A NEW WAY TO NEW YEAR
Happy New Year and welcome to yet another “New Year, New You!” blog post. We can almost feel your excitement from here! And why not be excited? After a whirlwind holiday season, January 2 is a stark reminder that the thrill of anticipation, gifts, feasts, and twinkly lights, are now another year away. But don’t click away just yet! Because we’re not suggesting you set a new fitness goal or give up your favorite cocktail. In fact, we’re offering you a resolution of an entirely different kind! We’re suggesting that a resolution worth keeping is a commitment to a year of adventure!
And when we say adventure, we’re talking about the kind of adventure that lit you up as a kid. The kind of adventure that was wild, weird, and sometimes a little bit spooky. Because summiting Everest is amazing and hiking Machu Picchu is enviable. But this year, maybe we dial back the complication and ratchet up the weird!
In this post, we'll embark on a journey to explore some unconventional and offbeat destinations, each with its own unique charm . From the mysterious Carhenge to the quirky Ben & Jerry's Flavor Graveyard, these destinations promise a year of memorable experiences that defy the ordinary.
GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING
Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska:
Our first stop is Carhenge, a peculiar monument located in Alliance, Nebraska. Forget about the traditional resolutions and step into a world where vintage automobiles have been transformed into a replica of the famous Stonehenge. Picture this: a circle of upright cars, meticulously arranged to mimic the ancient stone formation. It's a quirky blend of history and automotive nostalgia, offering a surreal experience that sets the tone for an unconventional year ahead.
WHAT"S THAT SMELL?
Salton Sea – California:
For those seeking an otherworldly - and odoriffic - experience, the Salton Sea in California is a must-visit destination. This accidentally formed saline lake is surrounded by abandoned structures and eerie landscapes. As you eschew the standard resolutions, explore the desolate beauty of the Salton Sea – witness the remnants of a once-bustling resort town, now submerged in solitude. The desolation and decay offer a unique perspective, urging you to embrace the beauty that can be found even in forgotten places.
And when the smell has become more than you care to endure, you can always stay in nearby Palm Springs is a stark contrast to the desolation that sits just an hour away. This desert oasis is a perfect place to soak up the sunshine and the dry desert climate.
THAT'S A WHOLE LOTTA JESUS
Christ of the Ozarks – Eureka Springs, Arkansas:
Rio, Schmio. No need to go all the way to Rio de Janeiro to see a massive statue of this guy! Take a quick trip instead to Christ of the Ozarks, a monumental statue situated in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Instead of committing to the usual resolutions, stand in awe of this massive sculpture that overlooks the Ozark Mountains. With arms outstretched, it serves as a reminder to embrace the vastness of the world around us. This unconventional destination encourages you to reflect on your aspirations for the new year, while basking in the awe-inspiring presence of this colossal figure.
And while you’re at it, enjoy the view from your very own treehouse while staying at the Grand Treehouse Resort. With all of the amenities of home, you’ll love the quaint comfort of your home atop the trees.
HUFF & PUFF... YOU CAN'T BLOW IT DOWN
The Paper House – Rockport, Massachusetts:
As we continue our unconventional exploration, make your way to Rockport, Massachusetts, where the Paper House awaits. This unique structure is entirely made of newspaper – walls, furniture, and all. By visiting the Paper House, you'll be inspired to think outside the box and reconsider the materials at your disposal. Instead of setting standard resolutions, challenge yourself to create something extraordinary from the seemingly ordinary elements of your life.
Experience the beauty of New England in this charming boutique hotel. Nestled in the seaside village of Rockport, MA you’ll find a vast array of activities to enjoy. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the coast or dining and shopping at Bearskin Neck, you can come back to comfort at Addison Choate.
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
Ben & Jerry's Flavor Graveyard – Waterbury, Vermont:
For a sweet and whimsical detour, head to Waterbury, Vermont, where Ben & Jerry's Flavor Graveyard lies. Here, discontinued ice cream flavors are laid to rest in a playful cemetery setting. As you stroll through the Flavor Graveyard, consider letting go of the conventional resolutions that may have held you back. Embrace the unexpected and savor the sweet moments, just like the quirky flavors that once delighted taste buds but are now immortalized in this unconventional graveyard.
While you’re there, embrace the rustic beauty of Vermont, while also enjoying the charm of the Grunberg Haus Inn & Cabins. Built from the imagination of its original owners in 1972, Grunberg’s creaky walls, angulating stairs, and eclectic Austrian architectural accents are nestled into the green mountains and offer an unforgettable stay.
A PART OF THEIR WORLD
Mermaids of Weeki Wachee – Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida:
Dive into the magical world of mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida. Instead of conforming to the usual resolutions, witness the enchanting performances of the Mermaids of Weeki Wachee. These underwater shows blend fantasy with reality, transporting you to a realm where the extraordinary becomes the norm. Allow the mesmerizing mermaids to inspire you to break free from the ordinary and make a splash in the uncharted waters of the new year.
Stay in this fun and funky house, a you can continue the fun by searching for mermaids in nearby waters with a clear kayak or canoe tour.
BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG CITY
Neon Boneyard – Las Vegas, Nevada:
As the neon lights of Las Vegas beckon, venture into the Neon Boneyard. This outdoor museum is a resting place for retired neon signs that once lit up the famous Las Vegas Strip. Let the vibrant colors and nostalgic glow inspire you to break free from the monotony of routine. Instead of adhering to standard resolutions, allow the Neon Boneyard to ignite a sense of creativity and spontaneity, lighting up your path with the unexpected.
UHHHH, NOPE!
Clown Motel – Tonopah, Nevada:
While we're in Nevada, we have something that is literally and figuratively miles away from the strip. For those seeking an experience that's both quirky and a touch eerie, the Clown Motel in Tonopah, Nevada, offers an unforgettable stay. Nestled in the heart of the desert, this motel is adorned with a collection of over 600 clown figurines, creating an atmosphere that's simultaneously whimsical and haunting. Rather than sticking to conventional resolutions, spend a night surrounded by these grinning jesters and let the unexpected embrace of the Clown Motel inspire a year filled with suspense.
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
Leila's Hair Museum – Independence, Missouri:
Step into a world where hair becomes an art form at Leila's Hair Museum in Independence, Missouri. This one-of-a-kind museum showcases an extensive collection of intricate hair art, from jewelry to elaborate wreaths, all crafted from human hair. Instead of conforming to the usual resolutions, immerse yourself in the delicate and fascinating world of hair art at Leila's. Let this unique museum serve as a reminder that creativity knows no bounds, encouraging you to approach the new year with an open mind and a willingness to explore the unconventional.
2024 IS GONNA BE YOUR YEAR!
As we wrap up this unconventional adventure, it's evident that there's a world beyond the confines of standard resolutions. From the peculiar landscapes of Carhenge to the whimsical Flavor Graveyard and the enchanting Mermaids of Weeki Wachee, each destination on this journey offers a unique perspective on life and growth.In the new year, consider trading predictable resolutions for the thrill of exploration and discovery. Embrace the offbeat, challenge the ordinary, and revel in the unexpected. As you venture into the uncharted territories of 2024, may these unconventional destinations serve as a source of inspiration to eschew the standard and make your own path. Cheers to a year filled with adventure, curiosity, and the joy of embracing the extraordinary in every moment!
