Reflecting Back Over 2018 Travel and Blog Posts

29 December 201827 July 2024

What a great year for travel! From conquering France to exploring the Wild West of the United States, it was a wonderful year of exploring 2 continents and 5 countries. There were past memories of travels gone by as well as discovering amazing sites in my own back yard! Here are some of my favorite photos from this years’ travel blogs and the amazing journeys I experienced in 2018!

Asia

Philippines

Naomi’s Heart Mission in the Philippines: A Day of Travel

Flying Into Hong Kong Before Reaching the Philippines

Caribbean

A Port Day in Dominica

The View of the Cruise Ship in Dominica

Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan: Part 1

The Raices Fountain in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan: Part 2

The Cementerio de San Juan

Raices Restaurant

Authentic Puerto Rican Costumes at Raices Restaurant

Sunny San Juan

My First Mofongo Experience

Europe

Italy: Rome: St Peter’s Facade

St. Peter and the Keys

Monaco: A City of Wealth

The Wealth of Monaco

Monaco: The Port of Monaco

Strolling the Port of Monaco

Spain: Barcelona and Its Architecture

La Sagrada Familia

Middle East

Israel

Bethlehem: Shepherd’s Field

The Chapel of the Angels

Bethlehem: The Church of the Nativity

The Altar of the Nativity

Turkey: The Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace

United States

United States: California

Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree

La Jolla Cove, California

Beautiful La Jolla Cove, California

Seals at La Jolla Cove, California

A Day in Morro Bay

Visiting the Rock at Morro Bay

A Weekend in San Diego

The Coronado Hotel

United States: Connecticut

East Haddam

United States: Georgia

Savannah

Strolling Through Savannah

United States: Maine

Acadia, Whale Watching and Visiting the Doubling Point Lighthouse

Acadia National Park

Enjoying the Coast of Maine in Rockland

Kayaking Near Owl Head Lighthouse, Maine

United States: Massachusetts

Salem

Touring the House of the Seven Gables

United States: Michigan

Oswald’s Bear Farm

Feeding a Baby Bear at Oswald’s Bear Farm

United States: Nevada

Harrah’s, Las Vegas

Slot Winners at Harrah’s

Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas!

United States: New York

An Afternoon at Niagara Falls

The Gorgeous Falls on the US Side

United States: Ohio

Cincinnati: The Blind Lemon

The Patio in Winter

Cincinnati: Krohn Conservatory

Exploring Krohn Conservatory

Columbus: Inniswood Hike

Strolling through Inniswood Metro Park during Winter

Columbus: Zoo Lights

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

Ohio Festivals:

The Banana Split Festival

Making our own Banana Splits at the Banana Split Festival

Medieval Life at the Renaissance Festival

Exploring the Ohio Renaissance Festival

United States: Ohio Wineries

A.R. Winery

Buckeye Lake Winery

Gervasi Vineyard

Entering Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio

Charcuterie Plate at Gervasi Vineyard

Henke Winery and Restaurant

Hundley Cellars

Lakehouse Inn and Winery

Moyer Vineyard Winery & Restaurant

Vinoklet Winery

Winery at Versailles

Yellow Butterfly Winery

United States: Rhode Island

Cliff Walk

A Furry Friend on Cliff Walk

United States: South Dakota

Deadwood

Mount Rushmore

Visiting Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

United States: Wyoming

Wyoming, Cody

Beautiful Landscape from Cody, Wyoming

It is amazing how much ground one can cover in a year! This year will be another amazing travel year! Where did you go in 2018? Do you have any plans for this year? I would love to hear from you! Leave a message in the comments section! Happy Travels!

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The Engineering Marvel of the Soo Locks

28 May 201821 September 2024

I decided to take a long weekend and travel up to Michigan to the region of the Upper Peninsula. By the time I had completed my research, I narrowed my list of sights to include Whitefish Point, Pictured Rocks State Park and the Soo Locks.

While working for the cruise lines, I experienced the Panama Canal passageway, so I was very familiar with the locks system and found it to be fascinating. The purpose of a lock is to transport ships, boats and vessels from one level of water to the next by raising and lowering a chamber.

As I parked along the street of Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, the beautiful flowers welcomed me to the Soo Locks complex. I made a stop at the Visitor’s Center to learn more about the history of these Great Lakes locks. There was a great working model of the locks, educational videos and television monitors that provided a real-time view of ships passing through.

There are approximately 11,000 ships that pass through the Soo Locks each year and there is an observation platform to watch the vessels as they transfer 21 feet from one elevation to the next. There are two canals and four locks within the Soo Locks system that cover 1.6 miles between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, located in both Canada and the United States.

The Soo Locks are under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps of Engineers who maintain the system as well as the buildings within the park. There are future plans to automate the current lock system to bring the plant’s technology “into the 21^st century”. There is also a proposal to replace some of the locks with more up to date engineering, similar to the updates that were completed on the Poe Lock to allow larger ships to pass through.

If I have an opportunity to visit again, I would love to plan my trip around the annual Engineer’s Day Open House. It takes place on the last Friday of June and visitors can cross the lock gates for an up close and personal look at the lock system. It is from here that one can enter the Administration Building into the lock area to watch the vessels up close.

I completed my visit to Soo Locks and drove west to check out the long bridge in the distance. It looks very much like the Mackinac Bridge that connects the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan. I learned that it is the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge that connects the United States and Canada and since I did not bring my passport, I will be staying on the US side and making my way towards my next stop.

Have you ever visited an engineering marvel that you found to be interesting? 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 trip to the Soo Locks in Michigan! Wishing you many Happy Travels!!

What to See and What to Do:

Soo Locks
Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783
Phone: 906 632 3336

Admission Fee: Sightseeing Lock Tour: $30 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 – 16, $10 and children under5, no charge.
Hours: The Soo Locks will be open late March to mid-October but check their website for the most up-to-date information. Open daily from 9AM to 10PM. The hours of operation are seasonal so check the website or call before arrival.
Guided Tours and Informational Booklets: Guided tour of the locks is $30 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 – 16 and there is no charge for children under the age of 5.
Scenic View: Watching the ships pass through the locks is extraordinary.
Length of the Tour: 90 minutes (tour) and take an additional hour to watch the ships pass through the locks and explore the interpretive center.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Metered parking is available near the attraction but just a couple of blocks away there is free parking. You will go through a metal detector so ensure that you do not have any weapons or alcoholic beverages. Bring your passport if you want to cross the bridge into Canada.

