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It’s National Espresso Day today, and we’re going to celebrate with our favourite local coffee shops and great portable gadgets for the office or your next road trip!  Go on and grab your fave cup o’ joe as you peruse our list, and let us know your faves in the comments.  We might just include your suggestion in an upcoming blog post!  And be sure to check out our picks for great portable coffee makers if you’re looking for travel-friendly holiday gifts. more Best Local Spots for Espresso Prairie Espresso + Wine Bar in Lake Bluff, IL Drip and Cultur in Waukegan, IL Hansa Coffee Roasters in Libertyville and Lake Bluff IL It’s All Good Coffee & Espresso in Zion, IL AREA Coffee in Mundelein, IL Tina’s Italian Bake Shop in Gurnee, IL Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea in Vernon Hills, IL Gurnee Donuts in Gurnee, IL Coffee Break and Lunch in Waukegan, IL Milkcow Cafe in Vernon Hills, IL Birdy’s Coffee House in Libertyville, IL Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters in Libertyville, IL Dalton’s Cakes in Grayslake, IL Something’s Brewing in Grayslake, IL Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe in Libertyville, IL He Brews Coffee Shop in Winthrop Harbor, IL The Buzz Cafe in Kenosha, WI Harborside Common Grounds in Kenosha, WI The Daily Dose Coffee in Kenosha, WI Wilson’s Coffee & Tea in Racine, WI The Grind Cafe in Racine, WI O&H Danish Bakery in Racine, WI Shirl’s Drive-In in Kenosha Portable Espresso Makers for A Caffeine Fix On the Go Portable Electric Coffee Machine by YaoTown via Wayfair Despise the office coffee pod machine?  We feel you!  For just $69.99, this budget friendly portable coffee machine makes frothy espressos for professional cafe style drinks in a pinch. ESPRO Travel Press 16oz Bottle via REI From road trips to camping to picnic lunches in the park, this is a great portable french press style espresso maker.  And with the low price of $49.95, it also makes a great gift for the travellers on your holiday shopping list. Simpresso Portable Espresso Maker via Crate and Barrel Perfect for camping, beach days, picnic brunches at scenic overlooks, or just a quick morning brew.  This is a shatterproof, lightweight, travel friendly option for brewing espresso with crema under $100.  With options to use pods (coffee grinds in a fabric teabag style) or your own fresh grounds, it’s a double-walled coffee carafe for every java junkie at just $79.99 The Wacaco Minipresso via Amazon This wallet friendly option offers coffee on the go compatible with Nespresso pods for no-fuss no-muss creamy espresso.  You can even drink it right from the “lid” for a portable cup!  Just add hot water and you're ready to roll.  It’s $59.95, too, making it great for those who are minding their pennies while saving up for their next road trip.  Perfect for camping, van life, and more!

Just because Autumn is winding down doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an exciting road trip filled with scenic views and breathtaking sites on winding highways and byways!  We’ve gathered a list of 8 different roadways worthy of a visit in both Wisconsin and Illinois that are beautiful year round.  Explore the unique people and places in the historic towns that dot the mapways, or immerse yourself in the beauty of nature along trails and waterways.  If we’ve left your favourite off the list, just let us know in a comment and it may make its way into a future travel guide! more Illinois 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.  Learn more about the area here from Heroes of Adventure blog. The Morton Arboretum Lisle IL A versatile stop for those who prefer driving or those who prefer hiking, with 9 miles of paved roadways and 16 miles of hiking trailways.  Families can enjoy a stroll through the Children’s Garden and Maze Garden, or enjoy an active day of 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.  Check out the special events and park highlights here. 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. Learn more about it and download a map of the route here. 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. Wisconsin Highway 35 and The Wisconsin Great River Road Bordering the Northern end of Mississippi River up and down the western coast of Wisconsin, this 250 mile road connects a whopping 33 historic river towns.  This is a great trip to explore historic architecture, historic downtowns and main streets with local shops and businesses, and take a short step back in time.  It’s a fantastic route to explore the glacial path that shapes so much of Wiscons’s geological landscape.  Click here to view the northern half of the roadmap, and click here to view the southern half of the roadmap.  Looking for some amazing ideas for stopping points? Look no further than the State Trunk Tour blog. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive Spanning 115 miles through six different Wisconsin counties, it connects the two halves of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.  It’s perfect for those who love the great outdoors, with lots of options for fishing, swimming, visiting state parks, hiking, camping, and scenic views for picnicking.  Travel through many of Wisconsin’s impressive state parks and explore all of the lakes, wetlands, mountain trails, and natural vistas.  Click here to download driving directions by region. Highway 33 Scenic Drive This spans coast to coast stretching between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River along the southern end of Wisconsin.  From beautiful port cities with picturesque  harbors, fishing and boating activities, to beautiful marshes and wildlife refuges, to historic downtowns with vintage architecture and postcard worthy scenic stop-offs, it’s the total package when it comes to road trip options.  You’ll find a great list of recommended places to explore on State Trunk Tour’s blog! Cranberry Highway One of the shorter routes on our list, this 50 mile section of roadway crosses Highway 54, Highway 173, Highway 13, and roads in 3 different counties.  You’ll want to bring your camera for this one, because you’ll be traveling through centuries old cranberry beds, with visuals of beautiful swathes of scarlet red!  The prime time to hit the cranberry marshes for these stunning views is September and October, but other notable events such as bloom season occur in June and July.  The route is still worthy of a trip year round with such site stops as Sandhill Wildlife Area, Necedah National Wildlife Area, Meadow Valley Wildlife Area, and then some!  You can take cranberry marsh tours, visit Rubi Reds cranberry market, and more. Plan your trip with some helpful hints here.

