If there’s a destination in the United States with a more convergent personality than Palm Beach, Riviera Beach and Singer Island, Florida I can’t imagine what, or where, it is.

One morning, during my recent visit there, I observed nattily dressed men and women playing the genteel game of croquet. That pastime traces its roots back to England in the 1860s, when it was promoted by the Earl of Essex and became a popular, socially accepted form of leisure.

That afternoon, I watched a spirited polo match, which originated in ancient Persia more than 2,000 years ago and evolved to become known as “The Sport of Kings,” popular in high society.

When evening arrived, I ate dinner during my month-long stay at a number of what can only be described as “dive bars” which are dotted throughout the community. They compete for customers with white tablecloth fine dining establishments that offer excellent food at sometimes excessive prices.

This diversity is, to me, one of the Palm Beach area’s numerous inviting, and intriguing, traits. Walking or driving in the region introduces visitors to a smorgasbord of things to do and see which range from upscale to underprivileged, from interesting man-made attractions to some of Mother Nature’s magnificent handiworks.

Palm Beach, Florida has its share of inviting beaches – and more

For starters Florida means inviting seashores, and this location has its share of them.  Those seeking a serene setting and calm waters often head for Sandy Point Beach.  Trails meandering inland from the Riviera Municipal Beach cross dunes and coastal hammocks, and this stretch of sand offers excellent shelling. Ocean Reef Park is often pounded by powerful waves which can challenge all but the most accomplished swimmers.

This oceanfront location attracted Native Americans at least 3,000 years ago. Evidence of their habitation incudes pre-Columbian archaeological complexes consisting of a burial mound and cemeteries.

Early white settlers built the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse around 1860. Twenty years later, Standard Oil tycoon Henry Fagler constructed three resort hotels which transformed the tropical landscape into a winter resort for the wealthy, then he extended the Forida East Coast Railway to the area.

In 1902, Flagler built a spectacular mansion as a gift for his bride, a beaux arts–styled modern manor adorned with pink aluminum-leaf wallpaper which was more expensive at the time than gold. The 4,750-square-foot Grand Hall, Library with its painted cast plaster ceiling and silk- and wood-lined Drawing Room give visitors a feel for the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy at that time. So vast is that castle-like structure that my first thought upon entering was if I had ever lived there, I’d have needed a map to find my way around.

Reliving the Gilded Age in Palm Beach, Florida

Those who are there in mid-day may segue into a “Gilded Age Style” lunch in the Café des Beaux-Arts. It’s housed in the Pavilion, a 19th-century, iron-and-glass railway palace which also displays Flagler’s private railroad car.

Palm Beach continues to live up to its reputation as a retreat for the super-rich.  Several years ago, Forbes magazine reported that the city was home to at least 30 billionaires – that’s billion with a B.  As I strolled along Worth Avenue, past high-end stores like Valentina, Versace and Ralph Lauren, I agreed with its description as one of the most beautiful shopping venues in the country which combines European sophistication with elegant style and grace.

Hanging out with locals in Palm Beach, Florida

I also enjoyed the balance provided by stores, restaurants, bars and other establishments that cater largely to locals.  Along with their touches of resident vibe, they offer opportunities to meet and mingle with folks who live in the area. Often, they can recommend below-the-radar places to see, and things to do, that visitors otherwise might miss.

In an area where Technicolor flowers and multi-hued foliage grow wild, gardens might seem redundant. However, formal plantings add an inviting painter’s palette to the landscape.

Some, like the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, introduce human touches to Mother Nature’s handiwork.  Ann was a renowned sculpture whose works are displayed among some 250 species of rare tropical palms, cycads and native plants, as well as in her home.

Wildlife thrived in Palm Beach, Florida

Where there are sea, sand and soil there’s likely to be wildlife, and it abounds at this destination. The John McArthur Beach State Park offers sightings of sea turtles, osprey and pelicans.  Hikers in Phil Foster Park frequently encounter gopher, tortoise and herons. Droll-looking mammals referred to as sea cows congregate in large numbers in Manatee Lagoon, while in the visitor center there I enjoyed close-up views of animals of various sizes as they enjoyed a meal of lettuce and vegetables.

