Best Northern Illinois Road Trips

America is a country partially built on the great tradition of road trips. Before everyone started flying everywhere, the country’s intricate road networks, which still crisscross the nation, were the lifeblood of many a small town and city. For many, they still are. If you’re thinking about your next road trip in northern Illinois, we have some great tips for you on where to go! We’ll look at three routes --- the Great River Road, Historic Route 66, and the Illinois Lincoln Highway.

Great River Road

This 570-mile stretch runs from East Dubuque in the north, down to Cairo in the south, following the Mississippi River all the way, and passing through some 18 different counties. Winter time is especially good if you’re a birdwatcher. The skies will be littered with eagles and other spectacular birds of prey. The northern part of the route is filled with great charming riverside spots and lovely towns full of their own unique character. Stop in Galena to see the characteristic old buildings housing the artisanal shops and small restaurants. You can get more history in Nauvoo too, the town named by Mormon church founder, Joseph Smith. The town is a treasure trove of heritage. Finally, there’s Quincy, whose Washington Park hosts great events like the Dogwood Festival.

 

Historic Route 66

Starting in the incredible city of Chicago, this iconic route heads west, with 300 miles of road in Illinois alone. Over its long history it has become a literary and cultural icon, at first symbolizing escape, especially from events like the Dust Bowl. Nowadays, though, it’s about adventure and renewal. Why not enjoy the Illinois end of the route, enjoying highlights like Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant and Bakery. Located right at the beginning of the route in downtown Chicago, it’ll give you the perfect sendoff with sumptuous breakfast and lunch fare before your journey starts. Automobile enthusiasts also shouldn’t miss the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum --- a temple to automotive heritage. Route 66 is history in your backyard. Don’t miss out!

Illinois Lincoln Highway

This 179-mile National Scenic Byway is steeped in heritage, and runs across much of the north of the state. It is now mostly paralleled by I-80 and I-88. It is part of a much larger system, of course, running east to west coast to coast. Many sights and towns on the route are well worth a visit, such as Dixon, IL, the childhood home of none other than former President, Ronald Reagan. If that’s not for you, then stop in beautiful Joliet to take in the views of the Des Plaines River and the rugged limestone exteriors that still clad this former steel town. Travel the road and visit the unique communities along the way. There’s all the warmth and hospitality in the world waiting for you.

5 Reasons to Buy a Used Car VS.a New Car

If you’ve always bought new cars or got leases, then the experience of buying a pre-owned car will be alien to you. You might get disturbing impressions in your mind of the greasy (and crafty) used car salesman, fine tuning the wrecks on his lot so they’ll last just long enough for you to drive home, but then die on you. We understand your hesitation, but if this is what you think, you’re not only wrong, but missing out on a world of advantages to be had by opting for a used car instead of brand new. Let’s look at some of these benefits.

 

1. Financial Savings

Yes, this one is obvious. The sticker prices on used cars are always going to be lower than new cars, but there’s more to it than that. New cars may dazzle you, and even intoxicate you with that heavenly interior smell, but did you know that as soon as those wheels exit the lot and hit the open road, the value of that vehicle massively depreciates. Modern cars are not like properties. You don’t buy one as an investment and sell for profit. They are a constant loss. Why not save yourself the money and go for a used car?

2. Insurance

Along with the sticker price and depreciation considerations, you’ll also have to think about insurance. It’s a must for all drivers, and the truth is that your premiums on a used model will always be lower than anything brand new. Just think what you can do with all the savings!

3. Greater choice

Opening the door of the used car market means many more choices than if you limit yourself to what’s newest on the stage. You can shop around more for something that not only fits your ideal budget, but also your exact needs. When you’re limited to the new stuff, you may have to make some compromises here and there. With pre-owned cars, it’s not a problem. Anything you need, it’s out there.

4. High-Tech Wizardry

Many features of cars that you only ever used to associate with the newest models are now standard features in a lot of models covering the past several years. This isn’t limited to infotainment and touchscreen displays, it also includes safety features like collision alerts, and driver assistance like park assist or adaptive cruise control. The traditional image of the “old banger” of a used car is a thing of the past.

5. The Benefits of the Information Age

Greater public scrutiny, awareness and information sharing have pushed dealerships to maintain impeccably high standards not only for their new models, but their used ones, too. Thanks to this relentless Internet surveillance, you can be quite sure that you’ll have little trouble finding reputable dealerships offering great deals on top-quality used vehicles.

So, shake off your old ideas about used cars and start exploring this exciting market today. You might just find the car of your dreams in a place you never expected.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Why It’s the Best Model Yet

Jeep’s history goes back some 75 years or more, back to the heroic battlefields of World War Two and Korea. Since then, the brand has grown into one of the most respected not only for dependability, but also in the modern age for luxury, comfort and high-tech features --- a positive of modern peacetime, and a far cry from the rugged function-driven green jeeps of yesteryear. This year brings yet a new Jeep Grand Cherokee, and today we’re going to tell you why the 2019 model is not only the latest, but the greatest of its kind.

