Kid's Activities in Syracuse, New York

• Syracuse, New York is in Onondaga County, approximately 75 miles east of Rochester. Visitors and residents of Syracuse can find a variety of activities for kids in the city. Among these are special museums that offer exhibits geared toward children. Area performing arts groups also produce special shows for children throughout the year, including puppet shows.

Museum of Science & Technology

• The Museum of Science & Technology offers a variety of hands-on exhibits meant to appeal to children aged 2 years and older. In the Discovery Cave, kids can dig for dinosaur bones and view the Coral Reef Adventures fish tank. The Flight and Space area provides simulators of the interiors of rockets and planes. An on-site planetarium hosts star shows daily. The Museum of Science & Technology also has an IMAX theater that shows educational and first-run family films.

  The Museum of Science & Technology is open Wednesday through Sunday. The museum closes Mondays and Tuesdays and on most major holidays. General admission is $6 as of October 2010. Children and senior citizens receive admission discounts. IMAX movies and other shows require the purchase of an additional ticket for an added cost. The nearest parking is along the street in metered spaces or in the two pay lots behind the museum.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park

• The Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park opened in 1914 and has grown since that time from a four acre space to 45 acres. The zoo serves as home to more than 900 animals, including penguins, red pandas and snow leopards. At the domestic animal barn, children can pet and interact with farm animals like sheep and guinea hogs. Live shows and demonstrations occur throughout the day.

  The Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is open seven days per week, year round with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission prices vary throughout the year with discounted rates available during the winter months. Children and senior citizens receive discounts off admission. Strollers and wagons are available for rent. The zoo has free, on-site parking.

Open Hand Theater and Mask and Puppet Museum

• The Open Hand Theater was built in 1890 serves as home for the puppet theater group, which began in 1980. The group presents a number of productions each year at the site, called the Main Stage. Geared toward children, these puppet shows typically include folktales, legends or fables from around the world.

  The Open Hand Theater also features a Mask and Puppet Museum inside its facility. The collection consists of items from around the world with a large number of pieces from Indonesia, China, India, Bali and Vietnam. A section of the museum also displays puppets and memorabilia from the Open Hand Theater's past performances.

  The Open Hand Theater's Mask and Puppet Museum is available to tour on Fridays by appointment. Visitors can also tour the facility before and after performances. Admission is free to the museum. The nearest parking is along the street.

Facts About the Regions of the United States

• Harvard is located in New England. VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The United States is a large country that is often broken down into different regions; within each of these regions are several states. The states that are grouped within a region have similar characteristics--such as dialect, geographical features, demographics and heritage. As such, it is often easier to describe the country based on its different regions rather than on individual states.

New England

• Home to Plymouth Rock, the spot where the first European settlers landed, New England is regarded as the region where the United States began. With large cities and a rich culture, it was also the country's cultural and economic center up until the mid 19th century. This region is comprised of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Today, this region is still known for its large cities, as well as for some of the nation's top-ranking colleges and universities and for its historical impact on the country.

Mid-Atlantic

• The Mid-Atlantic states include New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. This region has been referred to as the "melting pot," as immigrants from so many different European countries came here. Industry abounded in these states, with large quantities of iron, glass and steel produced. New York City became, and still is, the nation's largest city, as well as its cultural and financial hub. The nation's capitol is also located in this region. This region also abounds with undisturbed nature--such as mountains and forests.

The South

• The South is made up of the most states, including Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana and parts of Missouri, Texas and Oklahoma. The region is known for its laid-back way of life and hospitality. In contrast to the industry of the north, agriculture is the main industry of the South, due to its temperate weather and high rainfall; however, big cities can also be found in the South.

Midwest

• Known as the "breadbasket," the Midwest provides the nation with some of its most important crops, including corn, wheat and oats. Chicago is the region's largest city, and its railroads and airports link the Midwest to the eastern and western parts of the country. The people of this region are hardworking, honest and usually traditional in their beliefs.

The Southwest

• The Southwestern states include western Texas, parts of Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada. The region is known for its desert landscape, mountain peaks and arid climate. While the rest of the country was mainly influenced by European immigrants, the roots of this region lie with Native Americans and the Spanish. The southwest is home to one of the natural wonders of the world--the Grand Canyon. Other landmarks include Monument Valley and the Painted Desert. The country's gambling mecca, Las Vegas, is also located in the Southwest.

The West

• The states that make up the West--western Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, California, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii--are often referred to as "the last frontier." Of all of the regions, the climate and landscape is the most varied in the West. Wet, mountainous areas and flat, dry areas with sandy coastlines are all part of this region. Between the mountains of Hawaii and Washington, the most volcanic activity in the country occurs in the West. Additionally, the San Andreas fault line makes this region the most susceptible to earthquakes.