Today is National Camp Day and we’ll be sharing some of our picks for great camping gear for life on the go and all your road trip needs.  In addition, we’ll also be highlighting some great spots to visit in both Illinois and Wisconsin.  So pile your pals and your family in your new car from Classic and let’s experience the Great Outdoors together.  You’ll find everything you need in our handy guide! more Great Campsite and RV Park Destinations Illinois Beach State Park at 1 Lake Front Drive in Zion IL MWR Navy Gateways RV Campgrounds at 7150799 Ziegemeier Street in North Chicago IL Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort at 32223 N US Highway 12 in Volo IL Grass Lake Marina and RV Park at 26250 W Heart O Lakes Boulevard in Antioch IL Island On the Chain Inc at 38600 N Lakeside Place in Antioch IL Fox Den Campground at 8068 State Park Road in Spring Grove IL Happy Acres Kampground at 22230 45th Street in Bristol WI Red Maple Campsite in Salem WI Sanders Park in Mt Pleasant WI Cliffside Park Campgrounds in Racine WI Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Caledonia WI Tips For Camping in the Car, SUV, or Van Most modern day cars are roomy and spacious and make the perfect alternative to camping in tents or RVs.  Check out these great tips for using your Van, SUV, or roomy sedan as cozy camping quarters! Make sure you’ve packed these ten camping essentials from REI experts in your car and have fully filled your car’s gas tank. Check which spaces are designated for parking your vehicle overnight, and if a ticket or permit is required to do so. Some places may require you to pay in advance to secure the site. Select a flat, shaded area to set up your “campsite” so you don’t overheat or have to worry about your car rolling. Place your food in a safe place inside the vehicle in a cooler or carrier to prevent spoilage or animal intruders. Keep any overhangs, tables, chairs, and other belongings close to your vehicle to avoid crowding out other campers.  If your campsite permits fires, be sure to set up any campfires about 150 feet or so away from your car to prevent accidents. Make sure all the interior lights are turned off so you don't run your battery down.  Hang battery operated lights from the handles or clip headlamps to the headliner of the car so you can see at night when needed, or bring a reading light for a little relaxation. Roll out a compact pillow and bedroll, foam mattress, or thick sleeping bag to keep comfortable. Keep the windows or moon roof/sun roof cracked open for ventilation and air circulation.  You can apply a thin mesh or piece of screen to prevent little critters and bugs from sneaking in the gaps.  Don’t place any valuables under the windows to prevent any potential moisture or rain from getting in. Here’s a list of Campfire Friendly Recipes to try: Campfire Foil Packs Fish packets with Caper and Snap Peas Marinated Steaks with Flatbreads Chilaquiles with Tomatillos and Black Beans Flax and Chia pancakes with Bacon and Eggs S’mores Dip Foil Packs Cast Iron Frittata Red Lentil Sloppy Joes Suggested Camping Gear for Your Next Road Trip iKamper Skycamp 2.0 This is a convenient camper accessory for your SUV or other vehicles (different models are available for your car!)  Enjoy a socially distanced vacation flying solo or with a partner or your kid.  Sets up in 60 seconds, sleeps up to 4 people, and fits most vehicles!  The closing straps have locks for your security and safety.  Also includes tension poles, a ladder with angled steps, a UV cover to protect it, too.  Comes in multiple sizes (mini or regular) and works with a wide array of accessories on the iKamper site! Campfire Solo Stove Don’t want to travel with tanks of butane or gasoline? We get it!  Moving through the world in a waste-free, safe manner is important to us, too.  Reducing your carbon footprint is great for the environment!  Why not grab one of these wood-fueld Campfire Solo Stoves.  Fire it up lickety split with just foraged twigs, ruffage, and sticks from your campsite.  (Make sure you have a fire extinguisher handy, though, just in case!)  Packs away safely and can travel in all weather! Ultimate Cast Iron Camping Cook Set Keep it simple with these easy to use, easy to clean, travel friendly campsite cooking utensils. This 8 piece set has everything you need for perfect campsite meals.  From grilling the fresh catch of the day to stewed veggies and herbs you’ve foraged safely (grab some wilderness and foraging books and take a class to learn how to safely ID non-toxic edible plants!) you can cook it all. These are the perfect thing for every travelling roadtripper! Thermarest’s MondoKing 3D Sleeping Pad This sleeping mat comes in two sizes: Large and XXL.  It’s four inches thick and has stable sidewalls and comfortable stretch knit fabric so you can sleep soundly.  It’s easy to compress and store, but convenient to inflate for use. The Trekker Chair Kit Turn your mattress roll into a chair for no-fuss seating without the bulk or hassle of carrying folding chairs in your gear.  Multiple sizes to fit your bed roll. Compressible Pillows from Thermarest This convenient portable pillow is easily stowed for travel, but expands quickly for comfortable sleep.  Has multiple styles and sizes to choose from! MEGAWHEELS Trunk Tent Waterproof Fabric Included in this kit is a carry bag, car lock rings, and a tent with waterproof fabric.  Attach this to your car/truck body to keep yourself safe and dry and warm while camping in your car.  It also stops bugs and critters from invading your space late at night or in muggy weather.

