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Happy Autumnal Equinox!  Everyone here at Classic Auto Group is so excited for Leaf Peeping Season to begin.  That’s why we’re celebrating with an amazing list of places you can scope out top notch fall foliage across Illinois and Wisconsin, and great autumnal locations for family portraits. more Bowen Park in Waukegan is a 60 acre park once home to John Charles Haines from 1857-1896, and is now a family friendly recreational area with picnic grounds, hiking trails, a playground, and beautiful gardens.  If you’re looking to take some family portraits in the local area, this is a great place to visit! Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods IL is a beautiful 552 Acre preserve with 6.5 miles of scenic hiking trails which wind through the forest and over to the Des Plaines River.  Its protected woodlands are home to multiple endangered species of wildlife and plants.  Trees in the area include sugar maples, oaks, and hickories which will make a lush backdrop for fall foliage photos! Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe spans 385 acres with 27 gardens to explore.  When autumn rolls around, the trees will display a dazzling array of fiery colors and the autumnal shrubs and flowers will also put on a fabulous display. The University of St. Mary on the Lake in Mundelein has a beautiful lake surrounded by natural wonders, bridges, and monuments.  It’s a truly stunning sight to see when the fall foliage makes its appearance and its lake reflection twinkles in the light of golden hour.  It’s a wonderful backdrop for couples photos and family portraits. Chain O’ Lakes State Park in Albion has breathtaking views of the autumnal leaves!  Whether you choose to sit back and relax at the lakeside, or wish to explore the 10 miles of hiking trails there’s no shortage of picturesque scenery here! Lake County Forest Preserves have family friendly facilities for humans and their furry companions alike!  Take the whole family including your pets out to the forest preserve for some fall foliage family photos (try saying that one three times fast.)  Visit Fort Sheridan in Highland Park,Hastings Lake in Lake Villa, Independence Grove in Libertyville, Millennium Trail in Volo, Old School in Libertyville. Looking for more great trails and areas to explore in Lake County? Check out this great list for more options. Heinz Apple Orchard in Green Oaks is of course a classic destination for fall foliage watching and autumnal celebrations. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy some U-Pick Orchard family fun time with some cozy sweaters, fall flannels, and take some coordinated family portraits for memory making! Heller Nature Center in Highland Park is a 97 acre park and Oak-Hickory forest, which is also home to Autumn Fest on September 23rd from 4PM to 7PM.  Bring the whole family out to enjoy some nature hikes, or stop in for a guided lesson with local experts! Didier Farms in Lincolnshire is prime autumn joy for families and visitors of all ages!  The farm has a rotating series of events and gatherings all season long through Halloween!  From hayrides to corn mazes and pumpkin picking to harvest festivals, it’s an iconic part of local traditions each Fall, for more than 100 years! Big Foot Beach State Park in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is an incredible 271 acre state park known for hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing.  There is a family friendly campground for those who wish to immerse themselves in the autumnal wonders of the forest and lake.  Explore the 5 miles of hiking trails and scenic views and snap some great autumnal photos. Seven Bridges Trail at Grant Park in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin is unparalleled excellence in autumnal scenery.  This 2 mile nature trail is the main attraction in Grant Park, one of the oldest parks in Milwaukee County.  You’ll be lost in the beauty of Mother Nature from the forest out to the beach!  It’s very family friendly. Holy Hill in Hubertus, Wisconsin is an outstanding place to experience the full effect of autumnal foliage.  High atop the hill at the Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Holy Hill provides a birdseye view for striking sightlines of the fiery landscape below. Did we leave your favourite leaf peeping spot off our list? Let us know your favourite places to see the leaves in the comments below and we may feature it in a future update.

It’s National Tailgating Day!  Whether you’re at the stadium or arena for a big pro ball game, or you’re hanging out with fellow parents at your kiddos’ local tournament, there’s never a bad time for a tailgate party. Get ready for the upcoming sports season with these fun car gadgets and travel worthy barbecue gear. more Great Gadgets for Tailgating at Home or Away with Friends Even if you opted out of season tickets this year, we’re bringing you plenty of ways to party with your friends and social bubble and recreate the game-day experience.  Gather your friends in your driveway, the cul-de-sac, or a local parking lot for some good ol’ fashioned tailgating with modern convenience. Camp X Chairs from REI Co-Op (currently on sale for 50% off at time of posting!) have a max capacity of 300lbs, making them very size inclusive.  They have integrated cup holders to keep your drinks from spills, a convenient pocket for your cell phone, and easy to clean mesh and polyester fabric. They’re light weight and packs up into its own carry bag. You’ll want to have at least a set of four on hand at all times! The Eureka Camp Table at REI (currently on sale under $100!) folds flat, stows easily, and pops up in no time! It can hold quite a lot of equipment and food at a 90lb capacity total, making it very convenient for tailgating and serving meals!  As an added bonus it comes with its very own carry bag for portability. We love it when gadgets are not just useful but also conveniently practical! This combination storage cooler and ottoman is the best of both worlds! Stuff it to the gills with your favorite drinks, meats, fruit, and other goodies. Empty it out, fire up the grill, and when you’re done you can pack it up flat to stow and go!  Great for all-year round use anywhere. Available at Overstock in multiple colorways. Looking for a portable and affordable grilling option?  