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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores Pennsylvania UNESCO World Heritage Site United States

19 National Park Sites in Pennsylvania: A Complete Travel Guide

independence hall in philadelphia under blue sky
Photo by Lavdrim Mustafi on Pexels.com

Since Pennsylvania was one of the Thirteen Colonies, and the second state to declare independence from Great Britain, it’s no surprise that it is teaming with historical sites.  Pennsylvania has 1 National Forest, 116 State Parks, and 19 National Park Sites.

The Keystone State is a treasure trove of historical events from the Declaration of Independence, and the Liberty Bell to the Battle of Gettysburg.

National Parks in Pennsylvania

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

Located about 80 miles east of Pittsburg, the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is where the Pennsylvania Main Line of Public Works constructed the Allegheny Portage Railroad.  

During the 1820s, the United States was eager to move westward, but the Allegheny Mountains stood in the way.  The locomotives could not handle the steep grades of the mountains, so engineers sought a different path.  They constructed a railroad with ten inclined planes that pulled freight and passengers up and down the mountains.  

Today, visitors can see the remains of this ingenious system and learn about how the railroad impacted westward expansion.  

Amenities:  Exhibits, park film, Engine House 6, Lemon House Tavern, hiking, biking, heritage hikes, etc
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address: 110 Federal Park Road, Gallitzin, PA 16641
National Park Website for Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Nearly 230 miles of the Appalachian Trail pass through Pennsylvania.  How cool would it be to say you’ve actually walked the Appalachian Trail?  Nobody needs to know it was just a portion of it. *wink* 

Amenities:  Appalachian Trail Museum, hiking, picnicking 
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address:  The trail passes through Boiling Springs, Duncannon, and Wind Gap.
National Park Website for Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

The Delaware River flows along the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania.  This recreation area provides 40 miles of waterfront beckoning you to experience it.  You can rent equipment along the river and set out for a day of canoeing, kayaking, or rafting.  The Delaware Water Gap also has over 100 miles of hiking trails, including 27 miles of the Appalachian Trail. 

Amenities:  Kayaking, canoeing, bicycling, camping, hiking, fishing, waterfalls
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
National Park Website for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site

The Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site is located in Philadelphia. The King of Macabre wrote some of his most famous works while living in Philly.   The park grants visitors the opportunity to explore the home of one of the greatest names in horror writing.  

Amenities: Tour Poe’s Home, visit the Reading Room
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address:  532 N. 7th Street, Philadelphia 19123
National Park Website for Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site

The Main House at Eisenhower National Historic Site

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Tour the home of the 34th President of the United States.  Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie, purchased this farm near Gettysburg.  “Ike”, as he was called, often traveled from DC to Gettysburg by helicopter (he was the first president to travel this way!) during his presidency.  

Amenities: Tour the Eisenhower home and farm
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address:  250 Eisenhower Farm Rd., Gettysburg, PA 17325
National Park Website for Eisenhower National Historic Site

First State National Historical Park (DE & PA)

Although a bulk of the First State NHP is located in Delaware, part of it bleeds into Pennsylvania.  Located next to Brandywine Creek State Park, this tract of woodlands offers trails for hiking and horseback riding.  Nearby, you can also see historic Quaker homes.

Amenities: hiking, horseback riding
Entrance Fee:  Free
Address:  211 Delaware Street, New Castle, DE 19270
National Park Website for First State National Historical Park

Flight 93 National Memorial

The Flight 93 National Memorial is the site where Flight 93 crashed on September 11, 2001.  On this dreadful day, hijackers seized four commercial airplanes and used them as weapons against the American people.  Two of the planes crashed into the Twin Towers in NYC, and the third was driven into the Pentagon.  

Passengers on Flight 93 fought back against the hijackers and fought to regain control of the plane.  Unfortunately, the plane crashed in rural Pennsylvania killing all of the passengers.  

The memorial, which protects the crash site, is only open to family members of the victims.  There is a wall of inscribed names honoring these men and women.  

Amenities: walking trails, September 11 Observance
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown, PA 15563
National Park Website for Flight 93 National Memorial

Fort Necessity National Battlefield

Located about 60 miles southeast of Pittsburg, you’ll find the Fort Necessity Battlefield.  This site features a reconstruction of the fort built by George Washington in 1755.

While he was in his young twenties, Washington was in charge of British troops that were sent to the area.  He and his men had many encounters with the French in the area.  As a response, he constructed Fort Necessity. The fort was attacked by the French and their native allies causing Washington to retreat.  

Amenities: self-guided battlefield tour, historic weapons demonstrations, hiking
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 1 Washington Parkway, Farmington 15437
National Park Website for Fort Necessity National Battlefield.

Friendship Hill National Historic Site

When Albert Gallatin immigrated to America from Switzerland in 1780, he bought a tract of land and built a home he called Friendship Hill.  

He would later serve in the Pennsylvania State Legislature, the U.S. Senate, and the House of Representatives.  He also helped Thomas Jefferson be elected President.  In turn, Jefferson had Gallatin serve as the Secretary of Treasury.  Gallatin helped finance the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis and Clark’s expedition.

The park preserves his home and celebrates his accomplishments.

Amenities: hiking, tour the Gallatin House
Entrance Fee: Free
Address:223 New Geneva Rd. Point Marion, PA 15470
National Park Website for Friendship Hill NHS

The Kiddos at Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg is home to the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War.  On July 1, 1863, the Union and Confederacy engaged in a 3-day battle that ended in 51,000 casualties.  

Abraham Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address at the dedication ceremony for the Gettysburg National Cemetery.  Today, the park has more than 1,300 monuments, markers, and memorials.  Take the full 24-mile auto tour, or choose to just hit the highlights.

Amenities: driving tour, horseback riding, battleground tours, living history program
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg 17325
National Park Website for  Gettysburg National Military Park.

Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site

Gloria De Church, also known as Old Swedes Church was built in 1698.  Today, it features models of the ships that brought Swedish colonists to America.

The church is still a working church, so be sure to check their schedule of events before visiting.

Amenities: Churchyard, Henrickson House museum, historic graveyard
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 916 S. Swanson Street, Philadelphia 19147
National Park Website for Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

While the South made their money off enslaved labor, Northern states made their fortunes from factories.  Mark Bird established Hopewell Furnace in 1771.  He used local ore to create iron goods.

Hopewell Furnace was often called an “iron plantation” because of its similarities with southern plantations.  It was a self-sustained community that included the homes of workers, a church, an apple orchard, community stores, and more. 

Amenities: Self-guided tour, living history programs, demonstrations, hiking, apple picking
Entrance Fee: Free
Address:2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson, PA 19520
National Park Website for Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Independence National Historical Park

This place is an American History lover’s DREAM! Located in the historic Old City of downtown Philadelphia, this size is composed of two dozen spots that played a role in American Independence.  

Start your visit at the Visitor Center to pick up information on the different sites, get your ticket for Independence Hall, and sign up for guided tours.  

Amenities: Tour Independence Hall, Pose with Historical Statues, visit more than 2 dozen locations that played a part in the quest for Independence
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
National Park Website for Independence National Historical Park

Johnstown Flood National Memorial

On May 30, 1889, torrential rain pounded on Johnstown, Pennsylvania.  Nearby rivers, lakes, and streams flooded the streets.  The following day, the South Fork Dam was pushed to the limits causing it to collapse.   sending 20 million tons of water rushing toward several nearby towns.  Within minutes, Johnstown was destroyed and more than 2,200 people lost their lives.

Amenities: Visitor Center, scenic drive, remains of the dam
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 733 Lake Road, South Fork, PA 15956
National Park Website for Johnstown Flood National Memorial

Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River

Did you know Pennsylvania is home to the largest free-flowing river in the eastern United States?  Enjoy a day of leisure by exploring the Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River.

Points of interest include:

  • National Canal Museum
  • Delaware Canal
  • Riegelsville Historic District & Benjamin Riegel House
  • Tinicum Park
  • Ralph Stover State Park
  • Tohickon Valley Park
  • Honey Hollow Watershed National Historic Landmark
  • Phillips Mill
  • Parry Mansion
  • Washington Crossing Historic Park

Amenities:  Boating, fishing, hiking, biking
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia 19107
National Park Website for Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

The Heritage Trails are a series of trails covering 710 miles throughout Maryland, Virginia, DC, and Pennsylvania.  There is no official visitor center for this trail network.

