It’s strange to think of our U.S. Presidents residing somewhere other than the White House, but each President had a place to call home before or after their presidency that helped shape them into the historical figures we know today. Whether you’re a fan of American history or not, these estates once owned by former U.S. Presidents should be on your bucket list. Take a look at the top Presidential Estates you must visit.
Planning a trip for two? Feel the love in these romantic getaways. Whether you are looking to relax and gaze into each other’s eyes or engage in daring activities and get your heart racing, our guide will help you find the destination that is perfect for you.
Although the Midwest is known more for its flat prairies than hilly regions, there's still plenty of good hiking to be found there. What the region lacks in altitude, it makes up for in natural beauty, including sparkling lakes, hidden waterfalls, sandstone canyons, and more. Whether you're looking for a short day hike or a remote backpacking trail, we've put together the best options for strapping on your boots and seeing what the Midwest has to offer.
The holidays may be a bit stressful, but gift-giving doesn't have to be. The experts at Rand McNally are here to make your holidays a little brighter this year with the newest edition of our Holiday Gift Guide. We've compiled a list of gift ideas for every person on your list — including yourself! So relax and let us take care of one of the hardest parts of holiday shopping with these gift ideas that are sure to delight. Take a look!
From coast to coast, the country is littered with homes and buildings where the undead are still said to roam freely. Many of these haunted places are open to visitors so you can experience the eeriness for yourself—if you’re brave enough. Some of these stories and locations are not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking for a spooky road trip then these places should definitely be at the top of your list.
America is experiencing a great brew awakening, with more cities making their mark on the emerging craft beer scene. As more and more people try their hands at the fine art of brewing IPAs, sours, pilsners, and the like, you may be wondering who does it best? So, we've compiled a list of our favorite cities to visit in search of the best frothy glass of beer.
For people living with disabilities traveling can sometimes be more work than fun due to accessibility concerns. By using our tips and suggested locations for the most accessible options, we hope to help take some of the burden off and bring back some of the fun and relaxation every vacation deserves.
Despite the truck driver stereotype, women have been present within the trucking industry since the very beginning. These women have not only fulfilled their duties day-in and day-out, but have paved the way for future generations of female truck drivers. Recent research from American Trucking Associations (ATA) shows nearly 7% of long-haul drivers are women. And while that’s a relatively small percentage, that number is expected to grow as more women steer toward the trucking industry for a chosen career path.
Every day, hardworking professional drivers head out to deliver America’s food, fuel, medicine, and clothing - the highway is their office. Pretty much everything that you use and depend upon in your everyday life is brought by trucks. Pro drivers spend their nights and days on the road, moving America. Even though you might not see them high up in their cabs, they’re working diligently and cautiously just for you.
Every day, more than 3.6 million professional truck drivers head out on the roads to safely and efficiently deliver the clothes we wear, the food we eat, and the medicine we rely upon. Almost every item in your home or office was delivered by a truck, so it’s important to take the time to recognize the men and women on whom we depend on for so much.
Visiting America's National Parks can feel like a post card come to life, from Grand Teton's mesmerizing mountain views to Yosemite's iconic plunging waterfalls. But, what about some of the newer or smaller parks that you might never have heard of? With a whopping 63 national parks across the nation, you can avoid the masses and experience some of the most spectacular and natural places that this country has to offer at these nine incredible parks.
With more than a hundred-thousand miles of trails in the United States, the National Parks house some of the best hiking around. Your boots can take you places and help you experience the natural and historical legacy of the land that you can’t experience riding in a car. Try some of our favorite trails from coast to coast that span all levels of expertise.
It can be hard looking into the wide, sad eyes of your pet as you pack up your suitcase and get ready to lave for a trip. Luckily, with many hotels and establishments becoming more pet friendly, traveling with your furry-friends means never having to say goodbye! Here are some helpful tips for traveling with a pet and keeping their best interests in mind:
There are few things that go as hand-in-hand as the city of Chicago and deep dish pizza. From crispy, crunchy crust to gooey cheese and mouth wateringly savory tomato sauce (on top, of course) – just thinking about a deep dish pizza from one of Chicago’s famous pizza joints is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
The key to a good road trip is preparation. When planning for your upcoming road trip, don't leave home without these packing essentials.
