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Put-In-Bay on Lake Erie in Ohio is a gem of a local island getaway!  If you’re looking for a great nautical adventure with Key West vibes without the flight, this is the place for you. Put-In-Bay Island is a 397 acre playground and paradise for those who love the great outdoors and fun-in-the-sun vibe. This picturesque coastal village is located on South Bass Island, and it’s one of the top spots for locals. more It’s got a rich and storied history as a significant location for the US Navy in the War of 1812.  Naval Commander Oliver Hazard Perry used the port as a launch point to engage the British in the famous Battle of Lake Erie.  There’s a lot of incredible history to be explored as much as there are aquatic sports and recreational activities. You can access the island via two Ferry services from Catawba Island, Kelleys Island, Port Clinton, Lorain, and Sandusky.  The Jet Express Ferry will drop you off in the heart of downtown and also offers late-night services for those who wish to travel after the work day is done.  The Miller Ferry is the local freight transport and the only option if you’re looking to take your vehicle with you on your getaway, but most residents and visitors travel by golf cart.  If arriving by Ferry is not your speed, the island also makes provision for private boat travel and propeller-driven aircraft. Put-In-Bay is also home to some of the most wonderful waterfront and bayside eateries the area has to offer.  You can grab some island inspired cuisine or enjoy a fresh seafood dinner.  If you’re looking for kitschy fun and games you might even want to check out the swimming-pool tiki bar, or some of the lakefront live music. Let’s check it out. Here are some Great Things to Do in Put-In-Bay, Ohio! Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center - This is an all encompassing family fun destination: nature, mini golf, mining, and so much more!  Explore the 208 foot long limestone cave, hidden 52 feet below the surface.  Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the caves, and fun facts about the location itself.  There’s also a mini golf course, a maze, and a rock climbing wall! The Butterfly House - located inside the Family fun center, this aviary is home to beautiful butterflies and gorgeous flowers, all set to soothing music. You’ll get an up close and unforgettable experience with them in person.  It’s 4000 square feet of space with more than 50 species of butterflies from around the world! Put In Bay Winery is small, intimate, and beautiful and the ultimate experience for wine aficionados.  You’ll enjoy a tour and tasting room experience, as well as tours of the estate grounds and house. S cheef East Point Nature Preserve encompasses more than 8 acres of land and one of the last natural settings for travelers along the Lake Erie Islands.  Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the map of native flora and fauna, and avian aficionados will love bird watching along the 2,205 foot looped trail along the shores.  There’s also lots of opportunities for shoreline fishing for the anglers in your midst. South Bass Island State Park offers ample opportunity for outdoorsy activities like camping, swimming, picnicking, fishing and boating with breathtaking views of the Bay and lake!  You’ll find this retreat accessible by the local ferry, with opportunities to bring your own boat or kayak to the boat launch, a small beach for sunbathing and play, and other outdoor fun. Entry to the park is free, and it spans 33 acres of shoreline and nature. Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center features interactive nature and wildlife exhibits, plus optional events, workshops, and guided tours! Check out their summer programming and year round efforts to promote conservation and education about the local nature and wildlife of Lake Erie and the bay. Lots of family friendly fun and photo opportunities, as well as a chance to explore the turtle pond, fox snakes, a live bee hive, and so much more. Put-in bay Tour Train will take you on a one hour guided tour of the area and give you plenty of time to take in the scenery whilst learning about local history and fun facts!  You’ll see about 80% of the island, and make little stops along the way. It’s a great bite-sized view of the whole area in a family friendly environment. Heineman Winery is one of the area’s most long standing wineries in operation since the late 1800s.  The facility offers cellar tours and tastings, and an impressive geode on site with crystals that are up to 18 inches long!  Wines range from dry to sweet, and you can choose from paired snacks as well as you soak up the sun (and the drink!) Jane Coates Wildflower Trail is a great opportunity to experience the great outdoors and have a magical jaunt through the woods with wildflowers all around you!  This half mile loop is located on the southern end of South Bass Island, and affords you ample opportunities to do wildflower identification and observe local wildlife and birds.  Great for families with younger children as it’s a short walk and quiet stretch of trail. Other activities of note in the area include: South Bass Island Lighthouse Put In Bay Parasailing Swimming at the Beach at South Bass Island Put in bay golf cart tour The jet express Ferry Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum Skips Antique Car Barn Put In Bay Brewery and Distillery Kelleys Island Brewery Lake Erie Island Microbrewery

Once a popular beach destination with the locals, the Indiana Dunes has been adopted as one of the US’s newest National Parks!  Located along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find no shortage of outdoor thrills and activities here.  From exploring the sand dunes to hiking the trails to biking and bird watching, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.  Let’s take a look at some of the top attractions and activities to try while you’re there! Have you been to the Indiana Dunes National or State Parks? Tell us about your favorite things to see or trails to hike in the comments! more First, some notes: Indiana boasts 45 miles of shoreline along southern Lake Michigan; the Indiana Dunes encompass 15 miles of National Park Land and more than 3 miles in the State Park.  As of March 2022, there is an entrance fee of $25 to enter any National Park site, and it’s valid for 7 days once purchased.  