Go See Do Explore

Frankenmuth’s Best: Festivals, Food, and “Little Bavaria”
Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through all that makes Frankenmuth, Michigan, a memorable destination—whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning a special getaway. With its Bavarian roots, festive energy, and a blend of quirky and classic attractions, “Michigan’s little Bavaria” offers more than meets the eye.
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Start with Frankenmuth’s unique history, founded by German missionaries in 1845 and now famous for its immersive Bavarian flair. The town’s centerpiece, Bronner’s—the world’s largest Christmas store—draws visitors year-round, but especially shines (and gets crowded) between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Don’t miss the charming replica of the Silent Night Chapel on the grounds, and if you’re shopping for personalized ornaments, it’s the go-to spot.
Experience the iconic carriage tours and riverboat rides, including the Bavarian Belle and the more intimate Frankenmuth Funship (a favorite for bachelor/bachelorette outings).
Explore diverse shopping, from the legendary Cheese Haus (look for the mouse statue) to gourmet foods and boutique shops at the River Place Shops.
Step away from the crowds at the historic Church of St. Lorenz, where Christopher and Ashleigh were married—guided tours of the stained glass windows reveal layers of local history.
Traveling with kids? Grandpa Tiny’s Farm and the Wilderness Trail Zoo (with a holiday lights drive-through) offer fun, while adventure-seekers can tackle the Frankenmuth Aerial Park zipline course.
During the episode’s break, Christopher shares his homemade Ginjinha—a cherry liqueur from Portugal, not a wine, but full of travel inspiration as he experiments with Michigan twists on a Lisbon classic.
Frankenmuth’s event calendar is packed: from the beloved Snow Fest with its snow and ice sculpting competitions, to May’s World Expo of Beer, Memorial Day’s canine-crazed Dog Bowl, June’s Bavarian Festival (complete with parade and music), summer music fests, and the uniquely sanctioned Oktoberfest in September. The holiday months transform the town into a Christmas wonderland.
Choose from a range of accommodations, from the classic Bavarian Inn and Splash Village waterpark hotels to the Marv Herzog (each room themed after a year in the musician’s life, with a guest-favorite happy hour and hot breakfast), as well as budget-friendly options like Frankenmuth Motel and family camping at Jellystone Park.
Dine well: the dueling Zehnders and Bavarian Inn restaurants are known for their all-you-can-eat chicken dinners, but for a contemporary treat, Ashleigh recommends Prost—a wine bar with charcuterie and outdoor seating. Don’t miss the authentic brews at Frankenmuth Brewery, creative fare at Station 100, or cupcakes from Cupcake Wars-winning Sugar High Bakery.
Whether you’re after festive fun, family-friendly activities, or just a taste of Michigan’s German heritage, Frankenmuth delivers. Listen in for honest tips, personal favorites, and practical advice from Christopher and Ashleigh on the Go See Do Explore Podcast.

