My Family Travels | Latest Articles
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Oregon’s Hidden Hot Springs That Don’t Appear On Tourist Maps

Oregon is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with its hidden hot springs being some of the most magical discoveries for adventurous travelers. These steaming pools nestled in...

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9 Iconic Texas BBQ Plates That Tell The State’s Story

Texas BBQ isn't just food, it's a smoky chapter in the state's history book. From the cattle drives of the 1800s to modern-day pit masters, the Lone Star State's barbecue tradition...

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6 Secret Waterfalls In The Cascades

The Cascade Mountains hide some of nature's most spectacular secrets - waterfalls that tumble through lush forests far from tourist crowds. I've spent years exploring these misty...

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7 Charming Mountain Lodges in the Catskills for a Quick Escape

The Catskill Mountains offer a perfect retreat from bustling city life, with lush forests, sparkling streams, and breathtaking views just a few hours from New York City. These...

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8 Quirky Monuments in Texas You Haven’t Seen

Texas loves doing things bigger and stranger than anywhere else. The Lone Star State is home to some of the most unusual monuments you'll ever see. From buried cars to giant roadrunners,...

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6 Hidden Breweries in Colorado Loved by Locals

Colorado's beer landscape brims with hidden treasures that rarely make tourist lists, yet are cherished by those who call the Centennial State home.

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6 Underrated Pizza Places in New York State You Should Try

New York State is home to countless iconic pizzerias, but beyond the big names lies a world of hidden gems beloved by locals. Some of the most flavorful slices can be found in...

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7 Old Ranches in Texas Open to Visitors

Texas is home to some of America’s most storied ranches, where history, cowboy culture, and the spirit of the Old West remain alive.

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8 Quiet Lakes in Ohio Perfect for Canoeing

Ohio offers some amazing peaceful lakes where you can paddle your canoe without dealing with crowded waters or noisy motorboats. These calm spots provide the perfect escape for...

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9 Underrated Small Towns in Washington State Worth Exploring

Washington State is sprinkled with small towns that offer unique experiences, far from the crowds of bigger cities. These lesser-known destinations reveal the state’s diverse...

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9 Hidden Gems in California Grocery Aisles Locals Don’t Tell Tourists About

California’s grocery stores are treasure troves of regional favorites that locals quietly claim as their own. Beyond the obvious brands and touristy snacks, there’s a secret...

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7 Louisiana Riverfront Towns With Food Worth the Detour

Louisiana, with its myriad of rivers and bayous, offers riverfront towns that are treasures for food lovers. These towns not only showcase scenic beauty but also delight with culinary...

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9 New York Farmers Markets Where Locals Actually Shop

New York’s farmers markets are more than weekend attractions; they’re the heartbeat of local communities, brimming with fresh produce, artisan creations, and loyal regulars....

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7 Florida Eateries That Stay Low-Key Yet Always Pack a Crowd

Florida teems with culinary hotspots, but some of its busiest eateries are also its most unassuming. These beloved spots blend local charm, welcoming vibes, and dishes that inspire...

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9 Hidden Mountain Towns in Colorado Locals Want to Keep Secret

Colorado's majestic Rockies hide more than just spectacular views and powder-perfect ski slopes. Tucked away in valleys and perched on mountainsides are charming small towns that...

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8 California Buffets Locals Say Are Always Worth It

California’s buffet scene offers an abundance of culinary choices that locals swear by. From sushi spreads to sizzling barbecue and global flavors, these eight buffets continue...

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8 Spooky Small Towns in New York That Come Alive on Halloween

New York isn’t just skyscrapers and city lights. As autumn settles in, small towns throughout the state transform into hubs of Halloween magic, bringing haunted legends, ghostly...

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The 5 Best Restaurants for Authentic Indian Food in Illinois

Illinois has become a vibrant destination for lovers of authentic Indian cuisine, boasting a range of restaurants that celebrate traditional flavors and regional specialties.

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10 Small Towns In New England Seniors Love For Peaceful Getaways

Ever wondered where to escape the hustle and bustle when retirement finally gives you the freedom to explore? New England, with its charming coastal villages and mountain hamlets,...

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7 Hidden Hot Springs In California That Aren’t Crowded

California hides some amazing natural hot springs away from the tourist crowds. These mineral-rich waters offer healing properties and spectacular views without the noisy chatter...

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6 Vermont Cafés Where Maple Syrup Steals The Show

Vermont and maple syrup go together like pancakes and, well, maple syrup! As a lifelong New Englander with a serious sweet tooth, I've made it my personal mission to track down...

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9 Missions In California Full Of History

Have you ever wandered through a place where time seems to stand still? That's exactly how I felt when exploring California's historic missions. These architectural gems, built...

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7 Local Joints In Hawaii Where Shave Ice Outshines The Sun

Hawaii's tropical heat demands a cooling remedy that locals have perfected over generations – shave ice! Unlike mainland snow cones, Hawaiian shave ice features impossibly fluffy...

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Smoked, Sauced, and Savory: 8 Tennessee BBQ Joints Worth the Drive

Tennessee doesn’t play around when it comes to barbecue. From Memphis’s smoky alleyways to mountain pit stops with a view, the state’s joints serve up traditions as rich...

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8 Forgotten Ranches in Colorado

Colorado’s ranching heritage runs deeper than cattle drives and cowboy tales. Across the state, historic ranches preserve log homesteads, adobe walls, and family legacies that...

