Pittsburgh is the city where Andre and I met, so we hold it near and dear to our heart. Most of his family still lives in the area as well, so we try to visit at least once per year. We recommend going when it is warm :).

Pittsburgh is a vibrant city with a lot to offer; here are some top recommendations for your visit:

The Andy Warhol Museum: Dive into the world of Pop Art at this museum dedicated to Pittsburgh native Andy Warhol.

Duquesne Incline: Ride this historic funicular for stunning views of the city skyline and the three rivers.

Strip District: Explore this bustling neighborhood known for its markets, eateries, and unique shops.

PNC Park: Catch a Pirates game or simply enjoy the beautiful views of the city from this iconic ballpark.

Carnegie Museums: Visit the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for a mix of art and science.

Fallingwater: Take a short trip outside the city to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece.

Phipps Conservatory: Wander through beautiful botanical gardens and greenhouses.

Bicycle Heaven: Check out the world’s largest bicycle museum and shop.

And here is a little video introducing each of our home state cities:

This is also the place where we got married, and you can see a snippet of that glorious day in this clip.

Here is a video from our first Steelers game together in October 2015.

Lake Erie is also a good place to check out. We visited a few times, but here is a clip of our visit during a road-trip in February 2018. We went to Presque Isle State Park on our way to Niagara Falls.

Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. Here are some top recommendations:

Cities and Cultural Sites

Philadelphia: Explore historic sites like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Don’t miss the vibrant Reading Terminal Market for local food.

Pittsburgh: Visit the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and take a ride on the Duquesne Incline for stunning city views.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Poconos: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, skiing, and water sports.

Kinzua Bridge State Park: Walk on the skywalk for breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge.

Ohiopyle State Park: Perfect for whitewater rafting, hiking, and camping.

Unique Attractions

Hershey: Known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” visit Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Fallingwater: Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece nestled in the Laurel Highlands.

Quaint Towns and Villages

Lancaster: Experience Amish culture and enjoy the scenic farmlands.

Peddler’s Village: A charming shopping village with unique boutiques and restaurants.

Events and Festivals

Gettysburg: Attend reenactments and explore the Gettysburg National Military Park.

Punxsutawney: Visit Gobbler’s Knob to see Phil’s Groundhog Day prediction.

These are just a few highlights. Pennsylvania has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or unique local experiences. Enjoy!

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a road-trip in New England during June 2023. Rhode Island was our third stop, and we visited East Greenwich and Providence. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Here are some top recommendations for your visit:

1. Newport

Cliff Walk: A 3.5-mile scenic walk along the coast with stunning ocean views and access to historic mansions.

The Breakers: The grandest of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family.

2. Block Island

Mohegan Bluffs: Dramatic clay cliffs with a 141-step staircase leading to a rocky beach.

Beaches and Wildlife Refuge: Enjoy 17 miles of free beaches and a refuge for migratory birds.

3. Providence

WaterFire: An award-winning fire sculpture installation on the rivers of downtown Providence.

RISD Museum: A museum with a diverse collection of art and design pieces.

4. Coastal Towns

Watch Hill: A charming seaside village with beautiful beaches and the historic Flying Horse Carousel.

Narragansett: Known for its surfing beaches and seafood restaurants.

5. Culinary Experiences

Federal Hill: Providence’s Little Italy, offering a variety of Italian restaurants and markets.

Seafood: Don’t miss out on Rhode Island’s famous clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

South Carolina is a fantastic destination with a variety of attractions to suit different interests. Here are some recommendations:

Historic Charleston

Charleston: Known for its charming historic district, cobblestone streets, and antebellum architecture. Don’t miss Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: A beautiful historic plantation with stunning gardens.

Beaches and Islands

Hilton Head Island: Offers pristine beaches, golf courses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Kiawah Island: Known for its serene beaches and top-notch golf courses.

Myrtle Beach: Famous for its lively boardwalk, amusement parks, and wide sandy beaches.

