Category Archives: News & Updates

6 Activities Guaranteed to Prevent 4th of July Weekend FOMO

With so many great Fourth of July activities happening all across the United States, the odds you miss out on something are very high. Don’t experience FOMO (fear of missing out) this year! Ditch the boring backyard fireworks and celebrate this amazing nation at one of these gorgeous properties located around Boston, Washington D.C., and all across Florida.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Headline_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Where: Key Bridge Boathouse, National Harbor Boathouse, Thompson’s Boat Center, Washington Sailing Marina, The Wharf Boathouse

What: Round up your family and friends and join the Boating in DC team for an Independence Day weekend full of the #1 DC recreational activity; boating! With kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats, pedal boats, and even bikes, there is something for everyone of every skill level.

When:

Key Bridge Boathouse: Weekdays 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Weekends 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The 4th of July fireworks paddle at Key Bridge Boathouse is one of the best Independence Day celebrations in the metropolitan area! Enjoying the legendary annual DC firework show while paddling is a true, authentic American experience. Get your tickets as soon as possible because they sell fast!

National Harbor: Weekdays 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Weekends 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Thompson’s Boat Center: Every Day – Rowing Rentals with Lights 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. & Other Rentals 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Washington Sailing Marina: Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday – Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Headline_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Headline_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Where: Newton Boathouse, Hopkinton State Park Boathouse, Natick Boathouse, Spot Pond Boathouse, Wakefield Boathouse

What:

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some 4th of July weekend paddling in Boston, look no further than Boating in Boston Boathouses. With convenient, beautiful destinations scattered throughout the area, their team can’t wait to send you on your next paddling adventure!

When:

At all locations rentals are available from 10:00 am – 6:30 pm.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Headline_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Headline_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Where: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

What:

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of Florida’s most distinctive destinations and offers guests access to a spring-fed water park, riverboat cruise, live mermaid shows, and some of the state’s best boating. Kayak and paddleboard through crystal clear waters in the company of manatees and stunning natural beauty.

When:

*Reservations are required*

Saturday, June 30th – Wednesday, July 4th

Rentals and Private Boats: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Private Boats ONLY: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Where: Rainbow Springs State Park

What:

Much like Weeki Wachee, Rainbow Springs State Park offers some of the clearest waterways in Florida. The rich natural splendor and cultural history has been bringing fans back for decades, and is a wonderful spot to visit for your July 4th weekend!

When:

Rentals are available every day 8:00 a.m. – Sunset.

Where: Flamingo at EvergladesWhat:

Experience the magnificence of Florida’s subtropical wilderness in the globally acclaimed Everglades National Park. From adventurous hiking trails with diverse wildlife to world-class fishing sites, kayaking and paddleboarding, there is an endless amount of exciting things to do at this unique destination!

When:

Every day boat rental hours are 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

All boats back to the dock by 4:30 p.m.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Wakulla Springs State Park

Where: 550 Wakulla Park Drive, Crawfordville, FL, United States

What:

Wakulla Springs State Park is home to the world’s deepest freshwater spring and the beloved Lodge at Wakulla Springs, perfect for a fourth of July getaway. Book with the Bed, Breakfast, & Boat Package to receive delicious daily breakfasts at the Edward Ball Dining Room as well as the fan-favorite and locally famous scenic boat tour through the gorgeous State Park.

Call 855.632.4559 to make reservations.

National Park Rx Day

Mother Nature is life’s all-knowing MD, and her prescription is a healthy getaway into the stress-free world of this country’s beautiful national and state parks! Fill your prescription this National Park Rx Day on April 29th by escaping the day-to-day pressures of busy concrete jungles and submerging yourself in natural tranquility. Experience unforgettable outdoor activities in the middle of awe-inspiring views normally seen on the Discovery Channel at one of these gorgeous parks.