Getting close up and personal with those endearing creatures is one opportunity among many to meet and mingle with denizens of the Palm Beach area of Florida. Other experiences range from reliving the Gilded Age of high society to enjoying magnificent natural settings to checking out fun and funky places at which to sup and sip.

For more information, log onto thepalmbeaches.com.

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Suddenly everything changed. Police cars were everywhere: Slowly patrolling the streets, parked along the sidewalks and driving into, and out of, a gated community. A bevy of police officers crowded the pavement and spilled out into the narrow road I was following.

Welcome to Mar-a-Lago, a lavish estate which has a storied history but is known today primarily as the home of Donald J. Trump.

That ornate estate that was built between 1924 and 1927 for successful businesswoman and leading society figure Marjorie Merriweather Post. Nestled on a barrier island in Palm Beach, Florida, it was acquired in 1985 by then-businessman and real estate investor Donald Trump, who used it as his residence.

Ten years later, he converted it into the Mar-a-Lago Club, an exclusive members-only institution with guest rooms, a spa and other hotel-style amenities. When they are there, members of the Trump family stay in private quarters nestled in a closed-off area of the grounds.

During his first presidency, Trump visited Mar-a-Lago frequently and held meetings there with international leaders like Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese president Xi Jinping. The name Mar-a-Lago means “sea to lake” in Spanish. It refers to the fact that the estate extends from one side of Palm Beach Island to the other, touching the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Lake Worth Lagoon on the west. The property is said to span 126 rooms and extend over an acre and a half.
In 1969, Mar-a-Lago was designated a national historic site. A report prepared by the Department of the Interior explained that it provides “an excellent picture of winter resort life in Palm Beach prior to the Depression.”

Ms. Post, who died in 1973, willed the estate to the United States government to serve as a Winter White House for presidents and visiting foreign dignitaries, but most of them preferred other residences. The property was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1980 because it exemplified “the baronial way of life of the wealthy who built mansions in Florida during the Florida land boom of the 1920s.”

I asked several residents of the area what it was like to live near such a legendary property which is visited by heads of state, leading political figures and other well-known dignitaries. The response of most of them was surprising. In essence, a big yawn.

“We don’t usually know who’s there,” one youngish man told me. “All it means for locals is traffic jams,” a sixty-something woman explained.

“I voted for Trump but if I’d known how much his being president would mess up traffic here, I would have voted differently,” admitted a well-dressed gentleman.

For visitors to the Palm Beach area, Mar-a-Lago can offer an intriguing diversion from the sun, sand and surf attractions for which the destination is best known. These include Worth Avenue, a shopper’s dream, which is lined by upscale boutiques and designer stores offering everything haute couture to unique art galleries.

Waterfront settings offer a choice of inviting stretches of sand fronting deep blue water. Golfers face a choice of 100 public, municipal and private courses, including six at the PGA National Resort.
History buffs and culture lovers will appreciate Palm Beach’s legacy of luxury and splendor, with must-see spots like the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, the historic Breakers Palm Beach hotel and the Society of the Four Arts., which encompasses an art gallery, concert hall, two libraries and gardens.

Mar-a-Lago adds a unique touch which combines historical tidbits, opulent architecture and a lovely semi-tropical setting. In addition, if you’re lucky, or unlucky, depending upon your politics, an opportunity to see a motorcade leave or arrive which includes a car transporting the president of the United States.

WHEN YOU GO
maralagoclub.com
townofpalmbeach.com

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Over 20 million tourists from Canada visited Louisiana. Many came to check out the Cajun and Creole roots which have ties to their country, and to enjoy the local music and entertainment scene.
Colorado’s tourism industry surged to unprecedented heights during the year, shattering previous records and establishing new benchmarks for visitor numbers, revenue generation and economic impact across the state.

While that was good news for hotels, restaurants and other businesses which cater to tourists, it meant crowded sites, long lines and other inconveniences at times for those seeking to enjoy what their destinations had to offer.

Some states, cities and towns in the Unites States and elsewhere have been overwhelmed recently with an onslaught of visitors. Along with the positive benefits of tourism, there can be a number of downsides to what is known as over-tourism.

That term describes the toll imposed by the large number of both domestic and international travelers. Last year, an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide took to the roads, seas and sky during a quest for an escape from their daily routine. In an ironic twist of fate, that virtual invasion can greatly detract from the very attractions and appeals that visitors have gone to enjoy.