Take your show on the road with this 13” barrel charcoal grill for less than $50 (and at the time of posting, it’s on a closeout deal!)  Easy maneuverability and ample space to do kebabs, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Available here at Wayfair. Even though Autumn usually ushers in the cooler weather, it’s still important to remember protection from the sun! The SUV Tailgate Canopy Tent attaches easily to the rear hatch and allows your guests to enjoy some shade. It’s also great for those misty, foggy days for a little protection from the elements so you can enjoy your games no matter the weather! Flexible set up for SUVs, Crossovers, Mini Wagons, or Pickup trucks with a cap. Available here at Sharper Image. Great Tailgating Recipes and Cooking Gear Every good tailgating grill master will want to have the following on hand at all times to ensure their toolbox has all the essentials for an outdoor ‘cue or picnic: High heat silicone tongs 1 high heat silicone spatula Large metal serving spoons Metal serving bowls set Grilling tools set Industrial trash bags Camping plates and cups set or disposable plastic/paper 100% Compostable Utensils Set Aluminum Foil, Plastic Wrap, Ziplock Bags A Lighter and/or long matches Charcoal or Butane fuel Tired of the same ol’ same ol’ grilled meats and bottled beverages? Spice things up with these new recipes and impress your guests. Easy BBQ Brats Must-Try No-Cook Tailgating Recipes by Mighty Mrs 11 Best Tailgate Grill Recipes Pullapart Dogs in a Blanket Ring Mary Alice’s Hoagie Dip Butterscotch Peanut Butter Bars Mini Sliders Grilled Beer Punch Venezuelan Empanadas Devon’s Award-Winning Chili Spiked Lemonade

We’re very excited to announce that today is National Skyscraper Day, and being as we live near one of the greatest cities in the US, we’re celebrating Chicago Architecture!  The world’s first skyscraper, The “Manhattan Building, was built in Chicago in 1888-1891 as designed by William Le Baron Jenney.  Although The Manhattan Building was but a mere 138 feet tall, it originally towered well above the rest of the city’s surrounding buildings. more The Rookery Building is a historic office building completed by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root in 1888, with help from Frank Lloyd Wright and William Eugene Drummond, and is one of their most iconic buildings and at the time of erection was one of the tallest buildings in the world at 11 stories high!  Once the home of their architectural firm Burnham and Root, it’s now a functional office building for multiple Chicago businesses and organizations.  Tourists are welcome to go into the lobby to observe its gorgeous architecture. Chicago Cultural Center building opened its doors in 1897 as the city’s first public library and Civil War Memorial, and was designated a Chicago Landmark historic building in 1976.  This Neoclassical style building.  It’s currently operated by Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and remains the official reception venue for all diplomatic meetings of the Mayor of Chicago and their esteemed guests.  Currently, it houses art exhibits, free programs and community events, and remains open to architectural tours. The Wrigley Building is located in the city’s Magnificent Mile, right across from the Tribune Tower.  Construction began in 1920 by architects Graham, Anderson, Probst, & White, and was completed a year later in 1921 in the impressive Spanish Colonial Architectural style, inspired in part by the Giralda Tower of the Cathedral in Seville, Spain  It soars high above the city with an impressive clocktower, and 6 stunning shades of white that increase in brightness as the building rises.  The facade is illuminated each evening and through the night to provide a glimmering beacon for the city.  It was officially entered as a Chicago Landmark in 2012. Tribune Tower was originally built in 1868 and destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, and and rebuilt over the course of two years from 1923-1925 in the Neo-Gothic/Gothic Revival style; In 1922, the Chicago Tribune held a global competition for design firms to submit their best design for the press’ new headquarters, and with more than 250 entries from more than 20 countries, the powers that be selected a design by Raymond Hood, John Mead Howells, John Vinci, and Edward J. Burling.   It was sold off in 2016 by Tribune Media to a group of developers, and is currently repurposed as luxury housing. Other Buildings of note include: TheMART (formerly Merchandise Mart), Marina City, Willis Tower (formerly The Sears Tower), Aqua Tower, St. Jane, Auditorium Building, NBC Tower. Want to tour the city’s architecture, but not break the bank with a paid tour? Check out this great Free Tours by Foot video on YouTube: Learn more about Chicago’s First Skyscrapers from the Chicago Architecture Center:

We’re back with the latest edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  Whether you’re looking to occupy your Labor Day Weekend with fun-filled activities, or you’re planning ahead for weekend breaks from Back to School wackiness, we’ve got you covered! more On September 1st at Hinkston Park, stop by with your special someone for “Pop-Up Picnic in the Park Couples Date Night. On September 1st, 2nd and 3rd, enjoy a Guided Museum Tour of the African American Museum at England Manor at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM! On September 2nd, enjoy First Friday on Mainstreet in Libertyville from 10AM to 9PM for an entire day filled with community bonding, art, shopping, food, live music, and so much more! On September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th the Downtown area of Highwood is transforming into Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row for its 5th Annual Nashwood Music Festival! It’s three whole days of FREE live music with country, bluegrass, southern rock flare.  There will also be plenty of delicious food and drink specials throughout the weekend, and 25 different venues including 10 outdoor spaces! On September 3rd shop your heart out at the Back to School Pop-Up at 12912 Cheyenne Road in Waukegan and check out the plentiful wares of local vendors and artisans! On September 3rd in the evening from 6PM to 8PM, head over to the Plant House in Waukegan for an evening of Therapeutic Art Making and experiential art making!  