silas thornton author at My Family Travels
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7 Forgotten West Virginia Tracks With A Chilling Past

West Virginia, a land of rolling hills and enigmatic history, harbors tales that send shivers down your spine. These forgotten tracks, steeped in mystery, each hold whispers of...

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10 Strange Wyoming Laws That Could Spoil Your Trip

Picture this: you're roaming the wild, open spaces of Wyoming, ready to capture its untamed beauty. But wait; there's a chance a quirky law might throw a wrench in your plans....

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10 Most Boring Villages In Oregon That Locals Call “Peace On Earth”

Welcome to the charmingly mundane world of Oregon's sleepiest villages. Here, boredom isn't just tolerated; it's a way of life. Join...

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10 Strange Arkansas Rules Tourists Accidentally Break

Ah, Arkansas! Land of lush landscapes and quirky laws that even the most seasoned traveler might trip over. If you’re planning a visit, you might want to brush up on these peculiar...

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10 Missouri BBQ Spots Locals Call Michelin Worthy

Ah, Missouri! Home to the Gateway Arch, Mark Twain, and a barbecue scene that could make even a Michelin inspector loosen their belt.

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10 Abandoned Alaska Ski Lodges Frozen In Time

Welcome, dear reader, to a snowy adventure through Alaska’s forgotten ski lodges, where time stands utterly still and the echoes of laughter linger in the frosty air.

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10 Peaceful Utah Towns Where Time Seems To Stop

Ever find yourself yearning for a place where the hustle and bustle of life slows to a gentle whisper? You've stumbled upon the right guide.

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10 Kentucky Italian Spots Locals Swear By For Family Flavor

Ah, Kentucky! Known for its bourbon and bluegrass, but did you know it's a hidden gem for Italian cuisine? Join me on a flavorful journey through the Bluegrass State, where pasta...

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The Pulled Turkey Sandwiches At This Kentucky BBQ Joint Are A Southern Must

Nestled in Georgetown, Kentucky, Dave’s Blazin BBQ has become a local favorite for its inventive take on classic barbecue. Among its standout offerings is the pulled turkey sandwich...

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Road Trippers Can’t Stop Talking About The Peach Ice Cream at This Georgia Farm Café

Tucked away in the heart of Georgia’s peach country, Dickey Farms in Musella has become a beloved stop for travelers in search of authentic Southern charm - and the creamiest,...

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The Most Boring Cities In South Dakota With Strangely Loyal Residents

South Dakota is better known for monumental faces and wide-open prairies than for flashy nightlife, yet its quieter cities hold a steady pull on the people who live there. Locals...

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Antique Markets In Ohio That Locals Swear By Every Weekend

Ohio’s antique scene is a rewarding weekend hunt, with markets that mix dependable dealers, fresh estate finds, and friendly small-town energy. Whether you’re curating a mid-century...

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The Most Boring Cities In Utah That Are Too Calm To Be Real

Utah is known for national parks and ski towns, but many communities hum along at a slower tempo that can surprise first-time visitors. This list explores places where the pace...

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10 Things To Do If Your Visiting Houston Texas For A Day

Houston rewards curiosity, even on a tight clock. This guide packs one focused day with essential sights, smart logistics, and meaningful moments that show why this Texas powerhouse...

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The Small Towns In Tennessee That Locals Say Tourism Destroyed

I travel Tennessee with open eyes, and I keep hearing a tough refrain from locals: tourism changed their towns in ways they didn’t ask for. I wanted to see the good, the bad,...

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Why Locals In Utah Say Tourists Are Destroying National Parks

I love visiting Utah’s national parks, but I hear a clear message from locals every time I return. Crowds stretch thin trails, clog small town roads, and strain services built...

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What Tourists In Alaska Didn’t Expect When They Booked That Cruise

Princess Cruises draws travelers to Alaska with scenery few places can match, yet the surprises begin the moment the ship leaves port. Guests quickly learn that this state reshapes...

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The Real Stories Tourists Share After Visiting Ghost Towns In Nevada

Travelers come to Nevada expecting open skies and quiet roads, then return with thoughtful stories about places where mining dreams faded but traces remain. These ghost towns are...

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8 Ways Nevada’s Unique Culture Is Being Ruined By Tourists

Nevada’s spirit is built on wide-open landscapes, resilient communities, and inventive arts scenes that rarely make postcards. Visitors bring energy and revenue, yet some habits...

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8 Great And 3 Not So Great Parts Of Visiting New Mexico

New Mexico rewards curious travelers with striking landscapes, deep cultural roots, and quiet surprises. From UNESCO treasures to vibrant art towns, the state blends outdoor adventure...

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The Most Boring Spots In Colorado That Shockingly Draw Curious Visitors

Colorado is famous for dramatic peaks and busy resorts, yet some of its quietest corners keep drawing people who like slow stories and small details. This list explores places...

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Most Boring Cities In Alabama With Unexpected Small Town Mysteries

Some Alabama places look quiet from the highway, yet whispers of odd histories and unresolved questions linger behind their steady routines. This list explores towns often labeled...

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Hidden Casual Dining Restaurants In Illinois Locals Swear By

Illinois hides a wealth of casual restaurants that locals quietly recommend to friends and family. These spots do not chase headlines, yet they consistently deliver friendly service,...

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Illinois Casual Dining Restaurants That Redefine Comfort Food

Looking for warm, satisfying meals where service is friendly and the vibe feels like home? Illinois is packed with casual spots that take comfort food seriously, balancing time-honored...

