Fun facts about famous bridges in the United States

A bridge by definition is a structure built over something so the people can cross. In reality, they are so much more. Some have become symbols of man's triumph over nature, others have become national landmarks. Still, others are so familiar we feel as if we own them. These are just a few of my favorite bridges in the United States.

BROOKLYN BRIDGE

"The work which is most likely to become our most durable monument and to convey some knowledge of us to the most remote posterity is a work of bare utility; not a shrine, not a fortress, not a palace, but a bridge." - Harper's Weekly (1883) that says it all doesn't it, the Brooklyn Bridge has indeed endured the test of time.

With a total length of over 6,000 feet, this is a formidable bridge. It took over 13 years to build after having been discussed for more than 50 years. While it was agreed that a bridge connecting Brooklyn and lower Manhattan was a good idea, how to do it without causing disruption to the shipping lanes was an issue that had to be overcome.

John Roebling came up with a suspension bridge design and made a determined pitch to City Hall. He was met with initial resistance but persistence paid off. Brooklyn took the major portion of the risk and they got to set and collect the tolls.

One note of interest, dynamite was used for the first time on the construction of a bridge for the Brooklyn Bridge. Construction came at a great cost not only of money but in lives. Twenty men lost their lives working on the construction.

Washington Roebling, son of John Roebling, who had taken over father his father's death, was paralyzed in an accident. His wife Emily learned higher mathematics and bridge building to become her husband's eyes on the site, pretty amazing for a woman in this time period.

Today the bridge soars over the East River at 135 feet at its highest point and this height has become a standard for bridges. It is as amazing a sight today as it was 135 years ago when it was completed.

GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

When it comes to being the most recognizable bridge in the United States, there is no bridge that can compare with the Golden Gate. Named for the straits that it crosses and completed in 1937, this bridge took only four years to construct. Safety measures were used to protect the workers and it looked as if it was going to be the model for bridge building safety. An unfortunate accident took the lives of ten workers all at one time bringing the total to 11. There were another 19 who were saved by the safety net that was used.

The Golden Gate has been used as a backdrop for several major flicks over the years including Superman with Christopher Reeves and Star Trek VI. When I visited we crossed over and parked on the Marin County side to take pictures, it was spectacular.

"At last the mighty task is done; Resplendent in the western sun. The Bridge looms mountain high; its titan piers grip ocean floor, its great steel arms link shore with shore, its towers pierce the sky."

Part of a poem written by chief engineer Joseph P. Strauss upon the completion of the bridge.

CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE-TUNNEL

Though it may not be the most recognized of the U.S. bridges, The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is unforgettable. Shortly after its opening in 1964, it was named one of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern World and justifiably so.

Covering 17.6 miles it is considered the world's longest bridge-tunnel. Connecting southeastern Virginia with the Delmarva Peninsula, it cuts 95 miles off the trip from Virginia Beach to Wilmington, Del. I know this from my own experience. When our son was stationed at Virginia Beach we would drive to visit him from Conn. and took advantage of the bridge-tunnel to cut down on the driving time.

PHILIPPI COVERED BRIDGE

Covered Bridges are quintessentially American and Lemuel Chenoweth is a giant in the field of covered bridges. Though most of his bridges were constructed in West Virginia his fame has spread beyond that region.

Built in 1852 this bridge played a historically significant part in the Battle of Philippi Bridge during the Civil War. The bridge had to be almost completely rebuilt in the 1980s due to a devastating fire. Located in the town of Philippi West Virginia this bridge is part of the Beverly to Fairmont Turnpike and is the only covered bridge that is part of the National Highway system.



LONDON BRIDGE

While not originally an American bridge it has found a home in Lake Havasu Arizona. Of course, it wasn't the bridge the buyers were expecting. For some reason, they thought that Tower Bridge was London Bridge. Surprise, someone didn't do their homework.

If you can't get to London you can still see the London Bridge. You won't be too impressed, this isn't a terribly old bridge, it was built in 1831 but it is from London and one of a kind at least in the United States.

While this is not anywhere near all the interesting bridges in the United States, hopefully, it is enough to peek your interest to dig deeper and find out more about the rest.

Presidential Sites: Andrew Jackson's The Hermitage, Nashville, TN

Of all the presidential sites, The Hermitage is one of the finest. Located just outside of Nashville, Tenn., it was the home of Andrew Jackson and his wife Rachel Donelson. This is the second largest presidential site in the country, but it was very much a family home. It is unique in that it has almost all its original furnishings, right down to the wallpaper, which dates to the early 1800s.

The Jacksons had many guests visit them during their lifetimes and that tradition is still carried on today. There are costumed guides who take you through the house on tours. They will give you details of the lives of Andrew and Rachel and their adopted sons Andrew and Lyncoya, their granddaughter Rachel and Alfred, one of their slaves. A 15-minute video in the visitor center will familiarize you with the history of the Hermitage. After you watch the video, you can take a headphone tour of the grounds.

The Hermitage is never the same twice. History is no longer being made here, but it is being discovered every day. There is ongoing site development. During summer, the Hermitage becomes an active archaeological site. Currently, they are trying to piece together the lives of the slaves, who have been for the most part neglected in the historical records. Visitors are allowed to sift through the dirt looking for artifacts and to question the archaeologists. A wagon tour highlighting slave life at the Hermitage has been added.

There is a construction project as well. The original Hermitage, which was a log cabin, has been restored to the way it was during the slave era, 1820 to 1865 when it was used as housing for workers. HGTV did a feature about it and Alfred's original cabin is also available to visitors.

The main house is not large but every effort has been made to maintain it in pristine condition. All the rooms are behind glass and you have to view them from the halls. You need to be able to walk up stairs as the house is not handicapped accessible. When you finish the tour, you walk out to view the kitchen and smokehouse and then head out into the grounds.



As you began your tour of the grounds, walk out to the Field Quarter Springs and the remains of field slave's quarters which have been discovered. It is a half mile walk and this is where the slaves, who worked in the fields, spent their time off of work. The remains of four brick cabins have been found and there are traces of two earlier log cabins in the same area. Some of the items from these excavations have made their way into the museum exhibits at the visitor center. They have shed amazing new light on the life of the slaves and what their family lives were like.

What has surprised everyone is that no matter where the slaves worked, in the fields or in the house, there appears to have been very little difference in their accommodations and what they possessed. They all had coins found in the ruins of their homes as well as pieces of dishes, marbles, porcelain doll heads and many other items. Life was hard but there was some time for the children to enjoy toys.



