Key Takeaways:
- NPR staffers traveled to various locations across the US, exploring famous landmarks, off-the-beaten-path towns, quirky events, and stunning natural landscapes.
- Some of the top destinations included Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, Bodie State Historic Park in California, and the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, New Mexico.
- The staffers also visited numerous outdoor locations, such as Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia, the Road to Hāna in Maui, Hawaii, and the Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah.
- Several towns were highlighted, including Flint, Michigan, Tangier Island, Virginia, and Cozad, Nebraska, each with its unique character and attractions.
- The article also mentions various events, such as the Mothman Festival in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, and the City of Halloween in Conway, South Carolina.
Introduction to NPR Staffers’ Travels
NPR staffers embarked on a journey across the US, visiting a diverse range of destinations, from famous landmarks to off-the-beaten-path towns, quirky events, and breathtaking natural landscapes. This article highlights some of the most notable places they visited, showcasing the unique character and attractions of each location. Whether it’s exploring the history of Mardi Gras, discovering the beauty of the great outdoors, or experiencing the charm of small towns, there’s something for everyone in this eclectic mix of destinations.
Landmarks, Museums, and Oddities
The staffers visited several landmarks, museums, and oddities, including Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, where they took a tour of the warehouse where floats are created. They also explored Bodie State Historic Park in California, a real-life ghost town preserved from the late 1800s. The International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, New Mexico, was another highlight, featuring exhibits on alleged UFO incidents and a recreation of an alien spacecraft. Other notable destinations included the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers in High Point, North Carolina, and the Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary in Del Mar, California.
The Great Outdoors
The great outdoors was a significant part of the staffers’ travels, with visits to Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia, the Road to Hāna in Maui, Hawaii, and the Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah. These destinations offered stunning natural beauty, from scenic overlooks and hiking trails to unique rock formations and diverse wildlife. The staffers also visited Isle au Haut in Maine, a less-visited part of Acadia National Park, and the Nolichucky River Gorge in North Carolina and Tennessee, a popular spot for kayaking and rafting.
Taking in the Whole Town
Several towns were highlighted in the article, each with its unique character and attractions. Flint, Michigan, was one such town, with its fascinating labor history, art museum, and independent bookstores. Tangier Island, Virginia, was another notable destination, with its rich history, beautiful sunsets, and delicious soft-shell crabs. Cozad, Nebraska, was a small town with a big surprise, featuring an incredible art gallery and a strong sense of community.
Marking the Calendar
The article also mentions various events that are worth marking on the calendar. The Mothman Festival in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, is a big draw, celebrating a local legend with a mysterious, towering winged humanoid creature. The New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, New York, is a perfect fall weekend, featuring workshops, competitions, and plenty of wool. The City of Halloween in Conway, South Carolina, is a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts, with its elaborate displays and themed events. The Pawpaw Festival in York, Pennsylvania, is a unique celebration of North America’s only native tropical fruit, offering samples, ice cream, and lemonade.