Amenities:  Paddling, Hiking, Biking
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: c/o Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
142 W. Potomac St.
Williamsport 21795
National Park Website for Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Steamtown National Historic Site

At the Steamtown National Historic Site, train lovers (and visitors) can explore historic locomotives and train cars.  You can also visit a working rail yard or take a guided train tour.

Amenities:  Explore the Roundhouse, train rides, guided tours
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 350 Cliff Street, Scranton, PA 18503
National Park Website for Steamtown National Historic Site

Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial

While you may know who Thaddeus Kosciuszko is, he was a pretty big deal in his day.  His good friend, Thomas Jefferson, once called him “As pure a son of liberty, as I have ever known…”.  Kosciuszko served as a general and was responsible for fortifying many Colonial towns.  Today, you can visit his former home and learn about his contributions to America.

Amenities:  Explore the Roundhouse, train rides, guided tours
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 350 Cliff Street, Scranton, PA 18503
National Park Website for Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreation River

The river, which offers Class 1 and Class II rapids, forms the boundary between New York and Pennsylvania.  It is a wonderful place to spend the day out on the water.

Amenities:  Rafting, canoeing, fishing
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 350 Cliff Street, Scranton, PA 18503
National Park Website for Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River

Valley Forge National Historical Park

George Washington and his troops set up camp at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777.  The men faced tremendous adversity including starvation, frigid temperatures, and illness.  

The park stands in honor of those troops who gave their lives, and those who overcame such tribulations and went on to fight for our independence.  

Amenities:  walking, trolly, or auto tours
Entrance Fee: Free
Address: 1400 North Outer Line Drive King of Prussia, PA 19406
National Park Website for Valley Forge National Historical Park

What Should I Take With Me?

When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.

Backpack– to store all of your belongings
Dry Bag– to keep your electronics and wallet safe, in case of rain (or kayaking)
Trail GPS– the Garmin Oregon handled GPS works offline. You can view maps, waypoints, tracks, and trails even if you don’t have a signal.
First-Aid Kit– this ultralight, watertight medical kit is a must if you’re hitting the trails!
Sunscreen- yes, you can get sunburned in the forest.
Insect Repellant
Water Bottle– Always pack more water than you think you’ll need!
Snacks
Hammock– I honestly pack a hammock on most hiking trips. Psh, I even bring them along with me when we go on cruises. There are plenty of spots in the forest to put up a hammock and chill out for a bit.

If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags, a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.

How to Visit the Parks for Free

Although some National Park sites are free, some of them require a fee to enter.    This fee ranges from $5 per vehicle to $35 per vehicle whereas some charge up to $20 a person. 

The National Parks offer Free National Park Days where you can access the park for free!  Learn more about these days.

If you have a fourth-grader, you can get an annual pass that grants you access to all of the parks for free!  Every year, starting on September 1st, all fourth-grade students are eligible for an Every Kid Outdoors Pass. The pass grants free access to the entire family!   Fill out the form at www.everykidoutdoors.gov

Other National Park Resources

National Parks in Nearby States

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Categories
Great Wolf Lodge Hotel Review Maryland United States

The Great Wolf Lodge Perryville, Maryland: A Review

This year, as part of the kid’s Christmas gift, we booked a trip to the Great Wolf Lodge in Perryville, Maryland.   Over Christmas Break, we struck out on a week-long road trip.  Since few places are open on Christmas Day, I thought it would be the perfect place to spend the holiday.

We spent the holidays two years ago with a 4-night stay at the Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia.  The kids loved it, so we thought we’d surprise them with another visit.  

If you’re unfamiliar with Great Wolf Lodge, it’s a hotel chain known for its indoor waterparks.  Each Great Wolf Lodge is jam-packed with family-fun amenities to help make your vacation one to remember!

Accommodation Options at Great Wolf Lodge Perryville

The accommodation options at the Great Wolf Lodge are Standard Suites, Themed Suites, and Premium Suites. Most rooms will sleep 4 comfortably however, some options can sleep up to as many as 13 people!  

Great Wolf Lodge Family Suite

Family Suite

Sleeps 4-6

Standard suite includes two queen beds as well as a living area with a full-size sofa sleeper.

  •  2 Queen Beds
  •  Full Sleeper Sofa
  •  Full Bath
  •  Living Area
  •  Table & chairs

Themed Kid Cabin Suite

Sleeps 6-7

Standard suite features a log cabin-themed sleeping area, three twin beds, a queen bed, and a full sofa sleeper.

  •  1 Queen Bed
  •  1 Twin Bed
  •  1 Bunk Bed
  •  Full Sleeper Sofa
  •  Full Bath
Great Wolf Lodge - Wolf Den Suite

Themed Wolf Den Suite

Sleeps 4-6

The standard suite includes an in-suite cave-themed sleeping area, a queen bed, and a full-size sofa sleeper.

  •  1 Queen Bed
  • 1 Bunk Bed
  •  Full Sleeper Sofa
  •  Full Bath

Junior Cabin Suite

Sleeps 4

The Accessible bathtub suite features a log cabin-themed sleeping area.

  • 1 Queen Bed
  • 1 Bunk Bed

Deluxe KidCabin Suite

Sleeps  10-13

The standard suite includes a private bedroom with two queen beds, an in-suite log cabin with bunk beds and a day bed, one queen bed, a full-size sleeper sofa, and two bathrooms.

  •  3 Queen Beds
  •  1 Bunk Bed
  • 1 Day bed
  •  2 Full Sleeper Sofas
  •  2 Full Baths

Deluxe Junior Kid Cabin Suite

Sleeps 8-10

This accessible bathtub suite includes a private bedroom with two queen beds, an in-suite log cabin with bunk beds, one queen bed, a full-size sleeper sofa, and two bathrooms.

  • 3 Queen beds
  • 1 Bunk Bed
  • 1 Full Sleeper SOfa
  • 1 Full bath

Deluxe Wolf Den Suite

Sleeps 8-12

This standard suite includes an in-suite cave-themed sleeping area with a queen bed, a private bedroom with two queen beds, and two bathrooms.

  • 3 Queen Beds
  • 1 Bunk Bed
  • 2 Full Sleeper Sofas
  • 2 Full Baths

Grizzly Bear Suite

Sleeps 6-8

This standard suite features a king bed in the primary bedroom, two queens in the second bedroom, and a full-size sleeper sofa in the main area.

  • 1 King Bed
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • 1 Full Sleeper Sofa
  • 2 Full Baths

Check In/ Check out at Great Wolf Lodge Perryville

Before arriving at the Great Wolf Lodge Perryville, you’ll receive a text with information for a pre-check-in.  You’ll identify your estimated arrival time and have an opportunity to ask any questions.

Checking in at this GWL was much more simple than our previous stays.  The front desk was conveniently located on the left side of the lobby.  There are kiosks available for quick check-ins.

The front office staff was very courteous and helpful.  Considering how busy they were, they maintained composure, which is impressive.

Great Wolf Lodge Perryville Amenities & Attractions

  • Water park
  • MagiQuest
  • Gift Shop
  • On-Site Restaurant
  • Oliver’s Mining Co.
  • Moonstone Mirror Maze
  • Ten Paw Alley (bowling)
  • Howlers Peak Ropes Course
  • Northern Lights Arcade
  • Build-A-Bear Workshop
  • Howl in One Mini-Golf

All About the Wolf Passes

The Great Wolf Lodge offers passes that bundle activities and special memorabilia.  Purchasing the passes can help save you money in the long run.  The passes are Wolf Pass ($99.99),  Paw Pass ($79.99), and Pup Pass ($59.99).  

We’ll explore the benefits of each of these passes in a future post.

Dining Options

Barnwood-  This sit-down restaurant serves up a variety of burgers, salmon, steak, and pasta.  Enjoy a glass of local wine or a handcrafted cocktail while you unwind from a fun-filled day.

Campfire Kitchen-  This laid-back restaurant serves a scrumptious breakfast menu ranging from eggs, bacon, signature wolf waffles, and more.  In the evenings, enjoy a carved meat station or Italian-inspired foods.  

Hungry as a Wolf– This pizza joint is open for lunch and dinner.  They serve pizza, meatball subs, fresh salads, and cheese bread.

Timbers- Enjoy mouth-watering burgs, fresh salads, and hearty sandwiches at this lunch and dinner eatery.  

Wood’s End Creamery- Indulge your pack’s sweet tooth with hand-crafted ice cream treats.

Dunkin’ Donuts– Grab donuts and coffee for breakfast lunch or dinner!

