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| Summertime typically equals family vacation time. Vacations provide time to reconnect and relax together, but can be a major undertaking. Sometimes, planning a vacation an airplane ride away is more than a family can manage (logistically and financially). We found several locales you can drive to that offer great options for families. Ocean City, Maryland is located on a barrier island off the Atlantic Ocean and is famous for its wild ponies (a definite plus for us). Ocean City is, in most parts, a mere ten miles long and less than a half mile wide. That small space, however, packs a lot of vacation punch for families. There are beaches, a renowned Boardwalk, amusement parks, family friendly restaurants, concerts on the beach and more. Ocean City offers the definitive beach vacation, whether as active or lazy as your family desires. A fairly quick ride into Connecticut will bring you to Mystic. This seaside village offers what many consider the ultimate historic vacation. Mystic caters to families without sacrificing its true historic character. One of New England’s most popular sites is Mystic Seaport. Once upon a time, Mystic was the region’s center for shipbuilding, dating back to days of the colonists. During the Revolutionary War and World War I, Mystic became the hub for American shipbuilding with over 600 ships calling Mystic their birthplace. Enjoy boutique hotels, bed & breakfasts, shopping, restaurants and Mystic Aquarium. Take in the architecture, historic drawbridge at the town’s center and incredible charm. The Berkshire Mountains, in Western Massachusetts, provides a picturesque setting complete with gorges, rivers, and brilliant greenery. The area was developed over 100 years ago by artists and those needing an escape from the city. Summer cottages sprung up as famous authors, artists and others ventured north of New York for a taste of nature. Though there are many festivals that speak to those with an artistic flair, the area has much to offer families looking for a getaway. Museums abound for those preferring the indoors and canoeing, hiking and horseback riding for outdoorsy types. The Poconos, Pennsylvania’s well known vacation region offers a great family getaway. From themed hotels to house rentals, there is something for everyone. There are waterparks, a wild animal park (we’ve been there…it’s a lot of fun), boating, horseback riding, mountain biking or taking in the scenery. Wherever you choose, remember to leave some unscheduled time to just be with each other. This is the part of the year where time stops, obligations are on hold, and stress stays at arm’s length. Make memories that will last all year long. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 