Des Moines, Iowa, is a thriving capital city that mixes small-town charm with big-city amenities. From stunning public art and historic landmarks to a buzzing food scene and nature trails, Des Moines offers a well-rounded travel experience. Whether you’re into politics, culture, or fresh air, this hidden gem of the Heartland is full of surprises. Pack your bags and get ready to explore Iowa’s capital like never before.
State Fair Fame: The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is one of the oldest and largest in the U.S., drawing over a million visitors annually.
Skywalk System: Downtown Des Moines has a 4-mile-long skywalk system—great for exploring during cold or rainy weather.
Political Hotspot: As the first stop in the presidential caucus cycle, Des Moines plays a key role in shaping national politics.
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park: This iconic park features over two dozen large-scale sculptures in the heart of downtown.
Useful Information:
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May–October) offers pleasant weather and the most events, including the famous state fair in August.
What to Wear: Casual and comfy is best. Layer up in spring or fall and be ready for warm summer days if visiting in peak season.
Getting Around: Des Moines is easy to drive in, but downtown is walkable. Rideshare services are available, and bike trails are abundant.
What to Do:
Tour the Iowa State Capitol: Take in the stunning gold dome and elegant interior on a free guided tour—don’t miss the law library!
Stroll the Pappajohn Sculpture Park: This free outdoor park is a visual treat, perfect for a relaxing walk and great photo ops.
Visit the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: Explore lush indoor and outdoor gardens featuring exotic and regional plants.
Spend Time at the Des Moines Art Center: Offers modern and contemporary collections with free admission and rotating exhibits.
Catch a Show at the Des Moines Civic Center: Enjoy Broadway shows, concerts, and performances in a stunning downtown venue.
Walk or Bike the Principal Riverwalk: This scenic route along the Des Moines River connects major downtown attractions and public art installations.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
Indianapolis, Indiana, is a dynamic Midwestern city that blends rich history, iconic sports culture, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re a racing fan, a lover of the arts, or just looking for an urban getaway with Hoosier hospitality, Indy delivers. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this heartland gem that has a little something for everyone.
Interesting Facts:
Racing Capital of the World: Indy is home to the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world’s largest sporting venue.
Mass Ave Arts District: The city’s Massachusetts Avenue is a cultural hot spot full of art galleries, theaters, and indie shops.
Canal Walk Surprise: Indy has its own canal district, originally built for shipping in the 1800s, now a scenic place for kayaking and strolling.
Largest Children’s Museum: It houses the largest children’s museum in the world, filled with interactive exhibits and dinosaur fossils.
Useful Information:
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (May–October) is ideal for outdoor festivals, events, and great walking weather.
What to Wear: Dress comfortably—layers work best. Casual wear is fine for most attractions, with comfy shoes for exploring the city.
Getting Around: Indy is very drivable, but downtown is walkable and bike-friendly. Rideshares, scooters, and the Red Line bus are convenient options.
What to Do:
Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: Even if you’re not a racing fanatic, this museum showcases iconic cars and Indy 500 history.
Explore the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: A must-visit for families with five floors of exhibits ranging from science to pop culture.
Wander White River State Park: Enjoy green spaces, paddleboats, and access to major attractions like the zoo and museums.
Check Out the Indianapolis Zoo: Located in White River State Park, it features animal encounters, gardens, and a dolphin presentation.
Tour the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: Offers impressive art collections and outdoor spaces, including the beautiful Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.
Stroll the Indianapolis Canal Walk: A relaxing downtown path lined with gardens, art, and paddleboat rentals along the water.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
The Kentucky Derby has always been one of my favorite sporting events. I remember watching it as a little girl with my Granddaddy. It wasn’t just about the race; everything fascinated me, the hats, the dresses, and of course, the horses!
Since then, I’ve kept up the tradition of watching every first Saturday in May. This year it just so happens to fall on my Daddy’s 74th birthday. For the past few years, I’ve hosted a laid-back Derby party at home. It’s simple — just how I like it. There’s no pressure, no complicated planning, just the things I love about the Derby: the race, the food, and the drinks.
Image created with Canva Dream Lab
What I Serve at My Kentucky Derby Party
Let’s talk about the essentials: mint juleps, delicate finger sandwiches, and lemon bars. You just can’t have a Derby party without these. I’m all about keeping it easy, delicious and Southern! The mint juleps are a must — they bring that authentic Derby feel to the day. And I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for a good lemon bar. There’s something about the tartness mixed with the sweetness that hits just right.
