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Some people value a restaurant’s atmosphere over the quality of its food, but we’re the exact opposite here in the Lone Star State. We couldn’t care less what the outside looks like as long as the cookin’ is done just right – and it definitely is at these 8 unassuming restaurants in Texas. Five D Cattle Company (Avinger) Yelp/Billy Joe J. Yelp/Harold G. Not many people know about this hole-in-the-wall steakhouse in the tiny town of Avinger, but that needs to change....

How many people have come to Maine for a vacation and wished they could make the state their permanent home? How many Mainers have wished they could move from their home to something a little more Maine? Perhaps on the water! If you fall into any of those categories and happen to love fresh seafood, we might have the perfect way to spend some money. Located on Popham Beach in Phippsburg, Spinney’s Restaurant has been an iconic part of the Maine coast for as long as we can remember....

Some states have majestic eagles or billowing palm trees as icons. But in Rhode Island, we have something much better: a giant blue insect. Big Blue Bug has been a part of the Providence skyline for as long as we can remember, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Here’s how this enormous termite replica came to be. Big Blue Bug is also known as Nibbles Woodaway, the giant termite mascot of Big Blue Bug Solutions, an extermination company (of course)....

Hiking trails are often associated with spring and summer, yet winter can be an equally rewarding time to embark on an outdoor adventure. If you’re prepared with plenty of layers and proper footwear, many of Virginia’s trails can be downright magical. One example is the famous Cascades Falls Trail. Not only can you look forward to a peaceful four-mile excursion, but the waterfall is awe-inspiring this time of year. Here’s more on why you might consider a winter hike to Cascades Falls....

Fresh air does wonders and there are a number of lovely places around the Tristate where you can escape the worries of everyday life and escape into nature. No matter where you live in the Cincinnati area, the Cincinnati Nature Center in Milford is an oasis where you can spend an entire day strolling along the trails and relaxing by a pond. When the first sign of warmth arrives in the area, take a springtime hike in Cincinnati to breathe in that fresh air and experience delightful and scenic trails in the Queen City....

Nashville is an exciting city, but every once in a while folks need a break from the radical hustle and bustle of the cityscape. Even honky-tonks and music venues serve their time, and a step away in necessary. Fall in love with the beauty of Middle Tennessee all over again with a visit to Arrington Vineyards, a stunning venue located roughly 25 miles from downtown Nashville. It’s perfect for spending time with friends or sipping a glass of frosé with a good book....

Dalton Farms is a 99-acre family-owned and run farm in Swedesboro, New Jersey. It has a beautiful lake, active beehives, fresh honey, fall sunflowers, and…spring tulips! While we can’t walk through the fields this season, we CAN drive through them. You’ll find over 250,000 colorful tulips! Dalton Farms NJ/facebook You can drive along the designated pathways and enjoy the rainbow-hued view. Dalton Farms NJ/Facebook Be sure to take plenty of pictures from your vehicle....

You can’t visit the American south without indulging in a plate of barbecue. It’s a local legend, the kind of American cuisine that just might mark you for life. What’s to hate about a savory plate of perfectly smoked meat?! If you find yourself in the Knoxville area, then we’d recommend stopping off at Full-Service BBQ. This quirky local hot spot is well known amongst the locals, and it’s a must-try if you’re looking for a quick, decadent, filling meal that you can only get in Tennessee....

If you are having one of those days where the only thing that will satisfy your afternoon cravings is a meaty sandwich, then head over to Martone’s Market and Cafe. Their cozy, authentic sandwich shop is located in the heart of Essex Junction, Vermont. They have top-notch sandwiches, and they do not play it safe when it comes to adding the meat. Be prepared for a massive sandwich, piled high with meat, cheese, and your favorite fillings....

Hawaii offers a treasure trove of hidden gems, many of which can be experienced via a network of splendid hiking trails. And while many of these trails can be enjoyed freely, some require a bit more planning. The ever-popular Kalalau Trail now requires hikers to make a reservation in advance, according to officials. The intention behind this new policy is to protect the area, which has been made vulnerable by storms and flooding in the past two years....