Bus Tours to the Eastern United States

Bus tours to the Eastern United States are an economical and leisurely way to see the region and the adjoining parts of Canada. A valid passport and visa is needed for tours entering Canada.

Trail Finders

• Trailfinders offers two coach tours in the Eastern United States. Originating in New York City, the nine-day Eastern Discovery Tour visits Boston, Quebec, Montreal, Niagara Falls, Amish country and Washington D.C. Their eight-day Colors of New England Tour begins in Boston and visits Cape Cod, the Green Mountains and the White Mountains.

Gotobus

• Gotobus offers a seven-day bus tour package that begins in New York City and visits Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls and Toronto. Optional attractions include Hershey's Chocolate World, Thousand Islands, Montreal and Quebec City.

Great America Tours

• Departing from New York City, The Great America Tours offer several bus tours through the Eastern United States. The nine-day Eastern U.S. and Canada Tour visits Boston, Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia. Their seven-day New England Tour travels through Boston, the White Mountains, Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara Falls.

Motels Near Henderson, Nebraska

• Henderson is in the heart of Nebraska corn country. Don Farrall/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Henderson, Nebraska sits like a small oasis amidst thousands of square miles of farmland. With a small population of mostly agricultural workers, the town is a just off interstate 80. Visitors interested in the town's roots can visit Heritage Park to learn about the Mennonites who settled the area. A close-knit community, most of the town's residents are descended from the original 35 German Mennonite families who made Henderson their home in 1874. The town has a campground but no hotels. Accommodations are available in York, located 20 miles to the east.

Super 8 York‎

• Located in York, Nebraska about 20 minutes from Henderson, the Super 8 motel is a budget-friendly accommodation that offers a free continental breakfast daily. The motel is built atrium-style around an indoor swimming pool. The hotel offers AAA and AARP rates and is within walking distance of several restaurants, including The Country Kitchen, Iron Skillet and Runza. Several popular fast food establishments can also be found nearby.

Holiday Inn York

• The Holiday Inn in York is located just off the junction of Highway 81 and Interstate 80. The hotel offers standard guest rooms and suites. The hotel has an indoor pool as well as a well-equipped fitness center. Free Wi-Fi is accessible in every corner of the complex. Discounts are offered for AAA members. The hotel has an Applebees next door, open for lunch and dinner.

Comfort Inn

• Located close to Junction Motor Speedway, the Comfort Inn in York is one of the closest hotels to Henderson. The hotel has several restaurants within walking distance. The hotel has limited rooms with whirlpool baths and access to adjoining rooms. Guests will find several restaurants nearby, including, Chances R Steakhouse, the Country Kitchen and the Finish Line Sports Bar.

Camelot Inn, York

• The Camelot Inn and Suites in York has single queen rooms, double queen rooms and king bed suites. All rooms feature free high-speed Internet. King suites feature hot tubs. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool. The Camelot has its own hip 1950s-style diner on the premises, complete with tuck and roll upholstered booths and counter service. The Camelot also houses a nightclub known simply as "The Lounge," which features musical acts and daily drink specials.

Georgia Gun Shops

• Gun shops provide shooters and hunters with the equipment they need to legally own and maintain a gun. Firearms dealers often run shooting ranges alongside the shop so that purchasers may test guns before buying. It is legal to obtain certain firearms in the state of Georgia, so there are a variety of stores around the state to satisfy the demand for guns.

The Firing Lane

• The Firing Lane is a gun shop located in Athens that has been open since 1989. It offers a range of guns from handguns to machine guns. The Firing Lane also has a shooting range with 12 lanes that are each 25 yards long. The shop is a Class II weapons dealer and provides some guns, like the 9 mm and AK47, for rental purposes.

Mission Essential Inc.

• Mission Essential Inc. is a Hinesville-based gun shop that also includes a shooting range. The business sells handguns, long guns, ammunition, accessories and Flatwoods Archery bow gear. The shooting range is air-conditioned and heat-controlled with eight shooting stalls that are individually lit. Customers can rent Glock 18Cs, HK MP5s and FNH P9s. The store is open on Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Bulls-Eye Indoor Range and Gun Shop

• Bulls-Eye Indoor Range and Gun Shop has been serving Georgia residents since 1990. The Lawrenceville-based gun shop boasts an "indoor pistol range, an indoor rifle range and a gun store with a diverse inventory of over 1,000 firearms." The business features companies like Kahr Arms, Remington and Ruger. This gun shop also sells Class III firearms. On Monday through Friday, Bulls-Eye is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Saturday it is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday it is open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Outdoor Activities Near Conklin, New York

• You can relax on the lawns of Recreation Park. Kohei Hara/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Conklin is located in Broome County in southern New York. The area is very small and, as of the 2009 census, only has a population of around 6,000. The town is recognized by many as being home to the George F. Johnson community center, a castle-like structure built around 1900. Conklin has many different outdoor activities, as well as some in nearby Binghamton.

