The Best Places To Fly Fish In Arkansas

Arkansas is home to some of the hottest fly fishing in the United States. Several of the major rivers include multiple locations that are ripe for top-notch trout fishing. The best spots have a cool water temperature and lots of room to cast a line.

Many of the spots in our guide are wide enough for boats, which is great if you’d rather not have to find the right mix of depth and distance from shore for wading. Whether you’re a resident fisherman or traveling to the state specifically for fishing, this guide on where to find the best fly fishing locations in all of Arkansas is for you.

The dam at Bull Shoals. — Jason Hunter / Flickr

Below Bull Shoals Dam On The White River

This location just south of Bull Shoals has a reputation for being one of the best spots in the state for catching trout on a fly rod. The White River has several excellent locations for fly fishing, however, the real action is just below the dam. Prior to 2011, water levels could fluctuate, however steps were taken to regulate the water temperature and depth for consistency. Some of the best fishing can be found right below the dam and favorable conditions last for dozens of miles. It’s one of just a few rare areas where you can catch a rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and cutthroat all in the same location.

If you’re looking to do some fishing on the White River below the dam, there are several accommodation options that will allow you to stay as close as possible to the fishing action. Anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime fishing opportunity should book a reservation at the White River Inn, which is an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing lodge. The best thing about this property is that it’s nestled right on the river. Of course, there are other standard lodging options available up and down the river as well.

Dry Run Creek On The North Fork River (For Anglers Under 16)

This prime Arkansas fly fishing location is also on the North Fork River, however, it’s roughly three and a half hours south of Norfork Dam, so unless you plan on doing a bit of driving on your trip, you won’t hit both spots. This stretch of water is strictly catch and release and anglers must be under the age of 16. If anyone on your adventure is young and learning to fly fish, this is an excellent opportunity and a wonderful confidence booster.

Norfork Lake in Arkansas. — Bohn and Reis / Shutterstock

Below The Norfork Dam At Norfork Lake

There’s something about dams and fly fishing for trout that make a perfect combination. Much like Bull Shoals Dam, here you’ll be able to catch the four most sought-after trout species, aside from steelhead. One of the best ways to approach the river below the dam from a fishing perspective is to bring a boat and float down the river for a little over four miles before you reach the town of Norfork. However, there are a few entry points for wading fly fishermen, too.

Those near the Norfork Dam have incredible trout fishing opportunities. Anyone traveling to the area has several choices for accomodations near the trout-rich waters. If you’re looking for a fishing-specific destination, Gene’s Fishing Resort in Salesville is hard to beat. It’s situated directly on the river and offers boat rentals for unbeatable fly fishing. Those opting for waders should check dam fishing forecasts to ensure the conditions will be safe as the dam sometimes releases incredible amounts of water to generate power.

Little Missouri River

This spot is perfect if you’re looking to catch some great fly fishing but aren’t looking to make a full fishing vacation out of your trip. You’ll find incredible smallmouth, walleye, and stocked rainbow trout-catching opportunities up and downstream of Lake Greeson. Whether you’re planning a float or dusting off the waders, you’re going to find easy access points and exciting fishing all year long. Many of the access points include picnic areas for a relaxing day by the river. You can reach the dam by following the lake from Daisy or heading north of Murfreesboro.

Below Blakely Dam

The Ouachita River has several dams, all of which make for excellent fishing in the waters below. One of the most popular is Blakely Dam. Fall through early spring are the best times for trout fishing on the river. It’s conveniently located just outside of Hot Springs. There are several access points for those looking to walk in with waders. Easy boat access makes drifting downstream just as easy.

Lake Hamilton

Lake Hamilton is also conveniently located near Hot Springs. It’s more geared toward bass fishing, so don’t expect to land bucket-loads of trout here. That being said, the striper fishing is some of the best in the state. If you plan on staying in the area for a few days and switching between Lake Hamilton and Blakely Dam, you’ll need to remember to outfit yourself with different gear. Striped bass typically require heavier rods and sinking line is essential since the bass are found deeper in the water.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake thanks to easy boat access points and handicap accessible piers. In addition to striped bass, you can catch several species of fish including crappie and largemouth bass. Thanks to the deep water and wide range of species, those in your party who choose to spin fish will also be able to enjoy themselves on the water.

Greers Ferry Dam

Situated just north of Heber Springs, Greers Ferry Dam blocks off the Little Red River to form Greers Ferry Lake. There are recreational areas above and below the dam for easy access and enjoyable fishing opportunities. It’s less renowned than the White River and North Fork River, allowing fly fishermen to beat the crowds during peak fishing season.

One of the best ways to take advantage of the quiet atmosphere is to stay at Lindsey’s Resort, which is near the water and boasts wonderful amenities. This fishing resort offers everything you’d expect including boat rentals and guided fly fishing excursions.

Spring River

If you stay up to date on the Arkansas fly fishing scene, you’ve likely heard of Spring River. It went under-appreciated for years thanks to the wide range of world-class trout fishing in the state, however, the crowds have left fishermen searching for quieter spots. While Spring River isn’t as quiet as it once was, this river is fed by Mammoth Spring, which means unlike a lake-fed river, the water is typically a chilly 58 degrees — perfect for trout fishing. You can count on Spring River to deliver excellent fishing conditions every day of the year.

The head of Mammoth Spring is a bit remote, so consider making lodging reservations to maximize fishing opportunities. Riverside Resort is a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts looking for a nice weekend of trout fishing.

Bear Creek Lake

Bear Creek Lake is a paradise for any fly fisherman targeting bluegill. Bear Creek boasts 15 miles of shoreline and lots of shallow water for wading. Access to the lake is a short drive southeast of Marianna. Once you arrive, aim for the sloped banks, which are prime breeding grounds for bluegill. Before you know it, you’ll be having an action-packed day. What makes the spot more exciting is the fact that there is a recreational area and campground right on the water, maximizing the time you have fishing and reducing your travel time to a short walk.

Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake near Rogers offers a quiet trout fishing opportunity for anyone who doesn’t require the excitement of fly fishing on a river. Trout were recently introduced after warm water species began to struggle in the lake. The results were wildly successful and each year sees an increase in the lake’s trout population.

Like many of the popular Arkansas fly fishing locations on our list, fishing-focused lodging is readily available here. Both lodging and guide services are available from Beaver Lakefront Cabins. You can also enjoy the views or fish at your own pace with a boat rental. Whether you’re looking to relax or simply want to maximize your time casting a line, Beaver Lakefront Cabins is a great choice.

No matter where you decide to venture in Arkansas, odds are you’re not very far from some of the country’s best fishing locations. With a plethora of species and beautiful waterbodies, fly fishing in Arkansas is as easy as closing your eyes and placing your finger somewhere on the state map. If you’re a fly fishing enthusiast who hasn’t had the opportunity to fish Arkansas’s waters yet, be sure to add it to your bucket list.

How To See Vietnam’s Beautiful Golden Bridge

Two giant stone-looking hands, aged, weathered, and ancient looking, lift a glistening bridge that sparkles in the sun as though made of pure gold.

Cau Vang, which means gold bridge, near Da Nang in central Vietnam was conceived by architects from the TA Corporation for Sun World, which owns Ba Na Hills Resort. The bridge is in the Thien Gardens, a part of the resort.

The resort has been around since 1919, but these giant fiberglass and mesh hands and the stunning bridge they hold debuted in June 2018, when the attraction opened to the public. Cau Vang became an instant success and started drawing tourists from all over the world.

The bridge is meant to give pedestrians the feeling of walking along a golden thread stretched out in the hands of the gods. Wedding parties have gone there for stunning photos, honeymooners stroll along it in newly wedded bliss, and families thrill over the unique visuals of the bridge, the hands, and the beautiful surroundings.

Investors put about $2 billion into enticing tourists to the area to see this stunning bridge, and though they haven’t made the money back yet, it certainly has done its job of drawing more visitors to the area than ever before.

The Golden Bridge in Vietnam. — Hien Phung Thu / Shutterstock

Where Is The Golden Bridge?

If you look up the bridge on Google Maps, you’ll see a lot of green surrounding it, with the Sun World resort, a few restaurants, and scattered tourist attractions in the area, too. But when you zoom out, you’ll see that the bridge is smack dab in the middle of Vietnam, near the South China Sea coastline.

In terms of major Vietnamese cities, the Golden Bridge is closest to Da Nang — about 90 minutes away — but is also reasonably accessible from Hoi An, which is about two hours away by car.

The bridge is 4,600 feet above sea level and stretches 500 feet long, combining eight sections together into one gloriously bright vision with the stunning backdrop of the Truong Son Mountains.

A cable car in the Ba Na Foothills. — kitzcorner / Shutterstock

Ways To Get To The Golden Bridge

There are two journeys most visitors take to get to the Golden Bridge. They’ll either get there from Da Nang or Hoi An using varied means of transportation.

The most convenient option is taking a tour to the Golden Bridge. Tour companies operating out of both Da Nang and Hoi An offer visits to Sun World and its gleaming Golden Bridge. This is probably the easiest and most convenient way for larger groups or families to travel to the attraction. Most tours cost less than $100 per person for the day trip.

Coming from Da Nang, you can also journey to the Ba Na Foothills via cable car. The area’s cable car system is extensive. One of the lines is actually the longest nonstop cable car track in the world, running from Da Nang base station to the peak of the neighboring Vong Nguyet Hills in the Ba Na-Suoi Mo tourism area. It’s a short 15-minute ride with luxuries you wouldn’t expect, like drink service.

If you prefer the longer route, you can take a taxi from the city of Da Nang. This is also the best option if you want to go at your own pace. Taxi pricing laws have set the price per kilometer so you won’t need to haggle over the price, either, which some travelers consider a very nice perk.

Aerial view of the Golden Bridge. — Hien Phung Thu / Shutterstock

You can choose to take a motorbike taxi instead, which has a charm of its own, but price regulations do not apply here and you will have to bargain for the best deal.

You can also rent a car or motorbike yourself, plug in your GPS coordinates, and make your way up the mountains. There are private car services available for those who prefer the less haphazard jaunt than some taxis may offer.

Once you reach the Ba Na Foothills, you’ll purchase a ticket to Sun World and board a cable car that will take you up toward the bridge. Tickets to the park — which include access to the Golden Bridge — generally cost less than $40 per adult and around $25 for children.

Once you’ve made it to Sun World, you can visit the Golden Bridge right away — which is highly recommended to avoid the crowds — and enjoy the park afterward. The cable car takes you to various locations in the park, so you may either exit directly onto the Golden Bridge platform or at any of the other stops along the way.

The Ba Na Hills Resort in Vietnam. — Jimmy Tran / Shutterstock

What Is There To Do Around The Bridge?

The hotel at Sun World is an attraction in itself. The original founders of the resort were French colonists who constructed a beautiful French village where guests may stay in any of 200 villas. The park is loaded with restaurants, amusement rides, and more. Most impressive are the French village’s recreated French castles, churches, and cobbled streets. The park is home to a three-story indoor entertainment complex with dance games, computer games, car games, 4D and 5D cinema.

If you prefer a more relaxing, low-key day while visiting the bridge and park, you’ll find the area is rich with stunning gardens. There’s also a spa that offers a variety of relaxation and beauty treatments.

