Hoover Dam is one of the places you've probably seen a lot of in photographs, history books, and learned about in grade school, but haven't yet taken the time to visit in person. As impressive as all the photos and history are, it's not quite the same as actually being there to see the enormity, complexity, and concrete beauty of it all.

Recommendations of what to bring with you on a day hike from someone who has spent a lot of time hiking throughout the country.

A review of the historic El Capitan Theater in Los Angeles.

A review of staying on the Queen Mary in Long Beach Harbor.

Don't have a ton of time to spend on a vacation? No problem. I've mastered the art of creating great 3 day "quickie" vacations that will leave you wanting more. It gives you the opportunity to explore more places, although it can get a bit expensive on airfare.

Making a quick stop-over at Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace is a wonderful historic day trip.