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"Jaws," a movie so perfect it thrills audiences today as much as it did in 1975, turned 50 this summer. Anniversary celebrations across the country include your chance to experience "Jaws" on the big screen in IMAX, 4DX and other enhanced formats in select Regal theaters from Aug. 29 – Sept. 1 (Labor Day weekend).  One of the mechanical sharks used in "Jaws" at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Among the viewing options for the "Jaws" re-release, the most advanced and thrilling is 4DX. Considered the latest theater viewing experience, 4DX is a step beyond the immersiveness of IMAX to include multisensory effects timed perfectly to what’s happening on screen. Imagine feeling air across your face just as the wind blows or your seat vibrating while a boat motors out to sea. Get ready for the special glasses! Regal will also offer RealD 3D showings, which utilizes special projection technology to transform a traditional 2D film into 3D. Or, see "Jaws" in RPX, a premium experience using a larger screen, advanced digital projectors and enhanced sound. If old school is your style, Regal is offering traditional 2D showings, as well. Exhibits and Other "Jaws" 5oth Anniversary Celebrations   The big screen re-release is just one of numerous high profile ways "Jaws" is being celebrated this year including: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures -"Jaws" was not only a mega hit, but also an academy award winner, hugely influential on the film industry and part of an important time in filmmaking. The 1970s marked a new era with young filmmakers like Spielberg and his friends, George Lucas, Martin Scorsese, Brian De Palma and Francis Ford Coppola, bringing a realism to the screen unlike anything that came before it.  For these reasons, it's not surprising the "Jaws" 50th anniversary is worthy of special attention by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (they give out the Oscars).  " Jaws: The Exhibition " is a large-scale exhibit showing at the academy's museum in Los Angeles from Sept. 14, 2025 – July 26, 2026. The event marks two firsts for the museum: it's largest exhibit dedicated to a single film and the largest exhibit ever curated about "Jaws."  Visitors can expect to see rare and special items since the museum's curators were granted special access to the personal collections and archives of Spielberg, his production company and NBCUniversal. If you miss the exhibit, but visit the academy museum at another time, you can still see the last surviving mechanical shark used in the movie. Once headed for the junk pile, this version of Bruce — as the shark was nicknamed — was restored and now hangs from the museum’s ceiling for all to see as they move from floor-to-floor.  New Documentary on "Jaws" Now Streaming - "Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story," which first premiered on National Geographic channel, is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+ This wonderful deep dive by director Laurent Bouzereau is actually built upon his 1995 documentary, "The Making of Jaws,” but updated and filled with new content.   In my opinion, "Jaws @ 50" is the best documentary to date about the movie. It offers a complete look at the movie’s origin, cultural impact and relevance today. The documentary starts at the beginning with how Peter Benchley, who wrote the novel "Jaws" and the movie's screenplay, was influenced by his life in Nantucket and fishing off its shores. The documentary skillfully journeys through the nuts and bolts of making the film, which was notoriously difficult. Best of all, the documentary includes new interviews with Spielberg and members of his crew and cast, including the actor who played the little Kintner boy! Featured throughout the documentary are past interviews with crucial members of Spielberg’s team and others in the movie industry who were impacted by “Jaws.”  The documentary also includes shark experts who talk about the realism of the movie and its impact from the terrible (shark hunting) to the wonderful (raised awareness about the vital role great white sharks play in maintaining a natural balance in the oceans). Martha’s Vineyard  - Much of the film was shot on location in Martha’s Vineyard, which served as the movie’s fictional Amity Island. The town is hosting special screenings, concerts, and a series of other events throughout the summer. For more details, visit the town's official site . Universal theme parks in Hollywood and Orlando  - Interested in a mug with a quote from the movie? Or, how about a bucket hat like ones Amity Islanders might have worn? "Jaws" fans can expect these and more themed merchandise at both parks during the summer. Plus, both parks have a "Jaws" float in their daily parade, themed dining experiences and other related entertainment. For instance, Universal Orlando includes music from "Jaws" in its nightly Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular show. As part of Universal Hollywood's Mega Movie Summer, the park's Hollywood & Dine restaurant is now Amity Island Cafe serving lobster rolls and other food inspired by the movie. There is no longer a "Jaws" ride at Universal Orlando, but Universal Hollywood still features the movie during its backlot studio tour. Be prepared for Bruce to pop up and say, "hello!" For more details on "Jaws"-related activities in both parks, visit the Universal blog site . "Jaws" 50th Anniversary is Worth Celebrating You may be asking yourself why the anniversary of a shark horror movie is a big deal deserving of a re-release with technological bells and whistles, exhibits and city-wide celebrations. Well, the original "Jaws" was a big deal. It was a cultural touchpoint – the first summer blockbuster (and the origin of the phrase) and a significant part in filmmaking history. As a movie, "Jaws" is perfect — or at least near perfect — and why it's still just as riveting and entertaining today as it was 50 years ago. This isn’t just my opinion— the experts in the film world agree. Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderberg, James Cameron, and Jordan Peele were inspired by the film and use words like “masterpiece” and “perfect” to describe it in Bouzereau's documentary. "Jaws" reaches perfection on all levels. Most of all, its due to Spielberg's amazing filmmaking, especially his ability to capture an audience and take them on an intimate journey. Like Alfred Hitchcock, the master whose influence is seen throughout the film, Spielberg knows how to frame a scene to build emotion and just how much to show or not show the audience, which allows their minds to fill in the terrifying gaps. Plus, there all of the special, relatable moments that are a hallmark of Spielberg's work. These scenes help us believe the imaginary characters are real and not so different than us. My favorite is the kitchen table scene between Brody and his little boy. The writing in "Jaws" is exceptional from Benchley’s work to the story Quint tells of a terrifying night surrounded by sharks after the U.S.S Indianapolis sank. The speech was written by screenwriter Jon Milius ("Apocalypse Now") and refined by actor and playwright Robert Shaw, who brought the sea-worn character, Quint, to life. Like all well-done movies, the incredible actors portrayed their characters with such believability that we root for the hero, despise the villain and cry for the hurt. There's a deep understanding and representation of human nature throughout the performances. It's why we grieve for the Kintner boy’s mother and understand Brody's guilt over the boy's death. For an added touch of realism, Spielberg wisely used locals from Martha's Vineyard among the supporting actors and extras in the film. In addition to the actors, was the incredible work by all of Spielberg's team — the crew shooting on location in the ocean, special effects artists building and operating a mechanical shark (that could actually work in an ocean), John Williams composing a hauntingly perfect score, shark experts and documentarians who consulted and shot footage of real sharks, and so much more. As an audience member, all of these factors meld flawlessly making "Jaws" one of those movies you can watch over and over and never tire. You experience a roller coaster of emotions every time. You know that head will appear in the sunken boat, yet you still jump. You know the Orca doesn't sink and Brody survives, yet you still worry as he shoots at the air canister in the shark's mouth to blow it up. And, of course, the music by Williams is so well known it's part of our shared cultural fabric. This is especially true of those two simple notes, commonly called “dun-dun." They show up in TV shows and other movies, but when they plays in "Jaws" it never ceases to strike fear and anticipatory nervousness in us knowing it means the blood-hungry shark is near unsuspecting humans. Movie making is a complex process, a creative puzzle that provides wonderful, enduring entertainment when all the pieces fit together just right. In "Jaws" they certainly do. Whether you celebrate the 50th anniversary of "Jaws" with a viewing on your home's little screen or in a 4DX theater, enjoy the ride and here's hoping none of us ever has to say, "We're gonna need a bigger boat."

Struggling to pick your next book club selection? Then check out the online resources and recommendations from 50 years of the The Booker Prize , one of the most prestigious fiction awards in the English speaking world. The Booker Prize began as a way to raise the profile of contemporary English fiction, similar to what the Prix Goncourt prize did for works in French. The prize is awarded to fiction originally written in English while its sibling award, The International Booker Prize, is for global works translated into English. For both, the books must have been published in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The first Booker Prize was awarded in 1969 and the international award was added in 2005. Each year, Booker Prize Foundation staff select notable and accomplished individuals with a passion for the written word to serve as judges. Determining the prize winners is an arduous task and the judges dedicate a year of their life to reading and evaluating more then 150 nominated submissions from publishing houses.  The judges read and read and read and then meet, debate and narrow their favorites down to the longlist of 13 books, dubbed the "Booker Dozen" (certainly a play on a "Baker's Dozen"). Then, they reread those 13, meet, debate and narrow their favorites down to a shortlist of six books. And, finally, a single winner is picked for each award. A cash prize goes to the winning authors followed by international acclaim (and a subsequent boost in book sales, known as the “Booker Bounce”).  So, struggle no more when it comes to book club! All the resources you need for making the perfect selection are on The Booker Prizes website. It's a virtual cornucopia of the world's finest in fiction. In addition to five decades of winning books and those that made the long and short lists, the online librar y also incl udes more than 700 books nominated for the prize since the competition began. The website also has reading guides and detailed recommendations , including themed lists such as “Books with Plot Twists" and “Cosy Reads" (that's the British English spelling of cozy). Other website features include author spotlights, the history of the prizes (learn the connection to James Bond author, Ian Fleming) and so much more. Enjoy your next page turner!

