sophia wells author at My Family Travels
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8 Spooky Small Towns in New York That Come Alive on Halloween

New York isn’t just skyscrapers and city lights. As autumn settles in, small towns throughout the state transform into hubs of Halloween magic, bringing haunted legends, ghostly...

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10 Small Towns In New England Seniors Love For Peaceful Getaways

Ever wondered where to escape the hustle and bustle when retirement finally gives you the freedom to explore? New England, with its charming coastal villages and mountain hamlets,...

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6 Vermont Cafés Where Maple Syrup Steals The Show

Vermont and maple syrup go together like pancakes and, well, maple syrup! As a lifelong New Englander with a serious sweet tooth, I've made it my personal mission to track down...

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7 Local Joints In Hawaii Where Shave Ice Outshines The Sun

Hawaii's tropical heat demands a cooling remedy that locals have perfected over generations – shave ice! Unlike mainland snow cones, Hawaiian shave ice features impossibly fluffy...

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10 Fun Florida Facts That Sound Made Up But Aren’t

Florida, often known for its sunshine and beaches, is full of surprising facts that seem too unusual to be true. From natural wonders to historical quirks, the Sunshine State never...

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5 Underrated Taco Trucks in Washington State

Washington State is a treasure trove of culinary delights, yet some of its best taco trucks fly under the radar. For those seeking authentic flavors and local favorites, these...

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The Texas Grocery Snack Test: 10 Local Favorites That Always Win

Texas is a land of rich culinary traditions, and nowhere is this more evident than in the local snacks that line the shelves of grocery stores across the state. From classic treats...

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8 Lakeside Picnics in Florida for a Relaxing Day

Florida may be famous for its beaches, but its lakes offer just as many opportunities to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Spread across the state, lakeside parks give visitors...

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9 Local Street Fairs Across Michigan

Michigan offers a vibrant tapestry of street fairs spread across the state, showcasing local art, culture, and community spirit. These events provide a unique opportunity to explore...

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7 Florida Food & Wine Festivals That Locals Love

Florida is home to some of the most vibrant and diverse food and wine festivals in the country. These events celebrate the abundance of local produce, culinary creativity, and...

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9 Weekend Adventures Near Ohio’s State Parks

Ohio’s state parks are more than natural getaways. Around them, small towns, cabins, and cultural attractions give travelers plenty to do on a weekend trip.

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10 Texas Smokehouses Where Brisket Burnt Ends Are King

There's nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly charred, melt-in-your-mouth brisket burnt end. These flavorful morsels – the crispy, caramelized ends of a smoked...

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8 Small-Town Texas Smokehouses Serving Flavor You’ll Never Forget

There's something magical about driving down a dusty Texas road and stumbling upon a smokehouse that changes your life forever. The Lone Star State hides its best barbecue treasures...

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Enter the Los Angeles Jungle Restaurant Where Exotic Surprises Lurk Around Every Corner

Explore an enchanting jungle-themed dining experience at the Rainforest Café in Downtown Disney Anaheim, where exotic surprises await at every turn.

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9 Florida Weekend Getaways That Look Ordinary At First But Turn Into Pure Magic

Not every Florida destination shines in travel guides, but some of the state’s best escapes reveal themselves slowly. Small towns, historic neighborhoods, and quiet harbors often...

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The Rise, Fall, and Return of Chi-Chi’s Mexican Restaurant in Missouri

Chi-Chi’s Mexican Restaurant has a rich history of triumphs and challenges. Founded in 1975, it became a beloved name in Mexican dining across the United States. From its initial...

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Florida Fruit Stand That Surprises Visitors With Legendary Shakes

Explore the hidden gem of Homestead, Florida, the Robert Is Here Fruit Stand. Known for its legendary shakes and rich history, this unique spot offers more than just refreshing...

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7 Illinois Jazz Bars That Feel Like Stepping Into The 1920s

Chicago's jazz scene has been sizzling since the Prohibition era, when speakeasies offered both illicit drinks and revolutionary sounds. While Al Capone's reign is long gone, the...

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8 Hidden Waterfalls Across Nevada

Nevada might be known for its vast deserts and neon-lit casinos, but tucked away in its rugged landscapes are some truly magical waterfalls that few travelers ever discover. I've...

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7 Hidden Waterfalls In Michigan

Michigan's Upper Peninsula hides some of the most breathtaking waterfalls you'll ever see. While tourists flock to the famous Tahquamenon Falls, savvy explorers know there's much...

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10 Texas Small-Town Escapes That Seem Boring Until You Actually Visit

Texas, with its vast landscapes and bustling cities, holds more than meets the eye. Beyond the well-known metropolises, small towns scatter the state, offering unexpected delights....

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8 Local Scenic Picnic Spots in Colorado

With its mix of mountains, foothills, and open plains, Colorado offers plenty of spaces where a picnic feels like a special outing. Locals often combine hikes, family gatherings,...

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8 Historic Bakeries in New York State

New York State offers a rich tapestry of culinary history, woven through its historic bakeries that have stood the test of time. These bakeries are not merely places to purchase...

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7 Small Town Farmers’ Markets in Michigan Bursting With Local Flavor

Farmers’ markets in Michigan are more than places to buy fresh produce; they are part of the state’s small-town culture. Every weekend, vendors set up stands filled with seasonal...

