Old Mill Winery, Geneva, Ohio

16 July 202126 February 2025

It was a gorgeous day for wine tasting in Ashtabula County. After visiting Markko Vineyard and Hundley Cellars, I made a quick stop at Old Mill Winery in Geneva.

Settled in a historic mill dating back to the 1860’s Old Mill Winery is a great stop for sampling Ohio wines. The grist mill supplied flour to local residents and feed grain to farmers for over 100 years. Eventually, the mill would close down and would be left abandoned. Years later, the mill was converted into a winery in the 1980s.

Keeping the original structure, visitors today can take a quick trip back into history to explore the mill equipment. Full of character and history, Dave and Eileen purchased the winery in 2005 intent on keeping its charm.

The Old Mill Winery is a great place for locals and visitors and the perfect place to meet for amazing wines, delicious foods and making memories. With local entertainment, a grill for serving up hamburgers and plenty of seating, making memories at Old Mill Winery is sure to happen,

Have you visited Old Mill Winery in Geneva, Ohio? What did you order and how was your experience. I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Old Mill Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Old Mill Winery
403 S Broadway
Geneva, OH 44041
Telephone: 440 466 5560

Because the winery hours of operation are seasonal, please reference the winery’s website prior to visiting the winery.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Ashtabula – Geneva
1831 Austinburg Road
Austinburg, OH 44010
Telephone: 440 275 2020

Where to Eat:

Old Mill Winery
403 S Broadway
Geneva, OH 44041
Telephone: 440 466 5560

Serving great appetizers to pair with wine, steamed mussels, bacon bleu salad, pulled pork, several pizza options, sirloins, burgers and pasta.

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

Halliday’s Winery in Lake Milton, Ohio

4 June 202122 September 2024

While driving to Pennsylvania to visit my brother and his family, I would notice several road signs advertising the wineries of northeast Ohio. I was determined to make a stop on my way home in the little town of Lake Milton and had the opportunity to have lunch at Halliday’s Winery.

It was a busy lunch hour and I was greeted by a friendly server who sat me at a table near the window. Handing me a food menu and tasting sheet, I selected a flight of wines and a flatbread pizza.

The winery was named in honor of James Halliday who is settled along the Mahoning River over 200 years ago. The winery’s website includes a few interesting stories about the life of James Halliday who built a grist mill here and raised his family.

Waiting for my meal, I watched several families arrive, meeting each other for the afternoon. Children played near the entrance as families waited for a table. I could hear them discussing their week and upcoming plans as the room was filled with conversation.

With a few more minutes to wait, I read through the excerpts on their website about the Halliday family. My favorite selection was titled “The Mill”, which emphasized the coming together as a community to support each other and help in times of need.

My Asiago Basil flatbread pizza arrived topped with sharp asiago cheese, mild pepper rings and sweet basil.

Finishing lunch, I submitted my tasting sheet with the list of wine I wanted to sample.

Mozina Creek is described as a delightful merlot with Chambourcin and Chancellor hybrids added for character. This well balanced wine offers aromas of juicy red berries, off dry, fruity characteristics and a touch of light oak. Listed as a semi-dry, the wine is available at $8 per glass or $22 per bottle.
Darak Sunrise is a light bodied red full of Concord fruit flavor. Lush soft and smooth. Fresh grape aromas and flavors that provide a distinctive, juice taste. Listed as a semi-sweet wine, it is available for $7 per glass or $19 per bottle.
Carosello is a white Riesling wine with aromas of white peach, pear, mineral and floral accents. Rich mouth feel it is bright on the palate creating an appealing balance of fruit and acid. This semisweet wine is available for $9 per glass and $24 per bottle.
Sweet Sarah, made from local Niagara grapes tastes of candied lemon rind with hints of jasmine high notes. A popular sweet wine, it is available for $7 per glass and $19 per bottle.
Mead is a wine made from honey which comes from local northeastern Ohio bee colonies. It is available for $7 per glass and $40 per bottle.

Sampling wines and enjoying a light lunch, I enjoyed my time spent at Halliday Winery. Before leaving Lake Milton, I stopped by the state park to walk off my lunch, enjoying the scenic views of the lake before leaving for Columbus, excited to spend time with my family.

Have you visited Halliday’s Winery? Did you have lunch or sample their wines? 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 quick stop in Lake Milton and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Halliday’s Winery
2400 NE River Road
Lake Milton, OH 44429
Telephone: 330 654 9463

Hours: Thursdays from 3 – 8PM, Friday and Saturday from noon to 10PM, Sunday from 11:30AM to 6PM

Piatt Castles: Mac-A-Cheek and Mac-O-Chee

9 April 202110 November 2024

Approaching the drive of Mac-A-Cheek Castle, I stopped in amazement of this beautiful limestone home located in West Liberty, Ohio. Built by Abram Piatt between 1864 and 1871, the three story home took seven years to build with its spectacular towers, spacious interior and gorgeous gardens. The home is exquisite both inside and out with an incredible exterior stone facade. Beautiful hand-painted murals by French artist Oliver Frey adorn the walls and ceilings, reminiscent of gothic European castles and halls.

The Piatts arrived in Ohio from New Jersey when Abram’s father, Benjamin M. Piatt, relocated his family to open his legal practice in Cincinnati. Later becoming a Federal Circuit Judge, Honorable Piatt would eventually resettle north of the city in rural Logan County until his death in 1867.