You’ll get to socialize, try new materials and mediums, and take a creative approach to self expression for your mental health. On Saturday September 3rd,  head over to the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce office from 5PM to 11PM for Wauconda’s 23rd Annual Street Dance event! On September 4th at the Belvidere Discount Mall, the gearheads among us will get their engines revving for the Cars & Elotes Labor Day Celebration event! September 4th at Art Pop in Lake Forest you can stop by anytime between 10AM and 5PM for “The Inside Art Show at Art Pop” September 3rd through 5th is the last weekend for the Bristol Renaissance Faire of Lake County IL. September 8th in Lake Zurich, stop by in the evening around 5PM to the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for a super exciting “Cruisin’ Lake Zurich Car Show” event! September 10th from 9AM to 1PM enjoy a morning filled with fun classic cars at t he Grayslake Rotary and Fop Car Show Cruisin’ on Center at Downtown Grayslake Center Street. September 10th and 11th is the very exciting 11th Annual Mundelein Arts Festival, from 10AM to 5PM you can enjoy arts, music, food, shopping, and much more! Free admission and free parking. Sunday September 11th at the Impact Fuel Room is a wild and joyful “Drag Me to Brunch” event in Libertyville! Fun, food, and entertainment! On September 15th, 22nd, 24th, 29th starting at 5PM, head over to Waukegan BMX to catch the Local Race Single as part of the local race series for just $15. On September 17th in Lake Forest at the Gordon Community Center from 5PM to 7:30PM come on out for the Annual Block Party 2022! On September 21st at Green Town on The Rocks, come catch some wonderful live music from 6PM to 9PM at the lakefront with Billy Garner. September 24th at Cuneo Mansion & Gardens is a wonderful support charity event “Bottoms Up for Babies” with live music and a live speaker event starting at 6:30! Come on down to the Waukegan Public Library’s NonFiction Book Club on September 28th from 5PM to 7:30PM and learn a little something new! On September 30th from 6PM to 9PM at Dandelion Gallery & Studio, come over and paint with Artist Cody Madura for an “Adult Paint Social: Autumn Inspired” class! September 30th at the Genesee Theatre from 6:30 to 7:30PM, get a jump start on the season of scary with a Ghost Wauk Tour!

Today we're covering some of the most interesting and exciting places to visit in nearby Fort Wayne, Indiana!  Did you know that in just a few short hours you can explore a whole new state and see gorgeous artwork, explore historical sites, take in natural wonders, and enjoy a night out on the town?  If you're looking for an affordable road trip to take with family and friends, Fort Wayne has so much to offer.  Check out our latest Travel Guide and find some new destinations to visit and make lasting memories with your loved ones! more Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo first opened its doors in 1965, and this impressive 40 acre facility is now home to 1,400 animals.  It’s a wonderful way to spend some time outdoors, learning new facts about animals, meeting critters up close and personal, and enjoying some quality family bonding for all ages.  It’s budget friendly as well, with tickets under $20 (babies are free!) Science Central is a regional museum dedicated to inspiring young minds to explore the sciences and STEAM activities with hands-on learning!  Tickets are affordably priced between $10-$12, with kids 2 and under free.  Where else could you check out mastodon bones, walk on the moon, and perform science experiments live?  There’s also lots of great physical activities including a two-story slide!  Perfect place to bring your high-energy kids to get the wiggles out. The Genealogy Center and Lincoln Collection is a unique experience for those who love a more scholarly destination.  Enjoy a tour of the facility with a knowledgeable guide for personal exploration or research purposes.  Ask the Genealogy Librarians questions about researching your family tree, or schedule a personal consultation for a 30 minute in-depth one-to-one meeting. Debrand Fine Chocolate is a super sweet way to have some fun and a delicious reward at the end!  This artisanal chocolatier offers guided tours to visitors of all ages where you’ll watch a short informational film, sample some of the finest confections, get a behind the scenes look at operations, and then exit through the most delicious gift shop there is! Sweetwater Music Store is the largest purveyor of instruments and music gear in the United. States.  Want to try your hand at “Stairway” on a spectacular electric guitar? No one will stop you from rocking out, here!  Open 7 days a week, this incredible musical supercenter is a musicians dream. The Embassy Theatre was built in 1928 as a movie theatre, but was later converted into a music hall and performance center. It’s now the official home of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra.  Stop by and book tickets for an upcoming show and enjoy some stand-up comedy, musical theatre, live concert, and so much more. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is a wondrous place to behold! This enclosed nature conservatory is located in downtown Fort Worth and is a lush, tropical paradise filled with bold blossoms, waving palms, and a cascading waterfall.  With three indoor gardens covering 24,500 square feet, you’ll have plenty of exciting things to see.  There’s also a whimsical goldfish pond that’s sure to delight curious minds! The Fun Farm is a one-of-a-kind memorable experience with 100 square feet of space to explore in each unique playhouse!  Rent an individual play house for your family and friends and spend the day laughing, making memories, and enjoying all sorts of cheerful entertainment.  You can opt in to balloon art, face painting, caricature drawing, and even visits from costumed pals! Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in nearby Auburn is a must see for automotive fans!  Dedicated to preservation of Auburn Automobiles, Cord Automobiles, and Duesenberg Motors Company.  With a combination of both rotating and permanent exhibits, there’s always something new and exciting to see when you visit.  