AAA Via - May+ June 2023

THE AAA MAGAZINE

You don't have to choose.

You can have both when you visit the Rogue Valley. Come see why Wine Enthusiast named Rogue Valley Wine Country a top five global wine destination and visit the nation's deepest lake in the same weekend.

Plan your trip at www.travelmedford.org

seaside is for

Yes, you can.

There’s too much you’re not allowed to do in this world. So we say YES! Yes, you can feed the seals at the aquarium. Yes, you can drop a crab pot off the 12th Avenue Bridge. Yes, you can eat elephant ears before dinner and lie on the sand by a fire ‘til midnight. Especially if you went hiking, biking, kayaking or surfing all day. And of course you can rent a paddle boat shaped like a swan... it’s Seaside!

The perfect way to experience this wine region is with the new Mt. Hood Territory Wine Trail.

This free mobile passport guides you through The Territory’s boutique, family owned wineries.

An in-pass map makes it easy to find a winery near your location. Check in at each location to earn fantastic prizes, plus discover exclusive discounts, all while supporting our local winemakers.

SIGN UP TODAY!

omht.us/winetrail

U NW IN D AT A WIN E FA RM IN THE WI LLA M ET T E VAL LE Y

The farms and vineyards in the Willamette Valley region of Mt. Hood Territory provide an escape from other wine regions’ crowds and create a more intimate experience. These tasting rooms are often

or the winemaker — and in most cases, they are one and the same.

On-farm wineries allow guests to enjoy the peacefulness of the fields and the chance to see where the grapes are grown and harvested. They also provide visitors an opportunity to chat with the winemakers and hear firsthand how their passion became their career.

Located in the north Willamette Valley, Hanson Vineyards is a four generation family farm. They grow nine grape varieties at their vineyard and focus on a hands-on style, believing the grape grower’s role is as vital as the winemaker’s. Wooden Shoe Vineyards is a five-minute drive down the road at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. Their rustic tasting room is the perfect place to sample wines while soaking in views of the tulip farm, gardens

and vineyards. Campbell Lane Winery might be one of West Linn’s newest wineries, but it is also home to some of Oregon’s oldest pinot gris vines. Planted in the 1980s, the vineyard — at that time — had the largest pinot gris planting in the U.S. at 2.65 acres. They now have 21 acres, and their tasting room features great views of Mt. Hood.

On Parrett Mountain in Wilsonville sits the family owned Terra Vina Wines Enjoy their “La Famiglia” label featuring all estate grown fruit while taking in beautiful views of Mt. Hood over the vineyard. Oswego Hills Vineyard and Winery’s farm history dates back to the 1850s. Fun fact: During the 1940s, the farm was a world-class equestrian center that hosted Roy Roger’s horses Trigger and Buttercup while on Pacific Northwest trips. The tasting room features old photos that celebrate the farm’s past.

This is your invitation to reconnect with nature over a glass of wine.

View of Mt. Hood from Terra Vina Wines.

PET TRAVEL

Tips and recommendations for ways both people and their furry companions can enjoy journeys and experiences on the road.

2023

Volume 23, Issue 3

9 SMART TRAVEL

Safety checklists for summer road trips and tips for moving with ease. Gift ideas to celebrate graduates and mothers.

22 ON THE ROAD

Hot air balloons rise in Tigard. Explore museums, cycling terrain and outof-this-world festivals.

22 RO AD TRIP

Explore the West in bloom at five scenic spots to view nature’s palette.

25 WEEKENDER Bandon, OR combines a working port, art, seafood and world-class golf for a coastal escape.

30 GETAWAY RODEOS

Find horses and broncos, plus history and cultural discovery in a round up of rodeos of the West.

36 DISCOVER TRAVEL TIPS

Where to stay and how to keep your pets safe while traveling this season.

VICTORIA BC

PUBLISHED BY OREGON MEDIA, LLC 974 NW Riverside Blvd. Bend, Oregon 97703 oregonmedia.com

PUBLISHERS

Heather Huston Johnson

Ross Johnson

EDITORIAL

Editor in Chief Cheryl Parton

Associate Editor Lydia Hagen

Staff Writer Chloe Green

Copy Editor Stephanie Boyle Mays

DESIGN

Creative Director Kelly Alexander

Senior Graphic Designer Cali Clement

Graphic Designer Jeremiah Crisp

Creative Consultant Tiffany Paulin

Print Coordinator Clarke Fine

SALES & MARKETING

Senior Account Executive Susan Crow

Senior Account Executive Ronnie Harrelson

Business Development Sage Gripekoven

Account Assistant Tom Gillespie

Associate Publisher Katryna Vecella

Director of Operations Heather Renee Wong

Circulation Manager Amara Spittler

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Cooper Findling, Damian Fagan, Katy Koontz, Adam Sawyer, Teresa Ristow

Subscription rate: AAA primary members, $2 (included in dues).

Change of address: Allow four weeks advance notice. Call (888) 422-2503 or email the Membership Department at membership@AAAoregon.com.

Contact editorial: viaeditorial@oregonmedia.com

Contact advertising: sales@oregonmedia.com

Contents copyrighted ©2023 by AAA Oregon/Idaho. No part of Via may be reprinted without written permission. 510,338 COPIES.

Via (ISSN 2473-5183) is published bimonthly by Oregon Media, LLC, 70 SW Century Dr. STE 100, Bend, OR 97702. Periodicals Postage: Paid at Bend, OR, and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to VIA, Membership Records, 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201.

Proudly printed in Oregon.

Fairways meet the sea at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort,Oregon.

Photo by Evan Schiller

Black Ball Ferry Line provides daily vehicle and passenger ferry service on the most direct route between Washington State and Vancouver Island. Board the ship in Port Angeles, WA and in just 90-minutes you will be downtown Victoria, BC!

America’s Magnificent National Parks

DAYS | 22 CITIES | 1 COUNTRY

ALL THE SIGHTS AND INSIGHTS

America’s Magnificent National Parks Wonders and Glittering Lights

15 DAYS | 22 CITIES | 1 COUNTRY

15 DAYS | 22 CITIES | 1 COUNTRY

15 DAYS | 22 CITIES | 1 COUNTRY

Natural Wonders and Glittering Lights

up-close and personal

SAVE UP TO 15% * OFF

national parks. After an evening in Scottsdale, bohemian Sedona, where spiritual seekers and will revel in its red-hued mountainous landscape. Grand Canyon, with a Local Expert. In Monument Park, Make Travel Matter® and board all-terrain through the desert with your Navajo guide. National Park on a private shuttle, as the red to the neon lights of Las Vegas, where you can a show or try your luck at poker.

