Generic Talk

Great Loop States of Passage

The Great Loop is a navigational waterway system that encompasses the eastern portion of the United States and a small part of Canada. 

Alabama (AL)“We Dare Maintain Our Rights”, “Heart of Dixie”“Cotton State” &“Yellowhammer State”

Historian travelers particularly interested in Civil Rights along with antebellum homes, caves, college football, festivals, golf, Gulf Coast beaches, hiking, music lovers (country and blues), NASCAR enthusiasts, recreational outdoors, southern cooking and waterfalls.

  • Capitol: Montgomery
  • State Bird: Yellowhammer
  • State Dessert: Lane Cake
  • State Flower: Camellia
  • State Gemstone: Star Blue Quartz
  • State Mammal: Black Bear
  • State Rock: Marble

Special Events: Alabama Shakespeare Festival (Ongoing), Mobile Mardi Gras (February – March), Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee (March), To Kill a Mockingbird (March-April), Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic (May), AOHA Alabama State Championship Horse Show (May), Civil War Reenactment (May), Hangout Music Festival (May), Alabama Sports Festival (June), Chilton County Peach Festival (June), Helen Keller Festival (June), Muscle Shoals Street Rod Festival (June), Monroe County NCPRA Rodeo (August), Fayette Arts Festival (September), Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride (September), “Oka Kapassa” Return to Cold Water American Indian Festival (September), Alabama Renaissance Faire (October), Barber Motorsports Park Festival (October), Kentuck Festival of Arts (October), Secret Stages Music Festival (October), Peanut Festival (November), Christmas on the River Cook-Off (December) &  Dickens Christmas Feast (December)

Good to Know

  • Shop in Scottsboro, Unclaimed Baggage Center to purchase the contents of unclaimed luggage lost by major airlines.
  • One of our most religious states.
  • Home to Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr, offering 468 holes between eleven sites.
  • Approximately twenty tornadoes occur annually.

Amongst the hottest summers with mild winters; is prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, tropical storms and vulnerable to droughts and floods.

  • Best Time to Visit: June, September – November
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Humid & Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: May – August

Florida (FL)The Sunshine State

Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tropical climate destination to enjoy amusement parks, beaches, bicycling, bird watching, boating, canoeing, diving, everglades, fishing, gardens, golf, kayaking, lakes, nightlife, snorkeling, surfing, walking and water sports.

  • State Bird: Northern Mockingbird
  • State Dessert: Key Lime Pie
  • State Flower: Orange Blossom
  • State Gemstone: Moonstone
  • State Mammal: Florida Panther 
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (January) A Festival of the Arts, Cape Coral Arts & Music Festival, Florida Keys Uncorked Festival, Hoggetowne Medieval Faire, Kumquat Festival, Naples Winter Wine Festival, Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival, Rock the Universe, Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts & Humanities, (February) Artfest Fort Myers, Florida Azalea Festival, Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Greek Fest Fort Myers, Rock the Universe, Winefest, (March) Calle Ocho Festival, Chalo Nitka, Daytona Beach Bike Week, Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, MegaCon, Springtime Tallahassee,  TurtleFest, Ultra Music Festival, Winter Music Conference, (April) La Musica, Springing the Blues, (May) Best of the Best Music Fest, Florida Folk Festival, Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, Glory at the Gardens, Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Miami Fashion Week, Orlando Boat Show, Orlando Carnival Downtown, Orlando International Fringe Theater Festival, Sarasota Music Festival, Sizzle Miami, St Armands Seafood & Music Festival, Sunset Music Festival, Tampa Bay Margarita Festival, The Fest,   (June) American Black Film Festival, Battle of Bloody Mose, Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival, Chiefland Watermelon Festival, Cocoa Beach Pirate Fest, Downtown Venice Craft Festival, Key West Pride, Ocala Comic Con, Panhandle Watermelon Festival, Redland Summer Fruit Festival, Saint George Island Mullet Toss, Silver Spurs Rodeo, St Armands Circle Craft Festival, St Pete Pride Festival & Parade, The Hukilau, Vero Beach Wine & Film Festival, Wellborn Blueberry Festival, Wynwood Pride, (July) African Diaspora Dance & Drum Festival of Florida, Caladium Festival, International Ballet Festival of Miami, Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament, Mel Fisher Days, Metrocon, Orlando Truck & Jeep Fest, Red Hot & Boom, Pensacola Beach Air Show, SharkCon, The International Mango & Tropical Fruit Festival, The Key Lime Festival, The New Horizon’s Navarre Annual Psychic & Healing Arts Fair, (August) Anime Festival Orlando, Arts in August, Fishermen’s Village Tikifest, Harvest Grape Stomp, Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival, Key West Lobsterfest, Miami Spice, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Tampa Bay Comic Con, (September) Downtown Venice Craft Festival, Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Gulf Coast Jam, I Like It Hot Festival, Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, Key West BrewFest, New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival, Punta Gorda Sullivan Street Craft Festival, Quiltfest, Sing Out Loud Festival, Space Coast Pride & Parade, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, Womenfest Key West, (October) Amelia Island Jazz Festival, Biketoberfest, Camping with the Blues, Central Florida Harvest and Peanut Festival, Central Florida Veg Fest, Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Destin Seafood Festival, Fantasy Fest, Fort Myers Oktoberfest Festival, John’s Pass Seafood & Music Festival, Lobster Festival & Tournament, Micanopy Fall Festival, Mount Dora Craft Fair, Orange Park Fall Festival, Orlando Film Festival, Pirates of the Seas Fest, REEF Fest, Sarasota Oktoberfest, South Florida Seafood Festival & Nautical Market, Tampa Bay Oktoberfest, The Fest, Thunder Beach Autumn Rally, (November) Boca Raton Tree Lighting, Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival, Christmas Spectacular!, Deland Fall Festival of the Arts, Downtown Festival & Art Show, Florida Seafood Festival, Holiday Fantasy of Lights, Jamaican Jerk Festival, Magic of Lights at the Daytona International Speedway, Miami Harvest Festival, Native Rhythms Festival, Nights of Lights, Ocean Adventure Expo, Suncoast Jazz Classic, St Augustine Art and Craft Festival, Thanksgiving Bluegrass Festival, The Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival, Ybor Tree Lighting Ceremony, (December)Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade, Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade, Holiday on the Harbor & Boat Parade of Lights, Holidays at Flamingo Gardens, Islamorada Holiday Festival, Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade, Santa Fest and Downtown Christmas Parade, Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival, just to name a few!

