Make Memories of Historic Proportion One of “The 20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2013” by Smithsonian magazine, Lexington is steeped in history, and best experienced by foot or carriage. Once home to Robert E. Lee, Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson and George C. Marshall, Lexington offers museums, galleries, shopping and dining experiences. Enjoy bluegrass at one of Buena Vista’s many festivals or take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Explore all the wonders of the Natural Bridge and Caverns, drive through Virginia Safari
Pg 2-3
Park feeding exotic animals from your car and watch a movie under the stars at Hull’s Drive-In. Savor a tasting at Rockbridge Vineyard on the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail and take a tour at Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery. Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains, outdoor adventure abounds with hiking, biking and tubing. Make memories of historic proportion in Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County. www.lexingtonvirginia.com ¤
Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia
Pg 3-4
Florida
Pg 5-6
South Carolina
Pg 6
Virginia
Pg 7-9
Maryland
Pg 10-11 North Carolina Pg 12
Pennsylvania
Pg 13-15 West Virginia Pg 16
North Carolina
GuestQuest Vacations takes you on a guided tour to various vacation locations. We feature information about accommodations, attractions and activities in many travel and vacation destinations. Providing you with article coverage on our advertisers, their amenities and services will assist you in making the right decision on choosing your accommodations, recreation, entertainment and more. Please visit our web site www.guestquest.com for additional advertiser information and links to their web sites. Distributed three times a year, Spring, Summer and Winter, with separate editions to Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois/Indiana, North Carolina, Georgia/Alabama, Tennessee/Kentucky and Virginia/Washington D.C. Serving our advertisers and readers since 1984. For advertising information, questions or comments, call 1-800-644-8460. P. O. Box 33547, Cleveland, OH 44133. The accuracy of the information contained in these listings is the responsibility of each individual advertiser. Every effort has been made to offer up-to-date information. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written consent of the editor is prohibited. 2
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travel
TRAVEL
Making a Long Road Trip with Children by: C.S. Mackay Back when you were a little kid your parents had to grin and bear it. They played games to keep you entertained and searched license plates for a new state. At the end of the trip they were too tired to enjoy their stay. They just rested up for the return trip and a rerun of the previous trip, arriving home exhausted. What a vacation? This will not happen to you if you are willing to take advantage of the
new car video technology. With the introduction of car videos children can enjoy the trip with some of their favorite videos. There are several types available on the market now. There are the standard mount to the ceiling models. Now there are hang over the seat models with ear phones so that each child can have their own if necessary and these are moveable from seat to seat. Also, available are head rests with video screens built in them that can replace your present
head rests. Now there are even car videos to put on sun visors or on the dash. With this car video technology you can now take your children’s favorite videos and let them play them over and over and it will not drive you crazy because they have ear buds. This means that you can still carry on a conversation with someone and not always be interrupted with the inevitable “Are We There Yet”. By the
&
way ipods and MP3 players will do RADCLIFF the same for your teenager. I can attest to the above because I FORT KNOX just got off a road trip of 16 hours with these three youngsters and four Military heritage, adults. There were very few problems natural beauty and parents and grandparents were & southern just tired from the ride not tired from hospitality fighting. I personally felt that the portable video was best because we General George Patton Museum of Leadership could shift it between seats and then Kentucky’s September 11th Memorial the unoccupied child did what we WWII Barracks Saunders Springs Nature Preserve & more! used to do play games.
800-334-7540
RadcliffTourism.org
Military Heritage, Natural Beauty and Southern Hospitality! Fort Knox is home to the U.S. Bullion Depository, which stores 7 trillion dollars worth of gold bullion (not open to the public). The Radcliff/Fort Knox Community also offers the General George S. Patton Museum of Leadership, Armor Memorial Park, the Kentucky
September 11th Memorial, Saunders Springs Nature Preserve, Fort Duffield Civil War Fort and Hardin County Schools Performing Arts Center. It’s the perfect weekend getaway destination and best of all our attractions are FREE!
