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Today is National Odometer Day, and we are here to help you keep your car running those miles as long as possible, from the first miles off the lot to the years of road trips ahead of you. Learn all about the different maintenance and service check-ups you should be performing to ensure your vehicle remains in mint condition!  Let’s take a look at what the odometer is, how it measures your mileage, and what you can expect from your vehicle as the miles roll forward. more What is an Odometer? How does it measure mileage? Odometers generally count wheel rotations, and use a formula calculating the number of rotations multiplied by the tire’s circumference.  The formula by which odometer readings are calculated for a motor vehicle: (Actual Distance Traveled) = (Final Odometer Reading - Initial Odometer Reading) multiplied by (actual tire diameter) divided by (Standard tire diameter). As a result of many shifting variables and modified possibilities, odometer readings can be off by several percent.  This is part of the reason why it’s very important to maintain your tire treads, as underinflated or very worn tires can affect an odometer’s mileage tracking process. Likewise, if your vehicle is equipped with after-market and non-standard tires or wheels, the odometer reading may not be as accurate Mileage Based Repairs, Tune-Ups and Maintenance We’ve covered a lot of helpful service pointers and maintenance tips over the last few years with our blogs, but today we’re going to give you a thorough overview of mileage markers so you can plan ahead.  Routine Maintenance checks are generally done at a “30-60-90” mileage marker, meaning every thirty thousand miles or so you should schedule a tune-up and maintenance appointment with your trusted mechanic or service provider.  This ensures that your vehicle will run properly, and avoids costly repairs as some parts may wear out earlier than anticipated depending on your driving style/habits. A great way to stay prepared so you never miss a service call is to have a running savings account for vehicle repairs and maintenance bills.  To do that, most vehicles have an estimated calculator online for cost of operations and average maintenance, so you can best budget your finances to avoid costly repairs as often as you can. Let’s take a look at what mileage markers you can expect to schedule an appointment: Every 3,000-6,000 miles you should receive an oil change. (Check your vehicle’s manufacturer guide for specific mileage requirements and type of oil - synthetic or regular. Older models may need closer to the 3k mark) If you’re purchasing or leasing a brand new vehicle, you’ll generally want to schedule a maintenance appointment at the 10,000 mile mark.  This initial service will often include tire rotation, air filter, oil change and parts. Older non-electronic ignition systems vehicles should be serviced either 10,000-12,000 miles or annually (whichever comes first!) and those with newer fuel injection systems and electronic ignitions can go 25,000+ between major tune-ups; check with your trusted mechanic or service department for guidelines, and consult your vehicle manufacturer handbook. At 10,000 miles you should have your tires rotated and vehicle aligned. At 30,000 miles you should have a full tune-up service including coolant, power steering, hoses and belts checked/replaced, and an engine checkup. At 50,000 miles you may need to service the following: Shocks and struts (suspension system), replace brake pads, new fuel filter, exhaust system inspection, automatic transmission tune-up and service. 50,000-70,000 miles you’ll need to inspect all of the belts, valves, and hoses, and you’ll want to install new tires if you haven’t already. (Always replace your tires at least 2 at a time) Around 60,000-70,000 miles you’ll need to have your fuel pump and water pump examined for cracks, wear, and tear and especially so if you notice any buzzing noises or your vehicle seems to stall frequently. Car Batteries last roughly about 80,000 miles, so if you notice you need to frequently jump your car, there’s a lot of erosion or leaking fluids, then you’ll want to have that swapped out ASAP before your car breaks down. Your spark plugs should be replaced between 80,000-100,000 miles. 90,000 miles is time to have another full tune-up and once over of your vehicle At 100,000 miles, you’ll need to have a bumper-to-bumper inspection of your vehicle including engine, transmission, water pump, timing belt, etc. You’ll need to switch to high-mileage coolants and spark plugs, too. At 125,000 miles, the O2 sensors will need to be replaced, the AC/Heating will need service, and you’ll need to replace: coolant, fuel filter, brake fluid, shocks and struts, and get an alignment. For high mileage vehicles 180,000-250,000 miles, you’ll want to check the axles, drive shafts, airflow sensor, belts and timing chain, power steering, chassis, fuel injectors, etc. It will need a thorough inspection from bumper to bumper and may require more frequent service maintenance for a smooth ride.

