244004862~392~Riddle of Wichita Falls~816~-4095~~First there was a falls, then there wasn't, and now there is. That's the riddle of Wichita Falls, a busy industrial town on the Texas plains, just a short ramble from the Oklahoma border. After the Wichita Indians were evicted, settlers moved into the area and found a little ripple on the Wichita River. It was only five feet high, but in these flat lands, that precipitous drop must have seemed a minor miracle to the pioneers passing this way. In 1882, the railroad arrived and the town's future became secure. Unfortunately, the little waterfall's was not. Four years after the town's founding, it lost its namesake when the falls washed away in a flood. But now there is a falls again. It took 100 years, but the town fathers finally got around to building Wichita Falls, a falls. It's a nice place to spend a day. After all, it's good enough for the Dallas Cowboys. They hold summer training camp here at Midwestern State University. 211002250~392~Bavaria in Georgia~8900~-2752~~Is it the backwoods of the Old South, or the forests of southern Germany? Tiny Helen, Georgia, a struggling lumber town made a choice in 1969 that made a difference. In a bold stroke of marketing genius, the town turned itself into a Bavarian fantasy world. Humdrum storefronts were transformed into "quaint" shops. Everyday merchants became "Old World burghers." Overnight, the town's rustic facade was trimmed out in the red roofs and curlicues of an Alpine village. German food and German merchandise were imported to make the transformation complete. Whether your interest is in all things Tyrolean, or in studying successful small-town marketing technique, a trip to Helen, two hours' drive northeast of Atlanta, makes for a delightful day out when you need to get away from the urban whirl. 236002327~392~Ashtabula? Ashtabula!~9527~2229~~The northeast corner of Ohio enjoys not only one of the mildest climates in the state, but it also has a city (and county) with one of the best place names ever: Ashtabula. That word rolls off the tongue and over the lips. Once you start, you can't stop saying it: Ashtabula, Ashtabula, Ashtabula. Snug up against Lake Erie, this is one of the prettiest corners of Ohio. It's quiet, laidback, wine country. Spend a day poking around the lakeshore from Geneva-on-the-Lake to Conneaut. With Ashtabula in the middle, you might be surprised at what you'll find. Oh, and about that name: it's a Seneca word and means, loosely, "There's a whole lot of fish in the river." Now you know. 236002333~392~Canton is for Football, Dover is for Carvers~9350~1382~~Canton, Ohio -- what's this city famous for? William McKinley? How about the birth of American-style competitive football? The Pro Football Hall of Fame is here for a reason. After all, this is where the whole thing started, and not only on the professional level. The high school teams around here play a traditional rivalry that's considered the equivalent of a state championship. The local hall of fame is much less well-known than its professional counterpart but no less important for true historians of the game. Hey, it's not a game -- it's a way of life. Of course, not everyone agrees, so for those not so enamored of the autumnal national pastime, this quick trip provides something a little more quirky but no less deserving of your admiration and respect. 211002242~392~Quirky, Classic Athens~9190~-3218~~Athens is home to the oldest state-chartered school in the U.S., the University of Georgia, chartered in 1785. Athens grew up around the University, whose founders expressly intended, in 1801, that the school be remote from urban influence. And it's still well off the beaten path despite being only 70 miles from Atlanta. Remoteness, higher learning, and a classical feel in its antebellum architecture have somehow engendered -- quirkiness. After all, this is the town that produced those two quintessentially quirky rock acts of the late 1970s and 1980s: the B52s and REM. Check it out when you're looking for a day away from "urban influence." The town and its magnificent Greek Revival homes were largely spared the ravages of the Civil War. In addition to its stately avenues and classically conceived buildings, you'll also find two certified entries from Ripley's Believe-It-or-Not -- the Double Barrel Cannon and the Tree That Owns Itself. Best of all, everything except your lunch is free. 216001383~392~Beauty of Brown County~7084~16~~You'll see subtle rolling ridges, mystery-laden hollows, and haze rising blue from forested valley floors. Simple, two-lane blacktop highways hug Earth's contours. Brown County, only 40 miles south of Indianapolis, has long attracted artists and craftspeople to its intangible beauty. One hundred years ago the American Impressionists of the Hoosier school migrated here to capture the land in watercolors and oils. Today, the land they saw remains largely the same. Tens of thousands flock here to see the changing fall colors and to shop for antiques and crafts in the hundreds of galleries and shops that you'll find in the tiny village of Nashville. Except for that busy time of year, this is a place for peace and contemplation of a classic American landscape. 204001852~392~Phoenix and the Old West~-6920~-3655~~Interested in the "old days," pardner? Sure you are. Everybody is. What was it like back then and how did it all get started? That's what folks want to know. Head out northwest of Phoenix for an easy daytrip and you can visit two very interesting re-creations of earlier times. But was it all cowboys and Indians? No, sir. There was another side to the taming of the west that folks tend to overlook: Mining. Digging the riches out of the earth. This trip includes both the pioneering life and the miner's life. And at the end of the day, you can find a place to have a meal with an oldtime feel. 244004858~392~Tyler: The Yellow Rose of Texas~2559~-5056~~The only rose for most Texans is the yellow rose. Where does this flower of myth and song bloom? If anywhere, it blooms in Tyler. The state's rose-growing capital exports thousands of rose bushes around the world annually. The city's municipal gardens offer an enticing place to begin a tour of this east Texas town. The Texas Rose Festival in October and the Azalea Trail in March are especially good times to head for Tyler. Once your olfactory nerves are sated with the flower's intoxicating aroma, you can also check out the city's other sights, which include an art museum, historic homes, and a noteworthy zoo. 210004744~392~Landing in Lakeland~10730~-6921~~Looking for something beyond the theme parks and sunny beaches of Florida? Try a day in the town of Lakeland for some homegrown aeronautic excitement. With more and more people flying their own planes and some even building their own, Lakeland has taken off as a hub for small-plane enthusiasts. At the airport here, you'll find a museum featuring historic and modern small, personal aircraft. Better yet, each year the annual Sun-n-Fun Fly-In sees thousands of aircraft from all over North America landing in Lakeland. Pilots and their passengers come for a week of exhibitions and the general camaraderie of the airborne, while the public gets to see this exciting brand of aircraft firsthand. And not so far away, another flight museum will let you find out what it feels like to fly, even if you haven't yet earned your wings. 246002000~392~Old Town Petersburg~11906~-402~~No, it's not St. Petersburg. That's in Florida, on a big blue bay and with a wide, sandy beach. This is Petersburg, Virginia, on the Appomattox River, a little south of Richmond. It's not the sun you soak up here, but history and romance. The city, an important center for both commerce and transportation for over 300 years, suffered the loss of its original downtown to fire in 1815. Later, the town suffered under the longest siege of the American Civil War. Most recently, the new Old Town (built right after the fire and now almost 200 years old) was battered again when a tornado struck in 1993. The old brick structures now housing restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops were rebuilt one more time and are ripe for exploration and relaxation.<BR>If you're looking for traditional southern cuisine, Petersburg's most celebrated barbecue house is called King's; they have two locations: 3221 W. Washington (804-732-5861) and 2910 S. Crater Road (804-732-0975). If you'd prefer something a bit more fancy and Italian, try Portabella at 105 W. Bank Street in the Old Town area (804-732-6233). 247000573~392~Knocking Around Burlington~12794~4834~1~Skip the history lessons, and enjoy a day knocking around Burlington without visiting a single Ethan Allen landmark (at least not on purpose). This ultra-hip, laid-back town should be enjoyed at an easy pace. Take in street entertainers and local color downtown in the Church Street Marketplace area, reminisce at a funky shop with cool mementos from your childhood, and stroll through acres of extraordinary gardens. End it all with the most politically correct ice cream cone you'll ever eat. 243001377~391~Whiskey and Horses~7420~-2500~10~Tennessee Whiskey, a spirit renowned the world over for its smooth sippability, charcoal-mellowed character, and rich flavor. The Tennessee Walking Horse, a world-renowned breed famous for its style and spirit, mild manner, and smooth, comfortable ride. Combine these two Tennessee staples and you get one fantastic weekend vacation. About 80 miles southeast of Nashville lies the heart of Tennessee whiskey country and the famous breeding grounds of the Tennessee Walking Horse. A number of stops within a 30-mile radius provides an in-depth look at these two important Tennessee products, as well as a chance to spend some time relaxing in the beautiful Tennessee countryside. 250000423~391~West Virginia Whitewater~10040~-536~100~West Virginia is noted for its whitewater rafting. The state tourism industry thrives in large part because so many people flock here to ride the more then 2000 miles of wild and untamed rivers that cut through this Appalachian state. Whitewater rafting doesn't float everyone's boat. The idea of steering past gauntlets of sharp jutting rock on a thrashing roller coaster of whitewater in a little orange rubber boat doesn't appeal to everyone. But you'll find that whitewater rafting can take a number of different forms, including peaceful, calm river journeys through some of America's most stunning and scenic territory. Who knows, a two- to three-day whitewater rafting trip might be one of the most memorable adventures you ever take. <BR>The best standard to observe when deciding which rivers or sections of river you'd like to raft is the I to VI scale. Novices and kids without a guide can navigate rivers gauged as Level I or II. Rivers designated III or IV require paddling skills and guides, while rivers designated VI require a lot of experience and a taste for the kind of dangerous thrills that others might find suicidal. Most rivers will have a little bit of most of the designations -- stretches of calm and stretches of hair-raising wild water. If you know your limitations (and make sure your outfitter knows them, too), you'll have a great time on most of West Virginia's rivers. <BR>The keys to making the whole whitewater experience fun are choosing an outfitter with whom you feel safe and secure and having the right equipment. The West Virginia Whitewater getaway recommends some rivers you might want to check out during your visit. They all have long, easily manageable stretches of I- to III-class whitewater. There are also suggestions for outfitters who lead tours along the described rivers. Outfitters will provide you with guidance and equipment, and many of them provide exceptional resources and perks such as catered meals and even photographs of your trip. You'll be able to find a bunch of outfitters listed on the Internet or through the West Virginia state tourism board at 1-800-CALL-WVA. 221000794~392~Back Streets of Baltimore~11976~1033~11~Skip the slick, predictable tourist spots and head for the seamy side of Baltimore. Home to both Edgar Allen Poe and cult filmmaker John Waters, Baltimore has always attracted its share of eccentrics and twisted visionaries. Visit the nation's oldest museum with its eclectic collection of cultural oddities. Walk through the galleries of quirky outsider art at the exceptional American Visionary Art Museum. And take a water taxi to the hip quarter of Fells Point to hang out with the natives and take in the funky local color. 