Our Honest Review

The Good

  • Before our arrival we received a text from “Willow” our “assistant” for our trip.  Willow is actually anyone who is working down at the front office.  They asked us if we had any questions or special requests.  I was able to text back and forth with them before we arrived.
  • At this location, all of the amenities are on the first floor.  This was excellent news! When we stayed at the GWL in Williamsburg, the MagiQuest Game spanned multiple floors and we heard kids running/yelling/being obnoxious late into the evening.
  • Great Wolf Lodge has an app that you can download that will tell you all of the events going on throughout the day.  You can also pre-order some of your meals via the app.
  • The indoor water park was great.  There was something for every different thrill level.  There are complimentary towels and life jackets available.
  • The lifeguards in the waterpark are the most intentional lifeguards I’ve ever seen– and being from Florida, we see a lot of them.  They make very calculated and deliberate sweeps of the pool areas to ensure everyone is safe. I was very impressed.
  • Someone is always cleaning!  The overall cleanliness of the place is pretty impressive considering how many kids are running around the place.

The Bad

  • The wait times for food was pretty long.  When you order meals on the app, you’re supposed to get a notification when they are ready.  We didn’t get notifications for 2 of the meals we ordered. 
  • The hotel has quiet hours that begin at 11 pm, which is pretty late considering the hotel is geared towards children.  
  • The GWL nickles and dimes you for everything.  The only amenity that is included with your fees is the water park.  You have to pay for everything else.

The Ugly

  • This is our second trip to a Great Wolf Lodge…or as my wife calls it, “The Lawless Land.”   At both locations, the kids are absolutely out of control.   We’ve stayed at kids’ hotels  (Legoland Hotel) and never experienced anything quite like this.  This wasn’t necessarily the Lodge’s fault, it’s more on the parents.
  • There doesn’t seem to be any enforcement of any sort of rules– this extended to the waterpark.  We’ve been to several waterparks and there is always someone reminding kids to walk- that didn’t happen at all here.  We saw several kids fall.

Tips for Visiting the Great Wolf Lodge Perryville

  • Make sure you pack towels and/or cover-ups for the pool.  The hotel has towels, but you can only use them in the pool area.  If you’re visiting during the colder months, it can get chilly walking through the lodge in a wet bathing suit.
  • Consider buying one of the passes (Wolf, Paw, Pup) to save money on the add-on attractions.  Trust me, after seeing all the other kids running around (literally) playing MagiQuest, your kid will want to, too.

Location & Booking Information

Address: 1240 Chesapeake Overlook Pkwy, Perryville, MD 21903

Visit the official website to book your stay.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, save our post: “Great Wolf Lodge Perryville:  The Good, The Bad & The Ugly”.  Check out our post, “10 Great Wolf Lodge Tips that are Perfect for YOUR Family” to help you plan your trip.

While on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, we also visited the nearby Hersheypark, Fort Mott State Park, New Castle, and Fort McHenry.

Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

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Hersheypark Pennsylvania United States

The Best-Kept Secret About Hersheypark!

The Kids at Hersheypark
You may know about our quest to visit all 50 states and our goal to see all of the National Parks, but did you know we’re also on a mission to visit as many theme parks as possible?  Yeah, we didn’t either lol However, while we were on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, I realized we’ve hit up a TON of theme parks.  Over the last few years, we’ve hit up Disney World, Universal Orlando, Wild Adventures, SeaWorld, Legoland, and Peppa Pig Theme Park.  On this trip, we added a new theme park to our list:  Hersheypark.
 
Hersheypark is a candy-themed park in Hershey, Pennsylvania.  Yes, that Hershey.  Believe it or not, the park opened in 1906!  The founder of the Hershey, Milton S. Hershey, opened the park to create a green space for factory workers to unwind with their families.  In 1908, a merry-go-round was installed.  Shortly after, a carousel, roller coaster, and other rides were added.  Soon, the park became a full-on theme park.
 
I first visited Hersheypark in the mid-90s (It blows my kid’s minds that I was alive in the 1900s) with my family.  I remember loving it as a kid, so when I began mapping out our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, I knew we had to take the kids. 

The Best Kept Secret About Hersheypark!

While researching the park, I came across a juicy little tidbit of info that blew my mind!  Believe it or not, when you purchase a regular ticket to Hersheypark, you get instant access to preview the park the evening before.  Whaaaaaatttt!?!?! Extra time in the park?  Yes, please!
 
The hours of this preview window vary, so you’ll want to check out the official website near the time of your visit to confirm what they will be.  Typically, you’ll get 1.5 to 2 hours to explore Hersheypark.
 
Once I found this out, I switched up our itinerary a little bit to make sure we were in Hershey in time to take advantage of this.  We hit up Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site and high-tailed it to the land of chocolatey goodness. 
 
After checking in to our hotel, we told the kids we were going out to eat and surprised them by taking them to Hersheypark for our preview.  Our preview night was December 23rd, so it was during the holiday season. I expected it to be crowded, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.  The park was dead.  We walked up to each ride and had 0 wait times!  During our 90-minute preview, we rode at least a dozen rides.  Anyone who visits theme parks will tell you, that’s quite impressive!

Our Hersheypark Experience

The next day, we got up to hit the park again.  With the preview under our belt, we had a pretty good grasp of the park’s layout.  The kids mapped out what rides they wanted to conquer again and couldn’t have been more excited about visiting the park.
 
Since we were visiting the park on Christmas Eve, the park had limited hours.  The park opened at noon, but Hershey’s Chocolate World opened at 10 so we headed to the theme park to check that out.  Hershey’s Chocolate World has shops, eateries, and add-on features.  There is a free ride that takes you through the process of making chocolate, which we all enjoyed.  We ended up doing it twice just to kill time.  At the end of the ride, they give you a sample of Hershey’s chocolate, which my kids thought was pretty cool.
 
We spent some time in the shops before waiting at the park’s entrance for the park to open.  In our experience, many parks will open a few minutes early… although there was an announcement that the park was ready for visitors, they didn’t open the gates until noon on the dot. 
 The park closed at 4 on the day of our visit, so we had 4 hours in the park.  Despite this, we didn’t feel robbed of our time since we had the preview.  Plus, we had another day of 0 lines, so we walked directly onto every ride, which was pretty amazing!  If you visit any of the Florida theme parks around the holidays you’ll experience longer than normal wait times, so to have virtually no wait was remarkable. 
 
One bummer was that several rides were not open due to the temperatures.  Since it was so cold out, there were no roller coasters open (which is something we’ve experienced at other parks).  As far as thrill rides are concerned, there were only 2 available: an indoor roller coaster, and a “baby roller coaster” as my kids called it.  All the open rides were the type of rides you’d find at the fair, which was a bummer. 

What to Pack with You for Hersheypark

  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Towels/bathing suit (if visiting during the warm months when the waterpark is open)

What We Loved/Hated About the Park

The Sweet Stuff

  • We loved that the park had short wait times.
  • The park was decorated for the holidays and had the most incredible Santa.  He even had his reindeer available for kids to visit (from a distance).
  • The park was clean and easy to navigate.
  • The park has an app that you can use to check wait times, order food, view maps, etc.
  • There are storage lockers available to rent for the day.  This is handy if you don’t feel like toting around a backpack or bag of towels (if you’re hitting up the waterpark).
  • Rider swaps are available if needed.  This is super handy if there isn’t one adult per child.  You can ride the attraction with one kid while the other(s) stay with the operator.  When you finish, you can swap out the kids and go on the ride again without having to wait in line.

The Bittersweet Stuff

  • The prices for adding on things like making your bar of chocolate were pretty expensive, especially when you have a larger family.
  • There were a lot of rides that our boys could ride, but our daughter couldn’t, and vice versa.  There were very few rides that all 3 kids could ride together, which meant we often had to split up.  It would have been nice if there were more rides that everyone could enjoy.
  • There were not a lot of rides that adults could ride on.  The kids had to ride alone on most rides, which wasn’t an issue for our kids but I could see it being a problem for others.
  • Speaking of rides, there were some rides that the kids were permitted to ride during our preview, but not permitted to ride the next day.  Although the kids were measured before each ride (which I totally get), not everyone was on the same page with who could ride.
  • There weren’t many food options when we visited.  We saw evidence of several eateries around the park, but they were not open during our visit.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, be sure to save our “Epic Guide to Hersheypark.”   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

While we were in Pennsylvania, we also visited Gettysburg National Military Park and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.   Check out our YouTube Channel to watch more videos from our Mason-Dixon Road Trip or other theme parks.