You can also opt for yearly passes. When entering the Indiana Dunes State Park, vehicles with Indiana License Plates will pay a $7 fee; all other cars pay $12 daily entrance fee. You’ll want to make sure you check in at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to pick up a Park Map, check for any trail/road closures, ask for suggestions and directions from the guides, get your “National Park Stamp”, and check out the educational short films. What to check out while you’re there: Diana of the Dunes Dare and Dunes Succession Trail - On this hike you’ll choose from a 0.9 mile loop or a 3.4 mile option depending on your personal preference and time constraints.  The trail is not for the faint of heart, as it includes a fair amount of stair climbing (270 steps!) as well as trudging through sand.  It’s one of the best hikes in the Dunes, though, and a great opportunity  to explore nature as well as the local history of Alice Gray, known as Diana of the Duns. If you can make it, though, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive lookout over the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Paul H Douglas Trail Hike - This trail option takes you through Miller Woods, where you’ll experience multiple ecosystems such as an Oak Savannah, Wetlands, and Shoreline Beach.  It’s absolutely gorgeous in the lake spring and early summer, when the area is not only lush and green but carpeted in truly spectacular Lupine Blossoms! West Beach - It may be the most visited beach in Indiana Dunes NAtional Park, but it truly is popular for a reason.  It’s a very wide swathe of shoreline with beautiful views of Lake Michigan.  There’s also a posted lifeguard in the Summer months, as well as a bathhouse and top tier facilities. Explore the Bailly Homestead National Historic Landmark and Chellberg Farm - This trail allows you to visit two historic sites in one fell swoop.Once the home of Joseph Bailly de Messein, a fur trader and one of the first settlers in the region whose trading post served as a meeting point for those traveling between Detroit and Chicago.  The trail here is about 2.5 miles, leading you past the homestead and cemetery and through the forests and on to the farm.  You’ll follow a stretch of the Little Calumet River, and check out the recently restored Mnoke Prairie!  The Chellberg Family were swedish immigrants who farmed the land from 1870 through the early 1900s. It’s a live working farm, and you can also enjoy tours! Walk along Lake Front Drive and e xperience the Century of Progress Homes – These 5 historic homes were originally built for the Chicago World's Fair (1933).  While interior tours are only available for the homes on very specific dates, you can still appreciate the view and check them out from the outside.  You’ll see the Cypress Log Cabin, The House of Tomorrow, Florida Tropical, Armco Ferro, and the Wieboldt-Rostone House.  Each house was built to reflect the “Century of Progress”, featuring modern appliances, innovative new materials, and new construction processes and techniques.  They were relocated from the fairgrounds to the Northwest Indiana shoreline by barge, and have been going through restoration thanks to private funding and a partnership with Indiana Landmarks.

It’s National I Love My Horse Day, and we couldn’t think of a better place to appreciate horses than Kentucky!   Since the early 19th Century, Kentucky’s “Horse Country” has been the top destination for race tracks, feed mills, and horse breeding.  It’s full of sprawlings farmlands and impressive landscapes as well as plenty of races and bluegrass music to boot.  Kentucky is a must-see destination for “Horse Girls” and their family and friends alike.  It’s the horse capital of the world! more From visiting an Equine Veterinary Clinic to taking a tour of a Stud Farm of Kentucky’s finest racing horses to taking your very own guided ride or horseback riding lesson, there’s no shortage of horse themed fun where we’re headed.  So pack your saddle bags and let’s giddy-up to vacation fun! Kentucky Horse Park and International Museum of the Horse - A museum and facility like no other, you’ll get an up close look at the origins of horse keeping, horse racing, and other horse-related history!  The horse park is home to a series of seasonal live shows including Parade of Breeds and the Hall of Champions Show.  You’ll get to see real live equine presentations, as well as have a chance to do some horseback trail riding or pony rides yourself.  There’s also an on-site museum that’s one-of-a-kind.  Current exhibits include “AL-Marah Arabian Horse Galleries” and “Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf” and “Horse Drawn Vehicles” just to highlight a few of the 10+ exhibits open now.  There are also several permanent and rotating collections of artifacts!  Since 1978, the IMH has been devoted to building the nation’s largest equine related collection for educational and scholarly research purposes; there are now more than 16,000 objects on site from art to historical tack to trophies and more. American Saddlebred Museum – Tracing the history and origins of American Saddlebred horses, this gorgeous museum has the largest collection of Saddlebred artifacts in the world!  Also located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park, this museum has plenty of artifacts, trophies, tack, and artwork inspired by the American Saddlebred horses. The Secretariat Center - This special facility is also located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.  See what it takes to transition a former racehorse to a life of retirement or help them find a new career!  This special adoption center helps retired racehorses learn new skills through the facility’s retraining and reschooling program.  Tours are conducted rain or shine, so be prepared for all types of weather and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Kentucky Derby Museum – Located right on the grounds of the Churchill Downs track in Louisville, this museum first opened to the public in 1985 and has been charming visitors ever since!  In about 3 to 4 hours, you’ll be able to explore two floors jam packed with exhibits, history lectures, artifacts, photography, and more.  You’ll get an immersive tour of Hermitage Farm and the Derby Museum and spend the day learning everything there is to know about the famous Derby Race and the horses and riders who race it.  And you can stop by the Derby Cafe and Bourbon Bar for specialty themed food and drink, too! Hagyard Equine Medical Institute - Tours at this special facility are only done by appointment, so you’ll want to book in advance and plan ahead!  Get a rare, behind the scenes look at what it takes to maintain a fully functioning equine hospital, and check out the Davidson Surgery CEnter and McGee Medicine Center.  