Franciscan Monastery

Stretching from the Capitol's steps all the way to the Lincoln Memorial, this expansive green heart of DC anchors the city's original master plan as the nation's civic gathering space. You'll wander past the Smithsonian's cluster of museums, the gleaming Washington Monument piercing the skyline, and the serene Reflecting Pool mirroring whatever weather the day brings—winter's crisp air gives the landscape an especially contemplative quality. The Tidal Basin loops around toward the Jefferson Memorial, while crushed stone paths invite joggers and strollers to circuit the grounds, sometimes alongside the occasional government official heading between appointments. Throughout warmer months, the lawns host concerts and festivals, but the Mall transforms into something quieter and more reflective when frost settles in. Designed from the beginning as a stage for democracy—where citizens gather to march, rally, and make their voices heard—this is the natural starting point for anyone exploring what Washington DC actually is.

Picture a neoclassical rotunda rising from the Tidal Basin's edge, architect John Russell Pope's interpretation of Roman grandeur dedicated to the third president who penned the Declaration of Independence. A towering bronze likeness of Jefferson commands the interior chamber, while his most thought-provoking quotes etch the walls around you. The winter months bring a quieter, more reflective atmosphere to the site—fewer crowds mean you can linger with the words and contemplate at your own pace, while crisp evening air makes for an invigorating stroll. The view across the basin toward the Monument takes on a different magic when temperatures drop and the grounds fall still, offering Washington's most striking nighttime vistas without the summer throngs. An ideal evening destination when you're looking to stretch your legs after dinner and soak in some American history under the stars.

Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation’s capital. It offers visitors an opportunity to reflect and soothe their spirits through the beauty of nature. Fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and the ebb and flow of Rock Creek emanate the delicate aura of the forest.

The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln here on April 14, 1865, overshadowed this theater for most of its history. Ford's opened just four years before that fateful night. Restored to its 1865 appearance, Ford's is again a showcase for plays. The basement-level Lincoln Museum displays artifacts from the assassination, including the gun John Wilkes Booth used to kill Lincoln. Mementos from Lincoln's life are also on display. National Park Service rangers give talks 15 minutes after the hour. Across the street is Petersen House , the house where Lincoln died. See website for performance schedule.

Established in 1927 by an Act of Congress. The Arboretum is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. It was created to serve the public need for scientific research, education, and gardens that conserve and showcase plants to enhance the environment. Its size is 446 acres with 9.5 miles of winding roadways. <br> Its gardens gardens includes: azalea, boxwood, daffodil, daylily, dogwood, holly, magnolia, maple, and peony. Major garden features include: aquatic plants, the Asian Collections, the Fern Valley Native Plant Collections, the Flowering Tree Collection, the Flowering Tree Walk, the Friendship Garden, the Gotelli Dwarf and Slow-Growing Conifer Collection, the Introduction Garden, the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, the National Capitol Columns, the National Grove of State Trees, and the National Herb Garden.

"The idea for a national cathedral is as old as Washington itself. In 1791, when Congress selected the site to be the capital of the United States, President George Washington commissioned Major Pierre l’Enfant to design an overall plan for the future seat of government. <br> Since the first services were held in Bethlehem Chapel, Washington National Cathedral has opened its doors to people of all faiths as they have gathered to worship and pray, to mourn the passing of world leaders, and to confront the pressing moral and social issues of the day."

"This monument is not only a memorial to the nation's 32nd president, but also a remembrance of the people of his time. The monument stretches along the Tidal Basin with four outdoor gallery rooms, connected by granite passageways. Each room exhibits aspects of Franklin D. Roosevelt's terms in office. The second room, for example, depicts the Great Depression with statues waiting in a bread line and of a man listening to a fireside chat. Another room contains a statue of Eleanor Roosevelt, the only memorial to honor a First Lady. The monument is glorified by waterfalls and pools."

