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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Hopkinton Center for the Arts

Hopkinton Center for the Arts

Hopkinton Center for the Arts

Our last stop on our Central MA Press Trip was Hopkinton Center for the Arts, in Hopkinton, MA. As I read more about the center, I was thrilled to see that it is a place the entire community can use. Every town should have a place like this where people can develop and nurture an appreciation for the arts.

What makes this place so special?

They believe the Arts are for individuals of all ages, cultures, and artistic abilities. They develop artistic skills, offer outstanding performances and art exhibitions, and enable visitors to experience art in all forms.

What classes do they offer?

They offer over 200 classes for youth, teens, and adults in the visual and performing arts. They have classes in fine arts, dance, music, theater, film-making, photography, acting, and ceramics. In addition, students can take private music and art lessons with qualified instructors.

What workshop did we take?

We had SO MUCH FUN doing a ceramics class! The class was about 2-hours long and in the end, we had all created fabulous mugs. (Ok…fabulous may be a stretch when you’re talking about MY mug, but you’ll see what I mean…lol)

The Studio

Walking in to the studio will immediately spark your creativity and ideas will start popping.

Hopkinton Center for the Arts

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Discover History Up Close: The American Heritage Museum

American Heritage Museum

American Heritage Museum

If you’re a history buff or just love exploring unique museums, the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, Massachusetts is a must-see! This one-of-a-kind destination showcases an incredible collection of military vehicles, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring the past to life. Whether you’re fascinated by World War II tanks, aviation, or America’s military history, the museum offers an immersive experience that’s perfect for families, veterans, and curious travelers alike. Ready to take a deep dive into history? Let’s explore the highlights of this amazing museum!

American Heritage Museum was designed to fully engage people in understanding our turbulent past. In this remarkable place, American history will be explored, studied, and most of all, remembered. Through educational interpretation, and a chronologically arranged series of dioramas and exhibits, it will bring the history of our veterans to life.

The following is just a few of the exhibits you’ll see at the museum:

WWI Trench Experience

American Heritage Museum

1940- 1943 North Africa

American Heritage Museum

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40 Valentine Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! This is the perfect day to show someone you love them.  Looking for something different than roses and a restaurant?  This is a great year to be creative and try something new. There are many romantic things you can do together to make memories.

Here are 40 Valentine Date Ideas:

Fondue dinner at home

Plan your next trip

Online paint your own canvas class

Massage night

Go skiing

Do a guided meditation

Do a couple’s yoga class

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The Verve Hotel

The Verve Hotel Boston Natick,

Natick, MA

The Verve Hotel Natick is an oasis of sophistication nestled in the heart of Natick, Massachusetts. The hotel has fabulous ambiance, where modern elegance meets New England charm. The Verve Hotel Natick beckons travelers with its stylish ambiance, impeccable service, and lots of amenities that promise a memorable stay. Whether you’re a discerning business traveler seeking a seamless blend of work and leisure or a traveler yearning for a tranquil escape, The Verve Hotel Natick will go beyond your expectations. We were so lucky to experience this hotel while on a press trip for central MA.  Let me tell you all about it!

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT OUR STAY!

Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village

Do you ever wish you could step back in history to see what life was like in New England? At Old Sturbridge Village you can do just that. Prepare to transport back in time as you wander through this enchanting re-creation of a 19th-century rural village. From historic buildings to costumed interpreters, explore the sights, sounds, and stories of yesteryear in this captivating destination.

Explore 200+ acres and 40 historical buildings, chat with costumed historians as they work the tasks of the past, and be inspired by the stories of early 19th-century rural New England life.

Come with us as we explore this fun spot. Because we were on a tight schedule, we weren’t able to go into all the buildings. I can’t wait to return with the rest of my family and explore the whole village. Here are some fun stops we did get to see:

Center Meetinghouse

This was the gathering place for town meetings, elections, and Congregational worship services.

Fenno House

Old Sturbridge Village

We loved looking at the adorable sheep in the yard at this home that was known for spinning, weaving, and dyeing woolens.

Cabinetmaking Shop

Old Sturbridge Village

These cabinetmakers made a variety of objects from fancy furniture to basic wooden tools used around the home and farms. Today they were making legs that can be used for tables and chairs.

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