On The Road with Susan
One adventure at a time for this mature woman
Taking on the World, One Adventure at a Time
Hello and welcome! I’m Susan — a retired woman with an unstoppable passion for travel and exploring new places. My love for travel goes back to the early 80s when I worked as a travel agent — one of the best chapters of my life.
Over the years, I’ve visited countless destinations, mostly across the United States, soaking up every moment and memory along the way. For the longest time, I never sat down to write about my adventures — but that’s changing now.
These days, I’m embracing travel even more, whether it’s heading out on a solo road trip or planning a fun getaway with friends. I especially love organizing trips and events for my community — including gatherings for over 100 of my fellow Flamingo Fanatic friends!
I’m so glad you’re here. I hope you’ll join me as I discover new places, revisit old favorites, and share tips, stories, and moments from the road. Let’s make the next adventure our best yet!
Latest Stories & Featured Collections
Every journey tells a story — and here are some of the newest ones! Explore my latest blog posts filled with travel adventures, hidden gems, and a few surprises along the way.
Below, you’ll also find special collections of posts grouped by common interests — from historic hotels and covered bridges to haunted places, Christmas markets, and more. Whether you’re here to plan your next trip or simply wander through some travel inspiration, there’s something here for everyone who loves to explore.
Amelia Earhart: The Woman Who Dared to Fly
Amelia Earhart broke through the clouds of convention to become one of the most iconic figures in aviation history. From her daring solo flights to her mysterious disappearance, her story continues to inspire generations to follow their dreams — wherever they may lead.
20 Haunted Places in Pennsylvania You Must Visit
Pennsylvania is a state where history and hauntings walk hand in hand. From Gettysburg’s battlefields to Eastern State Penitentiary’s crumbling cells, spirits linger in inns, churches, caves, and asylums. Here are 20 haunted places in Pennsylvania that will give you chills.
The Haunted Covered Bridges of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s covered bridges aren’t just relics of the past—they’re also gateways to ghost stories and lingering legends. From the cries of an infant at Van Sant Bridge to the battlefield echoes at Sachs Bridge, these historic crossings hold more than just history in their timbers. Step inside, and you may hear whispers, footsteps, or even see shadows that refuse to fade with time.
Top Places in Pennsylvania to See The Fall Foliage
Fall in Pennsylvania is magical. From late September through October, the mountains, valleys, and small towns across the Keystone State burst into color. Whether you love hiking, scenic overlooks, or just a peaceful drive, here are my favorite places to experience the beauty of autumn.
The Historic George Washington Hotel in Washington, PA
Opened in 1923, the George Washington Hotel in Washington, Pennsylvania, has welcomed presidents, celebrities, and travelers for more than a century. Its Beaux-Arts architecture, stunning murals, and elegant ballrooms still impress today. And while history is its true calling card, whispers of ghostly encounters add a touch of intrigue to the experience.
Big Tex: The Giant Cowboy of the Texas State Fair
Every October, millions of people flock to Dallas for the Texas State Fair — and towering over it all is Big Tex, the 55-foot cowboy with a booming voice and a welcoming wave. Since 1952, Big Tex has been more than just a mascot; he’s a Texas icon, a symbol of hospitality, and the first “Howdy, folks!” that kicks off the fair each fall. His story is full of transformations, surprises, and resilience — just like Texas itself.
The Muffler Men of New England
Towering roadside giants known as Muffler Men may be most famous along Route 66, but New England has its own collection of these fiberglass legends. From Bangor’s Babe the Blue Ox to Connecticut’s patriotic cowboy Big Bob, and Massachusetts’ quirky Big White Guy with his many disguises, these statues tell stories of creativity, reinvention, and nostalgia. Each one has its own colorful history—some repainted, some relocated, and others still shrouded in mystery—making them must-see stops for anyone who loves roadside Americana.
Arthurdale, WV Eleanor Roosevelt’s New Deal Dream
On a recent trip through West Virginia, I stumbled upon Arthurdale, a small town on Route 92 with a remarkable past. Created in 1933 as the first—and only—New Deal homestead community, it was Eleanor Roosevelt’s passion project during the Great Depression. Families here experienced indoor plumbing for the first time, danced with the First Lady, and even sent a Thanksgiving turkey to the White House. Though plans for nearly a hundred similar towns never came to life, Arthurdale remains a powerful reminder of hope and resilience.
The Legend of Frank-N-Stein in Gary Indiana
On old Dunes Highway in Gary, Indiana, a 20-plus-foot Frank-N-Stein once held a foamy mug and a chili dog over a little hot-dog stand with big dreams. He vanished in the early 1980s and turned into a local legend—until a modern-day sleuth, Dave Distler, set out to solve the mystery and rebuild him.
A Texas-Sized Fairytale: The Falkenstein Castle
Perched high above the Texas Hill Country, Falkenstein Castle is a real-life fairytale brought to life. Inspired by King Ludwig II’s unbuilt Bavarian design, this 14,000-square-foot castle in Burnet, Texas, blends European charm with Lone Star spirit—complete with turrets, sweeping views, and a story as magical as its architecture.
The Unsinkable Molly Brown
A few years ago, I visited the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver, Colorado, and discovered that Molly’s story goes far beyond her famous survival of the Titanic. Known as “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” she was also a fearless advocate for social justice, labor rights, and women’s suffrage. Today, her home is not only a beautifully restored Victorian landmark but also part of the National Votes for Women Trail, with a marker honoring her groundbreaking role in the fight for equality. Walking through her home and standing before that marker reminded me that Molly wasn’t just a survivor—she was a trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire.
Castles vs Mansions: What’s the Difference?