Where to Stay:

Quality Inn & Suites
13954 M-28
Newberry, MI 49868
Phone: 906 293 3218

Where to Eat:

Wolf Inn Grill and Spirits
18568 Co. Rd 407
Newberry, MI 49868
Phone: 906 658 3355

I stopped at this nearby restaurant for just a small meal until dinner, so I ordered the appetizer size of nachos. Their servings are huge! I could not eat even half of them, but they were absolutely delicious.

What to Eat:

The Coney Dog from Detroit, Jackson or Flint.
Vernor’s Ginger Ale
Founded in the Upper Peninsula, the pasty is a pastry pocket with fruit filling
Mackinac Island Fudge
Apples
Cherries
Detroit Style Pizza shaped in a rectangle and baked until the edges are crispy.
Better Made Chips from Detroit
Germack Pistachios
Walleye Fish from the Great Lakes
Faygo beverages

What to Read:

Y is for Yooper, by Scott Reddinger
U.P., by R. A. Reikki
Mystery on Mackinac Island, by Anna W. Hale
The Remarkable Tale of Captain Kidd and the Astor Fortune, by Eugene Thor Petersen
A Transplanted Yooper, by Tina Lonski

A Tour of San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro

21 May 201821 September 2024

San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is the iconic representation of a city rich with history and architecture. The fort, also known as El Morro, has lasted over 400 years, protecting the southwestern side of the island from invaders and pirates. But what was the reason that a fort was built here in the first place? It was strategically located between the continent of Europe and the New World where ships could seek shelter, water and supplies and it was determined, that occupation of this land would give wealth to the country that controlled this entrance into the Caribbean Sea.

It was in 1493 when Christopher Columbus came to the island and first claimed it for Spain. Puerto Rico would later fall to the British and Dutch, but only for very short periods of time. During the Dutch attack in 1623, hundreds of Dutch and Spanish soldiers gave their lives. It wasn’t until the 1800’s that Spain would cede ownership of the island to the United States of America, ending the Spanish-American War.

As I walked through the Greek-style entrance into the fort, I noticed the thick walls that gave an extra depth to the fortification of the city. It would take Spain over 250 years to build El Morro. The structure that stands today is similar to the how the fort would have looked in 1790.

I was so interested in the structure of the fort that I hardly noticed the large iguanas on the interior lawn of El Morro. I also noticed them climbing up the fortress wall and stopped a few times to take a closer look because they were camouflaged so well.

As I crossed the bridge into El Morro, I entered Level 5 of the six levels of the fort. Looking up from this level there were three flags representing the Spanish Army, Puerto Rico and the United States of America.

The cannons were a reminder of the importance of this fort in times when it was occupied to defend the island. Many of them used bronze 8-pound cannonballs that took eight to ten artillerymen to operate them. Their strategy was to fire the cannons every thirty seconds, reaching targets a mile away.

The kitchen was a very important part of the lives of the soldiers. Meals were prepared here using ingredients such as fish and cured meat that came from Spain. When the meat arrived, it was inedible so the soldiers soaked it with vegetables and spices creating a type of stew. It is said that this is the origin of sancocho, a stew that remains popular both in Puerto Rico as well as other Spanish-speaking countries.

After visiting many of the rooms, including the powder room, on the fifth floor, I took the ramp up to the sixth floor to see the area known as the “Land Defense”.

From the level six of the fort, it was easy to see why this floor would be considered a strong area of defense. With the evidence of cannons stationed here, there was little space between each one, guaranteed to hit their targets coming in from the sea.

It wasn’t until 1846 that the first of four lighthouses (two would be rebuilt) at El Morro were erected to provide safe passage for ships into and out of the harbor of San Juan. Prior to the restoration of the lighthouse that currently stands on El Morro, the previous house was made out of red brick and was in desperate need of repair.

I couldn’t help but notice the spectacular view from Level 6 of El Morro and imagined an invasion of ships heading toward us in the distance.

Next, I took the stairs down to the lower level. At this point, I was heading toward the Cannon Water Battery. It was here where I found the remaining cannons on display and the embrasures from which the cannons were fired.

There was a medieval watch tower in the center of the battery. Known as the Torre Antigua, some believe it may be haunted.

Looking over the wall, I could see another fort out into the horizon at the end of Isla de Cabras (Goat Island). This is El Morro’s sister fort, San Juan de la Cruz, translated as St. John of the Cross. It was strategically placed here to create crossfire in the event that ships would try to slip past El Morro on the far side of the channel. This small fort is also referred to as El Canuelo.

From this vantage point, I clearly understood the importance of this area in defense of the island and how important it was for protecting San Juan.

The view from the top of the fort emphasized the complicated structure of El Morro. The worn away, weathered stone and its height gave it the sense of strength and might. The thickness of the walls provided a sense of wonder and impenetrability.

I came across a structure that seemed more updated and out of place. I learned that this was once an Observation Post which was used during WWII. After the Second War, El Morro would no longer act as a military base.

Continuing my climb up the fort, I noticed where the cannons would have been placed and the circular patterns that they created when moved to the left or right to hit their target out in the ocean.

El Morro is unlike any fortress I have seen throughout the United States. It was built and designed to protect the city and remains an iconic figure to San Juan. There have been several forts along the American coasts, but this is one of the most fascinating and well preserved.

Have you had the opportunity to visit El Morro? What are your thoughts about this expansive structure? I would love to hear what you liked most about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our exploration of El Morro and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo de San Felipe del Morro
501 Norzagaray Street
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 729 6754

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water).

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

I can’t resist ordering the local dish, mofongo where the main ingredient is fried plantains most likely served with a healthy helping of meat such as chicken, beef or seafood.

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

A sentry (lookout) at El Morro

Belltower at El Morro

The Restored Lighthouse at El Morro

The Layout of El Morro which resembles a bull

Stairs and ramps at El Morro

Beautiful View from El Morro

The Chapel at the Fort

Flags at the Fort

Seaside views from El Morro Fort

Politics, Theaters and Automobiles: Springfield, Ohio’s Rich History!

5 February 201716 September 2024

After filling up on a hearty lunch, I returned to the Clark County Heritage Center in Springfield. With so much history, I began my second session to cover the time period beginning in the 1900s up until the 1970s where the museum’s information about Clark County and Springfield ends.

In the early 1900s, Springfield, Ohio’s population was close to 60,000. To celebrate their centennial in 1901 the city hosted Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, a traveling performance which featured Greenville, Ohio native, Annie Oakley. During this time, advances in transportation, farming equipment and entertainment made Springfield a popular location to live and visit.

