Bus Charter and Leisure Blog Archive

The entire area of Columbia, South Carolina is just loaded with stunning, historic homes that many people love to visit. One of these homes would have to be the Robert Mills House and Park located on 1616 Blanding Street. There are many gorgeous houses on this street, but this one tends to stand out quite a bit more than the others with its handsome brick structure.

Robert Mills was known to be the first Federal architect in the United States, designing a good amount of famous buildings, one of which is the Washington Monument. This house, however, was one of the only private residences that Robert Mills had ever designed. He was hired to design this home back in 1823 by a man named Ainsley Hall.

After Hall died, the house went through several owners and actually underwent many changes over the years. When the Robert Mills House was slated for demolition in the 1960s, a group of citizens got together to save it. It was then completely restored to its original splendor and was made into a historic house museum in 1967. Now, it is open to the general public so that people can explore the wonderful architecture along with all of the interesting objects inside.

Inside the Robert Mills House, visitors are delighted to see displays of early 19th Century decorative arts. You can also get a glimpse of service rooms in the basement that have actual objects that were used for the storage and preparation of food. Be sure to bring along your camera so that you can capture the beauty of the Robert Mills House.

If you are looking for a little bit of wild excitement in South Carolina, you should think about visiting the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia. This place has all kinds of amazing attractions that are both fun and educational for your entire family. You will not believe all of the different and interesting animals that you can view and learn about while you are at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. To be more precise, there are over 2,000 wonderful animals for you to see during your visit!

While you are at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, there are all kinds of neat areas that you can check out. In the Aquarium/Reptile Complex, you will find various reptiles, fish, amphibians and more. When you visit the Koala Knockabout you get a chance to learn all about the koala, as well as wallabies and more. One of the wildly popular attractions to see would have to be the African Plains. This is a magnificent area where you can watch zebras, giraffes and even ostriches walking around on this amazing land that will make you feel as though you have traveled to the African Savanna.

The hours that you can stop by to explore the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden are from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm daily. There are extended hours during the summer on weekends from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm. The only closings generally happen on all of the major national holidays. Cost of admission is only $8.75 for adults, $7.25 for seniors, $6.25 for children ages 3 through 12, and free for children under the age of 3.

Most people visit the Rice Museum under the impression it is named after some hero of the South who's moniker was "Rice", however this museum is dedicated to the humble grain that you see often on your plate, rice.

In the mid-1800's Georgetown and the region produced almost half the rice grown in the United States. Hence the nickname of this region "The Low Country".

The Rice Museum is located in the Old Market Building, a historical building in its own right, that was built in 1842 and is known locally as the Town Clock.

Just outside the Rice Museum is the Browns Ferry Vessel. This vessel was built in the early 1700's and sank approximately 1730. This is the previously oldest sunken vessel on exhibit in America and it predates all vessels previously found by 50 years. This was a workhorse of a ship during the rice boom years and it was used to transport freight up and down the rivers and coastal waterways during the early 1700's. It was discovered in the Black River and was razed and restored by the University of South Carolina and was brought to the Rice Museum in the early 1990's.

There is also a gift shop located on the grounds if you want to pick up a gift to take back to your friends back home or grab yourself a memento of this unusual stop on your Georgetown tour. Within the gift shop is an ever-changing exhibit of local art and historical items that provide visitors with additional information and insight to this interesting venue.

Come spend a day at the Rice Museum and tour the historic beginnings of Georgetown, afterwards, spend a couple of hours in lush Lafayette Park which surrounds the Rice Museum and have a picnic and enjoy the Southern charm that is Georgetown.

When you are traveling throughout South Dakota, you should stop by the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center. This is a museum that stands within Custer State Park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was built way back in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps Company #1793. This historical building is named after the former South Dakota Senator and Governor, Peter Norbeck. A trip to this museum would make for a great learning experience for your entire family.

One of the things that makes a visit to the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center so interesting is the story behind the man himself. Peter Norbeck was famous for his tireless efforts to preserve this gorgeous section of the Black Hills as a protected State Park. It is great to be able to explore everything that nature has to offer today in Custer State Park. Stopping by the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center is a great way to learn about how the entire process unfolded.

Inside the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center, many visitors are generally amazed by the wonderful architecture, often times snapping pictures as they walk through. For your browsing and shopping enjoyment, you will also find a book and gift shop as well. This is a great stop if you are looking to pick up some helpful maps or guides that can help you when you are trying to find your way around Custer State Park to see all of the natural attractions and landmarks.

The Peter Norbeck Visitor Center is open to the public from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm every day of the week during the warmer months. If you are planning a visit to Custer State Park, you may want to make the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center your first stop so that you can plan out your day.

When you are going to be visiting South Carolina, you may want to think about stopping by a great place called Palmetto Islands County Park. This is a nature-oriented park that is located in Mount Pleasant, just a little bit outside of the Charleston area. For anybody who loves to get out and spend a little bit of time in the wonders of the outdoors, this is the place for you.

Palmetto Islands County Park is a really neat place that your whole entire family is sure to enjoy. There are tons of cool activities that you can do while you visit, you are never going to have a dull moment. If you feel like kicking back and enjoying nature, there are several grills throughout the premises where you can have a decent barbecue. You can also enjoy the different hiking and bicycle trails as well.

Picnic tables are offered to all guests and there are also public restrooms available for your convenience. For the kids, there is even a nice playground area that they can spend some time in. To cool off when the weather is hot, you can hit one of the many nearby creeks or even slip and slide at Splash Island.

The hours that you can stop by Palmetto Islands County Park to check it out for yourself will vary depending on the current season. From November through February the hours are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, through the months of March, April, September and October, the hours are from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm, and from May through August the hours are from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm. The cost for admission is super affordable for any family only being $1 per person.

Nestled in the gorgeous landscape of Custer Park sits a natural geological formation called the Needles Eye. People come from miles and miles away just to get their chance to climb this natural wonder. If rock climbing is something that you are very passionate about, then this is the area that you need to explore. A trip to see what Needles Eye is all about can make for quite an interesting and memorable excursion.

