By Dawn Wilson
When you have had enough of staying indoors because of the extreme heat and humidity of the summer, you may be ready to get outdoors into the fresh air of the autumn season. We can’t think of anything better than doing so while taking an exciting and informative road-trip across the country. Why not consider a road-trip from Miami to Maine? We know this is a long trip but we assure you that it will be well worth your time. In our efforts to inspire you to consider a Miami to Maine road-trip, we have come up with some of the must-see attractions along the way.
FLORIDA
Orlando
Walt Disney World and Islands of Adventure/Universal Studios
Two of the area’s premier theme parks with adventure rides, live entertainment, food and lots of souvenir shops. All three attract visitors of all ages.
Daytona
Daytona International Speedway
A racetrack built in 1959 where NASCAR’s popular Daytona 500 race is held annually. Take a tour of the infamous speedway, from behind-the-scenes racecar inspections to delving into their large collection of “one-of-a-kind racing artifacts.”
For more information, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
GEORGIA
Atlanta
World of Coca-Cola
This museum educates its visitors about the history of the iconic soft drink through interactive presentations. See the different Coca-Cola memorabilia from around the world.
Georgia Aquarium
Once the largest public aquarium, it houses thousands of sea animals, representing approximately 500 species, living in 10 million gallons of water.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Columbia
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
170-acres of land that plays home to over 2,000 animals and lush theme gardens. Enjoy the area’s natural habitat and scenic views.
NORTH CAROLINA
Asheville
Biltmore Estate
Situated here is the largest privately owned house in America, the Biltmore House. Visitors can also enjoy the estate’s winery, shops and restaurants.
For more information, please visit www.biltmore.com
Linville
Grandfather Mountain
It is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain range in North Carolina. Hiking and picnicking is encouraged in order to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
For more information, please visit www.grandfather.com
Linville Caverns
Active limestone caverns open year round to visitors. Guided tours are offered, explaining the history of the caverns and subterranean area of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
VIRGINIA
Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg
A living history museum with 301-acres of historical buildings that date back to the eighteenth century. An interpretation of colonial times of America with restored buildings.
Charlottesville
Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
This was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Tour the 1769 mansion and learn about its history and explore its pristine gardens.
Mount Vernon
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon was the plantation home of our first president, George Washington. Its rich history has been preserved with various types of tours offered daily.
WEST VIRGINIA
Fayetteville
New River Gorge Bridge
This bridge is an arch bridge that is approximately 3,000 feet long and sits over the New River Gorge. Visitors can take stairs into the gorge or walk across the steel walkway underneath.
MARYLAND
Baltimore
Museum of Dentistry
One of the few museums in America dedicated to teaching visitors about dental history, oral health and dentistry. Visitors can see interesting dental artifacts and lively exhibitions.
DELAWARE
Wilmington
The Grand Opera House
A 1,208-seat performing arts theater, The Grand Opera House showcases local and national talent with its many theatrical productions, concerts and plays.
Dover
Air Mobility Command Museum
Aircrafts no longer in production are housed here. With over 30 aircrafts on display visitors will see fi ghter planes, cargo haulers, bomber planes and helicopters.
NEW JERSEY
West Orange
Thomas Edison National Historic Park
The home of famed inventor, Thomas Edison, and his laboratory are located here. The park explains the history of both the laboratory and the homestead.
Sussex
High Point State Park
Stunningly beautiful panoramic views of the lakes and mountains are seen at High Point State Park. Visitors enjoy boating, hiking, lake swimming and skiing.
NEW YORK
New York City
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty represents the symbol of freedom. Visitors come in remembrance of their ancestors’ journey to the United States.
Battery Park
A 25-acre, harbor facing public park. The Sphere and eternal flame memorial is just one of the many memorials and monuments worth seeing at Battery Park.
Empire State Building
Visit the observation deck of the 102-story, art deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan where there are 360-degree views of the city of New York.
One World Observatory
See amazing skyline views and surrounding waters of New York City from the 100th, 101st and 102nd fl oors of One World Trade Center where the Observatory is located.
For more information, please visit oneworldobservatory.com
CONNECTICUT
New Haven
Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University
One of the oldest and largest natural history museums in the world, it offers both permanent
and traveling exhibits. Interesting exhibits include fossils and dinosaur remains.
RHODE ISLAND
Newport
Newport Cliff Walk
A public access walkway along the coastline with beautiful ocean views, tunnels, smooth and rugged pathways. View massive gilded mansions along the way.
MASSACHUSETTS
Salem
The House of the Seven Gables
The oldest timber-framed mansion remaining in continental North America originally built in 1668. Discover how the mansion has changed over the centuries.
For more information, please visit www.7gables.org
Massachusetts Bay
Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
Charters take groups or individuals out for whale watching in the marine sanctuary. The marine offers helpful tips to help you get the most of your whale watching experience.
For more information, please visit stellwagen.noaa.gov
Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard
An island south of Cape Cod, it is a destination in popular demand by celebrities and the wealthy. Take a lovely ferry ride and enjoy the beautiful views the island has to offer.
For more information, please visit www.mvol.com
VERMONT
Waterbury
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tour
Learn how your favorite ice cream flavors are manufactured at the factory. Sample flavors not yet introduced to the public and create your own ice cream flavor.
For more information, please visit www.benjerry.com
South Burlington
Magic Hat Brewing Company
This brewery offers a fun and whimsical way to discover new beer flavors. Sample some all-time favorites and see the imaginative methods used to produce your favorite beers.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Conway
Conway Scenic Railway
Three different old-fashioned train rides on vintage trains complete with a train conductor and scenic railway routes. The experience begins at an 1874 Victorian station.
Lincoln
Loon Mountain
You’ll find fun all-year round with all that is offered at Loon Mountain. Go zip lining, biking, hiking, snow tubing, wall climbing, ice-skating or skiing.
For more information, please visit www.loonmtn.com
MAINE
Acadia
Acadia National Park
Spacious carriage roads throughout the park allow you to explore via bike or a horse drawn carriage. The park is known for its many scenic trails.
Augusta
Old Fort Western Museum on the Kennebec
Built in 1754, the fort is the oldest sur giving wooden fort in Ne w England. Located along the Kennebec River it is steeped in rich history and culture.
Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue