elias vaughn author at My Family Travels
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The Abandoned Georgia Island Where Luxury Found Ruin and The Ghosts Still Serve Drinks

Off the coast of Georgia sits Jekyll Island, a place where America's wealthiest families once gathered in absolute secrecy and splendor.

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The Volcano Stunt Tourists Keep Trying in Hawaii That Locals Say Could Be Deadly

Hawaii's volcanoes are breathtaking natural wonders that draw millions of visitors every year, but there's a big difference between how locals and tourists approach these sacred...

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The California City Where Every Sunset Feels Like a Movie Scene

San Diego is a coastal paradise that perfectly blends sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and endless adventures. Whether you're...

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Locals in the “Lamest” City in Ohio Know It’s Actually a Skater’s Paradise

Columbus, Ohio has quietly become one of the most exciting places for skateboarders in the entire Midwest. From world-class...

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The “Boring” Oregon Suburb That’s Quietly Hosting the West Coast’s Best Food Truck Rally

Hillsboro, Oregon, might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of incredible street food, but it should be. This...

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The Oregon Chalet That Feels Like a Private Winter Fairytale

Craving alpine serenity with creature comforts at your doorstep? The Huckleberry Chalet in Welches delivers a quintessential...

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The Hidden Snowshoe Trails in New Hampshire You’ll Want to Explore

New Hampshire transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow falls, and there's no better way to experience it than on snowshoes.

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The Weird Laws In West Virginia That Locals Secretly Love

West Virginia has a colorful legal history that ranges from the serious to the downright strange. Many of these unusual laws...

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The Hidden Florida Keys Buffet Where Seafood Never Stops Coming

When you think about Florida dining, few experiences compare to cracking fresh stone crab claws while gazing at shimmering waterfront views.

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The Haunted Florida Water Park That Reappears After Every Hurricane

Six Flags Atlantis once stood as a shimmering water park paradise in Hollywood, Florida, until Hurricane Andrew swept through in 1992 and destroyed it forever.

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Why Tourists In Kansas Keep Getting Fined For Entering Tornado Shelters

Kansas is famous for its wide-open skies and powerful tornadoes, which is why you'll find tornado shelters scattered across the state.

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Iowa Steakhouses Locals Don’t Want Tourists To Find

Iowa might be famous for its cornfields and friendly people, but tucked away in small towns across the state are some of the best steakhouses you've never heard of.

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Why Locals In Oklahoma Say They’re Losing Their Hometown To Out-Of-Staters

Oklahoma has always been known for its friendly communities, open spaces, and affordable living. But lately, something has changed.

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Alaska Nights Capture The Spotlight As Noctourism Grows

Alaska is becoming one of the most exciting places in the world for nighttime travel. As more people discover the magic of...

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The Forgotten Oregon Resort That Still Rings Its Dinner Bell

Nestled in the remote southeastern corner of Oregon, the Frenchglen Hotel & Drover's Inn stands as a historic landmark that feels frozen in time.

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10 Small Massachusetts Towns Where Every December Feels Enchanted

Ah, Massachusetts in December! A magical wonderland where charming small towns come alive with the sparkle of the holiday season. Each town has its own unique flair, where nostalgia...

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Most Boring Towns In Illinois That Have The State’s Most Loyal Residents

Illinois has plenty of exciting cities, but some towns are known for being pretty quiet and low-key. While outsiders might call them boring, the people who live there wouldn't...

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The Cemetery In Massachusetts Locals Say Is Never Empty After Midnight

Spider Gates Cemetery sits quietly in Leicester, Massachusetts, but its reputation is anything but peaceful. Known officially as Friends Cemetery, this historic Quaker burial ground...

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10 Lobster Shacks In Maine Every Traveler Should Taste Once

Ah, Maine! The land of pine trees, rugged coastlines, and, most importantly, lobster. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll want to roll up your sleeves and dive into the...

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Why Tourists In Arizona Keep Breaking The Law With Desert Drones

Arizona's breathtaking desert landscapes and famous national parks attract millions of visitors each year, many carrying the latest camera technology: drones.

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The Truth About Tourists In Hawaii Who Keep Breaking Ocean Safety Rules

Hawaii's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters attract millions of visitors every year, but the beauty of the Pacific Ocean can hide serious dangers. Many tourists find themselves...

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The Haunted Penitentiary In Philly That Time Forgot

Eastern State Penitentiary stands as one of America's most infamous prisons, and its reputation for being haunted is known worldwide. Opened in 1829 in Philadelphia, this crumbling...

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Travelers Swear The Pulled Pork Nachos At This North Carolina Spot Are Unforgettable

Mac's Speed Shop has become a beloved destination for barbecue lovers and families throughout North Carolina. This restaurant combines award-winning smoked meats with a welcoming...

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This Arizona Road Has Become A Legend For Its Vanishing Hitchhikers

Winding through the remote wilderness of Arizona, US Route 191 carries a dark reputation that has terrified travelers for decades. Once known as Route 666, this lonely stretch...

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This Hidden Colorado Mountain Town Feels Like The Set Of A Winter Romance

Tucked away in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Crested Butte is a mountain town that offers something special for every type of traveler.

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Idaho River Towns That Became Tourist Selfie Spots

Idaho's river towns have transformed from quiet hideaways into bustling photo destinations. Once sleepy communities where locals fished and logged, these spots now draw thousands...

