dorian hayes author at My Family Travels
Article
The Pennsylvania Barn Buffet Where Every Meal Feels Like a Reunion

Picture this: rolling farmland near Gettysburg, a rustic barn glowing at sunset, and the mouth-watering aroma of homestyle cooking wafting through the air.

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7 Hidden Colorado Attractions Buried Inside The Mountains

Colorado is full of surprises tucked away in its majestic mountains. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or just someone who loves a good secret spot, these hidden gems are bound...

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10 Creepy Georgia Cemeteries Where Tourists Try Illegal Night Tours

Ever wondered where to find the spookiest spots in Georgia? Pack your flashlight and your bravest friends; you're about to embark on a chilling journey through ten eerie cemeteries...

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10 Unique Thanksgiving Celebrations Happening Across Texas

Howdy, folks! As the Lone Star State gears up for a feast of turkey and stuffing, I've scoured the plains and cities to bring you ten Thanksgiving celebrations that'll have you...

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10 Indiana Swimming Spots Locals Warn Tourists To Avoid

Hold onto your swimsuits, folks! Indiana's waters aren't always the serene sanctuaries you might imagine. While the state boasts beautiful lakes and rivers, there are spots where...

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10 Hidden Roadside Cafés In Kansas You’ll Want To Try

Kansas might not be the first place that pops to mind when you think of culinary wonders, but let me tell you, this humble state is sprinkled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered....

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10 Nebraska BBQ Joints Locals Want To Keep Secret

Gather 'round, fellow BBQ enthusiasts, as we embark on a delectable journey through Nebraska’s best-kept secret barbecue havens. These ten joints, cherished by locals and shielded...

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10 Mysterious Desert Resorts In New Mexico With Unsolved Stories

Are you ready for an adventure through New Mexico's enigmatic desert resorts? From haunted mansions to baffling lights, these resorts promise a cocktail of mystery and mystique....

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10 Oregon Bakeries With Marionberry Pies Worth The Trip

Join me on a whimsical journey through the rolling hills and vibrant cities of Oregon, where the humble marionberry pie reigns supreme. Whether you're a local or just passing through,...

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Travelers Say This West Virginia Cafe Serves Biscuits That Melt In Your Mouth

Nestled in the historic town of Bramwell, West Virginia, Honeycomb Cafe has earned a reputation among travelers and locals alike for its buttery, flaky biscuits. Known for their...

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The Shrimp And Crawfish Etouffee At This Louisiana Eatery Is Worth Every Bite

In the heart of New Orleans, Zesty Creole is a casual eatery beloved for its authentic Cajun and Creole dishes. Among its standout offerings, the shrimp and crawfish etouffee is...

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The Halloween Festival In Tennessee That Locals Say Is Worth The Drive

Every fall, as the leaves begin to change and the nights grow longer, one Tennessee attraction draws thrill-seekers from across the region: Creepy Hollow Haunted Woods. Located...

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The Eerie Nevada Roadside Attraction That Locals Say Is Cursed

Just off U.S. Route 95 in the remote desert town of Tonopah, Nevada, sits one of the most bizarre and unsettling roadside attractions in America: The Clown Motel. With hundreds...

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Why Oklahoma’s Roadside Markets Are The Perfect Detour For Travelers

Oklahoma’s long highways conceal a network of roadside markets offering far more than pit stops. These local hubs fuse fresh produce, storytelling, and regional character to...

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The Truth About Oklahoma’s Roadside Attractions That Tourists Never Catch

Oklahoma’s highways promise quirky stops, but the real stories often sit just beneath the surface. Locals know which attractions evolved from family projects, community passion,...

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The Real Reason People Visit Rhode Island Is For Its Famous Italian Meats

Rhode Island looks small on the map, but its Italian delis and markets punch far above their size. I came for the beaches and stayed for the soppressata, mortadella, and peppery...

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This Tiny Georgia BBQ Spot Serves Ribs Locals Call Better Than Memphis

Tucked into a modest building near Midtown Atlanta, Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is far from flashy - but it just might deliver a rib experience that rivals the legends of Memphis. With...

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All You Can Eat Restaurants In Virginia Locals Don’t Want Tourists Discovering

Virginia’s buffet scene is quietly stacked with places locals return to week after week. These spots focus on dependable quality, generous spreads, and friendly service over...

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Lesser Known Georgia Theme Parks Worth Discovering

Georgia hides a handful of small, quiet amusement spots that rarely make modern travel lists, yet still open their gates with charm and local history. These parks are modest in...

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Hidden Retro Diners In Georgia Tourists Don’t Know

Georgia’s roadside dining scene hides a quiet network of retro spots where neon signs glow and pie cases still spin. Locals know these places for their steady breakfasts, friendly...

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Georgia Old School Diners Every Food Lover Must Try

Hungry for a road trip that tastes like home? Georgia’s classic diners serve comfort on warm plates, where the coffee is fresh, the greetings are sincere, and the recipes carry...

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All You Can Eat Spots In North Carolina Only Locals Know About

North Carolina’s all-you-can-eat scene is richer than many travelers realize, with beloved community spots that quietly keep locals coming back. This list highlights operating...

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Why Tourists In Kentucky Keep Getting Caught Trespassing On Horse Farms

Kentucky’s bluegrass, white fences, and famous Thoroughbreds tempt visitors to wander closer than they should. Many travelers do not realize that those postcard scenes are usually...

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8 Best And 3 Worst Things About Traveling In Oregon

Oregon rewards curious travelers with coastline drama, mossy forests, high desert skies, and lively small towns. Yet the same geography and popularity that make it special can...

