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Common Accommodation Options for Travelers

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Among the accommodation options that we have to analyze when choosing our next travel find accommodation all inclusive, so if we enjoy the benefits of all inclusive resorts, there are a number of details that must be considered when when hiring the hotel.

The first is to analyze all the services and benefits that include the package we offer. Depending on the number of days contracted is likely to be variations in the offer, for example, for stays of three or more days are included city tours or attractions near the hotel, if our stay is for a specific event as an end of single week, the packages often include an open bar outside the traditional schedules, etc..

Another thing is if the package includes tickets to theme parks or specific theme days as you travel often thinking only of enjoying the beach and if benefits are not going to use. Same for those who want to walk all day to know the destination they not make use of benefits such as meals, activities, etc., And it would be an unnecessary expense to hire all-inclusive accommodations. If we do not use all the benefits we recommend hiring a traditional service and pay for extras such as the use of the spa, massage service, some beverages, or others.

Finally, it is important to read well because many times the contract are a few drinks, meals or times at the bar and restaurant where our consumption will not be covered by the system of all inclusive and we billed these expenses at check out.

Single Parent Travel Challenge

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There are special challenges facing single parents traveling with children. The two most noticeable of these are pricing and comfort or fitting in with the married-with-children folks – unless we are talking about camping, car travel or visiting a Disney theme park. Mingling is not such an issue when in the comfort of your own vehicle or the relaxed setting of a campground. If you are determined to vacation at a Resort, however, keep in mind that such destinations can be pricey for single parents. Single supplements are tacked on to the room rate (since most rooms are priced for double occupancy), or it is quite likely that a child will be counted as an adult to meet the double occupancy pricing. Disney resorts are an exception with their per room per night rates for up to four persons to a room. Hint: Singles should always look for “per room per night” as opposed to “per person per night” room rates when making vacation plans.

In general, the travel industry has not done much to favor the single parent vacationer. One would think with the divorce rate as high as it is, that destinations would be more aware of the demographics of the traveling public and would be willing to cater to the singles as well as families. I’m not sure, but I’d be willing to bet that Mom and the kids or Dad and the kiddos will spend a bundle having fun just like a family with both parents would. A few resorts have made concessions such as Beaches Resorts with their single parent months, special promotions for single parents at Breezes properties and Franklyn D. Resort, special summer packages in Mexico at Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit resorts, as well as those already mentioned at Disney Resorts. Another option is to look for single parent tours to find organized trips that are scheduled a few times a year.

If you are the type who does not feel comfy being a single parent mingling with married vacationers, the tours or smaller resorts may be the answer to your comfort woes. It is often easier to get to know others in the friendlier atmosphere of the not-so-huge resorts. So, don’t forget your own needs when planning your destination. A little research will turn up several options for single parents who wish to plan a fun family vacation this summer.

Explore Uganda: Popular Things to See and Do

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Uganda Roads

Tourism in Uganda has many components and tourist attractions in addition to the presence of parks and national parks in the same Uganda is characterized by beautiful lakes, since Uganda is located in the heart of the African continent bordered by the countries of Sudan, Kenya, Rwanda , Congo and also Tanzania Tourism in Uganda has a special impression for those who visit it from travelers and tourists where In 2012, it was named the best tourist destination

One of the main reasons to visit Uganda is that the country is known for its sunny climate which requires heavy clothing only on some cool nights in the mountains, as is the case in western and eastern Uganda

Ugandans’ smiles are as warm as their sun, the locals are among the most welcoming tourists in the region, and you’ll probably feel it from the moment you set foot in the country

Uganda is an ideal destination for those looking to save money, the cost of living in Uganda is lower than its neighbors, giving travelers more spending power to discover all that Uganda has to offer

Most Ugandan adults are reasonably fluent in English, so there is no need to learn Buganda or French before traveling to the country. Tribal and cultural identity is also important to Ugandans and they are keen to share their history with visitors.