Follow this road trip guide from Santa Barbara to Monterey, complete with must-see stops and activities.
With the holidays in the rearview mirror, and the fresh snowfall turning to gray sludge, for many people, this is the time of year when winter has lost its charm. Rather than spending the rest of the season counting down the days until you can open a kitchen window without risking frostbite, take a break from the gloom and head to one of our country's sunnier destinations. These warm-weather vacations are the perfect antidote for the winter blues.
When you're on the road and hunger strikes, it's easy to succumb to the ease of fast food joints and gas station snacks. If you lead a lifestyle that requires you to be away from home much of the time — or if you're planning a cross-country road trip — it can be especially difficult to keep up with a clean-eating routine. However, healthier food options have a positive impact on your body, making you feel more energized and ready to take on the road ahead. Follow our tips for a healthy eating plan while on the road:
Some cities are strengthened in beauty and charm by the changing of the seasons. While these destinations are a great place to visit any time of year, their fall seasons boast a getaway unlike any other, offering an impeccable combination of weather, scenery, and activity.
Toronto, Ontario is the 4th largest city in North America with no shortage of things to do. This diverse and beautiful city brings in more than 14 million tourists every year and is ideal for the urban adventurer. Here are just a few things to check out if you find yourself booking a trip to this awesome city!
Nashville, Tennessee has always been known for its creative artist and music scene – but in recent years it’s also made a name for itself amongst the foodies of the world. So hit the road and head to where the tea is sweet and the chicken is hot. If you’re in need of some restaurant recommendations, here is our list of the best restaurants in Nashville:
With its rich history and stunning scenery, Virginia offers endless possibilities. Read on to find out the best things to do in Virginia.
Packing lightly can really pay off when traveling, but it takes some strategy to be able to do it without sacrificing comfort and style. Check out our list of tips before your next trip!
Whether you're planning a bachelorette party, a birthday weekend, or just a girls' weekend getaway, choosing a destination can be the hardest part of planning. Luckily, Rand McNally has your back. Check out our list of best girls' trip destinations, sure to make your trip one to remember!
A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature. – "Walden, Or Life In The Woods" by Henry David Thoreau, 1854.No matter where you live, there is probably a lake relatively near home – and most offer a vacation for every season – so start taking advantage! Lakes not only offer a myriad of activities, but also can inspire quiet and profound reflection. Whatever you are seeking in a getaway, a lake trip is sure to be able to offer something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of Rand McNally’s favorite lake getaways:
This July, America celebrates its 243rd birthday and millions of Americans will join in the celebration. Here's how the folks in cities across the nation will be celebrating!
Everyone loves a good festival. Music festivals, food festivals, summer festivals, holiday festivals—and the list goes on. The reason for celebrating often varies, and some reasons may be so bizarre that you just wouldn’t understand unless you were a local. We’ve put together a list of the most “unique” festivals around the U.S., throughout the year, bringing you new levels of fun, food, and weirdness you never knew existed.
You don't need a passport to visit these naturally beautiful places, but you will need a camera. Check out our list of the most photograph-worthy places in the U.S.!
Check out these 10 interesting facts about U.S. state flags, then test your knowledge with our U.S. State Flag Quiz!
Our list of interesting facts about Chicago may surprise you. Take a look!
Summertime is festival-time, and what's better than festival food? Check out some of our favorite food festivals that celebrate summer bounties!
Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday that is widely celebrated in the U.S. Check out our list of the biggest Cinco de Mayo events this year!
Two months ago, America received its 61st national park when Indiana Dunes was awarded the official designation. Prior to February 15, 2019, the northwest Indiana beachfront was a national lakeshore.
