Best Winter Destinations in New England

Jan 072019
 

Looking for things to do in New England during the winter time? Here is a list of great destinations to visit during the cold months.

It’s the winter season and you’re probably looking for some fun places to be and things to do out in New England. It’s hard to find some ideas for things to do in the winter time because of how harsh the New England winters can be, and all you want to do is hibernate indoors sometimes. But no matter how long you want to spend outside this season, here are some great winter destinations in New England in case you feel like exploring this snowy time.

Explore some art – New Haven Connecticut
Yale in New Haven Connecticut sounds boring to explore for a snowy day. But a tour of the location can be absolutely stunning and a great pastime! The Yale Center for British Art and Yale University Art Gallery have stunning art to see while you’re exploring. These are considered some of the finest art museums in all of New England, you wouldn’t want to miss an opportunity like that. Continue reading »

Vacation Adventures with TripAdvisor

Nov 262018
 

Save time and book your vacation experiences directly through Tripadvisor. They offer more than 56,000 bookable experiences in 2,500 destinations worldwide.

Whenever I am planning a vacation, whether it’s a local day trip or an actual vacation, the first place I look for information is TripAdvisor. We all go there for the reviews, right? but did you know that you can book activities and experiences directly through TripAdvisor? It’s super convenient to be able to look through all the things they offer to do in the city you’re traveling to, read reviews while you’re there AND book whatever catches your eye – all in one spot. And isn’t it better to know that your itinerary is all set before you even leave for your trip (or staycation)?

Chris and I just got back from a long weekend away in NYC and I as soon as we booked the trip, I ran right over to TripAdvisor to see what they had available for us to book. I found a bunch of stuff and thankfully I was able to narrow it down to a few that we really wanted to do and book them. All of these experiences that I booked were super easy to book online. I was able to search by date and find exactly what I wanted on the TripAdvisor site.

Save time and book your vacation experiences directly through Tripadvisor. They offer more than 56,000 bookable experiences in 2,500 destinations worldwide.

The View from inside the Oculus: The new World Trade Center Transportation Hub

Once you complete your booking through TripAdvisor, they will email you a voucher which you will present once you get to your scheduled activity. Most will accept the voucher on your phone, but a few experiences need an actual printed voucher. Don’t worry because it will say in the confirmation email (with your vouchers) if something needs to be printed. I only mention this because one of the experiences I just booked for our recent NYC trip required a printed voucher. Continue reading »

10 Sights to See While in Vermont

Oct 222018
 

Whether you’re looking home away from home vacation, or spending the day in Vermont for fun, I’ve come up with a list of 10 sights to see while in Vermont.

This Northeastern United States location is rich with history. Vermont is a New England state that attracts tourists all year round. Whether you’re looking to arrive this summer for a little home away from home vacation, or spending the day in Vermont for fun, I’ve come up with a list of 10 sights to see while in Vermont that you must add to your travel bucket list.

Whether you’re looking home away from home vacation, or spending the day in Vermont for fun, I’ve come up with a list of 10 sights to see while in Vermont. Continue reading »

Free Things to Do in New England

Sep 272018
 

These are just four places to consider when you're looking for free things to do in New England. Honestly, it's just the tip of the iceberg.

If you’ve never visited New England there’s no better time to do so. The entire region is well-known for good food, a rich and interesting history and so much more.

Are you looking for free activities to participate in, while exploring the area? These are a few possibilities to consider. As you can see, there really is something for everyone!

Yale University (New Haven, Connecticut)

Yale University hosts a free guided tour of its historic campus. As long as your group doesn’t consist of more than 10 people, no reservation is required. Visit both the Yale Art Gallery and Yale Center for British Art. While you’re there, you may be lucky enough to take in a free concert. Continue reading »

Family Fun at Gatorland, Orlando

Sep 102018
 

If you are looking for a fun day of making memories with your family in Orlando, head to Gatorland. There's a lot more there than just gators!

I don’t know about you, but I have been hearing buzz about Gatorland in Orlando for years. It’s one of those attractions that I have had on my bucket list for a long, long time and recently I was able to cross it off. We had some time between checking out of one resort before we could check into the next, so I figured it was the perfect time to head over to the the Alligator Capital of the World!

If you are looking for a fun day of making memories with your family in Orlando, head to Gatorland. There's a lot more there than just gators!

Sure, you go to Gatorland to see the gators, but in addition to thousands (literally) of alligators, Gatorland has much more to offer. Gatorland boasts the largest collection of extremely rare white leucistic alligators, a free-flight aviary, petting zoo, one-of-a-kind animal shows, thrilling Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and their new Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure!  Your day at Gatorland will be full of fun and memory making! Continue reading »

Streamline Your Car Rental Process With Silvercar!