Whether you’re enjoying car themed artworks, exploring vintage vehicles, or learning about automotive engineering, we’re sure it’ll be a hit on your vacation. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art’s focus is collecting, preserving, and exploring decades of history in American Art, and encouraging the public to engage in these unique perspectives. With both permanent and rotating traveling exhibits, visitors can observe and appreciate artwork from the 19th century through today. Escape Rooms in the Fort Wayne area include “Fort Wayne Escape Room”, “ Escapology”, “LockedUpLife” and “Hysterium Escapes” with themes and difficulties of numerous levels tailored to your party’s age group.  A great exercise for teamwork and camaraderie as you work to solve a puzzle, solve codes, and explore mysteries all before the clock runs out! Artlink Contemporary Art Gallery is a regional non-profit organization that supports the creative arts through exhibitions, workshops, classes, and events!  The gallery provides free admission for all to enjoy the work of local Indiana state artists. Lindenwood Nature Preserv e is an outstanding 100 acre wooded preserve with a gorgeous open-air pavilion, 4 different hiking trails to explore, picnic facilities, and a sparkling lake. Lakeside Park and Rose Garden is a stunning facility with 2,000 rose plants,a fish pond, and 25.8 acres of space for enjoying recreational activities such as trail walks, tennis, basketball, fishing, skating, picnics, and more.  It has been open since 1908 and named a National Rose Garden in 1928.  It’s a wonderful place to rest, relax, and even enjoy a little romance! Bread and Circus Gallery is committed to highlighting community connection to art through artist residencies, local and regional art exhibitions, and international and national artist mentorships.  It’s the place to be if you want to have your finger on the pulse of emerging and newly established artists on the rise. Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum is located in a former engine house, and showcases artifacts, gear, memorabilia, and even fire trucks from days gone by!  It’s going to delight and impress even the youngest in your midst, especially the fire truck enthusiasts. You’ll have a chance to take a journey back in time through two floors of exhibits, and can even opt into a special workshop to get some safety training of your own! Hanson Quarry Observation Deck is an impressive and thrilling viewing deck above a 1,000-foot-deep hole in the ground known as “Indiana’s Grand Canyon.  You don’t have to be a geological expert to enjoy the magnificent sight of this limestone quarry!  It’s a gorgeous photo op for the whole family to enjoy. Have you got a favourite place to visit in Fort Wayne, Indiana that we’ve left off this list? Let us know in the comments on our social media and we may include it in a future road trip guide! Walking Downtown Fort Wayne Indiana Things to Do in Fort Wayne Indiana

Welcome to another Summer Edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  We’ve done our best to round up some super fun events and family friendly fare.  You’ll find something for everyone in your social circle to come together and enjoy in our last full month of summer. So what are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present to appreciate the little moments with your loved ones. more On August 3rd at te Bonnie Brook Golf Course Clubhouse enjoy some live music and fantastic food for just $10 a meal at the “Chillin & Grillin Event with Matt Meyer” from 5PM to 8PM. On August 4th at Waukegan Municipal Beach from 7AM to 10AM stop by and enjoy the local Bird Walk event and learn more about local wildlife. Shorebird migration is abundant in early August, and there’s lots to varieties of our fine featured friends to observe. On August 5th at BMX Waukegan, all ages and skill levels of enthusiasts are invited to join in the fun for a BMX clinic hosted by 2x Olympian Nic Long. Registration in advance is required. August 5th starting at 5:30 is Afro-Caribbean Night at Stretch’s Sports Bar and Grill!  The kitche n will be serving up delicious jerk chicken, curries, oxtail with red beans and rice, cabbage, and mac and cheese. At 9PM you can catch some hot tracks with DJ Rickybobby Moore and DJ Hypnosis. Start your day with some calm on August 6th with Yoga at the Beach with Marlene at the Stiner Pavillion sponsored by Waukegan Park District! Bring your own mat and yoga blocks and of course, some chill vibes. The session is open to all levels of practice! Catch the last free Waukegan Band concert of the season on August 9th at 9PM at the Stiner Pavillion sponsored by Waukegan Park District.  Bring a chair, blanket, your favourite eats and your best pals and enjoy an evening of beautiful music from “Prismatic Spectrum: The People’s Choice.” On August 10th you can enjoy a workshop on buying and selling homes from the comfort of your current one! Join the Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim from 11AM to 12PM for “Fiscally Fit: Get Moving: A 60 minute Home Buying Workout” that’s tailored to buyers and sellers alike.  Learn more about the process and have your questions answered in this virtual meetup. August 13th is a great day to head over to the Kids’ Fair 2022 from 9:30AM at the Foglia YMCA of Lake Zurich for some great family fun. On August 15th beginning at 11AM over at Briarwood Country Club you can enjoy a beautiful day of golfing and fundraising for the 20th Annual Golf Outing for A Safe Place, to benefit domestic violence outreach and support in Chicago/Chicagoland area. On August 17th head over to Bevier Park for the “GO Waukegan Glow Walk” and enjoy an hour long community wide event from 7PM to 8PM, weather permitting. Head over to Bown Park on August 20th between 12PM and 4PM to celebrate literary great Ray Bradbury’s birthday with the 2022 Ray Bradbury Dandelion Wine Arts and Music Festival on Saturday! On August 26th the Waukegan Public Library is hosting another wonderful Summer Courtyard Series performance with artist John Nepper Bone Appetit from 12PM to 1PM with free admission! On August 27th head over to Maplewood Park in Deerfield for FAmily Field Day with your loved ones from 10AM to 12PM. Got an event coming up that you think our readers would enjoy? Let us know in a comment on our social media and we may included it in a future update for the following months!

