Fun & Funky Things to  Do | Georgia

Throughout the state of Georgia there are many attractions and destinations for visitors to enjoy. For those visitors looking for attractions that are a little funky and a lot fun here are a few of Georgia's unique destinations.

The World of Coca Cola, Atlanta
At this Atlanta attraction visitors to Georgia can learn all about the Coca-Cola brand and the drink. The World of Coca-Cola has all sorts of exciting exhibits and attractions. The attraction has a tasting room where visitors can try a large variety of beverages from around the world, there is also a film, a large collection of memorabilia and much more. One of the big attractions at the World of Coca-Cola is the functioning bottle works, where visitors can watch how the drinks are bottled, and can go home with their very own bottle of Coca-Cola.

National Civil War Naval Museum, Columbus
The National Civil War Naval Museum has a really interesting collection of information about the navy during the Civil War. Visitors to this museum can see replica's and actual examples of Civil War naval craft. This museum has an amazing collection of Ironclad remnants and replicas. Visitors to the museum can learn all about how the iron-plated ships that cruised the rivers and bays of the United States during the Civil War.

Rock City, Lookout Mountain
This amazing rock garden is located at the top of Lookout Mountain. Visitors to Rock city get to trek along the walking trail that winds through the 14 acre property. Rock City features amazing rock formations. Rock City's "Enchanted Trail" also has a bridge, amazing views, a waterfall and even caverns.

Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area, Lumpkin
Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area is home to "Georgia's Little Grand Canyon." This park has amazing gullies, going as deep as 150 feet. Hikers can explore the beautiful canyon, see the wildflowers and other flora and fauna. The park also has some great backcountry options for exploration.

Pasaquan, Buena Vista
Pasaquan is a great example of folk art. The site is a 7 acre compound, which was created by an artist named Eddie Owens Martin, also known as St. EOM. Pasaquan is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors to Pasaquan can enjoy the amazing structures, concrete sculptures and painted walls. Pasaquan is open on the first Saturday of the month from April through November.

Idaho Quick Facts

Uniquely Idaho: Rafting down the Snake River
Must-See: the Spud Drive-In in Driggs
Most Unusual: Craters of the Moon National Park
Highest Point: Borah Peak, 12,662 feet
Food to Try: Idaho’s famous potatoes

What to Do in Idaho

1 Tour the Shoshone Ice Caves

2 Go boating on Lake Coeur d'Alene

3 Hike North Idaho

4 Ski in Sun Valley

5 Go trout fishing in the Lost Rivers region

Off The Beaten Path | Idaho

Idaho is a stunningly beautiful state, filled with amazing vistas and excellent attractions. The state also has a very wide ranging and diverse history. No matter what you enjoy doing you are sure to find some attraction or destination that you love. Here are just a few of Idaho's great attractions.

Bayhorse Ghost Town and Trails System
History buffs will love this 1880s era ghost town. The town is preserved in the Yankee Fork State Park. Visitors get the chance to see the preserved site of Bayhorse town. Visitors also can enjoy the extensive trail system for ATV use.

Priest Lake
This 25-mile long lake is a great recreational destination. Priest Lake is actually only two lakes, connected by a 2.5 mile river. The river is filled with beautiful clear mountain water, Priest Lake is surrounded by forests and more. Priest River's surrounding forests have a wide range of tree species including ponderosa pines, as well as, lots of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy the excellent fishing, camping, boating, hiking and much more recreation.

Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area was created in order to protect a unique concentration of birds of prey. Within the vast acreage of this Conservation Area there are both nesting and migrating birds of prey. The species prevalent here include, eagles, falcons, hawks and owls, there are in fact 24 species of raptors in the area. For visitors hoping to enjoy some bird of prey watching, spring is the best time to visit the Conservation Area. This area also has other fun recreational activities, which can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
This National Monument is 750,000 acres, and it has amazing volcanic formations. Visitors can enjoy seeing the cinder cones, lava tubes and more. The monument has good hiking, bird watching, backpacking and even caving. During the summer there are guided cave walks, and during the winter visitors can have fun snowshoeing, cross-county skiing and more.

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Hells Canyon is the deepest gorge in North America. Located in west central Idaho and crossing into northeaster Oregon, Hells Canyon is a great Idaho destination. Visitors to Hells Canyon can explore by boat, which is the best way to see the canyon. There are also sightseeing tours that visitors can take to enjoy the amazing sights of Hells Canyon.

Bitterroot National Forest
This 1.6 million acre forest straddles Idaho and Montana, it is also the largest expanse of continuous pristine forest in the lower 48. Visitors to the forest can see the Bitterroot Range, see the steep canyons and much more. The Selway and Salmon rivers also flow through the forest.

Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Boise
Visitors to the Basque Museum and Cultural Center will learn that Boise has the highest concentration of Basque in the country. This Museum illustrates the history of the Basque population in Idaho, as well as the origin of the Basque culture. The Museum is located in the Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga house, which was also a Basque boarding house from 1910 to 1969. Visitors to the museum can enjoy the exhibits, archives and even tours.

Fun and Funky Things to Do | Idaho

Idaho is fun state filled with great destinations, from nature to history. Visitors can find all sorts of fun attractions, funky attractions and much more. Here are a few of the funky and fun destinations that visitors will find.

Idaho Potato Museum
The Idaho Potato Museum is a great museum to learn about the importance of Idaho potatoes. Potatoes are an important part of Idaho's agriculture. The Museum celebrates everything about Idaho's potatoes from the first potato to potato chips. In addition to potato history the museum has information about the whole potato industry.

Shoshone Indian Ice Caves
This attraction is a lava tube that stretches for 1,000 feet. Visitors to the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves enter through a collapsed entrance. When the cold air enters the cave all of the water freezes creating a sheet of ice. Visitors can explore this amazing natural feature while walking on the wooden bridge covering the cave floor.

Geyser Park, Soda Springs
Visitors to Soda Springs will find a geyser at Geyser Park. This is actually the captive geyser in the world. Residents in Soda Springs found the geyser when drilling for a hot water source. The geyser was unleashed and today visitors can visit the the controlled and timed geyser.

Arco
The city of Arco Idaho was the very first city in the world to receive electricity from nuclear power. Visitors can learn about the history of nuclear power in Idaho and in Arco. Today nuclear power is still an important part of the town's culture and heritage.

Dog Bark Park Inn
This Bed & Breakfast in Cottonwood is actually located in the World's Biggest Beagle. Those visitors that stay at the Inn enter the Beagle through their personal second story deck. Within the Beagle there are all sorts of amazing furnishings many made by the creators of the dog.

Hawaii Camping Quick Facts

Hawaii At a Glance:

Uniquely Hawaii: The Green Sand Beach on Hawaii's Big Island
Must-See: USS Arizona Memorial
Most Unusual: Ka Lae, the most southern point in the United States
Highest Point: Mauna Kea, 13,796 feet
Food to Try: Kona Coffee and Luau

What to Do in Hawaii:

1 Take a helicopter tour to see the active volcano on Hawaii

2 Tour a coffee plantation

3 Enjoy the sun on one of Hawaii's many beautiful beaches

4 Learn how to surf in the beautiful waters at the state of Hawaii

5 See the beauty of Waimea Canyon on Kauai, called "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific"

Off The Beaten Path | Hawaii

The beautiful state of Hawaii is an amazing destination year-round. Hawaii's climate is perfect for vacationing throughout the year, visitors can enjoy the sun, the beaches and all of the excellent activities. Hawaii has six main islands, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. All six of these islands have beautiful beaches, excellent spots for water recreation and many stunning natural wonders.

Poipu Beach, Kauai
Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States if not the world, Poipu Beach is located on the south shore of Kauai and is part of Poipu Beach Park. The beach is composed of a string of golden sandy crescent shaped beaches. Visitors to Poipu can have hours of fun snorkeling, boogie-boarding, swimming, and surfing. The best surfing spots are located slightly offshore, the reef establishes wavebreaks which make good surfing for surfers of all experience levels.

Pearl Harbor, Oahu
This National Historical Landmark honors the tragic turning point in America's history. Pearl Harbor has five historic sites that honor the events of December 7th, 1941. Each of these memorials is an awe-inspiring experience for visitors to Oahu. The USS Arizona Memorial, is a floating memorial built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, which sunk in nine minutes. Visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial has a marble wall with the names of the men who died on the USS Arizona. Visitors to Pearl Harbor can also visit the Battleship Missouri Memorial, which is the ship where the Japanese unconditionally surrendered ending the war. The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is a great spot for visitors to learn about submarine warfare during the war. The Pacific Aviation Museum is located within the former World War II airplane hangars, and is an amazing aviation museum that has simulators and many exhibits. Visitors can also stop at the USS Oklahoma Memorial, which honors the men who lost their lives on the battleship during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Moomomi Dunes, Molokai
The Moomomi Dunes are located on a 920 acre preserve, located on the northwest region of Molokai. These dunes are an important part of Molokai and Hawaii's history. Ancient Hawaiian sites have been found in the dunes, as well as endangered plant species, and evidence of flightless prehistoric birds. Visitors can travel into the Moomomi Dunes on the jeep trails that weave through the preserve. Those visitors to Molokai that explore the Moomomi Dunes should be prepared for the rugged conditions, but it is a truly amazing place, rich with the history of Molokai.

