Travel and Leisure News

Founded nearly 150 years ago, the Amish Community in the Arthur Area is the oldest and largest Amish settlement in Illinois.  Over the last century and a half, the Amish community has grown to become a large and integral part of the Arthur way of life. While farming has always been a significant part of the Amish culture, other cottage industries have arisen such as woodworking, cabinetmaking, quilting, and baking. The Amish maintain a level of craftsmanship in all their work that keeps their community thriving to this day.  The Amish religion and culture are most notably characterized by simple dress, living without electricity, and carefully choosing any technology they adopt, including transportation. It is not out of the ordinary to see horse-drawn buggies, wagons, farm equipment, and bicycles on the road. These traditional forms of transportation are hallmarks of the Amish Culture. Generally, the Amish farms and businesses are located on the outskirts of town. You’ll find the proprietors of these farms and businesses to be quite accommodating, but remember all Amish businesses are closed on Sundays. The area has plenty of accomadations to stay at while visiting - check them out online: https://arthuril.us/explore-the-area/trail/lodging. While visiting we suggest taking a tour with Premier Tours. Choose from one or more options listed to make your tour a one-of-a-kind experience. Guided tours, dinner in an Amish home, woodworking shop tour, tour an amish home & farm, bakery tour, buggy shop tour, horse & buggy ride. There are many other attractions to see and do as well! https://arthuril.us/explore-the-area/trail/all-things-amish Come experience for yourself the rich history and time-honored tradition of the Arthur Area. It will undoubtedly give you a whole new appreciation for the simpler things in life. https://arthuril.us/explore-the-area    

Top five reasons to visit the EAA Aviation Museum™ in Oshkosh, WI! Walk through aviation’s history. The restoration, preservation, and operation of vintage aircraft have been part of EAA since the very beginning. Discover airplanes used in aviation’s early days, including a tribute to the Wright brothers. Get close to classic aircraft and antique artifacts. Explore military aviation. The Eagle Hangar is a massive hall of aircraft and artifacts dedicated to the memory of those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The airplanes include examples of Allied fighters and bombers, Army, Navy, and Air Force aircraft, and more. Discover aviation’s innovators. The Innovations Gallery highlights the airplanes and their pilots who have broken dozens of world records. See Loving’s Love, an air racer that was designed and built by WWII veteran and double amputee Neal V. Loving. Get close to the full-size animated replica of SpaceShipOne, an experimental, private spacecraft that made three successful spaceflights. Observe the beauty of flight. Aviation is made up of more than airplanes and pilots. Photographers and artists have been part of the world of aviation from the beginning. Throughout the museum, there are historic photographs and works of art! Have fun with the whole family. Bring out your inner child in the Kid Venture Gallery, where you can enjoy a variety of interactive activities and exhibits. The centerpiece of this area is the Raptor Gallery, which focuses on some of the remarkable features of the world’s most advanced aircraft, the F-22 Raptor, and offers the opportunity to climb into the cockpit of our half-scale mockup! We look forward to welcoming you soon! EAA Aviation Museum is located at, 3000 Poberezny Rd., Oshkosh, WI -  https://www.eaa.org/eaa-museum  

