travel

Must Visit Attractions in Springfield Missouri

February 8, 2019 by Heidi 1 Comment

Must Visit Attractions in Springfield Missouri

Springfield, Missouri is just about four hours from our home and through the years it has become one of our go-to destinations for a quick getaway. There are so many things to see and do each time we are in town we find something new that we haven’t previously done. Just a few weeks ago we planned a weekend getaway with our daughter, her boyfriend, my spouse and I. So we started making a list of some of the things that we wouldn’t mind to go and do again, or that we wanted to do while in town. So here is our Must Visit Attractions in Springfield.

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is the perfect family-friendly destination with lots of fun for kids and adults alike. There were interactive displays, lots of history and fun for the whole family teens included.

Dickerson Park Zoo was at the top of our list but due to the weather, we opted to not go to the zoo this time around. However, back in 2012 when we were there feeding the giraffe’s was one of our top memories. All of the displays were close enough you that you are immersed in the surroundings but safe. It was also one of the cleanest and most well-kept zoos I’ve been in for several years.

Discovery Center is perfect for those of you that have smaller kids. But I do guarantee that it will be a hair raising experience for those of you that go. Their exhibits often change and offer new and exciting learning activities for preschool through elementary aged students.

Fantastic Caverns was discovered in 1862 by a local farmer John Knox. In 1867, he opened up the cave for explorers by placing an ad in the local paper. The people that responded were a group of 12 women and their names are still on the cave wall. It is the only drive-through cave in North America and an absolute must do while visiting.

Wilson’s Creek Battlefield is a National Park and is the location where the second battle of the Civil War took place. There is walking tours, a self-guided tour and so much more to see and do that we want to head back.

Exotic Animal Paradise- This has been one of our all-time favorite things to do for years, but this time I will say we were more than a little disappointed. But on the plus side, we had a wonderful time feeding the giraffe!

Things on our list we have yet to accomplish:

Askinosie Chocolate where you can tour the factory on Tuesdays and get free samples too! What’s not to love about that? Gilardi’s Italian Ristorante because who doesn’t love Italian food and they use local ingredients too. Relics Antique Mall and Tea Room because you can never find too many antiques, but I’m thinking this would be a perfect Girls Weekend activity! And of course, Andy B’s is the place to go for bowling or a game of laser tag.

Still on the fence about visiting Springfield? Check out all of the great coupons and order your visitors guide to help you plan and save for a trip that will be one of your favorites! Our go-to dealership when we are in the Springfield area is the Don Vance Chrysler Jeep Dealer because they can get us in for services or repairs.

Don’t forget to check out all of the Free Things to Do in Springfield too!

Budget-Friendly Vacation Ideas

January 23, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Budget-Friendly Vacation Ideas

Vacationing is one of the best parts of life. It gives you the chance to step away and relax. There is no better way to spend a week off of work than taking a vacation to somewhere new. One of the small issues with vacationing is that it can get pricey depending on where you go and how many people you are paying for. If you have kids, vacation price can get costly very quick! Here are some budget-friendly vacation ideas for those of you looking to save some money while relaxing!

Think Outside of the Box When Picking a Location

When thinking of cheap vacations, stray away from the large tourist traps that are probably going to cost a lot. Think of places you might not typically go to. The truth is that there are so many beautiful places around the United States to visit. With the right attitude and adventurous spirit, you can make a vacation out of many places. There are some underrated vacation spots that are definitely worth checking out such as Lansing, MI or Henry County, Georgia. These are two spots that can give you an array of things to do and keep you from breaking the bank.

There are free things to do that allow you to explore Henry County, Georgia such as exploring historic museums and the surrounding farms! In Lansing, there is even a bucket list guide called the LAN150 that allows you to explore the area and keep the trip exciting and inexpensive! You won’t regret picking one of these locations as your next vacation spot.

Don’t Give into Tourist Trap Activities When you Can Make Your Own Fun for Cheaper

The main point behind picking a unique vacation spot is being able to explore something new and avoid tourist traps. The thing about tourist-y areas is that they are way more expensive than alternative activities. Take a look at places that aren’t popular to most national travelers. You can get persuaded to spend way more than you intended if you end up taking a trip to somewhere with price inflations. This is yet another reason to go to places that are off the beaten path.

