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Are you stuck in a rut? Do you need a change of pace? Sometimes the routine of daily life becomes overwhelming and the responsibilities of work, home, and family can leave you feeling drained and longing for time away from the hustle and bustle. Perhaps a vacation is not in the plan for you this year, or maybe you've already taken the family vacation to the beach, and you really don’t have time or money for another getaway. That doesn't mean you can't dream of your next escape. If you haven't already started a travel bucket list, this is your opportunity to begin one. With a travel bucket list, you can combine big dreams with realistic budgetary constraints. Many people have places like Paris, France, or Australia on their travel bucket list, but there are a multitude of destinations in the United States waiting for exploration  1. Wyoming Wyoming appeals to the nature lover as well as to people who are fascinated by Wild West history. Wyoming is home to Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole, Cheyenne, Cody, Grand Teton National Park, and Ten Sleep. Breath-taking natural views abound in both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Jackson Hole hosts staged Old West shootouts as well as offering experiences on the Snake River in summer and skiing or snowmobiling in winter. They even offer log cabin rentals in the parks, including twin beds for the kids or a romantic king bed option for adults. As you might expect, Cody is named for the famous frontiersman "Buffalo Bill" Cody. The Buffalo Bill Center in Cody is home to museums, a research library, and Stampede Park which claims to be the rodeo capital of the world. Ten Sleep is a ranching town that was named because of its position between two Sioux encampments. If you have ever desired to visit a dude ranch, Ten Sleep is the place to go.  Yellowstone Buffalo 2. Texas From Dallas to Houston and San Antonio to Waco, Texas offers a myriad of vacation options. There are options for weekend getaways as well as ones for longer stays. From museums and art galleries to botanical gardens, planetariums and nature centers, Texas has something for everyone. El Paso is rich with history, and Abilene offers a storybook festival sure to please kids of all ages, even the young at heart. Waco is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum that pays homage to the famous law enforcement agency. Beach lovers as well as history lovers will enjoy Corpus Christi where the USS Lexington is located. A visit to San Antonio is a must for history buffs. Don't forget the Alamo!  Dallas Skyline 3. Colorado Ski vacations, romantic getaways, family friendly festivals, and the promise of adventure at almost every turn make Colorado a bucket list worthy destination. Long known as a destination for winter travelers, Colorado has offerings for those wanting a summer getaway too. Vail hosts a variety of music and dance festivals in the warmer months. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater for the Vail Jazz Festival or the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival which hosts orchestral performances from groups like the New York Philharmonic. Steamboat Springs hosts an annual hot Air Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park festival that includes children's interactive activities as well as live entertainment, food vendors and, of course, hot air balloons. In Telluride, you will find Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado's longest free-falling waterfall, as well as gondola rides up the mountain and an annual Bluegrass Festival. Visit Durango to ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad through the mountain passes that connect Durango to Silverton, or you could choose to kayak on the Animas River. Those who choose to stay on the beaten path will enjoy cities like Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs.  Hot Air Balloon in Colorado 4. Tennessee Mountain getaways, whitewater rafting experiences, Civil War battlefields, and music from a variety of genres are things to expect from a visit to Tennessee. For the Civil War enthusiast there are battlefields like Shiloh National Military Park in the town of the same name or Chickamauga National Military Park near Chattanooga. Those who want to step into the past will find touring the antebellum homes in Tennessee to be a fascinating breath of fresh air. Blount House in Knoxville, the Sam Davis Home in Smyrna and The Hermitage, President Andrew Jackson's home, in Nashville are just a few of the homes offering tours. While in Nashville, experience live music downtown at the Ryman Auditorium or any number of smaller venues. Even small, locally owned establishments host events featuring music from local artists. For Blues enthusiasts, Memphis is the town to visit. Beale Street has music performances in almost every restaurant as well as in the courtyards just off the street. Home to W.C. Handy and Elvis Presley in their adult years, Memphis is rich in music history. Sun Studios and Staxx Music offer tours for guests to learn more about the recording industry.  Chattanooga, Tennessee 5. Oregon Home to Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and Crater Lake, Oregon features breath-taking natural vistas as well as urban cityscapes. Ghost towns, hiking trails, and beautiful waterfalls are a few of the sights that Oregon can offer travelers. Travel to Sumpter to ride the rails on the Sumpter Valley Railroad. Visitors can ride an 1890 narrow gauge steam train that has been restored and runs between McEwen and Sumpter. Book lovers will find themselves at home in the flagship store of Powell's Books in Portland. Powell's is touted as the largest independent bookseller in the world and the flagship store covers an entire city block and boasts nine rooms including a rare book room. Towns like Medford and Jacksonville are off the beaten path, but they offer independently owned eateries, winemakers, and microbreweries to entice travelers to visit.  Mount Hood, Oregon Regardless of your personal interests, there are travel destinations in the United States to peak your sense of adventure. Add some of them to your travel bucket list. Then have fun checking each one off.
