Architecture means many different things to many different people. For some, a building is just a building and they dont care about how its made or why its the shape it is. For others, however, the architecture is the heart and soul of a building or company.

Todays economy is in rough straits and taking the kids to Disney World isnt the most financially sound investment. So why not do a little research about your area and visit places that have a real architectural history or are just plain odd?

The idea of a weekend vacation is common during these tough times, but that doesnt mean you have to head to a local museum. There are numerous ranch and Victorian homes in my area that are about as interesting as brushing your teeth, but a 30 or 45 minute drive offers some architectural sites that even the kids will enjoy.

Each state has their own architectural marvels and oddities that are usually open to the public. Do a little research to find out about some of these places near you and map out a route for you and your family to take one weekend. It doesnt even have to be homes and buildings that have interesting architecture.

Why not travel the state looking for oversized mascots like a giant donut outside of a coffee shop or take some pictures outside a real A & W Root Beer restaurant with its Big Boy mascot. (We have one and I actually saw someone taking pictures with it the other day.)

If there is a famous architect from the area, then look up the various buildings he created and base a trip around that. Gather up some trivia and facts about each home and talk about it while you visit each place. There are interesting homes and buildings in every state, but it takes a little research to find them. Homes built upside down, crooked or even seemingly with no rhyme or reason.

A parent can do far worse than begin an interest in architecture for their child. This can begin a lifelong love of engineering and architecture that can eventually become a career path. Who knows? Maybe one day families will travel far and wide to see buildings and homes created and constructed by your son or daughter. Just a thought.

Image Soure: flickr.com/photos/klausnahr/5441170559