The newly renovated General George S. Patton Museum offers artifacts that are displayed in their original historical environment among the sights and sounds that replicate battlefield settings. A set of restored WWII Barracks located on the
grounds of the museum is slated to open this year. To plan your trip, go to radclifftourism.org or call (800) 334-7540. Radcliff/Fort Knox Convention & Tourism Commission 562 North Dixie, Suite A-1 Radcliff, Kentucky 40160 ¤
Award Winning Beachside Hotel Days Inn & Suites features 40 Oceanfront one-bedroom suites, 76 double-bed guest rooms and 8 King rooms. All rooms contain “free” in-room coffee, micro-fridges, irons and ironing boards, hairdryers, clock radios, and free WIFI access. Guests staying at the hotel enjoy the
Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast including fresh “cooked to order” Belgian Waffles and assorted yogurt in an abundant breakfast bar overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This moderately priced sparkling oceanfront hotel offers many things for guests to enjoy while at the hotel
and on the island – great beach and packages ~ also sign up for our access, two spacious swimming last minute “Hot Deals”! pools – one of which is heated Days Inn & Suites seasonally, kiddie pool, hot tub, 60 S. Beachview Drive grilling, picnic areas and a new fire Jekyll Island, GA 31527 pit. Bike rentals on property. toll free: 888-635-3003 Visit www.DaysInnJekyll.com to Direct Line: 912-635-9800 learn more about our many specials Fax: 912-635-2287 ¤
FLORIDA
The Sunshine State Known as the “Sunshine State” because of its balmy, sunny weather, Florida has more theme parks, entertainment centers and sport activities than any other part in the country. Its fantasy theme parks and attractions, exciting nightlife and leisurely days on the best beaches in the world make it an ideal place for vacations. Thousands of beautiful lakes and magnificent rivers and its 1,350 miles of coastline make it ideal for boating, sailing, fishing, diving, snorkeling and swimming. For a sportsperson, Florida is a vacation paradise. Its warm summers and mild winters make it possible to enjoy boating, camping, golfing and water sports. Florida is great for camping. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose a variety of setting, from beachfront campground, to RV parks, to primitive camping. The mild climate allows year round camping and outdoor activities. While camping, one can
experience white sand beaches, peaceful forest and theme park thrills and at the end of the day, enjoy a breathtaking sunset. Florida has one of the best state park systems in the country with many great places to camp within a stone’s throw of the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches are some of the finest in the world and have been rated among the top ten each year in Dr. Beach’s America’s Best Beach list each year. They are rated among the best for beauty, facilities and ease of access. Families, couples or singles enjoy year round sunshine and soft white sand and clear water. The waters along its beaches are generally warm in comparison to the rest of the country. Beaches are a great way to get out in the sun, to play, to stroll and look for shells or to relax on a beach chair in the warm sunshine while reading a good book or just enjoying the companionship and the activity all around.
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
With the many miles of coastline and the hundreds of natural lakes, Florida offers much for boaters. It is ideal for power-boating, sailing, kayaking, water-skiing, wake boarding, wind surfing and canoeing. Like fishing? You will find bass fishing, inshore saltwater and flats fishing and offshore saltwater fishing if you want to catch the “big ones.” You may bring your own boat or charter one.
Common and popular game fish include the sailfish and blue marlin. Florida is the “golf capital of the world.” The year round sun attracts hundreds of thousands of golfers each year. There are over 1,000 public, private and semiprivate courses in which numerous cheap golf courses are also available. No matter what your golfing ability or
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budget, courses are accessible to suit all needs. To avoid large crowds and packed attraction, as well as expensive lodging, make plans to visit Florida during the off-season, which is during the months of May through October. This is also a popular time for families with school-age children. Traveling during the “off seasons” can be rewarding. ¤
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florida
Drenched in sunshine Packed with family entertainment and drenched in sunshine, it’s hard to imagine anywhere that offers more for a fun-filled holiday than Florida – surely the world’s number one family destination. Florida offers you Orlando and Tampa’s theme park magic, or relaxation on the endless miles of Florida’s Gulf or Gold Coast beaches and our famous Key West. Florida boasts 1,200 miles of coastline. Both the Atlantic Ocean
and the Gulf of Mexico - dotted by many islands and inlets - lap against its shores, making it a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Colorful sailboats head for the high seas. Yachts and motorboats ply the ocean or inland waterways. Windsurfers and water-skiers play side by side. The states inland water are populated with freshwater fish, marine, migratory and exotic species. Lots of sunshine means year-round sports. So take a swing at
Kick Off Your Flip Flops! The Perfect Place for Your Next Beach Vacation. Gulf-front 2 bedroom/ 2 bath condominiums, heated pool, tennis, fitness room.
golf, brush up on your backhand, or pick up a game of beach volleyball. Golf is a big part of Florida. The state boasts nearly 1,100 courses with layouts by famous designers. Florida has an overwhelming array of foods that are just about guaranteed to suit everyone’s taste and price range. There’s succulent steak at five-star restaurants, seafood with an ocean view, and loads of tasty ethnic fare. Dig in and enjoy! With all that Florida has to offer, her signature is still “beaches.” The words “Florida” and “beaches” are practically synonymous, but Florida’s
beaches are as different from one another as night and day! The 24-mile stretch of Emerald Coast beaches of northwest Florida remind you of sugary, soft and snowy white sand, glistening against emerald green waters. The coastline of Clearwater and St. Petersburg take on a different atmosphere. The sands are still gleaming white, but the texture varies slightly. Sanibel Island’s beaches have captured more varieties of seashells than anywhere else in North America. Pure white sands prevails on Florida’s Gulf of Mexico coastline.
The Atlantic shorelines of Ft. Lauderdale and Palm Beach glitter golden in the warm sun rays. The wide, hard-packed stretch of sand on Daytona Beach has invited visitors to drive its 23 miles. Wherever you choose for your Florida vacation destination, each footprint will embed a memory in your sands of time. For information on travel to Florida or to order a copy of VISIT FLORIDA’s free Vacation Guide visit VISIT FLORIDA’s consumer web site, www.VISITFLORIDA.com, or call VISIT FLORIDA’s toll-free consumer number at 1-888-735-2872. ¤
Paradise Discovered at One Seagrove Place Imagine … A place where the sugar white sands are kissed by the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico . . . One Seagrove Place offers the joy of magnificent sunsets from your gulf front balcony and a quiet place at the beach to enjoy family fun in the sun. One Seagrove Place – where you will relax and enjoy the many comforts of our two-bedroom
4100 E. Scenic Hwy 30-A Seagrove Beach, FL 32459
(800) 368-9100
www.oneseagroveplace.com
“#1 Best Beach in America” by Dr. Beach
Siesta Key Bungalows Our 10 charming Bungalows are nestled within a tropical garden and offer large one-bedroom suites with full kitchens. Located less than a mile from the #1 Beach in America, as well as great shops & restaurants. Overlook peaceful Heron lagoon as you enjoy our pool, bicycle to the beach, kayak in the peaceful waters, or grab a fishing pole and relax on our dock. Near the #1 Whitest, Finest Sand Beach in the World.