Uganda is an amazing tourist destination with incomparable natural beauty; Including the splendor of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, one of the world’s greatest treks, featuring the world’s largest volcanic caldera; Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa; Not to mention the mighty Nile River, the second longest river in the world, so a visitor to this country will surely find everything he is looking for

Uganda is made up of various ethnic groups from the central, southern, eastern, western and northern parts of the country, each with their own language, customs and grammar. More than 50 languages are spoken in Uganda, and it is this cultural diversity that provides travelers with an authentic and enjoyable experience. Being a multi-ethnic country with multiple cultures and traditions, Uganda has more than 50 tribes spread across its regions. Surprisingly, all these tribes have different customs, beliefs and foods, as well as traditional dress and specific dances

Wildlife in Uganda

Although Uganda is home to the Big Five (lion, tiger, rhino, buffalo, elephant), it has a unique fauna with species of lions, Nile crocodiles and more than 1000 species of birds, including some rare species. And it’s no wonder, as Uganda’s wetlands and savannahs are important habitats for some of the world’s most exciting birds and wildlife. The best places to see wildlife in Uganda are Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park, respectively.

And when it comes to wildlife, Uganda is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Its 10 national parks and several game reserves are also home to elephants, hippos, zebras, lions, leopards, and more than 1,000 species of birds. Perhaps one of the best places to see Uganda’s other wildlife is Queen Elizabeth National Park in the southwest of the country. Established in 1952, it features a high level of biodiversity and a wide range of landscapes including savannas, grasslands, wetlands, and hardwoods

Visitors to Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda often overlook a visit to Lake Victoria, which is the largest lake in Africa. But in Kenya and Tanzania, its location takes it away from popular tourist destinations and national parks, but in Uganda there is a wonderful lakeside city called Entebbe, the former capital of Uganda, which is also home to the only international airport in the country, for making it easy to stay for a day or two on the shores of the great lake at the beginning or end of a safari in Uganda.

Uganda is a country of stunning natural beauty that has been rated as one of the most picturesque, and the country has a lot to offer when it comes to safaris, national parks, wildlife and birds, with many resorts being in prime locations. to explore the splendor of wildlife.

The most important tourist places when visiting Uganda.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is one of the Great Lakes of Africa, and is the largest lake in the world, covering an area of approximately 68,800 square kilometers (26,560 mi²) in size. Lake Victoria is located in Tanzania and Uganda and a small part extends into Kenya. It also contains the main reservoir of the Nile River and is the largest freshwater lake in Africa. Lake Victoria is known to contain a large amount of fish, which is exported by local fishermen and traders. There are more than 200 species of fish, which make a significant contribution to the economies of East Africa. You can also take a boat trip on Lake Victoria

Kidepo Valley National Park

The remote Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the most exciting parks in Uganda. It covers an area of 1,442 square kilometers and overlooks a harbor unlike any other park in East Africa. Kidepo Valley National Park, offering picturesque savannah scenery, ending in a rugged horizon. It can be described as vegetation since it contains the open tree of the savannah, which differs greatly in structure and composition. Some high places are dominated by montane forests, while the areas along the Lorupei River are home to dense forests of acacia geradi. In addition to the flora and fauna of the park and garden more typical of Kenya to the rest of Uganda, such as the lion, the leopard, the tiger, the long-eared fox, the giraffe – as well as about 500 species of birds.

Bwindi National Park

Bwindi National Park preserves some of the endangered animals in Africa. Which is a refuge to track gorillas. It is known for its exceptional biological diversity, with more than 160 species of trees and more than 100 species of ferns. The park is part of the Bwindi Forest, which is located along the DRC-Congo border next to the Virunga National Park and on the edge of the Western Rift Valley. There are many species of birds and butterflies present, as well as many endangered species, including mountain gorillas.

