marissa lockwood author at My Family Travels
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12 Arizona Thrift Markets Locals Swear Have The Best Halloween Deals

Planning a fall road trip through Arizona? October brings more than desert sunsets and cactus landscapes - it's prime time for thrift shopping adventures that locals have been...

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Travelers Claim This Illinois Hot Dog Stand Is The Top Stop On Route 66

Cruising down Route 66 through Illinois isn't just about the journey - it's about discovering those hidden gems that make the trip unforgettable. For decades, one spot has earned...

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12 Texas Destinations Overwhelmed By Tourists

Texas has become one of America's hottest travel destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year to its diverse attractions. From thrilling waterparks and historic landmarks...

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How Minnesota’s Thrift Stores Became The Midwest’s Best-Kept Secret

Minnesota has quietly become a treasure hunter's paradise, with thrift stores that rival any major shopping destination in the country. From vintage clothing to rare collectibles,...

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Everyone’s Heading To Virginia For One Reason: Farm-Fresh Meats

Something special is happening across Virginia's countryside, and food lovers are taking notice. More travelers than ever are packing their cars and heading to the state's rolling...

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The Pennsylvania Gastropub That Should Be On Your Bucket List

If you think you've seen every kind of restaurant, think again. Hidden beneath the streets of Mount Joy lies a dining experience so unique it feels like a portal to another century....

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Tourists Reveal Why Visiting Small Towns In Georgia Isn’t What They Imagined

If you're dreaming of a quiet Georgia getaway filled with warm smiles and Southern charm, think again. Many travelers say their visits to Georgia's once-quaint small towns didn't...

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10 Michigan Resorts Locals Avoid Because Of Tourists

If you're planning a Michigan getaway, get ready for stunning lakes, charming resorts, and - let's be honest - a whole lot of out-of-towners. While locals might steer clear of...

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9 Michigan Buffet Restaurants Worth Visiting (Don’t Miss The Last One)

If you're planning a culinary adventure across Michigan, buffets offer the perfect way to sample a variety of flavors without leaving the table. From fresh sushi and grilled meats...

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This Hidden California Spot Serves Burritos Worth The Wait

If your travels bring you to California and you're hunting for burritos that are legendary among locals, El Tepeyac Cafe in Boyle Heights is a must-visit. Since 1955, this family-run...

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10 Ohio Towns That Seem Boring But Have A Hidden Charm

If you're traveling through Ohio, it's easy to overlook the quiet little towns that seem to blur together off the highway. But take a closer look - many of these so-called boring...

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The Peach Cobbler At This South Carolina Spot Tastes Like Summer

When you're exploring Charleston, South Carolina, finding authentic Southern cuisine is part of the adventure. One restaurant stands out for serving a dessert that perfectly captures...

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Top 10 Georgia Events And Activities This Weekend

If you're traveling through Georgia this weekend, here's what you need to know - from art and music festivals to football games and parades, the Peach State is packed with things...

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8 Gluten-Free Donut Shops In Pennsylvania Worth The Hype

If you're planning a trip through Pennsylvania and crave something sweet without the gluten, you're in for a treat. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the cozy corners...

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Why Californians Keep These All-You-Can-Eat Places To Themselves

Ever wonder why it feels like Californians have secret dining spots that tourists rarely stumble upon? The truth is, locals aren't hiding their favorite all-you-can-eat restaurants...

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10 Texas’ Lost Attractions That Nature Has Claimed

Texas holds secrets beneath its vast skies, where once-thriving attractions now stand silent and slowly return to the earth. Ghost towns, forgotten amusement parks, and historic...

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7 Secret Florida All-You-Can-Eat Spots Tourists Rarely Discover

Florida is famous for theme parks and beaches, but locals know about something even better: incredible all-you-can-eat restaurants hiding in plain sight. While tourists crowd into...

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10 Hidden Old-School Diners In Tennessee Only Locals Know

If you’re traveling through Tennessee, prepare to uncover some of the best-kept secrets in Southern dining. Nestled away from bustling tourist spots, these ten old-school diners...

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Tourists Face Arrests For Street Vending Along The Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, exciting casinos, and endless entertainment. But if you're planning a trip to Sin City, there's something important you need to know before...

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7 Nevada Fast Casual Restaurants That Surprise Every Visitor

Nevada's dining scene goes far beyond the glitzy casino buffets and celebrity chef establishments. Tucked between the neon lights and desert landscapes are fast casual gems that...

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Ways How Washington’s Winter Rains Can Reshape Your Travel Plans

Winter in Washington State brings more than just gray skies – it unveils a different rhythm for travelers willing to embrace the rain. The persistent drizzle that blankets the...

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10 Casual Dining Spots In Texas That Wow Tourists

Texas serves up more than just sprawling landscapes and cowboy culture - it's home to some of the most mouthwatering casual eateries in America. From smoky barbecue joints to vibrant...

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10 Florida’s Best Farm-To-Table Restaurants Worth The Trip

Florida's farm-to-table movement has transformed the state's food scene in amazing ways. From beachside cities to rural towns, chefs are partnering with local farmers to bring...

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10 Illinois Dishes That Made Chicago World Famous

Chicago's food scene is more than just meals – it's a living history of immigrant traditions, innovation, and hometown pride. From humble street carts to world-renowned restaurants,...

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Hawaii So Expensive Locals Say Tourism Has Made Living Impossible

Hawaii's paradise image hides a growing crisis for locals. Tourism, the state's economic engine, has pushed living costs to extreme levels. Many residents now face impossible choices:...