Theodore Roosevelt was the President of the United States at this time and nearby Dayton residents, Wilbur and Orville Wright piloted the first airplane at Kitty Hawk.

By winter of 1903, three major fires claimed three lives in Springfield and destroyed an entire city block.

Sully Jaymes was Springfield’s only African American attorney who represented the underprivileged African Americans. A graduate of Boston University and the University of Michigan, Jaymes practiced law for over 50 years until his death in 1950.

In 1905, Gus Sun opened a vaudeville theater and booking agency in Springfield. During this time, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed and built a home for car magnate, Burton J. Westcott.

By 1904, the Boys and Girls club was founded by AB Graham, which is known today as the 4H Club. This agricultural organization teaches school-aged children about “farming techniques and home management”. During the same year, International Harvester opened up a plant in Springfield to make trucks, bringing in a large number of jobs to the area.

During Taft’s presidency, the Chakeres brothers open the city’s first movie theater in 1908 which would eventually lead to a total of eight movie houses around town. The cost to see a move was only 50 cents back then Following William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson takes office and the US enters into World War I. Westcott Motor Car Company begins producing “The Westcott” between the years 1916 and 1926. It would be the only automobile that would be manufactured in Springfield, rumored that the city lost the bid to Detroit for producing cars for the Ford Motor Company. As Ohio braces for the Depression Era, racial tensions rise as riots break out among Springfield residents. The Ohio National Guard is called in to preserve order.

A very controversial event took place in Springfield in 1923 when the Klu Klux Klan held a rally at the fairgrounds. These horrific, racially charged events were being held all over the nation in the 1920s, even in our nation’s capitol of Washington DC.

Even in the midst of these thorny racial relationships of just a year ago, the city of Springfield is named the “Rose City” due to its large production of roses.

Amidst the Great Depression, George Rogers Clark Park is established in 1930 near Buck Creek with a reenactment of the Battle of Piqua taking place here to commemorate its 150^th anniversary. The opening of Cliff Park soon follows in 1932.

Chakeres Theaters gain world wide recognition opening theaters across Ohio in the 1930s and the first service station, Bonded Oil, is built in Urbana. As Springfield reaches the end of the 30’s World War II breaks out and the US comes to the aid of its allies after the Pearl Harbor bombing in 1941. Three Springfielders died in the attack and by 1943, Wittenberg University is set up to train Air Force Cadets to assist in the war efforts.

After World War II, the soldiers return home and only four years later the Korean War breaks out. The Clark County Fair, first opened in 1854, moves to a larger space taking over the old Springfield Airport in 1947. With an increase in population, Mercy Hospital opens in 1950 with the help of philanthropist Joseph Shouvlin. There were currently 111,661 residents in Springfield at that time.

Eisenhower’s presidency would be the start of the Civil Rights movement and would continue as John F. Kennedy is sworn into office in 1960. It was a victory for local African Americans when Robert C. Henry was the first black man elected to the Springfield City Commission and later becomes Mayor in 1966. Taking over Henry’s post as Mayor in 1968 would be Springfield’s first female mayor, Betty Brunk.

The 1970s brought about the interstate and I-70 draws businesses along the highway’s corridor. The population of Springfield has reached upwards into the 150 thousands. As the number of businesses increase, Springfield Mayor Robert Burton, plans to revitalize the downtown area, which has fallen into ruin over the years. Another economic victory includes the opening of the Upper Valley Mall in 1971.

By the time Gerald Ford takes office, Robert Burton has made good on his promise to help Springfield and the New City Hall was constructed.

Fast forward to 2016 and there is a continued effort to revitalize the city of Springfield. The downtown area is growing and new businesses are moving into spaces that were once left vacant. Snyder Park has once again become a beautiful place to visit and the Farmer’s Market is thriving during the weekends at the Heritage Museum. Rumor has it that even the Upper Valley Mall will be making changes in the near future as well but plans have not been finalized. During my return, it was an exciting time to live in Springfield and many residents came together to further the development of the city in a positive direction. Who knows? The difference one could make for Springfield may lead to noteriety at the Heritage Center’s Museum of Springfield history.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Heritage Center in Springfield and learn about its history? What was your favorite moment in time? 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:

The Clark County Heritage Center
117 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 324 0657

Admission Fee: Free, and donations are welcome.
Hours: Museum: Tuesday through Friday from 9AM to 4PM; Saturday from 9AM to 3PM. Closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Amenities: Bookstore and gift shop, guided tours, video presentation
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Donations recommended are Family: $10; Adults: $5 and Children: $3.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Marriott Springfield
100 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Heart of Country Gift Shoppe and Teaberries Cafe
1600 E. Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH 45505
Telephone: 937 325 3030

I could spend hours strolling the Heart of Country Shoppe, but when I visit, I can’t wait to have lunch at Teaberries. I always start my lunch with a piece of yummy, moist orange bread. Known for their wide varieties of chicken salad sandwiches, I always revert to the House Favorite, the Midwest Delight, served on a butter croissant. If you have room, try their homemade carrot cake or peanut butter pie.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

A Collection of Blog Posts: 2016

29 December 201627 July 2024

ASIA

Philippines: General Santos City, Naomi’s Heart Mission

CARIBBEAN:

San Juan, Puerto Rico: Walking Tour of Old San Juan and Walking Tour of Old San Juan, Part 2

Caribbean, St. Kitts

19 View of the cruise ships from the belltower, 1.29.16

CENTRAL AMERICA:

Costa Rica: Exploring Central Costa Rica

Costa Rica: The Caribbean Side

Costa Rica: Jaguar Rescue Center

Mexico, Mazatlan

Mexico, Puerto Vallarta

EUROPE:

Italy, Venice: The Clock Tower of Venice

5-d2-a-view-of-st-marks-square-from-the-torre-dellorologio

UNITED STATES:

United States, Arizona: Grand Canyon

The Colorado River in the Grand Canyon

The Painted Desert

United States: California, San Diego

United States: Colorado: A Weekend in the Rockies

United States: Louisiana, New Orleans

United States: Maine, Rockland

United States: Massachusetts: Walden Pond

United States: Michigan: Four Days in Hale

United States: Nevada: Las Vegas: The Paris Hotel

United States: Ohio

Cedar Falls in Athens

BadaBing: This Restaurant is Now Closed

Pizza at BadaBing

Brewfontaine

Brewfontaine in Bellefontaine

Cincinnati: Abby Girl Sweets

Cincinnati: BowTie Cafe

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Cincinnati: Cincinnati Art Museum, The Divine Felines Exhibit