Explore America’s top national parks. After an evening in Scottsdale, start your journey in bohemian Sedona, where spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike will revel in its red-hued mountainous landscape. Take a jaunt to the Grand Canyon, with a Local Expert. In Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Make Travel Matter® and board all-terrain vehicles and ride through the desert with your Navajo guide.

Explore America’s top national parks. After an evening in Scottsdale, start your journey in bohemian Sedona, where spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike will revel in its red-hued mountainous landscape.

Take a jaunt to the Grand Canyon, with a Local Expert. In Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Make Travel Matter® and board all-terrain vehicles and ride through the desert with your Navajo guide.

Glide through Zion National Park on a private shuttle, as the red mountains give way to the neon lights of Las Vegas, where you can take in a show or try your luck at poker.

Glide through Zion National Park on a private shuttle, as the red mountains give way to the neon lights of Las Vegas, where you can take in a show or try your luck at poker.

Explore America’s top national parks. After an evening in Scottsdale, start your journey in bohemian Sedona, where spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike will revel in its red-hued mountainous landscape. Take a jaunt to the Grand Canyon, with a Local Expert. In Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Make Travel Matter® and board all-terrain vehicles and ride through the desert with your Navajo guide. Glide through Zion National Park on a private shuttle, as the red mountains give way to the neon lights of Las Vegas, where you can take in a show or try your luck at poker.

AAA Member Benefit

AAA Member Benefit

up to $80 per person on-tour towards optional experiences

Receive up to $80 per person on-tour credit towards optional experiences

information or for full terms and conditions, local AAA Travel Agent at 800.529.3222

For more information or for full terms and conditions, contact your local AAA Travel Agent at 800.529.3222

AAA Member Benefit

AAA

Receive up to $80 per person on-tour credit towards optional experiences

Receive up to $80 per person on-tour credit towards optional experiences

For more information or for full terms and conditions, contact your local AAA Travel Agent at 800.529.3222

For more information or for full terms and conditions, contact your local AAA Travel Agent at 800.529.3222

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE

With the return of warm weather, many people are preparing to take a trip to reconnect with loved ones or to cross a dream destination off of their bucket list.

Our family is looking forward to upcoming trips to Hawaii and Central Oregon. Thanks to the benefits of AAA membership, our vacation will be a smooth and worry-free experience.

These days, the expertise of a AAA travel agent is more important than ever. With years of experience and familiarity with countless destinations, simply put, they’ve been there and done that. Our travel agents streamline the planning process so that you can focus on the fun. They will also provide helpful recommendations on ways to make your trip even more memorable. As we experienced during the pandemic, the unexpected can happen and our travel agents are with you before, during and after your vacation, to help you navigate.

Our travel agents can also assist you with the purchase of travel insurance to give you even more peace of mind during your journey. To speak with one of my AAA Travel colleagues, please call (800) 529-3222.

As a AAA member, you’re already familiar with our world-class emergency road service, which is the perfect travel companion for any road trip. And the AAA mobile app provides easy access to a wide range of helpful information. With just a few taps on a screen, you can find the location of the cheapest fuel and closest electric vehicle charging station, as well as AAA Diamond Designations on local hotels and restaurants, AAA discounts on nearby attractions, and other points of interest.

While enjoying your trip, you’ll likely make a few purchases along the way. Did you know that the AAA Signature Visa card offers amazing cash back on your purchases, all without any annual or foreign transaction fees? With two great options to choose from—the Travel

DIRECTORS +

OFFICERS

chair Steven H. Corey pendleton

vice chair elizabetH J. Cawood eugene

president tim morgan portland

treasurer C.e. “win” FranCiS bend

Advantage card that provides extra travel rewards, and the Member Advantage card that offers additional incentives for everyday purchases—you’ll be able to stretch your budget even further. Learn more at AAA.com/creditcard.

We’re excited to announce that a new service, AAA Smart Home Security, will be available later this summer. AAA members will have the opportunity to receive the same reliable support at home as they do at the roadside, with an alarm system, cameras, and other security technology that is right for their needs. Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare to launch the program.

When you’re away from home, you can rely on AAA to travel with confidence. We’re honored to provide a helping hand and the kind of support that you’d get from a trusted friend.

Where are you traveling this year? Please email me at President@AAAOregonIdaho.com or write to me at 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201 or 7155 W. Denton St., Boise ID 83704.

Your fellow AAA member,

Tim Morgan, President and CEO

bradley J. Hart lake oswego

Karen HinSdale portland

randolpH l miller portland

patriCia C. Smullin medford

mary pat tHompSon boise

Kerry tymCHuK beaverton

gina walKer lake oswego

AAA DIRECTORY

FOR GENERAL INFORMATION CALL (888) 422-2503 OR VISIT AAA.COM

CONNECT WITH US

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twitter.com/ AAAoregonidaho

facebook.com/ AAAoregonidaho

instagram.com/ AAAoregonidaho

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

(800) AAA-HELP (800-222-4357)

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

(888) 422-2503

INSURANCE SERVICES

AAA.com/Insurance

Policyholders

(866) AAA-INSURE (866-222-4678)

New sales

(866) AAA-QUOTE (866-222-7868)

TRAVEL SERVICES

AAA.com/Travel

(800) 529-3222

SERVICE CENTERS

AAA.com/Locations

OREGON

Beaverton 8555 SW Apple Way

Bend 20350 Empire Blvd.

Clackamas 10365 SE Sunnyside Rd.

Coos Bay 1705 Ocean Blvd. SE

Corvallis 1836 NW Ninth St., Ste. 110

The Pacific Northwest’s Treasured Outpost for Adventure

Eugene 983 Willagillespie Rd.

Grants Pass 1563 NE F St.

Hillsboro 7300 NE Butler St.

Lake Oswego 6 Centerpointe Dr.

Medford 1777 E. Barnett Rd.

Pendleton 248 SW Dorion Ave.

Portland 600 SW Market St.

Roseburg 3019 NW Stewart Pkwy.

Salem 2909 Ryan Dr. SE

Springfield/Gateway 939 Harlow Rd.

Warrenton/North Coast 153 S. Hwy. 101

IDAHO

Boise 7155 W. Denton St.

Idaho Falls 3418 S. 25th East

Meridian 2310 E. Overland Rd., Ste. 110

Nampa 16453 N. Marketplace Blvd.