When you're rushing to work sipping a grande coffee and enjoying a blueberry muffin, you have a pollinator to thank. Coffee and blueberries are among the long list of plants that rely on pollinators such as bees and butterflies, to reproduce. Pollinators are responsible for “one out of every three bites we eat” and “essential to our ecological survival," according to the US Department of Agriculture. Fiery skipper butterfly among Black-eyed susans. Unfortunately, pollinators – animals and insects that spread pollen from one plant to another – are having a tough time surviving. Honey bee populations, for example, have declined significantly in recent years. Of the 4,000 native bee species in North America, over half are in decline and one in four are at risk of extinction according to The Bee Conservancy, a non-profit focused on bee survival. The good news is anyone with a yard or a patio big enough for a few planting containers can help out pollinators. Using perennials (plants that come back every season) makes landscape gardening a little easier in the long run, but the same general guidelines also apply to picking one-season annuals. Picking Plants for Bees, Butterflies and Hummingbirds A key to a garden filled with the best plants for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds is picking plants that bloom at different times so there's food source available from spring through fall. These pollinators are especially active in the morning and in bright sunlight, so consider filling your yard with sun-loving plants. Have a shady yard? There are plenty of low-light plants pollinators like, as well. Another important tip is to incorporate plants native to your area into your garden since many pollinators, especially native bees, depend on nectar and pollen that is specific to where they live. This is especially valuable in areas where lots of urbanizations has reduced natural pollinator habitats. These days, local garden centers and major retailers are making it easier to find native flowering plants by setting them aside in special sections in their nurseries. Hummingbirds • Attracted to flowers in red, pink, yellow, white and orange. • Like funnel-shaped blooms that are perfect for dipping their long bill and tongue into. Bees • Favor flowers in bright white and shades of red, yellow, purple and blue. • Rely on nectar for energy and pollen for protein, so are drawn to color patterns on blooms that indicate the location of nectar like a road sign. • Prefer shallow blooms and flowers with easy, sturdy landing areas. Butterflies • Like bright colors, especially reds and purples. • Choose flowers with wide landing pads; tubular, trumpet-shaped blooms; and spurs (nectar filled tubes that extend from the flower). • If you want to support the threatened Monarch Butterfly during its spring migration, add native milkweed to your garden. Milkweed leaves are the only food source for Monarch caterpillars. Choose swamp milkweed, common milkweed or butterfly weed. Avoid tropical milkweed since its non-native. Tropical milkweed blooms at the wrong time, interfering with the monarch's migration timing. It can carry a parasite, as well. Milkweed blooms are also a nectar source for other pollinators. Best Plants for Bees, Butterflies and Hummingbirds Lucifer This plant is just right for hummingbirds! They will delight in lucifer’s red blooms, which are also the perfect fit for their long, slim beaks. Lucifer is a tall, striking bulb-like perennial with multiple long, red-tubular blooms on each stalk that emerge from wide, sword-like leaves. It's a hardy and showy addition to a garden. • Blooms mid-to-late summer. • Needs sun to partial shade. • Grows about 40 inches tall and 18 inches wide. • Planting zones 5-9. Salvia (Sage) Salvia is like candy for hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. This plant comes in an abundance of color and size varieties, each with small tubular blooms. Black and blue salvia featuring dark blue, tubular blooms along a black stem is a gorgeous option. It's base foliage is full and dark green. • Blooms from spring to first frost. • Full sun to part shade. • Grows 2-to-3 feet tall and wide. • Planting zone 7-10. Another great salvia option is radio red meadow sage . This sun-loving, drought-tolerant perennial is so easy you can practically plant it and forget it. Radio red looks great as a border plant with its petite, vibrant red flowers. • Blooms late spring to fall • Full sun. • Grow about 16 inches tall and wide . • Planting zones 5-9 (some varieties can handle colder climates). For a long blooming option, pick Russian sage . This variety is a heat and drought-tolerant perennial shrub with pretty little spikes of purplish blooms and grayish-green leaves. • Blooms summer into fall • Full sun. • Grows 2-to-4 feet wide and tall. • Planting zones 5-9. Coneflowers Pollinators love to visit coneflowers for a good drink of nectar. Its daisy-like petals surround a large nectar-rich, cone-shaped center called the disk. Coneflowers grow on tall, strong stems and spread out creating a beautiful mass of color in the garden. Coneflowers love the sun and tolerate heat well. • Blooms from early to late summer. • Full sun. • Grow 2-to-5 feet and about 1-to-2 feet wide. • Planting zones 3-9. Garden Phlox A hummingbird or butterfly visiting a garden phlox is the kind of picture you’d expect to see in a storybook. This quaint plant, which bees love too, has dense masses of pretty, little blooms with tubular centers on tall upright stems. Garden phlox is available in lots of color varieties including bright pink, lavender, red and even bicolored. It serves as a wonderful filler in planting beds and adds a “cottage garden” feel. • Full sun, but likes some afternoon shade in hot climates. • Blooms from late spring to fall. • Grows 2 feet by 2 feet. • Planting zones 4-8. Daylilies Each bloom on this perennial is like a big welcome sign to pollinators. Day lilies feature large, open blooms with deep nectar–filled centers. Plus, daylilies grab the attention of pollinators with vibrant petal colors, such as scarlet, bright yellow, rose-red and gold. Daylilies are hardy, low maintenance plants that are an easy addition to any garden. • Bloom in spring through summer. • Full sun to partial shad (full sun generates the most blooms) • Grows from 1-to-3 feet tall and wide. • Planting zones 4-9. Crape Myrtle Crape myrtles, or spelled Crepe myrtles in the southern regions, are gorgeous in yards and perfect for hummingbirds, bees and butterflies with its abundance of blooms. Crape myrtles are low maintenance, easy-to-grow blooming trees or small bushy shrubs. All varieties feature big, showy clusters of blooms. It’s also heat tolerant and loves the sun. Color choices for pollinators include red, white and bright pink. • Blooms throughout summer. • Full sun. • Shrubs are mature at 2-to-5 feet; tallest tree variety can reach 25-to-30 feet. • Planting zones 7-10. An eastern tiger swallowtail enjoys nectar from a Black Knight butterfly bush Butterfly Bush This sun-loving and fast-growing shrub is loved by butterflies and other pollinators, but unfortunately they’re invasive in some areas and banned by 25 states. Noninvasive options are available like the Lo & Behold branded varieties and the Pugster blue . Butterfly bushes are attention grabbing with fragrant, long spikes covered in a mass of colorful little blooms. Butterfly bushes can reach as much as 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Pruning can easily control growth. But, for a shorter option choose a Pugster blue, which only grows about 24 inches tall and wide. This plant has butterfly in the name for a reason - they love it! Consider adding milkweed as a companion plant. In addition to the monarch caterpillars, some other butterfly caterpillars and bugs feed on it, too. • Blooms throughout summer. • Full sun. • Grows 6 to 8 feet tall and wide; shorter varieties stay around 24 inches. • Planting zones 5-9. Hydrangea These beautiful and easy to maintain deciduous shrubs attract bees and other pollinating insects, but pick carefully! Some varieties like Mophead hydrangea are sterile so they lure bees in with showy flowers but lack nectar. Instead, plant lacecap, smooth, climbing, panicle or oakleaf hydrangea. The often overlooked panicle Limelight hydrangea is an excellent choice, especially if you need something easy and reliable in a sunny yard. Limelight's large, dense cones of white blooms on strong upright stems are popular among bees and other insects. One caveat, limelight is a self-fertilizing plant. The outside of the blooms are covered in sterile florets and the fertile ones with both male and female parts are inside. So, bees and bugs will bury themselves inside seeking nectar and pollen, but don't expect butterflies do the same - they aren't able to push past the dense exterior florets. Prune late spring or early fall. Unlike many hydrangea, it blooms on new growth. Lack a green thumb? No problem, this hydrangea is practically no-fail! • Blooms throughout summer. • Full sun. • Grows about 6 feet wide and tall. • Planting zones 3-9. Blanket Flower The petals of the blanket flower are the perfect “we’re open” sign for bees. The flower’s yellow tips transition to a bright, red ring around a large, nectar-filled center cone. They also offer a wide and sturdy landing pad for bees. Blanket flowers are hardy, sun-loving, drought tolerant perennials. They have a bushy shrub appearance and stay compact in size. Plant near purple Russian sage for a pretty color combination and a buffet feast for bees. • Blooms from early summer through fall. • Full sun. • Grows about 12 inches tall and 12-to-18 inches wide. • Planting zones 3-8. Black-Eyed Susan This cheerful, bright-yellow flower is a dependable plant for gardeners and pollinators. They require little care, fill in spaces nicely and add a big pop of color. For pollinators, they produce a prodigious amount of long lasting blooms with a large, center cone. Honey bees love to hang out among black-eye susans, especially on hot, sunny summer mornings. Black-eyed susan is a sturdy plant, which makes landing for a long drink easy even on a windy day. • Blooms all summer and into fall. • Full sun. • Grows 24 to 36 inches tall and wide. • Planting zone 4-9. Bee Balm It's called Bee Balm for a reason! Bees love this fragrant perennial and its frilly petals in shades of red and purple. Bee balm plants grow best in at least six hours of sun. Otherwise, they won't produce as many blooms and may mildew. • Blooms from early to late summer. • Full sun. • Grows about 11 inches tall and 12 inches wide. • Planting zones 3-9. Have More Shade Than Sun? Pick these Shade Plants for Pollinators Hosta The pretty tubular and long blooms of hostas in shades of white, pink, lavender or blue draw in pollinators. Foliage ranges in shades of green or variegated with white. Hostas are perfect filler plants along walkways and house foundations. • Blooms for several weeks between May and September depending on the variety. • Dappled to partial sun • Growth ranges from 7 inches tall and 15 inches wide and to several feet in height and width depending on the variety. • Planting zones 3-9. Coral Bells These plants offer beautifully-colored foliage for shady spots and clusters of bell-like blooms for pollinators. Coral bells grow with a mounding habit and foliage ranging from greens to shades of pink and purple. Coral Bells shoot up tall, thin stalks topped with small bloom clusters in shades that often match the foliage. This plant can handle full sun to shade, but its colors are best when it gets at least 4 to 6 hours of sun. These plants are easy to grow and do well in gardens and containers. • Blooms late spring to mid summer. • Full sun to shade. • Grow from 12 to 36 inches tall and about 15 inches wide. • Planting zones 4-9. Follow these tips and in no time, you’ll have a yard or container garden buzzing with bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Plus, keep an eye out for other pollinators that also serve a vital role in plant reproduction, such as moths, beetles, wasps, and other birds and insects. To learn more about pollinators, visit the Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service website for a wealth of information.