Nature and Parks

Congaree National Park: A great spot for hiking, canoeing, and experiencing the unique floodplain forest.

Huntington Beach State Park: Offers beautiful beaches, bird watching, and the historic Atalaya Castle.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences

Columbia: Visit the South Carolina State House and explore its beautiful grounds.

Whole-Hog Barbecue: South Carolina is famous for its barbecue, so be sure to try some authentic whole-hog barbecue.

Unique Experiences

Boutique Hotels: Stay in one of the new boutique hotels that offer a mix of historic charm and modern amenities.

Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on iconic dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and pimento cheese.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

South Dakota offers a variety of attractions and experiences for every type of traveler. Here are some top recommendations:

Must-See Attractions

Mount Rushmore: This iconic monument features the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite. The best times to visit are May, September, and October when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.

Badlands National Park: Known for its rugged terrain and striking geological formations, this park offers a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape.

Crazy Horse Memorial: This massive mountain carving honors the Lakota leader Crazy Horse and is still under construction. It’s located near Mount Rushmore and offers a fascinating cultural experience.

Outdoor Adventures

Custer State Park: A great spot for wildlife viewing, hiking, and scenic drives. You might spot bison, pronghorns, and other wildlife.

Spearfish Canyon: Known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic beauty, it’s perfect for hiking and photography.

Wind Cave National Park: Explore one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, known for its unique boxwork formations.

Unique Stops

Corn Palace: Located in Mitchell, this quirky building is decorated with murals made from corn and other grains.

Wall Drug: A famous roadside attraction offering everything from souvenirs to homemade donuts.

Deadwood: A historic town known for its Wild West history and casinos.

Family-Friendly Activities

Storybook Island: A free children’s theme park in Rapid City with fairy tale and nursery rhyme-themed play areas.

Reptile Gardens: Home to a variety of reptiles, birds, and other animals, it’s a fun and educational stop for kids.

Bear Country USA: A drive-through wildlife park where you can see bears, wolves, and other North American wildlife up close.

Tips for Planning

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May to October) for the best weather and fewer crowds.

Accommodation: Consider staying in Rapid City for easy access to many attractions, or choose a scenic resort along the Missouri River.

Dining: Try local favorites and restaurants at popular attractions like the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Here is a video of our February 2019 road-trip, which included a stop in Memphis, Tennessee.

Tennessee has a lot to offer! Here are some top recommendations:

Nashville: Known as “Music City,” Nashville is famous for its vibrant music scene, especially country music. Don’t miss the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the lively honky-tonks on Broadway.

Memphis: Home to Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley, and Beale Street, which is lined with blues clubs and restaurants. The National Civil Rights Museum is also a must-visit.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Perfect for nature lovers, this park offers stunning mountain views, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.

Chattanooga: Known for its beautiful riverfront, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the historic Lookout Mountain, which offers breathtaking views and the famous Ruby Falls.

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg: These neighboring towns are great for family fun with attractions like Dollywood, Ripley’s Aquarium, and access to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Knoxville: A vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful parks, and a lively downtown area. The Knoxville Museum of Art and Market Square are popular spots.

Franklin: Just south of Nashville, Franklin is known for its charming downtown area, historic sites, and Civil War history.

Cherokee National Forest: Offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and fishing.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Here is a video of our February 2019 road-trip, which included stops in Arlington, Dallas, Waco, and Houston, Texas.

Texas is a fantastic destination with a wide variety of attractions and activities to suit all interests. Here are some recommendations for your trip:

Cities to Explore

Austin: Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers vibrant music scenes, great food, and beautiful outdoor spaces like Zilker Park.

San Antonio: Visit the historic Alamo, stroll along the picturesque River Walk, and explore the rich cultural heritage.

Dallas: A hub for arts and culture, Dallas boasts the Dallas Museum of Art, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, and a lively downtown area.

Houston: Home to the Space Center Houston, diverse culinary experiences, and numerous museums.

Galveston: Enjoy the beaches, historic Strand District, and Moody Gardens.