Sep 042018
 

What’s worse after a long day of traveling than standing in a long line at the airport waiting to pick up your rental car? I always dread coming off of a long flight to have to search for the rental car counter and then wait forever for the long process to be over with- nevermind all the upsells they try to push on me once I am there. Having just gone through the rental car process in July when I was in Charleston (longggg lines and tons of paperwork), I said to my husband that there HAS to be a better way to get a rental car. Well, it turns out that there is and it’s called Silvercar.

Streamline your car rental process by renting an Audi from Silvercar. Done via an app on your smartphone, avoid the lines, paperwork and hassles!

With Silvercar there are no lines and no paperwork. Yes, you read that right – no lines or paperwork!! Everything is done on their app and right now Silvercar is available in 24 cities across the US.  I had a chance to try out renting a car through Silvercar when I was in Orlando last week and let me tell you, it’s a game changer when it comes to renting a car. Continue reading »

Free Historic Sites to Visit in Boston

Aug 072018
 

Here are just three (of many) historically-based sites to visit in Boston. Put on your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and check them out today!

Boston is a fun and interesting place to visit, there’s no doubt about it! This is especially true for history buffs. If you’re in search of free historic sites to visit in the city, you have tons of options to choose from. Here are a few to consider.

Boston Freedom Trail 

The Boston Freedom Trail is the red brick walking trail that takes visitors to several themed sites across the city, important during the American Revolution.

Follow the trail to get a look at some of Boston’s most famous spots. This includes Paul Revere’s house, the site of the Boston Massacre, Granary Burial Ground and the Old North Church from which revolutionaries used those infamous lanterns to signal that the British were coming.

There are several (daily) 90-minute walking tours, which take you along the trail. Knowledgeable guides provide information about each site. Or, if you prefer to walk the trail at your own pace, audio players are available from the Freedom Trail Foundation. The players feature stories and information that you don’t get on the guided tour. Continue reading »

The Summer is Already Half Over – Don’t Miss Out on Going to Water Country This Year!

Aug 062018
 

The Summer is Already Half Over, don't Miss Out on Going to Water Country in Portsmouth, NH this summer. It's New England's favorite water park!

Here in New England, summer is way too short and my family really tries to make the most of the nice weather we do get. One thing we do every single year is head up to Portsmouth, NH to Water Country. There are several water parks in New England, but Water Country is by far our favorite.

For over 30 years, Water Country has been the go-to destination for family fun in southern New Hampshire. Water Country features family-friendly rides and attractions like Big Ollie, Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror, and the lazy river. They have more slides, pools and attractions than any other water park in the area and there is definitely something for everyone there.  A day at the water park is just that, a full day!

The Summer is Already Half Over, don't Miss Out on Going to Water Country in Portsmouth, NH this summer. It's New England's favorite water park!

My family had a blast spending the day at Water Country this past weekend and I wanted to share a few tips with you for your trip: Continue reading »

25 Things to do in Hartford, CT

Jul 312018
 

Here are 25 things to do in Hartford, Connecticut. Hartford, CT offers such a wide range of history and art for everyone to enjoy.

The home of the Mark Twain House & Museum and capital of Connecticut, Hartford is a city that brings much entertainment and sights to see. This is the place to go to view some historical locations, artistic talents and enjoy the views of the city. Today I’m featuring 25 things to do in Hartford, CT so that you can plan your next Connecticut visit properly.

Here are 25 things to do in Hartford, Connecticut. Hartford, CT offers such a wide range of history and art for everyone to enjoy. Continue reading »

Exploring Maine

Jul 252018
 

There is a lot to see and do in the state of Maine. From Stephen King's house to lighthouses to lots of wildlife! Here are a few ideas for your next trip!

I love to travel. Unfortunately, my budget does not allow for expensive, elaborate getaways, so I have to be creative and frugal. I try to pick places that I can drive to and that I can do inexpensively. I recently returned from a week in Maine and had more fun than I ever imagined I would there. My son was on vacation with his father, so my best friend and I went on a girl’s road trip. We didn’t spend much, doing mostly free things, and I figured I would share with all of you.