Located in the Hudson River Valley in Dutchess County, New York. We are on Route 9 in Hyde Park, about 90 miles north of New York City and 70 miles south of Albany.

Step into a geological masterpiece where billion-year-old marble has been sculpted into a towering natural arch and hidden cave system. Wander scenic trails past waterfalls and dramatic rock formations, then descend underground to explore illuminated caverns complete with underground pools and rushing rapids. It's an unforgettable encounter with the raw power of nature and the Adirondacks' ancient story.

The building depicted above is New York City's third City Hall. Constructed from 1803-1812, it was designed by John McComb, Jr. and Joseph-Francois Mangin. The building has undergone many restorations during its almost two hundred-year history. The original copper roof of City Hall was installed in 1811; it was replaced in 1853, and five years later, due to fire damage, replaced again. Additional work on the roof was undertaken in the early part of this century. Since that time, the last recorded work on the roof was undertaken in 1970, when roof openings were installed to accommodate new air conditioning units.

To carry out its mission, the New York Fed employs approximately 3,000 people who are organized into groups and offices. With the exception of its internal audit function, the Fed's business areas report to the President and First Vice President of the Bank, who in turn, report to the Bank's Board of Directors.

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in the New York City borough of Manhattan, located where Fulton Street meets the East River, and adjacent to the Financial District. The Seaport is usually considered a historical district, distinct from the neighboring Financial District. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan. This includes renovated original mercantile buildings from the early 19th century, renovated sailing ships, the former Fulton Fish Market, and modern tourist malls featuring food, shopping and nightlife, with a view of Brooklyn Bridge. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org" target="new">Source</a>

Home to the New York Yankees since 2009, this state-of-the-art ballpark in the Bronx delivers an unforgettable game day experience with world-class amenities and stunning views. Catch a summer game in one of baseball's most iconic venues, or dive deeper with the Yankee Inside Experience, which includes a meet-and-greet with a current player, guided stadium tour, and buffet lunch. Built across from the original stadium at a cost of $1.5 billion, it stands as one of the most impressive sports facilities ever constructed.

Stepping through these grand bronze doors, you're entering a structure that took decades to fully realize. The main sanctuary welcomed its first visitors in 1879, though the ambition didn't stop there—Archbishop Michael Corrigan returned in 1888 to crown the West Front with its iconic twin towers, and by 1901 had added the Lady Chapel to the east side, expanding the vision further still. Winter transforms the interior into something particularly serene, with pale light filtering through the renowned stained-glass windows and casting colored patterns across the stone floors. The towering nave feels both more intimate and more majestic during the quieter months. Today, this National Historic Landmark draws visitors from around the world who come to experience the soaring Gothic Revival architecture, intricate mosaic work, and that unmistakable sense of reverence that echoes through the space. Beyond its role as a working parish church, the cathedral stands as a tangible connection to New York's Catholic heritage and continues to inspire those who pass through its doors.

Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Family Waterpark offer fun for the entire family by creating memories that last a lifetime. Visit the amusement park and the water park together for one low price by combining classic boardwalk memories with high speed water slides. The beautiful carousel glitters and glides while the brand new rides, the “Moby Dick” and the “Kite Flyer” will excite guests of all ages. The guests never tire of rides like the bumper cars, go carts, and roller coaster but are eager to experience our high tech rides like the Double Shot, Pharaoh’s Fury or Chaos. The team offer one of the largest selections of kiddie rides on the East Coast.

Picture this: you roll through the doors of this North skating destination and immediately spot the kind of street layout that makes experienced skaters take notice. The winter crowds thin out the outdoor spots, which is exactly when this enclosed haven fills up with people hungry for uninterrupted sessions. The massive bowl—locals call it "The Pirate Bowl"—dominates the space with its sprawling design, while the street course demands real technical skill and creativity from anyone willing to test themselves against it. The controlled environment means consistent conditions no matter what's happening outside, making those cold months the perfect time to dial in tricks and push your limits indoors.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center has garnered national attention in its first thirteen seasons, serving as a model for programming, audience diversity, education initiatives, and the catalytic role it has played in returning nightlife and economic activity to NJ's largest urban community. On its Opening Night in 1997, NJPAC became the sixth largest performing arts center in the U.S. (based on annual operating budget).

