Easy Weekend Wins for Families July 10, 2026 Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]). We’ve rounded up easy, family-friendly itineraries designed with affordability, convenience, and fun in mind. Each getaway is built around destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region, keeping travel time manageable while highlighting memorable experiences perfect for a spontaneous day trip or a relaxing weekend escape. MARYLAND Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)Annapolis & Anne Arundel County make weekend getaways easy, affordable, and full of shared discovery. Families can launch into adventure with Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake, a kid driven voyage across the Bay, or learn to sail through youth programs along the waterfront. At the Annapolis Maritime Museum, kids explore Bay ecology through hands on exhibits. Outdoors, enjoy Sandy Point’s beaches, animal encounters at Wild Kid Acres, farm fun at Kinder Farm Park, and trails at Quiet Waters and Bacon Ridge. Indoors, Medieval Times, Annapolis Mall, and Arundel Mills offer all weather entertainment that keeps family fun close to home.Visit Annapolis Calvert County (MD)Calvert County offers an affordable weekend escape filled with natural beauty, history and family-friendly fun along the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can enjoy free experiences like exploring the Calvert County Barn Quilt Trail, hiking at American Chestnut Land Trust or strolling the boardwalk in North Beach or Solomons. For $20 or less, discover fossils at Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby, visit Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center or watch river otters at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons. From scenic parks to unique attractions, Calvert County delivers memorable experiences for every interest without stretching your budget.Visit Calvert Kent County (MD)Kent County offers plenty of affordable and free activities for visitors and residents alike. Enjoy a day by the water at Betterton Beach or Ferry Park Beach, both free public beaches perfect for relaxing along the Chesapeake Bay. Explore nature at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, where free admission provides access to scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful bay views. On Saturdays, stroll through the Chestertown Farmers Market featuring local produce, handmade goods, and live music. With outdoor recreation, community events, and small-town charm, Kent County proves you don’t need to spend much to have a great experience.Kent County Tourism Talbot County (MD)Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Talbot County is an easy and affordable Mid-Atlantic Road trip destination for your next family getaway. Give your family space to spread out in a short-term rental, where you can bring bikes to explore quiet backroads and save on money by making meals at home. Here are some free ways to explore Talbot County: Pop into the Academy Art Museum to explore their latest exhibit. Explore the birthplace of Frederick Douglass through a 4-part self-guided driving. End the evening with a concert in the park in St. Michaels or music in the street in Easton.Tour Talbot PENNSYLVANIA Butler County (PA)Butler County, PA, offers an affordable, fun, family-friendly vacation. Stay at one of nine campgrounds for an escape under the stars. Jellystone Park Kozy Rest goes beyond your typical camping experience, featuring a water park, mini-golf course, and laser tag. Opt for a stay at our conveniently located hotels, close to our star attractions, restaurants, and parks. Jennings Environmental Education Center is a great spot for kids to burn off some energy and learn something new, with its interactive exhibits and trails. Find some themed fun at Mars-Bethel Golf, a family-owned fun center with the world’s only mini cornhole course.Photo Credit: Layla JosephExperience Butler County Huntingdon County (PA)Enjoy a relaxing weekend at Seven Points Recreation Area at Raystown Lake! Bring the family and settle in for camping, cozy fireside meals, swimming at Seven Points Beach, and outdoor fun like disc golf on the Pine 9 and Ravine 18 courses, hiking the Greenside Pathway and fishing. Looking to dine out? Backwoods Smoke Shack is just a short 5-minute drive away. For a perfect picnic, pick up sandwiches from Seven Points Bait and Grocery to enjoy by the water, located beside Backwoods. Ice cream from Brackenridge Hesston, is less than 10 minutes away. It’s easy, affordable and family-friendly.Raystown Lake Region Lancaster County (PA)Strasburg is a railroading epicenter, with the Strasburg Rail Road (ride the oldest short-line in the U.S.), the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (one of the top such museums in the world), the Choo Choo Barn (a 1,700 sq. ft. custom model train display), the National Toy Train Museum (a world-class, interactive collection of toy trains), and Paradise Station (eat and sleep on refurbished railroad cars). That’s five awesome train venues, all within a mile or so of each other.Discover Lancaster Lehigh Valley (PA)Start with free outdoor discovery along the scenic D&L Trail after exploring the National Canal Museum in Easton, or walk the Hoover-Mason Trestle, an elevated pathway with views of Bethlehem’s historic steel stacks. Then, stick around for a free, family-friendly concert at Levitt Pavilion. Thrill seekers can spend a full day at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom riding all the coasters and waterslides. Animal lovers can explore the Lehigh Valley Zoo. On rainy days, go to the immersive Hologram Zoo, where lifelike digital animals create an engaging indoor experience. Plan more at DiscoverLehighValley.com!Discover Lehigh Valley York County (PA)York County