Some communities around the world are taking steps to alleviate the negative impact that an influx of large crowds can bring. In the Austrian village of Hallstatt – population about 800 -residents staged a blockade of the main entrance into town. Inhabitants of Venice, Italy hung protest flags on their homes. People in Barcelona, Spain sprayed visitors with water guns.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization defines too much tourism as when locals or visitors feel that it has a negative impact on the quality of life to an unacceptable degree. Among harmful effects can be crowded historic and other sites; exorbitant noise levels; traffic jams, and the replacement of local shops by stores catering to the preferences of tourists.

At the same time, tourism also has its upsides. One is the economic boost it gives to local economies, creating jobs, generating income for businesses, and stimulating growth in the hospitality, retail and transportation sectors.

In addition, people from around the world come together to learn about each other’s cultures, customs and way of life. Tourism also contributes to the protection and preservation of heritage sites, landmarks and traditions. And the list goes on.

In an effort to achieve a balance between the positive effects of visitors and the adverse impact that too many of them can have, government tourist offices and popular places are taking steps to seek a happy medium.

One approach is financial. Venice began charging an entrance fee on busy days. New Zealand imposed a special charge to be paid by visitors.

Among non-monetary tactics have been barriers erected at locations near Japan’s Mount Fuji and the Austrian Alps, which are popular with photographers, that block some of the best views. Amsterdam’s tourism marketing website has added less-visited sites – an often-overlooked suburban castle and an arts center located in a converted gas works building – to its list of recommended attractions.

The popular Greek island of Santorini has capped the number of people who may arrive each day by cruise ship. It also gives top priority to the most sustainable, environmentally friendly passenger vessels.

These efforts seek to achieve a favorable balance between the financial, cultural and other benefits of tourism, and negative impacts that too much of a good thing can bring. For travelers, visiting destinations that have implemented programs designed to accentuate the positive and mitigate adverse effects can add a feeling of doing good at the same time that they are having a good time.

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Celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial Birthday

These are among examples of activities being planned, and undertaken, to celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the founding of the United States on July 4, 2026. They recall the moment when the Founding Fathers, who had gathered in Philadelphia, declared independence of the 13 American colonies from Great Britain. 

This historic event is being recognized in Virginia, where Jamestown was established in 1607 as the first permanent English settlement in the New World. The Massachusetts Plymouth Colony, which was created in 1620.  And Maryland, founded by Lord Baltimore in 1632.

Solemn and serious activities will recall America’s 250^th anniversary

These and other states, and cities, have planned a year-long list of festivities to recognize and honor this special birthday.  Some will be solemn and serious, others less so. All will attract people from near and far  who are seeking to recall and commemorate the nation’s birth, and its past accomplishments. Wherever you live, whatever your interests there’s likely to be a choice of exciting, and educational, events that you may wish to take in.

Philadelphia will be a hub of celebration of the Unites States special birthday

Those activities in Philadelphia were kicking off a year-long party.  At the Museum of the American Revolution, located just steps away from Independence Hall, immersive galleries, interactive exhibits and theater experiences relate compelling stories of the people and complex events that helped to spark the American rebellion.

Celebration of the birth of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in the self-proclaimed City of Brotherly Love got underway this fall with a parade of ships along the Delaware River, a Toast to the Navy gala, and a gathering at the tavern which was the birthplace of the Marine Corps.

States also will get into the action. A web-based hub has been posted which helps residents of, and visitors to, Delaware locate sites associated with the semiquincentennial remembrance. It includes a three-day Revolutionary War driving itinerary; a calendar of events listing special exhibitions and other related activities, and an overview of places with strong ties to the Revolutionary War. Among these are Cooch’s Bridge, sight of the only significant military action in the state, and the Grand Opera House, former site of a hospital that treated wounded from both sides during the fighting.

Massachusetts offers an immersion in early American history

A road trip through Massachusetts is like an immersion in history. That state kicked off its fetes by reliving the Battle of Lexington when – on April 19, 1775 – the British sent 700 soldiers from Boston to destroy ammunition and other supplies and the town’s militia confronted them, leaving eight colonists dead. George Washington then wrote “The first blood was spilt,” and the American Revolutionary War had begun.