September 2025 Travel News: Airlines, Accessibility & Reopened Parks
Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through a packed September news roundup, blending the latest airline updates, travel tech, and U.S. destination highlights—plus a hands-on homemade limoncello break inspired by Italian adventures.
Spirit Airlines restructures, impacting Detroit travelers and staff. (hhttps://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/09/23/spirit-airlines-furloughs/86308574007/)
Southwest announces future flights to Alaska, offering new options for budget-conscious adventurers. (https://www.dallasnews.com/business/airlines/2025/10/02/southwest-airlines-announces-first-ever-flights-to-alaska/) 
Iceland’s Play Airlines abruptly shuts down and cancels flights (https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/icelands-play-airline-shuts-down-effective-immediately/)
Delta partners with Maeve to develop a hybrid regional jet, aiming for lower emissions on short routes. (https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Airline-News/Delta-Maeve-partnership-hybrid-regional-jet)
Delta’s new JFK–Porto nonstop starts May 2026, great for Portugal fans;  (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/09/26/delta-porto-portugal-transatlantic-summer-2026/86370206007/)
American Airlines debuts an AI tool to book flights by experience, not just destination. (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/10/02/american-airlines-ai-booking-tool/86456534007/)
In the midst of the news, Ashleigh shares the results of months of steeping homemade limoncello, using a Pasta Grammar recipe. The duo compares their version to Sicilian store-bought, noting a tart, slightly fiery finish—best enjoyed in a limoncello spritz (three parts Prosecco, two parts limoncello, one part soda water). A practical tip: use organic lemons for safety and flavor, and be mindful of spoilage.
Apple AirPods can now live-translate conversations (https://www.travelandleisure.com/apple-live-translation-new-features-11812134)
Norwegian cancels and shifts sailings for four ships (with refunds and credits for affected guests) (https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2025/10/01/norwegian-cruise-line-cancellations/86458176007/)
Virgin Voyages introduces airline-style tiered pricing for cruises (https://www.frommers.com/tips/cruise/virgin-voyages-new-airline-style-tiered-pricing-heres-what-each-class-will-get-you/)
Timeout Magazine’s Best Cities of 2025 list (https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/16/travel/time-out-reveals-worlds-50-best-cities-for-2025)
Grand Canyon North Rim reopens after fire (
https://www.presstelegram.com/2025/09/25/ grand-canyon-reopening/)
26-mile stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopens after Hurricane Helene (https://abc11.com/amp/post/hurricane-helene-popular-section-blue-ridge-parkway-reopens-brings-hope-communities/17861070/)
Oregon becomes the first state to be accessibility verified, thanks to Travel Oregon’s partnership with Wheel the World. (https://www.travelpulse.com/news/destinations/oregon-becomes-first-state-to-be-accessibility-verified)
Dollywood announces the world’s first family hybrid coaster and whitewater raft ride, set for spring 2026 (https://www.travelandleisure.com/dollywood-new-ride-nightflight-expedition-11812606)
Philadelphia’s new Calder Gardens museum opens, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and architecture. (https://www.frommers.com/trip-ideas/arts-and-culture/calder-gardens-philadelphia/)
For honest, practical travel news and a dash of thoughtful spontaneity, tune in to this episode of the Go See Do Explore Podcast with Christopher and Ashleigh.

Michigan Fall Getaways: Color, Cider, and Cozy Adventures
Christopher and Ashleigh share their favorite ways to experience Michigan in the fall, guiding you through vibrant destinations, honest tips, and a few under-the-radar gems for the season. Whether you have a weekend or a week, you'll get practical ideas that balance structure with plenty of room for discovery.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
The episode opens with Mackinac Island, recently voted the number one fall destination in the US by USA Today readers. Christopher and Ashleigh recall their own late-October trip, noting that even past peak color, the island was stunning—proving flexibility in timing can still yield a beautiful escape. If you’re looking for detailed Mackinac tips, they’ve covered it extensively in previous episodes. Here's the full list: 
Mackinac Island shines as a top fall destination—beautiful even after peak foliage.
Sleeping Bear Dunes and Empire Bluff Trail are musts for hikers and nature lovers.
Munising boasts easy access to Pictured Rocks and some of Michigan’s best waterfalls.
Apple picking and cider mill visits are classic Michigan fall activities; Blake’s and Uncle John’s are favorites, but locals and visitors alike can find great spots statewide.
Camping becomes easier to book after Labor Day, with state park amenities often open well into fall—Ludington, Wilderness, and Tawas Point are good bets. Book at MiDNRReservations.com
During a relaxed wine break, Christopher shares a Chianti Classico from Fattoria Montemaggio, enjoyed earlier at a family lunch. He explains the nuances of the Chianti Classico region and grape blend, encouraging listeners to rediscover this traditional Italian red—especially with a hearty meal.
Rounding out the conversation, Ashleigh and Christopher point to other fall gems: Tahquamenon Falls (with both impressive upper and picturesque lower falls), the scenic M-22 drive and wineries of the Leelanau Peninsula, Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor for dramatic vistas, and a suite of autumn festivals and Halloween events across the state. They also note that southern Michigan and Metro Detroit offer plenty of cider mills and hiking spots for those wanting to stay closer to home.
Tahquamenon Falls is a favorite for camping and waterfall walks amid peak color.
Leelanau Peninsula’s M-22 drive and wineries are especially lovely in autumn.
Fall colors arrive earliest in the western Upper Peninsula and last into November in southern Michigan, making it possible to chase foliage for weeks.
Don’t miss local Halloween festivals like Greenfield Village’s Halowe'en and Romeo’s “Terror on Tilson.”
For honest, practical inspiration on planning your own Michigan fall adventure—without the tourist traps—tune in to this episode of the Go See Do Explore Podcast.

