Last-Minute Vacation Ideas for the Fourth
June 29, 2005— -- It's not too late to make plans for the Fourth of July! Travel Mom Emily Kaufman offers these fun, family-friendly suggestions:
Historic Fourth of July
Colonial Williamsburg is the place for a fun and educational outing. Kids under 17 stay free at all Colonial Williamsburg Hotels, and when kids are guests at these hotels, they receive free admission to different attractions and activities in Williamsburg. For the holiday weekend, there are 18th-century children's games and activities, theatrical performances and art exhibits. The festivities culminate on the 4th with a dinner picnic and firework show on Governor's Palace for $45 for adults and $24 for kids.
Authentic Western Fourth of July
In Jackson Hole, Wyo., visitors can ride horseback, attend storytelling at Old Town, and watch a gunfight re-enactment. There is a huge music festival with games and activities for the kids, as well as a fireworks display accompanied by an orchestra. If that's not enough, Grand Teton National Park is only minutes away.
Orlando Fun
At Sea World, there are 200 acres of world-class shows, thrill rides, animal encounters and a nighttime show called "Mistify." For the Fourth, there are even more fireworks and surprises. Adult admission is $59.75 and kids get in for $48.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Travel Mom loves to take her family to Mammoth Mountain, in central California. Near record snowfalls this past winter have made skiing possible all the way into the summer. Mountain biking, hiking and fishing are also popular. For golfers, this is a great place to enjoy the links. There are fireworks shows scheduled throughout the weekend and accommodations at the Village at Mammoth start at $105.
Steamboat Cruise
Take one of the Delta Queen Steamboat's authentic riverboats down the Mississippi River for a slice of classic Americana. Kids under 18 cruise free on Family Riverventure vacations, where families can explore plantations on shore excursions, create family trees and enjoy visits to Mark Twain's America.
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