We’ve been covering lots of travel guide inspiration for you this year already, but we’ve not gone over how to prep for a road trip! Here’s some helpful tips and tricks for prepping your vehicle for road trip season. From service and maintenance points to efficiently packing the essentials, you’ll find lots of great advice.  So, let’s get your new car from Classic ready for your next adventure on today’s edition of Gearhead Guru Guide! more How to Prep Your Car for a Road Trip Always check the health and charge of the car battery. Make sure that you have given your vehicle battery a once over.Your local service center can run a few tests to ensure it is properly conditioned, especially if it’s older than 2 years. To inspect the battery yourself,  you’ll want to make sure the connectors are showing no signs of corrosion and the connection is tight. Clean any corrosion from the contacts or cables, or bring it to your service center and they’ll get you sorted.  This is also a great time to check your portable battery charger and jumper cables are in working order as well. Have the brakes inspected. Before any long trip you should also inspect the brakes and have them serviced.  If you’ve noticed any squealing or squeaking or whistling sounds coming from your vehicle’s brakes, it may be a sign that parts are wearing down, and you’ll want them fixed before you head off on the road. If your brake pedal feels spongy or soft when depressed, it may indicate low brake fluid.  If you’re noticing longer stopping times, you may need new brake pads.  This is imperative no matter how long or short of a drive you’re making, as one failure to stop can derail all of your vacation plans for the foreseeable future! Check and top off all fluid levels and change filters. Be sure to check all of the vital fluids in your vehicle including the engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, engine coolant, and wiper fluids.  It’s recommended to do an oil change before a long drive, especially if it’ll be a cross-country or long haul trip.  Your owners manual will help you determine what oil type is best for your vehicle, as well as considering factors such as age and mileage of vehicle.  Remember to clean or swap your air filters, too. Test all lights and signals and change bulbs as needed. Change any faulty or dead bulbs, and consider opting for LED equivalents to traditional lightbulbs.  Bring your vehicle into a service center if you have any wiring issues to have that fixed before traveling. Applying a headlight casing cleaner if your lights look foggy or dull is another great idea, for maximum visibility. Plus, you don’t want to receive any unnecessary traffic tickets for dysfunctional turn signals or brake lights.  Check the interior lights and replace any blinking or nonworking lights Change your wiper blades. On average you should be replacing your wipers every 6 to 12 months, but it would at least be a good idea to replace them before your trip if you haven’t done so in a while.  Select wipers that have an aid of hydrophobic coating to aid even clearer visibility during rain and misty weather.  Factors such as higher quality branded wipers and weather conditions in your area may increase the longevity of the wiper blades, but you should always double check!  Consider adding a hydrophobic coating such as Rain-X or similar.  Have any “stars” or chips on your windshield filled or windshield replaced before any long term driving as this can cause larger cracks, splits, or even a shattered windshield. Check your insurance, license, and registration. Make sure all your paperwork is in order.  Ensure that you’ve renewed your license, printed or received your newest up to date insurance cards, and have renewed your vehicle registration and all read with the correct current address and information. Make sure any important paperwork is stowed safely in your glovebox or center console.  We also recommend checking if your insurance provider has a phone or tablet app available as those can come in handy in a pinch! Stock your emergency roadside kit. We’ve already covered car emergency kits and roadside assistance in previous blogs, but here’s a short refresher of our recommended necessities. At bare minimum, you should always have the following in your car when traveling long distances: a solar or hand-cranked flashlight; jumper cables; portable battery packs; hand sanitizer and flushable wipes; a tire patch kit and portable air compressor; paper copies of maps for each of your destination regions; flares or LED warning lights; bottled water and shelf stable snacks (protein bars and granola bars are a great option);emergency contact numbers written on a piece of paper in your glovebox or wallet or stowed in your emergency kit; a basic first aid kit. Travel with charging options. Grabbing a few extra USB cables or wireless chargers is a great idea.  Make sure you have portable batteries and their recharging cables.  Additional wall connector bricks are another key option. Keep one in your glovebox with a charge cable, and one in your backpack or purse or other luggage.  We recommend a portable smartphone mount for hands-free navigation. Take advantage of fueling stations along your route whenever possible. Ensuring that you’re traveling with no less than ½ a tank of gas at all times can give you a very good buffer for emergencies and unexpected delays. When traveling on highways and byways and especially in unfamiliar areas, it’s always best to top off your tank when you have the opportunity. Avoid off-brand “no name” gas stations when possible, and opt for major brand names instead, to ensure you’re putting high-quality fuel in your vehicle to prevent future damage.  Before you head off on the road, make sure to map out your fueling stops along the way for maximum efficiency!  Same for electric vehicle charging stations. Remember to pack your medications and OTC pain relief and emergency medications. When traveling, remember to keep your vital medications and inhalers on your person. Make sure your travel companions know where to find them and how to access an emergency list of medications if needed.  If you use an Epi Pen, bring that with you and ensure everyone knows how to use it in case.  Marking any items with “RX Inside” in case of emergency can be helpful. Travel with the necessities. You’ll never go wrong with packing a few extra rolls of toilet paper along with wet wipes. A portable toothbrush and toothpaste and some anti-nausea medication can relieve motion sickness.  Along with a cooler filled with fresh water and snacks will save you time and money from making pit stops.  If you’re traveling with pets, we recommend quick-dry towels, a spare leash and collar, portable collapsible pet bowls, a portable litter box (if applicable) and some spare snacks.