South Dakota has long since been known to have some of the best formations for climbing. However, the area that seems to be a favorite for most people is in the Black Hills area of Custer Park, home to the Needles Eye. A great number of avid climbers are quite fond of conquering the Needles Eye during the winter months. This area has been said to have some of the nicest ice routes in the entire region.

Due to its popularity, the Needles Eye does tend to become a bit crowded during the prime tourist season between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Be sure that you plan accordingly so that you are not stuck amongst congestion and difficult parking. Even if you are not a climber yourself, a visit to this area can still be quite wonderful. You will want to be sure that you remember to bring along your camera with lots of extra film. Getting pictures of the Needles Eye are a necessity and make a lovely addition to any scrapbook or photo album of your trip to South Dakota.

If you are going to be visiting the area of Deadwood, South Dakota, you should think about making plans to visit Old Style Saloon No. 10. This is a really cool place to visit that you are sure to remember for quite some time. When you walk into Saloon No. 10, you almost feel as though you are stepping back through time into the days of the Wild West. There is even sawdust scattered all across the floor!

Saloon No. 10 has been a major stop in Deadwood for all kinds of visitors for over 50 years now. This is the actual location where Wild Bill Hickok was shot back in 1876 during a poker game. The famous "Aces and Eights" that he happened to have been holding have gone down in history as the "Dead Man's Hand". You can even win yourself some cold hard cash, that is $250 if you draw the very same hand during your visit!

If you are feeling a bit on the hungry side when you visit, the second floor of Saloon No. 10 is a restaurant that is called the Deadwood Social Club. Your mouth will water just by looking at the tempting menu that is filled with all kinds of gourmet eats. Grab yourself a big juicy steak and the treat yourself to delicious dessert such as Butterbrickle drizzled with Caramel Sauce.

You are bound to have a great time when you visit Saloon No. 10. Bring along the whole family if you wish. Kids are welcome to visit Saloon No. 10 every day up until 8:00 pm.

You simply cannot visit the area of Deadwood, South Dakota without a stop at the historical Mount Moriah Cemetery. This is a visit that is not only interesting, but educational as well. Some of the residents at the Mount Moriah Cemetery are quite famous, and many visitors love to snap photographs of certain markers and gravestones that they find along the way.

Mount Moriah Cemetery was put together back in 1877 and 1878 to help meet the demands on the old cemetery that was located in the area. During this time, many of the people who had been buried in the old cemetery were moved off to the new location. Sometimes, many of the locals will report finding some of the remains while digging around on their property.

For the person who loves to study the history of cemeteries, you will find that there are several graves of children found throughout Mount Moriah Cemetery, along with three different Potter's Fields. These are actually areas in a cemetery that were used to bury prostitutes, indigents and surly individuals back in the day.

However, people do travel to Mount Moriah Cemetery from miles around to pay a visit to the graves of some of the more popular residents on hand. These residents being James Butler Hickok, otherwise known as Wild Bill Hickok and Martha Canary, also known as Calamity Jane. Be sure that you bring along your camera, as it is quite neat to be able to have your picture taken along these gravestones at Mount Moriah Cemetery.

If you love to view Victorian style mansions, make The Beattie House which was built in the 1830s by Fountain Fox Beattie as a present to his wife Emily, is a must see. This fine old example of Victorian style architecture is one of the oldest structures in the City of Greenville. It was abandoned and fell into ruin in the 1940's and in 1949 when the order to raze the property was given, the Greenville Women's Club raised awareness about the home's age and historic value and had the property moved to 1 Beattie Place. The house was moved one more time in 1983 to its current location.

The Beattie House is now the home of the Greenville Women's Club and tours of the home are allowed. You will see the preserved Italian construction, the intricate winding staircase and the detail that was paid to the doorways and even around the fire places.

The Greenville Women's Club has done a lot more for the Greenville community than save a historic house. The group is very active in Community and School with such projects as raising food for the local food pantry, raising funds and awareness about the Fire Department, AFS, Red Cross, First Responders. Helping get donations of items for Town Hall holiday decorations, and even helping to raise awareness in the community for fixing up the local parks with such needed services as fixing Cleary shelter, revamping a well and playground equipment, adding message signs, pruning and planting trees, adding picnic tables and new hamburger stand for one lucky park.

So, by visiting the Beattie House, you can take in some fine old architecture and also support the community of Greenville by seeing all the good that their Women's Club has done to give back so much to Greenville.

Whether or not you are a bookworm, a visit to the Charleston County Public Library is always a good one. This is a great library located right in the heart of it all in Charleston, South Carolina. If you are looking for information, entertainment, or cultural expansion, you will definitely benefit from a trip to this library. Why not make a trip with your entire family the next time that you are in the area?

When you visit the Charleston County Public Library, you will be amazed at all of the wonderful reading and informational materials that you can find on hand. Not only are there plenty of great books to browse through, there is even an art gallery on the premises. The Saul Alexander Foundation Gallery is located inside the main branch of the library. Here, you can check out all kinds of different art exhibits. There is just no limit to all of the fabulous things that you can find once you walk through these library doors.

Often times, throughout the year there are regular classes offered at the library. In addition to the classes, there are various programs and events going on relating to topics such as dance, art, music and of course literature. This is the perfect place to go when you are looking to learn new things.

The Charleston County Public Library main location is at 68 Calhoun Street. The hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am until 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm and Sunday from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. There are also several different branch locations as well as a traveling Bookmobile for your convenience.

Next time you're in the great State of South Carolina, make a stop by the Hampton Plantation located in the city of Georgetown.

If you or anyone you're touring South Carolina with is a fan of poetry, they will be thrilled to know that the Hampton Plantation State Historic Site was the home of Archibald Rutledge, poet laureate of South Carolina for 39 years until his death in 1973. Archibald was a prolific poet and wrote his very first poem at the age of 3-years old.

Archibald acquired the plantation and restored it the entire time he lived there. It was originally built in 1793 and was visited by one George Washington himself. The grounds are lushly landscaped and the entire plantation is well maintained. Upon his death in 1973, Archibald left his beloved plantation to the State of South Carolina knowing it would be maintained as well as during his lifetime.

