Travel Is Back: 8 Minutes. One Destination. Let's Go!

Spend Halloween in the real Sleepy Hollow and neighboring Tarrytown. Johnny Mac follows Washington Irving's literary trail through the Old Dutch Church and its burying ground, the separate Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, and Irving's riverside home at Sunnyside. Along the way, explore Philipsburg Manor's interpretation of slavery in colonial New York, Tarrytown's Main Street and Music Hall, and the Hudson waterfront. Includes train access, realistic walking distances, seasonal booking advice, and clear distinctions between documented history and the Headless Horseman legend. Seasonal attractions and tour availability vary; check official calendars before traveling.

Some episodes use AI for research, writing...

Explore the Getty Center in Los Angeles with Johnny Mac on Travel Is Back. Begin with the tram ride into Richard Meier's hilltop campus, then follow the museum's history from J. Paul Getty's private collection and the ranch-house museum of 1954 to the Getty Villa, his bequest, and the opening of the Getty Center in 1997.

Inside, consider Vincent van Gogh's Irises, European paintings, illuminated manuscripts, and photography. Learn why conservation and research are part of the Getty's work, then head outdoors to Robert Irwin's Central Garden, the cactus garden, and the sculpture terraces.

The episode also distinguishes...

Take the mountain road to Lake Arrowhead with Johnny Mac on Travel Is Back. This episode follows Rim of the World Highway from the San Bernardino approach into the ridge communities, with time for designated viewpoints and the signed connection to Lake Arrowhead Village.

Once you're parked, explore Rocket Fizz, And Then, and Mr. G's for Toys in Lake Arrowhead Village. There's time to consider lunch, a narrated ride aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen, and what visitors should know about access to the private lake.

If you're continuing toward Big Bear, hear more about that separate...

Join Travel Is Back episode 221: "221. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Museum Day - Smithsonian Day: Wander Through America’s Treasures" as we roam the National Mall and unlock the best of Washington, DC’s world-class Smithsonian museums. Highlights include deep dives at the National Air and Space Museum, awe at the National Museum of Natural History, a walk through American innovation at the National Museum of American History, a photo stop at the Smithsonian Castle, and contemporary art at the Hirshhorn. We share practical travel tips—arrive early, book timed entries where required, take the Metro to Smithsonian station, and wear comfy shoes...

220. Washington, DC: The National Archives - Where America's Papers Whisper Into History invites listeners to step into the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom and stand before the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. We walk you through highlights like the Rotunda itself, the hands-on Public Vaults exhibit, the conservation lab viewing window, and tips for accessing the research room for deeper dives. Practical travel tips cover arriving early to avoid lines, security screening and bag rules, checking exhibit schedules, and nearby transit stops to make your visit smooth. Hungry after history? We recommend Old Ebbitt Grill and...

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 219, "Washington, DC: Air and Space - Soaring Through DC's Air and Space," a warm, insider guide to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and its sister Udvar-Hazy Center. Highlights include the Wright Brothers' Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, Space Shuttle Discovery, the Udvar-Hazy Center's hangar galleries, and the Albert Einstein Planetarium. We'll share practical travel tips—arrive early on weekdays to beat crowds, use the Metro (Smithsonian station on the Blue/Orange/Silver lines), and combine a museum morning with monuments on the National Mall. For food, explore museum cafes and fa...

Episode 218: White Mountains, New Hampshire — Peaks, Pines, and Wild River Echoes. Join us for a cozy, informative tour of the White Mountains, where towering peaks meet winding rivers and classic New England charm. Highlights include hiking Mount Washington for panoramic vistas, cruising the Kancamagus Highway for fall foliage, exploring Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch, and listening to the rush of the Wild River in the Pemigewasset Wilderness. We share practical travel tips: pack layers, check Mount Washington weather forecasts, reserve lodging in North Conway or Lincoln during leaf season, and bring a map for backcountry trails. Food lovers will want to...

Episode 217 of Travel Is Back explores the Berkshires, Massachusetts — orchards, concertos, and the hush of hills. Join us as we wander from Tanglewood's summer concerts to the industrial‑chic galleries of MASS MoCA and the storybook charm of the Norman Rockwell Museum. Highlights include a sunset hike up Mount Greylock for sweeping views, apple picking and cider donuts at local orchards, and an evening at Tanglewood with the Boston Symphony. Along the way we share practical travel tips: best seasons (peak fall foliage and summer concert season), getting there via Albany or Bradley airports or a scenic drive from Boston or N...

