Ontario by Camper: Bruce Peninsula, Algonquin Adventures & Unexpected Wine Country

On this episode of Go See Do Explore, Ashleigh and Christopher kick off the first part of their three-week Canada & New England camping road trip. From long-awaited stops in Ontario’s stunning Bruce Peninsula and Algonquin Provincial Park to a spontaneous discovery of wineries between Ottawa and Montreal, they share the real ups and downs of life on the road.

Highlights include:

• Why Bruce Peninsula National Park was a must-visit and what makes the grotto so spectacular

• Rustic camping challenges (and the surprisingly luxurious bathhouse) at Cypress Lake

• Canoeing memories brought full circle in Algonquin and the joy of front-country paddling

• A quirky roadside fry stand tradition you’ll only find in Western Ontario

• Their take on an under-the-radar wine region near Montreal

• How flexible planning turned detours into discoveries

Whether you’re dreaming of paddling pristine lakes, exploring small Canadian towns, or just curious about road-tripping with a camper, this episode blends inspiration with practical tips.

Road Trip Like a Pro: Smart Planning for Epic Adventures

Dreaming of the open road but want to avoid the stress, wasted miles, and missed experiences? In this episode, we share our step-by-step approach to planning an unforgettable road trip — from choosing your route and lodging to finding those perfect along-the-way stops.

We cover:

• How to decide between camping, hotels, or a mix of both

• Why your own car might not always be the best option

• Tools we use to map routes and avoid exhausting drive days

  • Furkot.com

• Strategies for booking popular spots before they sell out

• How to plan attractions without overloading your schedule

  • Roadtrippers
  • iExit

• The importance of flexibility when weather, work, or whim changes your plans

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend loop or a multi-week cross-country journey, you’ll walk away with practical tips to make your road trip smoother, more enjoyable, and full of moments worth remembering.

The Taste of Tradition: Exploring New Orleans Cuisine What happens when history, culture, and flavor collide on every plate? In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher share their recent experience navigating the rich and diverse food scene of New Orleans — a city where every bite tells a story.

Why New Orleans Cuisine Matters With deep roots in French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions, the city’s cuisine is bold, soulful, and anything but ordinary. Think gumbo that simmers all day, muffulettas stacked with flavor, and beignets that are worth the powdered sugar mess.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Tried-and-True Classics (That Actually Live Up to the Hype)

• Commander's Palace – Legendary Creole dining, jazz brunch, and yes… 25¢ martinis at lunch.

• Dooky Chase – A cornerstone of both culinary and civil rights history.

• Evangeline – A solid, less touristy French Quarter pick with real local charm.

• Napoleon House – A muffuletta + Pimm’s Cup combo in a building with stories to tell.

Quick Bites & Local Favorites

• Café du Monde – Touristy? Sure. Still worth it? Absolutely.

• Central Grocery – Grab the OG muffuletta to-go and find a shady spot nearby.

• Stein’s Deli – When you're craving a killer Reuben that rivals NYC’s.

A Few Offbeat Gems

• Latitude 29 – A tiki bar done right, with food that surprises.

• French Toast – A wallet-friendly breakfast spot tucked near the French Market.

• The Maison – Live jazz + gumbo fries = a very New Orleans night out.

Wine Break This episode’s sip: Bel Lago’s Auxerrois from Michigan. Light, juicy, and refreshingly unpretentious — the kind of wine that invites conversation.

Planning tip: Check out New Orleans Foodies on Facebook for more restaurant ideas!

A Trip Through New Orleans: Culture, Music, and the Unexpected

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into the heart of New Orleans, a city where every corner feels like a blend of stories, rhythms, and layered history. From its iconic jazz roots to its hidden courtyards, New Orleans offers more than just a party—it's a place that stays with you.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Why New Orleans Feels Different

Founded in 1718, New Orleans has lived many lives—French, Spanish, and American rule have all left their mark. It's a city shaped by resilience, including the profound impact of Hurricane Katrina and its recovery in the years since.

But beyond the headlines, this is a place where cultures overlap in ways that feel alive. The architecture, the music, the food—each tells its own part of the story.

Reasons to Go (That Go Beyond Bourbon Street)

• A rich cultural fusion that includes French, African, Caribbean, and Spanish influences

• Music that pulses through the city—from traditional jazz to funk and brass bands

• Creole and Cajun food that surprises with every bite

• Local traditions like second line parades and porch concerts that bring people together

• A sense of place that feels historic without being frozen in time

Staying in the Right Spot

While the French Quarter is iconic, it can get pricey. For something more grounded but still walkable, consider Marigny or Bywater—neighborhoods with soul, great coffee, and colorful houses that are fun to explore on foot. We stayed at the Hotel de la Monnaie, right on the edge of the French Quarter and Marigny.

Exploring the City

• Take a hop-on hop-off tour for a low-effort overview

• Join a walking tour of the Garden District or French Quarter to dig deeper

• Ride the St. Charles streetcar or cruise the river on a steamboat

What to See & Do

• Frenchmen Street – An essential spot for live music, minus the chaos of Bourbon

• St. Louis Cathedral & Jackson Square – Picturesque, yes, but still worth seeing

• The National WWII Museum – Powerful and incredibly well-curated

• Mardi Gras World – A behind-the-scenes look at the floats and pageantry

• Swamp tours – Get outside the city and into Louisiana’s unique natural world

• Plantation Tour - Step back in time and experience old Louisiana. Just be sure to look for an ethical tour that gives the slaves' perspective, such as the Whitney Plantation.

Eating & Drinking Well

Try the classics—beignets, po’ boys, seafood gumbo, and muffulettas. Don’t skip the local cocktails either; a properly made Sazerac is a taste of New Orleans in a glass. Be sure to check back next week for our recap of New Orleans dining!

