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This has been the summer of appreciating national and state parks, and of course, their campsites!  And what better way to say farewell tos ummer than with one last camping trip.  Since today is National Campfire Day, we’re highlighting our picks for some great easy travel camping gear, campfire tips, and great camp-friendly recipes.  No matter if you’re just taking a little nap on the side of the highway on an epic road trip, or you’ve made plans for a wilderness adventure as a weekend getaway, you’ll find lots of useful content on today’s blog. more Car Camping: Budget Friendly and Adventure Ready Accomodations You don’t need any fancy camping equipment to have a great time at a campsite!  Car camping is a great, budget friendly way to travel and experience the great outdoors.  Here’s some tips to get you started: Make sure the space you choose for your car campout is a legal parking area; some spaces may require temporary passes, permits, or registration.   Remember to adhere to posted signage!   Some places do not allow “boondocking” in your car, so please check reservation requirements.  You’ll want to select a flat, shaded area so your car will be stable and cool, and make sure the parking brake is engaged to avoid accidents or injury.  Heed locally posted warnings for roving wildlife, natural disaster prone areas, areas available to hunters/bowmen, etc. You must properly stow your food and beverage to prevent animals from taking an interest in your vehicle. Charge your electronics while you’re driving or at rest stops, and ensure they’re fully powered before you turn in for the night.  Otherwise, choose a portable solar charger or battery pack for your car and electronics.  Hang a battery operated headlamp or battery operated lantern nearby for safety especially in case you need to take a bathroom break, check on your pets or human companions, or just do a little late night reading. Give a trusted friend or family member your location beforehand, or via digital pin while traveling, just in case of emergencies. It’s best to set a check-in before you turn in for the night and upon waking. As you prepare for the evening and sleep, there’s a few things to keep in mind. Have adequate fresh water ready overnight, and make sure you and your animals have a bathroom break in a safe area to avoid wildlife encounters late at night. Ensure your windows are open enough to provide proper ventilation and air circulation; the temperature can rise quite quickly in a vehicle, even if it seems like the outside air is breezy or cool.  Sleep with your head to the front of your car for the most room and comfort; especially if your vehicle is parked at an angle make sure your head is above your feet. Comfortable Camping Gear For Your Car If your vehicle doesn’t have room for an inflatable mattress, you’ll want to make sure you at least have a comfy sleeping bag. The REI Co-op Trailmade 20, Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag, and for kids the Kindercone 25 Sleeping Bag is a top notch choice. A solid camping stove is going to come in handy for cooking meals if you’re doing a little more off-grid choice in a campsite and find yourself without fire pits or grill facilities. The Cascade Classic Camp Stove, Coleman Xcursion 1-Burner Butane Stove, or the Jetboil HalfGen Base Camp Cooking System would work perfectly. And of course, you’ll want a trusty cast-iron skillet and cast-iron dutch oven! They’re an all purpose cooking tool that can be used while camping and at home. You can use them directly in a campfire or on a grill, and even to boil water and keep it heated for awhile. Of course, a comfy camping chair that packs up light and easy like the REI Co-Op Flexlite Camp Chair or Helinox Chair Zero are nice options. Tips and Tools for Making a Great Campfire: Adhere to posted signage that allows or prohibits bonfires, firepits, grilling, etc. Follow one of the 5 methods of building a campfire. Check out Smokey the Bear’s tips for maintaining a safe and sustained campfire. Do not light a campfire or ignite anything near a vehicle as it is a fire hazard. Learn how to choose the right area of a campsite to build your campfire or fire pit. Outstanding Campsite Friendly Recipes from Easy to Gourmet: Campfire Nachos by Live-In Kitchen Campfire Cinnamon Roll-Ups by Almost Supermom Blog Campfire Chicken Wings by James Briscione Campfire Foil Packs by Natural Chef Michelle on AllRecipes Steak Mac and Cheese by Over The Fire Cooking Campfire Beans by Marcela Valladolid Revamped Backpacking Ramen by Fresh Off the Grid Ham and Cheese Bread by Mommy Kat and Kids Campfire Quesadillas by Michael Symon Campfire Pho Ramen from Woks of Life

Summer may be winding down, but that doesn't mean the excitement has to!  Today, we’re headed over to Lake Geneva for a last blast of summer fun.  There’s still plenty of swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking to enjoy.  Plus, we’ve got some great suggestions on where you can rest and relax for a little while, and some delightful shopping options. So, check it out and try some new places on your next visit to the lake. more Bright Adirondack chairs on a stone deck beside a blue lake in winter Take in the brisk lake region air and get some outdoor time as the weather cools off.  Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures offers 5 looping trails through 100 acres of land and forest, or opt for some mountain biking with trail options ranging from beginner to advanced. There’s even a special LG Beer Garden Event on Saturday August 30th and September 27th for a few craft drinks amidst the natural beauty of the rolling hills and treetops. Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy spans 231 stunning acres of protected lands filled with relaxation and rejuvenation in nature.  Take a stroll along the boardwalk through the wetlands, explore trails through oak woods, deciduous forests, and prairie lands.  It’s a perfect retreat from our busy daily life, just becoming one with nature and wildlife. Big Foot Beach State Park offers 5 miles of hiking trails, a charming family campground, 100 wooded campsites, swimming along a sandy beach, playground areas, picnic grounds including a pet-friendly option, and plenty of good fishing opportunities. Lakeshore Geneva Lake Shore Path winds around 26 miles in and out of the woods along the shoreline of the lake. It’s a spectacular spot to watch the sunset over the lake for a memorable farewell to the end of summer.  Take in the sites of the sprawling estates and gardens around the lake, or gaze out at the peaceful sailboats as they glide across the lake. It’s a wonderful place to kick back and relax and enjoy a leisurely walk. Take some time to unwind at some of the luxurious local spas and enjoy some serious self-care.  Whether you’re looking for a couples massage or wellness class or yoga session or even a relaxing facial, you’ll find it here at these wonderful spas and retreats: Well Spa + Salon, ZenDen Spa Room at Lake Geneva Lodge, Ivy Hydration Bar, Essence Sound Healing, Elemental Skin & Body Aesthetics. Enjoy a laid back weekend exploring the distilleries and wineries and partake in some fine craft beverages.  From locally produced wines to whisky and spirits, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and maybe take a few souvenir bottles of your favorites back home with you.  Check out Geneva Lakes Whiskey Club, Geneva Lake Distilling + Winery, Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar, Mashtun Brewing, Geneva Tap House, and Topsy Turvy Brewery! Of course we’d be remiss if we didn’t suggest a little retail therapy! The Lake Geneva area has wonderful gift shops, clothing retailers, outdoor gear shops, home goods stores, and more.  Make sure you check out Cornerstone Shop & Gallery, White River Gifts, Waterfront Gift Shop at Abbey Resort, Trader Jack’s Gift Shop, and Lake Life Store. Summer May Be Done But There’s Still Plenty of Fun The Annual Venetian Festival hosted by the Lake Geneva Jaycees begins on August 13th and runs for 5 days. This exciting event is jampacked with an Arts and Crafts FAir, Carnival, Live Music, Water Ski Show, Food Festival, and more!  The event closes out on Sunday the 17th with a Venetian Style lighted boat parade and the area’s largest fireworks display!  You don’t want to miss it. The 30th Annual Craft Fair at Lake Geneva is headed to town on August 16th and 17th, as part of the larger Venetian Festival. You’ll find more than 100 artists and craftspeople displaying their wares and artisanal goods for sale.  Admission to the craft fair is free to the general public! The event runs Saturday 10AM to 5PM and Sunday 10AM to 4PM. The Inaugural Lake Geneva Venetian Festival Car Show is launching on August 17th with an entry price of $10 to benefit the Lake Geneva Jaycees.  The show is open to all makes and models of vehicle, so come on down to enjoy the fun! The Walworth County Fair in Elkorn is now in its 176th year, and will be celebrating from August 27th through September 1st, Labor Day weekend.  It’s the state’s largest county fair, and one that you absolutely must visit!  From open class exhibitions to junior exhibitions, kids pedal tractor pulls, a dairy dessert showdown, a rabbit show, and so much more, there’s plenty of fun to be had for all ages. Lake Geneva’s Taco Fest hosted by House of Music Entertainment is the 5th annual fiesta, running September 12th through the 14th.  Come on out to try a variety of tacos and mexican food, handcrafted vendors, family friendly entertainment, a kids zone, full bar for adults, local performing artists and mariachi bands, traditional dance, and many more exciting attractions. Prices vary from $10-$12.50, Sunday is free for everyone and kids under 6 are free all 3 days The Fall Car and Classic Tractor Show at Pearce’s Farm Stand is taking place on September 13th from 11AM to 3PM. You’ll be able to check out vintage, historic tractors and new modern equipment as well as more than 100 different displays, classic cars, and more. This event is free to all and concessions will be available for purchase. Live music and entertainment roster will be announced closer to the event date.

