Magnolia Plantation, Charleston, SC

Magnolia Plantation, Charleston, SC

Magnolia Plantation

Charleston, SC

Steeped in Southern charm and spanning centuries of heritage, Magnolia Plantation invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in its lush gardens and historic grounds. Magnolia Plantation is more than just a destination; it’s a journey through time, where history, nature, and Southern hospitality meet to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Our afternoon

We started our afternoon on the Hop-On Hop-Off Nature Train. The guide was very knowledgeable of the plantation and its history. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is nestled along the tranquil banks of the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The plantation’s former rice impoundments are now a wildlife refuge, where native plants and animals thrive.

Visitors can expect to see alligators, turtles, herons, egrets, and other waterfowl. You might even encounter otters, rabbits, possums, snakes, bobcats, hawks, owls, and eagles.

We loved seeing this beautiful hawk perched on a birdhouse.

Magnolia Plantation, Charleston, SC

And a lovely egret.

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South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium- sea turtle

South Carolina Aquarium

Charleston, South Carolina

Nestled along the picturesque Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium stands as a beacon of marine conservation, education, and awe-inspiring exploration. With its diverse array of habitats and captivating exhibits, the aquarium offers visitors a unique opportunity to understand the delicate balance of our marine ecosystems. From the vibrant colors of tropical reefs to the serene beauty of coastal marshes, each step within the aquarium’s walls invites an appreciation for the world beneath the waves.

Come explore the South Carolina Aquarium with us

Your first stop is to get close to these adorable stingrays. At this tank you can gently pet these beautiful creatures.

South Carolina Aquarium- stingray

Bald Eagle

South Carolina Aquarium- bald eagle

Otters (Look at that face!)

South Carolina Aquarium

Gar

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SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

SkyWheel

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you’re looking for the perfect place to see unforgettable views of Myrtle Beach, head over to the SkyWheel.  Watch the glistening Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you as you journey high above the bustling boardwalk. SkyWheel Myrtle Beach isn’t just an observation wheel, it’s the best spot to see awe-inspiring vistas and create some lasting moments.

What was our ride like?

I ABSOLUTELY recommend going at sunset!!

Our ride began as we entered one of the 42 fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas.

We settled back and enjoyed the everchanging views around us.

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

How are the views?

Standing 200-feet above sea level, the views are unforgettable! You had views of the city as well as the beach.

The sunset was stunning.

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

How long is a flight?

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WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the crazy adventure of WonderWorks. As you step through the doors, prepare to embark on a fun journey filled with interactive exhibits, mind-bending illusions, and activities that will ignite your sense of wonder. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a science enthusiast, or simply seeking a day of family fun, WonderWorks Myrtle Beach promises a day unlike any other.

How did the building turn upside down?

On a remote island, in the mysterious Bermuda Triangle, there was a top-secret research laboratory led by Professor Wonder. While working on an experiment to harness the power of a tornado, something went terribly wrong! The power of the tornado was unleashed into the laboratory! The mighty cyclone ripped the building from its foundation! The tornado carried the lab hundreds of miles away where it finally landed upside-down! Haha…I love this!

As soon as you walk in you’ll know it is going to be a little crazy because you walk through this mind-blowing tube of moving colors and light.  Good luck keeping your balance.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

What fun things can you do inside?

With more than 100 hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, there is something fun for everyone to do! Here are a few of our favorite things we did:

This ride was crazy.  As soon as I saw it goes upside down, I bailed. The girls were brave enough to go on it.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

We entered the Hurricane Shack to experience category 1 hurricane force winds of 84 Miles Per Hour. Hold on to your hats!

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Ripley’s Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Ripley's Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Ripley’s Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

At Ripley’s Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach, the ordinary rules of mini-golf are tossed aside in favor of the wackiest game of indoor mini golf you’ve ever played.  Ripley’s Crazy Golf takes you on a whimsical journey filled with bizarre obstacles, mind-bending challenges, and captivating surprises at every turn. Putt your way through this one-of-a-kind course that promises thrills, laughter, and memories that defy the ordinary. Put your skills to the test with selfie-worthy shots, 360-degree loops, and a hole that sends you swinging, all set indoors under the cover of epic, glowing lights.

Here were a few of our favorite holes:

Loop-De-Loop

Ripley's Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Planko

Ripley's Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Skee-ball

Ripley's Crazy Golf Myrtle Beach

Pool Table

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Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach

Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, SC

Ripley’s Aquarium

Myrtle Beach, SC

Nestled along the vibrant Grand Strand, this iconic attraction invites visitors to dive into the depths of the ocean. From the enchanting glow of bioluminescent creatures to the graceful dance of majestic sharks, Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach promises an unforgettable exploration of marine life.