Lastly, you will want to walk in the garden and visit the graves of Andrew and Rachel. There is a small family cemetery on one side. You will also notice Alfred's grave alongside Jackson's tomb. When Alfred died, he left all his possessions and everything he had been given by the Jacksons during his lifetime back to the house. In exchange for this, he was allowed the privilege of being buried here. It is a wonderful testimony to his love for the General.



In the visitor center, there is a really wonderful museum with additional information and possessions of the Jacksons. Once inside the museum, you will be introduced again to Andrew, his wife Rachel, their adopted son as well as her nephew Andrew Jackson Donelson. In the museum, you will find artifacts uncovered during archaeological digs on the property, additional items that belonged to the family and a history that takes you beyond the occupation of the house by members of the Jackson family. Allow a half hour and 45 minutes to visit this museum; there is a lot of information there.

After you leave the Hermitage, turn left out of the parking lot and follow the road to the Hermitage Church and Tulip Grove. These are just two additional pieces to the amazing story of Andrew and Rachel Jackson. You should allow the better part of a day to fully enjoy the Hermitage.

If you want to find out more about the Jacksons, Irving Stone has an excellent novel called "The President's Lady" which is an honest and sometimes brutal look at the love story that was Andrew and Rachel Jackson's marriage. He so loved her that he once said: "Heaven with be no heaven to me if I don't meet my wife there".

The Hermitage is a must visit for anyone who will be in the Nashville area and has an interest in American history.


Other Presidential Homes:


James Madison


James Monroe

Virginia: A Visitor's Guide to Gunston Hall

George Mason is one of those men who somehow history has forgotten. Not in his native Virginia but in the rest of the country. He had a very significant part in the history of the creation of the United States and yet it is one event, one choice he made, in that history that has kept him from being a household word. If this sounds intriguing, please take the time to visit Gunston Hall and get to know this very interesting man.



Gunston Hall was built in the mid-18th century in the Georgian style. It sits on a 60 foot bluff above the Potomac River and at its peak was second only to the Washington Estate at Mount Vernon. Your visit here begins with a 10-minute film to familiarize you with the man who built this home, George Mason.

A small museum is located in the visitor center that will give you some insight into life at the time of the Masons occupation and shows you some of the amazing things that they possessed. George and his first wife Ann raised a large family here and it is very much a family home.

House tours take place every half hour and when I visited in October 2014 the furniture was out of the house, photography was allowed inside. This allows you to take pictures of the fabulous carvings that were done by William Buckland and William Sears in the formal rooms of the house. Both of these men were indentured servants. The work is comparable to that of Grinling Gibbons in this writer’s opinion.



The tour is guided on the first floor and you are then allowed to view the bedrooms on the second floor. Several outbuildings including a kitchen are located close to the house and you are encouraged to walk through the massive grounds. The burying ground is open to visitors as well as a schoolhouse that was used to teach the nine surviving Mason children.

On the Potomac River side of Gunston Hall, there is a garden which now does not include flowing plants. Boxwoods and terraced grounds are impressive none the less but plans for new and extensive gardens have received funding so you may get to see them. If you want to walk down to the river, there are trails for that as well.

Special events are held on average quarterly. The weekend I visited, Halloween was being celebrated. Children could have their face painted, make a mask, paint a pumpkin and hear stories being told at the schoolhouse. Some spooky surprises were also provided. The house tour was included in the entrance and everyone seemed to be taking advantage of it.

In addition to the special events, there are many things offered at Gunston Hall including things like Hearth Cooking Classes and special architecture tours just to name two. See their website for additional dates and times.

Somerset: Have a Jane Austen moment in Bath

If you love the Regency Period of England history, a visit to Bath with all its Jane Austen connections and Georgian architecture is a must. Two things transformed Bath from a quiet market town into a magnet for the rich and famous, the hot mineral waters and Richard "Beau" Nash. Beau arrived in Bath in 1704 and set the stage for the development of the city into a fashionable place to see and been seen.




His love of gambling was the trigger that fueled his desire to get the idle rich to help support his passion. He began as the aid to the Master of ceremonies and when death opened the door he was the natural successor. He became in time the "King of Bath". He set the fashion in Bath and during his reign at the head of the Social Season he was the arbitrator of both behavior and fashion. If you wanted to make a splash in Bath you had to win the approval of the Beau", losing his support caused the unfortunate to be ostracized and this was social suicide. Eventually, it was his gambling that was his downfall but his reign lasted 40 years and he left a significant mark on the city of Bath.

The current Assembly Rooms designed by John Woods were constructed in 1769 with the grand opening on September 30, 1771. They replaced the Lower Assembly Rooms of Beau Nash's day. Today the rooms are administered by the National Trust. The Assembly Rooms are free to visit, what you pay to visit is the costumes. The Assembly Rooms themselves can be rented out as a venue for meetings or a wedding reception.

The Assembly Room that you see today is the one that is featured in Jane Austen's novels. You may choose to take a headphone tour; it adds a great deal of information and sets the correct mood for your visit. If you enjoy becoming part of a historic venue then the headphone tour is a must. The tour begins in the Tea Room. This was where at 9 p.m. in the evening all the guest who had been invited to attend would congregate. Some came to dance, some to play cards but all came to be seen. If you didn't have an invitation to the Assembly then your consequence was considerably lowered in the eyes of all the people who really mattered in Bath. The magnificent chandeliers that adorn the room are the originals that were installed in 1771.



"In the evening, I hope you honored my toilette and ball with a thought; I dressed myself as well as I could, and had all my finery much admired at home. By nine o'clock my uncle, aunt, and I entered the rooms and linked Miss Winstone on to us. Before tea it was rather a dull affair; but then the before tea did not last long, for there was only one dance, danced by four couple. Think of four couple, surrounded by about a hundred people, dancing in the Upper Rooms at Bath." Jane Austen in a letter to her sister Cassandra.

The Octagon Room is where the gentlemen would retire for a game of cards and to get away from the dancing and the woman. There are portraits around the upper level of the room one of them is a Gainsborough of Captain William Wade. On the lower level of the room, there are four marble fireplaces.




The ballroom hosted up to 1000 people at these dances. You can still imagine the ghosts of Georgian men and women performing the minuet and dancing the country dances. The room is 105 feet long, 42 feet wide and 42 feet high. With all the crystal chandeliers it is breathtaking. Dancing began at 6 p.m. with the minuet, at 8 p.m. there would be lively country dances, at 9 p.m. everyone went to the tea room and all music stopped at 11 p.m. even if it was in the middle of a song.

Visiting the Assembly Rooms is as close as most people will ever get to feeling and understanding the social restrictions and the life of the "beau monde" in the time of Jane Austen. It is worth visiting just for its magnificent architecture.

