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Today is National Saxophone Day, and we’re highlighting some incredible musicians from the Chicago area that have more than earned their moment in the spotlight.  These great musicians have made their indelible mark on the Chicago music scene, and heavily influenced Chicago Jazz and Blues styles. more Ari Brown is a Chicago based musician and composer who plays tenor saxophone as well as piano.  He’s performed alongside some of the most notable musicians in Jazz history including Lou Rawls, BB King, and Chuck Berry! Fred Anderson is a Chicago based musician and tenor saxophonist known for his mentorship of up-and-coming jazz musicians.  Anderson’s got a long legacy of playing swing music, bebop jazz, and in free jazz movements. He also founded The Velvet Lounge and has become a fixture of the Chicago Jazz Scene. Von Freeman was a bop-style tenor saxophonist with his finger on the pulse of the music industry since the age of 16. He was known for his work playing with the Horace Henderson Group in the 40s.  He became an iconic fixture in the Chicago Jazz scene and truly beloved by Jazz aficionados worldwide, though only achieved notoriety late in his life. Walter Parazaider is a versatile woodwind musician, playing saxophone, flute, and clarinet as well as the guitar.  He’s best known for being a founding member of the Jazz Pop Rock band, Chicago! Gene Ammons was called “The Boss”, and destined to be legendary, being practically born into the music business as the son of boogie-woogie pianist Albert Ammons.  Gene Ammons chart-topping, bluesy flavor of tenor saxophone music was heavily rooted in soul and R&B styling. Johnny Griffin was nicknamed “the Little Giant” due to his short height, but that didn’t stop him from climbing the ranks to legendary status!  His huge career began in the 1940s and he played well into the 2000s!  His speed, harmonic acuity, and precise control made him almost untouchable. Looking to enjoy some fine musical stylings this weekend? Check out these locations which offer incredible jazz and blues music and events! Rosa’s Lounge, Logan Square, Chicago Le Piano, Rogers Park, Chicago Harlem Avenue Lounge in Chicago Winter’s Jazz Club in Chicago Jazz Showcase, South Loop, Chicago The Green Mill in Chicago Kingston Mines, Lincoln Park, Chicago Buddy Guy’s Legends, South Loop, Chicago Open Door Repertory Company in Chicago Constellation, Roscoe Village, Chicago Andy’s Jazz Club in Chicago Coco Club, Brighton Park, Chicago

November is here, and that means it’s time for a brand new Classic Community Calendar!  Let’s check out these beautiful events and plan to spend some family togetherness time before the holiday hustle and bustle hits full swing. We’ve also included a selection of wonderful markets for you to shop small and shop handmade this holiday season. more Beginning on November 2nd and running through January 1st 2023, The Marriott Theatre of Lincolnshire is pleased to announce multiple showings of the musical stage adaptation of “A Christmas Story” for all families to enjoy! Book your tickets today. On November 3rd, the Lake County Film Festival begins its opening night festivities. The event will run through November 14th and include a free short film competition for students. Screenings will be November 4th through 6th and 11th through 14th, with a special closing night feature event. Multiple locations; Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest and CLC in Grayslake. This Friday, November 4th at the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, head over from 6PM to 9PM for the Day of the Dead Celebration with vendors and food, giveaways, and special dance performances!  Admission is free. November 4th and 5th at the Orlin Trapp Auditorium in Waukegan, head over at 7PM to grab a ticket to the Fall Play: Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Every week on Friday,s head over to Forty One Fourteen in Waukegan for Music and Karaoke hosted by Monica with MC Jim Swan. The Holiday Bazaar is happening at the Libertyville Civic Center in Libertyville from 10AM to 1PM on November 5th. Saturday, November 5th from 11AM to 4PM you can join in the fun for the annual Rivalry Alehouse Champagne Walk & Brunch event sponsored by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. November 5th and 6th as well as the 12th and 13th at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee head over for 2022 Scream and Shout Bonus Weekends! Start your upcoming new year right with a new job you’re sure to love by logging in on November 7th for the virtual Waukegan Job and Career Fair from 12PM to 3PM sponsored by HireX. November 11th at Reclaimed Artisans Inc in Libertyville is the 5th Annual Ladies Night Holiday Edition market and event! November 12th and 13th is a great time to take the family out to the Deer Park Town Center for Fireworks and Santa’s Arrival! Shop the French Market Holiday Boutique in Lake Forest on November 12th and 13th and enjoy shopping, exploring exhibits, special guests, and activities! November 19th sees the return of the Willow Hill Lights for a second year with even bigger and more festive displays over at the Willow Hill Golf Course in Northbrook! The Festival of Arts & Crafts is happening at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake on November 25th and is the perfect place to find holiday gifts for your friends and family. On November 25th in Grayslake at the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce, head over with the family to enjoy the Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival. The evening of Saturday November 26th in Lehmann Park of Lake Villa, enjoy the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting event! The Holiday Craft fair is happening on November 26th in Hawthorn Woods at Hawthorn Woods Village Hall and it’s the perfect place to shop locally for unique and handmade holiday gifts. November 26th in Fox Lake is the annual start to the season with the Fox Lake Festival of Lights and parade!