Good to Know

  • State Law, wipers on, headlights on for vehicles.
  • Captiva Island, Fort Myers and Sanibel Island offer the best beach shells to be found, “Seashell Capital of the World”.
  • Given their canal system in Ft Lauderdale is often referred to as “Venice of America”.
  • Lemon Eucalyptus Oil is a great natural bug repellent to take with you.
  • Clearwater & St Petersburg claims to have 361 days of sunshine annually.
  • Cocoa Beach is a popular surf spot.
  • Best to allow the tide to carry you and swim parallel to the shore in effort to avoid undertows.
  • There are many ice rinks throughout the state.
  • Keep an eye out during Stingray Mating Season (early June) in shallow waters.
  • Sea Turtles Season is May – October.
  • Never touch coral!
  • Proudly holds 900 World Fishing Records.
  • Has 26 official designated scenic highways.
  • Features over 1,300 public and private golf courses.

Prone to heat waves, hurricanes (June – November, usually impacted between August – September) and tropical storms.

  • Best Time to Visit: January – May
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July 
  • Peak Season: November – April

Georgia (GA)

“The Big Peach”, “City in a Forest”, City of Trees” & “Empire State of the South”

The cosmopolitan travelers seeking subtropical climate to experience: battle reenactments, beaches, bicycling, culture, contemporary art,  forts, gold mining tours, golfing, hiking, history, mountains, museums, music, peach orchards, plantations, southern hospitality, swamps, vintage mansions, waterfalls and wild rapids.

  • State Bird: Brown Thrasher
  • Capital: Atlanta
  • State Dessert: Peach Cobbler
  • State Flower: Rosa Laevigata
  • State Gemstone: Quartz
  • State Mammal: White Tailed Deer
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (January) New Year’s Bluegrass Festival, (March) Azalea Festival, Blessing of the Fleet, Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival,International Cherry Blossom Festival, Rhythm & Ribs BBQ Festival, Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Stopover, Sip & Savor Spring, (April) Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Athens Twilight Criterium, Due South, Roswell Moves!, SweetWater 420 Fest, Thomasville Rose Show & Festival, (May) Alpharetta Arts Streetfest, Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, Atlanta Jazz Festival, Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival, Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival, Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que Music Festival, Shaky Knees Music Festival, Spring Arts in the Park, Taste of Alpharetta, The Atlanta Cycling Festival, (June) Art in the Mountains, Bicycle Ride Across Georgia, Candler Park Music & Food Festival, Georgia 400 Hospitality Hwy Century, Made in Georgia Festival, Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival, River Lantern Parade, Rockfest, Roswell Lavender Festival, Thomas A Dorsey Festival, Tour of North Georgia , Tunes from the Tombs, Watermelon Days Festival, (July) Bragg Jam, (August) Arts in the Heart, Crush Fest Wine & Food Festival, Georgia Mountain Fair,(September) A3C Festival & Conference, Imagine Music Festival, Music Midtown, ONE Musicfest, Six Gap Century Bicycle Ride & Three Gap Fifty Bike Ride, Wildwood Revival, (October) Georgia Apple Festival, Oktoberfest, Twin Rivers Challenge Cycling Event, Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival, (November) HemlockFest, Savannah Food & Wine Festival, Shrimp & Grits Festival & (December) Victorian Christmas Festival, just to name a few.

Good to Know

  • Coca Cola and Sweet Tea are drink staples.
  • Plan to experience the differences between the rural and urban areas.
  • Do shop and dine at the Monastery of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit (Conyers) for local breakfast and goods prepared by Monks.
  • Summertime is hot and humid.
  • As the “Chicken Capital of the World” is best eaten in Gainesville.
  • Allow your mouth to feast on locally grown ripe melons, peaches, peanuts and pecans.
  • Pristine beaches are located on the southeastern coast, Golden Isles.
  • Always wear bug repellent to avoid the West Nile Virus.
  • Their most popular attraction is Stone Mountain receiving over four million visitors annually.
  • Augusta hosts the annual Masters Golf Tournament every spring.
  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is considered one of our nation’s busiest airports.
  • Has 29 Islands, not all are inhabitable, however the most popular islands to visit are Jekyll Island, Sea Island, St Simons Island and Tybee Island.

A humid subtropical climate subject to hurricanes and tornadoes.

  • Best Time to Visit: March – May
  • Coldest Months: November – February
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: June – August

Illinois (IL)“Land of Lincoln”, “Chi-Town”, “City by the Lake”, “City in a Garden”, “City of Big Shoulders”, “Great Commercial Tree”, “Heart of America”, “Mud City”, “Prairie State”, “Second City”, The City Beautiful”, “The City that Works”, “The Great American City” “Windy City”

Travelers seeking a world class city to enjoy architecture, culture, dining, historical sites, history, museums, nightlife, shopping and theatre.

