5 Places In The Midwest To Learn About The Cold War

I served in the United States Air Force for more than eight years, so I’ve had the opportunity to see many parts of the world. I spent time in Germany (at the time, it was West Germany) and North Dakota. I loved both assignments. They each offered unique experiences, but they also presented challenges.

I served during the Cold War, when the United States and the Soviet Union were mortal enemies, each with nuclear missiles pointed at the other. It was a different time: We went about our business, but always with nuclear war as an underlying threat. Then, in 1989, the Berlin Wall came crashing down, and the Soviet Union and its Eastern Bloc allies (including East Germany and Poland) collapsed, ending the run of communism in Eastern Europe.

Today, the Cold War story — the story of the longest war in American history — is told at unique museums around the country, such as the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum near Omaha and Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, where Winston Churchill delivered a dramatic speech about the dangers of the Cold War.

Here are just a few places in the Midwest where you can learn more about this important time in our country’s history.

The Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile Historical Site. — Tim Trudell

1. Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site

Cooperstown, North Dakota

Two North Dakota military bases were assigned duties during the Cold War. The Grand Forks Air Force Base served numerous functions, while the Minot Air Force Base stored missiles. The Grand Forks missile field, which consisted of 15 launch sites with 10 missile silos each, ran the length of New Jersey — all the way from the Canadian border to just north of Valley City, North Dakota.

After the Cold War, the federal government sold most of these sites, but it kept one launch site (the Oscar Zero Launch Control Center), and one missile silo (the November 33 Missile Facility) to serve as historic attractions. These sites, now known as the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site, are located near the small town of Cooperstown, North Dakota, about 90 minutes southwest of Grand Forks.

I worked as a security controller at this location during my assignment. Responsible for controlling access to the sites and supervising the security patrols, I was part of a six-person team working 12-hour shifts. As you tour the facility, you’ll see the security office, as well as the living quarters and lounge area where the staff members (including a cook and facility manager) would relax during their downtime. Two launch officers worked 24-hour shifts several feet below ground in a secured bunker. They were responsible for launching missiles during war, and their bunker is the spot visitors are most curious to see. At the time, it was a secured area with restricted access. While the panels and lights might not seem exciting, they once served a very important purpose.

After touring the launch control center, you can visit the nearby missile silo. Visitors are even allowed to walk around the top of the silo! But don’t worry — the actual missile tube has been filled in with concrete.

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library And Museum. — Tim Trudell

2. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library And Museum

Independence, Missouri

President Harry S. Truman ended World War II by approving the detonation of two hydrogen bombs over Japanese cities. This ushered in a nuclear era for the world. Following the war, Germany was split in two, with West Germany considered a free country and East Germany part of the Eastern Bloc, controlled by the Soviet Union. Berlin, while located in East Germany, was itself split in two: The west side of the city was controlled by the United States, and the east side by the Soviets.

In 1948, the Soviets blocked entry into West Berlin in an effort to force the Allies to surrender the city. But President Truman organized an airlift to provide food and supplies to the city’s residents over a 15-month period, thus saving West Berlin in what was likely the first true conflict of the Cold War. In 1961, the Berlin Wall was built to separate East Berlin from West Berlin. It would remain there for 38 long years.

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri, provides an excellent exhibit on the Cold War and the Berlin Airlift.

The National Churchill Museum at Westminster College. — Tim Trudell

3. Westminster College

Fulton, Missouri

Invited to speak at Westminster College in the small town of Fulton, Missouri, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill asked President Truman to join him. During his visit in 1946, Churchill delivered an iconic speech in which he coined the term “Iron Curtain” to describe the Soviet Union’s ultimate plans to expand its role as the leader of the Eastern Bloc.

Today, the National Churchill Museum is located inside the church where he spoke. Open daily, the museum offers visitors a look at Churchill’s life, including his military career during World War I. The museum also features exhibits on life behind the Iron Curtain. A section of the Berlin Wall is located outside the church, along with a statue of Churchill delivering his speech.

The Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. — Tim Trudell

4. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Ashland, Nebraska

Located about 20 miles west of Omaha, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum near Ashland, Nebraska, celebrates the history of the nuclear-age military organization. From 1948 until its 1991 decommission, the Strategic Air Command (SAC) served as the nation’s primary strategic defense.

While several movies have been made about the organization, visiting the museum, which celebrates the legacy of the command, is special. There are more than 30 aircraft and missiles on display, and military and history buffs will enjoy seeing planes such as the Rockwell B-1 Lancer and the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance at the entrance.

Those aren’t the only planes you’ll see. The museum is home to one of the largest collections of aircraft from the Cold War era, and you’ll find yourself in awe of the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, also known as the BUFF (You’ll need to ask a docent about its full name. Spoiler alert: It’s not G-rated.); the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II; the General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark; the Lockheed U-2; and more. The museum’s collection includes a Soviet Mikoyan MiG-29, which was once recognized by a former Soviet military officer (or so I’ve been told).