Mount Rainier National Park
Ashford, WA
1 (855) 755-2275
http://mtrainierguestservices.com

Activities: Hiking, Mountain Climbing, Fishing, Camping, Sightseeing

The Mount Rainier National Park boasts 240 miles of trails for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. At 14,410 feet tall, Mount Rainier is one of the most iconic mountains in the country and an ideal spot for climbers and adventure seekers. The area is perfect for fishing and camping and even offers educational programs for park guests to learn more about safety, nature, and the history of Mount Rainier.

 

Rainbow Springs State Park
Dunnellon, Florida
352-533-4305
https://visitrainbowsprings.com/

Activities: Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Hiking, Geocaching, Picnicking, Wildlife Viewing

With crystal clear waters, abundant marine wildlife, vibrant azaleas and mystical waterfalls, Rainbow Springs State Park offers guests a leisurely and adventurous getaway in one of the state’s most unique destinations. This beautiful 1,472-acre park is home to the nationally recognized Rainbow River and its enormous natural spring. Rainbow Springs is an enchanting park where families can swim, kayak, canoe, snorkel, tube, or enjoy Ranger-guided tours.

 

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Spring Hill, Florida
352-592-5656
https://weekiwachee.com/

Activities: Buccaneer Bay Waterslides, Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing, Mermaid Show

Weeki Wachee State Park has been attracting families looking for out-of-the-ordinary vacation experiences and delighting guests with sensational performances since 1947. The park features extravagant paddling and riverboat cruises on the Weeki Wachee River; wildlife animal shows; junior mermaid, lifeguard, and ranger camps; and, of course, the legendary, highly acclaimed mermaid shows.

 

Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen, New York
(607) 535-4511
https://parks.ny.gov/parks/142/

Activities: Biking, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting

With 19 magnificent waterfalls, an astonishing gorge, the Cavern Cascade, nearby Seneca Lake and the Catherine Creek, it’s no wonder this stunning park was voted third best in the country in 2015 by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Polls. Watkins Glen also offers a wide variety of amenities such as an Olympic- size swimming pool, public grills, playgrounds, playing fields, a gift shop, plenty of camping area and camper recreation. Visitors come from all over to enjoy the world-class fishing, hunting, biking, and hiking or just to enjoy an unforgettable day in nature.

 

Wakulla Springs State Park
Crawfordville, Florida
850-421-2000
https://thelodgeatwakullasprings.com/

Activities: Jungle Boat Tour, Hiking, Birding, Butterflies, Swimming, Cave Diving, Kayaking

Wakulla Springs State Park visitors enjoy a wide variety of spectacular activities like the fan-favorite 22-foot dive into fresh spring waters, the glass-bottom riverboat tours on the magical Wakulla River, and countless unforgettable hiking trails. The park is home to the world’s largest freshwater spring as well as The Lodge at Wakulla Springs, a vintage 1930s castle adored for its historic accommodations.

 

Everglades National Park
Homestead, Florida
305.501.2852
https://evergladesadventures.com/

Activities: Kayaking, Canoeing, Camping, Hiking, Biking, Geocaching, Birding, Fishing

As you walk through the unforgettable coastal mangroves, sawgrass prairie and pine flatwoods of the Everglades you are greeted by prehistoric-looking alligators and crocodiles, more than 300 gorgeous species of fish and birds and, if you’re lucky, the endangered Florida panther. It doesn’t take long to understand how rich with life this place is and you quickly discover why this is one of the most visited National Parks in the country. The park offers camping, kayaking, canoeing and plenty of other unforgettable outdoor experiences.

 

North Cascades National Park
Stehekin, WA
(509) 682-4494
lodgeatstehekin.com

Activities: Kayaking, Red Bus Scenic Tour, Easy – Difficult Day Hikes, Backpacking, Biking, Horseback Riding, Fishing

Hidden away in the mountains of Washington State, the Lodge at Stehekin boasts pristine, untouched nature at its finest. To get the full Stehekin tour, with stops at Rainbow Falls and High Bridge/Pacific Crest Trail, a ride on the Red Bus is an absolute must. Other great activities include individual or guided kayaking tours on Lake Chelan; easy, moderate, and difficult day hikes; backpacking; biking; fishing; and horseback riding.