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The pace of modern life can get us down and run us ragged. And for this reason, sometimes a busy or activity-packed vacation destination can actually be the last thing you need. Instead, if you're feeling a bit worn down, you can look to slow down at a place that invites you to let go and relax. And for this type of getaway, there aren't many East Coast destinations that can top Cape May, New Jersey  With its slow pace, rich history, and almost indescribably pleasant atmosphere, it can be just the place to find peace and recuperate from everyday life. Below are a few specific reasons why. Laid-Back Beaches Cape May is first and foremost recognized as a coastal destination, so we may as well start with the beaches! Here, while there can certainly be a crowd during peak travel times or over holidays, you can for the most part enjoy gorgeous beach areas without worrying about throngs of tourists, clutter, and all of that. It'll be just you, whoever you happen to be traveling with, clean sand and pretty waters. On Cape May Beach in particular, the sand is pristine and just waiting for your lounge chair and umbrella drink. However, you may also want to check out Sunset Beach near the SS Atlantus, North Wildwood Beach, Poverty Beach, and the beach at Cape May Point State Park. And wherever you are, don't forget to hunt for Cape May diamonds when you get up for a walk down the beach! These are basically glittery quartz pebbles often collected by visitors, and they actually do add a certain charm to the beaches. A Slower Pace The more well-known beach destination in this part of New Jersey is Atlantic City, which is known as much for over-the-top entertainment and towering casino resorts as for the actual beaches. However, Atlantic City's charms have dissipated over the years, and in fact at this point even its casino allure is no longer unique. That's not to say you'll find casinos on Cape May (you won't), but with the games available online throughout the state, people can effectively enjoy the best part of Atlantic City anywhere. And that speaks to the whole idea that Cape May offers a slower pace. Those who want to enjoy the state's casino culture can simply do so online from a cozy, rented cottage rather than mess with a bustling big-city resort. Similarly, if you want to get around on Cape May, you're typically better off doing so by bicycle or on foot than by car. If you're looking for a place to stay, you can find a quaint, homey property rather than a giant hotel. If you want to go for a drink you can visit a local winery instead of a crowded bar or club, and if you need an activity to enjoy with dinner, watching the sunset is as good an option as any. The whole place is just pared down, in a soothing and beautiful way. Historic Homes If you're looking for a slow-paced vacation and you value the charm factor, you'll no doubt appreciate the older dwellings that are emblematic of Cape MayMay. Because of the area's rich history, there are many preserved historic homes showcasing a diverse range of architectural influences - many of which you can tour (or at least take a look at) during your stay. If this idea does appeal to you, you may want to start with the Emlen Physick Estate, a beautifully restored Victorian. Its carriage house is home to the visitor's center, so from there you can determine other historic landmarks to visit during your stay on Cape May. Most of them reside in the historic district, including highlights like the George Allen House (in the Italianate style), the George Boyd House (Georgian Revival style), and Fryer's Cottage (Second Empire style). Nature and Wildlife
If you enjoy the outdoors and you're up for mixing in a bit of activity with your leisurely getaway, a visit to the Nature Center of Cape May can be just the thing. This venue has its own garden and activities, along with an observation tower that provides some beautiful views. And if this interests you, a wealth of other nature parks and trails exist on the cape as well, including New Jersey Lizard Tail Swamp Preserve, Cape May County Park and Zoo, and Stone Harbor Point. All in all, this should set you up for the relaxing vacation you need!  If you’re looking for a fun, themed, convenient and budget-friendly place to stay while visiting Orlando, you have to check out Cabana Bay Beach Resort! My family recently went to Cabana Bay to celebrate the summer birthdays and we had the best time. The entire Universal Resort is designed with a fun retro theme that takes you back to the iconic beach hotels of the 1950s and 60s. If you are planning a family trip to Orlando, take a look at the rates for Universal's Cabana Bay Resort!  ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MANDY CARTER
