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That's the advice from travel experts who say hitting museums, historical sites and similar destinations that celebrate years gone by can be a fun, educational and affordable way to get away.

For instance, since 1997, more than 2 million people have visited a unique attraction celebrating the past, present and future of American ingenuity. In fact, with exhibits such as "Cornucopia," "GPS - Satellite" and the full-length movie "Anthem: A Song of the Land," the 14,000-square-foot, glass- and steel-enclosed John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Ill., quickly became one of the state's top attractions.

In 1848, John Deere located his first plow manufacturing plant on the banks of the Mississippi River. Soon after, farmers across the country used his plow to till the land and the shape of agriculture in the U.S. was forever changed.

The Pavilion was created as a celebration of the past, present and future of agribusiness, and today it is widely recognized as one of the world's most comprehensive agricultural exhibits. Families that visit can learn about renewable energy sources of our future, see how a seed makes its way from the planting stage to the dinner table, and view any number of antique farming equipment.

Visiting History

After visiting the Pavilion, families can head to the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour, Ill. The registered National Historic Landmark is the original Illinois homestead of John Deere and the location where he built the first "self-scouring" steel plow that would later make him a household name.

In the atmosphere of a friendly 19th century prairie village, informed tour guides provide visiting families with an entertaining and educational perspective of life on the prairie. On-site exhibits include a preserved archaeological dig, a re-creation of Deere's original blacksmith shop complete with blacksmithing demonstrations, and guided tours of Deere's original home, which he built in 1836.

Other related attractions include a gift store, tours of Deere's later homes and even a golf course. The attractions schedule special events throughout the year. Visit www.JohnDeereAttractions.com for more information.

Sometimes, the best family vacations are the ones that travel into the past.