248001213~391~River Works~-8188~5951~12~From its origin in British Columbia, Canada, to its outlet on the Pacific coast, the Columbia River flows more than 1,200 miles. One of its more powerful, that is to say, power-producing stretches runs through the Big Bend area near Spokane, Washington. Eleven dams testify to U.S. engineering initiative. But the Columbia is just one of the rivers winding through Washington. The Spokane River, which runs directly through downtown Spokane, was the site of Expo '74. Riverfront Park remains even though the Expo left long ago, providing another opportunity for you to experience the impact rivers have on everyday life in eastern Washington State. 213000998~392~Surrealistic Iowa Scenery~4493~1180~13~Some travelers might say the middlemost state is pretty unremarkable, average, and humdrum -- which is to say, all the more splendid as a backdrop for the unexpected. Those looking for something a little different than praises of pioneers and plowshares will find a few unlikely attractions in the state's southeastern section. Among them are the putative birthplace of Star Trek's Captain Kirk character, a town that gives one of San Francisco's notable attractions a run for its money, a tiny rural hamlet that's downright cosmopolitan when it comes to cuisine, and a lighthearted motel hideaway, a place to flop that makes people flip. 211001736~391~Gothic Savannah~10710~-4229~14~Savannah, Georgia has experienced phenomenal popularity ever since the 1994 publication of John Berendt's best-selling book <I>Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil</I>. The Gothic Savannah weekend tour will give you a chance to survey Savannah's history and get a glimpse of what makes this city so distinctive. The Tour centers on Savannah's Historic District, an area bordered by the Savannah River on the north, West Gaston Street on the south, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Broad Street on the west and east respectively. The Historic District is home to many fine inns, including the pricey but elegant Gastonian, at 220 East Gaston Street (912-232-2869); the East Bay Inn, at 225 East Bay Street (800-500-1225); and the Ballastone Inn, at 14 East Oglethorpe Avenue (800-822-4553). The city planners laid Savannah out in a rigid grid of bolt-straight streets broken only by scenic squares. The layout makes finding things easy, but negotiating squares by car can be pretty challenging. 215001813~391~TheaterTown Chicago~6120~1730~15~Sure, you can go to the big theaters in the Loop and see the latest Broadway touring productions. <I>Cats,</I> <I>Showboat,</I> <I>Phantom of the Opera</I> and their ilk will always play the Shubert and Auditorium theaters. But this is Chicago -- arguably the most vibrant theater town in the United States. Sure, you can try to get tickets for the latest offerings at the Goodman and Steppenwolf; they're two of the nation's most important regional theaters and their shows are always top notch and technically splendid. But this is Chicago -- where hundreds of fresh young actors flock each week to find work, get involved, form a company, and put on their first show. This is a theater town for adventurers. Pick up the <I>Reader</I> or <I>New City</I>. You'll find literally hundreds of productions listed in all shapes and sizes. They're being done in well-established store fronts, in restaurant basements, in church halls, and outdoors in the parks. With tickets going for 5, 10, or 15 dollars (and sometimes free), you can see a lot for very little money. Take a chance. This is TheatreTown Chicago, where the quality of what you'll discover can be truly amazing. <BR>Put together your own tour from the smorgasbord of venues described here. Between matinee, evening, and late-night shows, you could spend an entire weekend stage-hopping.<BR>The Hot Tix booths operated by the League of Chicago Theatres offer half-price tickets for same-day performances during the week. On Friday and Saturday, you can get next-day performance tickets as well. They have a number of city and suburban locations. The two downtown are at 108 North State and 803 North Michigan Avenue. Call 312-977-1755 for information on shows, payment, and locations. 236001796~392~Holy Toledo!~8179~1785~16~Toledo's gotten a lot of good press over the years. You probably remember that Corporal Klinger from <I>M.A.S.H.</I> hailed from Toledo and used to weep at the thought of the chili, stuffed cabbage, and Hungarian hot dogs served up at Tony Packo's Cafe (419-691-6054). You may even remember Danny Thomas's TV show in the 1960s and his Uncle Tonoose (played by Hans Conried), who was forever arriving from Toledo. They raved about the place. With the Maumee River flowing right through the heart of this major inland seaport, a great way to get to know the city and its history is to follow the river. If you like sightseeing by boat, several excursion lines cruise the Maumee. Try the Sandpiper Canal Boat (419-537-1212), the Northern Star paddle wheeler (419-666-4000), or the Arawanna II (419-255-6200). If you're up for it, this tour will take you down through time as you go downstream, moving from the pioneer past to the quiet timelessness of tomorrow. 223001926~391~That Car of Yours Built an Awful Lot of House~8312~2489~17~Okay, maybe not your car. Yours may well have been made in Japan or Germany or in some exotic foreign land like...Tennessee. But your mother's car or your grandfather's car...chances are awfully good that <I>those</I> cars -- those being driven in the 1920s, '30s, '40s and '50s -- were made in and around Detroit. Millions of automobiles came out of Michigan in those days, returning millions to the men who owned the companies. The auto barons spent that money well, building magnificent mansions for themselves. They even built mansions for their little kids. You'll find them all around Detroit. If you want to see the big four that are open to the public, it will take a couple of days, so why not make a weekend of it? 242000558~391~South Dakota's Buried Treasures~34~2593~18~As the birthplace of American archaeology and paleontology, South Dakota contains attractions that provide a much deeper view of history than the panorama of presidents carved into a cliffside by a 20th-century man. The geology of the northern plains has proven ideal for more than just the work of sculptors -- it has also been great for the preservation of remains, from dinosaurs to Ice Age creatures to prehistoric civilization. With exhibits that include not only mounted discoveries but also active dig sites, in one case welcoming hands-on participation, perhaps there's no better place to bone up on American prehistory. 225001404~391~Pony Express Excursion~2406~-43~19~From April 1860 through October 1861, the Pony Express knit together the ragged edges of a young nation. Connecting the western frontier towns of Missouri to the bustling gold mine communities of California, the Pony Express served as the lone overland transmitter of knowledge and news. Base camp for mail heading west was the town of Saint Joseph, Missouri. From here intrepid riders -- some as young as 11 -- left civilization for a long trek over desolate plains, through frequently severe weather, and amidst bands of sometimes-cooperative Indians. Today, a trip west on US 36 from Saint Joseph roughly follows the path that once resonated with the clippity-clop of Pony Express horses. 216001025~391~Cultural Icons of Hoosierland~7370~1071~2~Renowned for supplying the world with soybeans, feed corn, and mobile homes, the Hoosier state also boasts numerous contributions to the American cultural landscape. The lives and legacies of favorite sons Abe Lincoln, Dan Quayle, James Dean, and Garfield the Cat are today enshrined in an odd cluster of northern Indiana exhibits as diverse as the figures they represent. Not to give short shrift to mobile homes as cultural icons in their own right -- even they have their own museum in Indiana. 244003563~392~The Mother Road~-689~-3194~20~Everything else in Texas might be absurdly big, but the state's share of the famous Route 66 is tiny. Nonetheless, visitors will find plenty of kicks on Old 66, and plenty of diversions, too, of another sort -- the old roadbed literally disappears at times, forcing travelers onto its more efficient but far less endearing successor, Interstate 40. Despite having become one of the choppier stretches of the celebrated highway, a few delightfully odd enterprises still manage to eke out a living from passersby, including two self-styled Route 66 museums, making for quite a memorable trip down memory lane. 246001638~391~Romantic Virginia~12682~-468~21~Love and romance aren't the first things people think about when they think of Virginia. Generally people tend to associate the state with America's colonial past, a fun place to go and see re-enactors churning butter and milking cows in historical museums or "living" villages. Virginia's tourism industry has been making an effort to show visitors that their state is a little hipper than all that old-timey stuff. Travel brochures and Web site tourist info pages proudly exclaim that "Virginia Is For Lovers." Well, the Romantic Virginia weekend tour will let you test that claim by giving you and your companion an opportunity to enjoy some of Virginia's more romantic charms. Your weekend headquarters will be the Virginia Beach area, from which you'll be able to explore some of Virginia's many attractions. We've thrown in a few historic sites so that you can at least pretend that you went to Virginia for its dusty charms. A good way to start your getaway is to contact the Virginia Beach Visitor Center, located at 2100 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach (757-437-4888). The Visitor Center can provide you with lodging, dining, and "getting around" information, as well as schedules of the many Virginia Beach area seasonal events.<BR>Virginia Beach is one of America's favorite resort destinations. You'll find plenty of places to stay during your getaway. The lodging venues range from low-cost affordable to higher-end expense. You might want to check out the Colonial Inn, located at 2839 Atlantic Avenue (757-428-5370), or the Oceanfront Inn, located at 2901 Atlantic Avenue (757-422-0445). You'll also find a wealth of restaurants to choose from. Swanky and romantic dining venues include the Coyote Cafe & Cantina, located at 972-A Lasking Road (757-425-8705), the Isle of Capri Restaurant, located at 39th Street and Atlantic Avenue (757-428-2411), and the Yacht Club, located at 26th Street and Atlantic Avenue (757-491-2125). You might also want to take one of the many romantic riverboat cruises in the area. The Spirit of Norfolk, for example, offers fine food, dancing, and live entertainment during lunch and evening cruises at affordable prices. The Spirit of Norfolk is located about 15 miles west of the Virginia Beach resort area in Norfolk, Virginia. (757-625-1463) 251000505~392~Laramie's Fine Art, Fine History~-2808~964~22~Laramie is lucky to still be here. This one-time boom town flowered when the railroad came through. A rough and tumble place at first, the local ladies' decency committee got together with town leaders and "persuaded" the disreputable element to leave town. The rest of the good folks took a look around at what was left, decided the fun was over, and left town, too. If it weren't for the establishment of the University of Wyoming in 1886, you might be looking at another ghost town today. So, what you have here is the unlikely combination of a Wild West college town. With its history, entertainment, and a nifty art collection, it turns out to be a pretty good place to spend the day. 227000702~392~Secret City~-4381~5961~23~The largest cities all have their lively subterranean sides. Subways and pedways lined with storefronts and kiosks and the daily thousands passing through are a familiar sight in New York, Minneapolis and Chicago. But when a hidden commercial street occurs in a city of only 10,000 people, something unusual is going on. No one knows if the law, the weather, racial persecution or other factors drove the merchants of the high plains town of Havre to create a city underground. Discover for yourself the remnants of a secret place where, alongside legitimate businesses, bootleggers, opium sellers, and ladies of questionable virtue once plied their trade. When you're not investigating Havre Beneath the Streets, there are plenty of surface diversions to make this stop one of your more memorable western excursions. 