What started out as a 175 acre private park at its inception by industrialist Frederick Williem Mathiessen, property for this state park now covers nearly 2000 sprawling acres!  Just a few short miles from the larger but busier Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a perfect alternative for a quieter, less crowded adventure day out.  While there’s no nature center, museum, or campsites, it’s perfect for daily excursions with beautiful rock gorges and sweeping canyons, and trails that cut through forests and along lakes and creeks.  We recommend spending at least 2 days in the area to check out both the Upper Dells and Lower Dells/Vermillion River regions. more There are 5 miles total of hiking trails, and all are very clearly marked and fairly well surfaced, making them pretty accessible to most abilities and ages.  The park also has 9 miles of multi-use trails for mountain biking and equestrian use.  Note that some trails are not going to be stroller or wheelchair accessible due to rocky or challenging terrain, so check ahead of time if you will be utilizing either of those.  The upper area and bluff tops are perfect for beginners and those looking for less strenuous hiking. The interior areas will be more difficult to traverse, especially during spring and summer. While it might be tempting to go “off the beaten track” we really don’t recommend it for safety sake – you’re very likely to encounter dangerous cliff edges and steep canyons, so follow all posted signs and warnings.  Pets are welcomed but must be on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after them.  You must be off the trails and out of the park area before dark; no overnight camping is allowed. There are several picnic and play areas for families to enjoy a lovely day out in the fresh air.  Picnic area shelters are located near each of the park entrances, making it easy to pack a lunch and a cooler for a nice afternoon meal.  For those with younger kids in tow, the French Outpost Fort makes a great stop as well as letting them shake out their excess energy on the playground area. Mattheissen offers plenty of other fun activities besides picnicking and hiking!  Hunting and fishing are allowed with proper state licensing and following seasonal regulations and limits.  A field archery range is available with targets for sport shooting as well.  Hobbyists will also enjoy the radio-controlled model airplane field, and visitors can enjoy watching these mini aircrafts flying about as well.  Canoeing and kayaking are also available at Mattheissen Lake on the north side of the park, but it’s a BYO canoe/kayak policy with no rentals on site. Make sure to pack your good camera, as there’s many opportunities to take stunning wildlife and landscape photos!  Since this area has much lower foot traffic than its sister park, Starved Rock, you’ll have a chance to get plenty of natural imagery without people.  Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal wildflowers including Blue Phlox, Wild Geraniums, Bloodroot, Wild Hydrangea, Jack-In-the-Pulpit, Virginia Bluebells, and more.  There are numerous species of fungi as well such as the Coral-Pink Merulius, Cedar-apple Rust, Chicken of the Woods, Orange Mycena, Turkey Tail, and Dog’s Nose Fungus, among others. The Upper Dell area of the park is home to Cascade Falls, a 15 foot waterfall reachable at the end of a half-mile in-and-out easy to moderate hike.  Lake Falls is around the 20 foot to 30 foot range, and can be accessed by a 1.5 mile in-and-out round trip hike of easy to moderate ability. Giant’s Bathtub Falls is also with visiting, and while it’s not the tallest or largest in the park, it’s really worth the visit for its beauty; accessible by a 1.2 mile round trip hike of easy to moderate ability.

Let’s get rid of that nasty springtime pollen and winter build-up with the ultimate guide on washing your car like the pros. By the time you’re done with our blog post, you’ll have the expert tips and tricks to wash and detail your car with the best of ‘em.   You’ll find a helpful task list for the step by step process of cleaning your vehicle from the inside out.  Let’s work together to get your daily driver road trip ready before the warm weather hits! more Cleaning the Interior: First, clean the interior surfaces of your car and wipe down all common surface areas which you and/or your passengers may come into contact with by using a vehicle interior safe antibacterial wipe, or a vehicle safe antibacterial spray cleaner and microfiber cloths.  Make sure you thoroughly clean the following heavily touched surfaces. Next, remove the interior car mats and clean them outside of your vehicle.  Be sure to vacuum and sanitize.  Repeat the same process for any organizers, baskets, or small trash receptacles inside the vehicle.  Follow by removing any child or pet friendly seat covers, making sure to shake out debris and give them a thorough vacuuming outside the vehicle. After, apply a vehicle upholstery cleaner to the seats to help remove mold and mildew, pet dander, dust/dirt and other allergens, as well as any other grit and grime from your travels.  Let it sit according to directions (leather, “vegan leather”, and fabric will all have different requirements.)  If you have leather upholstery, now is also a great time to apply a leather protectant and conditioner to moisturize and preserve the fabric.  Typical household cleansers or disinfectants may cause discoloration to hard surfaces, damage to fabrics, or deteriorate coverings.  Remember to select cleansers and surfactants that are made for your specific interior coverings and fabrics so as not to cause damage. Allow all to air dry thoroughly. If you utilize a portable HEPA filter in your vehicle, this is the time to replace old filters or clean them.  If you’ve not done so recently, make sure to also vacuum the air filter for your car’s HVAC system to improve performance. Now it’s time to reinstall the floor mats, seat covers and car seats, and any other accessories you removed. For a finishing touch, you may want to spray the interior with an automotive fabric refresher, or add an air freshener or place scented air vent clips around the vehicle. Cleaning the Exterior: First, ensure that your vehicle is parked in a shady spot to reduce evaporation of cleaning solution and water, and help any top coats or waxes properly cure. We’ll be utilizing the “two bucket” method for cleaning. Gather vehicle-friendly items such as microfiber washing mitts, microfiber cleansing cloths, and vehicle specific cleansers (avoid using dish soaps and other household cleaners.)  Place these items on an easily accessible and clean, dry surface so they don’t lie on the ground during the washing process and pick up more dirt. You’ll need two large buckets: one will be filled with water and a vehicle safe cleaning solution, the second will be filled with clean water to be utilized for washing your cleaning mitt or microfiber pad.  This method ensures that dirt and debris do not contaminate the cleaning solution, and thus will not be reintroduced to the vehicle’s paint surfaces.  If the rinse bucket starts getting too dirty, dump and replace the water; we recommend doing this between each segment of your vehicle (top, windows, mid-section, bottom and wheels, etc)  This will help you to maintain your vehicle’s paint coat with less scratches and swirls. Then, give the vehicle a complete spray starting from top to middle to bottom as a quick rinse down. Clean the vehicle’s wheels with a specialized tire soap to ensure you’re removing the most dirt and grime. Make sure to thoroughly scrub the wheel wells, tires, and any accessories or wheel covers. Rinse thoroughly!  If you notice any overspray has reached the rest of your vehicle, give that a quick rinse before moving on to the next step. You want to wash the rest of your vehicle from the top down, as the bottom is always the dirtiest! We don’t want to transfer that gross dirt and buildup to the rest of the vehicle.  You’ll want to thoroughly suds up the roof and top components of your vehicle (roof rack, sun roof/moon roof, etc), and work your way down with gentle rubbing motions. Let the solution thoroughly penetrate dirt and buildup as per the directions on the bottle. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly and perform a quick visual inspection to ensure you were able to remove any buildup. Re-clean the areas you may have missed with the above methods and rinse again. Walk around and inspect your vehicle for any signs of rust, scratches, or dents. You can fill in minor cosmetic blemishes with vehicle-match paint that comes in options like pens for small areas and small paint cups for larger patches. When cleaning the glass and mirrors of your vehicle, make sure you choose a specialty car glass cleaner to avoid any reduction in visibility due to residue or build up. Consider adding a hydrophobic coating to your vehicle’s windows and windshields as well for improved visibility during inclement weather. Once the vehicle has been cleaned, rinsed, inspected, and paint repairs allowed to dry, it’s time to add a protective wax or seal of your choice; once that has cured, you’ll be ready to hit the road!