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9 Scenic Canyons and Cliffs in Michigan You Might Have Missed

Michigan may be famous for the endless shorelines of its Great Lakes, but there’s a wilder side to its landscape. Deep in the woods and along the water, sculpted cliffs, winding...

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9 Florida Farmers Markets Locals Actually Go To

Florida is full of farmers markets, but the ones locals actually return to week after week offer more than just fresh produce. From handmade goods to regional specialties, these...

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California Wildfire Safety Alerts for Travelers

California’s breathtaking scenery comes with a seasonal reality: wildfires. For travelers, staying informed about current fire activity, park closures, and air-quality alerts...

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11 Tastiest Pizza Spots Washington Locals Swear By

From blistered, wood-fired Neapolitan pies to gooey, cheese-laden Detroit-style squares, Washington’s pizza scene is a feast for every kind of slice lover. These 11 spots have...

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9 Wildlife Watching Spots in Texas

Texas never runs out of surprises for wildlife enthusiasts. From the rugged desert canyons of West Texas to the lush wetlands of the Gulf Coast, the state is home to an astonishing...

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9 Quirky California Parades You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

California loves a spectacle, but some of its best parades don’t come with confetti cannons and corporate sponsors. From satirical spins on tradition to kid-powered processions...

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8 Local Nature Reserves in Florida That Are Often Missed

Florida is famous for its beaches and theme parks, but some of its most inspiring places are far quieter. Across the state, nature preserves protect rare scrub, wetlands, and coastal...

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8 Hidden Wineries in Tennessee

Tennessee’s rolling hills and fertile valleys have long been home to orchards, vineyards, and farms. Over the past few decades, the state has cultivated a thriving wine scene,...

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California’s Coastline Is Home to 8 Seafood Shacks You’ll Love

There’s something about a seafood shack by the ocean that just feels right, casual tables, salty air, and plates piled high with the day’s catch. California’s coastline is...

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9 Cultural Centers in Michigan Celebrating Local Heritage

Michigan isn’t just lakes and lighthouses, it’s a state layered with stories. From Indigenous traditions and immigrant histories to artistic treasures and civil rights milestones,...

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9 Smart Tips for Navigating Nevada’s Harsh Desert Highways

Driving across Nevada can feel liberating, the horizon stretches endlessly, and the desert has a stark beauty all its own. But it’s also a place that demands respect.

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10 Iconic Music Venues in Tennessee Boomers Remember Well

Tennessee's rich musical heritage is etched in legendary venues that have shaped the sounds of generations. From Nashville’s vibrant stages to Memphis’s soulful landmarks,...

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5 Washington’s Top Grocery Stores for Fresh, Flavorful Meat

Washington State has no shortage of exceptional grocery stores and butcher shops for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful meat. As a longtime resident and food enthusiast, I’ve...

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8 Unique Local Traditions In Ohio

Ohio isn't just about cornfields and football, it's a treasure trove of quirky traditions that make this Midwestern state truly special! I've spent years exploring the Buckeye...

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8 Midwest Spots In Wisconsin Where Butter Burgers Make Diets Impossible

Wisconsin's love affair with butter burgers borders on legendary status. These juicy, messy masterpieces feature beef patties slathered with creamy Wisconsin butter that melts...

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9 Louisiana Restaurants Where Gumbo Warms The Soul More Than The Jazz

Louisiana's heartbeat isn't just found in its jazz rhythms, it's simmering in pots of rich, aromatic gumbo across the state. From roux so dark it'll make your mama weep to seafood...

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8 Kansas City Joints Where Sweet & Spicy Sauce Steals The Spotlight

Kansas City's barbecue scene isn't just about the meat, it's about that magical elixir that brings everything together: the sauce! I've spent years hunting down the joints where...

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9 Memphis BBQ Joints Where Pulled Pork Sandwiches Are Legendary

Memphis is the undisputed capital of pulled pork sandwiches, where smoke-kissed meat and tangy slaw create magic between two buns. I've spent years sampling these saucy delights...

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8 Movie Filming Locations in Georgia You Can Still Walk Through

Georgia's cinematic landscapes have long captivated filmmakers, providing the backdrop to numerous iconic movies. As we journey through the Peach State, we'll explore eight filming...

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10 Fun Florida Facts That Sound Made Up But Aren’t

Florida, often known for its sunshine and beaches, is full of surprising facts that seem too unusual to be true. From natural wonders to historical quirks, the Sunshine State never...

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9 Natural Rock Formations in Utah That Look Otherworldly

Utah is home to some of the most surreal and breathtaking rock formations in the world. These natural wonders, crafted over millions of years, offer a glimpse into the geological...

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5 Underrated Taco Trucks in Washington State

Washington State is a treasure trove of culinary delights, yet some of its best taco trucks fly under the radar. For those seeking authentic flavors and local favorites, these...

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6 Connecticut Pizza Spots Where Apizza Is Practically a Religion

Connecticut is renowned for its unique style of pizza, known locally as 'apizza,' where crispy crusts meet savory toppings in a culinary symphony.

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The Texas Grocery Snack Test: 10 Local Favorites That Always Win

Texas is a land of rich culinary traditions, and nowhere is this more evident than in the local snacks that line the shelves of grocery stores across the state. From classic treats...

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8 Quaint Riverfront Cabins in Ohio for a Weekend

Ohio offers a variety of charming riverfront cabins that are perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether nestled among the trees, perched beside a tranquil river, or offering modern...

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