 

First --- it’s so customizable

Choose from a huge range of trims: the Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT and Trackhawk. Each model comes with unique features designed to suit different kinds of drivers. The Trackhawk, for instance, is the perfect trim for those seeking the thrill of off-road adventure, and comes with a 6.2L supercharged V8 engine boasting more than 700hp. It’s also among the fastest SUVs out there, achieving 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds. There are great additional features, too, like automated parking. Find your spot, initiate the automated parking feature, and the car will steer you safely into any tricky spot. All you need to do is push the gas and brake pedals.

Second --- it’s feature-packed

You can upgrade the trim as you need, but there are also a ton of features which come as standard. These include the power liftgate, automatic headlights, remote starter system, dual-zone temperature control, folding second-row seats…the list goes on. The car is a great choice for the family, plenty of room for mom, dad, the kids, and yes, even the dog and whatever other cargo you’re moving about the place.

Third --- it’s economical and the perfect towing machine

It’s not often you see the word “economical” paired together with SUV, but another choice you have with the 2019 Grand Cherokee is the Eco-Diesel engine. This will boost gas mileage to 30mpg on the highway, which is as economical as most family sedans. If you’re in need of a vehicle that can also tow, then you’ll get just what you need with the 2019 Grand Cherokee. It can safely tow 7,000 pounds, and comes with trailer sway control as well.

Since its first incarnation back in the 1990s, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has stood for style as well as strength, luxury as well as ruggedness. You get the best of both worlds with this year’s model, especially with so many trim variations to suit every possible need. Contact a dealership to find out more about getting yourself on the road with a new Grand Cherokee.

Keeping Your Car On Track in Hot Weather – A Guide

It’s interesting that we all recognize immediately the dangers posed by winter weather on our cars --- increased wear and tear, the impact of sub-zero temperatures, the added chemical irritation of salt and gunk on the roads --- but are often oblivious to the equally damaging effects of heat. We think it’s just a question of flipping on the a/c or opening the sunroof, and then it’s all fine. The summer sun can do a lot of damage to your vehicle if you’re not prepared, but fortunately we’ve prepared this handy guide for you.

 

1. Pay attention to the temperature gauge

Many of us have been guilty of ignoring flashing lights on the display. If you see a light coming on or the thermometer entering the red zone, you need to find a place to safely pull over and switch off the engine. Let it cool for a while before driving on. You may think to yourself, “It’s just a couple more miles” but those couple of miles could end up costing you dearly in repairs if your engine overheats. Also, don’t try to cool the engine with cold water. That sudden temperature change can do other damage.

2. Keep an eye on fluid levels

Heat makes fluids evaporate! That’s basic chemistry. Just as you need extra water in the heat, your car needs a bit more as well. First ensure that there is proper engine lubrication while you’re driving. Have a look and check the motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid. Don’t forget the cleaning fluid for your windshield!

3. Look after your battery

Besides the engine itself, the battery is helping pump the lifeblood of your car --- power. The heat does a real number on car batteries. One thing to check is that it’s secure and snug in its place so that it doesn’t vibrate too much. It’s another fluid level to check as well, because they, too, can evaporate in extreme heat.

4. Get tires up to the right pressure

If you’re not in the habit of checking on your tire pressure, then you should change that as soon as possible anyway. In the hot weather, however, the risk of blowouts on the baking road surface is greatly increased. We probably don’t need to get into the detail of how frightening and potentially dangerous a tire blowout can be.

5. Everyone out of the car!

However short your stop when you park or pull over, don’t leave your kids or pets in the car. You might not realize just how hot it gets in there, or how quickly! Even an hour in such extreme temperatures can be damaging to young children and animals. Think again!

Stay safe in the summer heat. Keep the car in a shaded or covered location if possible, and follow our guide to avoid the worst of the potential damage caused by our friend the sun.

We Love You 3000 Tour

Are you a Marvel Fan?  Are you waiting on the next release?  Well, I have great news for you!

MARVEL STUDIOS CELEBRATES THE IN-HOME RELEASE OF “AVENGERS: ENDGAME” WITH THE

“WE LOVE YOU 3000” TOUR

Nine cities and 3,000 giveaways to thank fans who’ve invested 11 years in the MCU!

In celebration of the in-home release of “Avengers: Endgame,” Marvel Studios and directors Anthony and Joe Russo have teamed up to launch the “We Love You 3000” Tour as a way to thank the fans who have invested so deeply in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), making it the single most successful franchise in film history.

Special guests from Marvel Studios and the MCU will visit nine U.S. cities — beginning in San Diego at Comic-Con International on July 20 and ending in Anaheim at D23 Expo 2019 the weekend of Aug. 23-25— greeting and treating fans at each tour stop.  A total of 3,000 MCU Funko Pop Vinyl Figures will be distributed to fans throughout the tour as well as additional giveaways ranging from exclusive “Avengers: Endgame” prints to McDonald’s vouchers for a free Happy Meal® plus an Avengers: Endgame Happy Meal toy to a MCU inspired sundaes and recipe cards courtesy of Ben & Jerry’s.