British Columbia: Day trips from Vancouver

Visitors to Vancouver have many options when it comes to things to do in the city. It is one of my favorite places to visit. However, getting away for a day trip is an option and there are several really good destinations!!

Victoria

Ideally, you would want to spend more than one day visiting Victoria but it can be done in a day trip if that is all you have. There is a ferry that can take you to Victoria but you need a car to get to the ferry terminal in Tsawwassen. When you arrive on Vancouver Island, you are in Swartz Bay about 20 miles from Victoria.

A more expensive but much easier option is to take a float plane from Vancouver Harbor right to Victoria's Inner Harbor. This places you right in the middle of the action and you are within walking distance of most of the things that you would want to do.

The Fairmont Empress Hotel is a popular destination for visitors and having high tea there is on the top of most people's list. This may require reservations so be sure to give them a call if this is something you really want to do.

For families, Royal British Columbia Museum is an easy walk away and you can enjoy the exhibits and purchase tickets for the National Geographic IMAX Theater. Walking along the harbor and a visit to the Parliament building are also popular with visitors. The last float plane heads back to Vancouver at 5:50 p.m. allowing you to have quite a full day.

Whale watch

Though this isn't a specific location, it is an excellent choice for a half day trip. There are several different options depending on what you will feel most comfortable with. If you are into fast boats and a lot of bouncing around the open or semi-covered Zodiac type of boats will be for you. If you prefer a more comfortable ride then the more traditional boat is a better choice. You can sit comfortably inside until you got to areas of interest. You then climb up on the deck for picture taking. It was one of the most exciting things I have ever done. You will see sea lions, porpoise and hopefully the Orcas. Trips can take from 3-5 hours.

Whistler

Whistler one of the premier ski locations in North America, It is beautiful enough to warrant a visit during any season. Located about an hour from Vancouver it will be a quiet and uneventful ride northeast.

If you are not going to ski in Whistler then the main attraction is the hiking. Visit the Whistler Activity Guides Bureau, they will have information on the best trails. If you are not up for hiking the Whistler Gondola can whisk up from the center of town to the Roundhouse Lodge. Keep your eyes open for bears roaming below you. The views from the top are spectacular. When you return if you have time, visit the Whistler Museum and Archives Society to learn about the history of Whistler and skiing in the area.

Those who want something really exciting to do can consider taking one of the 2.5-hour Ziptrek Eco Tours. Zip-lines of varying length and heights are certain to get your adrenaline pumping. You can fly like an eagle solo or tandem and you will have pictures and memories to last a lifetime.

Plan to have dinner in Whistler before heading back to Vancouver. The town has many celebrated restaurants and you almost can't make a bad choice. Wildflower at the Fairmont Hotel is a perennial favorite as is Rim Rock Cafe.

Whether you choose Whistler, Victoria or a whale watch, any of these day trips are sure to add an element of culture, nature or excitement to your day.

Uruguay: Best travel websites

When you want to research your travels to Uruguay the best Uruguay travel websites will help you to find the information to plan the perfect vacation.

Uruguay is a small country in South America. It is often referred to as the heart-shaped country because of its shape. It is bordered by Brazil and Argentina and the Atlantic Ocean. The capital city is Montevideo and the majority of the population of the country live in or near the city. Many wonderful beaches are located in Uruguay, some are very quiet and others are filled with music and excitement. So no matter what you are looking for in a vacation, arts, music, relaxing or great food you will find it all in Uruguay.



Welcome Uruguay is a commercial website that is almost too busy to look at, there is a lot going on. Things are moving and the advertising is pretty blatant but in the midst of all this, there is plenty of useful information.

Across the top right below the pictures are three very thin and hard to see buttons, Littoral, Center and The Beaches. Clicking on the link brings up some more choices, with Littoral one of the choices Carmelo which is a city in the province of Colonia.

When you get to the new page there is an overview of the city in the center and there is a list of links on the left side which will give you further information. Some of the options are Tourist Services, Tours, Photo Gallery and Where to sleep. If you click on Tourist Services, you get the name of a car rental agency and other travel services.

On the left side below the links that apply to Carmelo there is a section called Topics. It has a section for Hot Springs and another is Wines of Uruguay. If you click on Hot Springs it brings up an article and a map with the locations of the Hot Springs.

This is just one small section of a very detailed website. It is easy to navigate and while the front page could be improved the rest of the site is much easier to see and understand.

Given the scarcity of websites to help you plan your trip to Uruguay,

Discover Uruguay is a ray of sunshine. The site covers a lot of ground from lodging and transportation to actually making those reservations. The activities section has a great list of things you can do but there are no clickable links to take you to more information. So while you now know that there are casinos to enjoy where they are and how to get there is not provided. But at least you can take that information and go looking in other places. Discover Uruguay is another commercial site that sells tours but you can use them to send you in the right direction.

Uruguay Natural is the official tourism site of Uruguay. It is hard to believe that the official website for the country does not make it to the first five pages of a Google search of Uruguay, but its’ true. What you notice first in the banner is the social media site icons, they really catch your eye. I guess on a site that features travel to your country that isn’t what you want people to notice first but it is what caught my eye.

The pictures on the homepage don’t change and the choices along the top are Home, Places to Go, Things to See and Information. If you scroll down past the first massive photo you get six choices of Places to See. Sorry but the design of this website is just poor and made me want to go someplace else almost immediately. I suggest you do find another place for your research because what is available on this site is very superficial and not of much use except in a very general way. This is probably the worst official website I have ever come across.

What is quite obvious at this point is that planning a trip to Uruguay is not going to be easy using just one website. You will need to use these to send you looking for more specific information. You can also use all the old standbys like Trip Advisor, National Geographic, Frommer, Fodor, and Lonely Planet. Uruguay is a fascinating country and all the effort will be worth it in the end.

Nova Scotia: Best tours of Halifax

Halifax is a city that deserves to be toured. No matter how you arrive there, by plane, by car or by cruise ship, you will want to take one of the many tours that are offered to enhance your visit.

Hop on Hop off Double Decker

These authentic London style red double-decker buses allow the visitor to take a full tour which goes to all the most important historic sites and then get off and back on when they are ready These buses run during the warm weather and services ends in mid-October. The tour has fifteen stops and you will receive a map with your ticket. Some of the stops include The Citadel, Pier 21 where the cruise ships come in and the Museum of Natural History.

What isn't included on this tour is Fairview Lawn Cemetery where the Titanic victims are buried.

Deluxe City Tour

This three-hour tour is offered twice daily at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. from June 1st until October 15th. If you are visiting on a cruise at a later date they will have made arrangement for the tours to be available through the cruise lines. Tour buses are trolleys that look like the original San Francisco trolleys. Tours are guided and your kilted tour guide will provide an interesting and informative running narrative as you travel through the streets of Halifax.