In 1828, Judge Benjamin Piatt purchased a large farm in West Liberty Salem called Macochee by the Shawnee Indians, the name of the Indian village that once stood here. Additional displays showcase Native American artifacts as well as war relics and weapons.

Judge Piatt’s sons Abram and Donn built homes on this property in the late 1800s. Abram’s brother Donn, completed his home ten years later and named it Mac-O-Chee located within a mile of Mac-A-Cheek.

Descendants of Judge Piatt lived in the castles up until 1985 where tours continued into the early 1990s. Tours are available today to include “The Family Haunt” which takes place on Halloween night where literary works by the Piatt women are performed and on display.

Mac-O-Chee, now an Ohio landmark listed on the register of Historic Places, was purchased by the Cole family in 2019 with the intentions of preserving its history. Mac-A-Cheek Castle holds a wealth of historical exhibits from the Piatt Castles to include family portraits, furniture, Civil War artifacts and works of art covering 200 years of Ohio history.

Have you visited the beautiful architecture of the Piatt Castles? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

Mac-A-Cheek Castle
10051 Township Road 47
West Liberty, OH 43357
Telephone: 937 465 2821

Admission Fee: $13 for adults; $7 for children ages 5 – 15; $11 for Seniors age 65+ and AAA discount. The grounds and outdoor exhibits is free.
Hours: Open seasonally, so check the venue’s website prior to your visit.
Amenities: Self-guided tours, Exhibits, Special Events
Length of Visit: 1 hour

Where to Stay:

The Cabins at Maple Grove
5040 OH-29
Urbana, OH 43078
Telephone: 937 620 4952

Where to Eat:

The Syndicate
213 South Main Street
Bellefontaine, OH 43311
Telephone: 937 210 5165

With an amazing brunch menu, try the Big Bad Burrito with a Jalapeno Mimosa.

The Grand Ole Opry: A Music Legend

15 September 201919 September 2024

My youngest sister, Joy has always loved her country music and over the years, we talked about visiting Nashville. I was so excited when our schedules allowed us to book a long weekend, knowing it would be a dream come true for her. We made plans to visit the major highlights of Music City and The Grand Ole Opry was on the top of our list.

Founded in 1925 by George D. Hay, the Grand Ole Opry made its debut as a weekly hour-long barn dance on Saturday nights. The gathering eventually grew in popularity with shows lasting up to four hours. It was decided at that time that the Opry should have a more permanent home and was moved to downtown Nashville. Housed at the historical Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry was later relocated to Opryland Drive in the mid-1970s.

I was extremely surprised to find that The Grand Ole Opry experience is not only for country music lovers. Elvis Presley gave his final performance here in 1954. Other genres of music represented at the Opry include bluegrass, folk music as well as gospel.

Within a short distance from the parking lot, we reached Opry Plaza, took a few photos and checked out the upcoming shows on the marquee. Around the corner, we reached the counter where we purchased our tickets for the next guided tour.

We were instructed to wait at the Grand Ole Opry House sign where the tour began. As other guests arrived, our guide explained the rules of the venue before we were able to enter. Waiting a few minutes for any late stragglers, we were led into the entrance for a fun, unique photo opportunity.

Holding guitars and standing near microphones, we had our photos taken at the start of the tour. We were escorted into the main facility as our guide provided a historical overview of this spectacular place. Continuing on, we noticed an outdoor garden shrine dedicated to Minnie Pearl, an American country comedian and longtime member of the Opry. When I was a child, I remembered seeing her on the country television show “Hee Haw” which was taped at this very location.

One of my favorite stops on the tour was the Grand Ole Opry Post Office. According to our guide, fan letters addressed to Grand Ole Opry inductees are delivered here and the stars can pick them up during their visit.

Another highlight of our afternoon was that we had access to the performers’ dressing rooms. Decorated in specific themes, photos of country music legends adorn the walls. It was fun to prepare for our own Grand Ole Opry debuts, as our guide allowed us to sit at the mirrors of the dressing rooms. Taking photos, we were able to memorialize our once in a lifetime experience.

My favorite dressing rooms were adorned with photos of classic country performers. One in particular was the room that showcased the famous husband and wife teams. What a tribute to some of the great artists of country music.

The dressing room decorated in creams and blues with bejeweled pillows and fancy furniture was another one of my favorites. This room represented famous women of country music to include photos of Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Minnie Pearl and more.

Our moment had arrived as we entered the auditorium with the Grand Ole Opry stage ahead of us.

Silence fell upon the room as we walked down the aisles. An overwhelming feeling of respect and awe proceeded us as we made our way up the stairs to the stage. I couldn’t believe we would have the opportunity to stand in the exact place where so many country stars had stood before us.

Within minutes we took our place within the famous inlaid circle of wood that was once in the Ryman Auditorium. We were given the chance to sing a tune to an empty audience and it was a thrill for those who participated.

This may be the closest I ever come to fame and fortune, but believe me, it was an experience I will not soon forget. Taking our last photos, this was our final stop on the Grand Ole Opry Tour and I was just happy to have left this infamous stage on a high note.