The museum is also home to other artifacts and memorabilia related to the SAC era, including an exhibit honoring General Curtis E. LeMay, the father of the SAC. Other exhibits include World War II aircraft and capsules used by the American space program.

The National Museum Of The United States Air Force. — ChicagoPhotographer / Shutterstock

5. National Museum Of The United States Air Force

Dayton, Ohio

It would be easy to spend more than a day at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio — there are more than 360 aircraft and missiles on display. With exhibits in four large hangars, the museum is the largest aviation museum in the world, but it’s easy to navigate. You’ll learn about the Air Force and its more than 70 years of serving the country, from the early days of flight to the present day.

Visitors can also learn about the Air Force’s role in the Cold War. The Cold War gallery features more than 120 aircraft, weapons, and exhibits, including a Convair B-58 Hustler and a General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon cockpit, as well as displays on the SAC and the Berlin Wall.

The museum is open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, and it stays open until 8 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month.

When most people think of military museums, they think of ones related to World War I or World War II. Much of the 20th century focused on the Cold War, however, and its stories are being told at museums across the Midwest. If you have a military or history enthusiast in your family, they’ll appreciate visiting these sites.

Mackinac Island Weekend Getaway: The Best Things To See And Do

Mackinac Island, situated on Lake Huron and sandwiched between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, is a special place renowned for its natural beauty, storied history, and relaxed pace. This idyllic spot is a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle we’ve all unfortunately become accustomed to: Most of the island is a state park, and no cars are allowed — you must either ferry or fly in. Mackinac is truly perfect for a peaceful and restorative weekend visit.

Here are some of the very best things to see and experience when you’re “on island,” as the locals say.

Fort Holmes on Mackinac Island. — Cheri Alguire / Shutterstock

Explore Forts Mackinac And Holmes

To get a better feel for Mackinac’s military past, head to either or both of the island’s forts. Fort Holmes, first built on the highest point of the island in 1814 by the British, provided a lookout from which to spot approaching United States soldiers during the War of 1812. American forces claimed the wooden fort after the war, but it eventually fell into disrepair. It was renovated during the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s and is scheduled to be renovated again soon.

Fort Mackinac, also built by the British, is the older of the two military installations. It dates to the Revolutionary War, when the island was still a key part of the fur trade. Ownership of the fort flip-flopped between the Brits and Americans until after the War of 1812; it remained an active American military site until 1895. Today, you can stroll along the original stone ramparts. Interpreters in period attire are on hand to explain the significance of the site.

Both forts are within walking distance of many island accommodations.

Overlooking downtown Mackinac Island. — Michael Deemer / Shutterstock

Explore The Downtown Area

There’s something for everyone in the island’s charming downtown quarter, from sweet shops and boutiques (more on those in a bit!) to casual dining and bars. You’ll want to take at least a few hours to explore all the downtown district has to offer. There are also quite a few historic places of interest tucked into this area, including the Biddle House, a historic home-turned-museum that showcases what life was like on the island 200 years ago. It’s well worth a stop.

While you explore, you’ll notice a wide range of architectural styles. The island’s tourism bureau has put together a terrific free architectural guide for visitors to further enhance their walking tour.

Mackinac Island lilacs — Gary R Ennis Photos / Shutterstock.com

Stop To Smell The Lilacs

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Mackinac in June, you won’t miss the lilacs. Their sweet perfume fills the air across the island, and they are a symbol of this special place. They’re not native to the island but were brought here by some of the island’s first settlers, who planted them for good luck. These lovely residents — with their large, showy blossom clusters — are so beloved that they’re celebrated with a 10-day bash: the island’s Lilac Festival, which features family activities and, of course, guided walks through some of the most prolific lilac stands on Mackinac.

Take A Carriage Tour

To get a feel for the island in its entirety, consider a narrated carriage ride. There are several liveries downtown that can get you scheduled for an unforgettable tour of Mackinac’s southern half. A carriage tour is a great way to see the island’s historic highlights, and prices start at about $30 per person for an experience that lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes. Private tours may also be arranged; they start at $140 per hour for up to four people. This is a terrific option if you want to explore even more of Mackinac.

Many carriage companies also offer 24-hour horse-drawn taxi service during the busy summer season, since no motor vehicles are allowed on the island. Think of them as old-fashioned Ubers and Lyfts! There’s no hailing, so you’ll need to call in your request.

Arch Rock on Mackinac Island. — Gary Richard Ennis / Shutterstock

Admire The Natural Beauty By Bike Or Hike

If you’d rather see the island by bike, no worries! There are plenty of bike rental shops on the island that will be happy to accommodate you. And since the island is just 8 miles around, you can easily bike it in a single loop, stopping along the way to picnic and delight in some of its most beautiful spots. It’s the perfect active island outing.