We stayed in Bangor, as it was central to most of the things we wanted to do. No trip to Bangor is complete without a trip to Stephen King’s house. I’ve been a fan of his writing all my life, and his house is exactly what you would expect. Continue reading »

Summer Fun at Edaville Family Theme Park

Jul 232018
 

Growing up, my siblings and I waited all year long until my parents finally said we were going to “Edaville” to see the Christmas lights.  It was one of highlights of my childhood and I have so many happy memories of going there year after year with my family. These days it’s known as Edaville Family Theme Park and I am so thankful that I have the chance to take my own kids there so they can have the same wonderful memories of Edaville as I do.

A visit to Edaville Family Theme Park is a fun way to spend the day with your family. Admission includes Thomas Land, Dino Land, all rides & attractions.

But why is it called Edaville? Ellis D. Atwood used his initials (E.D.A) to name the theme park back when it first opened. He started this railroad by purchasing most of the surviving equipment from Maine’s once expansive network of two-foot gauge rail’s and had them trucked south to Carver, Massachusetts – and it is now known as Edaville Railroad. Continue reading »

Planning My Perfect Boston Staycation with TripAdvisor

Jul 172018
 

Did you know you can book experiences directly through TripAdvisor. I was able to book my perfect Boston Staycation on their site & you can, too!

I almost hate to jinx things, but I am just going to say it. We’ve been having some killer weather here in Boston this summer.  It’s been so hot here (the way I like it) and knock on wood, we’ve had very little rain. Last year I feel like it rained for 80% of the month of July, so this nice sunny weather we’ve been having is so nice. With all the gorgeous weather, I decided that I wanted to plan a Boston staycation for my family. Sometimes it’s so fun to play tourist in your own city!  I headed over to TripAdvisor because I needed help narrowing down what we should do. There is a lot to do in Boston, but since my boys aren’t always enthusiastic about doing things as they used to be (darn tweens/teens), I had to be sure to choose adventures that would keep everyone happy and entertained.

Did you know you can book experiences directly through TripAdvisor. I was able to book my perfect Boston Staycation on their site & you can, too!

Did you know that you can book activities and experiences directly through TripAdvisor? It’s super convenient to be able to look through all the things they offer to do in the city you’re traveling to, read reviews while you’re there AND book whatever catches your eye – all in one spot.  You are going to TripAdvisor to look at the reviews anyways, so why not just book your experiences while you are there on their site. Trust me, it makes life so much easier! Continue reading »

25 Family Friendly Things to do in Martha’s Vineyard

Jul 032018
 

There are so many can’t miss things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful island in Massachusetts just south of Cape Cod. Here are 25 things to do in Martha’s Vineyard to assist you in planning your vacation to Martha's Vineyard. There are so many can’t miss things to do in Martha’s Vineyard. This beautiful island location is in Massachusetts just south of Cape Cod and can only access Martha’s Vineyard by boat or air. It features Gothic cottages as well as several ferry ports, depending on which end of the island you venture to. Today I am sharing 25 things to do in Martha’s Vineyard to assist you in planning your vacation itinerary.

There are so many can’t miss things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful island in Massachusetts just south of Cape Cod. Here are 25 things to do in Martha’s Vineyard to assist you in planning your vacation to Martha's Vineyard. Continue reading »

Most Haunted Places in New England

Jun 282018
 

Here are four of the supposedly most haunted locations in New England. There's no reason to wait until Halloween to visit them. The ghosts are waiting.

If you believe in ghosts, chances are you love exploring haunted places. What follows is a short list of the most haunted places in New England. The question is this. Are you brave enough to go exploring?

The Kennebunk Inn (Kennebunk, Maine)

Originally built as a private residence, the Kennebunk Inn opened as a tavern in 1928. It is said to be haunted by Silas Perkins as well as various other apparitions. Perkins, the inn’s former auditor and watchmen, loves to play pranks on guests and employees alike. Most especially in room number 17.

Snedeker Demon House (Southington, Connecticut)

This funeral home turned private residence is the home that inspired the book (and movie) “The Haunting in Connecticut.” It’s where Ed and Lorrain Warren, both paranormal investigators, assisted the Snedeker family of ridding their ghosts in 1986. Continue reading »

25 Things to do in Nantucket

Jun 122018
 

There is so much history to be enjoyed in Nantucket and I sure hope you’ll think about planning a summer trip to Nantucket soon. To help you start planning your getaway, here are 25 Things to do in Nantucket!

Nantucket houses 10,000 people permanently but is a known getaway for many tourists looking to enjoy vacation with the family. Located about 16 miles from Cape Cod, this Massachusetts location brings much joy to anyone who ventures to Nantucket. Today I am sharing 25 things to do in Nantucket so that you are inspired to travel this summer and enjoy all that Nantucket has to offer.