Recumbent Lion, Ptolomaic Period, 305 – 35BC, Reportedly from Giza

Fragmentary Inscription, Dynasty 25 – Dynasty 26, 670 – 650 BC

Cincinnati: Interview With Artist, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Jimi Jones

Cincinnati: Cincinnati Children’s Museum – Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit

Exploring the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the Cincinnati Children’s Museum

Cincinnati: Jungle Jim’s

11 IMG_6477

Cincinnati: Yeatman’s Cove

Cleveland: The Cleveland Art Museum, Pharaoh King of Egypt Exhibit

The Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

An Egyptian Sarcophagus

Cleveland: La Pizzeria

Cleveland: Maltz Museum, Operation Finale

The Capture and Trial of Adolf Eichmann

The Holocaust Survivors

Columbus: Franklin Park Conservatory

Gorgeous Orchids at Franklin Park Conservatory

Amazing Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Ohio: Columbus, Old Bag of Nails

Ohio: Columbus: Olentangy Caverns

Ohio: Greenville: KitchenAid Store

Springfield: Art Museum, Jason Morgan

Jason Morgan Artwork

Springfield: Art Museum, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Auschwitz Exhibit at The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Celebrating 70 Years of Auschwitz Closing

Sam and Ethel’s

Enjoying a Reuben at Sam & Ethel’s

Yellow Springs Brewery

Sampling craft beer at Yellow Springs Brewery

Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

PNC Lights: Cincinnati Zoo

A Tunnel of Lights

An Afternoon at Niagara Falls

26 February 201531 August 2024

Unique in the fact that Niagara Falls straddles two countries (the US and Canada), this lovely New York destination offers a wide range of activities including a state of the art aquarium and nearby wineries. But it is the magnificent waterfalls that have been bringing visitors to the area since the mid-19^th century.

Our family added the falls to its east coast vacation agenda as a stop on our way to Maine. Making a quick visit to the Official Visitor Center, we decided to purchase tickets for the Maid of the Mist boat ride. For a closer look at the falls, our voyage would take us around the Niagara River towards the magnificent Hurricane Deck where we could feel the exhilarating spray from the tons of water crashing down over the cliffs.

The thunderous sound of the falls greeted us as we approached the 400-acre state park. In the distance we could see the horse-powered. steel passenger boat ferrying its 600 guests. We were so excited to start the boarding process and put on our rain ponchos.

We found a spot on the upper deck for the best view and guarantee of becoming drenched by the waterfalls. The double-decker boat cruised towards the semicircular gorge where over 2.5 gallons of water flows per second. Flocks of seagulls and vibrant rainbows appeared as we sailed further into the mist.

The Maid pulled up to the stairs leading to the Hurricane Deck at the Cave of the Winds. As we exited the boat, we stood in awe of the spectacular waterfalls with a front row seat of Bridal Veil overwhelmed by its majestic force.

We had only a few moments to experience the whipping winds and back splash from the gorge before returning to the boat and completing our 20 minute ride. Drenched from head to toe, the sunshine felt amazing as we tried to dry ourselves before finding a restaurant for lunch. We agreed that a ride on the Maid of the Mist is an epic adventure for travelers to Niagara Falls and wondered why we had not done this before.

Have you visited Niagara Falls? Did you take the Maid of the Mist boat tour? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my fun family visit to Niagara Falls and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Niagara Falls State Park
332 Prospect Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Telephone: 716 278 1794

Admission Fee: There is no entrance fee but parking costs $8 to $10 depending on the parking lot.
Hours: Open all year
Amenities: Niagara shuttle, Top of the Falls restaurant, hiking, biking, souvenir shop, downloadable map from the app,
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the falls from various vantage points from the park.
Length of Visit: 1 – 3 hours, depending on which activities you select
Tips for Your Visit: Download the walking tour app to maximize your experience. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to explore the falls up close. Bring water during the summer if hiking.

Maid of the Mist
1 Prospect Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Telephone: 716 284 8897

Ticket Prices: $22.25 for adults, $13 for child ages 6 to 12,
Hours: Tours start each day at 9AM and depart every 15 minutes throughout the day.
Amenities: Rain poncho, wheelchair accessible, complimentary WiFi
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the falls from the boat and the Hurricane Deck
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Be prepared to get wet on the boat ride.

Where to Stay:

Fairfield Inn & Suites Niagara Falls
643 Rainbow Boulevard
Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Telephone: 716 970 4290

Where to Eat:

Top of the Falls Restaurant
Niagara Falls State Park Visitor Center
332 Prospect Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Telephone: 716 278 1794

I couldn’t help myself and ordered the Buffalo Chicken Wings as a starter and the Niagara Fish & Chips for my entree.

What to Eat:

Street cart Hot dogs
NY-style Pizza
NY-style Cheesecake
Baked Pretzels
Buffalo Chicken Wings

What to Read:

The Day the Falls Stood Still, by Cathy Marie Buchanan
The Falls by Joyce Carol Oates
The Odds: A Love Story by Stewart O’Nan

Photo Guide for Niagara Falls:

- “Journey Behind Niagara Falls” platform
- The falls from the Maid of the Mist
- Horseshoe Falls tunnels
- Views of American Falls from the Canadian Side

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

Maine’s Acadia, Watching Whales and Exploring Doubling Point Lighthouse

2 February 201531 August 2024

As a family, we booked an RV vacation which took us along the east coast of the United States. Each of my siblings and I were given the task of coming up with an itinerary for an assigned stop on our RV adventure. We visited northern Ohio, Niagara Falls, Maine, Boston, New York City and Philadelphia.

Each of us was given a location to research and select the activities for the day. My sister, Shelly mapped out our itinerary for our visit to Maine and I was so excited she included Acadia National Park. Sprawling nearly 50,000 acres on the east coast, this mesmerizing, scenic park is full of stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife. I was hoping to see moose at Acadia, and viewing the majestic whales on our cruise of the harbor was such an awesome experience as well.

We started our day by stopping by Hulls Cove Visitor Center to pick up a map and additional information about the park. We were curious to find if there were any educational sessions or ranger talks scheduled. From here, we picked up Acadia’s 27-mile scenic Park Loop Road, eventually reaching the top of Cadillac Mountain. From 1500 feet, we caught an amazing panoramic view of the Atlantic, the park and its nearby islands.