Image created with Canva Dream Lab
The Excitement of the Race
Sure, I’m not at Churchill Downs, but the thrill of the race is still there. Every year, I get excited watching the horses thunder down the track, even from my living room. No matter how many times I’ve seen it, there’s something magical about those final moments — the tension, the speed, the drama.
It is definitely on my bucket list. Me and the hubby have been talking about going for years. I know we’ll get there soon!
Image created with Canva Dream Lab
Why I Love the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby isn’t just a race, it’s a whole vibe. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy some good food and drinks, and feel like you’re part of something special. I love the energy that comes with the day — the anticipation building as the race gets closer, the excitement when they’re off, and the moment it’s all over, with everyone celebrating or groaning, depending on their pick.
Who’s my pick? I may or may not have my money on a handsome roan colt named Sandman.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
Rockford, Illinois, is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and outdoor beauty. Known as the “Forest City,” Rockford offers stunning gardens, fascinating museums, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you’re exploring nature or diving into local history, this Midwest gem has something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to discover Rockford!
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather, perfect for exploring the city’s parks and outdoor attractions.
What to Wear: Dress in layers, as Midwest weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore, but Rockford has public transportation and walkable areas downtown.
Visit Anderson Japanese Gardens: Relax in this beautifully designed Japanese garden, featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and serene landscapes.
Explore the Burpee Museum of Natural History: See Jane, one of the most complete juvenile T. rex skeletons ever discovered, and other fascinating exhibits.
Wander Through the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens: Enjoy lush tropical plants and seasonal floral displays in this beautiful riverside conservatory.
Tour Midway Village Museum: Step back in time at this living history museum showcasing Rockford’s rich past with interactive exhibits and historic buildings.
Walk Along the Rock River Recreation Path: This scenic trail offers stunning river views and is perfect for walking, biking, or jogging.
Catch a Game at Rivets Stadium: Watch the Rockford Rivets, the city’s summer collegiate baseball team, for an exciting night of sports entertainment.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
We made a little weekend run up to the Dallas/Fort Worth area—nothing too wild, just a one-night stay—but we managed to squeeze in some good food, a couple of wax supply stops, and even a true crime pitstop or two. If you know me, then you know this trip was very on-brand.
Why We Went (And Why We Always End Up Staying)
The main reason for this trip was simple: wax melt supplies. With the way shipping costs are these days, it’s honestly cheaper for me to drive up to the DFW area and pick up what I need. I figured, why not make a night of it?
We’ve been to the metroplex more times than I can count—for Cowboys, Mavs, and Rangers games, rodeos, concerts, weekend getaways—you name it. But this time we decided to switch things up a bit and do a few things we hadn’t done before.
First Stop? Babe’s Chicken Dinner House (Obviously)
If we’re anywhere near Arlington, Babe’s Chicken Dinner House is a must. It’s always our first stop. Now, I don’t even eat chicken (ironic, right?), but their chicken fried steak is chef’s kiss. Add in endless sides like the best green beans and corn you’ll ever eat, mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, a simple salad, and warm, soft biscuits that taste like heaven… yeah, it’s easy to see why we never skip it.
The vibe is just as good as the food—Babe’s is set up like a little 1940s small town, complete with a post office, water tower, hen house, church, barber shop, and more. It’s adorable, quirky, and definitely part of what keeps us coming back.
Wax Supply Haul: Candle Nerd Heaven
After stuffing ourselves at Babe’s, we headed to Lone Star Candle Supply in Keller. I’ve been ordering from them for years, but this was my first time visiting in person. If you’re in the wax world—whether it’s melts, candles, soaps, or freshies—you have to check out their showroom. It’s impressive, organized, and honestly, I could’ve stayed in there forever sniffing oils and testing waxes.
Next, we stopped by Waxy Flower Candle Supply in Dallas. I’d seen them pop up on Facebook and figured why not check them out while we were in the area? They’re a smaller business but have a solid selection of fragrance oils—and they were having a sale! I grabbed a few to test and poured a run last night. I can’t wait to see how they cure!
Hotel Life: The Renaissance Dallas (with Some Bumps)
We stayed at the Renaissance Dallas, which we’ve stayed at a few times before and usually love. The hotel is beautiful, and the views are just so good. That said… this stay wasn’t totally smooth.
I really wanted the full hotel experience—room service, cozy night in, all of it. So we ordered cheeseburgers. They were listed as $38 for two, but by the time all the random fees were added, it jumped to $57… and gratuity wasn’t included. After tip, we paid nearly $70 for two very average cheeseburgers. And I mean frozen patty energy. I should’ve just waited for breakfast.