There are many cultural attractions as well, such as the recreated Linh Phong Zen Monastery, Linh Tu Pagoda of the Holy Mountain Mother, Holy Mother Shrine, and the Rain Sheltering Teahouse.

You could spend all day at the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills Resort and park without question, never seeing everything, so you may want to book a hotel room and stay for a couple of nights.

A foggy morning at Golden Bridge. — Apple Kullathida / Shutterstock

What Is The Crowd Situation?

Because the Golden Bridge is both new and absolutely wonderful — it became a viral sensation almost instantly — the crowds can be overwhelming. You may well want to stay overnight at the resort to help avoid the crowds that throng there from Da Nang and Hoi An during daylight hours.

If you do stay, you can glide out to the Golden Bridge entrance as early as 7 a.m. and beat most of the crowds traveling in from the city. You’ll also likely experience the ethereal fog that overtakes the bridge in the early mornings — often even on clear days.

Even in the off-season and midweek, you’re likely to have to contend with thousands of tourists equally eager to see the stunning bridge and the incredible views of the coastline and city below. Weekends and the peak tourism season are, of course, much more crowded. Peak season in Vietnam tends to be between March and May and again from October to December.

Of course, if you want the full experience of this splendid attraction, you’ll want to stay all day and revisit the bridge a few times throughout the day. You’ll notice the dramatic differences between clear skies, sunset views, and the morning fog wonderment.

A tourist on the Golden Bridge. — Carlos Neto / Shutterstock

Photography Tips For The Golden Bridge

Because you’ve come all this way and want to remember this beautiful place forever, you might find a few of these tips to be very helpful in framing and timing your photos of the Golden Bridge.

First off, if you’d like to avoid the crowds in your photos (for the most part) a lot of travelers have noticed that if you take photos by the first hand on the bridge — nearest the stage area in the cable car station — you will have greater success. For some reason, people don’t stop to linger here as much, but continue onward to find the second hand.

Secondly, in the early hours of the day, crowds are smaller, so getting people-free images will be easier anywhere along the bridge. This will be especially helpful for snagging some shots of the family without crowds huddling around with selfie sticks of their own.

There’s also a designated viewpoint that’s at the furthest end of the bridge. This viewpoint can be a great spot for taking stunning Golden Bridge photos. If you stop in the flower garden at the train station, you’ll have some beautiful views of the hand and bridge that make for more great photos, too. And if you have the right seat on the cable car, you may even be able to snap a winning picture when the cable car is between platforms.

The Linh Un Ba Pagoda also offers some great shots of the bridge. The pagoda is less crowded than other areas of the resort, so you’ll have plenty of time to take those perfect shots without bumping into others.

Love bridges? You’ll want to know the story behind India’s incredible living root bridges and see pictures of the world’s most terrifying bridges.

9 Amazing Things To See And Do On Oahu’s North Shore

Just a short drive from the crowds and traffic jams of Honolulu and Waikiki is one of Hawaii’s most laid-back destinations: Oahu’s North Shore.

The area has a reputation for being a bit bohemian and a bit ramshackle (in the best possible way), all while offering visitors gorgeous parks, delicious food, and some of the best athletic events in the world. You’ll quickly get the sense that everyone knows everyone else there, and keeping things low-key — and unspoiled by developers — is a real priority. Spending a day or two on the North Shore will change how you see Hawaii, and the area might just become your favorite travel destination — at least, that’s what happened for me!

Here are nine ways to make wonderful memories on Oahu’s North Shore.

A surfer at Oahu's North Shore. — I. Noyan Yilmaz / Shutterstock

1. Watch World-Class Surfing

I’m not exaggerating when I say that the surfing is world-class. The North Shore is one of the best and most challenging places to surf in the world. In the winter, you would be hard-pressed to find bigger waves anywhere. Spots like Waimea’s Sunset Beach Park attract some of the top-ranked surfers and tons of fans. If you see a bunch of cars and happen to spot a free parking spot, grab it and join the many admirers on the beach.

It’s important to note that surfing isn’t just an athletic endeavor on Oahu’s North Shore. Its roots run as deep as the area’s community, spirituality, and sacrifice. For instance, The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, the Super Bowl of Surfing, only happens when the waves are deemed high enough. It honors the life of Waimea lifeguard Eddie Aikau, who is credited with saving more than 500 people throughout his career and heroically attempting a 20-mile paddle to save capsized canoers. If you see Eddie Would Go bumper stickers along the North Shore, you’ll know that they reference Aikau’s selflessness.

If you dream of learning to surf yourself, the North Shore Surf Girls specialize in beginner lessons for children and adults. These are the same surf girls who were celebrated in the movie Blue Crush!

Water safety is important at all beaches, but it’s absolutely paramount on the North Shore, especially in winter. Swim only at beaches staffed by lifeguards, and heed their instructions and recommendations.

2. Visit Hawaii’s Oldest Surf And Dive Shop

Before 1965, iconic landmark Surf N Sea was a train station with rooms for rent upstairs. Now it’s one of the North Shore’s most popular places to rent surfboards, paddles, wetsuits, and snorkel and dive gear. You can buy cool surf- and swim-related accessories and souvenirs, and there are even handcrafted ukuleles!

Surf N Sea also offers dive tours of the area and three-day Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certification courses. The friendly staff can tell you where to go to watch some great surfing on any given day.

3. Enjoy Coffee Samples Most Visitors Miss

It’s a great mystery why more tourists aren’t streaming into Waialua. This little town was known for its sugar mill, and when the mill shut down in 1996, the town’s economy slumped. The creative, passionate people who live there made the best of the situation and turned the old sugar mill into a creative hub. The complex’s North Shore Soap Factory sells handmade soaps and toiletries and offers behind-the-scenes tours of their operations. However, my favorite Waialua business is Island X Hawaii, located in the same complex.