By the late 1800’s, this land became the playground for the rich and famous to include the Carnegies, Vanderbilts, Astors, Fords and the Rockefellers. It was John D. Rockefeller who gifted the park its 45 miles of carriage roads used for automobiles, bikes, horses and carriages. In addition to its carriage roads, the park offers over 150 miles of hiking trails and is one of the most-visited parks in the United States.

Another feature of the park that we thoroughly enjoyed was walking across the Bar Island Land Bridge. At low tide, we could walk across for spectacular views of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island. We were warned in advance that we would have about an hour and a half to cross and return before the tide would rise.

The views of Bar Harbor were breathtaking from this charming coastal town. Boats anchored in the cove while others were prepared to transport passengers on a number of whale watching excursions. We enjoyed an afternoon of shopping and made lunch reservations at a nearby restaurant with a seaside overlook.

Shortly after lunch, we boarded a small boat for our own whale watching tour. The weather was perfect for our brief sea escape with the opportunity to see humpbacks breaching out of the water. While mid-April is the best time to see these gentle giants, we could not have been happier spotting a couple of whales during our three-hour tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company.

After we returned from our trip, we boarded our RV and decided to check out the most visited lighthouse in Maine, the Doubling Point Lighthouse. Located along the Kennebec River, it was not an easy route to reach the light, but we loved the beautiful scenery and remote location. We spent about a half an hour here before piling back into the motor coach for our next stop on our itinerary, Boston.

Have you toured around the state of Maine? What were your favorite places to 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 about my lovely visit to Maine and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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

What to See and What to Do:

Acadia National Park
PO Box 177
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Telephone: 207 288 3338

Admission Fee: Each entrance fee covers 7 days of park entry. Private Vehicle: $30; Motorcycle: $25 and Hiker/Biker: $15 which only applies to visitors 16 years old and older entering the park by foot, bicycle, etc. An annual Pass for Acadia National Park is $55 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase.
Hours: The park is open seasonally and hours vary, so check the National Park Website for the most up-to-date information.
Amenities: camping, hiking, boating, swimming, biking, bird watching, climbing, fishing, 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 from Cadillac Mountain and along the various trails throughout the park.
Length of Visit: Three days is the minimal recommended time to see all of the attractions at Acadia.
Tips for Your Visit: 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.

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company
1 West Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Telephone: 207 288 2386

Rates: Rates range from $32 to $63 for adults on a variety of trips; $20 to $33 for children ages 6 – 14 and $14 for children ages five and under.
Hours: The activities take place from May to October. Visit the website for each activities and the departure times for these events.
Amenities: Ferry services
Length of Tour: Varies by tour, refer to the website
Tips for Your Visit: Take medication for seasickness should you think the seas may affect you.

Doubling Point Lighthouse
Doubling Point Road
Arrowsic, ME 04530
Email: mspencer@student.uchc.edu,jaehs@aol.com

Admission Fee: No Admission Fee
Hours: 8AM to 6PM daily
Scenic View: The lighthouse and surrounding area
Length of Visit: No more than one hour
Tips for Your Visit: Wear bug spray during the summer months. Refer to the website for detailed directions to the lighthouse. The lighthouse is not accessible, but you can look inside only.

Where to Stay:

Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA Holiday
136 County Road
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Telephone: 207 288 3520

Where to Eat:

Fish House Grill
1 West Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Telephone: 207 288 3070

We shared the New England Clam Bake and I also ordered the bacon wrapped scallops served with a maple and brown sugar glaze.

What to Eat:

Baked Beans and Hot Dogs
Blueberry Pancakes
Clam Roll
Clambake
Haddock Chowder
Indian Pudding
Italian Sandwich
Lobster, of course and served with butter
Lobster Pie
Lobster Roll
Maine Potato Fries
Maple Sugar and Syrup
New England Boiled Dinner

What to Read:

The Cider House Rules by John Irving
Empire Falls by Richard Russell
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
The Maine Woods by Henry David
Most Stephen King books

Photo Guide for Maine:

Acadia National Park
Cadillac Mountain Summit

A Collection of Blog Posts from 2014

29 December 201421 July 2024

What a great year for travel! Here are some of my adventure blog posts for 2014:

ASIA:

Philippines

Arriving to the Mission by Tuk-Tuk

Pre-School and Pampering at Naomi’s Heart

Haircuts for the Amazing Women at the Mission

CARIBBEAN AND PORTS OF CALL:

Antigua

The Bahamas

Freeport, Grand Bahama

Barbados

Malibu Beach, Barbados

Belize, Honduras and Mexico: Altun Ha

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins

Costa Rica: A Photographic Review

Gorgeous Beaches in Costa Rica

Jamaica: Dunn’s River Falls

Climbing Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Mexico: Cozumel

Downtown Cozumel, Mexico

Hurricane Gilbert

The Massive Destruction of Hurricane Gilbert to the Yucatan Peninsula in 1988

EUROPE:

Italy: Venice

A Morning Stroll Through Venice

Monaco

Views from the Perfume Factory

UNITED STATES:

United States, Arizona: Jerome Historic State Park

Hotel at Jerome State Park

Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Wood

United States, Arizona: Sedona

The gorgeous rocks of Sedona

United States, California: San Francisco

Alcatraz Island

Approaching Alcatraz Island

United States, Florida: Cypress Gardens

Enjoying the Beautiful Grounds

United States, Florida: Key West

Beautiful Sunset from Mallory Square, Key West

United States, Florida: Walt Disney World

The Magic Kingdom

United States, Hawaii: Diamond Head

The Hike is Worth the View

United States, Hawaii: Pearl Harbor

USS Arizona Memorial

United States, Hawaii: Hanauma Bay

Amazing View of Hanauma Bay

United States, Hawaii: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Exploring Hawaii’s Volcanoe National Park

Hawaiian Luau

Enjoying the Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Epic Kauai Experience