Arch Rock, one of the most photographed places on Mackinac, is a limestone arch dramatically perched near the lakeshore not too far off the recreation trail. Sugar Loaf, another geological marvel, rises some seven stories from the ground. Legend has it that this is where the Great Spirit’s messenger lived; he became so angry when a young Native American had the gall to ask him for eternal life that he turned him into the stone now known as Sugar Loaf.

Also consider making time for Skull Cave. This small recess was thought to have served as a hiding spot for an English fur trader in the 1760s, but he discovered it was filled to the brim with bones. Today, it makes a terrific — if a bit creepy — selfie spot.

All of these spots can be reached easily by biking or hiking. The main lakeshore road is mostly flat and not too challenging. The best part? You’ll have the road to yourself. The island’s shoreline path is the only state highway in Michigan that’s 100 percent auto-free!

Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan — Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock.com

Discover The Set Of Somewhere In Time

The romantic movie Somewhere in Time was filmed on Mackinac and subsequently became a fan favorite. Although it was released 40 years ago, the cult classic, which starred Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour as star-crossed lovers, continues to be celebrated on the island. Many of its scenes were shot at the famed Grand Hotel, on the hotel’s grounds, and on its gorgeous front porch. Every year, the hotel hosts the movie’s fan club during its special Somewhere in Time Weekend, where guests dress in period costumes and can mingle with people who starred in the movie.

The Somewhere in Time Gazebo, also used during filming, overlooks downtown. The structure was built specifically for a particularly romantic and poignant scene in the movie. Head here for a terrific photo op.

Monarch Butterfly At The Butterfly House in Mackinac Island — Golden Ratio Photos / Shutterstock.com

Visit The Butterfly Conservatory

Mackinac Island is home to one of the country’s oldest butterfly houses. Established in 1991 by an island resident who added butterflies to his greenhouse, the Butterfly House has grown leaps and bounds since then. Today, visitors can see dozens of species — from the ever-popular monarch to its tropical cousins, blue clippers and morphos — in the 1,800-square-foot garden. Adult admission costs $12 and grants you unlimited access.

Eating On Mackinac Island

There’s no shortage of great places to eat on the island. Local favorite dishes include Yankee pot roast and whitefish (fresh, smoked, or in dip). You’ll find both at the Yankee Rebel Tavern downtown. Woods Restaurant is a bit farther afield, near the airport, and can be reached by horse-drawn carriage. Housed in a historic Tudor-style mansion, the restaurant offers entrees with a Bavarian flair. The Chuckwagon serves up hearty burgers and other diner fare, making it the perfect stop to fuel up either before or after your biking or hiking adventures.

No matter where you dine, save room for dessert. As you’ll see, the island’s favorite dessert is decadent, old-fashioned fudge, which is sold at a number of stores in the downtown district.

Shopping On Mackinac Island

There are many small, charming shops in Mackinac’s downtown area. The Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio features locally crafted creations that depict the natural beauty of the island in a whole host of media. Little Luxuries of Mackinac offers made-in-Michigan creations including candles, fragrances, and other gorgeous whimsies. Make sure you buy some of the island’s iconic fudge, and keep an eye out for lilac-scented perfumes and soaps — a terrific reminder of your time spent here.

Where To Stay On Mackinac Island

The historic Grand Hotel is the island’s best-known resort, and for good reason. Since 1887, it has welcomed vacationers from all over the upper Midwest looking to escape the summer’s heat. With its many activities, dining options, and stunning lake views, it’s a great fit for a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a girlfriends’ getaway.

The Inn at Stonecliffe offers luxe rooms in its original mansion house as well as the Summer House Suites, which boast beautiful views.

Additionally, there are a whole host of bed and breakfasts on the island, plus cottages and whole-home rentals available on homesharing sites.

When you’re on Mackinac Island, make the effort to unplug and unwind. This is a place made magical by its lack of cars and bustle. Try to make space for some of that magic in your vacation.

Also keep in mind that winters on Lake Huron can be particularly harsh, and for that reason, most attractions are only open from May through October.

How To Spend A Day In Santa Monica

Whether or not you’ve been to Santa Monica, you’ve likely seen the city in countless movies and television shows. More than one romantic scene has been filmed on the beach with the lights of the Santa Monica Pier in the background, and more than one adrenaline-fueled chase scene has taken place along The Strand. When people think of Southern California, images of this iconic beach town come to mind.

Santa Monica is a magnet for both Angelenos and international visitors because it’s chock-full of fun, creative, and quirky sights. And for foodies, Santa Monica is a must-visit, since it’s long been home to many of the Los Angeles area’s best restaurants.

Here’s how to spend a day in gorgeous Santa Monica.