Looking for some road trip inspiration? These summer festivals and fairs will certainly get you started!  Book your next road trip and summer vacation plans around these hot destinations. Enjoy live farm animal demonstrations, high stakes competitions and races, live music and curated artworks, bespoke artisanal goods, trendy food vendors, carnival rides, and more. And when you’re done, hit the road and explore the surrounding areas such as nearby national parks, stunning mountain and lakeside scenery, historic sites and museums, and then some.  We’re sure that you’ll find something exciting to tickle your fancy and satisfy your sense of adventure. more The 52nd Annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival in Telluride Colorado will be taking place from June 19th through June 22nd. Headliners for this year’s festival include Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit; Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings; Sam Bush Band and so many more! We’ve already noted Telluride on one of our recent vacation destination guides as a top notch Summer spot, so add this festival to your list, too.  This iconic festival is a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty of Telluride and enjoy the scenery of the San Juan Mountains while you listen to some uplifting music. Tent, Vehicle, and RV camping are available for the festival for a fee. The Sturgis Motorcycle Festival/Rally in Sturgis, SD is a must-see event for motorcycle enthusiasts. Drawing a crowd from around the country, many attendees ride their bikes all the way to the festival to celebrate and showcase.  You’ll also have the pleasure of enjoying local bands and special guests sharing live musical performances. In addition you’ll also get a chance to enjoy races, competitions, bike showcases, check out the latest trends in design and equipment, and more. Plus, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum offers an opportunity to learn the history of motorcycles and the festival itself, which dates back to the 1930s.  Join in some of the rally’s group rides, and take a motorcycle tour of iconic scenic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore! The 2025 rally will take place from August 1st through August 10th for the 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Summerfest Music Festival hits Milwaukee, Wisconsin this year from June 19th-21st, June 26th through 28th, and July 3rd through 5th. This lakeside location boasts an impressive lineup of musicians across multiple genres and has previously broken records as the World’s Largest Music Festival, featuring more than 800 acts across 11 stages. This year’s headliners include Def Leppard, Tesla, Hozier, James Taylor, The Killers, Megan Thee Stallion, Benson Boone, Third Eye Blind, Lindsey Stirling, 311, and so many more! This fest takes place over three consecutive weekends to ring in the summer in full force!  Camping is not allowed on Summerfest grounds, but you can check out the Wisconsin State Fair RV Park or any of the nearby hotels. Utah’s Shakespeare Festival is a community wide event in Cedar City, Utah, spanning from June through October. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourselves in the world of Shakespeare at the recreation of the Globe Theater known as Engelstad Shakespeare Theater – an open-air, immersive experience that takes theatergoers all the way back to the Elizabethan era!  Learn more about Shakespeare’s works, the art of theater, history of theater and playwriting, and more through a series of seminars, Q&As, discussion groups, and more.  Grab tickets to your favorite Shakespeare performances rotating throughout the season.  While you’re there, you can take a few detour days and explore Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park for some camping and trail hikes! The Ohio State Fair runs from July 23rd through August 3rd and has been a local community fixture since 1850. Visitors will be immersed in family-friendly activities such as games, interactive educational displays, interactive live roving performers, kids fishing and wildlife demos, exotic animals and free petting zoo, youth agricultural and livestock competitions, and more. There will be horse shows, fine arts to shop and browse, sporting competitions, delicious food vendors, rides, games, and plenty of excitement.  The fair offers a series of free musical events as well as ticketed options with headliners such as Foreigner, Morris Day and the Time, T-Pain, Trace Adkins, and more! The Wisconsin State Fair opens July 31st and runs through August 10th. The Main Stage event will be packed with an incredible lineup of national touring headliners from hip-hop to country to pop to classic rock, and even contemporary christian music, acts such as Ne-Yo, Boyz II Men, Darius Rucker with Uncle Kracker, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more will be appearing. Visitors can enjoy fair competitions with live animal demonstrations, Junior Livestock events, art exhibits and curated competitions, rabbit hopping, dog sports, and more! The Indiana State Fair 2025 is happening from August 1st through August 17th for two weeks of jampacked family friendly fun! This year’s event will be themed “The Soundtrack of Summer” presented by Get Prepared Indiana.  Enjoy the “Vinyl Revival: Art of Music Exhibit” celebrating the community's connection to music and visual arts with iconic album covers; you can also enjoy a pop-up record store with hand-painted displays!  There will be horse racing, live music at Pioneer Village, rides and games on the Midway, food trucks and local food vendors, live animals and demonstrations, games and activities for families, and much more. The Iowa State Fair is proud to be the largest event in the whole state of Iowa, and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expos in the US! The event draws a crowd of more than one million people from all over the globe.  Camping is allowed on state fair grounds, so you can register your RV and get the maximum excitement out of the State Fair festival.  Enjoy competitive events and agricultural demonstrations, free music and entertainment, games and rides and family-friendly excitement, and a major headlining events venue with live performances by Forrest Frank, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Pitbull, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rascal Flatts, T-Pain, and more. Iowa State fair rolls into town August 7th through the 17th.

