Hours:  The park is open daily with the exception of Christmas Day.  From September 15 – April 13:  8AM to 5PM; from April 14 to May 11:  7AM to 7PM; from May 12 to August 3: from 7AM to 7:30PM; from August 4 to August 31: from 7AM to 7PM and from September 1 to September 14:  from 7AM to 6PM.
  • Amenities:  Museum and bookstore
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph the colorful desert and petrified forest during the golden hours for spectacular photos
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  Check out the petroglyphs and eight of the sites that are located on the National Register and don’t forget to make a stop at the Visitor’s Center for souvenirs, exhibits and other amenities.  A schedule of tours is also available at the Visitor’s Center.  You can easily find Petrified Forest National Park along I-40. Don’t forget that your entrance fee also includes the Painted Desert!

Where to Stay:

La Posada Hotel & Gardens
303 E. 2nd Street (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ  86047
Telephone:  928 289 4366

Where to Eat:

Fred Harvey Diner
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest National Park, AZ  86028

Order the Navajo taco….it is huge!

What to Eat: 

  • Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
  • Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
  • Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
  • Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig.  This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
  • Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Tamales!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

A Side Trip to the Meteor Crater, Arizona

000 Meteor Crater, AZ

Since we were traveling to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, I wanted to research some of the nearby locations that we could explore on our way to the national park.  I enjoy the research that goes into preparing for vacations and spend hours reading up on the destinations that I plan to visit.  It was during my internet search that I learned about the meteorite crater, located just outside of Flagstaff.  I assumed it would be a quick stop, and was interested in learning more about this incredible act of nature.

Known as the Canyon Diablo Crater and the Barringer Crater, Meteor Crater is privately owned and was designated a national natural landmark in the late 1960s.  What I found so fascinating was the depth (570 feet) and diameter (3900 feet) of this bowl-like structure.   How could a rock made from nickel and iron crash into the earth leaving an impression.

As I approached the observation deck, I felt so small looking down into the crater.  Hardly noticeable in the center was a small astronaut figure that stood to represent the size of an actual man inside of this enormous basin.

In addition to seeing the crater from the viewing platform, there is the Meteor Crater Visitor Center that is located on the north rim.  There are interactive displays and information to learn more about space, the crater and various elements of the solar system that helped create this natural wonder.  Tickets for guided tours of the crater can be purchased from the Visitor’s Center.  Where else can you feel this close to outer space?

What did you find or would you find fascinating during a visit to the Meteor Crater in Arizona?  I would be interested in hearing your thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my quick visit to the Meteor Crater and wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Meteor Crater
Interstate 40, Exit 233
Winslow, AZ  86047

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $18; Seniors (age 60 and over): $16; Juniors (age 6 to 17): $9.   For additional discounts and group rates, contact the website directly.
  • Hours:  The park is open daily with the exception of Christmas Day. from 8AM to 5PM.
  • Amenities: Discovery Center, housing interactive displays containing information about meteorites, asteroids, impact cratering mechanics, and the formation of Meteor Crater; “IMPACT, The Mystery of Meteor Crater” movie shown in our Big Screen Theater; Three Lookout Points featuring spectacular views of Meteor Crater and breathtaking desert landscape; and, a guided Rim Tour.  Experience for an additional charge:  Adults and Children 6 years and older for $5 while children 5 years and younger are admitted at no charge.
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph of the meteor crater
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  You may also want to bring a telephoto lens for photographs.

Where to Stay:

La Posada Hotel & Gardens
303 E. 2nd Street (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ  86047
Telephone:  928 289 4366

Where to Eat:

Fred Harvey Diner
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest National Park, AZ  86028

What to Eat: 

  • Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
  • Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
  • Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
  • Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig.  This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
  • Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Tamales!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.