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[lauriep]

I'm loving all these replies and suggestions. Too bad you don't have a year for this trip-- that's how long it would take to fit it all in!

[mtstranscribe]

Originally Posted by OneLittleSpark

Mystic is very neat! lfredsbo (Lisa) is from Mystic, CT.

I just fell in the love with the area. We rented a car and went to Plymouth Rock, Plymouth Plantation and then Mystic and Stonington. We also went to Mohegan Sun to see The Who. The casino is awesome, even if you dont gamble! I will definitely be going back that way some day!

[mtstranscribe]

Originally Posted by Katara81

I should have read your OP more thoroughly, OP, as I also missed that you're doing the GSM Natl. Park. I'm not well acquainted with the areas of the park that pass into NC, but can give a few suggestions (note that the main "tourist" areas of the park are mostly over the border into TN). Make sure you do the loop road around Cades Cove, hopefully there will be lots of wildlife around (I've seen bear most often in summer, so maybe you'll get lucky). Do you plan on any hiking? The hike to Laurel Falls is good for starters, and if you're a serious hiker the climb up Mt. LeConte is supposed to be amazing (I am not a serious hiker, but have many friends who are ). It will be very hot in TN/Western NC in summer, so try to schedule a tubing or white-water rafting trip to cool off - the Nantahala River is right on the edge of the GSMNP and is a great place to raft if you're a beginner. If you want more of a challenge, the Ocoee River is south of the GSMNP and is a world-class place to raft (the white-water events of the Atlanta Olympic games were held there).

If there's any other specific questions about that area, let me know.

You must be close to me! I used to live in Maryville but live in Knoxville now. Cades Cove is beautiful and I love Laurel Falls.

[B.M.]

Originally Posted by Linnynad

I would plan for an overnight in Philly. There is just way to much history there to not go and see. The Liberty Bell I believe is now IN the Constitution Museum, and right down the road from that is Betsy Ross's house and also Elfreths Alley. The Art Museum ( ya know where Rocky ran up the steps) is quite fun, and right near that is The Franklin Institute which is always fun walking through the human heart.

Cape May is only an hour from Philly so you could possibly do both in the same day/weekend.

And yes.........a cheesesteak is a must do

I've officially 100% added Philly into the itinerary! The Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross's house will be "for sure" things.... I will research Elfreths Alley, the Franklin Institute, and the Art Museum and compare their appeal and how much time we have to see if we can fit them in... I didn't realize "Rocky's steps" were there- so even if we don't have time to visit the museum, I can assure you we will at least run up the steps! I'll add Cape May to my "research" list as well....

Thanks for responding, you guys always have great ideas!

Originally Posted by lauriep

I know you don't have time to do everything, but another alternative to the day at Six Flags would be walking the Freedom Trail in Boston. It's quite fun and you'd see Boston Common, Paul Revere's house, the Old North Church, and other historic spots. You can pick up leaflets and maps at any of the tourism centers in the city. Walking the trail is free, of course. There are small fees for some of the museums along the way, but you don't need to stop for them. If you'd like me to send you the leaflets and maps I'd be happy to pick some up.

Thanks Laurie! I'm adding these places to my "research" list.... When I research a place, I just search everything I can on-line about the place to see if it sounds like something we'd like to see/visit... and of course "map quest it" to see how far away it is from other places we will already be visiting.... Lots of great ideas on here! I'm going to have a long "research" list to go through this weekend! (Which is exactly what I wanted//why I posted!)

Originally Posted by chezp

I'd definitely plan an overnight stay in Philly. We've easily spent a couple of days there in the past and just doing the historic sites I would say would take up a day.

Originally Posted by Belle*

Ditto on the skipping Six Flags New England! Here in CT I would consider Lake Compounce which has the best wooden roller coaster in the world according to Amusement Today Magazine. It is a great smaller amusement park. I would also check out the Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe Houses in Hartford, the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford or the HillStead Museum in Farmington.

In Massachussetts, I would recommend Yankee Candle in Deerfield and Kringle Candle in Bernardston (just one more exit down 91 past Deerfield). Of course in Boston Fenway is a MUST but don't forget to check out Boston Commons and ride the Swan Boats.

