H&L's post from yesterday got me thinking about all the places in the US that we don't know about. Places that are beautiful, historical, interesting or just plain fun but off the beaten tourist path!
If I were to come to your state, what would you advise me to see?
Judy
Tony and Eileen said
10:30 AM Sep 17, 2006
Judy,
In California I would suggest you see:
The Redwoods (No. Ca.)
Hearst Castle
Wine Country (Sonoma and Napa)
Carmel and Monterey
Yosemite
and all along the coast.
emeacham said
11:58 AM Sep 17, 2006
My favorite place in Colorado is Turquoise Lake. It's about 4 miles west of the little mining town of Leadville. There are several Federal campgrounds right next to the lake, and a private campground just outside of the federal area. The two highest peaks in Colorado, Mr. Elbert and Mt. Massive, frame the lake. Awesome.
Of course, there's the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Cripple Creek, Seven Falls, South Cheyenne Canyon, Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun on Cheyenne Mountain, the Air Force Academy, and many hiking, biking and walking trails in the Pikes Peak Region.
Many things to enjoy here.
Judy the Other said
03:57 PM Sep 17, 2006
Great suggestions all and I've actually been to several of the places mentioned. But many are "on the beaten path". In Arizona, there's the Grand Canyon and in Tucson the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum but everyone knows about those and goes to them; not so many go to Ramsey Canyon. There must be other places, in other states that the locals know about like the state parks H&L have been visiting (but maybe the locals are keeping them to themselves ) I found out about a great county park near Waldport, Oregon by reading someone's blog who camphosted there this summer
Here's an interesting little side trip, the Alferd Packer site if you're around The Creede-Lake City CO area and there's actually a pretty decent museum in Lake City. (we're museum people, hardly able to drive by one without stopping)
Keep the ideas coming!
J
Joan On The Road said
06:32 PM Sep 17, 2006
In CA I would add: Pismo Beach, Joshua Tree National Monument, Santee Lakes (as a base for San Diego trips on the trolley); Temecula wine county (stay at Pechanga casino or Vail Lake Resort or Escapees Jojoba Hills or Outdoor Resorts Rancho Cucamonga).
In our "residence" state of South Dakota...MOUNT RUSHMORE. We stay at Hart Ranch, a C2C, RPI resort and love to travel the Black Hills area. No other place like it!
We've recently discovered the reservoir parks in Indiana near Ft Wayne...Mississinewa and Salamonie. Lovely parks that you can probably get into any time of year in mid week. Great boating and fishing if you're into that, other wise great relaxing :)
Enjoy....Joan
blijil said
08:06 AM Sep 18, 2006
In New Mexico:
Carlsbad Caverns a Natural wonder of the world.
White Sands monument miles and miles of gypsum.
Mountain Camping in the Forest - Silver NF Campgrounds in Cloudcroft, Sopilla NF campgrounds above Mimbres, Roberts Lake Mesa and Upper NF Campgrouds, Quemado Lake NF Campgrounds, Red River NF campgrounds, Bonita Lake campgrounds private and NF.
High Desert/Mesa Spring, Fall, and even Winter Campgrounds - Oliver Lee State Park, Petraglifs BLM park, Valley of Fires State Park, Columbus State Park, City of Rocks State Park, Rockhound State Park.
Touristy but fun - Ruidosa, Taos, Santa Fe, Old Town Albuquerque during Balloon Festival, Lincoln, Old Mesilla, Silver City.
Cimaron Canyon State Park.
Many, Many state parks in high desert around man made lakes most with good fishing more water as you go North.
We haven't even tried most campgrounds in NM but we have enjoyed the winter camping in the south and the high mountains in the summer. More than a few fulltimers come for a month and stay for a year or so. I think there are many states that could make the same claim.
Happy Camping.
Larry and Jacki
susie/jack said
08:37 AM Sep 18, 2006
Heyburn State Park - outside Plummer Idaho Great place for boating and fishing and kicking back....
Coeur d ' Alene Casino has hookups on every pole in their parking lot and all for free....no limit on how long you can stay... it is in Worley Idaho - would be a great place to save a couple nights camping fees. or spend them LOL
Farragut State Park is a wonderful place - boating - fishing - hiking etc..
Mirror Lake at Sagle Idaho is another great place - need to check first not very many sites and on a first come first served basis.
These places are all within one hour of Coeur d'Alene in the Northern part of Idaho.
Brian and Tam said
12:47 PM Sep 18, 2006
California cont.
In the Sierra Nevada mountains:
Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Tuolumne Meadows (are beautiful high altitude camps).
In the Sierra Nevada foothills:
Bodie Historic State Park (old mining town that has been left original, great photos ops.)
All of Highway 49 between Oakhurst and Nevada City (gold rush days, charming towns)
Judy the Other said
06:12 PM Sep 19, 2006
Thanks for all the great suggestions...but there must be more. C'mon lets hear the great hidden places in your state!
Judy
We used to live in Reno and always meant to go to Bodie-thanks for reminding me.
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 20:13, 2006-09-19
Paul and Bonnie said
10:16 PM Sep 20, 2006
In North West Florida, our most valuable "Off the Beaten Path" experience is the beautiful snow white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. In spite of the hurricanes of the last two years, our beaches still can't be beat. You can see renovations from Hurricane Ivan (that hit Pensacola two ears ago) still going on at Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Islnad, but that doesn't stop the beach lovers. Unfortunately Fort Pickens State Park and campground was destroyed and it will be several years before it is up and running again. If you are in Pensacola you don't want to miss eating at McGuires Irish Pub. It is unique and you can count the $100,000 in 1 dollar bills stapled to the wall while you wait for your food. (I'm not sure about the dollar amount but it is way up there!) If that doesn't keep you busy, you can kiss the moose over the fireplace or visit the restrooms, even that can be entertaining. You won't go away hungry what ever you do. My DH tells me you should visit the National Museum of Naval Aviation on the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. (It's FREE!) But From Panama City to Destin to Navarre, you can find several state parks and private campgrounds. Henderson Beach State Park in Destin is our favorite, but you have to book it well in advance. Gulf Islands National Seashore is 150 mile stretch of islands and keys from Destin to Gulfport Mississippi. Who wouldn't want to go to the "Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival" that is held at College Boulevard and Highway 85 north of Niceville the third weekend in October. Go to www.mulletfestival.com The Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival is a food and arts & crafts festival that pays homage to the mullet, a bottom-dwelling fish that inhabits our local bayous. How could you think of missing a festival that "pays homage to a bottom-dwelling fish" Blackwater River State Park is about 7 miles from our house and it has some of the cleanest rivers in the country. The creeks and rivers in the area are very popular for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. Lots of fun!! The Jackson Red Ground Hiking Trail is in Blackwater River State Forest. It is a 21 mile indian trading trail that was used by General Andrew Jackson on his journey to Florida Territory. I feel like a travel agent. We don't have big corporate backed fun parks, but we do have fun here.