The Natchez Pilgrimage Tours (NPT) in Natchez, MS is your best source for planning a perfect trip to Natchez.  We assist individuals and groups of all sizes in planning a Natchez visit, including historic mansion tours, private guides, special events, and more. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours — an arm of the Pilgrimage Garden Club — is the only full-service receptive tour operator in Natchez. We customize your trip, free of mark-ups or fees for our direction and expertise. Let us guide you to the perfect Natchez experience! Founded in 1716, Natchez is the oldest city on the Mississippi River. The first route into Natchez was the Natchez Trace, originally a buffalo trail and later used by Native Americans and early settlers. With the advent of steamboat travel in the early 19th century, the Trace fell into disuse. But now the trail is administered by the National Park Service, it runs 450 miles between Nashville and Natchez, a green and peaceful route dotted with interpretive exhibits, 18th-century inns, and picnic sites. Natchez is also home to dozens of African-American heritage sites, including historic churches, neighborhoods established by freedom after the Civil War, the boyhood home of internationally acclaimed author Richard Wright, and the Forks of the Road, site of the second-largest slave market in the South. While here explore downtown Natchez, which offers great shopping — antiques, unique gifts, and bookstores — plus an exceptional number of casual and fine dining restaurants and a cooking school. In Natchez, where Native American, African-American and European cultures have blended to make Natchez a unique place, we’re proud that progress is a neighbor of the past. We’re easy to find at the lower end of the Trace on the bluffs of the Mississippi River. To capture the full extent and feeling of Natchez, MS visit us soon for an unforgettable experience taking you back in history to experiencing today’s southern charm!  Check out our FALL PILGRIMAGE 2025, Starting September 25, 26, 27 and October 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, & 11 - Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, Morning, and Afternoon Rotations. Our Spring Pilgrimage 2026 Dates are March 19 – April 11. 601-653-0919 -  https://natchezpilgrimage.com/  

Englewood, Florida, nestled along the Gulf Coast, and just a little over an hour north of Ft Myers and just a little south of Punta Gorda offers a serene getaway with its beautiful beaches, lush nature parks, and vibrant arts scene. Englewood boasts several stunning beaches, including Manasota Key Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Stump Pass Beach State Park. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, shelling, or even shark tooth hunting along the sandy shores. Located on Manasota Beach Key is the historic Manasota Beach Club (pictured above), https://www.manasotabeachclub.com/  a beautiful beachfront resort. Established back in 1951, it offers a charming retreat along the Gulf of Mexico. The club features a range of accommodations including cottages and suites, many with direct beach access and stunning views of the Gulf. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities such as swimming, beachcombing, fishing, and boating. Southwest Florida is also known for its excellent golf courses, and Englewood is no exception. Tee off at courses like the Boca Royale Golf & Country Club or the Oyster Creek Golf Club for a relaxing day on the greens.  The area is known for its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful getaway in southwest Florida. So, whether you are seeking relaxation on the beach, outdoor adventures, or cultural exploration, Englewood and the surrounding Southwest FL area offer a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.    

Discovery Journeys Yacht Charters is an elegant and spacious luxury charter yacht, that encompasses the best of two worlds - in both Alaska & Canada!   We know what it takes to make our guests comfortable. Our trips are designed specifically to exceed our customers’ expectations as is this beautiful classic vessel. At 87ft in length with a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences Our Charter at Discovery provides a comfortable base for any Alaska yacht charters or cruise. Not only is our yacht elegant, it is exceptionally functional. With an open layout and views from every room she rivals the best small Alaska yacht charters cruise ships in Alaska and Canada. Click here to see our charter routes in Alaska and Canada: https://alaskacharters.com/alaska-yacht-charters/#   Some of the sights to see is watching Humpback Whales in Alaska, (and other marine life) we never tire do this as every day offers a unique encounter. We have been viewing these whales for over 30 years! Along with whale watching, you can view bear and fjords & glaciers! We also provide an opportunity for fishing, kayaking and hiking! Please contact us for more information or to make a booking. All inquiries and bookings are handled directly by us. Maintaining a classic yacht involves a lot of time, effort and attention to detail. We are family owned and operated for more than 40 years - since 1981! So when ready check us out online and book your next trip! 206-406-7288  https://alaskacharters.com/alaska-yacht-charters/