Island X produces the Old Sugar Mill brand of coffee and chocolate. But this isn’t your ordinary coffee and chocolate! Both are grown locally, and the staff will happily show you around so that you can see how both are produced. Rumors about the products abound: People say that Island X’s cocoa beans are the world’s rarest single-origin cocoa beans (and they just might be — I can’t find any evidence to the contrary!). Others say that the company’s peaberry coffee (made from rare coffee beans that don’t split in two but stay in small, round shapes) is the base for Neiman Marcus’s swanky house blend. Whether that’s true or not, both are delicious.

In addition to looking around, investigating the rumors, and sampling coffee to your heart’s content, you can pick up coconut- and pineapple-flavored pancake mix and other food-based souvenirs.

The beach from the TV show Lost. — OnlyInHawaii.org

4. Hang Out At The Lost Beach

In this case, the Lost beach isn’t a beach that’s hard to find or that comes and goes with the tides. It’s where the television show Lost was filmed! Even if you’re not a fan of the show, it’s a beautiful, quiet beach to explore. Its proper name is the Mokuleia Army Beach, and it was once reserved for military personnel.

Today, it still feels like a laid-back community beach, and during weekdays, you might just be the only one there — unless you count the sea turtles who sometimes spend time there as well. It’s a beautiful beach for walking, relaxing, and watching kite surfers, but don’t swim there — in general, the water is too dangerous.

5. Stop By Kim Taylor Reece’s Studio

In the tiny community of Sacred Falls, North Shore artist Kim Taylor Reece has set up his studio and shop in a stunning seaside home. Reece is an award-winning photographer who has traveled to 35 Pacific islands to document dance, costumes, and culture. He specializes in breathtaking black-and-white hula dance photos, and his books, prints, calendars, and postcards make fantastic souvenirs. If you’re lucky, Reece himself might be staffing the shop — he was during my visit! — and he’s a great conversationalist, always happy to recommend his favorite photography spots.

6. Pick Up Snacks And More At Ted’s Bakery

A bakery will make my list of the best things to do in just about any location. What can I say? Homemade treats win me over every time! But even if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth, I recommend that you stop by Ted’s Bakery in Haleiwa.

This beloved local institution is the kind of place that people drive to the North Shore for. Sometimes people from other islands go there directly from the airport! Ted’s is famous for cream pies, and the best of all is the chocolate haupia cream pie, with layers of rich, smooth dark chocolate custard cream and haupia (creamy coconut pudding). It’s rich, silky, and not overwhelmingly sweet, so the coconut and chocolate really pop.

You can also pick up cakes, pastries, bread, breakfast sandwiches (try the spam, egg, and cheese), and more substantial meals. Come lunchtime, you can try the classic plate lunch that Hawaii (and especially the North Shore) is known for — but only Ted’s includes a free slice of pie on the side!

7. Make Some Feathered Friends

The James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge provides freshwater wetland habitats for four of Hawaii’s six endangered waterbirds. The refuge is closed to visitors during nesting season, from mid-February through mid-October, but during the rest of the year, visitors are welcome. If possible, visit on a Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m. or on a Saturday morning at 9 a.m. That’s when volunteers provide free guided tours.

To see a side of the North Shore that most tourists (and even locals) miss, participate in the refuge’s monthly volunteer project. On the first Saturday of each month, volunteers get together to help pull weeds and plant native trees and shrubs. To join them, simply meet at the main entrance of the refuge at 8:30 a.m. — you’ll be done by noon.

The Puu o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site. — Kelly Headrick / Shutterstock

8. Experience Hawaiian History

Puu o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site comprises 2 beautiful acres of protected parkland. The name translates to “Hill of Escape,” likely a reference to the human sacrifices that once took place there. Constructed in the 1600s, the Heiau played an important role in the social and political systems of the area. The complex of stone walls and wood-and-thatch buildings was used for religious ceremonies.

Due to the site’s fragility, visitors can only see the Heiau from outside the stone walls. The park gates open at 7 a.m., making the site the perfect spot to start the day, especially if jet lag has you awake bright and early.

North Shore Tacos's on Oahu's North Shore. — Joshua Rainey Photography / Shutterstock.com

9. Savor Local Flavors

The North Shore is famous for its food trucks, which offer creative menus and generous portions at reasonable prices. Everyone has their own favorite stops, but you can’t go wrong with Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken, North Shore Tacos, and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck.

Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken in Haleiwa offers ultra-juicy and flavorful broiled chicken served with a side of pineapple slaw.

North Shore Tacos’s name doesn’t do the Haleiwa truck justice — the tacos are just the tip of the iceberg! The burritos, pineapple smoothies, and quesadillas are all to die for, too.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa, arguably the most popular of all the food trucks, is where to go for classic North Shore garlic shrimp.

Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out Honolulu’s best free and frugal activities, and be sure to make time for Pearl Harbor.

The Best Things To Do With The Family In The Cedar Rapids Area

The charming small town of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has an interesting history and distinctive Bohemian culture. You’ll enjoy the architecture and art of the city as you wander the streets, and you can even giggle with a goat who tickles visitors with his beard at the local petting zoo.

Whether you and your family love the outdoors, want to try some local cuisine, or enjoy bargain-hunting at the mall, you’ll find that Cedar Rapids has something for you at any time of year.

Here are some of the best things to do with the family in the Cedar Rapids area.

Bikers on the Cedar River Trail. — Travel Iowa

Bike The Cedar River Trail

The all-weather Cedar River Trail is the best place to bike in Cedar Rapids. The trail is 12.6 miles long and 10 feet wide, the perfect width for easy passage and chatting along the way. You’ll catch glimpses of wildlife near Cedar Lake, McCloud’s Run, and the Cedar River. Wildflowers and beautiful native grasses adorn certain sections of the trail. During the autumn months, you’ll also be able to enjoy the best of the fall foliage.