This state-of-the-art facility provides world class care to some of the most famous horses in racing, and provides visitors with an in-depth educational experience on what it takes for the 50 vets on staff to treat, care for, and operate on these majestic animals!  It’s an experience that you won’t soon forget. Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital - With tours being limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays only, this is another Book-Ahead attraction.  Established in 1982 as an ambulatory practice, and growing into a full-service equine hospital in 1985, they provide world-renowned, highly specialized veterinary care to these special animals.  You’ll learn all about the on-site facilities that provide surgery, reproductive care, and podiatry services to horses.  Featuring 9 barns on site, too! Hallway Feeds - It takes a lot of grain and feed to keep these racehorses healthy and strong!  Learn all about what it takes to maintain and manufacture special horse feed and the history of this family business!  You’ll get to hear plenty of history, personal stories and anecdotes, and get to touch, smell, and explore all about horse feed. Book your tours on select dates for a really unique experience for horse enthusiasts. If baby horses are your thing, you’re in for a real treat!  These selected farms and breeding facilities allow visitors an opportunity to learn about horse breeding, pet foals and mares, and of course get your fill of adorable baby animals.  You’ll need to book your tours in advance, so check out all your options ahead of time, or you can book a multi-day weekend option with Horse Country for their “Foal-Filled Weekend Itinerary”! Runnymede Farm Denali Stud Spy Coast Farm Gainsborough Farm Mill Ridge Farm Stonestreet Farm Jonabell Farm Coolmore at Ashford Stud Gainesway Farm Spendthrift Farm Land’s End Farm Airdrie Stud Why limit the horse-themed fun to just farms, tours, and museums? Check out these fun restaurants and establishments for more horse related excitement. The Horse and Jockey Pub Tack House Pub The Mad Horseman Bar Thoroughbred Restaurant Kentucky Grill and Horseshoes Saloon The Barn Door Grill and Restaurant Wagner's Pharmacy

It’s Shark Awareness Day!  While there aren’t any sharks in the Great Lakes (that we know of…), we’re still going to take a moment to appreciate and honor this Apex Predator!  We’re sharing some fun facts about sharks on today’s blog, as well as a list of incredible aquariums to visit so you can learn even more. From Wisconsin to Illinois to Iowa to Michigan and Ohio, you’ll find amazing aquatic stops to explore on your next family or friends road trip. more Fun Facts to Impress Your Friends on Your Road Trip Sharks have been around for more than 200 million years and pre-date dinosaurs, and have survived five mass extinctions! They’ve existed in our planet’s oceans for 30 million more years than trees have been around on the Earth’s surface. Statistically speaking, there’s a larger chance of being struck by lightning than there is of being attacked or killed by a shark. Sharks will lose approximately 30,000 teeth in their lifetime. Orcas are one of the few critters that can scare a shark! Sharks are vital to our planet’s ecosystem, and they keep ocean animal populations in check to prevent overpopulation and maintain balance.  With more than 100 million sharks killed each year for their fins, it’s creating a frightening imbalance and a need for conservation efforts to increase. There are more than 500 different species of sharks. Sharks’ anatomy has inspired “biomimicry”, or the imitation of nature’s design for problem solving in the human world, and you’ll notice a lot of the aerodynamics and physical structure of everything from watercraft to cars imitates these majestic creatures! In fact, some researchers are attempting to replicate an artificial skin to prevent bacterial growth in medical environments and other applications. The Whale Shark is the world’s biggest shark, growing as much as 40 feet long! Here are some wonderful facilities that are worth visiting this summer with your family and friends: The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago IL 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 IL 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 WI 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 WI 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. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium in Cleveland, OH – Home to a 175-foot shark tube, this incredible aquarium is a shark enthusiasts dream!  Located in the historic brick FirstEnergy Powerhouse, this boutique aquarium is home to hundreds of species of marine critters. Plus, there’s even an 11,000 gallon stingray touch pool for an up-close-and-personal experience with marine life.  It’s not the biggest aquarium on our list, but it’s worth several hours of your time to get a chance to watch marine biologists and animal keepers at work, and maybe even have a chance to feed some of the creatures yourself! SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium in Auburn Hills, MI - This is Michigan’s Largest Aquarium, and it truly takes pride in that award-winning claim!  Pair your admission along with a visit to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center or the Peppa Pig World of Play for a fun-filled family excursion at a discounted price.  At this aquarium you’ll get to see five exquisite examples of species of shark, and you’ll get to view Florence the Nurse Shark as well as some very tiny shark buddies in their underwater tunnel.  But that’s not all! There’s jellyfish, sting rays, sea turtles, and so very much more. Plus, there’s a full calendar of special events including watershed cleanups, shark days, and sing-alongs. Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, MI – This humble aquarium was once the third largest aquarium in the world, and remained the oldest continually operated aquarium in the country until 2005 when it closed for economic reasons. It reopened to the public in 20212, and continues to impress generations of tourists and visitors. In 2020, the aquarium was given the opportunity to receive a major overhaul, update, and renovation!  Improvements included upgrading exhibits, improving life-support systems, and modernizing their infrastructure. Thanks to investments from the Bell Isle Conservancy, the facility is now able to present visitors with an even more wonderful experience!  You’ll find creatures from the Great Lakes to Africa to South America, each in their own special environment.

