9 Best Public Golf Courses In Illinois

There is such great golf in Chicago — and so much history — that it’s difficult to put together a list that encompasses the entire state. I could probably make a Top 9 list of public courses just in Cook County alone.

There are also many world-famous private courses here. Medinah just hosted the Ryder Cup in 2012. Chicago Country Club has over 125 years of history. Olympia Fields hosted the U.S. Open in 2003. Chicago is one of America’s best golf locations.

But there are also some great courses in other parts of the state. Yes, the majority of these courses are in the Chicago area, but be sure to check out some of the gems downstate. Here are nine fantastic courses in Illinois.

1. Cog Hill Golf And Country Club #4

Palos Park

There are four courses at Cog Hill Golf And Country Club and the fourth one, named Dubsdread, is the best one. It’s also very well known worldwide, having hosted the Western Open and the BMW Championship on the PGA Tour 20 times (Tiger Woods himself has won there five times).

This is a challenging course (that’s obvious if a PGA Tour event has been held here), but it’s also very playable. Given that they had to keep expanding the course to make it longer for PGA Tour professionals, some holes have up to seven tee boxes. So it’s definitely a course where you can choose the length to fit your game. I’ve played a few courses like this where it feels like the tee box choices are long, longer, and longest, but that’s not the case at Cog Hill.

Make no mistake, it won’t be easy. The bunkers are deep and the greens are very difficult. But the plan behind the entire Cog Hill property (all four courses) was to build a country club atmosphere for public golf. So it falls in the “tough but fair” category.

And the grounds are amazing. My college roommate was married at the clubhouse, and I can confirm that, yes, it’s the full country club experience at a public club.

Cog Hill Weekend Peak Tee Time: $159

2. Cantigny

Wheaton

I’ve not played Cantigny, but this is the course that my friends in Chicago all swear by. It’s a complex with 27 holes and three named nines — Woodside, Lakeside, and Hillside — so you can return to the property and play a different routing the next time if you like.

When it opened in 1989, Cantigny was named the best new public course in America by Golf Digest. The course was built on the estate of Robert McCormick and is owned by his foundation. Because they were able to keep many of the older trees when building the course, according to everyone I talked to who has played it, it doesn’t play like a course opened in 1989. It feels like you’re playing one of the storied courses in the Chicago area.

Cantigny Weekend Peak Tee Time: $120

3. TPC Deere Run

Silvis

There’s one public course in Illinois that hosts a PGA Tour event every year. And, surprisingly, it’s not in the Chicago area. TPC Deere Run in the Quad Cities hosts the John Deere Classic every summer and is available for public play the rest of the year.

This is another very challenging course, obviously, so be prepared for some really tricky greens. But from the proper tees, the course doesn’t play very long. In fact, many of the well-known holes (like the par-3 16th right next to the Rock River) are shorter holes, even for the pros. Shot-making is the key here, not 230-yard forced carries over water.

They picked a great piece of property for this course, playing right along the Rock River. And it’s fun to play where the pros play. If you’re in the greenside bunker on 18, see if you can hole out like Jordan Spieth did to win his first-ever PGA Tour event.

TPC Deere Run Weekend Peak Tee Time: $129

4. Stonewall Orchard Golf Club

Grayslake

Stonewall Orchard is in Grayslake, a northern suburb of Chicago. The drive from the south suburbs of Milwaukee is similar to the drive from downtown Chicago, so this is a great option for those in Wisconsin as well.

Designed by Arthur Hills, there’s a lot of water here — some shots have to be played over wetlands — but the course makes great use of the land. It’s one of those courses where you look at the course map, see a lot of water, and think, “I’d better bring a lot of balls,” but then when you play it, the water isn’t as much a factor as you thought it would be. Water can be intimidating, but here it’s used very well.

Many of the golf courses in the Chicago area can feel a bit cramped — tucked into a subdivision here or contained within this one piece of property there. But this course feels like you’re out in the open. That’s a good thing.

Stonewall Orchard Weekend Peak Tee Time: $95

5. The Glen Club

Glenview

This is another wide-open course. Designed by Tom Fazio, The Glen Club is the five-star hotel of golf courses in Illinois. The carts all have GPS screens telling you the distance of every shot. The fairways are perfectly manicured. The staff are professional and courteous. Again, it has the feel of a five-star establishment.

Because of the location — there’s a high-end mall right next door — you might feel like this is going to be a cramped, suburban golf experience. We’ve all played those courses that were crammed in between the mall and the subdivision. But this course is open and wide. “Luxurious” is probably the best word.

The Glen Club Weekend Peak Tee Time: $198

6. Ravisloe

Homewood

This one makes the list because of its history. How often do you have the chance to play a Donald Ross course that’s public? Ross designed many of the famous private courses in the United States — Seminole Country Club in Florida, East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Oakland Hills Country Club in Michigan — but it’s fairly rare that one of his private courses eventually converts over to a public course. That’s what happened at Ravisloe. After more than a century as a private club, it was converted to a public course in 2009.

And that’s what a round there feels like. It feels like you snuck on to someone’s private club. The massive clubhouse, the huge trees, the seclusion — it’s all there. As well as a classic Donald Ross golf course.

Ravisloe Weekend Peak Tee Time: $89

7. Annbriar

Waterloo

This one isn’t in the Chicago area — it’s near St. Louis. Annbriar is right around six miles from the Mississippi River, so it’s very close to Missouri. It sits on a great piece of property on the bluffs just above the Mississippi River valley.

Having lived in St. Louis for much of my life, I can say that it’s my favorite golf course in the St. Louis area, Illinois side or Missouri side. Like any great course, it’s about the designer finding a perfect piece of property and then treading very lightly to maintain all of the natural features. That’s what was accomplished at Annbriar.

And given that it’s in Waterloo, Illinois, it’s an incredible value. Weekday afternoon rates are available for as low as $35. If you’re in the St. Louis area, you need to check out Annbriar.