  • Capital: Springfield
  • State Bird: Northern Cardinal
  • State Dessert: Pumpkin Pie
  • State Flower: Violet
  • State Gemstone: None
  • State Mammal: White Tailed Deer
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (March)  Joseph Jefferson Award, Illinois State Bar Association High School Mock Trial Invitational, The Fest for Beatles Fans,  (April) Chicago Rose of Tralee, (May) Anime Central (ACen), HerrinFesta Italiana, International Mister Leather (IML), Lake of Egypt Paddle Fest, Lilac TimeSummer Camp Music Festival, (June) Edwardsville Route 66 Festival, Grant Park Music Festival , Great Galena Balloon Race Weekend, Lisle Eyes to the Skies, Long Grove Strawberry Festival, Macon County Fair, Metropolis SuperCon, Miss Illinois’ Outstanding Teen, People’s Summit, Ravinia Festival, Superman Celebration,  (July) Anime Midwest, Bughouse Square Debates, Cornerstone Festival, North Michigan Avenue Art Festival, Pitchfork Music Festival, Ruido Fest, Taste of Chicago,  (August) Chicago Air & Water Show, Cobden Peach Festival, Decatur Celebration Great River Tug Fest, Illinois State Fair,  Lollapalooza, Northwest Illinois Film Festival ,  US National Straw Sculpting Competition, (September) Chicago Jazz Festival, Festival of the Vine, Jazz Weekend, Mississippi Earthtones Festival, Murphysboro Apple Festival, Old Fashioned Pumpkin Festival, On the Waterfront, Popeye Parade & Picnic, Shoe Fest, Shrimp Festival, Springfield Mile, Three Dog Night, Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival, World Music Festival Chicago, (October) Chicago International Film Festival, Galena Oktoberfest, Halloween Parade & Festival, Open House Chicago (OHC), Redneck Fishing Tournament, Sycamore Pumpkin Festival, Vulture Fest, (November) Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, Festival of Lights, HolyBoulders Bouldering Competition & Turkey Testicle Festival

Good to Know

  • Chicago is a hub for Amtrak Trains connecting passengers to the Northeast, South and West Coast.
  • Route 66 starts in Chicago (ends in Santa Monica, CA).
  • Foliage Season starts around the last two weeks in September and lasts until the last two weeks of October.

Subject to heat waves, winds, snow storms and tornadoes.

  • Best Time to Visit: May – October
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Months: July
  • Peak Season: June – August

Kentucky (KY)Bluegrass State“, “Barbecue Capital of the World”, “It’s That Friendly”, “Kentucky’s Country Music Capital”, “Official State Honey Festival of Kentucky” & “Unbridled Spirit”

Passionate equestrians, cyclists and outdoor lovers to enjoy biking, bluegrassmusic, boating, bourbon, camping, canoeing, caves, college basketball, derby, equestrian farms, festivals, fishing, folk art, golf, hiking, historic sites, horseback riding, horse races, hiking, hunting, kayaking, large lakes, moonshine, mountains, rivers, rolling pastures, shopping, state parks, southern cuisine and white water rafting.

  • Capital: Frankfort
  • State Bird: Cardinal
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Goldenrod
  • State Gemstone: Freshwater Pearl
  • State Mammal: Thoroughbred Horse
  • State Rock: Kentucky Agate

Special Events: (March) Tater Day, (April) Kentucky Derby Festival, Thunder Over Louisville, (May) Derby Festival,  International Bar-B-Q Festival, Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival, Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, (June) Beer Cheese Festival, Festival of the Bluegrass, W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival, (July) Quaker State 400, (August) 127 Corridor Sale, Kenlake Hot August Blues, Kentucky State Fair, PGA Championship, Senior PGA Championship, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, World Championship Horse Show, (September) Anderson County Burgoo Festival, Clarkson Honeyfest, Festival of the Horse, Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Logan Co Tobacco & Heritage Festival, Moonbow Eggfest, NASCAR, Ryder Cup, Wounded Warriors Fishing Event, (October) Christian Way Farm Harvest Praise, Galilean Home Ministries Annual Quilt Auction, Garvin Gate Blues Festival, Halloween Fest, Limestone Cycling Tour, Salt Festival,(November) Anderson County Art Trail, Deer Widow Retreat Weekend, (December) Bardstown Kiwanis Club’s Annual Christmas Parade & Live Nativity

Good to Know

  • Some counties are “dry” prohibiting beer and wine sales.
  • The state has two time zones.
  • State wide indoor smoking ban.

Subject to humidity, mild winters, rainy summers and tornados (April-May).

  • Best Time to Visit: April – May and September – October
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: June – August

Maryland (MD)Old Line State“, “America in Miniature”, “Chesapeake Bay State”,”Free State” & “Little America”

For their bays, beaches, bird watching, blue crabs, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, history, horse racing, hunting, mountains, sailing, skiing, water sports, white-water rafting and wildlife. 

  • Capital: Annapolis
  • State Bird: Baltimore Oriole
  • State Dessert: Smith Island Cake
  • State Flower: Black-Eyed Susan
  • State Gemstone: Patuxent River Stone 
  • State Mammal: None
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (February) ClipperCon, FeBREWary, (March) PEEPShow,(April) Annapolis Arts Week, Privateer Festival, (May)Balticon, Baltimore Comic-Con, Baltimore Flower Mart, DelFest, Kinetic Sculpture Race, Maryland Deathfest, Maryland Film Festival, Preakness Stakes, Secret Garden Tour of Havre de Grace, Sowebohemian Arts Festival, (June) Antique & Classic Boat Festival, BronyCon, Capital Jazz Fest, HonFest, Insubordination Fest, Moonrise, National Music Festival, Otakon, (July) Artscape, J Millard Tawes Crab & Clam Bake, Little Yough Summer Music Festival, (August) Baltimore Pride, Country Fest & Auction, Historic National Road Yard Sale Days, Maryland State Fair, OC Air Show, Vegan SoulFest, White Marlin Open, Watermen’s Appreciation Day, Woodstock 50, (September) Berlin’s Fiddlers Convention, Fells Point Fun Festival, Grand Prix of Baltimore, High Zero, Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival, Maryland Fleet Week Baltimore, Maryland Seafood Festival, Maryland Wine Festival, National Folk Festival, (October) Autumn Glory Festival, Fells Point Halloween Festival, Maryland Doom Fest, Ocean City Sunfest, Preakness Stakes, Six Pillars Century Blackwater Tour, The Maryland Doom Fest, (November) Baltimore Book Festival, Greek Festival, ICE!, (December) Christmas Village in Baltimore, Kwanzaa Celebration, Miracle on 34th Street & Old Tyme Christmas Festival in Fells Point