Pocatello 1000 Pocatello Creek Rd., Ste. E5

Twin Falls 1239 Pole Line Rd., Ste. 315

Sunriver Resort is a 3,300-acre all-season wilderness retreat set in the forested foothills of the Cascade Range, overlooking a great meadow framed by the Deschutes River and the iconic peak of Mt. Bachelor. Here, spirited guests of all ages enjoy unrivaled access to heartfelt experiences deeply rooted in the land and traditions of this unique setting.

SUNRIVERRESORT.COM

{SMART TRAVEL}

MOVING EASY

Whether it’s relocating across the street or across the country, or sending a child off to college, moving can be a stressful life event. Fortunately, Penske Truck Rental, AAA’s exclusive truck rental partner, helps ease the burden by supporting your moving experience. AAA members enjoy 12 percent off or more on truck rentals and a 12 percent discount on moving supplies such as boxes, hand trucks, furniture pads and more. Visit AAA.com/pensketruckrental.

CELEBRATE GRADUATES

Give the gift of AAA membership for high school and college graduates in your life. Membership provides roadside assistance, hundreds of discounts and rewards partners, plus vacation and insurance planning. Provide security and peace of mind in each stage of life with this present at AAA.com/gift

ROAD

WATCH FOR WILDLIFE

The roads and highways in the Northwest can dangerously disrupt the lives of animals moving through their habitat in search of food, shelter and mates. Almost 6,000 drivers in Oregon alone collide with deer, elk, bears and other wildlife species each year. The Oregon Wildlife Foundation, based in Portland, is a charitable organization that aims to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions on Oregon’s highways and roads. In collaboration with the Departments of Transportation

and Fish & Wildlife, OWF is implementing wildlife crossing projects throughout the state. The sale of their Watch for Wildlife specialty license plate partially funds these efforts. To obtain yours, visit your local DMV or order online during vehicle registration. For more information, visit myowf.org/watchforwildlife

SAFEGUARD YOUR IDENTITY

Identity theft occurs when someone takes your personal information and uses it without your permission. Unfortunately, the incidences of identity theft have skyrocketed in recent years, with reported cases increasing from 3.4 million in 2019 to 5.7 million in 2021, according to the National Council on Identity Theft Protection. Fortunately, your AAA membership includes a free resource to help protect your identity. ProtectMyID, powered by Experian, is a valuable tool that can help keep you safe. To learn more and enroll, visit AAA.com/IDTheft.

GIFTS FOR GRADS

AAA membership is an asset for graduates in any stage of life.

ROAD TRIP PREPARATION

Maximize your AAA membership benefits if you’re hitting the road this summer. Start with AAA’s comprehensive maps, available at local AAA Service Centers or online at AAA.com/maps, to help navigate your route. For more detailed planning, AAA/triptik is a valuable resource for route planning. Before you depart, ensure your vehicle’s battery is up to the task—AAA offers battery checks and installation services directly at your home if needed. Members can take advantage of special discounted pricing on AAA batteries at select NAPA Auto Parts stores. Locate the nearest Auto Parts store at AAA.com/NAPA to take advantage of this benefit.

NEW POWER ADAPTERS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Having the correct plugs to keep your gadgets charged is essential when traveling internationally. The newest worldwide charger is universally compatible with

GOING ELECTRIC WITH EASE

Many consumers like the idea of an electric vehicle, but worry about incurring a steep price tag when going electric. Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho, says a used EV can be a good option for first-time EV buyers or multi-car households, as they tend to be more affordable. The new AAA Used EV Buyer’s Guide offers reviews and information on EVs and alternative fuel vehicles, to help consumers make informed decisions about their purchases. The guide also covers driving range, charging, ownership costs and maintenance. This information and additional resources can be found at AAA.com/charge.

USB-A and USB-C cables and works in 210 countries. AAA Members receive discounts on this item and other travel accessories at your local AAA Service Center. Visit AAA. com/locations for more information.

WORLDWIDE USB CHARGER

Handy worldwide USB charger allows you to charge four USB devices at once, and offers fast and efficient charging in more than 210 countries.

TRAVEL NONSTOP TO LONDON THIS SUMMER

Starting in June, British Airways will begin offering daily flights between Portland, Oregon, and London, England. Providing more flexibility and ease to travelers seeking to visit the United Kingdom, the flight also helps make easier connections to other parts of Europe through Heathrow Airport. Take flight on a larger Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, which is a first at PDX. The daily flights will be available until the end of October.

WAYFINDING

PAPER MAPS LEAD THE WAY

While travelers have become more accustom to using online maps, GPS and smartphones, there are reasons to keep a paper map handy. Technology is convenient, but it requires an internet connection. Before taking a trip, visit your local AAA Service Center to pick up maps, or order them online at AAA.com/maps

TIPS FOR GETTING CAR INSURANCE

1. Understand that liability insurance won’t protect your car. Liability insurance will only help you cover your legal obligation to the other driver if you’re at fault in an accident.

2. Consider what coverages you want. There are many different auto insurance coverages available. Take time to choose what you need to protect yourself on the road from the wide array—from liability to collision and personal injury protection.

3. Think about bundling your home and auto insurance. Many insurers offer a discounted rate to bundle, the term used for getting your home and auto insurance from the same insurance carrier.

4. Know many factors influence car insurance rates. Your rate is not just a random number but is the result of many details about you and your car, such as the year, make and model of the vehicle, as well as location of the vehicle, claims history and many other factors.

5. Choose the deductible that works for you. Your deductible is the amount you agree to pay if you have a claim.

6. G et multiple car insurance quotes. When getting car insurance quotes, research the company you’re considering. Your AAA Oregon/Idaho Insurance agent can help with quotes and walk you through the process. Learn more at AAA.com/insurance

See AAA.com/viatravel.

VIKING VOYAGE

Scenic beauty from Norway to Iceland

This monthlong, roundtrip cruise from Boston offers you a lifetime of adventure through beautiful Nordic countries. Once aboard Voyage of the Viking enjoy Canada’s vibrant cities, Greenland’s raw beauty and Iceland’s crystal fjords. From there, travel across the Atlantic and explore the scenic lands of Norway, Ireland and the Netherlands. On your return, spend the night in Reykjavík and enjoy various shore excursions, including a trip to the Blue Lagoon or an art museum. From $6,824 per person.