Annbriar Weekend Peak Tee Time: $70

8. WeaverRidge

Peoria

This is the gem of the Peoria public golf scene. The best way to describe WeaverRidge is a championship-style course where many of the tee shots are challenged by bunkers. You’re probably familiar with that type of course. When you stand on the tee for a par-4, it feels like you’re always looking at bunkers either side of the fairway right where your drive would land. It’s a great mental challenge to determine when to take them on and when to play it safe.

This course also provides good variety — one nine feels like you’re deep in the woods, the other nine plays through a residential development and feels like you’re playing a resort course. Their rates are very reasonable (in line with Annbriar above), so it won’t cost you a lot to play a great round here.

WeaverRidge Weekend Peak Tee Time: $60

9. Downers Grove Golf Club

Downers Grove

I try to include a nine-hole course on every golfing list I put together, and in Illinois, there’s no better choice than Downers Grove Golf Club. I’ve talked about the history of some of these courses, and they’re all impressive, but this one can claim the most history. It’s the site of the very first 18-hole golf course in the United States.

Here’s a quick trip through the history here: In 1892, C.B. Macdonald established the Chicago Golf Club on this site. It was a success, so the following year, in 1893, he built an additional nine holes, and Chicago Golf Club became the first 18-hole course in the United States. Three years after that, Chicago Golf Club was moved to a bigger piece of property in Wheaton. The course changed its name to Illinois Golf Club, then Belmont Country Club, and then, after the Downers Grove Park District purchased the property, Downers Grove Golf Club. At that time it was reduced back down to a nine-hole course.

Four of the original C.B. Macdonald holes remain: 4, 7, 8, and 9, and they’re the highlight of the trip. Golf course architecture junkies will travel to Downers Grove just to play C.B. Macdonald’s original course. These were the first holes he ever designed, and they’re a treat.

Downers Grove Weekend Peak Tee Time (9 Holes): $26

Mount Rainier National Park: 9 Things To Know Before Visiting

The snow-covered peaks of Mount Rainier greet you, rising above the clouds as you approach Washington State from the air. If driving, a view of the mountain greets you from hundreds of miles away; it dominates the southeastern horizon of Seattle, and on a cloudless day, it is visible from as far as Victoria in British Columbia and Corvallis in Oregon.

The tallest peak in Washington State and in the Cascade Mountain Range of the Pacific Northwest, this active stratovolcano stands 14,411 feet above sea level and is home to the most glaciers in the country. Five major rivers originate at its glaciers, subalpine meadows surround its icy peaks, and old-growth forests cover its lower slopes.

Mount Rainier National Park, established in 1899, strives to preserve this unique and diverse ecosystem that includes glaciers, forests, meadows, and subalpine and alpine zones surrounding the mountain.

Wildflowers in Mount Rainier National Park. — Jeff Fromm

1. To See All Parts Of The Park, Visit In The Summer (Even If It Means Dealing With Crowds)

Summer is the only time to see the famous wildflowers in the meadows, and it is also the only time you’ll find the whole park open. This is when all the roads and amenities are open and clear of snow at higher elevations. In the winter, most of the roads close since there is too much snow to get them cleared efficiently. In fact, you’ll find foot-deep snow at higher elevation up until late July in some years.

Being only about 85 miles from Seattle, and the closest airport, Mount Rainier National Park gets crowded in the summer. You’ll have to remember this, but don’t let it deter you from visiting. You can always find ways to get around crowds.

The park’s primary entrance, the Nisqually Entrance in its southwest corner, is closest to Seattle and you might find long lines to get through. You can beat the crowds if you arrive early or late in the day (if you plan on staying in the park overnight).

Or, you can drive to the White River Entrance, only open in the summer, which is less congested. Though it’s a longer drive, it is scenic, so it might be worth it.

2. The Longmire Historic District Was The Park’s Original Headquarters

The original park headquarters from 1899, Longmire is a national historic district, open year-round. About six miles from the Nisqually Entrance, it is the area you first reach from the main entrance, and the only one you can visit between November and April.

The original headquarters is now a museum where you can learn about the history of the park. Across from it, the Longmire Administration Building is still home to offices for the park staff, and in the summers it houses the Longmire Wilderness Information Center.

The historic district was once the homestead of James Longmire, the settler who built his home here in 1853 and worked as a guide for early travelers who wanted to visit Mount Rainier. You can still see a reconstructed replica of his past cabin and one of the hot springs nearby on the Trail of the Shadows.

The Jackson Memorial Visitor Center in Paradise. — Emese Fromm

3. You’ll Find The Main Visitor Center In Paradise

You’ll have to drive up the mountain a bit to reach the Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center in Paradise. Built in 2008, it replaced an older one that looked like an ancient spaceship and was under snow most of the year. The present center’s architecture fits in with its surroundings. A large open area in the center acts as an impressive gathering place for sizable groups. An open museum and gift shop run around the perimeter on a second level, reachable by an open stairway.

The museum’s exhibits offer lessons in geology, history, and the nature of the area; viewing stations with telescopic lenses by the windows showcase some of the best views of the mountain.

A small movie theater plays a film about Mount Rainier here, and a snack bar offers meals before heading out on a trail. The restrooms are accessible from outside, so they are open even when the Visitor Center is not.

4. Paradise Is Most Famous For Its Wildflower Meadows

Mount Rainier is famous as one of the best places in the world to see wildflowers, and Paradise is the most popular place to see them. It is the area most abundant in wildflowers, from bright pink and white mountain heathers and purple penstemons to bright yellow arnicas.

In fact, Paradise, which is in the southwestern corner of the park at the foot of the mountain, owes its name to the explosion of colors from the wildflowers in early August. When James Longmire’s daughter-in-law, Martha, hiked up to the area in the summer and saw all the colors, she exclaimed, “This is Paradise!” and the name stuck.

The best time to see all these wildflowers on the meadows surrounding the mountain is usually early August. Though due to fluctuations in weather, it is impossible to predict the peak bloom each year, you’ll see wildflowers from mid-July to mid-August in most years. Check Mount Rainier National Park’s Discover Wildflowers site for updates.