The Santa Monica Pier in California. — View Apart / Shutterstock

Start At The Santa Monica Pier

First-time visitors should definitely start at the Santa Monica Pier. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s one of Southern California’s best-loved places. It’s also a lively and colorful spot that offers great ocean views.

Getting to the pier is easy: Just drive down Santa Monica Boulevard until it ends. Be prepared to walk a bit, as the majority of parking is in lots for the nearby beaches. If you’re lucky enough to nab a space on the street, be sure to feed the meter and return before it runs out — tickets are pricey in this city.

Start your day with a photo at the End of the Trail sign that celebrates one of the most famous road trips in the United States — Route 66. Though not its official end, Santa Monica Pier is considered the “spiritual end” of the iconic route. The official end, once located at 7th and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles, was later moved to Highway 1 and Olympic Boulevard in Santa Monica.

If you enjoy amusement parks, then head to Pacific Park and check out its 12 rides, including a Ferris wheel and roller-coaster. Or consider visiting the Heal the Bay Aquarium to see 100 species of local marine life. Along the way, you can play games in the arcade or grab a snack at one of the many food vendors along the pier.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, head to the Trapeze School New York, where you can learn to fly above the pier like a circus performer. If that sounds a bit intimidating, the company also offers trampoline classes for beginners.

The Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. — Tero Vesalainen / Shutterstock

Stroll Along Third Street Promenade

Just east of the pier, Third Street Promenade is a three-block pedestrian zone lined with dozens of shops and restaurants. But the real attractions here are the street performers. These aren’t your everyday guitarists and drummers — they’re high-energy acrobatic acts featuring song and dance that attract large and enthusiastic crowds. Some of the performances can be lengthy, and on a weekend you could spend an hour or two appreciating the acts. If you enjoyed a performance, then consider tipping at the end.

Third Street Promenade is also home to the Santa Monica History Museum and dozens of colorful street murals. This short stretch of three blocks could keep you busy all day!

Santa Monica Beach in California. — Galovtsik Gabor / Shutterstock

Hit The Beach

Santa Monica is located along 3.5 miles of oceanfront, so it’s the ideal place to visit if you want to soak up the sun. The two closest beaches are Santa Monica State Beach and Will Rogers State Beach. Both offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and volleyball. Public parking is available at adjacent lots. In the summer, get here early if you’re hoping to grab a space.

Since Santa Monica boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, there are very few bad days to go to the beach. Summer is probably a better time to visit if you’re hoping to work on your tan, but even during the winter, a walk or run along the beach will be enjoyable.

Visit The Museum Of Flying

Located north of the Santa Monica Airport, the Museum of Flying features historic aircraft, memorabilia from the Douglas Aircraft Company, and even a MaxFlight simulator. Aviation fanatics — and kids — will appreciate the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a plane and pretend to fly. The museum is small, so it won’t take long to explore, but it’s a fun option for visitors traveling with grandkids. The museum occasionally closes for special events, so be sure to check the website before visiting.

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail in Santa Monica. — Radoslaw Lecyk / Shutterstock

Bike Along The Strand

A fantastic way to see several Southern California beach towns, including Santa Monica, is to bike along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. The section of trail passing through Santa Monica is commonly referred to as The Strand. This 22-mile paved path starts north of the city at Will Rogers State Beach and ends south of the city at Torrance State Beach. Since the path runs through several busy beach towns, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for a meal or a snack.

If you’re a visitor and need a bike, there are rentals available. Santa Monica Bike Rentals offers bicycles for men, women, and children. It also offers bike trailers or seats for young children.

Check Out The Farnam House

For 13 years, Aziz and Louise Farnam have spent their time decorating every square inch of their home with mosaic tiles. The Farnam House is now one of the most colorful homes in the U.S. Look closely, and you’ll see fish, a green macaw, a unicorn, and Shamu, the famous orca from SeaWorld.

At times the house has been a point of contention, but most people have come to appreciate the hard work it took to gather the materials and painstakingly apply them to walls, walkways, and even the front door. Visitors are welcome to take photos, but remember that this is a residential neighborhood.

Surfers on Venice Beach in Santa Monica with pier in background — Oscity / Shutterstock.com

Learn To Surf Or Paddleboard

If you’ve always wondered what it’s like to ride the waves, then maybe it’s time to learn to surf. Santa Monica has long been a favorite surfing spot. The three most popular places to surf are the Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica State Beach, and Bay Street.

Wavehuggers offers 2-hour lessons for adults and children that include all equipment. Santa Monica Surf School offers small-group lessons that include a GoPro video as a souvenir.

A calmer and more laid-back alternative to surfing is paddleboarding. Learn To Surf LA offers paddleboard rentals and lessons.