888-574-3782 www.siestakeybungalows.com 8212 Midnight Pass Rd. • Siesta Key, FL 34242
Awarded Tripadvisor Traveler ’s Choice Award for “ Top Romance in US”
Bungalow Beach Resort
condominiums – located in the heart COME AND ENJOY OUR of Seagrove Beach along scenic 30A PARADISE . . . YOU DESERVE IT!! just two miles east of Seaside Resort. One Seagrove Place Property amenities include a 4100 East Scenic 30A beachside pool, lighted tennis court, Seagrove Beach, Florida 32459 complimentary chairs and umbrella in 800-368-9100 season. Walk to the area’s finest www.oneseagroveplace.com dining, unique shops and art galleries. View and book units online. ¤
The Helmsley Sandcastle Hotel Charms Guests The Helmsley Sandcastle Hotel with its 600 feet of private, powder white sand beach, on the Gulf of Mexico, offers the splendor of a tropical paradise. Sporting a brand new look to add to the excitement, our renourished beach makes paradise even more pristine. Offering free WiFi throughout the property. Complimentary parking, beach chairs and newspapers. Most guest rooms face the beach and have semi-private balconies. Other recently updated guestrooms include Poolside, Courtyard and Northside views.
A complete Recreational Department can set you up with a sailboat, aqua cycles or kayak and will offer lessons on how to operate any of the water vehicles. There are two heated pools, a pool bar with happy hour specials, and a beach deck to watch the most spectacular sunsets ever seen. Local attractions are only minutes away. Be prepared to be pampered! The Helmsley Sandcastle Hotel 1540 Ben Franklin Drive Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-2181 www.HelmsleySandcastle.com ¤
Charming Island Resort • Directly on the Gulf of Mexico • 600 feet of private beach • Two Heated Pools • Tropical island setting • Golf & Tennis nearby • Only 1 mile from St. Armands Circle with 150 shops & restaurants • Conference/Meeting facility on site • Complimentary Wi-Fi
Directly on the beach, nestled among the white-sand dunes, sea oats and coconut palms of Anna Maria Island, Bungalow Beach Resort offers 15 beautifully restored 1930s island-style 1, 2 & 3 bedroom bungalows ~ perfect for any size family. Enjoy a heated pool, private beach and much more!
1-800-225-2181 800-779-3601 www.bungalowbeach.com 2000 Gulf Drive • Anna Maria Island, FL 34217
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941-388-2181
1540 Ben Franklin Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236 www.HelmsleySandcastle.com Ask about our specials
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south carolina
SOUTH CAROLINA
It’ll leave you speechless Hike along the charming streams or spend the day fishing at one of the many rivers or lakes. Beautiful picnicking spots cover the state, and other outdoor adventures make any spring or summer vacation a memorable adventure. Take a dolphin tour cruise, tour an alligator swamp, or go kayaking down one of the majestic waterways. Birding and hiking along the wooded regions of South Carolina make for a perfect excursion no matter what season.
Travel to the eastern county of Santee Cooper for the Annual Festival of Roses and elegant garden displays. Area lakes encompass more than 171,000 acres of water and house a variety of fish. Forests offer scenic trails for year-round recreation. Find a picturesque nook for spring and summer camping, or snuggle up next to a fireplace in one of the quaint cabins for any fall or winter adventure.
Game hunting or golf makes for the perfect family bonding vacation or business retreat. Horse riding and racing is also a popular sport in South Carolina, and you can always find a place to go horse riding along the great Atlantic shore. The lovely South Carolinian coast offers such sites as the Grand Strand and various resort islands. Stunning accommodations line the shore near all the picturesque and popular attractions. Bask on the great Atlantic coast, ride the waves inland for all the sights and sounds of South Carolina’s urban life and natural attractions, and run through the prairies of the green Piedmont region. This southern landscape brings you into South Carolina’s fairytale atmosphere and leaves you speechless on the brilliant beaches or on the shady peaks of Carolina beauty. ¤
With over 900 vacation properties to fit every budget, bringing your family together has never been easier. Start planning your unforgettable getaway today! dunes.com
888.899.0311
Garden City Beach, Surfside Beach & Myrtle Beach's largest selection of vacation rentals.