This tour visits the Citadel for a photo opportunity but does not allow enough time for a visit. The trolley parks outside of Fairview Lawn Cemetery. The tour includes a guided tour through the graves of the Titanic victims and the fascinating stories that the graves hide. There are many photo opportunities on this tour be sure to bring along your camera.

Private Limo Tour

If you have a limited amount of time to spend in Halifax this may be a perfect choice. They will do a custom tour to your specifications. All the fun of being chauffeured around and none of the formality.

Historic Halifax Walking Tour

If you prefer to do it on your own you can visit Halifax Tourism Website and get a copy of their suggested two to three-hour walking tour. It will take you through the downtown area and even the Citadel. The city is hilly and you will need to have a certain amount of stamina to attempt this walk but the effort will be well worth it.

Harbor Hopper Tour

If you enjoy the Duck Tours that are so popular in many American Cities then the Harbor Hopper will provide much of the same thrill. You will spend fifty-five minutes driving through the streets of Halifax enjoying the narrated tour and then off into the harbor for a unique view of the Halifax and Dartmouth skylines. Be on the lookout for the green frog that decorates the side.

No matter how you choose to tour, Halifax is sure to delight and intrigue. Most tours are available only during the summer months so plan your trip accordingly.

Hotel Review: Comfort Inn Clarion Penn.

I am sure you may have noticed that I tend to be very brand loyal when it comes to hotels and my usual choices are Marriott, Holiday Inn or Omni. However, there are times when one of these hotels isn't available or is so overpriced that I have to try to find an alternative, this was one of those cases. The Comfort Inn in Clarion was well located and well priced and therefore I decided after considerable research on Trip Advisor to give it a try. I wasn't disappointed.

The hotel is two-story and you enter through the lobby, the rooms are not accessible directly from the exterior. The lobby is not exceptional about the lobby but you will immediately see the pool and spa which is directly ahead of you as you enter. Across from the desk, coffee is available and in the hall is an ice machine.

This hotel has smoking rooms and that is one reason I usually am not a big fan of Choice Hotels. If you want to be away from them, be sure to make your preference known. The first room assigned to us would have been too close to the smoking section to be comfortable. It is also important to note that there is no elevator so if your room is on the second floor, you will need to carry your luggage up the stairs. We opted for the first floor and got room 106. It is located right next door to the breakfast room.

Did I mention that breakfast is included? It is and is quite an adequate spread. Scrambled and boiled eggs, sausage, two kinds of bagels, three choices of cold cereal and make your own oatmeal, two kinds of bread to toast, English muffins, Danish and mini muffins, yogurt, fruit cocktail (the canned variety) and make your own waffles which can be had with strawberries and cream or syrup. The one problem is a small breakfast room with only 5 tables and a few bar seats. The room could hold a couple more tables and it would be a good idea to add them. People were walking out in disgust or standing around making those eating feel uncomfortable.

The room

The king room was spacious. The bed had modern bedding with a white duvet and coverlet in a neutral color. It had five pillows which while not feather or down were what most people prefer, however, the mattress was soft. A flat-screen TV sits on the dresser across from the TV. There are 70 channels available including HBO. Soundproofing was good and we were not disturbed by any noise.

The room also has a sofa which converts into a bed. There is a large desk working area. As you enter the room there is a closet with an ironing board and iron and a luggage rack. There is also a bar area with a small sink, microwave, and fridge. The coffeepot is located on the desk which seems a bit odd but at least there was a coffee pot.

Location

One thing that this hotel has going for it is its location. It is less than a mile off of the interstate and adjacent to a small mall. In the mall, there is a K-Mart and several other stores and also a very good steak restaurant. It is nice to be able to walk out to dinner and leave the car parked at the hotel.

Condition

Overall the hotel was in good shape. The room was clean with only a little bit of mold located on the caulking behind the tub in the bathroom. The sink was also cracked as were a few of the floor tiles and there was rust on the frame of the door. The closet door was very difficult to close once it was opened so it only got opened once. The wooden furniture had its share of nicks, scratches and, gouges but the carpet looked in good condition as did the bedding. The air conditioner worked great and kept us very comfortable.

Staff

The woman at the desk was very helpful and gave us a coupon to use at the steakhouse which got us a 10 percent discount. She also made sure we had a room away from the smoking area which I really appreciated.

The all-important question, would I stay at the Comfort Inn again? Yes, I would. The location is convenient and the overall condition and amenities are good. There are a few small details that could be better but we slept well and at the end of the day, that is what is the most important.

Illinois: An evening entertainment at Circa 21 Dinner Theater

If you happen to be in Rock Island, Il and are looking for an evening of entertainment, Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse is the place to come. You will get to enjoy a delicious pre-show dinner, be serenaded by your waitstaff and follow that with a very entertaining show. 

The spacing in the theater is excellent, The tables to dining and viewing have plenty of space between them and are on levels. You don't feel as if you are sharing you meal with your neighbors. 

The building that houses the theater is historic and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the original details are still visible. Of particular interest is the head of the Indian Chief Blackhawk. Constructed in 1921, it was known as the Fort Armstrong Theatre for 55 years 

Originally a Vaudeville and silent movie house, by the 1970’s had fallen into disrepair. The building was rescued by Denny Hitchcox who saved it from being razed and turned into a parking lot. The playhouse celebrated its 37th season in 2013 so as you can imagine, there are thousands of grateful patrons.

While the original auditorium could hold over 1500 people, the theater now seats 344. Six or seven main stage shows are offered per year and subscriptions are available. Dinner is a buffet with plenty of delicious choices. The buffet is set up on the first level near the stage on the right hand side. You can order alcoholic drinks which are not included in the ticket price.

Dessert is served separately and should be ordered early enough so that it can be delivered at the appropriate time. You have a choice of having it after the pre-show or during intermission. We ordered the strawberry shortcake for intermission and it was both huge and delicious.

The wait-staff, known as “bootleggers”, do a warm-up show. It is amazing to see your waiter or waitress dancing and singing their heart out and they all have great voices.

The quality of the show was excellent. Not quite Broadway but better than most local theater. The people that perform here have to audition and many of them have had extensive experience on Broadway and around the country. If you are going to be in the Quad-Cities, be sure to check what is playing at the playhouse and book your tickets in advance at their website so that you are not disappointed.

