Embrace Adventure, Capture Moments, Celebrate Life – For Hip Women Over 50
Turns out this part of the Hoosier State wins for culture, charm, and breathing room, but without huge crowds or chaos. Think walkable towns, welcoming locals, and enough fresh air to remind you that travel doesn’t have to be exhausting. Even trips that start or end in downtown Indianapolis (the heart of Central Indiana) feel more relaxed when you branch out into the smaller towns nearby.
I discovered how fun it is to explore new towns like Mason City and Clear Lake. This corner of north Iowa had everything I didn’t know I needed. Walkable downtowns, a beautiful lake with pontoons (and a riverboat), peaceful public gardens, and a legendary music venue that tells a powerful slice of American history. It felt like a place where you could slow down, breathe a little deeper, and actually enjoy your surroundings.
The whole town looks like someone with too many extension cords had the time of their life, and Santa always makes an appearance. This year, I finally got to experience it myself with a visit to McHenry County for Christmas in Illinois during the most wonderful time of the year.
Southern Illinois doesn’t wait until you reach the deep South to bring the charm. Right along I-70, you’ll find a whole lineup of quirky roadside surprises worth tapping the brakes for. Pack a sunscreen stick if you’re traveling during sunny weather – all this hopping in and out of the car for selfies can lead to a powerful (and surprise) burn.
People love to call Iowa a flyover state, but I have never understood that. Iowa is full of wide open spaces, golden fields, historic sites, and small towns full of personality. There are 11 Frank Lloyd Wright properties scattered across the state.
Good news! Central Illinois is full of quirky roadside finds! In fact, this part of the state of Illinois is where historic sites, small towns, and cheerful roadside weirdness all mingle together in a way that makes my heart happy!
So, in between the big attractions, I’ve tracked down some wonderfully weird and whimsical stops that show off Chicago’s quirky personality. These spots are perfect for a day trip, a solo adventure, or a detour between museums and shopping sprees on the Magnificent Mile.
You may know Illinois for Chicago and the big-city experience. Still, some of my favorite stops in the Prairie State are quietly tucked away along back roads and in the less urban corners. I mean, the city doesn’t even whisper Prairie, so right off the bat, you can expect more to explore than big-city life.
And boy, did I find a small town with a big story when I rolled into historic downtown Casey, Illinois, right off Illinois Route 49. I’ve seen plenty of quirky roadside attractions across the U.S., but none quite like Casey, Illinois, this small town that turned big ideas into an art form.
This friendly Minnesota town serves up cozy cafés, fine dining, and everything in between. Whether you’re walking the Root River State Trail, shopping downtown, or winding down after a long day of exploring, these places to eat in Lanesboro MN, will fill your belly and your heart. Here’s my guide to some of the best places to eat in Lanesboro, MN, and yep, I’ve tried them all!