Myrtle Beach Not Just For Summer! Although Sea Mist is known for its affordable family vacations, it remains America best buy in the fall, winter and spring as well! Perch directly on the edge of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, the beauty of the sea never fades, and Sea Mist has your room with the view! Take advantage of exceptional weekend and mid-week specials, plus unique Steal-Away Packages and Holiday Escapes. Call now and receive 33% off a 3-night stay. Take in a live theater show at Alabama Theater, Pirate Adventure or Carolina Opry. Play a little golf on any of the 80+ championship courses, and enjoy the many eateries and shopping outlets nearby. Got a Group? Get a deal at Sea Mist. Our hottest dates and best deals are in April, May and September. If you require 10 rooms or more, you will qualify for special group rates. Plus, if you need meeting space Sea Mist features a 17,000 sq. ft Conference Center with unique indoor and outdoor options. In addition, the Sea Mist Early Bird Bonus is now available! Book your summertime vacation with Sea Mist by March 20, 2014 for stays June through August 18, 2014 and receive an $80 EZ-Cash! This card can be utilized at any of Sea Mist retail outlets such as Resort Restaurants, Resort Water Park, Sea Mist Arcade, Gift Shop, Quick Stop Grocery, Sea Mist Theater Concessions, and more! Call 1.877.590.1384 or visit www.SeaMist.com ¤ VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
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south carolina
Make Your Family Vacation Special with a Beach House Take your family’s vacation to the next level with a spacious beach house, luxury villa or oceanfront condominium from Thomas Beach Vacations. Choose from one to EIGHT bedrooms and such features as WiFi, pools, hot tubs, lazy rivers, grills and hammocks. Our award-winning housekeeping staff makes sure your accommodations are clean and ready for your family and our wonderful
guest services staff will be happy to answer questions and provide suggestions. You’ll find plenty of fun in family-friendly North Myrtle Beach and the Myrtle Beach area… amusement & water parks, professional baseball, championship golf, deep-sea fishing, boat rides and more. Specialty shops at Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach, the
Mall at Coastal Grande, and Market Commons will let you experience “retail therapy” at its finest. World-class entertainment abounds with wonderful shows & concerts at the House of Blues, Alabama Theatre, the Palace and the Carolina Opry. Visit us online at www.NMBVacation.com. Thomas Beach Vacations North Myrtle Beach, SC ¤
Barclay Towers Resort Hotel ! All OCEANFRONT 2-room suites with Kingsize bed and Queen sofabed ! Private balconies overlooking the ocean ! Complete kitchens with cookware and utensils ! Heated indoor pool, hot tub and weight room ! FREE CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST ! Free high speed wireless internet ! 100% smoke-free accommodations
809 Atlantic Ave. • Virginia Beach, VA 23451
1-800-344-4473 • (757) 491-2700 www.BarclayTowersVB.com 6
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VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
maryland
MARYLAND
Go Outside and Play How many times did your parents tell you to “go outside and play?” Here in Maryland, we also urge you to get outdoors to experience some of Maryland’s natural wonders. Step into a sea kayak and paddle through the marsh grasses of the lower Chesapeake Bay. Hop on a mountain bike and pedal through pristine forest trails in Western Maryland. Cast a line for blue marlin, brook trout, smallmouth bass or striped bass (known as “rockfish” to the locals) in bodies of water all around the state. Pitch a tent, climb a rock, hunt for fossils or prowl for owls on a night hike. We promise great adventures in our great outdoors.
Take the Road Less Traveled. Poet Robert Frost took the less-worn path. You’ll be glad that you did, too, on any of Maryland’s 31 designated scenic byways. Forego the freeway and follow the colorful black-eyed Susan signs (the Susan is our state flower) through waterfront villages, past historic monuments, down old Main streets and beside pristine forest glades. These carefully mapped routes, some with “sidetracks” better explored without a car, encourage a leisurely pace as you journey around Maryland. Retreat to a bygone era on Maryland’s Civil War Trails. Brother fought brother in the cornfields around Sharpsburg, a battle that
afterwards turned whole towns into makeshift hospitals. Armies clad in blue and gray skirmished through Maryland’s countryside on their way to an epic battle at Gettysburg. A wounded assassin escaped Washington, D.C. into the Southern Maryland countryside in search of a doctor named Mudd. The Civil War soldiers, spies and villains didn’t have signposts to point the way, but today’s visitors can follow colorful bugle “trailblazer” signs of Maryland’s Civil War Trails. The bugles lead to waysides where interpretive markers tell both military and anecdotal accounts of war and its effects on the people of Maryland. No matter what the interest, you’re sure to find a wealth of information by logging on to www.visitmaryland.org.
Fall in Love with Caroline County Located on the Chesapeake Peninsula between the Choptank River and the historic Mason-Dixon Line, Caroline County is the perfect destination for heritage enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Here you’ll find a rural and relaxing lifestyle where you can enjoy a wealth of unique heritage experiences, including the Museum of Rural Life, the Choptank River Heritage Center, the Federalsburg Museum and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway.