What better way to celebrate National Wine and Cheese Day than a post highlighting our neighbors to the North: Wisconsin!  Wisconsin is the Cheese capital of the world, and for good reason; the state is home to six hundred different cheeses. And of course, what goes better with cheese than an incredible wine? Good thing that Wisconsin is home to some of the area’s best vineyards, too.  So for today’s post we’re taking you to “Wisconsin Wine Country” as we explore some of the region’s best wineries. more Welcome to Wisconsin’s Vineyards: We’ve already covered a little bit of the history of Wisconsin’s dairy farming industry, but did you know it’s also an area where wine grapes flourish?  Wisconsin is home to a variety of specialized grapes which do quite well thanks to the unusual soil composition of the Niagara Escarpment, the climate of the Mississippi River Valley, and the eastern-facing vineyards with lake effect air from Lake Wisconsin and the Wisconsin River. Check out these wonderful wineries with locally grown, locally harvested, and locally aged wines in Wisconsin: Best vineyards and wineries in Wisconsin: Wollersheim Winery & Distillery in Prarie du sac Staller Estate Winery in Delavan WI Cedar Creek Winery in Cedarburg WI Botham Vineyards & Winery in Barneveld Three Lakes Winery in Three Lakes WI Brambleberry Winery in Taylor WI Fawn Creek Winery in Wisconsin Dells WI Hawk’s Mill Winery in Browntown WI Spurgeon Vineyards & Winery Timber Hill Winery in Milton AEppelTreow Winery in Burlington WI Pieper Porch Winery & Vineyard in Waukesha Northleaf Winery in Milton WI Fermenting Cellars Winery in Janesville WI Edwin Brix Vineyard in Juneau SoLu Estate Winery & Meadery in Cascade Cambridge Winery in Cambridge Two Brothers’ Wines in Richfield Why do we love to pair wine and cheese? Here’s a little inside look into the science behind these iconic flavor profiles from usualwines.com! Wondering how to pair cheese and wine for an expert flavor profile?  Check out this blog from winecoolerdirect.com and learn more! Looking to pair your local wines with local cheeses? This Wisconsin Cheese Guide will do just the trick! Best places to snag artisanal cheese to host your own Wine and Cheese night: Best of Wisconsin Shop in Oregon WI Fromagination in Madison WI Wisconsin Cheese Makers in Egg Harbor WI Wisconsin Cheese Mart in Milwaukee The Cheese Wedge in West Bend Alp & Dell Cheese Store

It’s National Day of Motoring, and we’re honoring that holiday with a round-up of some of the most famous well-traveled roads, scenic highways and byways of America!  Check out these iconic landmarks and plan your next getaway today. more North Shore Scenic Drive in Minnesota: 449 miles from Classic Auto Group This 150-mile drive up Highway 61 stretches from Duluth, Minnesota, all the way up through to the Canadian border along the shores of Lake Superior. It makes its way through 8 state parks, and small shoreline towns filled with local seafood eateries, art galleries, and unique shops to explore. We recommend stops at: Split Rock Lighthouse, Grand Portage National Monument, the Great Lakes Aquarium, and Superior Hiking Trail, just to name a few. Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina: 665 miles from Classic Auto Group This winding 500-Mile roadway snakes all through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as the Shenandoah National Parks.  The drive is worth making more than once, too, as this ever changing landscape is prime viewing in all seasons.  From the lush green canopies of the dense forest or rolling hills of fiery oranges, yellows, and reds in the autumn, to the wintertime hillsides dotted with ski slopes and snow capped mountainscapes, it’s never the same experience twice! Scenic Byway 12 in Utah: 1500 miles from Classic Auto Group Clocking in at 123 miles and an elevation of about 9,200 feet, this winding roadway dips in and out of red rock cliffs, mountainscapes, rural roadside towns, evergreen forests, and deep cut rock canyons. It’s worth planning stops at Dixie National Forest. Capitol Reef National Park, Anasazi State Park and Museum, Lower Calf Creek Falls, and lots of other incredible National Parks and historic sites.  This Byway is home to so many vistas and hot spots we could spend all day giving you an itinerary! High Road in New Mexico: 1,300 miles from Classic Auto Group Ever heard the phrase “you should take the high road,” well, turns out it’s not just a catchphrase!  You can actually take the higher ground from Santa Fe to Taos and back again.  This 56-mile stretch of road weaves its way through the Southwest across an ever changing landscape: from deserts to mountains to forests to farms and indigenous villages and historic sites.  You’ll want it on your bucket list for sure. Olympic Peninsula Loop in Washington: 2,000+ miles from Classic Auto Group Take a ride through the deciduous rainforests of the Olympic National Park in Washington state.  If you’re driving the entire length of the loop, it  clocks in at an average of 8 hours and 329 miles, wow!  You’ll find the area host to all manner of outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, rafting, fishing, and plenty of hiking trails.  You can visit the Hoh Rainforest, La Push Beach, Shi Shi Beach, Hurricane Ridge, Ruby Beach, and Lake Crescent  For a shorter trip, driving the route via Olympic National Park Quinault Lake and Rainforest Loop around the lake; it’s just 32 miles and is home to beautiful waterfalls, an impressive creek, and the world’s largest sika spruce. There’s so many ways to immerse yourself in the scenic views of magical, misty mountains and rich, emerald green treescapes. Pacific Coast Highway in California: 2,000+ miles from Classic Auto Group Clocking in at 656 miles, it’s the longest state route in California. It snakes southerly along the coast stretching from Washington State all the way through to the end of California.  If you’re driving the California portion only, the trip will take you about 5 hours to complete all 123 miles.  Recommended stops include Crescent City, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Half Moon Bay, the intimidating Devil’s Slide Trail, Shark Fin Cove, Davenport Beach, Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf and 17-mile drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur. Let us know your suggestions for Iconic Road Trip Destinations in the US that we should include on our next roundup! Pop your suggestions in the comments on our social media!