203000822~391~Vintage Arkansas~3691~-2425~24~Antique hunters find euphoria while traversing the northwest corner of Arkansas. Individual antique shops dot the area in and around the Ozark National Forest. Not to overshadow the countless number of shops that lie in the middle of nowhere, this getaway focuses on three main centers of commerce -- Mountain Home, Eureka Springs, and Van Buren. Speaking of aged things, why not continue your foray into the commodified past by stopping at little-known hot spots in Arkansas Wine Country? 251000518~391~Wyoming Mayhem Weekend~-3197~2805~25~It probably started with conflicts among the various Indian tribes. It became part of written history as Native Americans tried to protect their homeland from the invading pioneers. It broke out with a war between cattle ranchers and farmers. It continued as a battle between lawmen and those pesky cattle rustlers and train robbers. For whatever reason, violence and bloodshed have repeatedly pumctuated the history of Johnson County, in north central Wyoming. From the Indian Wars, to the Cattle Wars, to the legendary getaways of Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch, the beautiful land in the Big Horn Mountain Country has seen a lot of shooting. Spend a day here, or a week, and you too can begin to see a little bit of what it was all about. 102000929~391~Vancouver in Bloom~-10180~7519~26~Take the ultimate garden tour in Vancouver, traveling around the globe via a variety of spectacular horticultural exhibits. The wonderful ethnic diversity of Vancouver is reflected in its many public gardens, all located within a five-mile radius, right in the heart of the city. Follow the garden paths of this cosmopolitan city to its Asian roots at a serenely contemplative Japanese Tea Garden, and at the only full-sized classical Chinese garden outside of China. The British Isles are represented at the Van Dusen garden by the English-style gardens and the Elizabethan hedge maze. For a hint of tropical paradise, visit the Bloedel Conservatory with its lavish displays of exotic plants, free-flying tropical birds, and talking parrots. 218000886~392~Kentucky's Bluegrass Bridges~8436~-268~27~Quaint covered bridges -- relics of the Commonwealth's past -- span creeks and rivers in north-central Bluegrass Country. In 1900, approximately 400 of these "timbered tunnels" carried horse and buggy safely from bank to bank. Today, thanks in part to the Kentucky Covered Bridge Association, 13 remain standing as sentinels to Kentucky's bygone days. Pack a picnic lunch and set out on a sunny day to tour these remaining relics. At each stop, imagine the clippity-clop of horses' hooves as people and goods were carried over rivers below, always on the way to somewhere. 202000848~391~Sunbathed Shopping in Mobile Bay~7082~-6011~28~Alabama is often thought of as typically New South, what with its lavish plantations contrasting the weary textile mills, all overlain by that slow "what's-the-rush" attitude. Not to dispel the charm of that myth, but a trip down the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay and along Alabama's Gulf Coast presents ample opportunities for relaxation, creating a vacation-destination atmosphere you might not expect in the Yellowhammer State. From Fairhope southeast to Orange City and then west along the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama provides all the essentials necessary for a memorable weekend getaway. 227000725~391~Agates and Other Montana Things~-2353~4678~29~Stroll the banks of the Yellowstone River and you may well find something extraordinarily beautiful hidden inside otherwise ordinary-looking rocks. The Yellowstone is prime hunting ground for the famous Montana moss agate, a gemstone highly prized for its translucent background, colored bands and treelike (what the experts call dendritic) interior scenery. While agates occur everywhere along the river's 450-mile stretch across Montana, you'll have the best luck on the lower river between Custer and Sidney. If you'd like to take a break from searching, the towns and villages along the river are full of interesting diversions. 210003885~391~Florida Keys Nature Caper~11719~-9084~3~Whether you enjoy watersports, camping, hiking, or just kicking back with a foamy pina colada, the Florida Keys has what it takes for a great time. The Florida Keys Nature Caper is an opportunity for you and your family to enjoy the Florida Keys' natural wonders at a leisurely pace and sample some of this island chain's charms like a weekend-long buffet. U.S. 1, a.k.a the Overseas Highway, is the world's longest overwater road and cuts a straight 100-plus mile shot from mainland Florida all the way to Key West. The drive is one of the most scenic and spectacular in the U.S. Clearly designated "Mile Markers" along the way make finding attractions as easy as getting off at monorail stops. 238001290~392~Old Gold~-11252~2946~30~Tiny, nearly forgotten, and remarkably unspoiled, Jacksonville could easily be mistaken for a town lost in time. In the late 1800s, the stagecoach and railroad passed Jacksonville by and development ground to a halt. As a result, the town looks almost exactly as it did 100 years ago. A relentlessly charming place of 19th-century businesses like the Beekman Bank and tastefully elegant homes, Jacksonville is anything but a ghost town. From June to September, the town hums to the lively and eclectic sounds of the Peter Britt Music Festival. Year-round, you can indulge yourself at some of Oregon's finest restaurants. Jacksonville is one of only eight U.S. towns that have been designated as National Historic Landmarks. While its gold mining days may have ended long ago, this is still a town of considerable riches. 224001361~391~Wonderously Industrious North Shore Minnesota~4039~5129~31~A trip along Minnesota's Lake Superior shoreline from Two Harbors north to Grand Marais is a lesson in the natural wonders and rich cultural and industrial heritage of northeastern Minnesota. Mother Nature did herself proud along this stretch of highway. A continuous line of craggy cliffs and towering treetops descend to lightly traveled beaches and the stealthy assault of lapping waves. Low-profile attractions representing Minnesota's rich culture and industry dot this natural splendor. 244003619~392~Funky Folk Art Menageries~2646~-6749~32~How none of this runs afoul of the zoning laws is anyone's guess, but Houston boasts an unparalleled treasure trove of eye-popping, jaw-dropping, traffic-stopping environmental folk art. Several of these colossal efforts by local eccentrics have endured long enough to become cherished institutions in the community. In recent years Houston's reputation for such homegrown art has made it a national mecca for "art car" enthusiasts and other celebrants of naive creativity. For a decidedly different look at Houston's cultural landscape, just head for the working-class neighborhoods of the central city, where some folks apparently have lots of time on their hands, lots of junk in their yards, and solitary visions remarkably unimpeded by complaints from neighbors. 241000925~391~Grand Strand Getaway~11701~-2783~33~There's something for everyone along the stretch of South Carolina seashore known as the Grand Strand-Myrtle Beach area. Myrtle Beach is renowned as one of the United States' top resorts. Located on the pine- and myrtle-thick South Carolina coast, this hotspot has long attracted those seeking fun and sun and forms the hub of the Grand Strand, which stretches from the North Carolina border south to Georgetown. The Grand Strand's most powerful draw is its diversity. Whether you want to while away the days sunning yourself along the 60 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, or playing 18 holes of golf, or feeling the wind in your face as you steer a catamaran offshore, you'll find what you're looking for on the Grand Strand. The Grand Strand getaway offers something for anyone from the solitary traveller to families. These include nature centers, museums and other destinations that let you sample the region's historical, natural, and resort attractions. Before you head to the Grand Strand, you should contact the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Information Center (803-626-7444), or the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce and Information Center (803-546-8436). The main driving route along the Grand Strand is US 17, also known as Kings Highway. <BR>There are plenty of places to stay in the Grand Strand region. In Myrtle Beach alone you'll have dozens of hotels, inns, and motels to choose from. Recommendations include the Chesterfield Inn, located at 700 North Ocean Boulevard (803-448-3177), and Driftwood on the Oceanfront, a family-friendly hotel located at 1600 North Ocean Boulevard (803-448-2917). In Georgetown you'll find the 1790 House, located in the historic district at 630 Highmarket Street (803-546-4821). 225001442~391~Mark Twain Boyhood Tour~4260~-31~34~Samuel Langhorne Clemens would probably shake his head in sardonic amusement at the way his pseudonym, Mark Twain, and the names of the characters immortalized in his classic novels, <I>The Adventures of Tom Sawyer </I>and <I>The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, </I>are bandied about the neighborhood, but he would still recognize many of the streets and landmarks of Hannibal, Missouri, his boyhood home. Although quite a bit larger than the river community Tom, Huck, Becky, and Sid knew as "St. Petersburg," Hannibal still can be found "drowsing in the sunshine of a summer's morning. . . the magnificent Mississippi rolling its mile-wide tide along, shining in the sun." The bluffs, the wharves, the tidy brick and wood buildings preserved in the historic district, and even the cave where Tom and Becky have their big adventure are right here, ready for touring and snapshots. And it's all only slightly more than a hundred miles north of St. Louis. 108000086~391~Captivating Prince Edward Island~16590~7577~35~Add a Scottish twist to your average June weekend by attending international Highland dance, bagpipe, and drum competitions. The Highland Gathering at the College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts will put an extra bounce in your step and kick off your visit to enchanting Prince Edward Island. Spend some time in the tiny villages nearby visiting the llamas and checking out local galleries. The white sand beaches, dunes and towering cliffs of the Prince Edward Island National Park beckon swimmers and strollers. You'll want to spend at least one morning exploring the footpaths. Get "unconnected" at Dalvay-by-the-Sea -- a lovely turn-of-the-century resort hotel that lives up to its romantic name. The unique Acadian spirit that pervades the island is contagious -- you'll want to become a part of it. Be forewarned, bridge and ferry tolls are paid only on departure, "only if you decide to leave." 328000064~391~Desert, City, and Sea in Sonora~-6524~-6360~36~With natural wonders ranging from cactus-speckled desert to verdant fields of wheat, from rugged mountains to pristine beaches, Sonora is a region of tremendous contrasts. Improved highways and more convenient border regulations have made access to Sonora from the U.S. easier and more popular than ever. Cross the border at Nogales and head for the state capital of Hermosillo, less than a four-hour drive away along the four-lane toll road of Mexico's Route 15. At the official checkpoint 21 kilometers south of Nogales, pull up to the "Sonora Only" booth to secure insurance and register your car.