Thanks for all the ideas! I know one of my older boys will be especially excited when I tell him we are researching possibly seeing Mark Twain's house! I agree, Fenway is a must! Thanks for all the great suggestions!

I might of mentioned this already, but we will have a Six Flags season pass for our local six flags that will get us in for free to other six flags around the country.... My kids are pretty set on seeing as many six flags as we can.... So, I don't know that six flags will officially come off the itinerary- but it's nice to go into it knowing to have low expectations and have other things in the area to see as well.... (changing my mind set from spending full day at six flags to maybe just spending a few hours there - then heading elsewhere)...

Originally Posted by mtstranscribe

I hope you have a wonderful time! I was fortunate enough last year to win a trip to a concert of my choice and we chose The Who in Connecticut. I found a town close to where it was called Mystic. I just loved it. It was quaint and so very different from Tennessee where I live. It is an old fashioned sea harbor town. I highly recommend it!

Mystic. I'll look it up!

Originally Posted by OneLittleSpark

I was going to say Plimoth Plantation bc she plans on the National Seashore so Plimoth would be pretty close. Anyhoo, if you are going to the National Seashore, I would say take the little extra time, maybe 20 minutes-30 minutes and go out to the tip of the Cape, Provincetown. Visit the Pilgrim Monument and the dunes. Also, at the seashore there is the White Cedar Trails that are pretty cool.

I am from the Cape, if you have any questions concerning that leg of your trip.

Thanks for the info on the Pilgrim Monument! Is this in relation to the Mayflower/where it came to shore? Either way, I'll be looking it up.... this sounds like something I'd really like to see.....

Originally Posted by OneLittleSpark

Mystic is very neat! lfredsbo (Lisa) is from Mystic, CT.

Originally Posted by Katara81

I should have read your OP more thoroughly, OP, as I also missed that you're doing the GSM Natl. Park. I'm not well acquainted with the areas of the park that pass into NC, but can give a few suggestions (note that the main "tourist" areas of the park are mostly over the border into TN). Make sure you do the loop road around Cades Cove, hopefully there will be lots of wildlife around (I've seen bear most often in summer, so maybe you'll get lucky). Do you plan on any hiking? The hike to Laurel Falls is good for starters, and if you're a serious hiker the climb up Mt. LeConte is supposed to be amazing (I am not a serious hiker, but have many friends who are ). It will be very hot in TN/Western NC in summer, so try to schedule a tubing or white-water rafting trip to cool off - the Nantahala River is right on the edge of the GSMNP and is a great place to raft if you're a beginner. If you want more of a challenge, the Ocoee River is south of the GSMNP and is a world-class place to raft (the white-water events of the Atlanta Olympic games were held there).

If there's any other specific questions about that area, let me know.

Thanks, I might have some more questions for you in the near future since you seem pretty familiar with the park.... I like to plan out the trails we will hit up in advance.

Yes, we do enjoy trails.... but we are limited as I am out of shape and the youngest is just seven.... the older kids however, run cross country and sometimes do more difficult trails.... My general rule of thumb is no more than a mile if the hike is "strenuous" or no more than about 3 miles if the hike is "easy". We have done 5 mile hikes before, but that was really pushing it for us....

We went water rafting in Colorado a few summers ago and loved it! I'd love to go again, as would the kids.... but I'm not sure if we will have the time to do it on this leg of the trip, but I'll keep it in mind if it seems time will permit as I do know for sure we would enjoy it!

Originally Posted by Huntermom

Have read this thread a dozen times. You've gotten such good advice and there is so much to see and do.

NH- To me, Strawberry Bank and the Ordione Point State park (with nature center) are a must do for families. Take some time to explore some of the mountains on foot-Mt. Major is an easy climbs and the summit overlooks Winnipesaukee. Mt Kearsage has an Indian museum at the base and is a very easy hike with good views from the top.

The lake has tons of activities If you want to see moose, don't go looking for them. They seem to pop out when you least expect them. We have always seen moose when we have visited Errol and Lake Umbagog. There are some rustic camp sites on islands in the lake.

