A great place to bring the family and get out of the summer heat. Such a fun geological find. Family-owned and operated, they only discovered it when they went to do an excavation and found this amazing, underground, magical place. They have turned it into a really great tourist stop. A mini Carlsbad and much more affordable. The gift shop could use some help; overall, the place is worth the stop. Just off Hwy 421 on the outskirts of Bristol, TN/VA.

Four Peaks is one of my all-time favorite places to get lost in. I grew up looking at these four mountain peaks. It's a gravel road for a good five miles or more, then it's a very well-traveled road for another five or so. This area is very popular with ATVs and dirt bikes, but they have a lot of their own paths the higher up you go. Snakes are a factor up here, especially on warmer days. I rattle keys when I hike. It's my way of speaking in rattlesnake, so they know I'm coming. The higher up, the cooler it gets. There are Aspen trees near the top. After the high-clearance SUV All-wheel drive is recommended, and to get all the way to the very tip-top and over the mountain, it's best to have a 4x4 for the final 2 miles. I've done it in my 4Runner many times. Also, you should have zero fear of heights or a love of adrenaline to go all the way. If you do, then you will find a smoother road on the other side, and it comes out on Hwy 188 at Tonto Basin.

A fun and quirky Wizard of Oz wax museum that pays great tribute to the movie and the characters. It's not a huge place, but it's packed full of fun, and they have a gift shop! Great place for fans of all ages. I've been here a few times and I still love coming back. East of Topeka, about 20 minutes north of the 1-70 - Worth the time.

Love a cave in the hot summer heat. Especially one that is part of the National Park system. (my only bucket list). Getting here in June beats the worst of the summer crowds, too. It's a scheduled tour, but they have them going all day in the summer. Lots of interesting things to see and great exercise. Lots of walking paths to explore.