Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park in Leland, Michigan, USA is now open to the public as a museum and was previously the home of Governor Leland Stanford way back in the 1860's and 1870's. Your tour of the splendor and elegance of the Victorian era, showcases exquisitely carved gilded mirrors, 17-foot ceilings, beautifully restored woodwork, elegant 19th century crystal and bronze light fixtures, recreations of draperies and carpeting from the 1870's and 19th century gardens. Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park also offers daily tours and is listed as a National Historic Landmark, the property also serves the citizens of California as the state’s official reception center for leaders from around the world.READ MORE

Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum in Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, South Australia was the former Hog Bay School built by the community all the way back in 1869. Originally built in lime and stone and later a new wood and iron building was erected, and even later around the 1920's a modern classroom and residence was built by government contractors. Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum has a grinding mill in the grounds, which was driven by a 12 horsepower steam engine to grind Kaoline clay and feldspar. The museum showcases the maritime history of the area with two large ship models, the history of the original school, a main exhibition space with artefacts and details of the social history of the district and more. There is also a lifeboat from the SS Karatta in the museum grounds. READ MORE

The Oyster Farm Shop in American River on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, is the largest commercial oyster farm on the island, they are also the processing packaging facility for Kangaroo Island Shellfish. The farm shop offers the best oysters ever with choices of smoked, grilled or natural, and they use two farming techniques for their Deep Water Premium and coastal cream oysters. The Oyster Farm Shop also showcases Kangaroo Island abalone, King George whiting, marron, smoked oysters and a range of locally made sauces. Come for lunch, select chill and grill take-away options or fill your basket for a feast at your accommodation, they offer free tastings of their smoked oysters and a DVD presentation of the farm above and below the water and more.READ MORE

The SONO Switch Tower Museum in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a unique, yet interesting museum that expands on the important part played by the towers that railroads used to control vital areas of track to prevent train crashes. These switch towers also contained the mechanism that was used to allow trains to change from one track to another. These important jobs of operating the mechanisms were managed by a tower operator who would throw levers connected to the tracks, and in so doing would change the direction of the track. Admission to the The SONO Switch Tower Museum is free, however donations are welcome, and visitors can spend an interesting, fun and enjoyable time learning about the history of the railroad switch tower. READ MORE

The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut, is the ideal destination for entertaining, educational and interesting family outings where visitors have opportunities of enjoying exciting, personal interactions with animals. These interactions create an awareness and sense of awe at nature's diversity, and the importance played by Long Island Sound, a fascinating under-surface world as yet unexplored. The vibrant and entertaining learning environment at The Maritime Aquarium is achieved through marine science, living exhibits as well as environmental education that will appeal to visitors of all ages. READ MORE

Stranraer Homestead in Kingscote, South Australia welcomes you to a memorable stay in this historical federation homestead built all the way back in 1920. This traditional bed and breakfast now meticulously restored was originally built from the limestone gathered on the property, and you get to stay on this working Kangaroo Island farm complete with lagoons attracting fascinating bird life. Stranraer Homestead offers true island hospitality in this beautiful homestead, and your host brings a delight of meals with a fresh menu daily enjoyed in the dining room with other guests. Explore the island, go touring then come home to the magic and relax in the guest lounge or your spacious room, enjoy a meal of fine cuisine from the kitchen, it's all here.READ MORE

Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a non-profit children's museum where the broadening and enriching of children's lives is our priority. We are committed to maintaining an environment that provides meaningful interactive learning experiences that will result in children's lives being uplifted and enriched. Stepping Stones Museum for Children is set on 5 acres of gardens, and is home to exhibits, galleries and educational programming. Host unique and fun private events at our children's museum, where our talented team will work with you to ensure your dream of a successful and stress-free event will become an enjoyable reality. READ MORE

Sheffield Island Lighthouse in Norwalk, Connecticut, was established as an active lighthouse in 1868 till it was retired in 1902, and today, as a listed lighthouse, is a museum and nature preserve that is beautifully maintained by willing volunteers. Lighting and accessibility on the island has been drastically improved for the benefit of visitors, and the tower light installed in the lighthouse is not used as a navigation aid, but as a welcoming beacon and reminder of the important part that this lighthouse has played in guiding boats and ships in the past. There are several walking trails around Sheffield Island Lighthouse, and after an interesting visit to our lighthouse museum, visitors can enjoy relaxing picnic lunches on the island. READ MORE

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum in Norwalk, Connecticut, was declared a national historic landmark in 1971, and this treasured historic museum depicts the splendour of the late 19th century heritage through displays of art, history and architecture. Whether you explore the museum privately or take a guided tour with a docent, you will be enchanted with the beautifully furnished period rooms, old-world craftmanship, treasury of art and many other exhibits. Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is a breathtakingly beautiful venue surrounded by magnificent Victorian decor of a romantic era past, that is ideally suited for dreamy weddings, elegant receptions, corporate functions and many more private events. READ MORE

Hope Cottage Museum in Kingscote, South Australia originally built in 1859 is the restored home of Charles and Michael Calnan and showcases period furniture, china, clothing and artefacts. Come view a fascinating insight into the history and heritage of Kangaroo Island complete with re-created Willoughby Lighthouse. Hope Cottage Museum has an excellent display of tractors and machinery, an extensive pictorial history and model display of sea and air travel to the island, a communication room with telephones, typewriters, switchboards and more, an old laundry, a blacksmith shop and shearing shed, a Masonic Lodge Room, a 1950's style garage and so much more, a must see attraction.READ MORE