Maine: A visit to Stonewall Kitchen in York, Maine

Most people have heard of Stonewall Kitchen. Their products are sold all over the country. If you happen to be visiting York, Maine, you have the opportunity to visit not only their flagship store but also their kitchens where cooking classes are offered. This is the corporate headquarters. It is bigger than any other store of theirs that I have ever visited. You can also eat at their cafe.

Why you ask is it important that their kitchen is located here? They offer cooking classes at their cooking school. It is one of the most entertaining meals that I have ever enjoyed and I can’t wait to go back and do it again.



The number of participants is limited. You are not going to get to cook yourself. However, either guest chief or members of their talented staff are going to cook a meal for you and are going to be able to watch them go through it step by step and ask questions. You will be given the recipes so that you can create the meal at home and it is not just to promote the food items that they sell, however, many of the implements they use to cook are for sale in the kitchen store and participants get a 10 percent discount.

The menus vary; they are seasonal, regional and always interesting. On Sunday’s there is usually brunch, on some days there is lunch and dinner and on others just lunch or just dinner. There is a calendar on their website that will give you the menu choices, the price and the time of the meal. Some examples are “Sensational Fall Flavors” with the following menu:

Spinach Salad with a Warm Bacon Shallot Dressing


From Scratch Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Shallots


Herbed Roast Pork Tenderloin with Pan Gravy


Sausage, Leek and Herb Cornbread Stuffing


Maple Pumpkin Bread Pudding.


Another menu “Fall in Italia” has the following menu:


Autumn Salad of Apple, Bleu Cheese, Candied Walnuts and Spinach with Warm Bacon Dressing


Handcrafted Linguini with Wild Mushroom Cream


Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Fennel and Figs


Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato.

As you can see, the menus have multiple courses and take about an hour and a half to serve and enjoy. The average price is $55 per person but there are special meals that can run a little higher.

I did this together with my friend Cindy. We enjoyed our dinner so much that we checked to see if Sunday brunch still had openings but we were out of luck. We also enjoyed shopping in the kitchen store especially with the 10 percent discount. We stayed in Wells but there are plenty of options in York. This is a great girlfriends or mother and daughter getaway weekend idea, I am looking forward to doing it again soon.

Hotel Review: Springhill Suites Fishkill New York

Springhill Suites in Fishkill is a new hotel and the design is just gorgeous. The rooms are sleek and modern with a very stylish appearance. We loved it at first sight. The person who welcomed us at the desk was friendly but did not tell us what time breakfast was served or that a side door was much more convenient for our rooms. 

I was not welcomed as a silver member which I always am and thanked for my loyalty. Usually I arrive in my room to find extra towels and pillows which I have requested, they are not guaranteed but usually, they are there, not here they weren’t.

Another thing that I found odd was that I received an email about noon on the day we were checking in asking me if we were still coming. Since I had two rooms reserved and would have been charged a very high cancellation fee if I didn’t show, I certainly was. What if I had not looked at my emails as we were driving, would they have given my room away? That I found rather disturbing.

Once we got to our room, we were quite delighted with what we found. I had a king sized bed, a very comfortable one I have to say, A desk that was part of a room divider, a sofa that turns into a single bed and a trundle bed a coffee table with a tray on top, Keurig coffeemaker, microwave, and fridge.

The bathroom is downright glamorous, with a huge walk-in shower, sleek white countertops and sink, a night light which I love, glass barn door and separate, though not closed off toilet area. Also a good sized closet and though Joe did not have a luggage rack in his, we did in ours. A metal bench  covers the radiator and it served as a good place for him to place his luggage.

The room was very clean and had plenty of plugs but the nightstand on the left side of the bed had no plugs so I couldn’t plug in my phone unless I changed sides of the bed which I didn’t want to do, that I found inconvenient. How do they know that both of you don’t want to charge your devices on your nightstand? Breakfast is a wonderful affair with scrambled eggs, bacon, turkey sausage, cheese to top the eggs and soft tacos to wrap your eggs and salsa. Chocolate croissants, bread, bagels, and muffins. Oatmeal, cold cereal and make your own waffles, you won’t go away hungry.

Marriott has also decided to get rid of the hot tubs in their newer hotels or ones that they update to the new design. I am not at all pleased with this decision and it may well be what drives me into the arms of another chain. When we travel, I enjoy a soak in the hot tub after a long day on the road, I find their decision very disappointing.

Structures built for world fairs that you can still visit

World’s Fairs and Expositions have been happening for over 150 years. They have been located in many different cities and the structures are usually built with the intention of being temporary. In spite of that, there are a number of structures that have remained for many times longer than their original designers intended. Here are a few of them that you may just want to visit.

Probably the oldest extant structure that was built for a World’s Fair or Exposition is the Eiffel Tower which was constructed in 1889 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The International Exposition of Paris lasted for 180 days and welcomed over 32 million people. It was certainly the first of its kind to achieve this scope of influence and the Eiffel Tower was the showpiece of the exhibition. Imagine how impressive it was over 100 years ago before there were buildings as tall as those we have today. And yet, there is hardly a person who would visit Paris in 2016 and not see and be impressed by the marvelous building designed by Gustav Eiffel.

The Parthenon in Nashville was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897. It was originally supposed to open in 1896 which was the actual 100th anniversary but it was a great success welcoming almost 2 million visitors in the six months it was open. The Parthenon was the Fine Arts Building at the exposition and proved to be one of the most popular. So popular in fact that it was not torn down with the rest of the temporary buildings. That is not to say that the gorgeous building of today is totally original, it isn’t. It had to undergo a massive rebuild in order to make it permanent. Any visitor to Nashville will agree, it is amazing. So amazing in fact that when the Greek Government was going to work on the original, they used the Nashville version to help them, pretty impressive for a temporary building.

One of Brussels Belgium’s most iconic sights is the Atomium. It was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and was the main building of the fair. Five of the spheres on the structure are open to the public and offer a permanent exhibit, temporary exhibit space, and also some wonderful views. No visit to Brussels is complete without at least having your picture taken in front of this unusual structure. It was built in an era where atomic energy had been used to end a war and ways were being looked at for peaceful use of atomic energy.

These are just three of the many interesting buildings that have been built for World’s Fairs. A few others include the Vasco da Gama Tower in Lisbon, Portugal, The Unisphere in Flushing Meadow, N.Y., The Space Needle in Seattle, Wash., The Palace of Fine Arts in Chicago, and the Tower of the Americas in San Antonio, Texas.

As these all indicate, being the location of a World’s Fair can mean that a tourist attraction will be left behind for visitors to enjoy for years to come.

Massachusetts: Fall antique shopping in Essex

Essex, Ma. is a mecca for antique lovers. It is a charming small town that combines a wide selection of places to shop and some amazing food. It is the ideal location for a fall weekend getaway.