Good to Know

  • Annapolis is globally known for sailing,
  • Assateague Island is where the wild horses run.
  • Crab Gender: Male Crabs (jimmies) have a backside narrow T-shape apron typically larger and meaty while the Female Crabs (sooks) have a wide backside apron.
  • The “yellow stuff” (hepatopancreas) in crabs is their filtration system often considered a delicacy by some but not recommended to eat.

Subject to humidity, infrequent earthquakes, snowstorms, tornadoes and tropical cyclones.

  • Best Time to Visit: May-September
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: June-August

Michigan (MI)The Great Lakes State“, “The Mitten State”, The Wolverine State” & “Water-Winter Wonderland”

Travelers wishing to bike, camp, canoe, cider mills, dog sled, farms, fish, gamble, golf, hike, horseback ride, hunting, lakes, motor races, museums, sail, scuba dive, ski, snowmobile, snow sports, waterfalls, water parks and waterski. 

  • Capital: Lansing
  • State Bird: Robin
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Apple Blossom
  • State Gemstone: Chlorastrolite (Isle Royale Greenstone)
  • State Mammal: Wolverine 
  • State Rock: Petoskey Stone 

Special Events: (January) Ann Arbor Folk Festival, Ice Jam, North American International Auto Show, Plymouth Ice Fest, Tip-Up Town USA, Winter Wheat, (February) Dirty Show, Great Indoor Folk Festival, Hamtramck Music Fest, Mackinac Winter Festival, Motown Winter Blast, Winter Delights Festival, Winter Roots Festival, (March) Autorama, Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival, WO-Stock Music Festival, (April) GrandStand Music Festival, Monroe Street Fair & Hash Bash, Motor City Nightmares Horror Expo, Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival, (May) Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show, BBQ Blues & Bluegrass, MotorCity Comic Con, Movement Detroit, Movement Music Festival, National Cherry Festival, Review Music Awards Celebration, Tulip Time Festival, White Birch Music Festival, (June) Detroit Grand Prix, Detroit River Days, Downtown Hoedown, Hippie Fest, Jackson BluesFest, Mackinac Island Lilac Festival, Motor City Irish Fest (MCIF), Music at Opa! Fest, Romeo Peach Fest, Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival, Target Fireworks, (July) Ann Arbor Art Fest, Concours D’Elegance, Faster Horses Festival, International Food Festival, Marshall Bluegrass Festival, Michigan Elvis Fest, Michigan Jazz Festival, National Cherry Festival, Sounds & Sights Festival, Uncle Sam Jam, Woodtick Music Festival, (August) APBA Gold Cup Races, Frankenmuth Summer Music Fest, Grand Marais Music & Arts Festival, Jazz on the River, Mackinac Island’s Fudge Festival, Memphis Blues Festival Michigan, Michigan Renaissance Festival, Porcupine Mountains Music Festival, Square Dance Convention, Sun Dried Music Festival, Suttons Bay Art Fair, Unity Christian Music Festival, Woodward Dream Cruise, (September) Arts Beats & Eats, Berserker, Detroit Jazz Festival, Marquette Area Blues Fest, Michigan BluesFest, Michigan Irish Music Festival, Michigan State Fair, Movement – Electronic Music Festival, Music at Dally in the Alley, Music at Oktoberfest West Michigan, Thumbfest, Underground Railroad Heritage Gathering, (October) Annual Michigan State Championship Old-Time Fiddlers Contest , Big Country Fest, Theatre Bizarre, Youmacon, (November) Detroit Thanksgiving Parade, (December) Mittenfest & Noel Night

Mackinac (MACK-in-naw) Island

Founded in 1780, situated on Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas boasts relaxation and romance.

  • Automobiles are banned on the island. So, your means of transportation is by bicycle, horse-drawn carriages, saddle horses and walking.
  • On this 8 mile island circumference, there are no chain hotels or restaurants.
  • Accessible by boats from St Ignace (Upper Peninsula) or Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula). 
  • Peak Tourism Season is May – October, less crowded early May or late October.
  • Foliage colors are best late September to mid October.
  • The romantic film, Somewhere in Time (1980) was filmed on Mackinac Island at the Grand Hotel
  • Island Attractions: Anne’s Tablet, Arch Rock, Benjamin Blacksmith Shop, Crack In The Island, Fort Holmes, Fort Mackinac, Grand Hotel, Horse in History Museum, Kite Flying at Windermere Point, Mission Point Resort’s Lawn, Original Butterfly House & Insect World, Skull Cave, Somewhere In Time Gazebo, Stone Skipping (Windermere Point), Sugar Loaf and Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory.
  • Well known for Mackinac Island Fudge, unique dining and shopping.

Good to Know

  • Only state to consist of two peninsulas: Lower Peninsula (mitten shape) consists of a majority of lakes, flats to hills while the Upper Peninsula (“the U.P.”) consists of forest and wetland areas. 
  • Majority of ski resorts are located in the Upper Peninsula area.
  • Boasts 64,980 inland lakes and ponds.
  • Instagram prefect pics to be taken at Grand Traverse Bay, Pictured Rocks and Sleeping Bear Dunes.
  • Lake Huron Shoreline area is less expensive and flatter terrain.
  • Even during summer months, the water temperatures are cold.
  • Fall Foliage is best mid September – October.
  • A major hub for Delta Air Lines.
  • A leading grower of our fruits: apples, blueberries, grapes, peaches and tart cherries. Also, known for growing: corn, flowers, plums, pears, potatoes, soybeans, strawberries, sugar beets and wheat. 
  • Great destination to fish for: perch, salmon, trout and walleye.

Subject to humidity, snow storms and tornadoes.

  • Best Time to Visit: May – October
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Months: July
  • Peak Season: June – August

Mississippi (MS)The Magnolia State” &”The Hospitality State

Low key travelers who desire antebellum homes, battle reenactments, beaches, birdwatching, blues music, boating, camping, casinos, fishing, golfing, history, sailing and scenery.

  • Capital: Jackson
  • State Bird: Mockingbird
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Magnolia
  • State Gemstone: None
  • State Mammal: Red Rox & White Tailed Deer 
  • State Rock: Petrified Wood

Special Events: (January) Jackson Indie Music Week, Mardi Gras, (February) Magnolia Independent Film Festival,  (March) Hal’s St Paddy’s Parade, Rapiscan Systems Classic, Spring & Fall Natchez Pilgrimage, (April) Country Cajun Crawfish Festival, Tunica Rivergate Festival, (May) Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show, (June) Blessing of the Fleet, Cathead Jam, Elvis Festival, USA International Ballet Competition, (July) Slugburger Festival, (August) Bright Lights Belhaven Nights, Mississippi Book Festival,  Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival, (September) Biloxi Seafood Festival, CelticFest, Market Street Festival, Mississippi Delta Blues & Heritage Festival, Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues & Heritage Festival, Mississippi Jazz & Heritage Festival, Pecan Festival, (October) Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show, Cruisin’ the Coast, Gautier Mullet & Music Fest, Highway 61 Blues, Leland Frogfest, Mississippi State Fair, Spring & Fall Natchez Pilgrimage, (November) Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival, Mississippi International Film Festival, Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival,(December) Christmas on the Water Boat Parade & Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon

Good to Know

  • Due to migration, bird watching is best in the autumn and spring.
  • Liquor Laws vary across the state with dry counties. Alcohol normally is not sold on Sunday’s.
  • Retail Sales Tax Rate is 7%.
  • Prone to poverty areas.

Subject to flooding (December-June), humidity, hurricanes, thunderstorms and mild winters.

  • Best Time to Visit: March – May and September – November
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: May – August

Missouri (MO)Cave State”, “Gateway to the West”, “Home of the Blues”,”Show Me State”, “Mother of the West”, “Pennsylvania of the West”, “The Bullion State”, “The Iron Mountain State”, “The Lead State”, “The Mother of the West” & “The Ozark State”

Travelers seeking architecture, boating, breweries, camping, caves, cyclists, fishing, hiking, history, lakes, museums, music, rivers, small towns, theme parks, scenery, waterskiing, water sports and wineries.

  • Capital: Jefferson City
  • State Bird: Bluebird
  • State Dessert: Ice Cream Cone
  • State Flower: Hawthorn 
  • State Gemstone: None
  • State Mammal: Missouri Mule 
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (April) World Festival, (May) Spring Mountain Music Festival, (July) Fair Saint Louis, Red White & Blue BBQ Blowout, (August) Ozark Empire Fair, (September) 3D Bash, American Royal Barbecue, Big Muddy Blues Festival, Big River Steampunk Festival, Black Walnut Festival, Brewfest, Budweiser Taste of St Louis, Burg Fest, Chillicothe Festival, Cotton Carnival & Parade, Calhoun Colt Show Fair & Festival, Civil War Reenactment, Fair Grove Heritage Reunion Festival, Fall Bluegrass Festival, HOBA Fall Bluegrass Festival, Hootin an Hollarin, Humansville Fall Festival, Labor Day Rodeo, Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest, LouFest, Mule Festival, Music on Main Street, Rodeo Daze, Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival, Seymour Apple Festival, St Louis Art Fair, Summer Bluegrass Concert, Wilder Days Festival, (October) Apple Butter Makin’ Days, Autumn Historic Folklife Festival, Cackle Hatchery’s Annual Chicken Festival, Coin & Stamp Show, Fall Festival of Arts Crafts & Music, Fall Muster, Folklife Festival, Hollister Grape & Fall Festival, Kansas City Renaissance Festival, Liberty Days, Maple Leaf Car Show, Ozark Arts & Crafts Show, Pioneer Heritage Festival, Ranch Rodeo, Scarecrow Festival Eureka, (November) American Royal Livestock Show & Military History Appreciation Day

Good to Know

  • Not a coastal beach or mountainous destination.
  • Summer months are usually wet.
  • On Interstate 70, *55 connects you to the Highway Patrol.
  • In January, sit along the lock and dam (near Clarksville) for bald eagle sightings.
  • Highway 40 and Interstate 64 are one in the same road.
  • Nearly extinct, is the Missouri French language, a combination of Canadian French and Louisiana Creole French. 
  • State Law permits bars, billiard parlors, bowling alleys, restaurants (less than 50 people seating) to decide their own smoking policies.
  • Foliage colors usually peak around mid October (end mid November).

Subject to humidity, severe thunderstorms, snowstorms and tornadoes.