The smooth trail is easy for any biker to traverse, with or without training wheels, and the gentle grade makes it walkable, bikeable, and enjoyable for casual trailgoers looking to enjoy the landscapes of Cedar Rapids.

The Palisades-Kepler State Park. — Wildnerdpix / Shutterstock

Explore Palisades-Kepler State Park

For more outdoor adventure, bring the family to Palisades-Kepler State Park for a day. You can picnic and enjoy hiking trails with views of the stunning Cedar River and of the tree-lined bluffs along the water.

At the park, you’ll find picnic shelters, a lodge built in the 1930s, campgrounds, cabins for rent, and more than 6 miles of trails to wander while keeping an eye out for wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. You can also grab a fishing pole or boat and enjoy an afternoon on the Cedar River.

Learn About Woodlands And Prairies At The Indian Creek Nature Center

Exploring the wetlands, prairies, and woodlands at the Indian Creek Nature Center is a fantastic way to spend a morning with the family. The center offers 4 miles of well-groomed hiking trails, and at the Amazing Space welcome center, you can explore an interactive watershed table or relax in the bird room.

The center has solar panels that you can learn about, and, depending on the time of your visit, you can participate in a yoga class or catch a concert at the amphitheater. You can even purchase some locally sourced raw honey and maple syrup.

See The Animals At Old MacDonald’s Farm

You know the old song: “Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O.” Well, on this farm in Cedar Rapids there are calves, ducks, chickens, goats, lambs, piglets, rabbits, and more. Old MacDonald’s is located in Bever Park and run by the Parks and Recreation Department. The animals are well cared for and enjoy a comfortable life filled with happy families observing and petting them during the warmer months.

The farm is open from late April or early May through mid-October each year.

Tourists at the John Deere museum. — John Deere

Visit The John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum

It’s a fact. Most kids — and plenty of grown-ups, too — love tractors. So one area museum that family members of all ages will enjoy visiting is the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum in Waterloo, about a 50-minute drive from Cedar Rapids. At the museum, you’ll get to explore a wide range of tractor- and engine-focused exhibits, artifacts, and more. You’ll discover the history of the famous tractor company from the first steel plow to the modern machines you see painted green and plowing the fields today.

The exhibits are interactive, with levers and handles to pull and push. You and the family can climb up into tractors for a photo op or test your strength against real horsepower.

The best part? There is no charge for admission.

Eating In Cedar Rapids

In Cedar Rapids, you’ll find a range of down-home comfort foods and artisanal desserts that folks of all ages will enjoy.

Try some popcorn, old-fashioned sodas, hand-made sausages, pulled pork, and more at these delightful local eateries.

Village Meat Market And Café

Before Katrina devastated New Orleans, Lou Thompson worked in the restaurant and casino business in the Southern town. But after the tragic storm hit, she returned to Iowa and founded the Village Meat Market and Café. Thompson’s homemade sausages were a hit with locals and visitors alike.

The Village Meat Market and Café, located in Cedar Rapids’s Czech Village, has a delicious menu featuring many Czech recipes, including goulash and schnitzel, smoked salmon, and, of course, those incredible sausages. You’ll find other delicious meals and goodies here as well, including a range of options kids will enjoy.

QDogs BBQ Company

QDogs BBQ Company is a casual joint that’s locally owned and features choice-graded, hand-selected Iowa pork and beef. Every bite of meaty deliciousness is hand-rubbed with a unique dry rub and then smoked over cherry wood.

The restaurant has been around since 2011, when the owner, Jeff “QDog” Coil, completed his barbecue circuit tour. After he semiretired, he ventured into the barbecue food-truck business, and his delicious food racked up so many accolades that he ended up opening a permanent QDogs location.

The atmosphere at QDogs is probably what you’d expect from a joint founded by a barbecue expert — cozy, casual, and friendly, so you’ll enjoy bringing the kids here for a low-key but tasty meal.

Parlor City Ice Cream

Parlor City Ice Cream is a local favorite after-dinner spot. The small family-owned business has been serving Cedar Rapids scoops of tasty frozen goodness for more than 50 years now, and it has consistently been ranked one of the best places to grab dessert in town.

The ice cream shop offers a range of delicious, sweet, and creamy flavors, along with more than 50 different shake and malt options, soft-serve reduced-fat ice cream, and low-fat frozen yogurt.

Beyond the ice cream, though, there’s a full lunch and dinner menu. The food is reasonably priced and appeals to both the less-developed palates of children — think hot dogs and hamburgers — and more sophisticated taste buds — think tenderloin steak and pulled pork.

Shopping In Cedar Rapids

There are numerous shopping opportunities in Cedar Rapids, and many of the best are located in malls and marketplaces the whole family can enjoy.

NewBo City Market

According to practically everyone, NewBo City Market is the top place in the Cedar Rapids area to shop as a family. The dynamic public space in the New Bohemia District near downtown is all about promoting health, well-being, and happiness.

The nonprofit organization that runs the market offers a combination event center, shopping center, gathering place, and business incubator. There are loads of unique food and retail shops, farmers markets, artisan markets, and community arts and entertainment venues, along with a range of educational activities. The market focuses on sustainability and is heavily involved in the farm-to-table movement.

While at the market, be sure to check out Lori Ann’s Candies, The Artisan’s Emporium, Rare Bird Soap Shop, and Wallace Farms. These are just a few of the shops you can visit to find great gifts and souvenirs.

Lindale Mall

Most of us have fond memories of going to the mall with parents, grandparents, or friends. When you visit Cedar Rapids, you can give the little ones in your life their own wonderful memories of this longtime family tradition.

