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!
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!
2025 Pennsylvania Covered Bridge Festivals
Pennsylvania is home to more than 200 historic covered bridges, and each fall, the state celebrates these treasured landmarks with two unforgettable festivals. Whether you’re chasing peak foliage, shopping for handmade crafts, or exploring small-town charm, the Covered Bridge Festivals in Washington & Greene Counties and Bloomsburg offer the perfect autumn escape. In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know — dates, locations, highlights, and tips to make the most of your visit!
Discovering the Covered Bridges of the USA
Step back in time with me as we explore the story behind America’s charming covered bridges — from their fascinating 19th-century origins to the hidden back roads where these timeless wooden structures still stand today. I’m on a mission to visit all 210 covered bridges in Pennsylvania and will be crossing into Ohio, New York, and beyond. Whether you’re a history lover, road tripper, or just love a scenic photo op, you’ll find inspiration here to plan your own covered bridge adventure!
Is A U.S. Parks Pass Really Worth It?
Thinking about exploring more of America’s stunning national parks and wondering if a U.S. Parks Pass is worth it? In this guide, I break down exactly what the America the Beautiful Pass is, how it works, the different types you can get (including special passes for seniors, military families, and kids!), plus how to decide if it’ll actually save you money on your adventures.
The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the USA
If you love the idea of quiet roads lined with fiery trees, cozy towns with cider stands, and the crunch of leaves under your boots, this guide is for you! I’m sharing my favorite destinations to see brilliant fall colors — plus the best time to visit each one.
The Historic El Rancho Hotel One Stop You Can’t Miss
This is one stop I refuse to miss on my 2026 Route 66 road trip! The historic El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, once hosted Hollywood’s biggest stars and now welcomes travelers with a perfect mix of Old West charm and fresh modern upgrades. From celebrity-themed rooms to a stunningly restored lobby and a revived restaurant, the El Rancho promises an unforgettable overnight stay right on the Mother Road. Come see why this piece of Route 66 history is still shining bright today!
Recent Adventures
St. Petersburg, Florida
Bishop’s Place
Galveston, Texas
Christmas in New York
New York
