Louise Masin Sattler

Explore Los Angeles: Affordable Fun During the World Cup

Published on June 2, 2026 by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

This summer, Los Angeles will be in the spotlight as they are one of the North America cities to host the World Cup Football (Soccer) Games.

For travelers visiting Los Angeles, there’s plenty to explore associated to the World Cup and beyond the excitement of the games. Here’s my list of ten budget-friendly activities to enjoy while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the “City of Angels”.

1. WORLD CUP WATCH PARTIES HOSTED IN LOS ANGELES

Visiting Los Angeles this summer and hoping to snag a ticket to the World Cup? If you’re unable to secure one or simply want to enhance your experience, consider joining one of the hundreds of WATCH PARTIES taking place throughout the city! (This information is courtesy of LA LIST.)

2. HIT THE BEACHES!

The words 'BEACH LIFE' styled with a sunset beach scene background.

Each beach area has its own unique personality. If you’re new to the region, you might want to explore the more iconic beaches, such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica.

For surfing enthusiasts, head north to Malibu or south to Hermosa Beach. Keep in mind that parking can be a challenge in both locations, so aim to arrive early in the day!

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach, venture to the southernmost point in Los Angeles County and visit Rosie’s Dog Beach located in Long Beach.

3. DISCOVER THE MUSEUMS!

A gold Oscar statue located inside the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, with a modern interior and seating in the background.

Many times during the year the LA museums are free to the general public. You can get the schedule here for the FREE MUSEUM DAYS.

LA based museums offer their discount or free entries on different days- so be sure to check the schedules for each place. The GETTY museums are free every day – but parking can cost.

4. ROSE BOWL FLEA MARKET

On the second Sunday of each month, the Rose Bowl hosts a flea market. Check out the information here. The admission fee is $10 (regular admission at 9am) or $20 for VIP entry that starts at 5am. (TIPS: Wear comfortable shoes, bring your own bags, and be hydrate! – This is the ‘grand-daddy’ of flea markets)

5. VISIT “THE HUNTINGTON“

This is a one of a kind place in Los Angeles, an enchanting oasis that seamlessly blends the beauty of nature with the richness of culture. Part library, botanical gardens, museums, and restaurants, it offers an extraordinary experience that caters to a variety of interests. While there is a fee for admission, know that you can spend an entire day here enjoying the unique offerings, which truly makes it worth the price. Don’t forget to bring a good camera as the photo ops are endless! Plan your visit here.

6. SEE A TELEVISION SHOW TAPING

Life-size cutouts of two game show hosts standing next to a colorful Wheel of Fortune game wheel inside a building.

Television shows tape all year in Los Angeles. From weekly series to talk shows to competitions (such as Dancing with the Stars). For more information on how you can get tickets to be in the audience go here: https://1iota.com or On Camera Audiences

Tip: Get your tickets early! Popular shows have limited availability!

7. LAUGH at a COMEDY CLUB!

Neon sign for a comedy club, featuring the words 'COMEDY CLUB' in bright blue and pink lights against a dark urban background.

Many comedy clubs are in the Los Angeles area. They usually require a two drink minimum and some ask for you to order a meal. Tickets for well-known comedians are sell out quickly. However, there are many nights where the lesser known talent provide very entertaining shows for a fraction of the cost. Note: Clubs are for 21 years of age and up.

Here is a list of LA based comedy shows: Comedy venues list

8. WALK the VENICE CANALS

A serene view of a river bordered by residential buildings and lush greenery, featuring a stone bridge and blooming yellow flowers in the foreground.

After you hit the beaches (or before), take some time to walk the canals of Venice. Meander through neighborhoods along the canals filled with beautiful landscaping and ducks, of course!

9. GO HOLLYWOOD!

Busy urban street view with palm trees, traffic signals, and a sign for Van Ness Avenue, showcasing a clear blue sky and various buildings.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Los Angeles without indulging in the quintessential “Hollywood experience.” Start your journey on the glamorous Rodeo Drive, where you can stroll and “window shop” among luxury boutiques. Next, either call an Uber or take a drive to North Hollywood, where you can people-watch and encounter some of the city’s most “interesting” characters.

While in the area, don’t miss your chance to find your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame along North Hollywood Boulevard. Continue your adventure at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, a must-see landmark that embodies the spirit of cinema.

Feel like taking a hike? Then make your way to the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign.

Lastly, treat yourself to a late-night bite at Canter’s Deli on Fairfax Avenue, renowned for its delicious offerings. Come hungry as the portions are big!

TIP: Keep in mind that there is quite a bit of distance between the Hollywood Sign and most other attractions, so plan your itinerary accordingly!

10. Watch the sunset from one of the many spectacular vistas in Los Angeles. Whether the Hollywood Hills near the Griffith Observatory or the beaches from Long Beach to Malibu. Don’t miss the sunsets!

Sunset over the ocean at Redondo Beach, California, with a reflection of light on the water and a view of rocky coastline.