bjoyce said
10:50 AM Sep 21, 2006
In Washington state:
Mount Rainier
Mount St. Helens
Cape Flattery on the Makah Indian Reservation on a sunny day
Hoh Rain Forest
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
Long Beach/Ilwaco area
Lake Chelan
Mount Baker
Clarkston, WA/Lewiston, ID for a Hell's Canyon jet boat trip
-- Edited by bjoyce at 12:51, 2006-09-21
ken and cindy said
03:11 PM Sep 21, 2006
Texas,
Where do I start, ok,
1] Katy tx , Forbidden Gardens Chinese Cultural Museum:In 1974, row upon row of clay soldiers were discovered by peasants digging a well near Xi'an, China. The terra cotta army of more than 7,000 life-size officers, infantrymen, bowmen, horses, and charioteers were all arranged as a protective escort for Qin Shihuangdi's journey to the afterlife. Qin was the first emperor to truly unify China, and has the Great Wall among his many credits. This 40-acre outdoor museum, a miniature replica of the original site, is impressive in itself. Each figure is handmade and imitates the precision of the original artisans: Each soldier in the army is unique. The museum also has a scale model of the Forbidden City, which was the Imperial Palace in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and an exhibit featuring examples of the architecture and weapons of the dynasties. The gardens are peaceful, and with the pleasant patter of fountains and chiming Chinese music, you might forget you're in Texas.
The whole site was built by a billionaire recluse,that no one has a photo of.
Next;
2] Marble Falls , is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country on the Colorado River. It is centrally located 47 miles northwest of Austin and 85 miles north of San Antonio, in the middle of the Highland Lakes area, the largest chain of lakes in Texas. This is where you will find LBJ's lake house, real neat place to camp.
3] Davis mountains, yes thats right, there are mountains in Texas, also a favorite camping and hiking spot.
oneabee said
10:56 AM Sep 22, 2006
New York State
. Adirondack High Peak Region and area in and around Lake Placid and surrounding towns
. Catskill Mountain Region and North Lake State Campground
. Finger Lakes Region
. West Point
. Shawangunk Mountain region near New Paltz, NY
. Hudson River Historic Mansions - Franklin Roosevelt Home, Hyde Park - Vanderbilt Mansion, Hyde Park - Olana, Hudson
Darrell and Judy said
11:10 AM Sep 22, 2006
Michigan - Lower Peninsula. Sleeping Bear dunes is a neat area where you climb up the sand dunes and go for dune buggy rides. Leland, MI is a quaint fishing town that is just plain fun to visit. We also enjoy the Traverse City and Petoskey area (tunnel of trees going north from Harbor Springs, MI).
Michigan - Upper Peninsula. Sault Ste Marie to see the locks, Munising to see pictured rocks, Keewenau Penisula for a beatiful drive to Copper Harbor and around the Lake Superior coast, and then Porcupine Mountains to see the lake in the clouds.
Michigan has a lot of beautiful places to visit and is a great tourist state.
Judy the Other said
07:44 AM Sep 23, 2006
ken and cindy wrote: Katy tx , Forbidden Gardens Chinese Cultural Museum: This 40-acre outdoor museum, a miniature replica of the original site, is impressive in itself. Each figure is handmade and imitates the precision of the original artisans: Each soldier in the army is unique. The museum also has a scale model of the Forbidden City, which was the Imperial Palace in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and an exhibit featuring examples of the architecture and weapons of the dynasties. The gardens are peaceful, and with the pleasant patter of fountains and chiming Chinese music, you might forget you're in Texas.
That's what I'm talkin' about! Who would have ever thought there would be Frobidden Chinese Gardens in Texas?
Judy
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 10:01, 2006-09-23
Judy the Other said
07:51 AM Sep 23, 2006
Darrell and Judy wrote:
Michigan has a lot of beautiful places to visit and is a great tourist state.
Michigan sounds great-even though I am originally from Ohio, I have NEVER been to the Great Lakes! We saw Lake Michigan from the air on approach to Chicago one time and I was truly amazed. Wanted to get out then and there and check it out!
Thanks,
Judy
and Hi Judy-you know we're a vanishing breed. I have not seen a baby born in 28yrs (I work Labor/Del) named Judy!
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 10:05, 2006-09-23
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 10:06, 2006-09-23
Judy the Other said
07:58 AM Sep 23, 2006
Paul and Bonnie wrote: In North West Florida, our most valuable "Off the Beaten Path" experience is the beautiful snow white sands of the Gulf of Mexico... Henderson Beach State Park in Destin is our favorite, but you have to book it well in advance.
My brother went to the Gulf Coast one time and just raved about the beauty (and he's not a raver!) On another forum I saw pics of Henderson Beach and couldn't believe a place that beautiful was a campground! Fabulous
Also, being from Ohio originally, FL most often just means that other Happiest Place on Earth and crowded beaches. It's great to get a different perspective.
Judy
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 09:59, 2006-09-23
Judy the Other said
08:17 AM Sep 23, 2006
oneabee wrote: New York State
bjoyce wrote:
In Washington state
Joan On The Road wrote: In our "residence" state of South Dakota..
oneabee wrote: New York State
Jenny J wrote: These places are all within one hour of Coeur d'Alene in the Northern part of Idaho.
All fabuous sounding places-- I just HAVE to retire!
Judy
Phaeton said
09:11 AM Sep 23, 2006
New Jersey!
Unfortunately, when most folks travel through New Jersey they only see the industrial areas on either side of the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway. That's why some call it the Garbage State.
But go Northwest, West or South and you'll understand why New Jersey is called the Garden State with all it's lush vegatation, extensive farming and high mountain vistas.
There are numerous campgrounds and recreational opportunities throughout New Jersey. So get off the interstate and explore. I for one think you will like what you see.
I haven't seen our Canadian friends posting here, maybe they need a new topic on Provinces?
I will point out some northern Ontario finds that most people do not know about:
Pukaskwa National Park - it is on Lake Superior and is mostly wilderness
Old Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay, ON ( http://www.fwhp.ca )- go back to the fur trading time of 1815
Kakabeka Falls - just west of Thunder Bay. Go on a weekend when they let more water through instead of diverting it for power generation.
wmalefyt said
11:25 AM Sep 23, 2006
Florida is our home state and offers lots to see.
