Exploring Off the Beaten Path
lmar
Geocaching encourages you to seek treasures. The mindset transcends to your choice of destinations. Recently, we have traveled to two spots that we may have discounted had not geocaching changed our mindset.
A couple week back, we traveled to Dubuque, Iowa. The downtown, one has to admit, that it is not anything to write home about. It is dirty and downright horrible in some areas. I would never venture into some neighborhoods after dark.
Yet, despite these barriers, some areas are truly worth the time. One such place is the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. This place is truly a treasure worth seeking out. The museum balances the history and environmental impacts in a truly tasteful way. As a staunch environmentalist, one can appreciate its treatment of commerce and development associated with the river.
The best part of the museum is its hands-off approach. As a former docent, the role of this museum is perfect way to educate without being overbearing. You can freely explore the exhibits without a docent scolding you. Well done!
Based on past experiences, I might have written off Dubuque. Thanks to my sister’s coaxing, it turned out to be a wonderful trip.
We found a similar treasure while visiting Madison, Wisconsin. Wisconsin seems to have a passion for Cajun cooking. Maybe it’s a rebellion to bland Scandinavian cooking. We stumbled upon the Bayou Tavern during a recent visit.
The weather was absolutely miserable. I don’t think that I’ve ever experienced rain like we did during our stay. It was hotter than a steam bath, to boot. My husband and I were both brave, partaking in fried crawfish, gumbo, and Étouffée. We even tried the cocktail of New Orleans, the Sazerac. The restaurant made the trip.
I have geocaching to thank for encouraging a bit of bravery, a little intrepidness. What has been your greatest find while geocaching?