Maine-must spend time in southern Maine and see lighthouses and also get a lobster roll. Also we liked to explore the Rachel Carson Refuge.

Vermont-Ben and Jerry's and the Shelburne Museum. Burlington is a great little city.

RI-I love Providence. Walk around College Hill and see the campuses of Brown and Rhode Island School of Design. RISD also has a small but nice art museum. Thayer Street has some intersting shops and places to eat (not too expensive either).Roger William Park is nice and you can see Betsey Ross's house. Also if you head up to Pawtucket (not very far, RI is a very small state) there is the Slater Mill, the first mill in the US.

Massachusetts-could spend a week+ in Boston alone. My kids loved and still love the science museum, They also like Quincy Market and Fanieul Hall. Harvard Square is fun and if your kids are readers, a trip to the Harvard Coop is fun. One alternative to going to a game at Fenway is a tour of the park-everyone I know who has done this loves it. There is also minor league baseball in Pawtucket and it's reasonably priced.

I love Boston but try to park outside the city and take the T in. Parking is hard to find and expensive.

Could also spend a week or two exploring the Cape and then there's the Newburyport Area. Plum Island has lots of nature walks Hammond Castle is fun, and Gloucester is a nice walk .

That's it for now.

Thanks for all the great ideas! I'm going to research all of them this weekend.... I'm especially sold on the Fenway park tour!!

Originally Posted by Danidurph

I would definitely do Philly for a full day. The liberty bell is right by the national constitution center. And if you are looking for a good variety of quick foods, stop at the reading terminal market for lunch. Here are a couple of links! Enjoy!

Reading Terminal Market › Home

Home - National Constitution Center

The Liberty Bell Center — Visit Philadelphia — visitphilly.com

Thanks for the info, and the links to help me research!!

Originally Posted by sheldoal

I've been to Charleston. I walked from one river to the other. There is a small aquarium near the spot where you can buy tickets for Ft. Sumter ferry. I enjoyed the ferry ride quite a bit.

If you go to Biltmore, Grandfather Mountain is not too far off.

As for Virginia, I love Shenandoah. It is one of my favorite parks. That being said, how long were you planning to visit? Are you staying on property? I like Skyland Resort better than Big Meadows because it has the possibility of gorgeous views, as long as you don't get stuck in a room with view of the trees. Been there done that. Big Meadow won't give you great views from your room, but it is easy access to the Big Meadow (CC Corps stayed there) and also to one of the premier water falls (Dark Hollows). We saw our first bear not too far from Dark Hollows.

Be aware that if you are just stopping for the day, Blue Ridge Parkway is south of Shenandoah--like, literally, when you take I64W (if you are coming from that direction), you take exit 99. Go north and it's Shenandoah; go south and it's Blueridge Parkway (which is free). We like Sharptop Mountain, which is next to Peaks of Otter (where you can get food and touristy stuff and rooms). Mabry Mills, a watermill whose image has often been claimed by places as far north as New England, is along the Blueridge Parkway. Shockingly crowded one time we went. The next, it was a rainy day and not so many people.

My take on the difference between Shenandoah and Blueridge Parkway is that Skyline Drive (Shenandoah) has more serious hikers and lots of bikers. Because Blueridge Parkway is free (and Shenandoah is not), you see people hiking that probably really shouldn't. We saw several girls in sundresses and flipflops walking up one trail. My mouth just dropped. That is not hiking attire!

Someone brought up Kings Dominion in VA. There is also Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. It was named prettiest theme park. It has lots of trees, while Kings Dominion is more out in the open. Don't know if that matters to you. In the summer, I remember KD being quite hot. My husband prefers B'Gardens. I just like rides, so I have no issues with either Kings Dominion or B'Gardens. Busch Gardens also has shows, so you can get into some AC. They have Irish dancers that are very good. If you are in Williamsburg area, there is Historic Jamestowne, plus the Jamestown Settlement (recreations of the boats and fort), and Historic Williamsburg (if you want to tour buildings, you get tickets; otherwise, you can walk around the area for free and watch any outdoor events. Lots of period costumed performers walk around the town.