<BR>One special consideration obtains when driving into Mexico from the U.S.: you must purchase sufficient Mexican auto insurance to cover the duration of your trip. Your domestic policy will not be honored by Mexican authorities and you may be jailed if you are involved in an accident and do not have proper coverage. Policies issued on a day-by-day basis are available on either side of the border. Two reliable companies with offices at most border crossings are Sanborn's Mexican Insurance and Seguros Atlantico. 328000071~392~Day on a Mexican Beach~-7750~-5248~37~With its proximity to Arizona and location at the northern reaches of the Gulf of California, it's a wonder that Puerto Penasco wasn't among the first Mexican fishing villages to become an upscale resort retreat instead of being one of the most recent ones. Just 65 miles from the Arizona border, Puerto Penasco is within easy driving distance of both Phoenix and Tucson. With an early start, you can get there by midmorning, enjoy the frequently deserted beaches, take in a little local culture, down a couple meals and be back over the border well before midnight. So pack some food and water (you'll be crossing the desert), head for the twin border towns of Lukeville, Arizona and Sonoyta, Sonora, get on MEX 8, and come on down.<BR>One special consideration obtains when driving into Mexico from the U.S.: you must purchase sufficient Mexican auto insurance to cover the duration of your trip. Your domestic policy will not be honored by Mexican authorities and you may be jailed if you are involved in an accident and do not have proper coverage. Policies issued on a day-by-day basis are available on either side of the border. Two reliable companies with offices at most border crossings are Sanborn's Mexican Insurance and Seguros Atlantico. 226000684~391~Extremely Elvis Birth to Death Tour~5905~-3250~38~The only American who can truly claim the title "The King," Elvis Aron Presley gyrated his way into the hearts of a worldful of fans in the middle of the 20th century. Born in poverty, he became a teen idol, a movie star, and a Las Vegas legend who outdrew all the blackjack dealers in town combined. After his untimely death in 1977, at the relatively young age of 42, Elvis' life as pop culture phenomenon really began to rock 'n' roll. Today thousands of faithful fans flock to Memphis every August around the anniversary of his death for a week of reverence, remembrance, and revelry. If you don't plan side trips to Hollywood or Vegas, it's possible to take a weekend Presley pilgrimage that includes both Elvis' birthplace and his final resting place. The King is dead. Long live the King. 234000660~391~Virginia City--The Way It Was~-10082~605~39~In 1859 the discovery of the Comstock Lode spawned several fortunes and a sizable city. Today, Virginia City is a magnificent mirror image of its 19th-century, silver-lined self. At its peak in 1876, Virginia City was home to 110 saloons, six churches, and 23,000 people -- half the state's population. Now the largest federally designated Historical District in America, the character of this small town (under 1,000 people) has changed very little since its prosperous Comstock days. Although the silver vein clogged years ago, Virginia City's financial underpinnings remain rock-solid, this time buttressed by a free-flowing economic boom attributed to its growing tourist industry. Visitors to Virginia City can experience life much like it was in the latter half of the 19th century, when the prospect of striking it rich fueled the dreams of many. 226000660~391~Birth of the Blues~5211~-3608~4~Chicago might claim to be the "Blues Capital of the World," but if you're looking for an atmosphere of gritty, from-the-roots blues, you must head to the juke-jointin', Colt-45 swiggin', dust and dirt-ridden backroads of the Mississippi Delta. Better known for its opulent plantations, endless cotton fields, and rich Civil War heritage, the Mississippi Delta is also the birthplace of the blues. Developed from antebellum work songs and field hollers that retained more than a hint of African roots, the blues laid much of the groundwork for rock 'n' roll icons such as The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Janis Joplin. Ground zero for the blues is Clarksdale, Mississippi and the intersection of US 61 and US 49 -- otherwise known as "The Crossroads." Legend has it that while traveling around the Delta looking for gigs, blues pioneer Robert Johnson met the devil at "The Crossroads." Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for guitar playing prowess, so the story goes. You're gonna get down and dirty on this excursion, so turn up the hi-fi, pop some Muddy Waters in the tape deck, leave the kids with Grandma, and head out for a trip where you just might meet the Hoochie Coochie man himself! 234000667~392~Food Fun in Henderson~-8087~-1987~40~You're planning your annual family vacation, and the very thought of adding to the ever-growing collection of stuffed cartoon characters accumulated during the past six visits to over-hyped theme parks sends a cold shiver down your spine. You just can't take another vacation mingling with walking, talking, life-size versions of your child's favorite cartoon characters. Need a suggestion? How about including a stop in Las Vegas? Yes, the same Las Vegas that brings out the late-night lives of even the earliest head-to-pillow people. It just so happens that there's more to do in and around Las Vegas than yank levers and toss dice. In fact, the city of Henderson, just southeast of Las Vegas, features a number of attractions seemingly conjured straight from the world of childhood dreams. So when the kids complain, "What are <I>we</I> going to do in Las Vegas?" just mention this sure-to-please recipe -- chocolate, marshmallows, and Ocean Spray, topped with a few fancy clowns. 227000805~392~Flame Keepers~-6451~5114~41~There's no place better to learn about forest firefighting past and present than in Missoula, Montana. When forest fires rage across the northwestern United States, smokejumpers go into action. To reach remote fires, smokejumpers parachute into roadless areas, then equipment is dropped to the site. Smokejumping wasn't always the Northwest's standard firefighting technique. For a glimpse of how fires were fought in the early 20th century, stroll back into yesteryear, before airplanes replaced mules as the firefighter's transport of choice. 210004137~392~Oldest City, St. Augustine Day Tour~10857~-5673~42~St. Augustine, Florida is the longest continually occupied European settlement in the continental United States. The explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles landed in the region on September 8, 1565 to set up a permanent settlement for Spain. He named the site of his landing "San Augustin" in honor of the famed saint whose feast day it was. Perhaps the single most popular tourist attraction in St. Augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a fort which dates to the late 17th century. The Spanish Quarter Museum, located in St. Augustine, and Fort Matanzas National Monument, located 14 miles south of the city along AIA South are also very popular attractions. But St. Augustine has many smaller and equally fascinating venues. Here are recommendations for some great places to visit as you spend a day taking in the sights of St. Augustine. Make the St. Augustine Visitor Information Center your first stop. (904-825-1000)<BR>The Visitor Information Center is located at 10 Castillo Drive, at the intersection of Castillo Drive and San Marco Avenue. 221000825~391~Maritime Magic in St. Michaels~12248~760~43~This diminutive port on the Chesapeake has been known as St. Michaels since the early seventeenth century. The well-preserved harbor town is rich in the history of its days as a significant shipbuilding center. To experience the pleasures of this vintage community, stroll through the historic district, take a horse and buggy ride along the harbor, or cross the Tred Avon river on the oldest working ferry in the U.S. Well-known for the bounty of crab, oysters, clams, and fish harvested from the Chesapeake, this area is one of the best for succulent seafood prepared in first-class restaurants. Opportunities for boating abound. Take advantage of a cruise on the Bay for the proper perspective of this tiny but distinguished port town on the Delmarva Peninsula. 224001436~391~Big Prairie, Little Houses~2859~2890~44~They rumbled out of the eastern woodlands and onto the vast expanse of the North American plain. In their covered wagons, America's settlers carried families and children, a few meager supplies, and the traditions of an older world. In southern Minnesota, where the forest gave way to an endless sea of grass, they constructed sod huts and carved small farms into the earth. Across the region today, you can visit those earliest shelters, farms, community buildings, and homes. For a true pioneer experience, you can even sleep in one. Encounter the challenges of life in the little houses that in only 100 years evolved into the modern world. <BR>Given the legendary ferocity of Minnesota's winters, it's no surprise that most of this tour's stops are closed during the cold season. Please note their opening and closing dates. 224001441~392~Rochester: More than Mayo~3629~2834~45~Located in the southeastern corner of Minnesota, the modest city of Rochester is often touted as one of the United States' most livable towns. So, what's all the fuss is about? Of course, this is the home of the Mayo Clinic, so medical service is world-class. The standard of living is good, the schools excellent and the crime rate low. And it's an attractive town with parks, the Zumbro River meandering through downtown, and interesting architecture. Maybe the biggest drawback is the weather, but a system of pedestrian tunnels and skyways connecting downtown buildings helps to deal with harsh conditions. It's an easy trip from Minneapolis/St. Paul and from the capitals of Wisconsin and Iowa as well. So, let's take a drive over and check it out. 239002069~391~Natural/Supernatural Poconos~12077~2337~46~Don't be misled by the honeymoon-suite, heart-shape-tub reputation of the Poconos. These beautiful mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania are thick with attractions, both natural and supernatural. Dramatic geological features of the area provide a background for a number of waterfalls, mountain overlooks, hiking trails, rock-climbing areas, streams, and beaches. Along with the above-ground wonders, the Poconos are also known for the large veins of anthracite that attracted miners and mining towns in the days when the coal industry flourished. In addition to the physical attractions, the area pays homage to the metaphysical at the Famous Houdini Museum -- a must-see stop in Scranton. 213001085~391~Bridging Central Iowa~3018~1134~47~Popularized by a best-selling potboiler-turned-Hollywood blockbuster, the Bridges of Madison County have also become an overnight sensation as a travel destination. Seekers of vanishing Americana will find that the bridges make a great jumping-off point for other charming historic diversions clustered within a short drive of Des Moines, among them a lovingly restored hotel that's gaining great word of mouth from discriminating travelers, a living history museum, and a vintage passenger locomotive excursion across a breathtakingly tall trestle. 214000607~392~For the Love of Lava~-6425~2233~48~Volcanoes are explosive natural wonders. Molten rock from Earth's inner layers spills onto the surface, altering the landscape, sometimes with dazzling fury and resounding power. While getting close enough to watch one of these spectacular displays is all but impossible, viewing the effects of nature's force can be just as awe-inspiring. Central and southeastern Idaho bubble over with craters, caves, and hot springs, reminders of Earth's potential for sustained creativity as well as sudden destruction. 