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Oregon Cities Struggling As Tourism Sends Housing Costs Skyrocketing

Tourism has brought fresh energy and jobs to Oregon, but it has also reshaped housing markets in popular destinations. Visitors come for ocean views, mountain trails, and creative...

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Hidden Fast Casual Restaurants In Maine Worth The Trip

Maine’s food scene is known for coastal classics, but its fast casual spots deliver far more than a quick bite. These places keep the lines moving while serving thoughtful menus...

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Washington Fast Casual Restaurants That Change How People Dine

Washington’s fast-casual scene keeps pace with how people actually eat today: quick, fresh, and thoughtfully made. From Seattle’s inventive counters to Spokane’s heritage...

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New York’s Top All You Can Eat Buffet Restaurants Worth The Wait

New York is packed with all you can eat spots that reward patience with variety and reliable quality. From charcoal-grilled Korean barbecue to steady Brazilian rodízio and meticulous...

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Massachusetts’s Top Buffet Restaurants Worth Traveling For

Planning a tasty road trip across Massachusetts? This guide highlights buffet restaurants that locals recommend and travelers seek out for reliable variety, quality ingredients,...

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10 Reasons Kentucky’s Beauty Isn’t The Same After Tourists Arrived

Kentucky's rolling hills, lush forests, and hidden waterfalls once offered a peaceful escape from modern life. I've wandered through this beautiful state for years, watching as...

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8 Incredible And 3 Disappointing Things About Exploring Kentucky

Kentucky in 2025 offers both wonder and challenge. From the vast chambers of Mammoth Cave and the rare moonbow at Cumberland Falls to the heritage of Bardstown and the smoky flavor...

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Hidden Buffet Spots In New York That Locals Protect

New York City is home to countless restaurants, but the best buffet spots often fly under the radar. These hidden gems serve up incredible all-you-can-eat feasts without the tourist...

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Chicago Buffet Restaurants Everyone Is Talking About

Chicago's food scene has always been known for deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, but the city's buffet restaurants deserve just as much attention. These all-you-can-eat establishments...

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New York All You Can Eat Steakhouses That Are A Carnivore’s Paradise

New York City is a meat lover's dream come true. From Manhattan's glittering skyline to the outer boroughs and beyond, all-you-can-eat steakhouses offer unlimited access to juicy,...

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One Day Train Trip In New Mexico To Enjoy Authentic Green Chile Dishes

New Mexico's green chile is more than just a spicy ingredient – it's a cultural icon that defines the state's cuisine. Imagine combining the thrill of a scenic train journey...

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Alabama Villages That Locals Wish Tourists Would Skip

Alabama's charming small towns have caught the attention of tourists seeking authentic Southern experiences. While tourism brings economic benefits, some villages are struggling...

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Popular New York Towns Ruined By Endless Visitors

Once-peaceful New York towns have transformed into crowded tourist hotspots, leaving locals to grapple with skyrocketing housing costs and vanishing community character. These...

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New York City Breakfast Spots Loved By Locals That Tourists Always Overlook

New York City's breakfast scene goes far beyond the famous tourist spots with long lines and flashy menus. Hidden throughout the five boroughs are breakfast havens where locals...

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Where In Montana Will The First Snow Of The Season Land

Winter approaches Montana with the magic of the first snowfall just around the corner. The initial dustings transform the landscape into a wonderland, signaling the start of Montana's...

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The Ultimate Guide To Middle Eastern Restaurants In New York

New York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, with Middle Eastern food being one of its brightest culinary stars. From smoky kebabs to creamy hummus, the city offers...

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Pennsylvania Bakeries That Still Follow Old Family Recipes

Pennsylvania's rich culinary heritage shines through its family-owned bakeries, where time-honored recipes have been passed down through generations. These special establishments...

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The Ohio Amish Country Spots That Feel Like Tourist Traps Now

Ohio's Amish Country once offered visitors a genuine glimpse into the simple, traditional lifestyle of Amish communities. Over the decades, tourism has transformed parts of this...

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Ohio Lake Towns Locals Say Tourists Have Taken Over

Ohio's serene lakeside communities have long been treasured by residents for their peaceful charm and close-knit atmosphere. In recent years, these hidden gems have caught the...

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Illinois’ Best Hot Dogs Are Waiting At This Nostalgic Roadside Stop

Located on Chicago's northwest side, Superdawg Drive-In is a nostalgic roadside gem that's been a local institution since 1948. This iconic spot, founded by college sweethearts...

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Waco Texas’s Best Rooftop Restaurants For Food And Views

Waco, Texas has become a hidden gem for food lovers seeking memorable dining experiences with a view. The city's skyline, alongside the scenic Brazos River, creates the perfect...

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Local Road Trips In Ohio Ending At Diners Only Farmers Know About

Ohio's backroads wind through a patchwork of cornfields and quiet towns, leading travelers to hidden gems that aren't on any tourist map. For those who believe the best meals are...

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Rustic Ranch Stays In Colorado Off The Tourist Map

Colorado's majestic peaks and expansive plains are home to more than just ski resorts and mountain towns. For a truly authentic experience, escape the crowds and discover the state's...

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10 Lesser Known Lakes In Wisconsin For Kayaking And Fishing

Wisconsin is a paddler's paradise with over 15,000 lakes scattered across its beautiful landscape. While popular spots like Lake Geneva and Lake Winnebago get all the attention,...

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10 Peaceful Forest Trails In Colorado

Colorado's forests hide some of the most serene hiking paths you'll ever find. I've spent countless weekends exploring these woodland treasures, where the only sounds are birds...

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9 Ice Cream Shops In Minnesota That Always Have A Line

Minnesota summers call for cold, creamy treats that make standing in line worth every minute. I've spent countless afternoons chasing the perfect scoop across the Land of 10,000...

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