St. Augustine is a great place to visit. Lots of neat shops, restaurants and historic places. The old Spanish fort is very interesting as is Fort Matanzas about 20 miles south. We camped at Anastasia State Park which is close to the beach and not far from downtown. The beach is wide and well maintained with lifeguards usually on duty.
We also enjoyed camping at Salt Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest. The springs are beautiful and lots of wildlife to see.
Farther south we like John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo. They have a very neat boat tour out to the coral reefs about 6 miles out in the Atlantic Ocean. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling right in the reef where lots of beautiful fish and coral formations can be seen. Well worth the price!
Come to Florida and enjoy the sunshine!
-- Edited by wmalefyt at 13:26, 2006-09-23
Judy said
02:26 PM Sep 23, 2006
I have to chime in on this one with Larry and Jacki....having lived in New Mexico for 10 yrs now it is not called "The Land of Enchantment" for nothing. It will defiently enchant you on your visit....one of the nicest places we go to camp is Tetillia Peak Recreation area at Cochiti Lake, it is our favorite in New Mexico. It has its mountains, lakes, International Balloon Fiesta, Canyons, Mesas, Native American Pueblos, Ghost Towns and of course Smokey the Bear was born here and lays to rest here.
Places to visit I shall start with the Gila Wilderness of which it is the most beautiful area with Lake Roberts, the Catwalk at Glenwood is a Whitewater Canyon that you can hike in. The Gila Cliff Ddwellings, Oliver Lee State Pk where the famous Cochise Apache hid out in Dog Canyon a wonderful place to camp.Silver City where Billy the Kid spent his boyhood days. Truth or Consequences the home of geothermal heated hot springs. The ghost town of Mogollon best preserved ghost town where some people still live is a must to visit. Chloride another great ghost town that deserves a visit....you willl not be sorry. El Morrow National Monument where you will find Inscription Rock and a campground its many inscriptions in the yr 1540 many Spanish came thru and it was a watering hole for many wagons. Next I will mentiion Fort Sumner where "Billy the Kid" is buried and it has 2 muesums. Bosque del Apache National Wildfife Refuge here you find 7,000 acres of wetlands for refuge of the winter brids that come in. Northern New Mexico in Abiquiu you can see Ghost Ranch where the famous Georgia O'Keeffe did her paintiings of the Southwest and a visit to the museum in Santa Fe.... put it on your list. The Cumbres and Toltec Railroad gives you a ride in the mountains of Chama. Visit Chimayo "The Lourdes of the West" in which you can get the healing Holy Dirt out of the ground so bring a small container with you its a wonderful very old church. I have only hit a few areas of this great state along with all the history, oh and be sure to take in some Native American Feast Days and see the dances, and the great food and if you are lucky enough they will envite you into they're homes to sit down and eat dinner with them. Visit the Native American Cultural Center in Abquerque and watch them bake they're bread in a Horno outdoor oven you will NEVER have better bread . If you have the chance during the roasting of the chilies here in fall months take it in as you will not be disappointed. Santa Fe is also a town to visit with all its art and galleries you will certainly pick up something there.
Southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Paul and Bonnie said
08:31 AM Sep 24, 2006
Please, please please pay attention to the surf safety flags that they post on the beaches. The Gulf of Mexico can be so beautiful and inviting, especially if you have been sunning on those snow white beaches. But the flags are there for a reason. We don't want to keep the tourist here permanently. The undertow can be frightening if you get caught in one and you must not panic. Just pay attention to the flags and if it is red or yellow, don't get in the water!!!! I have seen people letting small children play in the surf while they are up on the beach. Even at the waters edge, the undertow can grab a little one, so stay with your children. Now that I have frightened everyone, I have lived here all my life (57 years ) and have never experienced an undertow personally, but we see on the news every year people who don't heed the warning flags. Bonnie
pasco1215 said
08:53 AM Sep 24, 2006
ALABAMA
JUST BRAIN STORMING HERE!
Gulf Shores, Huntsville, Ft. Payne, Dauphlin Island, Mobile, Lookout Mtn, Helen Keller's home, Cullman, Selma, Cheaha State Park, Joe Wheeler State Park, Mountain Top Flea Market
I am sure there are many more in Alabama. "WAR EAGLE"!
Don and Lois said
11:16 PM Sep 24, 2006
HI, THE OTHER JUDY, I AGREE ABOUT THE NAME " JUDY." I
ALSO HAVE WORKED IN LABOR/DEL. I NOW WORK ON THE
POSTPARTUM WING. MAYBE WE'LL GET TO SWAP STORIES
SOMEDAY.
Hazel Stratton said
10:30 PM Sep 26, 2006
In Oregon... 1. the coast - from Astoria to Brookings (the beach, the sand dunes) 2. Crater Lake 3. The Cascades - Mount Hood, Three Sisters 4. Central Oregon - Painted Desert 5. Eastern Oregon - Wallows, Eagle Gap Wilderness, Steens Mtns. 6. Columbia River - Multnomah Falls 7. Shakespearian Festival in Ashland (southwest OR)
Follow any major tream (McKenzie, Umpqua, etc.) in Oregon and the scenery and campgrounds are great.
There is no part of Oregon that is not beautiful in it's way from the coast, to the valley, to the plateaus of central and eastern Oregon.
Lorane, a native Oregon and avid camper
Judy the Other said
06:17 PM Sep 27, 2006
Hazel Stratton wrote:
There is no part of Oregon that is not beautiful in it's way from the coast, to the valley, to the plateaus of central and eastern Oregon.
Lorane, a native Oregon and avid camper
That seems to be the case, everyone I've ever talked to who has visited Oregon, loves it! But then that state has most everything, beautiful coastline, high desert, rivers, canyons. It's near the top of my list!
Thanks,
Judy
Peg said
07:57 PM Sep 27, 2006
My home state is Connecticut and one of the smallest states in the country. If you travel please get of the interstates and enjoy the beauty from the back roads. New England is just beautfiul and anytime of the year.
Places to visit:
Mystic - town - seaport and aquarium
Litchfield Hills
Lake Compounce Theme Park - best roller coaster in the world
Old New Gate Prison - East Granby
Heublein Tower - Simsbury
Gillette Castle State Park - E Haddam
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Nautilus & Submarine Museum - Groton
Foxwood Casino
Mohegan Casino
Wonderful state to visit - alot of traffic but really beautiful
jlnewby said
10:09 PM Sep 27, 2006
Since we're apparently the only ones from the far north, I figured I better get off my duff and give any Alaska-bound travelers some destination ideas!