Seeking some solace from the busy city life?  Tired of the rat race of punching time clocks? Need a break from your 9 to 5 without the long wait times at airlines? We’ve got you covered.  You can reach each of these destinations with a reasonable and comfortable drive, making it a great start to the summer road trip list!  We’re bringing you beaches, trails, forests, adventure, fun and plenty of sun right here in the middle of the good ol’ US of A.  Forget about flight delays and REAL ID waitlines, you can hop in your new car from Classic right here in Waukegan, and be on the road to excitement, fun, and off to four unexpectedly exciting Memorial Day Weekend Getaways! more Starting off our list is South Padre Island off the southern portion of Texas. You’ll enjoy 34 miles of coastline and seemingly neverending sunshine with crystal clear gulf water!  Known as the Sandcastle Capital of the World, you’ll have a truly memorable experience as you trek down the “Sandcastle Trail” – a beautiful collection of at least 30 sand sculptures created by local and global professional sculptures!  The spectacular South Padre Island Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary takes birdwatching and nature appreciation to a whole new level; you and your family will love exploring the wildlife and ecosystems of the Rio Grande Valley and celebrating the unique creatures that inhabit this area through hands-on learning. The Port Isabel Lighthouse Historic Site is the sole remaining coast lighthouse in Texas open to the public, offering sweeping panoramic views of the coastline.  South Padre Island Adventure Park offers a plethora of family-friendly activities including everything from horseback riding along the shores to zip lining, parasailing, and more.  The Port Isabel Historical Museum offers a look into the history of the Mexican-American War through exhibits and historic artifacts, and is emblazoned with a custom painted fish mural from 1906.  Book a private tour from the numerous local businesses and enjoy some parasailing, dolphin watching, nature trail walks, and more! Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor is just outside of Cleveland, Ohio. This beautiful beach is a surprisingly beautiful getaway just outside the city limits with a large shoreline and surprisingly warm water of Lake Erie.  The beach is vast and perfect for sandcombing as you search for brilliant sea glass, water-tumbled stones, and other shoreline treasures.  This public beach attracts nearly two million visitors each year, and is perfect for swimming, picnicking, sandcastle making, fishing, nature watching, birding, and more.  Of course, when you’re done with your beach day you can spend the rest of your MDW exploring nearby Cedar Point, Cleveland Aquarium, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center, or any of the many local Farmer’s Markets for some fresh, locally made and locally grown food. North Beach in Racine offers an immense 50 acres of west-coast style beach day fun along Lake Michigan! Enjoy Zumba on the beach, live music all summer long, sand volleyball, and the best of the west coast without the long flight.  It’s the ultimate summer oasis, perfect for a Memorial Day Getaway.  This is another great family-friendly location with easy waters to navigate, a “Kids Cove” and playground area, and concessions bar with food and drinks.  Plus, the area is the state’s first “Certified Blue Wave Clean Beach” – promising nothing but sparkling sand beaches and a pristine boardwalk for your enjoyment.  Life guards are on duty in June through August, so swim at your own risk before season opener!  Other attractions to enjoy nearby include the Racine Zoo, the Racine HarborMarket (now known as “HayMarket”), “Hot Summer Nights” concert series in the park, and First Friday fun will resume starting this month (May). Telluride is an unexpected addition to the list, but we promise it’s just as fun in the “offseason” as it is during the Colorado winters. The town offers plenty of outdoor fun such as tubing, bungee trampolines, outdoor hiking, mountain biking, and Mountain Village Gondola rides.  If you’re looking for the best fishing destinations and waterside fun, you’ll find it right there in the rocky mountains in any of the plentiful lakes, ponds, and alpine creeks by way of kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boating, and swimming. The summer months are known in the area as “festival season”; in May you can enjoy the Telluride MountainFilm Festival, followed by the Hot Air Balloon festival in June.  You’ll also get a firsthand look at the beautiful history of the area at the Telluride Historical Museum or one of the local history walking tours!

