The Civil Rights Movement was one of the most transformative times in American history. It would be impossible to summarize its significance in a single museum or honor its participants’ efforts with a sole monument. Fortunately, there is the U.S. Civil Rights Trail to do just that.

Created in 2018, the trail guides visitors to more than 130 locations across 15 states. It was created through the combined efforts of several official state tourism agencies. Joining all these locations into a single trail helps highlight the breadth and significance of the Civil Rights Movement.

“For too long the churches, courthouses and schools where significant civil rights activity had occurred were ignored or otherwise unappreciated,” said Lee Sentell, director of the Alabama Tourism Department. “Linking the historic places focused a spotlight to honor the contributions that courageous activists had made at great personal risk.”

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail has also sparked tourism in the Southern states. “Since the U.S. Civil Rights Trail was launched, most of the sites have experienced substantial growth in the number of visitors seeking to learn more about the history of the movement,” Sentell said. “Equally important, those Southern states that hadn’t previously developed a trail highlighting their heritage landmarks have now done so.”

Here are some of the U.S. Civil Rights Trail’s most noteworthy destinations.

Rev. Arthur Price Jr. Interview Birmingham, Ala. from U.S. Civil Rights Trail on Vimeo.

Alabama

Birmingham

The 16^th Street Baptist Church — still an active church today — served as a meeting place for organizations participating in marches and other civil rights activities. In 1963, the church was bombed, killing four young girls. The event spurred the government to act on civil rights legislation.

The Alabama city is also home to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The 58,000-square-foot museum features a rendition of a 1950s segregated city, a replica of a Freedom Riders bus and the actual door from the jail cell that housed King when he wrote his famous “Letter From Birmingham Jail.”

Montgomery

Alabama’s capital city was one of the epicenters of the Civil Rights Movement. It is justly well-represented on the trail. The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church was the first church where King served as a pastor. It also hosted meetings that led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

The Rosa Parks Museum is located at the site where Parks boarded a public bus and was arrested. The Freedom Bus Museum is found at the bus station where Freedom Riders were attacked in 1961. Take a virtual tour.

Montgomery is also home to the Civil Rights Memorial Center and National Memorial for Peace and Justice. The former serves as a tribute to all those who died during the Civil Rights Movement, and the latter is a memorial recognizing the thousands of lynchings that occurred across the country during this time.

Selma

The most iconic site in Selma is the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The National Historic Landmark was the site of the first march for voting rights on March 7, 1965. Unfortunately, the location became etched in history due to the brutal beatings of marchers that took place that day in a conflict that became known as Bloody Sunday. The events were televised across the country. This prompted public support for civil rights activists and the voting rights campaign.

Tennessee

Memphis

The Lorraine Motel holds a solemn place not only in the Civil Rights Movement, but also in the collective history of the country. The site of King’s assassination is now part of the National Civil Rights Museum. This collection of historic sites tells the story of the movement from the 17th century to present day.

Arkansas

Little Rock

Little Rock drew the eyes of the country in September 1957. Following the decision in Brown v. Board of Education, Arkansas Gov. Orval Faubus called in the Arkansas National Guard to block nine black students from entering Central High School. President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent federal troops to protect the students and allow them to enter. Eventually, the Little Rock Nine were all admitted in what was a major milestone in the fight to integrate schools.

Although it’s still in operation today, the museum and visitor center located across the street offers tours of the high school. There is also a memorial to the Little Rock Nine at the Arkansas state Capitol.

Georgia

Atlanta

Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta in 1929 and the city has been sure to honor its native son. The National Historic Site named in King’s honor consists of his childhood home, where he lived the first 12 years of his life, and the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he was baptized, ordained and served as co-pastor with his father until 1968.

The King Center is the burial site for both King and his wife Coretta Scott King. It also houses many of King’s papers.

Also of note in Atlanta is the Center for Civil and Human Rights. This multicultural center includes exhibits highlighting the civil rights and modern human rights movements.

Robert Tyrone Patterson Sr. Interview Greensboro, N.C. from U.S. Civil Rights Trail on Vimeo.

