gideon frost author at My Family Travels
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The Hole-In-The-Wall Oregon Seafood Shack That Outsmarts Fancy Restaurants

Astoria, Oregon, is home to one of the most unique seafood spots on the entire Pacific Coast. The Bowpicker Fish & Chips...

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10 Hole-In-The-Wall Burger Joints In Michigan That Locals Love

Michigan's burger scene goes way beyond the big chain restaurants you see on every corner. Hidden throughout the state are...

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The Forgotten Motel In Florida Locals Swear No One Can Spend The Night In

The Star Motel sits along Highway 192 in Kissimmee, Florida, just miles from the magic of Disney World. Yet this abandoned...

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10 Hole-In-The-Wall Breakfast Spots In Colorado Locals Don’t Want You To Find

Colorado is famous for its mountains and skiing, but locals know the real treasure lies in its hidden breakfast joints. These...

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This Hole-In-The-Wall South Carolina Spot Is The True Home Of Shrimp And Grits

Charleston's culinary scene is legendary, and at the heart of it all sits Slightly North of Broad, affectionately known as SNOB.

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The Most Beautiful Places In Colorado To Enjoy Thanksgiving Dinner With A View

Colorado transforms into a winter wonderland around Thanksgiving, offering breathtaking mountain vistas, historic charm, and luxurious dining experiences all in one package.

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10 Illinois BBQ Buffets Locals Say Smoke The Competition

If there's one thing Illinois locals know, it's where to find the best barbecue buffets. Forget the fancy restaurants and chain joints; these spots are where the true smokey magic...

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The Connecticut Shoreline Towns Now Crowded Beyond Recognition

Connecticut's picturesque shoreline has long been a magnet for visitors seeking coastal charm and New England beauty. Once peaceful havens for locals, many of these towns now struggle...

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The Small Montana Town Where Locals Still Believe In Snowy Miracles

Nestled at the edge of Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City, Montana transforms into a winter wonderland that feels plucked from a storybook. This tiny mountain town doesn't just...

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The Hidden All-You-Can-Eat Shrimp Shack In Alabama Worth Every Mile

Orange Beach, Alabama is home to one of the Gulf Coast's best-kept secrets: Doc's Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar. Since the 1980s, this humble spot has been serving up fresh, fried...

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10 Cozy New York Apple Orchards That Feel Straight Out Of A Halloween Movie

If you're anything like me, the allure of fall in New York is irresistible. The crisp air, vibrant foliage, and, of course, the apple orchards that seem to leap straight out of...

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Hidden Beneath The Hills: The Forgotten Indiana Water Park That Never Reopened

Thunder Island Water Park once echoed with laughter and splashing fun, but today it stands silent and forgotten near Indianapolis. The park closed suddenly in the mid-1990s, leaving...

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The Hidden Fines Tourists Face For Hiking During Fire Season In Montana

Montana's wilderness draws thousands of hikers every summer, but fire season transforms those scenic trails into legal minefields. One wrong move during high-risk periods can leave...

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The Haunted Mansion In Missouri Where The Past Refuses To Die

The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis, Missouri, stands as one of America's most haunted homes. Built in the 1860s by a wealthy brewing family, this Victorian estate witnessed unimaginable...

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The Haunted Bridge In Michigan That Locals Avoid Every Halloween

Tucked away in the woods near Rockford, Michigan, Hell's Bridge has earned a terrifying reputation that draws brave visitors and paranormal enthusiasts from all over. This small...

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This Hidden Tennessee Orchard Serves Cider So Good It’s Scary

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, The Apple Barn and Cider Mill in Sevierville, Tennessee, is a must-visit destination for families and food lovers alike....

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The Virginia Small Town That Locals Say Is Too Perfect To Be Real

Nestled in the rolling hills of Virginia's horse country, Middleburg is a charming town that feels like stepping back in time. This historic gem offers visitors a unique blend...

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Why Families Flock To This All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Buffet In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge is packed with attractions, but finding a place that feeds your whole family without breaking the bank can be tough. Wood Grill Buffet stands out as one of the best...

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How To Get To A Spanish Café From Wisconsin Airport In Just Over A Day

Dreaming of sipping café con leche in Spain by tomorrow? It's more doable than you think, even from Wisconsin. With the right...

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The Abandoned Kansas Amusement Park Where Rides Still Move In The Wind

Once a place of laughter and thrills, Joyland Amusement Park in Wichita, Kansas, now stands silent and abandoned. What was once a beloved family destination has transformed into...

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Why Alabama Locals Swear This Small Lake Town Is the State’s Most Relaxing Escape

Nestled along the shores of Alabama's largest lake, Guntersville is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with Southern charm. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history...

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The Fried Bologna Sandwich At This Tennessee Diner Is Pure Southern Comfort

Puckett's Restaurant is a Tennessee institution celebrated for its authentic Southern experience. From live music that fills the air to comfort food that warms the soul, this beloved...

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How Tourists In Nevada Keep Getting Fined For Desert Campfires

Nevada's desert landscape looks inviting for a campfire under the stars, but tourists are learning expensive lessons about fire safety. Every year, thousands of visitors get slapped...

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Why Texas Travelers Can’t Get Enough Of Gastropubs

Texas travelers are changing how they eat when they explore the Lone Star State. More people are choosing gastropubs over traditional restaurants, and this shift is happening for...

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Unusual Arizona Laws Tourists Often Break Unknowingly

Arizona might be famous for its stunning desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon, but the state also has some truly bizarre laws that catch visitors off guard. Many tourists accidentally...

