Squeeze In One Last Trip Before Summer’s Over

When summer begins, it feels as if you have all the time in the world to hit the road for a family vacation. However, Within the blink of an eye, however, the calendar turns to August, and you’re preparing for the first day of school. 

You still have time to make vacation memories before settling down to rake the leaves in the fall. Here, we suggest two great locales for a last-minute summer getaway, whether you want to stay on the shores of the Atlantic or explore the American Southwest.

Closer to Home

Ocean City, Maryland

If you live in the Northeast, you likely visit the same stretch of waterfront regularly. Why not try out a new beach town?

Ocean City is considered a premier beach playground on the Mid-Atlantic seaboard. Close to Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, this vacation town offers some 10 miles of sandy beaches and nearly 3 miles of boardwalk. Families will find much to do when not playing in the waves, with several adrenaline-fueled amusement parks, quirky arcades and gift shops, and unforgettable beach fare to sample. Maryland crabcakes are a must-have indulgence, while Thrasher’s french fries are legendary among beachgoers and seagulls alike.

Ocean City also offers quieter activities where the crowds thin out. Assateague Island National Seashore gives visitors the chance to see wild horses and explore beautiful nature trails. You also can rent a kayak to explore the bay or book a day’s passage on a pleasure boat to go fishing. A short drive away, the town of Berlin offers a vibrant, charming, and walkable downtown with more than 60 art galleries, retail shops, and antique businesses to peruse. And the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum or the nearby Mermaid Museum offer some indoor fun on a rainy day.

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While visiting, consider a stay at Cambria Ocean City Bayfront, situated just a short walk from the boardwalk. At this AAA Three Diamond property, you can stay within the heart of Ocean City but enjoy the tranquility of unbeatable bay views from your room’s balcony. Be sure to unwind after a long day of exploration at the rooftop Spain Wine Bar, which offers authentic Spanish cuisine in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. There is also a seasonal outdoor pool and poolside tiki bar, as well as an indoor heated pool and hot tub.

Centrally located and with superb amenities, Cambria Ocean City Bayfront offers the perfect home base for a bayfront getaway.

Farther Away

Austin, Texas

There’s no getting around it: August in Austin is hot! Luckily, the city is built for the heat and offers a thriving nightlife and many great indoor attractions. A visit here may offer the perfect excuse to sleep in late, lounge poolside and then head out in the evening.

Austin is a city that offers something for everyone. History lovers will want to explore the Lone Star State’s colorful history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum and at the LBJ Presidential Library. The young and the young at heart will enjoy cooling down at the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool or tinkering at the Thinkery, a hands-on children’s museum. Shoppers will enjoy hunting for treasures at Austin’s quirky North Loop shopping district or the indoor Barton Creek Square mall.

As the sun goes down, nature lovers will want to take time to spot thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats taking flight at the Congress Avenue Bridge. And music lovers will need to at least visit The Broken Spoke and the Continental Club to get a taste of Austin’s iconic Texas music scene. As you explore, be sure to save room for Austin’s award-winning food trucks and barbecue.

Cambria Hotel Austin Uptown near the Domain is a great place to stay when you want to explore all Austin has to offer. Located within the city’s trendy tech corridor, this comfortable stay sits near high-end boutiques, great entertainment venues and gourmet dining options. The hotel is also just a short drive away from Austin’s Rock Rose Entertainment District, which boasts some of Austin’s most notable upscale bars and cuisine in a lively setting.

You also can soak away the summer heat at the hotel’s oversized pool, shaded by oak trees.

With premium bedding, spa-style bathrooms equipped with Bluetooth mirrors and connecting rooms available, it’s a great option for families visiting Austin the first time.

Wherever you choose to explore in the United States, chances are you can use your AAA discount to book a comfortable stay at one of many great Choice Hotels properties. Don’t let the summer slip away before fitting in some last-minute fun!

You’ve Read About It — Now Experience It

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