We love supporting our neighbours in the area, and so we’re bringing you another great Local Eats Guide from Classic!  Take the stress out of Thanksgiving by Ordering a Dessert from these nearby Bakeries and Dessert Shops.  We recommend calling ahead to make sure they’ll have everything you need on Turkey Day. more Great Local Bakeries for Thanksgiving Desserts O  Brothers Bakery at 2820 Belvidere Road in Waukegan Tina’s Italian Bake Shop 5101 Washington Street in Gurnee Tony’s Bakery at 1117 Washington Street in Waukegan Tute’s Bakery & Taqueria at 623 W Greenwood Avenue in Waukegan The Authentic Cheese Bread Co at 3900 Washington Street in Gurnee Panaderia y Pasteleria Arizmendi at 808 W Glen Flora Avenue in Waukegan Gurnee Donuts 4949 Grand Avenue #9 in Gurnee Santa Anita Bakery at 701 Yeoman Street in Waukegan Rubi’s Bakery at 1703 Washington Street in Waukegan Illusion Bakery at 2110 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Nothing Bundt Cakes in Gurnee, Vernon Hills, Deerfield, Kenosha WI Lakebilly Pies in Lake County IL Elsie Mae’s Canning and Pies at 3203 52nd Street in Kenosha WI Oliver’s Bakery at 3526 Roosevelt Road in Kenosha WI Paielli’s Bakery at 6020 39th Avenue in Kenosha WI Sweet Something’s Pastries at 2542 18th Street in Kenosha WI Hoosier Mama Pie Company in Chicago Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits in Chicago First Slice Pie Cafe in Chicago Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain Main Street Bakery at 328 Main Street Bakery in Racine WI O&H Danish Bakery at 4917 Douglas Avenue in Racine WI Racine Danish Kringles at 2529 Golf Avenue in Racine WI Easy Pie Recipes To Try Easy All-Butter Flaky Pie Crust Pillsbury’s Perfect Apple Pie Country Apple Galette Nora Cooks Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pie Easy Pecan Pie Apple Pumpkin Galette Once you’ve secured the goods, you’ll need something to carry it in safely.  Why not try one of our recommended pie carriers to fit just about every budget! Great Gadgets for Carrying Pies on the Go The Sweet Creations Pie Carrier is just $12.99 and is a great choice for taking your Thanksgiving pies on the road! The LocknLock Pie Carrier with Handle is a fantastic option under $30 available from QVC. The Single Pie Basket is handcrafted and would make a great transport for your pie as well as a hostess/host gift for the holidays!  Gift the pie from your heart, and the carrier for just under $70. The Snap & Lock Pie Carrier is a fantastic budget friendly pie carrier that fits a variety of sizes of pie dish from 6” 8” or 9” and is priced under $200 Maybe you’re the family baker and you’ll be bringing multiple desserts for the whole crew!  You’ll definitely want this Pie Saver Carrier kit with room for 4 pies in disposable pie tins. It’s a pricier option on our list but worth the funds for convenience of all-in-one multiple pie transport.

The Holidays are fast approaching, but in addition to the usual shopping chaos, the pandemic has added an extra level of frenzy due to supply chain issues.  Never fear, because Classic is here!  We’ve got an excellent set of options for digital gifts that will be sure to please every automotive enthusiast. Check it out on our digital gift guide! more You won’t have to worry about shipments arriving on time or finding the write box or bag to wrap it in.  That’s right, we’ve got great digital options for the gift giving season that you can send straight to their devices or right to their email inbox. Get those motors running, and head on on the highway with some of these great audiobooks: Car Crazy: The Battle for Supremacy between Ford and Olds and the Dawn of the Automobile Age by G. Wayne Miller The Machine That Changed the World by James P Womack, Daniel T. Jones, and Daniel Roos A Brief History of Motion: From the Wheel, to the Car, to What Comes Next Car Talk: 25 Years of Lousy Car Advice by Tom Magliozzi and Ray Magliozzi Car Fever: The Car Bore’s Essential Companion by James May The Patron Saint of Used Cars and Second Chances Driving Like Crazy by PJ O’Rourke Check out these great digital subscription options for Magazines and more: Motor Trend Magazine Digital Subscription Autocar Magazine Digital Subscription Retromotive Magazine Digital Subscription Car and Driver Digital Subscription Give the Gift of an Experience: Gift your gearhead an opportunity to drive a Supercar with Xtreme Xperience.  With opportunities in the Northeast, as well as all across the US, there’s lots of options to choose from no matter where your gift recipient lives. Going on a trip in 2022? Why not add a Supercar Drive to the trip with a gift voucher at your vacation destination as an added surprise with one of their other locations. Got a racing fan in your midst?  Check out the NASCAR Racing Experience and choose from ridealong options or timed driving from 5 minutes to 48 minutes!  It includes one-on-one lessons and the full NASCAR pit experience.  Makes a fantastic gift for gearheads! Give the gift of autocross and exotic car racing experiences to the weekend racers and rally fans in your life!  MetLife Stadium is hosting several Exotic Racing experiences Autocross events, so why not sponsor a family member’s attendance as a race participant or book a private event? Check it out here!

After more than a year of “WFH Life” and limited travel, many folks are finding themselves on the road more frequently as commutes to the office, holiday visits with family and friends, and even personal vacation travel resumes. more So we thought we’d gather a list of great items to remind you to breathe, relax, and destress while you’re on the road!  Improve your mood and reduce your chances of road rage with some of these uplifting gadgets. Snag One Of These Today: The Sharper Image Car Cushion with Massage and Heat for $59.99 will ease your transition back to the office by reducing stress with a relaxing, calming massage on your commute. The Youloveit Full Body Massager has 8 modes and 3 levels of intensity with vibration, heat, and kneading to reduce muscle aches and pains, and give you a little relaxation on route. And it won’t break the bank at an affordable price of just $46.99 at Walmart. If you prefer to keep it low-tech, this wooden bead massager will do the trick by keeping you cool and providing a low-key massage for under $25. Many of us spend anywhere from 8 to 12 hours in a desk chair in front of a computer, and let’s face it: that can make a long commute of sitting in the car rather excruciating.  Why not snag one of these Pressure Relief Car Seat Cushions to make yourself more comfortable?  It’s got an ergonomic design to help you distribute weight more evenly while sitting. It can easily fit over your current car seat and reduce driver fatigue for under $100! Looking for a similar ergonomic seat cushion for a lower price?  Walmart has a great option by Auto Drive for under $30 that would work well.  The Auto Drive Cushion has a universal fit to adapt for most cars and drivers. The CYLEN Memory Foam Bamboo Charcoal Infused Seat Cushion utilizes state of the art memory foam for maximum comfort, and natural bamboo charcoal to help absorb odors and smells in your car.  This is a great option as well for those with leather/vinyl seats instead of fabric, as the cushion will keep your seat cool and increase air flow. Find it on Amazon in black or blue options for under $30. AutoZone boasts a great lumbar support cushion at a budget friendly price point of just $16.99. The ProElite Concave Lumbar Cushion provides great lower lumbar support to relieve pressure when commuting home after a long day at the office. The Prime Stash is offering an orthopedic Memory Foam Headrest and Lumbar cushion set for $60-$80 and it comes in a variety of colour options to suit your aesthetics. The Sharper Image Cooling Gel Cushion Grip Steering wheel cover will make long drives more comfortable with microfiber leather and cool grip gel pads.  Affordably priced for just about any budget at around $20 and it has a universal fit that works with most vehicles.

Whether you watch a news broadcast on TV, stream a podcast, listen to the radio, or scroll social media, chances are you’ve learned about climate change, environmental crises, and global efforts in reducing energy consumption and increasing recycling.  Today we’re celebrating America Recycles Day by highlighting some of the impressive efforts in the automotive industry to recycle and reuse metal and other materials in efforts to be more eco-conscious! more Did you know that 80% of your car can be recycled? That’s right!  Over 25 million tons of materials are reclaimed from old and discarded vehicles, and they’re one of the most widely recycled items of consumer refuse around the world!  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! Automotive manufacturers do their best to reduce waste wherever possible.  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. At Classic’s Dealerships, we’re proud to boast some wonderful “Green Options” when it comes to vehicle choice and styling, as both Toyota and Kia have been working diligently to improve their carbon footprint, increase the use of recycled materials, and other environmentally friendly measures, and we’re proud to be a part of it all: Recycled bio plastics are used in seat cushions and interiors of the Toyota Prius, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and the Toyota Rav4. Toyota has eliminated use of over 12 tons of PVC materials in its assembly plants. Since 2010, Toyota has recovered and repurposed upwards of 140,000 hybrid batteries. Toyota also has a long-term recycling program and environmentally conscious vision in place. Since January 2015, 85% of every Toyota/Lexus vehicle must be reused or recycled, and it is expected that 95% of it will be recovered and reprocessed. Toyota created a program to recycle plastic bumper covers and convert them into plastic pellets to be sold and processed into other auto parts. The Kia Soul EV’s uses over 50lbs of bio-plastics per vehicle, which are fabricated from cellulose and sugarcane, in 10 different pieces of its interior from door panels to seats to carpets. Kia has adopted a climate friendly pledge including ECO-Friendly Car Lifecycle Management which you can learn more about here. Kia is also working with SK Innovation to create eco-friendly recollection of metals l ike lithium from used EV Batteries. Kia’s aim is to reduce waste and water consumption, and increase recycling efforts with an end goal of zero landfill contributions and zero waste incineration. Kia is expanding its range of “Battery Electric Vehicles” (BEVs) and increasing the total travel mi/km range per charge, and a fast 20 minute high-speed charge time.

