Planning your first visit to Chicago? Don’t just snap a selfie at The Bean and call it a day—let Stacking Adventures hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy be your insider guides to one of America's most vibrant, layered, and delicious cities.

In this jam-packed episode, Crystal and Joe serve up their personal Top 5 experiences every first-time visitor to the Windy City has to try—plus a few lesser-known gems that even longtime locals might have missed. Think towering views from the not-Sears-anymore Tower, eye-opening museum visits, and—of course—deep-dish pizza debates that could make or break a friendship.

• 🎷 How to jazz up your nights: Chicago’s music scene is more than history—it’s still swinging.

• 🏛️ Museums worth the trip (and the ticket price): From science to surrealism, Crystal and Joe spotlight their go-to cultural stops.

• 🚢 Architecture on the water: Why skipping the Chicago River architectural tour is basically a rookie mistake.

• 🍕 The great pizza throwdown: Who serves the best deep-dish in town? Expect strong opinions.

• 🛍️ Mag Mile magic: Exploring iconic shopping, dining, and photo ops without blowing your budget.

• ✍️ Gear of the Day: The one travel item that helps you remember the trip (and not just through receipts in your coat pocket).

Plus, they share some of Chicago’s lesser-hyped treasures—from relaxing beaches to hidden eats and moments of Midwestern charm you won’t find in a guidebook.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or mapping out a longer adventure, this episode will leave you with a full Chicago to-do list, a hunger for hot dogs (with everything on it), and maybe even a new jazz playlist.

Looking for our cool, tested travel gear (including our NEW gear of the day pick)? Head to StackingAdventures.com/GoTD

Dreaming of the ultimate Disney World vacation—but not the sky-high price tag? This week on Stacking Adventures, we sit down with Kevin Payne from Family Money Adventure to help you create maximum magic without maxing out your wallet.

Kevin brings the goods:

• How to make the most of Genie+ without losing your mind (or your place in line)
• The best ways to dodge long waits and still hit all your must-do rides
• Pro tips for navigating the parks with kids and keeping your budget intact

From culinary gems hidden across all four parks to smart strategies for picking your Disney digs, Kevin shows you how to plan a stress-free, crowd-savvy, wallet-respecting trip. You'll also get the scoop on using apps to time your day right, gear that makes schlepping through the parks a little less sweaty, and why certain festivals or attractions might be worth planning your trip around.

We also explore:

• The ride strategy you didn’t know you needed
• Where to find some of Disney’s best food (hint: it’s not always where the lines are)
• Whether staying off-property is a budget win or a logistical headache
• Tips for handling Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and the Magic Kingdom like a pro

Whether you’re a first-timer or practically have Mickey on speed dial, this episode is your ticket to fewer lines, better meals, and way more magic per dollar.

You'll find Kevin's awesome gear of the day (wait until you hear what it is!) at StackingAdventures.com/GOTD

Send us YOUR Walt Disney World story at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

Ever wonder how to mix castles, kilts, and a couple of sheep with your golf game? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, Doug takes us along for his journey through Scotland—complete with scenic views, unpredictable weather, questionable driving skills, and plenty of old-world charm.

From teeing off next to livestock to dodging crowds at iconic tourist spots, Doug shares how to blend thoughtful planning with room for spontaneity. You’ll hear about his golf adventures on windswept courses, discover why the sheep in Scotland may be tougher than some caddies, and get tips for navigating rental cars that assume you already know how to drive stick on the wrong side of the road.

We also cover:

• Why Google Flights paired with a good ol’ notebook might be your best travel-planning combo.

• When to trust the guidebook… and when to trust your gut.

• What tourist attractions are worth your time—and which ones might leave you saying, “That’s it?”

• A behind-the-scenes look at lodging, road-tripping, and eating your way through the Highlands.

• A father-son bonding moment you’ll want to bottle.

• How to find Scotch that’s smoother than your backswing.

Whether you’re planning your own Scottish getaway or just here for the ride, this episode is packed with real travel insights, a few cautionary tales, and inspiration for your next adventure.