Hidden gems are sometimes so treasured that we want to keep them hidden, so we have them all for ourselves. When you sit down for a meal at this cozy café, you’ll quickly realize this is one hidden gem in Missouri you’ll want to keep all to yourself and shout about from the rooftops at the same time. It just might become one of your new go-to spots, too. Most people pass through the tiny village of Arcola, population of around 55, on their way to other destinations....

If grocery shopping has become a mundane chore in your household, try coming to Fry’s in Downtown Phoenix. It’s one of the largest supermarkets in Arizona and even features its own parking garage. See for yourself: On October 23 of 2019, Downtown Phoenix got its very first full-service grocery store. Google/Jaret Sullivan It’s located on the ground floor of a high-rise apartment complex and spans a whopping 67,000 square feet....

It might not be plausible to visit exciting Michigan destinations in person over the coming weeks, but that doesn’t mean you simply have to sit around daydreaming about our state’s many wonders. Luckily for us, there are plenty of virtual options that allow Michiganders and out-of-staters alike the chance to experience Michigan in all its glory without leaving home. For a healthy dose of Michigan history and natural beauty, check out this project from Manistee County....

Now more than ever, residents of Oklahoma are looking for ways to safely have fun in and around our state during the COVID-19 pandemic. While some of our go-to attractions may temporarily be closed or are waiting to open under new restrictions, there’s one family-friendly destination that’s still up and running that you won’t want to leave off of your 2020 bucket list. Grab the whole gang and hit the road, because it’s time to spend the day with an entire herd of elephants out in Choctaw County!...

The Arkansas chain, Minute Man, is making a comeback! With only one location left, time nearly ran out on this beloved eatery but another Minute Man is one the way. Let’s learn a little history about the fast food originator and work up an appetite for this new location. Minute Man may have started with humble beginnings but the restaurant completely changed how we look at fast food today. Google/Minute Man Hamburgers The original Minute Man opened in Little Rock on May 26, 1948....

Living in Ohio means you have access to some of the best ice cream year-round. (For proof, check out this ice cream trail.) However, there’s also a pretty epic ice cream festival you need to know about. Each year, the Ye Olde Mill in Utica, Ohio hosts the Utica Sertoma Ice Cream Festival at the Velvet Ice Cream Factory. From ice cream eating contests to antique cars, there’s something here for everyone....

Leave life’s worries at the door and step inside a tranquil hideaway. At Open Door Tea, you can get so much more than just a caffeine boost. This cozy cafe serves scrumptious pastries and more than 100 different kinds of tea. Bring an engrossing novel and relax at this bright and welcoming tea shop in Connecticut. Occasionally, a little ‘me time’ is just what the doctor ordered. Open Door Tea sits in the middle of Stratford, Connecticut’s charming main street....

In a gentle bend of the Ohio River near the convergence of three states lies a small town with a remarkable history – Ceredo, WV. The town of Ceredo, West Virginia was established in 1857 by a group of settlers from New England as an experiment to prove that a society not dependent on slave labor could flourish in the South. Ramsdell House/Facebook (At the time, Ceredo was located on the far western edge of the slave state of Virginia....

Considering the fact that Buffalo is the second-largest city in New York State, visitors may be surprised at how many natural wonders and scenic settings that they’ll find themselves surrounded by when visiting Buffalo. In the past, we’ve highlighted some of the many reasons why it’s so incredible to live out along the shores of one of America’s Great Lakes but today we’re here to highlight a different natural gem of the Queen City....

Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a pioneer? You’ve heard all the stories of your ancestors making their way across the country with a handcart or covered wagon, but you don’t have to experience all the daily hardships to enjoy the whimsy of sleeping in a covered wagon at night. Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse in Torrey has several Conestoga wagons available for overnight stays, and you’re going to want to check it out....