Don’t have time to plan a whole entire getaway before the school year kickoff? Not enough time to embark on a lengthy road trip before going back to college? The stress is real, but we’ve got good news for you!  Just because summer is almost over for many of us doesn’t mean we can’t live life to the fullest.  Today’s blog is a last blast of summer fun bucket-list that offers easy to access entertainment, outdoor activities, and fun to make the most of those last few days or weeks of summer break.  So, what are you waiting for? Let’s jampack as much fun as we can over the next coming days and end the vacation season with a bang! more Enjoy the fresh air and summer sun with some good eats and good friends at a Food Truck Event! The Lake County area is offering multiple weekly food truck and food events with many running through the end of August and beginning of September. Phase Three Brewing Co Beer Dinner at Wildfire on August 7th Little Bear Ribfest is happening in Vernon Hills August 15th and 16th MainStreet Libertyville’s Lunch in the Park runs through August 15th Food Truck Wednesdays in Deerfield runs through August 20th Food Truck Thursdays in Lincolnshire runs through September 13th Food Truck Series at Deer Park Town Center runs through September 13th Ravinia District Food Truck Thursdays in Highland Park runs through September 18th Hawthorn Summer Market at Hawthorn Row runs through September 20th 2nd Thursday Nite Bites in North Chicago runs through October 9th Rev those engines and get your adrenaline pumping because there are plenty of exciting car shows left to round out the summer months! Sign your vintage or custom car up to participate or just head on over to appreciate the antiques and collectibles. Wounded Warrior Project Benefit Car Show in Waukegan August 17th Vintage Car Show at The Lot in Highland Park on September 6th Park on Park Cruise Night in Mundelein runs through September 10th The 2nd Annual Lake Andrea Car Show in Pleasant Prairie on September 13th Wauconda Cruise Nights run through September 16th CarFun on 31 in Libertyville runs through September 17th Catch some live music and an outdoor summer concert series and spend the day bonding with friends over some great tunes. We’ve rounded up a fantastic assortment of festivals and music performances that are running through the end of August and into early September. Latin Music Festival in Waukegan at Bass Station August 9th and 10th Brothers’ Field in Long Grove is hosting Havana Nights on August 9th, and Country Fest on August 23rd and 24th Music by the Lake at Grandwood Park in Gurnee runs through August 10th Elmstock: The Summer Celebration on August 13th It’s Thursday Concert Series in Antioch runs through August 14th Sounds of Summer at Viking Park in Gurnee runs through August 14th Hawthorn Woods is hosting Concerts in the Park August 8th and 15th Free concerts in the Park Series in Mundelein runs through August 17th Live Music in the Parks Lindenhurst/Lake Villa runs through August 27th Fox Lake Friday Night Live: Artisan Market & Concert Series runs through August 29th Ravinia Festival 2025 Season has outdoor performances scheduled through August 31st …and many more! Have a picnic with pals and catch a movie in the park at dark! These outdoor movie screenings are a unique spin to watch a movie in a new setting and enjoy some fresh air. Vernon Parks District is hosting “Wonka” on August 22nd Movies in the Park Waukegan is hosting “Garfield” on August 8th and “Inside Out 2” on August 16th Movies Off Center at Grayslake Heritage Center runs through August 8th Outdoor Movie Nights at Deer Park Town Center run through September 5th Head out for a day trip at the beach! These beaches are just a short drive away from our home base here in Waukegan for a short summer day-cation away from it all. Waukegan Municipal Beach in Waukegan Illinois Beach State Park in Zion Forest Park Beach in Lake Forest Rosewood Beach in Highland Park Simmons Island Beach in Kenosha Glencoe Beach in Glencoe Southport Park and Beach in Kenosha Alford Park in Kenosha Beachside Oasis in Racine

With school starting in just a week or two for most local cities and towns, we know many families are scrambling to cram in some last minute summer fun. Today, we’re sharing some local beaches and parks that make a great day trip out with the family. Call your friends and plan a picnic lunch to soak up the last rays of sunshine and beach time before the hectic school season begins. We’ve got many  great choices for you just a short drive away from Classic in Waukegan! more Waukegan Dunes is a great local place to hit the beach!  You’ll find gorgeous natural sand dunes, the clearest and cleanest water in the county, and numerous opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, sand castle building, and picnicking.  There are no lifeguards on duty, so you can swim at your own risk. Illinois Beach State Park offers 5 miles of swimming along Lake Michigan; unguarded beaches are swim at your own risk.  The Park is open from 8AM to Sundown, and offers swimming, picnicking, hiking, fishing, and even camping. It’s a great last blast of summer just a short drive away! The park is a great day out for families and you’ll find more than 650 species of plants and hundreds of birds, thanks to the mixed environment of marshes, dunes, and forested area. Keep your eyes peeled for raptors like bald eagle, osprey, peregrine falcon, cooper’s hawks, and more.  Bring some hiking shoes to stretch your legs after you’re done swimming and sunning and hit the trails for a little more fun. Loyola Beach is located in Rogers Park and is just perfect for a quick day trip.  Located along Lake Michigan, you’ll have access to a beach, playground, nature area with trails, basketball court, and space to have a picnic lunch on the sand.  Right nearby within walking distance you can head over to the Loyola Park area including softball and baseball fields, tennis courts, beach volleyball, natural dunes, sculptures and public art, and plenty of family fun!  There’s a walk-up shack for concessions, The Blue Jay Cafe, and bathrooms on site. Centennial Beach is a unique stop because it’s a hybrid beach area!  This venue is not quite a swimming pool, not quite a lake, providing the best of both worlds with a life-guard monitored swimming area.  There’s sand to sun and play in, a grassy area for picnics, slides and water play features in the shallower areas, and a deep end of up to 15 feet with diving options. Ohio Street Beach is a smaller, more intimate beach that’s perfect for a quiet farewell to summer vacation.  The beach is guarded from 11AM to 7PM, there’s an accessible beach walk, concessions, and bathrooms. You can swim at least half a mile north without being too far from the shallow end, making it a great place to swim distances.  It makes a great day out with the kids as it’s close to Navy Pier, The Magnificent Mile, Jane Addams Memorial Park, and Milton Lee Olive Park. Glencoe Beach is located on the North Shore of Lake Michigan. It’s a great day trip for families, as it offers numerous amenities and activities!  The Beach has a sprayground for kids, beach volleyball, stand-up paddle boarding rentals, kayak and sail boating rentals, a concessions stand, and more.  It’s a great place to have a day in the sun before school starts and enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Gilson Main Beach, South Beach, and Langdon Beach in Wilmette all offer guarded beach swimming during the summer months. Please note that you must stay within the buoy’d and roped areas. Swimming outside of guarded hours is at your own risk.  Kayaks, Stand-Up Paddleboards, and small personal watercrafts are allowed on the water, and boat rentals are available on weekends. Dogs are allowed in Gillson Park but are not allowed on any swimming beaches during operating hours; there are however special seasonal passes for the dog beach if you’d like to check that out for the future! Picnics are welcome and the Beach House offers concessions and a patio area.