For those seeking an adventure in the great outdoors, Caroline County offers a 400-acre native garden and nature preserve, eleven miles of pristine waterways, gently curving countryside perfect for cycling, two state parks, hang gliding, Alpaca and Clydesdale farms, hunting lodges and more. Take a Sunday drive through picturesque farmland or visit one of the quaint towns along the way. Whatever your passion, come spend a weekend with Caroline. www.tourcaroline.com ¤
Experience the beautiful waters of Dorchester County, the Heart of the Chesapeake Dorchester County has 1,700 miles of shoreline – more than anywhere else in Maryland. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, the water serves as a playground for all ages, an inspiration to artists, a scenic backdrop for weddings and the source of delicious seafood in the restaurants. Experience the beauty of these waters by joining a sail on an authentic skipjack oystering vessel, going for a dinner cruise on a paddle wheeler, chartering a fishing boat, or renting a kayak or canoe. Walk or
cycle the trails at the 27,000-acre Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, which draws people from all over the world for its dramatic marshlands, birding, spectacular sunsets and photo opportunities. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Dorchester is 1.5 hours from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The county is known as the heart of the Chesapeake, not just because of its physical shape, but also because this is where you’ll find the authentic Eastern Shore. Discover unspoiled landscapes, quiet retreats, watermen
heading into harbor with their catch of oysters, crabs or fish – and an unhurried, friendly pace of life. While you’re here, explore the area’s award-winning restaurants, local brewery and winery, art galleries, charming small towns, and history – including a scenic driving tour celebrating the life of Harriet Tubman, who lived here for more than 25 years. Find out more at www.TourDorchester.org or 800.522.TOUR. ¤
Star Spangled Historic Trail Commemorates the War Of 1812 On this Maryland Upper Eastern Shore County of the Chesapeake Bay, you may begin your journey of eight Star Spangled Banner Historic Trail sites at the Visitor Center in Chestertown or the Kitty Knight House in Georgetown. For 1812 activities in 2014, please visit www.kentcounty.com/1812. Be sure to save the dates of Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31,
for an authentic and amazing anniversary celebration of the War of 1812. Saturday, in Historic Chestertown, begins with a period parade, featuring American and British reenactors, and includes a wreath laying ceremony, an Eastern Shore Militia encampment, firing demonstrations, public sails on the Chester River and more. Sunday presents a once in a lifetime
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
opportunity. Witness history - 200 years to the day - at the Battle of Caulks Field bicentennial reenactment. Experience a formal military wreath laying and flag raising ceremony and enjoy music, food, demonstrations, living history and more. For directions and more information, please visit www.kentcounty.com. ¤
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NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina’s Central & Southern Beaches A haven of sunbathers, Atlantic Beach is home to wide pearlescent beaches and plenty of sunshine. Part of the Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach is the oldest of five resort towns. Fort Macon State Park, the site of an historic Civil War skirmish, and not just a few tales of ghostly encounters with uniformed soldiers, is located at the tip of the island and is one of the links in the monumental Civil War
Trails. Fort Macon is ideal for active vacationers who like to experience it all, from shore fishing and hiking to swimming and picnicking. Emerald Isle is known as the most prominent of the banks on the Crystal Coast. Named for the lush greenery that covers much of the area, Emerald Isle is located at the western end of the Bogue Banks. Visitors have the freedom to spend their days exploring un-crowded coastline, at casually elegant Carolina Beach/Kure Beach dining restaurants, shopping at fanciful North Carolina Oceanfront boutiques filled with coastal S A L E S ! R E N T A L S treasures or setting sail on private chartered fishing excursions. www.CrystalCoastNC.org or call 1-800-786-6962. Lying along North Carolina’s southeastern coast, Topsail Island is a 26-mile barrier island that reaches from 500 to 1,500 feet wide. The Island is accessible by an old-fashioned swing bridge and a Call For FREE Brochure modern high-rise bridge and is composed of three towns - North www.bullardrealtyonline.com brrental@bellsouth.net
800-327-5863
Bullard Realty, Inc.
Topsail Beach, Surf City and Topsail Beach. On the mainland, our area includes the towns of Sneads Ferry and Holly Ridge. While visiting the Topsail area, you will enjoy some of the most pristine, uncrowded beaches along the east coast. Here you will witness coastal wildlife flourishing in its natural environment and enjoy some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets found on the North Carolina coast. www.TopsailCOC.com or 800-626-2780. With warm waters for swimming and uncrowded sands for sunning yourself, Oak Island invites you to the ideal family beach vacation. Fifty-two beach access points along the windswept shore assure you of plenty opportunities to dive in, and relaxing days spent searching for seashells, building sandcastles and taking long walks are sure to refresh and delight the whole family. A beautiful, resort-style island for families to visit, Ocean Isle Beach is
also very attractive to majestic, yet endearing, sea turtles. Eight miles of beach house sea-turtle eggs and hatchlings for almost half the year, and if you’re lucky, you may get the chance to spot some yourself. Visit Ocean Isle Beach to learn all about these amazing creatures, as well as enjoy a vacation your family will always remember. Beautiful for its sunrises and sunsets over the water, Sunset Beach is a haven for birds of all kinds. From this island you can walk to Bird Island at low tide, where you’re likely to see a variety of species nesting or migrating with the help of one of the many local guides. With much to discover, Sunset Beach is a wonderful place for a family vacation. www.NCBrunswick.com From riverboats to battleships, screen gems to civil war scenes, riverwalks to ghost walks, Wilmington NC is a city full of surprises and delights. Close by the Cape Fear Coast beach communities, Wilmington has a charm and style all its own – befitting an historic port city with roots that go back almost three centuries and the energy of a thriving destination.
Old-Fashioned Family Vacations Are New Again Enjoy family vacations the old-fashioned way. With a portfolio of over 250 of the finest vacation homes, Sunset Vacations has privately owned beach homes to fit every style, location and budget. Located just 20 minutes north of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and 45
minutes south of Wilmington, North mainland ... we can find that perfect Carolina, Sunset Beach is that hidden vacation just for you. vacation treasure you’ve been looking Sunset Vacations for. The staff and management of 401 South Sunset Blvd. Sunset Vacations consider it a Sunset Beach, NC 28468 privilege to serve you! 1-800-331-6428 Remember – we have it all! From 910-579-9000 oceanfront, waterway, condo and www.sunsetvacations.com ¤
surfing or enjoy our uncrowded beaches from sunrise to sunset. Beaches are close to Historic Wilmington with attractions such as the USS North Carolina Battleship, historical tours and a vibrant restaurant scene. A little farther up the coast is Topsail Island, featuring beautiful, quiet beaches. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a romantic
S OUT HE AST ER N NO RT H CA RO LI NA C a ro ln ia Be a c h • Kr ue Be a c h • oT p s a i ls lInad
Wilmington Area Vacation Rentals
Ask about our specials for BIG SAVINGS!