North Carolina

Greensboro

Greensboro is home to the former Woolworth department store, site of one of the most critical events in the movement. In February 1960, four students from the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University sat at the counter and ordered coffee but were refused service. The four remained sitting until the store closed. Over the ensuing days, the sit-in grew to include more than 300 students and nearby businesses. It spurred a widespread movement of peaceful demonstration across the country.

Woolworth’s has since been incorporated into the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. The lunch counter and four seats the students occupied the remain in their original positions. A monument of the four students sits on the North Carolina A&T campus.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital has numerous sites that honor the civil rights movement. Most notably is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Opened in 2016, the Smithsonian Institution museum contains 36,000 artifacts and is the only national museum dedicated entirely to the African American experience.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, a 30-foot stone sculpture, was dedicated in 2011. The monument made King the first African-American to be honored with a memorial on the National Mall.

Are you planning on traveling to a few of these different landmarks? Click here to rent a car. AAA members can save on Hertz rentals.

Plan your next trip with a AAA travel advisor.

Have you been to any of these sites? Tell us about it in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

The dual delights of ship and shore have always been part of the secret sauce that makes cruising special. But if sea gazing from a lounge chair and a traditional game of shuffleboard aren’t enough to fulfill your days at sea, don’t worry. There are plenty of things to do on a cruise ship that will satisfy the adventurous, the adrenaline-seeking and the curious.

Corkscrew waterslides, rock climbing walls, bowling alleys, escape rooms and even zip lines readily await aboard some of the most incredible vessels at sea.

These over-the-top cruise ship activities and attractions are sure to blow your mind. Can’t wait to experience them for yourself? Book a cruise with AAA Travel.

Ropes Courses

Many of the newer ships from Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises offer ropes courses, allowing cruisers to navigate across bridges, around obstacles and zipline to your next stop.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MSC Cruises Official (@msccruisesofficial)

The Cliffhanger

Featured on MSC Cruises, the four-seat Cliffhanger swing rests above the top deck of the ship, until a hydraulic arm moves it up and over the railing, 164 feet above the ocean. Then the swinging starts!

Typhoon and Cyclone

Twin waterslides Typhoon and Cyclone on Royal Caribbean cruise ships allow passengers to race each with clear sections of tubing offering views of the sea.

Beginning in 2026, Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas is bringing even more fun to the ocean!

Go-Karts and Bumper Cars

Rev your engine and burn rubber on the multi-deck speedways aboard ships from Norwegian Cruise Line. Helmets with intuitive sound, hairpin turns, sections of track that swerve over the sea and competitive timing systems up the adrenaline ante. If demolition derby is more your style, bumper cars beckon on select Royal Caribbean ships.

Skydiving Simulator

Don a flight suit and defy gravity while floating on air in the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulators aboard Royal Caribbean’s Quantum and Quantum Ultra Class ships. These clear, vertical wind tunnels soar nearly 25 feet. Diving into one is a surreal adrenaline rush, but even kids as young as three can try to fly.

BOLT Roller Coaster

Zoom motorcycle-style above the upper decks and careen around the iconic whale tail funnels of Carnival’s largest ships on the first roller coasters at sea. The electric coasters reach speeds of up to 40mph, but the coolest feature puts passengers in the driver’s seat. So, you can slow down and enjoy the view whenever you want.

AquaMouse

Disney’s AquaDuck and AquaDunk water coasters deserve kudos, but the AquaMouse (on Wish, Treasure and Destiny) makes the biggest splash. Hop in a two-seater raft and prepare to get flushed through a tunnel of animation, swept inside the ship’s forward smokestack and shot out over the ocean in a translucent tube. This flume also boasts surprise special effects and a charming storyline. 

SkyRide

Pedal your way to jaw-dropping views and an exhilarating workout on this creative contraption composed of recumbent-style bikes suspended from aerial tracks 150 feet above the ocean. Carnival ships sport the attraction, which comes courtesy of the same person who invented Rollerblades.

North Star

Rise 300 feet above the surface of the sea in this observation pod, which looks like the elegant cousin of a construction crane with a crystal ornament dangling from its arm. North Star rotates over the open water and earned Royal Caribbean a Guinness World Record for highest viewing deck on a cruise ship.      