Today we’re traveling to Minnesota to explore another great installment in the National Parks tour bucket list: Voyageurs National Park!  This certified International Dark Sky Park is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, a hot spot for wildlife spotting, and prime real estate for camping and other outdoorsy adventures. It’s also world-renowned for its pristine waters, making it the best spot to visit for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding enthusiasts. Whether you’re enjoying an end of summer vacation romp or prepping for your first autumnal camping trip of the season, we know you’re going to have the time of your life at Voyageurs National Park! more Several visitor's centers are located throughout the park area for your convenience: Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Kabetogama Visitor Center, and Ash River Visitor Center. Each center serves as a gateway to a different region, staffed with local rangers, exhibits, knowledgeable guides, and presentations to educate you on the best trails, local wildlife, and activities available to you in that region of the park for maximum enjoyment. The best time to visit is in August for the Perseid meteor shower, and in September and October, when the 218,000 acres of local trees and plants are at their fall foliage finest.  Generally speaking, though, there’s a really high chance of spotting a shooting star or two!  It's also the perfect place to catch the Milky Way, and a rare experience to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in person!  You might even notice a satellite or two, and even the International Space Station during your visit as it glides overhead. According to advice from the National Parks Service, here are some of the best spots on Voyageurs to view the gorgeous skyline: The Meadwood Road Day Use Area near Ash River Visitor Center Road Upper Parking Lot at Rainy Lake Visitor Center Kettle Falls Dam Overlook Various campsite docks along the shoreline Clearings along the hiking trails The park also offers Ranger-led official boat tours of Voyageurs at the “Stars Over Rainy Lake” Cruise for a stargazing and Northern Lights spotting segment.  Tour groups generally run 5 days a week during the Summer season, weather permitting.  Bring your camera with you or a night-mode capable smartphone to capture some of the best night sky photos you’ll have the privilege of snapping! Wildlife photographers will rejoice, because this is the park for you!  You might spot black bear, painted turtles, red squirrels, snowshoe hares, bobcats, coyotes, otters, porcupines, moose, wolves,bats, bald eagles, and more!  The forests and plant life here are part of a transitional area between boreal forest and a temperate deciduous forest; there are more than 50 different tree and shrub species, more than 40 fern and moss species, 200 plus grasses, and plentiful wildflowers! There are more than 400 different types of wildflowers here, with native options including lady’s slipper, bunchberry, red columbine, twinflower, and marsh marigold.  The park has an abundant wildflower population, but reminds visitors they’re for observing and not for picking to help preserve and conserve habitats. There are abundant species of fungi and mushrooms, which thrive in the park thanks to its many lakes and ponds, too If you’re interested in foraging, this is the perfect place to do it! Voyageurs is in the minority as one of the few National Parks that allows visitors to forage up to one gallon of wild rice, blueberries, raspberries and/or chokecherries, as well as those dedicated to hunting wild mushrooms and seasonal fruit. (Be sure to only select items which you’ve been trained to verify as safe, or consult a local photography illustrated guide to be sure!) Explore the Rainy Lake Ethnobotanical Garden, a painstakingly maintained restoration project aimed at cultivating local, native plants and reducing any invasive plants near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Stroll through the Ellsworth Rock Gardens, created by self-taught artist Jack Ellsworth, blending the natural environment with fine arts and natural elements. Visit Anderson Bay and marvel at the exposed white granite cliffs jutting out 80 feet high and into the water, and enjoy spectacular views of the bay as well as Rainy Lake. Marvel at the stunning sheer granite cliffs of Grassy Bay which rise 125 feet above the surface of Sand Point Lake, and reach high into the sky for one of the tallest points within the park. Take a hike through 50 plus miles of hiking trails on any of the 16 different options ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty.You can hike them on your own with a map, or join in any of the ranger-led activities to learn more about the area and get a unique perspective of the park’s cultural and natural histories. Enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing and more along the various lakes including Rainy Lake, a freshwater lake along the Minnesota and Canada border with a third of the lake’s area located inside Voyageurs National Park; Namakan Lake, half of which is located within the limits of Voyageurs National Park; Sand Point Lake which is on the border of Minnesota and Ontario, and half of which is situated within the Voyaguers National Park; Kabetogama Lake which is entirely nestled in the National Park limits and has an impressive 78 miles of shoreline and 200 islands.  There are also 26 smaller inland lakes, which when combined with the aforementioned contribute to a third of the park’s total area! If you’re tired of the typical tourist hotel, you’ll be delighted to know this is a top notch spot for camping. Select any of the Frontcountry Campsites, which include water access, private and public boat launches, picnic tables, bear lockers, outdoor privies, and fire rings, as well as two primitive camp site options located along the Kab-Ash Hiking Trail; these are accessible by land.  If RV camping is more your style, there are premium, preferred, and standard level campsites which will be RV friendly.