After Lexington, the British marched to Concord to ransack more military equipment. Among displays at that town’s museum is the iron-and-glass lantern that Paul Revere famously carried during his “midnight ride,” which is recalled in the familiar poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. 

Events in Philadelphia and along the Delaware River recalling and recounting the genesis of the U.S. Navy aren’t the only water-related activities planned. American Cruise Lines, the largest river cruise company in the country, will launch an array of extended sailings throughout the year in honor of the nation’s founding. They will include Great United States, Spring Across America and Civil War Battlefields itineraries.  

Whether you prefer to wander by water, mull over museum displays or check out places where important chapters of U.S. history were written, numerous opportunities will abound throughout the country to celebrate the nation’s special birthday.

For information about 250^th anniversary events throughout the United States, log onto america250.org.

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If these descriptions concur up images of white tablecloth restaurants with gleaming silverware and sparkling crystal glassware, think again. Those delicious delicacies are being consumed at airport eating establishments by passengers waiting for their flight to take off.

In years past, many travelers sought to avoid eating in airline terminals which often offered a choice of fast-food chains, unimpressive food courts and unimaginative dining options. Over time, that picture has changed for the better.

Today, local and regional specialties are being featured on a growing number of menus. Well-known chefs have opened eateries intended to appeal to persnickety palates, and to tempt travelers to dine at their nearby in-town restaurants. Some airports have evolved into dining destinations that can enhance the enjoyment of the flight experience.

Those patrons who were munching on fare that would be at home in Europe were seated in the ECCO restaurant at the Hartfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta, Georgia. While southern cooking reigns supreme – no surprise there – what is unexpected is the “seasonal European cuisine” such as Italian prosciutto and duck pate.

At his Chicago O’Hare Airport Restaurant, Michelin star chef Rick Bayless serves Mexican street food along with gourmet fare like roasted pork shoulder and braised beef. Of course, traditional Chicago Mix popcorn — a cheese-and-caramel flavored snack – also is available.

Other regional favorites from the United States, along with typical fare from other areas of the world, also are tempting taste treats available to travelers. Southern Food reigns supreme at several eateries in Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Not surprisingly, a favorite at Austin-Bergstrom International is Texas barbeque, made with the traditional sear-and-slow cook technique and tomato-free sauce.

Other Lone Star State standbys like Tex-Mex selections are served up at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Adding fun to the scene is a coffee-making robotic arm named Gizmo which dishes out the brew. The plan is to have a robot deliver coffee directly to customers’ gates beginning sometime in 2026.

Miami International Airport serves as a hub for flights to Cuba and a kitchen for food from that island nation. Croquetas (ham croquettes), ropa vieja (shredded beef) and pastilitos (sweet treats) are among tidbits which are available reminiscent of their home country.

Black culture and cuisine also get a nod. In 1946, the Jackon Soul Food restaurant opened its doors in Miami’a Black Heritage neighborhood of Overton. An offshoot of that establishment at the airport recently began dishing out fried catfish, candied yams, collars greens and other familiar favorites using the same family recipes.

Washington State is about as close to Japan as anywhere in the continental U.S. and a rather offbeat indulgence has crossed the ocean to show up there. In 2021, a quirky concoction known as Cake in a Can first appeared on the local sweets scene.

Produced by a chain of food stores in Tokyo and Hokkaido, the sweet treat isn’t served as a slice on a plate. Instead, it’s packaged in a can which is designed to appear as if it’s see-through, displaying the layers of tempting ingredients inside. These containers, known as Fuwa Cans, are placed in vending machines that keep the edible extravagance inside fresh and edible.

Passengers waiting for their flight at the Denver International Airport may take a trip to the past at the Williams & Graham speakeasy. That cocktail bar evokes Prohibition days with its location, hidden behind an unassuming bookstore façade; intimate setting, and extensive collection of spirits. The atmosphere recalls the allure and secrecy of a bygone era.

A very different vibe, and choice of victuals, greets those who patronize the Napa Farms Market at the San Francisco International Airport. That artisan marketplace celebrates Northern California’s agricultural bounty, with a focus upon sustainable, organic food and beverages. It offers a wide variety of vegan, gluten-free options, and has been named “Best Airport Restaurant” by Food & Wine Magazine.

If organic offerings aren’t your favorite fare perhaps cake in a can will titillate your taste buds. If collard greens sound yucky maybe international indulgences will fit your fancy.