There are activities you can plan ahead of time that cost little to no money! One example is making a historical scavenger hunt for your family. This can include a lot of fun stops in an area. You will be having so much fun you won’t even notice that you haven’t spent any money! It’s the memories on vacation that count—not the amount of money you spend. Another fun and cheap activity is going on a photo tour. You can walk around and take some great shots of the scenery. These activities are both great and cheap ways to immerse yourself in your travel destination.

Visit a Place That Has a Lot of Nature to Explore

Nature is free and one of the best things in life. There is nature all over the world that is yours for exploring and taking in. Basing your trip off of the nature nearby is a great way to have a relaxing time and keep the cost of the trip down. Hiking is a therapeutic activity that is great for all ages. Staying active on vacation is also great for feeling refreshed and accomplished post-vacation.

There are mountain ranges in most states as well as bodies of water. Look at some areas with national parks as well. If you are feeling risky, you could even camp while on vacation! This can cut down your hotel costs and give you an adventurous trip of a lifetime! Vacations don’t have to cost a lot to be a thrilling time.

Winter Drives You Shouldn’t Miss

January 9, 2019 by Heidi 1 Comment

Winter Drives You Shouldn’t Miss

We are notorious for traveling over the winter because there are so many unique family vacation ideas. But instead of flying we usually drive so that we can see more of the country as we travel. Yes, winter travel has it’s own set of challenges, but Mr. LWH is a former truck driver so he has nerves of steal and does most of the driving. Here are winter drives that shouldn’t be missed!!

Yosemite

Snow-capped mountain peaks, frosted trees, and icy waters all reflected in a crystal blue sky. Yosemite is perhaps the quintessential winter drive location and should absolutely not be missed.

Yellowstone Falls

If it were even possible, the famous Yellowstone Falls are even more majestic during the winter. The water spray takes on almost a ethereal look, while the frozen tree branches glisten with ice.

Lake Tahoe

A popular location for skiing, Lake Tahoe offers a beautiful winter landscape along it’s winding roads. With the sun gleaming off snow-covered branches, reflective waters, and a night sky that is breathtaking to behold, this is definitely a must-see winter drive.

Great Smoky National Park

Spreading from Tennessee to North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains offer a picturesque view perfect for a winter road trip. Take in the sights of nature covered in a blanket of white, from the tops of the trees to the mountain view.

Skyline Drive

One of the most revered drives in the nation, the Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia leaves absolutely nothing to be desired. Very few think to drive along this ridge of the mountains during the winter, so the roads are clear and the view is amazing. At the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains, all you can see is a magical Winter Wonderland all around you.

Seward Highway

Listed as one of the “Ultimate Road Trips” by National Geographic Highway, Seward Highway is a 125-mile journey through beautiful Alaska. During the winter, drive along this beautiful expanse of highway with reflective waters on one side and snowy mountain peaks on the other. Every last mile of Seward Highway is a sight to behold year round, but especially during the winter.

Across America, there are multiple opportunities for picturesque drives through this great country. During the winter, however, the scenery goes from picturesque to almost magical. Make your next road trip this winter, and visit these must-see winter drives that shouldn’t be missed.

Be Pepared for Winter Travel

All of these are gorgeous to see, but you must be prepared for driving in the winter weather. I strongly urge you to not go anywhere like this without having four wheel drive, roadside assistance and of course a winter survival kit in the vehicle at all times. Don’t forget your portable chargers, hand warmers and of course to regularly maintain your vehicle before going. For all of our vehicle needs we trust our local dealerships and mechanic. But if you happen to be in Kentucky my friends at Steve Jones Dodge Chrysler Jeep and Ram Dealership will have you covered.

Tips for Safe and Healthy Winter Travel

January 8, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Tips for Safe and Healthy Winter Travel

Winter holidays are always a busy time of the year. But for the LWH family it seems like we are always traveling for family visits, weekend getaways, and of course vacations when we can fit them in. But with holiday travel comes a few more germs and of course winter weather driving which is a little more difficult to navigate. Here are some great tips to help you and your family travel safely and stay healthy at the same time.