Golfing at Conklin Players Club

• The Conklin Players Club is a golf course located in Conklin that has been open since 1991. The course is an 18-hole course that is 72 par; it also also has a practice range. Rentable golf carts offer 3D GPS displays to help you navigate around the 6,772 yards of the course. There are several lodging options located close to the golf course for those who want to play more than one day of golf. The closest is Colonial Brick Inn and Suites, located 15 minutes away in Hallstead. The course and the hotel offer combined packages for golf and lodging all in one price.

Touring Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park

• The Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park is located in nearby Binghamton, less than 10 miles away from Conklin. The zoo boasts a large variety of animals, reptiles and insects. They include a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach, a Gray Timber Wolf, meerkats, goats, lemurs and reindeer. The zoo also features several botanical gardens, exhibits and the ZooSchool program, which teaches children from Pre-K to sixth grade about animals. Guided tours are also available year-round for groups of 10 or more. The tour guides discuss facts about the animals, such as survival strategies and diet.

Spending the Day at Binghamton Recreation Park

• Binghamton Recreation Park, in Binghamton, offers walking paths, a large lawn for picnicking, a playground for children, swimming facility, two baseball fields, seven tennis courts and a volleyball court. The park also has a fully restored Allan Herschell carousel that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can also see monuments honoring people of significance to the community, such as the park's benefactor, George F. Johnson, and his brother Harry L. Johnson; and Rod Serling, an American screenwriter and television producer who grew up in the community and is best known for "The Twilight Zone."

Burj Facts

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and a symbol of Dubai's further declaration of its own significance. The home to several interesting sites and an engineering accomplishment of the highest order, the tower supplants the Burj Al Arab as the city's top icon.

Construction

• Construction on the tower began in January 2004 and ended with the opening in January 2009 after 22 million man-hours of work. The building contains more than 3.552 million square feet of concrete, 39,000 tons of steel and the aluminum content of five Airbus A380 super jumbos.

Fun Facts

• The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building and the tallest freestanding structure in the world at 2,716.5 feet tall. With this feat come several other records, including the highest number of stories, occupied floor, observation deck and elevator system in the world. The design for the building was developed by the architect Adrian Smith of Chicago's Skidmore, Owings & Merill LLP who mixed traditional Islamic architectural elements and the structural form of the desert Hymenocallis flower, which is native to the area. The tower is more than twice the height of the Empire State Building in New York.

Function

• The function of the Burj Khalifa is both symbolic and practical. Since 1980, Dubai has risen from the desert out of nothing into one of the world's most modern and stylish cities and a beacon of possibility in the Middle East. As an address the Burj Khalifa is home to commercial office space, super-luxury residences and the five-star Armani Hotel.

Rio Hotel in Las Vegas

• Take part in gambling activities in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

  The Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino on Flamingo Road is within a mile of the Las Vegas Strip, and features Carnival-themed décor in its suites and gambling floor. The hotel provides shopping at the Masquerade Village, and live music entertainment can be seen in Rio All-Suites' Voodoo Lounge. Before hitting the tables, swim in one of the hotel's four swimming pools. One of the pools has a sandbar, while another has a cascading waterfall.

Guest Suites

• The 2,500 guest suites at the Rio hotel are in 20-floor and 41-floor towers, and have an efficiency-style arrangement with ceiling-to-floor windows and a sitting area. Some of the more popular suites include the Masquerade Suite, which has a whirlpool tub, dining room and panoramic view of the city, and the Cariocas Suite, a golden-colored unit with a private whirlpool tub, 1 1/2 bathrooms and a walk-in closet. Pets under 50 pounds may stay for an additional fee. Only two dogs are allowed per room, and dogs must always be on a leash in other areas of the hotel.

Casino Floor

• The gaming floor at Rio features colorful décor, such as a pink and purple hot-air balloon floating over the floor, and murals of people in Carnival masks. Gaming opportunities include slot machines and table games, including blackjack, roulette and craps. While you are gambling, the cocktail waitresses will break out into song randomly before or after they serve you a drink. The casino's poker room hosts daily tournaments of Texas Hold 'Em, Pot Limit Omaha and Triple Draw. Keno and horse-betting also are available on the casino floor.

Shopping

• Over 60,000 square-feet of retail space is located in the Rio hotel. This area is called the Masquerade Village, and features high ceilings and Mardi Gras floats adorning the plaza. Upscale shopping is available for women at Landau and Higuchi, while specialty stores include Field of Dreams, which sells sports memorabilia, and the Michael Godard Art Gallery. Las Vegas-themed novelty items can be purchased at the World Series of Poker and Viva Vegas stores.