A western heritage theme park that brings the old west back to life through portrayals of real-life western characters, legendary events and a frontier town re-creation. Featuring twenty-two (22) different live action shows throughout the course of the day, Wild West City offers the visitor the chance to “live” in the old west! <br> In addition to the shows, they offer a 24-gauge miniature train ride, stagecoach and pony rides. Guests can browse our shops and museums along Main Street, visit & talk with many knowledgeable townsfolk portraying early western life as historic figures or trades people, pan for gold, visit petting zoo or play miniature golf. The Chapel is quietly nestled beyond the town alongside our authentic 1880’s Schoolhouse.

In October of 2007, Prudential Center ushered in a new era in sports and entertainment in Newark and the entire Northern New Jersey area. Newark is currently undergoing a major revitalization, converting the city core into a vibrant and energized entertainment district. The Prudential Center, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, The Newark Symphony, Riverfront Stadium and in 2009, Red Bull Park in Harrison, represent just part of the nearly $2 billion in construction underway.<br/> Prudential Center is the cornerstone in the revitalization and renaissance of downtown Newark. In addition to the arena, Newark will soon add scores of condominiums, restaurants, themed bars, and mixed retail establishments. Prudential Center will be recognized among the finest arenas in the country and is New Jersey’s home for hockey, college basketball, professional basketball, concerts, family shows and special events. A public / private partnership between the City of Newark and Devils Arena Entertainment, made the $375 million Prudential Center a reality that is changing the face of downtown Newark and making it a destination place for sports and live entertainment in the region.

Wind down three distinct piers packed with everything from classic carnival games to heart-pounding thrill rides that cater to every adrenaline preference—Mariner's Landing, Surfside, and Adventure each bring their own flavor to the boardwalk. Pair that with two beachfront waterpark experiences where you can float through lazy rivers at Ocean Oasis or Beach Club, book a private cabana retreat complete with spa treatments, then switch gears entirely at Raging Waters for slides and splash zones. Winter transforms these destinations into quieter, cozier versions of themselves—fewer crowds mean you can actually enjoy the rides and games at your own pace, and the crisp air makes the waterpark cabanas feel like genuine escapes rather than crowded summer hotspots.

Discover over two centuries of knowledge and resources waiting for you at New Jersey's premier library. Since 1796, we've been connecting curious minds with the information they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Visit us today to explore our collections, attend inspiring programs, and experience the welcoming community at the heart of New Jersey's educational landscape.

On September 11, 2001, shortly after terrorists flew airplanes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center and into the Pentagon, the forty passengers and crewmembers on United Airlines Flight 93 fought a battle in the sky over Pennsylvania. These forty heroes won their battle against terrorists and thwarted a planned attack on our nation’s capital, saving countless numbers of lives, but sacrificing their own in a field just east of Pittsburgh, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.<br/> Because of the quick and determined actions of the passengers and crew, Flight 93 was the only one of the four hijacked aircraft that failed to reach the terrorists' intended target on September 11, 2001. The passengers and crew showed unity, courage, and defiance in the face of adversity. The Flight 93 National Memorial will be a place dedicated to the memory of these great heroes; a place for future generations to learn about their actions; a place for healing and understanding.

Wander through a prehistoric realm where towering animatronic creatures emerge from the winter mist along a tree-lined trail. More than 30 life-sized dinosaurs—some stretching up to 40 feet—tell the story of how these ancient giants survived, hunted, and evolved across millions of years. It's the kind of immersive journey that sparks curiosity in visitors of all ages while the crisp seasonal air adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. For adrenaline seekers, the collection of roller coasters delivers genuine intensity—the kind that sends your pulse racing and leaves you breathless in the best way possible. Whether you're screaming through a spine-tingling drop or plotting your next ride, there's no shortage of heart-pounding moments waiting around every corner. Beyond these main attractions, Wildwater Kingdom and additional experiences round out a full day of entertainment for the entire group.

