If you're anything like me, sometimes you just want to unwind in a peaceful, relaxing vacation destination.  Don't get me wrong, sometimes you want to be a tourist and go where all the people go but I also get wanting to choose a spot where it's quiet and chill. In my traveling adventures, I've done both but for the sake of this post I've put together my top United States vacation destinations that aren't overly crowded. 

The list has a city in each region of the US so pick a place and go enjoy! 

Stinson Beach, California: If you follow this blow then you'll know I've already done a couple of posts on Stinson Beach, mainly because I love this little town! It is one of Northern California's best kept secrets! My husband and I stayed in Stinson Beach during the month of February which was a downtime for the community but you could still do everything you want in the winter other than lay out at the actual beach.  If you're looking to catch some rays I'd recommend going in the summer months but since it's on the Pacific it's always going to be a bit windy and the water will always be chilly.  Some of my favorite things to do in this area include hiking, eating at the amazing local restaurants, and taking a day road trip up Highway One. 

Omaha, Nebraska: There are a multitude of things to do in Omaha! You could spend a long weekend there or even a full week and you wouldn't get it all done.  Omaha boasts the number one zoo in the entire world, that's right, in the world!  The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a must visit!  I've been to the zoo at least five times and it never gets old. Another place in Omaha that's amazing to visit is the Lauritzen Gardens which is a living museum of plant displays.  It has both indoor and outdoor displays and is a hidden sanctuary in the heart of the city.  Speaking of museums, Omaha has the Durham Museum which features Omaha and Nebraska history as well as traveling exhibits.  This town also plays host to some of the best restaurants in America.  Lastly, for adults only, Omaha boasts a number of awesome breweries and a great beer selection. 

The Florida Keys (not Key West): The only reason I say "not Key West" is because this post is about vacation in places that aren't overly crowded. I love Key West and have nothing but great things to say about it but it's always crawling with people.  If you're looking for more of a relaxing stay, there are so many other keys you can visit.  This string of tropical islands are known as a destination to fish, boat, snorkel, and dive.  I'd highly recommend staying at a number of different keys during one trip as each island offers its own unique atmosphere and vibe. You can feed the Tarpon at Robbie's in Islamorada, explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, visit The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, and pick a spot on any beach to enjoy yourself and gaze out at the beautiful blue water.  

My mom and step-dad just recently built their dream home in Mountain View, Arkansas. When we visit it's like having a vacation at home, how awesome is that?! I've been going to Mt. View my entire life to camp or stay in a family member's cabin there so I've done just about everything possible in this small river town which is in the Ozark mountain range.  It maintains a rich tradition of preserving folk music and is also known for the many outdoor recreation opportunities.

1. If you like fishing, then Mt. view is the place for you!  The town is nestled right next to the White River.  Fishing for trout is popular on this river; in fact, it's my favorite thing to do when I'm visiting my parents.  Lucky for me, my step-dad is a trout fishing guide and a darn good one at that! His guide service is called "Reel Fun Trout Adventures" and you can reach him at markjenn1964@gmail.com. Be sure to tell him I sent you! If trout fishing isn't your thing and you'd rather creek fish then you can head to the Sylamore Creek which is accessible via multiple camp grounds or boat.  It's a great creek to fly fish on.  Andrew, my husband, has fished it several times with his fly rod and has no problem catching fish here.
2. Blanchard Springs Caverns simply can't be described with words!  You must go see the caves if you're ever in Mt. view or the surrounding area.  I've taken the tours multiple times and it never gets old or disappoints.  Blanchard is not only about what is under the ground; it's surrounded by the Ozark National Forrest so there are plenty of things to do.  You can hike, camp, or kayak.  Kayaking from Blanchard Springs is my personal favorite!  It's about a 3.5 mile float down the North Sylamore. You will put in at Blanchard Springs Camp Ground and end your float at the Sylamore Creek Campground.  This is a float course mainly only known by locals but now you know too. 
3. Eat at JoJo's Catfish!!! The restaurant is located on the bank of the beautiful White River.  You can even stay at Jack's Resort which is directly beside the restaurant. JoJo and Jack were father and daughter and you will still find JoJo working at the resort and/or restaurant.  Mr. Jack has since passed.  The service at JoJo's is impeccable and their catfish is to-dye-for!  They make you feel like family and it's a do-not-miss place to eat! 
4. Pickin' and Grinnin'.... I bet you're wondering what in the heck this means?!  The definition of pickin' and grinnin' is "vigorous playing of folk or country music on a stringed musical instrument, especially the guitar or banjo, while smiling broadly." Mt. view is considered the "Folk Music Capitol of the World." Anyone who can play an instrument or just sing is welcome to pull up a chair and join in every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at the local square. People from all over the world visit the town square to enjoy a sweet southern night, good music, and great people! 
5. Mt. View is on the Arkansas Antique Trail that's why I'd have to say antique shopping here is one of my top five favorite things to do. Especially on a rainy day when you can't enjoy what the outdoors has to offer, grab a coffee-to-go and get to shopping!  There are plenty of antique shops in the town but my favorites include: Rainbow Antique Mall, Main Street Antiques, and Mellon's Country Store (which has a little bit of everything from old to new). 

Mt. View is a town that's near to my heart now as that's where my parents call home.  It's really their personal piece of paradise.  The people there are all so friendly. If you're looking for a good summer adventure in Arkansas, Mt view is the place to go.  I hope you've enjoyed this post as I was very happy to write it. 

Our family had the best time floating down the North Sylamore Creek! 

Andrew and I traveled back to Arkansas for the weekend of the 4th to visit my family. My Mom and Step Dad are building a house on a bluff over looking the Sylamore Creek in Mt. View, AR. Their property is absolutely gorgeous and how cool is it that they are living their dream?! We stayed for a few days and spent lots of time enjoying everyone's company. We hiked, did some trout fishing, rode the ranger, sat by the fire, and shot fire works.
The state of Arkansas is truly "the Natural State," we love calling it our home state and now going back to visit!

Thank God for our country and our freedom!

I've been considering writing a post about the recent tornado we had sweep through our state Sunday April 27th simply because this blog is supposed to be dedicated to travel however, I've come to the conclusion that of course I'm going to write it...

Sunday, April 27, 2014 is a day I will never forget. Communities less than 10 miles from my home were destroyed by nature. A Tornado 2 miles wide stayed on the ground for 90 minutes and was an F3. I was sitting in the comfort of my home watching the news and ready to jump in my closet at anytime. Luckily, my home and city were spared but our neighbors weren't as lucky. The death toll is at 16 in Arkansas with many more still missing and injured. Andrew and I both went out with separate groups yesterday to help where we could.

It's hard to look at the ruble and imagine that houses once stood in the place where there is nothing. While I was combing through pieces of people's homes I was overwhelmed with the sense of helplessness. I truly hope that the little amount we were able to do yesterday helped in some way. Our God is a mighty God and I can only pray those that are lost right now seek him in the aftermath of this disaster.

In this photo, I'm standing where a rock house once was. Unfortunately the resident of this home did not make it. This destruction made me pause and say prayers for all the things I'm thankful for. I am blessed to be a part of a community that helps others in a time of need.

May God bless the great state of Arkansas and all those affected.