Today we’re sharing some picks for great museums to visit across the US. If you’re looking to plan your next road trip or last summer vacation escape, let these gorgeous art museums and galleries be the inspiration!  Plan a trip around these iconic art museums and you’ll have a truly memorable, one-of-a-kind vacation experience. more Dia Beacon museum in Beacon is run by the Dia Art Foundation and hosts a collection of works from the 1960s to the present situated along the banks of the Hudson River. This unique museum is housed on the site of a former NABISCO box-printing factory, fully devoted to contemporary art and modern works. Many of the installations play with space and light and texture, taking advantage of the large open space with 16-foot high ceilings.  Works on display include artists like Andy Warhol, Dan Flavin, and Richard Serra. You’ll find everything from abstract expressionism to minimalism to conceptual pieces and pop art. The Museum of Art in Toledo has a collection of 30,000+ pieces of artwork from all around the globe. It’s also the “birthplace” of the Studio Glass Movement, and as a result holds one of the most expansive and comprehensive collections of glass objects in the world; make sure that you catch one of the highlighted daily glassblowing demonstrations for an unforgettable experience.  There is also an outstanding Sculpture garden featuring works from Ellsworth Kelly, Jaume Plensa, Alexander Calder, Deborah Butterfield, and more. The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is a premier arts facility in Idaho Falls. It features 5 different galleries each showcasing a wide variety of art forms and styles from local and emerging artists as well as international.  It’s not the biggest museum on our list, but we can guarantee you’ll find quite a lot of stunning artworks in both their current permanent and rotating collections. Fort Wayne Museum of Art is located in the Fort Wayne Arts District, and has a beautiful collection of more nearly 5,000 pieces of art primarily from 19th century artists to present day, as well as a specialty dedicated Print and Drawing Study Center. The museum presents more than 20 exhibitions and rotating exhibits each year, aimed at driving excitement for the arts and art history. You can easily spend a half an hour to an hour also exploring the sculpture found in and around the grounds for even more creative inspiration. Current exhibitions include: “Sam Gilliam: His Art of Printmaking”; “Rowland Ricketts: Invisible Forces”; “The Glass Wing at FWMoA”; “From Their Indiana Home: Artists of the Hoosier Salon”. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville is situated on 120 acres of land in the Ozarks, and marries the artwork with the natural world inspiring it! The Art Trail features beautiful sculptures, native plants, and waterways and connects the museum’s south entrance to the Crystal Bridges Trail.  The East Terrace Switchback features a sculpture by Celeste Roberge and a zig-zagging trail through wildflowers, flowering shrubbery, and beautiful trees. It’s a certified and accredited arboretum, focusing on native plants and natural landscaping. The rest of the museum itself showcases American Artworks and Artists from all different time periods. And you won’t want to miss The Frank Lloyd Write “Bachman-Wilson House”. Phoenix Art Museum in Arizona is the largest museum in the southwestern US, and is home to more than 20,000 objects on display.  The Museum’s collection includes American and Western American artworks, Latin American art, Asian Art, European art, modern and contemporary art, a collection of fashion designs, photography, and more.  Not only does the museum host a gallery to peruse but they also have numerous community events and programming inviting the public to immerse themselves in the arts directly. The Art Institute of Chicago is of course a must-see stop to include on this list.  Its collections are world renowned, and include the largest collection of Monet’s works outside of Paris itself.  With more than 300,000 works of art across 11 departments, it’s rife with opportunity to learn about all sorts of art since it’s the third largest collection of art in the US. You’ll want to block off at least a day if not more to explore all that it has to offer. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago is one of the world’s largest venues housing contemporary art.  You can view some of the most spectacular works by living artists today.  It’s an innovative collection and center featuring permanent and rotating exhibits of cutting-edge creativity from 1945 through today.  Visitors will appreciate a wide variety of media including paintings, sculptures, photography, performance art, and even video and film installations. The Art of our Storytellers Exhibit at the DuSable Museum is a stunning collection of art from the Johnson Publishing Company. This special exhibit features artwork from diverse African-American artists as well as African art.  You’ll find unique sculptures, lithographs, prints, drawings, paintings, and more.   Additionally, the museum also has a permanent collection of 15,000+ art and historical materials and archives in art and history! Looking to experience some art in your own backyard? Here are some wonderful local events and galleries to explore just a short ways away from Classic’s dealerships and service center. Peruse the exhibits and enjoy an opening night event, attend a workshop or guest lecture, or participate in a DIY/Create your Own class. However you choose to partake, there are so many opportunities to enjoy art right in our own backyard in the Lake County region: The ArtWauk in Downtown Waukegan Dandelion Art Gallery in Waukegan Artpie Studio, Gallery, and Art School in Waukegan The Adler Arts Center of Libertyville The Art Center Highland Park of Highland Park Peter Patterson Glassworks in Mundelein Caplan Studios of Gurnee McMahon Gallery in Lake Forest Antioch Fine Arts Foundation in Antioch The Painted Penguin in Vernon Hills Epilogue Arts in Long Grove Perkowitz Art Studio in Grayslake Kamp Gallery in Highland Park Art Post Gallery in Northbrook Black Moon Gallery and Studio in Oak Park

Marblehead Ohio offers the charm of a New England Vacation just a short drive from Waukegan.  The area offers a historic lighthouse, gorgeous state park, several nature preserves and marshes, an island filled with coastal charm, lots of shops and restaurants, and of course plenty of fun in the sun.  Whether you’ve got a passion for boating, hiking, fishing, swimming, nature, or even shopping, you’ll find a blissful last minute summer vacation getaway here at Marblehead. So, what are you waiting for? Hop into your new car from Classic of Waukegan and let’s hit the road for a last blast of summer! more Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve encompasses 137 acres of former limestone quarried land turned nature preserve.  The park offers a nice chance to stretch your legs and check out the flowers and moss that grow here. The Lakeside daisy is an extremely rare and threatened plant, and is only found in a few specific habitats around the world!  These flowers require a dry, rocky prairie with limestone base and lots of sunshine!  From early to mid-May, these flowers put on a spectacular display of golden yellow blossoms! Lions Park at Lake Point offers peaceful views of Lake Erie and Cedar Point that’s perfect for a family picnic lunch, even if you bring fido along!  While the area is not enormous by any means, it’s nearly 9 acres of public land available for relaxing and basking in the sun.  This dog friendly park features a playground, picnic area with grills and tables, a covered bridge, fishing pond, paths for nature watching and walking, and beautiful grassy areas to play and picnic. Lucien M Clemons Park has park frontage along Lake Erie itself and includes both beautiful green open space and a small waterfront submerged land area.  It’s a great place to enjoy a picnic, do some bird watching, go fishing, and check out the Lake Erie Coastal Trail. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park is one of the area’s best known, most photographed landmarks, and it’s easy to see the draw! This picturesque historic site is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes.  Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse during the summer season and check out gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding islands. There’s also a museum on site featuring US Coast Guard historic documents and archives, and a replica lifesaving station.  Great for a picnic lunch along the lake for a lovely family day out. Meadowbrook Marsh is nearly 200-acres of beautiful park home to migratory birds and waterfowl.  It’s a top notch area for birders who will be delighted to find a wide variety of birdlife all year round. The open marsh area is home to birds such as the Great Egret, Green Heron, Great Blue Heron, American Bittern, Black-Crowned Night Heron, and more.  Numerous migrant songbirds can also be seen during the spring months as well as October, such as flycatchers, thrushes, warblers, sparrows, and more. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some impressive raptors on the prowl for a meal or two.  It’s been reported that more than 200 bird species have been logged living in and traveling through the area. The Dempsey Wildlife Area on the Sandusky Bay is located on the southern coast of Marblehead Peninsula. It offers a boat ramp and launch point for those who wish to enjoy an afternoon of boating, kayaking, canoeing, or sailing.  You’ll want to pack a lot of bug spray during your visit here, but it’ll be worth it for the magnificent wildlife and bird spotting!  Birds in the area include pelicans, egrets, herons, great horned owls, and more. More than 50 acres of this wildlife preserve feature woodlands teeming with wildlife. East Harbor State Park is a public recreation area located on the shores of Lake Erie that sprawls more than 1800 acres.  You’ll find The wonderfully maintained 1,500-foot sand beach at East Harbor State Park Beach perfect for swimming, hiking, boating and fishing.  There are numerous campsites for tents and RVs/Campers, a marina with boat launch, and several wetland wildlife preserve areas such as the Great Black Swamp and the edge of the state’s prairie marsh zone. The Nature Conservancy’s Great Egret Marsh Preserve encompasses 150-acres of Lake Erie marshlands and surrounding uplands.  Each summer the area is covered with a stunning array of water lotus that’s just bursting with life – frogs, fish, waterfowl, and migratory birds all call this area home. Enjoy an afternoon of paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing through the marshes to get an up close look at amphibians, fish, reptiles, insects and birds residing in the grasses and lilypads.  There’s space for hiking and fishing as well as birdwatching. Kelleys Island is a village on an island in Lake Erie, located in the western basin, that’s just 4 and a half square miles.  Take the ferry from the mainland and rent a golf cart to explore the island just a few miles north of Marblehead.  The area is filled to the brim with charming shops, seasonal and year-round restaurants and pubs and waterfront eateries,  wine tastings, parks, and more.  Visitors to the island love sticking around to watch the beautiful sunsets over teh lake, exploring the Glacial Grooves site, the Kelleys Island History Museum, and more.  It’s a small little island that really packs a wallop of fun for all ages. You can easily spend all day here, or book a rental on the island and make a weekend getaway of it. Also recommended in the area: Liberty Aviation Museum Ghostly Manor Thrill Center Cedar Point Park Lagoon Deer Park The Butterfly House Bergman Orchards Marblehead Mercantile Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark (Monsoon Lagoon)

Summer may be winding down, but the fun doesn't stop here in Lake County!  This month as part of our ongoing Classic Kia of Waukegan Community Calendar, we’ve got street festivals, arts and crafts fairs, live concerts and performances, interactive workshops, and so much more. All month long you and your family can enjoy both paid and free admission events around the county.  We can’t wait to see you there! more Saturday August 2nd head out to the Main Street Dessert Walk in Libertyville! Enjoy tasting sized portions of handmade desserts at local businesses and enjoy 3 blocks of walking and light refreshments.  The David Adler Music And Arts Center’s Annual Festival of the Arts is also taking place in Cook Park for a fun double header event! Saturday August 2nd from 12PM to 4PM is the Beats in the Garden At Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe for an engaging afternoon of art and music for kids! Join in the fun with Planet Chambo and Solidarity Studios as your kids enjoy hip-hop beats inspired by nature! Mama Mia! It’s a hands-on gnocchi making class at The Joyful Gourmet from 6PM to 9PM on Saturday August 2nd for a date night out learning handmade food and traditional Italian techniques for pasta making! The 44th Annual Festival of the Arts at Adler Arts Center is taking place both on Saturday August 2nd and Sunday August 3rd starting at 10AM!  Enjoy a wonderful festival of juried art and music with fine handmade goods and special performances celebrating Lake County. National Night Out is hosting An Evening of Public Safety and Community Partnership on Tuesday August 5th from 3PM to 8PM in Fox Lake at Lakefront Park. Enjoy demonstrations and family friendly games and activities for kids and folks of all ages.  Additional “National Night Out” events taking place in Libertyville at Adler Park and Highland Park at Hidden Creek AquaPark. Touch a Truck and Waukegan’s Night Out event sponsored by Waukegan Park District will be held on Friday August 8th at the Waukegan Municipal Beach in Waukegan, starting at 5PM through 8PM! The 5th Annual Unplugged Fest at Paulus Park in Lake Zurich is scheduled for 11AM to 3PM on Sunday August 10th.  Come on out to this free family friendly event which encourages families to “ditch their devices” and enjoy a plethora of screen-free activities and experiences for all ages. 2025 Sangria Fest is taking place on August 9th and August 10th from 1PM to 7PM at the Glunz Family Winery and Cellars in Grayslake. Enjoy wine tastings and the Centenario Bellos Tacos Food Truck! The Highwood Garlic Festival is an experience to remember, hosted by the Highwood Chamber of commerce on August 13th in Highwood from 4:30 to 9:30! This month’s ArtWauk sponsored by the Waukegan Arts Council is taking place from 5Pm to 9Pm on Saturday August 16th downtown and in the Belvidere Mall!  Enjoy the art and live performances and art exhibits. AfroFest is coming to the Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago from 12PM to 8Pm on Saturday August 16th!  Enjoy live music, performances throughout the day, vendors, shopping, and plenty of local eats. The 25th Annual Dandelion Wine and Arts Music Festival is returning to Bowen Park in Waukegan for Saturday August 16th from 12PM to 6PM to celebrate the life and creative legacy of Ray Bradbury, Enjoy live painters, sculptures, art vendors, photographers and more! The Annual Potawatomi Trails Pow Wow is coming to Zion’s Shiloh Park on Friday August 22nd, Saturday August 23rd, and Sunday August 24th for this family-friendly event sharing the culture and arts of Native American heritage in our region!  Enjoy art, music, dancing, drum demonstrations, raffles, silent auctions, a giveaway, and more! The Leave a Plant Love A Plant exchange is happening at the Lake Forest Library on Friday August 22nd.  Come to the library and donate your indoor houseplants and adopt a new one in this local plant swap. Succulents, cuttings, houseplants, empty pots and vases, are all acceptable!  Donate your plants on the 22nd and donate/swap on August 23rd. Port Clinton Arts Festival will be rolling into downtown Highland Park from August 23rd and 24th from 10AM to 5PM.  Enjoy painting classes, demonstrations, public art projects, bubble making, food and rink and coffee, live music and performances, and an incredible variety of handmade and artisan goods by local craftsfolk. Enjoy several screenings of the incredible “Selena” at the Wayfarer Theaters in Highland Park from Friday August 22nd through August 28th.  This biographical drama of Selena Quintilla’s life and career will draw you in and capture your focus! Labor Day weekend in Highwood from August 29th, 30th, and 31st is the Nashville in Highwood concert event! Come on out and enjoy 100 free live performances featuring country, southern blues, classic, and contemporary rock starting friday at happy hour and all day and evening on both Saturday and Sunday!

