My Family Travels | Latest Articles
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9 Illinois Soul Food Kitchens That Fly Under The Radar But Stay Busy

Illinois is home to some amazing soul food spots that might not make headlines but definitely fill seats. These hidden gems serve up authentic comfort food that keeps locals coming...

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10 Ohio Pizza Places Locals Swear By But Tourists Rarely Find

Ohio's pizza scene is a hidden treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Beyond the chain restaurants that dot the landscape, there's a world of family-owned pizzerias serving unique...

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10 Texas BBQ Joints That Nobody Talks About But Always Stay Packed

Texas barbecue isn't just food - it's practically a religion in the Lone Star State. While famous spots like Franklin Barbecue grab headlines, some incredible BBQ joints fly under...

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9 Washington Coastal Towns Locals Say Are Ruined By Tourists

Washington's stunning coastline attracts visitors from around the world, but this popularity comes at a cost. Local residents of many once-quiet fishing villages and beach communities...

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8 Reasons Why Colorado Small Towns Feel Overrun And Unwelcoming

Colorado's picturesque mountain towns once offered peaceful getaways from city life. Now, many locals feel their communities are bursting at the seams. The charm that made these...

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10 Dangerous Winter Roads In Colorado Tourists Underestimate

Colorado's majestic winter landscape transforms its mountain passes into some of the most challenging driving conditions in America. Out-of-state visitors often arrive unprepared...

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9 Hidden Parking Fines In Upstate New York Towns

Parking in Upstate New York can be trickier than navigating a snowstorm in January. Many towns have sneaky parking rules that catch drivers off guard and leave them with unexpected...

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10 Vegas Weekends Locals Say Are A Tourist Trap

Vegas locals know the city like the back of their hand, spotting tourist traps from a mile away. When visiting Sin City, it's easy to fall into expensive and disappointing experiences...

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9 Summer Detours In Michigan That Turn Road Trips Into Nightmares

Summer road trips through Michigan promise beautiful lakeshores and charming towns, but certain detours can quickly derail your vacation plans. Construction season hits the Great...

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8 Reasons Why Ohio Back Roads Can Be More Stressful Than Scenic

Ohio's countryside promises picturesque views and peaceful drives, but the reality often falls short of expectations. Those winding back roads that look so charming on maps can...

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7 Hidden Museums in Nevada (Including Las Vegas)

There’s something about a hidden museum that feels like a dare. Most people walk right past the best stories because they’re too busy looking for neon signs or, let’s...

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Why Ohio’s Back Roads Are Both Scenic And Stressful

Ohio's winding back roads offer some of the most beautiful countryside views in America. These hidden routes take you through rolling farmlands, dense forests, and charming small...

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The 10 Bridges In Washington That Tourists Don’t Realize Are Traffic Traps

Visiting Washington state offers breathtaking views and incredible driving experiences, but some scenic routes come with unexpected challenges. The bridges connecting Washington's...

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9 Train Stations In New York State That Still Feel Like The 1950s

Step back in time with New York's historic train stations that capture the magic of 1950s rail travel. These architectural gems preserve the elegance, craftsmanship, and atmosphere...

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13 Historic Towns In Washington State Perfect For A Weekend Escape

Washington State is a treasure trove of charming historic towns that tell stories of America's past. From coastal settlements with Victorian architecture to mining communities...

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Pennsylvania’s 10 Small-Town Restaurants Worth A Visit

Pennsylvania's small towns hide some amazing food treasures that locals have been enjoying for generations. From historic taverns to family-owned diners, these spots serve up both...

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6 Buffets In Tennessee Locals Love And 6 That Miss The Mark

Tennessee's buffet scene offers hungry diners a taste of Southern hospitality alongside global flavors. From mouthwatering country cooking to international cuisine, these all-you-can-eat...

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11 Texas Barbecue Festivals Every Meat Lover Should Experience

Texas barbecue isn't just food - it's a cultural institution with deep roots in the Lone Star State. From slow-smoked brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, Texas pitmasters have perfected...

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7 Heatwave Warnings In Nevada That Could Impact Your Vegas Plans

Planning a trip to Las Vegas during the scorching Nevada summer? You might want to check those weather forecasts before packing your bags. Nevada is currently experiencing an extreme...

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8 Unique Roadside Attractions In Central Illinois

Central Illinois might seem like endless cornfields to passing travelers, but hidden among the prairie landscape are some truly bizarre and wonderful roadside attractions. These...

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10 The Winter Towns In Colorado That Locals Escape To

When snow blankets the Rocky Mountains, Colorado locals know exactly where to head for the perfect winter getaway. These charming mountain towns transform into magical destinations...

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8 Popular North Carolina Spots Known For Barbecue And Hushpuppies

North Carolina takes barbecue seriously – it's practically a religion here! From the vinegar-based sauce of the east to the tomato-tinged style of the west, the state offers...

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12 Grocery Stores In Texas That Travelers Actually Love To Visit

Texas offers more than just stunning landscapes and rich history – it's also home to some incredible grocery stores worth exploring. When road-tripping through the Lone Star...

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10 Hidden Beaches Along California’s Coastline

California's stunning coastline stretches for over 800 miles, hiding countless secret beaches away from the tourist crowds. While famous spots like Santa Monica and Venice Beach...

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9 Hidden Texas BBQ Shacks Locals Don’t Want Tourists To Find

Texas is famous for its mouthwatering BBQ, but beyond the famous spots lies a world of hidden gems. These secret BBQ shacks serve up some of the most incredible smoked meats you'll...