 

Boating in DC
Washington, DC
(202) 337-9642
boatingindc.com

Activities: Sculling, Night Pedal Boating, Canoeing, Standup Paddleboard, SUP Yoga, Sailing, Hydro Biking, Swan Boats

With several locations throughout the District of Columbia, Boating in DC is full of fun activities to get you outdoors and loving life. Some of our favorites include the Swan Boats, pedal boating, sunrise yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, hydro-biking, and numerous monument tours from the water.

 

Boating in Boston (Opening in Mid-May)
Boston, MA
(617) 299-3392
boatinginboston.com

Activities: Canoeing, Standup Paddleboard, Sailing, SUP Yoga, Windsurfing, Rowboating

There’s no better way to stay fit than by spending your Park Rx Day paddling around beautiful Massachusetts! Boating in Boston has several fantastic locations throughout the Greater Boston area, so it’s easy for you to enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer. With canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, quad-pedal boating, sailing, rowboating, and more, there’s no shortage of fun water activities and adventures at any of the five Boating in Boston destinations!

 

Lake Roosevelt Adventures (Opening in Mid-May)
Seven Bays, WA
1 (800) 816-2431
lakerooseveltadventures.com

Activities: Bird & Wildlife Watching, Fishing, Hunting, Watersports

 

Although Lake Roosevelt is most famous for the amazing houseboat experience it provides, there are so many other ways to enjoy the rich natural beauty of Lake Roosevelt. The Lake’s wildlife rivals any other major destination in the state. Here you can witness eagles, osprey, bobcats, moose, bears, and a host of freshwater fish. Lake Roosevelt is an ideal spot for animal lovers, but it’s also an excellent destination for all kinds of watersports such as tubing and water skiing.

 

Echo Bluff State Park
Eminence, MO
(844) 322-3246
echobluffstatepark.com

Activities: Sightseeing, Kayaking, Tubing, Canoeing, Standup Paddleboarding, Fishing, Biking, Hiking, Geocaching, Camping

 

We can agree that in this super modernized world it’s good to get off the grid and disconnect from our devices. Echo Bluff State Park allows you to do just that! Tucked away in the Missouri Ozarks, Echo Bluff is home to some of nature’s most treasured views. With hiking and mountain biking options galore, Echo Bluff makes it easy to get outside and stay active. Echo Bluff’s Sinking Creek and Current River are also wonderful spots for fishing, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. There’s even an Adventure Playground where kids love to make their own fun!

 

Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain, NY
(845) 786-2731
visitbearmountain.com

Activities: Merry-Go-Round, Bear Mountain Pool, Trailside Museums and Zoo, Hiking and Walking Trails, Kayaking, Birding

Nestled in the Hudson Valley, Bear Mountain is an idyllic getaway for those looking to lose themselves in the spectacular natural environment. Guests enjoy awe-inspiring views from Bear Mountain’s many hiking trails while fishers rejoice at the world-class fly-fishing opportunities. Other fun activities include boating, cross-country skiing, and ice skating—it’s the outdoor enthusiast’s paradise!

 

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Big Sur, CA
1-800-424-4787
www.bigsurlodge.com

Activities: Hiking Trails, Heated Pool, Birding, Multiple State Parks, Horseback Tours, Aquarium, Whale Watching, Golfing

Nothing inspires as much wonder as the magnificent redwood forests of Big Sur. Seated in just the right spot for enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur, Big Sur Lodge is host to numerous hiking trails and is the perfect location for historical sightseeing, whale watching, bird watching, and day trips to other iconic destinations. Visitors also enjoy long walks on one of the many local beaches, including Pfeiffer Beach and Garrapata Beach. Whichever option you choose, Big Sur Lodge is just what the doctor ordered.