Nestled in the bluegrass hills of Kentucky is Louisville—a big city with the heart of a small town that is steeped in tradition. Brimming with history, culture, bourbon, and a penchant for southern hospitality, it’s no wonder this charming metropolis is becoming an increasingly popular destination (Forbes just named it one of 10 Coolest Cities to Visit in 2018). In the past decade, the city has blossomed as a home of cultural expression with a diverse range of things to see and do. If you happen to be passing through—or make it your destination—we recommend checking out some of these awesome places. Oh, and if you really want to fit in, pronounce it “LOU-uh-vull.”
Although St. Patrick's Day honors the patron saint of Ireland, the largest celebrations are in the United States. Originally a sedate, religious holiday, the St. Patrick's Day we know today was reinvented by Irish immigrants as a way to celebrate their heritage. While most cities across the U.S. have some type of celebration, we've rounded up the destinations that really go all out for St. Paddy's Day. Featuring bagpipe players, pub crawls, green rivers and green fountains, you're guaranteed to feel some Celtic pride, even if you're just Irish for the day.
The first trip you take as a married couple is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you won’t want to go just anywhere. There are endless lists on the internet of beautiful U.S. honeymoon destinations, but the same places seem to pop up over and over again. There are plenty of popular locales, but what about the many amazing destinations that don’t get as much recognition? Below are our top picks for unique honeymoon destinations that might not be on your list, but should be.
Have a long holiday weekend coming up or just looking to use up some vacation days? Although we would love to spend a month traveling, quick trips can be just as fun if you pick the right place. So head out of work early, beat the traffic, and find yourself at one of our favorite long weekend getaway destinations.
African American History Month, also known as Black History Month, is a dedicated time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and how they helped shape United States history. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. But you don't need to use this month as an excuse to visit the many parks, monuments, homes, and other landmarks that are tributes to the lasting legacies of some of the nation's most influential musicians, politicians, writers, and Civil Rights leaders. While testaments to history can be found in just about every state, consider taking a trip to one of these eleven sites to learn about black heritage.
The capital of Georgia, Atlanta, also known as "Hotlanta," or the ATL, is a wonderful blend of art, shopping, outdoor activities, history, and southern charm. We think it's a "peachy" idea to visit this buzzing place, so if you're planning a trip to visit Atlanta, here are some fun things to do while you're in town:
When picking a travel destination, many people are drawn to the big cities like New York and Chicago. But we want to inspire you to think outside the box and discover some places that are a little different. These small towns have so much to offer — culture, natural beauty, and a little whimsy. Here are some of the best small towns to visit in America according to our travel experts.
We'll take you on a tour of America's most iconic pizza styles in the U.S. and where you can find them. Choosing which types of pizza are the best is just too hard, so we suggest you go ahead and try them all!
Enjoy an all-American getaway when you visit the Ouachita Mountains. Learn about the history as well as places to go and things to do in this helpful guide to the Ouachita Mountains.
No matter what you celebrate, holiday markets are a fun place to get all your shopping done and actually enjoy yourself. This centuries-old European tradition is a great way to get into the spirit of the season with the all of lights, decorations, tinkling music, and the bustle of people trying to pick out of the perfect gifts. We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite annual pop-up markets across the nation so you too can experience this beloved annual tradition.
Craving the adrenaline rush of cutting through fresh powder first thing in the morning? The United States has some amazing ski towns that are rich in history, culture, and of course, slopes, slopes, and more slopes. We know that a lot of people have their favorites they keep going back to, but we’ve rounded up some of the best skiing in America if you feel like trying somewhere new!
Every bottle of wine tells a story. When you sip on a glass of wine, you can taste the region from which it came — the rich history, culture, climate, and ingenuity. Yes, you can pick up a bottle at the store, but nothing compares to the experience of visiting a vineyard, talking to winemakers, and really getting to know the vino that you are drinking. While there are wine destinations all over the country, these are our top ones to visit.
As much as we love road travel, driving can be a slog. Whether it’s sitting in traffic or seeing the same billboards over and over, it’s easy to forget about the joys of the open road. In this season of giving, we wanted to bring back some of the magic of the car trip with our favorite scenic drives. From the granite peaks of New Hampshire to the red rocks of Arizona, these are road travels meant to inspire.