Dining

• Rio Las Vegas is a popular dining spot for hotel guests and Las Vegas' passersby, especially at the Carnival World Buffet. This open-space restaurant offers international cuisine buffet-style for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You also can buy a Buffet of Buffets pass from Harrah's, the corporation that owns Rio, and use it for dining at Carnival World Buffet. However, the pass does not include alcoholic beverages. Wine enthusiasts should check out the Wine Cellar Tasting Room, which has an extensive collection of red and white wines, and traditional dining is available at the Gaylord Indian Restaurant and Martorano's, an Italian eatery with a South Florida flair.

Orlando Activities for Toddlers

• Activities for toddlers allow them to explore and use their creativity. Kathy Quirk-Syvertsen/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Kids love Orlando. From Universal Studios to Disney World, Orlando houses many of the east coast's top amusement and theme parks. And the bigger kids don't get to hog all of the fun; toddlers can go on many pint-sized adventures throughout the city. Whatever adventure or activity you choose to participate in with your youngster, allow yourself to explore just like when you were a kid, too.

Visit Universal Studios

• Universal Studios Orlando, a theme park based around movies produced by Universal Studios, gives toddlers the experience of watching movies come to life. Attractions such as the Caro-Suess-el, based on the feature film, "The Cat in the Hat," are made for two- to four-year-old children. On the park's carousel, your toddler can ride elephant birds, camels and cowfish. The price of admission for children over the age of three is $104, as of 2010. Tickets are free for toddlers under the age of three.

Catch a Show at SeaWorld

• SeaWorld Orlando's shows, such as Shamu Rocks and Elmo and Abby's Treasure Hunt, entertain both toddlers and adults. Aquatica, the SeaWorld waterpark, allows toddlers to play in such water rides as Kata's Kookaburra Cove, which imposes a maximum, rather than minimum, height requirement. Every part of the park contains places to buy memorabilia such as stuffed animals, or get pictures taken. Tickets for kids up to 12 are $5 as of 2010; a portion goes to conserving wildlife.

Get Wild at Disney's Animal Kingdom

• Disney's Animal Kingdom, located inside Walt Disney World, allows toddlers and their parents to see the wild wonders of nature, including 1,700 animals from 250 species. Split up into seven different areas, the kingdom includes attractions such as the "Affection Section" petting zoo, where toddlers can touch and feed goats, llamas and other creatures. For the dinosaur-loving toddler, Animal Kingdom has three different dinosaur attractions, including life-size reproductions of fossil remains. When you finish with the kingdom, check out the rest of Walt Disney World, which includes Epcot Center for the adults. Admission is free for toddlers under three. Tickets for three- to nine-year-olds are charged $74 per day, as of 2010. Adult tickets cost $82 per day.

Attractions and Things to Do in Ohio

• Ohio is home to a wide range of attractions and activities, from outdoor recreation to indoor museums that pay homage to the best musicians and football players in history. The Midwestern state borders one of the nation's largest lakes and also boasts one of its biggest amusement parks. Ohio is home to professional sports franchises --- including the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, the Cleveland Indians, the Cincinnati Reds and the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers --- so you can always find a game.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

• Cedar Point Amusement Park is a thrill-seeker's paradise, with 75 rides, including 17 roller coasters. The 364-acre park is located in Sandusky, in northwestern Ohio, on the edge of Lake Erie. You'll have to walk through the park, so bring comfortable shoes and don't forget sunscreen if you're going in the summer. In addition to adrenaline-inducing thrill rides --- such as the wooden coaster Blue Streak and the twisting, turning Maverick --- the park has a variety of family- and kid-friendly rides and live entertainment, such as music concerts and magic shows. You'll have access to a stretch of beach, as well as 14 restaurants inside the park, including the Johnny Rockets diner and the Chuck Wagon barbecue restaurant. Cedar Point is open from May 15 through October every year.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

• The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland encompasses 150,000 square feet of music memorabilia, theaters and exhibits. The seven-story building is home to five theaters with ongoing shows such as the U2 3D concert film. New artists and bands are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame each year, and their memorabilia is added to the exhibits. Among the items you'll see on display at the museum are instruments and clothes that once belonged to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Johnny Cash's tour bus has been on display, as have artifacts from The Woodstock Music and Arts Fair, including clothing, posters and photographs. Purchase your tickets in advance on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame website to find special offers, including college, military and AAA discounts.

Pro Football Hall of Fame

• The Pro Football Hall of Fame is located in Canton, Ohio, and covers 83,000 square feet. The Hall contains memorabilia of the National Football League's Hall of Fame inductees and of the league's history, dating back to the days of the American Professional Football Association. The Hall's annual enshrinement festival draws thousands of people to Canton every August and features the enshrinement ceremony, with speeches from the new inductees. Tickets to the event generally sell out, so purchase yours through the Hall of Fame website at least two to three months in advance. Admission tickets to the Hall of Fame are available online and at the front door. In 2010, the Hall is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and remains open until 8 p.m. from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.