Looking for something fun to do in the area this weekend? We’ve got a great roundup of Halloween events and festive seasonal fun for kids, teens, and adults!  Got an event you think our readers would love? Let us know in the comments or leave a link to your event on our social media post for this blog! more Friday, October 28th, swing on by the Tractor Supply in Antioch for Face Painter/Gore Makeup sessions with professional makeup artist Sue Nolan. Book your slot for a 30 minute session online here. Friday, October 28th from 11AM to 2PM in Libertyville, come on down for a town wide Trick or Treat down Main Street! Friday, October 28th at the Shiloh Center in Zion, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities for the Halloween Trail of Treats from 4PM to 6PM! Saturday, October 29th from 1PM to 2:30PM at Bowen Park, join the Waukegan Park District’s Halloween Trick or Treat Trail event for families!  Come out in costume and meet a seasonal cast of characters along the way while gathering prizes and treats! Saturday, October 29th starting at 12PM, families and kids can enjoy a wonderful afternoon of Halloween crafting and art making at Dandelion Gallery and Studio in Waukegan. Saturday, October 29th from 10AM to 3PM, The Highland Park Public Library is hosting the Halloween Railroad event! Saturday, October 29th through Monday October 31st  is T rick or Treat Weekend at the Lake Bluff Public Library from 10AM to 9PM in Lake Bluff where kids, teens, and adults are all encouraged to attend in costume and stop by the front desk for a treat! Saturday, October 29th at the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce & Industry annual trick or treat event from 11AM to 1PM, everyone is encouraged to come out and trick or treat at the local shops and businesses! Saturday, October 29th is Haunted Night at the Lehmann Mansion in Lake Villa from 5PM to 10PM. There will be games, food, drinks, a live DJ, and even an axe thrower! Saturday, October 29th from 1AM to 5PM at Lambs Farm in Libertyville is a special family friendly halloween event where the kiddos can trick-or-treat alongside their favorite farm animals and enjoy other festive fun! Sunday, October 30th at 12PM until 1PM, come and j oin Jarrett Dapier as he reads his picture book aloud at Madame ZuZu’s in Highland Park! Costumes are encouraged as there will be a costume contest along with the storytime. Sunday, October 30th in Wauconda is the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce Trick or Treat on Main Street event from 1PM to 5PM! Come one, come all, and enjoy the costumed event and get into the halloween spirit! Sunday, October 30th at Maggiano’s of Vernon Hills come out and join in the fun for a night of Murder and Mystery at this interactive dinner party starting at 6PM!

Art is everywhere and Art is for everyone!  We’re celebrating International Artist’s Day  by highlighting some great reasons you should support The Arts in our local community, and fantastic places to view local art. So hop in your new car and let’s hit the road on an amazing quest to find the most interesting artwork around. more What is art? Why are The Arts important to culture and society? International Artist Day celebrates the wonderful contribution that all artists make to society by promoting and raising awareness for the arts and increasing their visibility as creative professionals both locally and internationally. Artists and the arts are an integral part of society, helping us frame the world in creative ways so we can better understand humanity. Artists and the arts are an integral part of society, helping us frame the world in creative ways so we can better understand humanity. Everything from industrial design to culinary arts to engineering and architecture revolves around Art.  The phones you use, the cars you drive, the tech gadgets you depend on, the movies you stream, the shows you binge...all of them were created by someone who was passionate about the arts!  The songs you listen to and music videos you stream are all created by performance artists and musicians who have a passion for self-expression and creativity. How do we interpret art? What makes something art? How does art make you feel and how do we explore the world through art? Let’s take a look: Without creativity and ingenuity provided by exploring the arts, we would not be enjoying the wonderful road trips and joy rides we take in our cars!  To create the vehicles and technology we use today, many teams of designers, engineers, and creative minds had to work together from concept sketches to completion of physical manufacturing; from the vehicle itself to the machines that made it, they were all designed using visual plans and creative ingenuity. A thriving Arts district vastly improves local communities on multiple levels: aesthetically, via tourism, economically, and also socially!  Art can beautify and unify a community through public art installations, group art events, classes, and more.  It provides citizens with a common ground to communicate and express themselves, and understand each other on a non-verbal level.  The Arts can also provide income via local tourism to view exhibits, installations, markets, and local businesses, galleries, and museums. Let’s check out some of the most influential painters of yesterday and today: Immerse yourself in the arts and enjoy these wonderful public art sites and exhibits across Illinois and Wisconsin: Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park in Skokie Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park at Cedarhurst in Mt Vernon West Street Sculpture Park in Galena The Jay Pritzker Pavillion in Chicago Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural in Morrison ArtsPartners of Central Illinois in Peoria Oak Park Arts District in Oak Park Downtown Jacksonville Walldog Murals in Jacksonville Metropolis Murals in Metropolis Downtown Elgin Public Arts Tour in Elgin The Oregon Sculpture Trail in Oregon Scofill Sculpture Park in Decatur Ace Sign Company Museum in Springfield The Murals of Ottawa in Ottawa International Walldog Mural and Sign Art Exhibit Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural in Oswego Frank Lloyd Wright’s B. Harley Bradley House in Kankakee Rock Falls Sculpture Walk in Rock Falls Macoupin Art Collective in Staunton Walldog Murals of Streator Stevens Point Sculpture Park in Stevens Point, WI Dr. Evermor’s Sculpture Park in North Freedom, WI Lynden SCulpture Garden in River Hills, WI Bobrowitz Sculpture in Colgate, WI Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips, WI James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden in Sheboygan, WI Jurustic Park in Marshfield, WI Paine Art Center and Gardens in Oshkosh, WI