This 18th-century plantation house is a fine example of a Southern mansion. The exterior has been restored; cutaway sections in the finely crafted interior show the changes made through the centuries of its various inhabitants.

The admission to visit the interior of the mansion is $4, visiting the plantation outside grounds is free.

Hour of operation are Mansion June-Aug., daily 11AM-4PM; Sept.-May, Thurs.-Mon. 11AM-4PM. Grounds Thurs.-Mon. 9 AM-6PM.

Make the Hampton Plantation a must see on your next visit to South Carolina's Low Country and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the mansion grounds, it's a great way to spend an afternoon under the South Carolina blue skies.

There is a stunning piece of South Dakota called Jewel Cave National Monument that is just waiting for you to stop by and explore it. Jewel Cave is actually recognized as being the third longest cave in the entire world. There are always tours setting out throughout the cave so visitors may experience this wonderful natural attraction. This would be a perfect stop for your entire family.

Inside Jewel Cave, one can set out to discover many natural formations such as stalactites and stalagmites, frostwork, boxwork, flowstone, draperies and hydromagnesite balloons. One will also be delighted to learn about the various species of bats that call this place home. When you stop by to take a tour of Jewel Cave, you can learn about all of these formations and species as well as learn about why it is so important to preserve such an important piece of this land.

Many people who visit Jewel Cave also love to take the time and explore all of the beauty that is on the land above the cave. Here are many great areas that you can have a relaxing picnic or explore nature on a scenic hike. You will be delighted at all that Jewel Cave National Monument has in store for you and your family.

The visitor center at Jewel Cave is open every day of the week, except for all of the major national holidays. Visitor center hours and tour times differ depending on the current season. If you would like current times or if you wish to purchase tickets for a tour of Jewel Cave, you can call (605) 673-2288, extension 1220.

Anyone who visits the area of Charleston, South Carolina, usually makes a plan to visit what is called Marion Square. This is a lovely, 10-acre area in Charleston that used to actually be known as the Citadel Green. Not only is this a great little scenic area, perfect for a leisurely walk, there are also several monuments that you can check out on the grounds.

One of the monuments that you can view when you visit Marion Square is the John C. Calhoun Statue. John C. Calhoun was a native of South Carolina, as well as a United States Senator and Vice President. Along with being able to view and learn about such wonderful historic monuments, this area in Charleston is also a very popular recreation spot for most people. On any given day, you will more than likely find people relaxing and possibly reading or having a picnic on the grounds.

During the month of December, Marion Square is the site of the Official Christmas Tree of Charleston as well as the holiday entertainment stage. It is quite a sight to see this gorgeous area all lit up and decorated to help celebrate the holidays. In addition to the Christmas Tree, Marion Square also has a large Hanukkah Menorah and a Kwanzaa Kinari.

No matter what time of year it is when you visit Marion Square in Charleston, there is always something wonderful going on. Whether it is a holiday celebration or a farmers market, this is the place to be.

If you are planning a visit to South Dakota, you should think about making a stop at Legion Lake. This is a gorgeous little resort area located within Custer State Park. Legion Lake is actually named after the American Legion Post that once leased the land that it is located on. Many families make the pilgrimage to this region every single year so that they can be a part of the wonder and the beauty of this serene lake.

There is even Legion Lake Resort that you can stay at right on the lake if you wish. All around Legion Lake, you will find a huge variety of great activities that you can take part in. Take a ride on paddle boats, walk along the clean sandy beach, take a hike through the wonderful surroundings, or even get your exercise along the trails on a mountain bike. The local trail that many hikers like to frequent at Legion Lake is called Badger Clark Historic Trail. The nature and wildlife that people often see on this trail is just stunning to behold.

While you are visiting Legion Lake, whether you decide to stay at the resort or not, you should take advantage of a visit to the Legion Lake Dining Room and Store on the premises. This is a perfect place to go so that you can grab a sandwich or a burger. If you are going to be heading out for some fishing, you can also grab a fishing license here as well. They even carry all kinds of supplies that you may need for your fishing excursion at the Legion Lake Dining Room and Store.

If you are into all things dental, or if you are just looking for a unique place to
visit throughout your travels, you may want to schedule a stop by the Macaulay Museum of Dental History. This wonderfully interesting museum is located right next to the Waring Historical Library in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina. You may want to bring the whole family by on this trip so that you can view all of the different items on display in this specialty attraction.

One will be truly amazed by the huge collection of dental instruments and memorabilia that is found on display at the Macaulay Museum of Dental History. This is a collection that got its start from a Columbia dentist named Dr. Neil Macaulay. There is no end to the interesting information that can be found when you are learning about the items on display. One of them is an actual instrument that was made by Paul Revere himself for a man named Dr. Josiah Flagg.

Among the other interesting items on display are a series of antique dental chairs that span several decades. I can be a pretty unique experience to see how the chairs from years ago compare to the chairs that we sit in at the dentist today. There are also several items and instruments that date all the way back to the Civil War era.

If you would like further information, you can contact the Waring Historical Library by calling (843) 792-2288. Or if you would like, you may just stop by the location at 175 Ashley Avenue in Charleston, South Carolina.

A trip to beautiful Columbia, South Carolina means a visit to the Mann-Simmons cottage located at 1403 Richland Street. This is a lovely little stop that can be quite interesting and educational for your whole family. You will enjoy looking through this little slice of South Carolina history. It is believed that this cottage had actually started as a one-room house way back in either 1825 or 1830. This historical site is one of only a handful of houses in the state that had been owned by free blacks in days gone by. Now, this house along with the others, have been preserved as house museums so that they can be viewed and enjoyed by the general public.

The Mann-Simmons Cottage was a property that was owned by Celia Mann, who was a woman born into slavery in Charleston, South Carolina back in 1799. Over the years, this one-room cottage that Celia Mann lived in has had several additions put on, making it the small house that it is today. It is quite interesting to stop by and be able to see and hear all of the stories. If the walls could talk, you would be sure to listen!