is an easy, affordable weekend win where everything is close and family fun comes naturally—bike the scenic Heritage Rail Trail County Park, explore Codorus State Park with camping, boat rentals (or bring your own), and plenty of water time, or stop by the Nixon Park Nature Center for kid-friendly nature discovery before grabbing a bite at the York Central Market. It’s all low-stress, budget-friendly, and close together—so you spend more time doing things and less time driving—and even the family dog gets in on the adventure with plenty of pet-friendly trails and parks.Explore York VIRGINIA Danville and Pittsylvania County (VA)Families will love Danville’s award-winning River District, a walkable historic area filled with bistros, coffee shops, trendy boutiques, and vintage retailers. Stay in the heart of the action at The Bee Hotel, offering a boutique experience just steps from it all. Nearby, the newly opened Riverfront Park features modern playground equipment, river views, picnic areas, and a larger-than-life 14-foot otter. The River District also connects to the 13-mile Riverwalk Trail and is home to the Danville Science Center, offering hands-on learning experiences for all ages.Visit SoSi Hampton (VA)Fort Monroe is a great weekend win! With different activities like historic walking tours, free Casemate Museum tickets, visiting various historic sites, getting the outdoor feels at the beach and Continental Park and/or Paradise Ocean Club… there is so much to do in one area without having to travel far or pay any fees. Fort Monroe is also right in great proximity to the Phoebus neighborhood which is perfect for foodies and antique shopping.Visit Hampton Virginia Waynesboro (VA)The Virginia Street Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration that turns downtown Waynesboro into a living, breathing outdoor gallery. Artists create bold, large-scale murals right on city buildings, transforming the streets in real time. The city comes alive with live music, an artisan market filled with regional creators, guided street art tours, mobile museum experiences, and hands-on community art projects. Neighborhood block parties and historic district events add even more energy and local flavor.Visit Waynesboro About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations AllianceThe Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org. ###
Summer Activations & Can’t Miss Events for the 250th July 8, 2026 *Header image credit: C.A.R.S. located in Culpeper, VA America’s 250th anniversary is inspiring communities across the Mid-Atlantic to celebrate in unforgettable ways. From living history and waterfront festivals to immersive art experiences and spectacular drone shows, these destinations are inviting visitors to experience the people, places, and stories that shaped our nation. Add these can’t-miss activations to your summer travel plans. July 18 | Juniata River Valley, Pennsylvania America250PA Mifflin County Parade Community pride takes center stage during this patriotic parade celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Marching bands, veterans, local organizations, and hometown traditions make this a memorable summer event for visitors and residents alike. August | Somerset County, Pennsylvania America 250 & Flight 93 Commemorative Events Throughout August, Somerset County commemorates America’s 250th anniversary while honoring the 25th anniversary of Flight 93. A month of special programming includes military ceremonies, a Concert for Heroes, memorial services, community celebrations, parades, drone shows, and fireworks that pay tribute to generations of American courage and sacrifice. August 1 | Calvert County, Maryland 4th Annual Neon Night 5K Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum comes alive after dark for this glowing community event. The Neon Night 5K combines fitness, family fun, and festive summer energy while serving as another highlight of Calvert County’s America 250 celebration. All Summer Long | Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Maryland Be Revolutionary: America 250 Exploration Trail Discover more than 50 historic, cultural, and community sites through this free interactive mobile trail. Visitors can explore at their own pace, check in at participating locations, uncover Revolutionary stories, and earn prizes while experiencing the places where America’s story began. While you’re in Annapolis, don’t miss She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum, or enjoy colonial-inspired cocktails at Drummers Lot inside the Historic Inns of Annapolis. All Summer Long | Talbot County, Maryland Celebrate America 250 in St. Michaels Beginning around Flag Day and continuing throughout the season, the historic waterfront town of St. Michaels is adorned in patriotic décor while hosting concerts, community celebrations, heritage programming, and waterfront experiences that capture the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary. Select Summer Dates | Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania Liberty Ignited: A Lehigh Valley Salute to America 250 One of the region’s signature celebrations, Liberty Ignited features a choreographed drone show with more than 250 drones synchronized to music, followed by the largest fireworks display in Coca-Cola Park history. It’s an unforgettable way to celebrate America’s milestone anniversary. Plan Your Next Adventure Whether you’re exploring a Revolutionary battlefield, watching fireworks over the Chesapeake Bay, experiencing living history, or looking skyward during a spectacular drone show, the Mid-Atlantic is filled with opportunities to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Start planning your journey today and discover why this summer is the perfect time to experience the places where history continues to come alive.