  • Best Time to Visit: May – October
  • Coldest Months: December – February
  • Hottest Months: June – August
  • Peak Season: June – August

New York (NY)The Empire State

Has something to offer everyone whether it’s bicycling, broadway, craft breweries, culture, cultural activities, farms, fishing, foodies paradise, forests, golfing, hiking, historic sites, history, horseback riding, lakes, meadows, mountains,  museums, rivers, parks, shopping, snow activities (bobsledding, dog sledding, ice skating, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow tubing), spas, vineyards and walking.

  • Capital: Albany
  • State Bird: Bluebird
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Rose
  • State Gemstone: Garnet
  • State Mammal: Beaver
  • State Rock: None

Special Events: (January) Broadway Week, Must See Week, New York Boat Show, New York City Ballet Winter Repertory Season, New York Jewish Film Festival, NYC Restaurant Week, The Winter Show, Three Kings Day Parade, Tournament of Champions, Winter Jazzfest, (February) Art Dealers Association of America’s (ADAA), Fashion Week, Firefighter Races, Lunar New Year Parade & Festival, The Chinese New Year Parade and Festival, Orchid Show, Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, (March) Asia Week New York, Big East Tournament, Chef’s Race, Macy’s Flower Show, New York City Drag March, New York City Science and Engineering Fair, New York International Children’s Film Festival, St Patrick’s Day Parade, The Armory Show, World Science Festival,  (April) Bronx Week, Cherry Blossom Festival, Easter Parade & Easter Bonnet Festival, International Food Festival, Macy’s Flower Show, Mets & Yankees Season Openers, New York International Auto Show, Parks Department Festival, Shakespeare in the Park, SummerStage, Tribeca Film Festival, (May) Dance Parade, Fleet Week, Frieze New York, Kill Screen Festival, NYCxDESIGN, Passport to Taiwan Festival, TD Five Boro Bike Tour, (June) Blue Note Jazz Festival, Celebrate Brooklyn, Coney Island Mermaid Parade, Figment Festival, Governors Ball Music Festival, JVC Jazz Festival, Museum Mile Festival, National Puerto Rican Day Parade, New York Asian Film Festival, New York Philharmonic’s, Northside Festival, Philippine Independence Day Parade, Pride Week, River to River Festival, Stonewall 50 WorldPride NYC, (July) BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival, Broadway in Bryant Park, Harlem Week, Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks, Midsummer Night Swing, MoMA PS1’s Warm Up, Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, Panorama Music Festival, (August) Afropunk Festival, Charlie Parker Jazz Festival, Flame Con, Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, Summer Streets, U.S. Open Tennis Tournament, (September) Annual Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival, BAM Next Wave Festival, Commemorating 9/11, Electric Zoo, Feast of San Gennaro, International Fringe Festival, Lewiston Harvest & Hops Festival, MADE Fashion Week, Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, New York Fashion Week, New York Film Festival, New York Guitar Show, Oysterfest, Richmond County Fair, Rip the Runway, RuPaul’s DragCon NYC, San Gennaro Festival, The Classic East, Tugboat Race, West Indian Day Parade, World Maker Faire, (October) Annual Guinness Festival, Archtober, Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival, CMJ Music Festival, Heritage Harvest & Horse Festival, Lake George Village Oktoberfest, New York Comic Con, New Yorker Festival, NYC Off Broadway Week, Open House New York, The Meadows Music & Arts Festival, United Solo Theatre Festival, Village Halloween Parade, (November) Holiday Train Show, Jingle Ball, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York Comedy Festival, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting, TCS New York City Marathon, (December) Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, New Year’s Eve at Times Square, New York Road Runners Midnight Run & SantaCon

Perhaps, worthy of their own individual blog is the states…

Finger Lakes, a group of eleven long and narrow lakes situated in the middle of state. 

  • Offers: Arts, Biking, Craft Breweries, Farms, Forests, Gorges, Hiking, Museums, Music, Shopping, Waterfalls & Vineyards
  • Special Events: (March) Spring Carnival Weekend, (May) National Lake Trout Derby, (July) Hill Cumorah Pageant, Phelps Sauerkraut Weekend,(September) Art Festival, Naples Grape Festival, Pioneer Gas Engine Association Show, (October) The Little York Fiber Festival, (November) Ganondagan Native American Dance & Music Festival, Granger Homestead’s Christkindl Market, (December) Clifton Springs hosts the Festival of Lights & Granger’s Festival of Trees
  • The Lakes: Canadice Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Cayuga Lake, Conesus Lake, Hemlock Lake, Honeoye Lake, Keuka Lake, Otisco Lake, Owasco Lake, Seneca Lake & Skaneateles Lake

Thousand Islands (1000 Islands), a group of more than 1,800 islands in the St Lawrence River, straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada.

  • Offers: Castles, Culture, Cycling, Diving, Fishing, Golf, History, Paddling, Rafting & Water Sports
  • Special Events: (October) Annual Trunk or Treat Event, (November) Brockville Artists Studio Annual Show & Sale & (December) The Christmas Parade

Good to Know

  • New York City is a fairly expensive vacation destination. 
  • Catskills Region is often referred to as the “birthplace of American fly fishing”.
  • Restrooms are solely for patrons of the venue.
  • New York City is known as the most economically powerful city and leading financial center in the world.
  • One of the most extensive and oldest transportation infrastructures in the country.

Subject to humidity, hurricanes, snowstorms and storm surges. 

  • Best Time to Visit: April – June and September – Early November
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: June – August and November – December

North Carolina (NC)“Old North State”  &Tar Heel State”

Well known destination for their beaches, biking, birdwatching, boating, botanical gardens, camping, fishing, golf, hiking, historic homes, history, hunting, kayaking, lakes, lighthouses, marshes, mountain biking, mountains, museums, rock climbing, sailing, shopping, southern cuisine, stock-car racing, swamps, theme parks, waterfalls, white water rafting, wildlife and wineries.

