iris callahan author at My Family Travels
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The Strange South Carolina Rules That Make No Sense To Visitors

South Carolina is famous for beautiful beaches, delicious barbecue, and warm Southern hospitality. But hidden among the state's legal codes are some truly bizarre rules that leave...

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The Lost Tennessee Town Buried Beneath Norris Lake

Beneath the calm, sparkling waters of Norris Lake in Tennessee lies something extraordinary and eerie: an entire village that once thrived with life. Loyston and its surrounding...

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The Oregon Ghost Tour That Haunts Lincoln City On Halloween

Every October, the historic Taft district in Lincoln City transforms into a spine-tingling stage for one of Oregon's most beloved Halloween traditions. The Haunted Taft Halloween...

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Louisiana’s Creepiest Halloween Celebrations You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

Louisiana knows how to throw a Halloween party unlike anywhere else in the country. From legendary swamp creatures to real-life haunted funeral homes, the Pelican State mixes its...

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Most Boring Towns In New Jersey That Are Oddly Addictive To Visit

New Jersey gets a bad rap for being all highways and strip malls, but tucked between the traffic are tiny towns where nothing much happens, and that's exactly their charm.

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The Lost Amusement Park That Still Haunts New Jersey

Palisades Amusement Park closed its gates for good in 1971, but its memory refuses to fade. Perched high on the cliffs overlooking the Hudson River, this legendary park brought...

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What Hawaii Locals Think When Tourists Call It “Paradise”

When tourists arrive in Hawai?i, they often gush about finding paradise on earth. But for the people who actually live there, that word carries a very different weight.

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California Steakhouse Serving Steaks That Melt In Your Mouth

When you're craving a perfect steak in San Francisco, Harris' Restaurant stands out as a legendary destination. This classic steakhouse has been serving up mouthwatering cuts and...

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The Most Boring Places In Kansas That Locals Say Are Hauntingly Peaceful

Kansas might not top anyone's travel bucket list, but that's exactly what makes it special. The state is filled with quiet spots that outsiders might call boring, yet locals treasure...

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This Hidden Delaware Seafood Shack Serves Crab Dip Worth Driving For

Tucked along Route 1 in Milford, Delaware, Meding's Seafood has been serving up fresh catches and family hospitality since 1983. Whether you're heading to the beach or exploring...

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The Things Only Locals In Rhode Island Know About Their Tiny State

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in America, but it packs more quirks and secrets per square mile than anywhere else. Locals have their own language, their own food rules,...

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Why Locals In Nevada Say Las Vegas Is No Longer Theirs

Las Vegas once felt like home to the people who built it, worked in it, and raised their families there. Today, many long-time residents say their city has been transformed into...

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This Tiny Maine Lobster Shack Is The Real Reason People Drive The Coastline

Red's Eats in Wiscasset, Maine, is more than just a roadside seafood shack. It's a legendary destination that draws hungry travelers from around the world, all eager to experience...

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What Travelers In Colorado Say Is Way Harder Than It Looks

Colorado is a dream destination with stunning mountains, world-class ski resorts, and breathtaking hiking trails. But many visitors quickly discover that this beautiful state comes...

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The Crab Legs At This Florida Dockside Spot Are Worth The Flight Alone

Clearwater Beach is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, but there's another gem that draws visitors from all over the country. Crabby's Dockside sits right on the...

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Why Tourists Say New York’s Thrift Stores Have The Wildest Halloween Costumes

New York City is famous for many things, towering skyscrapers, Broadway shows, and incredible pizza. But when Halloween rolls around, tourists discover another hidden gem: the...

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Locals Keep This Delaware Crab Night So Secret It Barely Advertises

Tucked along the Leipsic River in tiny Leipsic, Delaware, Sambo's Tavern is a legendary crab house that has been serving up steamed blue crabs since 1953.

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The Most Boring Cities In South Carolina With Hidden Coastal Charms

South Carolina's coast holds more than just popular tourist hotspots and busy boardwalks. Scattered along the shoreline are quiet towns that might seem sleepy or even dull at first...

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Why California Travelers Are Skipping Fine Dining For Gastropubs

California travelers are changing the way they eat on the road. Instead of booking fancy restaurants with white tablecloths and expensive tasting menus, more people are choosing...

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Why Colorado’s Mountain Town Thrift Stores Are A Treasure Hunter’s Dream

Colorado's mountain towns aren't just famous for skiing and hiking, they're also home to some of the best thrift stores in the country. These small-town shops are packed with amazing...

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10 California Vegetarian Restaurants Redefining Healthy Dining

Ever stumbled upon a place that makes veggies taste like heaven? California's plant-based food scene has exploded with incredible options that will make even die-hard carnivores...

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9 Hidden Vegetarian Spots In Georgia Locals Keep To Themselves

Georgia, known for its peaches and southern charm, hides a secret: a trove of vegetarian delights only the locals whisper about. As I embarked on this culinary quest, I stumbled...