Mandy manages the South Florida and SWFL Communities of Housewives In the City. She is mother of two who loves to travel, shop and try new cocktails. In addition to planning events and blogging for Housewives In The City, she is a published writer, working model, freelance marketer and family travel blogger at Acupful.com. Uncover the secret sides of Ireland and Scotland few visitors ever see  The Emerald Isle and Scottish Highlands are brimming with iconic landmarks (a.k.a tourist traps). But what about those who want more than a pint of Guinness or a bite of haggis? Wilderness Scotland (Europe’s No. 1 Rated Adventure Travel Company) and sister company Wilderness Ireland offer Tailor Made trips designed by locals and delivered by local legends—making them a great way to discover the essence of a place in a way that few visitors have access to. From enjoying a moonlight paddle in Yeats Country—home to unparalleled star gazing—to uncovering the secrets of the Loch Ness Monster to rappelling off sea stacks, Wilderness’ Tailor Made adventures unearth the true character of the destination. Forget everything you thought you knew about Ireland and Scotland with these one-of-a-kind experiences:  Go Glamping in Yeats Country On a camping expedition in Sligo, Ireland, hike the breathtaking lakes, mountains, beaches and waterfalls that once inspired many of the great works of the Nobel Prize winning writer, W. B. Yeats. As the sun sets, hop in a kayak for a nighttime paddle on the “Lake Isle of Inisfree” to a private island. Leap onto the sand where a forested paradise awaits, along with a night of glamping in one of the world’s premier stargazing destinations. But first, enjoy wood-fired pizzas al fresco, while a local expert shares in the tales and legends of the area. Dates & prices available upon request.  Hunt for Nessie with a Career Monster Tracker While Scotland is known for its legends and fables, none are quite as famous as the Loch Ness Monster. While considered by some as folklore, the storied creature has been likened by scientists to a plesiosaur that dates back to the end of the last ice age. To unearth the history of the mystical creature, meet Adrian Shine, a naturalist and researcher, for a private boat ride as he shares his insider knowledge after years of studying Nessie. You’ll fly across the waters of Loch Ness, one of the largest and deepest expanses of water in the UK, as you search for this elusive creature. Dates & prices available upon request.  Spend the Night in Your Own Private Castle Nestled in the countryside on 500-acres lies a palace straight out of a fairytale—Aldourie Castle—and it’s easily bookable for a private rental for you and your closest 20 friends with Wilderness Scotland. This rare experience is set on the shores of Loch Ness, where well-tended courtyards, 16th-century gardens and horseback riding can be found as you stroll vast woodland grounds. For a closer look at the garden’s soaring pergolas, meet with your private guide for a tour, while keeping eyes peeled for deer, sea eagles and even basking sharks—the world’s second-largest fish. Stop for a tour at a world-famous malt whisky distillery to sip the Scottish ‘Water of Life,’ or hop in a sea kayak to observe the ruins of nearby Urquhart Castle from the water. Dates & prices available upon request.  Cast a Line with an Expert Ghillie Grab your waders and wellies for an unforgettable fishing experience with one of Scotland’s most knowledgeable fishing expeditioners. Take to the Highlands to uncover the locals’ best-kept fishing spots along the River Tay in Perthshire. Here, anglers can find the country’s most iconic species—Atlantic salmon—along with pike, rainbow trout and pollock. Cheers to the catch of the day with a glass of distilled whisky on the riverbank. Dates & prices available upon request.  Forage for Juniper to Make Your Own Gin While whisky may be the official drink of Ireland, gin is also a popular local tipple. In Ireland’s Ancient East, you can learn the complicated science behind every bottle of Irish-made gin. Head into the forest with a naturalist guide to forage for fresh ingredients, such as juniper and other herbs. Then, head to an exclusive gin school to distill a bottle with your own herbs—making for a memorable souvenir. Dates & prices available upon request.  Climb a Sea Stack High Above the Atlantic Head to what Ireland’s Donegal County calls “the most climbable rocks in Ireland” to unearth a secret spot where you’ll be suspended above the Atlantic waves for an adrenaline-fueled climb. But first, visit one of the area’s most remote spots to meet the local Gaelic-speaking characters who call the area home. They’ll guide you through the history of the separation between Northern and Southern Ireland, the basic knowledge of the Gaelic language and their local traditions. Then, you’ll be whisked away to a tiny island, where you’ll climb to the top of a sea stack, then rappel down the steep cliffside high above ocean waves. Dates & prices available upon request. For more information on Wilderness Ireland and Wilderness Scotland’s Tailor Made adventures and bookings, please visit www.wildernessireland.com/tailor-made-holidays or www.wildernessscotland.com/private-tours/tailor-made-holidays, or call 1-844-235-6240.