206001684~392~Victoriana in Colorado~-2927~-106~49~Nestled in the beautiful mountain terrain of Clear Creek Valley, an hour west and several thousand feet above Denver, the charming mining-era village of Georgetown preserves a Victorian past all but lost in other Colorado cities. Almost untouched by modern structures, the commercial buildings at the center of the tiny downtown and quaint neighborhood homes have been largely restored to their original vintage splendor. Walk the cobblestone streets, stop in for a meal at the old lunch counter, browse through the bric-a-brac. You can even ride the train up the valley to the next mining town. 249001737~392~Milwaukee Beer and Brats~5887~2417~5~Let's face it, when you think "Milwaukee," the first thing most people think of is beer -- beer and maybe German food. One hundred years ago, the city supported over 80 breweries. And as the old advertising slogan used to say, it was "the <I>beer </I>that made Milwaukee famous." Today, sadly, only one of Milwaukee's giant national brewers remains. However, the advent of the microbrewery means you still have plenty of opportunities to take a brewery tour. If you'd like to hit more than one, your best day is Saturday when four are open. You can forget about brewery-hopping on Sunday though -- they're all closed. Of course, after enjoying the traditional taste testing at the end of the tour (the kids can taste specialty sodas at the micros), you'll also want to experience some traditional German cuisine. Among the best restaurants maintaining the German heritage are John Ernst's at 600 East Ogden Ave (414-273-1878), Karl Ratzsch's at 320 East Madison (414-276-2720), and Mader's at 1037 North Old World Third Street (414-271-3377). 207000613~391~Mystic Water and Wine~13847~2994~50~While there's plenty of forested terra firma in Connecticut, somehow its wrinkled shoreline dominates the imagination of many non-Connecticans. Don't fight it. When the water beckons, head for Connecticut. An indulgent weekend of coastal activities awaits you in Mystic and its neighboring ports. Spend a pampered night on an antique wooden boat, then give your sea legs a break and take a scenic drive to one of Connecticut's most popular wineries. From Groton, take a cruise to an historic lighthouse. Enjoy a day perusing Mystic Seaport's tall ships and maritime museums. 238001432~392~Rock On~-10088~4074~51~Rockhounds come from all over the United States to sniff out thundereggs, fossils, agate and malachite in central Oregon. From one man's whimsical rock fantasy to nature's own fantastic gardens, you'll find some of the most dazzling displays of stone-cold beauty in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties. The thunderegg, Oregon's official state rock, is the primary prize sought by rockhounds. Bring your comfortable clothes because the work can be hard, but the rewards are memorable in this rock lover's paradise. 237000907~391~Architectural Paradises in the Panhandle State~1873~-2761~52~Architecture buffs will find plenty of exciting stuff in central Oklahoma, a place where time marches on without trampling too hard on spectacular old neighborhoods and buildings. In Guthrie, capital of the Oklahoma Territory at the turn of the century, visitors will find a fabulous feast of Victorian gingerbread covering 400 city blocks, as well as the state's single largest concentration of bed-and-breakfasts. Just two hours away is Tulsa, the city with the fourth-largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the United States, and lots of lavish oil-boom-era homes. Visitors can take organized or self-guided tours in both places, though advance arrangements are necessary for guided tours in Tulsa. 215001985~392~Illini Fine Vines~5658~-1294~53~At a dinner party, your host breaks out a bottle of fine wine. Quite the connoisseur, your curiosity is piqued when you request a peek at the label, which reads, "Alto Vineyards, Alto, Illinois." Confused? That's okay. After spending a day touring some of the small vineyards tucked into Illinois' Shawnee National Forest, you'll understand how the words "fine wine" and "Illinois" can end up in the same sentence. So, pack a picnic lunch, slide some Mozart in the CD player, and set off to absorb the Shawnee scenery as you drive along small country roads that bind together a few of Illinois' grape growers. 205006155~391~La Jolla Jewel Weekend~-9672~-3945~54~The meaning of the name La Jolla (pronounced la hoya) is the subject of some disagreement. Some say it comes from a Native American word meaning "cave," while others say it evolved from the Spanish word "la joya," which means jewel. Judging from the singular beauty and charm of the place, "jewel" sounds about right. Few places on Earth offer a comparable array of riches for travelers of every persuasion. You can contemplate an abundant variety of natural wonders and enjoy myriad activities year-round thanks to a beneficent climate. Upscale shopping, gourmet dining, art galleries, even an oceanarium await those whose tastes run to more indoor pursuits. A day in La Jolla is a treat. But let's spend the weekend and sample even more of the treasures this Southern California jewel has to offer.<BR>Surf's up early and so should you be if you want to catch some of the greatest wave action on the California coast! No need to own your own equipment because surf shops abound in this coastal community. Everything from wetsuits to swim fins to goggles can be yours for the renting. Intimidated by the idea of trying to stand up on waves determined to slap you down? Not to worry, you can rent a boogie board and lie down on the job. 109000754~391~Roaming Montreal~12316~5456~55~Seventeenth-century architecture, modern underground cities, trendy galleries, Victorian homes, glittering casinos, counterculture fashions -- Montreal's mix of attractions makes it an ideal destination for the indecisive. Each neighborhood has its own personality and history quite different from the next. As the city grew from its original port location and incorporated the small towns and villages surrounding it, the resulting neighborhoods retained their distinct styles, ethnic heritages, and cultures. Spend time in some of the most interesting and funky districts that maintain their original personalities. In this very cosmopolitan city one can listen to Gregorian chants at the Notre Dame Basilica, spend an hour bookstore-browsing in the Latin Quarter, or wander through the never-ending party at the casino. (Note that while Montreal is the world's second-largest French speaking city, English is widely spoken, and the natives are generally quite friendly and helpful.) 107001811~391~Exotic Toronto~9931~3562~56~Once known for its subdued inhabitants and staid banking business, Toronto has emerged as a vibrant, pulsating city with one of the most ethnically diverse populations in Canada. In this city once described by Peter Ustinov as "New York run by the Swiss," it is possible to find a variety of immigrant neighborhoods and explore Chinese, Italian, Portuguese, South American, Indian, and Southeast Asian communities. The best place to immerse yourself in several of these exotic cultures at once is at the Kensington Market on Saturday mornings. Bakeries, fish mongers, butcher shops, and vegetable stands overflowing with a variety of wares all vie for your attention. Visitors should also spend time in energetic Chinatown, sampling authentic Chinese cooking at one of the many tiny storefront restaurants. Cultures from around the globe are represented at the Bata Shoe Museum with its spectacular collection of shoes from nearly every country in the world, some dating back over 4,500 years. 107001816~391~Sault Ste. Marie's Call of the Wild~7255~4980~57~Sault Ste. Marie (known to the natives as "the Soo") is the gateway to the ruggedly scenic Algoma District, and also home to the world's busiest lock system. Visitors who come here sense the closeness of the wild right alongside human attempts to harness nature's awesome power. Explore the breathtaking Agawa Canyon aboard a train, hugging the canyon walls through 114 miles of dramatic panoramas. Experience the thrill of locking through the Sault Lock system, which connects Lake Huron and Lake Superior, two of the world's largest bodies of fresh water. Wave to the dwarfed freighters and international seagoing vessels that pass by. If you're into predators, duck into the Sea Lamprey Control Center. Tame your thirst with a trip through one of Canada's oldest breweries, then subdue your appetite with a serious meal at one of Ontario's best restaurants. 220001497~392~Headache-Free Boston~14082~3777~58~Don't let the notorious traffic keep you from exploring one of the most interesting and historic cities in New England. Park the car and travel through Boston like the natives do -- on the subway (the MBTA, affectionately called the "T"). Start the day with the most unique land and water tours the city has to offer. Then head to the Faneuil Hall Marketplace for history and shopping. And finally, spend the afternoon in Harvard Square, browsing bookstores and taking in the local color. 204001652~391~Jerome, the Town That Wouldn't Die~-6630~-3105~59~Climb the mountain and travel back in time. Find yourself in an unspoiled, early 20th-century mining town where Victorian homes, historic hotels and hospitals cling precariously to the steeply raked hillside, and where winding switchback streets connect the levels of the town. Wander the narrow lanes past studios where artists create works of jewelry, tapestries, oils, sculpted stone, wood and wire. Everywhere the astounding view extends for miles, filling the eye and clearing the mind as the mountain air refreshes and reinvigorates your soul. Spend your weekend in Jerome simply poking around the history-laden streets to browse the shops and galleries, or use it as a base for exploring sites back down the mountain. Relax, breathe deep, forget for a while that Monday is just a few hours away. 211001730~391~Historic Southern Hospitality~9188~-5335~6~Georgia is a state soaked in tradition and dotted with remarkably well-preserved remnants of its rich past. A big part of this southern state's identity lies in its antebellum past. The Georgia Plantation weekend tour will give you an opportunity to enjoy the best of this long-ago era in the historic resort town of Thomasville. The county seat of Thomas County, the town was founded in 1825 and named for Major General Jeff Thomas, a veteran of the War of 1812. Thomasville became a winter resort for some of America's rich and famous after a doctor wrote an article claiming that the region's pine barrens were good for the health. Rockefellers, Goodriches and other well-heeled names flocked to the quiet town for the next thirty years. Whether you go in the winter or the height of summer, you too can enjoy the stately charms of this Georgia town. Thomasville is located at the intersections of Highways 319 and 84 in southwestern Georgia. Comfy bed-and-breakfasts nestled in charming Victorian houses, good restaurants, and beautiful scenery make Thomasville a great place to get away for the weekend and enjoy some southern hospitality.<BR>Known as Thomasville's "Hotel Age," the late 19th century produced numerous places for those wealthy health-seekers to stay. Things haven't changed. Bed and breakfasts abound. Places to check out include the Deer Creek Bed and Breakfast, located at 1304 Old Monticello Road (912-226-7294); the Evans House Bed and Breakfast, located at 725 S. Hansell Street (800-344-4717 or 912-226-1343); and the 1884 Paxton House, located at 445 Remington Avenue (912-226-5197). These affordable accommodations provide excellent access to Thomasville's attractions. Convenient and inexpensive places to eat include Grand Old House, located at 502 South Broad St., Thomasville, which specializes in seafood (912 227-0108), and Maryland Fried Chicken, located at 1310 E. Jackson Street (912-226-9592). 