If you’re a gearhead looking to plan the ultimate road trip, have we got a Summer Lineup for you!  Today’s blog is all about top tier automotive centric shows across the US for summer.  From East Coast to West Coast and in between, we’ve wrangled up the best vehicle events you can ever dream of.  From classic cars to hot rods, from custom mods to vintage vehicles, we know you’ll find something to satisfy your automotive enthusiast needs.  So, grab your best buds and hop on in your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road! more Carlisle Ford Nationals in Carlile, PA has called the Carlisle Fairgrounds home since the mid–90s.  This Ford brand centric event brings out enthusiasts from all over the world each year.  Check out the vast collection of Ford Vehicles on display including classics and modern day cars.  Attendees will have a chance to attend swap meets for car parts with fellow gearheads; engage in performance tests of the latest and greatest; check out a product showcase from Ford; attend auctions for special parts and memorabilia.  Visitors will love exploring all of the vehicles from Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, and Euro Ford lines.  You’ll also find the latest and greatest in car parts on the Manufacturer's Midway!  Happening June 6th through 7th, with kids 12 and under attending for free. Goodguys Columbus Nationals is one of the Midwest’s premier car events, featuring more than 6,500 American-Made or American-Powered vehicles.  This event is a surefire banger, with high turnouts expected year after year as enthusiasts flock to Ohio to view impressive displays of Classic Americana vehicles such as muscle cars, hot rods, custom cars, and more.  Enjoy a wide array of automotive events and competitions including Drag Race events and Autocross!  The 27th Summit Racing Nationals presented by PPG is happening July 11th through July 13th. Other automotive events hosted by GoodGuys include: 2nd Grundy Insurance Mid-Atlantic Nationals Presented by R&M Performance May 30th and 31st in Dover, DE; 34th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals from July 4th through 6th in Des Moines IA; 37th Griot’s Garage Pacific Northwest Nationals in Puyallup, WA from July 25th through 27th; 38th West Coast Nationals in Pleasanton, CA from August 22nd through 24th Hot August Nights in Reno Nevada is a week long automotive festival and beloved local tradition!  The event is not just a celebration of classic cars, but also evokes feelings of nostalgia and leaning into rock ‘n’ roll culture.  In the running since 1986, this event features car cruises, drag race events, and live entertainment.  It’s the perfect travel destination for vintage hot rod and muscle car enthusiasts!  We can’t think of a better way to have fun than experiencing the nightly car cruises downtown through Reno on a hot summer night. This year’s event runs from August 1st through the 10th, with the grand finale closing ceremonies on the 10th. On August 3rd, attendees can enjoy the charitable event “Bonanza Casino’s Cruisin for the Cure” Car Show, and help fundraise for a good cause!  Plus, there are auctions, meet and greets, a swap meet, drag races, and competitive car showings all week long. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Pebble Beach Automotive Week in California takes place in August on the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.  The Concours d’Elegance takes place on Sunday August 17th starting at 10:30AM, and is the who’s who of ultra luxury vehicles and expensive collectible cars, and a must-see for anyone who is interested in high-end automotives.  Last year’s event saw 214 cars arriving from 16 countries and 29 states, each entering for a chance to win the Best of Show title. The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance presented by Rolex is taking place on August 14th, featuring a route along 17-Mile Drive, Highway One to Big Sur, and back to Pebble Beach; the event starts preparations as early as 7AM and cars leave promptly at 9:30AM so arrive early to catch the cruise! Pebble Beach RetroAuto Event will take place from Thursday August 14th through 16th with the Concours Sunday event on August 17th; this gorgeous collection of curated exhibits features historic automotive memorabilia, rare collectibles, art, luxury items, and more. Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit, MI is the world’s largest one-day automotive event, during which more than 1 million people flock to view 50,000 classic cars.  Originating as a small fundraiser event in the mid-90s, it has now evolved into a massive appreciation event for classic car culture and the Detroit Automotive Scene.  Held each year along the iconic Woodward Avenue in Detroit, the event celebrates the rich automotive history of Detroit as well as iconic and classic American Muscle Cars. Enjoy a classic car cruise along Woodward Avenue and take in the sites with muscle cars, hot rods, vintage cars, and customs. There will be live music and entertainment, food and drink, and a big festival celebration!  This year’s event takes place on August 16th 2025.

Spring is in full swing and we’re gearing up for warm weather fun in the sun!  Enjoy a plethora of family friendly activities and date-night ideas as well as plenty of “back to nature” fun.  We’re sharing all that and more on this month’s edition of Classic’s Community Calendar of Events in Lake County Illinois for May 2025. First Fridays are back on Mainstreet in Libertyville. Head downtown on May 2nd from 10AM to 9PM for a chance to dine, shop, and support your local community!  Downtown shopowners and restaurants are offering special discounts for the occasion and parking is free. Residents 21+ can enjoy a “Dos De Mayo” party at the Patty Turner Center in Deerfield on Friday May 2nd from 6:30PM to 8PM.  Tickets are $35-$45 per person including appetizers, drinks, live music, salsa line dance, and more. more The thrilling Chicagoland Monster Truck Wars are barreling into town on Saturday May 3rd at 12PM and 6PM at the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake. The 13th Annual GLMV Extreme Block Party and Family Expo is happening on Saturday May rd from 10AM to 3PM at the DoubleTree Mundelein in Mundelein. Art in the Garden at Fox Lake’s Community Garden is taking place at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake on Saturday May 3rd from 12PM to 2PM. Grayslake Art Alliance’s Mayfest is taking place at the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum from 12PM to 4PM on Saturday May 3rd. The Spring Into Nature Family Festival at the Heller Nature Center is happening on May 10th in Highland Park. Prices are $24-$28 and include music on the lawn, a picnic, giant bubble making, and a walk in the woods among other family friendly fun.  Preregistration is preferred for this entirely outdoor event. Stop by the Marketplace Cafe on the May 17th Artwauk event for a special Charcuterie menu from 5Pm to 9PM on May 17th in Waukegen on Genesee Street. Long Grove Chocolate Fest will be taking over Historic Downtown Long Grove on May 16th, 17th, and 18th!  There will be live music, plenty of hands on activities for kids, food vendors, and of course plenty of chocolate! Lake County Food Truck Festival is rolling into the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake on Friday May 23rd from 12PM to 9PM.  Local and regional businesses will be sampling their wares and an immense array of cuisines to explore and try! Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor Marina starts its season on May 23rd and then returns on June 27th, July 25th, August 22nd, and September 26th from 5PM to 8PM at Siver Park. Shop locally made products and handmade goods, sample delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live music at Green Town on the Rocks. Waukegan’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will be kicking off on Monday May 26th at N. Martin Luther King Jr Avenue followed by a commemoration at Veterans Plaza.  The parade begins promptly at 10:45AM so make sure you’re ready to go for best viewing! The Chicagoland Antique, Advertising, Slot Machine, and Juke Box Show will be coming to town on Friday May 30th and Saturday May 31st at the LAke County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake.

