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Take the mountain road to Lake Arrowhead with Johnny Mac on Travel Is Back. This episode follows Rim of the World Highway from the San Bernardino approach into the ridge communities, with time for designated viewpoints and the signed connection to Lake Arrowhead Village. Once you're parked, explore Rocket Fizz, And Then, and Mr. G's for Toys in Lake Arrowhead Village. There's time to consider lunch, a narrated ride aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen, and what visitors should know about access to the private lake. If you're continuing toward Big Bear, hear more about that separate destination in Travel Is Back episodes 184 and 185. Before driving, check current road conditions, chain controls, and forest alerts rather than relying on an old itinerary. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join Travel Is Back episode 221: "221. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Museum Day - Smithsonian Day: Wander Through America’s Treasures" as we roam the National Mall and unlock the best of Washington, DC’s world-class Smithsonian museums. Highlights include deep dives at the National Air and Space Museum, awe at the National Museum of Natural History, a walk through American innovation at the National Museum of American History, a photo stop at the Smithsonian Castle, and contemporary art at the Hirshhorn. We share practical travel tips—arrive early, book timed entries where required, take the Metro to Smithsonian station, and wear comfy shoes to cover miles of galleries. Food lovers will enjoy Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe and the Sweet Home Café plus lively food trucks on the Mall. We also point out nearby landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the Reflecting Pool for after-museum wandering. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Tune in for a friendly, itinerary-ready guide to Smithsonian Museum Day in DC. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

220. Washington, DC: The National Archives - Where America's Papers Whisper Into History invites listeners to step into the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom and stand before the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. We walk you through highlights like the Rotunda itself, the hands-on Public Vaults exhibit, the conservation lab viewing window, and tips for accessing the research room for deeper dives. Practical travel tips cover arriving early to avoid lines, security screening and bag rules, checking exhibit schedules, and nearby transit stops to make your visit smooth. Hungry after history? We recommend Old Ebbitt Grill and nearby Penn Quarter eateries, plus food trucks along the National Mall for quick bites. Pair your visit with nearby landmarks such as the White House, Smithsonian museums, and the National Mall to make a full day of exploration. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Whether you're a history buff or a casual visitor, this episode makes the National Archives accessible, inspiring, and easy to plan. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 219, "Washington, DC: Air and Space - Soaring Through DC's Air and Space," a warm, insider guide to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and its sister Udvar-Hazy Center. Highlights include the Wright Brothers' Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, Space Shuttle Discovery, the Udvar-Hazy Center's hangar galleries, and the Albert Einstein Planetarium. We'll share practical travel tips—arrive early on weekdays to beat crowds, use the Metro (Smithsonian station on the Blue/Orange/Silver lines), and combine a museum morning with monuments on the National Mall. For food, explore museum cafes and famous local spots like food trucks on the Mall or Ben’s Chili Bowl and nearby Penn Quarter restaurants for post-museum meals. You’ll hear how to make the most of family-friendly exhibits, plan a timed visit, and add a Dulles-area stop to see Udvar-Hazy. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Whether you’re a history buff or a space enthusiast, this episode helps you soar through DC’s air- and space-focused attractions. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Episode 218: White Mountains, New Hampshire — Peaks, Pines, and Wild River Echoes. Join us for a cozy, informative tour of the White Mountains, where towering peaks meet winding rivers and classic New England charm. Highlights include hiking Mount Washington for panoramic vistas, cruising the Kancamagus Highway for fall foliage, exploring Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch, and listening to the rush of the Wild River in the Pemigewasset Wilderness. We share practical travel tips: pack layers, check Mount Washington weather forecasts, reserve lodging in North Conway or Lincoln during leaf season, and bring a map for backcountry trails. Food lovers will want to try local maple syrup treats, cider donuts, hearty farm-to-table breakfasts, and seafood favorites like New England clam chowder at cozy taverns in downtown Conway. Landmarks covered range from Cannon Mountain and the Mount Washington Auto Road to the Old Man of the Mountain Memorial and waterfalls like Arethusa Falls. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Episode 217 of Travel Is Back explores the Berkshires, Massachusetts — orchards, concertos, and the hush of hills. Join us as we wander from Tanglewood's summer concerts to the industrial‑chic galleries of MASS MoCA and the storybook charm of the Norman Rockwell Museum. Highlights include a sunset hike up Mount Greylock for sweeping views, apple picking and cider donuts at local orchards, and an evening at Tanglewood with the Boston Symphony. Along the way we share practical travel tips: best seasons (peak fall foliage and summer concert season), getting there via Albany or Bradley airports or a scenic drive from Boston or NYC, and where to find cozy inns and farm-to-table restaurants in Lenox and Stockbridge. Food lovers will savor seasonal menus, artisanal cheeses, maple sweets, and farmers markets brimming with local produce. We also point you to family-friendly walks, hidden waterfalls, and quieter winter retreats for a restorative getaway. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Take a fall road trip through Vermont with Johnny Mac as Travel Is Back follows the colors from mountain passes to covered bridges, village greens, and country roads. This episode explores how to plan a foliage drive, when to go for peak color, where to slow down, and how to make room for the small towns, farms, overlooks, and local meals that give Vermont its character. You will get practical ideas for scenic routes, timing, weather planning, roadside stops, and building an itinerary that feels like a trip instead of a checklist. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 215 as we wander through fog-swept Portland, Maine, where maritime charm meets world-class seafood. We share neighborhood strolls, casual lobster shacks, and landmark lighthouse views, plus practical travel tips for first-timers. Highlights include Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, the cobbled Old Port waterfront, iconic lobster shacks on Commercial Street and along the shore, Casco Bay ferries to nearby islands, and the Eastern Promenade for sunset views. Food lovers will find must-try lobster rolls, creamy New England clam chowder, and local craft breweries like Allagash; we also recommend Duckfat for fries and tasting rooms for afternoon hops. Travel tips cover the best seasons to visit (late spring to early fall for warmer weather and summer festivals), parking and walkability in Old Port, ferry schedules, and how to time a lighthouse visit for golden-hour photos. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Tune in for a welcoming guide to Portland’s flavors, sights, and small-town sea air. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Discover Green Bay, Wisconsin, in this episode of Travel Is Back with Johnny Mac. Start along the Fox River and the waterfront, where the city's industrial history, public paths, parks, and downtown attractions make for an easy first look. Then get into the Green Bay Packers experience, including practical advice for visiting Lambeau Field and exploring Titletown on game day or during a quieter trip. The episode also covers the National Railroad Museum, local food stops, neighborhood wandering, and smart ways to plan a weekend without trying to do everything at once. You will hear what to prioritize, when to go, how to get around, and where Green Bay works especially well as a base for exploring northeast Wisconsin. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Follow the Travel Is Back podcast to discover more destinations across America and beyond, and dive into our back catalog for more than 200 travel episodes. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join us for Travel Is Back episode 213 as we explore Detroit, Michigan — Motor City melodies, grit, and a modern renaissance. This warm, conversational guide covers things to do in Detroit, practical travel tips, and the flavors that make the city sing. Highlights include the Motown Museum for music history, the Detroit Institute of Arts for world-class galleries, Eastern Market for local food and farmers, Belle Isle for green space and skyline views, and the Detroit RiverWalk for peaceful waterfront strolls. We’ll share travel tips on getting around via the QLINE and rideshares, best neighborhoods to stay like Midtown and Corktown, where to park, and ideal times to visit in spring and fall. Food lovers will want to try classic Coney Islands, square Detroit-style pizza, soul food spots, and local craft breweries. You’ll hear stories of resilience, the booming arts scene, and must-see landmarks from the Renaissance Center to the Fox Theatre. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Travel Is Back visits Mackinac Island, Michigan, for a practical Great Lakes getaway built around the ferry ride, historic downtown, bicycles, Fort Mackinac, Arch Rock, quiet island roads, trails, local food, and the famous fudge shops. Johnny Mac walks through how to plan the visit, how to get around without a car, when to go, what to pack, and how to balance the busy waterfront with the quieter interior of the island. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Follow Travel Is Back wherever you listen to podcasts and find all 200 plus destinations in our back catalog. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Episode 211: Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan — Where cherries meet endless sand and sky. Join us for a warm, practical guide to this lakeshore jewel, from farm-to-table meals to wind-swept dune hikes. Highlights include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Old Mission Peninsula wineries, and the Traverse City Cherry Festival, giving you a mix of outdoor adventure and seasonal flavor. We share travel tips on timing your visit (late June–July for cherries, fall for color), parking and fees at park overlooks, dune-safety and footwear advice, and the best spots for sunset photos along M-22. Food lovers will savor cherry-forward pastries, local wineries, fresh whitefish and hearty pasties, plus a stop at Cherry Republic for tasting and souvenirs. Landmarks like Empire Bluff Trail and Old Mission Point Lighthouse make perfect day hikes and scenic detours. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a photo-driven road trip, this episode is a friendly roadmap to the tastes, trails, and towns that make northwest Michigan unforgettable. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Episode 210: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana - Sunlit switchbacks over ancient glacier scars invites you on one of America’s most dramatic scenic drives through Glacier National Park. We walk you through planning the perfect day trip, with highlights that include Logan Pass at the high alpine crest, the cascading Weeping Wall on the east approach, the Hidden Lake Overlook trail, and the iconic Wild Goose Island on St. Mary Lake. Travel tips cover seasonal road openings, arriving early to secure parking or hop a park shuttle, dressing in layers for sudden weather shifts, and practicing bear-aware hiking etiquette. For food, we recommend casual bites at Apgar Village, a relaxed meal at Lake McDonald Lodge when open, and picnic supplies from St. Mary Village to savor lakeside views. Landmark storytelling brings the Garden Wall’s ancient glacier scars to life and points out photo-perfect pullouts. Whether you’re chasing light across switchbacks or planning a multi-day Glacier itinerary, this episode blends practical advice with on-road wonder. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 209 as we cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, a legendary scenic drive where mists cradle the mountains and winding roads reveal waterfalls, overlooks and small-town charm. We highlight must-see stops including Mabry Mill’s postcard-perfect waterwheel, the rhododendron blooms at Craggy Gardens, the plunging cascades of Linville Falls, and the high-point views from Mount Mitchell. Along the way we share travel tips for timing your visit—prime fall foliage and spring blooms—how to plan for limited cell service, best overlooks for sunrise, and safe slow driving on narrow stretches. Food lovers will enjoy Appalachian biscuits, farm-to-table meals and Asheville’s craft beer scene as perfect fuel for the road. We map nearby hiking trailheads, parking and family-friendly stops, plus landmark history at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Tune in for cozy stories, practical advice and inspiration for your next scenic escape. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join us for Travel Is Back episode 208, “Route 66 Part 3 - Arizona to Santa Monica - Sunbaked Highways to Oceanfront Dreams,” as we chase neon and desert sunsets from Winslow to the Pacific. This episode guides you through iconic Route 66 landmarks and local flavors, with highlights including Standin’ on the Corner Park in Winslow, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman for burgers and shakes, the wild burros and staged gunfights of Oatman, the vintage Americana at Hackberry General Store, and the triumphant End of the Trail at the Santa Monica Pier. You’ll get practical travel tips — plan spring or fall drives to avoid extreme heat, carry extra water and fuel, download offline maps for long desert stretches, and book classic motels ahead for the full retro experience. We’ll also dig into food stops and what to order, from diner pies and milkshakes to roadside barbecue and regional comfort food. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond. Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.