Take a fall road trip through Vermont with Johnny Mac as Travel Is Back follows the colors from mountain passes to covered bridges, village greens, and country roads. This episode explores how to plan a foliage drive, when to go for peak color, where to slow down, and how to make room for the small towns, farms, overlooks, and local meals that give Vermont its character. You will get practical ideas for scenic routes, timing, weather planning, roadside stops, and building an itinerary that feels like a trip instead of a checklist. This episode was prepared with the assistance of...

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 215 as we wander through fog-swept Portland, Maine, where maritime charm meets world-class seafood. We share neighborhood strolls, casual lobster shacks, and landmark lighthouse views, plus practical travel tips for first-timers. Highlights include Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, the cobbled Old Port waterfront, iconic lobster shacks on Commercial Street and along the shore, Casco Bay ferries to nearby islands, and the Eastern Promenade for sunset views. Food lovers will find must-try lobster rolls, creamy New England clam chowder, and local craft breweries like Allagash; we also recommend Duckfat for fries and tasting rooms...

Discover Green Bay, Wisconsin, in this episode of Travel Is Back with Johnny Mac. Start along the Fox River and the waterfront, where the city's industrial history, public paths, parks, and downtown attractions make for an easy first look. Then get into the Green Bay Packers experience, including practical advice for visiting Lambeau Field and exploring Titletown on game day or during a quieter trip. The episode also covers the National Railroad Museum, local food stops, neighborhood wandering, and smart ways to plan a weekend without trying to do everything at once. You will hear what to prioritize, when to...

Join us for Travel Is Back episode 213 as we explore Detroit, Michigan — Motor City melodies, grit, and a modern renaissance. This warm, conversational guide covers things to do in Detroit, practical travel tips, and the flavors that make the city sing. Highlights include the Motown Museum for music history, the Detroit Institute of Arts for world-class galleries, Eastern Market for local food and farmers, Belle Isle for green space and skyline views, and the Detroit RiverWalk for peaceful waterfront strolls. We’ll share travel tips on getting around via the QLINE and rideshares, best neighborhoods to stay like Midtown and Cork...

Travel Is Back visits Mackinac Island, Michigan, for a practical Great Lakes getaway built around the ferry ride, historic downtown, bicycles, Fort Mackinac, Arch Rock, quiet island roads, trails, local food, and the famous fudge shops. Johnny Mac walks through how to plan the visit, how to get around without a car, when to go, what to pack, and how to balance the busy waterfront with the quieter interior of the island. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Follow Travel Is Back wherever you...

Episode 211: Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan — Where cherries meet endless sand and sky. Join us for a warm, practical guide to this lakeshore jewel, from farm-to-table meals to wind-swept dune hikes. Highlights include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Old Mission Peninsula wineries, and the Traverse City Cherry Festival, giving you a mix of outdoor adventure and seasonal flavor. We share travel tips on timing your visit (late June–July for cherries, fall for color), parking and fees at park overlooks, dune-safety and footwear advice, and the best spots for sunset photos along M-22. Food...

Episode 211 of Travel Is Back takes you to Traverse City and the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan, where cherries, shoreline views, and small-town charm collide. We explore why Traverse City is called the Cherry Capital, savor local cherry pie and farm-to-table dining, and sip Rieslings at Old Mission Peninsula wineries. Highlights include cherry orchards and the annual Cherry Festival, the sweeping overlooks along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, the climb and shoreline at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the scenic M-22 coastal drive, and the lively downtown Front Street with breweries and shops. Travel tips cover the best seasons to...

Episode 210: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana - Sunlit switchbacks over ancient glacier scars invites you on one of America’s most dramatic scenic drives through Glacier National Park. We walk you through planning the perfect day trip, with highlights that include Logan Pass at the high alpine crest, the cascading Weeping Wall on the east approach, the Hidden Lake Overlook trail, and the iconic Wild Goose Island on St. Mary Lake. Travel tips cover seasonal road openings, arriving early to secure parking or hop a park shuttle, dressing in layers for sudden weather shifts, and practicing bear-aware hiking etiquette. For food, we re...