The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American bell of great historic significance. The Liberty Bell is perhaps one of the most prominent symbols associated with early American history and the battle for American independence and freedom. Its most famous ringing, on July 8, 1776, summoned citizens for the reading of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress. Previously, it had been rung to announce the opening of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and after the Battle of Lexington and Concord in 1775. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org" target="new">Source</a>

What started as a modest dream back in 1963 has blossomed into a sprawling playground where generations of families keep coming back. The Clark family vision began with just a handful of rides spread across 18 acres, but today you'll find yourself wandering through nearly 50 acres packed with over 30 attractions, live performances, and experiences around every corner. Winter visits bring a quieter charm to the grounds, letting you move through the park with fewer crowds and a crisp, peaceful energy. Beyond the main park, there's plenty to explore—step into the past at the history museum, settle into the campground nestled by the old mill stream, test your putting skills at the mini-golf course, or browse local crafts at Kitchen Kettle Village's gift shop. It's the kind of place where a simple idea from decades ago somehow grew into a destination that keeps families coming back season after season.

Hop aboard a piece of American railroad heritage where vintage locomotives still churn through Lancaster County's countryside, their steam rising dramatically against winter's crisp air. You'll find yourself wandering through restored train cars and the charming East Strasburg Station, picking up fascinating details about steam-era engineering, regional farming practices, and local Amish and PA Dutch traditions without it ever feeling like a classroom. The coal-powered behemoth is just your launching point. Climb into the Cagney Steam Train's miniature cars, power a hand-cranked Pump Car yourself, or let younger passengers navigate the quirky Cranky Car. The Thomas™ Toy Store captures all that locomotive magic in merchandise form, while the railroad bookstore and gift shop overflow with gear for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Just across the street sits the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, showcasing over 100 locomotives and cars in its collection, anchored by the exceptional Pennsylvania Railroad Historical Collection. Complete your journey at the nearby National Toy Train Museum, where another spectacular assembly awaits discovery.

Home to more than 1,300 animals, many of them rare and endangered. The Zoo, fulfilling its mission of conservation, science, education and recreation, supports and engages in conservation efforts to protect endangered species around the world. Cheetahs, hippos, giraffes and much more make the Zoo Philadelphia's leading family attraction with over 1.2 million visitors last year. Like many other Philadelphia landmarks and institutions, the Philadelphia Zoo is an American first. The charter establishing the Zoological Society of Philadelphia was approved and signed on March 21, 1859. Due to the Civil War, however, it was another 15 years before America's first zoo was ready to open. The Zoo opened its gates on July 1, 1874. The Frank Furness Victorian gates and gatehouses, and the Zoo's location, are the same today as they were on the day it opened. One of its assets, then and now, is John Penn's home, The Solitude, which sat on the land chosen for the Zoo. John Penn was the grandson of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania. The Solitude is considered to be Philadelphia's most precise and elegant expression of neoclassical style.

The history of the Reading & Columbia Rail Road started with the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Company chartered April 4, 1833 by an Act of the Pennsylvnia Legislature. This is all part of a complex story that began locally in 1857 with generated interest in a railroad between Reading and Columbia. A group of influential citizens from Lancaster and Berks Counties secured passage of a charter creating the Reading & Columbia Rail Road Company, which was signed by Governor James Pollock on May 19, 1857.