Our last haunted road trip guide for Halloween is covering our neighbors in Missouri.  We’ve scoured the state for the scariest and most haunted places, and gathered them in one place so you can plan the creepiest car ride from destination to destination.  Some of these sites are stuff of local legend, but others have been verified by professional paranormal investigators. What do you think? Let us know in the comments if you’ve visited these sites and had an experience! more Lemp Mansion in St. Louis This haunted home and brewery site is considered one of the ten most haunted places in the United States!  Visitors can opt in for a historical ghost tour, or even participate in a paranormal hunt after hours during “The Lemp Experience.”  Unfortunately, not one, not two, but three members of the Lemp family committed suicide on site, and a fourth off site.  William Lemp Senior and William LEmp Junior both shot themselves in the same room, 18 years apart, in an extra office space at the Brewery.  It later became a boarding house in the 1940s, and several residents reported hauntings and spiritual encounters,  Additionally, other spirits have joined the Lemp Family and use the mansion as a way station to the afterlife.  There have been reports of figures circling the bed, leaning over and looming near visitors, and general unnerving discomfort. Beattie Mansion in St. Joseph The original owner of this historic residence was the first mayor of the city, and a wealthy Victorian businessman Armstrong Beattie, and his wife Elizabeth, who lived there until their deaths  in 1878 (Armstrong) and 1880 (Elizabeth.)  Without any heirs, the home was sold off to the Ladies Union Benevolent Association, and used as a group home for the houseless, aged, and displaced residents of the city.  Later, it was converted to a home for the elderly, mentally ill, and addicts.  In 2004, it passed hands with plans to be converted to a bed and breakfast, but any renovations were thwarted by paranormal activities and experiences.  Disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and full body apparitions unnerved the contractors and construction was halted.  Professional ghost hunters have confirmed the presence of Eliza, a child spirit, and multiple unidentified apparitions.  You’ll experience ghosts that tease and taunt, giggles and disembodied laughter, and footsteps in rooms that have no other presence. Pythian Castle in Springfield This historic castle has a dark and storied history with nefarious connections to torture, suicide, and medical violence.  Originally built as an orphanage in 1913, it was later commandeered by the US military for prisoners during WWII.  Visitors can book a history tour during the daytime to learn the unnerving history, or participate in a nighttime ghost tour and chance an encounter with a malevolent spirit.  Ghost hunters and visitors alike have reported disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and an unnerving atmosphere. The Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs This hotel and spa was subject to two destructive fires in 1989 and 1910, and although no one died in either blaze, it’s long rumored that a dastardly spirit may be the culprit.  Guests have reported encounters with visitors from the spirit realm in the lap pool, which was once the site of a Speakeasy during the days of Prohibition.  The hotel has embraced its ghostly guests, and hosts tours where you may encounter the spirit of a gambler, a spiritual advisor from the 1920s, and other gracious, gentle spirits. Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph This unusual museum is a dark and macabre, and frankly disturbing, look at our past treatment of those with mental illness and disorders of the brain.  At one time, it was home to some 3,-000 patients at any given time over teh decades, but now it’s a nineteenth century time capsule of our country’s strange medical history, founded in 1967 by the Missouri Department of Mental Health.  You’ll find bizarre exhibits such as 1,000 items removed from a patient’s stomach, strange medical equipment, and unnerving tools of the trade for psychiatric practitioners.  Some say the grounds are haunted by patients who have passed on during their stay, and ghost hunters host limited tours o n special event nights at the museum for visitors with a taste for the paranormal. Union Station in Kansas City This active and in-use railroad station is not just open to the general public, but also a whole rotating cast of spectral characters.  As you head off to your destination, you may spot the figure of notorious criminal Frank Nash, who is said to wander the station faceless, or other strange and hauntingly faceless figures with shined, polished shoes and classy wardrobes, or a figure of a woman in a black dress walking down the stairs after hours, and spirits dragging their suitcases down the halls.  At sundown, the paranormal presence increases as the ghosts of those who are still waiting for their train take over. Other terrifying destinations in Missouri to explore on your trip through the state: Vaile Mansion in Independence, Rivercene Mansion in New Franklin, Belvoir Winery in Liberty, STL Haunted History Ghost Tours in St. Louis, St. Charles Ghost Tours on Main Street in St. Charles