Have you taken the Grand Ole Opry tour or sat in the audience during a concert? 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 the Grand Ole Opry! I hope you have had the opportunity to visit here or have added this amazing place to your bucket list! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Grand Ole Opry
2804 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214
Telephone: 615 871 6779

Another reason why it was so important for us to visit The Opry, was that just a couple of years ago, the floods of Nashville nearly destroyed this historical, iconic building. We were so inspired by the country music community and their coming together to restore this magnificent music hall. It is because of them, we have the opportunity to visit The Grand Ole Opry which will forever have a place in the hearts of all music lovers.

Admission Fee: Opry House Daytime Backstage Tours run $22 to $27 dollars per person. There are additional tours of the Ryman Auditorium as well as VIP tours during the nights of performances.
Hours: Daily from 9:30 to 4PM with the exception of performance days and holidays. Please refer to the website to book tours online, or purchase tickets at the venue.
Amenities: Guides, show tickets for both the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, Gift certificates are also available. Photos of your experience available for purchase.
Scenic View: Standing on the Grand Ole Opry stage is one of the most magnificent views of all time! They will give you the opportunity to sing from the old Ryman Auditorium circle if you are brave enough!
Length of Visit: 1 – 1.5 hours
Tips for Your Visit: It is best to purchase your tickets ahead of time, but there is also a counter to purchase your tickets onsite. Practice your favorite song should you want to sing a few bars on stage!

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville
310 4th Avenue, South
Nashville, TN 37201
Telephone: 615 277 5000

Where to Eat:

Samurai Sushi
2209 Elliston Place
Nashville, TN 37203
Telephone: 615 320 5438

I can never get enough sushi and we loved this great little restaurant in the heart of Nashville. We ordered several rolls which included the Philadephia Roll, YumYum Roll (spicy crab, cucumber, crab on top and fish roe), T.J. Roll (fried shrimp – crunch wrapped with spicy crab meat and eel sauce) and Spicy Tuna Roll and separate orders of sushi. We left the restaurant super full and satisfied.

What to Eat:

Nashville Hot Chicken: Spicy chicken
Meat and Three: A meat and three sides

What to Read:

Because You’re Mine, by Rea Frey
A Murder in Music City, by Michael Bishop
All We Ever Wanted, by Emily Giffin

Photo Guide for Nashville:

Downtown Broadway
Opryland Hotel
I Believe in Nashville mural
Ryman Auditorium
The Parthenon at Centennial Park
Draper James Building
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Eden Park in Mt. Adams is the Perfect Weekend Escape from Cincinnati’s Rush Hour

18 August 201919 September 2024

After a long day of work in downtown Cincinnati, Eden Park was always one of my favorite places to escape the five o’clock traffic. From here, I could watch the barges float down the Ohio River and count the number of cars passing over the freeway into Kentucky.

The yellow Big Mac Bridge (Daniel Carter Beard Bridge) stands out with its bright color and my favorite bridge, the historic, blue John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. The views from here are breathtaking, serene and the perfect spot for winding down from my work day. I reveled in the sites, watching the traffic thin out while the number of boats increased on the Ohio River.

Many times I would bring a book to read and find a seat on one of the benches surrounded by a rainbow of colorful flowers. To hear the low humming of the bee’s buzz and smell the blooms were moments of therapy and meditation. Occasionally, I would be visited by a friendly puppy out for his afternoon walk, or distracted by a jogger passing by on his afternoon run, but most of the time I found the overlook soothing and quiet.

Wondering what it would be like to visit on a weekend, I packed up a picnic lunch and set off for the park on a Sunday afternoon. Families enjoyed each other’s company as they barbequed near the parking lot at Twin Lakes . Children played on the lawn as their parents caught up with friends and family.

On Saturdays, when the park was less busy, I would stop by for a visit after enjoying some time at either the Cincinnati Art Museum or Krohn’s Conservatory. I loved driving through the grand entrance of the two small towers where eagle sculptures guarded the Melan Arch Bridge. Built in 1894, this regal gateway was the first concrete arch bridge in the state of Ohio.

The area, known as Twin Lakes, was once an old quarry. Updated to include walking paths and gardens, a footbridge was built to connect the two bodies of water. Several sculptures dedicated to the Queen City stand along the pathway where ducks enjoy floating about in the ponds as children launch their motorized boats in the water.

One of my favorite sculptures in the park is quite unique and stands out among the rest. Unlike the other statues is the Japanese man with a cormorant bird, a gift from Cincinnati’s sister city, Gifu, Japan.

According to the Japanese tradition of ukai, the fisherman would first tie a leash around the bird which would then dive for a fish, catching it in its throat. Unable to swallow the fish because of the tie around its neck, the fisherman would release the fish from the bird’s mouth for his own.

Another beautiful art piece in the park was a gift from Rome, Italy, a replica statue of the Capitoline Wolf. The city of Cincinnati was named after Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus, a Roman statesman and aristocrat, so it only seems fitting that Cincinnati would receive this sculpture from it’s sister city, Rome. The Capitoline wolf was the legendary mother of the ancient city’s founders, Romulus and Remus.

Within walking distance of the Twin Lakes is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. From the park, I took a set of stairs to the Melan Arch Bridge where I stopped for a moment to admire the eagle statues. Nearby was a pathway leading to the monument which stood in memory of those who served in the Vietnam war.