It’s summer road trip time, and we’re heading to the 2nd largest city in Missouri, just 5 hours drive from Classic Auto Group.  What do you say, wanna meet me in St Louis?  Well, then, hop in your new car from Classic Auto Group and let’s get this party started.  From Barbecue to Blues to History and Adventure, there’s lots to see in this iconic city where Lewis and Clark began their westward journey exploring America!  Check out our picks for unconventional and exciting stops to see when visiting this lively metropolis. more The City Museum is unmatched in ingenuity and artistic creativity, consisting of four incredible floors of unique art and architecture.  Perfect fun for the whole entire family,  no matter how old you are!  Explore the museum’s many tunnels, the cave system, more than 30 slides, an outdoor climbing space, exhibits made from repurposed and recycled materials, the Museum of Mayhem Mirth and Mystery, a circus, a rooftop Ferris Wheel, and a gravity-defying bus which hangs off the roof.  It’s unparalleled entertainment, and hard to describe, so you’ll have to see it for yourself! Grant’s Farm has been open to the public with free admission for more than 60 years. Once the home of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, it’s now owned by the Busch Family and operated as a 280+ acre historic farm and landmark.  You can enjoy a historic home tour, a visit with the animals, take aride around the park on the Tram, enjoy a spin on the carousel, and so much more!  It’s a must-see destination. Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum is a charming, kitschy venue located in an 1880s warehouse converted to an art museum.  For just $10 a person you can observe and take pictures with more than 200 lifelike wax sculptures of celebrities, characters, and important historical figures. The Magic House is perfect for families, and especially for those with younger children.  This not-for-profit museum is located in Kirkwood just outside the St Louis city limits.  Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, explore STEAM activities, and even a miniature village where they can enjoy some play-acting in different careers and hobbies.  PBS has also just opened an exhibit centering around “Molly of Denali” where you can learn about Alaska and Alaskan Native life! Citygarden Sculpture Park will be perfect to explore on a bright sunny day, and a fun way to pass the time without breaking the bank.  This nearly 3 acre sculpture garden is open to the public and full of quirky, unusual sculptures, beautiful water features, and expertly landscaped grounds. It's a photo op that will be one for the memory books, so be sure to snap lots of pics! The National Museum of Transportation houses one of the largest and most diverse collections of transportation vehicles in the world, with over 190 exhibits!  Set just outside of the city in Kirkwood, this 42 acre facility features iconic cars, vehicles, planes, trolleys, trains and so much more.  It’s a larger than life stop-off for the gearheads and history nerds. Laumeier Sculpture Park is another budget friendly option with free admission and plenty of outdoor activities and interesting things to see.  Another great attraction to explore in Kirkwood, it’s home to more than 70 large-scale outdoor sculptures, and is a gorgeous 105 acre open-air museum.  It’s also home to several special events each year, including the Laumeier Art Fair! The Pulitzer Arts Foundation provides special exhibitions and public programs to connect the public with art history and contemporary artwork and architecture.  It’s free to explore and housed in a building designed by internationally recognized architect Tadao Ando.  And it’s only 15 minutes west of the illustrious St Louis Arch. The Chess Hall of Fame is a nonprofit facility highlighting the history, art, and culture of this beloved game.  It’s purpose is to highlight the historical significance of chess, and its impact on arts and culture.  You’ll find monthly events catered to adults such as their Monthly music series, Sip & Sketch classes, Composer Spotlight Series, and more.  Families will enjoy special Toddler Tuesdays and Saturday Family Day geared just towards kids each week, and unique shows and programs perfect for all ages including the novice through expert. Other incredible places to see include: The St Louis Zoo, The St Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, The St. Louis Auto Show (January), Lone Elk Park, Forest Park, Municipal Theatre Association, Tower Grove Park, The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog, Lemp Mansion, Weldon Spring Site & Interpretive Center, Venice Cafe, Turtle Playground, Missouri Botanical Garden, Miniature Museum of Greater St Louis, the National Blues Museum and so, so much more. Check out these great videos on YouTube to plan out even more of your itinerary! Expedia’s Guide to St Louis Vacation St. Louis Travel Guide 2022: 21 Things to Do in St Louis Top 8 House Museums of St Louis The Mural Mile Graffiti Art Tour of St Louis

Today is Ice Cream Soda Day! And we’re thinking about all the great old fashioned soda shoppes of yesteryear, and thought it would be fun to explore some of the great ice cream parlors that are still in operation today.  So let’s take a look at some of the spots that would make great stop-offs on your next cross country road trip! more Homer Soda Company in Homer, IL - 182 Miles from Classic Auto Group This specialty soda company began as a small retail storefront and quickly grew into a nationally loved wholesale soda distributor of retro soda flavors.  Their specialty blends and classic flavors can add a little excitement to your traditional ice cream soda flavors. They also sponsor the Homer Soda Festival which brings together craft soda makers from all around the country to one central location where you can try cocktails, mocktails, ice cream floats, and more! Stop by and pick up your favourites to make your own ice cream floats and sodas at home. Doc’s Just off 66 aka Doc’s Soda Fountain in Girard, IL - 261 Miles from Classic Auto Group This Local Family Favourite haunt started as the family owned Deck’s Drug Store in 1884, and a soda fountain opened some years later in1929. Taking over the family business from their grandfather, the lat Bill and Bob Deck maintained the property until the early 2000s. Bob and Renae Ernst purchased the building and renamed it as Doc’s Soda Fountain until it changed hands once again, but rest assured the new ownership has still kept tradition going strong!  