Riverstone Resort & Spa, is Pigeon Forge’s ultimate accommodations in the Smoky Mountains!   Rest In Luxury - Amidst Pigeon Forge's lush landscape and action-packed avenues, the Riverstone Resort & Spa offers one-of-a-kind experience that lies in the heart of it all. Here, every stay feels like an escape, with condo-style accommodations, a full-service spa, and scenic views of the surrounding natural scenery. Between packed days of unwinding and memory making, you'll create the kind of trip you can never truly forget.. The Height of Mountain Living - RiverStone’s condos offer an elevated standard of staying in Pigeon Forge. Modern furnishings and down-home amenities combine to create an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for everyone—from sweethearts looking for a place to stay to entire families flocking to a beloved location for a family reunion.  You'll enjoy unmatched Resort Amenities such as their lazy river, indoor pool, hot tub, in-ground jumppad. playground and easy access to nearby nature trails create a fully immersive setting that's all too easy to sink into. Indulge in their Award Winning Day Spa! Where a diverse array of rejuvenating wellness treatments invites you to slip away into something blissful. Between therapeutic massages, revitalizing facials, and a range of special beauty treatments, you will leave looking, feeling and being your absolute best! From outdoor adventures and theme parks to serene nature walks and live shows, Pigeon Forge is a destination that’s all about bringing excitement to everything you do. Our location near Dollywood means there's something exciting for everyone in your travel crew—whether you want to head out and explore the Smokies, or chase new thrills at one of the region’s many attractions. Check us out online and view our various options and accommodations for a memorable and relaxing experience at the Riverstone Resort & Spa! https://www.riverstoneresort.com/ 

Minnesota is a fantastic destination for summer travel, offering a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers. Check out the North Shore Scenic Drive, Explore the rugged beauty of Lake Superior's North Shore. Drive along Highway 61 and marvel at the majestic cliffs, rocky shores, and pristine beaches. For a urban vacation, it's Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Discover the vibrant cultural scenes of Minnesota's Twin Cities. Visit world-class museums like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Explore the trendy neighborhoods, dine at top-notch restaurants, and catch a show at the renowned theaters. It's Lake Country! Minnesota is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," and summer is the perfect time to explore its waterways. Rent a cabin on one of the many lakeshores, go fishing or boating, and relax on sandy beaches. Popular lake destinations include Lake Mille Lacs, Gull Lake, and Leech Lake. Another great getaway is in Hackensack, MN. The area offers a delightful summer travel destination, especially for those who love outdoor adventures and serene landscapes. For  accomadations we suggest Hyde-A-Way Bay Resort for great Minnesota memories of family and friends with fun and fishing. Blue skies, clear water, and a vast variety of trees and wildlife make Hyde-A-Way Bay Resort the place to relax, enjoy and soak it all in. Their resort has 16 housekeeping cabins and 14 seasonal RV sites which will accommodate small families to large family reunions. Spacious new log lodge has something for everyone – food, games, gift shop, laundry, ample seating and Minnesota fishing at its best with your own boat or one of ours, basic to luxury or our pontoon. If your looking for a more private and romantic getaway the check out The James A. Thompson House in Lanesboro, Minnesota. It's a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of one of Minnesota's most picturesque small towns. Here's what you can expect from a visit to this historic inn -  Historic Elegance in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion dating back to the late 19th century. Its architectural elegance and period furnishings provide a glimpse into the area's rich history. Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique character and amenities. Whether you prefer a cozy fireplace, a private balcony, or a luxurious whirlpool tub, the inn offers a range of options to suit your preferences. Warm Hospitality: The innkeepers at the James A. Thompson House pride themselves on providing warm and personalized hospitality to their guests. From homemade breakfasts featuring local ingredients to insider tips on exploring the area, they go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. So, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or relaxation in a Bed & Breakfast in nature, Minnesota has something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

All of our Florida luxury condos are now available for weekly rentals to non-smoking families for the rest of 2025 and 2026.  At Florida Oceanway’s Luxury Condo’s, no pets are allowed and there is no smoking on the property, thus making our condos very clean. Spend your next vacation at the ocean, right on the beach. Enjoy miles of open beach. The beach is 100 feet from your door.  We have 3 Luxury, 2 bedroom oceanfront condos located at the north end of beautiful Indian Rocks Beach, Florida.  Enjoy beautiful sunsets from your own private balcony, take a romantic walk along the white sandy beach and watch playful dolphins swim by, or just sit back and relax, in your condo hideaway with a good DVD or movie. We are only a short 60-minute drive to Disney, EPCOT, and 30 minutes from Cypress Gardens! Bush Gardens in Tampa is only 30 minutes away. The beach is only ten feet from the large pool, only 60 feet from your door. The pool is where we spend lots of time enjoying the surf and sunsets. Our condos are ideal for families! View directly online our condos: https://oceanwaycondos.com/condo1.html https://oceanwaycondos.com/condo2.html https://oceanwaycondos.com/condo3.html So, whenever the time of year you'd like to get away, you will enjoy first class, well kept deluxe ocean front condos! Please check us out online: https://oceanwaycondos.com/index.html    