Kampala

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda is the ultimate destination to start your trip. You can see the Uganda Museum and the Kasubi Tombs, where the remains of the Buganda kings are buried, and is a major tourist site. However, Kampala was heavily damaged in March 2010. You can also see the Nommo Art Gallery, the National Theatre, as well as the cathedrals, Rubaga and Namirembe.

Kasubi Tombs

Kasubi Tombs is the place that houses the Kabaka and others in the complex cultural hierarchy of Buganda and has been important for centuries-old Ganda rituals. It was built in 1882 and converted into a royal cemetery in 1884.

Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Bunyoni is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda, at an altitude of approximately 1962 meters above sea level. This magical lake enjoys moderate temperatures throughout the year, and the lake is usually cool in the morning and evening hours. Activities at this lake include; Fishing, kayaking and other fun activities.

Practical Tips

Safety and security

Uganda is currently the safest tourist destination in East Africa, and unlike its turbulent history, Uganda is now stable and welcoming. Ugandans are very hospitable and will be happy to lend a hand whenever and wherever possible.

The national parks are the safest attraction as they are protected by rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority as well as the tourism police who are also trained to provide protection to visitors.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

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Gorilla Trekking Trip

A gorilla safari is one of the best African safaris you will do and fill contented after all the other safari you have done. It is a fulfilling and authentic experience to come close to mans close relative sin the world.

A gorilla is a giant ape among the five ape’s species of gorilla, chimpanzees, bonobos, Orangutan and a man. We are apes and these friendly relatives of ours are the true meaning of any African safari.

The most easily accessible apes are gorillas, yes even the others are easily accessible but if you must see an ape in plenty that is a gorilla in the forested mountains of Uganda.

Where does Gorilla Safari take place?

Uganda hosts the only half of the world’s remaining gorillas in its deep forests of Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and mount Mgahinga gorilla national park

Almost all Uganda gorilla safaris takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in west Uganda. Though they can be found in Mgahinga most people prefer Bwindi.

With about 9 hours of driving from Kampala or 2-4 from Rwanda you arrive at the impenetrable thick forests of Bwindi. From the smooth roads to the bumpy deep valley steeps.

When you get a glimpse of the forest with a very deep fog and dark trees type will understand why it was called the impenetrable forest. Trekking takes about 1-2 hours before you get to see the gorillas themselves. They will be their though they wake up moving in search for food and daily planning.

When you get to mughahing aside from having mountain gorilla, it has also very many primates their like red velvet monkeys. When getting to Mgahinga you have to be very fit in life and at least healthy if not fit. It if a very thick mountain that hiking or gorilla safari tracking needs some energy.

What to wear for Uganda Gorilla Safaris

  • Proper walking shoes or boots
  • Lightweight trousers or leggings. Shorts are not recommended as there are lots of stinging nettles.
  • A T-shirt, light jacket  in case it gets cold
  • Waterproofs for bag ,camera and you the rains here are almost everyday
  • Warm clothes for the evening.
  • Gloves are highly recommended for grabbing onto trees and plants to help keep your balance.

What to bring for a Uganda Gorilla safari

  • A smallish backpack for your stuff
  • Your camera
  • Waterproof cover for your bag
  • A snack ( as a must)

Best time to do Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is open all year round although the best time is during the dry season, that is June to September and December to mid-January. The trails of the park within this season are always dry and passable thus making the hike easy and amazing.

The rainy seasons that is March to May and November have rivers overflowing, ground soft and soggy, slippery slopes and so much more. This however doesn’t stop gorilla trekking but you need to pack a raincoat and tracking boots to walk through this.

Packing list for the Gorilla Trek

  • Safari Hat to wear when in the wilderness and protect your hair from flying insects in the jungle.
  • Flash-less camera to keep memories of your experience in the jungle.
  • Sweater or fleece to keep warm because it gets cold in the jungle
  • Pajamas to wear when going to sleep.
  • A pair of Binoculars for observing far-ranging attractions.
  • Tracking boots to protect your feet from rough surfaces in the jungle.
  • Rain Coat or Poncho just in case it rains while you are searching for the gorillas.
  • Snacks
  • A Mask to wear when in front of the mountain gorillas
  • Long-sleeved shirt and convertible trousers
  • Insect repellent
  • First Aid box with some medication in case you get injured.