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 209 as we cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, a legendary scenic drive where mists cradle the mountains and winding roads reveal waterfalls, overlooks and small-town charm. We highlight must-see stops including Mabry Mill’s postcard-perfect waterwheel, the rhododendron blooms at Craggy Gardens, the plunging cascades of Linville Falls, and the high-point views from Mount Mitchell. Along the way we share travel tips for timing your visit—prime fall foliage and spring blooms—how to plan for limited cell service, best overlooks for sunrise, and safe slow driving on narrow stretches. Food lovers will enjoy Appala...

Join us for Travel Is Back episode 208, “Route 66 Part 3 - Arizona to Santa Monica - Sunbaked Highways to Oceanfront Dreams,” as we chase neon and desert sunsets from Winslow to the Pacific. This episode guides you through iconic Route 66 landmarks and local flavors, with highlights including Standin’ on the Corner Park in Winslow, Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman for burgers and shakes, the wild burros and staged gunfights of Oatman, the vintage Americana at Hackberry General Store, and the triumphant End of the Trail at the Santa Monica Pier. You’ll get practical travel tips — plan spring or fall drives...

Episode 207 of Travel Is Back, Route 66 Part 2 - Texas Panhandle to Albuquerque: From Dusty Panhandle to Neon Albuquerque, is a warm, road-trip guide through one of America’s most iconic stretches. We take you from the windblown quads of the Texas Panhandle into the neon glow of Central Avenue in Albuquerque, with practical travel tips, tasty food stops, and landmark detours to plan into your itinerary. Highlights include Cadillac Ranch and its spray-painted Cadillacs outside Amarillo, the Midpoint Cafe in Adrian where you can pose at the literal halfway point, the murals and Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, and the ne...

206. Route 66 Part 1 - Chicago to Oklahoma City - From Chicago's Edge to Oklahoma's Dusty Dreams guides you along the first unforgettable stretch of America’s Main Street, blending history, food, and practical travel tips for road-trippers. We start at the iconic Route 66 Begin sign at Adams & Michigan in Chicago, cruise past the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, and dig into a Cozy Dog corn dog in Springfield before soaking up the Gateway Arch and the Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis and snapping photos at the Blue Whale of Catoosa. Highlights include these five stops plus hidden two-lane segments, classic di...

Episode 205 of Travel Is Back drifts into Tybee Island, Georgia — Tybee tides, lighthouse echoes, coastal calm — a friendly guide to one of the Southeast’s most charming barrier islands. We walk you through highlights including the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum, sunrise from the Pier, dolphin-watching cruises, and a marsh-paddle at low tide. You’ll get practical travel tips on parking and peak-season timing, how to read tide charts for shelling and kayaking, and the best bike routes for an easy island loop. Food lovers will want our recommendations for fresh shrimp and grits, oysters on the half shell, and a must-v...

Episode 204 brings you to Newport, Rhode Island — where gilded mansions meet salt air and timeless sails. Join us for a warm, practical guide to this coastal classic, with highlights like The Breakers mansion, the Cliff Walk's ocean views, Fort Adams' historic harbor fortifications, Thames Street's lively restaurants and shops, and sailboats drifting in Newport Harbor. We share travel tips on timing your visit (late spring to fall for sailing and festivals), booking mansion tours in advance, parking and shuttle options, and packing layers for breezy waterfront walks. Food lovers will savor fresh Rhode Island seafood — clam chowder, oysters, lobster rolls, and...

Episode 203: Moab, Utah - Where Red Arches Meet Endless Sky takes you straight into the heart of red rock country with practical tips, tasty stops, and landmark adventures. We walk you through Arches National Park and the iconic Delicate Arch sunset hike, pedal the legendary Slickrock Trail for mountain biking thrills, and point out panoramic overlooks at Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point. Highlights include a Delicate Arch sunset, a Slickrock mountain bike run, a Colorado River rafting float, and stargazing beneath astonishing night skies. Travel tips cover the best seasons (spring and fall), early starts to beat the heat, hydration...