People don’t usually select an airport from which to depart or fly into when they’re planning a trip based on its selection of food options. However, the choice of places to eat before embarking on a journey can add to the pleasure of a journey even before they take to the air.

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has compiled a list of favorite airport restaurants from its members and staff pilots. For more information log onto aopa.org.

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What made this wildlife watching excursion different from most was that the creatures were not in cages or other enclosures.  They were free to wander throughout or, for the eagle, above the city as they wished.

This kind of up-close-and-personal encounter with animals in cities and towns is increasingly common.  Various species of wildlife are moving into urban areas and providing new opportunities for people to meet and mingle with them.  Both residents of many municipalities and people visiting may wish to look for places where they can observe birds and bears, seals and sea lions, and many other furry and feathered friends.

A number of reasons are prompting animals to leave their natural habitats and venture closer to where humans live, work and play.  Global warming is denigrating and destroying natural habits.  As cities take steps to grow more environmentally friendly and greener, they’re becoming increasingly attractive to wildlife.  At the same time, garbage cans, dumpsters and other receptacles for food scraps provide convenient feasts for interlopers from forests and tree perches. 

One wily fox was found living on the 72nd floor of an unfinished skyscraper, where it survived on workers’ discarded food scraps.  That source of nourishment also is used by coyotes hanging out in Chicago’s downtown Loop area.  So urbanized have some of these dog-like mammals become that they have been seen crossing streets in busy traffic after pausing at the red light and looking both ways before setting out.

If crossing a street next to a cunning coyote sounds unnerving, it can’t compare in terms of fear with the sight of a bear ambling across a busy city intersection.  That’s what visitors to Seattle, Washington, recently saw, along with views of another bear emerging from its hibernation sleep that was strolling near a garden and a hungry cub pawing at a bird feeder.  So many sightings have been reported there that the Seattle Times newspaper ran a story titled “How to stay safe with bear sightings back in the Seattle area.”

Seattle, like much of this country’s Pacific Ocean coastline, also is a favorite hangout of harbor seals and sea lions, and they are getting increasingly comfortable hobnobbing with their two-legged cousins.  A group of sea lions recently took over the dock of a waterfront house and another colony (as it’s known) occupied a breakwater.  They entertain, and at times distract,  observers with their loud barks, growls and grunts.

Visitors to some destinations are enchanted by much smaller and quieter examples of wildlife.  Even if they’re used to seeing butterflies where they live, perhaps even in their own garden, sightings of new strains of these colorful creatures, or seeing them in mass formation, can provide a new thrill.  Some cities sponsor programs intended to attract, and support, those appealing winged insects.

Among cities where sightseers benefit from the work of resident volunteers who help to protect butterflies are Cincinnati, Ohio and Austin, Texas, which has the most National Wildlife Federation-recognized Certified Wildlife Habitats (2,616) in the United States.  Like Austin, Charlotte, North Carolina is located on a migration route, which the popular black, orange and white monarch butterflies follow for thousands of miles each fall in the East to Florida and Mexico, and in the West to southern California, returning the following spring.

Many species of birds also migrate seasonally and visitors to places along their path may enjoy an aerial display.  Birdwatchers in, and visitors to, Cincinnati may train their eyes and binoculars on cardinals, herons, bald eagles and other winged residents. 

Central Park in New York City is located along the Atlantic Flyway.  When they’re not taking in the city’s other attractions, visitors may look for some of the more than 210 bird species that live in or stop by that enclave to rest and feed.

President Theodore Roosevelt was a dedicated conservationist who helped to establish national parks and forests, so it’s fitting that an island in the Potomac River as it flows past the Nation’s Capital is named for him.  The 88-acre enclave was designed to mimic the forest that once covered the land, and “Teddy” is honored by a statue of him.  

The former president would be pleased that his island is a major stopping place for migratory birds drawn by the safe haven it provides.  More than 120 species have been identified, ranging in size from the tiny eastern winter wren, which has been described as a minuscule plump round ball, to osprey that can reach two feet in length and bald eagles which are as large as three feet.

Whether you’re visiting a major tourist could city like Washington or New York, or a small town in the middle of the country, it’s likely that a surprising variety of wildlife is sharing the destination with you.  Checking with a resident, or the local tourism office, can provide an opportunity to meet and mingle with some of Mother Nature’s most intriguing creastures.