Denali National Park - best animal viewing
Kenai River - most gorgeous water (and the fishing ain't bad either)
Flattop Mountain (Chugach State Park/Anchorage) - most accessible tundra experience
Crow Pass and Resurrection Trail - great hikes for hardy hikers
Homer Spit - most unique RV camping spot
Entire state - scenery you'll never forget!
And, don't forget to pick up a Milepost for the trip up and back - invaluable.
Enjoy!
Skeetshooter said
10:00 AM Oct 6, 2006
Texas continued:
This state has so much to offer hard to know where to start.
The hill country in the spring when the wild flowere are blooming.
NSSA, south of Houston
The Rio Grande Valley when the winter Texans are there over 500 rv parks and 30,000 sites from Brownsville to Mission.
Big bend country, not to be missed if you like vast open spaces.
The Texas history museum in Austin. The prison museum in Huntsville. The world war two museum also in Huntsville.
To many festivals and cultural events to mention. The state publishes a quarterly events calendar and is available from them or any state welcome center.
Ft. Worth stockyards where the still drive long horn cattle down main street twice daily.
San Antonio. Houston, Dallas
I'm a native buckeye myself but have really enjoyed living here.
Ted Rogers, aka Skeetshooter
-- Edited by Skeetshooter at 23:01, 2006-10-06
Dick Nason said
02:54 PM Oct 6, 2006
My wife and I are planning to visit the Rio Grande valley. Could you give some recommendations for RV parks on the gulf. Having never been to that area before any help would be appreciated. Thanks Dick
Tiger said
06:11 PM Oct 6, 2006
The Maryland/Pennsylvania area has a lot of nice places. If you're looking for campgrounds, Morris Meadows in Baltimore County is very nice. We stayed there last weekend and had a beautiful view (even if the leaves weren't changing yet). Also, Western Maryland has quite a few State parks that are really nice; Cunningham Falls, Greenbriar. And I've heard Rocky Top is nice out there too, but haven't been. Gettysburg has several nice campgrounds that also offer shuttles to the tour buses, etc.
Judy the Other said
10:26 AM Oct 14, 2006
Wow! Represented are:
Ohio
Arizona
California
Texas
Alaska
Alabama
New Mexico
Florida
New Jersey
Idaho
New York
Michigan
Washington state
South Dakota
Colorado
Canada
and me with a full-time job! But all the suggestions are going in a file for future reference. Can we get something from all 50 states? And Canada? And Mexico? I love Puerto Penasco and someday hope to get further into Mexico, Vera Cruz looks interesting and Quintana Roo. What say you?
Judy
broseyjng said
07:38 PM Oct 28, 2006
Okay - here goes for Pennsylvania!
"Grand Canyon of Pa" - gorgeous mountain gorge in northern PA that is surrounded by state parks, campgrounds, and you can raft or tube down the river;
Lancaster County - home of the Amish. Touristy, but get off the main roads and onto the back roads and small towns and see the beauty of the farmlands and watch the Amish actually at work on their farms. Lititz, PA - in Lancaster County - is one of the prettiest small towns you'll ever see and it's the home of Wilbur Chocolate and Sturgis Pretzel house;
Lake Erie;
Of course, for history buffs there is Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and Philadelphia;
Outside of PHila on the Delaware River is Washington Crossing State Park where Gen Washington crossed the river into New Jersey on Christmas day;
Bucks County - along the Delaware - lots of beautiful farmland, small towns, and recreational opportunities;
Pocono Mountains - Can also be touristy, but lots of great places to hike, boat, and villages;
State College - Home of the Nittany Lions!! Great craft fair here every year, the second weekend in July;
LOts of other places - come and see!!
Luvglass said
09:05 PM Oct 28, 2006
Add to Pennsylvania -
Falling Waters - Frank Lloyd Wrights masterpiece
Flight 93 memorial at Shanksville
Longwood Gardens
Fred
Judy the Other said
06:53 PM Jun 25, 2007
Since we have so many new people from different places, I'm bumping this topic. Also for you Roy and Dale fans-Roy grew up in my home county (Scioto, Ohio) and there are some serious Roy Rogers collectors who travel there in search of memorabilia http://www.sciotocountyohio.com/royrogers.htm
Of course Roy was Leonard Slye then...
The original topic ? Where should people go in your home area?-the OFF THE BEATEN PATH places-not those that are on every tourist brochure.
Judy
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 19:53, 2007-06-25
lwfox002 said
08:24 PM Jun 25, 2007
Well, if you make to little ole Arkansas I would suggest some of our state parks that offer camp sites. Petit Jean State Park, Mt Magazine State Park (highest point in Ark and 19 miles from home), Queen Wilhelmena State Park and Devils Den State Park to name a few. This website will take you there;
Arkansas is a beautiful state. We held a family reunion there at Spider Creek Resort near Eureka Springs-what a great time and a perfect place for a get-together. Something for everyone.
Froggi said
09:02 PM Jun 25, 2007
More for Pennsylvania:
Bradford PA - Zippo Visitors Museum (free and WONDERFUL)
McKean County (just west of Bradford) - Kinzua Dam
Altoona PA - Horseshoe Curve RR
HollidaysBurg (just south of Altoona) - Slinky Factory
bjoyce said
09:44 AM Jun 26, 2007
We are enjoying our stay here in the Long Beach Peninsula of Washington State. It is a great area to stay in and you get to see some of Oregon also since most of the shopping is across the bridge in Astoria, OR where there is no sales tax. State parks, beaches, lighthouses, wildlife refuges, old forts, Lewis and Clark history, American Indian history, this area has it all. The mighty Columbia River separates Oregon and Washington and empties into the Pacific Ocean here, which is what the bridge crosses. Plus if you like seafood this is a great area to go to restaurants and buy fresh seafood. The albacore tuna season is almost here, sturgeon is what they are fishing for now. The weather is mild in the summer, sometimes with some rain.
mrsgeek said
01:53 PM Jun 26, 2007
What a great question! I'm from Florida and it pains me so to hear that all people think of is Disney World. The inland rivers and springs are simply awesome - I could go on and on, but let me just list a few. The links are to my blog pages where I've written about the place mentioned.
Froggi, also since we are from there (our home for 50 yrs) you might want to mention the Case Knife factory. Also the great Italian Festival held each summer there. The Kinzua railroad Bridge that the tornado hit. southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Froggi said
07:14 PM Jun 26, 2007
Wow, Judy! Small world....we lived up in Marshburg area (Rt 59) for three years. I so loved it....little cabin in the middle of the Allegheny National Forest. I've been able to visit friends there a couple of times on my motorcycle since leaving (2003, solo; 2004, w/hubby; 2005 - solo). I missed last summer because I was selling the house....same thing this year. LOL! But I hope to get back there this fall...been too long.