We love things that go bump in the night and give us a chill of fright!  That’s why we’re exploring even more fun haunted road trip destinations.  Today, we’re traveling to nearby  Michigan.  Why stop at exploring haunted sites like graveyards and theatres when you can book a stay with a surprise ghost as an extra guest?  We’ve got plenty of haunted hotels, inns, and resorts that are still open to the public today.  Check it out on today’s blog and see for yourself! more Doherty Hotel in Clare This 1924 redbrick hotel once housed the town’s library, a soda shop, and even a barber shop!  It was a notorious hangout for infamous gangsters of the 1920 and 1930s.  And, as is the case with so many unsavory personalities in one place, it became synonymous with illegal gambling and even murder.  Numerous visitors to the location have reported seeing the ghost of Isaiah Leebove, of the former Purple Gang, wandering the halls.  Other ghostly apparitions have been seen locking and unlocking doors, and knocking on doors and walls with no other possible explanation. Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo Often touted as one of the top ten haunted places in Michigan, you’ll find no shortage of spectral shenanigans here!  Step through its doors and you may be greeted by the castle’s original owners Frank and Mary Henderson.  Wander its halls and you may find Calre Burleigh, a Spanish-American War veteran who served alongside Hendersons’s son in battle.  Other apparitions include that of an unidentified little girl, and even a rogue dog!  You may find opening and closing doors, disembodied voices, figures at the top of the stairs, and other ghastly activities.  You’ll just have to come investigate for yourself! The Landmark Inn in Marquette If you’ve ever wanted to book a room in a haunted hotel, we think you’ll really get your jollies from a stay in the Lilac Room, one of the Inn’s most reportedly haunted rooms.  You may catch a glimpse of the Librarian who lost her one true love to a shipwreck at sea who peers out the window waiting for her betrothed’s impossible return.  Or perhaps you’ll find unexpected trinkets nestled in the sheets or blankets that weren’t there at check in, such as one guest who reportedly requested housekeeping remove screws from the sheets.  Even the front desk has experienced unexpected happenings such as phantom phone calls from the Lilac Room even without guests lodging! Spooky…. The Terrace Inn in Petoskey Michigan This historic inn offers 38 rooms to choose from, 1 restaurant on site, and at least 2 resident ghosts.  Book a stay at the Terrace Inn and you may encounter the Lady in White or the Man in Tweed.  Wander downstairs in this Victorian Era hotel and you may even bump into the Boy from the Basement!  Rumor has it, there may even be more aloof apparitions to be found if you keep your eyes open.  Ask the front desk and they will gladly share with you the book of Ghost-Tales from past guests and visitors! Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island…and more Mackinac Island is such a special place it’s known to be a paranormal activity hotbed, so many, in fact, that some speculate there may be more specters than residents at this point. Check out these videos from MattsRadShow on Youtube to learn more about a few of the haunted happenings on this iconic resort island: Masonic Temple in Detroit The Detroit Masonic Temple is the largest Masonic Temple in the world. This impressive and quite imposing piece of Gothic Architecture has more than 1,000 rooms as well as a cathedral, multiple chapels, 2 ballrooms, lodging facilities, a library, and even a 4,000 seat auditorium.  Visitors report seeing the specter of George Mason himself going up and down the stairs, but that may just be a Halloween Tale of Terror.  You’ll just have to see for yourself! Mary Mayo Hall in Lansing The oldest residence hall on campus is located on the West Circle are aof Michigan State University’s northern end.  It was built in 1931 and named after Mary Anne Mayo, a leading member of several organizations on campus, and a thoughtful leader with progressive views on womens’ education.  Though rumors swirl that her death was caused by murder, ill-will, or even self-inflicted injuries, she actaully passed away of illness in 1903off-campus.  Nevertheless, after years of campaigning for womens’ equal access and housing on campus, students report seeing her ghost wander the halls of the dorm. Other areas of note for ghost hunting in Michigan: South Manitou Island in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, H ell’s Bridge near Grand Rapids Rockford, Calumet Theater in Calumet, Felt Mansion in Saugatuck Holland, David Whitney House in Detroit, Fayette Ghost Town in Fayette, Holly Hotel in Holly, Fort Shelby Hotel in Detroit, Bowers Harbor Inn in Traverse City, Seul Choix Point Lighthouse in Gulliver, White River Light Station in Whitehall