Recent updates have seen a few facelifts and renovations to the interior, but it’s maintained much of its classic charms as a roadside stop off on the old Route 66.  Offering classic diner fare and soda shoppe treats. Crown Candy Kitchen in St. Louis, MO - 326 Miles from Classic Auto Group This place is just about everything one could hope for in a retro soda-fountain stop!  Offering homemade chocolates and vintage style classic candies, classic American Diner fare for lunch and dinner, and a plethora of classic soda shoppe drinks and treats.  Plus, the front of the shop is perfect for snapping a family photo for the memory books! Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Columbus, IN - 281 Miles from Classic Auto Group In operation since 1900, and founded by the 3 Zaharakos brothers from Greece, this magical establishment has opened its doors to countless families for every day treats as well as special events.  It’s got a classic soda shoppe facade, and interior that marks you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.  In 2009, restorations included a Museum Room, Soda Fountain Library, Mechanical Music Library, Banquet Room, and the late-1800s Victorian-style Crystal Parlor.  So what’re you waiting for? Don your best vintage attire and come on over! Elliston Place Soda Shop in Nashville, TN - 524 Miles from Classic Auto Group If you’re planning a trip to Nashville after our last travel guide, you’ll want to make sure to add Elliston’s to your itinerary!  Part soda shop, part diner, and 100% classic Southern, this gorgeous restaurant is sure to give you a memorable meal. It’s got charming old-school flare with retro tiled walls and classic jukeboxes galore! It’s a cant-miss destination. Other great American Soda Shoppes and Ice Cream Parlours to visit across the US: Brent’s Soda Fountain in Jackson, MS The Pickwick in Greenville, SC Goolrick’s Pharmacy in Fredericksburg, VA Toomer’s Drugs in Auburn, AL Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah, GA Shady Glen in Manchester, CT Eddie’s Sweet Shop in Forest Hills, NY Little Drug Co in New Smyrna Beach, FL Highland Park Soda Fountain in Dallas, TX St. Francis Fountain in San Francisco, CA Cole Drug Co in Big Timber, MT The Franklin Fountain in Philadelphia, PA

We love creating new travel guides for our readers, and helping you find new, exciting, and interesting places to explore! Today we're highlighting some of our picks for great car museums that highlight transportation history and the evolution of the automobile. We've even included a helpful mileage guide so you can plot your adventure there and back, and find other stops along the route. more Did we leave your favourite off the list? Let us know in the comments on our social media and we may just include your suggestions in a future post update. Amazing Automotive Museums to Explore: Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners , MI – 215 Miles from Classic Auto Group Just a short trip from our dealership is this gem of a car museum, chronicling the history of the American Automobile. The facility hopes that by sharing the history and heritage of automotive industry, visitors of all ages will be able to connect with the past and improve the future of transportation! What started in the early 1960s as the personal collection of Donald Gilmore was eventually grown into an incredible museum thanks to the ingenuity of his wife Genevieve. The non-profit foundation and museum have collected more than 400 vehicles and established a 90-acre historic campus including a vintage restored diner, working Shell Gas station, and additional smaller museums! Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, AL – 758 Miles from Classic Auto Group This incredible time capsule of transportation history showcases more than 1,500 motorcycles and cars including more than 50 Lotus Racecars! It's also home to the 3 day long Annual Barber Vintage Festival, one of the most renowned motorcycle events in the world! And if that's not enough, the facilities also include an on-site racing track. If you prefer the more educational side of things, a trip to the on-site Museum Research Library and archives is in order; you can take a gander at some iconic trophies, awards, toys, models, artwork, and so much more. Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, MA – 1,019 Miles from Classic Auto Group Located on a portion of the grounds in Larz Anderson Park, the facilities are home to America's Oldest Motorcar Collection! Two new exhibitions have been added to the 2022 roster, including “Hidden Treasures” and “Born of Necessity,” shown alongside the permanent exhibit known as “The Anderson Collection.” Visitors can get an up close look at historic vehicles and the evolution of the automobile since its inception, and can attend a series of workshops, lectures, and also observe memorabilia and literature on the subject. With the advent of warmer weather, the museum has also rekindled its series of outdoor driving events and car shows, so be sure to check out the calendar of events for updates! Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, FL – 1,141 Miles from Classic Auto Group This incredible automotive museum is truly one-of-a-kind and covers the history of the exhilarating sport of Drag Racing. Since 1976, the facility has been home to 300 cars on display in multiple galleries in 2 buildings. In addition, the facilities also house a collection of memorabilia and history presentations in racing sports history. It also houses the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame, where you'll learn about top competitors across the globe! They're open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It makes a wonderful short stop-off on your next road trip or family vacation to Florida. National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV – 1,934 Miles from Classic Auto Group With an impressive permanent collection of more than 200 of America's most iconic cars from celebrity vehicles to champion race cars and limited edition collectibles, this is a Gearhead's Dream venue. Currently home to the “Cars of the Stars” exhibit and the “Batmobile Exhibit” to historic collections such as the “Thomas Flyer Exhibit” and “NASCAR Exhibit” you'll have a chance to explore many memorable and educational galleries. There's