Leaving the park’s center, I approached the ruins of the Eden Park Reservoir. Built between the years 1866 and 1878, designed by Samuel Hannaford, this architectural wonder once took up the space of 12 acres and held 96 million gallons of water. Only a small section remains of the jagged rock ruins that could have easily been mistaken as an ancient Roman relic.

Turning around to retrace my steps, I noticed a large red tower standing over me. Water was once pumped into this stand pipe from the Ohio River. Once designed to hold water for local residents, it is another reminder of Cincinnati’s architectural past and industrial advancements.

From the reservoir ruins, I walked the open field of grass which once contained water for local residents. At the end of the park is Mirror Lake and its tall fountain which surges 40 feet high. A paved walking path surrounds the perimeter of the lake with spectacular views of the city. A popular location for runners, joggers and pet walkers on a sunny day, I have come to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere watching the ducks bathe and and feeling the sun’s warm rays on my face.

Nearby Spring House Gazebo is perfect for shade against the sun or unexpected rain. It is the oldest structure in the park, standing here since the early 1900s.

The history of Eden Park is interesting in the fact that this land was once owned by Nicholas Longworth, “Father of the American wine Industry”. Grape vines once covered this landscape where Longworth developed the Catawba grape and produced America’s first champagne.

Today aver 186 acres of Longworth’s property has been converted into an urban park, home to some of Cincinnati’s most influential artistic institutions. Here you can find the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Krohn Conservatory and Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park. Open all year around, this park is the perfect place to visit regardless of the season, and don’t forget to check out nearby Mt. Adams.

What is your favorite spot in Eden Park? Do you like visiting during the busy season or do you find it a wonderful place of solitude? I would love to hear your thoughts about Eden Park if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Maybe you have another Cincinnati Park that I should visit, let me know and I would love to explore it as well! Many thanks for taking this journey with me to Eden Park! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Eden Park
950 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 352 4080

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to visit Eden Park.
Hours: Open daily from 6AM to 10PM
Amenities: A gazebo, walking paths, Memorial Lake and Bettman Fountain at Hinkle Magnolia Garden; Twin Lakes with a footbridge, walking paths, scenic views of the Ohio River, a number of sculptures, a picnic area, amphitheater and a playground for children.
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Ohio River and the state of Kentucky cross the river.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Sundays afternoons can be crowded at the Twin Lakes. This is also a popular place on the weekends for brides to be posing for wedding photos.

Where to Stay:

Springhill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown
610 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 381 8300

Where to Eat:

Terrace Cafe
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 639 2986

I enjoyed an afternoon lunch at the Terrace Cafe located inside of the Cincinnati Art Museum. Visiting several times, my favorite menu items are the Pear Salad, with winter pears, craisin, feta cheese, candied walnuts and raspberry vinaigrette and the Chicken Salad Sandwich of diced chicken, carrots, chives, celery, lemon aioli, aged white cheddar, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted croissant. Enjoy!

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

AC Hotel Rooftop Bar
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 744 9900

What to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide to Cincinnati:

City Hall – Inside and Out
Smale Riverfront Park
Union Terminal
Roebling Suspension Bridge
Washington Park
Krohn Conservatory
American Sign Museum

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

Elsinore Arch built in 1883

Beautiful Flowers at Eden Park

Twin Lakes at Eden Park

Ducks Enjoying Twin Lakes

Stairs Leading to Melan Arch Bridge

Another view of the reservoir structure located at Eden Park

Welcome to Eden Park

Views of Mt. Adams from the reservoir ruins at Eden Park

The view of the Eden Park fountain from the ruins of the reservoir

A lock that was added to the fencing that once surrounded Eden Park’s reservoir

The Flamingo Las Vegas

12 March 201921 September 2024

If casinos could talk, the Flamingo Las Vegas would have a few great stories to tell. One of the oldest resorts first built on the strip, I can’t imagine all of the celebrities that have passed under its pink peacock lights in the last century.

Billy Wilkerson, a real estate developer and nightclub owner, wanted to open a luxury hotel that would rival the European resorts that offered extravagant amenities. When the development came under financial difficulty, it was notorious mobster, Bugsy Siegel who would financially contribute to the project which first opened in 1946. In total, the Flamingo would cost a total of $6 million.

Unfortunately, Wilkerson signed a deal with the devil and when Siegel’s investment was slow at producing a profit, it would end up costing Siegel his life. He was gunned down in the summer of 1947.

The hotel changed hands and names over the next few years and the famous flamingos were a main attraction. There is also a wildlife habitat with a koi pond, adding to the hotel’s tropical theme. Jimmy Buffett opened his trademark Margaritaville restaurant at the Flamingo and and expanded the franchise to include the Margaritaville mini-casino.

Various acts have come and gone at the Flamingo, but as of this writing, Donny and Marie Osmond and Olivia Newton John were the headliners.

The Flamingo Las Vegas fades in comparison to the newly designed luxury hotels, but its attraction is its history in the life of Las Vegas. It is also famous as the location of some great films such as Ocean’s 11 starring such Rat Pack members as Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Junior. Bugsy, a film about the life of Bugsy Siegel was also shot on location at The Flamingo.