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9 Less Known Villages in Ohio

While big cities often take the spotlight, Ohio’s smaller villages carry a quiet charm that’s easy to overlook. Many of these communities have roots that stretch back generations,...

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6 Mountain Passes in Colorado Worth the Drive

Colorado’s high country is full of winding roads that reward drivers with sweeping alpine views and crisp mountain air. These passes aren’t just ways to get from one place...

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7 Tiny Diner Gems in Florida Only Locals Know

Florida is filled with flashy restaurants and tourist-heavy eateries, but locals know the real treasures are the small diners tucked away on quiet streets.

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9 Peaceful Florida Towns Where Seniors Love to Spend Their Weekends

Florida offers an array of tranquil towns perfect for seniors looking to unwind over the weekend. From picturesque lakeside retreats to cultural havens, these towns provide a relaxing...

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8 Hidden Wine Tasting Rooms In California

California’s wine country has many hidden tasting rooms beyond the famous vineyards. These secret spots offer unique wines and intimate experiences. Perfect for those seeking...

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10 Florida Hidden Springs That Feel Like Nature’s Secret Spa

Florida's underground aquifer system creates magical springs where crystal-clear water bubbles up from deep within the earth. I've spent years exploring these natural wonders that...

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8 Small Artist Villages in California for a Unique Weekend Trip

California, known for its diverse artistic landscape, is home to several quaint villages perfect for a creative escape. These towns, scattered across the state, offer visitors...

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9 Charming Downtown Areas in Florida Locals Love

Discover the vibrant charm of Florida's downtowns, where history, culture, and community converge. From historic streets to waterfront views, each area offers a unique experience...

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7 Florida Grocery Stores Tourists Love But Locals Don’t Trust

Florida's grocery scene is as diverse as its culture, with many stores attracting tourists while leaving locals skeptical. This list explores seven grocery chains that are popular...

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8 Michigan Grocery Chains With Prices Locals Say Are Too High

In the bustling state of Michigan, grocery shopping can be an experience of sticker shock for many residents. Some local grocery chains are known for their high prices, leaving...

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9 Ohio Pizza Chains That Locals Secretly Complain About

Ohio, known for its rich culinary diversity, is home to numerous pizza chains that have sparked varied opinions among locals. While some of these establishments boast a loyal following,...

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7 National Chains in New York State Where the Food Just Doesn’t Match the Price

Discover seven national restaurant chains with locations throughout New York State, where patrons often find the menu prices don't align with the food quality.

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6 Florida Seafood Chains That Feel More Like Tourist Traps

Florida, known for its stunning coastlines and fresh seafood, is home to numerous seafood chains. However, not all of them live up to the local culinary standards.

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7 Local Music Festivals In Texas Small Towns

Texas is full of small towns where music isn’t just heard - it’s deeply felt. Beyond the big city spotlight, these charming communities host vibrant festivals that celebrate...

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7 Summer Street Fairs In Florida

Summer in Florida brings out the best in street celebrations! From coastal towns to city centers, the Sunshine State transforms into a playground of food, music, and local culture...

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9 Hidden Hiking Trails In Washington State You Haven’t Tried

Washington State is a hiker's paradise with endless trails winding through emerald forests, alpine meadows, and rugged coastlines. Beyond the popular paths like Mount Rainier and...

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9 Scenic Desert Drives Across Nevada

Explore the breathtaking desert landscapes of Nevada through these nine scenic drives. From vast open roads to majestic mountain views, each route offers a unique perspective of...

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7 Local Music Festivals in Michigan You Should Attend

Explore the vibrant music scene in Michigan with these seven must-attend local festivals. From diverse genres and picturesque settings to rich cultural experiences, each festival...

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10 Kentucky Restaurants Where Fried Chicken Is the Main Event

Kentucky is renowned for its legendary fried chicken, a culinary delight that has become synonymous with Southern hospitality and comfort food.

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7 Secret Hot Springs in Colorado You Can Still Visit

Discover the hidden gems of Colorado's natural hot springs, where relaxation and tranquility await amidst stunning landscapes. From secluded wilderness settings to serene resorts,...

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9 Small Art Festivals in California That Locals Love

California is home to a myriad of art festivals, each offering a unique glimpse into the local culture and creativity. From coastal towns to mountain retreats, these smaller, community-driven...

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6 Wisconsin Spots Where Butter Burgers Outshine the Beer

Wisconsin, a state known for its beer and cheese, has another culinary delight that demands attention: the butter burger. This...

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7 Hidden Hiking Trails in Michigan You Haven’t Tried

Michigan's natural landscape is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, providing numerous hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

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9 Weekend Escapes To Colorado’s Hidden Mountain Towns

Colorado's landscape hides dozens of charming mountain towns far from the tourist crowds. These secret gems offer authentic Rocky Mountain experiences with fewer lift lines and...

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10 Family Fun Spots In Florida Off The Beaten Path

Florida's famous theme parks might steal the spotlight, but the Sunshine State hides some fantastic family treasures far from the tourist crowds. I've spent years exploring Florida's...

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6 Quiet Parks in Ohio Cities for a Peaceful Break

Ohio, known for its vibrant cities and bustling life, also hides several tranquil oases perfect for a peaceful getaway. These parks offer serene landscapes, lush greenery, and...

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