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda is not just an adventure but also a deeply moving encounter that supports conservation, promotes sustainability, and connects you with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. It’s ideal for travelers seeking meaningful, nature-based experiences.

Do All-inclusive Holidays Really Save You Money?

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You will be pleased to know that there is a simple answer to this question, and it is yes! All-inclusive holidays can save you money – and lots of it if you pick the right one. Of course the important thing is to make sure that you pick the right holiday and choose the right travel firm to book it through.

But what exactly is an all-inclusive holiday? What’s included? Well, fairly understandably the clue is in the name and travellers can expect to get everything from flights, transfers and their accommodation included in the price they pay. In addition, an all-inclusive break will usually include three meals a day and unlimited local drinks.

But do you really save cash by paying for everything up front in one go? For people with a tight budget to stick to, all-inclusive breaks mean they can enjoy themselves completely and not have to worry about how much extra they are going to have to spend on holiday. Spending extra cash can be a real worry for some people and so knowing that everything is taken care of in advance can allow you to put your feet up and relax, knowing that you won’t have to get your wallet out to pay every five minutes. The other major benefit is that you’ll be able to budget properly ahead of your trip because you’ll know exactly how much you are going to have to spend. This can be invaluable when you are working to a tight budget.

And when it comes to the quality of the food and drink that you’re going to be offered, you won’t have any worries when you choose to book through a reputable travel company. The leading firms will offer impartial advice on resorts and exactly what is included in your holiday, meaning you’ll know the food on offer will be prepared by highly trained chefs and will be varied, nutritious and tasty!

Although not linked directly to financial matters, one of the major reasons that people cite when explaining why they choose to go on all-inclusive holidays is the fact that it offers so much flexibility, especially when you are travelling with children. You don’t have to plan where you’re going to eat every mealtime and worry that there will be nothing on offer that will appeal to the little ones. For families travelling abroad, all-inclusive breaks can offer great peace of mind.

The recession has made more people conscious about their finances, and understandably so. However, choosing to book an all-inclusive holiday means you can get away for a week and still have the time of your life without compromising and without spending a fortune. And because more holiday companies are now offering such a wide range of all-inclusive breaks, you will not find that you are restricted in terms of the hotels you can stay at or the destinations you can head to. Until you have tried an all-inclusive holiday then you really can’t imagine how much fun you’ll be able to have!

Bluff Works Men’s Pants

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Bluff Works claims you could work all day in their pants, bike home from work, take a moonlit hike that evening, and look sharp while doing it all. While I have never tried to cram work, a bike commute and a hike all in one day, I imagine these pants could handle it all if I did.

These American-made pants were dreamed up by Stefan Loble, a New York resident, who, after having children, decided he was spending way too much time maintaining his clothes. He set out to design pants he could do anything in, from playing in the dirt with the kids the next morning to a dressy date in the evening. He worked around the clock designing the right pant cut, choosing a material that would do what he wanted and producing the final product in four colors: charcoal, classic grey, velvet brown, and light khaki.

I purchased a pair of the light khaki pants in hopes that they would stack up to my lifestyle and I have since put them through the wringer. Full work week without washing or ironing? Check. Hiking through the San Bernardino National Forest? Check. Rough housing with my dog, Ginger? Check. The pants held up wonderfully. They have been resistant to stains and tearing and according to honest friends, family and co-workers, they didn’t take on the shabby appearance of normal pants that have been worn several days in a row.

