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There’s no place like home for the holidays, unless of course you’re booking a hotel and enjoying a fabulous weekend getaway to relax and recharge! Today’s blog is all about amazing winter season friendly destinations for a weekend trip or short break from the rat race of life. Hop in your new car from Classic, and hit the road in style as you embark on your quest for a little “me-time” or family togetherness. more Great Wolf Lodge is an amazing year round destination for families, but from November 24th through January 8th you can enjoy a very special winter wonderland treat! Special events during the Snowland season include a Frosty Fest Family Dance Party, special winter holiday yoga sessions, seasonal arts and crafts, and holiday games such as Trivia Night, Bingo, bean bag toss, and more.  There’s even a scavenger hunt to bring a little extra holiday cheer to your stay with special clues around the lodge.  And on select dates, you can even meet the big man himself: Santa Claus.  And of course, year round water park fun. Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center is always a favorite for nature lovers year round, but during December there are some wonderful holiday themed events.  Adults and children alike will enjoy the crisp fresh air while taking a guided hike, offered on Saturdays and Sundays.  There’s a special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Buffet.  Historic Trolley Tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays for a few hours each day.  You can also snag a special holiday trolley tour of the gorgeous lights displays from December 10th through the 14th and again on December 17th through the 21st!  Plus, there's breakfast with Santa, special Eagle Watch weekends.  Not to mention there's plenty of fine dining, live entertainment, and lots of local area destinations to explore. Farmer’s Guest House in Galena will feel like your home away from home this winter.  Cozy on up with a homemade breakfast fresh from their scratch kitchen (specialty diets accommodated with advance notice) and have a fresh hot cup of coffee to start the day.  Then enjoy some leisure time with a board game or a puzzle in the common area before you head out for some local shopping. You can also make it a weekend in and get snuggled up with a “Dinner Date Night Package” with your special someone!  In December, Galena has a lot to see and do such as the Mistletoe Stroll Holiday House Tour, Night of the Luminaria and Living Windows, and the Generals Christmas Ball event!  January and February are just as delightful with a Bonfire on the Bluff and the Winter Carnival Weekend events.  It’s a very personal, down to earth stay and perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. Grand Geneva Resort and Spa are already in the Christmas Spirit with more than 2 million Christmas lights in their indoor and outdoor displays, including a “12 Days of Christmas” drive through holiday lights show!  The resort hosts a 6 week long seasonal extravaganza including Breakfast and Brunch with Santa, holiday trolley tours, igloo dining at the Embers Terrace, a special Christmas Eve Brunch, a magical Gingerbread House Walk, and so very much more!    You can even opt in for a fully decorated Christmas Tree with special ornaments and ribbon topper, and a keepsake decoration for you to take home.  This is the place to go if you love Christmastime! Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark is a one-stop destination for  family fun all year round!  The waterpark offers 50,000 square feet of fun with a 35-foot slide, 500 feet of lazy river rafting fun, and a gorgeous 300 foot heated indoor pool!  There’s an arcade, character meet and greets, and even mini-bowling!  If that’s still not enough to keep your family busy, you can go off the property and explore all of the wonderful things Lake Geneva has to offer!  Sundays in December you can opt in for a Breakfast with Santa to make the holidays a little more merry, or visit Santa on vacation in his waterpark cabana on December 22nd and 23rd before he heads back to his workshop for the big day! Other great lodging options and getaway destinations include: Villa Olivia in Bartlett Alpine Valley Resort in Elkhorn Chestnut Mountain Resort Bittersweet Ski Resort in Ostego Michigan Crowne Plaza Hotel in Madison WI

The temperatures are dropping at that blustery winter weather is almost upon us. We’re preparing for the annual lake effect snowstorms with some new gear for our cars.  Today’s blog is all about special tools and tech that will keep you safe this winter, no matter what the weather.  You’ll drive confidently knowing you’re protected with the best safety features in your new car from Classic, as well as your new accessories such as snow socks for your tires, top tier ice scrapers, emergency snow shovels, and more.  Plus, these make great gift ideas for the hard-to-please mechanic or car enthusiast on your gift list. You can never go wrong with a practical present. more These snow socks are a great alternative to snow chains for additional traction.  Their easy portability makes them a great item to keep on hand for ice storms and winter weather emergencies.  They’re tough, reusable, and washable, and install in under 5 minutes! Find the right size for your tires from small to XXL, perfect for everything from cars to vans to light trucks. Priced under $100 on Amazon here. Keeping a small portable snow shovel in your car can be a lifesaver during winter months.  Scoop your car out of the parking lot at work, or remove snow and ice from around your tires to provide traction, or even shovel your way from the driveway to your front door with ease.  No mater what your needs, this budget friendly option is a great choice! Just $29.97 at the time of publishing this blog. Save time and energy and reduce your frustrating with this snow and ice scraper removal tool. Thanks to it’s portable, rechargeable battery, you can remove winter mess in no time flat. This electronic ice scraper is great for deicing and defrosting, too!  It’s a great budget friendly gift for commuters, coming in at under $35 on Amazon. Custom fit your car with one of these fantastic Automotive Windshield Snow Covers and make snow removal a breeze!  Keeps your glass free and clear of frost, ice, sleet, and snow.  And since it’s priced under $25, it makes a great stocking stuffer. Forget about finding a place to store multiple snow and ice removal tools. This extendable scraper with multiip[le attachments and pivoting head is a great choice!  You’ll be able to reach the top of your car and across the windshield with ease. Budget friendly at under $15 If you catch yourself stranded in the snow and in need of a tow, it’s important to makes sure you can keep warm until help arrives.  This portable electric blanket with 12V plug and USB attachment converter is perfect for both new and used vehicles.  It’ll keep you nice and cozy while you wait for the tow truck or roadside assistance, and fits modern and older outlets. Another great financially friendly option priced under $35! This 6 pack of LED Road Flare emergency lights is an indispensable piece for your winter emergency kit.  It has 9 different flash modes, and you can outfit each disc with your own rechargeable batteries to make them more cost efficient. They’re a very practical gift for anyone on your list, and priced under $50 for an affordable option.