With the blustery winds of late Autumn ushering in a cold front, we thought it might be nice to give you something to look forward to this Winter!  We’re sharing a great list of can’t miss scenic destinations to visit in the Late Autumn and the Winter.  Pile on into your new car from Classic and bust through your cold-weather cabin fever! Our list is chock full of memorable sites to visit and beautiful scenery.  So let’s hit the road and liven up those winter blues, because this is most certainly drive-over country! Cool Places to Visit in Wisconsin & Illinois As Weather Gets Colder Twelfth Night Holiday Tree Bonfire; Pleasant Prairie WI 20 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships This historic village tradition takes place every January at Park Drive in Pleasant Prairie.  The upcoming year’s event will be on January 6th 2022 at 6PM.  Everyone in the village takes down their trees and participates in a community tree burning.  There will be hot chocolate and holiday caroling!  Just a short drive away with some beautiful scenic lakeside views in the evening. Wilmot Mountain; Kenosha, WI 30 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships Grab a season pass now to ensure an exciting time all winter long!  Beautiful mountain views, wintersports, snowshoeing, skiing, and special events galore at the Wilmot Mountain resort.  Great for weekend getaways or day trips!  It’s got gorgeous views and scenery so you’ll want to bring a camera for sure. Winterfest; Lake Geneva WI 45 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships Lake Geneva is gorgeous any time of year, but Winter is especially beautiful.  Stop by on December 4th and attend the 46th Annual Electric Christmas Parade. Or plan a winter getaway for the family to Winterfest 2022 in February; would be a great holiday gift alternative!  Winterfest is home to the only US National Snow Sculpting Championship and it’s chock full of talented artists who sculpt the ice and snow in magnificent forms.  And there’s lots of fun to be had on the beach such as bonfires, s’mores roasting, and hot cocoa!  You might even want to try a hovercraft ride if you’re feeling brave. Ice Skating at Edgewater Skating Rink; Madison WI 128 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships Located on Lake Mendota, this beautiful skating rink has lakeside views and the twinkling skyline of Wisconsin’s State Capitol.  The rink hosts special events and themed skate nights throughout the season.   Enjoy family skating events and take plenty of memorable photos.  A trip here would be a  great option for a holiday gift excursion instead of going with Big Box Retail gift items. Snowtubing at Cascade Mountain; Portage WI 153 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships There’s nothing more fun than sliding down a pile of snow at warp speed, laughing all the way down as you relive childhood bliss!  Gather your friends and family and enjoy a fun filled afternoon of snowtubing and other winter sports at Cascade Mountain. Enjoy the gorgeous mountain scenery along the way! Garden of Lights; Green Bay WI 172 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships Just because the leaves have fallen and the temps are dropping doesn’t mean you can’t still have a blast at the Botanical Gardens!  More than 300,000 twinkling lights compose the exquisite displays of nature-inspired light and sculpture at the Garden of Lights experience.  Enjoy a walking tour or a Horse-Drawn Wagon experience.  A perfect gift for the whole family if you’re going the “giving an experience” route over toys or goodies. Winterfest Sled Dog Race; Merrill WI 255 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships With over 100 sled dog teams competing in past races, this is a great event for all ages to attend.  The race awards prizes for the Top 6 competitors.  You’ll find lots of other family friendly activities all weekend long, and even try your hand at some of the kid-friendly mini races!  Events will be announced by the Merrill Chamber of Commerce as it gets closer to January/February. Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad; Trego WI 377 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships This scenic 15-mile stretch of track runs along the Namekagon River and boasts some truly stunning views.  Book the bed-and-breakfast ride or a dinner excursion for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.  Fun for all ages and great for groups!  Would make a lovely family or friends trip for the holidays, or even a romantic date-night experience. The Ice Caves; Apostle Island National Lakeshore 420 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships These stunning ice caves are located in the Meyers Beach area of the Lakeshore region.  The Ice Caves are only open during certain times of the year, and access to the area may be closed in cases of inclement weather.  But as soon as Lake Superior’s surface has adequately frozen for safe travel, you’ll be able to explore the ice caves in person!  