MORE FUN IDEAS FOR VISITORS TO LOS ANGELES

Calling all those who love to shop vintage! Los Angeles has no shortage of vintage shops or second-hand boutiques. Venture out of the downtown area and make your way south to Old Torrance, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, Belmont Shore or even Whittier.

Visit CRAFTED in San Pedro. A unique maker’s market that is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11-5pm. While there cross the parking lot to WAREHOUSE 9 and enjoy the music, craft beers or ciders, and one of the many offerings from food trucks. Also explore more of San Pedro by checking out Cabrillo Beach and Aquarium, the USS IOWA, and the downtown area art museums. For more about San Pedro and area attractions click here.

If you want to stay more centrally located, visit the speciality museums such as the GRAMMY MUSEUM, ACADEMY MUSEUM or the PETERSEN CAR MUSEUM.

And please go see a live event at the Hollywood Bowl, Pantages Theater, or “The Greek”. Los Angeles/ Hollywood is often called the entertainment capital of the world – so don’t leave without enjoying a performance or movie in a fun theater!

An outdoor concert setting with a large screen displaying 'INFINITY SAGA.' A live orchestra is set up on stage, and a large audience is seated in a tiered amphitheater.

All aboard the Queen Mary! This historically fascinating ship calls the Port of Long Beach home. You can even spend the night on the ship!

A historic ocean liner, the Queen Mary, docked in a harbor with palm trees and colorful buildings in the foreground during sunset.

I know that there are many

Top Route 66 Stops in New Mexico and Arizona

Published on April 30, 2026 by Louise Masin Sattler1 Comment

Of all the states we explored along Route 66, New Mexico and Arizona stood out as my absolute favorites! While they may not boast as many giants as Illinois or Oklahoma, and their attractions might be fewer and further apart, the sheer WOW factor of these two states earns them the prestigious “top prize” for Route 66 amazement!

Here are my leading reasons for any Route 66 travelers to be sure to add New Mexico and Arizona to the top of your list!

TUCUMCARI, NEW MEXICO

This quaint hamlet, situated just over the Texas border, conceals its charm—truly! A prime example of this was when we paused at the Russell Truck and Travel Center for what we thought would be a “regular gas fill-up,” but stumbled upon an AMAZING museum filled with Route 66 artifacts and other memorabilia! This delightful place raised the intriguing question, “How many Coca-Cola products can you fit into a single building?”

A vintage Coca-Cola display featuring red soda machines, bottles, and memorabilia, with a variety of Coca-Cola themed items and signage on the walls.

A vintage car museum display featuring classic cars, retro signs from Gulf and Coca-Cola, and numerous historical photographs and memorabilia on the walls.

A vintage diner scene featuring a life-sized statue of a woman in a white dress holding a soda, alongside a classic red car in a nostalgic setting with American memorabilia.

The BLUE SWALLOW HOTEL

A fun stop along the way is the Blue Swallow Motel. More known for the evening neon lights they display, this hotel was still pretty “retro” and worth a few minutes to snap photos.

Vintage sign for Blue Swallow Motel with a classic green car parked in front, featuring a blue sky background.

The ALBUQUERQUE ROUTE 66 DINNER

Say YES to this diner! I spoiled myself to “carb-hell” and back! From the vanilla shake to the huge grilled cheese sandwich- I loved it! And, while in Albuquerque, check out their world-renowned balloon museum.

DO NOT MISS THE PAINTED DESERT and PETRIFIED FOREST – ARIZONA

There are very few places on this planet that are so beautiful it renders me quiet! But the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest are two tanem parks that did just that of them! Juxtaposed to the endless skies above the north-eastern Arizona, is this massive national park with rock and mountain formations that are beyond description. In lieu of trying to conjure up words, I will let the photos that I snapped on an iPhone 17 do my “talking”.
Learn more on their website.

A panoramic view of colorful desert hills under a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

A panoramic view of a colorful desert landscape with layered hills and dramatic cloud formations in the sky.

A vast landscape featuring a bright blue sky with white clouds, scattered sunlight, and petrified tree stumps in the foreground.

(captions of voiceover)
PAINTED DESERT and PETRIFIED FOREST
OUTSIDE OF HOLBROOK
ON THE WAY TO WINSLOW, ARIZONA

SPEND TIME IN WINSLOW, ARIZONA

Be sure when driving on Route 66 to follow the directive of front-man, Don Henley, for the band the EAGLES, and “Stand on the Corner in Winslow Arizona!” Then celebrate by purchasing one of the thousands of commemorative t-shirts available! For more info, go here.

Also, check out LA POSADA, a hotel on the train line that is simply goregous. Known for the many notable /celebrity guests who have stayed there it is lovely!

A view of a street in Winslow, Arizona, featuring a prominent Route 66 emblem on the pavement, with pedestrians walking and a brick building in the background.

