esme whitman author at My Family Travels
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The Secret Florida Park Locals Say Is Cursed

Florida is famous for its sunny beaches and theme parks, but hidden in Port St. Lucie lies a place with a darker reputation. Oak Hammock Park seems like an ordinary neighborhood...

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Hidden All-You-Can-Eat Gem In New Hampshire Locals Don’t Want Shared

New Hampshire might be famous for its mountains and maple syrup, but tucked away in Manchester sits a buffet treasure that locals would rather keep to themselves. Golden Corral...

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Why Retirees Love Taking Slow Road Trips Through New Mexico’s Desert Towns

New Mexico's desert towns offer something special for retirees who crave open roads and peaceful landscapes. With wide highways stretching through stunning scenery and small communities...

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Most Boring Towns In New Hampshire With Hidden Scenic Beauty

New Hampshire is packed with towns that might not make the headlines or tourist brochures, but that doesn't mean they lack charm. Many of these quiet, slow-paced communities sit...

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The Hidden Pennsylvania Buffet That Locals Swear Will Change How You Eat Forever

Imagine walking into a place where the smell of roast chicken fills the air, plates clatter softly in the background, and a simple roadside building hums with the steady presence...

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The Unexpected Things Tourists In California Say Always Happen On Road Trips

California road trips are legendary for good reason. The Golden State offers everything from sun-soaked beaches to towering redwood forests, sprawling deserts to snow-capped mountains,...

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No Trip Through Minnesota Is Complete Without A Stop For Wild Rice Soup Here

Minnesota is known for its beautiful lakes, friendly people, and a special dish that warms the heart: wild rice soup. This creamy comfort food combines native wild rice with vegetables...

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Why Georgia’s Thrift Stores Are The Best Places To Hunt For Halloween Decor

Halloween shopping in Georgia has never been more exciting, especially when you explore the state's incredible thrift stores. From vintage costumes to quirky decorations, these...

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Tourists Keep Missing This Nevada Buffet Locals Say Is “Too Good To Share”

Las Vegas is world-famous for its all-you-can-eat buffets, but while tourists flock to the glittering casinos on the Strip, locals know where the real treasure is hiding. Tucked...

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Take One Bite At This Pennsylvania Buffet And You’ll Be Hooked For Life

Tucked away in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Miller's Smorgasbord has been serving up incredible homestyle meals for decades. This family-friendly buffet in Ronks offers...

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10 Ohio’s Hauntingly Empty Parks You Can Still Find

I love those moments when nature feels like it belongs just to me - when silence stretches wide and the landscape feels untouched. Ohio, with its quiet corners and overlooked trails,...

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10 Pocono Lake Towns That Locals Say Aren’t The Same

The Pocono Mountains region has always been a favorite getaway for families seeking lakeside charm and small-town warmth. Over the years, though, many of these beloved communities...

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Camper In Alaska Comes Face-To-Face With Bear Family And Keeps Filming

A quiet Alaskan campsite turns electric when a camper spots a bear family strolling out of the treeline. Instead of running, they steady the camera and keep filming every breath,...

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Why Pennsylvania’s Small-Town Thrift Shops Are Full Of Surprises

I hit the back roads of Pennsylvania with a tote bag and a curious heart, and I kept stumbling into small-town thrift shops that felt like treasure chests. Every doorway led to...

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10 Nebraska Restaurants That Make Date Night Unforgettable

Looking for a date night that turns simple plans into an unforgettable memory? Nebraska serves up romance with personality, from cozy Lincoln hideaways to elegant Omaha favorites....

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This Florida Seafood Buffet Lets You Feast Without Breaking The Bank

Craving a mountain of seafood without the sticker shock? As a travel enthusiast who times detours around memorable meals, I found a Florida buffet where the plates are endless...

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All-You-Can-Eat Spots In Mississippi Only Locals Talk About

Hungry for a true Mississippi adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist trail? I’ve spent countless miles exploring the Magnolia State’s highways and backroads in search...

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10 Overlooked Illinois Parks That Are Still Worth Visiting

Illinois hides some truly underrated green spaces behind its big-name attractions. If you love quiet trails, local history, and places where the crowds rarely go, this list is...

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7 Highlights And 2 Headaches Of A Washington Trip

Planning a trip to Washington can be both thrilling and overwhelming. From the iconic monuments of DC to the stunning natural landscapes of the state, there's so much to see and...

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8 Great And 3 Not-So-Great Parts Of Visiting Texas

Texas, the second-largest state in America, offers visitors a mix of exciting adventures and occasional challenges. When I first visited the Lone Star State, I was amazed by its...