April is National Car Care Month! We’ve been helping our followers learn expert car care tips all month long. Today, we’re focusing on windshield safety and clear visibility. more A vehicle driving through a rainy mountain road with the windshield wipers in motion. Never leave chips or cracks unrepaired. If the glass is not repaired or replaced soon, even small damage can quickly grow to a large spiderwebbed split which may cause obstacles to the driver’s vision and lead to accidents. Additionally, these small stars or chips may spread quickly in hotter or cold temperatures, or may even shatter if you’re driving over difficult terrain or rough roadways and hit a bump or pothole.  Call your roadside assistance or vehicle insurance company to see if these repairs or replacements are covered; some companies offer free or subsidized replacements on specific plans. Alternatively, you can call your local mechanic or service center to ask about glass repair or replacement services. Ensuring you have clear and efficient visibility on the road during inclement weather is paramount to safety!  Replace your windshield wipers regularly with quality blades if you notice any streaking or smears. If you’re not sure what type of wipers you need, you can check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for guidelines on length and size. Be sure to top off your wiper fluid regularly, and use good quality cleaning products. You’ll want to select something that is seasonally appropriate, as some cleaners will freeze or be efficient at lower temperatures. Likewise, applying a hydrophobic coating such as Rain-X or similar will protect your glass from bugs, mud, rain, and ice more effectively than using just plain wiper fluid alone. When driving in inclement weather, remember to turn on your headlights if your windshield wipers are on!  Even if it’s just misting and foggy outside, headlights will significantly improve your visibility and make it easier for other drivers to spot you.  Remember to also ventilate your vehicle, as humidity can cause fogging of windows and windshields – the defroster will clear up the humidity quickly, as well as opening a window a smidge.

Let the experts here at Classic guide you on your journey to selecting the perfect car for your lifestyle and budget.  We’re here to help you navigate the ins-and-outs of selecting a car, by highlighting three easy talking points for families and individuals to jumpstart your shopping. When you’re ready to buy, just head on into our dealerships and our trusted, experienced sales staff will have you behind the wheel of the safest, budget friendly vehicle in no time! more Decide on your budget. Paying for a car up front can save you a lot of money in the long run.  Set a budget that you can comfortably afford to pay via cash or check, and avoid costly interest fees on loans.  Remember to include title fees/transfers, registration costs, and initial insurance payments in that budget. Check your credit and know in advance if you’ll need a co-signer; younger drivers generally need someone to cosign with more established credit. The purchase price also has additional fees such as: title fees, a down payment requirement, initial insurance payments, and other potential upfront costs. Decide whether you’re going for a new or used ca r. Newer cars are the most advanced options, and have lower associated repair costs, but they do require financing or leasing and more expensive insurance. Older used cars can be a more economical option up front, you’ll have a wider variety of makes/models to choose from, but there is always a higher risk for repairs and maintenance. Weigh both as a family and decide which you prefer. Make sure all of your car searches factor in the following: safety features, reliability and longevity, fuel economy, tech and digital features, vehicle resale value. Do thorough research on your options. Decide what features are must-haves and what you can do without. Each make and model year of car has different features and amenities. It’s up to you and your lifestyle to find the right match of indispensable electronic and convenience features. Consider things like: Do you need a GPS?  Can you do without satellite radio or do you require digital interfaces?  Will a hybrid, all electric, or gas vehicle be best for your daily driving needs?  Do you need room for equipment such as sports gear, bikes, luggage, school supplies, etc? Figure out your daily mileage (home to school and back, school to work and back, average weekend visits with friends) and determine your average gas costs. Research average insurance coverage costs and payments for the make/model of cars you’re looking at, and best coverage that ensures your safety and fits within your budget. Research average repair costs for the vehicles over the first few years as well as the lifetime of the vehicle. Make a shortlist of vehicles you’d like to look at (3 is a good starting point) and head to the dealership to see them in person. Call your local dealership and request to schedule an appointment for a test drive.  (Refer to our previous blog about maximizing your test drive experience to get the full experience!) Make a list of the pros and cons of each driving experience, and how it relates to your daily commute and activities. Read all financial paperwork and sales agreements very carefully. If you’re a younger driver, be sure to bring along a parent or guardian who can help you navigate the agreements and negotiate your best deals. Do you have a first-time car buying tip that helped your family find the right fit financially and practically? Do you have any tips or tricks that worked well for you that we can pass along to younger or teen drivers shopping for their first car? Let us know in the comments!