Outdoor Adventures

Big Bend National Park: Perfect for hiking, camping, and stargazing.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Offers stunning mountain scenery and challenging hikes.

Palo Duro Canyon: Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” great for hiking and exploring.

Unique Experiences

Hill Country: Explore charming small towns, wineries, and scenic drives.

Texas BBQ Trail: Sample some of the best barbecue in the country in cities like Lockhart and Taylor.

South Padre Island: Ideal for beach activities, water sports, and wildlife watching.

Cultural Highlights

Fort Worth Stockyards: Experience the Old West with cattle drives, rodeos, and Western-themed shops.

Marfa: Known for its contemporary art scene and mysterious Marfa Lights.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a road-trip out west during June and July 2019. Utah was our fourteenth stop, and we visited Park City and Salt Lake City. Here is a video of some of our time there.

We quickly visited Utah during a February 2017 road-trip, which included the four-corner states, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah as well as Nevada.

This next video shows some of our drive through Arches National Park accompanied by some tunes from Maverick City.

Utah is a fantastic destination with a diverse range of attractions! Here are some top recommendations:

National Parks

Arches National Park: Famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches.

Bryce Canyon National Park: Known for its unique hoodoos and stunning vistas.

Zion National Park: Offers incredible hiking trails like Angels Landing.

Canyonlands National Park: Perfect for exploring dramatic desert landscapes.

Capitol Reef National Park: Features beautiful rock formations and a historic orchard.

Cities and Towns

Salt Lake City: The state capital with rich history, museums, and the Great Salt Lake.

Moab: A gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, popular for outdoor adventures.

Park City: Known for its ski resorts and the Sundance Film Festival.

Unique Attractions

Monument Valley: Iconic red sandstone formations that have been featured in many films.

Dead Horse Point State Park: Offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River.

Dinosaur National Monument: Great for fossil enthusiasts and history buffs.

Activities

Skiing and Snowboarding: Utah is famous for its ski resorts, especially in the Wasatch Mountains.

Hiking and Camping: Numerous trails and campgrounds across the state.

River Rafting: Particularly popular in the Moab area.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Vermont is a beautiful state with a lot to offer! Here are some recommendations for your trip:

Top Destinations

Burlington: Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful waterfront, and the Church Street Marketplace.

Stowe: Perfect for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

Woodstock: Offers charming small-town vibes with great farm-to-table dining options.

Montpelier: The smallest state capital in the U.S., known for its historic sites and local culture.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, skiing, and exploring the Green Mountains.

Scenic Drives: Especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.

Local Festivals: Check out local fairs, food festivals, and cultural events.

Unique Experiences

Covered Bridges: Vermont is famous for its picturesque covered bridges.

Maple Syrup: Visit a sugarhouse to see how maple syrup is made and sample some fresh syrup.

Planning Tips

Seasonal Highlights: Each season offers something unique, from skiing in winter to leaf-peeping in fall.

Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like Vermont cheddar cheese and craft beers.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Virginia offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from historical sites to outdoor adventures and vibrant cities. Here are some recommendations:

Historical Sites

Colonial Williamsburg: Step back in time and experience life in the 18th century.

Monticello: Visit Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home and gardens.

Mount Vernon: Explore George Washington’s estate.

Outdoor Adventures

Shenandoah National Park: Enjoy hiking, scenic drives, and stunning views along Skyline Drive.

Virginia Beach: Relax on the sandy shores or try water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially beautiful in the fall.

Cities and Towns

Richmond: Discover the capital city’s rich history, museums, and vibrant arts scene.

Charlottesville: Explore the charming downtown area and visit nearby wineries.

Alexandria: Wander through the historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets and waterfront views.

Unique Experiences

Luray Caverns: Explore the largest caverns in the eastern United States.