Head To The Santa Monica Stairs

If you are in need of a great outdoor workout, then the Santa Monica Stairs are for you. These two sets of stairs — one cement and one wood — attract hundreds of fitness enthusiasts every day, and even more on weekends. The cement stairs offer 199 steps, and the wood ones offer 170. Locals often bring jump ropes or exercise bands to round out their workouts. You can find these famous stairs on Google Maps, but be sure to park in a non-permitted space.

Eating In Santa Monica

In order to truly appreciate the Santa Monica dining scene, you’ll have to move here. Even locals have a hard time keeping up with all the new restaurant offerings featured in the foodie publications. But there are a few classics to consider to make your day perfect.

Cassia, located in a historic art deco building, offers Southeast Asian cuisine. Food critics around the country rave about this place. I recommend the chickpea curry, beef rendang, and kaya toast.

For comfort food, head to Birdie G’s, where you can order dishes like noodle kugel and spicy Italian ravioli. This place earns praise from food critics and diners alike. In warmer weather, opt to sit outside on the patio.

For something quick and casual, try Huckleberry, a popular bakery and cafe. Excellent savory dishes include the fried egg sandwich and chilaquiles, but don’t leave without ordering one of the famous cinnamon rolls.

If you are having a hard time deciding what to eat, then SocialEats is your best bet. This place describes itself as a food discovery platform. Whether you’re looking for fried chicken, Spanish tapas, or Japanese bento boxes, you’ll find it here.

Shopping In Santa Monica

There are two great shopping destinations in Santa Monica: Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place. Fortunately, they are located next to each other, making your shopping experience even easier.

After you’ve watched a few street performances on Third Street Promenade, check out the shops. You’ll find many national chains, including Adidas, Barnes & Noble, and Apple. A few international stores have moved in recently, including Muji and Superdry.

The promenade ends at Santa Monica Place, a large shopping mall with department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. You’ll also find plenty of smaller boutiques, like Lorna Jane, Tory Burch, and Free People.

If you happen to be in town on Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday, don’t miss the Santa Monica Farmers Markets. These are widely considered to be the best farmers markets in Southern California, and they’re where many of the area’s chefs do their shopping. If you can’t take home fresh produce, consider purchasing local honey, nuts, or bath products.

Planning a trip to Los Angeles? Don’t miss the crowded city’s hidden gems.

Celebrate Women’s History On These 5 Incredible Bike Trails

“Let me tell you what I think of bicycling,” said Susan B. Anthony. “I think it has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world.”

You might not think of bikes as instruments of social change, but according to the National Women’s History Museum, bicycles had a “revolutionary impact” on the women’s movement in the early 1900s, giving freedom to women who formerly had to rely on men for transportation. Bicycling even transformed the way women dressed, giving rise to easy-to-move-in “bloomers” (divided skirts) that replaced the restrictive corsets and bustles of the 1800s.

Suffragist leader Elizabeth Cady Stanton proclaimed, “The bicycle will inspire women with more courage, self-respect, self-reliance.” Who knew two wheels could make such an impact?

In honor of Women’s History Month in March, pedal to some of the highlights of the women’s movement on these bike trails near America’s top historic sites celebrating female achievements.

1. San Diego River Bikeway, San Diego, California

Set your sights on the 20-mile river path running from Mission Valley to Ocean Beach. Closed to auto traffic, it’s one of the safest bike trails in San Diego. It’s suitable for riders of all levels, and you can pedal for as long or as short as you’d like.

It’s about a 15-minute ride from the trail’s midpoint to the Women’s Museum of California. Established in 1983, the museum offers exhibits that bring untold stories of extraordinary women to light. Check out the Marching Towards Empowerment exhibit that follows the journey to enfranchisement from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The Power of the Ballot Box exhibit celebrates the 100th anniversary of women winning the right to vote.

2. Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, Seneca Falls, New York

Hop on your bike at the National Women’s Hall of Fame and follow the 19-mile Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway to Cayuga Lake, the route a group of women’s rights activists pedaled to honor the 19th amendment a few years back. If 19 miles is too long a ride, you can take a quick loop around the 6.9-acre Women’s Rights National Historical Park or just focus on the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway’s 8.5-mile Black Diamond Trail. The Black Diamond Trail can be combined with the 5.5-mile Cayuga Waterfront Trail if you’d like to ride from Ithaca, New York, to Taughannock Falls State Park.

Seneca Falls, New York, was the location of the first women’s rights convention and was instrumental in the movement that led to women’s suffrage in 1920. Today, you can visit the National Women’s Hall of Fame, which honors bold women like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who fought for women’s equality; Wesleyan Chapel, the site of the convention; and the Women’s Rights National Historical Park, which connects to New York State’s Women’s Heritage Trail, a route that links a string of other important sites around the state, including the 32-acre Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Auburn, New York.