Wash Your Hands

Germs are everywhere and traveling by vehicle, trains, or planes means there are lots of germ sharing going on. Washing your hands frequently with warm soapy water is a great germ fighter. In our vehicles we always have anti-bacterial sanitizer and use it frequently.

Bundle Up

When you are out and about during your winter travels, make sure that you are wearing the proper clothing. Protect yourself from harsh winds, snow, and rain. If you are trekking through the woods to pick out the perfect tree, for example, make sure you are wearing the right shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

Car Safety

If you are driving to your destination, make sure you are following all of the proper car safety guidelines such as wearing seatbelts, etc. For long road trips, make sure to have your oil and other fluids checked. Keep an emergency kit in the event of an accident and always have the phone number for roadside assistance handy.

Drive Safely

Another part of car safety is, of course, driving safely. Many people, especially those that live in warmer climates that don’t necessitate driving in winter weather, do not know how to maneuver in the event of ice or snow on the roads. Remember to follow traffic rules and give yourself some extra time to get to your destination.

Air Travel

Air travel is pretty notorious for being a source for colds and flu everywhere. Wash your hands and keep them away from your face. I always bring wipes to clean surfaces in my seat and of course the tray in front of me to help keep germs at bay. Remember to drink lots of water to help your body stay hydrated and prevent illness too. Traveling with pets? Check out these great tips to get your pets ready for air travel.

Stay Healthy

Eating a healthy diet with lots of fresh produce, getting plenty of vitamins, and staying hydrated on a daily basis are the key to staying healthy year round. A healthy diet, exercise, proper sleeping habits, and hydration are all part of a healthy immune system and can help you prevent illness even during the holidays when germs are ever present.

Keep your holidays merry and bright with these tips for safe and healthy winter travel. No matter where you are going or how you plan to get there, you can arrive safe and sound and avoid getting sick with these tips.

For all of your automotive needs be sure to check out Speedway Auto Group.

Frugal Tips for Traveling

December 12, 2017 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Frugal Tips for Traveling

Frugal Tips for Traveling! Being frugal is something that is easy to do no matter what you are doing. Even while traveling you can still be frugal, have fun and save money at the same time. But when I fly somewhere, I tend to be even more frugal because I don’t like to pay extra fees. For example, paying for a suitcase to be placed underneath the plane is probably one of the ways that bothers me the most. Followed quickly by expensive hotels that have hidden fees on top of their nightly fees.

Traveling is always a fun thing to do and now that we are empty nesters we are finding the time and money to travel more often. One of my favorite things to do is see the sights when traveling and one of the places that has been on my bucket list for years is Hawaii. While Mr. LWH doesn’t fly normally, he has reluctantly agreed to fly to Maui, Hawaii to make my dreams come true. While most of the time we opt for a hotel this time we decided to check out rentals in Maui for our stay. They have lots of great accommodations to choose from but I loved the fact that I could just search their options by price as well as insuring I was on a beachfront property.

Why Maui?

We decided to travel to Maui, Hawaii because it is the second largest island in Hawaii and it is known for it’s world’s famous beaches as well as the sacred Iao Valley. Iao Valley is known for the views of migrating humpback whales during the winter months and there is something about nature that really pulls us in. Their island offers lots of farm to table foods and the views are simply breathtaking no matter which area you chose to visit. One of the must do activities we enjoy no matter where we go is the Segway tours because you get to see so many fun things with the added bonus of a tour guide. Plan your trip to include lots of downtime on the beaches as well as doing things you enjoy as a couple.

Must do activities while you are in Hawaii

Attend a Luau and take a Hula Lesson because there is more than hip shaking involved.

Check out the Red sand Beaches along with the White Sand Beaches and let’s not forget the Black Sand beaches.

Enjoy a Sunset and a Sunrise because they are always one of a kind. I always try to enjoy several of them when I travel because each sunrise and sunset is as unique as where you are visiting.

Go whale watching and snorkeling to see lots of wildlife in it’s natural environment.