Are you traveling to Charlotte, North Carolina in the upcoming months? Want a luxurious experience outside of the same old boring hotel? The Dunhill Hotel is a must see.  The Dunhill is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. With it's rich history - opened in 1929 - and quaint charm, you'll find that they find ways to bring history back to life with little details throughout the hotel and within the rooms. Located through the lobby, you can also grab a drink or meal without leaving the hotel at The Asbury.
Read more about the Dunhill Hotel from our Charlotte Blogger here. Want to book your next stay? Head on over to The Dunhill's website for more information.  There are so many great beach resorts in South Florida,, one being the beautiful Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Fl. I was first introduced to this awesome resort when I hosted the August 2018 Girl's Night Out event in the lobby. Check out the photocap from that night: Ft Lauderdale Girl's Night Out Aug at The Diplomat So I decided to go back for a full weekend to see how a couples getaway vacation at The Diplomat would be. I am happy to say that it was a lovely vacation spot that I highly recommend you all experiencing! From top rated oceanfront dining, pristine beach lounging, beautiful pools, and luxurious suites- this resort is one not to miss. There is so much to do, you may need to book extra days to visit the beautiful local area! Rooms are spacious with awesome views of the ocean and pools. The infinity pool is pthe perfect way to spend a day relaxing and their friendly staff will deliver cocktails and food to your lounge chair or cabana! The beach is only steps away. A visit here, allows you the chance to experience Hollywood's historic oceanfront boardwalk, which listed among America's 'Best Beach Boardwalks' by Travel + Leisure magazine, only one mile away .....  The Diplomat Beach Resort is located beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean in Hollywood, Fl The Perfect South Florida Luxury Resort I had a fabulous 3 days at the Diplomat Beach Resort, a luxury South Florida hotel, and highly recommend it to anyone for a Florida getaway! The Diplomat Beach Resort 3555 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, Florida 33019 Website | Facebook |Instagram  ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MANDY CARTER
Mandy manages the South Florida and SWFL Communities of Housewives In the City. She is mother of two who loves to travel, shop and try new cocktails. In addition to planning events and blogging for Housewives In The City, she is a published writer, working model, freelance marketer and family travel blogger at Acupful.com. Sipping cocktails al fresco never looked so good The days of spring and summer travel breaks are here and it’s time to sit back and relax. Here’s a roundup of hotels across the U.S. with Insta-worthy porches and picture-perfect verandas. From people-watching to star-gazing to enjoying salty harbor air, here’s where you can pull up a chair in style and share your #currentview with friends and followers this summer  Baron’s Cove, Sag Harbor, NY Best porch for: Harbor views Situated directly in front of the harbor, this water-side Hamptons retreat offers several outdoor seating options including an outdoor veranda with its own wood-burning fireplace and a restaurant terrace overlooking the harbor, but the hottest (or coolest) seat in town is on a rocker on the hotel’s charming front porch, located directly in front of the water capturing those perfect harbor breezes. Baron’s Cove’s front porch greets guests upon arrival and is a popular seat for both locals and guests to enjoy a morning coffee or pre-dinner cocktail and catch up on summer reading. It’s also one of the hotel’s most popular photos on the ‘gram. baronscove.com  Virginia Hotel, Cape May, NJ Best porch for: People watching An impeccably restored 1879 landmark building, The Virginia Hotel and its darling front porch set the standard for luxury hotels in Cape May, NJ. Nestled on a tree-lined street in the heart of historic Cape May and just a half a block from the beach, The Virginia Hotel’s front porch is one of the most popular seats in Cape May. A prime location for people watching after a long day at the beach, guests can have a seat on the porch and enjoy artisanal cocktails and exquisite small plates from the hotel’s popular restaurant, The Ebbitt Room. virginiahotel.com  The Broadmoor’s Cloud Camp, Colorado Springs, CO Best porch for: Rocky Mountain sunsets Guests at The Broadmoor’s Cloud Camp may enjoy Insta-worthy Rocky Mountain views from the porch at this all-inclusive hideaway atop Cheyenne Mountain. Situated at a breathtaking 9,200 feet above sea level, Cloud Camp’s 360-degree views provide a picture-perfect backdrop for guided nature walks and