“From Germany’s fairytale fortresses to castle-inspired mansions tucked away in the USA, I’ve always been captivated by these grand structures. Join me as I uncover the history, legends, and beauty of castles around the world — and right here at home.”
The Uniroyal Gals – Female Version of the Muffler Man
Most people know about the towering Muffler Men giants that dot America’s highways, but fewer have heard of their female counterparts — the Uniroyal Gals. Created in the 1960s by the same company that built the Muffler Men, these fiberglass women stood nearly 20 feet tall, hand on hip, welcoming drivers into tire shops and dealerships. Today, only a handful of these rare roadside icons remain, making them a must-see for enthusiasts of vintage Americana and quirky roadside attractions.
Exploring PA Covered Bridges Starting in Washington County
Washington County is home to 23 historic covered bridges, making it one of the best places in Pennsylvania to experience these charming wooden structures up close. From quiet backroads to scenic parks, each bridge has its own story and architectural style. Join me as I begin my journey to visit every covered bridge in the state—starting right here in the heart of southwestern Pennsylvania.
Double the Charm : Only Six Bridges Remain in the USA
Double-barrel covered bridges are among the rarest architectural treasures in America. With side-by-side lanes under one roof, these historic structures combine functionality with 19th-century craftsmanship. From Indiana’s oldest surviving covered bridge at Ramp Creek to Vermont’s enduring Pulp Mill Bridge, each tells a story of engineering ingenuity and timeless charm.
Texas Lighthouse Road Trip- From Galveston to Port Lavaca
There’s something about lighthouses that just draws me in. Maybe it’s the way they’ve stood guard for over a century, weathering storms and watching the tides roll in and out. On this Texas road trip, we’re starting in Galveston and winding our way down the Gulf Coast, chasing history, salt air, and those postcard-perfect views. Grab your camera (and maybe a hat for that Texas sun) — we’ve got some beautiful beacons to visit.
Where Has All the Fun Gone?
Travel used to feel magical—full of discovery, spontaneity, and joy. But over the past few years, something has shifted. Between the lingering effects of the pandemic, the rise of overtourism, and the pressures of social media, many of us are asking: where did the fun go? In this post, we explore what’s changed in the world of travel and how we can reclaim the wonder, connection, and authenticity that make exploring the world so rewarding.
15 Most Beautiful & Historic Lighthouses in the USA
From the rocky coasts of Maine to the windswept shores of the Pacific, America’s lighthouses stand as timeless symbols of beauty, history, and maritime legacy. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to 15 of the most stunning and historically significant lighthouses across the USA—each with its own story, scenic setting, and coastal charm.
Bridging the Burgh: The Iconic Bridges of Pittsburgh, PA
Did you know Pittsburgh has more bridges than Venice? Join me as I explore some of the most iconic bridges in the Steel City — their history, the rivers they span, and why Pittsburgh is proudly known as “The City of Bridges.”
Quirky Giants on Route 66 -Muffler Men & More
Get ready for some larger-than-life fun! From the iconic Gemini Giant to quirky Muffler Men holding hot dogs and pies, Route 66 is full of giant statues that keep the Mother Road’s roadside spirit alive. Discover where to find these legendary landmarks, snap the ultimate photos, and add a little extra Americana to your next road trip adventure!
Featured Categories
Each of these categories brings together blogs with a common theme — from historic hotels and covered bridges to haunted places, Christmas markets, and roadside attractions. Explore the stories that interest you most and dive deeper into the adventures that make travel so unforgettable.
Historic Hotels in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most remarkable historic hotels in America — from grand city landmarks to charming countryside inns that have welcomed travelers for generations. This section of my site is dedicated to exploring their stories, architecture, famous guests, and the unique role each hotel has played in Pennsylvania’s history.
Land of Giants in the USA
Exploring Giant Statues Across America, a page dedicated to the fascinating world of oversized roadside attractions. From the iconic Muffler Men standing tall along historic highways to larger-than-life Paul Bunyan figures, cowboy statues, and even quirky custom creations, these giants have become beloved landmarks for travelers and photographers alike.
Historical Covered Bridges
From the rolling hills of Pennsylvania to the river valleys of Oregon, from the winding roads of Vermont to the scenic countryside of Indiana, covered bridges have become timeless symbols of America’s rural past. Built during the 19th and early 20th centuries, these wooden spans were once a vital part of everyday travel—linking farms, towns, and communities across the country.
Chasing Waterfalls in the USA
Chasing Waterfalls is my personal quest to visit and share the most beautiful waterfalls across the USA — state by state, trail by trail. Whether you love hidden forest cascades or famous falls, you’ll find guides, tips, and inspiration here to help you plan your next adventure. Let’s go chasing waterfalls together — and check back often for new posts as I explore even more stunning spots!
Women in History
Step into the stories of remarkable women whose courage, determination, and vision shaped the world we live in today. From trailblazers who fought for rights and equality, to innovators, artists, and adventurers who left lasting legacies, this category highlights the women who dared to dream big and make history. Explore their journeys, discover their impact, and be inspired by the powerful voices of the past that continue to influence the present.
Historical Lighthouses
With over 800 lighthouses scattered across the United States, these iconic beacons have long guided sailors through treacherous waters and now draw travelers seeking beauty, history, and coastal charm. From the rocky cliffs of Maine to the sun-soaked shores of California, and the inland waters of the Great Lakes, each lighthouse has a story to tell. Michigan alone boasts the most in the nation, with more than 140 lighthouses lining its freshwater coastlines.
Recent Adventures
St. Petersburg, Florida
Bishop’s Place
Galveston, Texas
Christmas in New York
New York