Located just 34 miles north of Boston, it is a short trip from most areas of New England. Route 133 runs through the center of town and connects Essex with Ipswich and Gloucester. Along this route, you will find many of the antique stores that the town is famous for. For the serious antique lover, there are some first-class shops here. For those who like to browse through shops piled high with affordable treasures, there is plenty of that as well.


Alexander Westeroff Antiques is quite unique in its location, the owners have done a wonderful job of re-purposing the former Methodist Church. They specialize in lighting and dining furniture with a truly superb collection of well-documented pieces at all times. Not everyone can afford to shop here but browsing is free.

Another great shop in town is David Neligan Antiques. This writer was immediately reminded of the shops of the Cotswold village of Moreton in the Marsh. David has a good eye for something special and that may be the result of his years at Christie’s. The shop is filled with an eclectic mix or furniture and decor that is constantly changing. You need to return here often to see what new treasures have come in.

If maps and historic prints are what set your heart fluttering, a stop at The Scrapbook will be called for. Vincent Caravella the owner is proud of his shop and will be happy to give you a history lesson about anything that might catch your interest. The stock in the shop is always changing but you can expect to see great botanical prints, maps from around the world and some amazing art. Vincent also does quality framing so you can take home the complete package. There are also some gifts in the shop which coordinate with the prints; you have to see them to really understand.

Robert Coviello has two shops on Main Street, Main Street Antiques, and Robert Coviello Antiques. Main Street Antiques is as brash and bold as Robert Coviello Antiques is sophisticated and staid. Both of these shops warrant a visit and are very enjoyable, for totally different reasons. Main Street Antiques is chock a block filled with things you never knew you had to have and his other shop offers some wonderful collectible items from around the world as well as furniture at both locations.

The White Elephant is as eclectic a shop as you will find in Essex. While you are probably not going to find a rare and unusual antique here, there are abundant books, glassware, and bric-a-brac. The room with $1 books is guaranteed to keep most people occupied for quite some time. If you are really looking for a bargain, they have an outlet that is open on the weekend and is located on the road to Ipswich where everything is half price.

If you are looking for something to bring home that is made locally, the place to go is Sea Meadow Gift Shop. There are many great things to enjoy here even before you get into the shop. The yard is filled with birdhouses and wind art for your yard. Inside there is jewelry, soaps, books and toys and lots more. It is a great place to just poke around.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to antiques and shopping in Essex. There are over 30 antique stores alone and though this writer wanted to visit them all, it will take a couple more visits to accomplish that.

Be sure to book a room at the George Fuller House Bed and Breakfast and plan some wonderful dining at all the amazing restaurants in town. You can make a whole weekend out of antique shopping in Essex.

South Carolina: Things to do in Charleston in the fall

Charleston, South Carolina is a great place at any time of the year. There are lots of events, festivals, and entertainment that are geared to people of all ages. As the summer heat moves out of the Low Country, here are just a few of the things to do in Charleston, SC in the fall.

The Charleston Farmers' Market is open at Marion Square on Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great opportunity to get some great fresh local produce and handmade products. From September 3 through November 28 come and enjoy the best in food, arts, and crafts as residents and visitors have been doing for the last 26 years. In December there is a holiday market on both Saturday and Sunday.



For a month, for the last 39 years, homes and gardens in Charleston have opened up for tours. For 2018 the dates are October 4-28. The tours are a fundraiser for the Preservation Society of Charleston and highlight architecture from the Georgian period right through to the present day. Private homes, historic buildings, and churches are all included.

For most of these buildings, this is the only way you would ever be able to tour them. It goes on for almost 4 weeks and there are a variety of different ticket options. You can tour a single destination, an entire area or buy the entire time. This is a highlight of the fall season in Charleston.

The fall is the perfect time to enjoy The Sound of Charleston. The fall concert series will begin early in the month of September and run through December. The programs will be presented at the Circular Congregational Church on Wednesday and/or Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. It combines music with the history of Charleston and is something that will be of interest to older children, adults, and seniors.

The Harvest Festival in North Charleston's Wannamaker County Park takes place on November 3, 2018 in Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. A full day of fun for the entire family.

If you are feeling the urge to get in the holiday spirit, for three days in mid-November the Charleston Holiday Market comes to the Charleston Area Convention Center. Bring your camera to get pictures of the kids with Santa and have your wallet and credit card ready to do some serious shopping. It is a great time for the entire family.

Doing a ghost tour is a favorite thing to do at any time of the year, but in the fall with Halloween, it is even more exciting. You can take a 90-minute walking tour of the Provost Dungeon in the Old Exchange Building with Bull Dog Tours until November 30th. Would you prefer to tour in a mule-drawn carriage? Palmetto Carriage Tours offer a ride to some of the most haunted graveyards and buildings in the city.

Perhaps you would like to join Mike Brown of Old Charleston Tours on a 90-minute walk that is guaranteed to give you a look at some of the lesser-known stories that you won’t hear anywhere else. 

These are just a few of the many things that are available to do in Charleston, South Carolina in the fall. There are many more. The CVB has a calendar that lists most of the events that are taking place this fall. You will need to make your reservations for accommodations early as this is a very popular destination.

Illinois: Chicago is a great place to visit in the fall

Chicago is a wonderful place to visit in the fall. The heat and humidity of the summer have gone and the air is crisp and cool. The wind may be whipping off of Lake Michigan so hang on to your hat and watch the bright leaves as they swirl through the air.

In the fall, there are plenty of farmers markets all over the city that will provide fresh fruits and vegetables plus all the items you will need to decorate for fall. There is nothing like a crispy apple or a piece of spicy pumpkin pie to set the mood for a perfect fall weekend.

The Chicago Botanic Garden will have many special events throughout the fall. Be sure to check their event calendar. Among the many events is a costume parade for pooches and lots more in October and the Holiday Market on December 6 from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. There is always something happening at the Botanic Garden.



The Lincoln Park Zoo is a Chicago favorite and it is free. In the fall you can enjoy Fall Fest which will include a corn maze and hay rides as well as some attractions that require tickets and Spooky Zoo Spectacular which will include shows, trick or treating, and other family activities.

If you are going to be in Chicago on Halloween or anytime for that matter make reservations to take the Chicago Haunting Tour. Rated one of the top ten ghost tours in the country, there is no better time of year to find out about all the spectral sightings that Chicago has to offer. You can't miss the black Haunting's Bus which you will meet across the street from the Hard Rock Cafe.

Chicago knows how to celebrate Oktoberfest and St. Alphonsus Church is the location to be for an authentic German Experience. September 25-27 you can enjoy homemade brats, live German music and plenty of cold beer.