luxurious lodge living. At 3,000 feet above The Broadmoor, this unique resort site is perfect for watching the sunset on the Rocky Mountains and plains below. Bonus: It’s all-inclusive, including cocktails. Rocky Mountain morning mimosas, anyone? broadmoor.com  Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg, VA Best veranda for: History buffs and foodies Kingsmill Resort’s James Landing Grille is a scenic spot is where family and friends gather to enjoy fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, while enjoying the beautiful sunsets over the historic James River. Open seasonally, the James Landing Grille is the only riverfront dining experience in Williamsburg, making photos and memories extra special. kingsmill.com  The Inn at Death Valley, Death Valley, CA Best porch for: Panoramic desert views and stargazing A natural oasis located in the middle of Death Valley National Park, one of only eight designated "gold tier" International Dark Sky Parks in the United States, The Inn at Death Valley’s porches provide the perfect spot for sipping on cool desert cocktails while watching the vast desert sky turn dark for optimal stargazing. The sky is so clear that star-gazers can actually see the Milky Way with the naked eye. oasisatdeathvalley.com  Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Lake Geneva, WI Best veranda for: Beautiful country landscapes and greenery No filter needed at Embers Terrace at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in lush Lake Geneva. This Midwest hotspot offers guests the perfect gathering spot for after-dinner desserts, drinks, roaring fire pits, and grammable views of the beautiful Wisconsin countryside. A picturesque setting to unwind after a day of golf at the resort’s award-winning courses. grandgeneva.com  El Tovar at Grand Canyon, South Rim, AZ Best porch for: Taking in a world wonder What better way to celebrate crossing off the Grand Canyon from your bucket list than a festive toast overlooking a world wonder? Located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, a small veranda at El Tovar directly outside the lounge has spectacular views, famous for enjoying the Arizona sunsets. Guests can enjoy a light meal and cool beverage while planning what’s next on their itinerary. Take in the view knowing that guests such as Teddy Roosevelt, President Bill Clinton, and Sir Paul McCartney have dined and shared stories within these walls. grandcanyonlodges.com/lodging/el-tovar-hotel  The Woods at The Source Hotel, Denver, CO
Best porch for: Craft brews and views In Colorado the sun regularly paints the sky with vibrant oranges, pinks and purples as it falls behind the mountains. To catch the phenomenon, head to the trendy Source Hotel + Market Hall’s eighth-floor rooftop bar, The Woods. Here you can take in the best of what Colorado has to offer. Look east and you’re staring at the unparalleled views of Downtown Denver, look west and you’ll take in the sunset and mountain views stretching from 14,000-foot Pikes Peak to the south of Long’s Peak in the north. While enjoying this urban patio, you can sip on creative craft beers brewed exclusively for the restaurant by the small-batch New Belgium brewery on the hotel’s ground floor. thesourcehotel.com/the-woods   Great places to stay in BauhausLand “What’s a Bauhaus hotel room like?” As the world marks the Bauhaus centenary, 2019 is a great time to visit BauhausLand, the tourism region named for the design movement that changed the way we live. As well as visiting, fans can stay in Bauhaus-influenced buildings. Head for the German states of Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia; check in – and sleep like a Bauhausler! DESSAU Welcome to student life: sleep like a Bauhäusler Emblazoned with the word BAUHAUS, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation complex is the No 1 destination for modern design enthusiasts. Extra special is staying in the Prellerhaus, one of Germany’s first-ever student dorms. Built in 1926, the 28-room building still offers an authentic student experience of the past: streamlined rooms, with washbasins, built-in furniture, plain beds and tables. But there are also stylish Martin Stam-designed steel-tube cantilever chairs. Down the hall are contemporary bathrooms and communal kitchenettes. Special are rooms themed for former Bauhaus occupants, such as Josef and Anni Albers. Hearty German breakfasts are served in the student café. Note: the Prellerhaus has no elevators! (Single rooms from US$45; double rooms from US $70; www.bauhaus-dessau.de/en/service/sleeping-at-bauhaus/booking-request.html )  PROBSTZELLA Off the beaten track
