Spend a Sunny Saturday in Southern Pines, North Carolina
Travel to the Sandhills and spend a sunny Saturday afternoon in Southern Pines, North Carolina
Historical Travel
Ireland’s Bunratty Castle and Folk Park | Totally Touristy and Why You Don’t Want To Miss It
Ireland’s Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in County Clare, offers visitors a complete Irish castle experience
Exploring Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
An awe-inspiring tribute to the clash of cultures and Battle of Little Bighorn fought along the bluffs and ridges of south-central Montana in 1876.
Discovering Pompeys Pillar National Monument
Pompeys Pillar National Monument in Montana is where you’ll find the only remaining physical evidence along the trail blazed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the early 19th century.
Burnsville, North Carolina, The Quintessential Mountain Getaway
It was a quick trip to try and capture a glimpse of the remaining fall colors in the mountains. That’s what brought …
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Hillsborough, North Carolina, And Its Outlander Connection
At one time, there were more Gaelic speaking people in North Carolina than anywhere else in the world outside of Scotland. I …
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Exploring Virginia’s Eastern Shore with The Ugly Oyster Tour Co.
Virginia’s Eastern Shore is separated from the rest of the state by the Chesapeake Bay. To get there, our approach includes traveling …
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Awesome Things To Do In Milwaukee | A 48-Hour Itinerary
With just 48-hours to spend in Milwaukee, creating an itinerary that allows a realistic timeframe for seeing as much as possible while …
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11 Fun Things To Do In Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia is the capital city of South Carolina and an underrated tourist destination. I traveled there for a quick weekend stay. While …
Step Inside The Haines Shoe House in York, Pennsylvania
Whenever I’m traveling to a specific destination, I do my research in advance to find the most unique attractions in the area. …
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48-Hours In Huntsville, Alabama
I first arrived in Huntsville for a conference in 2017 with no preconceived notions of what to expect. However, as I spent …
Skellig Michael – The Ultimate Irish Experience
A Guest Post by Katrina Pederson Morrocco Cary, North Carolina The Skellig Islands are off the west coast of Ireland. 4 Tips …
How to Spend Saturday Afternoon on Solomons Island, Maryland
When traveling to the DC area, I like to make sure to leave a little spare time for solo exploration. While on …
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‘Apollo 11’ Relive the 1969 Moon Mission at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Apollo 11 was a pivotal moment in American history. It was the culmination of the space race and the first mission placing …
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Why I Love Washington, DC in Winter
Having grown up just outside Washington, DC, trips into the city weren’t uncommon in my youth. After college, I lived off Wisconsin Avenue …
Eight Favorite Colonial Taverns
Eat, Drink, And Be Merry! Yes, dining at a colonial tavern is a culinary historical rush. There’s something magical about stepping back in …
Plan a Revolutionary Visit to Yorktown, Virginia
Historic Yorktown, in the Tidewater region of Virginia in the colonial triangle of tourism.
11 Fun Things To Do In Hershey & Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
When I was a kid growing up in Maryland, my father would take us on car trips to Hershey and the Pennsylvania …
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Touring the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg
It’s the green glazed terra cotta tile dome catching my eye upon spotting the Pennsylvania State Capitol building. The huge dome sits …
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Chihuly At Biltmore
I first learned about Dale Chihuly’s dramatic creations from a friend who saw his exhibition in Dallas, a few years ago. Thus, …
Fun Things to Do In Québec, Canada — Beyond Maple and Moose
When I travel beyond the Southeastern U.S. it’s usually a pretty spectacular adventure. Thus, when I registered to attend the Women In …
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24 Hours In Richmond, Virginia
Special thanks to Meghan Gearino and Erin Bagnell at VisitRichmondVA.com for assisting me with my itinerary and for the attractions guest pass. …
What Happened at Appomattox Court House During the Civil War?
