Mountain with desert shrubbery at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, one of the best Las Vegas day trips by car

The Best Las Vegas Day Trips by Car

Las Vegas is best known for its glitz and glamour, from the vibrant neon signs and over-the-top stage shows to the "anything goes" vibe of the Strip. Las Vegas day trips by car deliver a new perspective on a destination known for its party scene. While many of the best day trips from Las Vegas cross state lines to venture deep into the nearby mountain ranges and desert landscapes, there are worthy adventures to be had without straying too far from the Strip. From short hikes through Red Rock Canyon to kayaking on Lake Mead and touring Hoover Dam, I loved the activities I chose โ€“ which is why I'm sharing my favorites with you!
How to Find Petoskey Stones: Tips + Where to Look

How to Find Petoskey Stones: Tips + Where to Look

While driving from Michigan's Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula, my wife and I made a rockhounding stop at Petoskey State Park. Since it's widely advertised as the best place to find Petoskey stones, I figured all the good ones would be picked over. But within half an hour of searching the shoreline, we had a couple dozen small, smooth Petoskey stones perfect for turning into jewelry. That day sparked my continuing fascination with these fossilized coral treasures unique to Michigan. In this blog post, I want to share tips from my Michigan road trip for spotting Petoskey stones. I'll cover what exactly Petoskey stones are, what to look for when hunting for them, and where the best place to find Petoskey stones is.
Best State Parks in California

12 Best California State Parks to Visit This Year

California has some of the most epic National Parks out there. But did you know it is also home to hundreds of beautiful state parks, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences? Add these 12 best California state parks to your travel bucket list to explore some magnificent landscapes!