Springtime in Key West is a tropical delight. Mild temperatures mean warm days and comfortable nights — perfect weather to see the sights, eat the delights and explore the city.  Key West is a tiny tropical island, just four miles long and two miles wide, and the last in the chain of the Florida Keys. Don’t let its small size fool you, Key West is big on things to do. Historic museums, water and outdoor activities, cultural events, live music, delicious food and drink, and the list goes on. There is truly something to match everyone’s interest and taste. When planning a trip to Key West, focus your stay and activities in the historic Old Town area to reap the most of what the city has to offer. The heartbeat of Old Town is Duval Street, a 1.2 mile long road that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean side of the island to the Gulf side. Lining the street is a mix of restaurants, bars, retail, art galleries and more. Although Duval is considered Old Town’s “Main Street,” there are still additional things to discover from historic locations to beautiful beaches when you venture off onto the intersecting side streets. So, read on and take note of the top things to do in Old Town Key West. Key West: Historic Homes and Museums The Hemingway Home & Museum  — Nobel Prize winning author and journalist, Ernest Hemingway, made Key West his home for about eight years and wrote many of his most famous works while there. Visitors can experience his home and the grounds through a self guided tour and/or a guided group tour (included in the ticket price). The historic home is situated on a lush shady lot that evokes a tranquil island feel. The home is filled with memorabilia from Hemingway’s life and decorated with original furnishings. Another highlight are the nearly 60 polydactyl (six-toed) cats that live on the property. These unusual felines are descendants of Hemingway’s polydactyl cat, Snow White.  Open Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. No reservations, walk-ins only. Self-guided tour plus optional 20-30 minute guided tour. Guided tours start every 30 mins. More information . Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters  — The history of this naval lighthouse dates back to the 1800s (this is not the island’s first lighthouse). Located on the highest point in Key West, climb its 88 stairs to the top and enjoy views of the island and 15 miles across the nearby turquoise-colored sea. The Keeper's Quarters Museum explores what life was like for a lighthouse keeper. To manage expectations, the lighthouse is inland, not along the shoreline. The lighthouse is part of a collection of attractions by the Key West Art & Historical Society. Open daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entrance, 4:30 p.m.). Self-guided tour. Walk-in tickets available or reserved in advance online. Discounts and free admission for special groups, such as active military and children. Admission is good all day.  More information. The Harry S. Truman Little White House  — The Little White House is the perfect stop for anyone interested in presidential and modern U.S. history. Built in 1890 as living quarters for U.S. Naval officers, the historic site served as a functioning White House when President Truman conducted official business during vacations (he also recuperated there after his heart attack). The Little White House was the site for summits and enacting important executive orders. In addition to Truman, the home was used by multiple presidents including Eisenhower, Kennedy and Clinton. Open daily, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Guided tour lasts 30 min . Time reservations not needed. Tickets available online. Discounts for bundling with other attractions. More information. Key West Museum of Art & History at the Customs House  —   This museum is located in the popular Mallory Square area and housed in the island’s former Customs House. The building first opened in 1891 and also housed the post office and federal courthouse. Today, visitors can learn more about Key West’s evolving history and culture through exhibits on the first two floors. For instance, learn how oil baron Henry Flagler made a railroad connecting Key West to mainland Florida a reality. The Customs House is part of a collection of attractions by the Key West Art & Historical Society. Open Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.(last entrance, 4:30 p.m.). Self-guided tour. Walk-in tickets available or reserved in advance online. Discounts and free admission for special groups, such as active military and children. Admission is good all day. More information .  Tennessee Williams Museum  — Tennessee Williams, one of America’s most celebrated playwrights, was a long-time resident of Key West. Housed within Williams' home, the museum features a plethora of information about his work and his life, particularly in Key West. On display are signed works, playbills, historic photos with notables (particularly actors and actresses in his plays) and newspaper articles. Unlike the Hemingway house, there is very little of Williams’ personal belongings on display. The entire museum is basically two rooms. If you are a fan of his work (and the movies of his work), then you’ll enjoy the museum. Otherwise, it's underwhelming compared to the Hemingway experience. The museum is part of a collection of attractions by the Key West Art & Historical Society. Open Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entrance, 4:30 p.m.). Self-guided tour. Walk-in tickets available or reserved in advance online. Discounts and free admission for special groups, such as active veterans and children. Admission is good all day. More information . Mother Nature's Big Show: Sunset Watching in Key West Enjoying the sunset in Key West is a nightly ritual and practically a requirement when visiting. Frankly, there’s hardly a bad spot for seeing the sunset, but some are more regaled than others.  Mallory Square and Sunset Pier  — The most popular, hands down: Mallory Square and Sunset Pier. As the afternoon hours countdown, crowds of people start gathering and finding their spot for the big show, so get there with time to spare.   Mallory Square is a large, wide plaza at the end of Duval street and right on the water. A collection of street performers, vendors and live music, help pass the time until sunset. On the water, boat owners and charters cruise by and pause to watch the sunset from aboard.  Connected to the square is Sunset Pier, behind Ocean Key Resort. Sunset pier has a single bar railing with bar stools right on the water, as well as a large, wide pier filled with tables and chairs. Between both is a bar and a small outdoor stage for live music. Get a drink, find a chair and don’t move until sunset or you’ll be standing the whole time. Once the sun sets, the crowd clears out pretty fast. Update: Beginning in late April 2025 a 45 foot section of Mallory Square was closed while structural damage along the sea wall is assessed. The public can still come to the square and enjoy the beautiful sunset, but all activities and viewing are pushed back from the water's edge. To see the closed area, visit the city's chamber of commerce site . Edward Knight Pier   — Located at the end of White Street on the Atlantic side of the island, the Edward Knight Pier is huge, extending a quarter mile over the water. Thanks to the extension, the pier is a nice place to enjoy unobstructed views of sunrise and sunset colors across the water. Throughout the day, the pier is also a popular place to simply enjoy the ocean and watch boats coming and going. The pier is made of concrete with zero shade, so it really heats up on hot days. The pier is dog and bike friendly. Sand in Your Toes: Key West Beaches Key West has beautiful beaches, but some are better for the views than relaxing in a chair or on a towel. Here’s a rundown on options when the ocean is calling. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach   — For that just right experience where you can do it all, visit Fort Zachary Taylor Beach. The beach, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf come together, is within a 54-acre park that includes a large shaded forested area and a sunny beachfront. If you don’t want to sit in the sun, then relax under the palms and other trees that are close to the shoreline.  Bike, drive or walk into the property (small admission fee based on mode of transportation and number of people) and then find your spot on the sand. If you don't have your own gear, you can rent chairs, umbrellas and even snorkeling items (although the water is still pretty cold in the spring).  They do not rent towels, but they are available for purchase. Be sure to bring water shoes or flip flops because this is a coral beach with a mix of sand and coral pebbles of varying sizes. There are large bathrooms, lockers for rent, and a cafe on site. Being able to change out of a suit into other clothes is a nice perk, especially if you are going from the beach to a restaurant. The park has picnic tables, grills, and trails for biking and walking. It is a beautiful area to explore. The paths follow along the ocean, the moat outside historic Fort Taylor and through denser parts of the forest (you might see an iguana). The park, including all of the grounds, beach and Fort Taylor, is a National Historic Landmark. The fort is named for U.S. President Zachary Taylor, and dates back to the mid 1800s. The fort’s history includes serving as a Union stronghold and headquarters for the U.S. Navy’s East Gulf Coast blockade squadron during the Civil War. Today, the remains of the fort and its museum can be toured. It also has the largest collection of Civil War cannons in the U.S. Open daily, 8 a.m. – to sunset. Fort, open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cafe and beach rental stand open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Plenty of parking. More information . Higgs Memorial Beach  — Higgs is a public beach and waterfront park on the Atlantic Ocean. Available amenities include volleyball, snorkeling, pickleball and a playground. Rentals are available for beach chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards and more.  The bathrooms and showers were renovated in 2024. There is also an oceanfront restaurant and ample parking. The beach is flanked by two piers: the Reynolds Street and Knight pier at the end of White Street. Open daily, 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. Rest Beach  — This small, narrow beach is located next door to Higgs and the Knight pier entrance. Don’t expect any amenities beyond a picnic table, but it won’t be as crowded either. Open daily, 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. South Beach  — South Beach is a small beach located at the end of Duval Street in a touristy area with lots of restaurants, shops and accommodations, including the Southernmost Beach Resort . It’s also just around the corner from the Southernmost Point marker, a popular picture spot (more on that later).  Although you can rent a beach chair, go somewhere else to sit on the beach or put your feet in the ocean if you want peace and quiet. This is a busy area and not the prettiest. Although a public beach, priority is given to resort guests for lounge chairs. Southernmost Beach Cafe , which is part of the resort, is located on the beach and a popular place for drinks and especially breakfast. Beachgoers also benefit from the cafe's live music. There are no restrooms at South Beach, except in the cafe or other restaurants. Open daily, sunrise to sunset. Smathers Beach   — Although located in the New Town rather than the Old Town section of Key West, Smathers Beach is just too big to leave off the list. At ½ mile long, it’s the largest public beach on the island. The beach runs parallel to Jimmy Buffet Memorial Highway and a large sidewalk used for biking and exercise. Parking is available along the road, but usually with a small fee per hour. Restrooms available. Food trucks during popular times. Open daily, sunrise to sunset. Bathrooms close at 6:30 p.m. Key West Hidden Gems Key West Garden Club and West Martello Tower  — The Key West Garden Club has turned a fortification dating black to the War of 1812 into its home and a tropical paradise. Club members have thoughtfully created a variety of unique spaces that incorporate the remains of the fort’s brick walls. There are water features, a butterfly garden, ornamentations and shaded places to sit and watch the ocean. An extra special spot is the walking meditation labyrinth (also the site of a regular yoga class). Because of the fort’s design, this area is atop a small hill and the view of the ocean is gorgeous. When biking Key West this is a wonderful place to stop and cool down (cold bottles of water are for sale). It’s located on Atlantic Blvd. next door to the popular Higgs beach.  Open daily, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. except Christmas and New Year’s Day. No entrance fee, but a small donation is welcome.  More information . The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservancy  — Experience a tropical paradise of birds and 50-60 butterfly species from around the world. I’ve been to numerous butterfly habitats, but never with this many active butterflies and species variety. It was a wonderful experience watching them flutter all around. The habitat is within a glass-enclosed, climate controlled dome-like structure. It’s filled with tropical plants and flowers, as well as a water feature and a resident pair of pink flamingos, Rhett and Scarlett. There is a viewing area for watching butterflies emerge from their chrysalis and plenty of staff on hand to answer questions. Open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entrance, 4:30 p.m.). Hours vary for major holidays. More information . Tours of Old Town Key West Walking Tours   — A fun and popular way to take advantage of Key West’s small size and flat topography is a walking tour. There is a tour to match just about everyone’s interest — food, drink, history, architecture, culture, etc. And, there are plenty of guided tour companies to provide the experience. If you'd rather do a self-guided tour, consider the Key West Art & Historical Society's Historic Marker Tour . The tour features over 120 sites with audio descriptions and vintage photographs. There are also numerous themes to explore such as the island’s cigar industry, maritime heritage, military history and architecture.  