With Halloween just around the corner, we thought it would be fun to explore some of the strange haunted happenings across the state.  What could be better than an autumnal road trip to chase down the ghosts of days gone by?  It’s a perfect way to spend the weekend or enjoy a late-night exploration. more We love exploring as much as the next, but be mindful, please.  Make sure to adhere to any posted signage as some areas may be off limits or be part of private property.  We recommend doing additional research to find out which sites offer tours or are open to the public and when.  We do not condone trespassing! Your Guide to Haunted Sites in Illinois The Englewood Post Office and H. H. Holmes True Crime aficionados will be fascinated to know that this modest post office branch sits on the site once home to serial killer H.H. Holmes and his infamous “Murder Castle” Postal workers at this location have reported hauntings throughout the building.  The basement area especially is noted to fill visitors and employees with an intense fear of dread, and it is advised any tasks in that room be quick and timely to avoid anxiety. The Chicago River and the SS Eastland In 1915 the SS Eastland passenger ship was docked along the Chicago River when it suddenly capsized.  Sadly, 844 people lost their lives in the incident.  Today, visitors to the area and patrons of local restaurants have reported looking out from the windows or down from the Clark Street Bridge and report seeing the ghostly faces or bodies of people in the water, reaching out for help. The Couch Tomb in Lincoln Park Chicago Lincoln Park sits on the former grounds of City Cemetery, with the Couch Tomb the only remaining tomb surviving the Great Fire of 1871. The tomb was sealed for decades, leaving many to speculate what may lie buried there.  In 1998, a team of workers and researchers opened the tomb and discovered around 80 bodies entombed within!  Visitors to the area often claim to see and hear strange apparitions and experience strange occurrences in Lincoln Park, but especially near this tomb. Resurrection Cemetery in Justice This is one of the largest cemeteries in North America, sprawling across nearly 540 acres with 152,000 graves and 5,300 crypts in the mausoleum.  Consecrated as a cemetery burial ground in 1904, it officially opened to the public in 1912.  This site is purported to be hte site of Chicago’s infamous “Resurrection Mary” who haunts these grounds, the surrounding highway, and the nearby Willowbrook Ballroom.  You may catch a glimpse of her dancing at the foot of the Resurrection of Christ monument next to the on site chapel.  Keep your eyes peeled for a lithe woman in a flowing white dress and blonde locks! McPike Mansion of Alton The McPike Mansion, sometimes referred to as Mount Lookout, is a historic and haunted property on the former 15-acre estate of Henry Guest McPike.  The 16 room mansion features a vaulted wine cellar in an Italianate-Victorian style.  In 1994, the home was purchased at auction by Sharyn and George Luedke, with plans to restore the mansion to its former glory!  Sharyn herself has reported ghostly sightings of servants and residents or guests of the mansion while removing items from the home, making repairs, and restoring the house.  She and George have also caught a whiff of lilac perfume wafting through the hallways of the third floor.  Some people claim the house was built on hallowed grounds, still others report the happenings only began after McPike and later owners’ passings.  Either way, this is a truly special site for otherworldly occurrences! The Woodstock Opera House in Woodstock This beautiful historic performing arts venue and opera house is the reported site of local spectral visitor, Elvira.  Elvira’s tale is a sad one, with big dreams of making it big on the stage and landing the lead in an upcoming ballet perfor. Unfortunately, she was passed over for the part which was handed to another girl in the company.  In her grief of shattered dreams,, she leaped from the Opera House’s highest tower, and fell to her death on the streets below.  Visitors have reported sights of a forlorn young woman with long, golden hair wandering the halls and aisles.  Some have even caught a glimpse of her in seat 113, and those who sit near it report the seat lowering on its own and sad sighs in the air.  Additional reports include props falling down with no one nearby, and even things disappearing from the stage and backstage areas.  Book at ticket and see for yourself! Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet The Rialto Square Theatre opened its doors in 1926, and a parade of spirited guests have wandered in and out of its halls and auditorium over the years. That’s right, it’s haunted!  We won’t spoil the backstory here.  Why? Because this vaudeville venue and movie theatre turned performing arts center offers Paranormal Tours of the theatre where you can spend two hour learning about the lost souls of the Rialto!  Come see a show and book a tour.  You can bring your friends and your family along for the fun and may even have some unexpected guests join your party. Other notable places with real spirit include: Haunted Abingdon Middle School in Abingdon, The Old Milton School in Alton, Robinson Woods in Chicago, Haunted Tours at the Museum of Science and Industry German U-505 Submarine, The Haunted Glessner House Museum, The Haunted Red Lion Pub in Chicago, Greenwood Cemetery in Decatur, Ridge Cemetery in Williamsburg, Aux Sable Cemetery in Alton

This week is prime leaf-peeping season and we’re here with an updated fall foliage report and some great places to check out across the state for prime autumnal activities.  In Northern Illinois near the Wisconsin border, fall foliage is beginning to make an appearance and will reach its peak by the 24th/25th.  In the Chicago area a little further south, peak fall-foliage viewing will arrive beginning the 24th of October and last through Halloween on the 31st. more We’ve already shared some great places in Illinois to take fall photos on our “Celebrating the Autumnal Equinox with Great Places in Illinois and Wisconsin to See Fall Foliage and Take Wonderful Family Portraits” blog article, but here are some other fantastic fall photo-op suggestions for families to enjoy in Wisconsin. Check out this fall foliage report of Wisconsin to figure out the best places to visit each location on our list for maximum Autumnal Enjoyment! Let’s plan a mini getaway and take some scenic drives across Wisconsin in search of some lush fall scenery: Marinette County’s Waterfall Tour - This 125 mile scenic loop drive takes you through 15 waterfalls and cascades in the area.  