Lake Erie

• Lake Erie stretches along the northern edge of Ohio, separating the state from Canada. One of the United States' five Great Lakes, Lake Erie is the 11th largest lake in the world with a surface area of 9,910 square miles. The lake's massive size means the area can play host to a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating and hiking along the southern shore. The lake also offers fishing for walleye, bass, catfish and perch. The north edge of Ohio is dotted with campgrounds and state parks alongside the lake, such as Lake Erie Islands State Park, which offers opportunities for camping, picnicking and wildlife viewing.

Famous Wooden Bridges

• There are more than 800 historical covered wooden bridges in the U.S. Denis Tangney Jr/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Some of the oldest bridges constructed were wooden bridges. While Europe is known for its antique wooden bridges, many of which date to the Medieval period, the U.S is known for its covered wooden bridges. According to the National Society for the Preservation of Covered Bridges, more than 800 wooden covered bridges exist in the U.S.

Roseman Covered Bridge

• American audiences may be familiar with the "Roseman Covered Bridge" from the film "Bridges of Madison County." The Roseman bridge is perhaps the best-known wooden bridge in the state of Iowa, yet the state is known for its many covered wooden bridges in general. Iowa even hosts an annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival. Local legend has it that the Rosemond Bridge is haunted due to a capture there of an escaped jailer in 1892.

Blenheim Bridge

• The Blenheim Bridge in Blenheim, New York has the distinction of being the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States. At 228 feet, the Blenheim is constructed using a long truss with a supporting arch. In 1966, 101 years after the original construction, the Blenheim Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Bridgeport Bridge

• The Bridgeport Bridge is located in Grass Valley near Sacramento, California. At 208 feet, it's almost as long as the 210 foot Blenheim Bridge in Blenheim New York. Like the Blenheim Bridge, the Bridgeport Bridge is constructed using a truss, yet the base is partially constructed of Iron. Constructed in 1862, the Bridgeport Bridge has an entirely wooden covering.

Kapellbrücke

• The oldest wooden bridge still standing in Europe is the Kapellbrücke, or Chapel Bridge, in Lucerne Switzerland. Erected in 1333, it was originally intended as part of the town's fortification. Connected to the bridge is a watch tower and a citadel which functioned as a prison. Today the bridge (along with the watch tower and citadel) remain the city's top tourist attractions. Inside the panel roof of the bridge are historic paintings depicting Swiss legends. Part of the bridge was destroyed in in 1993 but has since been rebuilt.

Raleigh Hotels

• Raleigh's downtown has a vibrant nightlife. Denis Tangney Jr/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina. Located in central North Carolina, it contains a variety of cultural activities, historic sites, sports venues and family activity options. Raleigh became the capital of North Carolina in 1792, and remains its second-largest city, behind Charlotte. Accommodations of all price ranges abound in the city.

Clarion Hotel

• The Clarion State Capital is in downtown Raleigh. This hotel features a business center, fitness room and free weekday newspaper. Rooms are nonsmoking and include cable TVs, free high-speed Internet, air-conditioners and coffee makers. The hotel's restaurant, Top of the Tower, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and contains a lounge. Other dining options within a mile from the hotel include Second Empire, 42nd St. Oyster Bar, Hibernian Pub and The duck and dumpling. This hotel is less than a mile from several of Raleigh's most popular attractions including the Museum of Natural Sciences, Artspace and North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. Pets are not allowed at this hotel.

Red Roof Inn

• Two miles south of downtown, the Red Roof Inn Raleigh NCSU Convention Center offers reasonably-priced no-frills accommodations. Rooms include free Wi-Fi. Some rooms contain mini-refrigerators and microwaves. Nearby dining options include Volume Eleven, the Pour House, the Farmers Market, Tripps and Kick Back Jacks. The hotel is a mile from the Raleigh Convention Center, and two miles from the Raleigh City Market and Pullen Amusement Park. One well-behaved pet may stay in your room at no additional charge.

Holiday Inn

• The Holiday Inn Raleigh North-Capital Boulevard features an outdoor pool, whirlpool, business center, fitness center and a florist and gift shop. Rooms are nonsmoking. The hotel's restaurant, Cafe Sage Restaurant, serves breakfast and dinner, and kid's eat free. Nearby restaurants include the Big Boss Brewing Company, Snoopy's Hot Dogs, Biscuitville, El Rodeo Mexican and Bali Hai. The hotel is only two miles from the Triangle Town Center Mall and three miles from the Marbles Museum and IMAX theater. Pets are allowed at this hotel for an added fee.

Four Points

• The Four Points by Sheraton features an indoor pool, fitness center and room service. Rooms are nonsmoking and include free high-speed Internet and private patios. The hotel's restaurant, the Park Bar and Grill, serves breakfast and dinner and contains a full-service bar. Other nearby dining options include the Remington Grill and the Carolina Ale House. From this hotel, guests are only four miles from the Koka Booth Amphitheater and eight miles from the USA Baseball National Training Complex.