Looking for something fun, festive, and cozy to do this month in the Lake County area? We’ve got you covered with our latest Classic Community Calendar of events.  From winter outdoor fun to holiday shopping to seasonal concerts and more, we’re bringing you some of the best and brightest activities for holiday cheer. Check ‘em out on today’s blog. And, as always, feel free to let us know your favorite local events this month in the comments on our social media! This afternoon at the Jack Benny Plaza in downtown Waukegan, come on out and support the GO WAUKEGAN Winter Wonder Walk with the community! more Today at Highland Park in Highwood from 5:30 to 11PM come out for a festive “Elf Invasion Pub Crawl” for adults, a special event with local seasonal food and drinks.  Come dressed in your elf finery and enjoy the silly seasonal cheer! Free for all to enjoy, with some admission fees priced per activity, or special food and beverage deals. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays during the whole holiday season, the Haines House Museum is hosting a very special Victorian Christmas Event at the Museum from 12PM to 3PM! Sign up today for the Kiwanis Santa Run for the kids event in Crystal Lake!  The Run takes place on December 4th. The annual Kids Only Holiday shop is back again at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest on Wednesday, December 6th starting at 2:30.  Your kids can explore local vendors and artisans and find kid-friendly priced items to gift to their family and friends. Everything for sale will be priced $10 or less including taxes.  Sensory friendly hours available starting at 2:30! Plus, there’s a team of pro gift wrappers available to help with that too. Learn more here. You won’t want to miss the special December 6th Hops and Holiday Wreaths event at Roaring Table Brewing Company!  Enjoy some delicious hops beverages and make your own top notch fresh evergreen holiday wreath. Bring your friends and family out for a fun afternoon at Buffalo Creek Brewing on December 7th  and December 14th for the Gingerbread House Competition events! On Friday December 8th from 3PM to 7PM, register in advance to enjoy the Holiday Part Dance for Individuals with Disabilities at Zion Park District’s Shiloh Center. (Event may be waitlisted!) Enjoy a festive seasonal Sip and Paint event with some hot chocolate and holiday themed painting at the Belvidere Recreation Center on Friday December 8th from 6PM to 7:30PM. Registration in advance recommended. The holidays can be rough on parents with all the hustle and bustle, gift shopping and wrapping, hosting and holiday travel… so why not take a night off and relax. The Parents Night Out event at Butler Lake Park in Libertyville will do the trick!  Head on over from 5Pm to 8PM for a night on the town and festive fun. Make your own holiday ornaments together with your friends and family at Reclaimed Artisans with a special instructional workshop by Tanya Designs on December 9th! On December 9th at the Orlin D. Trapp Auditorium, dress in your holiday finest and come on out for a magical musical evening with a classic seasonal Sing-Along event beginning at 7PM. Looking for a fun, child appropriate night out? The Kids Night In Holiday Scavenger Hunt hosted by the Lindenhurst Park District is right up your alley!  From 5:30PM to 8:30PM, kids aged 5 through 12 will enjoy a fun afternoon of seasonal activities for their age group. Make sure to sign up in advance. On Friday, December 15th, the Bowen Park Theatre is bringing you a traditional holiday favorite about believing in your dreams and sharing the reason for the season: love, family, and togetherness!  The Jack Benny Center for the Arts and Bowen Park Theatre present Miracle on 34th Street starting at 7PM with additional showings available.  Book now! Bring your competitive holiday spirit with the Gingerbread house Building Competition and Family Social at the Adaptive Recreation Center on December 16th from 2PM to 3PM! On December 19th at the Belvidere Recreation Center, enjoy some holiday baking fun with the Youth Cookie Club’s special Holiday Cookies workshop event from 6PM to 7:15PM. On December 20th, the Egg Harbor Cafe is hosting the big man himself for a magical holiday Breakfast with Santa event from 9AM to 12PM in Libertyville! A special cooking class called “I can Bake: Holiday Baking” workshop is being held on December 21st at the Adaptive Recreation Center! And of course, you’ll want to pencil in your first act of bravery for the year when on January 1st 2024 starting at 10AM, the community gathers for the Waukegan Municipa l Beach’s 25th Annual Polar Bear Plunge event!