What happened at Appomattox Court House during the Civil War? On April 9, 1865, the small hamlet in south-central Virginia became eternally …
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WWI and The Tar Heel Connection at The NC Museum of History
The NC Museum of History is commemorating the 100th anniversary of the United States’ entry into World War I. The special exhibition …
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The Ultimate Itinerary For Exploring Virginia’s Harrisonburg-Rockingham Artisan Trail
Though my trip was hosted by the Virginia Tourism Corporation all opinions are honest and my own. The Cultural Crossroads of the …
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10 Romantic Things to Do In Fayetteville, North Carolina
Although my visit was organized by the Fayetteville Convention and Visitors Bureau/Downtown Fayetteville and some activities were complimentary, all opinions are honest …
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Every Day is Historic at Red Hill, Patrick Henry’s Final Home
I got to spend Independence Day 2017 at Red Hill, Patrick Henry’s final home. Though July 4th is a historic date, every …
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A Guide to Poplar Forest – Jefferson’s Other Home
Did you know Thomas Jefferson had a summer home? I didn’t, so when I discovered I was only a short distance from …
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The Connection Between Beautiful Belmont, NC and Happiness
Is there a connection between Belmont, NC, and happiness? There’s something about discovering a picturesque town that makes me happy so when …
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7 Things You’ll Love About Lynchburg, Virginia
They say, “Virginia is for Lovers.” They must have had Lynchburg in mind when the expression was coined. I spent a fun …
Things To Do in Huntsville, Alabama and Why I’m a Raving Fan
I traveled to Huntsville, Alabama to attend the TBEX North America Conference. Being my first major travel blogger convention, I journeyed there …
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The Angel Oak Tree Near Charleston; a Free Low Country Favorite
I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree. ~ Joyce Kilmer Located near Charleston on Johns Island …
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R.M. Rose Company is Bringing ‘Fire’ to the North Georgia Mountains
Not Since Prohibition… In Dillard, Georgia, in the North Georgia mountains, there’s a revival taking place at R.M. Rose Company Distillers. In …
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Pittsboro Is a Charming Weekend Pit-Stop in the Heart of Carolina
In what is almost exactly the geographic center of North Carolina you’ll find the town of Pittsboro. Established in 1787, Pittsboro is …
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Plan Your Visit to James K. Polk’s Birthplace; America’s 11th President
Outside of Charlotte, North Carolina in the town of Pineville is the birthplace of America’s eleventh president. On November 2, 1795, James …
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Five Things That Make Boone Hall Plantation a ‘Must-See’ When Visiting Charleston
Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens is one of America’s oldest working plantations. It’s also one of the most photographed and a favorite …
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Discover Patriots Point and ‘Walk in the Steps of Heroes’
The USS Yorktown as seen from the deck of the USS Laffey Destroyer. Standing at the waterfront looking across Charleston Harbor, you’ll …
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Plan an Epic Trip to Mayberry This Year
Aunt Bee, Opie, Andy, and Barney – they’re all there. The Andy Griffith Show is classic television and the fictional town of …
Outdoor Dining, Shopping, and Coffee – How to Day-Trip in Wilmington, NC
The great thing about a quick visit to Wilmington, North Carolina is you don’t need a lot of time to see and …
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Visiting Dublin with Kids? You’ll want to become a Viking
Traveling with kids means searching for fun and entertaining options to keep the youngsters entertained. Finding a tour or attraction that’s both …
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Ash Lawn-Highland; Why you’ll want to visit James Monroe’s home in Mr. Jefferson’s neighborhood
If you find yourself in Charlottesville, Virginia for a trip to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, by all means, be sure to include a …
October is Virginia Wine Month on the Monticello Wine Trail
Thomas Jefferson had a vision for viniferous activity in his beloved Virginia. Though perhaps his grape-growing dreams didn’t come to fruition …
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Pawleys Island, South Carolina, proudly remaining ‘Arrogantly Shabby’
Travel along the South Carolina coast, encounter the famous Grand Strand, and you’ll quickly learn it’s an exciting, popular resort area attracting …
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Seven kid-friendly things to do in Charleston
Considering a family vacation to Charleston? There’s so much to do in Charleston, you’re likely to have a tough time deciding where …
Why you need to see Savannah from the back of a hearse
I’m not being ghoulish when I say this, but the best way to tour Savannah, Georgia, is from the back of …
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Charleston’s John Rutledge House Inn; An elegant B&B, so why did I bring a kid?