Lodging Near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry is an historic town in West Virginia, largely known for being the site of three Civil War battles and the infamous John Brown rebellion. Harpers Ferry is a tourist attraction and has a variety of lodging and accommodations.

Hotels

• There are three hotels in Harpers Ferry as of 2010. The Comfort Inn, Quality Hotel Conference Center and The Inn at Charles Town Races and Slots are all in close proximity to historic landmarks.

Bed & Breakfast

• The historic buildings and landmarks of Harpers Ferry makes it a popular location for Bed & Breakfast Inns, or B&Bs. As of 2010, there are 11 B&Bs, some of which are in beautiful historic buildings from the Civil War era.

Campgrounds

• The city has two campgrounds as of 2010, Koa Campground and Camping Harpers Ferry. Both have cabins and RV camp sites. The campsites are located near the Potomac River and offer activity and entertainment packages.

Tunnel Construction Projects

• Considerable time and money make a tunnel a reality. Rolfo Rolf Brenner/Photodisc/Getty Images

  During the design of roads and highways, engineers must overcome natural and man-made obstacles. On occasion obstacles exist that they cannot redesign, modify or otherwise correct, leaving the only solution to go under the problem area with a tunnel. Tunnel construction remains expensive and time-consuming, but for projects in Washington and California it becomes the solution.

Bremerton Tunnel

• Begun in July 2007 and completed two years later, this tunnel's purpose is to divert the vehicles being off-loaded from the ferry in Bremerton, Washington. Once off the ferry, all vehicles proceed into the 959-foot long tunnel with its two lanes of traffic in one direction, and come out on Burwell Street, thus avoiding the downtown waterfront area with its pedestrians and congestion.

Caldecott Tunnel Fourth Bore

• Named the fourth bore due to the existence of three bores, or tunnels, named Caldecott, this new tunnel proposes to alleviate the current traffic overload on the existing tunnels. Located in Alameda County in California, this tunnel on State Road 24 between Oakland and Orinda will assist with the heavy demands. Currently the middle bore traffic switches daily to one way at different times and directions to accommodate commuters. Once the fourth bore comes online, two tunnels can handle traffic in one direction all day. Tunnel construction is scheduled to be completed in late 2013 or early 2014.

Devil's Slide Project

• The famous Route 1 runs right alongside the California coast and is known for its beauty. In one stretch of the highway from Pacifia to Montara, the road crosses the Devil's Slide region, a very unstable area. The road is periodically closed due to rockslides and other problems. In 1995 it closed for 158 days at a cost of $3 million to repair. This project, 30 years in the planning, will construct two 4,200-foot long inland tunnels to be completed in 2012, bypassing Route 1 and providing safe transportation.

Senior Activities in the Phoenix, AZ Area

• Phoenix caters to its senior community. Yellow Dog Productions/Lifesize/Getty Images

  Phoenix serves as the capital and is the largest city in Arizona, making it a center for culture and tourism. The city offers a variety of activities for residents and visitors, including many that are appropriate for senior citizens. Area senior centers and the city parks department offer educational courses and opportunities for socializing. Some Phoenix attractions also charge discounted admission rates for seniors.

Phoenix Parks and Recreation Seniors Classes

• The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of adult education courses geared toward seniors. Some classes appeal to those with special interests, such as bridge or other card games, gardening, music appreciation, sewing and oil painting. The department also offers computer courses for adults 50 and older. Classes range from broad overviews of computer use to specific topics like understanding operating systems.

  Gentle fitness classes like low-impact aerobics and aquatics are available to help seniors stay fit and active. Special tai chi courses are also featured.

  Educational programs offered by the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department take place at senior centers, community centers, public school buildings and other facilities throughout the city. Courses require advance registration. Sign up early as classes have enrollment limits and can fill. Prices for classes vary.

Senior Centers

• The City of Phoenix Department of Human Service oversees 15 senior centers in the Phoenix area. Locations spread across the city from as far north as Pinnacle Peak Road and 35th Avenue to as far south as Baseline Road. Phoenix senior centers provide a variety of year-round activities for people age 60 years and older.

  Seniors can join a variety of clubs at area senior centers, including special interest groups, arts and crafts, and poker. Most locations also offer support groups for seniors struggling with issues like a chronic illness or the loss of a spouse. Social activities occur regularly at area facilities. Among these events are line dancing, movies, bingo and billiards. The centers also organize day trips to local attractions.

  Schedules of activities vary from location to location and some require advance reservations. Most programs at senior centers are free to enjoy, but some special events involve a fee. Most Phoenix senior centers have some type of transportation available like shuttles to help seniors who no longer drive to reach the facilities.

