owen lark author at My Family Travels
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Florida Breaks Tourism Record With 34.4 Million Visitors in Second Quarter of 2025

Florida has once again set a new tourism milestone. Between April and June 2025, the Sunshine State welcomed 34.4 million visitors, making it the highest second-quarter figure...

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Bridge Maintenance In California That Might Delay Your Drive

California's aging bridge infrastructure requires constant maintenance to keep travelers safe. Across the state, major repair projects are underway that could impact your travel...

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The Washington Hike That Feels Impossible to Access Without This Hack

Hidden deep within Washington's Alpine Lakes Wilderness lies a hiker's paradise known as The Enchantments. With its crystal-clear...

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How We Found a Way Into Texas’ Most “Off Limits” Ghost Town

Hidden among the vast desert landscapes of West Texas lies Terlingua, once a thriving mercury mining community now mostly abandoned to the elements.

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8 Hidden Art Fairs Across Ohio Towns

Ohio's small towns harbor artistic treasures that often fly under the radar of mainstream tourism. Beyond the big city galleries and museums, these community art fairs showcase...

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7 Small Town Music Festivals in Ohio Worth Planning a Trip Around

Ohio's small towns host some of the most authentic and vibrant music festivals you'll find anywhere in the Midwest. Beyond the big city venues of Cleveland and Cincinnati, these...

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The California Deli Serving a Steak You’ll Never Forget

Hidden in the heart of Bakersfield lies a culinary treasure that locals have cherished for generations. Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen combines the warmth of Italian hospitality...

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8 Small Railroad Towns in Kansas That Feel Frozen in the 1950s

Nestled throughout the Kansas prairie are charming small towns where time seems to have slowed down. These railroad communities once thrived as bustling hubs when trains were the...

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10 Halloween Themed Desserts in New York That Look Almost Too Creepy to Eat

Halloween in New York brings out the artistic side of pastry chefs across the city. Bakeries transform ordinary treats into spine-chilling masterpieces that are equal parts delicious...

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7 Halloween Festivals in Georgia That Locals Count Down To Every Year

When fall arrives in Georgia, the Peach State transforms into a spooky paradise filled with haunted attractions, pumpkin patches, and costume parades.

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8 Alabama Soul Food Restaurants Serving Plates That Feel Like Home

There's something magical about soul food that connects us to our roots. Across Alabama, family-owned kitchens are keeping Southern cooking traditions alive with recipes passed...

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10 Haunted Hotels in Florida Where Guests Claim They Still Hear Footsteps

Florida's sunny beaches and tropical vibes hide a darker side - historic hotels with chilling ghost stories. These elegant establishments have hosted both the living and, if stories...

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Top 7 Buffets in Michigan That Locals Say Are Worth the Drive

Michigan is home to some amazing all-you-can-eat buffets that locals rave about. From family-style chicken dinners to international cuisine and casino feasts, these spots offer...

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5 Authentic Greek Diners in Chicago That Locals Defend Fiercely

Chicago's Greek community has blessed the city with authentic diners that serve as cultural landmarks. These family-owned establishments dish out traditional recipes passed down...

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7 Spooky Lighthouses in Maine Still Watching the Coastline

Maine's rugged coastline is dotted with lighthouses that have guided sailors safely to shore for centuries. Behind their picturesque facades, many of these beacons harbor dark...

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The Best Non Touristy Things To Do In Miami According To Locals

Miami isn't just about South Beach and fancy clubs - there's a whole other side to the Magic City that only locals know about. As a Florida native, I've spent years exploring the...

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Cincinnati’s Beloved Eatery Is Back And Better Than Ever

Guess who's back in the Queen City food scene? Island Frydays, our favorite Jamaican spot, has reopened its doors and my taste buds couldn't be happier! After a brief hiatus that...

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8 Unusual Monuments in Florida

Florida is home to an eclectic mix of monuments that reflect its diverse history and culture. From citrus-shaped buildings to enigmatic stone sculptures, these unusual landmarks...

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8 Oregon Donut Shops With Lines Out the Door

Oregon is home to some of the most beloved donut shops where people gladly wait in line for a taste of deliciousness. From quirky flavors to traditional favorites, these eight...

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5 Buffets in North Carolina That Families Swear By

North Carolina is a treasure trove of buffet-style dining that caters to families seeking variety, flavor, and value. In a state rich with culinary heritage, these buffets stand...

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Haunted Themed Restaurants in California Serving Up Creepy Cuisine

California is not only known for its sunny beaches and glamorous cities but also for its spine-chilling dining experiences. Explore four haunted themed restaurants that promise...

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6 Forgotten Zoos in New Jersey That Locals Still Remember

New Jersey's landscape of family attractions once included a variety of unique zoos that have since closed their gates. These forgotten zoos, however, still linger in the memories...

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9 Mountain Day Trips in Colorado That Feel Like Mini Vacations

Explore the stunning mountain landscapes of Colorado with these nine exceptional day trips. Each destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, activities, and charm, providing...

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7 Strange Monuments in Missouri That Outsiders Never Expect

Missouri is home to some truly unusual and unexpected monuments that capture the imagination of both locals and visitors. From...

