Archive for the ‘Locations’ Category

Washington, D.C. is one of the world’s greatest capitals. This great city offers exceptional museums, parks, diverse dining, and nightlife. The best part is that nearly all of the museums are free so if you’re looking for a great family trip on a budget, Washington, D.C. is right up your alley. While there is much to do in the town, you’re best bet would be to rent a car to get from place to place - most of theattractions are spread out and traveling by foot can get rather tiresome. Below is a list of some of the highlights that you won’t want to miss while you’re in the Washington, D.C. area.

Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Museums offer amazing galleries filled with national treasures. From Dorothy’s ruby slippers to the Hope Diamond, you’ll find a variety of exhibits in these world class museums. Once you drive to the National Mall, it will be difficult to choose where to begin so you may want to plan out your visit in advance. Most of the museums have guided tours as well as hands-on activities.

National Monuments

Washington, D.C. is filled with memorials and monuments honoring generals, politicians and others who shaped our nation. You can find most of the famous monuments on the National Mall, but plaques and statues are all over the city. Most of the monuments are spread out and difficult to visit on foot, so you can either take a tour or rent a car to help you get around town. Some of the most famous monuments and memorials include the Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.

Capitol

Drive to Capitol Hill and you’ll find the architectural marvel that houses the Senate and the House of Representatives. Tours are offered during the week and occasionally you can catch a live debate on the House or Senate floor. With stunning grounds and a beautiful interior, be sure to drive to the Capitol building and see government in action.

White House

A visit to Washington, D.C. isn’t complete without a stop at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The White House has self-guided tours and you can walk through the same hallowed halls as past presidents. Tour the East Room, Green Room, and State Dining Room.

National Zoo

Discover diverse and unusual creatures at the National Zoo. While the pandas are the zoo’s most famous attraction, there are plenty of monkeys, elephants, and lions plus some exotic animals you can’t find at just any zoo in the country.

National Cathedral

The National Cathedral is the 2nd largest cathedral in the nation and provides a unique experience for tourists. The 20th-century cathedral is a beautiful piece of architecture with vaults and flying buttresses built from stone. With 215 stained glass windows and gargoyle in the shape of Darth Vadar, this is a cathedral like no other.

Arlington National Cemetery

Only a short drive from the main historic Washington, D.C., a visit to Arlington National Cemetery is a deeply moving and sobering experience. The cemetery is the final resting place for some 300,000 members of the armed services dating back to the 1800s. Walk among the headstones and honor the nation’s war heroes.

If you’re touring the Garden State, you’ll want to rent a car or van to get around. The scene of much history in colonial America, New Jersey is filled with historic destinations as well as plenty of fun an exciting attractions for the family. The state has a strong tradition as home to historical, cultural and recreational activities that rival any state in the nation. New Jersey is divided up into regions, each with it’s own great destinations. As you drive from region to region, you’ll be able to experience all the beauty and history that New Jersey has to offer.

Atlantic City Region

This seaside city is famous for its world-class casino hotel resorts, fantastic entertainment, sandy beaches and Boardwalk. The fast-paced city will provide you with endless activities and plenty of excitement to keep you busy for days. Top destinations in Atlantic City include Hammonton (winery), the Boardwalk, Historic Smithville and the Village Green.

Southern Shore Region

After spending some time in Atlantic City, drive your rental van or car south to the Southern Shore. Crashing waves and bay breezes will allow you to relax and unwind. This is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a place to spend quality time with family and friends. While you’re in the region, some great destinations are Cape May, Wildwood and Ocean City.

Delaware River Region

Drive North from the Southern Shore and Atlantic City and you’ll find the Delaware River Region of New Jersey. This is an active region where you can enjoy lush natural surroundings as well as get a taste of Revolutionary War history. Here, you’ll want to check out the Camden Waterfront, New Jersey State Museum, Pinelands, Trenton and Princeton.

Shore Region

The Shore region of New Jersey is famous for its beaches, busy boardwalks and a vast array of attractions including the Tuckerton Seaport Village, Island Beach State Park and Keansburg Amusement Park. While you’re here, stop by two beach towns with plenty to do - Seaside Heights and Long Beach Island.

Gateway Region

Hit the road in your rental car again for a short drive up to the Gateway region. This area is rich in history and best known for the thousands of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island. While you’re here, visit Newark, Hoboken and Meadowlands and you’ll find culture, great dining and beautiful natural surroundings.

Skylands Region

Just west of Gateway, you’ll drive into the Skylands region, situated in the northwest hills of New Jersey. Explore the rich beauty that this area has to offer. Whether you visit the historic sites in Morristown, float the Delaware River in Frenchtown or enjoy the gardens at Duke Farms, this region is packed with spectacular beauty.

