Gozaic Partner Spotlight: Alabama’s Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway

If you decide to travel to Alabama’s southern tip take a drive along the Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway and you may be left in awe as you experience the area’s wildlife preserves, historic sites and heritage museums. Explore the weathered brick halls of Fort Morgan, enjoy the bird sanctuary and fishing pier on the beautiful Dauphin Island and walk along Alabama’s sandy beaches. Try the local cuisine and dive into a traditional seafood basket or a uniquely prepared fish dish.

Things to See & Do
Fort Gaines
Journey through Fort Gaines and learn about its history, which spans over three centuries. Discover the role that Fort Gaines played in the Battle of Mobile Bay or enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Wander through the gardens of the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a stunning 65-acre site. Tour the original Bellingrath Home or take a scenic 45 minute cruise on the Southern Belle and Kingfisher as it slowly travels along the Fowl River.

The Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab
The Estuarium is an exciting educational facility that showcases plants, animals and other natural resources found in the local marine habitats. The facility also includes a large Exhibit Hall and Living Marsh Boardwalk, which children will love.

The Communities of the Coastal Connection
The communities along Alabama’s Coastal Connection are linked by more than the byway. They each have their own connections to the land and the water. Farming and fishing are part of the culture here. Quaint downtowns still bustle. Historic districts are well preserved and offer a variety of shopping and dining opportunities. As you make your way along the byway, be sure to take time to experiences these quaint towns and all they have to offer.

Have you driven along Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway or visited any of its cities or sites along the way? If so, write a review and/or post a photo on Gozaic.com.

Blog post written by: Ann Lawson Willig, Heritage Travel Intern.

Gozaic Partner Spotlight: Geneva, Illinois

Geneva offers a rare blend of small-town allure and big-city amenities and is located only one hour west of Chicago. Geneva is often referred to as picture-postcard beautiful and lives up to this reputation through its preserved historic districts, peaceful parks and unique shopping. Known in the region as a quaint, charming historic town, Geneva retains a large number of its mid-to-late 19th-century homes. A day in Geneva isn’t complete until you indulge yourself in one of their rich variety of restaurants and eateries. Enjoy lunch at an enchanting sidewalk café or cap off your evening with an intimate dinner overlooking the Fox River.

Things to See & Do
Fabyan Villa Museum
The Fabyan Villa Museum was home to the Fabyans from 1905 to 1939 and was remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907. The estate soon became a showplace with fountains, gardens, a windmill and more. The museum includes the Fabyans’ private collection of Asian artifacts, natural history specimens and many surprises that visitors of all ages will love.

Geneva History Center
The Geneva History Center includes a classroom, two exhibit galleries, large meeting room, archival reading room and museum store. The center also offers multiple award-winning educational programs, professional exhibits, cutting edge research and dedicated volunteers, who strive to create a setting and learning experience to be enjoyed by all.

Fabyan Japanese Garden
Stroll along the winding paths and enjoy the many delightful features and views of the 100-year-old Fabyan Japanese Garden. The garden is located in the Fabyan Forest Preserve and is open to the public mid-May through mid-October on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Where to Eat
The Flagstone Pub and Grill is adjacent to the Little Owl Restaurant – Geneva's oldest restaurant and pub. Flagstone offers a great nightlife, with live bands and a great list of wines, beers and cocktails. Choose from an array of appetizers or try a delectable salad if you are looking for something light.

The Little Traveler began when Kate Raftery decided to sell some of the unusual gifts she had acquired out of her living room. By 1925, the shop dubbed "The Little Traveler," was frequented by the carriage trade. Knowing that her guests had traveled some distance, Mrs. Raftery, who was still more hostess than shopkeeper at heart, served lunch. This tradition continues today at the Atrium Cafe, located inside the Little Traveler.

Where to Stay
The Oscar Swan Country Inn Bed & Breakfast is located on eight acres of tranquil countryside in a quaint English country mansion. The Inn offers eight master guest suites, which overlook a beautiful garden.

Nestled on the banks of the Fox River, the Herrington Inn & Spa offers the charm and warmth of a fine European inn and spa, combined with the services and amenities of a luxury hotel. Indulge your senses at the spa with a variety of treatments to relax or dine at Atwater’s, the award winning restaurant, located in the hotel.

Have you visited Geneva, Illinois? If so, write a review and/or post a photo on Gozaic.com.

Blog post written by: Ann Lawson Willig, Heritage Travel Intern.

Gozaic Partner Spotlight: James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home in Indianapolis, Indiana

The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home sits just east of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Also known as the “Hoosier Poet”, some of Mr. Riley’s best-loved writing recalled the rich texture of childhood memories in a growing Indiana town. When the home opened as a museum in 1922, it stood perfectly preserved, as it had been in 1916. Since that time, no other family has lived in the house, therefore the furnishings, books, wall coverings and carpets in the home are still frozen like a snapshot in time. Take a step back in to the 20th century with a tour this historic home. Picture Mr. Riley going over his many verses or immersed in a favorite book at his writing desk and see why this poet was so loved by children and the community.

Things to do nearby
After your tour of the House Museum, be sure to enjoy local history and culture at one of the area’s unique shops:

Stout´s Shoes opened in September 1886 and has been at the same location and owned by the Stout family ever since. It is the oldest shoe store in America. The store still is equipped with an antique shoe delivery system of baskets and pulleys and has up-to-date shoes in stock for men, women and children.

Mass Ave Toys is located on Indianapolis's Massachusetts Avenue, which is home to the Arts and Cultural District and named one of the country's 20 Best Downtowns. Mass Ave Toys feature a grand selection of elegant, enduring, fun and funny toys and a wide selection of toys.

The Indianapolis City Market is a place to experience good food, good drinks, good friends and good times. Enjoy a glass of wine, go shopping for unique jewelry and gifts or satisfy the inner foodie in you. Get a beer at Tomlinson Tap Room, which features only tapped Indiana craft beer by the pint or the growler fill! Purchase outstanding produce, dairy products and meats from the Farmers Market, open on Wednesdays now through October.

Where to Eat
Whether before or after your visit, be sure to enjoy some of the local flavors at one of these restaurants close to the museum:

Café Olivia was created with the aim of bringing a small piece of Provence, France to Indianapolis. All dishes, soups and roasted meats are made fresh on the spot. From signature sandwiches like roast beef and gruyere cheese to main dishes like herb chicken, Café Olivia has will satisfy any appetite of various sizes.

Mesh on Mass Ave blends contemporary elegance and comfort with incredible food and excellent service. The innovative menu and unique decor make Mesh an ideal setting for business meetings, romantic evenings, or a night out with friends. Have a drink from the $2 bar menu, which lasts from 3-6pm daily. Mesh is also open for lunch dinner and brunch!

Blog post written by: Ann Lawson Willig, Heritage Travel Intern