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10 Texas Eats You Can’t Leave The Lone Star State Without Trying

Texas offers a food adventure like no other, blending flavors from Mexican, Southern, and German traditions. The Lone Star State's cuisine reflects its proud history and diverse...

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Experience Free Coffee And Special Deals This National Coffee Day In NYC

Coffee lovers, mark your calendars! National Coffee Day hits New York City on September 29, 2025, bringing an exciting array of freebies and special deals across the five boroughs....

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Overturned Truck Leads To Significant Delays On New Jersey’s I-80

A major traffic nightmare unfolded on Interstate 80 in Paterson, New Jersey when a tractor-trailer overturned during the early morning hours of Thursday. The accident happened...

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Pennsylvania’s First Snow: When And Where To Expect It

The first snowfall in Pennsylvania marks a magical transition from fall to winter, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. As temperatures drop and clouds gather,...

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8 Florida Keys Seafood Spots Now Overrun By Tourists

The Florida Keys, a paradise of turquoise waters and fresh seafood, has become a victim of its own success. Once-quiet local haunts now buzz with visitors eager to sample authentic...

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10 Florida Greek Restaurants That Locals Can’t Get Enough Of

Florida's sunny shores are home to some of the most authentic Greek restaurants outside of Athens. From the historic sponge-diving community of Tarpon Springs to the vibrant streets...

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7 Sacramento Donut Destinations That Customers Swear By

Sacramento's donut scene is a treasure trove of sugary delights that locals can't stop raving about. From family-owned bakeries passing down secret recipes through generations...

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6 Illinois’ Forgotten Theme Parks Left To Decay

Hidden beneath the overgrown weeds and crumbling concrete of Illinois lie the ghosts of once-thriving amusement parks. These magical places once echoed with laughter and screams...

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The City Of Lacey Invites You To Its Free Annual Children’s Day

Mark your calendars for an exciting celebration just for kids! The City of Lacey's Annual Children's Day returns on Saturday, October 4, 2025, transforming Huntamer Park into a...

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10 Best September Fishing Destinations In Florida For Anglers

Florida transforms into an angler's paradise during September when summer heat begins to ease and fish become more active. This transitional month brings excellent opportunities...

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Shop All Day At This Big Oregon Secondhand Store For Under $35

Imagine a treasure hunter's paradise where $35 can last you an entire day of shopping! Artifact: Creative Recycle in Portland, Oregon is exactly that magical place. This massive...

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10 Remote Camping Spots In Colorado Far From Crowds

Colorado's wilderness offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes for campers seeking solitude away from tourist hotspots. These hidden gems provide peaceful retreats where...

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10 Seafood Restaurants In Georgia Worth A Day Trip

Georgia's coastline and vibrant cities offer seafood lovers a treasure trove of dining options. From historic Savannah buildings to Atlanta's modern eateries, the Peach State serves...

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8 Seasonal Craft Fairs In Colorado Off The Radar

Colorado's mountains hide more than just spectacular views - they're also home to some amazing craft fairs that fly under most visitors' radar. These hidden gem events showcase...

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This Unpretentious BBQ Joint In Arizona Serves Pork Ribs Worth The Trip

Hidden in Gilbert, Arizona, Caldwell County BBQ has become a mecca for barbecue lovers seeking authentic Texas-style smoked meats. This unassuming restaurant has earned a stellar...

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8 Abandoned Factories In Michigan That Still Stand Silent

Michigan's industrial landscape is dotted with ghostly remnants of its manufacturing glory days. These abandoned factories once hummed with machinery and bustled with workers,...

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Daily Fresh Shakes Are Served At This Popular Illinois Diner

If you're cruising through Illinois with a sweet tooth, Maid-Rite diners should be on your radar. This beloved chain has been serving up classic American comfort food since 1926,...

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Top 9 Dive Bars And Diners To Visit Along California Route 99

Route 99 stretches like a ribbon of asphalt through the heart of California, offering hungry travelers a taste of authentic American roadside culture. Along this historic highway,...

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Chimichangas Made Fresh At This Arizona Restaurant Are Worth Trying

Arizona's food scene is famous for amazing Mexican cuisine, and chimichangas hold a special place in the hearts of local food lovers. Rosa's Mexican Grill in Mesa has been crafting...

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9 Maine Grocery Stores With Seafood Counters Locals Trust

Maine's rocky coastline offers some of the freshest seafood in America, and locals know exactly where to find it. From family-owned markets to well-stocked grocery stores, these...

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A California Cafe Famous For Its Delicious Comfort Food

Nestled in the heart of Claremont, Village Grill has become a beloved culinary landmark for locals and visitors alike. This charming diner serves up classic American comfort food...

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7 Abandoned Boardwalks In New Jersey Preserved In Memory

New Jersey's coastline once boasted numerous iconic boardwalks that have since vanished, leaving behind only memories and photographs. These wooden walkways were more than just...

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10 Forgotten Monuments Across Ohio

Ohio's landscape holds secret treasures that many residents drive past without noticing. Hidden in plain sight are monuments that tell fascinating stories about our state's rich...

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8 North Carolina Pumpkin Patches With Food Festivals Every Halloween

Fall in North Carolina brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and the beloved tradition of visiting pumpkin patches. Across the state, family farms transform into autumn wonderlands...

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This Florida Beach Offers A Relaxing Picnic Spot With Natural Sand And Shallow Waters

Tucked away at Mile Marker 73.5 on the Overseas Highway in Islamorada lies Anne's Beach, a hidden gem of the Florida Keys. Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, this serene...

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