Of course, working on a travel magazine, I bought these for a specific reason: travel. So, how did they really stack up? First, I crammed them in my camera bag with some shirts and headed to the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) in Indianapolis to find out. (For those who don’t know/remember I am the Director of Marketing for a fire equipment dealership – by day.) They proved to be the perfect pair of pants for the trip. FDIC is a massive trade show, which for me meant walking around… a lot. I never had to worry about my pants getting hung up on sharp metal corners because of the tight cut and if they did get snagged, they never tore. I could see this trait being equally useful hiking on backcountry trails or rock climbing.

The pants look similar in appearance to dress pants and have a subtle print on them that gives them a professional look. I fit in easily at business lunches and dinners with clients.

Overall, Bluff Works are very versatile. I would guess that a pair of the charcoal and a pair of the light khaki could get you through an entire trip. They also wash and dry easy. If you line dry them, most of the wrinkles will stretch out and the heat of your body will be enough to relax the rest of the wrinkles.

These pants are made in New York and the owner, Stefan, claims he is dedicated to using only environmentally conscious materials and methods in production. There aren’t any details on the website and Stefan has not responded to requests for information.

Bluff Works are exceptional, particularly compared to travel pants, a category plagued by obnoxious amounts of pockets and loose, frumpy fitting. Bluff Works pants are both stylish and tough, but not perfect. The tight cut and special material don’t allow for the breathability of true adventuring pants, nor space in the leg cuffs for boots. The material tends to pool around the top of the boot. Also, at this point in time, there aren’t any women’s sizes or cuts, but the company is still very young. Despite some very minor complaints, these pants still out-perform and look much better than the majority of “travel” pants out there. I am looking forward to seeing more styles in the future and adding to my collection of Bluff Works plants.

A Vacation for the Soul

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Get Ready for Travel
Traveler woman waves her hand to airplane

It’s quite amazing how we think there is very little we as human beings can do alone. You do not picture yourself taking adventures and having fun without your family or friends.

You do not give yourself the benefit of the doubt that you will enjoy your own company and not miss other people, because you are so used to doing a lot of things with others.

Before you embark on anything you should know that, there is a difference between lonely and being alone. One can only be lonely because they do not feel the presence of those they love in their life. While alone is something you choose to do; being away from people. As human beings, it is important to embrace being alone, it cannot be avoided. You will not always be surrounded by people you love, there are times when you will not have them around you. And that is not a bad thing.

Every once in awhile, we all need to get away. We need time all to ourselves and not because we can’t stand the ones we love or our jobs. But only because, we need some “me time” to appreciate the most important person in our lives, ourselves. You can choose to do it for a day or even go as far as flying out of the country to some island to discover new things for yourself.  Getting away from everything does not necessarily mean that you have to pack your bags and run away. It means giving yourself enough time to grow you.

As adults, we spend our lives going through the motions; graduate, get a job and everything becomes scheduled for us. We forget how it feels like to take time off and breath without worrying about the next problem or those we love. But once you take a moment to breath, give your mind and heart time off to just relax and get there, your body appreciates you for it.

We never appreciate the free time we had when younger till the years seem to be rushing by.

So why wait for the later years to celebrate your life? Do it now; go for that road trip, try new things, go dancing, spa day, read those books or even try something extreme like kayaking and give your soul the vacation it deserves.

How to Enjoy an Excellent Florida Vacation

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Visit Florida

Florida is an excellent vacation destination. You can take a Florida yacht vacation, enjoy great entertainment options, relax at beautiful beaches and oceans and eat fantastic food. If you’re interested in taking a trip to Florida sometime soon, check out some of these tips for how to plan a great Florida vacation.

Where to Go

Ultimately, what you do during your Florida vacation will depend on where you go, and the ideal destination depends on what you’re looking for. Some people prefer to visit larger cities and be among the excitement while others prefer something a bit more quaint and relaxing. Florida certainly has both, with larger cities like Miami and Orlando providing great entertainment and nightlife while smaller towns like Naples and Cape Coral are a bit more laid back. Whatever you choose, make sure you find a spot that you’re going to enjoy. Each Florida vacation hotspot has its own benefits that make it great.