The Magnificent Mile Light Festival takes place the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It is the kick-off event of the holiday shopping season. Hundreds of thousands of lights will be twinkling and there are activities for all members of the family.

Some of the stores will have their holiday window displays in place and the Parade is sure to please everyone. For many families, it is a holiday tradition. After the parade watch the fireworks that take place along the Chicago River.

Join over 300,000 other visitors who will enjoy the Chicago Christkindlmarket beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving and running through Christmas Eve. Entertainment is featured, the Annual Christmas Tree lighting, and a children's lantern parade. You can shop at the booths, eat traditional holiday foods and get into the spirit of the upcoming Holidays.  

Yes, fall is a great time to visit Chicago and these are just a few of the special events that will be taking place. You can always visit the Art Institute, The Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum and the Navy Pier. Book your accommodations early as this is a popular time of the year to visit Chicago.

New York: The Arkell Museum at Canajoharie

The Arkell Museum was created by the founder of Beech-Nut Packing Company Bartlett Arkell. He collected works by some of the premier American artists of the late 19th and early 20th century. Unfortunately, many of them were not on display when we visited. I certainly would have loved to see the Mary Cassatt!! 

What we did get to see were two exhibitions that were set up to celebrate the anniversaries of the Women’s Rights movement and the Erie Canal. In spite of our disappointment at not getting to see more paintings from their collection, we did enjoy our visit here. I did like having a face to put on some of the women who worked so hard to get the vote for women.

Given our experience, I would suggest checking their website to see what actually will be on display when you plan to visit.
They don't allow you to use photos of their collections, you need permssion and I believe they charge.

England: Seeing Shakespeare in Stratford on Avon

I have been to Stratford on Avon several times, by several I mean 5 or 6. Part of any visit to Stratford is taking in a play at the RSC. Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC ) is a repertory theater company. What this means is that the plays rotate and that the same actors must learn multiple roles in multiple plays. It is not every actor who is up for this challenge so you can expect to see the best of the best.

The RSC has been operating under the name Royal Shakespeare Company since 1961 but it has been around under different names for over 125 years.

It was in 1875 that a local brewer, Charles Edward Flower first decided that Stratford being Shakespeare’s home needed to have a Shakespearean Theater. It was opened four years later but it took them over 20 years to attract major names to their productions. They were granted a royal charter in 1925 but the theater was destroyed by a fire the following year.

A worldwide campaign was launched and a new theater was constructed. By the 1940′s major actors were performing in Stratford. Many names are ones we all recognize, Vivien Leigh, Michael Redgrave, Sir John Gielgud and Sir Laurence Olivier.

The sixties saw the name RSC attached to the company and it is now considered a great honor to be one of their players. A new crop of actors has sharpened their skills here including Judi Dench, Ian Richardson, and Trevor Nunn.

The Swan Theater was added in 1986 and used part of the shell of the 1926 building. The main theaters in Stratford are the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan. The Swan is a much smaller more intimate venue.

While you are in Stratford, take the time to visit Shakespeare’s grave which is in the church an easy walk from the theater complex. Walk along the river Avon, feed the ducks get to know the city that Shakespeare knew. It is a bit of a tourist trap but in a good way.



I am a great Shakespeare fan and have enjoyed many Shakespearean plays but the one that will always stick in my mind was the one I saw on September 11, 2001, it was Hamlet and it was in Stratford. A very modernistic version with the sound of a whirling helicopter and the exceptional cast made for an unforgettable night, especially given what had occurred in the U.S. on that day.

In 2006 I saw the Canterbury Tales Part I at the Swan Theater and it was so good that when the RSC brought Part 2 to the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., it was a no-brainer whether to go and was well worth the trip.

There is nothing quite like seeing Shakespeare performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford and if you want to see the best there is, make an effort to see a performance. They do travel the world so you may not need to go to Stratford, but in my opinion, nothing else compares.

Of course, while you are there you can see the homes that are a part of the story of the life of the bard and even visit his grave.

Oklahima: Fun things to do in Tulsa in the fall

Tulsa is a city that has lots to do in any season and the fall is no exception. You can enjoy the state fair, Oktoberfest and a whole lot more. If you want to know all the fun things to do in Tulsa in the fall these events will get you started.

The Tulsa State Fair is the kickoff event for the fall season. Beginning in late September and running into early October this 11-day event is an old-fashioned agricultural fair with lots to do for the entire family. The Oklahoma and Muscogee Stages offers live entertainment, there are special children’s events and attractions, lots of rides and exhibits and so much more.

The Just for Kids Adventure offers a schedule of things for kids to do at the Creative Stations, the Superplay Activity Center and Tulsa’s largest sandbox. Some of the other favorites are the Picking and Fiddling Championship and the Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show. Come to the Tulsa State Fair to see the animals, the horse show, the oversized fruits and vegetables and the baked goods. It is all great fun.

Oktoberfest will come to Tulsa for the 39th time in 2017. It happens late in the month of October, the 19-22 in 2017 from Thursday through Sunday and celebrates all things German. It has been named one of the 10 Best Oktoberfests in North America by USA Today. The annual event features food, drink, music, and lots of German culture. This is the place to try schnitzel, soft German pretzels and lots of other German foods.

Plenty of typical festival type foods such as funnel cakes and kettle corn will also be offered. Come to enjoy the German Music and dancing and much more for the entire family. Arts and crafts vendors are available as well selling a variety of items. Of course, being a German festival, beer will play an important part in the celebration.

In addition to all the special events that happen in the fall, there are all the usual things that are enjoyable to do. With the weather getting cooler it is a perfect time to visit one of the many parks around the city to enjoy the outdoors. Miles of hiking trails await and the River Parks offer a great place to walk or bike the trails that go along the river.

If you want to head out of the city a short drive will bring you to orchards and farms where you can pick your own apples and pumpkins and get lost in a corn maze.

Fall is a great time to enjoy all the outdoor activities that Tulsa is so well known for and as the fall turns into winter, there will be all the Christmas events to look forward to.

Hotel Review: Staybridge Suites Corning, New York

I loved this hotel from our first experience with the desk staff, they were so welcoming and willing to go the extra mile to make everything about your stay perfect. We opted for a two bedroom suites and we were asked what floor we preferred. We chose three since we don’t like to have people above us. The room has a very nice setup. You enter into the kitchen which has everything but an oven but they provide a toaster oven. The table has four chairs and the living room has a couch, chair and coffee table.

