Miami to Maine & Everything In-Between
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