Extraordinary Wilmington Area Beaches in North Carolina Wilmington area beaches are all about fun for all your vacation needs! Including the time-honored small towns of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Ft. Fisher and Topsail Island, the area is North Carolina’s premier coastal vacation destination. Activities range from golfing, surfing, jet skiing and kayaking to deep-sea fishing, putt-putt and wind
It’s no accident Carolina Beach is situated on a spot of land called Pleasure Island. For many visitors, this timeless beach town exemplifies the classic summer playgrounds of years gone by. It’s all here: the fishing piers filled with kids and old-timers alike angling for their first big one. The boardwalk, perfect for evening strolls and ice cream cones. The arcades, as challenging and addictive as when you were a teenager. The gazebo, paddleboats and miniature golf. And of course the clean, uncrowded ribbon of beach by the warm ocean waters. It used to be you could only get to Wrightsville Beach by water. Today you can use the bridge, but the island retains its village-like feel and wonderful sense of remove from everyday cares. A clean, uncluttered stretch of white sand and sparkling water just begs for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and fishing. The athletic at heart can take on the Loop, a fitness trail that circles the inner island. Boaters launch from full-service marinas, and history buffs soak up the local museum and narrated scenic cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway that offer a glimpse into the island’s past. www.Cape-Fear.NC.us or call 877-406-2356.
getaway for two or a large home or two for a family reunion. Ask our friendly, knowledgeable staff about special discounts. Call today or book online at our secure website! United Beach Vacations Carolina Beach/Kure Beach/ Topsail Island, NC 1-800-334-5806 www.UnitedBeachVacations.com ¤
1-800-334-5806
www.UnitedBeachVacations.com
Topsail Island
North Carolina
Find the hidden treasures of Carolina’s Crystal Coast! Properties at all price levels are available! Atlantic Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, Beacon’s Reach, Morehead City, Emerald Isle & Beaufort, NC
800.317.2866 www.cannongruber.com 10
The towns of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast have a charm all their own and something to offer everyone. The pristine beaches, array of boating and fishing opportunities, delicious restaurants and fresh local seafood help make this beautiful area the perfect place for a beach vacation or second home. Factor in the Southern hospitality and friendly
people, lovely old homes, exciting festivals and tournaments, historical sites, museums and aquarium and you are sure to return to this area again and again. Locals think of the area spanning from Emerald Isle through Pine Knoll Shores/Beacon’s Reach and Atlantic Beach over to Morehead City and into Beaufort as one community, and
travel between the areas is easy & enjoyable. cottages • single family • condos Cannon & Gruber, REALTORS townhomes • duplexes • quadplexes offers the best in real estate sales and vacation rentals providing families with beach cottages, residential online brochure & reservations homes, condominiums and building www.cbcoastline.com sites. Coastline Realty 800-317-2866 www.cannongruber.com ¤ (800) 497-5463 • (910) 327-7711
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sun sand & surf
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
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www.WilliamsonRealtyVacations.com
800-727-9222 119 Causeway Dr. SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC
BOOK ONLINE • FREE BROCHURE
OCEAN ISLE BEACH, NC VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
For a truly GREAT vacation, there is no better location! WILLIAMSON REALTY VACATIONS will help you find that perfect beach cottage for you and your family.
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PENNSYLVANIA
Out and About in Pennsylvania Along the highways and roadways of Pennsylvania, discover places full of diversity, rich in culture and filled with surprises. Applaud outstanding performances of world-renowned symphonies and theater. Relax at a quaint bed and breakfast tucked into a secluded corner of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Pass through wooded forests, picturesque covered bridges and towns full of antique stores and specialty shops. Enjoy sandy beaches along Lake Erie or the historic battlefields of Gettysburg. Visit the Amish or float away on one of many
meandering rivers through Pittsburgh. Come and visit the State of Independence. Pennsylvania’s Outdoors: Pennsylvania boasts 17 million acres of forest with breathtaking views, at places such as Pine Creek Gorge, and unique wildlife including hundreds of roaming elk in Elk County. Pennsylvania is home to more than 83,000 miles of rivers and streams brimming with trout and prime for white water rafting and outdoor adventure. The undeveloped region of northcentral Pennsylvania, the “Pennsylvania Wilds,” covers more
than 2 million acres of public land and features Cherry Springs State Park, recognized as only the second international dark sky park for its exceptional commitment to dark sky protection. Hikers and mountain bikers will enjoy the various trails throughout Pennsylvania, including the new multi-purpose Allegrippis Trail and the Great Allegheny Passage, a 335-mile link between the nation’s capital and the Pittsburgh area. Pennsylvania’s Past: The first capital of the United States, first sparks of independence, and turning
points in the struggle for freedom and equality are found throughout Pennsylvania. Other Pennsylvania firsts include: the nation’s first library, zoo, newspaper, all motion-picture theater, institute of art, television and radio broadcast, Bingo game, volunteer fire company, botanical garden, anti-slavery resolution, pretzel factory, beauty salon, Slinky, bubble gum, and banana split. Pennsylvania’s Art & Entertainment: Visit the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, the largest museum dedicated to the work of one artist, or neighboring Fallingwater, an architectural masterpiece by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Spend an evening at a world-class performing arts center like the Kimmel Center in
Philadelphia or see the dancers from the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, ranked as one of the top eight ballet companies in the country. Sit Back, Relax and Enjoy the View: National Geographic named Route 6 one of the top 10 scenic drives in the country. USA Weekend Magazine rated the “Nighttime view from Mount Washington in Pittsburgh” second on its list of the 10 most beautiful places in America. National Geographic rated Sunset Point, located in Erie’s Presque Isle State Park, as having the second most beautiful sunset in the world. Field and Stream magazine recognized Raystown Lake as one of the top 25 hottest American fishing destinations.