A woman stands next to a statue of a musician holding a guitar, under a street sign that reads 'Standin' on the Corner' in Winslow, Arizona, with a historic building in the background.

** We veered off Route 66 to discover Sedona, Oak Creek, Clarkdale, and a small village on the top of a step mountain – Jerome, Arizona! I will cover more about these areas in another blog.

FLAGSTAFF, SELIGMAN, OATMAN, and KINGMAN*

Note: I have visited Route 66 in this area before. This time we arrived to Seligman only to find out that there was a major accident that resulted in a total “black-out”. Not one light was on for miles! So, we left and continued to Kingman. Fatigued and ready for some good ‘ol comfort food- we headed to a perennial favorite, Cracker Barrel!

A distant view of a snow-capped mountain range under a clear blue sky, with a foreground of red earth and sparse vegetation. — Snow in mountains of Flagstaff

Road sign indicating directions to Grand Canyon, Los Angeles (left lane), and Flagstaff, surrounded by trees. — So many options! Where to go?!

A scenic view of rolling hills and mountains under a cloudy sky with patches of blue. — Oatman. Wa!tch out for the donkeys that rule the road

A bowl of chicken and dumpling soup with shredded chicken and thick dumplings in a light broth.

Exterior view of a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store illuminated at night, featuring rocking chairs and a landscaped area.

HELPFUL LINKS

New Mexico Route 66

Albuquerque Route 66 Centennial link

Arizona Route 66 link

Special events in Seligman and Visitors Bureau

Experience the Denali Star: Scenic Alaska Railroad Adventure

Published on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

All aboard! The Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star awaits! Next month hubby, friends, and I will embark on an exhilarating adventure from Anchorage to Fairbanks with an overnight stay at Denali! We’re eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse ourselves in the rich culture of the state that has earned its nickname as the “Last Frontier”.

As a lucky guest of the Alaska Railroad, I’m thrilled to document this unforgettable multi-day trip. With video (live and recorded), photos, and stories, as told by residents and fellow travelers, I’ll be sharing it all with you! History buffs can check out the timeline of the Alaska Railroad here.

The Alaska Railroad has several routes, onboard seating options, and dining choices. Details can be found here, along with instructions on how to book a ticket, information about excursions, and additional important details.

Two passengers enjoying the scenic view from inside an Alaska Railroad train, pointing towards the mountainous landscape and green meadows outside.

A bar attendant serves drinks to two passengers inside an Alaska Railroad train car, with scenic views visible through large windows.

I’d like to introduce you to an integral person at the Alaska Railroad, Robin Moore, their Marketing Communications Manager. We had a great conversation about riding the rails, including accessibility, and how a tourist to Alaska can make a trip on the Alaska Railroad an epic experience!

A woman and a girl smile and lean against the railing of a train while enjoying the scenic view of lush greenery outside.

Louise: Hi Robin! Thank you for offering us general information and details about the Alaska Railroad. Let’s start with a description of this railway.

Robin: The Alaska Railroad connects many of Alaska’s most popular destinations: Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. Our tracks span almost 500 miles across this great land, traveling along dramatic coastlines, pristine river valleys, expansive alpine forests, and traversing the Chugach Mountains and Alaska Range.

At the Alaska Railroad, we believe the journey should be just as spectacular as the destination.

Louise: The ALASKA RAILROAD is very popular in the summer months, however, please tell our readers about the off-peak experience of travelling on these trains.

Robin: The Alaska Railroad operates year-round with the Aurora Winter Train running from mid-September to early May. The Aurora Winter Train operates weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with northbound travel on Saturdays and southbound travel on Sundays, plus select midweek departures in February through the beginning of April.

The winter offers a quieter, snow-covered landscape. You can enjoy panoramic views from a warm, comfortable railcar with large windows and onboard dining. The journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks is 12 hours, which can be done in a day, or passengers can opt to stay and experience different destinations along the way including Wasilla and Talkeetna.

Louise: Which is your most popular route?

Robin: Our flagship train (and most well-known) is the Denali Star Train, traveling from Anchorage to Fairbanks, with stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park (then vice versa). The Coastal Classic Train (Anchorage to Seward) is on the rise in popularity and National Geographic Traveler ranked it their Top Ten Train Ride in North America.

Read the National Geographic Traveler’s comments regarding the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic Train.

Map of the Alaska Railroad route, highlighting key destinations including Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. — The Alaska Railroad offers several scenic trail journeys, including the Coastal Classic Train from Anchorage to Seward, which takes in the glaciers and waterfalls of the Kenai Peninsula.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY C.W. SUTPHIN, ALASKA RAILROAD

Louise: If you could give some advice for people about to embark on the ALASKA RAILROAD what would it be? (e.g. arrive early, bring comfortable shoes, pack rain gear for excursions, book excursions well in advance, order your meals ahead of time, etc.)

Robin: Pack layers, and a camera, and to enjoy the journey or experience. The Alaska Railroad is about the experience, the journey being just as spectacular as the destination. We want you to slow down, relax, and be present in the moment. Take the time to do that.