The view from Sunrise Point in Mount Rainier. — Emese Fromm

5. Sunrise Point Is The Highest Point You Can Reach Without Serious Hiking In The Park

Sunrise Point, at an elevation of 6,400 feet, is the highest point you can drive to in Mount Rainier National Park. On cloudless days, gorgeous views surround you, with Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier, and other mountains in the Cascades — Mount Adams among them — visible in the distance. Subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers or wild berries add color to the surroundings.

An impressive trail system, plenty of viewpoints, a day lodge, and a snack bar offer opportunities for a great visit. The area is only open in the summer, between July and early October.

It is always colder at Sunrise Point than in the rest of the park; we’ve encountered winter conditions in late July here at a time when we could comfortably hike in Paradise.

The Trail of Shadows in Longmire. — Emese Fromm

6. Mount Rainier Is A Great Place For Hikers Of All Levels

Mount Rainier National Park has over 260 miles of maintained trails, through old-growth forests, near river- and lakesides, and on subalpine valleys, offering views of distant mountains, glaciers, and wildflower valleys. Trails range from easy, paved walks and day-hikes to the famous 93-mile Wonderland Trail that requires a backcountry permit, offering something for hikers of all abilities.

Driving through the park, you’ll see plenty of pullouts and viewpoints, some of them with access to trails, all offering gorgeous views of the surroundings. Drive slowly and stop at as many as you can. Most of these viewpoints also double as trailheads.

When hiking, you should always stay on trails, even when they still have snowed-in areas. Walk on the snow rather than going off the trail to avoid it. Otherwise, you could damage the delicate sub-alpine vegetation, including the wildflowers.

Wildlife in Mount Rainier National Park. — Emese Fromm

7. Chances Are, You’ll See Wildlife On Your Hikes

No matter where you hike in the park, you will see at least a few squirrels, chipmunks, and deer. Sometimes you might encounter marmots and beavers, maybe elk and red fox.

Though you are unlikely to ever see them, black bears and mountain lions roam the deeper forests of the park. To avoid bears coming close, keep your food closed and secure, and follow these tips for safely viewing wildlife in national parks.

You’ll hear birdsong all around you in the forest. If you look for them, you’ll see many species of birds in the park, including bluebirds and robins, ravens and jays, finches, flycatchers, woodpeckers, sparrows, and birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and owls.

Help keep wildlife wild by not feeding any of the animals. Human food is unhealthy and potentially dangerous for them, and it can encourage dangerous animal behavior.

Paradise Inn in Mount Rainier National Park. — Emese Fromm

8. You Have A Few Choices When It Comes To Staying In The Park

The historic Paradise Inn, open from May to early October (but closed for the remainder of 2020), is my first choice place to stay if I can. The rooms are quiet and comfortable, but it is the building itself and its surroundings that make the stay special. Dating from 1916, the building’s rustic appearance and the lobby with its enormous fireplace, ornate grandfather clock, rustic piano, and cedar tables, give you the impression that you stepped back in time. In the mornings, groups of mountain climbers gather here, ready for their trek up the mountain. In the evenings, ranger talks give you insight into the history of the surroundings.

Down the hill, in the historic Longmire District, the National Park Inn is open year-round and offers comfortable rooms, a dining hall, and a large patio with comfortable chairs and coffee tables where you can sit and enjoy the surroundings and views of Mount Rainier.

Besides the two inns, Mount Rainier National Park has three developed campgrounds and many wilderness campsites. Campgrounds are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, but you can reserve sites online for the Ohanapecosh and Cougar Rock sites.

9. And You Won’t Go Hungry, Either

The Paradise Inn Dining Room, open between May and September, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their signature meals are always exquisite, and the relaxed atmosphere, rustic setting, and gorgeous views always add to the experience.

The National Park Inn’s Dining Room offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a pleasant setting and is open year-round.

The Wild Berry Restaurant, just outside the park, owned by a Sherpa from Nepal, offers original Tibetan and Nepali fare, along with American staple food. Their Himalayan specials are worth trying, but it is their huckleberry pie I always stop for. You’ll see it on the side of the road, about a mile from the Nisqually entrance.

Pro Tips

Mount Rainier National Park is extremely popular in the summer, especially in early August when the wildflowers bloom. On weekends, the parking lots in both places fill up fast. Paradise has an overflow parking lot, but if the lot in Sunrise is full, you’ll have to wait at the White River Entrance until someone leaves. To avoid congestion, visit mid-week or get there early or late in the day.

Weather is unpredictable at Mount Rainier, so always be prepared for sunshine or fog, rain, and snow, any time of the year. The sunniest and warmest (with highs in the 70s) months are July and August, but you might encounter fog and rain. Always carry a light rain jacket, even on a sunny day, especially on a longer hike. It also helps to dress in layers. Stop at the visitor centers for an update. They all post the weather daily, sometimes hour-by-hour, and post information about the visibility of the mountain.

11 Things To Know Before Visiting Channel Islands National Park

While some national parks have become known for crowds and traffic, Channel Islands National Park remains one of the least-visited parks in the United States. It’s a great alternative to the most popular parks and an ideal place to explore nature with minimal human interaction.

Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of Southern California. Most people depart for the islands from Ventura or Oxnard, both of which are an hour and a half north of Los Angeles.

The weather on Channel Islands National Park is temperate year round, so there is no bad time to visit. For a really uncrowded experience, try visiting on a weekday.

Set aside at least one day to explore Channel Islands, where you can admire abundant marine life, hike along ocean-view trails, and try spotting the sly island fox.

Here’s what to know before you go.

1. There Are Five Islands

Five islands make up Channel Islands National Park: Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel. So the first step in planning a visit is to select an island. Anacapa is the closest to the mainland, and therefore requires the shortest boat ride, while San Miguel is the farthest. First-time visitors often select the largest island, Santa Cruz, since it offers a nice mix of activities, including hiking, kayaking, diving, and camping. Typically, visitors are able to select just one island per day due to ferry schedules.

2. You’ll Need To Plan In Advance For Your Ferry Ride

Island Packers Cruises is the official cruise vendor of the National Park Service, offering ferry rides to each of the islands. So after selecting the island you want to visit, head to the website to reserve your departing and returning rides.