The John Rutledge House Inn, 116 Broad Street Charleston, South Carolina The John Rutledge House Inn is located in the heart of …
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The Airborne & Special Operations Museum is a must-see in the heart of historic downtown Fayetteville
If your summer travels include a trip along I-95, be sure to say, Pull Over and Let Me Out, when you get …
How to plan your trip itinerary using historic markers
I love historic markers. They have a great deal to do with the name of this website, and if you follow me …
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Virginia’s Hanover Tavern; Yes, George Washington slept here
Virginia’s Hanover Tavern; Yes, George Washington slept here. Hanover Tavern in Hanover, Virginia On a recent trip to Virginia which allowed me …
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‘All Aboard’ for the Wilmington Railroad Museum
Wilmington Railroad Museum On a trip to Wilmington, North Carolina I was looking for something interesting and fun for grownups and kids …
Downton Abbey comes to Biltmore
Downton Abbey comes to Biltmore n> Matthew Crawley is taller than I expected and Lady Mary’s engagement gown is stunning. No, I’m …
The Wrightsville Beach Mailbox; A Love Story
“Leave A Note.” Those simple words written on the outside of a mailbox launched an 11-year love story at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. …
Michie Tavern is the place to get a taste of the 18th Century
Michie Tavern In Thomas Jefferson’s Neighborhood A road trip to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is a classic journey into American history. The …
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Pull Over and Let Me Out names its top 5 of 2014
Can it be? Is 2014 really coming to an end? Sounds so clichéd, yet I find myself saying something to that effect …
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Five Reasons You’ll Fall For Colonial Williamsburg
Living in the southeast, it’s easy to take for granted the historic significance of the first 13 colonies. However, there’s no better …
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How To Make a Day At Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello a Family Affair
Taking kids to historic locations can be a risky proposition. Will the kids get bored? Will there be enough to engage young …
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Finding the Italian Renaissance in Raleigh
The NCMA West Building houses an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance Art works Marco Polo did not bring pasta to Italy from …
Morehead Planetarium & Science Center – You’ll Love It To The Moon And Back Again
A visit to the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill evokes thoughts of the famous Bell Tower, the Dean Smith Center, …
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A Surprising War Story At The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
We drove to Emmitsburg, Maryland to see the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. However, we discovered more waiting there than …
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Jane Austen in June; Tryon Palace celebrates the 200th anniversary of Mansfield Park
Featured advertiser Twisted Leather Bags Entrance to Tryon Palace in New Bern, North Carolina No, Fanny Price and Edmund Bertram didn’t show …
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Old Salem in Winston-Salem
Old Salem in Winston-Salem is a historic favorite in the heart of North Carolina.
How To Have Offseason Fun On North Carolina’s Outer Banks
It all started when my son received a kite as a Christmas present. It’s a really nice kite – too nice to …
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United States Botanic Garden – D.C.’s hidden treasure in pictures
United States Botanic Garden in pictures is a guest post by contributor Katrina Morrocco of Cary, North Carolina. Washington, D.C. is such …
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Five favorite historic sites discoveries of 2013
With the passing of another year it’s always fun sitting back and reflecting on the many stops I’ve made along the way. …
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The Winery at Bull Run – where history and fine wine converge
As a child, I visited what my father reverently referred to as the “hallowed grounds” at Manassas, Virginia. The Stone Bridge at …
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“Brother Joseph and the Grotto”
A follow-up to a story that ran earlier this year……. In December of 2012 I visited the Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, …
“Porsche by Design:Seducing Speed” the automobile as art at the NCMA
Porsche Type 901 Prototype, 1963 Courtesy of Don and Diane Meluzio “Porsche. There is no substitute.” Up until a couple weeks ago …
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Golf, antiques and Dewberries in the NC Sandhills
The Market at Muse Bros. Store 422 Carthage Street Heading south on US-1 in North Carolina there’s a visible change in topography …
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Photographing the American South
Living and traveling in the American South provides abundant scenery for amazing pictures. I’m always delighted when others enjoy the images I …
Arundel Castle in the South of England – from the 11th century to today
Magnificent Gothic architectural features are prominent at Arundel Castle. Lords, ladies, knights, kings and tales of castle intrigue – if these walls …
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24 Hours in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a historic port city along the Cape Fear River in North Carolina. Steeped in history ranging from pirate visitors …
There’s a Presidential detective story waiting at Madison’s Montpelier
Proceeding through the gates along the scenic driveway leading to Montpelier the unsuspecting traveler may not be fully prepared for what awaits. …
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Valley Forge with Grandma and an eight year old in 95 degree weather – it was fun