Louise: Is there anything a person with mobility issues, such as a wheelchair, should inform the ALASKA RAILROAD before their trip?

Robin: The Alaska Railroad has wheelchair lifts at all major depots, any communication and heads-up are always appreciated. Accessibility on other connecting modes of transport can vary, please check with the reservation agent for details.

Louise: Are there excursions that would be user-friendly for someone with a mobility issue?

Robin: Travelers with mobility challenges will find several accessible tour options throughout Alaska. Jeep, bus, and city tours are generally user-friendly and available in key destinations such as Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks.

Museums and cultural centers across the state also offer enriching, accessible experiences.

Robin’s list of recommended stops along the Alaska Railroad routes included these places:

The Anchorage Museum (Anchorage)
Alaska Native Heritage Center (Anchorage)
Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum (Fairbanks)
Pioneer Park (Fairbanks)
The Ice Museum (Fairbanks)

Robin also mentioned the following tour options, but please note travelers are advised to do their due diligence regarding accessibility and to communicate with the individual tour/excursion operators:

ATV TOURS: Some ATV tours are ADA accessible; however, guests with mobility limitations should contact the tour operators in advance to discuss transportation logistics.

LOCAL CRUISES: Most boat and wildlife cruises accommodate wheelchairs; however, a few may require navigating a short set of stairs to board.

VISIT A GLACIER: Spencer Glacier float trip is ADA accessible, but the shuttle bus to the launch point is not. Advance planning and coordination are necessary to make this excursion possible.

Readers who would like to learn more about the plethora of “things to do while visiting Alaska” are encouraged to visit TRAVEL ALASKA here.

Louise: Is there anything on the railroads for children with special needs – such as a sensory area?

Robin: There is not, however, we have worked with several partners and organizations to meet their needs as best as we can. Communication and planning are key factors in this.

Louise: Please, share about accommodations for infants and young children.

Robin: Infants under two can ride on their parents’ lap or may have their own seat if guardian deems necessary. That seat needs to be reserved when tickets are purchased.

Louise. Your media program- such as what I am doing – Is it important for outreach?

Robin: Yes, it is very important and one of key elements of our public relations program. Media outreach – both nationally and locally – plays a vital role in how we share our story, connect with target audience, and promote our brand. What you’re doing directly supports those efforts and helps us reach broader and more engaged audiences.

One reader had me ask an important question – “Does Santa ride the train to the North Pole?”

Robin responded: “Santa does ride the train but not necessarily going to the North Pole. Every year we have the Holiday Train event, it is an event family-friendly train and Santa does make an appearance and see all the kids and families on the train.

Person standing in front of the Alaska Railroad train, smiling and with arms raised in excitement, wearing sunglasses and a hoodie.man — Robin Moore, Alaska Railroad Marketing Communications Manager

And this interview wouldn’t be complete without learning more about Robin.

Louise: Robin, please tell us about yourself, the number of years you have been…

Robin is a born and raised Alaskan. She left the state for a short period of time to attend college and travel, but felt the pull back to this amazing part of the world over 13 years ago. “I truly love this state and think it is so unique!”, commented Robin.

She has been working with the Alaska Railroad for two years and in the tourism industry for almost a decade. And, I just had to ask- “When you are ready to leave the 49th state on vacation – where do you like to travel?

Her response – HAWAII!

*Lastly..**. an invitation*

Invitation graphic for an Instagram event featuring details about sharing interviews, photos, and videos from the Denali Star route on the Alaska Railroad.

Woodloch Pines - pine trees and a lake with a boat in the foreground

A Review of the Woodloch Pines Resort

Published on November 11, 2024May 19, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Recently, my family enjoyed an amazing four days in the idyllic rural setting of the Pocono Mountains, specifically at Woodloch Pines. When I say family, I mean our lively group of 20, spanning from just 7 weeks old to our “seniors”. If “Woodloch” rings a bell, it’s likely because this all-inclusive resort has proudly been voted the #1 Family Resort for the past five years by USA TODAY. Frankly, it has truly earned its bragging rights, as our experience was nothing short of FANTASTIC!

Woodloch has been a beloved destination for 65 years, conveniently located about 2.5 hours from the New York City area. As a family-run business, guests are warmly welcomed daily in the dining room by various members of the family, reflecting their pride in the establishment. They take great care to ensure that no visitor leaves bored or hungry! Each day, a new schedule featuring 30 daily activities and the resort meal menus is made available to guests. Our family was thrilled to take advantage of nearly all the activities within our first 48 hours of arrival! A full list of the activities can be found here . Below, I’ve compiled a selection of our favorite activities, listed in no particular order…

Boat rides on the lake (this is a short ride on fairly calm waters- a total of 15-20 minutes.)

Bumper boats (A favorite among our younger family members)

Bumper cars (Who doesn’t love bumper cars?!)