🌎️ The Ocean Cleanup and Kia collaborate with the Guatemalan Government and partners to prevent one of the world’s largest plastic pollution flows reaching the ocean 🌎️ Targeting 20,000 tons of waste carried annually by Motagua River and Las Vacas River 🌎️ Latest step in Kia’s longstanding strategic partnership with The Ocean Cleanup aligns with the brand’s sustainability values and commitment to increasing the use of recycled plastics in its vehicles more The Ocean Cleanup and Kia Support Guatemala with Initiative to Stop Plastic Pollution Kia and its global partner, The Ocean Cleanup, in collaboration with Guatemala’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) and other partners, are stopping one of the world’s largest plastic pollution flows, carried by the Motagua River and its tributary, the Las Vacas River, from reaching the oceans. Each year, an estimated 20,000 tons of trash flows through the Las Vacas Motagua rivers into the Caribbean Sea, polluting marine ecosystems and affecting coastal communities in Guatemala and neighboring countries like Honduras. To overcome this challenge, The Ocean Cleanup, supported by Kia, has deployed two of its innovative floating trash capture systems: Interceptor 006 in the Las Vacas River and, more recently, Interceptor 021 in the lower Motagua basin. The systems are designed to capture and remove plastic before it reaches the ocean. Barriers concentrate waste from the river’s current and guide it to an extraction area, where it is removed and processed. Collaborative local-level endeavor contributes to global impact Kia’s partnership with The Ocean Cleanup was formed in 2022 and aligns with the brand’s broader sustainability goals. Kia’s support as a Global Mission Partner has helped The Ocean Cleanup remove nearly 500,000kg of plastic from the world’s largest accumulation of floating waste – the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) – which has an estimated surface area of 1.6 million square kilometers. As upgrades to the ocean collection systems and operations continue, the latest strategic joint project focuses on preventing plastic pollution from ever reaching the world’s oceans. The installation of Interceptor 021 in El Quetzalito, near Puerto Barrios, serves as a last line of defense before the waste reaches the sea. At 158 meters long, it is the largest system installed by The Ocean Cleanup to date, strengthening the ambitious mission of restoring the Gulf of Honduras – one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the Caribbean – and improving the lives of those affected by the pollution. In Las Vacas and El Quetzalito, 23,354 tons of waste have been extracted to date, preventing further pollution of the Gulf of Honduras. In a truly collective effort, government institutions, local organizations, communities, and key private sector partners are joining forces with Kia and The Ocean Cleanup to show that local environmental action can contribute to a global impact by raising awareness of ocean plastic pollution, showcasing solutions to the problem and encouraging others to take action. The informative, educational media assets created to raise global awareness of the impact of ocean plastic pollution and to galvanize action include a film showing the project in action. Giving waste plastic a second life as consumer products The captured waste is transported to sorting centers next to the Las Vacas and Motagua rivers, where it is separated for proper disposal or recycling. Some of the recovered plastic has been repurposed into consumer products, such as limited-edition vinyl records created by the British band Coldplay. Meanwhile, Kia has pioneered the use of recycled materials, including captured waste plastics, across the automotive industry. Kia has used recycled, discarded ocean plastic in a limited-edition trunk liner for its all-electric EV3 SUV. The brand has also been consistently integrating other recycled plastics and eco-friendly materials into its latest models. This includes the flagship all-electric SUV, the EV9, which utilizes recycled fishing nets in its interior carpet and recycled plastic bottles in its seat fabric. As a strategic ally, Kia has provided The Ocean Cleanup with logistical, financial, and advocacy support, helping to amplify the reach and effectiveness of the cleanup operations as part of its commitment to responsible mobility and environmental stewardship. The brand’s involvement also underscores the pivotal role that the private sector can play in driving ecological transformation both locally and globally.

Social media trends might suggest nothing beats a Jet 2 holiday, we bet booking a campsite at Isle Royale National Park will come pretty close if not better!  This stunning national park is known for its abundant wildlife and absolutely picturesque views of Lake Superior!  The remote location makes it incredibly appealing to those looking for some peace and solitude on their summer getaway.  Forget dealing with crowded beaches and long lines for attractions, you’ll find nothing but peace and quiet, miles upon miles of trails, mountains and crystal clear water as far as the eye can see, and an uninterrupted skyline!  Pack your best hiking shoes, a weather-proof tent, some sunscreen and bug spray, and get ready to spend a few days basking in the pristine wilderness of this gorgeous national park! more Isle Royale National Park has 36 campgrounds all across the island, some of which are only accessible by watercraft or by foot.  The good news is that each of the campgrounds offer tent sites, outhouses, and a water source, making it a little less of a “rough-it” experience than other parks.  Many of the campgrounds offer shelters as well as picnic tables for a little break from the elements if you need it.  Parties of 6 or less can access campgrounds on a first-come, first-serve basis, but larger parties of 7 or more may make a reservation using the NPS reservation system. Frequent visitors to the island recommend McCargoe Cove for great fishing and excellent wildlife watching!  Moskey Basin is a close second and offers some wonderful sunrises and sunsets, but has slightly more foot traffic than the McCargoe Cove area.  Little Todd Harbor offers another more peaceful stay with lower foot traffic as well, and nice ambient sounds of Lake Superior’s water against the shores.  Feldtman Lake area offers great access to the water for those who wish to fish and boat or kayak, and some report a high chance of moose sightings, which is exciting.  Lane Cove is where it’s at for some solitude, as well as some scenic views of our neighbors up north, Canada!  Siskiwit Bay offers a nice long beach area and a communal fire ring in the evenings.  Of course, there are numerous sites to explore and these are just a few select highlights!  Let us know your favorites and they may make it into a future blog post! The island has over 160 miles of hiking trails, all of which offer a wonderful bit of solitude and peace even on the most popular of options.  Most of the trails are long and interconnected, making them a great option for backpacking and full-day hikes! Shorter options include the Stoll Memorial Trail, Suzy’s Cave, Windigo Nature Trail, Grace Creek Overlook.  Longer trails that are upwards of 5+ miles and come recommended from fellow hikers included Minong Ridge Overlook, Mount Franklin along Greenstone Ridge Trail, Huginnin Cove Loop.  With such wide variety of trails to choose from, it’s very easy to walk for miles without seeing another human, but we can pretty much guarantee you’ll be treated to some of the most spectacular wildlife sightings instead! If you’re not looking to hike or explore alone, you can book a guided tour and view different areas of the island along the more popular trails.  The Rock Harbor Lodge offers wonderful scenic tours that range about 4 hours in length, and take you to sites such as Passage Island, Rock Harbor Lighthouse and Edisen Fishery, and Louise Lookout. The Raspberry Island Sunset Cruise takes you along the small island across from Rock Harbor and culminates in a fantastic sunset cruise around the eastern tip of Isle Royale! History buffs will appreciate that the island is also home to several lighthouses, all of which are an iconic part of Isle Royale’s history!  Each lighthouse played a part in guiding the ships around the island to avoid the shallow reefs along the Isle (sadly, several ships were not so fortunate as there are at least 10 shipwrecks scattered along the reefs surrounding the island!) The oldest of which is Rock Harbor Light, a sentry for decades along the Rock Harbor Channel; though it is no longer actively illuminated it is the most viewed and visited lighthouse. Passage Island Lighthouse is on the northeast side of the park, actively guiding ships traffic through the Isle Royale’s main island and Passage Island; though it was once manned by attendants, it’s been converted to an automated, flashing white light. The Rock of Ages Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse of Isle Royale, and is built on a 50’x200’ rocky outcrop in the water.  Isle Royale Lighthouse is set on the edge of Menagerie Island on the south shore at the entryway to Siskiwit Bay, and is reachable only by private boat’ this lighthouse sends a beacon out up to 10-miles! For those who prefer a more intimate view of the island, you can opt for a canoe or kayak paddle around the island!  There are several paddle-in campsites around the isle on the shorelines of Lake Superior, as well as day-hike sites that allow you to do a “portaging trip” around the island for a new perspective.