You’ll have ample opportunity to stop off in county parks to stretch your legs and take a scenic hike, walk your furry pals, and take plenty of photos of your family and friends.  The trail includes places such as Veteran’s Falls, Strong Falls, T welve Foot Falls Park, and many more gorgeous vista points. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive - This 115 mile trip will take you through a stunning array of woodlands with ultra gorgeous views of the changing oak, maple, and aspen trees as you wind your way through the Kettle Moraine State Forest. You’ll cover ground across 6 different counties in Wisconsin, and have lots of waterfront to explore from ponds, lakes, and rivers as well as sweeping views of the hills and valleys.  Take a day to experience some rowing, fishing, and hiking trails in the area. Hilltop Color Tour of Central Wisconsin - Taking you through Wausau and Ogema and Neillsville, this central Wisconsin drive will take you to peak seasonal adventures!  Your best views will be from the 60 foot observation tower in Rib Mountain State Park, the observation tower in Timm’s Hill, and The Highground memorial nearby to Neillsville.  Each of these stop-offs will afford you some outstanding views of autumnal scenery, and are great destinations for family outings, and plenty of nature photography opportunities and great family photo backdrops. Black River State Forest and Black River Falls - With nearly 68,000 acres across West Central Wisconsin, you’ll find yourself lost in the beauty of nature in the pine and oak forests and glacial beds with vista points from the sandstone hills, 30 foot bluffs, and millions-of-years-old buttes.  You’ll also find unparalleled views of the Black River Falls Cranberry Bogs which are incredible just before the seasonal harvest time.  And be sure to make your way through the Dike 17 Wildlife Area where you’ll have an exciting opportunity for some serious bird watching as waterfowl and other species migrate and settle in the area.  Families can enjoy hiking, offroading on ATVs, and plenty of mountain biking trails. And last but not least we recommend a wonderful trip to Door County and all that the area has to offer! Set along the edge of Lake Michigan, you’ll fall in love with the nearby state parks of Potawatomi, Peninsula, Newport, and Whitefish Dunes as well as the scenic Washington Island.  It’s one of the region’s top attractions for fall travel, and you won’t want to miss out! Here are some fun videos to inspire your travel plans:

Today is National Farmers’ Day.  Without the efforts of these hardworking farming professionals, we would not have access to so many resources or such abundant food sources.  Farming is an absolutely essential part of the American economy.  In fact, agricultural and food industries support more than 20 million jobs nationwide and account for nearly 10% of all US Employment (USDA.)  It’s vital that we continue to do our part to support family owned farms and agricultural businesses.  Family farms also make up about 99% of the 2million plus farms over more than 895 million acres across the country, according to USDA. more Small-scale farming, as opposed to industrial agriculture, also has a beneficial impact on the biodiversity of our environment.  A variety of farming methods and crops/livestock can lead to better soil, healthier and more vigorous crops, healthy pollinators, promotion of a healthy lifecycle in the local environment, less land erosion, efficient water conservation and better quality of life overall.  Let’s all do our part to support efforts for a greener tomorrow and increase access to affordable foods through agricultural support. Check out our list of fun farming facts about Illinois, and then call your friends and family and invite them out to a day on the farm for an up-close-and-personal experience with agriculture and local businesses! Fun Facts About Farming in Illinois Impress your friends and family on the road trip to your favorite apple picking or pumpkin picking farm and entertain them on the drive with these great fun facts. There are more than 75,000 farms in Illinois! Nearly 75% of the land in Illinois is farmland, covering close to 27 million acres Illinois has very versatile soil with 1,500 different types which can accommodate a wide variety of crops, and thanks to minerals deposited by glaciers and abundant prairie growth, Illinois has some of the world’s most fertile topsoil Farm operators account for around ~75,000 out of the 1,000,000 people employed by the food and fiber industry across Illinois More than 90% of Illinois farms are still family owned and operated businesses Iroquois County in Illinois has the most farms in the state with a total of 1,516 farms Illinois is one of the top leading producers of soybean, corn, and swine In 2022, the average value of farmland real estate was $8,900 per acre, up more than 12% from 2021 The average size for a farm in Illinois is about 375 acres Best Nearby U-Pick Farms and Orchards (in Alphabetical order!) Get down and dirty at these U-Pick farms and orchards which offer berry picking, flower picking, apple picking, pumpkin picking and much more!  Grab your locally grown produce and ready-made meals at their farm stands so you can enjoy a fresh made family meal to end your fun day outside! Abbey Farms in Aurora, IL All Seasons Orchard in Woodstock, IL Apple Holler in Sturtevant, WI Berryville Farm in Racine, WI Creuziger’s Land of the Giants Pumpkin Farm in Sturtevant, WI Didier Farms in Prairie View, IL Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center in South Barrington, IL Hafs Road Orchard in Genoa City, WI Heinz Orchard in Green Oaks, IL Homestead Orchard in Woodstock, IL Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park, IL Prairie Sky Orchard in Union, IL Richardson Farms in Spring Grove, IL Royal Oak Farm Orchard in Harvard, IL Rustic Road Farm in Elburn, IL Stade's Farm and Market in McHenry, IL The Farm at Westmont, IL Thompson’s Strawberry Farm in Bristol, WI