Best Buy will serve as the location for five “We Love You 3000” Tour stops, hosting in-store fan events to celebrate the nationwide release of Marvel Studios “Avengers: Endgame” on Blu-ray™ Aug. 13. Events will feature signings with Marvel Studios filmmakers and/or MCU talent; a special digital photo booth; specialty promotional giveaways, including MCU Funko Pop! Vinyl Figures and exclusive “Avengers: Endgame” prints; and much more.  Fans can also get their hands on the exclusive, limited edition "Avengers: Endgame” SteelBook and other collectable SteelBooks from the MCU at Best Buy stores across the country and on BestBuy.com.

For more information on what’s taking place in each market, visit www.Marvel.com/WeLoveYou3000.

Fans are encouraged to use the hashtag #WeLoveYou3000.


FAN EVENTS/TOUR STOPS:
July 20             SAN DIEGO, Comic-Con International - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo, Writers Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely and a special guest from the MCU

July 30            EVERETT, WA, Funko HQ – to be announced

Aug. 8             SAN FRANCISCO, Giants vs. Phillies at Oracle Park - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo at the San Francisco Giants’ Marvel Night

Aug. 13           MIAMI, Best Buy store – to be announced  

Aug. 13           CHICAGO, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo           

Aug. 13           TORRANCE, CA, Best Buy store – to be announced                                 

Aug. 14           MINNEAPOLIS, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo 

Aug. 20           CLEVELAND, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo

Aug. 23-25      ANAHEIM, CA, D23 Expo 2019- to be announced


ABOUT “AVENGERS: ENDGAME” IN-HOME RELEASE:
Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Endgame,” the climactic conclusion to an unprecedented, 11-year cinematic journey in which the Avengers take one final stand against Thanos, delivered the biggest opening weekend in history and is currently one of the highest-grossing films of all time. On July 30, Avengers fans around the world are invited to assemble once more for the in-home release of “Avengers: Endgame” on Digital in HD, 4K Ultra HD™ and Movies Anywhere, followed by a physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On-Demand beginning Aug. 13.

GIVEAWAY!!!! Get your entries in for your chance to win a 3 Tier Serving Stand Set!

We have been invited to share this giveaway hosted by Westman Reviews and sponsored by Smart Ideas 4 Life.  Get your entries in for your chance to win a 3 Tier Serving Stand Set!  Giveaway ends July 22 at 12 AM.

Enter this giveaway for a 3 Tier Serving Stand Set from Smart Ideas 4 Life.  Smart Ideas 4 Life (our sponsor) will ship the prize to the winner. The winner of this giveaway will receive one 3 Tier Serving Stand Set.  For more details, please read our review on this product HERE.  We are not responsible if the sponsor fails to deliver the prize. Come back daily for more entries!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Open to United States Residents ONLY.  Must be 18 or over to enter.  Winner will have 48 hours to respond to the winning notification email with shipping information.  If we don't receive a response within 48 hours, then you forfeit your prize and an alternate winner will be chosen. Once we have a confirmed winner, their first name and last initial will be announced here.   Remember, the more entries you have, the higher your odds of winning becomes.  The more entry tasks you complete, the more entries you will have.  Good luck to all who enter!

 
Disclosure:  Westman Reviews, and any of the participating bloggers, are not responsible for the shipping of the prize.  That will be done by the sponsor.  Facebook and other social media platforms are not associated with this giveaway in any way.  

Get your kids away from screens and into some awesome outdoor fun with these dart blaster guns!

I received these dart blaster guns from Buzz Bee Toys for review.

The Adventure Force Night Attack is a dart blaster gun that lets you see your target even in the dark because it comes with a light that attaches to the rail on top of the gun.  You  can hit your target from up to 100 feet away.  Thanks to the light, you won't have to stop the battle just because it gets dark.  You can continue your battle into the night!  So invite your friends over for a sleepover, and start your very own dart blaster war.   

Each blaster comes with 6 long distance darts, the rail light and a clip.  These are recommended for children age 8 and up and can be purchased at Walmart for the manufacturers suggested retail price of $9.97.   

The Air Warriors Covert Squad Blasters come in sets of two, with earbuds to use with the walkie talkies that are built in to each blaster to allow you to communicate with your partner at distances up to 300 feet.  You will be able to use these to communicate with your partner, as you surround your enemy.  The walkie talkies have two channels, so you can communicate on a different channel than your opponent and not be overheard.  Blast them from up to 100 feet away using the realistic bolt loading action.  Recommended for children age 6 and up, the Covert Squad blasters can be purchased at Target for the manufacturers suggested retail price of $24.99.  Give yourself an advantage in your friendly backyard war with these blasters.