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Categories
National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores Pennsylvania United States

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Eisenhower National Historic Site

Presidential Bell at Eisenhower National Historic Site

Our quest to visit all of the National Park Sites brought us to the Eisenhower National Historic Site located about a mile from the Gettysburg National Military Park.  Over the years, we’ve visited a handful of homes of former Presidents: Lincoln’s Birthplace, the home and high school of Jimmy Carter, and even the White House!  It’s a pretty cool way to get a sense of who our nation’s leaders are, as real people.

Although there are tours offered sporadically at the farm, they were not offered during our stay.  However, the grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset so we were still able to experience the farm.

The Main House at Eisenhower National Historic Site

The Eisenhower's in Gettysburg

Despite being born in Kansas, Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, considered Gettysburg his home.  In fact, the farm in Gettysburg is the only farm he and his wife Mamie owned.  

Eisenhower first visited the town when he was a cadet at West Point.  Three years later, he returned with his young wife to command Camp Colt, a training camp.  

When World War II broke out, Eisenhower led the opening phases of the Italian campaign and the Allied invasion of Western Europe.  When the war was over, he and Mamie purchased their Gettysburg farm.

The “run-down ” farm comprised of 189 acres and included 600 chickens, 25 cows, and several buildings.  It offered the couple a private retreat when Eisenhower served as President he preferred it over Camp David.

Fun Fact: Eisenhower was the first US President to travel by helicopter. While it would take him 2 hours to drive from DC to Gettysburg, he could fly there in under an hour!

Did you know that the farm served as a temporary White House?  IN 1955, Eisenhower suffered from a heart attack.  Rather than recovering in Washington DC, he headed home to Pennsylvania. 

The kids peeking in the windows at Eisenhower National Historic Site

Our Experience

When we pulled onto the property, it was a ghost town.  We had the place all to ourselves!  Without a map available, we were left to just wander around aimlessly.  We visited the main home, the helicopter landing pad, and saw the guesthouse. I found the map (below) online after we returned from our trip.  I had no idea there was a second farm that we could have explored!

Without a tour available, or even a ranger on site, we ended up missing out on a lot.  We only saw about 1/4 of what the site had to offer.  Everything was pretty much left up for us to interpret.   

All that being said…it’s still pretty cool to have been able to visit the home of another president.  The kids liked being able to peek in the windows of the garage and see the antique cars.  They also enjoyed running around the fields, I think it was their way of decompressing after the heaviness of Gettysburg.  

Things to Know Before Visiting Eisenhower National Historic Site

The Best Time to Visit Eisenhower National Historic Site

If you want to tour the home, visit the official website for dates and times that they are offered.  The dates are pretty hit or miss.

Entrance Fees

Hey oh!  Entrance to the Eisenhower farm is free!  But, if you plan on visiting more National Parks over the course of a year, you may want to look into the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be purchased at most National Parks).  The pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more.

Cell Service

We had full bars during our visit.

Have Your Pooch Tag Along

Ike and Mamie lived on a farm, so of course four-legged friends are allowed to visit!  Pets must remain on a leash at all times and humans are responsible for cleaning up after their furry pals.  Pets are not permitted in the home.

Where is Eisenhower National Historic Site located?

The physical address is:

250 Eisenhower Farm Rd, Gettysburg, PA

You may encounter an old Secret Service Hut and a “Private Road” sign.  You can disregard these, as they are for historical purposes only.

Other Cool Information

Distance From Major Cities

  • Baltimore, MD- 57 mi
  • Washington, DC- 75 mi
  • Philadelphia, PA- 142 mi
  • Pittsburgh, PA- 185 mi
  • New York City, NY- 211 mi
  • Akron, OH- 288 mi
  • Cleveland, OH- 311 mi
  • Buffalo, NY- 337 mi
  • Charlotte, NC- 441 mi

Distance from Nearby National Parks

  • Shenandoah National Park- 105 mi
  • New River Gorge National Park- 319 mi
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park- 322 mi
  • Congaree National Park– 549 mi

National Parks Sites in Pennsylvania

  1. ◽  Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
  2. ◽  Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site
  3. ◽  Eisenhower National Historic Site
  4. ◽  Flight 93 National Memorial
  5. ◽  Fort Necessity National Battlefield
  6. ◽  Friendship Hill National Historic Site
  7. ◽  Gettysburg National Military Park
  8. ◽  Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
  9. ◽  Independence National Historical Park
  10. ◽  Johnstown Flood National Memorial
  11. ◽  Lower Delaware National Scenic River
  12. ◽  Steamtown National Historic Site
  13. ◽  Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
  14. ◽  Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River
  15. ◽  Valley Forge National Historical Park

FAQ About Eisenhower National Historic Site

Is Eisenhower National Historic Siteworth visiting?

If you’re visiting Gettysburg, you may as well make a pit stop at the Eisenhower National Historic Site.  The grounds offer beautiful views of the surrounding area…plus, it’s pretty cool to visit the home of a president.

Taking part in a tour would definitely enhance your visit.

How much time do you need at Eisenhower National Historic Site?

We were at the site for just under an hour.  Plan on spending about 2 hours there, if you get a tour.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time to visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site is during the spring, summer, and fall seasons as this is when tours of the Eisenhower home are available; winter months see the house tours closed, although you can still explore the grounds on a self-guided basis. 

How much does it cost to get in to Eisenhower National Historic Site?

The site is free to visit.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, save our post: “Eisenhower National Historic Site: Hanging Out at a President’s House!”.  While you’re at it, browse the Ultimate National Park Bucket List.  Plan your trip around Free National Park Days and learn about The National Park’s Awesome Junior Ranger Program.

While on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, we also visited the nearby Gettysburg National Military Park and Hersheypark.

Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

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Categories
National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores Pennsylvania United States

5 Memorable Things to do in Gettysburg with Kids

Gettysburg is home to the bloodiest battle in US History.  The Battle of Gettysburg was a three-day battle in the American Civil War between July 1 and July 3, 1863, where an estimated 50,000 people lost their lives.  The battle is considered the turning point of the Civil War- where the odds turned from being in favor of the Confederacy to favoring the Union forces.

Knowing this, it’s obvious that visiting Gettysburg with kids is way too scary for them.  Right?  Well, we disagree.  We believe in teaching our kids an accurate account of what happened in history.  We rarely sugarcoat things for them, but we make it palatable and easy for them to understand.  

We visited Gettysburg on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip.  The trip was a Christmas gift to our kiddos and featured fun things like sledding, the longest sled run on the East Coast, Hersheypark, and Great Wolf Lodge, which had a bit of history sprinkled in.  On our trip, we learned more about slavery at Gettysburg and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. 

Over the years, we’ve been tracking the life of Abraham Lincoln.  We visited the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Kentucky, the White House where he lived, the Ford Theatre where he was shot, and the Pederson House where he ultimately passed away.  We visited the Lincoln Memorial to pay him tribute and saw his funeral train.  It only made sense that we visited the site of one of his most famous speeches.  

What Makes This Place Qualify as a National Park Site?

As stated above, Gettysburg was home to one of the most important battles in American history.  The events that took place here led to the Union winning the Civil War and to Abraham Lincoln signing the Emancipation Proclamation, a decree that freed the slaves.

Things to Know Before Visiting Gettysburg National Military Park

The Best Time to Visit Gettysburg National Military Park

Fall is the perfect time to visit Gettysburg. Visitors can enjoy smaller crowds, cooler weather, and fall foliage during these months.

Spring is also a lovely time to visit, although you may encounter school groups at this time.

Our most recent visit was during the winter.  It was absolutely freezing but the crowds were minimal.

Entrance Fees

Visiting Visitor Center and parts of the museum are free.  The self-guided driving tour is also free.

The film, Cyclorama, and Museum Experience are all an additional fee.  

Adult (ages 13+) = $20.75
Seniors (65+), Military Veterans, AAA = $19.75
Youth (ages 6-12) = $15.75
Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel = FREE
Children (5 and under) = FREE

Cell Service

We had full bars during our visit.

5 Things to DO With Kids While Visiting Gettysburg

Start at the Visitor Center

When visiting any National Park site, you should start at the Visitor Center.  The center will always offer a wealth of information and interesting exhibits that educate you on the site.  The Gettysburg National Military Park has both free and paid exhibits.  On our most recent visit, we chose to just hit up the free stuff- but it was still plenty to give the kids a background on what they’ll be seeing.