TRAVEL DEALS

ALASKAN WILDERNESS

Ketchikan, Skagway, Victoria

Spend a week exploring the wild beauty of Alaska from the comfort of the Celebrity Solstice Cruise ship. Depart from Seattle and head for Ketchikan, a charming town known for its Native Alaskan history and culture. Catch a glimpse of wildlife and glaciers as you sail down Endicott Arm. Go for a dog-sled ride in Juneau and step aboard the White Pass Scenic Railway in Skagway before finishing your journey with a visit to Victoria. From $702 per person.

ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION

Argentina to Antarctica Embark on a 12-day adventure through Antarctica aboard a Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise. Depart from the vibrant city of Buenos Aires and stop in Ushuaia before venturing into the heart of the southernmost continent. Witness the astonishing wildlife of the region, from playful seals and penguin colonies to majestic whales. While navigating through glaciers and icebergs on a hybrid-powered ship, learn about glaciology, climate change and polar exploration. From $8,403 per person.

SCOTTISH LORE

Glasgow, Islay, Oban Spent 12 days exploring the enchanting lands of Scotland. Experience its culture with a bagpipe lesson, dive into its history with a guided tour and indulge in its highquality whiskey at a local distillery. Explore the rugged coastlines of the country or tour through the fields of the Clan of McGregor. Spend a night in a secluded luxury hotel along the waterfront in Islay. Immerse yourself in the country’s rich heritage and folklore in each stop along the way. From $3,399 per person.

BORA BORA SUNSETS

French Polynesia Islands

Embark on a 10-day voyage of luxury with Regent Seven Seas Cruises to explore the crystal-clear blue waters of the South Pacific. Immerse yourself in the region’s cultures as you sail through a breathtaking collection of volcanic islands. Revel in the daily discovery of new island paradises boasting pristine beaches, shimmering azure waters and lush forests. Back on board, enjoy breathtaking sunsets from your furnished balcony and indulge in exquisite cuisines each evening. From $5,899 per person.

AAA members enjoy discounts and travel planning support on domestic and international travel, from cruise vacations to European tours and family destination travel packages.

{ON THE ROAD}

BALLOON ASCENSION

The skies of Oregon fill with a rainbow of colorful, colossal hot-air balloons that rise and set with the sun during the Festival of Balloons, held June 23-25 in Cook Park, Tigard. This annual fundraiser celebrates community while providing up-close views of the assembly, inflation and ascension of these air-filled beauties. Behind the scenes, pilots meet daily at 5:15 a.m. to review flight conditions, including predicted weather patterns, visibility and winds. Typically, balloons launch by 6:30 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Then, the Festival offers free, tethered rides so riders of all ages can get a feel for floating above air. (These rides are weather and pilot permitting.) A Night Glow takes place after sunset each night to light up the evening in a kaleidoscope of color. See tigardballoon.org.

WELCOME TO SALEM - OREGON’ S WINE COUNTRY

TOUR IDAHO ON TWO WHEELS

See the expansive terrain of Idaho by bike with two events on June 17. The ladies-only Spinderella Ride based in Pocatello offers five scenic routes through rolling terrain, with several climbs. Choose from five distances from 10-100 miles. Or, take part in Sandpoint Rotary’s CHAFE 150 Gran Fondo. This 150-mile loop around the Cabinet Mountains takes riders through lake and river valleys of the frontal range of the Rocky Mountains in Idaho. The CHAFE 150 Gran Fondo also offers 25-80 mile routes for riders of any level, a family run ride and new in 2023: a gravel route. See spinderellaride.com, chafe150.org.

INSPIRING THE HUMAN SPIRIT

One by one, thousands of lanterns take to waters across the United States in a celebration of the human spirit and for an ethereal show of light on water. The Water Lantern Festival of Portland takes place in Laurelhurst Park, Saturday, June 17. There, participants personalize lanterns with their own unique messages of love, hope or memorial before adding an LED light and setting them afloat in the park’s pond. Lanterns are cleaned up by event organizers afterward to leave no trace. See waterlanternfestival.com

OUT OF THIS WORLD IN MCMINNVILLE

The annual UFO Festival lands in McMinnville May 19 and 20 for out-of-this-world experiences including parades, costume contests, live music and panels of illuminating speakers hosted by McMenamins Hotel Oregon. The event started in 1999 to honor a bit of McMinnville history: a 1950 event witnessed by two local farmers, the Trents, whose photographs of the alleged UFO made the cover of Time magazine. See ufofest.com.

IMMERSIVE ART EXPERIENCE

This immersive installation created in 2023 by Jacob Hashimoto for the Boise Art Museum Sculpture Court marks the first solo exhibition for the artist in Idaho. “The Fractured Giant” combines traditional kite- and patternmaking techniques, printmaking and collage to form large-scale sculpture out of thousands of hand-made papers. See boiseartmuseum.org.

COLORFUL OREGON COAST

Journey to an Oregon Coast in full bloom for the Florence Rhododendron Festival, where both wild and cultured rhododendrons are celebrated the third weekend each May. The bright flowers typically reach their peak season in April and May. In homage, the festival begins with the crowning of a Queen Rhododendra and King of the Coast. Then, events from May 18-21 include a range of colorful experiences for all ages. The Rhody Days Art Festival and Rhododendron Society Rhody Show take place at the Florence Event Center starting on Saturday, May 20. Daily carnival games and rides, a 5- and 10k Rhody Run/ Walk, quilt and classic car shows, plus live music culminate with the 116th Annual Grand Floral Parade on Sunday, May 21. See florencechamber.com

NATURE

BIRDWATCHING AT LADD MARSH

See an abundance of ducks, geese, raptors, passerines and shorebirds at the Annual Ladd Marsh Bird Festival May 19-21 at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area located 7 miles south of La Grande, Oregon. The wildlife area, normally closed to visitors during nesting season, will be open all weekend and visitors will have the opportunity to see some of the more than 200 species of birds that either visit or live permanently at Ladd Marsh. Local experts will be on hand to assist novice birders in finding and identifying birds. Visitors may also explore the area on their own. The event includes an evening social and field trips to some of the best birding spots in Union County. See friendsofladdmarsh.org.

BEST Wildflowers IN THE West

EXPLORE THE BEAUTY AND DIVERSITY OF WILDFLOWERS IN OREGON AND IDAHO

WRITTEN BY DAMIAN FAGAN

Wildflowers bursting with color define summer in the West. The show starts in spring at lower elevations and follows the receding snow line up the mountains through fall. A palette of wildflowers paint mountain meadows and woodland forests, offering exceptional opportunities for viewing. Remember to avoid busy bees or colorful butterflies pollinating the flowers before a close-up . Find some of the best fields in Oregon and Idaho.