The Lindale Mall is known as one of the best shopping stops in the city, thanks to the many unique stores there. You’ll find locally owned shops like CR Guitar Girl as well as national chains like GameStop. There are a few children’s play areas, lots of tasty snacks, and several interesting kiosks to stop by.

Almost Famous Popcorn Company

A unique shopping opportunity that everyone will love — including the folks back home, if you bring them something — is a visit to Almost Famous Popcorn Company. The company is a family-owned business that was started by Bill and Robyn Rieckhoff; they wanted their kids to learn the ins and outs of running a business so that they’d be prepared for their future careers.

The delicious popcorn is made with premium ingredients in small batches to ensure the highest quality. Nut-free and gluten-free options are produced in another facility to avoid cross-contamination, and the shop offers a wide range of flavors — 36, to be exact — including Lemon Cookie, Birthday Cake, Fire-Breathing Dragon, Root Beer Barrel, Snickerdoodle, White Chocolate Nutella, and Bacon Cheddar. Bring the little ones in for a bag or two, try some flavors, get some ice cream, or drink some vintage sodas. You can also buy popcorn to bring home as a gift or as a delicious reminder of your trip to Iowa.

Planning a road trip through Iowa? Here are the best things to see and do in Des Moines. When you’ve seen everything the capital has to offer, make one of these amazing day trips from the city.

Weekend Getaway In Cleveland: The Best Things To See And Do

Cleveland is an amazing weekend getaway destination for all kinds of travelers, from seniors to children and solo backpackers to larger groups. It’s home to some world-class museums — including a few that can’t be found anywhere else in the world — and is a great place to stroll, shop, eat, and explore. Whether your personal style is a little rock and roll or a tad more sedate, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to go.

Here are some of the best things to see and do on a weekend getaway in Cleveland.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. — Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

Get Ready To Rock And Roll

Cleveland might just be home to the coolest museum in the world. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is an incredible institution to visit. Its collection of rock-and-roll memorabilia is second to none. It also features fantastic special exhibits — 2019’s program focused on the 50th anniversary of Woodstock. From Elvis to the Beatles, and from Janet Jackson to the Lovin’ Spoonful, it’s an incredible trip down memory lane to the soundtrack of your life. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is also home to a “garage,” where you can pretend that you’re in your own garage band. The museum boasts a comprehensive schedule of events, including live music events and even trivia nights. You’ll never look at pop culture quite the same way again!

Check Out The Cleveland Museum Of Art

At the Cleveland Museum of Art, the collection is priceless, but admission is free. The phenomenal permanent collection includes Egyptian sculptures from the third century; pieces from ancient Greece and Rome; sketches by Raphael, Michelangelo, and Titian; and paintings by Rubens, Caravaggio, Manet, Degas, van Gogh, and Picasso. Not only is admission free, but daily tours of the collection are free as well. It’s a wonderful place to spend a rainy afternoon.

A dinosaur skeleton at the Museum of Natural History. — Cleveland Museum of Natural History

See The Dinos At The Cleveland Museum Of Natural History

While the Cleveland Museum of Natural History covers all aspects of the natural world, the real stars are the dinosaurs. The museum’s renowned Department of Vertebrate Paleontology contains some 15,000 specimens, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and pterosaurs. The oldest “member” of the collection is Coelophysis bauri, approximately 225 million years young and the world’s most complete mounted skeleton of its kind. Kids will go crazy for it! A planetarium, observatory, and full list of children’s activities round out the offerings.

The Christmas Story House in Cleveland. — Juli Scalzi / Shutterstock.com

Indulge Your Inner Child At The A Christmas Story House

Surely one of the most unique museums in the United States, the A Christmas Story House & Museum is indeed the house from the 1983 holiday movie A Christmas Story. It was restored in 2007 (thanks to a few superfans), and it now looks exactly like it did at the time of filming. It’s an interactive museum, and you can even stay overnight! A second part of the museum located in the house across the street is filled with costumes and movie props. Even if you’ve never seen the movie or if you’re visiting in the middle of summer, you should absolutely pop in for a visit. It’s part museum, part cinematic history, and entirely a labor of love.

Be Inspired At The International Women’s Air & Space Museum

There’s nothing like an air and space museum, and Cleveland’s International Women’s Air & Space Museum is one of the best. It tells the story of women in aviation and aeronautics, from Katharine Wright (whose famous brothers seriously stole her thunder) to Amelia Earhart to female participants in the National Air Races. The museum also includes artifacts from Cape Canaveral. Admission is free, and there is a neat gift shop. Be sure to allow plenty of extra time to enjoy a visit.

Eating In Cleveland

Cleveland has a fantastic food scene, with everything from epic brunches and homemade pasta to affordable, huge sandwiches. Some of the dishes you should put on your must-try list include the “Polish Boy” loaded sausages, corned beef sandwiches, and pierogi.

Taste Cleveland Food Tours runs a number of food tours in different neighborhoods; a tour is a great way to become better acquainted with the city’s culinary history and flavors.

Here are some of the best spots to grab a bite in Cleveland.

Lucky’s Café

One of the most popular brunch spots in Cleveland, Lucky’s Café has gotten lots of publicity thanks to being showcased on the hit television show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Its menu features traditional breakfast sandwiches, baked goods like zucchini bread, the Canoe Wreck (curried tofu, hash browns, seasonal veggies, and nutritional yeast), vanilla bean waffles (topped with warm strawberry rhubarb compote, honey-infused whipped cream, and house-made caramel sauce), and brûléed steel-cut oatmeal (topped with winter fruit compote and served with eggs en croute baked in cream, spinach, and Parmesan). Most of the fruits and vegetables are sourced from local farmers.