Do you have any great memories of visiting The Flamingo or watching some of the great oldies films where the Flamingo appears in the movie? I would love to hear about your experience at The Flamingo Las Vegas if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Flamingo Las Vegas is located at 3555 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas. For more information about Flamingo Las Vegas, visit the property’s website at www.caesars.com/flamingo-las-vegas.

What are some of your favorite stories about The Flamingo? I would love to hear about them if you would leave your comments below. Happy Travels!

Waterfall at the Flamingo Las Vegas

Deadwood, South Dakota: “No Law at All” for the Outlaws

20 October 201816 September 2024

“No law at all in Deadwood? Is it true?” According to the HBO television series, Deadwood, this was the state of the infamous town, east of the Mississippi. Set in the late 1870s, this gold mining town of the American West was known for its whiskey, women and western wranglers. This popular show, airing in 2004, fascinated me with its depiction of the Gold Rush and life in a western town. While gun fights and debauchery brought noteriety to Deadwood, Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane would serve as its main characters.

The US gave this land to the Lakota Indians, by means of the 1851 Treaty of Laramie in an effort to resolve disputes between the Indian tribes and the US Government. Once it was discovered that gold was in the hills of the Great Sioux Reservation, prospectors invaded the land ignoring the terms of the agreement. This resulted in war between the Sioux Indians and the settlers in 1866 and a major conflict continued between the two.

Deadwood continued to grow as a prospectors camp and was eventually established as a city in 1876. A city that once thrived on prostitution, gambling and the excessive consumption of alcohol, Deadwood’s popularity as a tourist stop was based on its preservation of historical buildings as well as its colorful past.

With the lack of law enforcement, Deadwood was known for its high rate of crime, including homicide. Its most notorious murder is that of Wild Bill Hickok by Jack “Crooked Nose” McCall, living under the alias of Bill Sutherland.

The story begins with Hickok playing a game of poker in the Nuttal & Mann’s Saloon (today’s Saloon Number 10) when McCall, who had lost a fair amount of money to Hickok the night before, shot Hickok from behind. It was said that Hickok was holding a pair of black aces and eights, which has become to be known as the Dead Man’s hand.

Saloon Number 10 displays the chair where Wild Bill Hickok was shot as well as other historical memorabilia.

McCall attempted to escape the law, but was apprehended, He was later sentenced to death in a second trial. At the age of 24 years old, he was hanged on March 1, 1877. Today, the Masonic Temple in Deadwood hosts reenactments of the Trial of Jack McCall during the summer months.

After spending the night at Comfort Inn Gulches of Fun, I awoke early in the morning with one last stop at the Mount Moriah Cemetery. Located on the outskirts of the historical downtown, the burial ground maintains the grave sites of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Known as Hickok’s girlfriend, Martha Jane Burke, was an outlaw in her own right. Their resting place is a short uphill walk from the cemetery’s entrance.

A further jaunt towards the edge of the cemetery is a stunning scenic view of the city of Deadwood. According to Loretta, the friendly historian at the Welcome Center, Deadwood is very much the same as it was in the 1880s. She also mentioned that the series Deadwood is very true to its historical portrayal of the city as it was during the time of the Gold Rush. A once thriving city with upwards to around 5,000 residents, today it is a quiet, somewhat laid-back town, quite different to its former reputation. That is, until the shootout reinactments begin and you’re taken back to the Deadwood of Wild Bill Hickok.

Have you visited Deadwood or other Wild West sites? 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 Deadwood and I wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mount Moriah Cemetery
10 Mt. Moriah Drive
Deadwood, SD 57732
Telephone: 605 722 0837

Admission Fee: There is a $2 admission fee for Mt. Moriah Cemetery
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 6PM
Amenities: The park provides a map that identifies the celebrity graves and other significant locations.
Scenic View: Towards the back of the cemetery is an amazing view of the downtown of Deadwood.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear proper footwear for walking. The cemetery is a sacred place and should be treated with respect.

The Trial of Jack McCall
Telephone: 800 344 8826

Saloon No. 10
657 Main Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
Telephone: 800 952 9398

Admission Fee: There is no fee to enter the saloon.
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 2AM
Amenities: Historical site, restaurant, bar, gambling, entertainment and souvenir shop
Scenic View: See the location where Wild Bill Hickok was killed by Jack McCall and scan the walls for western memorabilia.
Length of Visit: 1 hour or more depending on if you want to play blackjack and the slots
Tips for Your Visit: When visiting Deadwood, a stop at Saloon Number 10 is a must! Be prepared for a wild enactment of the shooting of Wild Bill Hickok. Cigar smoking is permitted in the bar, so there are times when this may deter non-smokers.

Where to Stay:

Comfort Inn Gulches of Fun
225 Cliff Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
Telephone: 605 578 7550

Where to Eat:

Gem Steakhouse & Saloon at The Mineral Palace
601 Main Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
Telephone: 605 578 2036

It had been awhile since I had seen Buffalo on a menu so I ordered the Buffalo Salisbury which included a 12-ounce ground Buffalo patty served with mushroom gravy and mashed potatoes.