More information . For simply a nice walk along the water, then explore the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk along AB Marina. The seaport is spread over 20 acres so there is always something interesting to discover — gorgeous yachts, fishing boats, shops, galleries, places to eat, attractions and more. More information . Ride Along Tours — If you're not up for walking, check out a ride along tour. For the instance, the Conch Tour Train is an open air, mini "train" that offers an hour long tour of Old Town along with other perks, such as a free guided walking tour and admission to the Sails and Rails Museum . Or, you might prefer the 90 minute "hop on, hop off" experience provided by Old Town Trolley Tours . Both tours, along with some other attractions, are owned by the Key West-based company, Historic Tours of America, which is why some popular activities can be bundled. How about riding along by water? There are charters, floating tiki bars and more if you want to enjoy the sites aboard a vessel. For instance, Lagerheads Beach Bar and Watersports offers tours onboard the Rum Runner, a small pontoon party boat (up to 16 passengers). Choices include visiting a sand bar and ship wreck site for snorkeling and a sunset cruise, Side note, Lagerheads has its own (small) beach and cafe. Chair rentals are $10 for the day. The Fury company offers a huge assortment of water tours and activities for small and large parties. Glass bottom boats, dolphin cruises, sunset cruises with live music, jet skies, parasailing and more. Crowds wait for sunset along the edge of Mallory Square and by boat. Looking for some adventure off the island, then consider Dry Tortugas National Park . Visiting the island, which is about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, is a popular, day-long adventure for snorkeling and touring the historic Fort Jefferson. The park is a collection of seven coral reef islands. A tour company will charter you by ferry or seaplane. Passes and fees are managed by the National Park Service. For anyone considering, this tour, keep in mind the outer moat wall is closed for repairs until 2026. More information . Food and Drink Tours — Plenty of companies offer tours around Old Town with a food and/or drink theme. For a one-stop experience to learn all about Key West's signature spirit, tour the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery . Your tour guide will explain Key West's association with rum and the distillery's unique salt cured, barrel technique. All tours include a free sample tasting. Tours are free and last about 15 minutes (no reservation needed). It's the perfect choice if you don't have two-to-three hours for a more involved tour that crisscrosses the city. The distillery also has mojito-making classes, a rum bar and a gift shop (they sell rum cakes, shirts and other spirits). To help you pick your favorite rum, complimentary tastings are offered. The distillery is perfectly located a couple of blocks from Mallory Square, on Simonton Street between Duval and the Historic Seaport. More information . An Eye on the Creative — If you love art, then you'll love Key West and discovering its creative side from the numerous art galleries to the beautiful architecture. Whether during an official tour or not, one of the fun things to notice when exploring Old Town are the baluster designs, murals and other sculpture installations . "Catfish" sculpture near South Beach. Balusters are the support pieces for a porch railing. Key West is known for its distinct baluster designs, which are found on all kinds of homes and businesses. Old Town Key West was designated a historic district in the 1970s. As a result, architecture mandates are in place that prevent residences and businesses within the district from altering original structures and colors without permission. The result? Much of what you see is exactly as it was years ago, including balusters with unique designs that often have a special meaning. For instance, the balusters at the former home of the 1940's jazz musician, Theodore "Fats" Navarro, features a trumpet design. Key West inspires creativity and the city embraces it. Throughout Old Town are large, vibrant murals by a variety of well-known artists including Rick Worth an Robert Wyland . The "Wyland Wall" is a depiction of marine life painted in the Seaport. This large mural joins others the artist has painted across the country to bring attention the beauty and importance of marine life and, for Key West in particular, its coral reef. Worth's murals capture the people and life of the city. For instance, near the Blue Heaven restaurant is Worth's mural featuring a day in the life of Key West's Bahama Village neighborhood featuring actual residents. Two popular Key West sites: a beautiful mural and scooters! Dispersed across the city are all kinds of public art installations, such as the Mallory Square sculpture garden featuring the bronze busts of people important to Key West history. Adjacent to Mallory Square, in the corridor between the gift shop and the indoor dining room of the El Meson De PePe restaurant, are large-scale replicas of Mario Sanchez's painted wood carvings. The carvings depict vignettes of Cuban Key West life. A collection of his original work is next door in the Key West Museum of Art & History. Where and What to Eat & Drink in Old Town Key West Best Dinner with a View Latitudes (Fine Dining)  — Dining at Latitudes is an elegant, tranquil experience where the sunset is as much of a star as the food. Although not in Old Town, Latitudes is just too special to leave off the list. Latitudes is located on Sunset Key, a nearby resort island. Dining guests who aren’t staying on Sunset Key must take a ferry over. Diners gather at the ferry's assigned dock in the historic district, check in with the host and enjoy a relaxing 10 minute ride over.  Guests are seated outdoors overlooking the ocean at umbrella-shaded tables covered with white linens and adorned with tasteful place settings. The area is surrounded by lush landscaping and fire torches. Lighting is kept low and romantic. Best of all, every table has a perfect sunset view.  For dinner, I had an arugula and radicchio salad with grilled pineapple, spiced candied hazelnuts and a maple curry vinaigrette followed by a seared grouper with a spiced Cuban black bean sauce, chorizo, green apple jicama slaw, and yucca fries. Everything was plated beautifully and tasted even better than it looked. Perfection! Conch Republic Seafood Company (Casual)   — Conch Republic is a large, vibrant restaurant and bar located in the historic Key West Seaport. The food is delicious, generous in portion and comes with a side of picturesque marina views. On nice days, the restaurant rolls up the garage door-like openings along its perimeter, so guests can enjoy Key West breezes and the variety of watercraft coming and going in the marina. The Conch Republic prides itself on “dock to dish” fresh seafood and it did not disappoint. My bacon wrapped, crab stuffed shrimp with a BBQ glaze and pineapple salsa was so good! Best Mojitos Tropicado Mojito Bar  —  Key West is famous for Mojitos thanks to Cuban influences and a long association with key lime and rum (the drink’s main ingredients). For one that’s delicious, as well as presented beautifully, visit the Tropicado.  The bar is part of the upscale La Concha Hotel in the heart of Duval Street. The bar's wooden accents combined with dark greens and gold come together for a modern take on Caribbean decor. Sit at the bar or relax in the comfortable lounge-style seating. During happy hour, expect live music, but don’t expect a rowdy crowd — that’s not the Tropicado. Instead, you'll find a low-key, refined vibe. You can also enjoy some Latin-inspired tapas to go along with your drink.   Best Outdoor Live Music   El Meson De PePe  — Live music opportunities abound throughout Key West, especially along Duval Street. El Meson De PePe is fun and unique for its location and Cuban sounds. The restaurant, which focuses on Cuban and Caribbean food, is located right on Mallory Square. Its outdoor patio bar includes a live band and plenty of room for salsa dancing or just sitting and listening. It's the perfect place to enjoy before and after sunset. Best Bar Sloppy Joe’s   — This bar is famous, especially for its association with Ernest Hemingway, who was a longtime patron. Today, it’s what you’d expect from a beach town bar — its busy, packed, the drinks are served fast and the music is live. The bar honors its Hemingway past with a look-alike contest. January 2025 marked the 44th year for the contest. Photos of past and current winners hang on the “Papa” (Hemingway’s nickname) wall.    Best Rum Runner Speakeasy Inn & Rum Bar — Key West was a rum smuggling epicenter during prohibition and those involved were known as “Rum Runners.” The drink named for those rebels is a delicious mix of rum and fruit liquors and juices. Similar to mojitos, pretty much every restaurant and bar serves a rum runner, so really you can find “the best” all over town. The rum bar at the Speakeasy Inn is small, laid back and void of any pretense whatsoever. With hundreds of rums to choose from, it serves rum runners and other rum drinks that are well-made and tasty. It’s also well positioned on Duval Street near other popular spots, such at the Southernmost Point and the Hemingway House.  Be sure to notice the second floor baluster design that cleverly features the shape of bottles among hearts and diamonds — stealth advertising during prohibition that this was a place to drink and gamble. Best Breakfast Blue Heaven  — This spot is well loved. Why? It offers a combo of delicious food served in an eclectic, fun outdoor setting. Although inside seating is offered, dining alfresco under a canopy of umbrellas and trees feels very Key West. Despite its popularity, we only waited a few minutes to be seated. Maybe the time seemed short because once your name is added to the waitlist, you can relax across the street at the restaurant’s shaded outdoor bar and music annex.  Breakfast items are served well into the afternoon. A favorite is shrimp and grits featuring “pinks,” a.k.a. pink Key West shrimp. The restaurant is also known for its banana bread and key lime pie (more on that later).  Taste isn’t the only sense that will come alive at Blue Heaven. There is so much take in among the artwork, live music and homespun decor. During our visit, tucked around one corner, was an art show featuring paintings of chickens and roosters. There were live ones roaming around, too. Classic Key West!  Best Breakfast Runner Ups  Sunny Eggs  — This small, French-inspired cafe and bakery offers a wonderful sit down breakfast, which is served all day. My favorite dish is the Palm Breakfast, which is two organic eggs served your way, with bacon, roasted tomato, roasted potatoes, avocado slices and toast. If you are in a rush and need something quick to go, the baked goods, both savory and sweet, are pure perfection.  Moondog Cafe & Bakery   — Moondog features straight-forward breakfast offerings, such a quiche, a breakfast burrito, and steak and eggs. Also a large selection of benedict and omelet options. Moondog’s charm is rooted in its vibrant decor featuring colorful furnishings and large murals with a Key West theme. When the weather’s nice, request a table on the front porch. Best Key Lime Pie  Key limes are embedded in Key West culture. Historically, fishermen used them to prevent sickness and to tenderize conches for eating and flavor all kinds of recipes (a practice still used today). Probably the most beloved dish starring this little fruit is key lime pie. Frankly, you can probably buy a slice every 50ft when walking Duval Street. And, everyone has their own preference - super tart vs mild, firm vs soft, meringue topping vs whipped - so here’s a few and enjoy discovering "the best" for yourself.   Kermit’s Key Lime Shop   — A tart, firm pie with a dab of whipped topping. Traditional and delicious. Kermit's also have a variety of other key lime treats, such as cookies and pie slices on a stick that are dipped in coconut dark chocolate. Best Key Lime Pie Runner Ups Blue Heaven  — If you like meringue, then this is the pie for you. Blue Heaven’s key lime topping peaks at least four to five inches high. Cuban Coffee Queen  — Serves a nice traditional slice that pairs nicely with a shot of their freshly roasted Cuban coffee. Key West Pie Co .  — This shop offers a mini, and very portable, whole pie, which is a nice option to a regular slice.  Best Neighborhood (non-tourist) Dining Experience El Siboney Restaurant  — There’s a reason people say, “Eat where the locals go.” El Siboney exemplifies this adage. It’s a no frills place, with straight up excellent Cuban food served in a comfortable, family environment. My recommendation is the slow roasted pork with rice and a side of black beans and a fried plantain. More please! Eaton Street Seafood Market  — The stars of this casual market and cafe are the fresh caught fish, shrimp and crab from local fishermen. Want a grilled or blackened fish sandwich? Walk over to the display case and pick out a fresh catch from that morning. Your fish will be cooked perfectly and served on a ciabatta bun with coleslaw and plantain chips.  Eaton Street has a large selection of sandwiches, as well as tacos, salads, fresh catch plates, and fried shrimp plates. My favorite was a fried Key West pink shrimp sandwich with a bowl of stone crab chowder. Get your order to go or enjoy the outside seating.  Best Conch Fritter Conch Shack   — Order at the Conch Shack's walk up counter and wait a few minutes for hot, fried fritters that are a Key West tradition. Conch is a marine mollusk. It's tough, which is why it's tenderized by mallet and often marinated in lime juice for cooking. Conch fritters, to me, are akin to a hushpuppy that’s softer and chewier.  The ones made by the Conch Shack have just the right blend of conch, spice and dough. For added brightness, squeeze the lime slice over the fritters and then dip them into either the shack’s key lime aioli or spicy sauce. The food stand only has outdoor seating, which is perfect for people watching along Duval Street. The seating area is super small, so you might want to enjoy your fritters as you walk to Mallory Square for the sunset.   Best Conch Fritter Runner Up Mangoes — Known for its Caribbean cuisine, Mangoes prepares delicious conch fritters. Order a side of their tomato-based conch chowder for the perfect compliment. Mangoes is a large restaurant with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (big streetside patio). The courtyard lounge surround a huge banyan tree. Mangoes is located in the "Pink Triangle" section of Key West, which is the 700 and 800 blocks of Duval St., an area popular for LBGTQ+ nightlife. Key West = Conch Republic Key West has more associated with conch than just fritters. It's actually tied to the city's adopted alter ego — the Conch Republic. In 1982, the U.S. Border Patrol set up a blockade on the road connecting Key West to the mainland. The blockade caused headaches for locals and affected tourism, so as symbolic protest, the city "seceded" from the U.S. and proclaimed itself the Conch Republic. This act is annually celebrated with The Conch Republic Independence Celebration , a 10-day, spring-time festival . And, throughout the year, Conch Republic flags hang at homes and businesses across the city. Getting Around Old Town Key West Forget the rental car and opt instead for walking, biking, golf carting or scootering around Old Town. The area is flat, easy to navigate and everything is close to each other. Old Town is especially bike friendly with paths, dedicated lanes and shared lanes (the speed limit is low and drivers are respectful).  Some hotels, such as the La Concha, and vacation rental properties offer complimentary bikes. If yours doesn’t, there are plenty of rental options for bikes and other transportation modes. If you’d rather uber, there’s always one nearby and they arrive quickly within minutes. Final Notes for Visiting Key West Southernmost Point Marker — No trip to Key West is complete without an obligatory picture at this landmark noting the U.S.' southernmost point. Located on the corner of Whitehead and South streets in Old Town, the marker is basically a giant concrete shaped buoy with the ocean behind it.  Keep in mind, this is a popular thing to do and there’s always a line of people waiting their turn. The line moves fairly fast, but get there early to avoid longer midday lines. If you don’t mind not  having the bright blue ocean as your backdrop, then stop by in the early evening for your picture when the crowd has cleared. Let's Celebrate — Key West likes a party, festival and big event. In addition to the Conch Republic's Independence Celebration, the city hosts numerous special events throughout the year, including Hemingway Days, Mystery Writers Fest, sailing regattas, artisan markets, the Mile 0 music festival, Pride Fest, Earth Day, Tennessee Williams' birthday, and so much more. A newly added — and immediately popular — event is Just A Few Friends , honoring Jimmy Buffet. The beloved musician, who lived in Key West for 30 years, died in 2023. The celebration is a collection of events over Labor Day weekend. A big highlight is the Second Line Parade and Party in the Park . The parade is in the tradition of a New Orleans' style funeral procession where a brass band leads family members (the first line) followed by friends (the second line). And, thousands of parrot-head friends turn out each year! The week also includes music, margarita strolls, food events and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. Feathered Friends — If you don't like chickens and roosters, then Key West is probably not for you. They roam freely around the city, including wandering into outdoor restaurants. Why? In the 1800s, Cuban settlers brought chickens and roosters to the island for food and cockfighting. In the 1970s, cockfighting was made illegal and the roosters were released. Today, they are a cultural symbol of Key West and protected from harm by city ordinances. The animals keep to themselves just like birds, squirrels and other wildlife you might see in a community. Key West International Airport  — If traveling by plane in and out of Key West, take note that the airport is very, very small. Don’t let the size fool you into thinking you can show up close to your boarding time and avoid any problems.  We were advised to add extra time because things “come up.” Also, the waiting area is small and fills up quickly, so if you don’t want to stand the whole time, arrive early. There is a small snack market and a coffee shop, but no commercial food chains typically found in an airport  Weather and Pricing  — December through April is considered the high season in Key West, so prices for airfare and lodging will likely be higher during these months. The higher price tag, however, is worth avoiding the blistering higher temps of the summer months or the fall’s rainy hurricane season. We visited in early March (the peak of high season) and expected big crowds, but that wasn't our experience. We got around the city easily and never struggled to find a place to eat or visit an attraction.