There’s no place like home for the holidays!  And what better homecoming gift is there to bring to loved ones than a plate of freshly baked homemade cookies.  How fitting then that today should be National Cookie Day.  To celebrate our love for these sweet treats as well as gear up for holiday baking sprees, we’re coming at you with a list of our favorite recipes, favorite baking equipment, and local bakeries to order a cookie plate.  Check it out! more FUN FACT! Did you know that the modern day holiday cookies we know and love today began with recipes from Medieval Europe?  As people began to travel and explore other cultures, previously unavailable ingredients such as cinnamon, ginger, almonds, and dried fruit made their way into Western Europe’s homes and bakeries. FUN FACT! The earliest known appearance of Christmas Cookies in the US was in the 17th century by Dutch Settlers.  In the late 1800s and early 1900s, cookie cutters began appearing in the US thanks to more relaxed import laws, and recipes using them became more prevalent. FUN FACT! North American traditions of leaving out cookies and milk for Santa originated in the 1930s. (That is, if mom or dad don’t eat them first!)  As you can see, cookies are a beloved traditional holiday food! If you’re not a baker, we’ve got a great list of local shops where you can order your own for the holidays.  Here’s where to order your holiday cookies and cookie platters in Lake County: The Frosted Baker in Waukegan Tony’s Bakery in Waukegan Illusion Bakery in Waukegan Poparrazzi Gourmet Treats in Waukegan O Brothers Bakery in Waukegan Bake Share Baking in Grayslake Tina’s Italian Bake Shop in Gurnee Lovin Oven Cakery in Round Lake Beach Nana’s Rum Cakes in Mundelein Dalton’s Cakes in Grayslake Taste of Paris in Mundelein Hewn Bakery in Libertyville Karina’s Bakery in Mundelein Tony Cannoli in Mundelein When we’re not in the dealership working on cars or selling them, we’re at home with our families indulging in some of our favorite holiday traditions, which of course includes baking holiday cookies!  Here are some of the kitchen tools we find indispensable for cookie prep and decorating. Silpat Baking Mats Melamine Mixing bowls with lids Cheat Sheets Silicone Baking Trays Wide Spatula Glass Prep Bowls Stainless Steel Cookie Scoop KitchenAid High Speed Hand Mixer Love cookies as much as we love talking about them? Why not try your hand at creating your own traditions with our favorite holiday cookie recipes (vegan and gluten free options included!) World’s Best Cookies Ever Cherry Cheese Windmill Cookies Cinnamon Bun Cookies Hidden Mint Morsels Crinkle Top Chocolate Cookies Gluten Free Cutout Cookies with a Dairy Free Option Classic Rich Roll Cookies Chocolate Covered Katie’s Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Copycat Mrs. Fields White Chocolate Chip Cookies Loving It Vegan’s Simple Oatmeal Cookies Soft Baked Pumpkin Cranberry Cookies Best Ever Soft Sugar Cookies Slice and Bake Rainbow Arch Cookies Tie-Dye Butter Cookies Lidia Bastianch’s Italian Rainbow Cookies Gluten Free Christmas Cookies Gluten Free Thumbprint Cookies

What is Giving Tuesday? Giving Tuesday is a great reminder to step back from the consumerism of the holidays, and get back to the roots of the season: connecting with others, appreciating community, giving the gift of our appreciation and support, and caring for others in the spirit of kindness.  This annual event aims especially to help local and national non-profits and charitable organizations gain visibility, attract new patrons and donors, and engage with the community to increase awareness and support for their causes. more Here are some wonderful non-profits and charities in our area that could use your support or membership: United Way of Lake County in Gurnee Habitat for Humanity Lake County in Waukegan COOL Food Pantry in Waukegan Casa Lake County in Vernon Hills Fill a Heart 4 Kids in Lake Forest Women Enuff, Inc in Zion Growing Healthy Veterans in Gurnee Mothers Trust Foundation in Lake Forest Rae of Sunshine Foundation in Long Grove Bernie’s Book Bank in Lake Bluff Help Them to Hope in Gurnee Mano A Mano Family Resource Center Have a local charity or non-profit organization that could use support? Let us know in the comments! Other fantastic ways you can give back within our communities: Donate your time and physical presence to helping stock food pantries or serve meals Give blood at local blood banks or blood drives Offer ride share service to your neighbors, local seniors, and disabled individuals. Oftentimes these folks may need rides to important appointments, picking up their meds, and gathering groceries! Providing transportation as needed can be a great help! Start a community garden and urban agriculture project and encourage your friends and neighbors to join in planting, cultivating, and harvesting fruits and veggies and other edible plants. Ask if your employer will contribute a “gift match” to your personal donation, and make a few contributions to local organizations like COOL ministries and others. When shopping on Amazon, set http://Smile.Amazon.com as your homepage and contribute a percentage of your purchases to the charity of your choice. Create care packages for the local unhoused population and distribute, or bring to warming stations around the city. Remember to include some additional bags for pets; many unhoused individuals do care for family pets, have service animals, and general animal companions. Providing food and water and treats for peoples’ pets can help as well! Collect gently used toys, books, and clothing in good condition which has been laundered and folded neatly, and bring them to a local family shelter or to warming stations around town.  