Northern California offers stunning coastline, impressive old-growth redwoods, and coastal towns teeming with charm and beauty.  So, of course, it comes as no surprise that Half Moon Bay is a welcome retreat from urban life and the daily rat-race for visitors around the world.  You’ll find miles and miles of expansive sandy beaches, a serene escape in the whispering forests, and rolling hills of lush greenery and wildflowers.  Plus, there’s a historic main street are with plenty of fun shopping, eateries, wine tastings, and more. Does this sound like a dream destination to you? Well, what are you waiting for!  Let’s hop in that new car from Classic of Waukegan and hit the road to fun and adventure. Our next road trip destination for a perfect summer vacation is Half Moon Bay in California! more Half Moon Bay offers a diverse selection of parks and preserves that will delight any outdoor enthusiast. From casual strolls to rugged cliffs to peaceful shorelines along the beach, you’ll find the perfect park for a memorable vacation experience. Pescadero Park Complex is nearly 8,000 acres of gorgeous protected parklands. Memorial Park is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and spans 673 acres of secluded yet open space; you’ll enjoy picnicking, swimming, 8 miles of trails through redwood forests, naturalists walks, and connects to other nearby parks like Pescadero Creek and Sam McDonald Park. Pescadero Marsh is part of the “Pacific Flyway”, a path that nearly 200 species of migratory birds utilize to rest and feed during migration; you’ll notice great egrets, snowy egrets, northern harriers, and more in one of the most vital remaining wetlands areas on California’s coast. We highly recommend opting for a docent-led walking tour via the Audubon Society for the best experience! Sam McDonald County Park includes an additional 850-acre expanse of land in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountain; this park consists of a dense forest featuring both second-growth and old-growth redwood forests, but you’ll also find an impressive variety of forest including tanoaks, red alder, bay trees, hazelnut trees, along with forest floor carpet of ferns, sorrel, and mosses. This is a popular spot for visitors to engage in “forest bathing” and reconnect with nature, and a haven for equestrians and hikers alike due to its quiet, restorative atmosphere. Purisma Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is located on the western portion of the Santa Cruz mountains and overlooks Half Moon Bay. This 5,000+ acre are features the Purisma Creek Canyon with lush green trails and towering redwoods, Purisma Creek, and a plethora of wildflowers, berries, ferns, and teeming with wildlife.  At the northern end of the park, you’ll find gorgeous views of the coast and Half Moon Bay at numerous scenic overlooks.  Some of the second-growth redwood trees in this forest have been living for more than 100 years. Other natural areas of interest include: Burleigh H Murray Ranch Butano State Park Mac Dutra Plaza John L Carter Memorial Park Quarry Park Blufftop Coastal Park Pillar Point Harbor will evoke feelings of New England charm with a little West Coast influence.   It’s the best of both worlds with coastal beach fun and harbor activities.  The beautiful coastal views of the Pacific Ocean and refreshing breeze make strolls through the harbor a delight. Johnson Pier offers opportunities for sailing, boating, and fishing as well as views of the coastal fisherman at work and surfers enjoying the wave swells. The nearby Pillar Point Marsh Trail offers an additional perspective of the area including the harbor docks, Pacific shores, and the stunning saltmarsh that hundreds of birds call home!  There’s plenty of shopping to be had with everything from art and collectibles to nautical gifts to apparel and even fishing equipment.  If you’re a fan of seafood, you won’t find anything more delicious than the harbor eateries including Barbara’s Fishtrap, Caffee Mezzaluna, Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, Pelagic Fish Market & Grill, Sams Chowder House, and more.  The harbor is also a fantastic place to enjoy some sportfishing charters, party boats, and even whale watching! If spending the day sunning on the beach, combing for shells and ocean treasures, fishing along the shore, and surfing is more your speed we’ve got great news for you – The San Mateo County Coastside is one of the largest in the San Francisco Bay Area!  There are 20 stunning beaches in the areas with incredible options for all of the aforementioned.  Locals and visitors alike recommend stopping off at Gray Whale Cove State Beach, Miramar Beach, Half Moon Bay Beach, and Naples Beach just to name a few.  Activities like hiking, cycling, surfing, kayaking, bird watching, and paddleboarding are all popular pastimes here! Half Moon State Beach offers campgrounds and campsites by reservation. Francis Beach Campground has 52 campsites with picnic tables and a fire ring at each site, and most sites can accommodate RVs up to 40ft long.  All campsites can accommodate tents, with 4 of them specifically being designated as campsites only; car camping and RVs or trailers are prohibited on these sites.  Visitors are also allowed to hike-in and bike-in to the campsites and those sites are available on a first come/first serve basis at the Francis Entrance Station. Streetwood Group Camp offers options for large group camping of up to 50 people and 12 vehicles, but is tent-only camping with no RVs or trailers allowed; there is no running water at this site.  Throughout the year there are ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and activities and events on select dates.  The State Beach comprises four smaller beaches: Francis Beach, Venice Beach, Dunes Beach, and Roosevelt Beach. Beaches in the area include: Año Nuevo State Park Bean Hollow State Park Cowell Ranch State Beach Fitzgerald Marine Beach Manhattan Beach Montara State Beach Pescadero State Beach Pigeon Point Light Station State Park Pomponio State Beach Poplar Beach Redondo Beach San Gregorio State Beach Seal Cove Surfers’ Beach Tunitas Creek Beach The area also offers two golf courses, Half Moon Bay Golf Links: Ocean Course with a 36-hole course with breathtaking ocean views from each hole, and Half Moon Bay Golf Links: Old Course with 18-holes along the coastal bluffs for an unmatched experience.  After your game, head over to the Mullin’s Bar & Grill Clubhouse and Dining Room for an al fresco dinner with local seafood, happy hour, dining specials, and more. After you’ve had your fill of beaches and redwood forests and nature trails, we recommend a relaxing getaway to the coastal Spas and Wellness retreats in the area. The Ritz-Carlton of Half Moon Bay offers a spa with mineral baths, Tsunami Showers, whirlpool lounges, and more. The Oceano Hotel and Spa brings coastal views and customized experiences with whole-body treatments, body wraps, facials, and more.