Keahiakawelo, Lanai
Also know as the Garden of the Gods, Keahiakawelo is an absolutely stunning garden on the northwest side of Lanai. Visitors to Keahiakawelo will see the stunning rock garden. Throughout the landscape there are rock towers and formations. Visitors have to have 4-wheel drive in order to access this interesting spot, and it is worth noting that the landscape is most stunning at dusk when the rock formations are lit by the colors of the setting sun.

Hana Highway, Maui
A road trip along the Hana Highway is a great way to explore some of Maui's amazing sights and activities. The Highway travels along the northern shore of Maui, ending in the town of Hana. Along this road, travelers will find stunning beaches, gardens, and much more. During the winter time visitors should stop to see the expert surfers braving the waves at Jaws, off of Pauwela Point. This area is known for its gigantic waves, which only the very best surfers brave. Travelers along the Hana Highway can also stop at the Keanae Arboretum has fascinating examples of Hawaiian flora. Visitors should also stop at the Waianapanapa State Park, on the edge of Hana, this park has a beautiful black sand beach and also has a trail to explore the area. All along the Hana Highway there are many beautiful places to explore and things to experience and the town of Hana also has many excellent places to visit.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
During a visit to Hawaii, if you are looking for some spectacular natural sights, then Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the country's must see destinations. At this park you can look over the edge into some ancient volcanic craters. If you only have time for a drive, the Crater Rim Drive will take you through a rain forest and desert, you will encircle the summit of Kilauea caldera and pass through the caldera floor. Maybe you have time for some hiking, try the Kilauea Iki Trail, where you can cross the crater. You can also go to the East Rift Zone to see the most recent lava flow. Lava flow is always changing, so find out what is going on before stopping for a visit.

Waipio Valley, Hawaii
This valley is one of Hawaii's truly stunning vistas. Waipio Valley stretches almost six miles into the island from the beach at its mouth. The valley's walls are almost a mile high. Throughout the valley there are waterfalls and streams. Waipio Valley is a place filled with Hawaiian history and it is an excellent opportunity to recreate and explore an amazing bit of Hawaii. The Waipio Valley is somewhat difficult to access, if you don't want to attempt the trip into the valley you can instead stop at the Waipio Valley Lookout to enjoy the view from the top of the valley. For the more adventurous travelers, there are a few options to get into the Waipio Valley. Visitors can take the Waipio Valley Shuttle, which is a guided tour of the valley, or the Waipio Valley Wagon Tour, a mule-drawn surrey tour of the Valley.

Fun and Funky Things to Do | Hawaii

Hawaii is a beautiful state, each the islands are filed with stunning scenery, amazing recreation and plenty of sun and relaxation. For those visitors that love to explore some of the funky and fun places during their vacation, here are some of the fun and funky destinations found throughout Hawaii.

Captain Cook Monument
Visitors to the island of Hawaii can stop to visit the spot where Captain James Cook, the first westerner to land on the Big Island of Hawaii, first landed on the island. Within the Kealakekua Bay there is a white obelisk memorializing the death of Captain Cook, which occurred a year after his arrival during a fight with the native Hawaiians. In addition to the memorial, there is also plenty of excellent recreation opportunities to be enjoyed at the park.

Halona Blowhole
This scenic cove, located at Hanauma Bay on the island of Oahu. Not only is the spot a scenic one, but it also has an amazing blowhole. Visitors can drive to a scenic overlook, which has an excellent view of the unique lava configuration that creates the blowhole. The blowhole is caused by a lava tube and the surf, which causes the blowhole to erupt. Depending on the surf action, the blowhole eruption can be very impressive.

Hilo Hattie
Found throughout the islands of Hawaii, Hilo Hattie is a fantastic store to find all sorts of Hawaiian souvenirs and treasures. Every visit to Hilo Hattie is sure to be fun and an excellent destination to find fun gifts for your friends back home, and memorabilia to help preserve the memories from your trip.

Polynesian Cultural Center
Located on the northeast shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a fun destination to learn about all of the many different cultures in the Pacific Ocean region including the Hawaiian Islands. Within the Center visitors will find a variety of village replicas from different cultures, which feature craft demonstrations and more. This destination is a fantastic family attraction and is a fun way to learn more about the cultures of the region of the Pacific Ocean.

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Visitors to Hawaii that are interested in learning about Hawaiian culture should be sure to stop at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park also known as the Place of Refuge. This park preserves and important part of Hawaiian culture, which visitors can see first hand during a visit. Within the park there was once royal grounds as well as the place of refuge where lawbreakers in the Hawaiian culture could try to evade their pursuers and participate in a ceremony of absolution. This historical destination provides a fun destination and an excellent opportunity to learn about Hawaiian culture.