Chincoteague Island: Witness the famous wild ponies and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a road-trip out west during June and July 2019. Washington was our fifth stop, and we visited Spokane, Seattle, Olympia, and Mount Rainier. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Recommendations for Seattle:

Must-See Attractions

1. Space Needle: This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city, Elliott Bay, and the Cascade Mountains.
2. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Dive into music, science fiction, and pop culture in this unique, Frank Gehry-designed building.
3. Pacific Science Center: A family-friendly museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a Tropical Butterfly House.
4. Chihuly Garden and Glass: Explore the stunning glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly in this comprehensive collection.
5. Seattle Center Monorail: Take a ride on this historic monorail for a fun way to get around the Seattle Center area.

Other Highlights

• Pike Place Market: A bustling market with fresh produce, seafood, and unique shops.
• Seattle Aquarium: Learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
• Seattle Art Museum (SAM): Enjoy a variety of art exhibits ranging from contemporary to classic.
• Gas Works Park: A unique park with industrial history and great views of the city.

Outdoor Activities

• Discovery Park: Seattle’s largest green space, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
• Alki Beach: A beautiful beach with stunning views of the Seattle skyline.
• Mount Rainier National Park: Just a short drive from Seattle, this park offers hiking, camping, and breathtaking scenery.

Dining

• Pike Place Chowder: Famous for their clam chowder.
• The Pink Door: An Italian restaurant with a secret entrance and great views.
• Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream: Delicious homemade ice cream with unique flavors.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

West Virginia offers a variety of unique and exciting travel experiences! Here are some top recommendations:

1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

This park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, and climbing. The Bridge Walk is a unique experience where you can walk on a catwalk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge.

2. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

This historic town is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers. You can explore Civil War sites, hike the Appalachian Trail, and enjoy stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers.

3. The Greenbrier

A luxury resort in White Sulphur Springs, The Greenbrier offers a range of activities including golf, spa treatments, and fine dining. It’s a great place to relax and unwind.

4. Blackwater Falls State Park

Known for its stunning waterfalls and beautiful scenery, this park is ideal for hiking, camping, and photography.

5. Hatfield-McCoy Trails

If you’re into ATV riding or off-road adventures, the Hatfield-McCoy Trails offer over 1,000 miles of trails through the Appalachian Mountains.

6. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Take a ride on a historic steam-driven locomotive and enjoy the scenic views of the West Virginia mountains.

7. Seneca Rocks

A popular spot for rock climbing and hiking, Seneca Rocks offers breathtaking views and challenging climbs.

8. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

For something a bit different, visit this historic asylum for guided tours that delve into its history and paranormal activity.

9. Summersville Lake

Perfect for water activities like swimming, boating, and scuba diving, Summersville Lake is a great spot for a summer getaway.

10. Charleston

The state capital offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining. Don’t miss the West Virginia State Museum and the Capitol Market.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Wisconsin is a fantastic destination with a variety of attractions for all types of travelers! Here are some recommendations:

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Door County: Known for its charming small towns, lighthouses, and beautiful shoreline along Lake Michigan. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying scenic views.

Apostle Islands: Located in Lake Superior, these islands offer stunning sea caves, kayaking, and hiking opportunities. In winter, you can explore the famous ice caves.

Devil’s Lake State Park: A popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and swimming. The park features beautiful quartzite bluffs and scenic trails.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Milwaukee: Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and enjoy the vibrant brewery scene.

Madison: Explore the state capital with its beautiful Capitol building, the University of Wisconsin campus, and the Dane County Farmers’ Market.

Taliesin: The home and studio of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, located in Spring Green.

Unique Experiences

Wisconsin Dells: Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” it’s a great destination for family fun with numerous indoor and outdoor waterparks.

Great River Road: A scenic drive along the Mississippi River, offering picturesque views and charming small towns.

Bayfield and Madeline Island: Enjoy the quaint town of Bayfield and take a ferry to Madeline Island for hiking, beaches, and exploring Big Bay State Park.

Seasonal Activities

Fall Colors: Wisconsin is known for its stunning fall foliage. Consider visiting during autumn to enjoy the vibrant colors in places like Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Winter Sports: Embrace the snowy season with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in areas like the Northwoods.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.