City Exploration
Illinois will be one of the statewide centers of celebration for the Route 66 Centennial (100th anniversary) in 2026. From family-friendly festivals to parades and historic gatherings, here are the most exciting events planned so far along the First 300 miles of the Mother Road in Illinois. dceo.illinois.gov+2cityofedwardsville.com+2 đź“Ť Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor … Read more
Traveling Historic Route 66 through Texas is a classic American road trip. From quirky art installations to historic diners and big-heart attractions, Texas has some of the most memorable stops on the Mother Road. Here are the best roadside attractions on Route 66 in Texas for 2026 — perfect for your travel itinerary, photo ops, … Read more
In 2026, historic Route 66 turns 100 years old — and Oklahoma, with the longest drivable stretch of the Mother Road in any state, is planning a year-long series of special centennial celebrations. From classic car festivals to mural shows and big birthday parades, here are the confirmed and announced events in Oklahoma you shouldn’t … Read more
Visiting the historic Fruita orchards at Capitol Reef National Park and picking fruit is one of the most cherished traditions in the park. These orchards once provided food and income for pioneer settlers, and today they offer a unique “U-Pick” experience when the fruit is ripe. National Park Service The exact 2026 picking dates will … Read more
Hidden inside the mountains of eastern Nevada, Lehman Caves is one of the most fascinating underground experiences in the U.S. Located within Great Basin National Park, these caves offer a rare chance to walk through beautifully decorated limestone chambers filled with natural formations. If you’re visiting in 2026, this guide will help you understand the … Read more
Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most unique national park experiences in the U.S. — floating out to a tiny island with historic Fort Jefferson, sea turtles, coral reefs, and brilliant blue water. The catch? There’s only one main ferry service (plus occasional seaplane options), and in 2026 — a big travel … Read more
When people think of U.S. national parks, they often picture the West — Yellowstone, Yosemite, Zion. But the Midwest hides some of the most peaceful, beautiful, and underrated national parks in the country. In 2026, when travel crowds will surge due to the USA 250th anniversary, these parks offer something rare: space, silence, and authentic … Read more
Zion National Park is one of the most visited parks in the USA — especially in 2026, with the USA 250th anniversary drawing more visitors than ever. Certain hikes and activities now require permits, and getting them right makes the trip smoother and stress-free. This guide shows how to get Zion National Park permits in … Read more
Road trippers on Route 66 know that part of the fun is staying in the vintage motor lodges that once served travelers along the Mother Road. In 2026, many classic hotels and motels have been beautifully restored — giving you a blend of retro charm and modern comfort. Here’s your guide to the best restored … Read more
Philadelphia will be one of the top celebration cities in the USA for 2026, marking the Semiquincentennial — America’s 250th anniversary. Whether you’re a history lover, family traveler, or someone who enjoys music and festivals, this calendar highlights the best events happening all year long. Below each event, I’ve suggested one ideal image idea you … Read more