U.S.A. Beer Towns

Move over wine country, a new beverage is taking some of the spotlight. Here are three great beer towns to visit in the United States.

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San Francisco might be known for its Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, and Alcatraz, but it’s also a player in the craft-beer arena. As far back as the 19th century, brewers here have been creating craft beers, and it is considered the brewing center of the west coast. Each year, the city hosts a 10-day Beer Week with more than 300 events at breweries and bars that showcase nearly 70 local brewers.

Asheville, North Carolina, in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains, exudes creativity and free spirit. So it’s no wonder that this area has embraced craft beer and been named Beertown U.S.A. four times by Examiner.com. Asheville’s first successful brewery was opened in 1994, and now the city has more than 10 local craft breweries in the area. (Plus, April is North Carolina’s Beer Month, so check out some of the beer tour itineraries if you are in the area.)

Portland, Oregon, might get more publicity for beer than its neighboring city Bend, but Bend actually has more breweries per a capita. Take a tour on the Bend Ale Trail, the largest beer trail in the West. The town also celebrates its Beervana title with a handful of beer celebrations throughout the year.

So whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a connoisseur of hops and barley, plan a great escape to one of these Beer Towns.

National Parks for Family Vacation

Each year, hundreds of millions of people visit the 397 destinations that comprise the country’s National Park System. Spring is a great time to visit as April is National Park Month and the temperatures are just right.  Summer is an ideal time to explore many of these parks too, as the kids are out of school and activities in the parks are in full swing. Here are four national parks that are worth putting on your family’s life list.

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Yellowstone National Park

Spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park tops the list. Yellowstone was the first national park, created on March 1, 1872, in an act signed by then President Ulysses S. Grant, and it is the eighth-largest national park in the United States, which means there is a lot to see and do. It is home to the most geologically active lands on the planet. The gushing geysers and bubbling hot springs are the park’s signature features. But the wildlife is famous, too. Get ready for the priceless look on your children’s faces when they first see a bison crossing the road. With all this action, it is no wonder that Yellowstone is one of the country’s most-visited parks as well.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, also jokingly known as the eighth wonder of the world, brings in more than 5 million visitors each year. Hiking below the canyon rim or rafting a section of the Colorado River will ensure the whole family experiences more than just a panoramic view from the top (though that’s one stunning view). Tell the children that the rock they just touched is more than 2 billion years old, and you will most certainly see a look of wonder. If you are really adventurous, you can plan a mule-trek into (and out of) the canyon, but be sure to drink lots of water and put on sunscreen, as it will get hot as you ascend almost 4,500 vertical feet.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Covering more than a half a million acres, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is the most-visited national park in the country (drawing in around 10 million visitors annually). This park makes the list because it provides easy access to nature and is within a day’s drive of nearly a third of the U.S. population. The park has nearly 800 miles of hiking trails and 16 mountain peaks higher than 6,000 feet. Families will see plenty of diverse wildlife, such as black bears, elk and a diverse collection of fauna and flora. Also, the park encompasses more than 90 historic buildings to explore.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor, Maine, delivers the full outdoor experience. It was the first national park created east of the Mississippi, and it is best known for its boulder-lined coast and former carriage-path trails that wind through the forest. Go hiking or trail running on Cadillac Mountain and enjoy the beautiful views and fresh mountain air. Also, explore the shores and islands with the family by kayak or canoe; areas such as Eagle Lake and Porcupine Island are stunning. Be sure to snag some of the area’s famous lobsters and blueberries. And if you have time, plan a day-trip to Nova Scotia on the ferry.

 

Spring Break Destinations for Families

If you have school-age children, each year you likely find yourself trying to plan yet another a fun vacation for spring break.  Here are three unique and easy destinations for your family this spring.

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Naples, Florida, is a great beach destination on the Gulf Coast, offering white sand and blue water.  Naples has a Rodeo Drive feel, with plenty of great shopping and eateries to be found.  Everglades National Park is nearby and offers opportunities to see wildlife, like crocodiles and alligators.  Spend each evening watching the magnificent sunset over the gulf.

Corpus Christi, Texas, is a fun destination in the spring.  It’s a beach town, and sun seekers will enjoy Gulf Coast breezes that temper the Texas heat.  Plus, there are eleven beaches in the Corpus Christi and Upper Padre Island areas, so you’re sure to find the spot that’s right for your crew. Eat your fill of fresh seafood that is caught daily and keep your eyes peeled for birds—this area has been ranked the “Birdiest City in America.”

Snow lovers who want to hit the slopes on spring break should head to Colorado.  Most ski resorts in areas like Aspen and Breckenridge, don’t close until mid-April or later. Plus, the spring brings relatively warm temperatures and longer days, giving your family plenty of time for skiing or tubing.