Heard Museum

• The Heard Museum opened in 1929 and is on North Central Avenue near East Oak Street. The museum has been rated by "Zagat" as "extraordinary to perfection" for its appeal, and "very good to excellent" for its facilities and service, as of October 2010. Each day, the museum offers discounted admission rates for seniors 62 and older.

  The museum consists of 10 galleries of artworks and handicrafts created by Native Americans, particularly those who reside in the Southwest. The Heard Museum includes more than 40,000 pieces, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern works. Jewelry, textiles, beads, ceramics and statues are among the items on display.

  The Heard Museum is open daily year round, closed only on Christmas Day. The museum offers a free parking lot. Seniors can also travel to the museum on the Phoenix public light rail system; the Encanto/Central station is adjacent to the facility.

Hotels on the Beach Near Perdido Key, Florida

• Perdido Key is located along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Design Pics/Valueline/Getty Images

  Perdido Key is a 16-mile-long barrier island that straddles the Florida/Alabama border off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can enjoy the Perdido Key State Park and explore the coastal wildlife, swim in the Gulf and relax on the white-sand beaches. The Florida side has may vacation rentals on the beach, while the Alabama side has more hotels and resorts on the beach.

The Island House Hotel

• Just five minutes from the Florida side, The Island House Hotel features a private beach, outdoor pool, and private balconies facing the Gulf. The 161-room hotel is close to several golf courses and offers special golf packages. Families can spend a day on the beach or at take a dolphin cruise from the Hudson Marina, where you can also rent water equipment such as jet skis. Enjoy a classic Italian seafood meal at the nearby Cafe Grazie, or visit the Shrimp Basket for grilled, steamed and fried shrimp, oysters and fish.

Perdido Beach Resort

• This Mediterranean-style resort has 346 rooms and suites. Perdido Beach Resort features four restaurants, including the casual Cafe Palm Breeze and the upscale Voyagers Restaurant. The resort has tennis courts and two pools. Children 16 and under stay free in their parents room. Local attractions include the U.S. Naval Air and Station Museum in nearby Pensacola, and the family-friendly Track Recreation Center for go-carting, bumper cars and mini-golf. Local restaurants include the Gulf Shores Steamer for casual lobster, or Louisianan Lagniappe for New Orleans-style seafood.

Sleep Inn on the Beach

• The Sleep Inn offers budget accommodations right on the beach. The hotel features free continental breakfast, an outdoor pool and a sun deck. Guests can follow the walkway down to the beach to enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing. Just 10 minutes away, Waterville USA offers water-park fun for the whole family. Nearby restaurants include Moe's Original Barbecue for Southern-style barbecue ribs, and Hazel Seafood Restaurant, popular for its lunch and dinner buffets.

Is There Snow at Mount Laguna in California?

Mount Laguna is located near San Diego, California, in the Cleveland National Forest. It is a small vacation destination that hosts various outdoor activities. One of the area's major attractions is its snow, a rarity in Southern California. Mount Laguna receives more snowfall per year than any other part of San Diego County.

Location

• Mount Laguna is located near the Pacific Ocean, the Anza Borrego Desert, and the Salton Sea. It is about an hour's drive east of the city of San Diego.

Climate and Wildlife

• Mount Laguna receives a large amount of snow compared to the rest of San Diego County and is prone to unpredictable weather. The mountain is also home to bobcats, coyotes, and a variety of birds.

Activities

• Many visitors to Mount Laguna base their stay around Laguna Mountain Lodge, which provides accommodations and a general store. Hiking trails are abundant in the area and there are also campgrounds and a lake. Cross country skiing is also possible when weather conditions are right. The Mount Laguna Observatory is located here.

The Best Airlines to Fly to Asia

• From the United States, a flight to Asia is 12 hours or longer depending on your specific destination. Sitting for extended periods can often result in boredom, anxiousness and physical discomfort. There are several airlines that travel to Asia with various amenities and comfort options to make your flight more pleasurable.

Asiana Airlines

• Asiana Airlines is an ideal airline for someone in need of various activities while flying. Asiana provides each passenger with a personal TV screen equipped with a variety of movies and will also give each passenger a newspaper in their preferred language. Seats on Asiana are comfortable no matter if you are in first class or coach, and have plenty of legroom. Asiana also offers Quadra Smartium seating, which allows passengers to have a flat bed or privacy, according to their offical website.

Singapore Airlines

• Singapore Airlines offers award-winning service while flying to Asia. The airline was ranked 27th Most Admired Company in the world by Fortune magazine for 2010. Once all guests have boarded the plane they are provided with warm moist towels in order to freshen up. In addition to excellent food and plenty of leg room to stretch out (even in coach class) all beverages are free. Each passenger is given a personal television screen that comes with current movies and video games.