Lived in Altoona for the 18 months prior to moving to McKean County. We full-timed while working there, we were fiber optic construction inspectors and worked on the RR right-of-way. Great fun....<g>
Judy the Other said
12:43 PM Jun 28, 2007
I've been to Florida, once, to Disneyworld! That has always colored my feeling about the state and have never wanted to go back. However, reading your blog (Geeks on Tour) has changed that impression a bit. It is more than mouse ears and overcrowded beaches! Now, if my desert self can just get beyond the humidity.
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 14:26, 2007-06-28
wmalefyt said
02:49 PM Jun 28, 2007
Judy the Other wrote:
I've been to Florida, once, to Disneyworld! That has always colored my feeling about the state and have never wanted to go back. However, reading your blog (Geeks on Tour) has changed that impression a bit. It is more than mouse ears and overcrowded beaches! Now, if my desert self can just get beyond the humidity.
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 14:26, 2007-06-28
The humidity isn't bad from November to March. That's the "dry season" when it doesn't rain everyday like in the summer. The weather is quite comfortable in the winter, don't need the AC or the furnace, just open the windows and enjoy nature!
Jim and Linda said
03:15 PM Jun 30, 2007
New Hampshire is a very beautiful state with lots to see and do. I may not be the best tour guide, but I'll try to fill you in as best I can. I think one of the biggest attractions is the Fall foliage. The colors are a sight to see and every year we try to take a drive and enjoy the views. I think the Kancamaugus Highway (Rt. 112 from Lincoln to Conway) provides some of the best viewing in the state. It's a two lane roadway that runs East and West through the White Mountain National Forest and over the Kancamaugus pass. Even if the leaves aren't "popping" it's still a great drive.
Heading north out of North Conway (a very touristy area with lots of outlet shopping areas, restaurants and various other attractions) on Rt. 302 takes you further into the White Mountains toward the "Presidential Range" and just West of Mount Washington. I have been atop this famous mount only once and we were very fortunate to have had clear weather (the summit is in the clouds about 70% of the time). The views were spectacular! Mt. Washington is New England's highest peak at over a mile high and it is subjected to some of the most severe weather in this part of the country. The auto road leading to the summit will definitely tax any vehicle attempting to climb or descend it. This is why there are bumper stickers proclaiming "This Car Climbed Mount Washington". If you'd prefer not to drive, you can ride up in a shuttle van or there's always the Cog Railway.
Up until May of 2003 the "Old Man of the Mountain" was probably one of the most popular tourist stops, but the rock formation that resembled an old man's profile near Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park came tumbling down despite efforts of those who had long maintained this natural wonder and state symbol. I'm so glad we were able to see it numerous times before it was gone forever.
There is also the "Lakes Region" which is quite popular in the Summer. Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in NH and is surrounded by all sorts of attractions. There is the famous "Weirs Beach" which hosts the annual motorcycle week every June when throngs of bikers flock to the area for a huge gathering the likes of which reminds me of Daytona bike week (I’m originally from Florida). There are motorcycle races held nearby at New Hampshire International Speedway which is also a big attraction in our state. The "Magic Mile" hosts two NASCAR events every year which brings many race fans (lots of them in RV's) to the area. Of course, there's a lot of other types of racing going on throughout the season at the track as well.
The Atlantic coastline of NH, although only about 18 miles, I think, is jam packed full of beach fun. Hampton Beach seems to be the most popular spot at the southern end and at the Northern end is Portsmouth. We have spent a little time in Portsmouth and it is a historic and beautiful area to visit.
While we haven't ventured to the far northern reaches of the state where you'll find unspoiled wilderness, I am told by friends who hunt and fish it is quite peaceful and a real treat for those who enjoy the serenity and simplicity of the “Great North Woods”.
There’s so much more to see and do than what I’ve mentioned, so here are a couple of websites that may be of interest to you in planning your visit to New Hampshire: http://www.visitnh.gov; http://www.ucampnh.com/.
Soonerus said
09:27 PM Jun 30, 2007
Oklahoma- Beavers Bend, Spavinaw, Robbers Cave, Turners Falls, etc...lots of great places....
jdensie said
06:25 AM Aug 15, 2007
Pennsylvania
Once again I am late, my home state. I don't have much to add to previous places of intrest but my birthplace.
Hershey: The sweetist place on earth. Also a great amusement park.
While in Pa discover the state it does have more than just bad roads
D and J said
08:20 AM Aug 15, 2007
My home state of NJ has been covered in this thread, and I don't think many of us here will be visiting My wife's home state of Germany!
But I do want to add to this thread, so I would like to share a web site i found that covers the "off the beaten track" in all states. . . http://www.roadsideamerica.com/index.html
Roadside America has a little something for everyone! some of it is bizarre! some is hilarious! some (to us) is "must see"
H&L's post from yesterday got me thinking about all the places in the US that we don't know about. Places that are beautiful, historical, interesting or just plain fun but off the beaten tourist path!
If you go to Southern Ohio check out:
Great Serpent Mound
Southern Ohio Amish Country
Shawnee State Park
Portsmouth OH Floodwall Murals
Southern Arizona (my adopted home)
Patagonia, Sonoita, Elgin
Ramsey Canyon
Holy Trinity Monastery (beware, music)
Judy
Judy,
In California I would suggest you see:
The Redwoods (No. Ca.)
Hearst Castle
Wine Country (Sonoma and Napa)
Carmel and Monterey
Yosemite
and all along the coast.
My favorite place in Colorado is Turquoise Lake. It's about 4 miles west of the little mining town of Leadville. There are several Federal campgrounds right next to the lake, and a private campground just outside of the federal area. The two highest peaks in Colorado, Mr. Elbert and Mt. Massive, frame the lake. Awesome.
Of course, there's the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Cripple Creek, Seven Falls, South Cheyenne Canyon, Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun on Cheyenne Mountain, the Air Force Academy, and many hiking, biking and walking trails in the Pikes Peak Region.
Many things to enjoy here.
Great suggestions all and I've actually been to several of the places mentioned. But many are "on the beaten path". In Arizona, there's the Grand Canyon and in Tucson the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum but everyone knows about those and goes to them; not so many go to Ramsey Canyon. There must be other places, in other states that the locals know about like the state parks H&L have been visiting (but maybe the locals are keeping them to themselves
) I found out about a great county park near Waldport, Oregon by reading someone's blog who camphosted there this summer
Here's an interesting little side trip, the Alferd Packer site if you're around The Creede-Lake City CO area and there's actually a pretty decent museum in Lake City. (we're museum people, hardly able to drive by one without stopping)
Keep the ideas coming!