Frank Lloyd Wright Field Office Museum opens June 27 July 7, 2026We’re proud to introduce the only Frank Lloyd Wright Field Office Museum—a groundbreaking “museum within a museum” It includes Wright’s original San Francisco field office, meticulously reassembled on our Erie campus in 2021. This immersive new experience offers the most comprehensive look yet at Wright’s life and work—revealing not just the architect, but the person behind the designs. Because to truly appreciate Wright’s creations, you have to understand the man himself. Step into a 2,700-square-foot interactive space where history comes alive through: Rare artifacts & personal letters Never-before-seen memorabilia Interactive exhibits & hands-on experiences Audio and video of Wright sharing his ideas and creative philosophy The original San Francisco field office—used by Wright from 1951–1959—has already become one of our most popular attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Now, there’s even more to explore. Join us in Erie and experience Wright like never before. Image courtesy of the Hagen History Center
Sweet Stroll returns to Adams County, PA July 7, 2026GETTYSBURG, Pennsylvania – Call it the sweet taste of success. Destination Gettysburg is bringing back its summer trail that features everything from homemade ice cream and locally roasted coffee to handcrafted chocolates and baked goods. The Adams County Sweet Stroll, which debuted in 2025, returns July 1 and includes more than a dozen businesses known for their delicious treats across Adams County and beyond. “Last year was the first for this experience, and it was very successful. But we weren’t surprised. After all, who doesn’t enjoy something sweet?” Destination Gettysburg President and CEO Karl Pietrzak said. Starting July 1, participants can sign up for the trail’s free digital passport at https://destinationgettysburg.com/adams-county-sweet-stroll/ to track their visits and qualify for prizes. Participating locations include: Caledonia Cafe Cone Sweet Cone Cottage Creperie Gettysburg Chocolate Market Gettysburg Cookie Company Kilwin’s Chocolates, Fudge & Ice Cream Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium G’s Ice Cream Ragged Edge Coffee House Rita’s of Gettysburg Starbucks at Hotel Gettysburg Sweeet! The Candy Store Victoria’s Casita Bakery Pietrzak said that he expects the limited-time trail, which is available through Aug. 31, to increase visitation to Gettysburg and Adams County during the months of July and August. Last year, there were 912 check-ins at locations along the trail, and more than 100 ZIP codes were represented by passport holders. “We’re excited to participate in the Sweet Stroll again this year, because last year we saw so many new customers, both locals and visitors alike,” said Nicole Bucher, owner of Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium in Orrtanna. “We appreciate it’s a county-wide trail that encourages people to enjoy treats in Gettysburg and find new favorites throughout the greater area that they may not otherwise have explored.”
Adventures for All Abilities July 2, 2026 Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]). Rich in scenic landscapes, vibrant communities, and unforgettable outdoor experiences, the Mid-Atlantic is making adventure more accessible through inclusive design, accessible trails, and adaptive recreation programs that help visitors of all abilities connect with the region’s natural wonders. MARYLAND Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) is the nation’s premier adaptive sailing program, recognized for providing world class access to the Chesapeake Bay for people with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities. With a fleet of state-of-the-art adaptive sailboats and a fully accessible marina, CRAB is considered a model for inclusive recreation across the U.S. Their new Adaptive Boating Center — the first of its kind in the country — reinforces CRAB’s reputation as a leader in accessible adventure and makes Annapolis one of the best places in the nation for all abilities to get on the water.Visit Annapolis Calvert County (MD)Calvert County offers outdoor adventures for visitors of all abilities. Accessible features include inclusive playground equipment at Dunkirk District Park in Dunkirk and Hallowing Point Park in Prince Frederick, a paved walkway to the Woodland Indian Village at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum in St. Leonard, and elevator access to both floors of the Bayside History Museum in North Beach. Wm. B. Tennison Cruises at Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons can provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities with reasonable notice. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to verify accessibility details and request any needed accommodations before visiting.Visit Calvert Harford County (MD)In Harford County, outdoor adventure is designed with everyone in mind. From stroller and wheelchair-friendly park trails to engaging sensory experiences, we are proud to offer welcoming spaces for visitors of all abilities. Inclusive attractions such as Luckiest Light Art Studio in Havre de Grace, Stoneview Farm in Darlington, and We Rock the Spectrum Forest Hill champion accessible, hands-on experiences that celebrate creativity, connection, and exploration. Through adaptive recreation programs and thoughtful outdoor design, Harford County continues to embrace inclusive travel; ensuring every visitor can discover nature, play, and possibility in ways that feel comfortable, empowering, and fun for the whole family.Hello Harford Kent County (MD)Kent County offers a variety of accessible options for visitors of all abilities. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge features flat, well-maintained trails ideal for walking, wheelchairs, and strollers, with beautiful views of wildlife and the Chesapeake Bay. In Chestertown, the Rails to Trails system provides a smooth, scenic route connecting neighborhoods and downtown amenities. The Sultana Education Foundation offers inclusive programs and hands-on experiences designed to engage learners of all ages. Additionally, the Kent Cultural Alliance supports accessible arts programming, exhibits, and events, ensuring that Kent County’s natural, educational, and cultural experiences are welcoming and inclusive for everyone.Kent County Tourism PENNSYLVANIA Butler County (PA)Making tourist attractions accessible is an ongoing goal of Experience Butler County, PA. Moraine State Park features several ADA-accessible activities, including the fishing pier at McDanels Boat Launch and the Preston Pearl boat tour. The Wood Whisper Trail at Jennings Environmental Education Center offers another accessible nature experience, featuring a gentle, half-mile path. Steele’s Brushes and Ceramics offers increased accessibility for their pottery classes with the inclusion of a wheelchair accessible pottery wheel. We invited travel agent and influencer Jamie Santillo to showcase wheel-chair accessible spaces in our County; her personal experience can be read about on our website. Photo Credit: Layla JosephExperience Butler County Huntingdon County (PA)Accessible adventures await in the Raystown Lake Region. Start with scenic views from the Raystown Dam Pagoda and nearby Ridenour Overlook, both easy to reach. Refuel at Standing Stone Coffee Company before exploring Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks, where advance arrangements allow accessible underground experiences. Relax with comfortable, welcoming lodging and dining options designed for all visitors. The next day, stroll Seven Points Recreation Area and the smooth Greenside Pathway before boarding the East Broad Top Railroad, where coach lifts make the countryside journey inclusive. Each stop offers beauty, history and fun for all throughout the region.Raystown Lake Region Juniata River Valley (PA)Port Royal Speedway is making sure the thrill of race night is accessible to everyone. The grandstands include designated wheelchair spaces so guests can enjoy a great view of the action, and the tunnel beneath the racetrack now provides convenient access to the infield. Designed with mobility in mind, the tunnel makes it easier than ever for wheelchair users and guests with mobility challenges to move around the grounds. Now more fans can get closer to the sights, sounds, and heart-pounding excitement of racing at one of the East Coast’s top dirt tracks.Mifflin Juniata Counties (PA) Lancaster County (PA)Lancaster Conservancy oversees three universal access trails, the most recently installed of which is the Lloyd Clark Trail at Clark Nature Preserve. This trail provides opportunities for those with mobility concerns or using wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, or other such devices to explore the meadow & woods and look out over a quintessential river hills vista.Discover Lancaster York County (PA)Experience art without walls at Mural Park in York’s Royal Square District. More than 30 larger-than-life murals transform historic buildings into a vibrant outdoor gallery that is free, easy to navigate, and accessible to all. From bold, colorful works to interactive murals with eye-catching 3D effects, every turn offers a new photo opportunity and a chance to experience creativity in the heart of downtown York.Explore York VIRGINIA Danville and Pittsylvania County (VA)The Riverwalk Trail in Danville’s River District offers an inviting, accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all ages and abilities. Stretching 13 miles along the scenic Dan River, this paved trail winds through parks and SoSi’s historic downtown, with easy access to restaurants, retailers, and attractions like the Danville Science Center, Community Market, and Golden Leaf Bistro. The trail features smooth asphalt and wooden bridge surfaces with railings and includes designated van‑accessible parking. With river views, wildlife sightings, and a well‑maintained path, the Riverwalk is ideal for families, walkers, runners, cyclists, and photo‑ops at the newest LOVEworks sign.Visit SoSi Loudoun County (VA)Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Historic Douglass High School campus is located on the site of the Black school that operated in Leesburg from 1941-1968. On top of statues, photos and displays highlighting Loudoun’s Black history, the site features an ADA Accessible Trail through woodlands and a playground with ADA surfaces and inclusive features. The playground, a themed African American history experience for children of all abilities, features a replica of Selma Bridge