  • Capital: Raleigh
  • State Bird: Cardinal
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Dogwood
  • State Gemstone: Emerald 
  • State Mammal: Gray Squirrel 
  • State Rock: Granite

Special Events: (April) MerleFest, (May) Carolina Rebellion, Epicenter Festival, North Carolina Brewers & Music Festival, Speed Street, (June) Taste of Charlotte, (July) Moogfest, Wild Goose Festival, (September) Festival in the Park, Harvest Folk Festival, Hickory Hops Beer & Music Festival, Hopscotch Music Festival, (October) Apple Harvest Festival, Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, Carolina Balloonfest, Carolina Renaissance Festival, Catawba Valley Gem & Mineral Show, Deweyfest, Lexington Barbecue Festival, Mustang Rock & Roast, NC Aviation Museum & Hall of Fame Fly In, Ramseur Fall Festival, Shaky Knees Music Festival, Woolly Worm Festival, (November) Celebration of Seagrove Potters & Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Good to Know

  • State’s Blue Laws only allow beer and wine sales on Sunday, not liquor.
  • Do not wade in marshes with concern to pfiesteria bacteria.
  • Feast on blooms of rhododendrons (June – July) and wisteria vines (April).
  • An international airport hub to Canada, Caribbean, Central America and Europe.
  • Pork barbecue is a culinary staple. 

Subject to flooding, heavy rain, humidity, hurricanes and tropical storms.

  • Best Time to Visit: March – May and September – November
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July
  • Peak Season: June – August

Tennessee (TN)“The Volunteer State”, “The Big Bend State”, “The Hog & Hominy State”, “The Lion’s Den State” &The Mother of Southwestern Statesmen”

Offers something for everyone whether canoeing, caves, country music haven, culture, hiking, historical sites, kayaking, mountains, outdoor activities, southern cuisine and water water rafting.

  • Capital: Nashville
  • State Bird: Mockingbird
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Iris
  • State Gemstone: Tennessee River Pearl 
  • State Mammal: Raccoon 
  • State Rock: Limestone & Tennessee Agate 

Special Events: (January) Elvis Birthday Proclamation Ceremony, (February) Reelfoot Lake Eagle Festival, Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Weekend, (March) Blooming Arts Festival, Cousin Jake Tullock Memorial Bluegrass Festival, Daffodil Day, River City Brewer’s Festival, Tin Pan South, (April) St Jude’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon (May) Beale Street Musical Festival, Iroquois Steeplechase, Lincoln County Spring Demolition Derby, Tennessee Renaissance Festival, (June) Arts & Crafts Festival, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, CMA Music Fest, Exit 56 Blues Fest, Fun Fest, Riverbend Festival,(July) Art On The Mountain, Asian Festival, Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee (BRAT), Japanese Moon Viewing, Let Freedom Sing!, Motor Mania Car Show, Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree & Crafts Festival, (August) AMA Amateur Nationals Motocross Race, Smoky Mountains Songwriters Festival, Tomato Art Festival, (September) African Street Festival, Ancient Sounds Celtic & Appalachian Outdoor Music Festival, Archeofest, Haunting in the Hills, Bellevue Community Picnic, Heritage Festival, International Food & Arts Festival, LickSkillet Spring Barn Sale, National Rolley Hole Marbles Championship & Festival, Parade of Horse Breeds, Rhythm & Roots Reunion Music Festival, Riverfest, Teen Challenge Chili Cook-Off, Tennessee Honey Festival, Tennessee State Fair, (October) Annual Fall Festival, Art on Track Festival, Baxter Harvest Festival, Days Gone By Annual Harvest Fest, Harvest Street Festival, History Hayride by Friends of Edgar Evins State Park, Loretta Lynn’s Fall Trail Ride, Mountain Makins Festival, Nashville Film Festival, National Storytelling Festival, Reelfoot Arts & Craft Festival, Rocktoberfest, Roller Coaster Yard Sale, Smokies Balloon Festival, Southern Festival of Books, Standing Stone State Park Car Show, (November) Enchanted Garden of Lights, Tree Lighting on Town Square,  (December) Christmas Festival & Parade, LANA Holiday Home Tours and Livingston, Overton & County Christmas Parade

Good to Know

  • You’ll find dedicated equestrian farms (Shelbyville) of Tennessee Walking Horse (Tennessee Walker).
  • Food is taxed at 4%, but candy, dietary supplements and prepared food are taxed at 7%.
  • Eastern Tennessee beware of  bears and poisonous snakes. 
  • National Scenic Byways include the Cherohala Skyway, East Tennessee Crossing Byway, Great River Road, Natchez Trace Parkway and The Trace.
  • Mosquitos are known to carry the West Nile Virus.
  • Unless you say “unsweet” tea, anticipate being served a sugary one.
  • You may experience long distances between destinations.
  • “Mother Church of Country Music” is in the Ryman Auditorium.
  • Beale Street (Memphis) is considered the birthplace of blues music.
  • Feast your eyes on the Mississippi River sunset (Memphis).
  • Some tourist attractions close after Labor Day and reopens early May.
  • Smoky Mountains foliage colors appear around mid October through mid November.

Subject to humidity and snowstorms.

  • Best Time to Visit: April – October
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July 
  • Peak Season: June – August & October

Wisconsin (WI)Badger State”, “America’s Dairyland”, “America’s Dairyland “, “The Cheese State” & “The Copper State”

A year round destination offering travelers the opportunity of biking, birdwatching, boating, breweries, camping, canoeing, cheese factories, culture, fishing, forests, hiking, hunting, sailing, scenic railways, skiing, small towns,  snowmobiling and wineries. 