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The Dungeness Crab at This California Seafood Shack Might Be the State’s Best

Nestled along the picturesque coast of Half Moon Bay, California, Barbara’s Fishtrap stands as an emblem of culinary tradition. Known for serving some of the finest Dungeness...

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10 Comfort Food Spots In Washington That Feel Like Grandma’s Kitchen

There's nothing quite like the warm, fuzzy feeling of walking into grandma's kitchen. The familiar smells, the hearty portions, and that indescribable sense that everything's going...

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12 Allergy Friendly Restaurants In California

Finding a restaurant that caters to food allergies can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. California, with its diverse food scene, thankfully offers plenty of options...

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7 Secluded Lake Towns in Wisconsin Where Life Moves Slow

Wisconsin, known for its lush landscapes and serene bodies of water, offers a collection of quaint lake towns where time seems to gently drift by. These hidden gems provide a perfect...

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8 Washington Islands You Can Only Reach by Ferry

Washington State is home to a picturesque array of islands only accessible by ferry. These islands offer breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and a touch of serene isolation that's...

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6 Treehouse Stays in Washington That Feel Straight Out of a Fairytale

Washington State is home to some of the most enchanting treehouse accommodations, each offering a unique escape into nature. These...

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The 6 Oldest Pizza Parlors in Pennsylvania Still Serving Slices

Pennsylvania is home to some of the oldest pizza parlors in the United States, each with a unique story and tradition. These establishments have continued to serve delicious slices...

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8 Texas Steakhouses Ranked by Locals for Flavor and Value

Texas is renowned for its steak, with locals swearing by certain steakhouses that offer both flavor and value. Whether you're...

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7 Scenic Mountain Day Trips in Georgia Worth the Journey

Georgia offers spectacular mountain landscapes perfect for day trips. These destinations combine natural beauty, thrilling hikes, and unique charm, making them ideal for exploration....

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6 Hidden Hot Spring Retreats in Washington State

Washington State, known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, offers a variety of secluded hot spring retreats. Perfect...

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6 Comfort Food Diners in Pennsylvania Still Serving the Classics

Pennsylvania is home to a rich tradition of diners, where classic comfort food is always on the menu. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the charming towns of Pittsburgh,...

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South San Antonio Gets Its Southern Flavor Fix Again As Bobbie’s Southern Kitchen Reopens

South San Antonio, has reopened its doors after months of renovations. I nearly did a happy dance right there on the sidewalk when I saw the 'Open' sign glowing in the window last...

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Eat Breakfast At Griffith Park’s Most Instagrammable Cafe

Nestled among the oak trees in Los Angeles' iconic Griffith Park sits a charming little spot that's captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike – The Trails Café. I stumbled...

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7 Overlooked State Parks in Ohio

You know what’s wild? Sometimes the places that restore us most are hiding just out of sight, waiting between the headlines and the Instagrammable waterfalls. You deserve a getaway...

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9 Farmers Markets in Texas You Should Check Out

Let’s be honest: sometimes, you just need a win. For me, that’s a basket of peaches so fragrant it makes you forget your unread emails. Farmers markets in Texas are...

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9 One Of A Kind Coffee Shops To Visit Across California

California isn't just about beaches and Hollywood – it's a coffee lover's paradise too! I've spent years exploring the Golden State's unique caffeine corners, from quirky neighborhood...

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10 Historic Downtown Streets In Ohio Towns

Ever wandered down a street that feels like stepping into a time machine? Ohio's historic downtown streets offer exactly that magical experience. These charming thoroughfares tell...

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10 Farmers Markets In Washington State You Should Explore

Washington State is a paradise for food lovers and farmers market enthusiasts like me. From the bustling city centers to charming small towns, I've discovered incredible markets...

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10 Coastal Seafood Shacks In Texas

Nothing beats the salty breeze and fresh catches at Texas coastal seafood shacks! I've spent countless weekends hunting for the perfect fried shrimp, oysters on the half shell,...

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9 Hidden Mangroves In Florida For Kayaking

Ever dreamed of gliding through nature's secret corridors where land meets sea? Florida's hidden mangrove tunnels offer magical kayaking adventures few travelers discover. These...

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From Ribs To Brisket: Washington’s Must Try BBQ Spots

Grab your wet wipes and loosen your belt, folks! Washington state might not be the first place that comes to mind for BBQ, but our smoky scene is absolutely on fire. I've spent...

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10 Scenic Spots In Florida For Photography

Florida's diverse landscapes offer photographers a paradise of stunning scenery to capture through their lenses. From pristine beaches and historic landmarks to lush gardens and...

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10 Unusual Ice Cream Shops In California

California's sunshine creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying a scoop of something sweet. But forget your typical vanilla cone from the corner store – the Golden State hosts...

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7 Local Burger Joints in Ohio That Are Loved by the Community

Ohio might be known for its buckeyes and football, but locals know the real treasure lies in the state's incredible burger scene.

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7 Peaceful Forest Walks in Upstate New York

Upstate New York offers some of the most beautiful forest landscapes in the Northeast, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from busy life.

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7 Charming Cabins in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for a Quick Retreat

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Midwest. With dense forests, pristine lakes, and rugged shorelines, it's the perfect...

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