Take a whirl on the fast and furious Riptide Express, or challenge the twists, turns and drops of our Wild Mouse Roller Coaster, the newest roller coaster at the beach. Dive from death defying heights on our world famous Skycoaster, or for the less daring take a 45-foot plunge from our new Lighthouse drop tower. Then, when you're ready for a break, enjoy cool delights from one of our many concession stands. Try your skill at one of our Midway Games or just view the scenery on the Jolly Roger Express, our 1952 antique train. Jolly Roger Amusement Park has rides and games the whole family can enjoy. And as always, there is never a charge to just relax and stroll through Ocean City's only full-service Family Amusement Facility.

FedExField is the home of the Washington Redskins football team. The stadium is now the third largest venue in the NFL in terms of regular capacity.

The National Aquarium in Baltimore seeks to stimulate interest in, develop knowledge about, and inspire stewardship of aquatic environments. <br> A member of the Baltimore community, Maryland's leading tourist attraction, and an international icon, the Aquarium provides cultural, recreational, and educational experiences that meet the needs of diverse communities. We are committed to contribute substantially to the economic development of the local region by conducting a financially stable business in a way that demonstrates an awareness of community needs.

Wonderful adventures and exciting new animal friends await you in this 35 acre park. Up-close exhibits and personal information make you feel like one of the family. Get stalked by a tiger, jaguar or cougar and live to tell the tale. Feel the breath of a bear, follow a fallow deer, or tickle a tortoise. Hand-feed goats, sheep, donkeys, ducks and other curious creatures in the petting area. Then catch a show to laugh with a parrot, take a 'snap' shot with an alligator, or feel the grip of a python's muscles. Safely meet and touch a luxurious chinchilla, prickly hedgehog or rough lizard.

Come and experience the beauty of Vermont aboard the beautiful Moonlight Lady! Immerse yourself in a rich history and culture, a lush natural setting, and the warmth of a friendly crew and passengers! <br> The sixty-five foot Moonlight Lady, replicating a 1920's era plum stem inland waterways cruiser, features 8 cabins each with twin beds, private baths and expansive windows affording stunning lake and sunset views.

Glide across Lake Champlain aboard this 140-foot vessel that's been turning heads since its 2002 debut as Burlington's premier waterborne dining destination. With room for 424 guests spread across three climate-controlled decks, the ship delivers comfort year-round—especially welcome during chilly Vermont winters when the heated cabins and sheltered viewing areas let you enjoy snowy shorelines from a cozy vantage point. Built in 1997 down in Maryland and powered by dual Detroit Diesel engines, this craft cruises at a leisurely seven knots, making it an ideal setting for everything from intimate dinners to large celebrations. The expansive decks rival some of the region's biggest event spaces, all while keeping the magic of Lake Champlain right outside your window.

Our Northern Lights is a 115-foot long cruise boat, built as a replica to 19th and early 20th century lake steamboats. The main lounge, located below the deck, is finished with mahogany - while the upper deck is surrounded by nothing but stars. She's not just a boat, she’s a unique experience you won't want to miss! <br> Experience the Northern Lights on a daily scenic cruise, or turn it into the magical setting of an event like a concert or wedding. Lake Champlain Cruises promises fantastic memories and a truly amazing experience.

Quechee Gorge Village, located in the heart of the Quechee Gorge and originally established in 1985, has since evolved into one of the premier shopping attractions in the state of Vermont, featuring a rich plethora of antiques, collectibles, and craft dealers and several other memorable attractions!

The Brewer family and its staff are dedicated to the preservation and conservation of all animals. The Southwick team’s mission: to provide an extensive zoological collection and educational facility for our visitors. We strive to promote an exciting environment for a positive family experience. <br> Southwick’s is a privately owned zoo. Therefore, the zoo does not receive state, local, or federal funding of any kind. All admission proceeds go directly towards caring for the animals and upkeep of the zoo. This includes animal housing, appropriate diets, veterinary care, new exhibit design, and all maintenance of zoo facilities.

Founded in 1969, the New England Aquarium is a global leader in ocean exploration and marine conservation. The Aquarium is one of the premier visitor attractions in Boston, with over 1.3 million visitors a year, and a major public education resource.