Boats depart from both the Ventura Harbor and the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. After booking your trip, be sure to head to the correct departure location.

Ferry services are available to Santa Cruz seven days a week, but the schedules for the other islands are more limited. If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, you’ll need to book a few weeks in advance.

The ride to the islands can be bumpy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, you should bring medication or Sea-Bands and sit toward the back of the boat facing in the direction of travel.

Finally, don’t miss your return boat, especially if it’s the last one of the day! It’s recommended that you return to the dock about 30 minutes before departure.

3. Look Out For Dolphins And Whales

The boat ride to the Channel Islands is part of the adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and maybe even whales. Many visitors have reported seeing dolphin pods with hundreds of these mammals jumping and swimming through the water. The most common whale sightings include gray, humpback, and blue whales. The boat crew is well trained in spotting these creatures and will announce significant sights to everyone.

Pro Tip: If you are particularly interested in whale watching, then book a special cruise with Island Packers. These 3-hour tours do not include time on the islands, but you will likely spot whales as well as other marine mammals.

Inspiration Point in Channel Islands National Park. — Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

4. Bring Everything You’ll Need For The Day

There are no services on the islands, so you will need to bring all food and water with you for the day. The National Park Service recommends bringing a gallon of water per person per day. There are also no trash cans, so plan to bring trash with you back to the mainland.

Also be sure to bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, a first-aid kit, and any medication you might need.

5. The Water Is Protected, Too

Not only is the land of the Channel Islands protected, but so is the surrounding water. In 1980, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) began protecting these waters. Today, the 1470 square miles of ocean water around the five islands are a National Marine Sanctuary. This special designation protects the habitats and ecosystems of ocean waters around the Northern Channel Islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara islands. A special place for endangered species, sensitive habitats, historic shipwrecks, and cultural resources, the sanctuary provides protection through research, education, conservation, and stewardship. In 2002 the California Fish and Game Commission established a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) within the nearshore waters of the sanctuary. NOAA expanded the MPA network into the sanctuary’s deeper waters in 2006 and 2007. The entire MPA network consists of 11 marine reserves where all take and harvest is prohibited, and two marine conservation areas that allow limited take of lobster and pelagic fish.

Due to a mixing of warm and cold ocean currents, many species of seabirds, whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions are abundant in the ocean around the Channel Islands. Sea otters have been spotted occasionally. A wide variety of fish and giant kelp forests can be seen, too, including garibaldi and giant black sea bass. Research is regularly conducted on the health of the sanctuary to help monitor and protect this special place.

An island fox in Channel Islands National Park. — Kyle T Perry / Shutterstock

6. Keep Your Eyes Peeled For The Island Fox

If the Channel Islands had a mascot, it would be the island fox. This brown and black creature is about the size of a small house cat and exists nowhere else on Earth. The island fox was at risk of extinction, but thanks to concerted conservation efforts started in 1999, it has recovered.

Without any natural predators, the island fox can hunt in the daytime and roams freely around trails, picnic areas, and other places where visitors gather. In fact, their favorite hunting grounds are the picnic tables, so be sure to keep a close eye on any food brought to the islands. At the end of every table is a food box for holding items you are not currently enjoying. If you’re hoping for a picture of one of these critters, just be patient and keep your camera ready.

7. You Can Camp On The Islands

If you want to experience the islands with just a handful of humans, then consider an overnight stay. Far away from the mainland, you can enjoy the night sky and hear the sounds of wildlife. Primitive camping is permitted in the national park, and each island has one small campground. Limited backcountry camping is available on Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa.

Remember that everything will need to be brought to the island, since no services are available. Also, the campgrounds are located away from the boat docks, so all equipment must be carried to the site. No fires are permitted, but cooking can be done on enclosed gas stoves. Camping reservations must be made in advance.

Pro Tip: In the event you don’t want to camp but would prefer to stay nearby in a hotel, try one of the hotels in Oxnard or Ventura. The Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor includes a full breakfast in the morning, which is a perfect way to fuel up before a day of hiking and kayaking.

Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park. — Asif Islam / Shutterstock

8. There Are Many Sea Caves To Explore

There’s no better place in the world to experience sea caves than Channel Islands National Park. Here you’ll find the highest concentration of caves anywhere, as well as one of the largest and deepest in the world.

A great way to see the caves is by kayaking. Paddle through the larger caves to get an inside view, or float right up to the entrance to peek inside. Consider booking a kayak tour to learn about the marine life with an expert guide. Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers tours ranging from 2 to 3 hours around Santa Cruz and provides all necessary equipment (ferry tickets are not included). Wild Blue Ocean Adventures offers 8-hour tours to Anacapa that include all equipment and transportation to the island.

To spend time in the caves and underwater, try diving or snorkeling. Due to weather conditions, the National Park Service recommends these activities near Santa Barbara, Anacapa, and eastern Santa Cruz. Guided snorkeling trips are provided by Channel Islands Adventure Company. All-day dive trips and gear rental are available through Cal Boat Diving.

9. You Can Easily Explore The Islands On Foot

The islands are a great spot to enjoy an ocean-view hike. While each of the islands offers trails, Santa Cruz is probably the best for hikers. There are 15 trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous and from .5 to 18 miles. The longer and more difficult trails should only be attempted by experienced hikers.

A bird near a lighthouse in Channel Islands National Park. — Thomas Barrat / Shutterstock

10. It’s A Great Place For Birding

The Channel Islands are particularly important for seabirds, since they offer critical nesting habitats. Here avid birders can spot western gulls, Cassin’s auklets, Brandt’s cormorants, and the only nesting population of California brown pelicans along the West Coast of the U.S. Seeing the seabirds is best accomplished by renting a kayak or taking an organized tour.

There are also 40 species of landbirds throughout the islands, including 10 that are endemic to the area. Refer to this National Park Service guide to learn about ideal birding spots on land.