Behold the magnificent icicles and crystalline surfaces of the lake and sandstone cliffsides.  It’s a round trip distance of 3 to 6 miles depending how far you choose to walk on the trail.  Great for busting winter boredom and cabin fever! White Pines Ranch; Oregon IL 126 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships The Ranch is a beautiful 200 acre swathe of land with wooded areas, a sandstone canyon, horse trails and pastures, and places to hike.  Bring the kids and enjoy a day of horseback riding, visit with the local animals, and just take in the breathtaking views.  Enjoy the peace and quiet solitude of the area when snow blankets the pastures and creates a magical winterscape!  You can even enjoy workshops such as wilderness survival, enjoy some cross-country skiing, have a blast sledding, or kick back and relax with some crafting.  There’s lots to do at any age!  Book a stay and enjoy a late autumn, early winter getaway as an early holiday gift for the whole family. Depot Pond; Batavia IL 70 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships If you’re visiting in Autumn you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk which connects Depot Pond and Fox River.  It’s got some truly beautiful views of the riverside and shorelines. A classic spot for ice skating and winter activities as soon as the ice measures 8” thick or more!  It has even inspired several painters and artists to capture the whimsical winter wonderland and wide-eyed joy of children learning how to skate.  Pending on weather and seasonal closures, you might even want to visit the Batavia Historical Society’s Depot Museum nearby. Starved Rock State Park; Oglesby, IL 123 Miles from Classic Car Dealerships This state part is beautiful all year round, but visiting during the autumnal Golden Hour or in the early weeks of winter with fresh snowfall are a real treat!  Whether you’re hiking or perhaps birding in search of a Bald Eagle and the migratory birds or just taking your camera for a spin in hopes of catching a whitetail deer mid-leap, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do here.  The region includes the St Louis Canyon, French Canyon, and Wildlife Canyon and their beautiful waterfalls.  Enjoy views of the Illinois River as well as Starved Rock Dam as you explore these sandstone glacial canyons.  A wonderful place to visit during each season to observe the change in the landscape and scenery. Do you have a favourite place you like to visit in the area? We’re always interested in hearing from our readers about new places to visit in Wisconsin and Illinois.  Let us know your picks and we may just feature your suggestion in a future post!

It’s National Metal Day, and we’re highlighting the use of metal and fabrication in the automotive industry on today’s blog.  Check out some of these fun facts to learn more about how metals are used in vehicle manufacturing, and how the industry has changed and evolved over the years. more Did You Know: Facts About Metal and Manufacturing There were over 8 million vehicles manufactured in the US in 2020, and over 77 million total manufactured worldwide. In 1942, US manufacturing of automobiles came to a screeching halt so that metals and other materials could be diverted to military purposes and war efforts. On January 1st 1942, the US halted all sales and delivery of cars via the government’s Office of Production Management. All production stopped in February 1942 through October 1945. There were 520,000 vehicles available for the duration of the war and rationed for use by “essential drivers.” The automotive industry diverted its manufacturing and metal materials to create tanks, trucks, jeeps, airplanes, steel helmets, ammunition, bombs, and other goods for military use to aid war efforts. Commonly Used Metals in the Automotive industry include: Aluminum Iron Magnesium Steel Titanium Copper Lead Metals such as Nickel, Aluminum, and Iron are expected to increase over 10x the current usage between 2019 and 2030. Metals like Lithium and Graphite are expected to increase in demand since they are used to make electric car batteries. Use of metals such as Nickel, Aluminum, and Iron are expected to increase over 10x the current usage between 2019 and 2030. The average passenger vehicle is 65% steel and iron, with 25% of the steel being made from recycled/reclaimed metal. Advanced High Strength Steel accounts for about 60% of the average vehicle. Aluminum is the second most used metal in the automotive industry, and the fastest growing market for metal.  In 1975, around 80-84 pounds of aluminum were used to make a vehicle, but that figure rose to over 460 pounds in 2020, with a projection of over 550 pounds being used by 2028! Hybrid and Electric Vehicles are expected to account for an increase in use of lightweight metals and materials to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Automotive recycling accounts for 14 million tons of recycled steel, or the equivalent of more than 13 million cars. The market for automotive metals is projected to grow to $226 Billion by end of 2026.