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7 Illinois Authentic Kebabs That Make The State Worth Visiting

Illinois is home to one of the most diverse food cultures in the country, thanks to its immigrant communities that have brought rich culinary traditions to the Midwest. While Chicago...

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8 Coastal Cafes In California Where Breakfast Feels Like A Vacation

California is home to breathtaking coastlines and vibrant beach towns, where breakfast at a coastal café can feel like a mini-vacation. With the sound of waves and the scent of...

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Illinois Is Full Of Iconic Eats But Traffic Can Ruin The Trip

As a lifelong foodie and road trip enthusiast, I've spent countless hours exploring the culinary treasures of Illinois. The Prairie State offers some of America's most mouthwatering...

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One Day Train Trip In New York To Discover Bagels And Pastrami Worth Traveling For

New York is famous for its incredible Jewish deli foods, especially bagels and pastrami that locals swear by. The good news is you don't need to stay overnight to enjoy these iconic...

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Taste What Locals Are Raving About At These 8 Hidden Fast Food Spots In California

California's food scene goes way beyond fancy restaurants and tourist traps. Hidden throughout the Golden State are fast food gems that locals treasure but visitors often miss....

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6 Things Arizona Was Famous For Until Tourists Took Over

Arizona's rugged landscape has captivated hearts for generations, but its identity has shifted dramatically in recent decades. Once known for its authentic Western heritage and...

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New York Pizza Slices Worth Traveling Across The World To Eat

New York pizza is a cultural icon that transcends mere food status, drawing visitors from every corner of the globe. The city's signature slices: thin, foldable, and bursting with...

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9 Cozy Indoor Spots In Michigan To Warm Up And Escape The Winter Chill

Michigan, known for its harsh winters, offers an array of indoor retreats perfect for escaping the winter chill. These cozy spots provide warmth and entertainment, making them...

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8 Colorado Mountain Trails That Tourists Have Overrun

Colorado's breathtaking mountain trails draw millions of visitors each year seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure. But this popularity comes with a price. Many once-peaceful...

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5 Alabama Abandoned Amusement Parks That Only Locals Remember

Alabama has seen its share of amusement parks come and go, leaving behind scattered ruins and fading memories. These parks once drew families with promises of thrills, water rides,...

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Pueblo vs. Hatch: Colorado’s Battle Of The Green Chiles

In the Southwest, chile peppers are more than produce, they are identity. Colorado and New Mexico both claim bragging rights with Pueblo and Hatch chiles, and the rivalry has been...

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6 Secret Coffee Shops In Seattle And Beyond

Seattle’s coffee scene has no shortage of hidden gems that feel worlds away from generic chains. Tucked into alleys, historic markets, or bright neighborhood corners, these cafés...

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This South Carolina Café Serves Comfort Food So Good It Deserves A Road Trip

Hidden in the small town of Wellford, South Carolina lies a culinary treasure that locals have been keeping secret for too long. The Hot Dog Café might sound like just another...

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6 Delicious South Dakota Festivals That Celebrate The State’s Culinary Roots

South Dakota's rich agricultural heritage has inspired amazing food celebrations across the state. From sizzling barbecue competitions to unique local delicacies, these festivals...

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7 Cozy Cabins In Pennsylvania That Are Perfect For A Fall Weekend Escape

Discover the allure of Pennsylvania's picturesque cabins, perfect for a fall weekend escape. Unwind in the serenity of nature while enjoying the vibrant autumn hues. Whether you're...

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Why The Pyrenees Roll Is The Star Of Kern County’s Fair Sandwiches

Exploring the legacy and craftsmanship of the Pyrenees Roll, a staple in Kern County's fair sandwiches, reveals a story of tradition, community, and culinary excellence.

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8 Quirky Local Festivals In Michigan Communities

If you're yearning for a taste of Michigan's unique flair, these quirky festivals are sure to pique your curiosity. Every year, Michigan communities host an eclectic mix of events...

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9 Buffets In Pennsylvania Worth A Day Trip Across The State

Ever found yourself daydreaming about endless plates of comfort food while stuck in traffic? I certainly have! Pennsylvania, with its rich culinary heritage, boasts some truly...

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9 Quiet Forest Trails In Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park offers some of the most peaceful forest experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Away from the crowds, these nine trails wind through ancient trees, lush moss...

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6 California Family Dining Spots Serving Hearty Meals For Under $25

Finding affordable family restaurants in California can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With rising food costs, treating the whole family to a meal out often strains...

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This Cozy Ohio Tavern Is Winning Hearts With Its Legendary Brisket

Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Fired Stone Tavern has become a local sensation thanks to its mouthwatering brisket. This family-owned spot combines rustic charm with culinary excellence,...

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