Step Into History with a Visit to Louisa May Alcott’s Home

Few novels have stood the test of time quite like Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women.  Since the 1800’s, nearly every generation of young girls have enjoyed reading about the adventures of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March.   

Literature comes to life with a visit to The Orchard House.  Louisa May Alcott’s time-honored novel was set inside her family’s home.   Visitors get to walk through the very rooms that the Little Women made so famous!

All tours of The Orchard House are guided.   Docents relate tales of Louisa and her family and point out features of the home that made it into the book.   You’ll get to see the “shelf desk” Louisa’s dad built for her writing needs.  The parlor and dining room are big hits with fans of the book, along with the study.  The house looks just like it did when the girls lived here, complete with 19^th century furnishings.  Some of the Alcott’s personal possessions are displayed too.   And yes, there are apple trees on the grounds.

It’s great fun for literary lovers both young and old.  Special events occur throughout the year including drama and writing workshops.  Be sure to stop by the museum’s gift shop before you hit the road.  They offer most of the books Alcott wrote for children and adults.  Each purchase benefits The Orchard House and you receive a beautiful book plate to remember your visit by.

For more details, visit www.louisamayalcott.org.  You’ll find directions, hours, ticket prices, and even a coupon off admission.

Looking for more Great American Vacation Ideas?   Then, visit our website, greatamericanvacationideas.com , for complete travel guides to destinations around the country!

Put on Your Cowboy Hat and Head to the Cody Nite Rodeo!

Yellowstone National Park is one of the nation’s most popular National Parks.  There are gushing geysers, sparkling hot pools, burping mud pots, stunning snow-capped mountain peaks, and some impressive waterfalls to enjoy.

But, to thoroughly enjoy this area of the country, you need to get out of the Park and explore some of the surrounding towns.  Cody, Wyoming is one of those towns.  Cody is rich with history.  Buffalo Bill Cody spent time here and built the area’s finest hotel at the turn of the century, The Irma.  You can still stay here today!   Wild mustangs roam the countryside.  And one of the nation’s most beautiful drives, Beartooth Pass, is just a stone’s throw away.

There’s another reason to visit Cody, Wyoming.  It’s the “Rodeo Capital of the World.”  During the summer, the Cody Nite Rodeo takes place.  At 8PM sharp, you’ll see some of the best cowboys (and cowgirls) ridding, roping, and broncing.    There’s barrel racing, bull riding, bareback riding, team roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, and a rodeo clown.    It doesn’t matter if you’re big city folk, from the suburbs, or the country.  This is one event no visitor to the Yellowstone area can afford to miss!

Visit www.codystampederodeo.com/ to learn more and purchase advance tickets!

Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park?  Then consider purchasing our Yellowstone Pocket Travel Guide.  We’ve created the ultimate guide to plan your dream vacation.  Get in-depth details about the park’s trails, canyons, shimmering lakes, mud pots, geysers, and hot springs.  Learn where to stay in and outside of the park, plus day trip ideas.  Go to www.greatamericanvacationideas.com/National_Parks.html and order yours today!

Car Lovers – It’s Time for Hot August Nights

Car lovers – this vacation idea is tailored made for you!   Thousands of classic rides, customs, and muscle cars are getting ready to fill the streets of Reno and South Lake Tahoe!  Why?  It’s time for the 26nd Annual Hot August Nights – a weeklong celebration of America’s love with the automobile!    All the fun starts August 3^rd through August 12^th.

Area Casinos host daily “Shown N’ Shine” competitions.   There’s Classic Specialty Cars on display for you to enjoy.   Classic Car Competitions to enter – if you think your ride is up to the challenge.   Swap meets to find that special part for your ride.  B&T Classic Car Auctions are there to help you find your dream classic car.   For those with a lead foot, you can register for area drag races and burnouts.  And, then there’s the ever popular nightly car cruises.

It’s not just about classic cars at this event either.  Some of the biggest entertainers from the ‘50’s, ‘60’s, and ‘70’s are scheduled to headline the entertainment venues.   Herman Hermits, Paul Revere & the Raiders, The Village People, and Sonny Turner of The Platters will be singing and dancing through the night!  

Casinos will be hosting Black Jack Tournaments and a $10,000 Slot Tournament.  Felling lucky?  Then, enter the raffle to win a shiny 1972 Chevy Chevelle.

But, that’s not all.  At some point, you’ll need a rest from looking at all those beautiful rides.   Cruisin’ Craft Fairs and the Big Boy’s Toy Store will fulfill your shopping needs.   Looking for a little competitive sports action?  Consider entering the free style hula hoop competition, tricycle race, or jelly-eating donut competition.   There’s even a Free Classic Film Festival featuring Elvis, Paul Newman, and Marilyn Monroe to enjoy!

For a complete schedule of events and information about registering your classic, visit www.hotaugustnights.net.

Looking for more Great American Vacation Ideas?   Then, visit our website, greatamericanvacationideas.com , for complete travel guides to destinations around the country!