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Colorado’s 10 Most Unique Historical Monuments

Colorado's landscape is dotted with remarkable historical monuments that tell the story of its rich past. From ancient cliff dwellings to hand-built castles, these sites offer...

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10 Hidden Ghost Towns In Colorado Full Of History

Colorado's rugged mountains hide dozens of abandoned towns from the mining boom era. These ghost towns tell stories of wild success and heartbreaking failure during the gold and...

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11 Washington Scenic Drives That Will Clear Your Head

Washington State's incredible landscapes offer the perfect escape from daily stress. From coastal highways to mountain passes, these scenic drives provide a natural therapy session...

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11 New Orleans Spots Where Beignets Steal The Show From The Po’boys

New Orleans is famous for its po'boys, but the city's beignets deserve just as much attention. These puffy, powdered sugar-coated pastries have been a staple of the Big Easy for...

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10 Hidden Waterfalls In Colorado Only Locals Know About

Colorado's mountains hide natural treasures that many tourists never discover. Beyond the famous cascades lie secret waterfalls nestled in remote valleys and tucked behind rugged...

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12 Ohio Breweries Pouring Creativity Into Every Pint

Ohio's craft beer scene has exploded with creativity in recent years, turning the Buckeye State into a must-visit destination for beer lovers. From small-town taprooms to urban...

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11 Kentucky Smokehouses Where Ribs Fall Off The Bone Before You Sit Down

Kentucky barbecue stands in a league of its own, with smokehouses across the Bluegrass State perfecting the art of fall-off-the-bone ribs. These meat masters combine generations-old...

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5 Road Closures In Texas That Could Affect Your Weekend Plans

Planning a weekend getaway in the Lone Star State? You might want to check your route before hitting the road. Several major highways and streets across Texas are currently under...

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11 Nevada Desert Hikes Straight Out Of A Sci-Fi Movie

Nevada's desert landscapes hide some of the most alien-looking terrains on Earth. Walking these trails feels like stepping onto another planet or wandering through a movie set...

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12 Local Music Festivals In New York State You Should Attend

New York State buzzes with amazing music festivals all year long, from the peaceful Adirondack mountains to the vibrant shores of Long Island. These local celebrations bring communities...

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11 New York State Small Inns That Feel Like A Cozy Storybook Escape

Tucked away in the scenic landscapes of New York State are enchanting small inns that transport guests into the pages of a storybook. These hidden gems combine historic charm with...

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12 Safety Tips For Driving Through Rural Illinois Roads

Rural Illinois roads offer beautiful scenery but come with unique driving challenges. From narrow lanes and limited lighting to unexpected wildlife and farm equipment, these country...

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12 Illinois Farmers Markets That Feel Like Community Gatherings Every Weekend

Illinois farmers markets transform ordinary shopping into vibrant weekend celebrations. These bustling hubs bring together local farmers, artisans, and neighbors in a tradition...

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10 Roadside Diners In Illinois Serving Iconic Comfort Food

Illinois highways are dotted with charming roadside diners that serve up nostalgic comfort food with a side of local history. These beloved establishments have been feeding hungry...

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6 Small California Breweries Loved by Locals

You know that feeling when you take your first sip and realize, oh, this isn’t just beer; this is someone’s actual best idea, bottled? Welcome to California’s small-batch...

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9 California Beaches Locals Warn Tourists To Skip

California's coastline is famous for its stunning beaches, but not all sandy shores live up to the hype. While tourists flock to the Golden State for sun and surf, locals know...

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9 Hidden Gardens In Texas Loved By Locals

Texas holds many natural treasures beyond its famous landmarks and busy cities. Tucked away in unexpected corners of the Lone Star State are peaceful gardens where locals escape...

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9 Texas Road Trips That Sound Fun Until You’re Stuck In Traffic For Hours

Ah, the open roads of Texas – where adventure awaits around every bend! Road trips across the Lone Star State promise breathtaking landscapes, charming small towns, and unforgettable...

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7 High Wind Warnings In Texas That Could Affect Driving

Texas drivers face unique challenges when high winds sweep across the Lone Star State. These powerful gusts can transform a routine drive into a white-knuckle experience, especially...

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9 Georgia Barbecue Spots Where Brunswick Stew Makes The Meal

Brunswick stew might play second fiddle to smoked meats at most barbecue joints, but in Georgia, this hearty side dish often steals the show. This tomato-based concoction, brimming...

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9 Charming Mountain Cabins In California For A Quick Escape

California's mountains hide some of the most enchanting cabin getaways you could imagine. From the snow-capped Sierra Nevada to the towering redwoods, these rustic retreats offer...

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11 Alabama BBQ Places Where White Sauce Steals The Show

Alabama barbecue stands out in the crowded world of smoked meats thanks to its signature white sauce - a tangy, creamy concoction that's totally different from the red sauces you'll...

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11 Local Craft Fairs In Florida

Florida's craft fair scene is bursting with creativity and local talent. From handmade jewelry to unique home decor, these events showcase the best artisans and makers across the...

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Practicing Tai Chi on the shores of Breakneck Lake in Harriman State Park.
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10 Reasons To Love Appalachian Mountain Club Outdoors Adventures

We know the Appalachian Mountain Club, one of the country’s original conservation groups, changes lives. It happened to me, just days after an email landed in my inbox like a...

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7 Classic Steakhouses in Illinois Still Going Strong

Discover the timeless charm of Illinois' steakhouses that have been delighting patrons for generations. These iconic establishments not only serve up exquisite cuts of meat but...

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