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Bill and Betty Condon are equally pleased with their cruise along the Mississippi River, with daily shore excursions to explore towns and other attractions along the way.

While these travel experiences are different in a number of ways, they share a common trait. Both are accessible to people who deal with a handicap.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, more than one in four adults in the United States suffer from some type of disability. Fortunately, this doesn’t prevent many of them from traveling to places near and far from where they live.

Some tour companies focus on offering trips for people with a handicap. These challenges vary from sight and hearing problems to mobility issues and other impediments. The goal is to provide an experience as equal as possible to that available to those with no such impairment.

Whether you – or a travel companion — deal with some sort of injury, loss of movement or other potential obstacle, help is on the way.

Mary Thompson received the assistance she sought and needed during her tour of Sicily with Easy Access Travel. That company specializes in accessible land trips and cruise vacations. As a result, Mary traveled through Sicily in a Mercedes Sprinter van equipped with an elevating platform and room enough to accommodate her open wheelchair, which enabled her to visit historic and other sites along the way.

The Condons were staying in one of the accessible wheelchair-friendly rooms which are available on American Cruise Lines ships. They appreciated the elevator, which provides ease of movement between decks, and the fact that the dining room, lounges and sun decks are wheelchair friendly. That also held true when they went ashore to take part in the daily sightseeing excursions which were offered.

Given the company’s name, it’s not surprising that Elder Treks caters to people age 50 and older. With that in mind, it rates trips on an activity level scale so participants may choose one which fits their preferences and physical state. Those who opt for itineraries identified as “easy” should be able to walk one-to-two hours through “varying levels of rugged terrain.” “Challenging” hikes may last five or more hours, cover at least five miles and traverse slopes that may be slippery.

As its name implies, Travel for All specializes in customized vacations for people with a variety of disabilities. The company works with more than 1,000 suppliers around the world, including land and tour operators, and cruise lines. After ascertaining a customer’s preferences and needs, the firm provides recommendations intended to fit individual travel styles.

Appropriately named Seeable Holidays goes well beyond just suggesting a trip for those with a sight impairment. It provides much of the planning and work which is involved. Travelers who are blind or partially sighted pick dates and a destination, submit a wish list and the company takes over.

Local chaperones with visual awareness training, who are knowledgeable about the destination and its history, spend 8-to-10 hours a day with visitors. In addition to introducing the must-see, must-do sites and attractions, these guides use their familiarity with the setting to steer visitors to the best local restaurants, keep them away from tourist traps and arrange private behind-the-scenes experiences.

This kind of help can take a travel experience to the next stage. From seeing a locale through the eyes of a resident to cruising along the Mighty Mississippi, whether sampling the sights of Sicily or enjoying a hike suited to your fitness level, a wide range of experiences awaits those who venture out close to where they live or around the globe. Many are available to people who deal with a physical handicap.

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During the decade-long Depression that began in 1929, traffic along the thoroughfare helped to support restaurants, motels and other mom-and-pop businesses that catered to passing motorists.  By 1938, it became the first highway in the country to be completely paved.

Adding to the fame of this historic roadway was its starring role in the popular 1960s television series named for it.  The show followed two young men who were traveling in a classic Chevrolet Corvette.

Complementing that publicity was a chapter in John Steinbeck’s 1939 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Grapes of Wrath.  It has a chapter about Dust Bowl migrants traveling on the highway, which he nicknamed “The Mother Road.”

People following the path of Route 66 today find themselves immersed in tangible memories of its past.  More than 250 buildings, bridges and other sites are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Each state along the way has its claims to fame.

The Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza in Tulsa, Oklahoma is located at the end of the 11^th Street bridge over which the route passed.  A massive sculpture  there, which is named “East Meets West,” depicts members of a family traveling in a Model T Ford meeting a horse-drawn carriage heading in the opposite direction.

In New Mexico, about 265 miles of historic Route 66 are drive-able.  The highway enters the state across a vast prairie, then meanders through rocky outcrops and past adobe villages with churches that predate the road by about a century.

One stretch of the original road runs through  Amarillo, Texas.  About an hour drive further on, the aptly Midpoint Café, which is two years younger than the highway, greets visitors with its slogan: “When you’re here, you’re halfway there.”