Welcome back to another fun edition of Classic’s Vacation Road Trip Guide! Today, we’re sharing our picks for great destinations for a splendid Summer in Sandusky and beyond.  Let’s take a look at some of the fantastic places you can visit with your friends and family on a road trip to one of Ohio’s most fun vacation spots. more First Stop: Sandusky! Sandusky is located along the Sandusky Bay shoreline, and has a wonderful variety of water parks and amusement parks to explore. It’s also a fabulous place to enjoy maritime hobbies such as sailing, boating, fishing, island-hopping cruises, and much more.  The city nightlife is bustling, as it’s home to some wonderful art galleries, unique shopping, incredible restaurants and fine dining, and the gorgeous Sandusky State Theatre, home of live music and theatrical productions. There are numerous monthly activities year round, but it’s really hopping during the summer months!  Enjoy the Party at the Pier, Community Bike Rides, Car Shows, Sandusky 2023 Art Walk, Live Music, Yoga on the Pier, and Movies by the Bay, just to name a few.  Check out the Shores and Islands calendar for ongoing events. We recommend these fantastic points in the area as an itinerary plan springboard: Cedar Point Amusement Park - Known for its incredible collection of roller coasters and rides.  Plus, check out the on-site 38,000 square foot indoor waterpark with a Caribbean theme and indoor Arcade at Castaway Bay! Ghostly Manor and Thrill Center - One stop family fun!  Including an entertainment center complete with a haunted house, mini-golf course, 3D theatre, and even a skating rink! Sandusky Speedway - A half-mile race track just south of the main city, home to eciting races and special events, and available for personal rentals. The Merry-Go-Round-Museum - A destination for history buffs that’s truly one of a kind!  Featuring a working vintage carousel and a collection of incredible carved antique animals. It’s small, family friendly, and a great budget stop. Maritime Museum of Sandusky - This history museum is a ship lovers dream.  From exhibits about pirates to shipwrecks to fishing, you’ll have a boatload of fun here!  Plus, you can even check out the boat-building workshop and get an up close look at what it takes to create a seafaring rig. Distilleries, wineries, and Bars - The city is home to Everwild Spirits, Firelands Winery & Restaurant, and plenty of other local establishments for adults to kick back and relax and have a fine beverage or two.  If  you’re looking for a romantic date night option to add to your trip, you can’t go wrong with these! The Follet House Museum – Perfect for older teens and adults, this historic Victorian Museum has four floors of history tucked away in the rooms of this Greek Revival Mansion.  Hop on a tour and explore the history of Sandusky, Erie County, and the Lake Erie area. The Sandusky Children’s Museum – With attractions, exhibits, and hands-on fun for kids aged 4 through 14, it’s a must-see stop in Sandusky for those traveling with children.  Families can enjoy science experiments, giant bubble makers, and a rotating series of themed events and activities. The Milan Museum – This destination is jam packed with fun. You can explore the historic buildings, check out the permanent and rotating exhibits, try some hands-on activities, and explore the galleries on sight.  There’s even a Blacksmith Shop where you can learn about blacksmithery, or visit the old-timey general store for a blast from the past! Next Stop: Catawba Island! This coastal stop in Port Clinton, OH is home to a ten-acre public state recreation area right on Lake Erie.  It was established as a state park in the 1950s, and has since become a top destination for family friendly fun and relaxation. We recommend these exciting establishments for your vacation itinerary: The Watering Hole Safari and Water Park - Beat the heat at this thrilling water amusement park home to water slides, splash pads, and a whole lot of excitement.  It’s a perfect way to spend the day with your family and a wonderful mid-week retreat after all the touring and museum hopping. Cheese Haven - This is a must-see store for the foodie in your midst, or even just the cheese aficionado. This local shop features more than 140 different varieties of cheese, both locally made and from around the world!  They’ll even help you find the right beer or wine to pair with your selection, and set you up with top notch snacking. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial - A quiet, serene stop that commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Purchase some tickets and schedule a time to visit the observation deck inside the Memorial at the visitor center. The Marblehead Lighthouse and Museum – This is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the US side of the Great Lakes.  It’s still an active aid for maritime travelers, but the grounds are open daily from 12PM to 4PM for tours and visitors. The Liberty Aviation Museum – This will delight all transportation enthusiasts in your party! Set adjacent to the Erie-Ottaway International Airport, this museum is home to 16 dioramas and recreations of famous war scenes from history, and showcases functional and historic aircraft as well as German and American vehicles. Lakeview Park – Perfect for a picnic lunch and a wonderful place to let the kids run wild, jump, and play and explore the on site playground.  Take in the fresh air and enjoy the beach across the street, too! African Safari wildlife Park - Take a drive on the wild side with this drive-through 65 acre wildlife preserve and get an up close look at some incredible animals.  As a bonus, you’ll even be able to give snacks to some of the critters in their enclosures as you go. Great for kids to interact and make some memories to last a lifetime!  There’s also a walk-through safari option where you can meet a slew of smaller animals and birds, too! East Harbor State Park - This public recreation area has it all! There’s a beach for swimming and playing, a marina for sailing or kayaking or fishing and more, a wetland wildlife preserve for hiking, and a campground for a taste of the great outdoors.  There are 10 campsites to choose from, each with a max capacity of 50, making it a really fun place to do group activities or family reunion campouts! Stay tuned for more later this week as we further explore the Lake Erie Area and head over to Put-In-Bay, OH for more summer fun!

