We knew FamilyFun readers were a loyal bunch, but when we asked them to reveal their favorite vacation spots, we wondered if we'd gone too far. After all, who'd want to share their special island hideaway, mountain retreat or seaside camping spot? We shouldn't have worried. "This place is so good, I almost don't want to tell you about it," began many of the letters, "but I will." In fact, more than 250 of you responded, praising destinations that, in some cases, have been family secrets for years.

How on earth did we choose the 20 winners? We looked for travel ideas with a spark, the kind that made us want to pack up the car and hit the open road. We looked for letters that described new ways to enjoy classic spots or those that tipped us off to places rarely celebrated in guidebooks, such as the old-fashioned resort that hosts family reunions, or the little-known state park where the river and natural pools are just right for floating. In the process, we discovered many natural wonders and historic villages along Highway 61 in Minnesota, a roadtrip your family will love.

MINNESOTA

DRIVING HIGHWAY 61
Last summer, the Sylvesters pulled out of their Burnsville, Minnesota, driveway and headed north along Highway 61 toward Lake Superior. En route, they collected agates at Split Rock Lighthouse, played at Gooseberry Falls State Park and camped by a lake in Grand Marais. "We had the best caramel rolls on earth there at the Loafer Bakery," writes Tami, mother of two. At Old Fort William, a historic Canadian village in Thunder Bay, Ontario, the family traveled back to 1815. "The kids liked seeing a birch bark canoe being built," Tami says. "And in the Ojibwa encampment, I even forgot they were acting." For Minnesota information, call 800-657-3700. For Ontario, call 800-668-2746.



Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.