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Road Trippers Can’t Stop Talking About The Fried Catfish At This Arkansas Shack

If you're driving through Arkansas and craving authentic Southern comfort food, Brown's Catfish in Russellville should be on your radar. This beloved roadside eatery has earned...

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The Ghostly Glow That Haunts An Empty Highway In West Texas

Deep in the West Texas desert, mysterious glowing orbs dance across the horizon, baffling scientists and thrilling visitors for over a century. The Marfa Lights have become one...

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This Historic Route 66 Diner In Oklahoma Serves Cinnamon Rolls Bigger Than Your Plate

Tucked away in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Tally's Good Food Cafe has become a beloved institution for locals and travelers alike. This iconic Route 66 diner serves up massive portions of...

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California’s Abandoned Waterpark Left To Decay

Hidden in the scorching Mojave Desert lies a strange and haunting landmark that once promised splashing fun but now sits empty and forgotten. Rock-A-Hoola Waterpark, originally...

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How Tourists In Kentucky Keep Getting Busted For Taking “Free” Souvenirs

Kentucky welcomes millions of visitors every year who come to explore its beautiful caves, historic sites, and natural wonders. Many tourists think taking a small rock or plant...

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The Surprising Reasons Tourists Keep Getting Arrested In Louisiana Swamps

Louisiana's bayous and swamps are magical places filled with wildlife, moss-draped trees, and winding waterways. But every year, tourists find themselves in handcuffs for breaking...

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Why Everyone’s Traveling To Texas For Its Gulf Shrimp Counters

Texas has become a hotspot for seafood lovers who crave the freshest shrimp straight from the Gulf. The state's coastal towns offer something special that you simply can't find...

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Travelers Say This Historic Oregon Seafood Spot Serves Chowder That Beats The Rest

Gracie's Sea Hag has been a beloved coastal landmark in Depoe Bay since 1963, drawing visitors from near and far. This quirky restaurant offers more than just a meal, it delivers...

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The Real Reasons Tourists Flock To Florida’s Coastal Fish Counters

Florida's coastal fish counters are more than just places to buy seafood, they're destinations that capture the spirit of the Sunshine State's maritime culture. Visitors from all...

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Why Retirees Say Georgia Is the Best State For Budget-Friendly Road Trips

Georgia has quietly become one of the smartest choices for retirees who love hitting the open road without emptying their wallets.

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Most Boring Towns In Nevada That Are Secretly Full Of Life

Nevada is famous for Las Vegas and Reno, but what about those tiny towns you pass by on long desert drives? Many of these places look sleepy and forgotten at first glance.

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Why Tourists Flock To Massachusetts Thrift Stores For Spooky Decor

Massachusetts has become a hotspot for visitors searching for the perfect eerie decorations, especially during the fall season. Thrift stores across the state offer more than just...

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The Donuts At This Michigan Bakery Have Tourists Lining Up Every Morning

Clare, Michigan, is home to one of the most unusual and beloved bakeries in America. Cops & Doughnuts isn't just a place to grab a sweet treat, it's a destination with a fascinating...

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Discover The Real NYC Chew At This Beloved East Village Bagel Shop

When you're wandering through New York City's East Village, hungry and craving something authentic, Tompkins Square Bagels (TSB) should be at the top of your list.

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The Truth Tourists Learned In Oklahoma About Traveling On A Budget

Oklahoma might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but budget-savvy travelers are discovering it's a hidden gem for affordable adventures.

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Why Arizona Locals Laugh At Tourists Who Think The Desert Is “Just Sand”

When people picture the Arizona desert, they often imagine endless dunes and empty sand stretching to the horizon. Locals know this couldn't be further from the truth.

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Forgotten Florida Parks That Locals Whisper About

Florida is famous for its theme parks and crowded beaches, but hidden across the state are forgotten parks that most tourists never hear about. Some are peaceful nature preserves...

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Hidden Thrift Shops In Arizona Every Traveler Should Hunt Down

Arizona holds some of the best-kept secrets for treasure hunters who love a good bargain. From upscale neighborhoods donating designer goods to college towns overflowing with vintage...

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10 Peaceful Georgia Towns That Turned Into Unexpected Party Destinations

Georgia's charming small towns aren't just for peaceful getaways anymore. I've watched these sleepy Southern gems transform into vibrant hotspots where locals and tourists alike...

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10 Idaho Mountain Towns Tourists Turned Into Must-See Spots

Idaho's rugged mountains hide some of the most charming small towns you'll ever lay eyes on. I've spent years exploring these gems, watching them transform from sleepy local hideaways...

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10 Georgia Vegetarian Restaurants Every Traveler Should Taste

Hey there, fellow food adventurers! If you’ve ever found yourself wandering through Georgia with a craving for something green, vibrant, and delightfully meat-free, you’re...

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8 Hidden Vegan Dessert Shops In Washington Worth The Hunt

Washington's culinary scene is a treasure trove of surprises, especially for those who live for vegan desserts. If you think finding a delightful vegan sweet treat is akin to searching...

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This Colorado Burger Joint Serves Juicy Burgers That Locals Swear Are The Best In The State

Denver's My Brother's Bar has been serving burgers since the 1870s, making it one of the oldest watering holes in the city. What makes their burgers so special that generations...

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Vegan Dessert Shops In Pennsylvania That Are Totally Underrated

Pennsylvania is home to a myriad of delightful vegan dessert shops, often overshadowed by larger establishments. These hidden...

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