Remember to include extended sizing from infant to toddler to juniors as well as adult XS to XXXXL when purchasing or collecting clothing! All bodies deserve comfortable clothing and warmth. Volunteer at a local animal shelter to do dog walking and animal playtime sessions, drop off canned and bagged animal food and kitty litter, donate gently used blankets and sheets and towels, bleach, pet safe salt/gravel, and other daily use pet items. Contribute specialty food goods, seasonings, and allergen friendly items to local food banks, pantries, and community fridges.  Just because someone is unhoused does not mean they no longer have dietary restrictions or don’t deserve a healthy, delicious meal! Remember to contribute personal hygiene items such as diapers, diaper rash cream, sunscreen, deodorant, soap and shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, over the counter medications such as fever reducers and children’s meds, and toilet paper to local food drives, shelters and collection banks in addition to food. Spend some time at local senior centers, nursing homes, and care facilities, especially around the holidays!  Due to the Covid19 pandemic, many elderly and disabled people have had a difficult few years in isolation, and spending time with fellow community members can lift their spirits!  Remember to protect our vulnerable populations, though, and adhere to social distancing and vaccination/mask requirements. And of course, all of us here at Classic Auto Group send a comforting virtual hug to you all in thanks for your support and dedication to building a better community!

Kickstart the holiday joy this season by packing your family and friends into the car for a festive road trip!  We’re bringing you a selection of some of the most holly-jolly and very merry lights displays to add a little holiday spirit to the season.  Check it out on today’s blog! more The Christmas Wonderland 2023 lights display at Rock Spring Park in Alton opened on Thanksgiving and will run through the 27th of December.  Open from 6PM through 9PM every Monday through Friday, and 5PM to 9PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  Suggested donations are $10 for cars and small vans, or for larger vehicles of 10+ persons a suggested $1 per person donation.  This year, the festivities include an Enchanted Forest where you can vote for your fave festive tree, and even get a visit to Santa Claus himself!  There’s a drive through and walkthrough option, so you can experience the magic two different ways. Get more info here at Riversandroutes.com The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is hosting a festive display of seasonal cheer for the 80th year! With humble beginnings of one single tree in 1942, this beloved annual exhibit now houses a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree as the centerpiece of more than 50 different trees and gorgeous volunteer-decorated lights displays!  This year’s theme centers on “The Science of Snow” and features an incredible array of snowflake photography by Caltech physicist Ken Libbrecht, alongside thematic holiday and wintry music.  Admission to the display is included with regular Museum Entry admission, and you can catch it now through January 7th 2024. The 11th annual Illumination: Tree of Lights at the Morton Arboretum event opened November 18th and will run through January 6th 2024! Grab your tickets in advance, because they’re selling out fast and you don’t want to miss this seasonal spectacular!  With more than 50 acres of trees to explore in festive immersive art and light exhibits, it will delight visitors of all ages. And best of all, this year the event has been made even more inclusive with a new path added that’s fully ADA compliant for patrons with disabilities and mobility devices!  The 1-mile paved walking path features festive music, special lighting effects, and a dazzling winter woodland scene. Members receive 20% discount on tickets and ordering in advance ZooLights of Lincoln Park Zoo is back and better than ever with new and exciting lights displays, seasonal festive photo ops, and plenty of interactive exhibits to enjoy! The seasonal event opened on November 17th and will run through January 7th 2024.  Zoolights also includes a special Sensory-Friendly night where most of the lights displays will remain static, music will be played at a reduced volume, and any moving light displays will be slowed down.  Guests are welcome to wear noise reduction headphones for a more accommodating experience.  Tickets are required but are just $7 per person. Special additional holiday programming such as an Adults Night Out, Live Music, and even seasonal rides are available on select dates and time s. The Festival of Lights in Peoria returns for another festive season and its 39th year of magic!  It opened the season on November 18th with a spectacular Parade of Lights event, and will continue to dazzle from Friday November 24th through January 1st.  Experience the magic from 5PM to 9PM every Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours from 5PM to 11PM on Friday and Saturday.  Hours amend to 5PM to 9PM on December 24th through January 1st 2024. Admission is $10 for regular vehicles, $30 for small busses, and $150 for a motorcoach. The Shelbyville Festival of Lights opened on November 17th and will run through December 31st.  Enjoy the gorgeous lights from 5PM to 9PM Sunday through Thursday, and extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 5PM to 10PM.  Donations are suggested at the end of your tour.  When you’re done with the Forest Park display of lights, enjoy the Festival of Trees with more than 40 decorated trees each weekend in the Chautauqua, and you can  vote for your favorite; happening every Friday and Saturday from 5PM to 10PM and Sundays from 5PM to 9PM.