Deadwood Social Club Restaurant at Saloon No. 10
657 Main Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
Telephone: 800 952 9398

I decided to dine here before leaving Deadwood continuing my trek out west. It was a beautiful evening to enjoy the rooftop patio with its twinkling lights strung about against the growing darkness of dusk. I ordered the 8 oz. Filet Mignon, medium rare with a Crab Hollandaise topping. The other option which I really wanted to try was the Crab & Pork Belly Carbonara which included the crispy pork belly, snow crab, peas, red bell peppers, fettuccine in a rich cream sauce. The prices were exceptionally reasonable and the flavors of my steak and crab topping was extraordinary.

What to Eat:

Buffalo
Chislic – chunks of mutton on a stick (kabob)
Chokecherries – an ancient cherry used to make wine, jam, butter and syrup
Honey
Hot Beef Sandwiches
Indian Fry Bread
Indian Tacos
Kolache – a polish pastry
Kuchen – German cake
Lefse – sweet bread made of potatoes of Norwegian-American origin
Pasties – hand pies
Rhubarb pie
Steak
Zebra Donuts – marbled chocolate and vanilla donuts

What to Read:

Deadwood’s Al Swearingen, by Jerry L. Bryant & Barbara Fifer
Deadwood, by Pete Dexter
Saloon No. 10 in Deadwood, South Dakota, by GentleSeas

Movies/TV Shows Based in Deadwood:

HBO Television Series: Deadwood

Photo Guide for South Dakota:

The Badlands
Custer State Park’s Annual Roundup
Wild Horse Sanctuary
Wildlife Loop at Custer State Park
Sunflower Fields
Spearfish Canyon
Falls Park

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Grave Site of Calamity Jane

The Trial of Jack McCall

A First Impression of Yellowstone National Park

8 September 201816 September 2024

The sky was a bountiful blue and the air smelled fresh and pure. The drive from Cody to the entrance of Yellowstone National Park took only about an hour, but there were a couple of stops in between. The sun was just rising as I passed through tunnels, taking in the hills, trees and streams of the countryside. It was a perfect day to explore Yellowstone and I was thrilled beyond measure for the adventure ahead.

As the entrance sign came into view, I couldn’t believe I had finally arrived. I was excited to take my place in line with fellow travelers for my first photograph of America’s First National Park, Yellowstone. Forging on, I was prepared for my first stop at the Fishing Bridge, when I noticed the beauty of Sylvan Lake as I pulled over to the side of the road to map out my day. Yellowstone Lake was not far in the distance and soon I would be exploring one of the most amazing national parks in the United States. With its vast geological features and abundant animal sightings, this trip was sure to provide endless memories in the making.

Known as the “largest high-altitude lake in North America”, Yellowstone Lake measures 136 square miles. Because the southern road of the park was closed for the season, I had to drive north towards Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon. Just inside LaHardy, I saw my first large bull elk wandering through the brush on the side of the road.

The pungent scent of rotting eggs, caused by the sulper springs, filled the air, far in advance of my approach to Mud Volcano. The bubbling mud pots, considered one of the most unstable properties within the park, was proof of the park’s volcanic power. With names such as Dragon’s Mouth Spring or Sulphur Cauldron, the 2.3 mile boardwalk winds through several active thermal features. It was a reminder that I was standing on a volcano that could erupt at any moment.

Looking forward to reaching the park’s most impressive waterfall, I passed through Hayden Valley. I stopped at several lookouts for wildlife as well as random falls throughout the park when I had finally reached the Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. It was a breathtaking scene as the cascade, with its 308 foot precipice, could be heard long before reaching the overlook.

I arrived at a split in the road, with one leading to the North Rim and the other to the South. I had decided to hike Uncle Tom’s Trail for a closer look at the Upper Falls as well as Crystal Falls, plummeting 129 feet. Since the late 1800s, visitors to Yellowstone have made this trek with help from Tom Richardson, independent tour guide. As a part of his full day excursion, the rim of the falls included a “trail of wooden ladders and handrails to the mist of Lower Falls”. Today a metal staircase with 329 steps has replaced the ladders that once led to the lookout.

I stood at the overlook for several minutes admiring the mesmerizing beauty of the cascades. The water violently flowed beneath into the canyon. While this was the first excursion I had taken within the park, I realized I had not even begun to explore Yellowstone. This amazing national park offers so many opportunities to see nature in its own habitat, from geysers, waterfalls, wildlife and wonder.

Have you had the opportunity to travel to Yellowstone National Park? What were some of your favorite sites that you explored? I would love to hear from you if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about Yellowstone and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Yellowstone National Park
PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Telephone: 307 344 7381