J
In CA I would add: Pismo Beach, Joshua Tree National Monument, Santee Lakes (as a base for San Diego trips on the trolley); Temecula wine county (stay at Pechanga casino or Vail Lake Resort or Escapees Jojoba Hills or Outdoor Resorts Rancho Cucamonga).
In our "residence" state of South Dakota...MOUNT RUSHMORE. We stay at Hart Ranch, a C2C, RPI resort and love to travel the Black Hills area. No other place like it!
We've recently discovered the reservoir parks in Indiana near Ft Wayne...Mississinewa and Salamonie. Lovely parks that you can probably get into any time of year in mid week. Great boating and fishing if you're into that, other wise great relaxing :)
Enjoy....Joan
In New Mexico:
We haven't even tried most campgrounds in NM but we have enjoyed the winter camping in the south and the high mountains in the summer. More than a few fulltimers come for a month and stay for a year or so. I think there are many states that could make the same claim.
Happy Camping.
Larry and Jacki
Heyburn State Park - outside Plummer Idaho Great place for boating and fishing and kicking back....
Coeur d ' Alene Casino has hookups on every pole in their parking lot and all for free....no limit on how long you can stay... it is in Worley Idaho - would be a great place to save a couple nights camping fees. or spend them LOL
Farragut State Park is a wonderful place - boating - fishing - hiking etc..
Mirror Lake at Sagle Idaho is another great place - need to check first not very many sites and on a first come first served basis.
These places are all within one hour of Coeur d'Alene in the Northern part of Idaho.
California cont.
In the Sierra Nevada mountains:
Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Tuolumne Meadows (are beautiful high altitude camps).
In the Sierra Nevada foothills:
Bodie Historic State Park (old mining town that has been left original, great photos ops.)
All of Highway 49 between Oakhurst and Nevada City (gold rush days, charming towns)
Judy
We used to live in Reno and always meant to go to Bodie-thanks for reminding me.
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 20:13, 2006-09-19
Who wouldn't want to go to the "Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival" that is held at College Boulevard and Highway 85 north of Niceville the third weekend in October. Go to www.mulletfestival.com The Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival is a food and arts & crafts festival that pays homage to the mullet, a bottom-dwelling fish that inhabits our local bayous. How could you think of missing a festival that "pays homage to a bottom-dwelling fish"
Blackwater River State Park is about 7 miles from our house and it has some of the cleanest rivers in the country. The creeks and rivers in the area are very popular for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. Lots of fun!! The Jackson Red Ground Hiking Trail is in Blackwater River State Forest. It is a 21 mile indian trading trail that was used by General Andrew Jackson on his journey to Florida Territory.
I feel like a travel agent. We don't have big corporate backed fun parks, but we do have fun here.
In Washington state:
Mount Rainier
Mount St. Helens
Cape Flattery on the Makah Indian Reservation on a sunny day
Hoh Rain Forest
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park
Long Beach/Ilwaco area
Lake Chelan
Mount Baker
Clarkston, WA/Lewiston, ID for a Hell's Canyon jet boat trip
-- Edited by bjoyce at 12:51, 2006-09-21
Texas,
Where do I start, ok,
1] Katy tx , Forbidden Gardens Chinese Cultural Museum:In 1974, row upon row of clay soldiers were discovered by peasants digging a well near Xi'an, China. The terra cotta army of more than 7,000 life-size officers, infantrymen, bowmen, horses, and charioteers were all arranged as a protective escort for Qin Shihuangdi's journey to the afterlife. Qin was the first emperor to truly unify China, and has the Great Wall among his many credits.
This 40-acre outdoor museum, a miniature replica of the original site, is impressive in itself. Each figure is handmade and imitates the precision of the original artisans: Each soldier in the army is unique. The museum also has a scale model of the Forbidden City, which was the Imperial Palace in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and an exhibit featuring examples of the architecture and weapons of the dynasties. The gardens are peaceful, and with the pleasant patter of fountains and chiming Chinese music, you might forget you're in Texas.
The whole site was built by a billionaire recluse,that no one has a photo of.
Next;
2] Marble Falls , is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country on the Colorado River. It is centrally located 47 miles northwest of Austin and 85 miles north of San Antonio, in the middle of the Highland Lakes area, the largest chain of lakes in Texas. This is where you will find LBJ's lake house, real neat place to camp.
3] Davis mountains, yes thats right, there are mountains in Texas, also a favorite camping and hiking spot.
. Adirondack High Peak Region and area in and around Lake Placid and surrounding
towns
. Catskill Mountain Region and North Lake State Campground
. Finger Lakes Region
. West Point
. Shawangunk Mountain region near New Paltz, NY
. Hudson River Historic Mansions
- Franklin Roosevelt Home, Hyde Park
- Vanderbilt Mansion, Hyde Park
- Olana, Hudson
Michigan - Lower Peninsula. Sleeping Bear dunes is a neat area where you climb up the sand dunes and go for dune buggy rides. Leland, MI is a quaint fishing town that is just plain fun to visit. We also enjoy the Traverse City and Petoskey area (tunnel of trees going north from Harbor Springs, MI).
Michigan - Upper Peninsula. Sault Ste Marie to see the locks, Munising to see pictured rocks, Keewenau Penisula for a beatiful drive to Copper Harbor and around the Lake Superior coast, and then Porcupine Mountains to see the lake in the clouds.
Michigan has a lot of beautiful places to visit and is a great tourist state.
Michigan sounds great-even though I am originally from Ohio, I have NEVER been to the Great Lakes! We saw Lake Michigan from the air on approach to Chicago one time and I was truly amazed. Wanted to get out then and there and check it out!
Thanks,
Judy
and Hi Judy-you know we're a vanishing breed. I have not seen a baby born in 28yrs (I work Labor/Del) named Judy!
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 10:05, 2006-09-23
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 10:06, 2006-09-23
My brother went to the Gulf Coast one time and just raved about the beauty (and he's not a raver!) On another forum I saw pics of Henderson Beach and couldn't believe a place that beautiful was a campground! Fabulous
Also, being from Ohio originally, FL most often just means that other Happiest Place on Earth and crowded beaches. It's great to get a different perspective.
Judy
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 09:59, 2006-09-23
All fabuous sounding places--
I just HAVE to retire!