Oregon

IRON MOUNTAIN Renowned for its diversity and abundance of summer wildflowers, Iron Mountain straddles the Cascade Range near Sweet Home. The peak contains various habitats including old-growth forests, mountain meadows and rock gardens that support more than 300 species of flowering plants. A 6.5-mile loop trail starts at Tombstone Pass on Highway 20, and leads wildflower enthusiasts past blooming Queen’s cup, rock penstemon, beargrass and elephant’s head before topping out at the peak’s lookout platform.

EIGHT DOLLAR MOUNTAIN Unique serpentine soils of the Klamath-Siskiyou mountains are the remnants of weathered metamorphic rocks in Southern Oregon. One prime area outside of Selma is the 7.5-mile-long TJ Howell Botanical Drive, which winds along Eight Dollar Mountain and crosses the Illinois River. Numerous pullouts provide opportunities to view the colorful display of Western coneflower, Howell’s mariposa lily, and the fire-red snow plant. The 0.3-mile Eight Dollar Mountain Botanical Wayside boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and overlooks a fen with California pitcher plants.

METOLIUS RIVER The wildflower-studded Metolius River Trail starts and ends at the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery near Camp Sherman. View huge trout in the hatchery’s overflow pond before striding out on the fairly level 6-mile Metolius River Trail loop. Lupines and bog orchids dot the riverbanks, while tiger lilies and Washington lilies bloom along the trail. Afterwards, visit the rustic Camp Sherman Store for a snack.

Idaho

CAMAS PRAIRIE Ooutside the charming town of Fairfield, explodes with wild camas lily blossoms in early summer. Historically, the prairie attracted Indigenous tribes who gathered here to harvest and prepare the edible camas bulbs for consumption. Gravel roads provide access to the Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area for photographic opportunities of this wildflower spectacle. Nearby, Soldier Mountain also boasts spectacular displays of blooms in summer.

SAWTOOTH MOUNTAINS Located in central Idaho, the Sawtooth Mountains (pictured) encompass an area of nearly 700 square miles dotted with alpine lakes, mountain meadows and jagged peaks. Numerous trails access meadows bursting with wildflowers and mountain lakes ringed with columbine, larkspur, lupine, monkeyflower and balsamroot. The small town of Stanley is a nearby basecamp from which to explore wildflowers along trails either directly from town or access higher elevation areas around Pettit, Redfish or Fourth of July lakes.

PLAN A TRIP

When visiting a showcase of nature's palette, remember to be respectful by parking in designated parking spaces and staying on pathways. To minimize impact and maximize experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays. Don't forget a camera or smartphone to take plenty of photos, but as tempting as it may be, please don't pick the wildflowers.

Rugged BEAUTY

BANDON IS A BIT OF SCOTLAND ON THE OREGON COAST

WRITTEN BY KIM COOPER FINDLING

PHOTO COURTESY BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT’

Multiple courses at Bandon Dunes include the panoramic views from hole #6 at Bandon Golf Course.

It was never a sure thing that tiny, charming Bandon, Oregon would become a world-famous destination.

Founded in 1891 and named for Bandon, Ireland, the small town on the rural Southern Oregon Coast supported a modest population by growing cranberries and making cheese for most of its history. In the 1990s, entrepreneurs were drawn to the rugged, stunning coastline and windswept cliffs, which resembled the landscape of Scotland. Might this be a good place to lay down a Scottishlinks style golf course? The answer was yes, and the rest is history. Now there are six golf courses in the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, attracting guests from all over the world for a chance to hit a ball on spectacular, challenging greens. Cranberries and cheese endure, and pursuits aside from golf abound, including mountain biking, beach walking, and the chance to achieve that bucket-list dream of riding a horse along the shore. Early summer brings clear skies and balmy temperatures to this idyllic city by the sea.

Sights

Begin your getaway at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint , where Bandon’s glory is on high display. Wide sandy beaches give way to rolling surf, dotted with towering sea stacks—remnants of rocky headlands, now partly eroded by the sea. Oregon’s sea stacks are protected as part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge ; bring your binoculars and spy the many species of wildlife that call these columns home, including puffins and common murres. Visit Face Rock on the right day in the summer season and watch the beach come alive as artists create walkable labyrinths in the sand for the spirit-lifting event series Circles in the Sand (find a schedule online). For scenic beauty, recreation and camping, as well as access to the historic Coquille River Lighthouse, visit Bullards Beach State Park .

Activities

Golf is what put Bandon on the map, and guests to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort can choose from six courses to test their skills (and legs—Bandon’s courses are walk-only, no golf carts allowed). Sheep Ranch is the newest course, opened in 2020 with a mile of ocean frontage overlooking Whiskey Run Beach and the expanse of the Pacific Ocean beyond. Whiskey Run itself is the site of some of Oregon’s best—and only truly yearround—mountain biking trails. Cut through a hilly forest of fir and spruce just inland from the beach, Whiskey Run consists of miles of loop trails for all skill levels, blending flow and cross-country style riding. If you’ve left your bike at home rent one from Whiskey Run Rentals. If your idea of a trusty steed is a horse instead of a bike, visit Bandon Beach Riding

Stables to join a guided horseback ride over the dunes, onto the beach and along the surf line. After the outdoor adventure of your choosing, venture to Old Town Bandon for arts, shopping and dining. During the summer, the Port of Bandon Boardwalk Art Show springs up on the waterfront, displaying paintings by community members including both trained, professional artists and local youth. WinterRiver Books & Gallery is a terrific local bookshop with plenty of gift and collectible items to take home. Don’t miss a visit to Washed Ashore , an education arts organization responsible for sculptures crafted entirely from plastics collected from the sea and shore. These large-scale sculptures catch the eye as well as educate about pollution; see the art at their small museum and sprinkled around town.

OPPOSITE: Circles in the Sand events involve participation from artraking volunteers.

BELOW CLOCKWISE

FROM TOP LEFT: Old Town Bandon. Explore biking trails with a guided tour by Whiskey Run Rentals. Art is created from beach debris at nonprofit Washed Ashore.