Spice Kitchen & Bar

Another Cleveland farm-to-table restaurant, Spice Kitchen & Bar, is run by Chef Ben Bebenroth, who is so passionate about the food he sources that he actually runs a farm himself. The menu changes with the seasons, but at any given time, it might include smoked tomato and basil beignets with gouda and black pepper aioli, oak-grilled shishito peppers with white peach barbecue sauce, and mole-braised beef short ribs. Overall, it’s a can’t-miss dining experience.

Marotta’s

Italian food is hugely popular in Cleveland, and Marotta’s is one of the best Italian spots in town. Specializing in rustic Italian cuisine including gnocchi with sausage and roasted red peppers and linguine with smoked salmon, plum tomatoes, and spinach, Marotta’s also boasts one of the best wine lists in town, featuring only Italian offerings. It’s the perfect restaurant for a romantic evening.

Il Rione Pizzeria

Another popular Italian restaurant, Il Rione Pizzeria, serves up New York-style pizza, delicious charcuterie starter platters laden with meat and cheese, and a few salads (including a blood orange, goat cheese, pistachio, and mint combination). Grab your pizza traditional-style with just marinara and garlic or maybe a Margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil. Funkier options feature fried sage, arugula pesto, clams, and Calabrian chilis.

Cosmic Dave’s Rock Club

Music is the heart and soul of Cleveland, and when The Barking Spider, a live music venue, closed in 2016, it left a gaping hole in the community. But a beloved local sandwich shop, Dave’s Cosmic Subs, took over to bring the space back to life as Dave’s Rock Club, combining sandwiches and salads with plenty of rock and roll. Dave’s sandwiches are really something else, and popular options include the ultra-cheesy meatball sub, Dave’s world-famous roast beef sub, and the sub with smoked ham and cosmic sauce. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.

The Cleveland Bagel Company

Offering a nice selection of classic bagels and spreads alongside some funkier options like brie honey walnut spread, The Cleveland Bagel Company is a local favorite for quick breakfasts and lunches.

Shopping In Cleveland

Cleveland is home to a great shopping scene with a variety of small, independent businesses as well as large shopping malls and chain stores. Cool Cleveland lists community events like Small-Business Saturday celebrations.

Here are some of the best places to shop in the city.

The Bookshop In Lakewood

Cleveland is home to eight independent bookstores. One of them, The Bookshop in Lakewood, located just outside of Cleveland, offers a great selection of used books. Browse for your favorites under the watchful eye of the shop’s resident cat, Hobbes. This is a fun, cute, and friendly place.

Appletree Books

Another one of Cleveland’s great bookstores, Appletree Books specializes in travel books, illustrated books, children’s books, and books by local authors. Appletree’s gift selection includes whimsical cards, notebooks, and other knick-knacks. This is a great spot to pick up gifts for hard-to-shop-for people.

Flower Child

Specializing in vintage goods dating from the 1930s to the 1980s, Flower Child sells funky used clothing, accessories, home goods, art, and furniture. A visit is a little bit like a time-travel experience and a little bit like a treasure hunt. No matter what you buy, you can be certain that no one will have seen anything like it.

Océanne

Océanne specializes in affordable, minimalist jewelry with a focus on geometric designs. The pieces are conceived and designed by an all-female team of artisans, and each item is beautiful, affordable, and unique.

Small Studio

Small Studio is an independent arts and crafts store specializing in beautiful stationery, yarn, knitting supplies, scrapbooking materials, and more. It’s located on the outskirts of town in North Olmsted, Ohio. This is the perfect spot to pick up materials to make a memory box to commemorate your travels.

FOUNT

FOUNT began as a small family business in 2014, specializing in high-end leather handbags, wallets, and totes. Today, the company employs a team of several dozen people; it is dedicated to ethical pay, and its products are designed to last. This is definitely a spot to spoil yourself!

Lovely Paperie & Gifts

This beautiful little shop specializes in elegant stationery and offers a great selection of gifts and decor items, wrapping materials, accessories, jewelry, bags, cards, and toiletries. This is the perfect place to shop if you’re traveling with just a carry-on and can only bring home a few tiny treats.

Planning a trip to Ohio? Check out these things to see and do in Cincinnati.

7 Things To Do In West Virginia With The Whole Family

From the breathtaking natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains to the quiet charm of its historic small towns, West Virginia has something for everyone. This often-overlooked state is full of adventures for the whole family to enjoy.

Whether you prefer to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail, explore vast underground caverns, or step back in time to the turn of the century, you’ll find a plethora of family-friendly activities to love in West Virginia.

Here are some of the best multigenerational things to do in the area.

1. Hop Aboard The Cass Scenic Railroad

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is equal parts natural park and living history museum focused on the state’s bygone lumber industry. At the turn of the 20th century, the area was owned by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company and housed a lumber mill. One of the best ways to enjoy this unique park is to hop aboard the Cass Scenic Railroad, where you can ride in style in a refurbished lumber car to Bald Knob, one of the highest peaks in the state and an incredible lookout site.

The entire excursion takes roughly 5 hours and passes through some of West Virginia’s most impressive countryside. You’ll be treated to a “King of the Road” lunch at the historic Whittaker Station, and you’ll have the opportunity to take plenty of pictures along the way.

You’ll begin your trip through West Virginia’s impressive past at Cass Depot, right off of Route 66. Adults pay between $59 and $60 depending on the season and time of the week. Children pay between $51 and $56, and kids under three ride for free. There’s also the option for an overnight trip. Tickets for the Cass Railroad tend to sell out quickly, so we strongly recommend that you book in advance by calling (304) 636-9477 or visiting the website.

Exhibition Coal Mine in Beckley. — City Of Beckley

2. Learn About West Virginia’s Coal Industry

Learn about West Virginia’s coal industry through a guided tour of Exhibition Coal Mine, one of Beckley’s most intriguing tourist attractions. Although the experience is certainly child-friendly, it does highlight the harsh realities of working in the coal mines. The docents and guides are retired miners, so they have an encyclopedic knowledge of the mining industry and what has changed to make it safer and more pleasant.

