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The Mountain State has so much beauty to explore, especially on foot. With 35 state parks and countless hiking trails, you have plenty of options for some exercise, fresh air, and nature views. Kick off your day, your week, or your weekend on the right foot with a day outdoors on one of these five hikes at some of the most incredible state parks to visit in West Virginia. Blackwater Falls State Park – Davis All Trails/Doug Niedholt Considered one of the best state parks in West Virginia, go for a leisurely stroll through Blackwater Falls State Park....

In 2016, the National Park Service celebrated its 100th birthday. Having been around for more than a century, it seemed like an appropriate time to take a look at the state’s national parks. Lucky for us, there are several national parks to visit in Mississippi. And they don’t disappoint! Offering everything from scenic roads and sandy beaches to Civil War battlefields and historic architecture, the state’s national parks are easily among the best parks in Mississippi....

Camping has countless benefits that you may not be aware of. Not only does it reduce stress, but spending time outdoors strengthens your connection with nature, and the change of scenery could inspire you to take on new challenges! Not to mention the relationship building with your camping buddies, spending time around a campfire, eating s’mores, and telling ghost stories. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time camper, a night at one of the most majestic campgrounds in Louisiana is sure to satisfy your nature fix....

It’s pretty much impossible not to fall in love with Virginia City. Our liveliest, most tourist-friendly ghost town certainly has its charms, especially in the summertime. However, there’s no denying that this area has a pretty dark and complex history. And if you believe the rumors, there are spirits that wander the streets after dark. Virginia City was founded in 1863, and two years later, it was designated as the new territorial capital of Montana....

There’s not a lot more fun than enjoying a day out at the zoo solo or with loved ones is there? There’s so much excitement in the air about what the animals will be up to and what you’ll get to see that day. Luckily, the only zoo in Rhode Island is also one of the best zoos in New England. Roger Williams Park zoo offers rare animals, gorgeous enclosures packed full of enrichment, and the comfort of knowing that the animals are as happy as can be!...

The Hawaiian Islands are filled with jaw-dropping vistas left and right. But the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii is guaranteed to take your breath away! Powerful, colorful, and filled with unique and fun information and exploration, this national park was recently ranked as one of the world’s most stunning national parks — and we know exactly why. Read on to find out why you need to visit this park as soon as possible!...

Are you wondering, “when will hummingbirds arrive in Oklahoma?” Don’t fret, Oklahomans, everyone is wondering and thousands of hummingbirds are headed right for the Sooner State during their spring migration in the upcoming weeks, so be on the lookout. If you live in certain parts of the state, you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these beautiful and unique birds. Here’s everything you need to know:...

The news reports are both fascinating and terrifying – a new invasive species of spider is crossing the ocean to make its appearance in the United States. While it’s starting on the east coast, many residents of Iowa are wondering – should I be keeping an eye out for the Joro Spider in my backyard? Here’s everything you need to know about this distinctive arachnid. Trichonephila Clavata is one of the largest spiders out there, commonly found in Japan, China, and Korea....

You don’t need to spend your life’s savings in Manhattan for a weekend of city-fueled fun. Come spend some time in Jersey City. This underrated city tucked away in north Jersey is home to history, art, cuisine, and so much more. Jersey City may be one of the most underrated and overlooked places in the state. Flickr / Art All too often, anyone looking for a city getaway near New York will head to the Big Apple itself, or book a room in Hoboken....

Out of all the places in the world, National Geographic named Maryland’s Eastern Shore one of the 25 amazing journeys for 2022. Other spots that made the list were international, such as Belize and Namibia, as well as a few US destinations, such as Northern Minnesota and Arapahoe Basin, Colorado. Read on to see why Maryland’s Eastern Shore made the cut, and consider visiting this beautiful and historic area for yourself in the coming year....

Vermont is known for its top-notch ski resorts. But if you don’t have slope worthy skills you might feel left behind when winter rolls around. Luckily, there is an incredible snow tubing park where absolutely no expertise is required. Mount Snow Resort is without a doubt the place to go for snow tubing in Vermont. So grab some family and friends and head out for a fun-filled time in the snow!...

Attention lovers of wilderness, wildlife, and free stuff: this is not a drill. Lace up those hiking boots as fast as you can, extract that kayak paddle from the back of the garage, and head to your nearest national park RIGHT NOW. Leave your wallet at home, though, because you’re not gonna need it. Why? Because ALL national parks are free to enter until April 24th. Yup. Free. This week is the centennial celebration of the founding of the national park system....

When the cold winter weather has got you down, warm up with a stay at Fortenberry Farm! The real-working farm and nursery boasts lots of wide-open spaces, a beautifully manicured landscape, and, the best part of all, a historic cabin – complete with a hot tub. It’s truly the perfect place to cure the winter blues. This is the 1905 Cabin. It’s nestled among the rolling hills and wide open spaces of the state’s Piney Woods region, on Fortenberry Farm in McComb....

Fall in Connecticut is a magical time. With so many activities to experience, it’s almost overwhelming. From visiting autumn attractions like Pumpkintown U.S.A. to picking apples at Karabin Farms, there’s a lot to do here. One activity you may have not yet considered is a trail ride in Connecticut. Even if you’ve never ridden a horse before, or it’s been years since you’ve done so, a trail ride is a great way to check out the fall foliage in Connecticut....

Hot spring: a spring of naturally hot (over 98 degrees Fahrenheit) mineral water that is heated by volcanic or some other geothermal activity. While many hot springs are far too scalding for human soaking, there are many which provide the perfect relaxing experience. There are beautiful and therapeutic hot springs in Nevada that are guaranteed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. To help you see some of the best, take a look at this incredible hot springs road trip through the Silver State, and I’m sure you will be planning your mini spa vacation soon....

Weather perfect and ideal for hiking in Colorado? You might feel like the walls of your home are getting smaller and smaller. If you feel ready to break free from the confines of your house and get the kids out and about, we’ve got a treat for you. These are some of the best kid-friendly hikes in Colorado. Gather up your children and take them on one (or all) of these five hiking trails in the Centennial State....

The next time you happen to be meandering through the coastal gem that is Jupiter, Florida, there is a restaurant that you’ll want to add to your bucket list. Little Moir’s Food Shack is an unassuming strip-mall spot that offers some of the best local seafood around. From the outside, you might not be convinced to step through the doors for a mind-blowing meal, but once you’re inside, we guarantee your tastebuds will never be the same....

Editor’s Note: The name of the store has changed to Stutzmans Country Market since the publication of this article, but it’s still just as delightful! Did you know Montana has a fairly large Amish population? While you won’t find as much Amish culture in the Treasure State as you will in Ohio or Pennsylvania, it does exist here — and that means you can find a few great specialty markets. Mission General Store is one of them, and you’ll definitely want to make the drive....

The small town of Arthur is located in the heart of the Illinois Amish country. It’s a step back to simpler times when horse-drawn buggies were used instead of cars, when most household items were homemade, and when all food was made from scratch. If you’re looking for a day trip destination, Arthur is always a good choice. And one place you must visit in Arthur is The Homestead Bakery where you can pick up some homemade Amish goods that alone are worth the drive....

Colorado is a truly colorful state, thanks to not only our purple mountain majesties and amber waves of grain but also our history and many ghost stories. Speaking of the latter, are you familiar with Gold Camp Road and its downright eerie history? If you have a love of the paranormal and are not easily scared, read on, as we uncover the legend of Colorado’s Gold Camp Road: Hiding away near Colorado Springs, Gold Camp Road looks about as normal as roads come but is, in fact, hiding a sinister secret....