As for Lancaster, PA, I don't know what month in summer you are going, but in July, the Cherry Crest Adventure Farm opens its corn maze. One of my favorite things to do near Lancaster. It has large corn maze and lots of other outdoor activities. Kids will love this place. A train runs through property. There is also a train museum in Strasburg (all close to Lancaster).

Last, Georgetown Cupcakes (DC): my husband and I watched the reality show and wanted to try this place out. He has an apartment in Arlington (for work), so I visited for the weekend. While near Smithsonian, we decided to take a bus to Georgetown to try these cupcakes. While I liked the Red Velvet--their signature--none of the cupcakes was worth the extremely long bus ride. The bus ride back to his apartment was even worse. Strangely, we ended up eating cupcakes at a small shop in Shirlington (just half a mile from his apartment), and we liked them way better. But you guys may love them.

BTW, you can order the day before--then just go in and pick them up. Go to their website and choose Order, then Pickup, then choose the store, date, and time. It then lets you choose which ones you want, and you can pay.

Edit: If you are going to a lot of federally operated parks (not state run), make sure to buy America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass. It will save you money in the long run.

Thanks for all the great info!

My daughter is determined to eat from DC Cupcakes simply because of the show rather than wanting a tasty cupcake.

America the Beautiful- already got it.

As for Shenandoah Park- we currently have allotted two nights to spend in the park/two full days.... We planned on going up the Skyline Drive. We will actually be camping for our lodging.... I'm trying to get a feel for the Skyline Drive.... As best I can tell (and I'm still semi-confused at this point)- we will enter near the Rockfish Gap Entrance and drive up Skyline Drive and eventually exit near Front Royal Entrance....

They have 4 campgrounds along the drive.... I can't decide if I should chose one central campground and just spend both days driving along the skyline (with stopping for overlooks and hikes) and go back to camp each night. Or camp in two different sites based on where we are in the drive for that day.... Thoughts?? Any info you have to help me figure out the best way to tackle this park is appreciated! I know there are a lot of great things to see here in our limited time and I want to maximize our time as much as I can!

Originally Posted by CynBeth

Along with Ft. McHenry in Baltimore I would recommend also visiting the National Aquarium and seeing a baseball game at Oriole Park. Around the harbor are ships and pavilions which have a Ripley's Believe it or not and there are stores and restaurants including a Cheesecake Factory, Charm City Cupcakes, Hard Rock Cafe, and Bubba Gump.

A suggestion for DC would be the National Zoo and to see a baseball game at Nationals Park if you have the time.

Thanks for the great suggestions!! Will definitely be adding them to my research list...

Originally Posted by Belle320

I would suggest Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

For Shenandoah National Park, there are lots of caverns near by. We have been to Skyline Caverns and Luray Caverns. I believe Skyline is smaller but we really liked it.

If you are heading west in PA, you may want to consider Gettysburg.

Thanks for the ideas! I do love caverns, so I'll definitely be looking them up to see how they could possibly fit into our plans..... along with your other suggestions

[B.M.]

Originally Posted by lauriep

I'm loving all these replies and suggestions. Too bad you don't have a year for this trip-- that's how long it would take to fit it all in!

That is the problem with all my trips! Time!

But I'm so thankful for all the replies and great suggestions!!

Two summers ago, fellow passporters greatly helped me put plans together with great ideas for our Western road trip!

Last summer, I made the mistake of not posting much ahead of time.... about a month before we were set to go, I posted our itinerary (which at that point was pretty much "fixed" due to things already being booked)- and fellow passporters came up with some awesome suggestions!. I was able to squeeze a few of them in, but with limited time due to trying to add in these awesome places at the last minute many ideas got left by the wayside....

I didn't want to make that mistake twice.... So, I was sure to post this year BEFORE booking so that I can add in things (as I no doubt will)!

My current itinerary has the trip at about 40 days.... I could possibly add in as much as another week if needed.... but either way time will definitely limit me from adding in all of these great suggestions.... but I can't wait to research everyone's ideas this weekend and fit in as much as we can!

