Our Rocky Mountain Road Trip had us leaving Yellowstone Park after just a couple of days. We felt as though we barely scratched the surface of what there is to see. We made a note to ourselves that there would have to be a return trip at some time in the future. For now we aimed our […]
South by Southwest – Rocky Mountain Road Trip Part 3 Read More »
Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant has a long history of serving downtown Kansas City, Kansas. This shop, at 1300 Minnesota Avenue, has been dishing up popular menu items since 1970. Some customers have been frequenting this location since they opened. Others have just recently stumbled upon the heaping mounds of fresh Chinese food that they dish
Get More Bang For Your Buck at Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant Read More »
It’s been said that the simple things are quite often the best. Such is the case at Tay’s Burger Shack, located at 1019 Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. You won’t find page after page of menu items. Here they focus on a few things and make sure they do them right. Their burgers
Tay’s Burger Shack – Grass Fed Goodness Read More »
Recently we traveled across town to find the answer to the question of Who’s on Third? (Street) in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. One of the nice things about living in a large metropolitan city is visiting all of the diverse areas that can be found. Many towns and cities get swallowed up by annexation. While some struggle with an identity complex,
Who’s on Third? – A Day in Lee’s Summit, Missouri Read More »
Have you ever walked into an establishment, and immediately knew it was a neighborhood hangout? Fric & Frac, at 1700 W. 39th Street, exudes this feeling from the moment you enter. Locals chat casually from table-to-table. Servers call out the names of customers entering the restaurant. Even the menu is filled with background stories behind
Funky Vibes at Fric & Frac Read More »
While we hear a lot of types of music, country happens to be one of our favorites. When we heard that Westport Saloon had live country bands most every night, we just had to make room in our schedule. This old school bar is located at 4112 Pennsylvania Avenue in the heart of Westport.
Old School Country at Westport Saloon Read More »
Just about everyone who has driven by 931 Broadway, in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, has seen the bright red awning over the entrance of The Majestic Restaurant. The building started life over 100 years ago as the Fitzpatrick Saloon. Built in 1911, the same year Jim Pendergast (Boss Tom’s older brother) passed away, it housed the saloon and a
Shady History at Majestic Restaurant Read More »
Poppy’s Ice Cream & Coffee House is located at 307 SE Douglas in downtown Lee’s Summit. It was a welcome sight during our recent visit. For us, one of life’s sweetest treats is ice cream. Give us a warm day, and a bowl of ice cream, and we are just about as happy as we can
Cool Treats at Poppy’s Ice Cream Read More »
We were looking for a restaurant, that presented dining with flair, in downtown Lee’s Summit. We decided to visit Third Street Social, which is located at 123 SE 3rd Street. Third Street in downtown Lee’s Summit, Missouri offers up an eclectic collection of dining opportunities. Burgers, tacos, wings, bar grub, pizza, and many other food groups are
Dining With Flair at Third Street Social Read More »
Kansas City, Kansas isn’t as old as some of the other large Midwest cities. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t have just as colorful a history as the others. A recent visit to the Huron Indian Cemetery, on 7th Street just north of Ann Avenue, reminded us just how unique our beginnings were. The name Huron was a
Honoring the Past at the Huron Indian Cemetery Read More »
We are zoo people! There I said it, and it feels good to get that off of my chest. On many occasions we have been asked about the attractions we visited, when we were traveling as a couple without kids in tow. We are still amazed when people act amazed that we visited a zoo
High Altitude Fun at the Hogle Zoo Read More »
Specialty lodging options come in many styles. Some places have indoor waterparks, while others may have an unbelievable view. About 1 1/2 hours north of Salt Lake City, in Logan, Utah, you will find Anniversary Inn, which has the designation of being a most unusual lodging option. Logan was founded by Brigham Young in 1859.