Classic Cares about our customers, and we’re here to help!  We’ve asked our body shop technicians to share some valuable advice and information on what to do if you’re involved in a collision.  We hope that this will help our customers feel safer and more confident in the event of an auto accident.  And remember, we’re always just a phone call away and here to help!  Check out our handy tips, and feel free to print it out and keep it in with your car’s paperwork in case of emergency. more What to if you’re involved in a collision: If you are involved in a collision, stop your car at or near the collision scene. If you can, move your car off the road so you do not block traffic. Protect yourself and others from oncoming traffic. Failure to stop at the scene of a collision in which you are involved can result in your arrest warrant. You could be convicted of hit and run. Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident as soon as possible. Get information:  names, telephone number, drivers license and insurance information. from the other driver(s) involved in the collision. If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of the vehicle or property damaged in the collision. If you cannot locate anyone, leave a note with your name and contact information that can be found easily at the scene of the collision. You must also report the collision to the police. If you are at fault: Call your insurance company and start the claims process. They will walk you through every step. They should have a 1-800 # on the back of your insurance card or on their web site so you can start your claim no matter the time of day ( 24R) line. If you are not at fault: You will still need to inform your insurance company that someone else hit you as a precaution. However, you will also need to call the at fault party's insurance company and start a claim with them, and y ou will need their policy # (This is known as being the claimant.) Note: Make sure to get a claim number and have the name of your insurance number handy! Some insurance companies will write their own estimate, some will ask you to send photos in to them or use an app. If you are unsure how to use the app or send the proper photos in Contact the shop of your choosing and ask for help. ( I'd love to help) From there you can then decide on a repair facility. Note: You have the right to choose your own body shop. The insurance company probably will recommend a shop, but it is YOUR decision.  It is illegal for an insurance company to force, require or pressure you into using a particular shop. Call the shop of your choice, schedule a time and date to have the repairs estimated. Make sure to provide a claim number and insurance company. Our shop will get the estimate done, and will begin repairs upon approval from the insurance company. You don’t have to worry at all, our shop will order parts if needed and schedule anything else needed for repairs. Any questions, call Classic body shop! Classic Body Shop Kia

Since today is National “Go To a Museum Day” we thought we’d help you get into the holiday spirit while also getting in touch with your creativity! The holidays are fast approaching, and this gift giving season might present some new challenges with supply and demand.  And then of course there’s our mountains of “pandemic purchases” to keep us all entertained indoors…. So why not forgo the material items this holiday and opt for the experience of a lifetime!  Or perhaps skip the online shopping at Big Box Retailers this year and consider shopping small instead! Why not purchase a beautiful gift of framed artwork or a painting class or perhaps a day trip out with family to a local museum or gallery instead?  Museum or theatre memberships can also make a great family gift while also helping support our local arts scene.  Plus, it’s a great way to do a little family bonding and get out of the house so you all can enjoy a change of scenery and exercise your minds! Hop into your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road! So what are you waiting for? Grab a paintbrush and let’s paint the town silver and gold with friends new and old, and check out our picks for great art, fun day trips, and creative classes to give to your loved ones!  Take a look at some of the great experiences and artistic shopping options we’ve got for you on today’s blog. When you shop small, your dollars have a direct impact on the community and your neighbourhood.  Consider purchasing gifts directly from these artists and local galleries, and bringing joy to the holidays in more than one way! Local Art Galleries and Art Shops: Illinois Dandelion Gallery & Studio in Waukegan, IL Visual Arts Center in Powell Park in Waukegan, IL Valhalla Art Loft in Waukegan, IL Artpie Studio/Gallery/Art School in Waukegan, IL One Crown Studios & Art Gallery in Waukegan, IL Kapheim Studio by Artist Thom Kapheim in Waukegan, IL Lloyd Shin Gallery in Gurnee, IL Curtis Frame Back Alley Gallery in Libertyville, IL Renditions Art Studio in Waukegan, IL MasterWorks Art Gallery & Studio in Vernon Hills, IL Aaron Galleries in Glenview, IL Sip Dip’n Dab in Waukegan, IL Periwinkle Art Studio in Waukegan, IL Ceramics For You Studio in Gurnee, IL Bottle & Bottega Highland Park Rivellino School of Art in Long Grove, IL Board & Brush Creative Studio in Liberyville, IL The Studio Art School in McHenry, IL Local Art Galleries and Shops: Wisconsin Re:Vision Gallery & Artist Studios in Kenosha, WI Lemon Street Gallery in Kenosha, WI Countryside Wildlife Art Gallery in Kenosha, WI Left of the Lake Gallery in Kenosha, WI DeBerge’s Framing & Gallery in Kenosha, WI Kenosha Art Association Pollard Gallery & Gifts in Kenosha, WI Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie, WI Alpaca Art in Kenosha,  WI Picasso Vino in Racine, WI Young Rembrandts in Kenosha & Racine, WI Gifting a Museum Admission Membership or even just a day trip pass can be an unforgettable experience!  Explore history, learn more about arts and culture, and inspire your family and friends to be more creative with unique museums to visit. More Great Museums for Art and History Buffs to Explore Near Classic’s Car Dealerships and Beyond: Kenosha Public Museum in Kenosha Civil War Museum in Kenosha Dinosaur Discovery Museum Kenosha History Center Southport Light Station Museum Kenosha Streetcar Society Waukegan History Museum Ray Bradbury Experience Museum Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County Field Museum of Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago Chicago History Museum Skokie Heritage Museum Museum of Art in Chicago Robbins Illinois History Museum Chicago Children’s Museum American Writers Museum Art Institute of Chicago Museum Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary ARt WNDR Museum of Chicago 6th Dimension Space + Gallery in Chicago Children’s Museum of Oak Lawn Newberry Library Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mt Vernon NIU Art Museum in Dekalb Great Automotive Museums to Visit in Illinois: Volo Auto Museum Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum Klairmont Kollections Museum Wheels O’ Time Museum Rockford Auto Museum Franklin County 1910’s Garage Museum Historic Auto Attractions Museum