The Gorgeous Landscape of Kauai

United States, Illinois: Chicago

Chicago Fountain, Illinois

United States, Louisiana: New Orleans

Jackson Square, New Orleans

United States, Michigan: Hale

Arriving in Michigan – The Start of our Vacation

United States, Michigan, Hale: 1st Day of Vacation

The View from Our Vacation Rental

United States: Michigan

Mackinac Island

Shepler’s Ferry

A View of the Grand Hotel from the Ferry

Mackinac Island Harbor

Bike Rentals on Mackinac Island

Beautiful Flowers in the Shopping District of Mackinac Island

Transportation to the Grand Hotel

United States, North Carolina: Bodie Island

Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks

Bodie Island Lighthouse

United States, North Carolina: Carolina Beach

Choosing our Campsite

Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla

Currituck Heritage Lighthouse

United States, Ohio: Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail

Exploring the Gorge

United States, Ohio: Eagle Sighting at Highbanks

Spending the Afternoon Searching for Eaglets

United States, Ohio: Marietta

Road Trip to Marietta

United States, Ohio: Living Word Outdoor Drama

The Resurrection of Jesus

United States, Ohio: Renaissance Festival

Strolling the Medieval Town During the Festival

United States, Ohio: Battelle Darby Creek

A Lovely Winter Hike

United States, Ohio: Living Word Outdoor Drama

Living Word Outdoor Drama

United States Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

United States: Rhode Island: Cliff Walk

The Chanler in Newport

United States: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

My First Buffalo Sighting

United States, South Dakota: Needles Drive

The Needle

United States, South Dakota: Sylvan Lake

Beautiful Reflections off of Sylvan Lake

United States, South Dakota: Custer Park

Custer Park’s Wildlife Drive

United States, South Dakota: Yellowstone

Where the Buffalo Roam

United States, South Dakota: Yellowstone

A First Impression of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

United States, Texas: Galveston

Todd Shipyards, Galveston

United States, Wyoming: Yellowstone

The Grand Lodge at Yellowstone

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

Pearl Harbor, A Sacred Memorial

15 September 201431 August 2024

There are certain events in history that leave such an impact on mankind, that if they occur during your lifetime, you will never forget where you were when you heard the news. The invasion of Pearl Harbor is one of the those events.

I had been anticipating our visit to Pearl Harbor from the moment I learned I was going to Hawaii. Realizing that this would be an emotional experience, I prepared myself mentally and packed an extra package of tissues as we arrived at the entrance to the Pearl Harbor National Monument.

Pearl Harbor is the most visited memorial on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. We learned that, while the tickets are free, the park recommends that visitors reserve their tickets at least two months in advance or arrive early as there is a limited number distributed in the morning.

We woke up early that day and arrived in plenty of time to pick up our reserved tickets and browse the gift shop. About 20 minutes later, we were boarding the shuttle bound for the USS Arizona.

While the tour provides a historical overview of the Japanese attack that occurred on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor is first and foremost a memorial…a remembrance of the 1,177 American soldiers that gave their lives defending the United States during World War II.

The monument was built in 1962 and is visited by approximately two million people annually.

There were some rules and suggestions that we learned before visiting the monument. For example, purses and camera bags are not permitted on the boat trip, so we rented a locker to store our personal items. In addition, we opted to pay the minimal fee for the audio tour which provides a thorough overview of the site and details regarding the attack on Pearl Harbor.

As the boat made its way towards the memorial, we could see the modern, rectangular-like structure which was designed by Hawaiian architect Alfred Preis. Straddling the hull of the sunken battleship, the USS Arizona Memorial accommodates approximately 200 visitors at one time.

Our tour included a boat trip out to the memorial as well as a documentary video that took approximately 25 minutes to view. The combined activities took approximately 75 minutes in total. Complimentary brochures, available in over 30 languages are provided at the Pearl Harbor’s Visitor Center.

From the memorial we could look down into the water to see the USS Arizona just below the waterline. It is sad to imagine that over 1,100 crew went down with the battleship and their bodies have never been recovered. For this reason, we were standing over hallowed ground, a burial site, deserving of our respect and honor.

Each day, over nine quarts of oil continues to surface from the tank below which held 1.5 million gallons. A recent study was conducted in the mid-1990s to determine the effects of the ongoing leakage. Scientists are concerned that an eruption could cause “catastrophic” damage, so the site is under continuous surveillance.

Visiting the Pearl Harbor memorial was one of the highlights of my visit to Hawaii, not only to better understand the events of the Japanese attack on the military base, but to respectfully honor the soldiers who gave their lives to protect the United States of America.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Pearl Harbor? I would love to hear your thoughts on your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Pearl Harbor and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Pearl Harbor National Memorial
National Park Service
WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument
1845 Wasp Blvd. Bldg. 176
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 422 3399

Admission Fee: USS Arizona Memorial is Free which includes a short documentary about the Invasion of Pearl Harbor and a boat ride over to the memorial. The Deluxe Tour: $12.50 adult and $12.50 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Bowfin Submarine Park: $15 adult and $7 for children ages 4 – 12; Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: $25 adult and $12 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Battleship Missouri: $29 adult and $13 for children ages 4 – 12. Reservations are available in 15 minute increments by contacting recreation.gov and are highly recommended. In addition there are 1300 tickets available each day on a first come, first served basis.
Hours: Open daily from 7:30AM to 3PM. The last shuttle returns back to the Visitor’s Center at 5PM. The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Baggage storage area ($5), Gift Shop and Restrooms
Length of Visit: 6 hours to explore all four historical sites.
Tips for Your Visit: Reservations are highly recommended. Please note that the memorial is a sacred location and visitors are asked to be respectful of the site.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites, Oahu/Kapolei
91-5431 Kapolei Parkway #900
Kapolei, HI 96707
Telephone: 808 628 4900

Where to Eat:

Restaurant 604
57 Arizona Memorial Drive, #108
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 888 7616

I was hoping to try some of the local Hawaiian cuisine but I was distracted by the PBLTA sandwich with Pork Belly topped with lettuce, tomato and avocado and it was outstanding.

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Day of Infamy by Walter Lord
At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor by Gordan W. Prange
From Infamy to Greatness by Craig Nelson
Pearl Harbor Ghosts: The Legacy of December 7, 1941 by Thurston Clarke

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

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

Scouting Out Chicago, 1998, 2012: A Photo Journal

24 April 201431 August 2024

Over my few trips to the Windy City, I fell in love with Chicago’s bustling downtown and laid-back lakeside. For a short time, I had even lived in its suburbs, riding the Metra with its frequently scheduled stops at some of the most charming little towns in Illinois. I depended on the EL to get around and grew to fall in love with the city’s diverse neighborhoods. I absolutely adore Chicago and since moving away, always look for an opportunity to return.

One of Chicago’s iconic landmarks is the Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain at Grant Park. I found myself gravitating towards this beautiful fount in the evening to watch its entertaining light show. Built in 1927, Buckingham Fountain is one of the largest in the world. Operating from May to October, this extraordinary water feature lures in visitors with its scheduled water shows every 20 minutes, drawing large crowds from 9 to 10PM.