Frugal Tips for traveling

Pack a Carry-on suitcase that will fit in the overhead compartment. If I’m going for 4 days or less I pack just the carry-on, as well as an extra bag for goodies I may pick up along the way. But if the trip is over 4 days, I’m packing the bigger suitcase! I also fly with Southwest if at all possible because then I can check bags without an added expense.

I don’t carry a “purse” but instead transition to a laptop bag that is big enough for all of the essentials as well as the laptop and camera. Pack snacks to eat on the plane or once you are past the security checkpoint. Just be sure they are sealed and in most cases it won’t be any trouble at all to have them. But I also always eat a meal before I fly so I’m not overly hungry on the plane or during layovers that seem to be inevitable.

Skip the cocktails on the plane as they cost a small fortune in most cases and I always bring an empty water bottle. Then once I’m past security I can fill it up at the water fountain and I am good to go! But remember on most flights coffee, water, juice and soda will be served as well as a small snack. While it’s not a lot it is enough to help you enjoy the flight and of course quench your thirst. Join the airlines rewards programs as a way to get discounts, free drinks and much more depending on your airline.

Once you have arrived at the airport check for shuttles, Uber car rentals, taxis or public transportation to get you from point a to point b. There are usually blue shuttles that run in most major cities and you can get a ride for $10 tip included. Remember to sit back and relax during your trip even if it is a business trip, allow a little time for fun! Remember to not sweat the small stuff and have a great frugal trip. No matter what trip you decide to take be sure to plan ahead and splurge where you can to make the trip even more memorable. Enjoy the time with your significant other and take lots of photos to help you remember your time in Maui, Hawaii.

Traveling with Kids

August 13, 2017 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Traveling with Kids

Some parents may dread the car drive with their kids during vacation. It’s true that long car drives can wear on parents’ nerves and make for some antsy kids! However, a little preparation can help. Here are some survival tips for traveling with kids.

1. Car Toys
Instead of allowing your children to bring along their favorite toy from home (although that’s fine, too), try having a few toys that are “car only.” Those toys are only brought out when your kids are in the car, so even if you travel frequently, there are still “new” toys for the trip.

2. What Kinds of Toys?
It’s true that not just any toy will work well in the car! Games with lots of tiny pieces, for instance, are probably not a great idea. But there are some toys that are more conducive to car travel. Here are some suggestions.

-Dry-erase boards
These don’t have to be just a plain board. There are activity kits available that come with a dry-erase board and various transparencies and other fun things you can do with the dry-erase markers.

-Etch-a-Sketch
It’s not for everyone, but this classic toy can provide lots of entertainment for some kids. And it’s mess-free!

-Activity Boards and Games
For toddlers and some preschoolers, these activity boards can save the say. They are the type of boards that are interactive, and some have sounds and lights and other features. They range from pushing buttons to hear animal sounds to spinning blocks to create an adventure. Keep a few specials ones of these for trips with your young child.

-Magnets
Magnet sets and magnetic games are great for the car; the magnetism keeps the pieces from falling all over the vehicle. There are also books available with magnetic characters and boards to go with them.

3. DVD Player
Okay, maybe this sounds too easy. But many parents swear by their portable DVD players for long car trips. If you are not the kind of parent who really approves of a lot of screen time, remember it’s only for one day in the car. Choose DVDs from the library beforehand if you need something new to watch.

4. Coin Challenge
One idea that some parents have employed with success – especially if there is bickering or other undesirable behavior going on – is to give each child a roll of quarters (or whatever coin you’re comfortable with). Each time they make noise, start a fight, or are engaging in behavior that is unacceptable, they have to give you (the parent) one of their coins. Whatever coins are left can be spending money at your destination.

5. Remember to pack your electronics with lots of fun apps installed! The newer the app the better it will be for your trip because it will still be new to your kids. If you are looking for a new vehicle be sure to check out my friends over at Len Stoler Dodge Chrysler Dodge Jeep for all of your vehicle needs. They even have an online only special which is a better way to buy! Check them out today!

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Simple RV Storage Solutions

March 27, 2016 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Simple RV Storage Solutions

Traveling in an RV whether for a weekend or a month long journey can be tough to manage, but these simple RV storage solutions totally revitalize how it can be done. With a few simple tricks, you can easily make more room for the things you need and want while on the road in the comfort of your RV.