PHOTO TOP LEFT ALAMY.COM/STOCK CONNECTION BLUE

Eats

Most legitimate Oregon towns have a craft brewery, and Bandon is no exception. Bandon Brewing Company offers pizza and casual food in a casual setting. Grab a seat outside at the pub, found under the “Welcome to Old Town Bandon” sign. Perhaps the most iconic dining experience in town is found at Tony’s Crab Shack, where their crab sandwich and fish tacos are served from a bright blue building near the waterfront. This is the place to order Dungeness crab—in fact, if you catch your own crab and bring it to Tony, he’ll cook it and serve it to you for lunch. Bandon Baking Co. is a great spot for lunch; try the frittata or a sandwich made with a fresh baked bagel. The Bandon Farmer’s Market at the Port of Bandon offers up local produce and products in season; perhaps you’ll even find fresh Pacific dulse seaweed, farmed by Oregon Seaweed and a near-perfect food, extolled for its health benefits and low impact on the earth.

Bandon Rain and Face Rock Creamery sit side by side on the highway, offering cider and cheese respectively. Face Rock rakes in awards for their cheeses every year. Try the Vampire Slayer if you’re not afraid of garlic or play it safe with a bag of cheese curds. Sip on a cranberry apple cider next door to balance your palate. Find a dinner of Oregon seafood at Edgewaters; ask for locally caught salmon or halibut when in season.

Sleeps

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a luxury option for lodging in Bandon. A stay there means high-end everything from multiple dining options to a full-service spa. For affordability, walkability and proximity to downtown, try Bandon Inn or Inn at Old Town Bandon A classic choice, terrific for families and multigenerational groups, is Windermere on the Beach, where windswept ocean views and the quaint atmosphere of an old-time beach cottage make for a relaxing retreat.

Watch boats come and go, or enjoy seasonal events along the Port of Bandon boardwalk.

Sit along the waterfront to eat freshly caught seafood at Tony’s Crab Shack.

LEFT:

RIGHT:

A world champion rider, Shane Proctor holds on to a powerful bull.

Rodeo CULTURE

Rounding up the best of the West

WRITTEN BY ADAM SAWYER

The American rodeo, like so many other ingrained aspects of culture across this continent, has its roots in a melding of customs and traditions. With heavy American Indian as well as Spanish and Mexican influence from the vaqueros’ the word “rodeo” comes from the Spanish word “rodear” meaning “to surround” or round up—early Anglo pioneers adopted and adapted skills to run a ranch and usher in the era of the American cowboy in the 1800s. Ranch competitions showcasing everyday skills required to be a cowboy became increasingly popular with time, eventually leading to the professional rodeo format still used today. Professional rodeos in America consist of two types of competitions: roughstock events and timed events.

Roughstock events include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding. A contestant’s score is equally dependent upon a rider’s performance and an animal’s performance. In timed events such as steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing and steer roping, cowboys and cowgirls compete against the clock as well as against each other. Points and times are then tallied and tabulated, culminating with the crowning of an all-around winner. Today the rodeo tradition continues, especially in the West where some of the most renowned and respected rodeos continue to draw spectators from around the country and around the globe.

Pendleton Round-Up

This Pendleton, Oregon rodeo has become an iconic event with a long history. Following a July Fourth celebration in 1909 that consisted of bronc riding, horse races, feasts, foot races and fireworks, the idea of an annual event to be known as the Pendleton Round-Up was spawned. It was also around that time that the “Let’er Buck” slogan—symbolic of the Round-Up—was inspired. The following year the event was billed as, “A frontier exhibition of picturesque pastimes, Indian and military spectacles, cowboy racing and bronco busting for the championship of the Northwest.” It has only grown from there.

Beyond the competitive aspects of the event, a strong Native American presence and participation have been a large component of the event from the beginning. For more than a century, the onsite Indian Village has been a hub of activity for the Native community during RoundUp Week. There, traditional tipis are set up predominantly by members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and sites can be handed down from generation to generation to occupy the same familial spot within the village in perpetuity. Today, the village is home to roughly 300 of the Indian shelters and is the largest annual Native encampment in North America.

TOP A royal ride from 2022 Rodeo Princess Brooklynn Been. BOTTOM Native American traditions are celebrated in Pendleton.

The Ellensburg Rodeo

The Ellensburg Rodeo takes place Labor Day weekend in Ellensburg, Washington, and corresponds with the Kittitas County Fair. A multitude of festivalgoers choose to make the most of their long weekend by partaking in both events. This year, the festivities are bound to be robust as the rodeo celebrates its 100-year anniversary. It is regularly ranked as one of America’s Top 10 professional rodeos, attracting the best riders, ropers and wrestlers.

Considered one of the “old rodeos,” it was started by a diverse group of ranchers, farmers, American Indians and communityminded citizens in an effort to celebrate a “vanishing frontier way of life.” Today, the Friday night opening performance starts in the early evening and ends under the stars. Saturday and Sunday afternoon performances transpire beneath daytime skies and lead up to the Labor Day Monday Championship Finals, often referred to as, “The best of the best dueling in the dirt.”

The Snake River Stampede

From its first iteration as the 1913 Nampa Harvest Festival, this bucking contest is now known as the Snake River Stampede in Idaho. As this rodeo has morphed through the years, it has become not only a rodeo but a true entertainment spectacle as well. Country music superstars such as Reba McEntire and Glen Campbell have headlined the event, which now attracts tens of thousands of fans from across the

TOP Spectators fill the stands at the Ellensburg Rodeo.

BOTTOM Barrel racing showcases athleticism of both horse and riders.

country each year, ranking it as one of the Top 10 PRCA rodeos in the United States.

Beyond the megawatt star power provided by wranglers and musicians, the stampede itself gives to local charities on a scale just as grand, which includes various military organizations. The Snake River Stampede Junior Rodeo helps pass the traditions onto future generations by giving them the opportunity to compete in the same venue as the pros, and teaches them responsibility and sportsmanship. Likewise, its program Stampede for the Cure helps provide women with mammograms and raises funds to fight breast cancer. The program and rodeo have raised $700,000 since 2006 to help provide services throughout the Treasure Valley.

Cheyenne Frontier Days

In Wyoming, Cheyenne Frontier Days, also known as the “Daddy of ‘Em All,” has been kicking up dust with the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration since 1897 and is one of the oldest rodeos in the world. What started as a roundup that featured bronco-busting contests and pony races, today draws top professionals who compete for more than $1 million in cash and prizes. Complementing the daily rodeo action are behind-

the-scenes tours, trick riding and a wild-horse race. In addition, Native American traditions are featured in the Indian Village. Other features include a chuck wagon cook-off, pancake breakfast and an art show to help round out the frontier theme. Meanwhile, attendees can also enjoy a carnival, top-name entertainment, professional bull-riding shows, and several parades that include antique carriages and automobiles. Looking to the skies, there is an annual appearance by the United States Air Force Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Squadron.