Anniversary Inn – Logan, Utah Read More »
In Montpelier, Idaho we found The National Oregon California Trail Center, which offers those who travel to this out of the way town a real treat. On our Rocky Mountain Road Trip adventure we found lots of unique stops, but of course time limits the amount that can be seen. We both enjoy historical places that focus on
Pioneer Life at The National Oregon California Trail Center Read More »
A short drive north of Jackson Hole, Wyoming is Jenny Lake. As early as the 1890’s, homesteaders began locating to this region. The deep-water lake, and pristine ecosystem made for excellent trapping opportunities. In 1906, the Forest Service took over the management of the ever increasing visitor services. Soon a campground was constructed, and in
Hidden Falls Trail at Jenny Lake Read More »
One of our favorite day trip destinations from Kansas City, Kansas is the capital of our state, Topeka. The population is about the same as our hometown, and it offers some nice attractions less than an hour away. Many times our visits have a simple itinerary located along Topeka’s 10th Street, which includes a couple
Topeka’s 10th Street – A Day Trip to Capitol City Read More »
The morning we were to enter Yellowstone National Park was cloudy and cold, of course it was mid-September in the mountains. We made our way through the southern edge of Montana, and stopped in Silver Gate at the Log Cabin Cafe for a quick bite. There was a chance of precipitation in the forecast, but we were not
Yellowstone National Park – Rocky Mountain Trip Part 2 Read More »
In less than three hours you can drive from Kansas City to Omaha, Nebraska. Once there you will find a multitude of attractions, activities, and oddities to keep you occupied. We have made this trip on multiple occasions, and it seems that we always find plenty to keep us busy. This place makes for a wonderful
A Weekend in Omaha, Nebraska Read More »
On some weekend mornings we enjoy having a late breakfast out. We are always on the lookout for new places, but find ourselves habitually drawn to our standards. When we stumbled upon Eggtc., we were pleasantly surprised. The restaurant is located just a few blocks south of the Plaza, at 5107 Main Street in KCMO. They offer up a diverse
Eggtc. – Decent Dining Read More »
When you hear someone speak of great American road-trips a flood of images can run through your mind. Whether you prefer mountains, beaches or small town USA, all of these can be found on the road. This is our favorite way to travel, as it allows us to immerse ourselves in the scenery. While short
Crossing the Plains – Rocky Mountain Trip Part 1 Read More »
As times change many cities are faced with the dilemma of what to do with some of their grandiose historical buildings. Larger cities were often rail hubs, and have massive station houses that have seen thousands of visitors over the decades. In Omaha, Nebraska they turned their Union Station into a rail and history museum.
Back in Time at Durham Museum Read More »
We are sure in most cases that if you cut a Kansas Citian they would bleed barbecue sauce. Now we have all heard stories about the various choices in this great BBQ town, but what about when you leave the metro? Well on a recent trek south we had the opportunity to test the saucy waters. We paid
Great Eats at Branding Iron BBQ Read More »
Just south of Omaha you will come across the Offutt Air Force Base. This fairly nondescript area happens to be the headquarters of the U.S. Strategic Command. Nestled in the middle of farmland, just off exit 426 from Interstate 80, travelers will come across the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. This museum is dedicated to
Take Flight at the Strategic Air Command Museum Read More »
Some people would be embarrassed to say they never left the United States in their first 50 years of life. Well not us. We were more than content to spend our vacations traveling throughout the countryside. Oh we both have crossed the borders of Canada and Mexico, but barely. Now our kids are a different
A Purpose for Passports Read More »
The Rosedale section of KCK is filled with small to medium sized businesses, in and around the “Boulevard”. This area was founded early in the city’s life, and has had it’s ups and downs over the years. Flooding has always been a fear of the residents and business owners in this low lying land. While
Long Standing Tradition at Dagwood’s Cafe Read More »
The island of St. Maarten/St. Martin is home to two different sets of residents. On one side you have the Dutch region, while the other half is French. The island received its name from Christopher Columbus during his second voyage. While it was claimed in the name of Spain, they considered it a low priority. On
Two Countries in One Day in St. Maarten Read More »
One of the reasons we look forward to visiting Downtown Overland Park is the chance to stop in The Upper Crust. For those of you that have been here, you know why we are excited. This place is a straight up pie shop with no qualms about their specialty. They aren’t trying to serve a hundred different
Sweet Success at The Upper Crust Read More »
On a chilly Saturday morning we loaded into the car for a day-trip to St. Joseph, Missouri. Since it is only about an hour drive from our location, we had time for breakfast. After a quick bite we stopped for coffee, which would keep us warm on our travels. Traffic was light, but steady, and
A Historical Visit to St. Joseph, Missouri Read More »
You can tell a lot about a restaurant by the length of time it has been in business. Old Shawnee Pizza was established in 1969 by Joe Walker. Looking to provide a better life for his family, he borrowed the money from his father to begin the venture. Years later, seeing the need for more room,
Family Rules at Old Shawnee Pizza Read More »
In St. Joseph, Missouri there are many wonderful old buildings, but only one National Historic Landmark. The Patee House Museum started life as a luxury hotel back in 1858. During the short life of the Pony Express (the Pony Express Museum is just down the road), part of the hotel served as the headquarters. Other memorable moments
Relive History at the Patee House Museum Read More »