Fall in North Carolina is like sweet tea with a slice of lemon. When light hits a glass of tea just right, the drink's colors of tan, yellow and orangey-red illuminate in a way that's reminiscent of changing leaves in sunlight. And, a sip of that ice-chilled goodness is refreshing like a warm, breezy fall day. Maybe that comparison is a little over the top, but you get the point. Fall in North Carolina is lovely and the perfect time for Great Trails State Day on Saturday, Oct. 21. For this special day, people across the state are encouraged to get outside and enjoy North Carolina's recreational resources. Great Trails State Day is the keynote event of the 2023 Year of the Trail campaign to promote outdoor recreation on the state’s trails, rivers and greenways in rural and urban areas from the beaches to the mountains. The campaign promotes North Carolina as “THE” state of “great trails,” according to its website. It's also the largest celebration of trails and outdoor recreation in the state's history. Year of the Trail's goal is to showcase the state’s beauty, encourage healthy recreation and stimulate local economies. In N.C., trails are the “backbone” to a “growing $28 billion outdoor recreation industry," according to the site. The American Tobacco Trail, a 22.6-mile path, once a railway used in N.C.'s tobacco industry, runs through parts of Wake, Durham and Chatham counties. The Year of the Trail website also includes a trail finder database. Plus, a blog with stories about how to engage with the state's trails and parks, such as historical locations and tips for getting children interested in hiking. A sampling of events for Great Trails State Day include a Halloween-themed 5K “Monster Dash” at Carolina Beach and a bike ride in downtown Goldsboro. A full day of canoeing, hiking and cooking out is planned for Lake Devin in Oxford. Moore County, known for its tall pines and golf, is hosting the Pinecone Pathways Special Edition Treasure Hunt. Participants will search for 10 glass-blown pinecones hidden along county trails. This special edition event was added to the calendar after the original hunt for 200 pinecones in March was a big hit. Each pinecone is an original creation from Starworks, a glass studio in Star, N.C., and correlates to a prize. For the treasure hunt on Great Trails State Day, the grand prize is a ticket to the 2024 U.S. Open practice round at Pinehurst Resort and Country Club. If you participate in Great Trails State Day, be sure to take a selfie. Organizers are compiling an album featuring people’s experiences so tag your picture @greattrailsnc. For more information about North Carolina’s vast network of trails and events in the coming months, visit The Year of the Trail website.

You don’t have to be a plant lover to appreciate the serene beauty of the J.C. Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, N.C. Spread across 10 acres, Raulston is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of life, see new and different plant life, and meet up with friends and family for a nice afternoon. The arboretum began in the 1970s as a living laboratory for horticultural students at N.C. State University and is named for the renowned professor who spearheaded the project and served as its director. Today, the arboretum is a nationally acclaimed teaching and research garden featuring over 8,000 different kinds of plants in its living collection. Raulston is beautifully designed and landscaped with paths, open green spaces, shady spots and public art. On a typical day at Raulston expect to see families meeting for a picnic on the Great Lawn, a bride having her picture taken in the Rose Garden or a couple walking hand in hand. Raulston is that kind of place – where people gather surrounded by the color and beauty of nature. And, as an added bonus, it's all free to the public. What I love about Raulston is how the pathways wind through various gardens to delightful surprises, like a gazebo or a bench under a shady tree. Even with people meandering throughout the arboretum, the spaces feel quiet and peaceful. The Lath House for shade plants is one of my favorite spots. The building’s wood-slat design creates an interesting striping effect across the planting beds. Shadow lines inside the Lath House, home to a large garden for low-light plants Another design highlight is “Cascade,” a memorial wall made of stacked stone complete with plants and a water feature. Overhead is a large circular opening, which is in the floor of the Rooftop Terrace garden. Art is incorporated into the gardens, including sculptures and garden posts. Tucked throughout are tall posts painted by artists and students in a style inspired by alebrije, Mexican folk art sculptures of brightly-colored, whimsical creatures. "Every Pattern, Every Color All at Once," garden posts painted by artists Phil Abbott and Jayme Bednarczyk Throughout the arboretum are opportunities for learning and engagement. For instance, with a QR code you can access a map of the gardens and the alebrije post locations. The arboretum's garden story walk is a fun family activity. During these self-guided adventures, “pages” of a story are displayed in the gardens. Children experience the full story one page at a time, unfolding as they go. There is also a "frog" hunt where children search for figurines placed among the various gardens. Raulston maintains a thorough online calendar of upcoming events, including story walks, educational talks, plant sales and evening garden strolls. 'Moonlight in the Garden' is fall evening event featuring magical lighting displays, live music and food trucks. If you decide to spend an afternoon enjoying all the natural beauty at Raulston Arboretum, here are some tips: • Arboretum admission is free, but donations are accepted. • Bring a refillable bottle for water stations (no concessions on site). • No pets or emotional support animals allowed, only service animals. • No games (football, soccer, etc.) or the use of anything (kites, discs, etc.) that might damage plant life. • Strollers are allowed in the arboretum, but no scooters or bikes. A bike rack is in the parking lot if that's your mode of travelling there. • Walkways are a combination of soft and hard surfaces (pavers, compact dirt, small gravel and stepping stones). • Free parking.

Fifty thousand years ago, a meteorite hurtled through space heading straight for Earth and what is now Northern Arizona just outside Winslow.  Traveling 26,000 miles per hour and weighing 300,000 tons, the iron-nickel meteorite crashed with a force 150 times greater than an atomic bomb. The resulting impact crater is as deep as the Washington Monument is tall, almost a mile wide and available for viewing everyday at Meteor Crater & Barringer Space Museum .  Considered the best-preserved impact site in the world, Meteor Crater is a national landmark and a must-see gem when traveling through Arizona.  The crater is massive and various stats are offered to help understand its scope. One employee shared that 20 football fields could fill the crater floor and more than 2 million spectators could line the crater’s sloping sides. According to exhibits, the crater’s circumference is over three miles. The size and scale of Meteor Crater is impressive and can be admired from multiple observation decks at different elevations and during guided walking tours along the rim. The public is not allowed to venture down into the crater bowl.  The visitor facility is top notch, especially the Discovery Center & Space Museum. It features quality exhibits and hands-on activities explaining the science of meteors and the history of this specific impact site. There is also a small theater, which shows a well-produced movie about the crater at regular intervals. One of the most fascinating aspects of the crater is its long association with the U.S. space program. In the 1960s, NASA prepared its Apollo astronauts for moon exploration at the bottom of Meteor Crater.  Why? Because the moon is covered in impact craters, so Meteor Crater's rough terrain is perfect for emulating the moon’s surface. In fact, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, who became the first to walk on the moon during their historic 1969 trip, trained at Meteor Crater. Placed at the very bottom of the crater is a six foot mannequin in a space suit representing an astronaut. It looks like a tiny white dot, daunted by the crater’s massive size. You can see the “astronaut” and other special features within the crater by looking through fixed telescopes at the observation decks.  Additional onsite features include an actual Apollo 11 training space capsule; a gift and mineral shop; and Meteor Crater Mining Company, a coffee house/lounge with snacks, drinks and grab-and-go food items. Meteor crater is a stop worth making. In addition to seeing and learning about this unique, natural wonder, it’s clean, well-run, and looks brand new – a major plus for any tourist destination.  Tips for Visiting : • Open daily, 8 am - 6 pm (open until noon on Thanksgiving; Closed on Christmas Day) • If you're short on time, 90 minutes is plenty for a quick visit. • The facility is easy to navigate. There are some stairs, especially outside, but accessibility options are available. • Ample parking. • Pets aren’t allowed into the facility, but a secure, shaded pet area is available. This story is part of a series that highlights some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, aka the “Mother Road.”