Adam Sawyer is an outdoor and travel writer, photographer and guide based in the Northwest. His work has appeared in Northwest Travel & Life , Backpacker , and several British Columbia magazines. His guidebooks include Hiking Waterfalls in Oregon , Unique Eats and Eateries: Portland, Oregon , Best Easy Day Hikes Salem and Eugene , and Urban Hikes Oregon

Please check road conditions before departing on your trip at tripcheck.com for Oregon, 511. idaho.gov in Idaho and visit dot.state.wy.us for travels within Wyoming.

Billy Quillan at the 2022 Snake River Stampede Rodeo.

TRAVELING with Pets

Pet-friendly journeys with a furry companion

WRITTEN BY TERESA RISTOW

It’s a scenario pet parents know well: You’re on vacation exploring an attraction, taking a scenic hike or enjoying an al fresco dining experience, when you run into a fellow traveler with their pet. Suddenly, you miss your own four-legged companion back home, wonder what they’re doing at the kennel or with the dog sitter, and wish they were there with you instead. While not every trip screams “dog-friendly,” (for example, we wouldn’t recommend bringing a pup on a tour of the Great Cats World Park in Southern Oregon to meet tigers) there are plenty of travel destinations that work well for pets. With a little preparation and know-how, a doggone good trip just might be in your future.

HOW TO TRAVEL

When traveling with pets, the journey is part of the adventure.

HIT THE ROAD, OR THE RAIL: The easiest option may be choosing a drivable destination and bringing a pet with you in the car. Having plenty of packing space to bring a dog’s bed, food, bowls and other belongings can help make them more comfortable when away from home. While it’s less common to travel with a cat, they are welcome, as are small dogs, on many passenger trains, including Amtrak routes from Eugene and Portland toward Seattle, from eastern Washington to northern Idaho and from Oregon down to California.

TAKE TO THE SKIES: For farther-flung destinations, air travel is an option, but it has limitations and guidelines for companion animals. Many airlines accept small pets that can fit in a carrier underneath the seat in front of you in the cabin, while larger pets must be crated and flown in the cargo area of the plane. While both options can get pets from point A to B, air travel can be a stressful experience for animals, particularly those who are first-timers, so it’s important to consider whether it’s worth it for your pet.

WHERE TO STAY

When planning a pet-friendly trip, book lodging ahead of time to ensure hotels or campgrounds are prepared to welcome your whole family.

RESEARCH PET-FRIENDLY LODGING: Websites such as petswelcome.com or bringfido.com allow users to search by destination for pet-friendly lodging rated by other travelers, with destinations receiving a score based on pet-friendliness. “We love furry friends at the Hood River Hotel,” said James Pearrow, general manager of the pet-friendly, historic hotel in downtown Hood River, Oregon. “Our special canine treats and goodies make sure that both people and their pups feel welcome during their stay.” Some destinations take pet-friendliness to another level, such as the Dog Park Bark Inn in central Idaho. This roadside attraction, guest house and chainsaw art gift shop in the town of Cottonwood is home to the “World’s Biggest Beagle” which is available for nightly rentals each summer.

PAMPER FIDO, TOO: Many hotels have taken petfriendly lodging to new heights, offering amenities such as pet turndown service and a dog-specific room service menu. At Hotel 43 in Boise, dogs are invited to kick up their paws and make themselves at home with

a bed, food dishes, treats, a leash and doggie bags all waiting in the room upon arrival. For guests who book the hotel’s Pet Package, a portion of the proceeds is donated to the Idaho Humane Society.

WHAT TO DO

When the dog days of summer are upon us, the great outdoors are a wonderful destination for pets, who can enjoy things like hiking, swimming and visits to public parks.

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS: Most of Oregon’s public coastline is dog friendly, with many dogs enjoying swims and romps through the sand each day. Keep a careful eye on pets who swim in or play near the ocean, and remember to check paws for excessive wear caused by running in the sand. Many hiking trails on public lands are dog friendly, with options for on-leash and off-leash adventures in local, state and national parks in Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Choose hikes with water sources along the way or bring extra water and a travel-friendly bowl to ensure animals stay well-hydrated.

PLAN OUTINGS IN ADVANCE: In many cities, well-behaved pets are often welcome inside gift shops or on patios at breweries and restaurants. Stop into

Both owners and four-legged friends benefit from comfort and companionship on the road.

a local pet store to pick up any forgotten essentials, souvenirs or toys, and chat with staff who are often knowledgeable about the best pet-friendly activities in the area. Plan out a list of things to do by checking BringFido, calling ahead or popping inside establishments to ask about pet policies. When bringing a pet on vacation, keep in mind that most of the activities on the itinerary should be pet friendly. Many hotels don’t allow pets to be left unattended in rooms, and in places where it is permitted, the time should be limited.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Pets invited on vacation should be comfortable traveling, free from illness or injury, and of appropriate age and temperament, according to advice from the American Veterinary Medical Association. Young puppies, old dogs and those who don’t enjoy being in the car or around people may not consider a trip away from home much of a “vacation” at all, so remember to take into account what’s best for the animal before planning to bring them along.

CARRY MEDICAL RECORDS:

As more pet parents decide to bring their animals on vacation, there are a few things to consider when doing so, according to Dr. Charles Hurty, a veterinarian with the Grove Medical Clinic in Newport, Oregon. “I do recommend that families travel with all of their pet’s relevant medical history, including vaccination certificates, illness history and medication history,” Hurty said. “In emergency situations it can be extremely difficult for a pet parent to remember the minor details of a medical history; those details can be easily accessed in current medical records.”

Plan ahead to discover eateries that welcome pets.

Some planes allow small animals in the cabin, but consider your pet’s temperment to avoid undue stress.

MICROCHIP PETS: Hurty also recommended all pets have registered microchips, which can help reunite pets and parents that get separated on a trip. Hurty said that several years ago he reunited a cat on the Oregon Coast with its owners from Arizona who had traveled with the cat by RV to Oregon three months prior. “They were in tears when we told them that their cat had been found and was safe,” said Hurty, who credited the successful use of a microchip for the tearful reunion.