With its country towns, scenic roads, hiking trails, national forests, and wild rivers, the Great Smoky Mountains offer every reason to head for the hills. Here are some things to check out when you visit the Smoky Mountains:
With 95,000 miles of coastline, two distinct oceans, and the world's largest gulf, the U.S. offers up an endless platter of seafood options. From tiny coastal seafood shacks to upscale swanky restaurants, there are many ways to enjoy the nation's seafood bounty. But where can you find some of the best in the country? Read on to find out!
Boulder, Colorado is a bustling town nestled where the High Plains and Rockies meet. Its active outdoors and cultural scene has made it a wonderful place to visit. Plus, its perpetual sunny weather means there's something to do year round. Here are some of our favorites!
Sprawling cityscape, southern hospitality, and delicious food are just some of the reasons to visit Dallas, TX. As one of the country's fastest growing cities, there's more to do each day in "The Big D," but here are some of our favorites:
In America, BBQ is King. People here are so passionate about this style of cooking, its history, and its culture that you’d think that BBQ sauce courses through their veins rather than blood. Over the past century, people have curated deep and passionate opinions about what makes the best barbecue style, declaring that theirs is better than the rest. However, they can all agree that BBQ is inherently as American as it gets and is the closest thing we have to a national cuisine.
Let’s face it guys, our daily lives can be stressful. It’s important to take a step back every once in a while and recharge those batteries. Nothing can help eliminate the stress better than rounding up the boys and getting away from it all (ladies, we didn’t forget you – check out our girls getaways here). So, call up the crew and take off to one of these destinations.
If you are planning your next vacation and you're looking for glamour, opulence, and extravagence, then look no further than this article. This list of luxury getaways is all about the destination and what makes each of them an indulgent experience.
While Madison, Wisconsin wears its college-town moniker proudly, the city's vibrant arts, culture, and foodie scenes prove it has much more to offer. Although we would never suggest skipping the seemingly city-wide football tailgate parties on Saturdays in the fall, there is definitely more to experience. Madison is also home to several James Beard-nominated restaurants, more than 200 miles of bike trails in and around the city, and five Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings.
Few methods of travel have inspired filmmakers as much as the great American road trip. With summer around the corner, you might start feeling the itch for an epic journey. If you hunger for adventure and the open road but aren't sure where to go next, try popping in one of these films for some inspiration!
Add a touch of flair to your luggage with this easy-to-make luggage tag! Nothing screams adventure quite like a map, so we've crafted this luggage tag out of a premium Rand McNally map. Follow these instructions to create the perfect little addition to your next adventure.
Don't be fooled—spring break doesn't have to break your budget. From the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to the chic metropolis of Montreal, we've found wallet-friendly destinations perfect for the whole family.
When you think today’s Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) you think of grabbing your friends and family for a night of partying in the streets - but did you know that the origins of the celebration can actually be traced all the way back to medieval Europe? This traditional festival of feasting and merriment before the long abstinence of Lent was made an official holiday on the Gregorian calendar by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. When the French came to protect their claim on Louisiana in the 1700s, they didn’t want to pass up an opportunity to celebrate and brought the party with them – thus laying the framework for one of the biggest celebrations in the nation. Now you can find Mardi Gras festivities at various restaurants and events across the country, but if you want a truly authentic experience then head to these cities!
Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of Charleston and you can feel the history and culture thick in the air. As the oldest city in the state of South Carolina, this coastal gem oozes southern charm and draws travelers from all over the world. While the city makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a different time, among the antebellum architecture, it is a thriving city with much to see and do. Our guide to the charming city of Charleston will have you rushing to visit and experience all that it has to offer.
Add a level of adventure to your interior decor with this map-decorated tray! This DIY tray is a low-cost craft that is as simple to make as it is sophisticated. Our tray is decorated with one of our premium maps, but you can use any paper-like item, such as pictures, posters, etc. Follow these steps to create your own decorative tray!