While you visit the Mann-Simmons cottage, you can view different exhibits where you can learn all about Celia Mann as well as her descendants. There are also different displays and information on the restoration project that went underway at the cottage. You will want to be sure that you bring along your camera with plenty of film, because it is quite interesting to step back in time at the Mann-Simmons Cottage.

There is a world of fun and excitement waiting for you at the Midnight Star in Deadwood, South Dakota, which is owned by celebrity Kevin Costner. This is the perfect place to go to wash all of your cares and worries away. Not only is this a great casino where you can try your luck at all sorts of games, it is pretty much an entertainment complex complete with dining, shows and much more. All of this, amidst a setting that will make you feel as though you have stepped back into the old days of Deadwood.

When you walk into the Midnight Star, you will notice immediately the gorgeous and well thought out interior. The decor is complete with stunning polished brass, intricate etched glass and rustic hand-rubbed wood. Step into the casino at the Midnight Star and feel as though you are testing your luck with all of the gamblers of days gone by. Whether you are into the slots or Blackjack, there is something for everyone in this amazing game area. Try your hand at the Pharaoh's Gold machine where you can win up to $50,000.

If you are feeling a bit hungry, you can grab an amazing meal at Jakes located atop the Midnight Star. This is the place where you want to go for a truly lavish experience with meals prepared by an award-winning chef. Also, if you are looking for more of a casual atmosphere, you need to head to another great place at the Midnight Star called Diamond Lil's. This is a bar and grill that has it all, from delicious meals to authentic costumes. A world of excitement awaits you at the Midnight Star in Deadwood.

If you are a train enthusiast, or if you are interested in a bit of interesting history, you may want to schedule yourself a visit to see the Best Friend train the next time that you are in Charleston, South Carolina. You can stop by and view a great replica of this popular and interesting steam engine as well as learn all bout its interesting role in South Carolina history.

Many people will say that this steam engine, Best Friend, actually brought life back into the economy of Charleston many years ago. It also has been said to be the first train to put together regular schedules for steam passenger service, therefore making transportation history for the United States. You can now view the replica of this 1830s train at the Engine House in Charleston where it rests.

You can call ahead to make your own arrangements to view Best Friend by calling the Charleston Visitor Center Manager at (843) 724-7174. Times that you can choose from for your visit are from Monday through Friday from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm. This makes a really great, educational trip for your entire family. If you like trains, this is something that you do not want to miss.

The Best Friend is located in Downtown Charleston at 31 Ann Street. This is in the middle of the block between both King and Meeting Streets. Be sure that you bring your camera along with you with a few extra rolls of film so that you do not miss any picture opportunities.

The Greenville Museum of Art should definitely be on your must see list on your next visit to Greenville, SC.

This art museum was started as a small and humble art gallery during the Depression years of the 1930's and in present day, has one of the best collections of regional art in the country.

There are a huge number of fine artists represented here such as Washington Allston, John Gadsby Chapman, Martin Johnson Heade, George P.A. Healy, John Ross Key, Georgia O'Keefe, William Tylee Ranney, Helen Turner, and Catherine Wiley. In addition, the museum has an impressive collection of contemporary art that includes works by such artists as Ronmare Bearden, Hans Hoffmann, Jasper Johns, Lee Krasner, and Andy Warhol. There are also numerous exhibitions by up and coming Souther Artists from not only Greenville, but all of South Carolina.

The museum is very child friendly and there are a number of "hands on" exhibits for children to experience art and the creation process. There are a large number of lectures and special exhibitions scheduled throughout the year and usually there is no extra charge for admission to these special events.

If you have a group of 10 or more visiting the Museum of Art, you can schedule a free guided tour for your group. You only need to call ahead to schedule a tour for your group.The Greenville County Museum of Art is located at 420 College Street and the hours of operation are Tues-Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 1-5pm. Their phone number to schedule a tour is 864/271-7570. Admission is always free.

Looking for a wild time next time you visit Greenville? Make a stop by the Greenville Zoo. It isn't the largest zoo you've ever visited, but you will find it very interesting, as great care has been taken to recreate each animal's natural habitat to insure that they thrive in the zoo environment.

The Greenville Zoo is on about 14-acres and is located within Cleveland Park. You can see the entire zoo and all the exhibits in about 2 hours. Additionally, if you kiddos need some running around time and leg stretching after a long ride to Greenville, there are two playgrounds and many picnic facilities so you can enjoy your family time with a picnic lunch as well.

Each exhibit shows wildlife from all over the world shown in as natural of a habitat as possible in an open air display. The best times to visit are the early mornings when the animals are lively and the late afternoons when they are starting to rouse again to be fed. Bring your camera, you'll see some beautiful shots.

Additionally, there is a huge collection of reptiles, including each and every reptile species that is native to South Carolina. You can see lizards, snakes and more in natural settings that let the animal act naturally while you quietly watch the action.

After the zoo, there are hiking and biking trails around the zoo area and you can even play volleyball, tennis or just enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautifully landscaped trails. The Zoo is located at 150 Cleveland Park Drive, Greenville, SC 29601

There is a gorgeous piece of South Carolina history waiting for you in Columbia called the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens. This lovely structure on 1615 Blanding Street, was restored in 1969 and then opened up as a historic house museum later on in 1970. A trip to view this lovely estate can be enjoyed by everyone in your family, especially if you are interested in over 50 years worth of objects that have been preserved within the mansion.

This mansion was owned by the Hampton and Preston families, both of which had gained their tremendous wealth through the operation of cotton and sugar cane plantations. The Hampton-Preston Mansion was first purchased by Wade Hampton I back in 1823. When he died in 1835, he was actually known to be the richest man in the entire United States. After his death, his daughter Caroline moved in with her husband John Preston. Over the years that they lived there, the Preston family made amazing additions to the house, actually doubling it in size.

It is quite amazing to look around this amazing building at the gorgeous architecture. Many people who visit say that they are quite impressed by the stately manor of the structure as well as the wonderful works of art and furnishings that are found on the inside. Of course, a trip to the Hampton-Preston Mansion also means getting a great view of the beautiful landscaping and gardens surrounding the building. You will want to be sure that you bring along a camera so that you can capture the splendor of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens for yourself.