RESEARCH THE DESTINATION: Check destinations for area-specific concerns, such as salmon poisoning on the Oregon Coast, areas prone to ticks, blue green algae in rivers and lakes or specific parasites. “It is always advisable to take a look at the websites of veterinary clinics in the region to which you travel to see if there are any area-specific health concerns,” Hurty said.

With health records in tow and an eager pet along for the ride, the opportunities for pet-friendly travel are limitless. The best part? Running into other pets and owners on vacation becomes an opportunity to swap stories and share ways four-legged companions can participate in all the fun.

Teresa Ristow is a writer and editor based in Bend, Oregon. She loves exploring the Pacific Northwest and beyond with her terrier, Henry.

Search for pet-friendly hotels at AA.com/ hotels and learn more about how your AAA membership supports your furry friends at AAA.com/pet.

Hiking on pet-friendly trails provides exercise, and memories to last a lifetime.

Music City

Hitting high notes in Nashville

WRITTEN BY KATY KOONTZ

The lights, sights and music of downtown Nashville.

Nashville has long been heralded as the mecca of country music, and for good reason. Most country stars old and new have lived, frequently performed, or recorded here. Just don’t assume Music City—as this Tennessee town is aptly nicknamed—is a one-note wonder. During a visit to Nashville, you can easily enjoy live blues, rock, jazz, soul, hip hop and indie performances as well as classic and modern country, gospel and bluegrass. Start exploring at the Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running radio show, which started in 1925 as a barn-dance style program. Take a backstage tour of the Opry House as well as attend one of the nightly performances. To learn more about the Opry’s history, visit the Ryman Auditorium, home of the Opry from 1943 until 1974. The Ryman is considered so sacred that a circle of wood cut from its original stage was installed in the center of the new Opry House stage so performers would still be able to stand on the Ryman-stage boards.

Next, check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which traces the history of country music and highlights both its classic and contemporary stars. Popular exhibits include Elvis Presley’s gold-plated Cadillac and Bill Monroe’s mandolin. The total collection of instruments, stage costumes, handwritten lyrics and personal items includes more than two million artifacts. No wonder it’s been called the “Smithsonian of country music.” The complex also houses two theaters where you can see live performances as well as the Taylor Swift Education Center.

About a mile and a half away on Music Row is Historic RCA Studio B. Built

in 1957, it’s one of the oldest recording studios in the United States. More than 47,000 songs have been recorded here, a few hundred of them by Elvis himself, although Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers, Chet Atkins, Charley Pride, Connie Francis and even David Bowie took their turns, too. During the day, the studio is open for tours, but artists still record here after hours.

Relatively new on the scene is the National Museum of African American Music, opened in 2021. It examines the influence of African American music on American culture, with exhibits covering more than 50 genres (including rhythm and blues, hip-hop, gospel, jazz and rock). You can record your own rap in a sound booth and perfect your moves in a dance studio—once you’re done admiring a mink-trimmed jacket worn by Whitney Houston or paying homage to B.B. King’s favorite guitar, Lucille.

When you’re ready for a night on the town, consider one of the several bars where local songwriters sing the hits they penned and up-and-coming performers hope to catch the attention of recording executives. The most famous of these venues is the Bluebird Cafe, where Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift were discovered once upon a time.

Non-Music Must-Sees

If you’ve tired of tunes, this vibrant Southern city offers many other fun sites to explore. Perhaps the most prominent sites is Centennial Park, where you can walk through the world’s only full-scale, exact replica of the Greek Parthenon. Nashville’s concrete version (built in 1897 for the state’s centennial exposition) includes a 42-foot gleaming gold statue of Athena. It’s a replica of the long-lost sculpture that once dominated the interior of the original Parthenon. The building also houses an art museum featuring paintings from nineteenth- and twentieth-century American artists.

Eight miles from downtown, you’ll find Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. Built in 1929, it’s a Georgian mansion on the National Register of Historic Places that’s surrounded by 55 acres of public botanical gardens. Wander through 12 separate gardens here, as well as stroll along a 1.5-mile wooded trail that features a variety of intriguing outdoor sculpture.

Not far outside the downtown area is the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the largest non-casino hotel in the continental United States. It’s well worth checking

Atrium of the Gaylord Opryland Resort.

TOP LEFT Country-music icons such as Dolly Parton perform in Nashville, along with up-and-coming artists.

TOP RIGHT National Museum of African American Music.

BOTTOM A musically-inspired entrance at the Grand Ole Opry.

out, even if you aren’t checking in. The hotel has three enormous atriums (covering a total of nine acres), and each has its own flavor, including numerous restaurants and shops. The highlight of the Cascades atrium is a thundering 3.5-story waterfall. Visitors may even walk behind it. The Garden Conservatory resembles a Victorian-style garden, filled with more than 10,000 tropical plants—some rising up to 60-feet tall. The Delta

atrium has a French Quarter feel, with a river running through it that contains water from rivers all over the world, not to mention live catfish, carp and bluegill.

Nashville Noshes

Southern cuisine has long been a staple in this city—the Loveless Cafe’s biscuits and gravy are legendary—but the dish that’s grabbed the most national attention lately is Nashville hot chicken, spicy fried chicken served with pickles on white bread. Two particularly good places to try this are Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack (which originated the dish) and Hattie B’s (a hot-chicken chain based in Nashville).

No trip to Nashville would be complete without tasting the sweet treat known as the Goo Goo Cluster. Debuting in 1912, it references itself as the “nation’s oldest combination candy bar,” and is made with milk

chocolate, roasted peanuts, caramel and marshmallow nougat. Buy the confection at many candy counters, or visit Goo Goo’s official store, the Goo Goo Chocolate Company. Here, you can design your own Goo Goo treat using touchscreen technology or make them yourself at their candy-making class.

Katy Koontz is a travel writer who lives in Knoxville, Tennessee. She’s written about destinations around the word and is the author of Family Fun in the Smokies , a family guidebook to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dream, plan and book your trip to Nashville and beyond with AAA. Discover more at AAA.com/tripcanvas

PHOTO TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF GOO GOO CLUSTER BOTTOM LEFT: ISTOCK.COM/CSFOTOIMAGES | RIGHT ERIKA PARK, @THEBAOEATS

One taste of Nashville is the Goo Goo Cluster, created in 1912.

Legendary biscuits and gravy are found at the Loveless Cafe.

Hattie B’s Fried Chicken Dinner.

ROAM

Horseback Riding by Redfish Lake, near Stanley, Idaho.