The free portion of the Visitor Center was very small, but it allowed us to look at some relics of the war.  I took this time to teach our kids about children’s roles during the war.  They were all surprised to learn that as many as 20% (250,000-420,000)  of the Civil War soldiers were younger than 18! 

Edward Black, age 8, was the youngest soldier to enlist during the Civil War.  He was a drummer boy for the 21st Indiana Volunteers.

Kids who did not enlist during the war still had huge responsibilities.  They were left to help manage farms, care for younger siblings, work in family businesses, and raise money for the troops.  

Grab a Junior Ranger Badge

While you’re at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center, stop by the information desk and ask for the Junior Ranger Booklet.  Complete at least 3 of the 7 activities in the booklet and you’ll be rewarded with a wooden Junior Ranger badge!  Activities include answering questions about the exhibits, puzzles, and more.  This hands-on activity is a great way for kids to learn about what happened at Gettysburg.

The kids posing with Abe at Gettysburg National Military Park

Pose with Abe

Just outside of the Visitor Center, you’ll find a statue of Honest Abe.  The statue stands in honor of the Gettysburg Address, a famous speech that Lincoln delivered here during the Civil War.  

See Where Lincoln Gave the Gettysburg Address

The Gettysburg Address is a famous speech that President Abraham Lincoln gave during the American Civil War.  The speech was made at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery (Gettysburg Cemetery) on November 19, 1863.  Lincoln gave the speech 4 and a half months after the Union defeated the Confederacy in the Battle of Gettysburg.

The speech is known as one of the most influential speeches in American History.  In it, Lincoln described the sacrifices of those who died at Gettysburg in honor of the freedoms outlined in the  Declaration of Independence.  He ensured that “those dead shall not have died in vain- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom- and that government of the people, by the people, and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

Visit the Battlefield

Of course, no visit to Gettysburg would be complete without a trip to the battlefield.  Our boys used their spending money to purchase muskets in the gift shop that they toted all over town (and all over Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey).  

If your kiddos are up to it, you can stop by several monuments/memorials surrounding the area.

Bonus: The Driving Tour

If your family is really into history, you can do the self-guided auto tour.  Stop by the Visitors Center to grab a map and simply follow the route markers around town.  The driving tour is 20+ miles and takes between 2 and 4 hours.  Although I’ve done the tour in the past, we skipped it when we took the kids since we had already been in the car for so long.

Where is Gettysburg National Military Park located?

The physical address is:

1195 Baltimore Pike
Gettysburg, PA 17325

The park is open from sunrise to sunset.  

Check Park Hours Here

Other Cool Information

Fun Fact:

Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife Mamie purchased a farm a mile from the Gettysburg battlefield.  Today, it is known as the Eisenhower National Historic Site.

Distance From Major Cities

  • Baltimore, MD- 57 mi
  • Washington, DC- 75 mi
  • Philadelphia, PA- 142 mi
  • Pittsburgh, PA- 185 mi
  • New York City, NY- 211 mi
  • Akron, OH- 288 mi
  • Cleveland, OH- 311 mi
  • Buffalo, NY- 337 mi
  • Charlotte, NC- 441 mi

Distance from Nearby National Parks

  • Shenandoah National Park- 105 mi
  • New River Gorge National Park- 319 mi
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park- 322 mi
  • Congaree National Park– 549 mi

National Parks Sites in Pennsylvania

  1. ◽  Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
  2. ◽  Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site
  3. ◽  Eisenhower National Historic Site
  4. ◽  Flight 93 National Memorial
  5. ◽  Fort Necessity National Battlefield
  6. ◽  Friendship Hill National Historic Site
  7. ◽  Gettysburg National Military Park
  8. ◽  Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
  9. ◽  Independence National Historical Park
  10. ◽  Johnstown Flood National Memorial
  11. ◽  Lower Delaware National Scenic River
  12. ◽  Steamtown National Historic Site
  13. ◽  Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
  14. ◽  Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River
  15. ◽  Valley Forge National Historical Park

FAQ About Gettysburg National Military Park

Is Gettysburg National Military Park worth visiting?

Gettysburg is most definitely worth visiting.  I’ve been learning about the events that took place here since I was a young girl. No matter how many times I visit, I still find it fascinating.  

How much time do you need at Gettysburg National Military Park?

Plan on spending at least 2 hours at Gettysburg National Military Park.  This time frame will allow you enough time to hit up the Visitor Center, visit the battlefield, see the cemetery, and hit up some of the monuments/memorials.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time to visit Gettysburg is during the fall months since the weather is a bit cooler.  Winter tends to be a bit cold in this part of the country.  Summer (June-August) is peak season so anticipate larger crowds if you visit during this time.

How much does it cost to get in to Gettysburg National Military Park?

It is free to visit the battlefield, cemetery, monuments, and memorials of Gettysburg.  There are some ticketed exhibits located at the Visitor Center.

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Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, save our post: “5 Things to Do in Gettysburg with Kids”.  While you’re at it, browse the Ulitmate National Park Bucket List.  Plan your trip around Free National Park Days and learn about The National Park’s Awesome Junior Ranger Program.

While on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip, we also visited the nearby Eisenhower National Historic Site and Hersheypark.

Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

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Categories
State Parks United States West Virginia West Virginia State Parks

Blackwater Falls State Park: Home to the Longest Sled Run on the East Coast!

Sledding at Blackwater Falls State Park

Our first activity on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip was sledding at Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia.  What better way to introduce a bunch of Florida kids to sledding than by sending them down the longest sled run on the East Coast of the US?

While planning out our road trip, I wanted the kids to experience the quintessential snow activity.  I hardly think any of of are coordinated enough for skiing or snowboarding, and they’ve been ice skating, so sledding seemed like our best option.  Before this trip, Ashley and I hadn’t been sledding in over 30 years, so we were a little rusty…to say the least.  But…how hard can it be?

While snow tubing was offered at the resort we were staying at, the nearby Canaan Valley Lodge, I opted to book sledding tickets for the sled run at Blackwater Falls for a couple of reasons:

  • It is home to the longest sled run on the East Coast of the US (1/4 a mile).
  • It has a conveyor belt that takes you to the top (as does Canaan Valley State Park).
  • It would allow us to visit another nearby state park.
  • We’d get to see the crown jewel of the park, Blackwater Falls.
  • The park is home to one of the famous “Almost Heaven” swings.

All You Need to Know About Sledding at Blackwater Falls State Park

Tickets

  • Purchase your tickets in advance to guarantee your slot and skip the line.
  • Tickets are valid for a 2-hour session
    • Session times Thursday-Sunday 10 am – 12 pm, 1-3 pm, 4-6 pm
    • Friday & Saturday 7-9 pm
  • Session dates December 19 – March 2, weather dependent
  • Same-day tickets cannot be purchased online
  • Tickets are $28 on weekdays and $33 on holidays and weekends.  
  • Children 5 and under ride free with an adult.
  • Children 8 and under must ride with an adult.

Check-In

  • Once you arrive at the park, you’ll check in at the building adjacent to the parking lot.
  • You’ll receive a tag that you’ll need to attach to your zipper.
  • You’ll receive a brief safety talk before you’re free to go sledding.
The Magic Carpet at Blackwater Falls State Park

The Magic Carpet

  • The park has a conveyor belt that guides you to the top of the hill.
  • The Magic Carpet is the longest on the East Coast!

Tips for the Sled Run

  • Dress warm!  Make sure you bring along the winter gear: snow pants, jacket, boots, gloves, and a hat.
  • Take breaks as needed.  There’s an outdoor fire where you can warm up or step inside for a cup of cocoa.
  • Pay attention to the safety briefing, especially if it’s been awhile/it’s your first time sledding.  They’ll instruct you how to control the sled and how to gracefully crash….

While You're There...

While you’re sledding at the park, be sure to visit the Blackwater Falls and pose with the famous “Almost Heaven” swing.

During our stay, we stayed at the nearby Canaan Valley Resort.  There is also a lodge at Blackwater Falls State Park.

Our Experience

Our kids have never been sledding… in fact, they’ve never even seen real snow!  Ashley and I hadn’t sledded in 30+ years and it’s been just as long since we’ve seen that much snow.    This was sure to be an adventure!

We checked in at the hut and received a quick safety briefing.  To be honest, I didn’t do a great job of paying attention since I was attaching everyone’s sled tags to their zippers.  I’d later pay for that!  I vaguely heard her mention to dip your hands in the snow to steer the sled and to dig your boots in the snow to slow down/stop.  How hard could it be?