11. Don’t Skip The Visitor Center

Before or after your visit to the islands, set aside time to check out the visitor center in Ventura Harbor. Start with the 25-minute movie A Treasure in the Sea, shown throughout the day in the auditorium. Then explore the exhibits about the geology, animal life, and marine life of the park. Don’t miss the large relief map of the islands, which gives a nice perspective of the overall park. One of the best features of National Park Service visitor centers is the opportunity to ask questions of rangers or volunteers.

If you’re visiting Santa Cruz, Anacapa, or Santa Barbara, you’ll also have the chance to visit smaller visitor stations that provide information specific to each place.

It definitely takes some planning and research to take a trip to Channel Islands National Park. But you’ll be rewarded with a great day of hiking, kayaking, and relaxing in one of the least-crowded national parks in the country.

Beyond Drugs And Money Laundering: 9 Fun Things To Experience In The Real Ozark

It’s easy to get sucked into Netflix’s addictive guilty pleasure series Ozark. With all the underworld business deals and political manipulations in the show, you might think its setting in Lake of the Ozarks is full of dark and scary secrets. We want to set the record straight by shattering some of the illusions in the show. To begin with, much of Ozark is actually filmed in the state of Georgia, not in the Lake of the Ozarks, the real-life Central Missouri resort haven designated in the title. The real location is filled with important history, beautiful scenery, diverse attractions, local treasures, and fun things to see and do. To show you more of the real Ozark, we pull back the curtain and reveal some of our favorite experiences in this fun and multifaceted vacation destination.

Disclaimer: Some of our Lake of the Ozarks activities were hosted by the Beenders-Walker Group. All opinions are our own based on our experience.

The huge cinnamon roll at Stewart's Restaurant. — Sue Reddel And Diana Laskaris

1. Stewart’s Killer Cinnamon Roll

While the Ozark series has huge knives sticking out of unexpected places, it hasn’t shown you what we consider the best one yet. Stewart’s Restaurant is one of the most famous spots in the Ozarks. And the star of the Stewart’s show is its unbelievably huge cinnamon roll. We know people can exaggerate. But when we say this cinnamon roll is as big as your head, we are not exaggerating. You could easily enjoy it with your whole family. And, not only is it ginormous, but it’s also really good. Butter, cinnamon, and gobs of delicious sweet glaze poured over the top make this the best way to start your day. Just don’t be surprised by the big knife sticking out of the center. You’ll need it to cut through this wicked awesome breakfast treat.

2. Dream Castle Ruins In The Park

While Ozark portrays a dark and moody environment, the real Lake of the Ozarks is a naturally beautiful area. Beaches, parks, and lush forests throughout the area make it a great place to explore outdoors. One of the best spots for nature lovers is the beautiful Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Many different trails provide scenic routes for hikers and walkers of all levels. A large rock bridge is one of the interesting natural attractions. But one of the most unique attractions is actually manmade. If you take an easy stroll to the top of the bluff, you’ll discover the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka Castle, originally the vision of Kansas City industrialist Robert Snyder. Snyder wanted to create a beautiful European-style mansion and estate on top of a cliff overlooking the water. But he never saw his dream come to life because he was killed in a tragic car accident. Caves, bluffs, springs, and lots of woodsy landscape make this a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Aerial view of the Bagnell Dam and Bagnell Dam Strip. — Kaleb Tallmage / Shutterstock

3. Bagnell Dam

Bagnell Dam was the last major dam to be built in the United States with private investment money. It was also the largest, and at the time it was considered an amazing engineering feat, receiving visitors from all over the world. Bagnell Dam rises the equivalent of 12 stories high and is seven blocks long, holding 600 billion gallons of water back in the Lake of the Ozarks — one of the largest manmade lakes in the world. The natural energy of the falling water saves the equivalent of about one million barrels of oil each year. So it’s no wonder that with all the interest in this wonderful dam that a hub of activity developed around it so visitors could marvel at the dam and also eat, play, and stay in the area. The Bagnell Dam Strip is full of gift shops, restaurants, arcades, bars, and vintage Ozarks memorabilia.

4. Willmore Lodge/Bagnell Dam History Museum

A local treasure of significance that also has some gorgeous lakeside views is the historic log Willmore Lodge, which is also home to the Bagnell Dam Museum. The lodge, which once served as luxurious accommodations, is on the National Register of Historic Places and retains its rustic charm with an Adirondack style of architecture and furniture. It is now home to the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Bagnell Damn History Museum and Visitor Center. The museum does a great job explaining the geological factors at play, the building of the dam, how it works, and the area wildlife. Once inside you’ll also want to walk through the gardens and catch the spectacular lake views.

The Alhonna Resort in the Ozarks. — Sue Reddel And Diana Laskaris

5. Alhonna Resort (Also Known As The Blue Cat Lodge)

Arguably one of the most important characters in Netflix’s Ozark is the Blue Cat Lodge where much nefarious activity takes place. While the Blue Cat itself is fictional, it is modeled after the Alhonna Resort and Marina, a small rustic lodge and waterside playground in Lake of the Ozarks. Turns out the show’s creator and writer had worked there helping out around the docks and listening more carefully than anyone at the time could ever know. The resort’s Bobber’s Restaurant and Lounge sparked not only the writer’s imagination but also fit the mood that the show’s team wanted to create. A visit to this hidden treasure will feel like being in the show because it’s one location that is. Alhonna offers other fun like swimming pools, sandy beaches, and fishing. We cannot guarantee that there are millions of dollars stashed behind any walls.

Osage National Golf Resort in the Ozarks. — Sue Reddel And Diana Laskaris

6. Osage National Golf Resort

Golf is so much fun because it is both relaxing and challenging at the same time. Being outside on a beautiful course is part of the relaxing part. When that course was actually designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, that can be the challenging part. Osage National Golf Resort has 27 holes and 18 of them were designed by Arnold Palmer himself. If you’re up for the challenge, you can take in all 27 holes. If you want to give it a try but don’t have time to spend so long on the course, you can play nine or 18. The choice is yours. And although this is a membership club, there are plenty of public tee times available. You can practice your drive on the range or focus on your putting and chipping at two short game facilities, all included with your green fees. The course encompasses beautifully forested areas and rolling slopes with lakes, creeks, and bluffs along the Osage River all around. Top-flight amenities make this beautiful course a golfer’s delight.

