Exploring the Rich Artistic Heritage of Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, Arizona

Nestled in the heart of Sedona, Arizona lies the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, a unique destination that celebrates the rich artistic heritage of Mexico. Founded in the 1970s by a group of artists and architects, this beautiful complex is a hub for artists and craftspeople, and a mecca for art lovers.

The name Tlaquepaque comes from a town in the Mexican state of Jalisco, which is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. The Sedona village is modeled after this town and features stunning Spanish colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and lush courtyards. The village covers six acres and houses more than 40 art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Wander through the charming streets and discover an array of handmade crafts, from pottery and blown glass to jewelry and textiles. The village also showcases a wide range of fine art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces. Every corner of the complex is a feast for the senses, with colorful mosaics, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful fountains.

One of the highlights of Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is its commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship. Many of the artists who work here use techniques that have been passed down through generations, such as hand-painting ceramics or weaving intricate textiles. Visitors can watch these artisans at work in their studios, and even take classes to learn the skills themselves.

In addition to its art and craft offerings, Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is also a foodie's paradise. The village is home to several restaurants and cafes, each with its own unique flair. You can savor authentic Mexican cuisine, sip margaritas in a charming courtyard, or indulge in gourmet chocolates and pastries.

Overall, a visit to Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is an experience that will delight and inspire. Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, this charming complex has something for everyone. 

Address:

336 AZ-179

 Sedona, AZ 86336

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Discover the Hidden Gem of North Central Florida: Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens in Williston

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is what I would call the "New kid on the block" in the world of Florida tourist attractions. It has only been opened to the public recently (2014), so not very many people know about it.

It is a botanical garden located in a 100-year-old abandoned lime rock quarry. Dr. Raymond Webber’s love of plants and desire to create a unique garden has led to one of the most interesting gardens in Florida.          

Enjoy an over view from the rim and then descend down steps into the garden for a closer look at unique waterfalls, ponds, plants, and islands. The islands are connected by a maze of wood and concrete bridges.

Need to know:

This jewel is hidden at the end of a rough dirt road, so keep going!

Be sure to wear mosquito spray in the summer months!

If you are into snorkeling or diving, be sure and visit Devil's Den about 1/2 mile down the road.  

Hours:

Open: Monday - Tuesday and Thursday - Sunday

Closed: Wednesday 

 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Admission:

Adult: $12

Children (6-13 ): $7

Free for children under 6 

Address:

4990 NE 180th Ave

 Williston, FL, 32696

Happy Travels! 

Discovering the Natural Beauty of Cascade River State Park in Minnesota

As the name suggest, the main attraction to this park is the waterfalls. The water from the Cascade River flows down the black volcanic gorge for a total drop of 900 feet in the last three miles of its journey to Lake Superior.

The park has 18 miles of trails for hiking. If you are looking for a short hike to see the waterfalls, a small parking area on Highway 61 will get you there quickly. It is near the start of trail and will take you through a forest of aspen, birch, fir, spruce and cedars to a beautiful series of waterfalls.

The falls are lined with green moss and fern that add a magical feel to the place.

Camping:

Camping is available year-round. The park has 40 drive-in campsites, 5 backpack sites, and 2 group campsites.

Winter: 

Check here for winter facilities and activities.

Hours:

Spring, Fall & Winter: Daily, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Summer: Hours extended.

Location:

3481 West Highway 61

Lutsen, MN 55612

Phone:

 218-387-6000

Happy Travels! 

Lighthouse Point (Two Harbors, Minnesota) Lake Superior

Located in the beautiful little town of Two Harbors, Lighthouse Point is a magical place.

 Winding trails through cedar, spruces, grasses, and wild flowers will lead you along the rocky shore of Lake Superior.

The high light of the area is a red brick lighthouse on the top of a hill over looking the harbor.  The Two Harbors Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on Minnesota's North Shore. It is a private aid to navigation and is no longer maintained by the Coast Guard.

A head keeper's residence is attached to the lighthouse. The walls of the tower are three bricks thick and the walls where the tower and house meet are five bricks thick. The structure was built with the safety of the keeper's family in mind.

Tours of the lighthouse are available through the gift shop.

Lighthouse Tours: Information

Stay as a guest  in one of the four rooms at the Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast.

Lodging: Information

Address:

#1 Lighthouse Point

Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone:

(218) 834-4898 

Happy Travels! 

Exploring the Wonders of Gooseberry Falls State Park in Minnesota

Waterfalls, waterfalls, and more waterfalls is the main theme of this park! Hiking to, climbing through, or just relaxing by one of the many beautiful waterfalls is a great way to spend the day!

There are five waterfalls  located near the Highway 61 bridge and in the gorge. In this area, the Gooseberry River rushes over the 30-foot Upper Falls into a pool, then flows to the two-tiered Middle and Lower Falls, descends 60 feet to the last pool, and then runs through the valley to Lake Superior.

The lower and middle falls are a short walk from the parking area past the visitor center. A descent down several sets of steep steps is required to reach the falls area.

Once there, you can climb on the rocks and boulders and wade through the falls and pools.

 Continue hiking over the bridge to the other side of the river and under the highway bridge to get to the upper falls.

Amenities:

 Bathrooms, phones, water and picnic sites are located at the visitor center

The park has 18 miles of hiking trails. Park Map

Address:

3206 Highway 61
Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone:

(218) 595-7100





Happy Travels! 

Capturing the Beauty of Lake Catherine State Park's Waterfall: A Christmas Day Photoshoot

We spent last Christmas on Lake Catherine and had a blast. It was a beautiful warm day, so we hiked to the popular waterfall and took our photos there. I thought I would share them with you for inspiration on finding a unique place for a Christmas photoshoot.

A waterfall is so such an unexpected place and everyone has loved all the photos!

I love catching those little moments that will mean so much to the cousins in the future.

Some of my favorites are the unplanned ones like this. I think we made a lot of hikers happy with all the hats. Everyone we passed was smiling!

Our youngest family was worn out from all the hiking. I'm pretty sure several of the adults were tired from carrying him too! I noticed he was passed around a lot during the trip.

Lake Catherine State Park is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Address:

1200 Catherine Park Rd

 Hot Springs, AR 71913

Happy Holidays! 

Celebrating an Old-Fashioned Christmas at Historic Washington State Park in Arkansas

If you are looking for a unique experience this Christmas, visit Historic Washington State Park in Washington, Arkansas.

Step back in time with the 30th annual Christmas and Candlelight on December 10^th, 2016.

Beginning at dusk, hundreds of luminaries are lit to line the walkways between the buildings.

Enjoy musical performances through the park and tours of historic homes decorated with time period Christmas decor. 

Williams' Tavern Restaurant will be serving a Christmas buffet, including turkey and dressing.

Top your visit off with a horse-drawn surrey ride through the streets of this charming village.

 Historic Washington State Park is located on U.S. Highway 278 nine miles north of Hope, Arkansas.

 Tickets: $10 for adults, $6 for children 6 to 12, free for kids under 6.


Happy Travels!