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10 Secret Vegetarian Spots In California Only Locals Know

California's food scene goes way beyond avocado toast and green smoothies. Tucked between the glitzy restaurants and touristy hotspots, a secret world of plant-based culinary magic...

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9 Vegan Bakeries In Washington Serving Pastries Too Good To Share

Washington, the land of politics and monuments, is also a hidden gem for vegan culinary delights. As a self-proclaimed pastry addict, I've ventured through the streets in search...

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The Texas Hot Springs Locals Wish Tourists Never Found

Texas might be famous for barbecue and cowboy boots, but hidden across its deserts and hills are natural springs that locals have cherished for generations. These secret soaking...

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How Tourists In Wisconsin Keep Getting Caught Fishing Without Licenses

Fishing in Wisconsin is a dream come true for many visitors, with its beautiful lakes and abundant fish species. However,...

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Buffet Dining Gems In Michigan That Locals Keep Secret

Michigan's culinary landscape offers a treasure trove of hidden buffet gems cherished by locals. These spots are celebrated for their unique cuisines, exceptional value, and sometimes,...

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This No-Frills Pennsylvania Diner Serves Pierogies Locals Can’t Get Enough Of

Looking for a taste of real Pittsburgh? Starlite Lounge in Blawnox is where locals gather for comfort food that's made with heart and served with a smile.

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Road Trippers Swear By The Fried Grouper Sandwiches At This Florida Diner

Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Clearwater Beach, Frenchy's has become a pilgrimage site for road trippers in search of the perfect fried grouper sandwich.

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6 Great And 2 Not-So-Great Parts Of Visiting Rhode Island

Exploring Rhode Island offers visitors a unique blend of coastal charm, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a captivating destination for travelers. Known as the “Ocean...

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10 Hidden Fast Food Gems In Georgia Tourists Don’t Know

Georgia offers much more than just the typical fast-food chains you see everywhere. Tucked away in gas stations, old roadside diners, and neighborhood corners are incredible burger...

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8 Ways Vermont’s Fall Foliage Lost Its Charm Because Of Tourists

Vermont's fall foliage has long been one of nature's most breathtaking displays, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the brilliant reds, oranges, and golds. However,...

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8 Best Indoor Markets In Florida For Wet Autumn Weekends

When autumn rain showers hit the Sunshine State, indoor markets become perfect weekend retreats. These vibrant marketplaces offer everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts...

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Where To Find The Best Hot Dogs In Houston, Texas

Houston's hot dog scene sizzles with flavor from classic joints to innovative newcomers. These local spots serve up everything from traditional all-beef franks to wild game sausages...

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Who Gets Snow First? 10 Michigan Cities That May See Flurries Ahead Of The Rest

As autumn leaves fall and temperatures drop across Michigan, many residents eagerly (or anxiously) anticipate the season's first snowflakes.

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Cozy Indoor Attractions In Ohio To Enjoy This Rainy Season

When rain clouds gather over the Buckeye State, outdoor adventures take a backseat. Fortunately, Ohio boasts numerous indoor havens where you can escape the drizzle while still...

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Best Pho Restaurants In NY That Locals Keep Secret

New York City hides some amazing pho treasures beyond the usual spots tourists flock to. These steaming bowls of rich broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs can warm both body and...

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8 Secret Picnic Spots In Ohio You’ll Want To Keep To Yourself

Ohio's landscape hides some truly magical places perfect for spreading a blanket and enjoying a meal surrounded by nature. Beyond the popular parks and crowded recreation areas...

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Why Travelers Say Ohio Has Towns That Feel Like German Villages

Tucked away in the heartland of America, Ohio surprises visitors with pockets of authentic German heritage. When you wander through certain Ohio towns, you might feel like you've...

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Florida Train Routes That Surprise Travelers In Fall

Fall in Florida brings a refreshing break from summer heat, making it the perfect time to explore the Sunshine State by rail. Train travel offers a unique way to see Florida's...

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6 Small Art Galleries In Washington State

Washington State's art scene extends far beyond Seattle's big museums. Tucked away in charming towns and unexpected locations, small galleries showcase incredible local talent...

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Cambria: The Quiet California Beach Town Everyone Will Be Visiting Next

Nestled along California's central coast, Cambria offers a refreshing escape from bustling tourist destinations. This charming seaside town combines natural beauty with small-town...

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6 Historic Theaters In Washington State Still Operating

Washington State is home to some magnificent historic theaters that have withstood the test of time. These architectural treasures not only showcase beautiful design elements from...

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8 Secret Paddling Rivers In Michigan

Michigan hides some incredible paddling spots that most tourists never discover. Beyond the popular routes lie pristine rivers where you might paddle all day without seeing another...

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6 Forgotten Amusement Parks In Pennsylvania That Locals Whisper About

Pennsylvania's landscape hides the ghosts of once-thriving amusement parks that time has nearly erased. These forgotten playgrounds once echoed with laughter and screams of delight...

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6 Lesser-Known Wildlife Refuges In New York State

New York State offers more than just bustling cities and famous landmarks. Hidden throughout the state are peaceful wildlife refuges where nature thrives undisturbed.

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