Step into the heart of the Lowcountry with Johnny Mac as he explores Charleston, South Carolina — a city where cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and Southern hospitality create an unforgettable travel experience. From strolling the historic Battery and touring the Edmondston-Alston House to shopping on King Street and savoring shrimp and grits at a local favorite, this episode covers everything that makes Charleston special. Discover the Charleston City Market and its legendary sweetgrass baskets, wander through the stunning Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, catch waves at Folly Beach, and explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Mount Pleasant and Cannonborough-Elliotborough. Whether you're drawn to hi...

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia — Step Back into Revolutionary-Era Streets and Stories, a deep, audio-first exploration of this living-history destination. Walk virtually down Duke of Gloucester Street with costumed interpreters, witness historical trades, visit the Governor's Palace and historic taverns, and discover family-friendly programming, seasonal events, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation tours, and the best ways to combine Williamsburg with Jamestown and Yorktown for a Virginia history road trip. We interview curators, reenactors and local guides about authenticity, hands-on workshops, accessibility, dining options from tavern meals to modern farm-to-table, ticketing choices, and tips for saving time and money. 

This episode is ideal for...

Step into the heart of American history with Johnny Mac as he guides you along the legendary Boston Freedom Trail in Massachusetts. This immersive episode of Travel Is Back takes you from the Boston Common to Bunker Hill, weaving through cobblestone streets, historic taverns, and iconic landmarks that shaped a nation. Stand where revolutionaries rallied at Faneuil Hall, walk the Charlestown Navy Yard, and discover hidden corners of Boston that most tourists never find. Johnny Mac shares practical travel tips, the best local spots to grab a bite between historic stops, and the stories that make Boston's Freedom Trail more...

Discover the birthplace of American independence in this captivating episode of Travel Is Back as Johnny Mac explores Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From the iconic Liberty Bell to the hallowed halls of Independence Hall, this episode dives deep into the city's revolutionary spirit. Wander through the historic cobblestone streets of Old City, savor an authentic Philly cheesesteak at a local favorite, and explore the treasures of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Johnny Mac shares insider travel tips and must-see attractions that make the City of Brotherly Love a top travel destination. Whether you're a history buff retracing the footsteps of the Founding...

Discover the birthplace of American independence in this captivating episode of Travel Is Back as Johnny Mac explores Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From the iconic Liberty Bell to the hallowed halls of Independence Hall, this episode dives deep into the city's revolutionary spirit. Wander through the historic cobblestone streets of Old City, savor an authentic Philly cheesesteak at a local favorite, and explore the treasures of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Johnny Mac shares insider travel tips and must-see attractions that make the City of Brotherly Love a top travel destination. Whether you're a history buff retracing the footsteps of the Founding...

Episode 200: Boston Freedom Trail, Massachusetts — Where Revolution Meets Everyday Boston Streets. Join us as we walk the red line through Boston history, tracing 16 iconic sites where revolution and daily life intersect. Highlights include the Massachusetts State House with its gold dome, the solemn Granary Burying Ground, the Old North Church where lanterns signaled a revolution, Paul Revere’s House in the North End, and lively Faneuil Hall. We share travel tips like starting at Boston Common, wearing comfortable shoes for the roughly 2–3 hour self-guided walk, using the MBTA to hop between neighborhoods, and considering a guided Freedom Trail tour for richer...

Discover the birthplace of American independence in this captivating episode of Travel Is Back as Johnny Mac explores Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From the iconic Liberty Bell to the hallowed halls of Independence Hall, this episode dives deep into the city's revolutionary spirit. Wander through the historic cobblestone streets of Old City, savor an authentic Philly cheesesteak at a local favorite, and explore the treasures of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Johnny Mac shares insider travel tips and must-see attractions that make the City of Brotherly Love a top travel destination. Whether you're a history buff retracing the footsteps of the Founding...

Explore the enigmatic art oasis of Marfa, Texas in this mesmerizing episode of Travel Is Back. Tucked into the vast West Texas desert, Marfa is a tiny town with an outsized reputation as America's most unexpected art destination. Johnny Mac guides you through the legendary Chinati Foundation, where Donald Judd's minimalist sculptures stretch across the desert floor. Marvel at the iconic Prada Marfa installation on the lonely highway, and experience the bizarre Marfa Lights phenomenon that has baffled visitors for over a century. Wander the sun-baked streets, browse the Marfa Book Company, and glamp under the darkest starlit skies in...