Illinois Quick Facts

Uniquely Illinois: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Must-See: The Gateway Geyser

Most Unusual: Leaning Tower of Niles

Highest Point: Charles Mound, 1,235 feet

Food to Try: Chicago Style Pizza

What to Do in Illinois:

1 Admire the impressive architecture at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

2 Explore Illinois wildlife at the Wildlife Prairie State Park

3 Learn about Lincoln's life at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site

4 Enjoy the fascinating history of the Mississippi River at the National Great Rivers Museum

5 Spend some time exploring the wonderful Main Street in Galena

Off The Beaten Path | Illinois

Illinois is an amazing state, filled with great vacation destinations. Visitors will find nature, history, culture, and much more. From Civil War history to the Leaning Tower of Niles, there is something to interest everyone. Here are a few of the fascinating attractions that visitors to Illinois can enjoy.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, Oak Park
Oak Park has an amazing collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. Visitors to Oak Park can see how the style of Wright's architecture developed over the years, and see his signature style, Prairie Style. Those visitors to Illinois that are interested in great American architecture should be sure to enjoy the guided tour of the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Leaning Tower of Niles, Niles
Visitors to Illinois can see a replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This is a great stop for those visitors who have not visited Pisa, Italy, as it is an opportunity to see a replica of the amazing site. Built in 1934, the Leaning Tower of Niles is about half the size of the original Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Rock Springs Conservation Area, Decatur
This area is a beautiful destination for visitors to Illinois that love nature. Throughout the large area there are many types of terrain, including grassland, forest, wetlands and more. Visitors to the Conservation Area can stop at the visitor center, the museum and a farmhouse. In addition, the Rock Springs Conservation Area has hiking trails and bike trails, making it a great destination for recreating.

The Gateway Geyser, St. Louis
Located in East St. Louis, the Gateway Geyser is a magnificent attraction in Illinois. The geyser shoots water over 600 feet in the air. The fountain also has four additional fountains. Together the fountains make a spectacular St. Louis sight.

Ulysses S. Grant Home, Galena
Visitors to Illinois can experience a bit of Civil War history during a trip to Galena. Here, they will find the home of Ulysses S. Grant. The Union General lived in Galena prior to becoming a  General, and he returned to Galena in 1865 after the Civil War was over. Today visitors can take a tour through the house, which is located at 500 Bouthillier Street.

Washington Park Botanical Garden, Springfield
Nature lovers are sure to enjoy spending some time at the Washington Park Botanical Gardens. Here they will find a wide variety of plant species. There are over 1,200 different species of plants at the gardens. In addition, visitors can also enjoy the tropical plants in the domed Conservatory.

The Field Museum, Chicago
This is a great destination in Chicago. Visitors will find a wide array of exhibits with amazing history and culture. The Field Museum has permanent exhibits about nature, animals, fossils, culture, and much more information. The museum also has temporary exhibits that regularly change.

Fun & Funky Things to Do | Illinois

Illinois is an amazing state filled with fun and funky attractions. In addition to the many destinations that people usually enjoy in Illinois, here are a few of those destinations that are a bit out of the ordinary.

Smiley Face Water Towers
Visitors to Illinois should keep an eye out for the Smiley Face water towers that are found in various towns throughout the state. These water towers, painted yellow with large smiling faces are difficult to miss. In fact visitors to Calumet City can see two Smiley Face water towers.

Purple Martin Capital of the World
The town of Griggsville, Illinois is known as the "Purple Martin Capital of the Nation." Visitors to this town will see all sorts of bird houses. In the center of the town there is even a bird high-rise for the Purple Martin's. These birds, once endangered, thrive in this area during the summer due the large quantity of mosquitos. Griggsville is unique in its claim to the "Purple Martin Capital of the Nation" because the town's main industry is the manufacture of the bird houses seen throughout the town.

Popeye Statue
Chester, Illinois is home to a large six-foot bronze statue of Popeye. This town's Popeye statue was built to commemorate the creator of the character. Elzie Segar, creator of Popeye, was born in Chester. Today visitors can enjoy the large statue of the cartoon character, and during certain times of the year attend the Popeye Picnic.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum
Appropriately located in Springfield, Illinois, this museum is a fun spot to learn all about the life of the president. Although this museum does not have the most genuine artifacts from Lincoln's life, the museum still has plenty to see. Visitors se life-sized wax figures of the Lincoln family and other historic figures during the time. The museum also has 4-D theaters, pictures, paintings and much more.

Villa Katherine
Villa Katherine is located on the banks of the Mississippi near Warsaw, Illinois. It is actually a Moorish castle built in the late 1800s. The interior is filled with ornate woodwork and carvings.   Villa Katherine has a very authentic feel of the Moorish Castle and is a great, fun, Illinois attraction.