Admission Fee: Each entrance fee covers 7 days of park entry. Private Vehicle: $35; Motorcycle: $30 and Hiker/Biker: $20 which only applies to visitors 16 years old and older entering the park by foot, bicycle, etc. An annual Pass for Yellowstone National Park is $70 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase. The Yellowstone National Park accepts the America the Beautiful Pass which allows access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites for a cost of $80 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase. Check out their website for more information: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours; Refer to the Yellowstone National Park website for the operating hours of the Visitor Centers.
Amenities: camping, hiking, boating, skiing, biking, bird watching, climbing and mountaineering, fishing, horseback riding and llama packing, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, Visitor’s Centers which provide interpretive exhibits and park information and Ranger programs. Guided tours are also available in the park.
Scenic View: Take in the view of Grand Prismatic Spring from the Overlook off of the Fairy Falls Trailhead. For the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, you can see this beautiful waterfall from several locations offering different views of the falls: Brink of Lower Falls, Lookout Point, Uncle Tom’s Trail and Artist Point. Check out the stadium seating at Old Faithful for a front row seat of this geyser that erupts every 35 to 120 minutes. The park’s Twitter account, @GeyserNPS, the Geyser Activity Page on their website or the Geyser App lists the predicted times for Old Faithful.
Length of Visit: Three days is recommended to see all of the attractions at Yellowstone.
Tips for Your Visit: The park is open year around, but winter time can be a challenging during snow and ice. If you are looking for animals, winter is the time that they hibernate. Spring is a wonderful time to visit because you can see newborn babies. When viewing wildlife, you must stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yard from all other animals in the park. For photographers, you may already know that dawn and dusk are the best times to photograph animals and you will want to bring a telephoto lens for capturing them from far distances. Summer is the busiest time for the park you may find road construction and traffic.

Where to Stay:

I was fortunate enough to stay at one of the lodges at Yellowstone. I absolutely loved staying at the park and have Melba Coleman to thank for assisting me in my reservation.

Where to Eat:

Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
Yellowstone Park, WY 82190
Telephone: 307 344 7311

For a light lunch, I ordered the charcuterie plate which included meats, cheeses, olives, walnuts and whole grain crackers. It was the perfect location to enjoy the park sitting by a large viewing window, mesmerized by the spectacular view.

What to Eat:

Bison Burgers
Buffalo Steak
Chicken Fried Steak
Chuck Wagon-Style Dinners which usually include hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, baked beans and corn bread
Cowboy Cookies: cookies made with brown sugar, cinnamon, oats, chocolate and nuts
Elk Steak
Fry Bread is similar to puff pastry and is the base for taco salads.
Jerky
Morels
Old Fashioned Soda
Pig Candy: Applewood smoked bacon covered in brown sugar and spices
Prime Rib
Rocky Mountain Oysters: deep-fried calf testicles
Soda Bread: Discovered by American Indians, this bread is made from a mixture of flour and soda (naturally found in wood ashes) creating a quick-rising bread
Trout
Wyomatoes are a type of tomato found in Wyoming. Known for their sweet taste, they are unlike any other varietal
Wyoming Whiskey

What to Read:

The Stories of Yellowstone, by Mark M. Miller
Mountain Spirit, by Lawrence L. Loendorf
Decade of the Wolf, by Douglas Smith
Bring Jade Home, by Michelle Caffrey
Letters from Yellowstone, by Diane Smith
Yellowstone Has Teeth, by Marjane Ambler
Dangerous Beauty: Encounters with Grizzlies and Bison in Yellowstone, by Carolyn Jourdan
Death in Yellowstone by Lee H. Whittlesey
Empire of Shadows, by George Black

Photo Guide for Yellowstone:

Artist Point
Artists Paintpots
Black Pool
Brink of the Lower Falls
Dunanda Falls
Dunraven Pass
Excelsior Geyser Crater
Fairy Falls
Firehole Falls
Firehole Lake
Fountain Paint Pots Trail
Grand Prismatic Spring
Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook
Great Fountain Geyser
Hayden Valley
Inspiration Point
Lamar Valley
Lewis Falls
Lookout Point
Lower Lookout Point
Madison River
Mammoth Hot Springs
Minerva Terrace
Morning Glory Pool
Norris Geyser Basin
Old Faithful
Point Sublime
Roaring Mountain
Roosevelt Arch
Snake River Overlook
Tower Falls
Trout Lake
Upper Falls View
West Thumb Basin
Yelloowstone Entrance Sign
Yellowstone Lake

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

A Bull Elk Near Hardy Falls

Dragon’s Mouth Spring

Bison in the Distance at Yellowstone National Park

The Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Crystal Falls at Yellowstone

Spotting my First “Bison” at Sioux Falls, South Dakota

11 August 201821 September 2024

It had been a long day of driving (close to 1,000 miles), but I was on a high having reached Sioux Falls, Idaho. With plenty of energy to explore the Sioux Falls Park, I knew this would be the perfect opportunity for some exercise and a moment to stretch out my legs. The park was around the corner and the sun was beginning to set.

I could smell the mist of the falls long before they came into view. The sun felt warm upon my face and I could hear the spray from the water close by as I began making my way towards the roaring sound. From the parking lot, a paved walkway gave start to the art trail winding its way through the woods. Along the path were placards offering a brief overview of the park and its history. Magnificent sculptures were set up along the trail which was a part of “SculptureWalk”, a local event held annually, designed to help “keep the arts alive”. The small hike ended at the spectacular falls, observation deck and café.

Situated in the midst of town, this amazing attraction has been drawing visitors to its location since 1856. Photographs from the late 1800s document the popularity of this site and show how the park has evolved over time. Falls Park sits on 123 acres to include the falls, the cafe as well as the observation tower.

The park requires no entrance fee and accessing the observation tower is also free of charge. An elevator lifts visitors to the top to spend an unlimited time on the platform and it is definitely worth the view.

Known to the Lakota Sioux Indians as “Laughing Waters”, it was the Big Sioux River that wound its way through the town of Sioux Falls. It took over 7,400 gallons of water to drop 100 feet to create this beautiful cascade. During certain times of the day, the sun reflects off of the falls creating a beautiful scene of rainbows.