Thanks again, for all the replies everyone! And if you think of more, keep it coming.... It'll be after Christmas/January before I officially start booking....

[Huntermom]

If you like to camp and are on the Cape, check out Nickerson State park. Wonderful camping and reasonably priced. Lots to do and see and Brewster is a great town.

I agree with LaurieP, too much to do and see, never enough time. My Dd and I are headed down to Quincy Market to see Bodyworks over her Christmas break. My kids, who grew up with regular day trips to Boston and have gone to school in/around Boston, could still find new things to do. We love the city (Do not love the traffic and parking, however.)

[Katara81]

Originally Posted by mtstranscribe

You must be close to me! I used to live in Maryville but live in Knoxville now. Cades Cove is beautiful and I love Laurel Falls.

I live in middle Tn now, but grew up in Crossville! I love the Knoxville area, and would like to move there one day - it's a great area if you're outdoorsy.

[Shawnam1868]

Boston is great. When I was younger, I never understood why people came here on vacation, but now I get it. I love the North End in Boston. So many yummy places to eat and it's really "old", yet it's a hop skip and a jump from Fanueil Hall and Quincy Market. Fenway is a must do. Some people love the duck tours, but I've never done one because I can't justify paying close to $40 per person. I visited Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower a few months ago for the first time in probably 25 years. I easily could've spent a whole day there.

Sent from my HTC One X+ using Tapatalk 2

[KathyL]

"Connecticut- Gillette Castle State Park
want to travel over the East Haddam swing Bridge"



Wow, I am impressed...I don't hear too many people mention Gillette Castle State Park and the East Haddam Swing Bridge! I actually live about 7 minutes from the East Haddam Bridge and I am familiar with Gillette Castle State Park. Please let me know if you have any additional questions about either.

I would also agree with someone else's suggestion on visiting Mystic Seaport. Great place to visit.

[emtpej]

Originally Posted by cubfancolleen

I'd skip Six Flags in Maryland. It is a filthy park. Not worth the money. We had a company picnic there for DH's employer a few years ago and actually walked out quickly as I was convinced my kids would get sick. Try Kings Dominion in Virginia - between Richmond & DC - if you want an amusement park experience.

Be ready for a long line for Georegetown Cupcakes! Or, have them delivered to where you are staying if you're right in DC. I drive past every day on the way to work, as I'm at Georgetown University Hospital.

As a local I second that tip about 6 flags and Kings Dominion!

[emtpej]

You might also consider Williamsburg, VA - we like staying at Great Wolf Lodge - there is Busch Gardens in addition to the historic areas -- my older boy liked taking the Ghost Tour with me once. Also, we have been to Mount Vernon - see my "National Treasure" TR.

[B.M.]

Originally Posted by Huntermom

If you like to camp and are on the Cape, check out Nickerson State park. Wonderful camping and reasonably priced. Lots to do and see and Brewster is a great town.

I agree with LaurieP, too much to do and see, never enough time. My Dd and I are headed down to Quincy Market to see Bodyworks over her Christmas break. My kids, who grew up with regular day trips to Boston and have gone to school in/around Boston, could still find new things to do. We love the city (Do not love the traffic and parking, however.)

Thanks for the Nickerson camping suggestion; I'll look it up.... as we will be camping wherever possible/realistic...

Originally Posted by Shawnam1868

Boston is great. When I was younger, I never understood why people came here on vacation, but now I get it. I love the North End in Boston. So many yummy places to eat and it's really "old", yet it's a hop skip and a jump from Fanueil Hall and Quincy Market. Fenway is a must do. Some people love the duck tours, but I've never done one because I can't justify paying close to $40 per person. I visited Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower a few months ago for the first time in probably 25 years. I easily could've spent a whole day there.