A lot of buzz around Kansas City, Kansas of late has been focused on Mason Jar Brews & Burgers, a newer restaurant located at 941 North 74th Drive. Located about 1/2 block south of State Avenue on 74th Drive, the restaurant is in what used to be an old water-slide park, which some of you
Making Waves at Mason Jar Brews & Burgers Read More »
What is a person to do if they find themselves desiring authentic Louisiana cuisine in St. Joseph, Missouri. Fear not, as you can stop in Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood and Steakhouse for some Cajun and Creole dishes served up in a relaxed atmosphere. Located in the Wholesale Row Historic District, this restaurant has created a Mardi Gras atmosphere. The original
Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steakhouse – St. Joe Read More »
In 1971, a brand new indoor mall opened in Kansas City, Kansas. People from all around the region flocked to Indian Springs Mall to shop, be entertained, mingle, people watch, and eat. Italian Delight was among the restaurants to call it home. For years this was the place to grab a quick bite or a
Plentiful Eats at Italian Delight Read More »
Sitting just east of Puerto Rico, the US Virgin islands are part of the Caribbean chain of islands, which lead toward South America. Our visit was a stopover on a seven day cruise, so we only had a few hours to explore this tropical paradise. Many ships port in Charlotte Amalie, the capital city of
See New Mix with Old in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas USVI Read More »
We all know of a roadside diner that serves up a specialty, which is an experience all on its own. Some places are known for their chili or sliders, while others focus on a specific side dish. It seems like most places find at least one menu item that becomes synonymous with their name. The
Turner Tradition at Christy’s Tasty Queen Read More »
The harbor city of Charlotte Amalie sits inside of a sheltered cove. At one end of the city are docks that host cruise ships on a regular basis. Nearly 1.5 million visitors spend time in St. Thomas annually. The city has a wide assortment of attractions, and one of the most popular is the Paradise
Enjoy the View at Paradise Point Tram Read More »
Located on the side of I-80, in North Platte, Nebraska, you can find the Fort Cody Trading Post. This iconic tourist trap is designed to replicate an old frontier fort on the plains. The name is obviously associated with “Buffalo Bill” Cody; the scout, buffalo hunter, and showman. During long drives along the wide prairie,
Be Amused at Fort Cody Trading Post Read More »
The Armourdale section of Kansas City, Kansas is filled with small businesses and hard working families. Restaurants in the area, like El Pollo Rey, may cater to the local residents, but their creations draw customers from all around the metro. Many of the buildings, that house these restaurants, have been home to a variety of
Smoky Goodness at El Pollo Rey Read More »
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is a free museum, located in Casper, Wyoming. It is dedicated to educating visitors on the trials faced by those traveling the Oregon Trail, during the Westward Migration. Touring the exhibits will allow visitors to immerse themselves into the 1800s. For us, it was a chance to experience the
Oregon Trail Stories at National Historic Trails Interpretive Center Read More »
There is a huge variation between cities in the Midwest. There are lots of small towns, which are based around the old town square format. As you move up to larger cities, you start to see more multi-story buildings. Then you have the Chicago skyscrapers. By the time you get to a city the size
Chicago Skyscrapers- Towers of Steel and Glass Read More »
One of my early jobs was as a gas station attendant on 7th Street, just north of Central Avenue, near downtown KCK. Right across the street from the station was a Go Chicken Go restaurant. This wasn’t a very glamorous job, as it was in the period where they were just beginning to move the
Get it and Go at Go Chicken Go Read More »
In the entire state of Kansas there are less than 50 wineries, but that number is probably no surprise. That makes it hard to toast the day with locally produced wines. What may surprise you is that located in Basehor is Holyfield Winery, which sits upon 14 acres of fertile Kansas soil. If you leave
Toast the Day at Holyfield Winery Read More »
On my drive home, I was stopped by a train. As I watched the cars roll by, I thought of all of the businesses that have sprouted up, because of the railroads. As my mind wandered, I remembered an article I wrote about Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant on my old restaurant blog. This place holds some
Cross the Tracks to Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant Read More »
This year we decided to spend our post-Thanksgiving taking a well-deserved trip. The plan was to make it a celebration of our 35th Anniversary, so a number that big needs a significant itinerary. We chose to start it with a couple of days in the Cocoa Beach area. Our hopes were that some beach time
Surfs Up at Cocoa Beach, Florida Read More »
The Rosedale Memorial Arch is dedicated to the servicemen who served in World War 1. It was designed by John Leroy Marshall, whose inspiration was the “Arc de Triomph” in France. This amazing tribute is a hidden gem that is tucked away in the eastern end of Kansas City, Kansas. While it may be harder
Rosedale Memorial Arch – A Hidden Gem Read More »
The lighthouse one sees on the approach to the Nassau, Bahamas harbor is one of the most highly photographed structures in the Caribbean. Who can resist this picturesque scene surrounded by the beautiful array of colors? But were you aware the Pearl Island lighthouse is another picture-perfect scene and can be found just a short boat
A Tropical Paradise – Pearl Island Read More »
We Kansas Citians are very fortunate to have a good selection of zoos to choose from, within a fairly reasonable driving distance. The Kansas City Zoo is a decent park but doesn’t have the monetary sponsors that a couple of the others in the Midwest are blessed with. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska
Talk To The Animals at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Read More »
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