Decorative letters are a great way to enhance the décor of any room or celebration. Plus, they are rather easy to make! While you can decorate letters with any type of paper or poster-like items, covering them with maps is a great way to utilize old maps or atlases, as well as add a sense of adventure to your interior design. Here’s how to craft these adorable map letters!
The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is the stretch of US 1 that travels through some of the nation’s most spectacular tropical scenery from Mile Marker 110, north of Key Largo, to Mile Marker 0 in Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States. Check out some of the awesome attractions along the way!
New Orleans locals don’t eat to live, they live to eat, and they want you to know it. The Big Easy’s traditional fare – which is actually a melting pot of cuisines from all over the world – is a huge part of the city’s vibrant culture, and it’s not something to miss when visiting. We’ve compiled a bucket list of some of the most famous and tried-and-true dishes that contribute to New Orleans’ identity – and we recommend trying them all.
The dash cam, or dashboard camera, has gained popularity in the past few years—and it’s no surprise why! These handy recording devices are cost-effective, easy to install, and intuitive to use. Having a camera in your car offers endless benefits, and here are just some of the reasons you should consider installing one in your car.
Beautiful grass with a bluish hue is the inspiration behind Kentucky's nickname: The Bluegrass State. This popular grazing plant grows throughout much of the state, and its name has been associated with the music native to the region.
Galleries, arts and crafts studios, cafés, and fine restaurants—all nestled within the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, and the recreational opportunities they have to offer—make visitors to Asheville, North Carolina not only enjoy their vacation, but leaves them wanting to come back again and again.
Although it is the smallest state in the nation, Rhode Island has over 400 miles of convoluted shoreline facing the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay. The state has more than 100 beaches. Surf conditions range from calm to challenging. Annual tournaments for striper, bluefish, shark, billfish, and tuna testify to the rich fishing opportunities. Seafood is fresh and plentiful, and clambakes--in which clams, lobsters, fish, and vegetables are steamed over heated stones--are a specialty.
Glamping (or glamorous camping) is a travel trend that is sweeping the globe. Rather than “roughing it” on the ground with a portable tent and no proper restroom facilities, glamping provides a more comfortable, luxurious outdoor experience. And according to this New York Post article, the popularity of glamping has contributed to a significant spike in RV sales over the past five years.
Chicago might claim to be the "Blues Capital of the World," but if you're looking for an atmosphere of gritty, from-the-roots blues, you must head to the juke-jointin', Colt-45 swiggin', dust and dirt-ridden backroads of the Mississippi Delta.
If you’re planning to take a trip across the country, beware of the laws that differ from state to state. Some of these laws (somehow) are still in place from hundreds of years ago, while others are slightly modernized—but strange nonetheless. Here are the weirdest laws in each state*:
Stress can have serious mental and physical effects on adults. As people look for creative ways to unwind, it’s no wonder that adult activity books have taken the world by storm. Wouldn’t it be nice to be as carefree as a child again?
Any parent knows that planning a trip with kids can take a lot of planning and patience. A vacation should be fun for the whole family, and include a little something for everyone. We’ve got you covered with some ideas for family-oriented vacation spots to help minimize stress and maximize fun!
You don’t have to drive to the West Coast to visit an award-winning winery or take a picturesque drive along a winding shore. Michigan’s own Harbor Country has these in spades, putting any notion of a flat and boring Midwest to rest. Here are our top tips for enjoying a trip along Michigan’s beautiful south-western shore.
People flood in from all over to visit our nation's capital. While the White House, the monuments, and the museums are all worth a visit, they can get a bit crowded during the height of tourist season. If you want a more authentic experience in DC, we’ve compiled a list of some off-the-beaten-path spots for you to try. Our guide will help you navigate the streets like a seasoned local and cultivate some great memories along the way.
On Monday, August 21st, 2017, a solar eclipse—a celestial event where the Moon passes through the Sun and the Earth—will take place. According to NASA, a solar eclipse can cast a shadow on Earth’s surface up to 168 miles wide. This shadow is referred to as the path of totality, and locations within this path will experience a total solar eclipse, when the moon’s disc completely covers the sun, causing temperatures to drop and the sky to darken.