Sent from my HTC One X+ using Tapatalk 2

Thanks for the info! Plymouth has officially made it onto the itenerary

Originally Posted by KathyL

"Connecticut- Gillette Castle State Park
want to travel over the East Haddam swing Bridge"



Wow, I am impressed...I don't hear too many people mention Gillette Castle State Park and the East Haddam Swing Bridge! I actually live about 7 minutes from the East Haddam Bridge and I am familiar with Gillette Castle State Park. Please let me know if you have any additional questions about either.

I would also agree with someone else's suggestion on visiting Mystic Seaport. Great place to visit.

Thanks for the suggestions! Anything you can tell me about the East Haddam Swing Bridge or Gillette Castle State Park is appreciated! The internet has limited information.... Any touring tips? Do you know of any nearby camping by chance? Or if not, nearby hotels? I'm having trouble finding lodging that isn't close to 20 miles from the park.... I'd prefer to be as close as possible... We like to camp whenever we can (to save $$), but get hotels as needed....

Originally Posted by emtpej

As a local I second that tip about 6 flags and Kings Dominion!

Originally Posted by emtpej

You might also consider Williamsburg, VA - we like staying at Great Wolf Lodge - there is Busch Gardens in addition to the historic areas -- my older boy liked taking the Ghost Tour with me once. Also, we have been to Mount Vernon - see my "National Treasure" TR.

Thanks for the suggestions! Mount Vernon is definitely on the must list!




Thanks for all the great suggestions and information everyone! I've been spending a good bit of time over Christmas break researching all of your suggestions/ideas! Many have officially made it into the itinerary..... Others, are either too far out of the way drive-time-wise or things we simply can't fit in time-wise.... But I'm so glad I posted this and so glad you guys pitched it great ideas as again, several did make it into the itinerary!

I've still got a bit more research to do before finalizing the itinerary....

Thanks again!

[Huntermom]

Massachusetts state parks campgrounds

MassParks Camping Information 2013

In addition to Nickerson, there is a campground in Sandwich, which is closer to Plymouth and Plimouth Plantation, which my kids and I always enjoyed. There is also camping at Horsenck Beach, which was a "hangout" when I was a kid, many years ago.

NH state parks campgrounds

The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation : Camping

My kids loved Umbagog and we've never been to Errol without seeing Moose.
Greenfield State park is also very nice and in the southern park of the state-not far from Pack Monadnock ( a very quick, easy hike with views of Boston on a clear day) and Mount Monadnock as well as Peterborough and Keene. Peterborough, where JoanneS lives is a charming community with lots of arts. Keene is a nice, small town and home to one of our state colleges.

RI has a few nice state campgrounds. Maybe someone from the area can fill you in. I haven't been in 30-40 yrars,

And Maine

Camping At State Parks | Visit Maine

We have also enjoyed camping in Acadia National park.

[OneLittleSpark]

Originally Posted by Huntermom

Massachusetts state parks campgrounds

MassParks Camping Information 2013

In addition to Nickerson, there is a campground in Sandwich, which is closer to Plymouth and Plimouth Plantation, which my kids and I always enjoyed. There is also camping at Horsenck Beach, which was a "hangout" when I was a kid, many years ago..

In Sandwich, the camp ground is called Shawmee. In Plymouth, it's Myles Standish. There is also a private campground in Plymouth, that is a little more expensive than state parks, but it's beautiful and has a private pond. So you can fish in it, and don't have to have a license, the campground owns it. It's called Pinewood Lodge. Here is a link....

http://pinewoodlodge.com/

[HollyH]

Originally Posted by B.M.

Thanks for the suggestions! Anything you can tell me about the East Haddam Swing Bridge or Gillette Castle State Park is appreciated! The internet has limited information.... Any touring tips? Do you know of any nearby camping by chance? Or if not, nearby hotels? I'm having trouble finding lodging that isn't close to 20 miles from the park.... I'd prefer to be as close as possible... We like to camp whenever we can (to save $$), but get hotels as needed....

Check out the Devil's Hopyard State Park for camping (cool place too)
DEEP: Devil's Hopyard State Park Another campground near by is Wolf's Den camp ground in East Haddam. Home Page

I haven't been to Gillette's Castle in many years, but I remember enjoying the many hiking trails around the property. Walk down to the ferry and take a round trip across the river.