If you are going to be in the Columbia area, you will not want to miss your opportunity to pay a visit to the gorgeous South Carolina Governor's Mansion. This wonderful structure has actually been the home for over thirty South Carolina Governor's and their families for many years. You are sure to enjoy a trip to this lovely, historical home. You can even take a tour of this building with your entire family.

This wonderful place was built way back in 1855, and was not selected to become the Governor's Mansion until later on in 1868. The public is allowed to visit so that they may view many of the great items on display such as furniture, paintings, silver, china and more.

You can schedule your very own tour of the Governor's Mansion so that you may experience all of the splendor for yourself. The regular tour schedule is on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 am, 10:30 am and 11:00 am. There are several parts of the Governor's Mansion that are quite interesting. The State Dining Room is where the Governor and his family entertain many of their guests. There is also an area called the Hall of Governors, where you can view not only portraits, but also busts of the South Carolina Governors of the past. The Library on the premises is also chock full of many books that tell all about the history of the wonderful state of South Carolina. You will also find interesting memorabilia on display here as well.

For anybody who is looking for a great place to visit in South Dakota, Four Mile Old West Town is it. This is a nice little historical attraction in the Black Hills that is quite a popular stop for most travelers. The property received its name from the earliest stagecoach line because it happened to be located just four miles from Custer where the mail was always picked up. A visit here can be both fun and educational for your entire family.

During your visit to Four Mile Old West Town, you get to explore different houses and businesses from way back when, complete with furnishings. There are also several opportunities to view items such as letters, indenture agreements, apprentice agreements, courtship letters, 8th grade exams and much more. It is quite interesting to see how things were back then, and you are sure to enjoy this wonderful learning process.

You have your choice of self-guided tours or recorded tours with live narration on the hayride that is offered. The hayride trips through Four Mile Old West Town last approximately 40 minutes in length. Be sure to bring your camera along so that you can take lots of pictures!

The hours that you may stop by for a visit to Four Mile Old West Town are from 8:30 am until 8:30 pm Monday through Saturday and 10:00 am until 8:30 pm on Sunday. These hours are good from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, weather permitting. If you have any questions, you can give them a call at (605) 673-3905. You can find Four Mile Old West Town at 11921 West Highway 16, just four miles west of Custer, South Dakota.

Falls Park is the most visited site in all of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Born from the Big Sioux River, the Falls are a place of natural beauty and history. In fact, Sioux Falls was so named because the reputation of the mystic, inspiring Falls had reached land speculators from afar and they came to claim the land for a town.

Not only will you find the natural beauty in Falls Park, but you can take advantage of newly built visitor amenities and a family-friendly environment. The Falls Park Visitor Information Center has a five-story viewing tower that has an outdoor observation deck which allows you to view a great deal of Falls Park. Also inside Falls Park is a sculpture named "Monarch of the Plains," which was sculpted from mahogany granite that was mined in the Milbank area of South Dakota. Falls Park holds a sound and light show around the Falls at night that helps convey the cultural heritage of Sioux Falls.

Self-guided walking tours of Falls Park are aided by interpretive panels that are place throughout the park. They help tell the stories of how Sioux Falls and Falls Park share a bond in history. In addition to the descriptions, some of the panels display vintage photographs to help give visitors a visual idea of Falls Park throughout the years. These panels share many fascinating facts about Falls Park and about the Falls themselves.

Another attraction in Falls Park is the Horse Barn Arts Center. This place has two galleries -- one on the main floor and one in the former hayloft -- which display works by local and regional artists. Artist demonstrations, hands-on activities, classes, and workshops are also offered at the Arts Center.

Board the Sioux Falls trolley and travel from Falls Park through downtown Sioux Falls. Enjoy the unique shops and fine dining in the downtown area of Sioux Falls. Take the trolley back to Falls Park and enjoy the sound and light show before you leave.

There is no admission fee to Falls Park.

For anyone who is a lover of the outdoors, a trip to gorgeous Custer State Park is an absolute must! Custer State Park spans about 71,000 acres throughout the Black Hills area of South Dakota. When you visit, not only will you be able to take in all of the fresh air and beautiful scenery, there is also an abundance of magnificent wildlife. If you have been searching for a nice place to visit that is perfect for your entire family, Custer State Park is it.

Lots of the people who make a regular trek to Custer State Park like to take part in many different outdoor activities such as fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding and so much more. You can even gear yourself up for a jeep ride that will bring you by so that you can view the live bison roaming through the area. For those who enjoy hiking, test your endurance while you hike up the 7,242 foot Harney Peak. There is something for everybody in the great outdoors at Custer State Park.

Perhaps you are looking for a decent area to stay at Custer State Park so that you can have a bit of an extended visit. There are a couple of different options when you are looking to spend the night. There are several resorts available at the park such at State Game, Sylvan Lake, Blue Bell and Legion Lake. If you are looking for great camping areas, Custer State Park has you covered there as well with several different campgrounds that you may choose from.

If you are a fan of The Flintstones, you simply must visit Bedrock City located in Custer, South Dakota. This is a really cool place that your whole entire family will enjoy visiting. Established back in 1966, Flintstones Bedrock City is a wonderful theme park filled with everything from play areas to rides, all set in the popular Stone Age setting. There is even a campground where you can stay for a little while and enjoy all that the surrounding area has to offer.

Adults and children alike really enjoy all of the activities at Flintstones Bedrock City. You should also make sure to check out the gift shop so that you can purchase some of the great Flintstones gear and gifts for sale. When you get hungry, you can grab a Brontoburger or a Dino Dog at the Drive In. There is an entire day of fun waiting for your family at Flintstones Bedrock City.

The pricing to stay in the campground at Flintstones Bedrock City would be as follows: $42 for a cabin, $26 for full hookup, $24 for just electric, and $19.50 for no hookups. All of these prices are based on 2 people. There are many great amenities to enjoy while you stay at the Flintstones Bedrock City camping area such as showers and laundry, an arcade, heated swimming pool, play areas and more. There is even a store for your convenience for those items that you may have forgotten to pack.