Scranton’s “The Office” Tour and Detroit Exploring
Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through two distinct city adventures: a whirlwind day in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with an eye for “The Office” TV show sites, followed by their latest discoveries in Detroit’s ever-evolving food and culture scene. Whether you’re a TV superfan or a traveler seeking authentic eats, this episode is packed with practical tips and honest reflections for your next urban getaway.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
In Scranton, the hosts share their thoughtful approach to maximizing a short visit, using the Lackawana County Visitors Bureau’s downloadable map to hit both iconic “Office” filming spots and local highlights. Lunch at Alfredo’s Cafe (yes, that Alfredo’s) kicks off their route, and from there they trace the show’s legacy across town—from the “Welcome to Scranton” sign in the mall to Cooper’s seafood restaurant and its bustling “Office” gift shop. Christopher and Ashleigh also mention lesser-known stops for fans, like the Dwight mural, Poor Richard’s, and the world’s largest Dundee inside City Hall (if you’re visiting midweek). For those looking beyond TV nostalgia, they note the Steamtown National Historic Site, the Electric City Trolley Museum, and Scranton’s walkable downtown connections.
Lackawana County offers a handy tourist map of “The Office” sites—download before you go.
Alfredo’s pizza has a unique cheese blend; Cooper’s is a must for souvenirs and atmosphere.
The “Welcome to Scranton” sign is now inside the mall, while several murals and landmarks are scattered nearby.
Fans can seek out Poor Richard’s and the world’s largest Dundee for deeper cuts.
Non-“Office” highlights include Steamtown National Historic Site and the Electric City Trolley Museum.
A quick wine break features the Two Lads 2023 Pinot Gris—dry, fruit-forward, and refreshingly acidic—before Christopher and Ashleigh pivot to their recent Detroit explorations. They reflect on Detroit’s growing reputation as a destination, with visits to historical sites like the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant (original Model T factory), bustling Eastern Market, and the quirky People Mover public transit. Their hotel stay at the Fort Pontchartrain by Wyndham offered panoramic city views, even if the bathroom was notably small!
Eastern Market runs a lively Saturday market year-round—great for lunch and local color.
Guided tours, like Detroit History Tours’ People Mover art crawl, add depth to city exploration.
Favorite food finds: Jacoby’s German bar, Leña for authentic Spanish tapas, San Morello for true Italian, Alpine-themed Alpino, and the acclaimed Vecino for elevated Mexican cuisine with in-house masa.
Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss Roasting Plant Coffee for small-batch, on-demand roasting and creative coffee flights.
From quirky TV nostalgia to Detroit’s inventive dining and history, this episode is all about making the most of your time and savoring experiences with intention. Tune in to the Go See Do Explore Podcast for more honest stories and practical advice to inspire your next thoughtful adventure.

Acadia Essentials: Top 10 Things to Do on Mount Desert Island
Planning Acadia and short on time? We wrap our third visit into a crisp, no-fluff Top 10 for Mount Desert Island—what’s actually worth it, how to dodge crowds, and a few splurge-or-save decisions. You’ll get practical tips on parking, reservations, and timing so you can see more and stress less.
What we cover
1) Drive the Park Loop Road (first!)Use an audio guide app (We recommend GuideAlong) for context and trailhead callouts; drive at golden hour for easier parking.
2) Ride the free Island Explorer busesFunded by L.L.Bean; perfect for Sand Beach, Jordan Pond House, and Bar Harbor days without the parking stress.
3) Get on the waterSunset harbor cruise to Egg Rock Lighthouse or a seabirds & puffins run. We recommend Acadian Nature Cruises.
4) Explore the Carriage RoadsWalk, bike (mind e-bike rules), or book a horse-drawn carriage tour to see Rockefeller’s stone bridges. Check out Acadia by Carriage for carriage tours.
5) Jordan Pond House tea & popoversBook in advance on Resy; outdoor seating is iconic but expect aggressive bees in peak summer—inside may be happier.
6) Explore Bar Harbor and the towns on the QuietsideBar Harbor is a town with a lot of history and where you will find lots of restaurants and shops. But, be sure to check out the smaller towns like Southwest Harbor or Bass Harbor.
7) Hit the trailsThere are many great hiking opportunities in the park for all ability levels. Christopher recommends trying a ladder trail if you're up for it! To learn more about the trails in the park, this article from Acadia Magic is very helpful.
8) Lobster (and wild blueberry pie)Beal’s Lobster Pier (Southwest Harbor) and Thurston’s (Bernard) were standouts; prices aren’t 2019 anymore—budget for it.
9) Beyond the main loopSchoodic Peninsula (ferry + Island Explorer) for rugged coast with fewer crowds; note Isle au Haut for the truly intrepid.
10) Cadillac Mountain for sunrise or sunsetSummer/fall require a timed entry via Recreation.gov. For sunset in peak summer, aim for a 7:00 pm entry window.
Bonus ideas
Paddle a pond/lake: Echo Lake was a calm favorite; Jordan Pond is gorgeous but parking/logistics are tricky and it’s a drinking water source (no swimming).
Camp: Seawall & Blackwoods (NPS) are rustic; Smuggler’s Den (private) is convenient for hookups and location.
Timing & logistics cheats
Do your full Park Loop drive once by car; use Island Explorer after.
Mid-to-late afternoon often opens parking at Sand Beach/Jordan Pond.
If seasickness is a thing, pick harbor/sunset cruises over offshore puffin runs.
Ladder trails close seasonally for peregrine falcons—check status at NPS.gov.
Wine BreakA quick detour to Tuscany: what IGT means, how it differs from DOC/DOCG, and why some “Super Tuscan” styles feel bold but food-friendly.
If this helped you plan smarter, follow/subscribe and share with a friend who’s Acadia-curious.