228001728~391~Triangle Cities Tour~11371~-1451~60~Rich with historical and natural wonders, North Carolina ia a treasure trove for travelers. From the coastal Outer Banks in the east to the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains in the west, North Carolina offers just about anything you'd want to do. Besides its rural wonders, the state is home to three dynamic cities: Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. These cities nestled in central North Carolina form what people commonly call "The Triangle" (or sometimes "Research Triangle" because of the high density of science research facilities in the area). This weekend tour will guide you and your family to fun-filled and interesting attractions in each of these cities. Their close proximity makes travelling between them a cinch, and you'll get to enjoy the distinctive flavor of all three. Start your visit in whichever city you choose and just mosey around The Triangle at your own pace. Each city probably deserves at least one day of leisurely exploration to do it justice. 236001897~392~Hunting Waterfalls in Hocking County~8940~452~61~When it's raining and pouring in southern Ohio, it's time to head for Hocking County, 50 miles southeast of Columbus, to look for waterfalls. Springtime, during the melting season, is also a great time to go, but a sudden downpour really makes the creeks and streams come alive. Don't wait too long; the steep pitch of the land means rainwater runs off quickly. As soon as the sun comes out, you'll want to be ready to explore this extraordinary landscape of deeply etched crevasses, narrow canyons, and sparkling meadows. Most of the waterfalls in this trip are in state parks that dot the area, but a few require some careful exploration on your own. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, too. The fields and roadsides are full of them from spring to fall. 238001437~391~Oregon Seacoast Excursion~-11493~4264~62~Long before it was settled by humans, Oregon developed an intricate relationship with the Pacific Ocean. From the sea creatures that inhabit the offshore waters to the lighthouses and museums that punctuate the crinkled coast, memorable encounters await you along this picturesque stretch of Highway 101. Tour a lighthouse with a century-old lens, hang out with hundreds of sea lions, or visit the ghost of a murdered sea captain. More than 135 miles of scenic driving stretch between the Winchester Bay area to Newport. 101000647~392~Calgary's Cowboys & Cookies~-6169~7835~63~Although the cowboy's heyday ended with the dissolution of the western frontier in the late 19th century, he became legend thanks in part to the subsequent publication of dime novels and other fiction. The area around Calgary, located on the western fringe of the Great Plains, was home to a thriving cattle business during the 19th century, as well as hundreds of real cowboys whose stories and lifestyles continue to thrive at a number of locales in and around the city. Strap on your spurs, tilt your hat towards the sun, and ride off into a modern city that hasn't forgotten its burly buckaroos. 205006160~391~Los Angeles OffRamp~-10095~-3047~64~You've taken a stroll on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and compared your hand- and footprints with those of movie stars past and present in the courtyard of Mann's Chinese Theater. You've toured Universal Studios, dodged skaters on the boardwalk of Venice Beach, and braved impossibly long lines to thrill to the latest rides at Disneyland. When you've exhausted all the guidebooks' suggestions, when you tire of cruising down Rodeo Drive hoping for a glimpse of a celebrity or two, when you've already been there and done that -- What then? Remember -- this is Tinseltown, the place where dreamers dwell. Some dreams are just a little more imaginative (or, shall we say, bizarre) than others. Here are just a few local attractions that will renew your faith in the depth of human ingenuity -- or insanity. Take this off-ramp to some of the wackiest attractions in the greater Los Angeles area. 110000308~392~Saskatchewan's Sporting Spectacle~-1921~6985~65~It may be that when you think of Saskatchewan, you ... well, you don't know what to think. So get a clue and spend a day exploring the little-known yet spectacular spectator sporting world of this rough and rugged Canadian province. Begin with safe, sheltered, and informative visits to the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame and the Turner Curling Museum in Weyburn. And then, it's time to get down and dirty. Put on your game face, loosen up your larynx, and make your way to some of the most entertaining sporting spectacles around. Hockey? Harness racing? Football? Pick your poison. 205006169~391~Northern Gold Country~-10403~-39~66~Little did James Marshall know, when he fished those shiny yellow nuggets out of the stream at Sutter's, that his discovery would ignite one of the largest mass migrations in the history of the planet. If he did, he might have actually staked a claim. As it was, he died a poor man, as did many of the "forty-niners" who streamed into the Sierra Nevada foothills in the wake of his find. Highway 49 winds for over 300 miles through the heart of gold country, from Oakhurst north to Downieville. Along this route and its sundry tributaries, you can explore any number of gold-rush-era towns, be they charming, thriving communities or ghost towns. This trip traces the phenomenon from its gold-panning beginnings through hard-rock mining to hydraulic mining. 219000893~391~Let the Good Times Roll!~4687~-6443~67~It's a musical sound, a language, and a cuisine. Cajun is the unique culture of southwestern Louisiana, where a century and a half ago French colonists settled after being expelled from Nova Scotia. They called themselves "Acadians," which gradually became "Cajuns." Today, the Louisiana bayous and riverbanks dance to the lively Cajun beat, and spicy Cajun cooking has become world famous. From Mamou and Eunice, to Lafayette, to Calumet, this is the perfect place to enjoy life with great food and music and take up the famous local motto, "Laissez les bons temps rouler." 101000652~391~Just Another Day at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump~-5807~6995~68~Southern Alberta offers visitors the typical Canadian tourist attractions -- Mounties on dancing horses, trained raptors, buried towns, and the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. It is worth a call to this World Heritage Site just to hear the phone answered "Head-Smashed-In." The buffalo jump's $10 million interpretive center containing five levels built into the hillside, depicts the life of the prehistoric Plains peoples, the buffalo hunt, and the archaeology used to reconstruct this fascinating way of life. Besides having a fantastic name, the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a well-executed and intriguing Plains Indian cultural treasure. Don't miss the Mounted Patrol Musical Ride featured at the Fort Macleod Museum -- they're not Rockettes, but then they're working with twice as many legs, and a Mountie on their backs. Have your picture taken with a raptor at the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre. Catch the live flying shows with trained hawks and falcons swooping down across the laps of bewildered spectators. 205006174~391~Calistoga: Cooling it in Hot Mud~-11682~472~69~Mention California's Napa Valley today, and you'll conjure up visions of vineyards stretching between forested mountains and wineries beckoning around every bend of Highway 29. It was the valley's hot mineral springs and geysers that caught newspaper magnate Sam Brannan's entrepreneurial eye, however. In the mid-19th century, he built a fancy health spa to take advantage of the springs, which the local Wappo Indians had long revered for their restorative powers. Legend has it that Brannan coined the name of the town when he announced at the opening of this facility, which he planned to tout as the "Saratoga of California," that his resort was going to be the "Calistoga of Sarafornia." To this day, thousands of wine-tasting-weary travelers stop at one of the more than a dozen spas in Calistoga and neighboring St. Helena to unwind and rejuvenate with a mud bath, massage, or mineral wrap. So, come here to drink in the scenery and the local wines, but take time to check out local attractions and shops, hike in the hills, or soar over the valley in a glider or hot-air balloon. Then sink into a soothing tub of warm mud made of volcanic ash, peat, and mineral water. There's nothing like it! 239001944~391~Cultural Treasures of Pittsburgh~10093~1387~7~Once regarded as the most polluted city in the U.S., Pittsburgh has come a long way from its coal-grimed past. While the transformation from "Smoky City" to cosmopolitan destination is notable, even more remarkable is the way the city has retained its tough, hardworking, hard-playing character. In this new international mecca for contemporary artists, "watch a stillers?" is still the standard Monday morning greeting during football season. The city built on iron and steel is now home to the world-famous Andy Warhol Museum (a real affront to the Big Apple, but even artsy New Yorkers admit that it's worth the trip). To experience a bit of all that Pittsburgh has to offer, spend a weekend exploring both the new and the old attractions. Visit the dinosaur skeletons at the renowned natural history museum. Do the modern art scene at the Warhol Museum and the Mattress Factory Museum. Include a trip on a Victorian cable car for spectacular views of the city from above, and spend the night at an elegantly renovated monastery. Your trip to Pittsburgh will be as well-rounded and diverse as the city itself. 205006186~392~Mt. Shasta: Outdoor Nirvana~-11118~2211~70~At over 14,000 feet, snow-capped Mt. Shasta (second highest of the Cascade Mountains after Mt. Rainier) dominates the landscape for miles around. Slumbering for the last 200 years, this volcano has exercised a singular power over the human imagination for generations. The current generation is no exception. Mt. Shasta attracts New Age thinkers who believe that it's the focus of energy channel convergence.<BR>The mountain, surrounding lakes, and state parks beckon outdoor adventurers with all the ingredients for an unforgettable day of climbing, hiking, fishing, golf, boating, mountain biking, skiing, or just exploring in this rugged region. Craggy peaks, pristine waters, and abundant wildlife offer you an experience of majestic beauty whether or not your physique is up to the challenges of active pursuits. The entire area is one long scenic drive. But do your best to get out of the car and be part of the great outdoors. Perhaps at Mt. Shasta you'll find that harmonic convergence your spirit seeks! 205006191~391~Mammoth Lakes Marathon~-9962~-513~71~Sculpted by fire and ice, this region of California's eastern Sierra Nevada is blessed by some of the most outstanding skiing and scenery in the state. Although there is no specific "Mammoth Lake" (the name refers to the town, not to the surrounding bodies of water), Ice Age glaciers carved a host of jewel-like Alpine lakes in the mountains that rim the Long Valley caldera, where volcanic activity still simmers fairly close to the surface. Accessible by local roads, Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George, Lake Mamie, Convict Lake, and Horseshoe Lake set the scene for unparalleled hiking and fishing experiences. Horseshoe Lake is open for swimming, as well. Two of California's most popular ski areas lie close by the town of Mammoth Lakes, and history buffs can explore local ghost towns to their hearts' content. In fact, Bodie, one of the best-preserved mining towns of its era, is less than 50 miles away. Volcanic activity has taken a hand in shaping the face of the region, as nearby Mono Lake Tufa Lake Reserve and Devil's Postpile National Monument attest. Mammoth Lakes also makes a convenient base of operations for exploring the eastern portions of Yosemite National Park, whose borders lie an hour's drive away. 205006208~392~Flower of the Foothills~-10000~-2930~72~The name Pasadena conjures up images of sportscar-driving little old ladies, football games, and New Year's Day parades. But a visit leaves a lasting impression of flowers, balmy temperatures, and lush beauty framed by the San Gabriel Mountains that attracted wealthy easterners to Southern California in the late 19th century. In addition to their wealth, these early Pasadenans possessed the usual artistic sensibilities, leaving first-class museums and lovely homes as their legacy for us to enjoy. The Pacific Asia Museum, the Civic Center, the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, the Norton Simon Museum, and a lovingly restored Old Town area beckon you to visit. 