If you have any questions, you can call the park at (605) 673-4079. For reservations at the campground, you may call (605) 673-4664. Make plans for your trip to visit Flintstones Bedrock City today.

If you are going to be in the Columbia, South Carolina area, it is an absolute must that you stop by to check out everything that the Congaree Vista has to offer. This is a unique and interesting place located along the river banks of the Congaree where you can sink your teeth into everything that Columbia has to offer including great dining, fabulous entertainment and vibrant arts. A stroll through this entire area is just perfect for your whole family to enjoy.

There is always something fun and wonderful going on at the Congaree Vista. You can visit one of the specialty shops and browse through one of a kind gifts or purchase something nice for a special someone. Shops such as One Eared Cow Glass, Palmetto Candy and Tobacco, Columbia Antique Mall, Cucina, Cameo Fine Art and more are all waiting for you to look around. With a selection of shops such as this, you will probably have a hard time keeping your wallet in your pocket.

You will also be quite amazed at the over 45 restaurants and bars that are located throughout the Congaree Vista. Sit and enjoy the comfortable tavern atmosphere at The Rhino Room, or head over to the Mellow Mushroom for a delicious hand-tossed pizza. There are so many great places to choose from, you may have quite a hard time deciding!

At the Congaree Vista, there is something for everyone to enjoy whether you are young or old. There is always something new and exciting going on so that no matter how often you visit the Congaree Vista, you never get bored.

When you are going to be traveling along through South Dakota, you want to be sure that you make a stop by Grace Coolidge Creek. This is a gorgeous little area, which is located amidst the famous Black Hills in Custer State Park. There is a lot of beautiful scenery in this area, which makes for a perfect day trip with your family or a bunch of good friends.

Many of the people who have made their way to Grace Coolidge Creek over the years also enjoy hiking along Grace Coolidge Trail. This is a trail spans about six miles in total length with repeated crossing of Grace Coolidge Creek. Visitors are generally pretty amazed at just how easy of a hike it is to follow this route, with the exception of some of the stream crossing which hold a few rocky spots.

It is quite an interesting experience to take a journey along this trail out and around Grace Coolidge Creek. There is a huge amount of lovely vegetation growing all along the way, making for quite an enjoyable walk. Lots of people like to bring their fishing gear along when they visit Grace Coolidge Creek as well to see if they are able to get a nibble or two. If the weather is just right, it may also be a great idea to pack up a picnic lunch to take along for your excursion.

You should try and plan your visit during the foliage season, which makes for a lovely picture taking adventure. Grace Coolidge Creek is a pleasant distraction from everyday life.

When you are in the area of Columbia, South Carolina, you may want to think of taking a little trip to see all that the Columbia Museum of Art has to offer. This interesting venue is conveniently located in the downtown area of Columbia right on the corner of Main and Hampton Streets.

The exhibits at the Columbia Museum of Art are constantly changing so you are guaranteed to see something exciting and new with every visit. You will be delighted when you are able to explore all of the wonderful displays of European and American fine and decorative arts. This is a trip that could be wonderful for the entire family.

You will not want to miss a stop at the Museum Shop during your visit. This place is actually known to be one of the best places to shop in the entire area. There are all kinds of interesting and unique items for sale, so you are sure to find just the right thing. Items such as jewelry, crafts, books and more all fill the shelves at this whimsical shop. Be sure to bring a bit of extra money along with you so that you can pick out something special.

The museum is open for your visiting pleasure Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, Friday from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. There are regular closings on Monday and Tuesday along with all of the major national holidays. The price of admission is really reasonable, with it only being $5 for adults, $2 for students, and $4 for senior citizens. There is free admission offered every Saturday for your convenience.

If you are looking for a great adventure for your whole entire family, then you need to schedule a trip to Blue Bell Stables. The Blue Bell Stables are located at the Blue Bell Lodge and Resort at Custer State Park in South Dakota. People come from miles around to visit this stunning outdoor wonderland year after year. Many of them make the pilgrimage to Blue Bell Stables during their visit as well.

There is nothing quite like saddling up at Blue Bell Stables and then hitting the beautiful trails for a relaxing horseback adventure. This would be quite a trip to take with your family. It is nearly impossible to forget the experience that you will have riding on a trail in such a lovely area as Custer State Park. You could quite possibly have so much fun that you will want to come back year after year to ride the horses at Blue Bell Stables.

There are several different trail rides available to suit just about any needs that you may have. The different rides in which you can choose from are as follows: A one hour trail ride that costs $26 for adults and $20 for children, a two hour trail ride that costs $38 for adults and $30 for children, a half day trail ride including lunch that costs $100 per person, and a full day trail ride including lunch that costs $175 per person.

All of the above mentioned rides require reservations, and you can make them by calling (800) 658-3530. You may also call the same number if you have any other questions regarding Blue Bell Stables.

No trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota is complete without a stop at the Adams Museum and House. When you visit this place, you can learn all about the legends and pioneers of this amazing area of South Dakota. The museum portion Adams Museum and House was built way back in 1930 and is actually the oldest history museum that you will find anywhere in the Black Hills. The Adams House itself was constructed back in 1892, and is quite a wonderful
sight to see. What a great adventure this would make for your whole entire family!

It is quite a lovely experience to walk through the Adams Museum and House to learn about all of the rich history and culture that surrounds this region. Guests are welcome to take a tour through the building and see all of the gorgeous furnishings and various items on display.

The Adams Museum and House is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm through the winter months, with closings on all of the major holidays. Summer hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm. There is no cost to get into the museum, only a donation is suggested at the door.

The Adams Museum is located at 54 Sherman Street, and if you have any questions, you can give a call at (605) 578-1714. The Historic Adams House is located at 22 Van Buren Street and may be reached at (605) 578-3724. A visit to the Adams Museum and House is a great idea when you are in the Black Hills.