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The Most Boring Cities In Washington That Turn Out To Be Surprisingly Beautiful

Washington State is famous for Seattle's skyline and the stunning Cascade Mountains, but some of its smaller towns get overlooked as "boring" places with not much going on. However,...

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Why Illinois Festivals Are Seeing A Surge In Tourists In 2025

Illinois festivals have always been popular, but something feels different in 2025. Locals are noticing that their favorite summer events seem packed with out-of-town visitors,...

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This All-You-Can-Eat Brazilian Steakhouse In Nebraska Is An Experience You Can’t Miss

If you're craving a dining adventure that goes beyond the typical steakhouse, Rodizio Grill in Nebraska delivers an unforgettable experience. This Brazilian churrascaria brings...

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The Funny Things Tourists In Kentucky Always Get Wrong

Kentucky is a state full of surprises, from its rolling horse farms to its world-famous bourbon distilleries. But when visitors arrive in the Bluegrass State, they often bring...

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What Hawaii Locals Say Tourists Always Misunderstand About Island Life

Visiting Hawaii feels like stepping into paradise, but there's more to island life than mai tais and sunset photos. Many tourists unknowingly make mistakes that frustrate locals...

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The Secret Florida Attraction That Was Shut Down Overnight

Twister... Ride It Out was one of Universal Studios Florida's most beloved special effects shows, bringing the power of a tornado right into the theme park. For 17 years, guests...

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The Oklahoma BBQ Buffet That Feeds Locals Until They Beg For Mercy

When you're craving serious barbecue and perfectly grilled steaks in the Tulsa area, Stone Mill BBQ & Steakhouse in Broken Arrow is the place to be. This family-owned gem has...

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What Locals Know About New Mexico That Tourists Always Miss

New Mexico is a land of mystery, culture, and hidden traditions that most visitors never discover. While tourists flock to the famous sites, locals know the real magic lies in...

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Washington State Towns Locals Say Tourists Have Ruined

Washington State is home to breathtaking landscapes and charming small towns that draw visitors from around the world. However, this popularity comes with a price that longtime...

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The All-You-Can-Eat Fried Chicken Buffet In Mississippi People Drive Hours For

Tucked away in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, sits a dining gem that locals can't stop raving about. Movie Star Restaurant isn't just another buffet spot, it's a celebration of authentic...

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The Real Reason Tourists Visit New York’s Coastal Boroughs Is The Seafood

New York City is famous for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, but there's another side to the Big Apple that draws food lovers from around the world. The coastal boroughs,...

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Ohio Steakhouses Serving Comfort Food That Shocks Travelers

Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about amazing steakhouses, but the Buckeye State is packed with hidden gems that serve up incredible beef alongside...

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Tourists Reveal The One Restaurant In Louisiana They’ll Never Forget

Commander's Palace is more than just a restaurant; it's a living piece of New Orleans culinary history. Nestled in the beautiful Garden District, this iconic turquoise-and-white...

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7 Highlights And 3 Letdowns Of Visiting Maryland

Maryland might not be the first state that pops into your head when planning a vacation, but trust me, this quirky mid-Atlantic gem has more personality than you'd expect. I've...

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Washington Fast Food Restaurants That Redefine Dining Out

Washington State’s fast-food scene is anything but ordinary. Beyond the typical drive-thru chains, the Evergreen State is home to a growing number of fast-casual spots and indie...

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The Rise And Fall Of California’s Lost Amusement Parks

California has always been home to thrilling amusement parks that brought joy to millions of families. However, not all of...

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Illinois Steakhouses Serving Steaks Too Big To Finish

Illinois is home to some of the most legendary steakhouses, each boasting cuts of beef so large they're meant for sharing, or for the truly ambitious, tackling solo.

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Most Boring Places In New York State That Might Be Worth A Second Look

New York State is famous for its bright city lights and stunning natural wonders, but some places get unfairly labeled as boring.

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Hidden All-You-Can-Eat Buffets In Ohio That Outsiders Never Hear Of

Ohio is home to a variety of hidden all-you-can-eat gems that are often overlooked by outsiders. From authentic Amish cuisine to interactive Korean BBQ, these buffets offer unique...

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Abandoned Georgia Parks With Haunting Histories

Georgia’s parks were once vibrant hubs of life, filled with the sounds of laughter, the thrill of adventure, and the simple joys of families and friends gathering together. Over...

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10 Washington Casual Dining Restaurants That Redefine Dining Out

Discover a selection of standout casual dining spots across Washington, D.C. and Washington State that are transforming the local food scene with creativity, bold flavors, and...

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Hidden All You Can Eat Buffet Gems In Texas You’ll Love

Texas is home to an incredible variety of all-you-can-eat buffets that cater to every craving and appetite. From sprawling spreads filled with authentic local favorites to global...

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Hidden Casual Dining Restaurants In Washington Worth The Trip

Discover Washington’s hidden casual dining gems, places where delicious food and cozy ambiance come together to create unforgettable experiences. From rustic taverns with hearty...

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10 Things To Know About The Unique Michigan Lighthouse Locals Never Stopped Talking About

Have you ever stood before a structure so steeped in local lore that it seems to whisper stories of the past? That's precisely the magnetic allure of Michigan's most talked-about...

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A Guide To Illinois’ Batman Filming Locations In Chicago

Chicago has played a starring role as Gotham City in several Batman films, particularly in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy. The Windy City's mix of historic architecture,...

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