Planetarium

Stargazing is a shipboard rite-of-passage, but Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 invites guests to journey beyond the boat to galaxies far, far away via the first planetarium at sea.

Lawn Club

Real grass? That’s right! Fields of green adorn the top decks of Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice-class ships. Frolic barefoot, play bocce ball or grab a basket and picnic. You can even grill some grub like it’s your own backyard.

Ultimate Abyss and The Drop

Waterslides abound on cruise ships, but these dry slides (from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, respectively) deliver a daring 10-story plunge with no bathing suit required. Dueling tubes characterize Ultimate Abyss, while The Drop distinguishes itself as the first free-fall dry slide at sea.

Robotron

Not for the faint of heart, Robotron is a giant mechanical arm aboard the MSC Seascape, 174 feet above the water that spins, twirls and flips its three riders. Passengers can choose from the light, moderate or fast speed and select a song to accompany their spin. According to MSC, it’s the first of its kind at sea.

Culinary Center

Hone skills in the hands-on teaching kitchens aboard select Oceania ships. Culinary excellence and experiencing travel through the lens of cuisine and cooking is core to Oceania, so the tricked-out workstations are top-notch. Expect everything from private prep sinks and stoves to utensils and gadgets guaranteed to make foodies swoon.

Magic Carpet

It’s not a ride, but this external platform does travel up and down the side of Celebrity’s newest ships, defining their profile and morphing into unique venues – from stable tendering dock to exclusive dining pad – depending upon where it rests. 

Carousels

Tap into your inner child and merry-go-round to your heart’s content on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. Or, simply delight in watching real kids ride, while you appreciate the detail on these hand-carved works of art. Either way, it’s trippy nostalgia.

4D Theaters

All mainstream ships have theaters and most offer lovely poolside “dive-in” movies, but Carnival takes cinema to another level with multi-sensory 4D and IMAX theaters. Strap into your full-tilt seat and prepare for wind, rain, fog and even nose-tingling aromas. 

Bespoke Bars

Slip on a parka and sip vodka at one of Norwegian’s Ice Bars, where everything — from the frosty glasses to the tables, chairs and artwork — is carved from ice and maintained at a nippy 17 degrees. Or, belly up to Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar, where robot mixologists guarantee perfect cocktails. Rising Tide Bar, another Royal Caribbean treat, levitates like an extravagant elevator. And, for flights of craft beer and brewmaster tours, Carnival weighs in as the first line with brewpubs.

Enchanted Art, Magic Portholes and Virtual balconies … Oh, My! 

Revel in the tech takeover at sea. Enjoy inside cabins with outside views via Royal Caribbean’s Virtual Balconies (floor-to-ceiling LED screens complete with railing overlays that make them look legit) and Disney’s Magic Portholes (round LEDs displaying live scenery augmented with character cameos). Disney also touts Enchanted Art. These pieces recognize the presence of an admirer, triggering animated sequences.

Snow Grotto

Revitalize circulation Scandi-style at a Viking Ocean Cruises’ spa, where passengers literally chill out as snowflakes fall. These frosty chambers are part of a superb thermal suite, so warming rituals counterbalance the cold.

SeaWalk

Famous skyscrapers sport thrilling, see-through floors and Princess Cruises presents the high-seas equivalent. Muster your courage and traipse across this 60-foot, glass-enclosed walkway suspended nearly 130 feet above the churning ocean and 30 feet from the ship’s edge. 

Trapezes and Trampolines

Cruise away and join the circus with Royal Caribbean. Its SeaPlex activity center includes a trapeze school. Prefer bouncing? Lose your shoes and romp around Carnival’s Sky Zone trampoline park.

AquaTheater

In Royal Caribbean’s Boardwalk “neighborhoods,” marvel over dancing fountains, synchronized swimmers, aerialists and daring high divers, who plunge from 30-foot platforms into the deepest pool afloat. Cameras reveal underwater shenanigans, too. 