Pennsylvania is a state filled with history and beauty. From Lake Erie’s shore to the City of Brotherly Love,the Keystone state is a great place for a road trip. Renting a car and driving through Pennsylvania will allow you to visit magnificent museums, experience breathtaking views and enjoy good eats along the way. Below is a list of some key cities in the state along with recommendations of what you can do when you reach each destination.

Philidelphia

Once you’ve rented a car in Philadelphia, the attractions of Philadelphia are just around the corner. The city contains the best collection of public art in the nation, the world’s largest municipal park as well as an enormous variety of architecture. With so many museums and marvels, you’ll need to plan your visit in advance so you’re able to spend your time wisely.

Be sure to check out the city’s historic district and visit the National Historical Park Visitor Center. Drive down Arch Street to Old City and there you’ll find the Betsy Ross House. While you’re in the area, you’ll also want to stop at the many unique galleries and cafes. Independence Hall is also a great stop and just across the street, you’ll find the Liberty Bell on display. Next, head over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and if you’re still looking to enjoy more art, you can drive by car to Merion and visit the Barnes Foundation. You’ll definitely want to rent a car when heading to Valley Forge National Historic Park, but before you leave downtown Philadelphia, make sure you chow down on an authentic Philly Cheesesteak.

Gettysburg

The Gettysburg National Military Park is a must see in Pennsylvania. The park has several events available to visitors including battlefield walks and a museum filled with Civil War collections is open to the public.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a unique city blending architectural masterpieces with modern skyscrapers. Visitors enjoy Pittsburgh because it is just plain fun. The city is filled with great dining, one of a kind shopping and outdoor activities abound. While you’re in the city, catch a ride on one of the cable cars and see breathtaking views from Mt. Washington. South Side Slopes is a unique neighborhood where you can walk (or drive) through the steep hillside. At the top, you’ll overlook Monongahela River.Other fun stops in the city include the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and the Cathedral of Learning.

Strasburg

If you’re looking for a charming city, Strasburg is the city for you. Filled with bed and breakfasts and quaint shops, the tree-lined streets will make you feel right at home. While you’re there, you can take a ride in an Amish buggy or hop aboard a steam train. Rent a 15 passenger van and explore the back roads where you’ll find working Amish farms and beautiful rolling hills.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is centrally located between Miami and Palm Beach, making it the perfect destination to rent a passenger van, head up the coast and see what Palm Beach has to offer. Warm temperatures and miles of beautiful beaches draw hundreds of visitors to Florida each year and both cities offer plenty of shopping, dining, museums, historic sights and nightlife as well as attractions for the family to enjoy. 

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - Fort Lauderdale

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale is a fun family stop. The park is 180 acres and sits on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Inland Waterway. The park has plenty of lagoons and swamps and visitors can rent canoes, participate in a nature walk or enjoy a picnic. Other activities include swimming, salt water fishing and surfing.  

For those who enjoy shopping, culture and dining, the Riverwalk is the perfect spot.Often referred to as “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile,” this popular downtown area is surrounded by beautiful scenery. This area is also home to the Museum of Discovery and Science.

Museum of Discovery and Science - Fort Lauderdale  

Once you’ve driven to the Riverwalk, be sure to stop by the Museum of Discovery and Science. The entire family will enjoy this museum that makes learning fun and is known for its interactive exhibits on ecology, health and outer space. Activities and displays include a replica of an oak forest, a real coral reef and even a planetarium for stargazing. The museum also houses an IMAX theater that shows daily science related films.

Las Olas Boulevard - Fort Lauderdale

Another great stop for those who like to dine, this trendy boulevard is filled with individually owned boutiques and restaurants, including sidewalk cafes.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens - Fort Lauderdale

Built in 1920, this amazing estate is is the former home of artists, Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. European art and architecture make this plantation style home a great stop for the family. The scenery is filled with 35 acres of beauty including, wetlands, a fruit grove, lily pond, and a theater surrounded by a moat. Take a stroll on the walking trail to enjoy the property’s wildlife.

Midtown Beach - Palm Beach

If you’re looking for a sandy beach in Palm Beach, this is probably your best option. Since beaches aren’t a priority in the city, this is the best spot to find public access to the sand.

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum - Palm Beach

This museum recreates the luxury of the early 20th century. You’ll find ornate furnishings and architecture as well as plenty of art. The museum is in the mansion that Standard Oil founder Henry Flagler built for his wife in 1902, and also includes a restored rail car.

Lake Worth Municipal Beach- Palm Beach

The perfect park for children, Lake Worth Municipal Beach has plenty of activities to keep them busy. The beach has some sandy areas for families to picnic and includes a large pool with lifeguards. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the fishing pier, or parents can rest while the kids play on the playground before getting back in the rental car and heading to the next destination.