Another Amarillo landmark along Route 66 is a group of 10 Cadillac cars buried front-first in the ground.  The cars, tilted at an angle, are covered with multicolored graffiti that has been applied over the years.  

In Springfield, Illinois, portions of the road near Carpenter Park and Lake Springfield, and a 1.25 mile stretch of brick nearby, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Motorists may check out the Cozy Dog Drive In, Route 66 Drive In Theater, Mahan’s Filling Station and the Sonrise Donuts Sign at Route 66 Motorheads & Ace Sign Company Museum.

The Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store in Kansas opened in 1925 along what, a year later, would become – you guessed it — Route 66.  Along with groceries and produce, it offers a display of Route 66 memorabilia.

Communities across Oklahoma are marking the milestone birthday by installing Centennial Monuments along the historic highway.  These 16-foot-tall structures feature a glowing, double-sided Route 66 shield, the two-letter abbreviation for the state and the centennial years: 1926–2026. A display box on the pole identifies the specific location — whether a city, town or attraction — and includes a QR code linking to local stories, history, and visitor information.

Other mementos of The Mother Road await discovery at museums around the country.  Collections focused on the route are housed in Clinton, Sapulpa and Elk City, Oklahoma.  The Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, Illinois is the repository of thousands of relics from the glory days of the byway.

The National Museum of American History in Washington, DC has an impressive collection of artifacts and photographs related to the highway.  They include a restored car and truck similar to those that were on the thoroughfare in the 1930s, neon signs which were displayed at roadside businesses, and a portion of pavement rescued from Bridgeport, Oklahoma.

A road pavement sample and scenic sculptures, neon signs along with sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places serve as reminders of The Mother Road.  Its one century birthday will be a perfect time to celebrate what in its time was an engineering marvel, and continues to hold an important place in the annals of the development and growth of the United States.

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The primary reason why this locale managed to escape the most dire consequences of the economic crash was the presence of Pennsylvania State University. That institution provided both jobs and financial stability to those who lived and worked nearby, even through the depth of the Depression.

Somewhat later, a husband-wife team of newspaper columnists began referring to State College, the town where Pennsylvania State University is located, as the “Happy Valley.” That name stuck.

I recently visited the community, and other nearby towns, and returned home with an understanding of why Happy Valley is an apt title, and description.

Penn State offers a unique atmosphere characterized by youth, vibrancy and culture. Founded in 1855, it enrolls about 90,000 students each year and has 20 campuses throughout Pennsylvania including its main site being – University Park, adjacent to downtown State College.

The university and its surrounding grounds themselves offer an inviting choice of attractions. One is the collection at the Palmer Museum of Art. It spans centuries and represents a diversity of cultures, from American and African creations to works on paper.

The Museum is situated within The Arboreturm at Penn State, a lovely, curated landscape that seamlessly blends art, architecture and nature. Among its many features are 10 acres of garden spaces, 14 acres of rolling meadows, colorful seasonal plantings, sculptures and gentle walking paths over which to explore the site.

Nearby, outdoor art turns the entire downtown heart of State College into an outdoor museum. A downtown Art Walk trail features 40 murals, sculptures, statues, stained glass and other works.

Treats for the taste buds rather than the eyes are served up at the Penn State Berkey Creamery, the largest university ice cream maker in the United States. The milk which is used comes from university cows and agricultural students contribute to making the delicious dessert. Among rotating flavors are some unusual choices like White Out, Monster Mash and Peachy Paterno, named after the university’s long-time football coach.

Those dairy delights hint at the variety of field-to-fork foods which add to the destination’s appeal. Amish family farms provide beef, cheese and produce that are raised and grown with loving care.

The Heirloom Farmer offers milk, muffins, honey and more, harvested from nearby fields. The history of the Way Fruit Farm dates back to 1872, when 1,000 apple trees were planned, and it continues under ownership of the sixth generation of the original owner’s family.

History also lives in museums which recount various chapters of the area’s story. Iron-making began in Pennsylvania as early as 1720 and evolved into a key industry due to the abundance of high-quality iron ore, limestone, and trees. While advances in technology resulted in the closing of most iron furnaces in the late 19th century, I was immersed in the heyday of that industry at the Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village. The story of what became the region’s leading industry is told there through hands-on demonstrations and walking tours. The Curtin Mansion engulfs visitors in the genteel ambience of an upscale Federal-era manor house.