South of Weimar, Probstzella is important for its imposing “Haus des Volkes.” Designed by architect Alfred Arndt in 1927, this grand community center, Thuringia’s largest Bauhaus complex, even includes a hotel. Lovingly restored in 2005, the Bauhaushotel provides contemporary comforts, from modern tubs to thick towels. And the “Haus des Volkes”, built for workers 90 years ago, still has the cheerful Blauer Saal restaurant, a bowling alley, cinema and saunas. Offering rare video footage and interactive technology, a lively museum tells the building’s story, from Bauhaus days through World War Two and the Cold War (Double rooms from US$90 with breakfast; www.booking.com/Share-6a0WAD ). WEIMAR The Steiner Connection Bauhaus teachers, such as Wassily Kandinsky, were influenced by the philosopher Rudolf Steiner. In Weimar, Steiner lived in a handsome 18th-century house. Now a hotel, the Villa Hentzel is on – appropriately – Bauhausstrasse (From US$125; www.booking.com/Share-Kw1vro). WEIMAR The “Goethe didn’t stay here” Design Apartments Enjoy the 21st-century Bauhaus effect! With the witty name “Goethe didn’t stay here”, these contemporary vacation rental apartments were designed and decorated by Bauhaus University graduates. Close to the city’s attractions, this is a real insider tip (From US$110; www.booking.com). MAGDEBURG Where art and architecture meet In Saxony-Anhalt’s capital, compare century-old Bauhaus design with today’s avant-garde architecture. Finished in 2005, Magdeburg’s bright pink Grüne Zitadelle (Green Citadel) was Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s last project. This complex of homes, shops and cafés includes the artHOTEL. The 40 rooms have jazzy bathrooms, with Hundertwasser’s trademark colorful tiles (from US$100; www.arthotel-magdeburg.de/Hotel-Philosophie-EN ). BAD BERKA: ON YOUR BIKE! Bicycle steel tubing inspired Bauhaus designer Marcel Breuer to create his famous chairs. And cycling is still a fun way to explore BauhausLand. From Weimar, pedal part of the Feininger Cycle Trail, dedicated to Bauhaus artist Lyonel Feininger; head off through the beech and spruce forest to stay in the spa town of Bad Berka. Here, the funky velo inn provides B&B accommodations for cyclists and hikers. Design highlights include eco-friendly (but comfy) beds, made by local carpenters, using no screws, bolts or nails! (www.booking.com) MONEY & TIME SAVING TIPS Use the Weimar Card and Thuringia Card for discounted admission to the region’s main attractions, and the WelterbeCard to explore the Heritage Region around Dessau. In Jena, get the JENA à la CARD. How we can help Whether you’re looking for suggested driving routes through BauhausLand, detailed information on Bauhaus cities, or need the perfect picture, we‘re happy to help! For news as it happens, register at: www.gobauhaus.com/stay-tuned/ Or get regular updates, stories, and pictures at: Press Area@Cision. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch at info@gobauhaus.com. For further information Please visit #gobauhaus #moderndenken #visitthuringia.Enjoy your personal goBauhaus experiences and share them with us on Facebook! With 17 miles of white sand and beautiful blue waters, New Smyrna Beach, located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, is a prime spot for families wanting to plan a getaway this spring. And with so many kid-friendly attractions, camps, and free activities, they’ll want to do more than just build sandcastles and splash in the surf (although we love that too!). Take a peek at some of the fun:  Marine Discovery Center: 5-Day Spring Adventure Camp (March 18-22) With pontoon rides, fishing, and arts and crafts, the kids will be too busy having fun to notice they’re learning about New Smyrna Beach’s wildlife and environment. The Hub on Canal: Art Fun 4 Kids with Heather Pastor (March 13, April 10) Kiddos can channel their inner Van Gogh with an art class at The Hub on Canal. Instructor Heather Pastor teaches about famous artists, then children create their own masterpieces with a variety of mediums. Surfin’ NSB: Ride the Waves: Little thrill-seekers will love a private family surf lesson from the pros at Surfin’ NSB. An instructor will bring boards right to your hotel or condo, so all you need to do is walk out onto the sand. Turtle Mound River Tours: Set sail on a two-hour narrated tour of the Indian River Lagoon for a chance to see dolphins, manatees, and incredible views of Canaveral National Seashore. New Smyrna Museum of History: Encourage a love for learning by exploring NSB’s interesting past through cool artifacts, models, and photographs. Kids will love the vintage boards and other local memorabilia in the surfing exhibit. Parents will love that it’s free admission. Fishing Charters: Reel in the fun on the Indian River Lagoon with a local guide, like Captain Drew Cavanaugh of Florida Inshore Fishing Charters. From hauling in a prize catch to close-up views of local wildlife, a charter is a perfect way to spend a day on the water. New Smyrna Speedway: Zoom zoom! Watch as stockcars and trucks vie for a spot at the finish line. Races are held weekly and children 11 and under are free. New Smyrna Beach Escape Room: Older kids and teens will love this combo scavenger hunt and puzzle-solving activity. Participants attempt to escape from a locked room by deciphering riddles and puzzles. Choose from themes like “Alien Autopsy” and “Houdini’s Secrets.” About the New Smyrna Beach Area