7. Lake Ozark Helicopters

With all the history, attractions, and beautiful scenery to take in, you might just want to get a bird’s-eye view of it all. That’s where Lake Ozark Helicopters can help. Taking a helicopter tour of the area is fun and really gives you some perspective. There are several different options depending upon your time and your budget. We took the Bagnell Dam Special, a 20-minute ride over the Lake of the Ozarks with 360-degree views of Bagnell Dam, Million Dollar Row, the Grand Glaize Bridge, golf courses, and other great highlights of the area. Our pilot was personable, informative, and a fantastic flyer. The views are breathtaking and give you a strong sense of the beautiful terrain all around you.

Food from Wobbly Boots Roadhouse in the Ozarks. — Sue Reddel And Diana Laskaris

8. Great Food

Eating is high on our list of activities, and Lake of the Ozarks doesn’t disappoint. One of our favorite spots for a delicious and filling meal is Wobbly Boots Roadhouse. The name might make you smile a little, but the food will make you smile a lot. If you’ve got a hankering for some serious barbecue with all the fixings, Wobbly Boots has lots to offer: ribs, wings, burnt ends, brisket, sausage, turkey breast, pulled pork, and so much more. The sides are just as tempting. Bring your appetite and wash it all down with a great local brew on tap. There’s fun as well as great pizza at Pappo’s Pizzeria. Their thin crust is crispy and the sauce tastes truly homemade. They show their sense of humor with specialty pizza names like Mamma Mia Meatball and Nick The Greek. They have some great fresh salads too. And if you want a little more upscale dining, the atmosphere at JB Hook’s Restaurant is bound to please. They serve high-quality steak and seafood in a relaxed but stylish setting with beautiful panoramic views of the water.

Seven Springs Winery and Vineyard in the Ozarks. — Sue Reddel And Diana Laskaris

9. Seven Springs Winery

Head a little off the beaten path with a few minutes’ drive to Seven Springs Winery and Vineyard for a breath of fresh air, a lovely bite to eat, and some local Missouri wine. This relaxing spot sits on 160 green acres with rolling hills, gorgeous views, and even some trails for wandering if you like. A popular wedding venue, this picturesque winery is a great place to “wine down” and enjoy a relaxing repast, do a wine tasting, and take in the spectacular countryside views.

While it might be fun to watch the twisted tales told on Ozark, the reality is you’ll have a great time in this fun and friendly destination. We’ve touched on a few of the wonderful experiences available, but there are plenty more for you to discover on your own. Continue your adventure on our Ozark mountains road trip: Osage Beach to Eureka Hot Springs.

9 Must-Visit World War I Sites In Flanders

Flanders Fields and the town of Ypres in Belgium will always be associated with the events of World War I. For more than four years, battle after battle raged in this area. Today, you can tour Flanders Fields and visit many World War I sites within just a few miles of Ypres.

Before you go, you will want to know at least a little about the war in Flanders. In August of 1914, at the war’s beginning, the Germans invaded Belgium on their way to France. The Germans also wanted to capture and use Belgian ports like Antwerp. At Ypres, the German advance was stopped by soldiers from Belgium, Britain, and France. In the winter, the armies dug in, building trenches they would occupy for years. The few miles of land in Flanders changed hands over and over, and little headway was made by either side. Many died in the fighting and in the mud of the Ypres Salient. Disease ravaged the armies, and poison gas, first used by the Germans in 1915, added another layer of gruesome injury and death.

Today, Flanders Fields is peaceful farmland, but it is also full of cemeteries and memorials. Even now, more than 100 years after the war’s end, unexploded artillery sometimes comes up during plowing. And soldiers long buried in the land are still being found and returned to their families.

Here are nine memorable World War I sites you can see in one day in or near Ypres. They can be seen in any order. You can visit Ypres and the Menin Gate in the daytime, and then return for dinner and the Last Post, for example. If you stay longer than a day, you can also visit places farther out.

The town of Ypres in Belgium. — Sharon Odegaard

1. Ypres

The small town of Ypres is central to Flanders Fields. During World War I, Ypres was located within a few miles from the front as the fighting stagnated. Four major battles raged here in the Ypres Salient. Much of the town was destroyed.

A visit to Ypres is a must if you are touring Flanders Fields. You can eat here, shop here, stay in a nice hotel, and enjoy the town’s charming architecture without learning about any of its history. But once you discover what happened here during the war, you will see the area in a whole new light.

Since the war, the town’s buildings have been reconstructed in their original medieval style. Cloth Hall occupies the center of town. You can’t miss this tall, colorful building decorated with spires. Inside, you’ll find tourist information and a visitor center. The Yper Museum is here, offering interactive exhibits that cover 1,000 years of area history.

Another section of Cloth Hall houses the In Flanders Fields Museum, with its wealth of information about World War I in Flanders. You’ll see photos showing parts of Belgium that were totally destroyed during the conflict. One of the exhibits, Reconstructing Flanders Fields, is billed as “an ode to the resilience of forgotten men and women who cleared rubble and rebuilt their country after the First World War.”

Pro Tip: If you are in town for lunch or dinner, choose a patio table at De Trompet on the Market Square, next door to Cloth Hall. You’ll get a front-row seat to life in the busy town, and the salads and fish are delicious.

The Menin Gate at the entrance to Ypres. — Sharon Odegaard

2. Menin Gate And The Last Post

At the entrance to Ypres is the Menin Gate, a beautiful war memorial to the British troops who died here during World War I. Names line the walls — more than 54,000 of them. These soldiers remain lost in the fields more than 100 years later. They hailed from Australia, Canada, India, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

The gate, which existed before the war, was chosen for a memorial because hundreds of thousands of men passed through it on their way to the nearby battlefields.

Often, as farmers plow the fields and construction projects begin, the bodies of these soldiers are found. If a body is identified, the soldier is given a proper burial in a cemetery, and the name is then removed from this wall of the missing.