Michigan Avenue is one of Chicago’s most visited streets, most likely for its shopping, but also home to Tribune Tower, the headquarters of the city’s local newspaper. Built between 1923 and 1925, its neo-Gothic architecture with its flying buttresses displays treasures from all over the world. Several historic reliefs are embedded into the stone to include fragments from some of my favorite travel spots such as the Taj Mahal, Hagia Sophia, The Alamo and The Great Wall of China.

In 2016, plans were underway to convert this famous 36-floor skyscraper into 162 luxury residences in Chicago’s most sought after real estate. The project is expected to be completed in 2020.

Gino’s or Giordano’s? I love making a pilgrimage to Gino’s East, famous for its Chicago-style pizza. A deep dish crust piled high with toppings has been a favorite of locals for over 50 years. My go-to orders are either Gino’s Supreme or the Spinach Margarita, but the Buffalo Chicken is high on my list to try on my next visit. I never pass up the opportunity to sign Gino’s wall before leaving the restaurant.

Early morning strolls along Chicago’s Harbor is at the top of my list for things to do in the city. With nearly 14-miles of shoreline along the lake, Chicago has 10 harbors where one can enjoy the view of Lake Michigan. My favorite place to unwind is near the Belmont Harbor with its fabulous yachts parked in over 800 slips. The coast is also home to the Navy Pier, Chicago’s most visited attraction with fifty acres of entertainment, parks, shops and restaurants. Riding the Ferris wheel is a great experience for spectacular views of the city and Lake Michigan.

Crown Fountain is one of Chicago’s most recent additions in its initiative to expand the city’s public art enterprise. Erected in 2004, this large tower-like fountain is located in Millennium Park. Two 50 foot glass towers stand at opposite ends of the reflection pool located between Michigan and Columbus Avenues. It is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch and to be entertained with its three-dimensional show. With the magic of technology, watch faces appear on the buildings as they spit out water onto the sidewalk.

Drawn towards the regal lions at the entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago, I picked up my tickets on a Thursday afternoon. The perfect place to enjoy lunch, I also browsed the artwork by some of my favorite artists to include Georges Seurat, Edward Hopper, Grant Wood and Georgia O’Keefe.

One of the oldest art museums in the United States, the AIC hosts over 1 million visitors annually at its Grant Park location. The website provides the perfect itinerary for enjoying its highlights in an hour and allows visitors to enjoy its artwork by virtual tour.

My first visit to a Cheesecake Factory was in Michigan, and although a chain restaurant, I could not get enough of its made-from-scratch recipes. With over 250 menu items, this was a great excuse to dine at Chicago’s Michigan Avenue location (John Hancock Center). Outdoor seating makes it the perfect stop on our day of shopping and one of the best downtown locations for people watching.

From the Adler Planetarium to the Field Museum of Natural History or the Shedd Aquarium, I could not decide where to start as I entered the Museum Campus. I decided to begin my day at the Field Museum which was first built to house a large collection of exhibits during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Today there are over 40 million artifacts and items of natural history. My favorite exhibits included the large collection of fossils, the animal halls, the Egyptian display and of course, Sue, the Tyrannosaurus rex.

The Shedd Aquarium was my next stop with its 32,000 animals. The aquarium first opened in 1930 and was the largest indoor aquarium of its time. The permanent exhibits are spectacular covering various underwater ecologies from all over the world.

Finally, I had arrived at the Adler Planetarium. I was pleasantly surprised when I learned of the amazing exhibits which included Our Solar System, the Doane Observatory and the historic Atwood Sphere.

Cloud Gate in Millennium Park is probably one of the most unique sculptures I have ever seen. I’ve heard that you either love it or you hate it. Nicknamed, “The Bean” this public sculpture was designed by Sir Anish Kapoor and completed in 2004. I always enjoy a stop to photograph myself and friends in its stainless steel reflection and to watch ourselves at different angles become somewhat distorted.

The Riverwalk in Chicago has become one of the city’s best loved attractions. With restaurants, wine bars, shopping and boat tours, its rejuvenation in 2015 has expanded Chicago’s list of things to do. My most favorite activity is to rent kayaks and venture out onto the network of waterways for a relaxing afternoon.

Located on South Wacker in downtown Chicago, Willis Tower is a 110-story skyscraper which provides spectacular views spanning up to four states. Formerly known as Sears Tower, I was pleasantly surprised when I learned I could walk out onto a glass ledge and see the city below me. I was a bit weak in the knees (and stomach), but I managed to accomplish conquering my fear of suspending in mid-air. This attraction is definitely an adrenaline rush.

Chicago’s skyline displays four of the USA’s tallest buildings and is the third largest city in the country. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city was rebuilt by some of the top architects in the country with the addition of the former Sears Tower, the Mather Tower, the Tribune Tower and the Chicago Board of Trade. I have promised myself that during my next visit I will take a boat ride on Lake Michigan so I can enjoy the view of Chicago’s skyline from the water.

I have so much more to explore in Chicago and each time I visit, its offerings are new and never ending. My plans will be to visit during the Christmas holiday and I look forward to sharing my adventure and photos in the near future.

Are you from Chicago or have you visited this spectacular city? What are some of the attractions, and restaurants you would suggest on a return visit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my experience in Chicago and wishing you many Happy Travels!

NOTE: Visit each attraction/location’s website for the most recent, up-to-date information.

What to See and What to Do:

The Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603
Telephone: 312 443 3600

Admission Fee: Adult $25 or $35 for the fast pass; Seniors (65+), Students and Teens (14 – 17): $19 or $29 for the fast pass. Children and members are free. Some exhibitions may require an additional charge.
Hours: Open daily from 10:30AM to 5PM and select evenings until 8PM. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day
Amenities: Fast pass for an additional charge, three cafes, three garages close by for parking (Millennium Park Garage, East Monroe Street Garage, Grant Park North Garage), wheelchair accessible, map of museum (download online), service animals permitted, coat check services, tours and events
Length of Time for Your Visit: A minimum of three hours
Transportation: Subway/El: Green, Brown, Purple, Pink, or Orange Line to Adams, or Red Line to the Jackson/State or Monroe/State stations. Blue Line to Monroe. Buses: Take Bus 3, 4, 6, 145, 147, or 151 to Michigan Avenue and Jackson Street.
Tips for Your Visit: Visit the website for several resources to make the visit more enjoyable. For example, download the app for a variety of self-guided tour options, check out the list of current and permanent exhibits and review a list of prohibited items which are not permitted in the museum. The museum is extremely busy on weekends, so if possible, visit during the week.

