Patriotic Getaways: Go North or South This Weekend

Traveling on holiday weekends is as American as apple pie but with the price of air travel going up and the potential airport security hassle, many families are looking at closer destinations. 

Crofton's location makes it ideal for day trips for those looking for the perfect mix of education and excitement for their vacation. Of course we have Washington D.C. practically in our backyard, but Williamsburg to the south and Philadelphia to the north both provide many different ways to engage in the American experience.

Discover a patriotic family adventure in Williamsburg, Virginia. This unique place offers historical attractions, museums and the cultural arts in less than a four hour drive. But Williamsburg is not just history. Enjoy “Brews, Blues & BBQ” this Fourth of July. Celebrate the American tradition of barbecue in the place where America’s quest for independence began. According to Williamsburgvisit.com enjoy the sights of Colonial Williamsburg, with their specially brewed beer, and the traditional blues sound of Li’l Ronnie and the Grand Dukes, "The hottest swing blues band on the east coast." The menu will include choice of Pulled Pork BBQ or BBQ Half Chicken, served with southern Baked Beans and Coleslaw.  Adults $28.00 and Children (6–12) $12.00 The event will take place at the Virginia Lawn, Williamsburg Lodge with dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. followed by the blues concert and then fireworks which will start at shortly after dark. 

Another great event happening in July is a an exciting concert specially adapted for Colonial Williamsburg from Grammy-winning composer Doug Katsaros and two-time Emmy-nominated lyricist William Schermerhorn. This vibrant program showcases the people and places that make up the fabric of America with musical styles from country, rock, and pop to swing and the blues. The all-star Broadway cast will make this a night you won’t want to miss. The show dates are Friday, July 22 and Saturday, July 23.  Tickets will be sold through Colonial Williamsburg ticketing (1-800-447-8679)

Even closer to home is Philadelphia PA, the city where America's independence was born. Just a 2-1/2 hour drive from Crofton, Philadelphia is another destination that combines history and fun. After you have visited Independence Hall where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed (open 365 days a year) consider visiting the National Constitution Center.

This July you can learn all about the “Father of Our Country” during “Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon” on display at the National Constitution Center from July 1 to September 5, 2011. Go back in time and watch history come to life.

According to the National Constitution Center visitors can get an incredible first hand look into the life of George Washington with more than 100 objects including architectural models, pieces of the family’s fine art collection, personal artifacts and three stunning, life-size figures. The collection offers a new perspective of Washington, his achievements, legacy and personal life. Learn about George Washington from birth until he becomes a beloved American hero.