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According to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, there are more than 400 species of large birds in Virginia. From the seashore to the mountains, Virginia is home to every naturally occurring species on the East Coast. That’s pretty impressive. And thanks to incredible efforts of conservation groups, previously scarce or threatened species like eagles and osprey have made a significant comeback in Virginia. The following pictures have been provided through the artistry of brilliant photographers throughout the state....

There’s no better way to keep warm during this time of year than by visiting some amazing hot springs in Idaho. Our state is chock full of naturally heated pools, so choosing which one to visit next can be a daunting task. In fact, the Gem State boasts the most soakable hot springs in the country with a whopping 130 different hot springs that are suitable for swimming in. This winter, consider visiting the rustic Zim’s Hot Springs near New Meadows....

Nothing says cozy like a cabin out in the fall woods where you can enjoy the autumn color from the comfort of close quarters. We’re lucky here in Arkansas because we’ve got plenty of places to stay that are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Natural State. On this list, you’ll find 10 of the best places for the perfect fall getaway, and each of these Arkansas cabins here has its own cozy charm....

Do you love history? If you do then you’ll love Northern California. There are historical places in Northern California to keep you busy and feed your love of history for weeks. We are known for pioneering the railroads and our past also includes Spanish built missions and industrial man-made wonders that will keep your mind busy and your love of history happily satisfied. Home of Jack London wikipedia/robert nyland Jack London was a famous and gifted author....

What would we do without the most charming small towns in Arizona? From Flagstaff to Jerome, these towns give our state character and are adored by locals and tourists alike. Historic town squares with quaint shops and restaurants, kitschy diners filled with Route 66 memorabilia … these little blips on the map are what Arizona is all about and life just wouldn’t be the same in their absence. Flagstaff ChrisBoswell / iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images Every Arizonan’s favorite mountain town was an obvious addition to this list....

‘Tis the season for holiday cheer to light up the Treasure State! Some of the best Christmas lights in Montana are being set up at various homes and businesses throughout the state and preparing for another beautiful season. Several of our cities and towns, like Billings and Bozeman, usually offer maps in early December of the best residential neighborhoods to see the lights—but if you’re looking for a professional display or an event this year, read on....

Pack your go-go boots, tiki mugs, and Star Trek communicator because you’ll have a blast at this groovy retro-themed motel in North Bend, Oregon. Surrounded by the beautiful Coos Bay, this charming quirky town is home to cute shops, antique stores, cool little restaurants, and (of course) our main attraction: the Itty Bitty Inn. The Itty Bitty Inn is the most perfect themed motel for all of us retro geeks who are loud and proud of our uniqueness....

Nature photographer Roland R. Kemler said, “There’s no better place to find yourself than sitting by a waterfall and listening to its music.” The music of nature is so satisfying to the soul! To combine this with the experience of eating a delicious meal is heavenly. And we do happen to have a restaurant overlooking waterfalls in South Carolina. Between the Trees is located inside the Grand Bohemian Lodge, which opened in the summer of 2022....

You won’t find the best mac and cheese in Arizona at a fancy restaurant. Instead, it’s hiding at MacShack, a mom-and-pop joint tucked away in an unassuming Glendale shopping center. The menu features everything from traditional mac and cheese to even lobster mac! You can also build your own creation with dozens of cheeses, sauces, and toppings to choose from. Ooey, gooey goodness is waiting for you at MacShack, and you need to experience it as soon as possible....

When you head inside a Mexican restaurant, you are likely looking for tacos, burritos, and even a good enchilada. But, what if we told you that there is a Mexican restaurant in Utah that also serves some of the most delicious burgers around? It’s true! Billy Blanco’s is an incredible Mexican restaurant where you will also find an assortment of surprisingly delicious burgers and comfort food. Plus, the atmosphere of this restaurant is truly one of a kind....

If you ever find yourself at a gathering full of Forbes 500 types, you can call out the name “Stephens” or “Walton” or “Murphy” and get a nod of recognition for these prominent business names who found their start in the Natural State. There are many companies that started in Arkansas that now have global recognition. Of course the political-minded Rockefellers brought their New York City money to Arkansas and helped spread their vast fortune around the state (and consequently the equally political-minded Clintons took their Arkansas money to New York City over half a century later), but nothing quite beats those who built their business from the ground up by themselves in Arkansas....

Festivities abound in Virginia this time of year. Whether it’s a small-town festival, a drive-through lights display, or something else altogether, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the holidays. Perhaps one of the most epic traditions here in Virginia is known as Christmas Town. Like the set of a Hallmark movie, this incredible holiday display includes millions of lights, shops, attractions, activities, and more that will make all ages feel jolly and bright....

There’s a castle hiding in Indiana that is the perfect place to host a Harry Potter event, as its medieval charm and beauty fit in perfectly with the Potterverse! As a Medieval Faire site, wedding venue, bed and breakfast, feasting hall, and more, Clayshire Castle in Indiana is a total Potter paradise! This impressive castle spans 10,000 square feet and provides five guest rooms with medieval decor, including classic tapestries like The Lady and the Unicorn....

A trip to the mall usually appeals to us when we know exactly what we want and are on a tight timeframe, or maybe we’re just craving a quick bite from our favorite spot in the food court. However, when you’re not short on time or just feel like window shopping, you won’t find a better place than this small town in Pennsylvania that’s dotted with shops and restaurants. Slip on your comfiest shoes for your visit to Carlisle’s darling downtown, a vibrant area that’s bustling with activity all year round....

Maker’s Mark is one of the most legendary distilleries in Kentucky and its red wax seal is an industry icon. While many opt to tour Maker’s Mark while exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the experience doesn’t have to end there. Those looking for an immersive and hands-on experience at Marker’s Mark will be delighted to learn that the distillery lets guests hand-dip their very own bottle of bourbon. In many states, a particular food or dish signifies the state itself – word enthusiasts know this as synecdoche....

From out along the Great Lakes to down along Long Island, you’ll find that all throughout the state of New York you can find an assortment of wildlife. While each of the state regions has its own creatures that are prevalently running rampant through the area, there are some forms of wildlife that almost every resident has encountered at one time or another. New Yorkers may think that the only slithering animal they’ll ever encounter is that of an average garter snake, but there’s an even bigger question to be asked: “Does New York have poisonous snakes?...

Did you know that there are 25 state parks in Mississippi? Of course, some of the most well-known state parks like Tishomingo State Park and Buccaneer State Park tend to be some of the most popular, but there’s a lot to be said for some of the lesser-known parks in the state. This particular state park in Mississippi is a hidden gem that not many people know about, so you might get the entire park to yourself!...

With so much history hiding in our scenic slice of the Midwest, it’s no surprise that Illinois’ sweetest inns and B&Bs would be equally full of storied charm. This weekend, how about a stay at a country-chic getaway that not only offers centuries of Illinois history, but the quiet seclusion of a private forest, the beauty of rolling prairie farmland, and even lush waterfront all in one? Relax, restore, and explore the Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages!...

Ellicott City is mostly known for its charming historic district that is perfect for an antique-filled day trip. What most people don’t know is that the town is also known as the most haunted place in Maryland. With a vast history, the old structures here have seen their share of folks come and go… and die. Read on to learn the stories behind these Ellicott City haunted houses and buildings....

Kerr City is a ghost town in Florida on Lake Kerr in what is now the Ocala National Forest. Back when it was founded in 1884, it was only the second town in Marion County. These photos may not look all that scary, but imagine it at night, with the wind rattling the antique windows and the 130-year-old floorboards creaking under your feet. The town grew and reached a population of 100 residents....