truly a car on site to impress just about everyone of any stage! Enjoy the life-like scenery and authentic recreations like a hardware store, vintage movie theatre, and more, each of which houses their own collection of memorabilia and artifacts. LeMay: America's Car Museum in Tacoma, WA – 2,222 Miles from Classic Auto Group With a 9-acre campus, 4-story tall building, and 165,000 feet of exhibition space, there's no shortage of things to see at the LeMay car museum. You'll enjoy a rotating and permanent collection of exhibitions and at least 350 cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Current collections include: “Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection”, “Route 66: See the USA in your Chevrolet”, “Classics and Custom Coachworks”, “Legends of Motorsports: The NASCAR Story”, “Lucky's Garage: A Tribute to Harold LeMay” and much, much more. Blackhawk Museum in Danville, CA – 2,231 Miles from Classic Auto Group Consisting of five different galleries exploring different eras and topics in history, the Blackhawk Museum includes an extensive collection of automobiles in “The Classic Car Collection.” Covering everything from luxury performance cars to rare classics and contemporary collectibles, you'll explore some of the world's finest, most luxurious vehicles in a magnificent setting. The collection features a rotating selection of more than 40 iconic classic cars from movies to sports to racing. Other Museums of note worth fitting in to your next Road Trip schedule: Auto World Museum in Fulton, MO Wisconsin Automotive Museum in Hartford, WI Wills Sainte Claire Museum in Marysville, MI Kemp Auto Museum in Chesterfield, MO Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum in MI The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum in Speedway, IN Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, TN National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum in Philadelphia, PA More Great Museums to Explore: The Hollywood Star Car Museum in Gatlinburg TN Vault Tour of the Peterson Museum Collection The San Diego Automotive Museum https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCefoCa-GNhYe-dmZNnvxcwQ

Today is Shark Awareness Day, a holiday created by marine biologists and scientists to dispel fear, myths, and misinformation around these incredible ocean dwelling creatures. Check out our post today to learn all about these amazing creatures, local aquariums where you can see them up close and personal, and other fun facts. more Here at Classic Auto Group, we're thrilled to not only be doing our part to move towards sustainability and protect these creatures, but we're honored to sell vehicles from brand manufacturers that have committed to the same! Thanks to combined conservation efforts, these majestic sea dwelling predators will continue to thrive in their watery worlds for many years to come. We hope that global conservation organizations and research teams will continue to find ways to care for and protect our oceans, and sharks will be around for hundreds of years more. If exploring the open ocean in person doesn't seem quite your style, you may wish to adventure more safely to these local aquariums! May all the budding marine biologists in our mist become inspired by outreach programs and in-person exhibits. Here are some wonderful facilities that are worth visiting this summer with your family and friends: The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is home to more than 20 sharks in its 400,000 gallon habitat! You'll find Blacktip Reef Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, Japanese and Spotted Wobbegongs, Zebra Sharks, Bamboo Sharks, Bonnethead Sharks, Horn Sharks, Dogfish, Leopard Sharks, and Swell Sharks! The field scientists of Shedd Aquarium are working tirelessly on conservation efforts, and currently conducting research in the Caribbean to learn about how to best safeguard these majestic ocean predators. Seven Seas at the Brookfield Zoo in Riverside has a wonderful aquarium feature with gorgeous bottlenose dolphins as their star attraction. It's also been home to two types the Horn Shark and the Leopard Shark, and has played home to a rotating cast of characters from the deep blue sea over the years! Oceans of Fun in Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee is host to a 28,000 gallon Pacific Coast Marine Aquarium featuring gorgeous landscaped habitats and touch-a-ray displays. It has been home to White-Spotted Bamboo Sharks and Bonnethead Sharks along with Sting Rays, and an ever-changing cast of creatures. Reiman Aquarium at Discovery World in Milwaukee has a many wonderful exhibits exploring all sorts of aquatic and marine life, and has highlighted several species of shark in the past, including a previous installation touch-tank experience with bamboo sharks! A visit to their Facebook page also explains how the staff helps train and feed the animals. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, IA is a pinnacle research center and museum associated with the Smithsonian Institution that helps connect visitors with the importance of the Mississippi River. Their “Rivers to the Sea 2.0” exhibit explains how major waterways across the US contribute to larger environmental and biological effects. You'll learn about aquatic environments and the different species that live in each, and even get to learn about how Great White Sharks breed. The facilities offer outreach programs to the Midwest including a mobile shark touch tank, and the Conservation Lab provides virtual and physical labs to connect folks with research and exhibits. Do you ever find yourself wondering how these incredible animals get transported from aquarium to aquarium or from rehabilitation centers back to the ocean? This is an incredible article from a few years back on aquatic transport that explains exactly that! Special transports and vehicles are needed to move aquatic animals around the world, and as automotive aficionados we find the whole ordeal really interesting! How Do Sharks Get to Georgia Aquarium: Moving A Shark into Audubon Aquarium: Have some budding marine biologists or automotive afficionados in your midst? Check out these amazing options in toys for young minds that will inspire them to connect with sharks and other sea creatures and protect their environments. Fisher-Price Go Diego Go Shark Rescue Car Animal Planet Shark Rescue Transport Truck Matchbox Marine Rescue Shark Ship