#staybridgesuitescorningny

One bedroom had a queen bed and the other had two doubles. The two doubles is a huge room. We, however, we took the smaller room and it was fine. The sink and vanity are in the bedroom so the bathroom is small but the shower pressure was amazing, loved that shower. Everything was very clean and we enjoyed playing cards at the table provided. The suite has three TVs as well. one in each bedroom and one in the living area, the selection of shows was good. 

Breakfast is included and is the standard fare, scrambled eggs or omelets, sausage or bacon, oatmeal, make your own waffles, cold cereal, juice, coffee, bread, bagels, muffins and some sweet things. Certainly, adequet and the dining area is large and was never overcrowded even though the hotel was busy.

They have a very nice pool area and a hot tub which we enjoyed using. 

Location is perfect if you plan to visit the Corning Museum of Glass, it is walking distance for most people. Lots of really good dining within a mile on Market Street downtown. 

I would highly recommend this hotel for great service, clean and comfortable rooms and great location. 

Fall happenings in Little Rock

As the weather starts to get a little brisk and the leaves begin to change color, all over the United States people know that fall has arrived. The same is true in Little Rock. The kids have gone back to school, the summer clothes have been packed away, and now it is time to get out and do some of the fall activities that Little Rock is known for.

Adult Only

Lots of activities are family friendly in Little Rock in the fall. North Little Rock Taste for Business isn’t necessarily one of them. It has been happening early in the fall for the last 22 years. For 2018, it will be on September 27th at Verizon Arena from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.

This event is a chance to sample food and drink from some of the best restaurants, beverage distributors and caterers that the area has to offer. Over 1000 people will pay $20 each in advance and $25 at the door to enjoy two hours of great food and drink.

Arkansas State Fair

For ten days every fall, the Arkansas Fairgrounds come to life with the sounds of the midway, livestock, entertainment and beauty competitions. Livestock is an important component of this fair and the judging and award presentation are well attended. October 11-21, 2018.


Main Street Food Truck Festival

September 8, 2018 will see the 8th Annual Main Street Food Truck Festival from 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Over 50 food truck will be offering a wide selection of food. Additionally, there will be music, artists, and vendors on Main Street It will again span six blocks North and South along Main Street and three blocks East and West along Capitol Avenue.

Harvest Fest

Head to the historic Hillcrest neighborhood for a full day of family fun on November 3, 2018. It starts early with a bird walk in Allsopp Park at 7:00 a.m. The pancake breakfast starts at 9:00 a.m. and the farmers market will be open from 7 a.m. to noon. The festival opens at 11 a.m. and goes on into the evening with live entertainment. The Kids Zone is a favorite destination for the youngsters. Check out their website for places and times.

Pumpkin Patch

Motley's Farm Pumpkin Patch September through October 31 on the weekends. Pick a pumpkin, take a tractor-drawn carriage ride, jump on the hay bales and enjoy the animals on the farm. Feed is for sale if the kids want to feed them.

 Arkansas Cornbread Festival

The fifth edition of the Arkansas Cornbread Festival, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct 27, 2018, brings local flavor, live music, and vendors to South Main Street. Come early and plan to stay all day enjoy everything that will be offered including musical acts, local breweries, and vendors selling Arkansas-made food, crafts, and gifts.

When it comes to fall happenings in Little Rock, you will find yourself overwhelmed by the number of choices. Overwhelmed in a good way, that is.


More information:

http://nlrchamber.org/chamber-news/a-taste-for-business-3

http://www.heart.org/lrwinefestival

www.motleyspumpkinpatch.com/index.html

Best destinations on the east coast to view foliage

As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, the leaves start to turn to colors of red and gold. Every year Americans decide to take to the road to catch the best glimpses of color. Where are the best east coast destinations for viewing fall foliage? If you ask five people you will get five different answers. Here are just a few of my favorites.



Vermont

Vermont is the favorite choice of leaf peepers everywhere. Knowing this, accommodations need to be booked well in advance and if possible avoid the weekends and the most popular spots. Head to the areas that are quintessentially Vermont and off the beaten track.

Depending on how far north you want to go that can mean going to the delightful town of Wilmington in the south or up to Barnet in the north. You will want to also check on the availability of activities beyond leaf peeping in the area.

Fall festivals, church fairs, apple orchards, and cider mills are all favorite places to spend some quality time. To find out how the leaves are doing visit Vermont's tourism site and for up to the minute news on where the color is best in New England visit yankeefoliage.com

Pocono Mountains Pennsylvania

f you think that the Pocono's are just about honeymooners you need to rethink that attitude. The Delaware Water Gap offers great opportunities to see some bright colors in an already scenic location. The Water Gap circles through over forty miles of old growth trees and you can spend a day hiking in places like Bushkill where the hundred foot main falls have been attracting visitors for over 100 years.

Mid-October the Pocono's host the Shawnee Autumn Timber Festival at the Shawnee Mountain Ski area in Shawnee on Delaware, Penn. Check their website for more information.

Shenandoah Valley Virginia

Staunton Virginia is a favorite spot of leaf peepers who want to take part in their Fall Foliage Bike Festival. Enjoy the sight while biking over ten miles or one hundred miles of trails designed for all levels of expertise. Check out their website for details.

While you are in Staunton you can see a performance at the Blackfriars Playhouse where some of the best Shakespeare in the country is offered or visit the house where Woodrow Wilson was born.

Up and down the Shenandoah Valley you will find fall, harvest and pumpkin festivals. Check out their website for dates and times of all the events this area has to offer.

From Mid-September to mid-November the leaves along the east coast of the United States will be offering their best color. Visit any of the areas suggested or find one of your own but be sure to make your reservations early.

New York: Mount Hope Cemetery Rochester

While doing my research for this trip to Upstate New York I read that Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony were both buried in Mount Hope Cemetery in Rochester. I was not surprised about Susan B, Anthony since Seneca Falls is not all that far away but I had no idea about Frederick Douglass. It seems that he made Rochester his home for many years.

Sunday, after visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Eastman House and Museum we decided to pay a visit to these very historic figures.

I tried to find a map of the cemetery online unsuccessfully but by using find a grave was able to determine what section they were buried in. While looking through brochures at the Metropolitan Museum I found one of Mount Hope Cemetery that very clearly marks where the graves are located. It does make it very much easier when we have a map.

Mount Hope also puts signs with arrows to make it easier to locate these famous final resting place. The first one we visited was Frederick Douglass who is buried between his two wives. It was a very touching moment and it started to rain on us making it even more exciting.

By the time we found Susan B. Anthony in a totally different section it was raining quite hard but we didn’t let that deter us. She is buried with her siblings and we ended up finding her and having to run back to the car with thunder and lightning flashing.

We have visited many cemeteries over the years and we always leave feeling that we know the person better for having seen their final resting place.