Since the boys were both underage, they needed to ride with an adult.  However, our daughter (10) was able to ride on her own.  Since Stinky is our most-reserved and anxious kid, I had him in the sled with me and Ashley took Scoop, our more adventurous guy.  The 5 of us rode the magic carpet to the top and prepared for our descent.

Smiley went first, boy did she fly!  She’s such an adrenaline junkie and down for absolutely anything so she had an absolute blast.  

Next, it was time for the rest of us to go down.  Ashley and Scoop went ahead of us and crashed about 1/4 of the way down the run.  Stinky and I crashed immediately afterwards.  Surprisingly, after the crash Scoop was over it.  He had snow get under his jacket and his glove fell off and he decided he was done sledding.  Ashley took him inside for cocoa while I kept the other 2 kiddos.

Despite us crashing, Stinky was down for some more fun!  Luckily, that was our only crash.  After our first time down the run, I had the whole sledding thing figured out.  Not too shabby for a Florida girl!

Smiley absolutely crushed sledding.  She didn’t wipe out once!  

3/5 of us had a blast and would do it again.  Later in the day, when we returned to our hotel, Scoop tried sledding (on his own!) and ended up enjoying it.

Sledding at Blackwater Falls State Park was a great way to introduce our kiddos to snow activities.  I’m so glad we found out about this gem!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, be sure to save our post on Sledding at Blackwater Falls State Park!   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

While we were in the area, we stayed at the Canaan Valley Lodge.  

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Categories
Hotel Review State Parks United States West Virginia West Virginia State Parks

A Complete Honest Review of Canaan Valley Resort: What to Expect During Your Stay

Queen Jr. Suite at Canaan Valley Resort

Each year we gift our kids a trip for Christmas.  I dubbed this year’s trip the Mason-Dixon Road Trip because we would be dancing along the Mason-Dixon Line.  The Mason-Dixon Line is a geographical boundary separating Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and West Virginia.

We kicked off our trip with a stay at the Canaan Valley  Resort.  During our 2-night visit, we stayed in the Queen Jr. Suite.  In this review, we’ll give our honest feedback on the room and the resort itself.  We’ll also share other important information about the hotel. 

The hotel is just a few hours from Pittsburgh, Washington DC, and Baltimore.

The kids glimpsing at their first blanket of REAL snow

Accommodation Options at Canaan Valley Resort

The resort has 160 rooms, 23 cabins, and 59 campsites.  The several different lodging options offer something for everyone.

Standard King Room

Sleeps 2

Includes: 

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Balcony rooms available

Standard Queen

Sleeps 4

Includes:

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Balcony rooms available

King Jr. Suite

Sleeps 2

Includes:

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board
Queen Jr. Suite at Canaan Valley Resort

Queen Jr. Suite

Sleeps 4-6

Includes:

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board

King Suite

Sleeps 2-4

Includes:

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Fireplace, balcony, and separate living and sleeping rooms (only in 1-bedroom suites)
  • Note: King and Governor suite rooms are connected to a separate Queen balcony room that may be rented for the same dates when available. This is a great option for larger families to stay together in a common space.

Queen Suite

Sleeps 4-6

Includes:

  • Complimentary high-speed internet
  • 37-inch flat-screen television
  • Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot
  • Spacious bathroom with granite countertops
  • Individual climate control
  • Hair dryer
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Fireplace, balcony, and separate living and sleeping room.
  • Note: Queen suite rooms are connected to a separate King balcony room that may be rented for the same dates when available. This is a great option for larger families to stay together in a common space.

Governor Suite

Sleeps 2-4

1 king bed and bathroom, plus separate living area, kitchenette/dining area, fireplace, and half bath. Governor suites are located on the top floors.

  • Note: King and Governor suite rooms are connected to a separate Queen balcony room that may be rented for same dates when available. This is a great option for larger families to stay together in a common space.
Queen Jr. Suite at Canaan Valley Resort

Check In/ Check out at Canaan Valley Resort

The Canaan Valley Ski & Golf Resort lobby was incredibly inviting and the staff was very welcoming and helpful.  The lodge is quite large- spanning 2 separate buildings so I was a little surprised when I checked in and they simply handed my key.  I had to ask where my room was, and it’s a good thing that I did since we were in a different building.

Canaan Valley Resort Amenities & Activities

  • Championship golf course
  • Indoor and outdoor pool
  • 47 slopes/trails for hiking, biking, skiing and snowboarding, XC Skiing, Snowshoeing
  • Snow tubing
  • SNO-GO Biking
  • Ice Skating
  • Sporting Clays
  • Conference center
  • On-site restaurants

Our Honest Review

The Canaan Valley Resort was the first stop on our Mason-Dixon Road Trip.  The resort came highly recommended on one of the Facebook groups I look to when planning a road trip so I had high hopes for it.  The resort is just outside the charming, quaint, small town of Davis, West Virginia.

When approaching from the south, we had to take several country highways to reach the resort.  I’m glad we had plenty of gas because we passed nothing but deer for miles and miles.  Pulling into the resort was a welcome relief. 

The resort was cozy but the color scheme made it feel a bit dated.  We booked a Queen Jr. Suite (pictured above with details), that was perfect for our family of 5.  The couch pulled out into an additional bed for our daughter.  

The room came with a small refrigerator, microwave, and coffee pot, which gave us a place to store our leftovers and a way to heat them up.  

Our room was very comfortable, and overall the hotel was quiet.  After putting the kids to bed, we went downstairs to check out the bar.  Our room was located in the north tower, and the bar/lounge and lobby were located in the main building.  Fortunately, the two buildings were connected on the first floor so we didn’t have to venture out into the snow.

As we explored the resort, we continued to note that it was a bit tired.  There’s an old indoor pool that had a broken hot tub, an old-school arcade, and several conference rooms that were poppin’.  

I think with a bit of a remodel, this resort will be excellent! As is, it’s still a wonderful place to camp out and enjoy the area.

Location & Booking Information

The Canaan Valley Resort is located at 230 Main Lodge Rd.
Davis, West Virginia 26260.

Visit the website directly to book your stay and review the current offers.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

While in the area, we visited Blackwater Falls State Park, home to the longest sled run on the East Coast!  Check out our video on YouTube to experience this awesome adventure for yourself!

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Categories
Florida Florida State Parks State Parks The Keys United States

Ultimate Guide to Family Fun on Key Largo, Florida: Top Activities for Kids

Snorkeling in Key Largo

Key Largo, the northernmost island of the Florida Keys archipelago, is renowned for its pristine waters, abundant marine life, and laid-back island atmosphere. Families visiting Key Largo with kids will find a wealth of outdoor adventures, educational attractions, and opportunities to connect with nature. From snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to exploring interactive museums and enjoying scenic boat tours, Key Largo offers unforgettable experiences for children of all ages. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do with kids on Key Largo.

Snorkeling in Key Largo

1. Discover Underwater Wonders

Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Start your Key Largo adventure with a visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. The park’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling adventures with kids. Rent snorkel gear or join a guided tour to explore colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and delicate coral formations. The park also offers snorkeling trips to the famous Christ of the Abyss statue, a unique underwater sculpture that attracts divers and snorkelers alike.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: For a dry but equally thrilling underwater experience, embark on a glass-bottom boat tour at John Pennekamp State Park. These tours provide panoramic views of the coral reefs and marine life beneath the boat’s clear viewing panels. Kids will delight in spotting fish darting through the coral gardens and learning about the importance of coral reef conservation from knowledgeable guides.

2. Encounter Marine Life Up Close

Dolphin Encounters: Take the family to Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder for an unforgettable dolphin encounter. This educational facility offers interactive programs where visitors can swim with dolphins in a safe and controlled environment. Kids will have the opportunity to learn about dolphin behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of marine mammal protection.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: Visit the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center to observe native bird species up close and learn about the center’s efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating injured birds. The center features walking paths and educational exhibits that highlight the importance of preserving natural habitats for birds and other wildlife in the Florida Keys.

Learning about the fossils at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

3. Explore Nature and Wildlife

Everglades National Park: Take a short drive to nearby Everglades National Park for a day of eco-adventures and wildlife spotting. Join a ranger-led program or embark on a guided boat tour through the park’s mangrove forests and estuarine habitats. Keep an eye out for alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species that call the Everglades home. Kids will love the opportunity to experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States while learning about the importance of wetland conservation.

Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site: Explore the natural beauty of Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site, a protected area showcasing native flora and fauna. The site features hiking trails, boardwalks, and picnic areas surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Take a leisurely stroll through the hammocks and keep an eye out for butterflies, lizards, and other wildlife that inhabit this tranquil sanctuary.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park:  Learn all about the Windley Key Fossil Reef and the history of the local railroad history at this quaint state park.

4. Educational and Interactive Museums

History of Diving Museum: Discover the fascinating history of underwater exploration at the History of Diving Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits on ancient diving techniques, modern scuba gear, and notable underwater discoveries. Kids can try on vintage diving helmets, explore replica underwater habitats, and learn about the pioneers who shaped the world of diving.

Keys History & Discovery Center: Visit the Keys History & Discovery Center to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Florida Keys. The center offers exhibits on local history, maritime traditions, and the natural environment of the Keys. Interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations provide insight into the region’s diverse past and its unique connection to the sea.

5. Outdoor Adventures and Family-Friendly Activities

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore Key Largo’s calm bays, mangrove forests, and winding water trails. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided tours suitable for families, providing an opportunity to observe marine life and coastal scenery up close.

Boating and Fishing Charters: Charter a boat or join a guided fishing excursion to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the waters surrounding Key Largo. Fishing charters cater to all skill levels and provide equipment, bait, and expert guidance to help families reel in a variety of game fish such as snapper, grouper, and mahi-mahi.

6. Beach Fun and Relaxation

Harry Harris Park: Spend a day at Harry Harris Park, a family-friendly beach park offering sandy shores, picnic pavilions, and playgrounds. Kids can splash in the shallow waters, build sandcastles, or enjoy a game of beach volleyball while parents relax under swaying palm trees.

Founders Park: Visit Founders Park, another popular waterfront park featuring a beach area, swimming pool, and sports facilities. The park’s amenities include a dog park, skate park, and walking trails, making it a perfect destination for families seeking both recreation and relaxation.

Feeding tarpon at Bud n Mary's Marina

Planning Your Visit

Accommodations: Consider staying at family-friendly resorts, vacation rentals, or hotels in Key Largo that offer amenities such as pools, beach access, and dining options. Look for accommodations located near attractions and outdoor activities to maximize your family’s enjoyment.

Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring Key Largo and its neighboring islands. Alternatively, utilize rideshare services or public transportation options available within the area.

Safety and Tips: Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and wear protective clothing while enjoying outdoor activities in Key Largo’s warm climate. Check attraction websites for current operating hours, and ticket prices.

The kids living their best lives in the Keys

Conclusion

Key Largo, Florida, offers endless opportunities for family fun and adventure amidst its breathtaking natural surroundings and rich marine life. Whether you’re snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, learning about local history at museums, or relaxing on sandy beaches, Key Largo provides unforgettable experiences for kids and parents alike. Plan your family getaway to Key Largo today and create cherished memories in this picturesque island paradise.

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Categories
Travel Tips United States

How to Plan a Road Trip the Whole Family Will Love

Are you at a loss of where to begin when it comes to planning a road trip?   Don’t worry, you’re not alone.  Tons of people struggle with where to begin when it comes to planning a road trip.  In this post, we’ll show you how to plan a road trip.

Road trips are one of our favorite ways to travel.  There’s nothing better than throwing your suitcases in the back of the car and hitting the open road.  Our 3 kiddos (and even our pups!) are expert road trippers.  They’ve been on countless road trips throughout Florida and all over the eastern US to places like Kentucky, Virginia, Washington DC, Alabama, and more!

Pick a Destination

Our next road trip will take us from Florida to West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and DC.  

For this trip, we put the names of all of the states the kids have yet to visit into a hat.  Each of the kids drew the name of a state.  Once we narrowed it down to 3 states, we selected one of the states at random and centered our trip around that state.

Download your state cards here!

As you can see in the reel, we selected West Virginia, which became the starting point for our Christmas trip.

While this is a super fun idea, the spontaneity of it might not be for everyone.  Consider what kind of activities your family likes to do.  Do you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities?  Consider looking into the mountains.  Are you more of a beach person or a lake person?  Do you want bustling cities or quaint towns?  Would you prefer museum hopping or shopping? Are you aiming to visit all of the National Parks?  

Time to Do Some Research

Once you pick out a destination, it’s time to do a bit of research.  For this step, I head over to my favorite blogs and the socials to see what others recommend.  Some of my favorite Facebook groups to scour are:  Visit All 50 States, US National Park Travel, Families Who Love to Travel, and Girls LOVE Travel.  I posted a question asking for suggestions of things to do for this trip and had nearly 400 responses on the post.  It was a great jumping off point for my planning!

I take each of our family members interests into consideration when I’m mapping out our trip.  For instance, when I planned our 4 day trip to Washington DC, our kids were into art, dinosaurs, and space so we went to the the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, a STEM museum called the National Children’s Museum.

Pro-Tip:  When you see a place of interest on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or the blogs save it on Google Maps!

To do so, search for a place in Google Maps, such as the Statue of Liberty.  Next to the Directions icon is a “Save” button.  Click the button and all of your saved locations will appear on a map as pictured above. 

I’ve found this incredibly helpful for trip planning.  

We established that our first stop would be the Canaan Valley Ski Resort in West Virginia.  We wanted to include winter activities in our Christmas Trip and the resort offers snow tubing, ice skating, etc.  If there isn’t real snow on the ground, the state park has fake snow, so it offers the perfect backup plan.

Pro-Tip: Always have a backup plan in case of weather, closures, or temper tantrums.

On this particular trip, we knew we wanted to tackle a few different states in our quest to visit all 50 states.  So, it was time to look at neighboring states. West Virginia is bordered by Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky.  The kids have already been to Virginia and Kentucky, so we focused on Pennsylvania and Maryland since they can easily be paired together.  Plus, our kid’s favorite city is DC, so this gave us an excuse for a return visit.

Many popular museums require you to reserve a timeslot for your visit.  While you’re researching things to do in your location of choice, be sure to make note of this. For instance, in DC many of the Smithsonian’s require you to have a timed ticket that you can reserve 30 days out.  I set a reminder on my phone or Alexa to look into tickets.

Pro-Tip:  Purchase tickets in advance whenever possible.  You’ll often have shorter lines and save money.  

Take Drive Times Into Consideration/Make Necessary Cuts

Come up with a list of things that you want to do each day.  I like to include opening and closing times in my plans, just so I have that information handy.

I also add driving and walking maps in my itinerary, whenever necessary.  For instance, when we are in DC, we typically walk or take the Metro.  So, I included a map of where I plan on parking and the walking directions for the sites we’ll slated to hit up that day.  We’ll most likely take the Metro from the Lincoln Memorial to the National Archives Museum, so I screenshotted the route info for that, as well.

Once you have a list of everything you want to do each day, it’s time to plug everything into Google Maps and assess drive times.  

Pro-Tip: Check Google Maps for drive times more than once!  Jot down the travel times and take an average to come up with a rough idea of how long it will take you to get from place to place.  You’ll be amazed at how much the drive time changes if there was an accident impacting travel time on your original search.

Be sure you factor in travel time for each day to help determine whether you need to cut things from your list of things to do.  As you can see in the image below, even though I’m obsessed with Abraham Lincoln, I decided to skip visiting the memorial site of his mother’s birthplace, and I nixed Harpers Ferry.  Despite our goal of visiting all of the National Parks with the kids, we won’t be able to dedicate much time to Harpers Ferry, so instead of rushing through it, we’ll save it for another trip.

Our plan for this particular day is to make it to Hershey, Pennsylvania by at least 6 PM.  We have tickets to Hersheypark and with our tickets, we’ll be able to access the park at 7 PM the night before and get a 2-hour preview of the park.   Since our kids are really into theme parks, we decided this was a no-brainer- sorry Harpers Ferry!

As you can see, instead of removing these sites completely from the itinerary, I simply crossed them out.  That way, if something comes up and we have extra time, these places can be a contingency plan.

Take a Look at Your Budget

Create a budget based on the length of your trip and the sights you want to see.

To do this, I jot down the name of the attraction, where it’s located, and how much it would cost for our family of 5.  At this point, I begin making cuts.  

For instance, our family only counts states that we have done something in when we add up the list of places we’ve been.  So, if we simply drive through a state, it doesn’t count (for us).  This meant we needed to do something in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey, for them to count for us.