Wine Break: A Red for Summer

This week’s wine pick is a chilled red from Billsboro Winery in the Finger Lakes. It’s light, juicy, and perfect for warmer weather—something to sip on a patio while remembering live brass echoing from Frenchmen Street. They also suggest trying chilled Gamay or Pinot Noir for a similar feel.

ADD LINK TO FRESH OFF THE GRID SOMEWHERE

Finger Lakes Escape: Waterfalls, Wine, and Wonder

In this episode, Ashleigh and Christopher dive into their recent adventure through New York’s Finger Lakes—where glacier-carved lakes, quiet towns, and world-class wineries come together to create an unforgettable getaway.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Why the Finger Lakes?

This region in western New York is made up of long, narrow lakes surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and vineyards. Centered around Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes, the area feels both peaceful and packed with possibilities—from scenic drives to small-town discoveries.

Hiking Through Waterfalls at Watkins Glen

One of the most jaw-dropping experiences was hiking the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park. It’s less than 2 miles, but every twist in the trail reveals another waterfall. The path takes you past moss-covered cliffs, stone bridges, and pools that look like something out of a fantasy film. Pro tip: start from the top and hike down for an easier walk.

They even stayed at a campground where you can hike directly into the gorge. Waking up and walking straight into a wonderland of waterfalls? Hard to beat.

Unexpected Delight: Corning Museum of Glass

This isn’t your typical museum stop. The Corning Museum of Glass combines science, history, and art in a surprisingly fun way. There are live glassblowing demos, interactive exhibits, and even a chance to make your own piece of glass. If you love design, creativity, or just doing something totally different—this is worth the detour.

Wine with a View

With over 100 wineries in the region, wine tasting here feels more laid back than in more famous wine areas—without sacrificing quality. Whether you're into classics or curious to try something new, there’s a spot for you.

Some favorites from the trip:

• Atwater Vineyards – Sparkling Wines and epic lake views.

• Hermann J. Wiemer – Timeless and masterful with Riesling and Lemberger.

• Red Tail Ridge – Inventive winemaking with a sustainable edge.

• Billsboro – Cozy vibes and intimate tastings, especially of dry Rieslings. Try the tasting with the winemaker!

• Six Eighty Cellars - Innovative winemaking techniques with beautiful views. They also make beer, cider, and spirits.

• Dr. Konstantin Frank – A must for history and legacy; this winery helped shape the region.

Where to Eat

Between tastings and trails, there are some great local bites:

• Althea’s Finger Lakes Tavern – Solid burgers and local hangout energy.

• Holy Cow Deli – Pastrami that punches above its weight in tiny Watkins Glen.

• Scuteri’s Cannoli Connection – Chocolate-dipped shells and a case to be made for “best cannoli in the U.S.”

• Camp Stove Pad Thai - If you are for some camp cooking that is more gourmet than just hot dogs over the fire, check this recipe out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something about the Finger Lakes that sticks with you—lush landscapes, down-to-earth wineries, and places that feel like they were waiting for you to discover them. It’s not flashy, and that’s part of the magic.

If you’ve been, we’d love to know your favorite stop—or what you’d add to the itinerary next time.

If Traverse City, Michigan has been on your radar—or even if it hasn’t—this episode is for you. Ashleigh and Christopher break down everything you need to know for a first visit: from hidden gems and outdoor adventures to the best places to stay, sip, and unwind. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a summer escape, this guide will help you experience Traverse City like a local.

Set along the clear blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, this northern Michigan destination offers more than just small-town charm. Expect rolling vineyards, lake breezes, scenic drives, and an easygoing pace that still keeps things interesting.

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, we earn a small commission from purchases that allow us to continue telling you our stories without costing you anything extra.

Get outside:

• Bike the TART Trail through town and along the water
• Climb the dunes and cruise the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive at Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Swim or sun at one of many calm, sandy beaches along Grand Traverse Bay
• Catch a sunset sail on the tall ship Manitou
• Try world-class golf at Arcadia Bluffs or Grand Traverse Resort
• Visit in winter? Bring your skis or snowshoes

Explore and shop:

• Wander downtown Traverse City’s boutique shops and indie bookstores
• Visit Cherry Republic for quirky gifts and all things cherry
• Tour the Grand Traverse Commons, a historic site now home to cafés, galleries, and tunnels you can actually explore

Drink local:

• Spend a day wine tasting on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas—don’t miss 2 Lads, Mawby, or Rove
• Grab a flight at North Peak or Mitten Brewing for great beer and lake views
• Sample creative ciders at Taproot Cider House downtown

• Beachfront resorts in Acme such as Sugar Beach for lakefront sunrise views
• Downtown digs like Delamar put you close to the action
• Inn at Chateau Grand Traverse on Old Mission Peninsula offer quiet vineyard vibes
• Campers, you’re covered at Traverse City State Park—just steps from the bay

Here are a few local favorites to keep you well-fed:

• Poppycocks’s – casual bites with a creative twist downtown
• Farm Club – a farm-to-table restaurant and brewery with trails and open fields
• Grand Traverse Pie Company – yes, get the cherry pie
• North Peak Brewing and Jolly Pumpkin – hearty fare and excellent beer
• Cup of Joe and Higher Grounds– the kind of local coffee shop you’ll wish was in your hometown

• Summer is peak season—book early or come in spring or fall for fewer crowds and lower rates
• Consider camping if you’re looking to save and stay close to nature
• Don’t skip time on the water—paddleboarding, kayaking, or just floating is a must

Have a Traverse City favorite we didn’t mention? Reach out and let us know—your tips might make it into a future episode.