The Alamo is a popular tourist destination in San Antonio and a symbol of Texas independence. The site includes the original chapel, known as the Alamo Mission, as well as other historic buildings and artifacts. Visitors can explore the site, learn about the history of the battle (Remember The Alamo), and pay tribute to the brave individuals who fought and died there. Click here for event schedules, hours and more.

While in Texas I highly recommend a visit to The San Antonio Riverwalk. It is so beautiful to experience, not in the summer though. I was stationed in San Antonio while I was in the military, but I want to go back again. It offers a unique and relaxing experience along the banks of the San Antonio River featuring lush riverside paths, towering Cypress trees, and a vibrant atmosphere that combines history, art, restaurants, and cultural to experience. It has been voted the #1 Attraction in Texas for a reason. Click here to start planning your trip.

Crater Lake is located in Southern Oregon near the Cascade Mountain Range. It is known for being the deepest lake in the United States, per their website, with a depth of approximately 1,943 feet. It also states the lake was formed over 7,700 years ago when a volcanic eruption created a caldera that eventually filled with rain and melting snow to form what we now know as Crater Lake. The crystal blue water is unforgettable. I’ve experienced the wonder before, looking at it not swimming in it, but I want visit again and again.

Crater Lake National Park was established in 1902 and includes the Lake and its surrounding areas. The Park offers various activities for visitors, including hiking trails, scenic drives, and boat tours. Click here to learn more and start planning your Crater Lake adventure.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California. My family lives in the Bay Area, so I have definitely left my Heart in San Francisco and try to visit as often as I can, and Fisherman’s Wharf is always on my must visit list whenever I am in town. I discover something new each time I visit.

Additionally, visitors can take a boat tour from Fisherman’s Wharf to explore the famous Alcatraz Island or enjoy a scenic cruise around the San Francisco Bay, offering panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. I will be sharing a Bridges blog post at a later date and the Golden Gate Bridge will be in it!

The Grand Ole Opry is a world-famous venue located in Nashville, Tennessee. It has played a significant role in country music history and continues to be a popular destination for fans of old country, new country and country curious.

Visitors to the Grand Ole Opry can attend live shows, backstage tours and more. So much history. So much music! Click here for ticket information and event schedules.

And, while you are in Tennessee don’t forget to visit one (or two) whiskey distilleries. Tennessee has it’s own Whiskey Trail filled with distilleries creating that liquid gold throughout the state. Click here for more information about the distilleries, maps and how to get your very own whiskey passport. It’s a Whiskey Passport!!!

The Hollywood Sign is an American landmark and cultural icon located in Hollywood, California. The sign is a symbol of the entertainment industry and has become synonymous with the glamour and allure of Hollywood. Its website states the Hollywood Sign was originally constructed in 1923 as a temporary advertisement for a new housing development in the Hollywood Hills. However, it quickly gained popularity and became an iconic symbol of the film industry.

There are also hiking trails around and near the sign that offer closer access, although direct access to the sign itself is restricted. The views are worth the climb but not worth breaking the law to touch the sign. That superstition doesn’t work, it only gets you arrested.

I always vote for ordering avacado club egg rolls from California Pizza Kitchen on Hollywood Boulevard and looking at the sign from a distance. No laws broken and a happy tummy are a win, win for me.

Mallory Square is an iconic location in Key West, Florida, known for its famous sunset celebration. Located on the historic waterfront, Mallory Square offers a vibrant and majestic setting where visitors can watch the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico while enjoy live entertainment. Key West also boasts a diverse culinary scene, and Mallory Square is no exception. Visitors can find superb seafood as well as cuisines from around the world, including Japanese, Spanish, Italian, Cuban, Chinese, Thai, French, and traditional American fare.

They had me at sunset and live music but they will keep me for the food!To learn more about Mallory Square, its attractions, places to stay, and food and drink options, you can visit the official website of Mallory Square.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are both iconic landmarks located in New York. The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, is a symbol of freedom and welcome. Visitors can admire the statue from the ground or take a ferry to Liberty Island to explore the statue up close. There are several ticket options available. I recommend the Pedestal Access ticket, the Crown Ticket has too many steps for me. Click here to learn about schedules, security and just how many steps I am talking about.

Ellis Island, located nearby, is known as the gateway to America and played a significant role in immigration history. From 1892 to 1954, millions of immigrants passed through Ellis Island, seeking a new life in the United States. Today, Ellis Island is home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which documents and showcases the history and experiences of those who passed through its gates. This tops my list of things to do now that I have jumped down the geneology rabbit hole. Who can relate?