We’re excited for all of the upcoming festivities during the holidays, and look forward to spending time with family and friends doing lots of fun things in the holiday spirit!  Here are some great ideas for ways to reconnect with family and friends and find some unique gifts.  We encourage our customers to shop small and support local artists, artisans, and small businesses this year.  Let’s spread some holiday cheer and the giving spirit, right here in our own backyard. Check out these great markets, events, and activities in Southeast Wisconsin, Lake County, and the Greater Chicago Area! Your November and December Local Community Calendar On Tuesday November 9th, November 16th, and November 23rd from 10AM to 10:30AM, come over to the Kenosha Uptown Neighbourhood Library in Kenosha and enjoy a family story time for all children ages 2 and up.  Enjoy stories, singing songs, and lots of fun activities! Wednesday November 10th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM come out to Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie, WI and paint yourself a beautiful monogrammed piece of artwork for a holiday centerpiece! STarts at $38 per guest, supplies all included. On November 12th and 13th, get ready to rock your heart out at the Nightmare in November metalfest concert in Kenosha. Order your tickets here. Running from November 12th through January 2nd 2022, the Lightscape exhibit is a beautiful holiday lights spectacular at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, IL. Order your tickets and get more info right here! On November 13th, shop small and shop local at the Holiday Handmade Market at the Streets of Woodfield in Schaumberg from 10AM to 3PM. It’s a great way to support the community and find the most unique and beautiful gifts for loved ones! On November 13th, grab a ticket to the Lunar Tide Music and Arts Festival in Waukegan.  Event Runs from 7PM on Saturday through November 14th at 3AM. On Saturday November 13th from 3PM to 5PM, enjoy an afternoon of pumpkins and flowers in a painting class at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie! $38 per person with supplies included. On Friday November 19th starting at 8PM, enjoy an evening of wonderful music with Phil Vassar’s Piano Bar Tour!  An intimate showcase of this singer-songwriter’s best work with limited seating. Check for Tickets here. Open Nightly starting on November 20th and running through January 2nd 2022, the Willow Hill’s Winter Magic Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Experience is great fun for the whole family! Check this link for ticket timeslots and a calendar of availability. From November 20th through November 21st enjoy an evening of fine holiday shopping with local artisans and craftsmen at the Island Lake Holiday Art and Craft Faire. Forget about the stress of shipping holiday gifts and check out these local exhibitors and artists isntead! Admission is $1 and includes food booths and artist shopping stands. On Saturday November 20th at 2PM and a second performance at 6PM, head over to Genesee Theatre to enjoy a bit of holiday tidings with “A Charlie Brown Christmas” play!  It’s fun for the whole family; check availability of tickets here. Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 1PM bring your family and friends to paint a beautiful autumnal turkey for just $25 per person at a Pinot’s Palette painting class in Pleasant Prairie! On Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 12PM at the Civil War Museum in Kenosha, come and visit The Young History Heroes Storytime session for ages 4 through 8. A new hero will be highlighted every month!  “How Kate Warne Saved President Lincoln” will be the topic of 11/20’s session.  The following storytime will be December 18th! Enjoy the celebrations of “Long Grove Vintage Holidays” from 11:30AM through 6PM in Long Grove downtown! This free event first runs on November 20th and runs again every weekend from 11/21, 11/27, 11/28, 12/4, 12/5, 12/11, 12/12,12/18, and 12/19.  Enjoy caroling and vintage carriage rides for the whole family.  Event is free but registration is required On Sunday November 21st from 10AM to 3PM, The Vault Banquet Hall and The Pine Blossom have partnered up to host the Winter Wonderland in Kenosha! Come and visit for a little early holiday fun, and kids can even meet Santa from 12PM to 3PM. On Friday, November 26th from 4PM to 5PM, head over to the Kenosha Public Museum and enjoy the annual “Lightin’ Up” celebration and Christmas tree lighting ceremony downtown!  It’s a free holiday program for all to enjoy. On Friday November 26th, skip the shopping madness and opt into a quiet afternoon of fun with friends and family by painting a snowy moon and stars landscape.  Or paint a festive Christmas Tree rustic truck painting from 6:30PM to 8:30PM Just $38 per guest at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday November 27th from 4PM through midnight, come kick off the Holidays with the Holiday in the Park & Parade event in Glenview! Fun for all ages starting at Glenview road and going through town. On Wednesday December 1st, paint this cheeky little gnome from 6:30 to 8:30PM and gift it to someone special for the holidays! Painting supplies and a lesson are just $38 at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday December 4th, paint a family heirloom winter painting of “The Perfect Tree” at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie for just $38 per person with supplies all included! On December 4th, come listen to an evening of music by Yheti and Toadface at the Lakehurst Events Center in Waukegan. More event information here! On Saturday December 11th starting at 7PM, head on over to the Genesee Theatre for a wonderful festive evening as they host The Chris Isaak Holiday Tour!  Event and ticket availability may be limited, check here! Are you hosting a local event or market?  Got plans to take your family to a fun holiday event nearby? We’d love to hear from you! Tell us in a comment all about how you plan to spend your holiday season together.