Judy
New Jersey!
Unfortunately, when most folks travel through New Jersey they only see the industrial areas on either side of the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway. That's why some call it the Garbage State.
But go Northwest, West or South and you'll understand why New Jersey is called the Garden State with all it's lush vegatation, extensive farming and high mountain vistas.
There are numerous campgrounds and recreational opportunities throughout New Jersey. So get off the interstate and explore. I for one think you will like what you see.
A few Texas URLs that you might like to visit.
-- Edited by billiew at 14:01, 2006-09-23
I haven't seen our Canadian friends posting here, maybe they need a new topic on Provinces?
I will point out some northern Ontario finds that most people do not know about:
Pukaskwa National Park - it is on Lake Superior and is mostly wilderness
Old Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay, ON ( http://www.fwhp.ca )- go back to the fur trading time of 1815
Kakabeka Falls - just west of Thunder Bay. Go on a weekend when they let more water through instead of diverting it for power generation.
Florida is our home state and offers lots to see.
St. Augustine is a great place to visit. Lots of neat shops, restaurants and historic places. The old Spanish fort is very interesting as is Fort Matanzas about 20 miles south. We camped at Anastasia State Park which is close to the beach and not far from downtown. The beach is wide and well maintained with lifeguards usually on duty.
We also enjoyed camping at Salt Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest. The springs are beautiful and lots of wildlife to see.
Farther south we like John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo. They have a very neat boat tour out to the coral reefs about 6 miles out in the Atlantic Ocean. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling right in the reef where lots of beautiful fish and coral formations can be seen. Well worth the price!
Come to Florida and enjoy the sunshine!
-- Edited by wmalefyt at 13:26, 2006-09-23
I have to chime in on this one with Larry and Jacki....having lived in New Mexico for 10 yrs now it is not called "The Land of Enchantment" for nothing. It will defiently enchant you on your visit....one of the nicest places we go to camp is Tetillia Peak Recreation area at Cochiti Lake, it is our favorite in New Mexico. It has its mountains, lakes, International Balloon Fiesta, Canyons, Mesas, Native American Pueblos, Ghost Towns and of course Smokey the Bear was born here and lays to rest here.
Places to visit I shall start with the Gila Wilderness of which it is the most beautiful area with Lake Roberts, the Catwalk at Glenwood is a Whitewater Canyon that you can hike in. The Gila Cliff Ddwellings, Oliver Lee State Pk where the famous Cochise Apache hid out in Dog Canyon a wonderful place to camp.Silver City where Billy the Kid spent his boyhood days. Truth or Consequences the home of geothermal heated hot springs. The ghost town of Mogollon best preserved ghost town where some people still live is a must to visit. Chloride another great ghost town that deserves a visit....you willl not be sorry. El Morrow National Monument where you will find Inscription Rock and a campground its many inscriptions in the yr 1540 many Spanish came thru and it was a watering hole for many wagons. Next I will mentiion Fort Sumner where "Billy the Kid" is buried and it has 2 muesums. Bosque del Apache National Wildfife Refuge here you find 7,000 acres of wetlands for refuge of the winter brids that come in. Northern New Mexico in Abiquiu you can see Ghost Ranch where the famous Georgia O'Keeffe did her paintiings of the Southwest and a visit to the museum in Santa Fe.... put it on your list. The Cumbres and Toltec Railroad gives you a ride in the mountains of Chama. Visit Chimayo "The Lourdes of the West" in which you can get the healing Holy Dirt out of the ground so bring a small container with you its a wonderful very old church. I have only hit a few areas of this great state along with all the history, oh and be sure to take in some Native American Feast Days and see the dances, and the great food and if you are lucky enough they will envite you into they're homes to sit down and eat dinner with them. Visit the Native American Cultural Center in Abquerque and watch them bake they're bread in a Horno outdoor oven you will NEVER have better bread . If you have the chance during the roasting of the chilies here in fall months take it in as you will not be disappointed. Santa Fe is also a town to visit with all its art and galleries you will certainly pick up something there.
Southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Bonnie
ALABAMA
JUST BRAIN STORMING HERE!
Gulf Shores, Huntsville, Ft. Payne, Dauphlin Island, Mobile, Lookout Mtn, Helen Keller's home, Cullman, Selma, Cheaha State Park, Joe Wheeler State Park, Mountain Top Flea Market
I am sure there are many more in Alabama. "WAR EAGLE"!
HI, THE OTHER JUDY, I AGREE ABOUT THE NAME " JUDY." I
ALSO HAVE WORKED IN LABOR/DEL. I NOW WORK ON THE
POSTPARTUM WING. MAYBE WE'LL GET TO SWAP STORIES
SOMEDAY.
1. the coast - from Astoria to Brookings (the beach, the sand dunes)
2. Crater Lake
3. The Cascades - Mount Hood, Three Sisters
4. Central Oregon - Painted Desert
5. Eastern Oregon - Wallows, Eagle Gap Wilderness, Steens Mtns.
6. Columbia River - Multnomah Falls
7. Shakespearian Festival in Ashland (southwest OR)
Follow any major tream (McKenzie, Umpqua, etc.) in Oregon and the scenery and campgrounds are great.
There is no part of Oregon that is not beautiful in it's way from the coast, to the
valley, to the plateaus of central and eastern Oregon.
Lorane, a native Oregon and avid camper
That seems to be the case, everyone I've ever talked to who has visited Oregon, loves it! But then that state has most everything, beautiful coastline, high desert, rivers, canyons. It's near the top of my list!
Thanks,
Judy
My home state is Connecticut and one of the smallest states in the country. If you travel please get of the interstates and enjoy the beauty from the back roads. New England is just beautfiul and anytime of the year.
Places to visit:
Mystic - town - seaport and aquarium
Litchfield Hills
Lake Compounce Theme Park - best roller coaster in the world
Old New Gate Prison - East Granby
Heublein Tower - Simsbury
Gillette Castle State Park - E Haddam
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Nautilus & Submarine Museum - Groton
Foxwood Casino
Mohegan Casino
Wonderful state to visit - alot of traffic but really beautiful
Since we're apparently the only ones from the far north, I figured I better get off my duff and give any Alaska-bound travelers some destination ideas!
Denali National Park - best animal viewing
Kenai River - most gorgeous water (and the fishing ain't bad either)
Flattop Mountain (Chugach State Park/Anchorage) - most accessible tundra experience
Crow Pass and Resurrection Trail - great hikes for hardy hikers
Homer Spit - most unique RV camping spot
Entire state - scenery you'll never forget!