Looking for some fun in the sun featuring live music, games and activities, agricultural demonstrations, barbecues and beer, and more?  We’ve got just the ticket!  Today’s post is a roundup of some great select events across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana that are a surefire summer blast! more Wonderful Fairs, Festivals, and Events All Across Illinois in July and August 2023 The Wind City Smokeout in Chicago combines the best of country music, beer and barbecue and kicks off on July 13th running through the 16th. Headliners include Zach Bryan, Darius Rucker, Luke Bryan, and the Zac Brown Band! If jambands and Grateful Dead music are your thing, you won’t want to miss the Rumble Down Festival from July 20th through July 23rd at The Kampground in Bolivia Illinois for another weekend of progressive jamgrass bands and live music experiences! The Lake County Fair in Grayslake runs from July 26th through July 30th and promises another great fun-filled week of demonstrations, live entertainment and music, games and rides, a livestock barn, and so very much more! River City Soul Fest is celebrating soul and R&B music on August 5th from 6PM to 11PM at RiverFront in Peoria, IL for its 24th year! Lollapalooza Chicago is an annual four day music festival that has been delighting American Music aficionados since 1991!  Chicago has become the festival's permanent location, taking over Grant Park every year with a rotating cast of entertainers and musicians for four straight days.  Get ready to rock from August 3rd through the 6th this year! Oz Festival Illinois is celebrating its 13th year as the Wizard of Oz Festival returns to Butler Haynes Park in Mapleton, IL.  Bring your friends and family for a magical day filled with treats, entertainment, and activities themed around the marvelous Land of Oz on August 12th! The Port Clinton Arts Festival is coming back for the 41st year in downtown Highland Park featuring 260 of the country’s most esteemed artisans! The Will County Audubon Society and the Forest Preserves of Cook County are bringing you the educational and entertaining Hummingbird Fest at the Sagawau Environmental Learning Center in Lemont on August 19th. The Illinois Deer and Beer Fest is stomping over the McLean County FAirgrounds in Bloomington from August 25th through the 27th and promises a great kickoff to the autumn hunting season featuring door prizes, contests and competitions, and live entertainment! Amazing Events and Festivals in Indiana for July and August 2023 Festival of the Lakes returns to Indiana on July 12th through the 16th from 7PM to 11PM, starring Ashanti and Ja Rule as this year’s esteemed headliners. The Jay County  Fair rolls into town from July 8th through July 15th in Portland, Indiana.  You’ll find an incredible array of Grandstand events including live music concerts, harness races, demolition derby, and so much more.  There will also be plenty of fun activities, events, food, and drink to be enjoyed! On July 22nd in Valparaiso, IN, come on down to the Porter County FAirgrounds for this year’s 4H Dog Show! The Elkhart County Fair returns for 2023 i n Goshen, IN at the Elkhart County 4H Fairgrounds from July 21st through the 29th! The Chesterton Art Fair is bringing artisan goods, handcrafted arts and crafts, and bespoke gives to Dogwood Park in Chesterton, IN from August 5th and 6th.  With more than 100 juried artists from all across the US, you don’t want to miss out on this gorgeous spectacle! The Indiana State Fair returns July 28th and runs through August 20th with another jampacked calendar of live music, events and demonstrations, award winning food and beverage vendors, games and entertainment, competitions, and educational programming. There’s nonstop fun every single day from open to close! Notable Fairs and Events In Wisconsin for July and August 2023 The Harley-Davidson Homecoming Event is running from July 13th through July 16th at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, WI.  Celebrating the 120th anniversary of Harley-Davidson, this year’s 4 day festival will be a blast and a half with local food and vendors, live music, demonstrations, and all things moto-culture! Rock Fest is blazing into town at Cadott, WI for the largest rock and camping festival in the US featuring 50+ bands on multiple stages, running July 13th through the 15th. The Jefferson County Fair is running July 14th through the 16th at Jefferson County Park in Jefferson, WI.  The county fair will feature live events, activities and games, and delicious food and more from around Wisconsin! C ountry Thunder Music Festival is taking Twin Lakes, WI by storm this summer!  For four straight days on July 20th through the 23rd, the town will be host to top country music acts and festival fun.  Grab your best boots, cowboy hat, and your tickets now! The annual Wisconsin State Fair is back again from August 3rd through 13th in West Allis!  From Rollercoasters to amusement games, an agricultural showcase to local food vendors, there’s plenty to enjoy for the whole family. With more than 55 rides and attractions, you’ll never be short on fun! The Wisconsin Valley Fair runs from August 1st through August 6th in Wausau, featuring Live music and concerts, a demolition derby, carnival rides, games and activities, and so much food and drink.  Come and experience it for yourself at Marathon County Park. The Brown County Fair is open to the public from August 16th through the 20th at the Brown County Fair Grounds in De Pere WI. Concert in the Corn is northern Wisconsin’s premier destination for outdoor country music!  Running Friday August 25th and 26th. In Mason, WI.