320000035~392~Multimedia Monterrey~171~-9640~73~Irresistibly foreign and irresistibly near, Monterrey, Mexico's third largest city, is a natural destination for a quick trip out of town. Known as the "Sultan of the North" for its vast and growing industrial base, this burgeoning modern city of over 6,000,000 is becoming increasingly important as an arts, education and entertainment center. The vast Gran Plaza at the heart of town continues to see new cultural attractions with state-of-the-art designs opening beside older structures. The mix of traditional and ultra-modern styles can be quite stunning. The driving distance is only three hours from the border, and an attractive exchange rate means the American dollar goes a long way.<BR>Before making the trip, be sure you have Mexican auto insurance because domestic United State policies are not honored. Mexican policies issued on a day-by-day basis are available at towns on both sides of the border. 229000349~391~Wild, Wild Life~-68~5461~74~You can take two approaches to looking for wildlife. One, find a promising place and sit there as long as you can, waiting for something interesting to come along (you might call this the duck hunter's strategy). Two, go someplace, take a look around, and then move on. This would be the moving-on strategy (much more in keeping with the restless American spirit). With over 60 national wildlife refuges, North Dakota is particularly conducive to the latter approach. Several of the state's refuges have scenic drives, making wildlife-watching the ideal pursuit for the most curious creature in the field -- the American family in their car. 228001743~392~Motorsport Mayhem~10428~-2058~75~Race fans, start your engines and spend a day cruising the area just north of Charlotte, where you can take a megadose of motorsport mayhem. You'll see classic cars, experience NASCAR exhibits, drive a simulated Indy car, feel live racing action, and much more -- all before reaching the checkered flag. So, tighten your lug nuts, check your oil, and fasten your seatbelts for a fast-paced trip through the world of auto racing. 251000579~391~Running Water, Hot and Cold~-3986~2615~76~Consider for a moment the amazing abilities of water. Watch it rush, tumble and fall. Bubbling and hot, it absorbs the very land itself, dissolving the minerals of the earth and assuming powers to restore health. Flowing fast and cold, water can cut through solid stone and wash it away. It has even helped trap ancient creatures and transform them into fossils. In the center of Wyoming, you'll find a town dedicated to the powers of water -- the very hot waters from which it takes its name. Spend a weekend around Thermopolis to witness what water can do. 250000418~392~Appalachian Crafts~9851~-484~77~Surely the Appalachian Mountains had some influence over those things typically considered "West Virginian." The region was for centuries only barely accessible. Many colonial frontiersman who sought the freedom of the west found safe and reclusive haven in the mountains. By the late 18th century the settlers' determination to live self-reliant, unfettered lives gave rise to a host of industries and crafts including milling, logging, coal mining, gun- and blacksmithing, boat building, and powder-making. Artisans passed their skills on to their children and apprentices so that over generations a tradition of virtuoso craftsmanship took hold in the central and southern West Virginia crucible. The Appalachian Crafts tour will give you a taste of West Virginia's rich craftmaking tradition. 235003065~391~Buffalo for Your Inner Child~10376~3104~78~Western New York lures visitors with the promise of many raucous activities. Consider the heartburn from Buffalo's namesake chicken wings; the tragic, fleeting beauty of Niagara Falls; the reckless passion of a hockey game. For safer and more spiritual diversions, the Buffalo area offers many destinations that can recapture the innocent years of your childhood. Several factory and museum tours featuring memorabilia from your most treasured memories are all located within a 30-minute drive. Visit the Original American Kazoo Company's factory and museum, then wander through the world's largest exhibit of antique and classic American bicycles. Explore the exceptional collections of rare toys at the Toy Town Museum, and complete your spiritual journey with a ride on a restored, full-size carousel. 217000742~391~Offbeat Adventures in the Land of Oz~524~-366~79~You don't have to get sucked up in a tornado and bonked in the head to swear you're not in Kansas -- just get off I-70 and take the state's northern backroads, where there's plenty of unexpected scenery around every bend. Near the birthplace of Bob Dole you won't find a museum devoted to the man, but rather a Gallery of Also Rans. If sleeping in another dull chain motel doesn't exactly thrill you, how about the prospect of sleeping in a 19th-century bank? Along the way you'll also see a growing ball of twine vying for the honor of "world's largest," a "Garden of Eden" whose creator can be viewed mummified in a mausoleum, and an authentic old-time roadside freak show still plying its trade. 218000874~392~Kentucky Caves and Culture~7460~-1310~8~Better known for its caves than for its culture, the Commonwealth of Kentucky features the best of both in and around the small town of Horse Cave. Located approximately 90 miles from both Louisville and Nashville, Horse Cave is a town that thrives primarily on its hollow underground, but also on a small, nationally recognized theater company. With Horse Cave as your focal point, enjoy this all-inclusive trip to the best of Kentucky's caves and culture. 217000749~392~Southeast Kansas with Kids~2369~-1780~80~If you're passing through the "Little Ozarks" with the little ones, don't expect a lot of theme park razzle-dazzle. Things are pretty basic in these parts -- and pretty entertaining and informative for not a lot of money. The area's frontier and industrial legacies are showcased at several quirky little stops, among them one of the world's largest strip-mining cranes, which welcomes visitors of all ages into the control room (and kids over 13 out onto the boom). Nearby you can see where and how the notorious Dalton Gang of frontier bandits got its comeuppance. And while there aren't any tram rides or costumed mascots, other area museums pay tribute to the region's railroad history and two favorite sons who grew up to be circus clowns. 205006226~392~Twin Treasures of the East Bay~-11637~-39~81~There is so much to see and do in San Francisco that it's no wonder visitors might be unaware that the twin treasures of Oakland and Berkeley await them just across the Bay. Drive across the Bay Bridge -- the world's largest and most heavily traveled -- or take the underground BART train from Frisco to spend a weekend doing your part to dispel the East Bay's lingering inferiority complex. Truth be told, the East Bay climate is often warm and sunny while its neighbor to the west is socked in by chilly fog. A rich cultural and intellectual heritage beckons, with gourmet restaurants, fascinating museums, myriad bookstores, and coffee shops liberally dotting the scene. <BR>The University of California at Berkeley crawls with Nobel laureates and earned a reputation as a hotbed of student radicalism during the '60's. In Berkeley today, upscale eateries and conservative business types coexist peacefully with coffeehouse hangouts frequented by students and aging hippies. <BR>Oakland has grown from its roots as a blue-collar town to a diverse city of 380,000 inhabitants. Its port teems with container ships while its downtown bustles with construction work. Oakland and Berkeley are like conjoined twins, each with a distinct personality, yet their fates intertwined. 205006241~392~Undiscovered Country: Santa Ynez Valley~-10928~-2534~82~Enjoy a day filled with mountain scenery, early California history, and the fragrant bouquets of fine wines and fresh flowers in the valley of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Fortunate geographic circumstances create the perfect microclimate for viticulture. Painted caves, fields of flowers, and a painstakingly restored mission round out a day packed with experiences sure to please your senses of taste, smell, and sight. Just northwest of Santa Barbara lies the (relatively) undiscovered Santa Ynez wine country, where some of California's most honored vintners invite you to sample their creations. 241001014~391~South Carolina Heartland History~10009~-3189~83~South Carolina has a rich and complex history. Spanish and English explorers competed to gain foothold for empire on the state's shores as long ago as the early 16th century. The state played a pivotal role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and its much-romanticized plantation past has become part of the tapestry of American myth and history. The state's interior is known as the "Heartland" and the South Carolina Heartland History tour will give you an opportunity to explore the South Carolina interior and sample the state's historic charms. You'll visit two moderately sized towns during your weekend tour: Aiken near the southwest border, and Abbeville, about 30 miles northwest of Aiken along SC 28.<BR>Lodging in the Heartland is easy to find and comfortable. In Aiken try the Briar Patch, a bed and breakfast located at 544 Magnolia Lane (803-649-2010), or the Sandhurst Estate at 215 Dupree Place (803-642-9259). In Abbeville you might want to try out the Belmont Inn on Court Square (803-459-9625). 246001779~392~Presidential Virginia~11229~-37~84~Virginia is notable for many things, not least of which is the fact that it was the home of eight of the United States' 42 presidents. Four of the first five presidents alone (count out John Adams, who was Quincy, Massachusetts-born) were from Virginia. The Presidential Virginia tour provides a guide to exploring the worlds of two Virginian presidents: Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe. The tour centers around the Charlottesville area and is meant to augment a tour of Monticello, Jefferson's famous estate. Contact the Virginia Division of Tourism (804-644-1607 or 800 VISIT VA) or the Monticello Department of Public Affairs (804-984-9822). 233000965~391~Sand, Stars and Moon in Alamogordo~-2890~-4511~85~Picture yourself lying back on a moonlit sand dune, imagining that you're traveling among the distant stars. You are in Alamogordo, "Birthplace of the Race to Space," where the American effort to send men to the moon and unmanned spacecraft to the outer limits of the solar system began. This modest town, 210 miles south of Albuquerque and 100 miles north of El Paso, Texas, helped bring to fruition man's greatest dream. One of the nation's strangest and most stunning natural landscapes, a little-known military rocketry museum, and a spectacular museum dedicated to man's conquest of outer space -- you'll want to stay overnight to see all the Alamogordo area has to offer. <BR>In the course of investigating Alamogordo attractions, be sure to visit the White Sands National Monument (see the separate TripMaker entry). Wherever you travel in this arid region, bring plenty of water, for you and your car! 235003076~391~The Thousand Islands - More than a Salad Dressing~11422~4349~86~The Thousand Islands are actually 1,793 islands located on the majestic St. Lawrence River between the U.S. and Canada. While many of them remain uninhabited, most of the islands feature summer homes -- rustic cottages, magnificent mansions, even castles. The quaint towns of Clayton and Alexandria Bay perch on the New York side of the river, and are good starting points for exploring these islands. These waterfront communities come alive in the summertime with world-class fishing, boating, golf, and sightseeing by boat, helicopter, and even hot air balloon. Make your home base the historic Thousand Islands Inn, home of the famous Thousand Island salad dressing.