3. Potomac Heritage Trail, Washington, D.C.

The 10-mile Potomac Heritage Trail winds past many historic sites in the nation’s capital, including numerous museums covering women’s history. The nearly flat city route offers plenty of paved, car-free space along the Potomac River, making it easy for anyone to pedal a section of this trail.

The capital is the perfect place to learn about women’s contributions to the country. The National Archives houses letters, photographs, and films highlighting women’s achievements. You can learn even more at the Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, all of which commemorate and celebrate the vital role women have played in American history.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. — EQRoy / Shutterstock

4. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, Maryland

Harriet Tubman led her passengers on the Underground Railroad through Maryland and across the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay, now connected in a historical trail known as the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. The byway connects a number of railroad sites in Dorchester and Caroline Counties, and contains both flat, quiet roads for leisurely pedaling as well as off-road areas for more adventurous mountain bikers.

Maryland is where Harriet Tubman was born, and it’s also home to the houses, farms, and churches where she stopped while bravely bringing family members and friends to freedom — remarkably never losing a single passenger. Be sure to visit the Harriet Tubman Museum in Cambridge, Maryland, where docents share emotional stories about Tubman’s life and work.

Trinity Trail in Fort Worth, Texas — Megan McHatten / Shutterstock.com

5. Trinity Trails, Fort Worth, Texas

Although Fort Worth is usually associated with rodeos and horses, there are plenty of places to pedal around the city. To access the historical treasures of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, bike the Trinity Trails, 40 miles of easy paved trails that run through central Fort Worth to other smaller trails throughout the city. One popular trailhead runs through the verdant Fort Worth Botanic Garden, just around the corner from the National Cowgirl Museum.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is the only museum in the country — and in the world, for that matter — that’s dedicated to the women of the American West. But cowgirls and ranchers aren’t the only ones highlighted here (although the museum does a great job honoring those daring women). Artists, writers, and musicians — everyone from Laura Ingalls Wilder to Georgia O’Keefe to Patsy Cline — are celebrated for “exemplifying the spirit of the West.”

8 Reasons Why Clerkenwell Is London’s Best Bargain

Today, Clerkenwell is one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods, but back in the 12th century, it was decidedly spartan in nature. That’s because it was founded as a monastic hamlet. However, only a few traces of that devout community remain. That’s due in part to Clerkenwell’s more recent history as a hot spot for breweries and distilleries, which led to an employment boom and inevitable decline. Clerkenwell was home to the slums of Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist. Thankfully, conditions in this underrated London neighborhood have greatly improved since Dickens’s day, and Clerkenwell is a fantastic destination for history lovers, pub-goers, and bargain travelers.

Clerkenwell is located in the northeastern corner of central London. Most of the main sights can be reached from the Farringdon tube station, which is just one stop away from King’s Cross station and rail terminal. It’s also next door to Bloomsbury, famed for its connection to Britain’s most prominent writers, including Virginia Woolf. There’s a lot going on here!

Here are eight reasons why Clerkenwell is London’s best bargain.

London Charterhouse, a historic complex of buildings in Smithfield, London — London Charterhouse (Photo Credit: Alla Tsyganova / Shutterstock.com)

1. You Can Tour An Almshouse Built On Top Of A Graveyard

It’s not every travel article that begins by imploring visitors to check out a graveyard, but I think you’ll agree that the Charterhouse isn’t a spot to miss — and neither is it your average burial site.

Once a 14th-century Carthusian monastery, the Charterhouse was built around the communal grave of thousands who died during the Black Death of 1349. For a time, the buildings housed some of the most expensive and exclusive schools in Britain. Today, the campus is an almshouse, providing low-income pensioners with a place to live and a strong, supportive community.

You can explore the legacy of these ghosts and scholars by popping in to join the community at a chapel service — or otherwise, you could explore the museum for free. Themed tours (if you love gardens or architecture, you won’t want to miss them) should be booked in advance and cost about £15.

sign pointing people to the direction of the historic St. Bartholomew the Great church in the City of London — chrisdorney / Shutterstock.com

2. You Can Visit The Norman Church Where Benjamin Franklin Once Worked

The church of Saint Bartholomew the Great dates to the 12th century. It’s a rare example of a Norman building, complete with a 13th-century arch. It’s worth seeking out just to check out the pretty courtyard, which is a snug little spot to enjoy your coffee. However, you’ll also want to visit the Lady Chapel, which is where Benjamin Franklin apprenticed as a printer. Note that this isn’t just a historic site — Saint Bartholomew is London’s oldest parish church, and it has an active congregation.

Admission costs £5, but attending a worship service is free — and that includes the Thursday evening Evensong (musical service) followed by bangers and mash plus beer at a cash bar.