It’s Video Game Day! If you’re looking for a fun, exciting way to beat the heat this summer and keep cool indoors, we have got a great list of recommendations for new racing and car themed video games.  When you can’t be out on the race track or on the open road to adventure, these selections will keep you occupied and fulfill your need for speed! more Disney Speedstorm is a free-to-play kart racing game in the same style of interactive gameplay and competitive racing like Mario Kart.  It runs on PS5, PS4, XBox, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Kart Rider Drift is another online free-to-play arcade racer for Playstation and Steam on PC!  It’s constantly refreshed with new skins, vehicles, tracks, characters, and seasonal content. It is a fantastic option to keep your kiddos occupied this summer without breaking the bank, too. Wreckreation is a forthcoming racing game for PS5, PC, Xbox consoles that is sure to get your blood pumping.  This sandbox style racing game features outrageous obstacles across a high-speed race track through “Sledgehammer County.”  The longer you play, the more you’ll unlock, creating new challenges and environments for you to explore! TT Isle of Man: Ride on the Edge 3 is a recently released racing game featuring motorcycles!  IT’s the third game in the series,  with death defying jumps, twisted curves, and speedy straightaways to keep you racing over and over as you try to climb the leaderboards!  Each motorcycle option has its own unique characteristics and handling styles, so you can keep playing again and again for new challenges. F1 23 released in June and puts you in the driver's seat of the most advanced racing games with hyper realistic graphics, immersive gameplay, and adrenaline pumping maps!  You’ll race your way across the world on famous racetracks and city streets.  With real-world physics and precision controls, you’ll need to really practice and concentrate to overtake your opponents! Forza Motorsport 8 brings back everything you love about the series, with new realistic maps and challenging real-world physics as you drive along.  You’ll find more than 700 meticulously recreated vehicles from world-wide famous automotive companies, from classic muscle cars to sporty supercars and more, with plenty of variation and flexibility.  You’ll find your heart racing at every turn, and you can challenge yourself to an AI race or play against friends online. Looking to shake things up a bit and get out of the house for a game night? We have got just the place for you. Here’s a list of fabulous places in the Waukegan and Lake County area where you can enjoy community, camaraderie, and a little friendly competition. Did we miss one on your list? Let us know in the comments and we may just feature it in an upcoming post! The People’s Choice Family Fun Center in Waukegan Lakeside Recreation Center in Mundelein Bowlero in Vernon Hills Lucky Jack’s Gaming Cafe in Waukegan Nickel City in Northbrook IL Ignite Gaming lounge in Skokie Kristof’s Entertainment Center in Round Lake Beach IL Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield WhirlyBall Amusement Center In Vernon Hills

For the 10 th consecutive year, Classic is proudly supporting the USO BBQ for the Troops Initiative! The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) and its dealer members have raised over $1,000,000 to support USO programs across Illinois. more Please consider joining in our fundraising efforts – no donation is too small and 100% of the proceeds support incredible programs for troops deployed and at home, the wounded/ill as well as families of the fallen. Help us reach our goal of $5K! Text to Donate: bbq4troops to 5129205521 Learn More: https://p2p.onecause.com/bbq4troops2023/team/classic-toyota-and-kia

We’re back again with another fun road trip guide to visiting good ol’ Nashville, Tennessee! We want to highlight some of the more unique and interesting places that are often left off travel guides, and we hope you’ll find them intriguing enough to explore on your own!  This year’s guide also includes some great Family Friendly options to explore with kids (and for the kid at heart!)  We’re going to check out some of the classic stops and sites to visit, but also some great places with more untapped potential.  You’ll have plenty of options to explore even if it’s not your first visit to Nashville! Check it out and plan your itinerary now. more The Adventure Science Center Museum is the perfect place for families to get a hands-on learning experience with science, inspiring creative young minds to explore their world through touch, interactive displays, exciting presentations at the Sudekum Planetarium, workshops, and rotating exhibits!  It’s non-stop fun and always something new to explore.  Enjoy the “Tinkering Garage” program where you get to design and build your own gadgets and gizmos, the “Weird Science” event that explores plastic-eating fungi and other natural wonders, and other exciting programs such as the Touch-a-Truck events! Kidsville is a program in Centennial Park brought to you by Centennial Park Conservancy.  It’s an outdoor area for children to enjoy creative and artistic expression, and a chance to play at the Musicians Corner Events.  The ongoing program offers outreach and educational opportunities for creative kids through over 100 activities at different locations throughout Nashville! The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a stunning 180+ acre property encompassing a zoological garden and historic plantation farmhouse. It’s home to over 6,200 animals and more than 300 species!  It’s also an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, making it a top facility for animal care and husbandry, so you can rest assured the creatures that reside there are well cared for.  Check their calendar for special events, live demonstrations, and featured exhibits for an extra special visit. Lane Motor Museum holds one of the largest collections of European Cars and Motorcycles in the whole USA!  This non-profit organization was founded by the Lane family to commemorate the family automotive business, and chronicle the automotive industry.  Explore the permanent collection and a rotating series of exhibits with memorabilia, media, and more.  Your whole family will love looking at the unique cars and vehicles and archival goodies! The Jefferson Street Sound Museum was established to help preserve the legacy of music and entertainment on Jefferson Street.  It aims to inspire future generations to pursue art, music, audio, and other preservation projects in the arts and music industry. Nashville Children’s Theatre Fannie Mae Dees Park is a wonderful choice for a family picnic and stroll!  It’s got a wonderful outdoor area with shade trees, a playground, and features local artwork such as the mosaic dragon sculpture!  