If possible, plan your time in Flanders Fields so that you can attend the Last Post under the arches of the Menin Gate. This ceremony takes place every evening at 8 p.m. The tradition started in 1928 and has continued every evening except during the time when the Germans occupied the town in World War II. Buglers from the Fire Brigade play, and families carry flags to honor the dead.

The Last Post bugle call is a song played by the British Army to mark the end of the day’s labors. At the Menin Gate, the music represents a final farewell to the fallen and signals their eternal rest. This ceremony of remembrance of those lost is short, but incredibly moving. The large crowd gathered each evening remains in total, respectful silence.

Be sure to arrive early for the ceremony. People stand on three sides of the gate, and the space fills up. Plan to be on your feet for a while, since there is no seating.

The Tyne Cot Cemetery in Belgium. — Sharon Odegaard

3. Tyne Cot Cemetery And Memorial

Located near the town of Passchendaele, the site of three major World War I battles, Tyne Cot Cemetery is a resting place for and memorial to the fallen soldiers from England, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. It’s telling that out of the 12,000 graves, about 8,000 are marked unknown. These battles were so brutal that many of the young men who died could not be identified.

Tyne Cot, which first housed a barn, marks the farthest point reached by British forces in Belgium until near the end of the war. After the armistice, fallen soldiers were brought here from nearby Passchendaele, Langemarck, and other battlefields.

The Tyne Cot Memorial borders the curving rows of gravestones to the north. You can walk inside this memorial and see the names of nearly 35,000 men from the United Kingdom and New Zealand who died in the Ypres Salient after August of 1917 and were never found.

The Hooge Crater Museum in Belgium. — Sharon Odegaard

4. Hooge Crater Museum

This area saw fierce fighting from the fall of 1914 to the spring of 1918. A mine blew a crater here during one of the battles. Shortly after the war, a cemetery, church, and schoolhouse were built at Hooge. Today, the church holds the Hooge Crater Museum, with its collections of uniforms and weaponry. Plenty of artillery shells decorate the outside. Inside are displays of gas masks and other World War I artifacts.

The large cafe in the former schoolhouse serves delicious local foods. Consider planning your day so that you can be here at lunchtime. Relax on the patio and enjoy a ploughman’s lunch of meat and cheese or toasted ham and cheese, all served with fresh vegetables. The ice cream is a treat, too.

The German bunker at Hill 60. — Sharon Odegaard

5. Hill 60

This area, the site of a notable battle of World War I, is preserved as it was during the war. The tunnels dug under Hill 60 were mined by Australians and blown up under enemy lines. The close proximity of the front lines is noted by the signs in the sidewalk. A German bunker also survives.

Australians took the Hill in June of 1917, Germans took it in April of 1918, and British and American troops took it back in September of 1918.

The Brooding Soldier statue in Belgium. — Sharon Odegaard

6. The Brooding Soldier

The Brooding Soldier looks down at you from atop a 33-foot granite column. Canadian troops held the line here in the face of the first poison chlorine gas attacks released by the Germans. More than 2,000 soldiers died. Notice that the memorialized soldier faces the direction from which the poison gas arrived.

The German Military Cemetery in Langemarck. — Sharon Odegaard

7. German Military Cemetery

Of course, thousands of German men died in Flanders, too, and many are buried in the lovely German Military Cemetery just north of Ypres in Langemarck. The cemetery is one of four German cemeteries in Flanders. Under the shade of tall trees near picturesque farmland, more than 44,000 German soldiers rest. Gravestones laid flat are inscribed with the names of those in each site. Most moving is the Comrades Grave, the common grave of almost 25,000 unknown men.

The field dressing station at Essex Farm. — Sharon Odegaard

8. Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station And Cemetery

Attached to Essex Farm, just outside Ypres, the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station and Cemetery is a poignant place to visit.

The grave of one of the youngest of the fallen is here, and for that reason this is the World War I cemetery most visited by schoolchildren. This young man, only 15 years old, should have been in school, not on the battlefield, and that resonates with students.

The medic John McCrae worked in the field dressing station in primitive concrete bunkers at the edge of the cemetery. He is the author of the famous poem “In Flanders Fields”:

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

McCrae did not survive the war.

Take time to enter the primitive bunkers. Imagine the challenge of treating severely wounded men in this dark, dank, and dirty place.

The Yorkshire Trench system near Ypres. — Sharon Odegaard

9. Yorkshire Trench

The Yorkshire Trench system outside of Ypres has been restored to its original dimensions and exact location. The ground lay undisturbed until the 1990s, when construction workers started digging. They discovered a trench system just below the surface. Fortunately, part of the line of trenches is preserved and open to visitors. It’s amazing to walk in the footsteps of the men who lived and fought here 100 years ago.

Hill 62 is another place where the trenches have been restored and can be visited.

What To Know Before You Go

You could rent a car to see these World War I sights, or you could ride a bicycle. If you want a guide to inform you of the battles (and keep you from getting lost on the winding farm roads), I can recommend Quasimodo Tours. The guide is a local who is very knowledgeable about the history of Flanders Fields. The tour comes with an option to stay for the Last Post in Ypres.

The beauty of Flanders Fields comes as a surprise, considering its gruesome history. But just off the road, around a corner, or at the edge of a farmer’s crops, you’ll find memories of World War I. This war changed the world. By touring Flanders Fields, you’ll learn how it also changed the lives of many individuals, known and unknown.

How I Discovered The Idyllic Town of Uvita, Costa Rica

In January 2018, I started what I thought was a career break. I booked a one-way ticket to Costa Rica. I planned to spend two weeks there, two weeks in Peru, and two weeks in Argentina. I booked all my travel and accommodations for my first two weeks in advance. Then I challenged myself to stop pre-planning since I wanted to see what “go with the flow” travel felt like.