Pickle Ball – (Weather permitting)

Archery (Family members reported “fun, but just OK”)

Arts and Crafts Projects (The kids loved this!)

Sensory Room (Great for the toddler/ preschool kids)

Indoor heated pool with a splash pad (A BIG WIN with all!)

Mini-Golf (for all ages!)

Indoor arcade (Larger than I thought it would be and filled with many favorite games.)

Petting Zoo (Again – great for the little ones)

Pony Rides ( This too is for the little ones)

Bingo, Trivia, and other group games for prizes! (We must have played every single game they offered! It was a ton of fun and we were winners! Note that Bingo winners can earn some serious $$)

Hiking trails (These trails were reported as not too strenuous.)

Escape Room (Honestly, tougher than we thought – but a ton of fun!)

Paint and Sip classes (Sadly, we signed up but it was canceled due to illness of the teacher – Next time!)

Nightly shows featuring magicians, musical groups, and balloon artists (The performances varied from quite impressive to mediocre. However, the balloon magician’s act was a bit too intense for our little ones, who ended up fleeing the room in tears!)

Special events for holidays (We were there Halloween week and the parade was a blast)

Relax at the coffee house or sports bar (both yummy)

Enjoy home-cooked meals, if you wish. (The resort was very good at honoring requests for special diets- bravo!)

and spa! (Another huge favorite!)

And if you are so inclined – go ahead and have your wedding on the property!

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS:

Woodloch Pines offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences. Our family opted for the Mountain Laurel building, which, although a bit further from the main lodge, provided a peaceful atmosphere and convenient access to the daily shuttle service. (The shuttle operates throughout most of the day and night, traversing the entire property.) Additionally, there is ample parking available for guests. The sidewalks vary in accessibility, featuring both easy pathways and more rugged, rocky sections.

Important note: There are some pretty steep inclines to walk and if you need to push a stroller or wheelchair this may be a bit taxing.

The rooms at the Mountain Laurel building were well-designed and spacious, with the ones we booked featuring convenient kitchenettes. The larger suites boasted expansive closets and an in-unit washer and dryer unit. For guests without in-unit laundry, additional facilities are available on the premises for added convenience.

A few tips

If you want to plan a big family gathering at Woodloch Pines, book your stay quickly. This place is very popular!

Pack for all kinds of weather. Also, bring your sunblock and your bug spray. It is in the middle of the woods, after all.

There is a charming gift shop, but like many resort gift shops, it can be a bit expensive. However, just a 15-minute drive away lies the quaint town of Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Here, you’ll find the typical box stores that can help you save a few dollars if you take a moment to stop by on your way to the resort to stock up on bottled water, snacks, and other essentials.

In closing, until we visited Woodloch Pines, I wasn’t particularly fond of the Poconos; my previous vacations at other resorts in the area had left me underwhelmed, with one place we even departed from early. However, Woodloch stands out as a distinctly different experience.

Check out availability, pricing, and more here.

Learn about their accessibility.

Read about the homes for sale on their resort property.

Disclaimer: I wrote this review of Woodloch Pines on my own, without any perks or benefits. This is my honest opinion based on my experience. Thank you.

The Big Island of Hawaii – a Photo Essay

Published on August 29, 2022May 19, 2025 by Louise Masin Sattler2 Comments

The Big Island of Hawaii is known for volcanos, lush land of the east bordering the desert of the western side. Small towns and villages with coffee that is AMAZING! But, to really enjoy this island one must either experience it in person or take a view through the lens of another.

Below you will find a few different groupings of photos and a video. The first is a slideshow of the Kona area, including the coffee farms and “shacks” that make it extra special.

Next you will see a carousel from the Volcano National Park- yes there are ACTIVE volcanos on the Big Island.

Historical sites are throughout the island, but many are in the upper west and north quadrant. Don’t miss them. Enjoy this carousel feature, too.

Charming is how I would describe Hilo! Small town vibe with excellent beaches, shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss this part of the island or the photos in the last carousel.

The Rainbow Falls are highlighted in a serene video below. All photos and video are property of moi- Louise Sattler and not for duplication or “snatching”. Thanks!

KONA, The Big Island’s home to tourists and coffee!

THE BIG ISLAND – VOLCANO TIME!

Historic Sites (north and west shore)

The Rainbow Falls are serene and lovely – stop when visiting Hilo.

Traveling (Old) Route 66 – Arizona & New Mexico

Published on January 1, 2022August 21, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Recently, hubby and I traveled from Los Angeles to Santa Fe between Christmas and New Year’s Day. En route we made sure to go off the major highways/ freeways and take “Old Route 66”. I wanted to write a blog to spotlight some of the places we stopped – including Oatman and Winslow Arizona.

Tip #1: Make sure you have a camera ready to capture some of the prettiest skies as you traverse Old Route 66 from Kingman to Oatman and then Kingman to points east. The clouds are so dramatic!

