Driving further west we found ourselves in search of a giant whale! In Catoosa OK you can stop at the Blue Whale of Catoosa where you can walk into the Whale, climb to the 2nd level, and enjoy a picnic at some of the nearby tables. Across the way there is also a taco stand. We didn't try the tacos on this trip but maybe next time.
Our 3rd stop of the day was a bit of a disappointment. Last year Greg and I loved our stop at the pet friendly POP'S Soda Ranch. This year we found that they were no longer pet friendly and that the food wasn't consistent. I thoroughly enjoyed a burger on a dairy free & gluten free bun. The bun was soft and delicious sadly it's not sold in stores. I took my burger to go and sat outside in the sunshine with Greg and Fred. My parents opted to dine inside. Sadly they ended up with entrees that were bland, dry, and not worth the money. We did bring home some interesting soda's though. The ranch, cookies and cream, and bacon soda were the most memorable.
Our next 3 stops were quick pictures and historic landmarks. In Hydro OK we stopped to see Lucille's famous Rte 66 gas station. On both of of our road trips we have stopped here and even though there is always other tourists it's a fun stop for pictures. In Shamrock TX we stopped for pictures at the Tower Station and U Drop Inn Cafe. Nearby you can go and search for a piece of the Blarney Stone (yes the actually one in Ireland). Greg and I found it last year but we were running out of time this year.
Once we were in Texas we stopped at one of our favorite rest areas. At exit 131 westbound on I40 you will find a rest area with beautiful views, unique picnic areas, and clean and modern interiors.
Our final stop of the day was the Home2 Suites in Amarillo TX. We checked into the Home2Suites and were given room 415 a 1 bedroom with living room. The hotel is in a decent area, offers modern decor, and has welcoming staff. Our room was clean and offered plenty of room for the 4 of us to eat and sleep in. Unfortunately, the bathroom was in need of updating. The old shower hardware was removed and poorly replaced. It looked like a horrible patch job. We would stay here again though.
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Today was supposed to be a light driving day. just a quick 6 hours to Nashville. There's no need to rush we have plenty of time. ... jinx! Traffic, traffic, traffic which leads to more stops needed. We ended up driving for over 8 hours to Nashville but we continue to goof off in the car, sing along to the radio, and maintain a good attitude.
Our 1st stop in Nashville was to Whole Foods for some fresh fruit and our forgotten probiotics. Finally we checked into Hilton Nashville Downtown. The hotel is modern, relaxing, in a great location, and has extremely friendly staff. I'll write a full hotel review once we're back home. We headed out for the rest of the afternoon. Walking just outside the hotel you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Symphony. Just up the street we visited the Ryman Auditorium. Ending our quick tour on Broadway. We speed for some souvenirs, chatted with some locals, and wished Fred was allowed inside some of the bars. Next up is Centennial Park and then on to Memphis! A 3:30 am wake up call came way to soon! We finished packing and we're on the road by quarter past 4. Right away we ran into fog and that was how the day went. Luckily we go with the flow and have learned to make the best of every situation.
9 states, 765 miles, a discussion with a selfish woman, and two forgotten items and we're in Virginia. The highlights of the day were seeing deer and black bears in Shenandoah National Park and stopping at Foamhenge (I've been to Stonehenge, now Foamhenge, and hope one day to visit Superhenge). I will be the first to admit that I am an over-packer! I believe in packing a little bit of everything for those just in case moments. When it comes to Fred's first big road trip I am basically bringing everything but the kitchen sink! Here's a list of what we're bringing which includes some products we're excited to try out for the first time:
1 Fiat, 2 adults, 1 teenager, a shorkie named Fred, and 3 nights in Saint John NB. Here's what we've been researching:
1. Driving through Portland and stopping for a soda at Vena's Fizz House! So delicious and very cool owners! 2. Scenic pass through Acadia National Park as recommended by my sister! If time permits! 3. Driving and hiking The Fundy Trail! 4. Walking on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks! 5. Searching for foodie finds at Saint John City Market 6. Staying out the Hilton Saint John 7. Checking out some of the pet friendly restaurants that Jessica at Discover Saint John researched for us:
This trip is also new because it's Porscha's and Fred's first trip out of the country.
Some of our must have items for traveling (in addition to our recommended list):
Fred's traveling necessities are:
I can't wait to share our stories and photos with you so stay tuned! |
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