Looking for Estes Park lodging? A stay at Aspen Winds on Fall River provides you the opportunity to experience the splendor of the Rockies as you have only imagined possible. Conveniently located 3 miles west of central downtown Estes Park and 1½ miles from the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen Winds provides a comfortable lodging experience with many amenities and outdoor activities including excellent fishing on Fall River right behind our property!  We offer spa suites and one or two-bedroom condominium suites on the river that appeal to every vacationer. The rushing waters of Fall River, full of rainbow trout, provide frontage to Aspen Winds where elk, deer, and other wildlife wander freely through a lush setting of willows and mature aspen, spruce, fir, and pine trees, which can be seen from your condo and deck. From the deep greens of summer, luminescent golds of autumn, and glittering whites and crystal blues of winter and spring, Aspen Winds’ lodging on Fall River is beautiful year-round. At Estes Park, there are many things to do each season throughout the year. Numerous attractions and activities are just waiting to be enjoyed. Rocky Mountain National Park is open 365 days a year. In winter, Bear Lake Road is plowed as is Trail Ridge Road to Many Parks Curve. All other major park roads and all roads in Estes Park are open. Most of the nearby scenic byways are plowed all winter. Enjoy experiencing travel inside a snow globe landscape. Winter, spring, and fall are the best times to view wildlife in their natural habitat. There are all-season hiking trails in the Estes Park area while others become snowshoe trails. Snowshoes are inexpensive to rent, and the sport requires no special skill or prior experience. Closed side roads and both Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park are perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or “walking in a winter wonderland.” Golfing, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and rock climbing are some of the Estes Park attractions and activities that know no season. Downhill skiing and snowboarding near Estes Park are about an hour away at Eldora Mountain. There is plenty to see and do at Aspen Winds and Estes Park, come check us out and make Aspen Winds your next vacation spot any time of the season! https://www.aspenwinds.com/    

This new Best Western Plus Gallup hotel features a twelve-person boardroom, making it a favorite for business or group travelers, but also well-suited to leisure our guests. Enjoy being within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and the park. Friendly personnel are happy to make reservations for guests and provide recommendations. Walk-ins are always welcome at this Gallup hotel, renowned for its prime location. Along with our spacious accommodations, we serve a complimentary full hot breakfast, choice of breads, cereal, fruit, hot eggs, hot breakfast meat, other hot items, yogurt, juice, and coffee. We feature an indoor heated pool, hot tub, exercise facility Open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm and nice interior corridors! Free Wi-Fi is standard in this gorgeous region of New Mexico famous for stunning turquoise jewelry and a genuine Wild West atmosphere. The Four Corners Monument is nearby, and many guests travel from around the country for the Navajo Nation Fair. Native American dances, pow-wows, and other events take place year-round, and visiting the Navajo Nation Reservation is a must for many guests with ties to the Nation or who are interested in including a cultural lens to their trip. Outdoor lovers enjoy being surrounded by national parks where hiking, biking, camping, and rafting are an option. The rodeo arena is near this Gallup hotel, too, and many participants, loved ones, and fans block rooms to secure a competitive rate for rodeo weekends. Located along Route 66, those on a long trip can take advantage of some of the best, most convenient restaurants in the area and often make time for PBR® events, Native American ceremonial activities, or short hikes before heading back on the road. Guests will find gift shopping, grocery shopping, office supplies, auto repairs, and car washes all close to the property. Reserve your stay at the Best Western Plus Gallup Inn & Suites today! https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotels-in-gallup/best-western-plus-gallup-inn-suites/propertyCode.32113.html