Today is Small Business Saturday.  As fellow Lake County residents and business owners, we wanted to take a moment to shout out our appreciation for all of the small business owners that make our community such a vibrant, bustling, and beautiful place to live!  We encourage everyone to shop small and shop local if you’re able to do so this holiday season. Today we’re sharing that love and paying it forward with a great list of some great local businesses in the surrounding area to support. more Real human beings supporting other real human beings has a real world impact.  Each sale of work or dollar towards funding campaigns means folks can put a roof over their heads and food on the table.  Your purchase or booking may even support a side-hustle that is helping put someone through school without debt, paying back student loans, caring for a relative, affording childcare, paying for medical costs, etc. Each independent creator and small business owner has their own “WHY” behind their work — don’t be afraid to ask about their passion and motivation.   Many chronically ill and disabled business owners and creators use their studio practices as an alternative to the prohibiting tasks of most traditional work environments; running your own business means setting an accommodating, flexible schedule to work at their own pace and within their personal limitations. Small business owners love sharing their motivations and inspirations with others; connecting with other cool humans is one of the best parts of being an independently run creative business!  No matter how you slice it, you’re helping to support the local economy, and making our town a better place to live and work and play in, and a safe and happy community is the best gift of all! Not sure what specific item to get, but know what your recipient loves the most? Why not get a gift card!  They’re a perfect option for your gifting this holiday season, and a fantastic way to support a local business with patronage, especially cafes and restaurants. We are sure that you’ll find just what you’re looking for right here in your own backyard: Pope’s Florist & Gifts on Grand Avenue in Waukegan Jim & Steve’s Sportscards on Grand Avenue in Waukegan Horsefeathers on N Genesee Street in Waukegan July’s Princess Boutique on Washington Street in Waukegan Larsen Florists & Greenhouses on W Glen Flora Avenue in Waukegan Kids Culture Fashion Boutique on N Genesee Street in Waukegan Gathr Creative Studio Boutique on Grand Avenue in Waukegan Dandelion Gallery & Art Studio in Waukegan Bosi Boutique and Spa on N Genesee Street in Waukegan Treat Diva in Gurnee Too Cool Toy Store in Gurnee Snickelfritz Toys in Vernon Hills Playoddity in Vernon Hills Beanstalk Toys and Books in Highland Park Bentley’s Pet Stuff in Libertyville Kristy Kohut Studio in Libertyville Fox and Wren in Grayslake Blue Moon Art Gallery in Grayslake Uniquely Sweet Chocolate Factory on W Washington Street in G rayslake Bonnie’s Chic Boutique on US-45 in Grayslake Gift of Games on Center Street in Grayslake Crystal Den Store on E Belvidere Road in Grayslake This is just a small selection of some local businesses our community loves!  Let us know your favorites in the comments, or tag a fellow local maker on our socials so our readers can shop in the comments.

