Historic Franklin Hotel (Redux)

Historic Franklin Hotel - Deadwood, South Dakota

I scouted several locations for camping but ran out of daylight and made the decision to get a hotel room. Not much cell signal out in the Black Hills so had to drive to the town of Lead. While eating dinner at the Pizza Lab I checked the map further and made my way north … Read more

Wall Drug Store (Redux)

Wall Drug Store - Exterior view

I was brainwashed by all the signs along I-90 for 200 miles compelling me to stop at another tourist trap known as Wall Drug Store in Wall, South Dakota. It’s something of a “must-see” destination and came to fame for offering visitors free ice water (which back in the old days was a big deal). … Read more

World’s Only Corn Palace (Redux)

World's Only Corn Palace - Mitchell, South Dakota

I’m not a huge fan of “tourist traps” as I’d rather be out in nature. Couldn’t help but stop at a place called the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota because how often do you hear something called a corn palace? It’s the only one in the world apparently so they have that going for … Read more

Couchsurf And A Burrito in Sioux Falls (Redux)

Monster breakfast burrito in Sioux Falls

Couchsurfed last night in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Arrived very late but met a super nice dude named Camden who let me crash. Brought him a six pack of Wisconsin beer, chill night. On his suggestion I grabbed this massive breakfast burrito from a local greasy spoon before getting back on the road again – … Read more

Des Moines River Rest Stop Sunset (Redux)

Des Moines River Rest Stop Sunset

Pulling off the highway to give my eyes a rest from the blinding low sun was the right call. Stopped at the Des Moines River rest stop in Jackson, Minnesota just in time to watch an incredibly vivid sunset. Next stop is Sioux Falls where I found a place to stay via Couchsurfing. Author’s note: … Read more

Madison Capitol Building (Redux)

Wisconsin Capitol Building in Madison

Started my road trip late this morning.  Gray skies and intermittent rain.  Stopped in Madison and visited my sister Emma.  Obligatory photo of the Capitol building. Long day of driving ahead with Sioux Falls as today’s end point. Author’s note: I am revisiting old posts from my 2016 road trip because I posted all of … Read more

2016 Road Trip – Westward Bound (Redux)

2016 Road Trip Start - Heading West from Kenosha, WI in search of adventure

Mandatory 30-day furlough from work. Dad has an elk tag in New Mexico. I’ve never been west of the Mississippi or on a long solo road trip. I’ve never been to a National Park. I might never have a full month off again. Not staying home on the couch. Its time for an adventure. Because … Read more