Williams is a small Northern Arizona town that’s big on nostalgia and Americana. As soon as we drove into town, it didn’t take long to figure out that's what Williams is all about.  We were greeted by a large arc proclaiming “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” Children were playing baseball adjacent to a large American flag. Families were eating ice cream as they walked along the sidewalk. Vintage train cars were parked on nearby tracks. There were numerous markers, signs and murals noting that the historic Route 66 is the downtown’s main road. And, rising up all around the town were incredible forest covered mountains. So , Williams is the place for you if you love trains, Route 66 history, the outdoors or plan to e visit the Grand Canyon. That’s a lot for such a little town (pop. 3,398) to pack in! It's no wonder the town's visitor center website boast: "Small Town Nostalgia Meets Grand Adventure. " The Charm of Williams and the Route 66 Experience For decades Route 66 was one of America’s most popular and well-traveled highways. It ran from Chicago to Santa Monica with plenty of little towns, cities and sites to see in between.  Beginning in the 1950s, Route 66 along with other worn out roads was slowly replaced by the interstate system, ultimately causing economic troubles for hordes of towns, tourist attractions and businesses along the way.  In 1984, Williams became the very last Route 66 town to be bypassed by an interstate (I-40). The fabled road was decommissioned the next year. Efforts to create a national Route 66 Preservation Corridor followed and Williams is doing its part to celebrate the historic road. Route 66, also nicknamed the  “Mother Road” and “Main Street America,” is the actual main street of downtown Williams.  All A-Glow: Tourist Traditions Live On Every night the downtown is bathed in neon and pulses with a certain kind of retro charm. As an added bonus, the area is flat, compact and easy to get around—perfect for walking the sidewalks along Route 66 and popping in and out of shops.  Being downtown at night is like stepping into a time machine. It’s no wonder the entire business district is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Every business seems to have a neon sign and feature something to lure you in, similar to the roadside tourist attraction tradition made famous along Route 66. Sitting outside the Colors of the Wes t souvenir shop is a mechanized bearded, old-timer sheriff that laughs and greets you. Colors of the West   and its sister store across the street, Copper Canyon Trading , have everything you could ever imagine souvenir-wise. Hundreds of T-shirts, coffee mugs, barrel upon barrel of salt water taffy flavors and hot sauce varieties displayed as if they were fine wines. Guarding it all is a mechanized, talking buzzard perched on a replica (I assume) steer skull. There’s also a huge collection of Route 66 items, which is pretty much the same for all the souvenir stores in town. The Addicted to Route 66  store down the street is hoping to get the attention of tourists with the teal and white 1954 Oldsmobile sitting out front. Look closely, a mannequin dressed as Elvis is sitting behind the wheel!  If that site doesn’t draw you in, maybe the lure of seeing the world’s largest Route 66 shield sign inside will. If you want a magnet, coffee mug or anything else emblazoned with Route 66 or 50s-themed posters and memorabilia, then this is the place to go.   Probably, the best example of a Route 66 roadside attraction in downtown Williams is the Poozeum . Yes, you read that right. It's a museum dedicated to poo, specifically fossilized dinosaur poo, which are called coprolites.  We kind of snickered before we went in thinking it was a tourist trap. But, it’s legit and we really enjoyed ourselves.  The museum is free and features all kinds of coprolites and facts about dinosaurs that only their poo can tell, such as diet, behavior and the environment. The museum, which boasts the largest certified coprolite collection in the world, has been featured in national magazines and news programs and its exhibits are often loaned to science museums. The museum itself is small and rotates exhibits from the larger, overall collection. The coprolites are housed in museum-quality displays and the accompanying banners play up the roadside attraction aspect of the unusual collection. We learned a lot, especially from the owner who is friendly and knowledgeable. The museum is unusual and great all at the same time. If you or your children are into dinosaurs, then stop in. If you can’t visit, then check out the website—it’s informative, too.  I just have to say, the museum’s logo with an image of a cartoonish T-Rex sitting on a porcelain throne and the slogan, “# 1 for fossilized # 2, ” is clever marketing. For a nightly, live-action attraction, be downtown at 7 p.m. to watch the Cataract Creek Gang’s   Wild West Show . Every night this group of “cowboy bandits” take over a section of the main road and puts on a comedy show for about 20 mins.  It’s silly, hokey and hugely popular, especially with kids. It’s not everyday a show happens in the middle of a street. Side note, I thought the gang’s name was a dig at the age of a couple of the actors, but nope, there is an actual Cataract Creek and Cataract Lake nearby.  If you're interested in a little history, follow one of the town’s pathways, which includes a Santa Fe train car bridge, to the Welcome and History Park . The park is small, featuring a few train cars and historical placards. The park’s big Route 66 sign is a great selfie spot. The path begins close to the intersection of Grand Canyon Blvd and Route 66/E. Bill Williams Ave. and runs past the Poozeum toward the edge of downtown.  Other downtown and nearby attractions in Williams include the Route 66 Zip Line , Canyon Coaster Adventure Park   and Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum .   Dining Along the Mother Road To fully immerse yourself in all the nostalgic Route 66 “feels,” plan to eat at Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe . The cafe fronts the historic road and its decor of neon signs, restored gas pumps, black and white checkered floors and old road signs all pay homage to it.  The menu features classic diner and comfort food, including burgers, fries, pulled pork mac-n-cheese, smoked brisket, wings, ice cream, banana splits, milkshakes and so much more. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, but if the weather is nice pick a fresco, especially when live music is available. Another delicious place to eat with a fun atmosphere is Station 66 . Woodfired pizza is the star of the menu and for good reason. The fired-charred crust is delicious! On a nice day, sit outside at the wooden picnic tables and among the old gas pumps. It’s especially festive at night when the crisscrossing strings of cafe lights overhead turn on.  Next door is an extension of Station 66, the Historic Brewing Barrel House   featuring a full menu, craft beer and cocktails and activities such as mini skee-ball. The Gateway to the Grand Canyon Williams proclaims itself as the “ Gateway to the Grand Canyon ” and for good reason. It’s an hour south from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, which is a half hour closer than driving from Flagstaff. And, frankly, it’s hard to compete with Williams’ small town charm. The town of Tusayan is the closest town to the Grand Canyon, literally at the park’s entrance. But, it is super small (population 558) and there isn’t much to do. It’s basically a collection of some hotels and a sparsely stocked general store.  We stayed in Williams during our visit to the Grand Canyon and it was an added bonus of fun things to do. The town is safe, friendly and easy to figure out and navigate. We were there in late May, a few days after Memorial Day, and had zero traffic problems or lines to wait in.  We arrived at the gate around 8:30 am and it was a weekday, which helped. During peak season and weekends traffic could be a headache. If you want to avoid any driving issues, then arriving by train may be your best bet. Or, look into the companies in Williams that specialize in tour excursions to the Grand Canyon.     All Aboard! The Historic Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel The Grand Canyon Railway , which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is a big feature of Williams. The railway is 65 miles long and runs from Williams to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.  When built, the railway, completed by Atchinson, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1901, provided a faster trip than the eight hour stage coach ride from Flagstaff, according to the railway’s website. The railway helped increase tourism to the Grand Canyon and the development of park features such as the Grand Canyon Village.  Passenger rail service stopped in the late '60s when cars and road trips were more popular. In 1989, rail service was restored and continues to operate today, every day of the week. The railway is a popular way to travel to the Grand Canyon, especially since you can enjoy the sites of northern Arizona desert prairie along the way. Passengers ride in refurbished vintage trains cars and choose among six different classes of service, each offering different levels of amenities and experiences. The train ride takes about 1.5 - 2 hours each way with three hours at the South Rim unless you are staying overnight in the park. It only takes an hour to drive from Williams to the Grand Canyon, but if you want to avoid peak seasonal traffic and dealing with parking, then the train is a relaxing option. The Grand Canyon Railway depot , which is over 114 years old, is right behind the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel . Package deals combining ride and room are available.  The hotel’s site has a long history of hospitality associated with rail travel. The Fray Marcos Hotel opened there in 1908 with just 22 rooms. Today’s hotel, designed to look like the Marcos, opened in 1995 and has 298 rooms. The hotel's main reception and sitting area is grand and warm with deep leather couches, a stone fire place, vaulted ceiling and dark wood trim. When the fire roars at night it's an especially relaxing spot. Overall, the hotel is well-maintained with nice amenities, including an indoor pool. The rooms are updated with modern finishes and decor. The furnishings and accessories reflect a railroad theme in subtle ways, such as a metal rivet detail on the headboards and framed black and white photos of steam engines. The rooms are gracious—a double queen, for instance, has plenty of room for a family of four. The hotel has a kind of Disney-esq quality with its landscaped flower beds and piped music playing outside. There are also historic train cars and engines displayed on the grounds. The hotel hosts special events during the year, such as the hugely popular Polar Express. Book that one way in advance. One of the hotel’s best features is its proximity to the heart of downtown Williams, an easy five min walk. It’s not an inexpensive hotel, but if it's in your budget, it’s worth it. The hotel also has a RV park if that's how you're traveling. Even if you aren’t staying at the hotel (there’s a new Hampton Inn on the edge of town), it's a just a nice place to walk around and see. And, the hotel’s lounge, Spencer’s Pub, is a quiet place to grab a late night drink and dessert.  If you’re a train or history enthusiast visiting Williams in 2025, the Arizona Railroad Heritage Park and Arizona State Railroad Museum may be open. According to its website, the park will be spread across 21-acres. The park's centerpiece will be a museum designed with the feel of railroad engine houses and repair shops. Visitors can expect hands-on exhibits, archives, an outdoor amphitheater and more. Get Outdoorsy The great outdoors is another special feature of Williams, which is surrounded by the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Since the town is at the base of Bill Williams Mountain in the Kaibab National Forest , the choices for outdoor recreational activities, include biking, fishing, and exploring with all-terrain vehicles. The forest is over 1.6 million acres and also borders the north and south rim of the Grand Canyon Want to explore the national forest? Check out Grand Canyon UTV Tours in downtown Williams and its backcountry tours. This company also hosts tours to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. If lake life is more your thing, then check out the fishing, boating and picnic options at Cataract Lake, just outside of town. Visit-Worthy Williams If you find yourself heading west outside Flagstaff along I-40, make a plan to exit in Williams. It embodies so much of the lore wrapped up in America’s transportation history. Plus, it’s a convenient homebase for a Grand Canyon visit.  The charm of Williams is ever present. It definitely caters to tourists and it’s a little kitschy, but it’s fun, unique and offers something for the entire family.  For more information about Williams, check out the visitor center’s website at www.expereincewilliams.com This story is part of a series that highlights some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites to see when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, aka the “Mother Road.”