What to Do

One of the best parts about visiting Florida is that there’s never a shortage of things to do. If you’re in Miami, you have tons of options in terms of beaches, nightlife, food and more. If you’re in Orlando, you can visit Universal Orlando for a fun-filled family trip. However, one of the most fun things you can do is take a Florida yacht vacation. There are numerous spots to rent a yacht in Florida and you can go pretty much all around the state with one. Plus, if you get a group of friends together to pitch in money, it’s not too expensive.

Helpful Tips

If you’re taking a trip to Florida, there are some things you should know beforehand. First off, Florida’s weather is very different from other parts of the country. Not only does it get very hot during the summer, it’s also very humid., so you need to dress lightly. Florida is also unique in that it has a different variety of wildlife. If you’ve ever watched a nature program featuring wildlife from Florida, you know there are lots of snakes, alligators and other creatures roaming around. This isn’t an issue when vacationing f or the most part, but just be aware that you may run into something you aren’t used to.

Florida can be a really great vacation spot if you know where to go and what to do. Exploring Florida is even more fun when you do it in a yacht. As long as you follow these tips and do some research and planning before your trip, you’re sure to have a fun-filled vacation when you come to Florida.

Picasso Exhibit Never Seen Outside of Europe Opening in Louisville

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KMAC Museum is opening an exhibition featuring works by one of the most dynamic Spanish painters and sculptors, who is considered one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 20th century. “Picasso: From Antibes to Louisville” opens on Dec. 14.

The exhibition features more than 50 works by Pablo Picasso, including paintings, drawings, lithographs and ceramics that represent the artist from 1931 through 1956. In addition, 20 photographs by Michel Sima documenting the artist’s creative process will also be on display. These works are part of the collection of the Musée Picasso in Antibes, France, and the exhibition is one that has never before been seen outside of Europe.

It will be up for viewing at KMAC, located on Louisville Kentucky’s historic Main Street, through March 22, 2020.

In addition to Picasso, the museum is also opening another exhibition by artist Summer Wheat. Her compositions are built on aluminum mesh screens using pastry bags to push the paint through the mesh crosshairs and create a surface that’s like a deftly woven tapestry.

Wheat’s allegorical still-life paintings show female figures as powerful warriors, healers, explorers, and makers of their own world. It’s on display through April 5, 2020.

“KMAC’s success in putting on these exhibitions is also Louisville’s success,” says Aldy Milliken, Executive Director. “The city has a vibrant and growing arts scene that can attract world-class talent, and KMAC is proud to be part of it.”

Admission to the museum – which will include both exhibitions – is $9 for adults and $6 for seniors (65+) and members of the military. Free for children 18 and under and students with valid ID.

How Do You Fourth?

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We love a good celebration and while nearly every nook and cranny of the United States will be enjoying the country’s birthday this year, nine communities in particular have big plans for America’s 240th.

Washington DC

Whether you are in Washington DC for the 4th of July or you are on the other side of the country, you can count on being able to see the fireworks from the nation’s capitol. A Capitol Fourth concert, hosted by PBS, has been celebrating America’s birthday with a bang for over three decades and this year looks to be just as grand.

Nashville, Tennessee

It wouldn’t be a birthday party without music and who better to bring the music than Nashville? Music City’s July 4th: Let Freedom Sing concert offers live music from top bands in the country, fun family activities, ice cream serving contests, and an epic fireworks show. The show will be the longest in Nashville’s history, firing more than 30,000 fireworks to the harmony played by the Nashville Symphony.