and a Hall of Heroes structure modeled on the shape of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC.Visit Loudon Richmond Region (VA)In the Richmond Region, there are adventures for everyone. Local non-profit Beyond Boundaries offers guided outdoor experiences—from kayaking to hiking—tailored for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and youth from historically marginalized communities. At Park 365, an all-abilities playground by SOAR365, kids and adults can explore inclusive equipment and sensory-friendly spaces year-round. And at Pocahontas State Park, EnChroma-adapted viewfinders let colorblind visitors experience the full spectrum of Virginia’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a tranquil trail, the Richmond Region’s commitment to accessible design ensures the outdoors are open to all.Photo Credit: Learners and Makers & Visit Richmond Virginia VAVisit Richmond Waynesboro (VA)Blue Ridge Packs and Tracks is a nonprofit dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible for individuals with disabilities. Through its free track chair program, the organization provides all-terrain mobility devices that empower users to explore rugged trails, including portions of the scenic Blue Ridge Tunnel. With trained volunteers offering support, participants experience the healing power of nature in a safe, inclusive environment. By removing physical barriers, the program expands access to beloved public spaces throughout the Rockfish Valley and Shenandoah Valley. Chairs can be reserved online at no cost, thanks to generous donors and volunteers.Visit Waynesboro About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations AllianceThe Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org. ###
Celebrate Independence Day, America’s 250th in Gettysburg June 1, 2026Visitors to Gettysburg can experience five unforgettable days in early July as one of America’s most historic towns comes alive with Civil War reenactments, historical programs, live entertainment, appearances by acclaimed actor Stephen Lang, and fireworks in celebration of Independence Day. Set against the backdrop of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this year’s holiday commemoration, from July 1 to 5, carries added significance. Founded in 1776, the nation faced its greatest test “four score and seven years” later, when the Union’s pivotal victory at the Battle of Gettysburg helped preserve the United States and redefine its future. “Gettysburg is more than a destination; it’s a place where our nation’s story comes into focus,” said Karl Pietrzak, President & CEO of Destination Gettysburg. “As we mark 250 years of American independence, we invite visitors to stand where history was made and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and ideals that shaped our country.” The marquee event of the celebration is the Battle of Gettysburg 163rd Anniversary Reenactment at Historic Daniel Lady Farm. The three-day event, from July 3 to 5, features 1,000 reenactors, living historians, military camps, artillery and cavalry demonstrations, and sutler tents. The historic 146-acre farm served as Maj. Gen. Edward Johnson’s staging area for the Confederate attack on Culp’s Hill and was used as a Confederate field hospital during the battle. On Independence Day, visitors can experience “A Gettysburg Fourth” – a full day of energy, music, and hometown pride. The celebration features food vendors, family activities, musical performances including the 90-member U.S. Army Field Band, and an extended fireworks display to end the day’s festivities. Other highlights of the five-day celebration include: Wednesday, July 1 Fire a Civil War rifle or cannon at Beyond the Battle Museum. “Fields of Fire: Gettysburg’s First Day Farms” explores the opening hours of the battle and the families caught in the chaos. Wednesday, July 1 to Sunday, July 5 “One Hundred Nights of Taps” at Gettysburg National Cemetery features volunteer buglers and quiet reflection each evening. The program continues through Labor Day. Thursday, July 2 “Behind Union Lines: An Exclusive Look at the Jacob Weikert Farm and Field Hospital” explores the critical Civil War site. Sneak preview of the Jack and Julia Hopkins House provides a look at the restoration of the future site of Gettysburg’s Black History Museum. “Music, Memories & the Civilian Experience” at The Barn Resort features the sights, sounds, and stories of the Civil War homefront. Friday, July 3 “Gettysburg 1863” Meet and Greet at Shriver House Museum features actor Stephen Lang and film director Bo Brinkman. “The Gettysburg Book: A Father, Son & The Killer Angels” documentary will be shown at The Majestic Theater and followed by a panel discussion featuring the filmmakers, bestselling author Jeff Shaara, and narrator Stephen Lang. Saturday, July 4 “Flutes on the Fourth” outside Hotel Gettysburg features dozens of musicians from across the country performing patriotic and Civil War songs. “Confederates Take the Shriver House” features guided tours, reenactors, and immersive scenes throughout the historic home. Carroll Valley 250th Independence Celebration features live music, food vendors, recognition of veterans and first responders, and a fireworks display at Liberty Mountain Resort. A complete list of events, can be found here.