Entry 69: Exploring History in the Green Mountain State: Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

Recently I had the privilege of visiting Vermont with a couple of friends – big shout out to Drew and Brett! I have a lot to share, but our first stop was the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch, Vermont.

The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site is more than just a tribute to the 30th President of the United States—it's a step back in time. Located about 10 miles south of Woodstock, the site includes Coolidge’s birthplace, boyhood home, and the room where he took the presidential oath of office in 1923 following the death of President Harding. The homestead is fully restored to its early 20th-century appearance, featuring original furnishings, personal artifacts, and a palpable sense of historic simplicity.

Plymouth Notch, the village Coolidge called home, remains virtually unchanged since his time. Walking through the general store, church, cheese factory, and schoolhouse, you get a rare glimpse into the rural American life of the early 1900s.

The Coolidge Museum and Education Center is a gem for history buffs, with exhibits detailing Coolidge’s quiet but impactful presidency, his famously reserved personality, and the political issues of the era. Right next door, the Plymouth Cheese Factory, founded by Coolidge’s father in 1890, still produces cheese using traditional methods (it was unfortunately closed during our visit, but still worth a stop!).

A short walk away is the Coolidge Family Cemetery, where President Coolidge rests in peace under a simple granite marker. The entire site offers guided tours, educational programs, and seasonal events—and while most buildings are open from late May through mid-October, we were lucky enough to catch one of the special winter openings.

Vermont Fun Fact: Vermont has banned billboards since 1968 to preserve its scenic beauty—and trust me, it works. Vermont is absolutely gorgeous!

Other Things to Do in the Area

Woodstock, Vermont – Charming downtown with boutiques, cafes, and the Billings Farm & Museum
Quechee Gorge – Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” a great spot for hiking and views
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park – The only national park to focus on conservation history
Killington Ski Area – If you’re visiting in winter, Vermont’s biggest ski resort is nearby
Long Trail Brewery – A perfect stop for local craft beer with mountain views

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby

Worthy Kitchen (Woodstock) – Casual farm-to-table burgers and bowls
Mountain Creamery (Woodstock) – Homestyle breakfasts, sandwiches, and homemade pies
Ramunto’s Brick & Brew Pizza (Bridgewater) – Kid-friendly and relaxed with great pizza

#vermont #vermonttourism #historicsite #presidentcoolidge #mikeisoutside #visitvermont #greenmountainstate #vermontnature #vermontscenery #nobillboards #travelvermont #explorevermont #vermonttravel #onlyinvermont

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

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