And, don't forget to pick up a Milepost for the trip up and back - invaluable.
Enjoy!
Texas continued:
This state has so much to offer hard to know where to start.
The hill country in the spring when the wild flowere are blooming.
NSSA, south of Houston
The Rio Grande Valley when the winter Texans are there over 500 rv parks and 30,000 sites from Brownsville to Mission.
Big bend country, not to be missed if you like vast open spaces.
The Texas history museum in Austin. The prison museum in Huntsville. The world war two museum also in Huntsville.
To many festivals and cultural events to mention. The state publishes a quarterly events calendar and is available from them or any state welcome center.
Ft. Worth stockyards where the still drive long horn cattle down main street twice daily.
San Antonio. Houston, Dallas
I'm a native buckeye myself but have really enjoyed living here.
Ted Rogers, aka Skeetshooter
-- Edited by Skeetshooter at 23:01, 2006-10-06
Wow!
Represented are:
and me with a full-time job! But all the suggestions are going in a file for future reference. Can we get something from all 50 states? And Canada? And Mexico? I love Puerto Penasco and someday hope to get further into Mexico, Vera Cruz looks interesting and Quintana Roo. What say you?
Judy
Okay - here goes for Pennsylvania!
"Grand Canyon of Pa" - gorgeous mountain gorge in northern PA that is surrounded by state parks, campgrounds, and you can raft or tube down the river;
Lancaster County - home of the Amish. Touristy, but get off the main roads and onto the back roads and small towns and see the beauty of the farmlands and watch the Amish actually at work on their farms. Lititz, PA - in Lancaster County - is one of the prettiest small towns you'll ever see and it's the home of Wilbur Chocolate and Sturgis Pretzel house;
Lake Erie;
Of course, for history buffs there is Gettysburg, Valley Forge, and Philadelphia;
Outside of PHila on the Delaware River is Washington Crossing State Park where Gen Washington crossed the river into New Jersey on Christmas day;
Bucks County - along the Delaware - lots of beautiful farmland, small towns, and recreational opportunities;
Pocono Mountains - Can also be touristy, but lots of great places to hike, boat, and villages;
State College - Home of the Nittany Lions!! Great craft fair here every year, the second weekend in July;
LOts of other places - come and see!!
Falling Waters - Frank Lloyd Wrights masterpiece
Flight 93 memorial at Shanksville
Longwood Gardens
Fred
Of course Roy was Leonard Slye then...
The original topic ? Where should people go in your home area?-the OFF THE BEATEN PATH places-not those that are on every tourist brochure.
Judy
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 19:53, 2007-06-25
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/
All that I have visited are beautiful.
Larry Fox
Bradford PA - Zippo Visitors Museum (free and WONDERFUL)
McKean County (just west of Bradford) - Kinzua Dam
Altoona PA - Horseshoe Curve RR
HollidaysBurg (just south of Altoona) - Slinky Factory
Blue Springs
Wakulla Springs
Peace River (includes video)
Scuba Diving - Fort Lauderdale
Econfina River
-- Edited by mrsgeek at 22:27, 2007-10-08
-- Edited by mrsgeek at 22:28, 2007-10-08
southwestjudy & Bob & 2blackdogs
Lived in Altoona for the 18 months prior to moving to McKean County. We full-timed while working there, we were fiber optic construction inspectors and worked on the RR right-of-way. Great fun....<g>
-- Edited by Judy the Other at 14:26, 2007-06-28
New Hampshire is a very beautiful state with lots to see and do. I may not be the best tour guide, but I'll try to fill you in as best I can. I think one of the biggest attractions is the Fall foliage. The colors are a sight to see and every year we try to take a drive and enjoy the views. I think the Kancamaugus Highway (Rt. 112 from Lincoln to Conway) provides some of the best viewing in the state. It's a two lane roadway that runs East and West through the White Mountain National Forest and over the Kancamaugus pass. Even if the leaves aren't "popping" it's still a great drive.
Heading north out of North Conway (a very touristy area with lots of outlet shopping areas, restaurants and various other attractions) on Rt. 302 takes you further into the White Mountains toward the "Presidential Range" and just West of Mount Washington. I have been atop this famous mount only once and we were very fortunate to have had clear weather (the summit is in the clouds about 70% of the time). The views were spectacular! Mt. Washington is New England's highest peak at over a mile high and it is subjected to some of the most severe weather in this part of the country. The auto road leading to the summit will definitely tax any vehicle attempting to climb or descend it. This is why there are bumper stickers proclaiming "This Car Climbed Mount Washington". If you'd prefer not to drive, you can ride up in a shuttle van or there's always the Cog Railway.
Up until May of 2003 the "Old Man of the Mountain" was probably one of the most popular tourist stops, but the rock formation that resembled an old man's profile near Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park came tumbling down despite efforts of those who had long maintained this natural wonder and state symbol. I'm so glad we were able to see it numerous times before it was gone forever.
There is also the "Lakes Region" which is quite popular in the Summer. Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in NH and is surrounded by all sorts of attractions. There is the famous "Weirs Beach" which hosts the annual motorcycle week every June when throngs of bikers flock to the area for a huge gathering the likes of which reminds me of Daytona bike week (I’m originally from Florida). There are motorcycle races held nearby at New Hampshire International Speedway which is also a big attraction in our state. The "Magic Mile" hosts two NASCAR events every year which brings many race fans (lots of them in RV's) to the area. Of course, there's a lot of other types of racing going on throughout the season at the track as well.
The Atlantic coastline of NH, although only about 18 miles, I think, is jam packed full of beach fun. Hampton Beach seems to be the most popular spot at the southern end and at the Northern end is Portsmouth. We have spent a little time in Portsmouth and it is a historic and beautiful area to visit.
While we haven't ventured to the far northern reaches of the state where you'll find unspoiled wilderness, I am told by friends who hunt and fish it is quite peaceful and a real treat for those who enjoy the serenity and simplicity of the “Great North Woods”.
There’s so much more to see and do than what I’ve mentioned, so here are a couple of websites that may be of interest to you in planning your visit to New Hampshire: http://www.visitnh.gov; http://www.ucampnh.com/.
Once again I am late, my home state. I don't have much to add to previous places of intrest but my birthplace.
Hershey: The sweetist place on earth. Also a great amusement park.
While in Pa discover the state it does have more than just bad roads
But I do want to add to this thread, so I would like to share a web site i found that covers the "off the beaten track" in all states. . . http://www.roadsideamerica.com/index.html
Roadside America has a little something for everyone! some of it is bizarre! some is hilarious! some (to us) is "must see"
Doug