Taking summer trips to historic places can be risky depending on where you go. Crowds, high temps, cranky traveling companions can all …
Valley Forge with Grandma and an eight year old in 95 degree weather – it was fun Read More »
Four top destinations waiting for you in Hampton Roads Virginia
Is it Hampton Roads or is it Tidewater, Virginia? It’s both. The region is known for the Hampton Roads waterway which is …
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Philadelphia’s Valley Green Inn – A Historic Tavern On The Wissahickon
Thank goodness my Garmin knows where to take me. I can see it might be a challenge finding my way to the …
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North Carolina Museum of Art; where art and nature combine
The North Carolina Museum of Art is an amazing treasure in the Heart of Carolina. Located in Raleigh it is one …
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Journey to see an incredibly historic door
Have you ever visited a tourist site that left you feeling kind of disappointed? I’ve traveled the Petersburg/Richmond corridor of I-95 my …
Why a freezing cold visit to Arlington National Cemetery is worth every minute
A wind chill of sixteen degrees – that’s cold. Thank goodness the sun was popping out in fits and spurts from behind …
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Middleton Tavern in Annapolis – A Colonial Tavern In A Capital City
I made my way back to one of my favorite historical dining establishments. Middleton Tavern in Annapolis, Maryland. Despite the fact Middleton …
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The Ave Maria Grotto – “Miniature Miracles” in Cullman, Alabama
Driving through Alabama we stopped for the night in the town of Cullman. Cullman is about equal distance between Huntsville to the …
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A winter day in Annapolis, Maryland
The Capital dome is a renowned part of the Annapolis sky line. I grew up a few short miles west of …
Ivy Green – Home to America’s “First Lady of Courage” Helen Keller
“Wasn’t she purdy?” Okay, maybe she said “pretty” but the docent’s Alabama drawl and obvious affection for Helen Keller was unmistakable. As …
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Five favorite travel discoveries of 2012
2012 was a pretty exciting year. I’d been a local travel writer for a while, but finally decided to branch out and …
Christmas shopping in the land of lost luggage
The Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, Alabama is where items left behind on planes, at airports or lost in transit go …
For a moving and educational stop on vacation, visit the cemetery
It’s not a ghoulish fascination attracting me to cemeteries – it’s a love of history. From the time I was a child …
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A day on the USS Enterprise
I spent part of Veteran’s Day weekend in Norfolk, Virginia at the Norfolk Naval Base. My family and I had the good …
Visit Jamestown Settlement and spend an afternoon in the 17th century
13 years before the Pilgrims set foot on Plymouth Rock 104 brave men and boys established the first permanent English Colony on …
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“Hands-on-History” is a child’s delight at Mount Vernon
“Hands-on-History” is more than a catchphrase, it’s a kids’ delight at Mount Vernon. George Washington’s historic home on the Potomac comes alive for …
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“Hands-on-History” is a child’s delight at Mount Vernon
“Hands-on-History” is more than a catch phrase, it’s a kids’ delight at Mount Vernon. George Washington’s historic home on the …
“Hands-on-History” is a child’s delight at Mount Vernon Read More »
Ft. McAllister; where history and nature unite in the Georgia Low Country
A few years ago I spent a memorable Labor Day weekend camping at Fort McAllister Historic Park on the banks of the …
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The North Carolina Museum of Art – an unexpected treasure in the Heart of Carolina
Paris, France, Florence, Italy – these are cities one typically thinks of when talking about art capitals of the world. Imagine my …
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How a peanut plantation helped me share my love of history
One of the things I love most about traveling is learning the history of the place I’m visiting. Maybe it’s the …
How a peanut plantation helped me share my love of history Read More »
Battleship North Carolina by day – Ghost Ship by night
The USS North Carolina participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific during WWII, earning 15 battle stars. The USS North …
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Surratt House and Museum; home of the first woman executed by the US government
Have you ever visited a place and for some reason it stayed with you? I’m not talking about fond memories. I’m talking …
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Visit Babyland General Hospital and see the Magical Cabbage Patch
Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia is a place I visited out of love. It was the one thing my mother wanted …
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The Ava Gardner Museum – Hollywood glamour in a small southern town
I take great pleasure in visiting small town museums. They fascinate me and the staff are typically there because they love what …
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Take the Gone With the Wind Tour that brings Margaret Mitchell’s novel to life
Clayton County, Georgia is the ancestral home of Margaret Mitchell and is the official home of ‘Gone With the Wind.’ Peter Bonner’s …
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Hildene; An original Gilded Age estate in Vermont with presidential ties
The Battenkill Valley in Vermont evokes images of winding rural roads, cozy cottages, covered bridges, maple syrup and cow-filled pastures. These images …
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