Top Reasons to Visit Branson, Missouri

I’ve traveled to Missouri dozens of times (in college I dated a guy who attended Drury University) and while I’ve visited some of the “Show Me State’s” most popular attractions I was still a bit taken aback by a recent statistic that made headlines regarding Branson, Missouri. The family-friendly Ozark resort town, which is known for its country music roots, attracted more than 8 million visitors to the area last year alone. So what’s the draw? I’ve compiled this list of reasons why people from around the world are putting Branson at the top of their must-visit lists: Affordable. Branson … Continue reading

Exploring Missouri: Hannibal, Missouri (2)

Once we got to Hannibal, we had to figure out what to do first. The general consensus was to begin with Mark Twain Cave Complex. We all love caves and exploring one that had such prominent history was exciting to say the very least. You almost feel like Becky and Tom did when they were exploring the cave all those many years ago. Almost. We began the one hour tour by watching a film in a very small room. There was not enough seating and most of us had to stand, or sit far apart from each other. The film … Continue reading

Exploring Missouri: Visit Tom Sawyer in Hannibal, Missouri

As an active family with five kids, we often look for fun weekend adventures within a few hours drive of our home. This past summer was no exception and we found ourselves traveling to towns all over, and spending some time soaking up the history and sights that the cities had to offer. Our favorite travel spot this summer was Hannibal, Missouri. I had no idea the amazing history and culture that could be had in such a small town! It was nearly 140 years ago that Mark Twain transformed the sleepy little river town of Hannibal into a now … Continue reading

The Phenomenon of Premature Obituaries

I had been thinking about this blog for a while now and today, CNN beat me to the punch. I guess it is a slow news day because towards the top of its news list, CNN ran a story that said “Abe Vigoda is still alive, thank you very much.” In case you don’t remember, there was a rumor going around that Abe had died…in 1982. That year, a reporter for PEOPLE magazine wrote in an article that the “late Abe Vigoda” was not at the “Barney Miller” wrap party. Needless to say, that came as a bit of a … Continue reading

How the Midwestern Floods are Affecting Summer Travel Plans

I live in a state that has been ravaged by floods. More than 15 counties here in Wisconsin have been declared disaster areas and FEMA workers continue to assess the damage to homes and businesses. Mother Nature’s wrath has already exceeded the $20 million mark and is expected to rise in the coming days. The devastation may not be as widespread as it is in Iowa, but residents here are still reeling from the destruction left behind from last week’s torrential rain and severe floods. This month’s deluges have also soaked several Midwestern tourist spots, most of which rely on … Continue reading

St. Louis Side Trips

You’ve done The Arch and toured the riverboats, so what else does St. Louis have to offer? If you love the great outdoors and are up for a family adventure consider heading out to these other local hotspots near “Mound City.” Meramec Caverns Located about an hour southwest of St. Louis in Stanton, Missouri is a place known to many as the infamous hideout where Jesse James and his brother, Frank would count their loot after their latest bank or train heist. Believe me, their secret hideaway is no longer a secret given that now the road to the caverns … Continue reading

Murder Mystery Weekend and Wine

If you love playing games and have never participated in a murder mystery weekend, then you are in for a real treat when visiting Herman, Missouri. Okay, so this is a mock murder, a kind of Clue or “who done it” scenario but you can be sure to have the time of your life. For adults wanting to get away and try something new, I highly recommend a trip to Herman. The great thing about Herman is that it sits in the heart of Missouri wine country. This storybook town was established in the 19th century and today, is known … Continue reading