3. You’ll See The Square That Saved The World

Have you ever done first-aid training with Saint John Ambulance? You can thank Clerkenwell for that! Saint John’s Square marks the site of the 12th-century Priory of Saint John. The priory was the former seat of the Knights Hospitaller, an order founded in 1113 to provide medical care to those wounded in the Crusades. Over the centuries, the organization evolved into the British Order of Saint John and eventually into a global organization offering first-aid training, community education, and volunteer opportunities.

Visitors can browse the small Museum of the Order of Saint John that sits at the entrance of the square at no cost. Guided tours (suggested donation: £5) offer a special behind-the-scenes look at rooms normally closed to the public.

4. The Local Walking Tour Is A Real Bargain

The highly respected London Walks organization is famous for offering both general-interest walking tours of London as well as tours focused on specific neighborhoods. The London’s Secret Village tour really reveals Clerkenwell’s character. According to the company, the tour focuses on “mystery plays and plague pits; riots and rookeries; bodysnatching and bombing; jousting and jesters; bloodshed and burnings; monks, murder, and medicine.” It also covers many of the attractions featured in this article. Best of all, it only costs £10 (£8 for seniors), making it one of the best deals in town.

Solo female travelers will appreciate that all London Walks programs start at a busy subway station and that the London’s Secret Village tour takes place both on Monday at 2:30 p.m. and periodically as an evening pub walk. It’s a relaxed, safe, and congenial way to explore.

The Jerusalem Tavern on Britton Street, Clerkenwell — John Longley / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

5. You Can Sip Local Brews At An Old-Time Pub

The Jerusalem Tavern on Britton Street is an outpost of the independent Saint Peter’s Brewery in Suffolk. Offering a mix of traditional beers and funky seasonal offerings, the tavern dates to 1720 and is supremely cozy. There’s a good selection of affordable pub grub available at lunch every day and at dinner on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Toasted sandwiches, homemade sausage rolls, and hearty salads are popular offerings. Keep an eye out for the cheese platter for one — three varieties of cheese plus a baguette — which only costs £9.

6. You Can Enjoy A Sustainable Feast For Less

The Clerkenwell Kitchen, one of the most beloved restaurants in the neighborhood, is all about sustainable food, and local, organic ingredients dominate the menu. Simple breakfast items like yogurt with seasonal fruit and granola, scrambled eggs on toast, and porridge with honey range from £4 to £5. Most lunch items ring in at £14 or less, including the pheasant salad with walnuts and pomegranate and the leek-and-cheddar tart with coleslaw and a salad of celeriac and Jerusalem artichokes. You’ll also find lattes with oat milk and tasty baked goods. This is one of London’s best values, and it’s worth every penny.

7. The Accommodations Focus On Value

Thanks to the university residences, such as those at the London School of Economics’ Rosebery Hall, anyone visiting Clerkenwell in summer or during the winter holiday can stay in the empty student dorms. They come with quiet halls, private rooms, a host of nearby amenities, and a price range of £50 (for singles with a shared bathroom) to £180 (for family-friendly two-bedroom apartments).

However, the real treat in this neighborhood is Goodenough College, on the border of Clerkenwell and Bloomsbury. Goodenough College is an educational charity, and it runs The Goodenough on Mecklenburgh Square, a four-star hotel. Guests can take advantage of all the college’s amenities, including dining, lectures, and sporting events. But the rooms are anything but student dorms. They’re packed with all the amenities of a hotel, but with the style of a cozy inn. Note that the single room is a small room with just one twin bed — a great deal for solo travelers. However, the superior single room has a touch more space and a queen-size bed. Don’t be afraid to do a bit of bargain hunting. Often it’s less expensive to book with a third party than with the college itself.

8. The Shopping Is Fun And Authentic

While Clerkenwell is steeped in British history, there is a decidedly continental flair at the Exmouth Market. This pedestrian-friendly street is home to cute little cafes complete with small tables and chairs set up on the sidewalks, fun boutiques, florist shops, hairdressers, and even bike shops. The food is absolutely fantastic, with independent coffee shops, bakeries, and cafes serving up diverse flavors.

London bound? Don’t miss these 10 free museums in the city. And when you’re ready for a break from the hustle and bustle, consider one of these eight amazing day trips from London.

5 Unique Hotel Stays In New Orleans

New Orleans has a long and interesting past, influenced first by the French and then by the Spanish before the area was sold to the United States in 1803. European architectural elements like French doors and Spanish galleries (wide balconies with intricate railings) can be seen throughout the city. It’s no surprise that a place with so much history and character has accommodations with just as much personality.

Here are just a few of the city’s unique hotels.

1. Selina Catahoula Hotel

Located in the Central Business District, the Selina Catahoula Hotel is within walking distance of many of New Orleans’s top attractions. You can wander around the nearby French Quarter, catch a Saints game at the Superdome, or take the streetcar to the Garden District.