So surprise the family this year with a fun new destination for spring break.

Family Vacations to the Caribbean

Choosing a family vacation spot that makes everyone happy can be tricky. But it’s hard to go wrong when you look to the Caribbean. Here are three tropical destinations that are sure to be a hit with the whole crew.

Jamaica has become a popular family vacation destination.  Hang out at the beach for some swimming or sailing, or book a horseback ride along the coastline for a relaxing afternoon. If your family likes sightseeing, then visit the ports and caves once frequented by pirates or explore the waterfalls of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains.

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic has the feel of a beach area that has only recently been discovered. The palm trees and beach extend for nearly 20 miles, so finding your own patch of sand is a certainty. Choose from over 30 family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, and you’ll have even less to worry about, as food, drinks, and activities are usually included.

St. John, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is an oasis for the active family.  More than 60 percent of the island and its surrounding waters make up the Virgin Islands National Park. Hiking trails lead to coral-covered bays perfect for snorkelers. And because this is a United States territory, no passports are needed, so there’s no reason to put off planning your next family vacation to the Caribbean.

Panama City Beach: Beyond Spring Break

Panama City Beach, Florida, might be synonymous with college spring break during March and early April, but the other months of the year this panhandle spot is a top beach destination to visit, even with your family. Twenty-seven miles of white sandy beaches line the coast, and more than 21,000 hotels, motels, and condos make it easy to find a good deal. Plus, just 15 minutes away from the beach is the country’s newest international airport (opened May 23, 2010); Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) makes it quick and easy to access Panama City and Panama City Beach. Whether you’re looking to relax, indulge your inner foodie, or even enjoy some exercise on your vacation, Panama City Beach is worth a closer look.

When to Go
The temperature in Panama City Beach usually hangs out in the 70s and 80s (not factoring wind or humidity). While the majority of tourists come during spring break (March) or summer (June and July), locals recommend visiting during the shoulder season: mid-April through May and September through December. The weather is delightful and the roads, beaches, and attractions are less crowded.

Where to Stay
There’s no shortage of lodging options in Panama City Beach. The Majestic Beach Resort offers condo-style living quarters with more than 650 feet of beachfront property. The Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort is a family friendly full-service resort on Panama City Beach and features a 27-hole championship golf course and a 9-hole executive golf course. Also, check out theWyndham Bay Point Resort, featuring 316 deluxe condo-style villas and including five pools, complimentary boat shuttles to Shell Island, and two championship golf courses on the property. President Obama and his family stayed here during their visit to the area in 2010.

What to Do
Panama City Beach’s 27 miles of white sand are probably the biggest reason to pick this destination, but once you get your fill of sand and sun (if that’s even possible), check out some of these great activities.

Gulf World Marine Park: Imagine a more intimate Sea World experience. Start with the sea lion and rough-toothed dolphin show, and then mosey through tropical bird habitats before you grab a seat at the Bird/Cat/Dog show. Other features include sharks, loggerhead turtles, and stingrays that you can pet. Finally, check out the bottlenose dolphin show; if you don’t want to get wet, don’t sit in the first six rows. And on your way out, say hello to Fat Boy the penguin and his possessive girlfriend, Seatab. The park also offers opportunities to meet some of the marine life and even swim with the dolphins. Gulf World was also one of the official rehab destinations for animals during the Deepwater Horizon Gulf oil spill in 2010.

St. Andrews State Park: This state park ranks among the most visited in Florida, and it’s a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, cycling, and even running.  The park features 1.5 miles of beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico and the Grand Lagoon. During spring and summer, take advantage of ferry access to Shell Island, 700 acres of relatively undeveloped island.   For you history buffs, St. Andrews State Park also has seven archaeological sites ceramics and pottery from generations passed have been found.  The park also has plenty of wildlife, from hundreds of white-tailed deer to owls, bald eagles, and even a gator or two at Gator Lake.

Pier Park: Get some retail therapy at Panama City Beach’s 1.1 million-square-foot shopping mecca that boasts 124 stores. Opened in 2007, this area features everything from Target and Dillard’s to Crocs and boutiques like French Charmed. But don’t max out the credit card just yet. Save some money for all the delicious food and entertainment options, like the IMAX theater, the carousel at Miracle Strip, beer at Hofbrau Beer Garden, or margaritas and fish tacos at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Plus, this area hosts concerts and other events like the famous 600-pound Beach Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve.