Welcome to OATMAN – aka the Wild, Wild West!

I am not sure how I feel about Oatman. Part of me loved the quirkiness and the roaming donkeys that seemed very domesticated. There are re-enactments of gunfights daily and some unusual exhibits – such as walking in a replica of a mine. The vendors who were selling coffee and homemade salsa and jams were filled with information and interesting trivia.

A website dedicated to Arizona travel describes Oatman as follows:

More than 500,000 visitors are drawn annually to Oatman’s gold mine history as well as the legend of its namesake. Olive Oatman is entrenched in western lore as a woman who was kidnapped by an Indian tribe, then sold to a friendly local tribe before being freed to her family near what became Oatman.

Oatman might have suffered the same fate as many Arizona mining towns and faded into a ghost town if not for Route 66 nostalgia and nearby casinos. The town prides itself on maintaining a Wild West feel, down to the wooden sidewalks, staged shootouts, and kitschy shops. (You can even adopt a wild burro and take it home!)

Note: Oatman has a number of individuals (i.e. shop owners) who are very loud and blatant with their words, displays, and merchandise about their disdain for the current U.S. President and support of MAGA and our former president. Tip #2 – if you offend easily – skip Oatman.

When leaving Oatman to go eastbound, know that there are a lot of switchbacks.

donkey Oatman — When leaving Oatman to go eastbound, know that there are a lot of switchbacks.

Paying homage to loved ones

When you leave Oatman you will be in for a treat as Old Route 66 provides us with a lovely drive through the mountains. (Be careful though as donkeys roam the roadways, as well.) About 10 minutes outside of Oatman is where Hubby and I found a small parking area to stop and snap some photos of the gorgeous views. It is known as Sitgreaves Pass. We walked a short distance and stumbled upon what looked like a series of makeshift memorials to loved ones. I did some research and found that this was an area where locals scatter the remains of cremated loved ones or erect a tribute memorial to them. Ironically, weddings also were purported to happen on this reverent mountainside.

Well… you don’t see THIS everyday!

There are a few places along Route 66 that are best described via photos. Here are some of our favorite “finds”..

Tip #3: Stop for Good Eats at Gabby’s Cafe

We had some good and some not-so-good meals during our road trip. One of the favorite eateries was not far from Rte. 66 and located in Grants, New Mexico – GABBY’S CAFE. The sandwiches and donuts were awesome! The servers were very friendly and pleasant and the coffee was better than most places we found! Gabby’s Cafe for a win!

A few extra travel tips:

Gas prices vary – so you may want to use an app like GAS BUDDY to compare and plan your gas stops in advance
If you are unfamiliar with an area consider making the drive during daylight. Some of Rte. 66 is windy and the weather can be variable – including black ice on the roads during the colder months
Ask local folks where they eat so you aren’t subjected to touristy places with so-so meals.
Pack for all kinds of weather. Rain gear and snow boots were needed on this trip.
Know that you may not have consistent cell phone reception, as some of these areas are very rural and surrounded by mountains.

About Accessibility

Almost all of the places I listed in this article has easy accessiblity for those who have mobility challenges. There may be some stores in Oatman where access is limited, however, I believe most can be available to someone in a wheelchair.

For people who are blind, be careful in Oatman, especially. There is uneven ground and as mentioned, donkeys roam freely. People walk on the road and that means a bit of mayhem with cars and people trying to share the street.

Next travel blog will be (drumroll)… Laughlin, Nevada

Travel Nevada: a Visit to Laughlin

Published on January 1, 2022August 21, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Hubby and I recently took a road trip from Los Angeles to New Mexico. We ended 2021 in the very fun Nevada border town of Laughlin.

I had heard about Laughlin via their very robust travel representatives that I met when I visited the LA Adventure and Travel Show in 2019. I was all set to visit and tour the Laughlin area and then… well you know… the Covid 19 pandemic hit!

Fast forward…secure with two vaccines, a booster, and lots of masks – we ventured to Laughlin en route home to LA. We opted to stay at the Laughlin River Lodge located on the banks of the Colorado River. The hotel was well equipped with dining options nearby, several casinos, and an outdoor heated pool with a spa.

PLUS… the lodge is loaded with family fun activities including a bowling alley, kid specific activites, and kid-friendly electronic games (Similar to what we played many times at amusement centers on the New Jersey Shore boardwalk.)

The rooms at the Laughlin River Lodge are quite nice and reasonably priced. Thanks to my TripAdvisor’s TRIP PLUS membership, we paid under $60 per night for a quiet and clean room.

Some may say Laughlin is a “mini Vegas”, but we found it to be unique and prettier than over-stimulating Las Vegas. First and foremost, you can enjoy water sports thanks to the flowing Colorado River that separates Arizona (Bullhead City) from Nevada (Laughlin). Staying at the Laughlin River Lodge afforded us access to the beach alongside the river and an opportunity to snap photos. Plus, there are many places to shop, eat, have kids play, and enjoy a walk while being surrounded by beautiful mountains that illuminate the awesome sunsets.

Read more about Laughlin’s efforts to become a tourist destination.

Sushi in the Desert?

We had read up on TripAdvisor reviews about where to eat in Laughlin. The Minato Japanese and Korean restaurants frequently received consistently excellent reviews and the menu piqued our interest!

OMG – this restaurant was AWESOME. Yes… there is EXCELLENT SUSHI in the DESERT!

Minato’s was located within easy walking distance from our hotel in a little shopping center. An elevator for easy accessibility is available to bring you to this ultra-yummy establishment. We started our meal with a LAUGHLIN ROLL. This was a tempura-sushi hybrid made with various veggies and seafood. I could have ordered a second but we opted for an udon noodle soup instead. Hubby likes to compare restaurant spring rolls, so we ordered some. They were some of the best we ever have eaten!

Lastly, the udon soup was stocked full of meat and veggies plus a healthy dose of chili! Luckily, I had ordered a Thai ice tea that helped to soothe the slight burning in my mouth from this spicy dish! I would easily give the food and service a 9/10 rating.

Bonus Fun – Classic Cars!!

As previously mentioned, there is much to do in Laughlin. We opted to visit an exhibit of old classic cars and gaming machines at the aptly named Laughlin Classic Car Collection. Pricing varies here from free to $3 per person. (Waived if you are a casino “member”.) I would recommend this place as it provided great family fun and there were no visible issues for people using mobility equipment to have full access.

LAUGHLIN – thanks for the fun! We will be back!

(Note, I have been a frequent contributor to TripAdvisor and a beta user of this new plan – but my opinions are not being compensated for on this blog.)

Holiday Gift Recommendations: Games so fun your kids won’t know they are learning! #Giveaway

Published on December 5, 2020December 5, 2020 by LouiseSattler5 Comments

Each year I write a post with my list of ideas for holiday gifting. I try to skew to gifts that give back to charity or are educational. I also like to list gifts that are provide “random fun”. This year I am writing three blogs – three lists full of holiday gift ideas. The first one is dedicated to educational toys and games. AND… there is a GIVEAWAY. Simply comment below to be entered to win the Griddly Games 5 STONES game by midnight Pacific Time December 13, 2020. See rules below.

Two things you need to know…

First, if I recommend a product or charity I do so without any payment from the company or organization. A few companies sent samples and they will be donated to families who are struggling due to Covid 19 or teachers.

Secondly, I welcome your suggestions. Simply add your holiday gift ideas in the comment section below.

From Griddly Games comes a very unique ensemble of ” just add…” products and others that use word and numerical reasoning. I must admit, as an educator, they had me at their descriptions of being products focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). All of these kits are user friendly (younger children will require supervision, as can be expected).

CALLING ALL TEACHERS AND HOME EDUCATORS – CHECK OUT VERY FUN STEAM ACTIVITY KITS FOR THE HOLIDAYS FROM GRIDDLY GAMES.

just add EGG.(ages 5 and up, parent/ teach guidance required) – Comprised of more than 10 interactive activities with “egg-speriments” included in this very fun egg shaped box. This game is filled with everything from molding clay, crayons, glue and even corn syrup! Lots of hours of fun are to be expected and all need is a child, their imagination, a parent or teacher to supervise and EGGS!

Like science AND art? Then check out just add BAKING SODA! You can make at least 20 different projects – including your very own bath bombs, volcano or holiday ornaments with this very visually fun and interactive kit! I like that this kit uses a lot of visual motor perceptual skills and helps to build fine motor skills.

**Be sure to check out ALL the just ask kits here. Great prices! Find also on Amazon!**

WISE ALEC™️ EARNED an A++

WISE ALEC ™️

Children’s Products) If you enjoy trivia games – then you will LOVE Wise Alec(TM). Meant for family night or classroom game time – WISE ALEC incorporates mind games such as brain teasers and tongue twisters with physical activity. Over 1000 questions are included in the game box. The game is geared reinforce elementary school curricula covering the subjects of History, Science and Spelling!

Need easy questions for your first grader – no problem. Want to challenge your fifth grader? With Wise Alec you can do that, too! And when you pick a STUDY BREAK card get ready to MOVE (and earn points for doing so!) Excellent game and great for those who need support with literacy skills, too! Supper fun and creative. I give Wise Alec a solid A++

SHOW ME THE KWAN!

When I first saw this game in the box I started hooting and hollering! A WORD game!! Plus it was very reminiscent of Scrabble® and Boggle®. SHOW ME THE KWAN also had many components of categorizing games such as Scattergories®. This game is Intended to be played with a large group (you can have up to ten players). I envision this game as great for classroom use, “Covid 19” education pod groups (home education) and parties with tweens and teens.

“KWAN” takes a bit of a learning curve to get the rules down – but once you do – watch out! This is a fast paced game for letter/wordsmiths! Small enough to bring along to family and friend gatherings.

