The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas

When planning your trip to San Antonio, Texas there are certain things that naturally end up on your itinerary: the Alamo, the Riverwalk, shopping at El Mercado and dining at Mi Tierra are fine examples, and not to be overlooked.

During a recent family break we stayed at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa (which was fabulousness itself) and had three experiences that, in my mind, should not be missed while in San Antonio. Read More »

Overlooking downtown St. Paul and sitting on the stylish Summit Avenue, the James J House is one of the most recognized mansions in Minnesota.  Built by railroad magnate James J Hill, the home was not only his family’s abode but a setting for parties and receptions.  When it was completed in 1891, it was the largest and most expensive home in the state.

James J. Hill House

Today, visitors can see the house through guided tours and see how the rich lived in the early days of St. Paul.  While the entertaining areas are impressive in size and the woodwork is intricate, seeing the massive laundry room and food preparation areas is equally awe-inspiring.  Those with an appreciation for pipe organs may be treated to a short concert during the tour if an organist is on duty in the art gallery. Read More »

Haunting History

The Halloween season inspires thoughts of ghosts and goblins, witches and frightful deeds. A visit to Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary’s haunted house event – Terror Behind The Walls – is what most thrill seekers have in mind this time of year. But a truly horrendous epidemic occurred in Philadelphia in the fall of 1793 that threatened to destroy what was at the time our nation’s capital. Several historical landmarks in Old City are giving you an opportunity over Halloween weekend to learn about the frightful Yellow Fever epidemic that took the lives of countless thousands of Philadelphia’s citizens.

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Birchbark Canoe at Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center

When we think of Lewis and Clark heading west to explore the Louisiana Purchase, we may not always consider where there route took them.  We may think of Missouri or Oregon or mountain passes.  Did you know, though, that an important part of Lewis & Clark’s journey took place in North Dakota?  North Dakota boasts several stops along the Lewis & Clark trail as they moved up the Missouri River.

In Washburn, North Dakota, north of the state capitol of Bismarck, Lewis & Clark history is rich.  Fort Mandan was the winter stop for the Lewis & Clark party in the winter of 1804-1805.  It was here that they met Sakakawea, the Indian woman who was instrumental in their exploration.  This full-size replica offers programs and year-round tours of the site.

Just down the road, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center is the modern segment of this history stop.  The museum has displays that depict the history of the time and the culture of the area; many are hands-on exhibits that children will enjoy.    In conjunction with the actual fort, visitors to the interpretive center will get a good picture of the importance of the Lewis & Clark expedition as well as understanding the challenges the exploration encountered. Read More »