Discover the enchanting allure of Door County, Wisconsin in this captivating episode of Travel Is Back. Known for its wind-swept shores and charming cherry orchards, Door County offers a serene escape filled with picturesque landscapes and quaint small-town charm. Johnny Mac takes you on a journey through the best things to do in Door County, sharing insider travel tips and must-see attractions. Explore the tranquil beauty of Peninsula State Park, where hiking trails offer stunning views of the sparkling waters of Green Bay. Savor the local flavors with a visit to Wilson's Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor, a Door County...

Step into the enchanting world of Savannah, Georgia in this captivating episode of Travel Is Back. Johnny Mac wanders beneath canopies of Spanish moss draped over centuries-old live oaks, explores the historic cobblestone streets of River Street, and uncovers the Southern secrets hidden in Forsyth Park's famous fountain. Savor authentic Lowcountry cuisine at Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, where communal tables and fried chicken create unforgettable memories. Discover the haunting beauty of Bonaventure Cemetery and the colorful charm of City Market's art galleries. Whether you're drawn to antebellum architecture, ghost stories, or simply the warm hospitality of the South, Savannah delivers...

Get ready to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Sedona, Arizona, as Johnny Mac takes you on a journey through its iconic red rock vistas and mystical spiritual vortices. In this episode of "Travel Is Back," discover the best things to do in Sedona, from hiking the awe-inspiring Cathedral Rock trail to exploring the artistic charm of Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Johnny shares essential Sedona travel tips, guiding you through the vibrant Uptown Sedona neighborhood, where unique shops and galleries await.

And of course, no visit to Sedona would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights...

Asheville, North Carolina. Discover the charm of Asheville, North Carolina, where the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains meet a vibrant arts scene and a thriving craft beer culture. In this episode of Travel Is Back, Johnny Mac takes you on an adventure through this eclectic city, showcasing the best things to do in Asheville. From exploring the historic Biltmore Estate to wandering through the vibrant River Arts District, there's something for everyone in this mountain town.

Asheville travel tips abound as Johnny shares insights on the city's renowned craft beer scene, don't miss a visit to local favorites like...

Join Johnny Mac as he takes you to the sun-kissed shores of Gulf Shores, Alabama, where Southern charm meets stunning beaches. In this episode, you’ll discover the best things to do in Gulf Shores, from lounging on the pristine white sands to exploring the vibrant local arts scene. Get ready to dive into mouthwatering Gulf Shores food and restaurants, featuring iconic seafood dishes that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Johnny shares insider Gulf Shores travel tips, such as the top neighborhoods to explore and the must-visit landmarks like the iconic Gulf State Park and the historic Fo...

Welcome to episode 193 of Travel Is Back, where we’re soaking up the sun in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Join Johnny Mac as he unveils the best things to do in this coastal gem, perfect for your next getaway. Discover why Gulf Shores is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and foodies alike, with its stunning white-sand beaches and vibrant local culture.

In this episode, we dive into the top Gulf Shores travel tips, from indulging in fresh seafood at local favorites like The Hangout to exploring the natural beauty of Gulf State Park. You won't want to miss th...

In this episode of "Travel Is Back," we’re whisking you away to the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts! Join Johnny Mac as he uncovers the best things to do in this coastal paradise, from its charming lighthouses to the serene beaches that beckon visitors year-round. Discover delightful Cape Cod travel tips that will enhance your visit, including must-see landmarks like the iconic Nauset Light and the quaint streets of Provincetown.

Food lovers will rejoice as we explore the freshest seafood and local favorites, highlighting the best restaurants to savor clam chowder and lobster rolls that will ta...

Travel Is Back episode 192. Johnny Mac heads to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Whispers of Waves and Coastal Charm.

Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

Join Johnny Mac in this episode of "Travel Is Back" as we explore the stunning Outer Banks, North Carolina, a true gem on the East Coast. Get ready to uncover the best things to do in this beautiful destination, from the picturesque beaches of Nags Head to the historic lighthouses of Bodie Island. You'll discover essential Outer Banks travel tips, including where to find the freshest seafood and the most charming restaurants that showcase the region's culinary delights.

We'll take you on a journey through the enchanting neighborhoods, highlighting the breathtaking views at Jockey's Ridge State Park and...