Portland, Oregon

With its most impressive musical line-up ever, the 28th Annual Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, Oregon will be an event to remember. Over 100 musicians including Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Charmaine Neville and the Stone Foxes will be playing across four stages throughout the holiday weekend, making the nation’s premier blues festival. Proceeds also go to support the Oregon Food Bank and its mission to end hunger.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Birthdays don’t have to end after only one day and at Turtle Bay in Honolulu, America’s birthday lasts all weekend. From competing in a four to seven mile Da Hui Paddle Race, to chowing down on Kahlua pork at the Eat the Street event, to swinging your hips to live music, to oohing and awing at the fireworks finale, Honolulu locals and guests are sure to have a memorable 4th.

Preston, Minnesota

Preston Minnesota is known for its live reenactment of an 1899 Independence Day celebration. Take part in watermelon and pie eating contests, watch an 1860’s baseball game between Rochester Roosters and the Lanesboro Excelsiors, listen to political speeches and glee club performances from back in the day, and cheer on kids competeing in three-legged sack races.

Los Angeles, California

Not only is Los Angeles’ Queen Mary ship haunted, on July 4th it becomes a time machine. Between noon and midnight on the 4th, passengers are invited to explore any decade between 1910 and 2010. Each decade features live music, talented actors, dance lessons, games, and authentic cuisine and activities. Whether you find yourself entranced by one decade or are compelled to stroll through the entire previous century, the Queen Mary has everything you need to celebrate America’s birthday, including a show-stopping fireworks display after sunset.

Dallas, Texas

Looking for an event that has something fun for everyone to do, including the family dachshund? Look no further than the Frisco Freedom Fest in Frisco, Texas. Have kids? They will love the Children’s Expo where they can rock climb, bounce around, ride trains, and fly through the air on zip lines as much as they want. Hungry? Check out the Taste of Frisco event or enter the hot dog eating contest. Like dachshunds? Enter your furry friend in the dachshund races, 15 foot races that time how quickly it takes for your pup to run from your friend to you. Don’t want to be left out of the race? Join the Hotter n’ Firecrackers 5k Run. Want to just sit back and relax? Set up shop in front of the community stage where local bands and entertainers will be playing all day.

Seattle, Washington

Did you know that the United States’ flag has changed 27 times since its first creation in 1777? The Twenty-Seven-Flags Independence Day Celebration in Seattle, Washington will be rich in United States’ flag history and will have an insightful demonstration prepared for the holiday. Since the exhibit will only take a short part of the day, plan to see it in the morning, then head to Gas Works Park for Seattle’s traditional 4th of July celebration. Enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, local food vendors, family activities, and the nation’s fifth largest fireworks display. If the crowds are overwhelming, skip over to the Seattle Children’s Museum for delicious art projects and crafts. Then finish the day at Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival, which takes place at the Center for Wooden Boats and watch the fireworks from a comfy spot on the water.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Maybe BBQ isn’t your thing. How about pancakes? That’s what the 4th of July is all about in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Pancakes on the Plaza serves up fluffy flapjacks, bacon, orange juice, and coffee all day long in celebration of the country’s birth along with live music, a car show, art and craft vendors, and of course, fireworks. Proceeds go to benefit local charities helping people in need.

Everywhere

Before diving into the BBQ, squirt-gun fights and fireworks, put your running shoes on and see if there is a 5k in your area. All over the country, Independence Day marathons and races are being held this year. Kingman, Arizona will be hosting a 4 mile Firecracker Frenzy run to honor the fallen firefighters of the July 5, 1973 Doxol Disaster. Looking for a challenge? Newport, Oregon is hosting the 4th of July Celebration Run, a 10k across the trails of Oregon’s beautiful coast. Run past beaches, trees, the city, and the Yaquina Bay Bridge. Kids can join in the kids fun run while you are working off that apple pie and ice cream. Speaking of ice cream, a 4th of July Sundae fun run is being will be held in Louisiana. Maneuver a 3.8 mile track while being doused with sundae ingredients. By the time you reach the end, you’ll be a walking ice cream sundae, a.k.a. a dream come true.

What are your plans for this year’s Independence Day? Share them with us in the comments section below.