Simple RV Storage Solutions

Load media to hard drives. One huge item that takes up space, yet is always wanted in your RV are those things like books, music and DVD’s. Instead of packing all of your favorites, download them to a handy hard drive or flash drive instead. Music and DVD’s digital copies are easy and simple to load onto an external drive for your laptop,or event o hook up to the television in your RV. Books can be purchased or downloaded for free as an eBook to use on an eReader or even on your phone.

Pack clothing that is multi-purpose. One huge waste of space is clothing, but it is a necessary evil when traveling. Instead of packing a ton of clothing, create a simple wardrobe that mixes and matches easily. Bring things like a simple long sleeved denim shirt that can layer over a basic tee for cooler weather, or for women dresses that are great for warm weather, and leggings to go under them along with a cardigan to transition to cold weather.

Invest in the right storage tools. While there are many quality storage pieces and organizers everywhere for purchase, take the time to shop the RV specific websites and stores. They carry pieces that are designed to utilize the space better than others. From closet caddies to bathroom shower caddies that have both suction cups and straps to keep items in place while moving, it pays to invest in the right storage tool for the job.

Limit kitchen utensils to multi-purpose tools. Even though you may use the bread machine weekly at home, it is a bulky appliance to add to your RV kitchen. Consider your space and needs for the time you will be in the RV. Only bring items you must have, and look for multi-purpose items instead. A food processor can blend, slice, shred and puree eliminating the need for a mixer or blender in many events. A hand held old fashioned can opener is more than efficient and easy to slide into the utensil storage area. Before you pack, think about what other tools you have on hand that can do the same job and not take up so much space.

Make a menu plan and only bring what you need for that. Instead of stocking your RV pantry with everything you would have in your home pantry, pack only what you know you will be using during your trip. For those who live in an RV full time, this of course will be different. However, those who are traveling for short periods of time can easily create a menu plan and utilize items multiple times so as not to over pack the kitchen pantry.

Remember these simple RV storage solutions aren’t just about making room for everything in your traveling home. They also are meant to keep the weight you are carrying to a minimum. The less you pack, the less your RV will weigh. That results in safer travel and much higher gas mileage along the road.

Free Things to Do in Springfield Missouri

March 17, 2016 by Heidi 1 Comment

Free Things to Do in Springfield Missouri

Heading to Springfield, Missouri is always a treat for our family because there are so many things to do and see. Whether you are there for a few days or a week there are lots of things you can do for free. What could be better than free?! Free is always the best, so instead of spending your hard earned money on enjoying your day, check out these free things to do in Springfield Missouri:

Springfield Conservation Nature Center: Take a walk through 79 acres of serene forests, creeks, and prairies. This free venue has paved trails making it kid and stroller friendly. Enjoy wildlife, self-guided tours, hiking, bird watching, and so much more for you and the whole family for free! Just remember to pack your binoculars, camera and a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenery.
Jordan Valley Park: Open year round to the public, Jordan Valley Park is a free family activity where you can enjoy luscious green scenic trails, birds, and blissful biking trails. Your kids can, also, enjoy a free wading pool as they learn to swim. With so much to do for free, Jordan Valley Park is a great place to go.
Discovery Center of Springfield: Although not free at all times, Discovery Center of Springfield offers many free options to take advantage of. If you or a spouse is in the military, your entire family can explore this hands-on exhibit for free on Veterans Day. DCS, also, offers an array of free days such as Mother’s Day when mothers and grandmothers each receives free admission. But
Springfield Art Museum: A visit to Springfield Art Museum is always free. Explore the pop art, the sculpture garden, and discover the history of a small group of women who wanted to offer free art to the community. Enjoy Saturday family days where your kids can make their own art and learn art techniques, free from 10-noon. With hands-on experience and beautiful artwork, there is something for the whole family.

From kid discovery to serene, green trails, there are free things to do in Springfield, Missouri that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Be sure to take a drive on Historic Route 66 to while you are in town. Start planning your trip today by checking out their Travel and Tourism page. It is always one of my favorite things to do while in the area. Need more ideas? Check out The Crazy Tourist’s Top 15 Things to Do in Springfield, MO too!