We are home to the Original Woolrich Factory Store since 1830, the Piper Aviation Museum and the Heisey Museum. Stroll Downtown Lock Haven’s Main Street taking in the architecture and shops. Spread throughout the county are country shops including the Amish shops in the Sugar Valley area offering hand-sewn quilts and Amish furniture. The shops in Pine Creek Valley and Nippenose Valley have a
great selection of season décor, arts and crafts. Whether you are looking for a place to stay, where to get a meal, or something new to do – you have come to the right place. Visit our website or call for places of interest and calendar of events.
Let Your Pennsylvania Wilds Adventures Begin Here! Clinton County, located in north central Pennsylvania, is the gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds offering hundreds of thousands of acres of state forests, parks, game lands, and
the West Branch Susquehanna River for your outdoor recreation. An array of activities includes camping swimming, hiking, hunting, kayaking and water skiing. Our two
scenic byways offer ridge and valley views as you wind your way through the forests. Keep an eye peeled for deer, bear, elk or hang gliders soaring off Hyner View State Park.
Tour. Roar. Explore…Central PA! Shed that winter coat and head music and arts festivals, insane Relax at ESSpa, the day spa at the out for your spring fling in State mountain bike challenges and trail Carnegie Inn & Spa or experience nature at the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle College and Central PA! Historic runs… you’ll find it all here. State Park – the only Inn of its kind in shopping districts, sporting events, a PA State Park! Tee off at Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center, featuring a 4.5 star PGA rated Marriott golf course. For an adrenaline rush, you can also challenge yourself at Stone Valley on one of the largest vertical adventure courses on the East Coast. The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament (March 23 and 25), Penn State’s Blue-White Football Game (April 12), Bring It On: The Musical (April 17), Jason Aldean’s Night Train Tour (May 2), State Fest (May 3) and Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic (May 25-31) are just a few of the springtime events happening in the area. Bring your fishing gear and test your skills on some of the best trout streams in the country! For lodging availability, contact the Central PA Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-358-5466. Or go to www.VisitPennState.org to download or request a visitor guide. ¤
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Clinton County Visitor Bureau 888-388-6991 www.ClintonCountyInfo.com ¤
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
west virginia
WEST VIRGINIA
Wild and Wonderful West Virginia has four distinct seasons. In the low-lying areas and valleys, including the western regions of the state and the Eastern Panhandle, winters are mild and summers are warm but pleasant. In the central portions of the state and the more mountainous areas, including the Potomac Highlands, winters are colder, with a greater chance of snow, and summers are mild. Ride the whitewater between sheer sandstone cliffs, or paddle through morning mist on a serene lake. Bike along meandering country roads, river-winding rail trails or truly technical single tracks down steep mountainsides.
Quality Inn New River Gorge: A Traveler’s Favorite
Lie back and watch sparkling night skies, or look all around you for diverse botanical wonders. Admire mile after mile of unspoiled splendor in every season - from breathtaking mountain vistas to quiet glades of rhododendron and bird song. Relax in thousands upon thousands of acres of well-kept state parks and national forests. Nature is always nearby in West Virginia. Call 1-800-CALL-WVA for complete information about West Virginia, Ask about bed and breakfast inns, camping, fall foliage tours, highway maps, in-state travel routes, lodging, skiing, state parks, whitewater rafting, or any travel-related topic. You may also make reservations for state parks and
some other attractions through this number. If you’re thinking of visiting West Virginia in the next week, month or year, call for the free 2014 West Virginia travel guide or view the virtual guide instantly on wvtourism.com. This guide will introduce you to endless vacation possibilities and help you plan your vacation, weekend retreat or day’s outing to West Virginia today! Let the travel experts share their beautiful state and help make your West Virginia experience a wonderful one. Contact the West Virginia Division of Tourism 1-800-CALL-WVA www.wvtourism.com ¤
Quality Inn New River Gorge is the Quality Inn New River Gorge perfect place to stay in southern 103 Elliotts Way, Fayetteville, WV West Virginia. Our pool, lighted 1-800-789-9741 basketball and tennis courts and www.qualityinnnewrivergorge.com laundry facilities are just a bit of what ¤ you’ll find when you stay with us, right in the heart of the New River Gorge. Our hotel has been remodeled to offer guests the comforts of home and your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. The New River Gorge is an outdoor playground and it’s right on our doorstep. White water rafting, off road ATV tours, mountain biking, rock climbing and horseback riding are just THE NEW RIVER GORGE’S a few of the fun things to do. We’re C LOSEST & MOST COMPLETE minutes away from the New River BUDGET HOTEL Gorge Bridge and the Canyon Rim U.S. RT. 19 visitor’s center, the gateway to the FAYETTEVILLE, WV 25840 park. Come for a visit and see why the 800.789.9741 Quality Inn New River Gorge is a www.QINRG.com traveler’s favorite.