  • Capital: Madison
  • State Bird: Robin
  • State Dessert: None
  • State Flower: Wood Violet
  • State Gemstone: None
  • State Mammal: American Badger
  • State Rock: Red Granite

Special Events: (February) Anime Milwaukee, Apostle Islands Sled Dog Race, Wiscon, (March) St Patrick’s Day Parade, (April) Country Thunder USA, No Brand Con, Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI),  (May) Syttende Mai (Norwegian Constitution Day), (June) Alice in Dairyland, Blue Ox Music Festival, Country Fest, Country USA, Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival, Metro Jam, Miss Wisconsin’s Outstanding Teen, Polish Fest, Porterfield Country Music Festival, River Rhythms, Steel Bridge Songfest, Summerfest, Porterfield Country Music Festival, Willard Polka Fest,(July) Acoustic Fest, Bastille Days, Country Jam USA, Country Thunder, Driftless Music Festival, EAA Oshkosh Airshow, Eaux Claires, Festa Italiana, Hodag Country Music Festival, Kitsune Kon, Lifest, Lumberjack World Championships,Polka Days, Prairie Dog Blues Festival, Rhythm & Booms, Rock Fest, (August) Ashley for the Arts, Blues on the  Chippewa, Big Bull Falls Blues Fest, Brat(wurst) Days, Harbor Park Jazz Rhythm & Blues Festival, Irish Fest, Madison Pride & MAGIC Picnic, Mile of Music, Sugar Maple Traditional Music Festival, Voices of Peace Gospel Music Fest, Wisconsin Highland Games, Wisconsin State Fair, (September) Cheese Days, Great Midwest Marijuana Harvest Festival, Oktoberfest, (October) African World Festival, Arab Fest, Indian Summer & (November) Daisho Con

Good to Know

  • Considered the “tubing capital of the world” (Apple River, Somerset).
  • Canada geese migration occurs in November.
  • Mosquitos are known to carry the West Nile Virus.
  • Has one of the healthiest populations of bald eagles compared to any other state.
  • Rut (Deer Mating Season) is September-October during this time in particular known to cause automobile accidents.
  • Ferry Service is available from Lake Michigan from Muskegon to Milwaukee, also between Ludington (MI) and Manitowoc (WI).
  • There are no toll roads (highway construction and maintenance are funded by motor fuel tax and non highway by the local government).
  • Home to the “The World’s Largest Music Festival” (Summerfest) hosted annually (Milwaukee).
  • Popular Islands: Bear Island, Devil’s Island, Madeline Island, Oak Island, Outer Island, Pilot Island, Plum Island, Raspberry Island, Rock Island, Sand Island, St Feriole Island, Stockton Island, Washington Island and York Island.

Subject to humidity, snowstorms, tropical storms, tornadoes and wildfires.

  • Best Time to Visit: August-October
  • Coldest Month: January
  • Hottest Month: July 
  • Peak Season: June – August

Canada (Ontario)Great White North

A year round destination offers something for everyone whether seeking art, boating, camping, canoeing, culture, fishing, galleries, gardens, hiking, hunting, kayaking, islands, lakes, mountains, museums, national parks, nightlife, northern lights, picturesque landscapes, rockies, sailing, skiing, snow sports. volcanoes, waterfalls, water sports. white water rafting, wilderness and wildlife. 

  • Best Time to Visit: September – October
  • Coldest Months: December – March 
  • Hottest Months: June – September
  • Peak Season: June – September

Annual Events: (January) Animethon, (February) Ceremony of the Flags, Women’s Memorial March, (March) Vancouver Fashion Week, (April) Pwn2Own, World Ski & Snowboard Festival, (May) Anime North, Canada Wide Science Fair, Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards, Canadian Tulip Festival, Science Rendezvous, Tokers Bowl, (June) L’International des Feux Loto, Mr World Canada, Red River Exhibition, Scarboro Fair, (July) A Taste of Edmonton, Celebration of Light, Fortissimo Sunset Ceremony, (August) Anime Evolution, Animaze Montreal International Film Festival, Boots & Hearts Music Festival, Fantasia International Film Festival, GlobalFest, (September) Canadian International Air Show, Golden Tap Awards (GTA), London International Hot Air Balloon Festival, Vancouver Fashion Week, We Day, (October) BOLDfest, Kitchener Waterloo Oktoberfest, Ride for Refuge, (December) Conference of Montreal, Expozine and Rise Up Conference.

At a Glance

  • Souvenirs to Buy: Maple Butter, Maple Syrup and Tuques (knit cap).
  • Local Cuisine to Try: Butter Tarts (dessert). Montreal-Style Bagels. Nanaimo Bars (dessert). Nova Scotian Donair (kebab).Oreilles de crisse (fried pork skin). Peameal Bacon. Poutine (gravy fries). Rappie Pie (grated potatoes). Smoked Salmon.
  • Local Drink to Try: Canadian Beer. Red Rose Tea. Newfoundland Screech (rum). Yukon Jack (liquor).

​Good to Know

  • America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA) hosts two events annually; for those currently on the Loop and those planning.
  • Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is commonly cruised in the Spring.
  • Canadian and Great Lakes are navigated during the Summer due to weather conditions.
  • Commences at any point.
  • Estimated time averages between 2 – 12 months.
  • Lake Huron is accessed by all Loopers.
  • Loopers choose between either the Wisconsin or Michigan coasts.
  • Lower Mississippi River is prone to barge traffic and lacks marinas.
  • Popular side loop through Montreal, Canada. 
  • To reach the Chesapeake Bay, you choose a route between the Albemarle & Chesapeake Canal or Dismal Swamp Canal.
Hi, I’m Janet

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