Then we went down to the bar—just a couple of drinks to wind down—and that little visit cost us another $70 (two drinks, two beers). Again, expected, but still a bit of a sting. To top it off, our AC went out in the middle of the night. Not unbearable, but definitely uncomfortable.
Even with those hiccups, I still love the Renaissance. The property is gorgeous, and we’ll definitely be back.
Bucket List Stop: The Graves of Bonnie and Clyde
Sunday morning, we checked out and decided to knock something off our true crime bucket list—the graves of Bonnie and Clyde.
We started with Clyde’s grave, which is in West Dallas in the Oak Cliff area. Not the best neighborhood, and the cemetery itself is kind of wild—overgrown, old, and pretty rundown. Still, we found his grave and that of his brother Buck with no problem.
Bonnie’s grave was in a much nicer part of town near the Dallas/Love Field Airport. It’s well-maintained, easy to find, and much more peaceful. Both graves had little “offerings” left behind—bullet casings, empty liquor bottles, flowers. It’s kind of amazing how fascinated people still are by these two. There were visitors coming and going the entire time we were there.
The BBQ Mission Continues: Lockhart’s in Oak Cliff
Before heading home, we were on a mission: find great Texas BBQ. We’ve been trying to hit up as many small-town, mom-and-pop BBQ joints as possible. This time, we chose Lockhart Smokehouse in the historic Oak Cliff district—and I’m so glad we did.
The area itself was a cool surprise—tons of foot traffic, taco stands, walk-up bars, funky shops, and an authentic neighborhood vibe. Lockhart’s has that classic BBQ shack feel, right down to your food being served on wax paper instead of plates (which, let’s be honest, is how you know it’s gonna be good).
I had brisket with blue cheese coleslaw (yes, I know that’s not for everyone, but it was so good). Santiago had brisket, sausage, and mac & cheese and was equally impressed. This place is officially added to our return list.
I Love Dallas… But Only for a Day or Two
I enjoy visiting DFW—but after about 24 hours, I’m ready to hightail it home. Between the honking horns, bumper-to-bumper traffic, packed sidewalks, and sensory overload, I start craving my quiet house and my dogs.
One Last Stop: Buc-ee’s in Hillsboro
Before we made it home, we stopped at the Buc-ee’s in Hillsboro, which we hadn’t been to before—and y’all, it’s Buc-ee’s on steroids. Absolute pandemonium inside. We grabbed our usual beef jerky (because it’s a crime to leave without it) and hit the road.
Was it expensive? Absolutely. Would I do it again? Yep.
Sometimes, you just need a quick reset—a little change of scenery, good food, and a few spontaneous stops. This trip might’ve put a dent in the wallet, but it did wonders for the soul. 💛
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
Augusta is a charming Southern city known for its historic sites, scenic riverfront, and world-famous golf tournament. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in classic Southern cuisine, Augusta offers something for every traveler. Pack your bags and get ready to experience this gem along the Savannah River!
Interesting Facts:
Home of The Masters: Augusta National Golf Club hosts The Masters, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world.
Birthplace of James Brown: The “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, was born and raised in Augusta, and the city celebrates his legacy with a downtown statue and museum exhibit.
Augusta’s Riverwalk: This scenic area along the Savannah River features parks, amphitheaters, and walking paths, making it a favorite local hangout.
A City of History: Augusta was founded in 1736, making it one of Georgia’s oldest cities, with beautifully preserved antebellum homes and historic landmarks.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) is the best time to visit, especially during The Masters. Fall (September to November) also offers pleasant weather.
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for Augusta’s warm climate, along with comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore Augusta, but the downtown area is very walkable, and trolleys provide guided tours of historic sites.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
Boise, Idaho, is a hidden gem that combines outdoor adventure, a thriving arts scene, and a welcoming small-town feel. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and the Boise River, this city offers visitors a perfect mix of nature and culture. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the City of Trees!
The City of Trees: Boise got its nickname due to the abundance of trees along the Boise River, which early French explorers named “Les Bois” (The Woods).
Largest Basque Population in the U.S.: Boise is home to one of the largest Basque communities outside of Spain, with a dedicated Basque Block downtown.
A High-Altitude Capital: At 2,730 feet above sea level, Boise is one of the highest-elevation state capitals in the U.S.
Potato Country: Idaho is famous for its potatoes, and Boise celebrates this legacy with the Idaho Potato Museum just a short drive away.