She was a scandal. Pouty lips, rumors of wild unladylike behavior and, of course, all that money. Broadway torch singer Libby Holman married into the wealthy R.J. Reynolds family at the height of the Great Depression, but her story was anything but a dream come true. Tragedy, whispers and innuendo followed her throughout her life. Libby’s story is like a film noir screenplay. All the ingredients are there including wealth, passion, intrigue and, most importantly, a suspicious death. Libby, along with a suspected lover, was indicted for the death of her young husband, Zachary “Smith” Reynolds, but the whodunit remains unanswered today. Zachary "Smith" Reynolds, his wife Libby Holman and the Reynolda estate. From the N.C. Department of Cultural and Natural Resources website Was it murder, an accident or suicide are questions at the heart of “Zach & Libby: Two Rings, Seven Months, One Bullet,” a special exhibit at the Reynolda House Museum of American Art in Winston-Salem, N.C., until Dec. 31. Reynolda was Smith's family home and where he lost his life. The exhibit, along with a tour of the estate is an intriguing deep dive into this shocking story. A Small City with Big Money Smith’s death was a national scandal in the 1930s and the public hung on every headline and newsreel, especially with Libby’s subsequent indictment. The backdrop was Winston-Salem, a small, Southern city that benefited from tobacco and textile money. At its heart, Winston (locals always drop the Salem part) and its residents aren’t that different now as they were then. It’s a polite town where people smile at strangers. Residents enjoy low-crime, a high level of education and live among beautiful tree-filled landscapes in the heart of N.C.'s piedmont. The arts are appreciated and volunteerism thrives. It was never a place where you’d imagine its most influential family rocked by a possible murder. The Reynolds-produced cigarette brands, Salem and Winston, were even named after the city. I lived in and around Winston for decades and knew about the suspicious death at Reynolda, the family’s estate. But, the murder happened so long ago, I didn’t know about the key players in great detail, especially one. Then, I happened to wander into an antique consignment shop just a few miles from where all the action happened. Tucked among old lamps, toys and costume jewelry, I spotted the cover of a book. It featured a dramatic caricature of a woman clad in a long, hot pink dress. Her hair was dark and wild, her lashes extra long and her lips big and brazen. I read the back cover and realized this was all about the wife and possible murderess of the Reynolds heir. I bought the dusty book, “Dreams that Money Can Buy: The Tragic Life of Libby Holman” by Jon Bradshaw , and read it within days. At the time, I wondered how this incredible, headline-grabbing story had remained unsolved and dwindled away. Yes, it happened in the 1930s, but the elements of the case, the setting and everyone involved are fascinating. Fred Koester's 1960 poster of Libby Holman on display in the Reynolda House exhibit. The same image was used on the cover of Jon Bradshaw's 1985 book about the torch singer. Reynolda: Luxury Among Nature Smith’s father, Richard Joshua Reynolds, grew up on a tobacco farm in Virginia. After college, he settled in Winston and built his empire, the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. He married Katharine Smith and together they had four children: R.J. Reynolds Jr. (Dick), Mary, Nancy and Smith. The family lived downtown, not far from the tobacco factories. As the hustle and bustle of city life wore thin, Richard and Katharine decided to seek refuge among nature and the result was building Reynolda. Katharine bought large tracts of land just outside the city and construction soon followed. The gracious mansion has sixty rooms, including eight bedrooms, many with an adjoining sleeping porch (important plot point!). Arial view of Reynolda estate in 1927 showing main house and the adjacent gardens and village. Photo from the Reynolda House Museum of American Art Archive. Recreational activities on the Reynolda estate included swimming, golf, horseback riding and tennis. I imagine hunting and shooting was probably regular activities, as well. As a child, I knew an elderly woman who said she attended a party at Reynolda and on that particularly raucous night the “blind” for shooting deer on the front lawn was an upstairs window. Who knows if it's true, but it's a great story. It was after another rowdy party at Reynolda that Smith met his untimely death. Player Number 1: Daredevil Smith When viewing the Reynolda House exhibit about the murder–complete with news articles, artifacts and historic pictures–its clear Libby and Smith were forces of nature. Maybe tragedy was bound to happen after two such people collide. Zachary "Smith" Reynolds in January 1931, just six months before his death by a gunshot wound to the head. Photo from Wikimedia Commons. As explained in the exhibit, Smith was nicknamed “Camel” as a child since he was a year old when the cigarette brand was launched. The moniker didn’t last long and was replaced with the more apt “Daredevil Smith.” The young Reynolds wasn’t interested in school. Adventure and flying filled his days. Smith earned a pilot’s license at 16 and was the youngest transport pilot in the nation. He flew all over the world as he logged a 17,000 mile solo-trip from England to China in 1931. Smith mastered flying stunts, aeronautical mechanics and shared his aviation passion with his older brother, Dick. The brothers were well known among aviators–even loaning planes to the likes of Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh. A pioneer in aviation, the city’s small airport is named in Smith’s honor. Player Number 2: The Dark Purple Menace Elizabeth “Libby” Holman was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, into a well-off family. “Born into” is the key phrase. The year of her birth, the family lost its fortune when her paternal uncle embezzled a $1 million from the family stockbroker business. Her family struggled, but Libby, an ambitious and adventurous woman, rose above it. Libby Holman in a University of Cincinnati yearbook photo. From the Cincinnati Public Library (chpl.org). She eventually was cast in the chorus of a popular Broadway show and began to rub elbows with New York’s rich and famous. The city was Libby’s playground in the 1920s and '30s. She wasn’t a conventional beauty, but she had that special something that drew others in. With her deep, throaty voice, Libby appeared in numerous hit Broadway shows and was an ideal torch singer known for songs such as “ Moanin’ Low ” and “ Body and Soul .” Libby, credited as the first woman to wear a strapless evening gown, had a dramatic and seductive presence on stage. Theater critic Brooks Atkinson referred to her persona as a “dark purple menace.” Libby Holman portrait by Sarony studio to promote the 1928 musical "Rainbow" next to a 2023 reproduction of her dress by Jenna Sais Quois Designs. Holman is credited as the first woman to wear a strapless evening gown. Black and white photo provided to Reynolda House exhibit by Boston University's Howard Gotlieb Archieval Research Center. The Ways and Wanes of the Heart Libby was actually in a tumultuous lover/friend relationship with Lousia d'Andelot Carpenter Jenny, heir to the Du Pont fortune, when she first met Smith. He watched one of Libby's stage performances and his infatuation was instant. For Libby, cupid’s arrow didn’t strike just yet. Smith chased after Libby relentlessly, but in addition to Louisa, he had another obstacle in his way – his wife. Smith was married to Anne Ludlow Cannon, whose family founded the Cannon Mills textile empire, also in N.C. The two had married hastily as teenagers on Nov. 16, 1929. Although Smith had pursued Anne, it seems the wedding was at her father’s insistence. “The wedding of Anne Cannon and Smith Reynolds was celebrated at midnight in York, S.C. There were no witnesses except the bride’s father and a policeman,” was how a 1931 "Time" article described the nuptials after Smith’s death. Nine months after the wedding, the couple’s daughter, also named Anne, was born in August of 1930. Smith and Anne’s union was brief and unhappy. With his sights now set on Libby, Smith flew Anne to Reno where she resided for six weeks to establish residency in order to get a quickie divorce. At the time, Nevada had loose divorce laws, so women, especially those of means, stayed on glorified ranches, enjoying horseback riding and other pursuits, until their divorce was official. For Anne and Smith, that date was Nov. 23, 1931. Six days later, Smith quietly married Libby. Seven months later Smith was dead. The Longest Night The Reynolda House exhibit includes a film noir-style short film, “The Longest Night,” that outlines in detail the events surrounding Smith's death. Along with the film is a map of the crime scene "sketched" on the floor and onto the wall. The longest night happened on July 6, 1932. Libby and Smith were hosting a birthday party for a friend. From the main house to the boat house, the guests drank, enjoyed canoeing on the lake and partied all day. Libby had one too many drinks and Smith was annoyed. Among the guests were Albert “Ab” Walker, Smith’s childhood best friend turned personal secretary. Supposedly, a drunken Libby leaned into Ab while standing at the boathouse porch railing. Some party-goers believed she kissed him, others weren’t sure. The party wrapped up and the only remaining guests were Ab and Libby’s Broadway friend, actress Blanche Yurka. Smith and his still-drunk wife retired to the sleeping porch of the main bedroom. The two argued. Then, the house was quiet, but not for long. Around midnight, a night watchman heard a muffled gunshot. Libby awoke her guests with screams. Hysterical, Libby said she woke up and saw Smith standing over her with a gun to his head and then – boom – he shot himself. The group rushed Smith to the nearby hospital where he died four hours later. He was only 20 years-old. The coroner declared it a suicide. Death of Zachary "Smith" Reynolds Shocks the Nation For a little while the matter of Smith’s death was closed. But, the tide slowly turned. The evidence didn’t add up and law enforcement officials declared Smith was killed by a “person or persons unknown.” Of the twists and turns in the case, it was revealed Libby was pregnant, which was considered a possible motive for murder. Smith wouldn’t inherit his fortune – almost $30 million – until he turned 28, but his heir would gain all the riches upon his death no matter his age when he died. To put in context, $30 million then is the equivalent of over $500 million today. The narrator for a Hearst Metrotone newsreel in the exhibit declared that Smith’s death “shocked the nation'' and Libby was “cast in the most dramatic role of her life.” Assistant Solicitor McMichael appeared on camera to assure the curious public of two things: “truth be known” and “justice done.” In early August charges came. “LIBBY HOLMAN AND WALKER INDICTED FOR MURDER” blazoned across the top of the "New York Daily News" and publications throughout the country. Libby claimed she had no memory of what happened other than waking up just before seeing Smith shoot himself. She also claimed Smith had brandished guns and threatened to hurt himself before. Others who had known Smith brought up similar dramatic claims. The crime scene is mapped out in the exhibit and it's easy to see how a suicide didn’t make sense to law enforcement, especially the bullet’s trajectory. Smith, according to Libby, was standing, but the downward path of the bullet also cut a hole in six feet above the floor into a screen door. Other puzzling facts included smeared blood on the bathroom door. Did someone try to clean up? And, Smith was left-handed, but the bullet entered his right temple. That seemed odd, too. Other questions included the whereabouts of the gun and the nature of Libby and Ab’s relationship. Were they in cahoots? Was Ab the real father of the baby? It was juicy stuff and the public couldn’t get enough. Shocking Reversal of Fortune Libby appeared at her bond hearing looking forlorn and shrouded in black including a veil over her face. Things didn’t look good for Ab and Libby. Libby Holman at her bond hearing in August of 1932 after being indicted for her husband's murder. Photo from Wikimedia Commons. Libby’s father, an attorney, proclaimed his daughter’s innocence. It’s a “dastardly frame-up,” he said according to a “Time” article about the indictment. Some speculated Libby was targeted for her wild, theater lifestyle and Jewish heritage. Then, in the most stunning turn of events, Smith’s uncle and guardian, William Reynolds, requested the entire matter be dropped. Even though the family did not believe Smith killed himself, William cited the lack of conclusive evidence for a conviction and the fact the ongoing scandal had dragged on long enough. Indeed, charges were dropped. It’s an enduring mystery. No one will ever know if Smith died by murder, accident or suicide. Adding to the ongoing intrigue was gossip that Ab supposedly said he would take to the grave what he knew about the night of the murder. Ab waffled between claims he never said those words or that he was misunderstood. The Aftermath Six months after Smith’s death, Libby gave birth to Christopher Smith “Topper” Reynolds. There was much legal wrangling about Smith’s inheritance, especially considering he had two heirs. In 1936, the issue was settled with $7 million going to Topper and $10 million to his daughter Anne, according to the “New York Times," which covered the legal matter with great focus. Libby Holman and son Christopher "Topper" Reynolds, 1933. Photo from Wikimedia Commons. Tragedy followed Libby for the rest of her life. Failed relationships with both men and women and more death, including Topper's in a mountain climbing accident in 1950 at age 17. Libby married two more times and was in a 10-year relationship with the Hollywood acting legend Montgomery Clift. She returned to her singing career in the 1950s and '60s and was actively involved in political causes, including being an early supporter of Martin Luther King, Jr. Libby committed suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning in 1971. She was survived by her sons, Timmy and Tommy, whom she adopted in the late 1940s. Under his siblings’ direction, Smith’s portion of his father’s inheritance was used to create the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. The non-profit has poured millions of dollars into improving the lives of North Carolinians since its inception 80 years ago. No surprise, where there's scandal, there’s Hollywood waiting to tell the story. Two movies came out rather quickly after the death of Zachary "Smith" Reynolds: “Sing, Sinner, Sing” (1933) and “Reckless” (1935). Robert Wilder’s 1946 novel, “Written on the Wind,” was also loosely based on Smith’s death and adapted into a 1956 movie of the same name starring Lauren Becall, Dorothy Malone and Rock Hudson. See The Exhibit And How the Reynolds Family Lived Although much about Libby and Smith is discussed here, there is so much more to learn and see in the exhibit and throughout Reynolda House . The home is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and worth a visit on its own. From the well-appointed main hall to the study where President Truman took a short nap, Reynolda House provides a glimpse into another era. Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Winston-Salem, N.C. Admission is $18 per person and includes the exhibit and the house (see the sleeping porch!). Free admission is offered to select groups, such as children under the age of 18, students and military personnel with ID. For more information about a day trip to Reynolda House and other entertaining activities at the Reynolda estate, click the "Things to do in Winston-Salem" tag and check out, "Visit Historic Reynolda for a Day of Retail Therapy, Delicious Food and Recreation."