Surfing

Hang ten or just boogie board in one of Royal Caribbean’s iconic FlowRider surf simulators, where the waves never end. You’ll feel 30,000 gallons of water rushing at 20mph, yet the pools are less than three inches deep. Thankfully, they’re well-padded, too, which makes wipe-outs a softer affair.

A sea day aboard a boat stacked with wild attractions is like the cherry on top of a vacation sundae already loaded with delicious destination fun ashore.

What are your favorite things to do on a cruise ship? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

If you’re in the market for auto, homeowners or life insurance, you may wonder how much coverage you really need. If you already have these policies in place, you may question whether you’re paying for enough coverage to protect you and your loved ones from the unexpected.

Insurance is personal, and no two policies are the same. Whether to take a higher policy limit is a discussion to have with an insurance professional, which is why we reached out to our own AAA insurance agents to break it down.

What Is an Insurance Policy Limit?

An insurance policy limit is the maximum amount an insurance company will pay for a covered claim. The higher the policy limit, the higher the payout ceiling.

What Does a Higher Insurance Policy Limit Entail?

A higher policy limit generally results in an increased premium, so you will be paying more monthly or annually. In the case of life insurance, there are some caveats.

“A higher policy limit could mean more thorough medical exams and possibly justifying the need for a larger policy limit and a greater payout to your loved ones,” said Tanzania Steele, field life insurance agent with AAA.

Is It Worth It to Spend More on Insurance?

“Absolutely, yes,” Steele said. “It is worth spending additional finances for an opportunity to be sure that you, your loved ones and the things that you have worked for are protected and secure. No amount of money is worth your security.”

Of course, everyone’s reasoning for getting insurance is unique to their situation, but the bigger your policy limit, the more protection you are giving yourself and your loved ones.

“Having adequate protection for your loved ones to handle expenses and standard of living in your absence, replacing lost income, covering major debts (mortgage payments, estate planning/inheritance) and peace of mind are all benefits to a higher policy limit,” Steele said.

In the case of homeowners or auto insurance, if you’re found legally responsible for an accident or loss that exceeds your coverage, increasing your policy limits reduces the risk of personal financial responsibility. It also means less worry about worst-case scenarios, like serious injuries, major damage to someone else’s property or catastrophic loss to your home. If something big happens, you don’t want to wonder if your policy will cover it.

How Do I Know if Taking a Higher Limit Is Right for Me?

It’s important to review your policy with a licensed agent to make sure you have coverage that meets your long-term needs. A thorough assessment should be made of your income, debts, assets and the needs of your loved ones.

In general, it’s a good rule of thumb to not exceed your means.

“When choosing the right plan, the premium must be paid comfortably,” advised Peter Velez, senior life insurance specialist with AAA.

For life insurance, the suggested policy limit can be up to 10 times your annual salary. People who are breadwinners of the family or own a business would benefit from a higher policy limit. However, those who are looking only for the basics may not need a higher limit.

Higher limits are especially worth it if you have significant assets like home equity, retirement accounts, investments or savings and business interests. If losing any of these would be devastating, higher policy limits make sense.

When is the best time to make changes to my policy?

The ideal time to make changes to your policy is at your annual review with your insurance agent or after a significant life event occurs — marriage, divorce, birth of child, purchase of a home and so on.

AAA has you covered for insurance. Get a quote today.

Member Tony Scafariello of Wallingford, Connecticut, has been using AAA travel services for years.

“Whenever we plan a vacation, we can always rely on AAA, and their travel agents,” said Scarfariello.

He and his wife have planned many memorable trips at their local AAA branch in Hamden and even have a favorite travel advisor.

“It’s Yannick Gonzalez and all those affiliated with their travel department who provide great feedback on locations, destinations, travel routes and excursions. If they haven’t gone personally, they know of customers with similar interests and demographics as us to give us great advice.”

Gonzalez has been with the Hamden branch for four years and brought four decades of travel-planning experience with her.

“I’m very happy to hear Mr. Scafariello was happy with my services. I’ve booked two cruises for him and his wife,” said Gonzalez. “I do have a number of repeat clients, which is nice.”

From life milestones to quick getaways, Scafariello has always made the most of his AAA membership.