When visiting South Dakota, you simply cannot miss a stop at the Broken Boot Gold Mine. This is a trip that will not be soon forgotten, and is just the perfect adventure for your entire family. You can literally step into history in this authentic gold mine located in the Black Hills where you can follow the footsteps of the thousands of miners who have trekked through the underground shafts of the Broken Boot Gold Mine in the past in search of gold.

The Broken Boot Gold Mine was established back in 1878, hot on the heels of the gold rush that had previously swept into Deadwood Gulch in 1876. Now, you can take a tour of Broken Boot Gold Mine lead by a knowledgeable and highly experienced guide. Not only will you learn about all of the techniques that were used in gold mining years ago, you can also try your own hand at gold panning to see what you discover.

You should plan to stop by very soon to take the tour for yourself so you can experience this wonderful piece of history. Tours are given every 30 minutes during operating hours. The Broken Boot Gold Mine is open every day of the week from 8:30 am until 5:30 pm for the season, from the middle of May through the middle of September.

The entrance to the Broken Boot Gold Mine is located on Upper Main Street in Deadwood, South Dakota. There is plenty of parking available for all guests on site. If you are going to be traveling in a large group, you should call the Broken Boot Gold Mine ahead of time for reservations at (605) 578-1876.

If you are looking to get out and enjoy a little slice of heaven right in South Dakota, then you need to make a little side trip to visit Center Lake. Located within famous and beautiful Custer State Park, Center Lake is a gorgeous natural attraction that tends to draw hundreds of people every single year, throughout all of the different seasons. This would be quite a nice adventure to take with your whole family.

There are so many great reasons that you should visit Center Lake, it would almost be difficult to list them all. Not only is this a stunning area, with all sorts of magnificent views, but lots of precious wildlife may be found in the area as well. Many people like to go to Custer State Park and make their way over to Center Lake just so they can relax by the waterfront for a day.

If you are a person who likes to enjoy a little bit of fishing now and again, Center Lake is just the place for you to go and see if you can get a nibble or two. Bring along all of your gear, your family or maybe even a few friends, and you are in for a wonderfully relaxing day of fishing. If the day is a bit on the warmer side, swimming is always welcome in the crystal clear waters of Center Lake as well.

For those people who enjoy camping, there is a campground located nearby so that you may stay for a while if you wish. This is an option that many visitors like to take advantage of so that they can get the most out of their visit to Center Lake.

The Cultural Heritage Center offers a unique and appealing experience for those who enjoy learning about the heritage of South Dakota. The structure of the center is not that of a typical museum, but is the modern-day version of a typical Native American dwelling. Your interest in this museum is intensified as you view the museum which is built into the side of a hill with most of the museum being underground. The center is as long as two football fields surrounded by a variety of native grasses.

Once inside the Cultural Heritage Center, one will find hands on exhibits that trace the history of South Dakota through the end of the 20th century. Enjoy viewing artifacts of the Sioux tribes, ranchers, and miners of South Dakota. Take a stroll through a sod house while listening to stories from a pioneer woman. A Lakota teepee can be viewed up close and you can also view a gold mining operation replica.

Located less than a mile northeast of the Capitol at 900 Governors Drive, the Cultural Heritage Center also offers a gift shop and serves as the headquarter of the South Dakota State Historical Society. Admission to the center is free for those under the age of 17; 18 and over, $4.00 and 60 and over $3.00.

The Cultural Heritage Center is open Labor Day - Memorial Day: Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4:30p.m., and on Sundays and Holidays, 1-4:30 p.m. From Memorial Day - Labor Day, the Center is open from 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday, and from 1 - 4:30 on Sunday and Holidays. The center is closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. Contact the Cultural Heritage Center at (605) 773-3458 to confirm the hours it is open to the public.

If military history is of interest to you, then you should stop at the South Dakota National GuardMuseum in Pierre. Attention grabbing exhibits begin as you near the building with a Howitzer,Armored Personnel Carrier, Sherman Tank and Anti-Aircraft guns located outside the museum.

Once inside, you'll find exhibits displaying the history of the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard, as well as the South Dakota Militia. Displays include the Civil War Period, Spanish American War and Mexican Border Period, World War I and World War II, Korean War, Desert Storm, Bosnia Peace Keeping Mission, and Operations Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom.

The South Dakota National Guard Museum is only one of 20 authorized National Guard museums in the nation, which was established to preserve, protect and display military equipment, records, relics and memorabilia. The museum educates the public and the National Guard members about the South Dakota National Guard about times of war and peace.

The Museum is located at 301 East Dakota in Pierre and is open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tours are by appointment only and can be arranged by calling (605)224-9991. The South Dakota National Guard Museum is staffed by a group of local volunteers who are very knowledgeable about the various exhibits.

The State Capitol located in Pierre, should be on your list of places to visit in South Dakota. The capitol is a stunning site built from a variety of native field stone, marble, granite and Bedford limestone with Terrazzo floor which includes blue signature stones of Italian artists. If you are someone you're visiting Pierre with is a fan of architecture, this is a definite "must-see".

The major interests of South Dakota are reflected in the large murals of Greek goddesses located in each corner under the dome. The Capitol is a beautiful attraction with the variety of hand laid stone,brass, and carved woodwork and marble which has made the Capitol the most fully restored capitol building in the United States.

Built in 1910, the State Capitol was recently restored and can be found on the National Registry of Historical Places. The Capitol Complex includes 16 buildings, 48 acres of culture grass, and a lake, as well as thousands of trees and flowers located on approximately 115 acres of property.

Guided and self-guided tours are available. Guided tours must be pre-scheduled several days in advance as the tours are guided by volunteers. To pre-schedule a tour, call (605) 773-3765. Self-guided brochures can be obtained in the Security/Tour Office. The Capitol Building is open from 8a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 365 days a year.

The State Capitol Tour Office is located just inside the north entrance of the Capitol Building. The Capitol Complex is located at 500 E Capitol Ave in Pierre.