The mine is only open to the general public between April and November from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can book a private tour for 15 people or more during the winter by calling (304) 256-1747, depending on the weather.

Adults pay $22, seniors pay $16, and children pay $12.50. Plan to spend at least 3 hours at Exhibition Coal Mine. In addition to the mine itself, there’s a youth museum and other mining artifacts to explore. The temperature inside the mine is always 58 degrees, even on the hottest summer days, so dress accordingly. Although the refurbished mining cars have padded seats, the journey might be uncomfortable for people with back problems and may not be suitable for the claustrophobic.

3. Go Spelunking

Below the crags and peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, there lies a whole new world of towering stalagmites, otherworldly creatures, and gorgeous terrain. The Lost World Caverns are roughly a mile long and widely considered one of West Virginia’s must-do caving experiences.

The Snowy Chandelier, a magnificent stalactite, is one of the major highlights of the adventure, as is the Lost World Caverns Museum, where you can learn about some of the prehistoric remains that were unearthed in the caves.

To explore these ancient wonders, you’ll need quality sneakers or hiking boots plus a jacket. The temperature in the caverns is always just a hair above 50 degrees. You can venture into the caverns on your own for $12, or book a Wild Cave Tour that takes you deep into the caverns to explore off-the-beaten-path tributaries of the main caves. The Wild Cave Tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10, and if you are claustrophobic or have trouble with your knees or back, you should skip it. There is quite a bit of crawling, and the tour itself takes 6 hours.

4. Stroll Through West Virginia’s Past

For a quaint stroll through West Virginia’s past, spend the day at Heritage Farm Museum & Village in Huntington. This interactive living village is the perfect snapshot of life in early Appalachia.

The museum comprises restored buildings, such as a traditional one-room schoolhouse and church, as well as plenty of museums that will keep both the kids and adults busy. Catch a lesson from the town blacksmith or indulge in some artisan bread at Heritage Farm’s Bread Oven. Accommodations for families and larger groups are available right on the property.

If you’d like to check out the museum for the day, stop by between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. during the week or on a Saturday. Heritage Farm Museum & Village is closed on Sundays and holidays. Adults pay $12, seniors pay $10, children pay $8, and children under two enter for free. Make sure to check the calendar to see if something special is happening the day that you want to visit.

5. Explore One Of The Last Remaining Trolley Parks In The Country

If you’re traveling through Huntington, you can’t miss Camden Park. This iconic 26-acre amusement park is the true embodiment of summer fun. It’s one of the last remaining trolley parks in the United States, making it as historically relevant as it is fun.

Camden Park’s busy season is between May and mid-August, but it remains semi-operational until October. For hours of operation, as well as special events, visit the website. Camden Park is fairly reasonably priced also, with general admission costing roughly $20 for adults and $15 for children and seniors. If you want to pop in for the evening only, prepare to pay half the general admission for the Starlight package, which runs from 4:30 p.m. until the park closes at 10 p.m.

Parking will set you back $5, and you can bring a picnic basket full of goodies to snack on while you catch all the thrills at Camden Park, making this a relatively affordable and very enjoyable day trip.

The bath house at Berkeley Springs. — West Virginia State Parks

6. Take A Dip In George Washington’s Bathtub

Want to take a dip in the same spot that George Washington did? Berkeley Springs State Park gives you the chance the unwind like a Founding Father with a balmy 74.3-degree bath in the middle of a glorious natural park.

Bathing in mineral water is thought to be good for both the mind and body, and you can treat yourself to additional spa services to round off the experience. Prices vary, but be prepared to spend at least $30 for adults and $12 for children for basic soaking rights.

Visiting Berkeley Springs is a great option for families because the mineral springs are kid-friendly, and many of the spa services are decidedly geared toward tired adults. It’s the best of both worlds.

7. Enjoy An Epic Water Park

If you’re looking for a place to cool off in Oak Hill, ACE Wonderland Water Park will fit the bill. This massive park features an obstacle course, a zip line, dizzyingly high water slides, and giant inflatable toys that will put puny pool noodles to shame.

It’s all part of ACE Adventure Resort, but you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the water park. Half- and full-day passes are available. Plan to spend $20 to $30 per adult and $10 to $15 per child, depending on how long you want to stay. Children under five enter for free.

ACE Wonderland Water Park is open daily from May 24 to September 2, with weekend hours from early May through the end of September. No outside food is permitted, but there are vendors on the premises, so you certainly won’t go hungry.

A Bonus: Feed The Llamas At Posey Thisisit Llama Farm

This attraction is technically located in Virginia, not West Virginia, but it’s only a 25-minute drive from the Virginia-West Virginia border, and it’s too cute not to mention.

In scenic Toms Brook, you can catch a glimpse of animals that are usually only spotted on the highest Andean peaks. Posey Thisisit Llama Farm is an excellent place to teach children about animal husbandry and llama care.

The llamas on this 27-acre farm are used for wool, and you can learn all about the process of rearing, caring for, and cultivating wool from these animals. Children (and adults) can pet, interact with, and feed the resident llamas.

Farm tours are free, but donations are appreciated. To schedule a tour, call the farm at (540) 436-3517. It’s open year-round, but the spring and summer months are generally better for touring the property.

Hit the road and explore West Virginia for some of the most interesting family fun you’ll ever have. This state has plenty to offer, and many of the best attractions are affordable, one-of-a-kind, educational, and memorable. Go explore, enjoy, and soak up the rugged beauty of Appalachia. West Virginia is the spot to be, so make sure that you put the Mountain State on your family’s bucket list.