“I’ve been a member as far back as when my dad had me on his plan, in the 1980s,” he said. “In fact, I booked my honeymoon with your travel department in 1984. I have used the travel services numerous times, whether it was for a weekend jaunt, an 11-day New England and Canada cruise this past fall or a land/cruise Alaska vacation, like we did in 2023.”

Interested in booking your next trip with AAA? Contact a travel advisor.

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

January is typically when gasoline demand — and pump prices — hover near their lowest levels of the year. It’s also when supplies tend to replenish as refiners maintain steady production while drivers log fewer miles. The latest data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) suggests that the trend might be taking shape in the early weeks of 2026.  

Last week, the EIA reported a huge build in gasoline inventories to the tune of 7.7 million barrels — the largest single week increase since the last week of 2024. Supplies now stand 4.3 million barrels ahead of last year as demand significantly cooled to 8.17 million barrels a day, a nearly 400,000 barrels a day decline from the prior week.  

Along with more supply and less demand, oil prices remaining in the $58 to $63 range are contributing to the downward pressure on gasoline prices. Although oil prices ended last week about 3.5% higher than the previous week, they remain roughly 20% below where they sat at the start of 2025. 

“As pump prices continue to slide on seasonal trends, we’re seeing high supply and low demand push prices lower and lower,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “If demand remains diminished as inventories climb, oil prices will be another major factor impacting how low prices go this season.”  

The AAA Jan. 12 survey of fuel prices found the national average down 2 cents from last week ($2.81), averaging $2.79 per gallon. The Jan. 12 national average price was 14 cents lower than a month ago ($2.93) and 27 cents lower than this day last year ($3.06). 

State	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$2.87	$2.91	$3.03	$3.03
New Jersey	$2.77	$2.81	$2.94	$2.99
New York	$2.99	$3.02	$3.10	$3.13
Massachusetts	$2.91	$2.94	$3.01	$3
Rhode Island	$2.83	$2.87	$2.95	$2.94

*Prices as of Jan. 12, 2026 

As of Jan. 12, Oklahoma and Arkansas had the lowest prices in the nation at $2.21 and $2.35, respectively. Hawaii and California held the highest prices in the nation at $4.40 and $4.22 respectively. 

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

April Capone of North Branford, Connecticut, shares her story about how AAA has been there for her in the eight years that she’s been a member.

The AAA team member arrived at the retail parking lot to find me barely holding back tears next to my car with the keys locked inside.

This was something that had never happened to me until I started going through a messy divorce. I was so stressed that this was the third time I had locked my keys in the car in six weeks.

The driver saw how upset I was and reassured me it was no problem. Through my distress I exclaimed: ‘But this happened yesterday!’ He said, ‘you’ve been waiting since yesterday?’ I explained that no, this was the second time in two days that I had locked my keys in the car, and I had also done it a few weeks before. It was unlike me, and I felt dumb, irresponsible and guilty.

He said, ‘April, that’s why we are here, and you know what? If you do it again tomorrow, or even later today, we’ll come back to help you. It’s OK.’

I felt so relieved by his kindness that, as I thanked him, I burst into tears. By this time, my car was open … He told me it was going to be OK.

Later that afternoon, he texted to check up on me. He was so incredibly kind and thoughtful that I think about him often.

I haven’t locked my keys in the car since, but I know that, if I do, AAA will be there to help with kindness and compassion.”

For more stories like this — or to share your own — visit “Hey, AAA!,” our collection of member-submitted emails, photos and videos that capture the real moments AAA has been a part of.

Hit the start game button to break this photo of Mount Snow, Vermont, into 88 pieces. Then, have fun trying to put it back together again. For more instructions, click the three horizontal lines on the top left of the puzzle.

Photo by Leah Thresh.

Looking for more winter fun? Check out The Coolest Winter Festivals in the Northeast.

Stepping onto the slopes can be incredibly intimidating for beginner skiers, so finding the right resort can make all the difference. However, with more than 100 ski areas across New England and New York, deciding exactly where to go to sharpen your skills can be tricky.