If you are looking for a fun and exciting adventure for you whole entire family when you are in Rapid City, you should try and schedule a visit to Storybook Island. This is a truly mystical and magical place in the heart of South Dakota where all of your favorite childhood characters come to life. See all of the different fairy tales and nursery rhymes that you know so well put together in amazing exhibits for your family to enjoy.

One of the more amazing facts about Storybook Island is that it is a free theme park for children. Yes, FREE! Through fund raising and generous donations, this great attraction is available for young children to enjoy. Spend some time reading with the Cat in the Hat. See what has been going on with Mary and her Little Lamb. Cross over London Bridge and see what all of the fuss was about. Is it still falling down?

There are many great things to see and do when you are at Storybook Island. Be sure that you stop by the wonderful Gift Shop during your visit as well so that you may pick up a special treasure or a souvenir. You will find great items such as educational games, nifty shirts, toys and much more. One is sure to find just the right item when browsing through this kind of selection.

Storybook Island is open daily from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. Stop by for a nice visit with your family whenever you are in the area.

The Presidential Trail , located in Keystone, South Dakota, is a must see destination for anyone who is planning to visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Located right under the memorial at certain points, the Presidential Trail offers a breathtaking and unique view of the national monument. The trail spans a distance of half a mile, and half of it is wheelchair accessible. The other half of the trail is a bit tougher, but is still easy to access to the general public.

The Presidential Trail begins at the Grandview Terrace and leads you to an area that looks right over the Amphitheater, then coasts through beautiful pines and rocks, until you are eventually right under the Sculpture itself. While you look at the Monument from this point of the Presidential Trail, you will really be able to grasp how huge and beautiful the sculpture really is. While it is beautiful from all angles, the view of the sculpture that the Presidential Trail provides is astonishing because you are literally right under it.

The Presidential Trail is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the summer, and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the winter. There is no overall charge to enter the trail, but there is a small fee for parking your vehicle. There are two main ways to get to the Presidential Trail:. The first way is via highway 385 and then on to Highway 244, which will lead you directly to the Memorial, where the Presidential Trail is located. The other option is to take I-90 to Rapid City, take Highway 16 southwest over to Keystone and after that take Highway 244, which will lead you right to the memorial.

The Presidential Trail is essential viewing for those who want to experience the complete beauty of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

There is a really cool place to go with your whole family in South Dakota called Thunderhead Falls. Located just about ten miles west of Rapid City at 10940 West Highway 44, this is a great attraction that is not to be missed when you are sightseeing throughout the area. Thunderhead Underground Falls is a gorgeous vertical waterfall that is found approximately 600 feet inside of a mountain. What a great memory making excursion to take with your family!

You are going to want to be sure that you bring along a camera for this trip, because this is quite a sight to behold. People come from all around to check out the wonder and beauty of Thunderhead Falls. This wonderful, natural attraction is located in the Black Hills area in one of the oldest gold mines to be open to the public. Thunderhead Falls was believed to have been discovered back in 1878 by Black Hills gold miners. Imagine their surprise when the gush of icy cold water came splashing down on them at approximately 8 cubic feet per second.

The water at Thunderhead Falls still comes down at the same massive rate today. You can schedule your very own visit to see it for yourself. Thunderhead Falls is open for your viewing pleasure during all daylight hours from May 1st until November 1st. The falls are easy to find as well, being that they are on the way to Mt. Rushmore on the scenic route. Stop by for your visit to Thunderhead Falls today.

The USS South Dakota is World War II's most decorated battleship due to its participation in every major battle in the Pacific during this time. The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota in Sherman Park.

The USS South Dakota was christened on June 7, 1941 and the Battleship Memorial was built to honor those who served on it and those who died while aboard on those missions from 1942 through 1945. Pieces of the ship that were recovered are located at the Memorial. Former crew members and their families meet every other year in Sioux Falls at the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial to recollect about life aboard "Battleship 'X'" with fellow shipmates.

The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is outlined in concrete to depict the shape of the original battleship. It houses an array of memorabilia from and about the battleship, many of which were donated by crew members. There are scale models which are so detailed that you can actually imagine what it would be like if you had been there. Paintings that depict many battles in which the USS South Dakota participated hang on the walls. Some photographs of the crew members and their everyday lives aboard the battleship are also on display. The actual anchor from the USS South Dakota lies at the bow of the outline at the Battleship Memorial. Hanging at the entrance to the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is the ship's bell.

Admission to the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is free and it is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial is a testament to the dedication and pride that motivated the crew members to do their jobs and help this battleship to become the most decorated of World War II.

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences lives up to its name as a venue to explore arts and science in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With a performing arts center, a visual arts center, a science discovery center, and a movie theater which shows educational films, the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science is a great place to go to experience a bit of culture.

Husby Performing Arts Center

The Husby Performing Arts Center at the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences hosts a variety of shows from plays and operas to dance companies and symphonies. Some of the performances include or have included Thoroughly Modern Millie , Die Fledermaus , Cats , and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. You can purchase tickets by calling the box office or you can buy on the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences website for some shows.

Visual Arts Center

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences' Visual Arts Center hosts six galleries full of constantly changing exhibits. There is also a permanent collection, many pieces of which are located in the galleries on the second floor. The Raven Industries Children's Studio is a part of the Visual Arts Center where children ages 3-12 can create their own works of art for free. Admission to the Visual Arts Center is free, except for some special exhibitions.

Kirby Science Discovery Center

The Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences has a variety of exhibitions dedicated to numerous areas of science. The Air and Space Gallery include such exhibitions as a virtual hang glider and a simulation of the Mars Rover. In the Dynamic Earth section, you can watch how an earthquake affects a building or touch a tornado. In Nature Works, check out the live animal exhibits, including a working beehive. Admission to the DIscovery Center is $6.75 for adults and $4.60 for children.

CineDome Theater

The Wells Fargo CineDome Theater at the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences is located in the Kirby Science Discovery Center. You can purchase movie only tickets, or combination tickets for a movie plus the Discovery Center.

As you can see, the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences will expand your knowledge of fine arts and science in a way that no museum can. Be sure you visit the next time you are in Sioux Falls, South Dakota!