A Muse Nonprofit and Museum Consulting

06/15/2026

On Friday, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction to halt and reverse erasure of history at National Park Service (NPS) sites. The court’s ruling comes in a lawsuit brought by AASLH and a coalition of parks, science, and design groups challenging U.S.

06/06/2026

What if I told you one of Illinois' most important historic destinations is a small town that many travelers simply drive through?
Before Springfield became the state capital, Vandalia served as Illinois' political center from 1819 to 1839. It was here that lawmakers debated the future of a young state, where Abraham Lincoln served as a legislator, and where decisions were made that helped shape Illinois as we know it today.
While researching my latest Backyard Tourist article, and visiting Vandalia, I was reminded that some of our most meaningful travel experiences aren't found in major cities or famous attractions. They're found in places like Vandalia—communities that preserve the stories, buildings, and landscapes that connect us to our shared past.
The historic Statehouse, the National Road connections, and the town's remarkable role in Illinois history make it a destination well worth exploring.
As cultural travelers, we often talk about preserving history. Visiting places like Vandalia is one way we help ensure those stories continue to be told.
What's your favorite overlooked historic town in Illinois?

Before Springfield became synonymous with Illinois government… there was Vandalia. It’s easy to forget that capitals move. That power isn’t always fixed. But in the early years of the state, Vandal…

06/06/2026

The power of advocacy and collaboration. Love this!

06/05/2026

This would be a fun pivot!

06/03/2026

I've decided to take on a new challenge.
Over the next five years, I'll be visiting and writing about the homes, museums, libraries, memorials, and historic sites associated with every U.S. President.
As a museum professional, historian, and founder of Backyard Tourist, I'm fascinated not just by the presidents themselves, but by how communities preserve and interpret their stories. These sites tell us as much about America as they do about the individuals who occupied the White House.
My goal is to create a presidential travel series that highlights both iconic destinations and hidden gems across the country.
I'd love your help.
What presidential sites, libraries, museums, birthplaces, or memorials have impressed you the most? Which lesser-known sites should be on my radar? Are there any presidential destinations that surprised you?
Drop your recommendations in the comments. I'm building my road map now and would love to hear about your favorites.

As someone who has spent a career helping tell America’s stories through museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions, I’ve always been fascinated by the people who shaped our nat…

06/03/2026

America's first federally funded highway wasn't just a road.
It was a pathway to opportunity, westward expansion, and the growth of communities that still tell their stories today.
In my latest Backyard Tourist article, I explore the National Road and some of the fascinating destinations that make this historic route worth discovering—from historic downtowns and museums to presidential sites, roadside landmarks, and architectural treasures.
What I love most about the National Road is how it reminds us that travel isn't always about reaching a destination. Sometimes the journey itself is the story.
As cultural travelers, we often focus on famous attractions, but some of America's most meaningful experiences are found in the communities connected by historic routes like this one. These places preserve our shared history, strengthen local economies, and help us better understand how transportation shaped the nation we know today.
Have you traveled the National Road? What was your favorite stop?

Before interstate exits and GPS voices telling us where to turn, there was one road that helped shape America. The Historic National Road—often called the Cumberland Road—was the nation’s first fed…

05/30/2026

How cool is this?

https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/good-news/guinness-recognizes-cambridge-11-year-old-as-worlds-youngest-museum-curator/526-e16b4a51-db27-4805-ace5-38abcd8f956d

05/28/2026

It's National Hamburger Day! I wrote about some of my favorites in Illinois here: https://thebackyardtourist.com/travel-blog/
Where is your favorite? I am always looking for a reason to take a road trip!

05/28/2026

Chasing the Best Hamburgers in Illinois

There’s something wonderfully democratic about a great hamburger. No dress code. No reservations. No pretension. Just a toasted bun, a perfectly seasoned patty, and the kind of flavor that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Illinois has no shortage of iconic food — Chicago-style hot dogs, deep dish pizza, horseshoes, and Italian beef — but tucked along highways, town squares, riverfronts, and Route 66 corridors are burger joints that deserve just as much attention....

There’s something wonderfully democratic about a great hamburger. No dress code. No reservations. No pretension. Just a toasted bun, a perfectly seasoned patty, and the kind of flavor that makes yo…

05/26/2026

I first wrote about this exhibit a few years ago. For me, it is one of the most powerful exhibits I have seen showing the magnitude of the Viet Nam War.
I originally saw this exhibit at the National Veterans Art Museum in 2002, and more recently at the Chicago Public Library.
It is now on display at the Pritzker Military Museum and Library in Somers, WI.
read more here:
https://thebackyardtourist.com/2016/04/28/above-and-beyond/