After a whole day spent with family, friends, and enough food to last a lifetime, why not take a day off to kick back, relax, and go for a ride to clear your mind!  Take in the gorgeous scenery all around Illinois as you “take the long way” back home.  Prolong those vacation day vibes with a slow stroll down charming little villages. Explore the unique people and places in the historic towns that dot the highways and byways, or immerse yourself in the beauty of nature along trails and shorelines. We can’t think of a better way to spend National “Go For A Ride” day than these gorgeous roadways: Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, Canton With over 140 scenic miles of roadway in the valley, you’ll find plenty of stops for photo ops, scenic views, markets to shop, and special events.  The highlight of the region is its yearly fall festival in October, featuring open air markets, vendor tables, artisan goods and crafts, and plenty of family fun.  Take a self guided tour of the valley through several Illinois towns and along the Illinois river and make some family road trip memories.  You’ll make your way through 17 historic villages and sites along the way. The Great Rivers Byway, Hartford With 33 miles of byway to explore where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers converge, this is a memorable road trip for the books!  Check out the forested river bluffs, quaint roadside communities, stunning scenery and waterscapes, and end your journey at Pere Marquette State Park.  The small village of Elsah, also known as “the village where time stood still”, was the first village to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is like taking a step back in time. The quaint town of Godfrey offers beautiful local shops, charming tea rooms, and delicious eateries. Grafton’s waterfront downtown district offers beautiful sunset views of the riverfront, and prime entertainment and dining. Plus, there’s plenty of museums, galleries, historic sights, and trails to explore! The Morton Arboretum, Lisle A versatile stop for those who prefer a short, scenic drive with 9 miles of paved roadways and plenty of room to stretch your legs afterwards on the 16 miles of hiking trailways.  There’s lots to see and do such as enjoy a stroll through the Children’s Garden and Maze Garden, or spend an active day exploring in the woods.  From blossoms and blooms in springtime and summer, to bright fiery foliage in the autumn, to picturesque snow-covered statues in winter, the Arboretum is an essential scenic stop all year round. Historic National Road, Marshall This beautiful roadway was the first federally-funded road in US History; it originally made its way from Cumberland, Maryland all the way up to Vandalia, Illinois.  Today it runs from Marshall, Illinois through East St. Louis.  If you’re into collecting fun roadside attraction photos, you’ll love this drive!  Check out the oldest house in Illinois in Marshall, the “Giant Things” of Casey such as knitting needles and a rocking chair and pencil, a beautiful timber bridge in Greenup, learn about the start of President Lincoln’s political career in Vandalia, visit the Teutopolis Monastery museum, and so much more along its 164 mile route. Grandview Drive, Peoria This might be the shortest drive on our list, but it’s certainly not short on gorgeous views.  Winding its way along the Illinois River and through the valley from PRospect Road to Route 29, you’ll find a plethora of historic homes as well as beautiful landscape photo ops.  If you’re looking for outdoor activities, this will also hit the spot as it’s got plenty of options to get out and walk, hike, or bike the trails along the route.  Prime time to visit is during Autumn, but this winding roadway is still picturesque year round. Illinois River Road Scenic National Byway, Peoria This iconic 140 mile stretch of roadway cuts through 10 counties and connects 100 different nature sites, trails, and parks in the Illinois River Valley; a portion of it includes the Great River Road which follows the Mississippi. Prime time to visit is autumn for the fall foliage and leaf peeping season, but it’s gorgeous year round to be sure.  Including gorgeous waterfront views, cliff bluffs, and forest landscapes, you’ll have plenty of choices for family photo op backdrops.  If you’re looking to experience the great outdoors, you’ll find lots of spots for hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other fun activities.  If you enjoy shopping and strolling, you can visit any of the region’s picturesque towns and main streets for shopping, cultural events, art, and then some.  Create a family travel itinerary via the official website here.

Thursday marks the official kickoff to the holidays, which means lots of traveling to and from friends and relatives for the next month and change.  No matter if you’re traveling one mile or one hundred miles, we’ve put together a handy checklist of things to check before you hit the road.  These basic service tips are vital safety checks on your vehicle to prevent accidents from early frosts, wet leaves, and blustery conditions.  If you need any of these items replaced or serviced, please do so before embarking on your holiday journeys.  We want to know our customers and clients will arrive safely at their destination to enjoy their turkey dinners! more Holiday Road Trip Pre-Travel Checklist: Check your front and rear brakes, emergency brake, and brake light system. Do not skimp on this checkpoint. A  good solid set of brakes and quality rotors can be the difference between a safe stop and total decimation of your vehicle and serious injuries.  It is important to make sure that your braking system and brake light are in perfect working order before you’re faced with a split second decision to swerve, stop short, or avoid dangerous snowbanks or black ice.  You want to drive with confidence knowing your vehicle will keep you safe in the event of potential accidents! Check your tires. Check your tire pressure and make sure the PSI matches the manufacturer requirements (can be located in your manual or on a label on the side door pockets or frame.)  Look for signs of wear and tear such as bulges and bubbles, cracks or small tears, or significant tread wear leaving bald spots.  Consider rotating your tires if you’ve not done it in awhile.  Any damaged tires should be replaced, and any summer tires swapped out for all-weather or winter tires should be considered if you live in an area that gets particularly rough winter weather! Inspect your wiper blades, defroster, and heater. As the weather gets colder, it’s vital to your safety that you have properly working wiper blades to clear away frost and snow or other inclement weather.  It’s also important to check the defroster and heat blower functionality, as these two elements must be functioning properly to ensure wiper efficiency.  Before it gets too cold out, consider applying a thorough application of a water-repellant such as RainX to the glass surfaces on your vehicle to aid in visibility during storms. Check your car battery. Colder months mean we’re more apt to leave our car running to “warm it up” so we don’t shiver on our morning commutes.  This also means a higher potential for draining the battery through accidental means.  Be prepared in the event of human error or issues at start-up by always keeping an emergency car kit in your trunk.  This kit should include flares, warning signs, as well as a good set of jumper cables (long and short!) and a portable battery charger to jump-start in the event you’re stranded with no one around, or in a space where no one can reach your vehicle.  If a vehicle is going into or coming out of storage, the battery should definitely be checked and replaced as they do lose charge while sitting. Clean your headlights and replace any dim or broken bulbs. There is nothing more frightening than encountering a blustery thunderstorm ,white-out snowstorm, or horizontal icy rains and not being able to see more than 2 feet ahead of you.  Having bright, clear headlights is going to make all the difference in getting where you’re going safely and in one piece.  Be sure to apply a headlight cleaner and swap out your bulbs for bright clear ones if yours are not up to par. If you’ve got any questions about vehicle maintenance or wish to schedule a service appointment, please reach out to our representatives.  We would be happy to get your vehicle winter-weather ready!