The Creole-style building was constructed in 1845 and recently restored. The 35 rooms — each one different from the next — are a mix of contemporary and historic: minimalist and tasteful with exposed brick, high ceilings, and original windows. Choose from the Guest Room, perfect for adventurous couples who don’t need extra frills; the luxurious Master Bedroom; and the Catahoula Flat, complete with a kitchen and a washer and dryer.

This hotel is all about the details. In addition to a comfy Casper mattress, each room boasts a rainfall showerhead, a 32-inch television, and AVEDA products for maximum relaxation after a long day spent exploring.

Whether you’re wanting to put your feet up or explore the NOLA nightlife, the hotel’s Piscobar and rooftop are a great place to start or end your evening. The in-house bar specializes in innovative cocktails made from Peru’s national spirit, pisco.

Hotel Monteleone exterior in New Orleans — Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

2. Hotel Monteleone

A French Quarter classic, Hotel Monteleone is located on Royal Street, just steps away from art galleries, souvenir shops, and Bourbon Street.

Constructed in the 1800s with ornate Baroque elements, this hotel is truly one of a kind. Initially a 64-room hotel, the building has expanded to include 600 hotel rooms plus ballrooms, dining rooms, and cocktail lounges. The historic structure boasts rooms as intricately decorated as the exterior.

Known for attracting writers and authors, Hotel Monteleone offers several Literary Suites. These suites are named for the hotel’s most famous patrons, including Truman Capote, William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Eudora Welty, and Ernest Hemingway.

When you’ve checked in to the Hotel Monteleone, a stop at the first-floor Carousel Bar is a must. The bar rotates, like an actual merry-go-round, but instead of horses, you get to ride on one of the bar stools (if you’re lucky enough to get a spot!). Order the Vieux Carre, which, rumor has it, was invented at Hotel Monteleone.

If you can’t get enough of the French Quarter, check out the best hotels in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

The Pontchartrain Hotel entrance in New Orleans — Elliott Cowand Jr / Shutterstock.com

3. Pontchartrain Hotel

Where else can you say that you stayed at the hotel where Tennessee Williams wrote A Streetcar Named Desire?

Consistently voted one of the best hotels in the nation by travel media outlets, the Garden District’s Pontchartrain Hotel is elegant, historic, and timeless. Initially erected as an apartment building in 1927, by 2016, the building was in need of a facelift. The rooms, restored to their original glory, still have the same European feel as they did when the apartment building was converted into a hotel in the 1940s.

The guest rooms are outfitted with antiques, print drapes, and sofas. The hotel’s cream-of-the-crop suite features two guest rooms with king-size beds plus a living room that includes an entertainment area, desk, dining table, and — naturally — a bar.

In addition to the 100+ renovated rooms, the hotel features dining and entertainment areas like Hot Tin Bar — a nod to Williams’s play Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The dimly lit bar offers strong cocktails and an outdoor balcony boasting skyline views.

4. Bienville House Hotel

Another historic hotel built in the 1800s, Bienville House Hotel is also a unique option. You can feel the charm as soon as you enter the lobby, furnished with plush couches, embellished lamps, and a large chandelier.

Although it’s nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the hotel’s 80 rooms and amenities are an escape from the chaos. Relax after a long day in the Crescent City in the leafy, secluded courtyard, where a pool welcomes visitors to cool off in its salty waters.

The Sundeck Room, the most notable guest room, is furnished with a luxurious mahogany bed and French-style finishes. Its main feature is the gorgeous outdoor sundeck with patio chairs and a table perfect for enjoying your morning coffee. If you don’t want to make your own brew, a free hot breakfast of coffee, eggs, and locally made pastries is served every morning in the lobby.

5. Henry Howard Hotel

A block away from the mansion-lined Saint Charles Avenue, the Henry Howard Hotel was designed by the architect Henry Howard himself. Like many New Orleans buildings, it started off as one thing and was turned into another: Once a townhouse, the hotel now features 18 guest rooms, a parlor, a large front porch, and a private courtyard.

From the Corinthian columns and iron galleries outside to the patterned wallpaper inside, gorgeous details abound. Furniture designed for the hotel plus art by local masters will leave you inspired.

If you decide to stay at the Henry Howard, you can still enjoy the city view from Pontchartrain Hotel’s Hot Tin Bar, which is just a 2-minute walk away. It’s also a prime location for walking through the Garden District, where each historic home is better than the next. (You might even spot some of its famous residents, like Sandra Bullock, John Goodman, or the Manning family).

Whether you decide to stay at one of these five hotels or not, you won’t be at a loss for unique spots to visit in New Orleans. The city has survived 300 years of power transfers and natural disasters, and all of its old buildings have secrets to share.

Headed to New Orleans? Check out these eight little-known attractions in the city. And if you want to hear some great jazz music while you’re there, be sure to stop by some of these venues.