Commonwealth Zoological Corporation dba Zoo New England is the private, non-profit corporation that operates Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Zoo New England subsists on earned revenues and state, private, and corporate funding. Its mission is to be a pre-eminent conservator of endangered animal species, and to provide world-class resources for conservation education.

Popular and Scariest Haunted House Attraction located In Historic Fall River, MA close to Battle Ship Cove. Open every Halloween Season

The beach was never this exciting! Over 1,000 feet of spills and thrills tunnels and dips that twist and turn into two pools after racing down the speed slides? Test your skill! Located right across from picturesque Misquamicut State beach, Water Wizz is the perfect way to refresh the entire family on a summer day.

Kennywood Entertainment continues the Story Land legacy begun by the Morrell Family... The inspiration for Story Land came to Bob and Ruth Morrell of North Conway, NH, from a woman they met in Germany, while Bob was serving in the U.S. Army in the early 1950s. <br> Frau Von Arps had created a collection of small dolls based on characters from children's stories, and she suggested that the Morrells build a small village to house them when they returned home to the White Mountains. They took her suggestion much further, deciding instead to bring some of those characters and stories to life in a setting with green grass and flowers, where children are safe and busy at every turn.

Fifty thousand years ago, a continental glacier moved southward over New Hampshire covering mountains and valleys. As the ice sheet thawed, great blocks of granite cracked and loosened from Hawk's Cliff. <br> These massive granite blocks fell at the base of the cliff forming Polar Caves, an amazing series of caves and passages through which you can walk.

Located in York Beach, Maine has something to offer every member of the family. Each year more than 200,000 people come to visit the largest zoo and amusement park in the area. With exotic animals from around the world, YORK'S WILD KINGDOM is recognized for its rare species and knowledgeable curators. <br> We offer a variety of family rides, paddle boats, an 18 hole miniature golf course, a petting zoo, scenic picnic grounds and even a Haunted House. Educational learning sessions take place throughout the day and a special member of the zoo Rewa---Maine's only White Bengal Tiger---will amaze and delight the child in everyone!

At Funtown U.S.A., fun comes in all shapes and sizes. The park is the home of Maine's only wooden roller coaster Excalibur, Northern New England's largest vertical thrill ride Dragon's Descent, New England's longest and tallest log flume ride Thunder Falls, and our phenomenal collection of kiddie rides. The huge selection of games, shops and family fun activities provides something for everyone. Click on the buttons below to learn what we have in store for you.

Wake up before the crowds roll in and experience the Zoo when the animals are most active and the grounds feel like your own private wildlife sanctuary. Members get exclusive access to a breakfast spread set up throughout the park while you watch giraffes, big cats, and other residents enjoying their own morning feast. Winter mornings here have a crisp, peaceful quality that makes the whole experience feel especially intimate. Roam at your own pace with a warm meal in hand, then stick around for close encounters with animals and behind-the-scenes insights shared by the Zoo's dedicated volunteer team. These sunrise sessions fill up fast for good reason.

Ocean Breeze Waterpark is Virginia Beach's ONLY water park. Located just 1.5 miles from the Oceanfront area, it's a quick trip from wherever you are! <br> Ocean Breeze Waterpark offers 16 waterslides, the 1 million-gallon Runaway Bay wave pool, the Buccaneer Bay children's area and other fantastic attractions. While visiting Ocean Breeze Waterpark, check out the West Indies BBQ, Island Trader Gift Shop, or Shipwreck Island Arcade. <br> Open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day each summer.

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The area which is now known as Elizabeth Park was once owned by Charles H. Pond. Mr. Pond was a wealthy industrialist and statesman whose career included the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, Hartford National Bank, and Treasurer of the State of Connecticut.<br> Today the park encompasses 102 acres and boasts many garden areas, pathways, greenhouses, lawns, a picnic grove, a pond and recreation areas.