Nestled among the foothills of the Alleghenies along the shores of the Ohio River, with miles of country roads, rippling creeks, forests, and farmlands to explore, Wetzel County is your gateway to a world of nature and hometown charm.
304.398.4910 WetzelCVB.org New Martinsville, West Virginia
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
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West Virginia’s Center for Adventure Vacations Take a walk around Fayetteville and you’ll find a small town atmosphere with a lot going on. It is a beautiful blend of old and new, excitement and relaxation, mountain and valley. You’ll find a vibrant shopping district and fantastic restaurants,
windows to browse with lots to buy and a lovely town park. Surrounded by great places to stay, from hotels near the New River Gorge Bridge to tucked away cabins and cozy bed and breakfasts, Fayetteville has it all. When you visit Fayetteville, you’ll find world class thrills, right next door
to the New River Gorge National River. Bring a taste for excitement and a desire to relax. We’ll do the rest. It’s a great place to visit, on business or vacation. This is West Virginia’s epicenter for adventure vacations and mountain getaways.
Fayetteville Convention and Visitors Bureau 310 North Court Street Fayetteville, WV 25840 888-574-1500 ¤
and boating, to Historic Downtown Hinton and its beautiful vintage buildings with an artsy modern chic – it has something for everyone. Spend a day in Summers County and you will forge a lifetime of memories.
New River Gateway – Summers County 300 Second Avenue Hinton, WV 25951 304-466-5420 www.newrivergatewaywv.com ¤
you can watch people rappel and BASE jump off one of the largest bridges in the world. With the lure of whitewater rafting continually calling, the New River has a section of whitewater that’s just right for you. There are easy to extreme float trips for families, seniors, groups, couples including half day, full day and overnight trips. The New River Gorge is one of the world’s most famous rock climbing destinations, perfect for beginners and experts alike. Horseback riding is big time fun when you pair it with the beauty of the New River Gorge.
Mountain biking around the gorge is like the most perfect way to ride a bike. The variety of New River Gorge lodging options makes planning a trip here easy. Historic bed & breakfasts, national hotels, secluded cabins and spacious campgrounds are plentiful. There’s never a shortage of things happening around the New River Gorge. New River Gorge CVB 310 Oyler Avenue Oak Hill, WV 25901 800-927-0263 www.newrivergorgecvb.com ¤
Forge a Lifetime of Memories Visit Summers County
Summers County – the New River Gateway – is located in one of the richest areas in Southern West Virginia for outdoor recreation, natural beauty and friendly people. It is a beautiful destination whether you are coming to visit for the first time or returning home.
Nestled in the heart of Appalachia by the banks of three major rivers (the New, Bluestone and Greenbrier Rivers), Summers County hosts a variety of sporting, entertainment, parks and recreational areas. From camping and golfing at Pipestem State Park, Bluestone Dam for fishing,
More than Just the World’s Best White Water And Forge A Lifetime Of Memories
What are you looking for in a vacation? The New River Gorge is a place for families, groups and couples. There’s adventure and relaxation in this outdoor playground with stunning natural beauty and unique attractions.
The center of the vacation compass is the New River Gorge Bridge. At one time, it was the biggest arch bridge in the world – to this day, it is something to celebrate! Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest one-day festival and the world’s largest extreme sports festival. Here
Treasured Memories in Greenbrier County Greenbrier County offers scenic views throughout the year, whether you prefer mountain vistas, woodland beauty or the charm of a country drive. Dining in the Greenbrier Valley offers tastes to please a broad range of palettes including neighborhood bar and grills, pizzeria, Mexican, Italian and Southern home style cooking. Shop the Greenbrier Valley for antiques, culinary treats, eclectic clothing, handmade crafts and more. Greenbrier County offers accommodations ranging from rustic campgrounds, charming bed and breakfasts to hotels, motels and elegant resorts. You can expect to find true Southern hospitality at our lodging properties. A full schedule of activities takes place year round from parades to musical performances to food festivals. 14
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Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau 200 W. Washington Street Lewisburg, WV 24901 866-900-0842 www.greenbrierwv.com ¤
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
west virginia
VIRGINIA / WASHINGTON, D.C. ~ SPRING 2014
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OUTER BANKS
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800-995-1233
www.OuterBanksMotel.com P.O. BOX 428 • BUXTON, NC 27920
VACATION HOME RENTALS | CAPE HATTERAS | NORTH CAROLINA
et us make your Hatteras vacation memorable. We always look forward to welcoming you. Year in and year out, you’ll find us knowledgeable and friendly. SPECIALIZING IN FAMILY VACATIONS SINCE 1964 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | VACATION RENTALS | REAL ESTATE SALES 1-800-962-5256 | HATTERASVACATIONS.COM CONNECT WITH COLONY REALTY ON FACEBOOK
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