I Stepped Outside My Comfort Zone

As luck, or fate, would have it, I ended up in Corcovado, a national park in the proverbial middle of nowhere when my pre-planning ran out. I was staying in a tent on a property with crappy Wi-Fi and a useless manager, trying to make my way to Samara (which I kept referring to as Samsara for some reason). I learned my only two options were an expensive flight or a dangerous-sounding overnight bus ride. I had a complete meltdown because I was alone and unable to make the travel plans I wanted. I contemplated giving up, returning to America, getting another job, and forgetting my idea of traveling the globe.

Once I finished feeling sorry for myself, I got inspired. Rather than try to get to Samara, I researched which cities were accessible from Drake Bay, the gateway to and from Corcovado. Opening to true flow and letting myself end up where I could, instead of attempting to control the destination, I came across the town of Uvita. What finalized my decision to go there happened when I went on Booking.com to book accommodation. The first hotel that popped up was called Samsara. I reserved it immediately. I took a boat from Corcovado to Drake Bay, then transferred to a bus that took me to Uvita.

I Started Seeing Signs

Intriguingly, I learned the definition of samsara is “the cycle of death and rebirth to which life in the material world is bound.” This resonated completely with my circumstances and made me shiver with the feeling that someone was watching over me. Uvita was not on my list of places to go in Costa Rica, but it ended up having great purpose for me.

Uvita is small. It has a supermarket, a few shops, and some casual restaurants. The Hotel Samsara is what truly made my stay there. Besides the excellent margaritas from Raul every night, I learned they had a jungle in their backyard that leads to a beach. I didn’t expect the jungle to be so lush. I felt lost in nature walking through it and happened upon a small stream.

A walk through the jungle in Uvita, Costa Rica. — Heather Markel

A movement caught my eye, so I stood still for a while. I thought I saw a creature run across the stream but didn’t believe that was possible. As I stared, a lizard dashed across the water, on its hind legs, standing up. I’m not religious, but seeing my first Jesus Christ lizard at this time felt hugely significant. I had done the seemingly impossible by quitting my job, then stepped outside my comfort zone to be standing there, at that very moment.

A cow in the jungle of Uvita. — Heather Markel

I continued my walk through the jungle and saw a cow. If you didn’t already know, I love cows. Finding one in a jungle was quite a sight! While I was surprised, she seemed to think it quite normal to munch on jungle vegetation. I continued walking and ended up on a beautiful, mostly empty, beach.

An angel pattern in the sand in Uvita. — Heather Markel

In the sand were various patterns left by some creature. One of them looked, to me, like an angel. Another cherished moment that made me feel coming here was no accident. I walked along the beach for what seemed like ages. I noted I was looking out at the Pacific Ocean, a rare experience for a native New Yorker.

Punta Uvita in Costa Rica. — Heather Markel

I stopped at a spot where the beach jutted out into the ocean. I learned this part of the beach is called Punta Uvita. It’s part of Ballena National Park. Ballena, in English, means “whale.” This name is very appropriate because, from above, the Punta Uvita looks like a whale’s tail!

A man jumping off of a waterfall in Uvita. — Heather Markel

I Trusted My Instincts And Accepted Help

In a previous article, I wrote about how to travel safely as a female solo traveler. My first lesson in travel safety happened in Uvita when I walked to the Uvita waterfall (Cataratas). I ended up alone on the last part of the road to it. A passerby said hello. I returned the greeting but felt anxiety about his intentions. I was alarmed when, after he passed, he called for my attention. With my spidey senses tingling, I took a few more steps away from him and turned around. He asked if I’d like to come with him to see his “special place.” Comedy aside, it was a scary moment being alone and imagining what this man would do if I went with him. His eyes were on the bulge of my iPhone in my pocket. I hastily declined and continued to the waterfall. Once there, I met a European couple and watched, awe-struck, as a man climbed up the rock to the side of the waterfall and then jumped off the top. The European couple offered me a ride back to my hotel. While I pride myself on being independent, I gratefully accepted their offer, realizing it would save me from another potential run-in with my “special place” guy.

The Alturas sanctuary in Uvita, Costa Rica. — Heather Markel

I Learned To Love Traveling With The Locals

The local bus in Uvita has official stops that aren’t always well marked and will also drop you off any place you want along the route. I was grateful to speak some Spanish — and really happy to have the Maps.me app, which gave me a general clue of where I was. Every ride I took, I’d tell the driver where I wanted to go and sit down. The ladies at the front of each bus would give me a heads up when my stop was coming, pull the stop signal for me, and tell me when to get off. This lovely gesture endeared me to local bus travel ever since.

I took the bus to Alturas Wildlife Park one day. It’s in the neighboring town of Dominical. The view and sanctuary are beautiful. I loved meeting the rescued wildlife and learning they had a chance of returning to nature. If you prefer more luxurious accommodation, you’ll find it here, as well as budget accommodation if you want to stay and volunteer.

Raccoon with a big rock. This was taken care of at the alturas wildlife sanctuary at Dominical — Jeroen Mikkers / Shutterstock.com

My trip to Uvita completely changed me as a traveler. Learning to use my resourcefulness and get comfortable with last-minute travel and local bus services gave me the courage to continue my journey. It was also the beginning of tangible experiences where I felt guided and began to trust myself more than ever before. I traded the American-style corporate vacation — two weeks of running to every tourist site possible — for longer stays that encourage the appreciation of cultures. I postponed my Peru and Argentina plans and spent five wonderful weeks all over Costa Rica.

Pro Tips

The best time to visit Uvita is between December and April, unless you like rain! Be aware that the Envision Festival happens here every year in February. Billed as an entrepreneurial experience, it tends to take over everything for a week. The hotels are booked up, tent accommodation is created on the festival grounds, and many of the attendees stay up all hours drinking, smoking weed, and playing music. If you don’t enjoy crowds and partying, I suggest avoiding Uvita during that week. Any other week, you’ll love it!

The easiest way to get to Uvita is by shuttle bus or regular bus. I found the shuttle buses more reliable and air-conditioned, but regular buses are cheaper. Interbus is the primary shuttle carrier. You can get to Uvita from most major cities in Costa Rica. You could also rent a car, but the roads aren’t always paved, which is why I preferred to let someone experienced do the driving.