Today we’re sharing three amazing places in the midwest to live out your backcountry backpacking dreams!  If you’ve found yourself watching adventure documentaries and reading survivalist fiction, this is the perfect place to start your own exciting adventure!  You’ll find plenty of thrills, challenges, scenic views, and memorable experiences along the way as you check out these three magnificent natural areas.  From off-road hiking to sleeping under the stars in nothing but a hammock or lean-to, these camping and hiking destinations offer a unique experience of wilderness fun!  So gear up, grab your best hiking shoes, and pack up those maps because we’re about to hit the road making unforgettable memories of a lifetime. more Pictured Rocks Lakeshore in Michigan along North Country Scenic Trail offers nearly 100 miles of park trails, with 42 of them running adjacent to the shores of Lake Superior.  There are 13 designated backpacking campground areas along the trail, and some of them are very small, intimate locations, perfect for respite away from the 9 to 5 job; there is even one boat-in only site located at Grand Sable Lake but you’ll need to BYO boat to access it.  Be mindful that you will need a backcountry permit to camp and hike here, so book that in advance of your travels!  If you’re looking for unmatched scenic views, challenging hiking trails in sandy terrain, and a real “rough-it” style camping experience, this is the spot for you!  You’ll also want to bring a compass and a map, as most smartphones and cell phones will not work in the park, so plan accordingly with printed waterproof maps before coming!  Alternatively you can download the NPS Mobile App to download the park info over wifi before heading out to the trails.  This hike and backcountry trails are not pet friendly, so leave your furry friends at home. Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail in Kentucky is a whopping 343 miles long hiking trail chock full of challenging terrain and plenty of backcountry adventures!  The trail is a long-distance hike, so you’ll need plenty of outdoor experience, expert navigation skills, and a lof of endurance to make it to the end.  Trails here are generally well marked, but it’s recommended you still download an offline map or bring printed media and a compass. Camping is either in designated campground areas, or a minimum of 300 feet off the trail itself.  It’s important to note that if you opt for the long haul full thru-hike, you will not cross into “civilization” often during your route, so plan accordingly with supplies; you’ll only encounter 5 towns along the way: Moorehead, McKee, Livingston, London, and Stearns.  The trail crosses through areas such as Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Park, Cave Run Lake, and the Big South Fork Recreation Area. If long haul backpacking isn’t your style, there are plenty of 1 to 2 day and night trail routes available as well. Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin runs 1200 miles through the state following the path of historic geologic features carved by the Laurentide Ice Sheet over 12,000 years ago!  The trail is mostly off-road hiking and backpacking, but passes through several small towns along its winding route.  Portions of the trail pass through Kettle Moraine Forest and areas like Devils Lake State Park, and Interstate State Park.  Some regions allow camping just off site of the trail, while other portions allow camping in designated campsites or areas along the way;  be forewarned that campsite areas are often spaced far apart, so be sure to plan any multi-day hikes accordingly.  The trail does have areas open for hunting and fishing in designated spots.  Otherwise you’ll enjoy some truly spectacular nature walks, challenging hikes, birdwatching and wildlife spotting, and plenty of stunning stargazing.

Today on Classic’s Gearhead Guru Guide installment, we’re sharing some tips on what to consider when shopping around for good car insurance.  We know the task of weeding through all the policy details, coverage limits, and even different companies can seem daunting!  That’s why we’re here to help enlighten you, and take a little bit of the guess work and stress out of the process. After today’s blog, you’ll have a great foundation for making an informed decision on the best policy that’s right for your vehicle and your budget. more What do I watch out for when shopping for insurance? Does it really make a difference what company I go with? Budgeting for good, quality car insurance when purchasing a car can save you hundreds in costly repairs, and avoids time wasted from playing phone tag or chasing via email. When you choose a reputable insurance, you will have more flexibility in selecting your regular mechanic, or the option of having your car fixed by a professional partner shop. Beware of discounted insurance, as it usually results in less coverage than you need and major customer service hassles. The national companies might have slightly higher rates, but they are still competitive, reliable, and efficient. Stick with a national, reputable insurance company, and you’ll ensure that your claims are handled professionally and efficiently. How do I narrow down my choices? Check your local and state guidelines for required insurance coverages. Some regions and states may legally require specific coverage levels or policy types for residents, while others may have more flexibility in coverage. Get quotes from several different insurance companies before selecting your policy, and compare the benefits, perks, and financials of each. Consider shopping around for a new policy every few years to make sure you’re getting the best rates!  You may find better rates at a different insurance provider due to age, vehicle type, location, or even driving habit history. Make a list of your must-haves and additional coverage options that would benefit your driving style. Those who are on the road more often, or who may have significant travel for work, may benefit from additional perks such as Roadside Assistance or Rental Car Reimbursement plans.  Likewise, deselect these add-on options before starting your policy if they do not fit your lifestyle and driving needs; it will save you lots of money for features you’re not using. Explore your options for discounts for things like opting for installments versus single-pay and ask about discounts for good driving history. Some insurance companies offer discounts for single pay or quarterly installments, or additional savings breaks if you’ve set your premiums up to be paid automatically. Some companies offer a discounted rate for 0 accidents, and will offer reduced rates for longevity as a subscriber. If you’ve got renters or homeowners insurance, or other vehicle insurance such as boat or motorcycle, you may inquire of your provider about bundling your premiums. Many companies will offer significant savings when you select multiple policies options through their umbrella of coverage plans. What about types of coverage? Let’s take a look at the different types of coverage insurers offer, and which may be required policies for residents of specific states. Types of Coverage and Policies Liability Coverage - This type of coverage pays for both property damage you cause to someone else’s property, as well as any bodily injury or harm caused to others resulting from the accident. This may include hospital bills, medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage - This coverage protects you from damages due to the other vehicle/driver’s inadequate or lack of coverages. Some drivers operate vehicles without insurance or with less-than-adequate coverage, and this plan will cover many of those gaps. Personal Injury Protection - This type handles your medical/rehabilitation and hospital costs, any work/wage-loss costs, and funeral/burial expenses. This is sometimes referred to as no-fault insurance, as it covers expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Comprehensive and Collision - Comprehensive insurance provides coverage for accidents and events that are outside of your control, including things like weather, theft, or vandalism, etc but it does not cover hitting another vehicle or object, nor wear-and-tear. .  Collision coverage keeps you protected from collisions with another vehicle or object; some drivers choose to opt out of collision if the cost of premiums overshadow the estimated value of their vehicle. (Ex: if your vehicle is used or older and is worth $1500, but your premiums are $1800, you may not wish to carry collision coverage.)  These policies may be required by your lender if you’re leasing a vehicle or your car is on financing plans.