Air Asia

• Named the world's best low-cost airline for 2010 by the World Airline Awards, Air Asia is one of the more affordable airlines for trips to Asia. Air Asia allows its passengers to choose their in-flight meals upon booking their trip. All of the meal options are available to view online at Air Asia's official website. All of the seats on Air Asia are leather and for an additional cost passengers can request a seat with more leg room.

Thai Airways

• Over 50 years old, Thai Airways has in-flight meals that are known for being restaurant quality, according to China Travel Guide. The passenger seats are comfortable and provide plenty of leg room. Flight attendants for Thai Airways are known for being attentive and providing their passengers with immediate service. The aircrafts for this airline are also very clean and everything is kept tidy. While most airways only provide their first class passengers with real silverware, Thai Airways provides all classes with fine flatware and glasses. The airline also provides guests with complimentary wine and other alcoholic beverages. All of the flight attendants on the aircraft are known for wearing beautiful bright purple uniforms and the passenger seats are also in a similar shade.

Hotels and Motels Nearest to Summerville, Georgia

• Residents and tourists can go hiking along the Silver Comet Trail. Jordan Siemens/Lifesize/Getty Images

  Located in Chattooga County, Summerville, Georgia was incorporated in 1839 and has a population of about 4,500 residents as of 2010. Summerville sits in the northwest corner of the state and is home to many parks and natural attractions. Festivals and special events are held in the small town throughout the year, including the Howard Finster Arts Festival and American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

Coach Inn

• Located just off Highway 27, the Coach Inn has 24 guest rooms and offers a variety of amenities, including Jacuzzis and pullout sofas. Pets are welcome for a nominal fee, and all rooms are handicap accessible. Guests at the Coach Inn can visit DeSoto State Park, Weiss Lake, Lookout Mountain and Little River Canyon. Dining options are available at area restaurants including Jim's Family Restaurant, Pizza Hut and the Huddle House.

Dillard's Bed and Breakfast

• Dillard's Bed and Breakfast offers guests an opportunity to stay in charming rooms and receive a true 'Southern' experience. The unique rooms at the bed and breakfast include the Summer Magnolia, Victorian Rose Room and Country Sky Room. Guests can also relax or socialize in the fully screened back porch. Attractions in the area include James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park, Summerville Railroad Turntable, Cloudland Canyon and the Silver Comet Trail. Restaurants in the area include Armstrong's Bar-B-Que, Burger Shack and Long John Silver's.

Express Inn and Suites

• The Express Inn and Suites is located in Trion, Georgia, which is just over five miles from Summerville. The hotel offers 30 guest rooms and eight suites that come with basic hotel amenities. Local attractions are just a short drive away and include Finster's Paradise Garden, the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City and Ruby Falls. There are also various dining options available near the hotel, including El Pueblito, Lisa's Country Cooking and Hong Kong Chinese.

Cheapest Hotels in America

• Kids stay free with their parents at many inexpensive hotels. Sean Murphy/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Traveling on a budget does not mean you have to forego seeing America. There are numerous low-cost hotels and some are considered the cheapest places to stay in the U.S. Many have special discounts and offers, so shopping around will reveal the best deals and perks. You might also be able to get discounts through your automobile club or other organizations of which you are a member, such as professional and alumni groups.

Motel 6

• Motel 6 claims on its website the "Lowest price of any national chain." If you stay more than seven days at a Motel 6, your rates are even lower. Seniors who are 60 or older save 10 percent off standard rates. Kids with their parents stay free at Motel 6 and most properties allow your pet to stay in the room with you at no additional charge. To make staying with them an even better deal, Motel 6 offers free morning coffee, free local phone and free HBO and ESPN. Many locations have pools and laundry facilities.

EconoLodge

• As one of the cheapest hotels in America, EconoLodge guarantees that you will get the best rates when you book online. You get one free night's stay at your choice of 1,500 hotels when you stay at EconoLodge twice. Kids with their parents and under 18 stay for free and AARP members and seniors receive discounts. If you book and pay in advance, you get a discount of between 15 and 20 percent. Other perks include a free continental breakfast and free weekday USA Today newspaper.

Super 8

• In addition to already offering super-low prices, Super 8 hotels provide a 15 percent discount when you book your hotel room at least eight days before your arrival. You can get a 10 percent discount off your room if you use your auto club membership discount. If you are older than 60 or an AARP member, you also get discounts at Super 8 hotels. To save you even more money, Super 8 hotels offer a free continental breakfast. Kids younger than 17 stay free with their parents.

Extended Stay America

• If you prefer a suite rather than a hotel room, Extended Stay America can provide you with an affordable option. A suite has a full kitchen, plus unlimited local phone calls and personalized voice mail. Extended Stay America features discounts for seniors and AAA members. Kids stay with their parents free. A couple of other special offers are discount notifications via e-mail and weekend discounts.