When my family said they wanted to visit the Churchill War Rooms , I thought, “Hmmm, maybe I’ll sleep in that morning.” Well, I didn’t and I’m glad. I’m not a huge history buff, so I thought I’d bore quickly during the self-guided audio tour. Just the opposite! This underground bunker for Winston Churchill, his staff and advisors during WWII was unlike any museum I’ve ever visited. The tour takes you throughout the living and working areas of the bunker. Highlights include Churchill's sleeping quarters with its single bed and desk, the secretarial area with a silent typewriter (Churchill couldn't tolerate the clattering noise) and the map room where the positions of British forces and foes were noted with pushpins on huge paper maps lining the room. These areas are untouched by time and look as they did years ago except for the uniformed mannequins placed throughout. In the middle of the bunker is a large, modern exhibit room detailing Churchill’s life. The room is dark and the lighting design adds an interesting feel to all the artifacts. One cleverly designed display was an arrangement of Churchill’s hats. Not only did Churchill enjoy wearing hats, but also used them in a costume-like manner, designed to convey a particular public image. He knew a thing or two about personal PR! In addition to his exceptional intellect and motivating leadership, the museum also highlights Churchill’s creative talents. He was a gifted and prolific writer who reported from the front lines as a young war correspondent, penned volumes of books and crafted speeches that rank among the most powerful in history. He was also a talented artist who especially enjoyed painting landscapes. Although just a joyful hobby throughout Churchill's adult life, his work now fetches millions. As reported in the New York Times, actor Brad Pitt bought a Churchill painting in 2011 for $2.9 million as a gift for his then-wife, actress Angelina Jolie. Flash forward, the romance is over and she sold the painting at Christie’s in 2021 for around $11.5 million. That’s one way to stick it to an ex. At the end of the War Rooms tour, like every attraction, is a gift shop. I can honestly say the items for sale rank among the best I’ve seen at a tourist spot. There is a large selection of high-quality books (no surprise), but what I enjoyed the most was the use of vintage propaganda imagery. My favorite was the phrase “Keep Mum She’s Not So Dumb !” blazon across a poster featuring a blonde surrounded by military men. No cocktail or pillow talk secrets around her, she could be a spy. Got to love some retro kitsch! With its wealth of information, a visit to the Churchill War Rooms is a London must see attraction for history and non-history buffs alike. The overall experience digs deep into Churchill’s life revealing his multifaceted persona while also successfully portraying work and life in the bunker. Tickets , which range from £15 - £30 (about $29-$35) for ages 5 and up, are available at the door, but play it safe and book a time slot ahead of time as lines, or queues as the Brits like to say, can get long. Guided tours for small groups are available for an additional price are offered before regular museum hours several times a week. For an even more immersed experience and a much bigger ticket price, the museum offers "behind the glass" private tours that allow you to walk around the spaces off limits to regular visitors.

For almost 50 years, the Center for Puppetry Arts  — a small but mighty arts center in midtown Atlanta — has delighted the young and young at heart. The center claims it will make people rethink everything they know about puppets and puppeteers, and it does.  Puppetry is simultaneously an ancient art found throughout the world and an art form that remains current and culturally relevant. Puppetry is a vehicle to facilitate laughter, education, and advocacy. It's also helped advance performance technology, especially in film and television.  The center opened its doors in 1978 and has remained a vibrant cultural center ever since. Famous puppeteer Jim Henson was on hand for the center's grand opening ceremony. The event was exciting news in hot ‘Lanta and the center remains a must-see for anyone in town who appreciates art, creativity, history and the entertainment industry. Yes, children will love this place, but don’t assume it’s just for them. In fact, during a recent visit the number of adults walking through the exhibit sans children far exceeded those who came with kiddos in tow.  The main highlight of the center are its three distinct exhibit spaces. Within The Worlds of Puppetry Galleries are two sections — the Jim Henson Gallery and the Global Gallery. The third area is for special, rotating exhibits, which currently highlights Henson's TV show "Fraggle Rock." The Jim Henson Gallery The Henson exhibit follows his evolution from a young visual artist into an accomplished screenwriter, filmmaker and influential entertainment icon.  Henson’s career history is thoughtfully presented and a visual delight with exhibits on "Sesame Street," "The Muppet Show," "The Dark Crystal," commercial work and much more. Plus, you get a behind the scenes look at how different kinds of puppets and creatures were made and operated.  As explained by the exhibit, a giant leap forward in this area was filming a full-bodied shot of Kermit riding a bicycle in the 1979 film, "The Muppet Movie." This feat was a huge departure from partial screenshots of Kermit with Henson operating everything from below. The special effect was made possible by an invisible system of wires operated off screen. Puppetry advancements evolved from there, leading to remote controlled motors, cable systems, animatronics, and more — amazing work by creative and innovative teams. The 1982 movie, "Dark Crystal," was a big milestone for Henson. It was the first ever, live-action film to feature no human actors. Instead, every character was a "creature" (a term Henson preferred over puppet in this case) with latex skin, glass eyes and operated by using a combination of traditional puppetry and groundbreaking modern techniques. All of the Henson's memorable puppets are featured in the exhibit including, Big Bird, Miss Piggy, Kermit (of course!), Rowlf the Dog, Fraggles, Pigs in Space, Gonzo, Emmet Otter and so much more.  This gallery also includes a mock television studio for an opportunity to experience first hand how puppeteers perform for a camera.  The Global Gallery This unique collection presents the history of puppetry in different regions around the world, such as France, Spain, Japan, Africa and the Americas . The gallery does an amazing job showing the true global reach of this art form  The exhibits are visually stunning and informative. For instance, in Vietnam the rice harvest is celebrated with a puppet show performed on water. Puppeteers stand in waist deep water hidden behind a screen and use wires to control all the action of wooden figures that stay afloat thanks to cork.  Among the other highlights are the shadow puppets of China; the protype mask puppets for Broadway’s The Lion King; England's Punch and Judy; and Japan’s Bunraku theater that uses sanninzukai (a team of three puppeteers clad in black to operate one puppet). Hollywood is well represented running the gamut from marionettes popular on American television in the 1950s to Chuckie of horror movie fame. Plus, stop animation puppets such as Gumby and the Corpse Bride. Special Exhibition Gallery The current special exhibit is an endearing look at "Fraggle Rock." If you ever watched the show, you'll soon be humming the theme song, "Down in Fraggle Rock," which is also the exhibit's title. The show premiered in 1980 and ran for five years on HBO and in countries around the world.  Gobo and friends from "Fraggle Rock" The show followed a group of loveable creatures called Fraggles that lived underground in a cave system alongside Doozers, tiny animals that spend their days constructing edible structures that were a favorite Fraggle snack. Giant Gorgs lived above ground and were always trying to keep Fraggles out of their garden.  Although "Fraggle Rock" went off the air in 1987, they didn’t stay away long. For instance, they appeared in a video for the music group Ben Folds Five; Hulu streamed the animated show, "Doozers," in 2014; and Apple TV+ ran a series of shorts called "Fraggle Rock: Rock On!" featuring celebrity guests. The association with Apple TV+ led to a full reboot of the show called "Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock" in 2022. A Doozer from the "Fraggle Rock" t.v. show The Fraggle exhibit explores all of this history and features the show’s popular characters, including Wembley, Gobo, Junior Gorg and more. Other Center Highlights In addition to the galleries, the center also features spaces for theater performances, classroom activities, and special events. Plus, there is a gift shop, indoor coloring area and an outdoor playground.  There are some hands-on activities in the exhibits, such as pulling levers to move marionettes and being a puppeteer in the mock studio set-up, but, overall, it’s not that kind of museum. If interested, there is a scavenger hunt connected to the galleries – don’t be fooled, though, some were tough to find! If you do find them all, a small prize awaits you in the gift shop.        Center For Puppetry Arts: Hidden Gem for All Ages The Center for Puppetry Arts is a small, hidden gem nestled within a big and vibrant city. The center truly offers something to delight all ages, especially since Henson’s work spans generations. It’s certainly delightful and heartwarming to visit Kermit, Bert, Ernie, Grover and so many other childhood friends.  Overall, the center’s galleries are filled with colorful, multimedia exhibits that are high-quality in design and include well-written descriptions and histories. Everything is professionally executed and easy to navigate. If you plan to visit, be sure to check out the performance schedule, too.  The center is in a quieter part of midtown with a little less hustle and bustle. It’s easy to find and there’s free parking onsite.  For more information visit, the center's website .

In my family, we’re movie people. Love movies – all kinds. We love them on the big screen, the home screen and the independent screen. If you enjoy movies, then you know there is nothing like sitting in a dark theater, popcorn in hand and going on a collective journey with fellow movie-goers. Movies are funnier, scarier and more heart-breaking when watched in a shared experience. In a theater, you can’t pause the film to check the pot roast or take out the trash. Your attention is focused. For those 120 plus minutes, your brain and emotions are only tied to what’s on the screen. As much as I love watching movies at a big theater, the small, independent movie houses hold a special place in my heart. The viewing experience is just as compelling and often more so as many of these small theaters are housed in unique, historic venues. Plus, independent theaters are often smaller, so the collective emotional journey is amplified. If you’re unfamiliar, independent movie theaters are different from their big-screen cousins. They’re the quirky, fun side of the family. They screen films ranging from classics and new releases (after their cineplex runs) to documentaries and low-budget indie films. Often, films that are first screened at small theaters gain momentum and acclaim, which then leads to them making the rounds among the cineplexes and the awards circuit. Independent theaters don’t have to follow any rules. They can host comedy nights, film festivals, concerts, game nights, dinner/movie nights, and so many more film-related events. The creative programming is only limited by the imagination of those running the theaters. For these venues, a more fitting, although boring, title is probably "cultural, multi-use facility" than movie theater considering the variety of their activities. For our family, one such activity was watching National Lampoon’s "Christmas Vacation" at The Cary Theater in Cary, N.C., in conjunction with an ugly sweater contest. I voted for the person who came dressed as the movie's Cousin Eddie character. The whole outfit is like an ugly sweater, after all. The Cary is a member of Art House Convergence (AHC), an organization dedicated to the independent movie theater community. Sponsored by the Sundance Institute , the AHC serves approximately 2,000 member theaters across North America and Western Europe. As part of its support, the AHC regularly collects survey-based research. Among their findings, community-based, independent movie theaters are viewed as: • enhancing the cultural life of a community. • a source of community pride. • inspiring and encouraging artistic expression. • adding to a community’s economic vitality. Plus, these theaters help preserve a community's heritage because they are often housed in renovated, historic buildings and considered landmarks. As more people are watching streaming services from home, the AHC and its members are continuing to find ways to attract audiences, especially from all walks of life and younger demographics. Prior to the pandemic – the last survey I found online – independent movie theaters were drawing in more millennials. Today, my Gen Z son, Jack, and I attended a screening of short films at The Cary during its annual Beyond Film Festival . Afterwards, filmmakers answered questions and then the discussions continued in the lobby. People didn’t rush out to their cars and head home. People hung around since the energy was up and the lively conversations flowed. It was the same friendliness I experience every time I visit The Cary. Jack and I went around the corner for lunch and realized all the people sitting at the tables near us were talking and laughing about the shorts we just watched. "Love and Laughter" was the theme of the screening, so there was lots of humor to revisit. This is what I love and among the reasons my crush on independent movie theaters continues. They bring people together. All the reasons found in the AHC research ring true. If your town is home to an indie movie theater, give it a chance. Look at the programming and odds are you’ll find something you like. I bet you’ll develop a crush, too.