Museum Campus
1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
Telephone: 312 409 9696

The Field Museum:

Admission Fee: Adults, $22; Seniors, $19 (ages 65+); Students (with ID), $19; Children (ages 4-11), $15. (includes museum entry, SUE, Evolving Planet, and Inside Ancient Egypt); Discovery Pass (general + one special exhibit): adults, $31; seniors, students, $26; children, $22; All Access Pass (general + all special exhibits): adults, $40; seniors, students, $35; Children, $29
Hours: Open daily from 9AM—5PM. Last admission is at 4PM. Closed on Christmas Day.
Amenities: There are two restaurants (Explorer Cafe and Fields Bistro) and a seasonal outdoor grill, a gift shop, coat check, wheelchair accessibility and restrooms. Free Wi-Fi, nursing room, first aid, and lost and found are also offered.
Length of Time for Your Visit: A minimum of three hours
Transportation: South-bound CTA bus line #146 (Marine—Michigan), or Red Line CTA train south to Roosevelt, then take a Museum Campus trolley or transfer to CTA bus #12. Parking in the lots near the campus is $15 per day
Tips for Your Visit: Park at Soldier Field for $15. The museum is extremely busy on weekends, so if possible, visit during the week. Visit the website for a current list of exhibits prior to visiting.

Shedd Aquarium:

Admission Fee: Adults (Age 12+): $39.95 (Chicago Residents $19.95); Children (Ages 3-11): $29.95 (Chicago Residents $14.95); Infants: Free; Member Adults (18+) and Member Children (3 – 17): Free
Hours: Open weekends from 9AM—6PM and 9AM – 5PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 9AM – 3PM on Wednesday (fall and winter hours). Closed on Christmas Day.
Amenities: There are two restaurants (Explorer Cafe and Fields Bistro) and a seasonal outdoor grill, a gift shop, coat check, wheelchair accessibility and restrooms. Free Wi-Fi, nursing room, first aid, and lost and found are also offered.
Length of Time for Your Visit: A minimum of three hours
Transportation: South-bound CTA bus line #146 (Marine—Michigan), or Red Line CTA train south to Roosevelt, then take a Museum Campus trolley or transfer to CTA bus #12. Parking in the lots near the campus is $15 per day
Tips for Your Visit: Park at Soldier Field for $15. The museum is extremely busy on weekends, so if possible, visit during the week. Visit the website for a current list of exhibits prior to visiting. Download the maps and guide from the website.

Adler Planetarium:

Admission Fee: Adults: $19; Children (ages 3-11): $8. (includes all exhibitions but does not include individually ticketed sky shows or experiences; Museum Entry +1: (general + one special exhibit): Adults: $28; Children: $17; Museum Entry +2: (general + two sky shows and Atwood sphere experience): Adults: $35; Children: $24; Unlimited (general + unlimited shows and Atwood sphere experience): Adults: $50; Children: $39
Hours: Open daily from 9AM—4PM; Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day; Visit the website for the most recent hours prior to arriving.
Amenities: Galileo’s Cafe, vending machines, museum store, restrooms, wheelchair accessible, coat check, free Wi-Fi, nursing room, first aid, ATM elevators, water fountains, Doane observatory, and lost and found.
Length of Time for Your Visit: A minimum of three hours
Transportation: South-bound CTA bus line #146 (Marine—Michigan), or Red Line CTA train south to Roosevelt, then take a Museum Campus trolley or transfer to CTA bus #12. Parking in the lots near the campus is $15 per day
Tips for Your Visit: Park at Soldier Field for $15. The museum is extremely busy on weekends, so if possible, visit during the week. Visit the website for a current list of exhibits prior to visiting. Download the maps and guides from the website.

Willis Tower
233 S. Wacker Dr.
Chicago, IL 60606

Admission Fee: Adults (12+): $25; Children (ages 3-12): $17
Hours: March – September: Sunday – Saturday 9AM-10PM; October – February: Sunday – Friday 10AM-8PM, Saturday 9:30AM-9PM; The Skydeck is open 365 days a year including Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift store, restrooms, elevator, child entertainment, dining and shopping, The Ledge Experience
Length of Time for Your Visit: Less than an hour
Tips for Your Visit: The best time to visit is when it opens or after 5PM. For sunset photos, arrive 30 – 45 minutes ahead of time. Use the backlight function when taking photos toward the windows and turn off the flash. There are time limits on the ledge (for under 3, maximum of 60 seconds and for 3+, maximum of 90 seconds).

Chicago Harbor
Chicago Skyline
Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain at Grant Park
The Cloud Gate
Crown Tower
The Riverwalk
Tribune Tower

Where to Stay:

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
505 Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Telephone: 312 944 4100

Where to Eat:

Eno Wine Bar
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
505 Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Telephone: 312 944 4100

Gino’s East
162 E. Superior Street
Chicago, Illinois, 60611
Telephone: 312 266 3337

I could not resist ordering the deep dish Spinach Margarita Pizza.

The Cheesecake Factory
875 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
Telephone: 312 337 1101

Herb Crusted Filet of Salmon with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus

What to Eat:

Deep Dish Pizza at Gino’s East (see above), Giordano’s or Uno’s Pizzeria
Chicago Style Hot Dog at Portillo’s
Bertha’s Famous Brownie from Palmer House
Swedish Cinnamon Rolls from Ann Sather

Books to Read:

Sister Carrie, by Theodore Drieser
The Man with the Golden Arm, by Nelson Algren
The Jungle, by Upton Sinclair
Years of Grace, by Margaret Ayer Barnes
Prairie Avenue, by Arthur Meeker
The Old Bunch, by Meyer Levin
I Sailed with Magellen, by Stuart Dybek
Windy McPherson’s Son, by Sherwood Anderson

Photo Guide to Chicago:

Buckingham Fountain at night when it is lit up in brilliant colors
Chicago Signs at the Chicago Theater
Federal Plaza‘s Calder’s Flamingo
North Avenue Beach for a phenomenal view of Chicago’s skyline
Overlook Metro Trains at Wells Kinzie Garage
Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate is fabulous for taking photos of your reflection
Check out the Rookery Building to photograph the beautiful staircase
Skydeck at Willis Tower for 360 degree views of the city
The Wabash Arts Corridor displays amazing murals
The Wood Pavilion at Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the best places to photograph the city’s skyline. Frame the cityscape at the Wood Pavilion location.
Wrigley Field for historical photos of the ball park

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