PUZZLES! PUZZLES PUZZLES!

There are several reasons for parents to buy puzzles this holiday season. How many gifts can teach history, art, geography and much more for a fraction of the price of an electronic gaming system? Plus, kids can learn foundational literacy skills.

First, when you assemble a puzzle you need organizational and visual discrimination skills. Some people like to separate pieces by color, or by shape. Others are very focused on the cover picture and organize their puzzle pieces section by section (frame vs. inside, for example).

Did you know that when you assemble a puzzle you also are training your eyes to see how “parts become a whole”? Puzzles, believe it or not, can help teach children how letters become words and words become a paragraph?!

Check out ENDLESS GAMES !

Endless Games is a company that you can access online or by driving to your nearest Kohl’s. If you are a lover of puzzles AND Broadway you will FREAK at their PLAYBILL Presents puzzle! Hours of fun for under $15!

PEACE ON EARTH

This is a beautiful 1000 piece puzzle spotlighting the artistic talent of Malcom Watson. Your whole family can linger over the dining room table as you complete this puzzle that measures almost 20″ by 26″ when finished.

Master Pieces – beautiful quality puzzles.

I received this CATOLOGY puzzle. While not a huge fan of cats (more of a dog lover) – this puzzle was simply lovely and the poster inside was a nice bonus feature!

More Favorite Puzzles with Educational Value

White Mountain Puzzles. Their Nostalgic / Vintage Collection are my favorites. These puzzles are great for multi-generational play. Grandparents and parents can educate children and young adults about life before the new Millennium! The pieces are thick and that is good for young and old fingers, alike. White Mountain Puzzles are POPULAR – so be sure to check back if ones on your wish list are out of stock. Website and Amazon.

Uncommon Goods offers novelty puzzles with political and historical themes. This VOTES FOR WOMEN is a circular pattern.

GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY!

GIVEAWAY- the Griddly Games new edition: 5 STONES! Open to all United States residents who are 18 years of age or older. Must comment on this post on or before Sunday, December 13, 2020, 11:59pm Pacific time. No employees or family member associated with Griddly Games nor LouiseSattler.com may enter. One winner. Will be announced here on the blog AND via email. No substitutions.

Coming up in the next blog: Giving with a Purpose!

A Visit to One of the Last Remaining Blockbuster Stores

Published on June 10, 2018July 12, 2018 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Update: Sadly after I ran this article the last remaining Blockbusters in Alaska announced they were closing.

Original Article

This month my family ventured to the Pacific Northwest. We watched whales frolic and feed, walked glaciers and even explored villages and remote areas both by land and sea. But, it was a little store in Anchorage that was deemed the “highlight” of our 12 – day excursion. Yes, apparently one can relive their childhood by simply walking through the doors of one of the last remaining Blockbuster video stores in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska.

This Blockbuster store is under the management of Kevin Daymude. “Blockbuster” as a corporation is long gone, due to the change of the video landscape. Replaced by streaming services, such as Netflix, the demand for video and gaming rentals has dwindled to nearly “zip”. However, in this part of the world, Blockbuster still holds relevance. New and “antique” videos and games adorn the shelves and there is the requisite aisle of theater sized boxed candies. You can purchase older videos for under a dollar and don’t forget the popcorn and cotton candy! The only “addition” to the Blockbuster of 20 years ago was a prominent display of movie memorabilia in the very front of the store, including some “goods” obtained from actor, Russell Crowe.

HUH?

There is a very interesting story about how Blockbuster of Anchorage and Kevin Daymude received Russell Crowe’s items from the actor’s “ART OF DIVORCE SALE”. It would appear that the items were received via an intermediary who acted as a conduit for this Blockbuster store to receive these “treasures of cinematic history”. Among the memorabilia were two director chairs from the movie American Gangster that were used and embroidered with the actors’ names – Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Plus, there was from Russell Crowe’s collection a “jockstrap” that was placed in the display (and reportedly cost 7K!)

Who was the buyer of all these “artifacts” and what was the backstory? Well, the person who purchased many of Crowe’s items would be none other than HBO talk show host, John Oliver. The reason why… well that is a whole other story. Let’s start with Oliver’s announcement via Twitter from April 2018.

Hey, @blockbuster! Come and get it! pic.twitter.com/C8Cd85pWD8

— Last Week Tonight (@LastWeekTonight) April 16, 2018

And the reason why John Oliver bought these items? I’ll let Time Magazine explain the “details” in THIS article.

Why is this store still open while the vast majority have closed? I had an opportunity to chat with Kevin about the remaining Blockbuster stores in Alaska (and one in Oregon) and get more insight. (There are two videos for easier uploading.)

Lastly, if you do visit the DeBarr Rd. location of Blockbuster know that there are shirts and pullovers available for purchase. My entire family bought one – how could we not!?! Plus, we walked out with a handful of those repurposed DVDs for 99 cents each!