It’s National Wine and Cheese Day, and we’ve got good news: You don’t have to travel all the way to California or Italy or France to enjoy some of the world’s finest wines!  That’s right, our neighbour to the north, Wisconsin, is home to more than 100 commercial wineries and 5 different wine regions. In addition, Wisconsin is also known as the Cheese capital of the world, and for good reason: cheesemakers here are credited with crafting six hundred different cheese varieties in more than 125 cheese plants and dairy shops, and sourced from the nearly 10,000 dairy farms in state.  Today’s post is all about fantastic cheesemongers and vineyards of Wisconsin, and each of them would make a great “wine crawl weekend” with your loved ones** more And of course, what goes better with these handcrafted cheeses than an incredible wine? That’s right!  Wisconsin is not just Cheese Central, but it’s also an iconic destination for wine enthusiasts. On today’s blog, we’re taking you all around “Wisconsin Wine Country” as we explore some of the region’s best wineries, as well as unique cheese and dairy makers that you simply must sample along with your fine wines! Without further ado, we present to you an alphabetical list of incredible wineries and cheesemongers you simply must visit when you’re in Wisconsin: Aeppeltreow Winery in Burlington WI produces small batch cider, perry (a pear cider), and speciality spirits and bespoke wine.  They offer picnic flights or tasting flights with your choice of beverages from their seasonal menu (the dessert wines are of special note here!)  Learn about their special cultivations of cider apples and perry pears, and the difference between American and European grown fruits. Bailey’s Run Vineyard and Winery in New Glarus offers live music, beautiful sunset views of the vineyards, specialty food pairings, wine flights, and is open 7 days a week for your enjoyment. Baraboo Bluff Winery in Baraboo offers lush, sprawling views of the winery at its outdoor picnic areas and wine tasting events.  You can even bring your well-mannered, leashed pets to visit with you!  There are three indoor tasting rooms, three bars with indoor seating, and a retail store on site. Plus, plenty of room to bring your own picnic and enjoy a wine flight with lunch.  Special events include live music, tours of the vineyard, and more. Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern in Monroe has indoor and outdoor seating soyou can enjoy some fine local Wisconsin cheese and sample the local wine and spirits!  If you’re looking for a full meal, you can check out the custom menu featuring both local and imported cheese on homemade sandwiches, burgers, and salads. A taste of the Swiss Alps right in the heart of Wisconsin! Brambleberry Winery is one-stop shopping if you’re looking for a romantic getaway for couples.  This winery is nestled on the grounds of a gorgeous country estate, with luxury accommodations, a medieval themed tasting room, and a speciality Reiki healing suite. Carr Valley Cheese in Sauk City prides itself on its World Famous cheddar cheese curds, made fresh daily!  The Cook Family’s locally owned and operated dairy farm is nestled in the rolling emerald hills of central Wisconsin, and churns out some of the most incredibly fresh and sharp cheese you’ll simply die for! Cedar Creek Winery is perfect for your end of summer/early fall getaways with their annual Wine and Harvest Fest.  Not only will you get to sample their incredible wine selection, but it also includes local artisans and vendors, top notch food and beverage, and live music on the main stage. Cedar Grove Cheese in Plain is a specialty organic cheese maker offering both artisan special cheeses and local traditional cheeses using cow, sheep, and goats milk from local farms. Chateau St. Croix Winery in St Croix Falls is modeled after a traditional French Chateau to give you a cozy yet elevated tasting experience.  Wine tasting flights will allow you to sample 5 different offerings. It’s also dog friendly provided your pup is on a leash and well-mannered. Door 44 Winery in Sturgeon Bay is situated right in the heart of Door County, making it a must-visit destination on your trip!  The winery uses locally grown, award winning grape wines at its state of the art facilities. Enjoy an afternoon of wine-tasting or stop by for their special pop-up events with local food vendors and markets to shop. Fromagination in Madison is located at Capitol Square in the heart of “America’s Dairyland”.  Here, you can learn all about the local history and process of cheese making at their special classes such as “Create a Cheese Board'' or “Wine and Cheese Pairings” or “Create an Authentic Fondue Meal” to stretch your culinary expertise. Or you can opt to sample the wide array of delectable cheeses to pair with your local winery bottles. Pieper Porch Winery in Waukesha offers paid wine tastings on the winery porch or in the vineyard, and set against a scenic backdrop of the Vernon Marsh. Visitors report that it’s a great picnic setting for a BYO lunch to pair with the wines and take some scenic photographs. It’s a laid back, serene atmosphere and the perfect place to unwind. Summertime is prime season for special events and their trademark “wine slushies.” Widmer’s Cheese Cellars in Theresa has been a staple in the local community since 1922, and it’s easy to see why. The reputation of their prize winning local Wisconsin Cheddar has made them a family favorite! This family-run operation has been a fixture in the local dairy industry for decades, and Joe Widmer is officially 1 of only 8 certified Wisconsin Master Cheesemakers in America.  Their cheeses are crafted only in small batches, and the curd is moved by hand from the vats to the molds for a unique taste you won’t find anywhere else. Wisconsin Cheese Mart in Milwaukee offers more than 150 varieties of local Wisconsin cheeses!  Locals recommend sampling the horseradish cheese, unusual options like the “chocolate fudge cheese”, the 5-year aged cheddar, morel and leek monterey cheese, Marieke gouda, and white cheddar with cranberries for starters. There’s so many varieties to choose from, you’ll find plentiful options for pairing with your favorite Wisconsin wines. Wollersheim Winery and Distillery is a sprawling 30 acre vineyard and retreat in Prairie du Sac.  It’s been in the business since the 1800s!  We highly recommend opting in to the guided tour which includes a full experience of this hillside vineyard, and ends in an exquisite wine tasting featuring award winning wines.  Grab a bite to eat at the end of your tour at the on-site Bistro for some delectable treats, too! **A gentle reminder: Classic really cares about our clients and customers, and we just want to take this opportunity to remind you to always drink responsibly and drive sober. When you’re enjoying your way through the many vineyards and wineries of Wisconsin, always make sure you’re doing so responsibly. Assign a designated driver to your party, join a local wine country tour, or schedule a rideshare service to pick you up so you can get to your destination safe and sound.