The Boal Estate has been that family’s home for over 200 years, and displays the original furnishings, artwork, and artifacts from around the globe. I found more intriguing the adjacent small, but imposing, Columbus Chapel. It houses what’s said to be the most extensive collection of Christoper-related items in North America, including an Admiral’s Desk which is believed to have belonged to the famous explorer.

The Matson Museum of Anthropology displays casts of ancient fossil life. Artifacts that demonstrate various aspects of farming and rural life are highlighted at the Pasto Agricultural Museum.

To me, tiny towns that are scattered about the area, each with its own character and appeals, are equally varied, and inviting. Boalsburg is a walkable community that clings to its quaint village atmosphere. Philipsburg displays ties to the region’s industrial past. Founded in 1795, Bellefonte (pronounced Bell-font) retains much of its original Victorian architecture.

Another magnet for tourism is a diverse list of year-round festivals that appeal to a wide range of interests. From street fair to music fest, farm celebrations to a craft market, they add to the long list of attractions that draw more than five million travelers a year to experience and enjoy what State College and its nearby neighbors have to offer.

For more information log onto happyvalley.com.

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France and Germany are renowned for the outstanding wines made there.   That beverage is ingrained in French culture.  The majority of the German varieties come from small family-owned vineyards.

The succulent spirit has been produced in the United States since the 1500s, and the quality has earned it a number of international awards.  California leads in viniculture,  accounting for some 80 percent of the total that is made and bottled.  Next, but far behind in volume, are New York and Washington State.

Many people are surprised to learn that wine is made in all 50 states.  Some of them seem unlikely locations for growing grapes.

As you travel close to where you live, or further away, opportunities exist to drop by vineyards and tasting rooms to sample vintages that may be new to your palate.

Of course, many oenophiles rank California first on their list of must-see, must-sip states.  A number of them head for St. Helena, where the Hall Rutherford Estate is tucked into the mountainsides of the Vaca Range, four miles east of downtown Napa. 

The caves at Hall Wines in St. Helena are an integral component of its winemaking process, providing a stable temperature and moisture level which are perfect for aging and storing wine in barrels.  The major attraction in the Chandelier Room where a massive suspended light which is dressed with hundreds of glittering Swarovski crystals.

The Jarvis Estate winemaking facility is entirely contained within 45,000 square feet of a cave tunneled into the scenic Vaca Mountains.  Due to the invariant temperature and high humidity of caves, wineries typically have used them for  barrel aging wines. Jarvis Estate was the first in the country to tunnel a cave so large that it contains the entire winemaking operation.  Water from a spring that flows through the cavern controls the temperature and moisture levels.

A very different vibe greets guests at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery.  Along with wine offerings, it has a restaurant swimming pool and room devoted to the many Academy Award-winning films that Coppola directed.  A favorite among visitors is the Godfather Room.

During dry spells, the 50-plus wineries located in Fredericksburg , Texas hill country would welcome some of the water from Coppola’s pool.  By some counts, this ranks among the most popular wine destinations in the country.  Added attractions are bountiful barbeque and melodious country music.

Another surprise sipping state is Missouri.  Its wine region takes in the resort town of Branson and the sprawling Lake of the Ozarks reservoir.  The main attraction is the Ozark Mountains AVA (American Viticultural Area), which is a grape-growing region with specific geographic or climatic features that distinguish it from the surrounding territory.

Two of the earliest AVA areas in the Unites States are located in Missouri.  German settlers began planting vineyards there nearly 200 years ago, and the Augusta AVA was the first one to be established in the United States.  It was recognized and registered several months before any area of California’s Napa Valley achieved that honor.

Willcox, Arizona, about an hour drive from Tucson, is home to wineries that produce good products for a state usually associated with sand and searing heat.  Vineyards are perched on mountainsides where hot days, cool nights and rich soil provide  a welcome environment for grape vines.

If wine is your passion, there are numerous opportunities to combine travel with tastings.  Some are available in well-known viniculture destinations, others offer a welcome surprise.  Whether you’re a would-be sommelier or a tenderfoot taster, there are wines and wineries to meet any and every preference.

For an extensive list of wineries throughout the Unites States, log onto winerelease.com.

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