The “SculptureWalk” statues remain along the path until the next year when the new installments are presented on the lawn. A 20 mile path started at Falls Park and wound its way through the city providing areas of rest for those enjoying the trail.

The Monarch of the Plains, a permanent sculpture, was my first “bison” sighting of my trip.

I was happy to have a nice stroll after driving over 13 hours and this was a perfect way to wind down for the day. The park was busy with visitors and locals, fishing and enjoying the falls and a late afternoon meal at the cafe. There were several vantage points to enjoy the falls including the 5 story observation tower, offering a 360 degree view of the city’s skyline, the falls and the Big Sioux River.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sioux Falls, South Dakota? Did you stop by Falls Park or can you recommend any additional sites in the area? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Thanks for reading my blog post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Falls Park, Sioux Falls
131 E. Falls Park Dr.
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Telephone: 605 367 7430

Admission Fee: There is no fee for visiting Falls Park.
Hours: Open daily from 5AM to 12AM
Amenities: waterfalls, observation tower, picnic shelters, sculptures, restrooms, restaurant, open air shelter, bike trail access point, historic displays, drinking fountains and visitor center
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the falls and an observation deck for incredible scenic views of nearby Sioux Falls.
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and be careful on the rocks.

Where to Stay:

Clubhouse Hotel & Suites
2320 S. Louise Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Telephone: 605 361 8700

Where to Eat:

Taco John’s
1920 W. 12th Street
Sioux Falls, SD 57106

I ordered a couple of tacos and they reminded me of Taco Bell, but with more of a spicy kick.

What to Eat:

Chislic: Similar to shish kabobs, this local food is made of cubed meat, usually fried while stacked on a stick. German and Russian immigrants are credited for bring this food to the US. Eat this amazing dish as an appetizer or a snack.
Indian Tacos: Similar traditional tacos, the only difference is that the filling is stacked on fry bread instead of tortillas.
Kolaches: Popular in Slavic countries, kolaches are mini pies filled with candied fruit or cream cheese.
Kuchen: Also hailing from Germany and meaning “cake”, this pastry is made with sweet dough and filled with custard, fruit or nuts.
Wasna: A food from the indigenous people of the Great Plains, the snack is made of dried buffalo meat, cranberries and grains.
Wojapi: Another Native American recipe, Wojapi is a dipping sauce made of chokeberries.

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

Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast, Conneaut, Ohio

4 June 201817 September 2024

It was harvest time for grapes in Ohio, and with so many vineyards, I planned to spend a weekend exploring some of the more established wineries around Ashtabula County. Traveling as far northeast as possible, I found the little town of Conneaut, the home to Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast, a vineyard with a charming bed and breakfast.

Joanna and Fred Buccia have been tending to their vineyard since the 1970s and I looked forward to sampling a broad representation of this region’s wines. Resting under an arbor of grapes above me, Joanna picked a few grapes for me as she sat down at the picnic table eager to tell me more about the history of grape growing around this area. She reminded me that the weather in May was cold and while July and August were unusually hot, the harvesting of grapes would come early this year.

From dry and full bodied Cabernet Francs to the semi dry Lake Erie blend of Reflections, there seemed to be an endless selection of premium wines and new grapes of which I had never heard. For example, the Baco grape produces a wonderful red wine that was dry, smooth, with a minimum acidity while the Chambourcin, a French-American hybrid that thrives in the cold temperatures, producing a red wine with a higher acidity and low tannins.

Many of the wines at Buccia Vineyard are made from the grapes that they grow on the property, called estate wines, while the remaining grapes and juice come from Chile, Argentina and California. My next sample was the Seyval, another French hybrid that is grown mainly to produce white dry wines.

A small group of four unloaded out of an early model station wagon. Inquiring if they could try a few of the wines, they also asked if they could stay the night at the bed and breakfast. Joanna excused herself from our conversation and tended to the visitors as I overheard Fred tell them that the winery was for sale.

Enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by vines full of grapes, I continue sampling the Vignoles and another new wine for me, the Agawan that has “fruity start with an herbal finish”. Rounding out my wine tasting, I poured a small taste of Reflections, a red blend made from the “best of Lake Erie grapes”, then took my last sip of Maiden’s blush, a sweet wine combined with the juices of local blueberries.

Joanna returned after setting up her new guests in one of the four rooms at the bed and breakfast. She gave me a quick tour of the property and showed me the available rooms with quiet decks, hot tubs and fireplaces. I listened to the faint sounds of Jimmy Buffett coming over the radio as I gave Joanna my list of remaining sites I planned to visit in Conneaut. It was a lovely summer day and I had the beautiful shores of Lake Erie to explore.

Have you visited Buccia Vineyard? Did you have a favorite wine? 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 visit to Buccia Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast
518 Gore Road
Conneaut, Ohio 44030
Telephone: 440 593 5976

Where to Stay:

Stay at the Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast or there are several options along the Lake Erie seashore.

Where to Eat:

Biscotti’s Restaurant
186 Park Avenue
Conneaut, OH 44030
Telephone: 440 593 6766

Serving Italian cuisine, I ordered the Medallions Gorgonzola Alfredo to try their homemade Alfredo sauce, so rich and delicious.