Biggest Loser RunWalk 5k or Half Marathon: Jackie and Dan Evans, a mother/son duo from Season 5 of the Biggest Loser, host a RunWalk Race Series based on the show. The inaugural run took place in Panama City Beach on December 30, 2012, and some 1,300 participants of all ages, size, and weight came out to reach a fitness goal. Panama City Beach is planning to host the Biggest Loser RunWalk event in December 2013, too. PCB is also the host of theFlorida Ironman Triathlon, and there are plenty of other local races if you want to add one to your vacation.

Where to Eat
Named the “Seafood Capital of the South,” PCB is home to plenty of great eateries featuring fresh seafood. But it is garnering attention for some other food types, too. Whether you spend your days at the golf course, beach, or spa, here are some great restaurants to put on your must-eat list.

Boatyard: Located on the Grand Lagoon, the Boatyard Restaurant is known for its amazing water views and delicious seafood. The interior decorating is beautiful and “shep chic.” Start with the hot crab dip and/or the crispy crab Rangoon. For an entrée, try the Seafood and Wild Mushroom Stew, which is not a stew at all, but more like delicious shrimp and grits with mushrooms and Andouille sausage added on top. Try to save room for dessert, too!

Liza’s Kitchen: If you want a gourmet sandwich that doesn’t cost you and arm and a leg, head east to Liza’s Kitchen. Everything is homemade and delicious, even the Focaccia bread is hand-crafted! It’s hard to choose a favorite, but the Hair of the Dog specialty sandwich and the Eggs Liza are delicious, starting with the warm homemade pimento cheese on top. You can also get a bucket of mimosas… the champagne may not be top shelf, but the memories will be!

Firefly: This five-star restaurant in the heart of Panama City Beach brings in celebrities and locals alike.  Walk through the wooden doors and you’re taken away by the massive tree with twinkling lights in the middle of the dining room. Everything is dark and elegant, just the perfect way to be spoiled for the evening. The menu is constantly changing, but the waiters can lead you in the right direction… usually the fresh fish is the best route, and if they happen to have the steak topped with scallops as a special, you must order it!

Andy’s Flour Power Café & Bakery: This quirky, fun little eatery is great for breakfast, lunch, and brunch.  The food is fresh, and Andy, the owner and Former New Yorker, is a delight to meet. The Flour Power French Toast is more savory than sweet and extremely delicious.

Thomas Donut & Snack Shop: As soon as you pull up, you can smell the mouth-watering donuts that are made fresh daily. Opened more than 40 years ago, this beachfront joint is a local and tourist favorite. The donuts are what people line up for, but the restaurant offers diner-style food as well.

Four Places to Travel for Easter Fun

Easter usually brings a break for school, basket’s full of Cadbury eggs, and of course Easter egg hunts! So to help you decide which way you want to hop, here are some unique egg hunts and other fun activities along the U.S. bunny trail.

Biltmore Estate’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Asheville, North Carolina
The Easter rabbit will make an appearance at the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday at the Biltmore Estate outside of Asheville. Families can spend the morning hunting for eggs and enjoying magic shows, music, and storytelling on the lawn of the largest privately owned home in the United States. Before heading home, explore the estate’s gardens and house (which is 135,000 square feet and has 205 rooms), and stop by America’s most visited winery on your way out.

The White House Easter Egg Roll 
Washington, D.C.
Over Easter, the First Family will host the annual White House Easter Egg Roll. President Rutherford B. Hayes started the tradition in 1878, and this year more than 35,000 participants will join in for fun and games, and the famous rolling of the colorful hard-boiled eggs across the White House Lawn… even Bo, the Obama’s famous dog, might don his bunny ears and join in on the fun. If you don’t get a lottery ticket for this year’s event at the White House, then head up Connecticut Avenue to the National Zoo. They also host a free Easter celebration with family activities and a visit by the Easter Panda.

Hayes Easter Egg Roll
Fremont, Ohio
President Rutherford B. Hayes started the famous White House Easter Egg Roll, but his hometown of Fremont, Ohio, likes to celebrate as well. Egg rolling takes place on Easter Saturday on the grounds of the former president’s summer estate, Spiegel Grove. Admission to the event is three hard-boiled colored eggs! And if you’d like to enter into the egg-decorating contest, bring a fourth.

Peanuts™ The Easter Beagle Express
Durango, Colorado
For something a little different, join Snoopy the Easter Beagle on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad that runs through the canyons of San Juan National Forest in Colorado. On Saturday, April 7, the Easter Beagle Express will depart Durango and head to Cascade Canyon and back. During the ride, children will enjoy visits with the Easter bunny and a reading of Charles Schultz’s book, It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown. So hurry up and join in as the conductor calls “all aboard!”