There is so much history to be enjoyed in Nantucket and I sure hope you’ll think about planning a summer trip to Nantucket soon. To help you start planning your getaway, here are 25 Things to do in Nantucket! Continue reading »

Weird Roadside Attractions in Massachusetts

Jun 042018
 

Every state has its share of weird roadside attractions and Massachusetts is no different. When you're in the mood for the unusual, consider the following three options. You'll be glad you did!

Every state has its share of weird roadside attractions. Massachusetts is no different. When you’re in the mood for the unusual, consider the following options. You’ll be glad you did!

Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast (Fall River)
In August of 1892, Fall River residents Andrew and Abby Borden were found murdered in their home. Their adult daughter Lizzie was accused of the crime but was acquitted after standing trial. The house remained empty for some time after Lizzie moved away. However, it eventually became a Bed and Breakfast catering to tourists looking for a spooky travel destination.

Today, the house has been restored to reflect its appearance around the time of the gruesome murders, along with crime scene photographs on the walls of each room to show how closely everything has been refurbished.

Guests who aren’t frightened away in the night are treated to breakfast in the morning, resembling the very meal the Borden’s ate on the day of their death. Continue reading »

25 Things to do on Cape Cod

May 292018
 

Whatever you decide to add to your Cape Cod’s vacation itinerary this summer season, be sure to choose some of these popular locations I shared today. Cape Cod is a great summer vacation family tradition to start now because it’s fun for all ages.

This hook-shaped peninsula located in the state of Massachusetts has been a popular summer destination for many generations. From lighthouses to seafood shacks and the quaint villages, every family member will surely enjoy a vacation to Cape Cod. Located near Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, many travelers enjoy all three locations while in vacationing in this area. Today I’m going to share 25 things to do on Cape Cod so that you can plan your itinerary before heading out to the open sea to visit this beautiful peninsula.

Whatever you decide to add to your Cape Cod’s vacation itinerary this summer season, be sure to choose some of these popular locations I shared today. Cape Cod is a great summer vacation family tradition to start now because it’s fun for all ages. Continue reading »

Best Food Trucks in Boston

May 222018
 

There are so many food trucks in Boston that it's hard to know which one to eat at first. Here are three of the best to help you decide which ones to eat at.

The City of Boston makes it super-easy to patronize your favorite food truck vendors, by providing residents and visitors with a handy Food Truck Schedule. It’s totally worth it to take a look! In the meantime, here are three popular options to consider.

Roxy’s Grilled Cheese (http://www.roxysgrilledcheese.com/)
When Food Network featured Roxy’s Grilled Cheese on “The Great Food Truck Race,” this mobile eatery had already secured it’s claim to fame. One quick look at the menu proves it.

Roxy’s Grilled Cheese specializes in giving you the meltiest, cheesiest grilled cheese experience ever! Constructed with a variety of cheeses including Vermont Cheddar, Fontina, Pimento, Swiss and Muenster, these grilled cheese sandwiches are like NO other.
For example, one of the most popular menu items, the “Mighty Rib” consists of a Fontina grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with caramelized onions and barbecue braised beef. In case you’re in the mood to over indulge yourself during your visit, order up a side of Roxy’s amazing hand-cut truffle fries to go with it! Continue reading »

Plan a Family Friendly Getaway at Great Wolf Lodge New England

May 072018
 

Tucked away in central Massachusetts, Great Wolf Lodge New England is THE place to go for a weekend of family fun! Located in Fitchburg, Great Wolf Lodge is more than just a water park. Sure, your family is in for an incredible water park experience when you visit, but there is much, much more including tons of family friendly attractions, shopping, entertainment and various dining options – all under one roof!  I was invited to spend this past weekend at Great Wolf Lodge with my family, so I am going to tell you all about it.

Great Wolf Lodge is more than just a water park. Sure, your family is in for an incredible water park experience when you visit, but there is much, much more including tons of family friendly attractions, shopping, entertainment and various dining options - all under one roof!

If you are like me, the Indoor water park is most likely the initial draw to Great Wolf Lodge.  Obviously around these parts we have much more cold weather than we do hot weather, so that makes an indoor water park very appealing. The water park includes a number of awesome water slides, an indoor wave pool and Fort Mackenzie, which is a water fort tree house with slides and toys. You can also Grab a tube and float your way around Crooked Creek (lazy river), try to pass across the Big Foot Pass, where you have to cross these large, floating lily pads using only cargo nets for help or play in Chinook Cove, activity pool gives you the chance to swim, splash and shoot some hoops.

Continue reading »

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