The holidays are here! If you’re wondering what to get the car enthusiast on your list this year, let us help guide you through.  We’ve got some great budget friendly options for gifting or stocking stuffers that are sure to please any gearhead. more You’ll find everything from tech to gadgets to decor, and we’ve made sure to include options at multiple price points to help fit most budgets.  Got a suggestion we’ve left off this list this round? Let us know in a comment! The Cobra Smart Dash Cam with Full HD 1080p resolution is jam packed full of safety and security features such a built-in wifi & GPS, live police alerts, safety and incident reports, and an integrated proprietary app to identify threats, incidents, speed, and more. Coming in at under $150, it’s a real steal!  This is sure to provide an extra bit of comfort for parents with younger drivers, as well as making a great layer of extra security for those who commute or use public/street parking. Available here on Amazon with included 8GB SD card memory. You can never go wrong with some stocking stuffers and white elephant gifts featuring car safety gear!  Being equipped for any emergency situation can give you and your loved ones peace of mind. The Resqme Keychain car escape tool is a pocket sized glass-breaking, seatbelt cutting tool that can help you escape from the vehicle in case of emergency. As an added bonus, it comes in fun colors like red, blue, green and orange so you can choose the best option for your gift recipient. Bonus, it’s under $10 on Amazon, making it a can’t-be-beat budget friendly option for the person who has “everything.” The road trip lover on your gifting list will love this handy little safety gadget. Anyone who has experienced the dreaded road hypnosis on the last leg of their trip will know, it’s very scary!  Enter the Resqme AlertMe Lifesaver Alert device. This pocket sized alarm alerts you to fatigue and helps you stay focused, awake, and eyes on the road to prevent accidents. Available here on Amazon for less than $25. Craftsman Home Tool & Mechanic’s Tool Kit 57pcs, $ 60 This kit is an invaluable part of any budding mechanic’s kit!  Craftsman is a name you can trust with valued industry experience, and the kit is durable, convenient, accessible, and portable.  It’s a great entry-level set for the car nerd in your life who wants to start crafting their home garage setup. Personalized Custom LED Garage Signs are a great gift for the holidays.  After spending all their money on tools, parts, and classes, your aspiring mechanic pals and loved ones aren’t likely to have much spare cash for decor. A personalized sign is a fun way to show you support their dreams and help them make their garage their very own! Prices vary but they’re available on Etsy at shops like this one! This portable battery booster is a convenient, pocket sized portable jump start kit. It’s an indispensable part of any driver’s emergency car kit. Having this quick jumpstart tool can remove the headaches and hassles of a secondary vehicle to get you back on the road.  Not only can they recharge your vehicle battery, but they can also charge and power your mobile devices or tools as well, making them great for travel and commuting! Options like the NOCO Genius1 clock in at just $30-$40, too! If you’re giving an experience like a car wash or car detailing this year, give that special someone a little hint on what’s to come with these tidy little mini trash cans. They fit perfectly in most vehicle’s cup holder compartments, making it easy to chuck wrappers, gum, and other trash tidbits on the go without dirtying your car’s side pockets or floor. You can even use it to hold the gift card for the detailing! How fun and budget friendly at just $12 for a set of two.