In this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher take you inside their week in Montreal — a city that feels like a slice of Europe just north of the border. From camping just outside the city to savoring world-class food and exploring vibrant neighborhoods, they share the wins, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
You’ll hear about:
What it’s like staying at a KOA campground outside Montreal (and the trade-offs of camping vs. city stays).
Driving and parking tips that made exploring the city stress-free.
Their private walking tour — including the epic climb up Mount Royal.
Must-see museums: the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of History & Archaeology.
A food lover’s dream: featuring bagels, gnocchi, smoked meat, and of course poutine.
A rooftop tiki bar, Neapolitan pizza, and Montreal Steak.
Montreal’s stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and why the lighting alone makes it unforgettable.
The reality of the French/English language balance — and what they wish they’d prepared for.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Montreal or just curious about what makes this city so special, this recap will give you inspiration, practical tips, and plenty of foodie temptation.
Links and resources mentioned in this episode (some are affiliate links at no extra cost to you):
Lokafy Private Walking Tour
Montreal Walking Food Tour
Ultimate St. Lawrence Boat Tour
For more photos, itineraries, and extras from our Montreal adventure, head to: GoSeeDoExplore.com

Ontario by Camper: Bruce Peninsula, Algonquin Adventures & Unexpected Wine Country
On this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher kick off the first part of their three-week Canada & New England camping road trip. From long-awaited stops in Ontario’s stunning Bruce Peninsula and Algonquin Provincial Park to a spontaneous discovery of wineries between Ottawa and Montreal, they share the real ups and downs of life on the road.
Highlights include:
Why Bruce Peninsula National Park was a must-visit and what makes the grotto so spectacular
Rustic camping challenges (and the surprisingly luxurious bathhouse) at Cypress Lake
Canoeing memories brought full circle in Algonquin and the joy of front-country paddling
A quirky roadside fry stand tradition you’ll only find in Western Ontario
Their take on an under-the-radar wine region near Montreal
How flexible planning turned detours into discoveries
Whether you’re dreaming of paddling pristine lakes, exploring small Canadian towns, or just curious about road-tripping with a camper, this episode blends inspiration with practical tips.

This week, Ashleigh and Christopher are back home (and out of the camper!) with a full roundup of the latest travel news. From airlines rethinking old rules to cruise lines rolling out bold new itineraries, here’s what travelers need to know before planning their next trip.
In this episode:
TSA ends the “shoes-off” policy at many U.S. airports—and what might be next.
https://abcnews.visitlink.me/gpWALD
Southwest finally joins the rest of the industry with assigned seating for flights beginning in January
https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/21/travel/southwest-airlines-assigned-seats-start
Lithium battery rules tightening: what it means for chargers, cameras, and under-seat bags.
 