My outline went a little something like this:

West Virginia: Ski lodge
Pennsylvania: Hersheypark, Gettysburg, Eisenhower National Historic Site, Amish Country
Maryland: Fort McHenry National Monument, Star Spangled Banner House, National Aquarium 
Delaware: New Castle Court House National Park, Old Swedes National Historic Site
New Jersey: Fort Mott, Adventure Aquarium, Diggerland USA

From a budgetary standpoint, some of these things needed to go.  Hersheypark and Diggerland are both amusement parks.  While our sons would love Diggerland USA, everyone would enjoy Hersheypark.  Financially, it didn’t make sense for us to do both, so we nixed Diggerland USA.

We plan on hitting up New Jersey, Delaware, and part of Maryland on the same day, so we needed to get crafty with our budget and time.

It would cost us $220 to do the National Aquarium in Baltimore. While that is doable, it would eat up a large chunk of our time and we wouldn’t have much time to do some of the other things we wanted to do.  So, we cut the National Aquarium.

We had another aquarium on our list, the Adventure Aquarium, in New Jersey, which would only cost us $170 to visit, as a family of 5.  Though it’s $50 cheaper than the National Aquarium, it would still take up a considerable amount of time for that day.  There’s no way we’d be able to fit in things in Maryland and Delaware if we did the aquarium, so we crossed it off our list.  That left us with visiting Fort Mott State Park, as our Jersey activity.

Decide Where You'll Stay

There are two ways to decide where you’ll stay: 1) Determine how far you’re willing to drive each day and figure out what destinations are within that parameter, or 2) Select your locations based on places you want to visit on your trip.

I tend to go with the second option.  This trip is over our Christmas Break.  Most places will be closed on Christmas Day, which limits our options.  Instead of going from Hershey, Pennsylvania to Philadelphia (where we would run into lots of things being closed), I got a little crafty and booked us a visit the the Great Wolf Lodge in Perryville, Maryland.  

As much as I’d love to see all of the historical sites in Philly, spending Christmas Day at an indoor waterpark is totally a kid’s dream come true.  We could have booked the GWL in The Poconos, but visiting Maryland would add another list of states to our kid’s list.  Heading to Maryland is a win-win.

On this particular trip, we’ll be staying at 1 ski lodge, 1 Great Wolf Lodge, and 2 hotels.  For the hotels, I narrowed our options down to hotels that we accrue points for.  When I search for hotels, I always ensure they include breakfast and try to find one that includes on-site parking (which is often a challenge/next to impossible in some cities).  You should also consider what eateries are nearby and the proximity to things you want to do.

Pro-Tip:  Include your hotel confirmation plans in your itinerary, just in case.

Wrap Everything Up in a Nice Neat Package

Now that you have everything all mapped out and ready to go, it’s time to wrap everything up in a nice little package.  Your itinerary doesn’t have to be fancy, but you should have all of your notes organized and your trip outlined so that it is easy to follow.

I have a generic template that I created in Canva that I use for all of our trips.  The detailed version on the left is for me and the more simple version on the right is for the kids to follow along with.

You might notice I have a Flex Day built into our schedule.  This is just me being extra (hell the whole itinerary presentation is me being extra), but there are 3 separate plans ready for that day.  We’ll probably go with plan #2 (as seen in the picture above left).  We’ll play that day by ear but it could take us into Philly, or it could have us spending a little more time in Baltimore.  Only time will tell!

Pro-Tip:  Leave a copy of your itinerary with a loved one.

Our Road Trip Essentials

You’ll find items like these every time we pack a car for road trips.  They help keep our items tidy, organized, and most importantly- accessible.  Some things that we have found that work for us include lap desks, hooks, storage totes, tablet holders, and snack boxes.

  • Cargo Trailer
  • Bungee Cords
  • Lap Desks- these were in the video but we love this one!
  • Backpack Hooks
  •  Tablet Holder- we use these so we can adjust them to see from the third row.  If you don’t need that flexibility, these are great too!
  • Snack Boxes–  we recently started using these snack boxes on road trips and our kids love them!  Some of the things we pack into them are: trail mix, peanut butter crackers, apple chips, dried fruit (bananas, coconut, strawberries, etc.), granola bars, Nutrigrain Bars, rice cakes, fruit snacks, etc.  We used these snack boxes on our last road trip (which was about 8 hours each way) and we found that it was enough snacks for driving up and back!  Only the Nutrigrain Bars needed to be replaced.  If your kid is a big snacker, you may need to replenish it before your return trip.
  • Collapsible Cooler

Other Things to Think About...

Vehicle: Get your vehicle inspected before you hit the road.  Have your tires balanced and rotated, get an oil change, and make sure everything is good to go.

Weather/Driving Conditions: Monitor weather conditions, take breaks, and get enough sleep. You can also use cruise control to reduce fatigue

Distance: Nobody wants to spend their entire road trip in the car.  Make sure you have plenty of stops planned along the way and that these stops aren’t super far from each other.  Our longest driving day, aside from the day we drive up to West Virginia and the day we drive back to Florida, is about 4 hours.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, be sure to save our post “How to Plan a Road Trip!”!   While you’re at it, take a look at our printable children’s travel journals, they are the perfect way to keep your kiddos entertained in the car.  Read about how you can start your own 50 State Challenge!  Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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Categories
Charleston South Carolina United States

Top 10 Things to Do in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, often referred to as the Holy City for its many church spires punctuating the skyline, is a gem of the American South. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, Southern charm, and vibrant culinary scene, Charleston offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Charleston has something to offer.

Here are the top 10 things to do in Charleston, SC:

1. Explore Historic Downtown Charleston

Charleston’s historic downtown area is a delight to explore on foot. Take a leisurely stroll along cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved antebellum homes, historic churches, and picturesque gardens. Highlights include Rainbow Row, a series of colorful Georgian row houses along East Bay Street, and the Battery promenade, offering panoramic views of Charleston Harbor.

2. Visit Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie

History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Accessible only by boat, a trip to Fort Sumter provides insight into this pivotal moment in American history. Tours depart regularly from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

 

Middleton Place Plantation Charleston, SC

3. Tour a Plantation

Despite the plantations having an immensely dark history, they are incredible to explore.  Check out Magnolia Plantation or Middleton Place to get a glimpse at life in Charleston during the 1800s.

4. Indulge in Charleston’s Culinary Scene

Charleston is a food lover’s paradise, renowned for its Lowcountry cuisine and world-class dining options. Sample traditional Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes at local favorites such as Husk, FIG (Food Is Good), and Poogan’s Porch. Don’t forget to try Charleston’s famous biscuits and sweet tea!

5. Relax at Charleston’s Beaches

Just a short drive from downtown Charleston are several beautiful beaches perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms are popular choices, offering wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing.

 

Charleston City Market

6. Shop at the Charleston City Market

Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the Charleston City Market is a historic market stretching four city blocks. Browse through hundreds of vendors selling local goods such as sweetgrass baskets, handmade jewelry, artwork, and gourmet food products. The market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and unique gifts.

7. Take a Carriage Ride

Experience Charleston’s charm from a horse-drawn carriage as you ride through the city’s historic streets. Carriage tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into Charleston’s history, architecture, and culture. Tours typically cover downtown Charleston’s most famous landmarks and hidden gems.

8. Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation

Located on Wadmalaw Island, just a short drive from downtown Charleston, the Charleston Tea Plantation is the only tea plantation in North America. Take a guided tour of the plantation to learn about the tea-making process, stroll through the tea fields, and sample a variety of fresh-brewed teas in the plantation’s gift shop.

9. Explore the Charleston Museum

Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is one of the oldest museums in the United States and offers a fascinating glimpse into the Lowcountry’s rich history and culture. Exhibits include Charleston silver, Civil War artifacts, natural history displays, and decorative arts. The museum also features a historic house museum, the Joseph Manigault House.

10. Visit the International African American Museum 

The International African American Museum is located on the Charleston Harbor where 40% of the nation’s enslaved people arrived in America.  The museum opened in June of 2023 and honors the untold stories of the African American journey.  

Conclusion

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history, culture, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, indulging in its culinary delights, or relaxing on its beautiful beaches, Charleston offers something for everyone. With its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, it’s no wonder Charleston continues to captivate visitors from around the world. Plan your visit to the Holy City and discover why Charleston is one of the most beloved destinations in the South.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

For future reference, be sure to save our post “Top 10 Things to do in Charleston!”!   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

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