National Plan For Vacation Day Deals & Special Offers

Studies consistently show that utilizing paid time off is a practice that will help you maintain work-life balance, reduce stress and allow you to recharge. But, the benefits don’t stop there. Upon returning from vacation, employees show higher productivity, stronger workplace morale and it leads to greater employee retention. Learn more from Forbes →

Unfortunately, encouragement of PTO usage is not the current business trend. The US Travel Association and its subsidiary, Project: Time Off, estimate that 662 million vacation days go unused annually by American employees. On January 30th, National Plan for Vacation Day, Americans are invited to turn the tide by planning their vacation time for the rest of the year.

Several of our properties are offering flash deals for 24 hours on January 30th in order to encourage the use of ALL vacation days by Americans by the end of 2018 and to support the Project: Time Off campaign. We hope you take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to plan out a healthier year and have an unforgettable vacation to look forward to at one of our renowned locations.

The following deals are all subject to availability and will only be offered for 24 hours on January 30th, 2018 (with the exception of the Big Sur Lodge).

Big Sur Lodge

47225 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

Take a trip to the gorgeous west coast for a remarkable experience in one of California’s most celebrated vacation destinations, Big Sur. The Big Sur Lodge will be offering up to 35% off their cozy accommodations nestled deep in the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Spend your time off basking in the tranquility of this beautiful redwood cathedral. PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3257″]

Echo Bluff State Park

34489 Echo Bluff Drive, Eminence, MO 65466

Escape the pressures and stresses of the workplace, retreat to the serenity of Echo Bluff State Park and the beauty of the internationally admired Ozarks. For all of Plan for Vacation day, reserve two or more nights and get 20% off! PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3263″]

National Park Inn and Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier National Park

National Park Inn – 47009 Paradise Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304
Paradise Inn – 52807 Paradise Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304

The only thing better than visiting one of the most overwhelming spectacles in the United States, is doing it at a discounted rate. The Paradise Inn and National Park Inn are offering 20% off room rates PLUS a one-day complimentary snowshoe rental at their unbelievably fascinating location in Mount Rainier. PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3269″]

The Lodge at Breckenridge

112 Overlook Dr, Breckenridge, CO 80424

Spend your vacation days in awe of the magnificent Rocky Mountains and beauty of its surrounding natural splendor. The Lodge at Breckenridge treats its guests with convenient proximity to the graceful Colorado environment and to the quaint town of Breckenridge. The Lodge will be featuring a 20% off discount for two or more night reservations between April 8th and June 14th, 2018. PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3274″]

Bear Mountain Inn

3020 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986

With its extraordinary historical background, exceptional views and exciting year-round activities, Bear Mountain Inn is the perfect location to spend your valuable time-off. Flee the city work life and immerse yourself in relaxation with their special Plan for Vacation Day deal: reserve two nights and receive 20% off! PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3249″]

Giants Ridge

6329 Wynne Creek Dr, Biwabik, MN 55708

Spend your PTO cooling off on the sleek slopes of Minnesota’s most acclaimed skiing and snowboarding destination. Giants Ridge provides exceptional Iron Range winter adventures for every level of outdoor enthusiast. Exclusive $35 adult and $25 kid lift tickets will be offered to be enjoyed for the remainder of the ski season. PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3286″]

Boating In DC

The Wharf Boathouse – 690 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Key Bridge Boathouse – 3500 Water St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Boating in DC activities offers paddlers two captivating experiences renowned throughout the metropolitan area – The Cherry Blossom Paddle at the Wharf Boathouse and the Cherry Blossom Tour at the Key Bridge Boathouse are featuring a free 1-hour kayak rental for every reservation made to these two mesmerizing tours. PLAN YOUR VACATION ⟶

[foogallery id=”3295″]