In fact, the park’s local moniker is “Dragon Park”, referencing the gorgeous sculpture that slithers through the center of the park.  It’s close to many nearby attractions and restaurants or cafes, making it a wonderful place to have lunch or a snack after breaking from your tourist itinerary. Lucky Ladd Farms is just outside Nashville and a great way for kids to learn about agriculture, farming, and livestock animals.  With more than 100 animals to feed and pet, outdoor play areas, and more than 50 activities and seasonal events, there’s plenty to do for all ages! Gaylord Opryland Resort and Garden Conservatory is more than just a beautiful place to stay!  In fact, you can enjoy it even if you haven’t booked your lodgings there.  The grounds are open to the public and managed by a staff of more than 20 horticulturalists. You can book a ticket and explore the grounds, visit the indoor and outdoor water park, and take a walk through the historic hotel. Country Music Hall of Fame Museum is a leading institute for research and preservation of American Music History, and one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to music.  It has an incredible and extensive musical collection of more than 2 million artifacts from the industry. And it’s been building new exhibits and preserving more history year after year since the mid-to-late 1960s! Visit on your own self-guided, or schedule a tour with a local guide and group. Other fun activities to check out: Madame Tussauds, Treetop Adventure Park and Zipline, Wave Country, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens ,Belle Meade Plantation, A Daytime visit to Broadway’s Honky Tonks (kid friendly at most places before 6PM!), Hatch Show Print Block Parties (Saturdays) Great local eateries to explore: Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria The Shoppes on Fatherland Five Points Alley Shops Bobbie’s Dairy Dip Avo Headquarters Jackalope Brewing Company Tootsies Orchard lounge Hattie B’s Hot Chicken Ellington’s

It was most recently the 4th of July, where we celebrated some great milestones in American history and many of us are feeling very patriotic about our home. In keeping with that thought, we’re honoring the history of this land even further with a travel guide dedicated to incredible Native American Historic Sites to explore over the next few months. This summer, spend some time getting up close and personal with more history lessons through tours, hikes, museums, and other events that highlight the incredible, beautiful culture of the different tribal groups and indigenous peoples of America! more Did you know that Waukegan was once the site of the Potawatomi Native American settlement known as “Little Fort”? That’s right! Our own hometown here was the site of a French trading post and Native American settlement.  The Waukegan Historical Society is a not-for-profit organization created to preserve and share the history of our town. The Waukegan History Museum is operated as a joint effort from the Waukegan Park District and Historical Society, and is a great place to learn about regional heritage and history! Worth a little road trip is the Mitchell Museum of The American Indian, focusing exclusively on teh culture, heritage and history of North American Native Americans.  From July 14th through the 16th this year, “The Sweetest Season: A Gathering of Indigenous Creativity” is returning to the museum!  Featuring spoken word and song, workshops, readings, art and vendors, and a Native-Curated gathering!  Current exhibitions include “No Rest: The Epidemic of Stolen Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2Spirits”, intended to remember, honor, and share the stories of Native individuals who go missing or are murdered, through a blend of displays merging art with activism. Lewistown, Illinois is home to the Dickson Mounds State Museum, preserving the history and cemeteries, burial mounds, and sacred grounds of Native Americans.  You’ll have a chance to explore more than 12,000 years of regional history, archaeological finds, and explore a series of rotating exhibits, thanks to dedicated work of locals and the Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma. The Cahokia Mounds and Museum are located on the remains of a prehistoric native civilization, sprawling more than 2,000 acres of land.  Explore the archaeological finds, walk the hiking trails, visit the nature/culture trail, and get in touch with local history!  You can schedule group or individual guided tours and listen to educational lectures and informational walk-and-talks.  Explore the mounds, the central palisade, the stockade, woodhenge, and more! The Museum of Milwaukee in Wisconsin is home to a permanent collection of life-sized figures, drums, and ceremonial dress commemorating the 7 tribes of Wisconsin and the local Native American communities in “A Tribute to Survival” exhibit.  Temporary exhibitions such as “Native Games” explore the history and culture of tribal peoples including games, sociopolitical aspects, community gatherings, and more.  It’s a wonderful option for year round history exploration! The Hoard Historical Museum is home to the “Mysteries of the Mounds Gallery” highlighting archaeological finds, educational videos, a replica of a keyhole pithouse from Late Woodland Camp, and tours of the nearby Mounds sites as well as suggestions for what to see at The Effigy Mounds Preserve and Aztalan State Park. The Door County Historical Museum in Sturgeon Bay is a jam-packed, intimate history museum perfect for all ages, and a wonderful stop on your Summer road trip to the area. You’ll find wonderful displays highlighting the region's wonderful local wildlife, historic Native American archaeological finds and cultural artifacts and lessons, and a more in depth look at Door County’s local history.  And while you’re in town, head over to the Cardy Paleo-Indian Site to learn more about the Native Americans who lived and worked in this area more than 10,000 years ago!  This archaeological site is within walking distance of G lacial Lake Algonquin, and is one of the most important archaeological finds in the region.  Whitefish Dunes State Park is another wonderful Sturgeon Bay site where you can see a recreation of a Native American settlement including replica wigwams, prehistoric tools, and hand-painted murals depicting the lives of past local inhabitants on this land that was once home to 8 different groups like the Potawatomi, Winnebago, Ojibwe, Sauk, Menominee, and more. Egg Harbor, WI is home to the site of Chief OshKosh’s Trading Pos t, a Menominee Nation icon and advocate of the local peoples, sometimes referred to as the “First ambassador” of Door County.  The trading post and other structures built by the chief are still standing today, on the banks of a creek, nestled in a wooded glen, where you can still buy jewelry, books, art, baskets and other artifacts.