<BR>Because winter weather in upstate New York can be severe, this tour is best explored in summertime, when most of the resorts are open. 249001921~391~Fish Boil Blast~6041~3822~87~It's a narrow peninsula thrusting thumb-like into Lake Michigan, and separating Green Bay from the vastness of the lake. It has small towns with colorful names like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, and Sturgeon Bay. It's rustic and peaceful here, a place to slow down, relax, and forget the city. A place to sit gazing out over the waters, look at the lighthouses and the maritime museum, and, in the evenings, take in a show or a concert being put on in a barn. Door County is a natural setting for warm feelings and artistic expression. You'll find the studios of painters, weavers, and potters here, drawn by the rocky peninsula's natural beauty. If it seems like not much goes on, perhaps that's the idea. This is a place to forget the hurly-burly world.<BR>You'll find no lack of places to stay. Choices range from traditional resorts with golf courses and swimming pools such as Alpine Resort (920-868-3000) and High Point Inn (800-595-6894) to bed and breakfasts like Scofield House (888-463-0204), Colonial Gardens (920-746-9192), and Whitefish Bay Farm (920-743-1560).<BR>When dinner time rolls around, look for Door County's unique culinary treat -- the fish boil. The dramatic preparations with outdoor kettle and sudden flashes of fire are a show in themselves. Fish boils are given all over the area by church and community groups. Don't be shy; pull up a plate and dig in. If you prefer the commercial variety, try the Viking Grill at 12029 Highway 42 in Ellison Bay (920-854-2998). 239002161~391~Lancaster County S'locomotion~12031~1575~88~A leisurely pace characterizes your ramble through historic Lancaster County. Visitors can clip-clop through covered bridges and rolling farmland in an Amish buggy, or chug along on one of the oldest steam railroads in the U.S. Roadside stands beckon with home-grown vegetables, freshly baked pastries, and handmade quilts, urging the traveler to stop and chat for a bit. These small communities are living museums, where the Amish and Plain people plow the fields. Visitors to this part of Pennsylvania Dutch country are likely to take a moment to reflect on this slower-paced lifestyle, and take a part of it with them. 222000972~392~Monhegan Island Interlude~14615~4951~89~Accessible only by boat, Monhegan Island is a destination filled with enchanting contrasts. The only village, home to generations of lobster men, serves as a backdrop for an established summer artist colony. Rustic accommodations have only recently acquired electricity, yet they feature sophisticated menus and indulgences such as afternoon tea. The 17-mile footpath that covers two-thirds of the island traverses craggy sea cliffs as well as isolated coves and contemplative pine stands. Ten miles long and a half mile wide, the island has a year-round population of only 75 (1,200 in summer). There are no cars. The visitor should bring practical shoes, a windbreaker, and an appreciation for a slower, simpler way of life. 240000274~392~Gastronomic Providence~14045~3397~9~Little Rhode Island's capital, Providence, is big on all types of museums. Spend a morning exploring the living museum of Benefit Street, a wonderfully restored neighborhood with brick sidewalks and gaslights, renowned for its colonial homes and buildings. Include a stop at the Rhode Island School of Design's Museum of Art. And don't miss the quirky Johnson and Wales Culinary Archives and Museum, filled with a fabulous collection of culinary antiques and treasures from kitchens around the world. 206001725~391~Pikes Peak and Beyond~-2545~-705~90~For many, it was their first glimpse of the mighty wall of mountains that lay between them and the Pacific coast. The looming monolith called to pioneers in slow rolling wagon trains and to early motorists in their touring cars. Across the vast expanse of the western plains rang their immortal cry: "Pikes Peak or bust!" Zebulon Pike first spotted the peak in 1806. This beacon of western expansion still draws thousands of visitors every year. The view from the summit -- accessible by either car or train -- inspired the author of "America the Beautiful" to pen the famous lines celebrating the country's "spacious skies and amber waves of grain." Make the climb to the top, look back out over the plains. You'll find more than a weekend's worth of adventure, exploration and relaxation around the peak. 234000715~391~Mining Ely's Riches~-7690~118~91~Ely, with its population hovering around 5,000 souls, is the largest city in eastern Nevada, and certainly the largest along Highway 50 -- the "Loneliest Road in America." But don't be fooled into thinking that Ely (pronounced ee-lee) is just another deserted desert dive. This historic mining town saw the advent of several successful copper mining operations during the early 1900s. Today, the hometown of former First Lady Pat Nixon is the hub of a region rich in stop-worthy historical sites. Spend a weekend roaming from site to site on your quest for an in-depth understanding of Nevada's historical mining industry. And don't be afraid to spend some copper by treating yourself to a luxurious night's stay at the local bed and breakfast. 230000684~392~Mid-American Motorhead Meccas~815~576~92~Given America's love affair with the automobile, it seems only fitting that three outstanding automotive collections happen to be clustered at the very heart of the nation -- in Nebraska and Kansas, a region where several towns also lay claim to being the centermost spot in the country. Here you'll find museums devoted to the glory years of Chrysler design (the late '50s and late '60s), the best of Chevrolet (everything up to the mid-1970s), and one remarkable exhibit that features 350 cars arranged in their order of development. Along the way you can stop for rest and refreshment at the very center of the continental United States (two places) and at the self-proclaimed "center of western civilization." 233000971~392~City in the Sky~-3836~-3200~93~The oldest city in the U.S. is not, as many think, St. Augustine in Florida. Nor are the country's oldest continuously occupied houses found around Salem in Massachusetts. Another city, a "Sky City" -- ancient, peaceful, mysterious -- high on an isolated mesa in the desert lands of western New Mexico outdistances its East Coast competitors by hundreds and possibly a thousand years. Yet little here has changed in the centuries since the town was built. Take a trip back in time. You will find neither electricity nor running water but you will find homes and a massive church. You will find friendly families living in those homes and the exquisite pottery they have created in the time-honored ways. Spend a day crossing the centuries at the pueblo called Acoma. 245000798~391~Utah Ghost Town Tour~-6482~-394~94~Dried up and forgotten, blown away with the winds, these are towns inhabited only by ghosts. Utah is full of ghost towns. Mining communities mostly, some of them had big populations and lots of stores. Saloons and dance halls and maybe a theater where the vaudevillians played. Maybe even the ultimate status symbol: an opera house. When the mine ran out, the people moved away. Can you hear the echo of the children playing in the streets? The barking of the dogs? The voices of neighbors whispering through windowless casements in broken down buildings? It's only the wind. Nobody's here. Or maybe there's still someone hanging on. Maybe there's another ghost-seeker like you. Just remember, services out here can be few and far between so be sure to stock up on gas and water (for you and your car). You should also consider bringing along a cell phone. 233000973~391~Great Southwest Atomic Tour~-3075~-3691~95~Beginning more than 50 years ago, the vast, desolate, starkly beautiful desert and mountains of the American Southwest became the center of one of the most secretive, controversial, and world-altering projects of all time: the development of atomic power and weaponry. Although atomic research continues and is still highly classified, the end of the Cold War has brought with it a new openness. Many formerly off-limits sites are now either fully or partially open to the public. You'll need two or three days to visit museums dedicated to telling the story of the atom and to drive past empty sentry towers that once guarded top-secret facilities. Twice each year, you're allowed to stand in awe at Ground Zero. Each stop on this tour is free but please note that cameras are not permitted at some of these sites and at others you may be asked for identification. 245000807~391~A Weekend Hunting Dinosaurs~-4807~517~96~Dinosaurs, extinct for millions of years, are still very much alive in the imaginations of young and old alike. Spend a weekend around Vernal in the northeast corner of Utah and you'll find dinosaurs aplenty -- their remains, their likenesses, and even their footprints. Dinosaurs today have different groups looking after them. You'll find Federally maintained dinosaur bones at Dinosaur National Monument and state-maintained dinosaurs at the Utah Field House. You can even stay at a motel with a dinosaur theme. This is the real Jurassic park, a monument to the remnants of life on Earth millions of years ago. Take time to explore and wonder. 248001451~391~Seattle: It's Not Just Grunge~-10115~6356~97~Seattle's gotten a lot of airtime lately. The flannel, the music, the plague of coffeehouse chains that now stretches across the country: you'd think you've seen, heard, or smelt it all. Millennia before Nirvana and Pearl Jam, though, North America's only temperate rainforest zone developed here on the continent's northwestern coast. Despite the persistent human pressure upon this lush and vibrant yet fragile ecosystem, several spots survive, thanks to various organizations in the Seattle area. Spend a few days on salmon stomping grounds visiting Pacific Northwest flora and fauna. 245000808~392~Driving the Golden Spike~-6033~1447~98~You saw the pictures of the moment in your high school history books. When you look at the map, the place it happened appears to be miles from anywhere. You think, "Boy, they didn't pick the straightest route to cross the country, did they?" It's both obscure and well-known, important and well out of the way. Tucked up against the northeast corner of the Great Salt Lake, it's the historic area where east met west along the 3,000-mile train route that first joined the United States from coast to coast. So, let's go. Let's get in the car and drive to the spot where they drove the golden spike. 223002134~391~To the Lighthouse~7799~4143~99~What is it about a lighthouse? Are they the brooding, romantic, and pensive places the imagination wants them to be? That they were once homes for lighthouse keepers and their families adds to their mystique. The lonely sentinel contemplating fresh water expanses is one of Michigan's most familiar sights. Over a hundred mark the state's vast shoreline -- a shoreline longer than the Atlantic seacoast of the United States. Many can be visited by the public. Many stand where ships have foundered and been lost on treacherous shoals. Traveling along the shore of Lake Huron on Michigan's east coast, you'll encounter about a dozen lighthouses. Some are still working and some decommissioned; some can be visited and some are simply to be considered for the life and the mystery they represent.