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/08/emirates-power-pack-restrictions-fire-danger/85573843007/
Alaska Airlines expands overseas routes 
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/05/alaska-airlines-london-reykjavik-new-livery/85524743007/
Spirit’s new Caribbean flights at budget-friendly fares.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/05/spirit-airlines-belize-city-grand-cayman/85524290007/
Delta to add flights from Boston for Patriot's Day
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/08/04/delta-new-patriots-day-flights-florida/85511420007/ 
Princess Cruises unveils its largest Japan Deployment ever for 2027 
https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/princess-cruises-unveils-its-most-spectacular-japan-cruise-season-ever-with-exclusive-access-to-cultural-festivals-and-coastal-wonders-in-2027/
Norwegian Cruise Line to build water park at private island
https://cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/2025/07/norwegian-cruise-line-to-build-waterpark-at-great-stirrup-cay/
Amsterdam to limit river cruises
https://www.travelweekly.com/River-Cruising/Amsterdam-lays-out-plan-to-limit-river-cruising
Smithsonian Journeys announces new river cruises with Amawaterways
https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Smithsonian-Journeys-unveils-new-river-cruises-with-AmaWaterways
Amtrak’s new Acela trains and why they matter.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/08/07/amtrak-new-acela-train-starting-service/85560474007/
Wildfire damage at the Grand Canyon North Rim
https://azdailysun.com/news/local/impacts-of-dragon-bravo-fire-are-daunting-even-before-the-flames-are-out/article_dc6f2020-8092-4673-b7b5-e5cba8595bf3.html
The Beak & Barrel to open at Magic Kingdom this month
https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/first-look-beak-and-barrel-opening-august-29/
Disney World Deluxe Resort Guests can now book Minnie Van Service from the Airport. 
https://www.disneytouristblog.com/disney-world-minnie-van-airport-service-deluxe-resorts-all-guests/
Avis launches new premium service at select airports 
https://www.travelandleisure.com/avis-launches-curbside-car-rentals-at-airports-11781977
Why EU passport stamps are disappearing
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2025/08/07/european-union-passport-stamps-removal/85562101007/
A major lawsuit that could change how hotels set prices online.
https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/European-hotels-join-class-action-against-Booking-Holdings
Plus: a summer wine break featuring an under-the-radar white that’s perfect for warm weather sipping.

Road Trip Like a Pro: Smart Planning for Epic Adventures
Dreaming of the open road but want to avoid the stress, wasted miles, and missed experiences? In this episode, we share our step-by-step approach to planning an unforgettable road trip — from choosing your route and lodging to finding those perfect along-the-way stops.
We cover:
How to decide between camping, hotels, or a mix of both
Why your own car might not always be the best option
Tools we use to map routes and avoid exhausting drive days
Furkot.com
Strategies for booking popular spots before they sell out
How to plan attractions without overloading your schedule
Roadtrippers
iExit
The importance of flexibility when weather, work, or whim changes your plans
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend loop or a multi-week cross-country journey, you’ll walk away with practical tips to make your road trip smoother, more enjoyable, and full of moments worth remembering.

The Taste of Tradition: Exploring New Orleans CuisineWhat happens when history, culture, and flavor collide on every plate? In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher share their recent experience navigating the rich and diverse food scene of New Orleans — a city where every bite tells a story.
Why New Orleans Cuisine MattersWith deep roots in French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions, the city’s cuisine is bold, soulful, and anything but ordinary. Think gumbo that simmers all day, muffulettas stacked with flavor, and beignets that are worth the powdered sugar mess.
Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.
Tried-and-True Classics (That Actually Live Up to the Hype)
Commander's Palace – Legendary Creole dining, jazz brunch, and yes… 25¢ martinis at lunch.
Dooky Chase – A cornerstone of both culinary and civil rights history.
Evangeline – A solid, less touristy French Quarter pick with real local charm.
Napoleon House – A muffuletta + Pimm’s Cup combo in a building with stories to tell.
Quick Bites & Local Favorites
Café du Monde – Touristy? Sure. Still worth it? Absolutely.
Central Grocery – Grab the OG muffuletta to-go and find a shady spot nearby.
Stein’s Deli – When you're craving a killer Reuben that rivals NYC’s.
A Few Offbeat Gems
Latitude 29 – A tiki bar done right, with food that surprises.
French Toast – A wallet-friendly breakfast spot tucked near the French Market.
The Maison – Live jazz + gumbo fries = a very New Orleans night out.
Wine BreakThis episode’s sip: Bel Lago’s Auxerrois from Michigan. Light, juicy, and refreshingly unpretentious — the kind of wine that invites conversation.
Planning tip: Check out New Orleans Foodies on Facebook for more restaurant ideas!