Fast-growing Kia’s streak of consecutive year-over-year increases reaches 11 months Eight Kia models post year-over-year increases in the first six months of 2023 Kia’s electrified offerings up 40-percent over first-half 2022 total, with total SUV sales increasing by 25-percent more KIA AMERICA POSTS BEST-EVER FIRST HALF SALES IN COMPANY HISTORY Kia America once again continues its forward momentum from 2022 into 2023!  The company has set an all-time first half volume record of 394,333 vehicles, seeing an increase of over 18% over the first half of 2022!  Kia’s retail-only sales saw an increase of 17% over the first half of 2022 with a total of 362,933 in the past six months. At the close of June, Kia moved 70,495 units, achieving an 8% increase over the previous year time frame, making it the 11th straight month of year-over-year continuous sales growth! An impressive eight Kia models posted year-over-year sales increases for the first half: The Kia Carnival up 74%, the Kia Seltos up 64%, the Kia Sportage up 37%, the Kia Soul up 26%, the Kia Forte up 20%, the Telluride up 18%, the Sorrento up 10% and the Niro up 9%!  SUV sales are up 25% overall compared to the first six months of 2022. Additionally,  Kia’s electrified models increased by 40%, once again reinforcing the company’s goals of a greener, cleaner future! And that’s not all!  Kia America has also announced several new initiatives, and has taken home a significant number of awards including (but not limited to) the 2023 Kia K5  being named “Best Car for Teens $25k-$30k” by US News and World Report, The 2023 Kia Telluride crowned Favorite Family Vehicle during the MAMA Annual Spring Rally, and the highest number of J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study Awards for 2023! “Kia sales continue to accelerate as consumers respond very positively to Kia’s enhanced lineup of rugged and capable SUV’s, sporty sedans and innovative EVs,” said Eric Watson, vice president, sales operations, Kia America.  “As production continues to improve on models that were in short supply during the pandemic, we are seeing sales strength across our core SUV models with Sportage, Telluride, Sorrento and Seltos as well as the Niro, Soul and Carnival models all seeing year-over-year growth. And with launch of our flagship EV9 all-electric three-row SUV in the second half of the year, we expect to see continued momentum.” MONTH OF JUNE YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2023 2022 2023 2022 EV6 1,458 2,567 8,328 12,568 Rio 2,180 2,986 14,196 14,918 Forte 10,330 9,299 62,061 51,806 K5 6,072 5,922 30,897 35,312 Stinger 642 713 4,554 5,163 Soul 5,202 4,954 34,747 27,608 Niro 3,165 1,723 19,325 17,666 Seltos 5,652 2,193 32,423 19,766 Sportage 13,917 14,153 71,889 52,356 Sorento 7,912 8,133 42,807 39,045 Telluride 9,534 9,186 55,284 46,893 Carnival 4,431 3,313 17,822 10,238 Total 70,495 65,142 394,333 333,340

Welcome to another fun edition of Classic’s Community Calendar where we highlight a delightful array of events happening in the Lake County and local Waukegan communities.  We’ve got a great roundup this month of outdoor events, live music, family days, and festivals for you to enjoy your summer to the max. Let us know if you have an event you’d like us to add to an upcoming event  by dropping us a comment on our social media! more Every Wednesday through September 27th, head over to the downtown Village Center in Grayslake from 3PM through 7PM for the Grayslake Farmers Market. The Libertyville Farmers Market is returning now through October 19th from 7AM to 1PM on select days! Check out the full schedule and participating vendors and special events here. The Lake Bluff Farmers Market is open from Friday 7AM to 12PM now through October 13th. The Fox Lake Farmers Market is back from Tuesday July 11th through Tuesday August 29th, 3Pm to 7PM. Mundeleins Summer Concerts in the Park Series is back for another fantastic year! Live music will be available on July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd, July 30th, August 6th, August 13th and August 20th.  This takes place Sunday evenings from 5Pm to 6:30PM at Kracklauer Park The Mundelein Community Days Festival takes place today through July 4th! Featuring a special Kid Zone with live performances, dance, and activities for all ages, Fire Engine Rides, a Carnival, and Live music at the Village Hall Plaza. Libertyville’s Dog Days of Summer event takes place on Saturday July 8th and Sunday July 9th at Cook Memorial Park. Dog-related vendors and special activities all day long!  Plus, police K-9 demonstrations, pet costume parades, dock diving competitions, and so much more for you to enjoy with your furry friends and family members! On July 7th from 6Pm to 8Pm, head over to Ceramics For You to enjoy a Taylor Swift inspired evening of creativity! Featuring Taylor Swift music, light refreshments, and a Swiftie inspired ceramics project. Lake Fest is happening this year on July 7th from 5PM through 11PM at Island Lake. featuring a carnival, live music, a beer and wine garden, and family friendly entertainment! On Sunday July 9th from 1PM to 2:30, head out to the Tempel Farms Summer Performance to enjoy Tempel Pipizzans and Veterans Day. The Waukegan Public Library is hosting the Saddle Shoe Sisters for an afternoon of live music from 12PM to 1PM on July 21st. Kids Summer Fest takes place at the Lindenhurst Park District at 2200 East Grass Lake Road in Lake Villa featuring Nanny Nikki at 6:15PM! Additional dates include July 25th and August 8th. On July 15th from 5:30 to 10PM, “My Best Friend Tom” returns to the stage for an evening of Live Music at the Lake Bluff Brewing Company’s July Block Party! On July 15th in Highland Park, head out to The Lot (525 Central) to enjoy the World Music and Food Fest from 12PM to 10PM. It’s a fun-filled day featuring delicious food and beverages with plenty of options from cultural cuisines around the world!  There will be live music, cultural traditional dance, and ensemble music and dance groups.  You won’t want to miss this! On July 16th at Lambs Farm in Libertyville from 10AM to 3PM, car enthusiasts will have a blast to enjoy the 11th Annual Car Show Benefit. There’s free admission for visitors, and all makes/models of car are welcome. On July 19th, head over to MainStreet Libertyville from 6Pm to 9PM for the 20th annual Car Fun on 21 classic car show featuring vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles all along Church and Cook Streets of Downtown Libertyville! On July 27th at the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center of Grayslake, families will be delighted to attend the Interactive Bubble Zone from 12Pm through 7PM for hours of bubble-filled entertainment and activities. The Enchanted Dreams Promis a 21+ adult prom that lets you live your best life in your prom royalty finest, starting at 6PM through 1AM (Alternate Date August 5th) at Lakehurst Banquets in Waukegan.