Just like your car requires gasoline or electrical charging to go, go go, so do humans!  Many of us get a little extra pep in our step thanks to our bff, coffee.  Since today is National Coffee day, we’re celebrating with some fun facts about nature’s magical bean brew, and we’ve gathered up some suggestions for best coffeeshops in our area and across Illinois. Check it out! more Five Fun Facts about Coffee: Did you know that Americans drink about 400 million cups of coffee every day? That’s right, and in a year’s time we consume about 146 billion cups of coffee here in the US. In 2022, Finland is leading the charge as the world’s biggest consumer of coffee per capita, drinking an average of 4 cups a day!  In fact, the country even legally mandates  that workers be allowed two 10-minute breaks for coffee on shift. The United States has the largest coffee market globally, reaching more than 80 billion USD in revenue; second in line is Brazil, followed by Japan and then Canada. The Number 1 coffee brand in the world is Starbucks. The company reported annual revenue of $23.52 billion, and has over 33,000 stores in 80 countries. There is even a Starbucks on site at the CIA headquarters (where they don’t allow any names on cups, for obvious reasons.) The average 12oz cup of coffee contains somewhere between 90 to 150 beans per cup. Where to get the best brews in Illinois (in alphabetical order, because we aren’t playing favorites; we love them all!): AREA Coffee in Mundelein Bean Counter in Springfield Brewpoint Coffee in Elmhurst Common Grounds Coffee in Carbondale Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters in Libertyville Custom Cup Coffee in Springfield Daisy’s Artish Cafe in Lake Villa Dark Matter Coffee in Chicago Flipside Coffee and Espresso Bar in Rock Falls Gaslight Coffee Roasters in Chicago He Brews coffee shop in Jonesboro Honey Hill Coffee Shop in Wauconda Little Bean Coffee Company in Antioch Mad Goat Coffee in Danville Maeva’s Coffee in Alton Metric Coffee in Chicago Milkcow Cafe in Vernon Hills Oromo Cafe in Chicago Pilot Pete’s Coffee in Elmhurst Prairie Espresso + Wine Bar in Lake Bluff Sawada Coffee Co in Chicago Something's Brewing Downtown in Grayslake Stompin Grounds Cafe in Lake Zurich Strange Brew Cafe in Palos Hills The Wormhole Coffee in Chicago Thirty Thirty Coffee in Peoria Three Twigs Bakery in Springfield

There’s something about that crisp, autumnal air in September and October that really inspires us to get outside and enjoy nature.  Whether you’re taking a trek into the wilderness on foot, or you’re taking a road trip in your new car from Classic Auto Group, there’s no shortage of gorgeous National and State Parks to explore across the country. Today we’re highlighting our picks for great National Sites and Parks in the Northern Midwest and Northeastern US, as well as beautiful state parks of Illinois.  So get your hiking boots and camping gear ready, because you’re not going to want to miss these gorgeous preserved wilderness areas! Let’s learn about National Parks together! more What is a National Park? National Parks are protected lands managed by the United States of America’s federal government agencies.  These are large areas of land with wide open spaces waterfalls, natural vistas, trails, and recreational resources and etcetera, all made available to the national public.   Nearly 80,000 acres of wilderness are protected through the National Parks System so that the American People may experience the great outdoors and our heritage.  Many of them also serve as wildlife preservation areas for reintroduction, rehabilitation, and reintegration of endangered species.  As of August 18th in 1970, the National Park System was defined as “any area of land or water now and hereafter administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.” How Many National Parks are there in the United States? At the time of publication, there are 423 national park sites across the US with parks located in almost every state and US territories (including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam.) Retro style travel poster design for the United States. Scenic image of mountains and pine trees at sunset. Limited colors, no gradients. Vector illustration. What are some National Parks, National Monuments, and National Sites to visit in the Northeastern/Northern Midwest United States? Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire MI is located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the shore of Lake Michigan. The 71,000 acres of pristine protected lands includes North and South Manitou Islands; it’s also known for its incredible, scalable dunes of “The Dune Climb” and “Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail” which winds through the forests. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield, WI encompasses 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland coastal protected areas.  In addition to the incredible bluffs on the shores of Lake Superior, it’s also home to the largest collection of historic lighthouses in the nation! Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Rhinelander WI spans a jaw dropping 1.5 million acres of unspoiled wilderness across Wisconsin’s Northwoods.  You’ll find no shortage of outdoorsy activities such as canoeing, hiking, cycling, paddling, cross-country skiing, camping, fishing, and more. Shawnee National Forest in Herod IL encompasses 289,000 stunning acres of parkland located in Southern Illinois and nestled between both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.  Visitors will find breathtaking scenic views from the top of great canyons and sandstone cliffs, and stunning crystal clear waters and rocky streams. The many lakes, ponds, waterfalls, rivers, and streams of the area are perfect for fishing and swimming, and the sprawling prairies and woodland trails are perfect for hiking, cycling, trail running and more. Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in Thomson IL is the longest, contiguous river refuge in the continental US at 261 miles in length!  The refuge includes protected wetlands, islands, marshes, and floodplain forests, many of which are accessible only by boat. Some portions of the refuge are open to seasonal hunting, trapping, and fishing but they do have very restrictive regulations. Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio sits along the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron.  The parklands contain several waterfalls, including the gorgeous Brandywine Falls!  You can find ample opportunities for hiking, or perhaps catch a ride through the park on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad which runs through it.  It also includes The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail from the Erie Canal’s original path, and explores the history of the 19th century waterway at the official Canal Exploration Center. Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter IN has 15 miles of gorgeous shoreline along the southern banks of Lake Michigan. The park is home to some of the highest dunes towering over the lake at nearly 200 feet high with impressive views and landscapes of the area!  It’s also an incredible destination for birdwatching, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature photography! Other great National Parks to explore on your next road trip: Gateway Arch National Park in St Louis MO Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Republic MO Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry IA Voyageurs National Park in International Falls MN Gateway National Recreation Area Sandy Hook Unit in Highlands NJ Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill PA Minute Man Historical National Park in Lincoln MA Fire Island National Seashore in Ocean Beach NY Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater NY Acadia National Park in Maine Amazing State Parks in Northern Illinois Rock Cut State Park in Caledonia Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry Matthiessen State Park in Oglseby Ferne Clyffe State Park in Goreville White Pines Forest State Park in Mt Morris Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna Lowden State Park in Oregon IL Apple River Canyon STate Park in Apple River Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park in Lena Kankakee River State Park in Bourbonnais Staved Rock State Park in Oglesby Buffalo Rock State Park in Ottawa IL Cave-In-Rock State Park in Cave-In-Rock Illini State Park in Marseilles Chain O’ Lakes State Park in Spring Grove Glacial Park Conservation Area

It’s no secret that we here at Classic love to get involved in our community and meet new people!  That’s why for World Tourism Day, we’re sharing some of the wonderful places newcomers and visitors can explore when visiting our area. We want you to get to know our towns and cities as well as we do, and enjoy all of the things that make it so great to live here!  Let’s show the world all of the incredible things that the Lake County Illinois and surrounding area have to offer. Feel free to chime in with your picks in the comments on our social media, too. We’d love your input and feedback! more Genesee Theatre in Waukegan hosts year round events, concerts, shows, and live music.  It’s one of the best venues in town! Waukegan Municipal Beach is a 400-acre lakefront with a mile-long stretch of beach. It’s open 6AM to 9PM all 7 days a week, and s free to the public on a daily basis from Labor Day to Memorial Day, making it a great budget friendly option to visit in the off-season and enjoy some time in nature. ZumBier Bier Halle in Waukegan is a great way to spend a few hours and support a local small business!  Schedule a tour, visit the taproom, or take advantage of their wide array of products for sale or buy and fill a growler to take home and share with friends. Waukegan Harbor Lighthouse is located at the end of “Government Pier” on Lake Michigan. It’s a great destination for photographers and tourists! Lyons Wood Forest Preserve is a gorgeous 272 acre park with prairie and forest areas that’s just perfect for hiking, cycling, trail running, and wildlife viewing. Three Brothers Theatre is a local non-profit independent venue that offers an intimate theatre going experience.  It thrives on diverse and inclusive programming that’s “brash, brave, and bare”, producing shows that are driven by the artist and creator, providing audiences with a truly unforgettable experience! The Anderson Japanese Gardens are 12-acres of meticulously manicured Japanese garden grounds in Rockford Illinois featuring peaceful Koi Ponds, winding paths and scenic bridges, trickling streams, cascading waterfalls, and award winning botanicals. The Kenosha North Pier Lighthouse in nearby Kenosha, WI is not just a gorgeous coastal lighthouse open for tours, but it is also home to the Kenosha Lighthouse Studio, an incredible community of artists and art enthusiasts. Geneva Lake Museum in Lake Geneva, WI is a one-of-a-kind local history museum filled with an indoor replica of a historic town, local relics, and interactive exhibits inside a historic waterworks building!  It’s a great destination for tourists to spend the day and learn a little about the local area! Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha, WI is an absolute must-visit on your list for kids and the kid-at-heart!  It’s a unique science museum exploring not just the history of carnivorous dinosaurs and their biology, but also their connection to modern birds and raptors.  It’s a small but truly fascinating location with impressive dinosaur skeletons and educational displays. Where are some of your favorite local and regional destinations to visit? What would you recommend tourists put on their must-see list? Let us know in the comments and we may feature them in future updates!