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The New York Beach Escapes Locals Say Tourists Took Over

New York has beaches that rival many classic coastal getaways, and word has definitely gotten out. Spots once known mostly to neighbors now see weekend crowds, Instagram shoots,...

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Hudson Valley Towns Overrun By Tourists

New York’s Hudson Valley keeps drawing bigger crowds, and with that popularity comes real tradeoffs for residents and visitors alike. Travelers love the river views, farm markets,...

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Georgia’s Best All You Can Eat Buffet Restaurants For Travelers

Traveling across Georgia often means long drives, big appetites, and a craving for something reliable and flavorful. Buffets can be a smart choice, offering variety, speed, and...

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Washington Buffet Restaurants That Redefine Dining Out

Curious where Washington’s buffets are headed in 2025? From polished seafood spreads to Korean grill hybrids and inventive global stations, the state’s self-serve scene has...

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Florida Springs Tourists Can’t Enjoy After Instagram Crowds Took Over

Florida’s crystal-clear springs, shaped by ancient aquifers, remain stunning but face growing strain from surging tourism. Once peaceful escapes known mainly to locals, these...

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The Colorado Lakes That Lost Their Serenity After Going Viral Online

Colorado’s alpine lakes captivate with turquoise water and dramatic peaks, but growing fame has changed them. Once peaceful retreats, they now face damage from heavy visitation...

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6 Best And 6 Worst Things About Traveling Through Texas

Texas stretches across a vast landscape, offering travelers a unique blend of experiences that can't be found anywhere else in America. From sprawling cities to remote desert highways,...

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Classic American Diners In Florida Serving Comfort Food 24/7

Florida's 24-hour diners serve as beacons for night owls, early birds, and everyone in between. These nostalgic eateries with their gleaming countertops and bottomless coffee offer...

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Hidden Buffet Gems In Indiana Only Locals Know

Indiana hides some amazing all-you-can-eat treasures that only true Hoosiers seem to know about. Beyond the chain restaurants and tourist spots, local buffets serve up home-style...

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Washington Buffet Restaurants Every Traveler Should Try

Washington state offers a treasure trove of buffet dining experiences that showcase the region's diverse culinary landscape. From seafood feasts along the coast to international...

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The Most Instagrammable Streets In Brooklyn Hidden From Tourists

Brooklyn's charm extends far beyond the tourist hotspots everyone knows about. Behind the famous landmarks lie secret streets bursting with color, character, and camera-worthy...

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Secret Islands In Florida That Feel Like A Private Paradise

Florida's coastline hides some amazing secret islands that most tourists never discover. These hidden gems offer peaceful beaches, untouched nature, and a true escape from crowded...

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Hidden Gems For Breakfast In New York State That Will Surprise You

New York is home to more than just big-city bagels and diner coffee. Across the state, from charming small towns to bustling neighborhoods, there are countless under-the-radar...

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Metro North Announces October Rollout Of Super Express Trains

Big news for Hudson Valley commuters! Metro North is launching super-express trains on October 6, much earlier than the planned 2026 date. Governor Kathy Hochul announced these...

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Why Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Is Magical In Winter

Michigan's Upper Peninsula transforms into a snow-covered wonderland each winter, offering experiences you can't find anywhere else. Locals call it the U.P., and when temperatures...

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Chasing Autumn Colors Across Vermont Before They Fade

Vermont's autumn display transforms the Green Mountain State into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and golds each year. This natural spectacle draws visitors from around...

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5 Florida Restaurants That Capture The Spirit Of The Mediterranean

Florida's sunny climate and coastal geography create the perfect backdrop for Mediterranean cuisine. From Greek tavernas to Italian trattorias, the Sunshine State offers a wealth...

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Universal Orlando Errors First Timers Often Make

Planning your first visit to Universal Orlando Resort is super exciting, but it's easy to make rookie mistakes that can put a damper on your magical adventure. Many first-time...

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Vintage Photos Of Florida’s Glamorous Hotels From The 1920

Florida's 1920s hotel scene transformed the Sunshine State into America's playground for the wealthy and famous. These architectural marvels rose from coastal shores and cityscapes...

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What Road Trips Looked Like In Texas 40 Years Ago

Hitting the open road in Texas during the early 1980s was an adventure unlike anything we experience today. Long before GPS navigation and smartphone apps, travelers relied on...

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Hudson Valley Pumpkin Patches That Look Straight Out Of A Movie

Fall in the Hudson Valley transforms ordinary farms into magical autumn wonderlands that seem plucked straight from the silver screen. Orange pumpkins dot rolling hills while crimson...

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Apple Orchards In Michigan Perfect For A Cozy Autumn Road Trip

Michigan's countryside transforms into a spectacular canvas of reds, oranges, and golds each autumn, making it the perfect backdrop for apple picking adventures. With over 11.3...

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10 Must Visit Vegan Restaurants Off The Beaten Path In Ohio

Ohio might be known for its hearty Midwestern fare, but hidden throughout the Buckeye State are amazing plant-based eateries waiting to be discovered. From cozy cafes in small...

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6 Unique Dessert Cafes In Michigan

Michigan isn't just about beautiful lakes and automotive history – it's also home to some seriously amazing dessert spots! I've spent months exploring the sweetest corners of...

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8 Best Pancake Houses In California For Family Breakfasts

Who doesn't love waking up to the sweet aroma of fluffy pancakes sizzling on the griddle? California's breakfast scene offers some truly exceptional pancake houses where families...

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10 Best All Day Adventures For Families In Utah

Utah's diverse landscape offers families endless opportunities for memorable adventures. From red rock deserts to alpine mountains, this western wonderland packs enough excitement...

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