The New Smyrna Beach area includes the communities of New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Oak Hill, Osteen and Port Orange in east Central Florida. New Smyrna Beach is an eclectic mix of old and new; of subtle sophistication and bohemian soul that is as “real” as Florida gets. It occupies a notable place in history as the second oldest city in Florida, site of the largest single attempt at British colonization in the new world. In 2018, New Smyrna Beach celebrated its 250th birthday. The city’s barrier island is recognized worldwide for its incredible surf with Surfer magazine recently touting it one of the “Best Surf Towns in America” and National Geographic magazine including it in its “World’s Top 20 Surf Towns”. Accommodations range from charming bed and breakfast inns to family-size condominium units and oceanfront hotels. Natural attractions include 17 miles of sandy beaches from Ponce de Leon Inlet to Canaveral National Seashore and North America’s most diverse estuary – the Indian River Lagoon. Two distinct downtowns along Flagler Avenue and Canal Street and connected via the Waterfront Loop welcome visitors with independent restaurants, unique shops, artisanal coffee shops and art galleries. For more information, please visit www.VisitNSBfl.com or call 386-428-1600. Follow @NewSmyrnaBeach1 on Twitter, Facebook.com/VisitNewSmyrnaBeach or @visitnewsmyrnabeach on Instagram for the latest news. Download the free New Smyrna Beach Mobile App for iPhone and Android to receive this information on-the-go. My family is always looking for great day trips from the Tampa area. I recently had the opportunity to explore Sarasota, and I am so excited to share some of their amazing attractions with you. My drive from the north part of Tampa was only about 90 minutes, which I consider the perfect distance for a day trip. If you’d rather make a weekend of it and explore further, I have a great recommendation for accommodations! ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE Credit: Eddie Kirsch / Visit Sarasota County Fun fact – my family and I lived in Longboat Key when I was six years old. My school bus drove through St. Armands Circle every day, but at only six years old, I did not appreciate the draw of this great area. St. Armand’s is boasts luxury shopping and delicious restaurants, and hosts unique events throughout the year. When I visited in November, the 30th Annual St. Armands Art Festival was underway with large crowds, but an impressive 175 artists and craftsman displaying their work. Do not miss St. Armands’ restaurants when you visit! We enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Tommy Bahama Restaurant (yes, that Tommy Bahama!), where we ate their World Famous Coconut Shrimp, Filet Mignon Flatbread, incredible Pina Colada Cake, and so much more! Want to enjoy a taste of Tommy Bahamas at home? Check out this recipe for their Happy “Huladays” Cocktail!   THE RINGLINGI loved our visit to The Ringling! Initially, I thought the museum was simply going to display the history of the Ringling Circus. It turns out that circus life is only the focus of the Circus Museum portion of The Ringling. While we did begin our tour by viewing scaled models depicting every detail of circus life in the fictional Howard Bros. Circus, then walking through artifacts from the circus life, The Ringling itself has so much more to offer. When I return with my family, we could very well spend all of our time viewing and experiencing the circus displays, but there is so much more to see! The grounds are also home to Mable’s rose garden, John and Mable Ringling’s 56-room home Ca’ d’Zan on Sarasota Bay, and the impressive Museum of Art. Ca' d'Zan was the winter home of the Ringlings, one of America's richest couples. The opulence has to be seen to be believed, and there are various tours available to view different areas of the home. I truly had no idea the Museum of Art had such an extensive collection. I was reminded of my visits to European art galleries with pieces ranging throughout history. The location of The Ringling is itself a beautiful setting. I am eager to bring my family back to the grounds to leisurely walk along the paths among the banyan trees. For more information about The Ringling and ticket information, visit their website: https://www.ringling.org/.    |
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