Explore the Boise River Greenbelt: Walk or bike along this scenic 25-mile trail that winds through the city, offering river views and wildlife sightings.
Visit the Idaho State Capitol: Take a tour of this historic government building, featuring beautiful architecture and rich state history.
Stroll the Basque Block: Experience Boise’s unique Basque heritage through authentic restaurants, cultural museums, and live performances.
Hike in the Boise Foothills: Enjoy stunning views of the city and beyond with hikes like Camel’s Back Park or Table Rock.
Discover the Old Idaho Penitentiary: Tour this former prison-turned-museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Idaho’s past.
Visit the Boise Art Museum: Browse a diverse collection of contemporary and classic art in this highly regarded cultural institution.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
Boca Raton, Florida, is a picturesque coastal city known for its pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and lush green spaces. With a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication, Boca offers visitors world-class dining, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the charm of this South Florida gem!
A City by Design: Boca Raton’s signature Mediterranean Revival architecture was heavily influenced by famed architect Addison Mizner in the 1920s.
No Billboards Allowed: Boca Raton has strict zoning laws, meaning you won’t find billboards cluttering the city’s scenic streets.
IBM’s Personal Computer Began Here: The first IBM PC was developed in Boca Raton in 1981, marking a major milestone in tech history.
A Name with Mystery: “Boca Raton” translates to “Rat’s Mouth” in Spanish, but historians believe it actually refers to hidden, jagged inlets along the coast.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is warm and comfortable, avoiding the peak summer heat and humidity.
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate, along with sunglasses, sandals, and sun protection for beach outings.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore, but Boca also has a convenient trolley system for getting around the downtown area.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
Honolulu, Hawaii, is a tropical paradise where stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant island culture come together. As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu offers visitors breathtaking ocean views, fascinating landmarks, and endless outdoor adventures. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of Oahu!
Interesting Facts:
Only U.S. State Capital with a Royal Palace: Honolulu is home to Iolani Palace, the former residence of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs.
Waikiki’s Hollywood Connection: Waikiki Beach has been a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars and even Hawaiian royalty for over a century.
Pearl Harbor’s Historic Significance: The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 led to the United States entering World War II, making it one of the most historically significant sites in the country.
Hawaii’s Unique Time Zone: Honolulu follows Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST) and does not observe Daylight Saving Time, meaning the city stays on the same time year-round.
Best Time to Visit: Honolulu is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to June and September to November for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
What to Wear: Lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sandals are ideal. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for sun protection.
Getting Around: Renting a car is the best way to explore Oahu, but public buses (TheBus) and ride-sharing services are great options for getting around Honolulu.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.
Mystic, Connecticut, is a charming seaside town known for its rich maritime history, scenic waterfront, and quaint New England charm. Whether you’re exploring historic ships, strolling through picturesque streets, or indulging in fresh seafood, Mystic offers the perfect coastal getaway. Pack your bags and get ready to experience this enchanting destination!
A Maritime Legacy: Mystic was once one of the busiest shipbuilding ports in New England and remains a hub for maritime history.
Home to the Mystic Seaport Museum: The museum features the world’s largest collection of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship.
Mystic Pizza Fame: The famous 1988 movie Mystic Pizza starring Julia Roberts was filmed here, making the local pizzeria a popular attraction.
No Actual Town of Mystic: Mystic is not an incorporated town but rather a historic village that spans two towns—Groton and Stonington.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mystic is from late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is warm and ideal for waterfront activities.
What to Wear: Casual and comfortable clothing is best for exploring, with light layers for cool evenings by the water. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes.
Getting Around: Mystic is very walkable, but a car is useful for visiting nearby attractions and scenic coastal drives.
Visit Mystic Seaport Museum: Step back in time at this living history museum featuring historic ships, exhibits, and interactive maritime experiences.
Explore Mystic Aquarium: Get up close with beluga whales, sea lions, and penguins at one of the top aquariums in New England.
Stroll Through Olde Mistick Village: This charming shopping area features colonial-style buildings, unique boutiques, and delicious eateries.
Take a River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Mystic River, offering beautiful coastal views and historic sites.
Snap a Photo at the Mystic Drawbridge: Watch this iconic bridge in action as it lifts to let boats pass through the Mystic River.
Dine at Mystic Pizza: Enjoy a slice of pizza at the legendary pizzeria that inspired the classic ‘80s film.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
This website may contain affiliate links, including links to products on Amazon. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect your purchase price but helps support the site at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