Before the winter weather arrives, we’ve got a checklist of items that will keep you safe on the road during inclement weather and icy conditions.  If you need support or to schedule a maintenance appointment, feel free to call our service center and we’ll help you get your car winter ready! And be sure to check out our service specials for new deals and offers each month. more Survey the windshield and wiper blades for any signs of damage.  Bring your car in for a windshield ding/crack repair before it gets chilly and cracks further.  Replace any damaged wiper blades with new ones.  Apply a thin coat of hydrophobic coating such as Rain-X.  And refill your wiper fluid with one designed for colder temps and is also hydrophobic. Schedule an appointment to have your brakes inspected and tires rotated so that you can drive confidently knowing you can stop short on a dime and be safe in treacherous weather conditions.  If they need service or replacing, prioritize this repair before the snow and icy weather rolls in. Test your heating and ventilation and defrosting systems to ensure they’re properly functioning.  There’s nothing worse than getting into a freezing cold car and having to commute!  And it’s no good to have a window fog up or freeze over while driving due to lack of properly working defrosters.  Call for a service appointment to have your mechanic get it working in tip-top shape before the temps drop too low. Check the underside of your car for rust, loose pipes, loose wires, or anything that might be wiggling and flopping about and causing an issue.  Schedule a maintenance appointment for anything that looks rusted, torn, flapping, or otherwise out of place.  This will prevent winter weather, ice, or cold temps from cracking items further and leading to costly repairs. Get your car professionally washed and polished.  When you get home, give the vehicle a once over to check the paint on your vehicle for ships, scratches, cracks, and other physical damage that has occurred over the last few seasons.  If you find any, clean the spots with rubbing alcohol or acetone and fill in the spaces with a pot of touch-up paint or paint pen from your car’s manufacturer or the local automotive supply shop.  This will help prevent rust and further damage from bad weather and road salts. Check your fluid levels and make sure everything is in tip-top shape.  Check hoses for any signs of wear and replace anything that is cracked, worn, or shows any sign of damage.  Schedule a regular oil and filter change.  Have the coolant/antifreeze flushed and filled if need be as well to prepare for the drop in temperatures. Check your tires for adequate tread depth, replace cracked valve caps, and ensure there are no signs of wear and tear that could lead to flat tires or cause you to lose control if stopping short in icy conditions.  Be sure to properly inflate your tires as well, as the decrease in temperatures can cause them to lose air pressure.  You may even want to consider a pair of winter weather tires if you live in an area prone to lots of snow. Gather supplies to create a winter-weather safety kit.  Your kit should include: an ice scraper and brush, a rechargeable battery jump start kit, a small or foldable snow shovel, a crank operated or battery powered flashlight with LED, a small container of road salt or kitty litter, a clean set of warm clothing, spare gloves and hat and scarf, a thick warm blanket and a towel or two.  In case you get stranded, all of these things can come in handy to keep you safe, dry, and warm until help arrives.  For an added bonus, you can get a pair of Tire Traction mats to place under the tires and afford you some extra grip on the road

Did you know that every minute, around 26 vehicles are recycled in the US per minute? Conversations around ecological conservation, global warming, and renewable energy are becoming more and more frequent as politicians, citizens, and businesses work together to create a greener future.  In light of that, we thought it would be a great idea to celebrate America Recycles Day by highlighting efforts the automotive industry is doing in order to recycle and reuse metal and other materials in efforts to be more eco-conscious! more Automotive recycling accounts for 14 million tons of recycled steel, or the equivalent of more than 13 million cars.  In fact, vehicles are the most recycled item in all of the US, with around 95% of decommissioned and defunct vehicles being recycled annually.  More than 27 million vehicles are recycled around the globe annually, and 12 million of those are from right here in the US! Automotive recycling industry in the United States provides jobs to over 100,000 people, and nearly $25 billion in revenue.  And the North American (US/CA) auto recycling saves 85 million oil barrels each year, and enough reclaimed steel to create 13 million new cars! Everything from steel and aluminum to car batteries (a whopping 98% are recycled) windshield glass, carpets,rubber hoses, and even seat belts can be repurposed or recycled!  Even tires can be recycled and repurposed into new goods such as rubber for shoes and sandals, filler for playground surfaces, etc.   Experts anticipate that scrap metal recycling will total upwards of $60 billion by the end of 2021, with about 60% of scrap metals being recycled from the automotive industry over the next 10 years. Did you know that 86% of your car’s parts can be recycled? Here’s a great list of parts that can be reclaimed, repurposed, or recycled for use in other vehicles by automotive enthusiasts and mechanics: Vehicle batteries Select computerized elements Gently used or new tires Hoods Bumpers and fenders Transmissions Other specialty parts in good condition Other materials from your vehicle that can’t be salvaged for use in another vehicle, but are upcycled and repurposed everywhere include: Glass which is recycled into concrete, glass bottles, insulation, jewelry, and even countertops. Oil gets cleaned, refined and repurposed for use in other applications. In fact, 85 million barrels of oil are saved every year through recycling. Rubber tires are shredded and broken down into things such as mulch, playground surfaces, running and race tracks. Steel and aluminum from vehicle bodies and frames. We’re turning over a new leaf, and going green with our new environmentally conscious efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. We live, love, work, and play right here in this beautiful city on this beautiful planet, just the same as you. That’s why we’re committed to caring for our community and the environment we live in for generations to come. Let’s “leaf” this planet better than we found it, together! Check out today’s blog to learn more about how we’re making strides to join in their brand commitment to a brighter, cleaner, greener tomorrow. Here are some other things we do here at Classic Auto Group to reduce our carbon footprint and create a greener, cleaner future for our communities: We get 90% of our power from solar generated energy. We recycle waste oil for heating and other uses. We recycle tires to keep them out of landfills and shred them to make materials for safer playgrounds for kids. We recycle parts that become everything from building materials to new parts! We equipped our facility with EV charging stations