Meet some of the adorable marine life we met:

Our favorite part was the tunnel.  I love that you could either walk through, or stand on the rotating walkway. It was the perfect speed to get some wonderful pictures of the marine life floating above you.

Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, SC

You can see sharks, stingrays, interesting fish,

Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, SC

and even sawfish!

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Exploring Utah’s Poison Spider Trail by Jeep

Utah's Poison Spider Trail

Exploring Utah’s Poison Spider Trail by Jeep

Utah's Poison Spider Trail

Utah’s vast and untamed wilderness beckons adventurers seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush amidst breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain. For those craving an unforgettable off-road adventure, Utah’s Poison Spider Trail stands out as a challenging yet rewarding journey through Utah’s iconic red rock country.

That Name!!

Utah's Poison Spider Trail

Have you ever wondered how the Poison Spider Trail received its name? The answer stems from the legend that a little girl named Mary Jane Francis died there from the bite of a poison spider in 1896! Who knows if that’s true but it’s still creepy as heck.

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Exploring Utah’s Seven Mile Trail by Jeep

Utah's Seven Mile Trail By Jeep

Exploring Utah’s Seven Mile Trail by Jeep

Utah’s rugged terrain offers a playground for exploration and outdoor fun. For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey through breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain, a Jeep ride along Utah’s Seven Mile Trail promises an unforgettable adventure.

Utah's Seven Mile Trail By Jeep

The Trailhead: Gateway to Adventure

Driving a Jeep in Utah's desert

Located among the gorgeous red rock formations of Utah, the Seven Mile Trail serves as the gateway to an off-road adventure like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned off-road enthusiast or a novice seeking thrills, the Seven Mile Trail welcomes all who dare to traverse its rugged path.

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Exploring Utah’s Gemini Bridges Trail by Jeep

Gemini Bridges Trail in Utah by Jeep

Unveiling Utah’s Hidden Gem: Exploring the Gemini Bridges Trail by Jeep

Utah’s vast and diverse landscape is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering tons of adventures surrounded by stunning natural wonders. Tucked away in the red rock country near Moab, the Gemini Bridges Trail stands out as a hidden gem, inviting explorers to embark on a thrilling off-road journey through breathtaking scenery. Accessible year-round, doing the Gemini Bridges Trail by Jeep will help adventurers uncover the hidden treasures of Utah’s rugged landscape.

Introduction to the Trail

Gemini Bridges Trail in Utah by Jeep

Nestled within the iconic red rock formations of Moab, Utah, the Gemini Bridges Trail offers off-road enthusiasts a fun adventure through the heart of Utah’s rugged terrain. Named for the twin arches that you’ll encounter on its route, this trail promises an exhilarating off-road experience suitable for both seasoned adventurers and novice explorers.

Conquering the Terrain

Gemini Bridges Trail in Utah by Jeep

As you set out along the Gemini Bridges Trail in your trusty Jeep, be prepared to conquer challenging terrain that will test your off-road skills and your nerve. From rocky washes and sandy stretches to steep ascents and descents, each obstacle presents a chance to showcase your driving abilities and determination.

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Exploring Arches National Park in Utah

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Exploring Arches National Park

If you are lucky to be in Moab, Utah, the perfect spot to spend the day is the red-rock paradise of Arches National Park! Nestled in the heart of Utah, this geological masterpiece boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, and breathtaking vistas. Here are some tips to have an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a fabulous day exploring Arches National Park in Utah!

Timing is Everything

Arches National Park can have extreme temperatures, so plan your visit wisely. The best times to explore are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are more manageable. You may want to avoid the scorching summer heat and unpredictable winter conditions. We traveled here at the end of November during the week of Thanksgiving, and the weather was in the low 50’s most days. There were not huge crowds and all restaurants were open.

Timed Entry Permit

In order to enter Arches National Park from April 1 to October 31, you must have a timed entry permit. Make sure to reserve your timed-entry ticket as soon as it becomes available or there’s a chance you may not get in. They give you a detailed map when you pay.

Arches National Park Scenic Drive

Arches National Park Scenic Drive is the main road that runs through the park. This stunning drive is approximately 19 miles long one-way. The drive is a loop, so you exit where you enter.  In case you are unsure if you should stop at a certain spot, you can always skip it and decide if you want to do it on the way out. Depending on what time of day you go, there will probably be a line to get in.  They label the wait time so you’ll know how long it will be before you get in.

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Let Me Show You Some of our Favorite Spots:

Park Avenue Viewpoint

As a first stop, this is actually one of the most breathtaking views of some massive rock formations, so don’t miss it!

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

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