Good ski resorts for beginners include access to lessons, well-groomed trails, a variety of gentle terrain and a friendly atmosphere to ease into the sport without feeling overwhelmed.

Practicing at a less-crowded ski resort will make it easier to navigate the slopes without constantly dodging other skiers. It’s also helpful when resorts have lift ticket options like half-day passes if you’re not ready to ski all day, or discounted areas, so you’re not paying for terrain you don’t have the skills to use.

Finally, you should also consider the quality and availability of beginner-friendly amenities like magic carpets and designated learning areas. Learning to ski can be challenging enough, so you don’t want to worry about managing a rope tow or T-bar lift on top of it.

Keeping these criteria in mind, these Northeast ski resorts stand out for creating an approachable environment for new skiers.

Berkshire East

Charlemont, Mass.

This resort, surrounded by state forests and the Deerfield River, is known for minimal crowds and long green runs (beginner trails), perfect for practicing turns. Plus, most beginner trails are separate from advanced terrain, so there’s no need to worry about faster skiers passing by. For those not ready for a full day on the slopes, four-hour tickets are available starting at $29. Berkshire East also has a learn-to-turn ski package, which includes a lower mountain lift ticket, ski or snowboard rental, and a one-hour first-time group lesson.

Bromley Mountain

Peru, Vt.

Head to southern Vermont for a mix of gentle green and blue runs that are ideal for beginners. This resort offers half-day lift tickets starting at $104, making it an excellent option for those not ready to spend the whole day on the slopes. First-timer lesson packages ($259) include lift tickets, rentals, and an introduction to skiing or snowboarding. In addition to great skiing, Bromley’s location near Manchester makes it easy to find cozy accommodations and the perfect apres-ski spot.

Greek Peak

Cortland, N.Y.

The instructors at this resort in the Finger Lakes region use an innovative terrain-based learning model, which uses special snow features to naturally regulate speed and body position, helping to alleviate the anxieties of first-time skiers. The Intro2Snow package provides all-day access to the resort’s learning center, rental equipment and lift tickets for just $115. For skiers looking to practice, the beginner area pass grants access to gentle slopes for just $64. You can also ski at night for $75. on Tuesdays, find all-day lift tickets for $48. Plus, kids under 6 always ski for free. As a bonus, Greek Peak is just 40 minutes outside Ithaca, a lively college town with cultural attractions and superb dining, which means you can plan a comprehensive getaway that combines skiing with off-slope activities.

Pats Peak

Henniker, N.H.

With beautiful views of Mount Monadnock and the Worcester Hills, this small, approachable resort has a relaxed environment where new skiers can build their skills without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. The resort’s Passport Program ($669) for first-time skiers includes lessons over four days and, upon completion, a free season pass and set of skis. Pats Peak also offers pay-one-price (POP) packages for rentals, skiing and group lesson tips starting at $79 (only available on Saturday nights), along with the option for discounted lift tickets depending on the area of the mountain you want to explore.

Saskadena Six

South Pomfret, Vt.

Located near the New Hampshire border in eastern Vermont, Saskadena Six is a solid option for beginners looking for a stress-free day on the slopes. The resort features a well-maintained learning area perfect for first-time skiers, and you can access it for just $35. Skiers can also book the Unlimited Snow Sports Package, which includes unlimited access to Saskadena Six Ski Area, daily breakfast and two nights at the Woodstock Inn, located in historic Woodstock that, in winter, looks like a real-life Christmas village with plenty of shopping and apres-ski dining options.

Ski Butternut

Great Barrington, Mass.

For a beginner-friendly experience with approachable instructors and well-groomed trails, hit this resort located in one of the larger towns in the Berkshires. You’ll have multiple magic carpets, a beginner chairlift and a long green trail perfect for practicing your turns. The adult beginner package ($160) includes a beginner lift ticket, equipment rental and a group lesson for first-time or beginner skiers. Ski Butternut also offers some of the most affordable lift tickets in the region, with prices as low as $25 on Fridays and $40 on weekdays. The resort’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby museums, spas and dining for a well-rounded getaway that includes activities beyond skiing.

Check out AAA member deals at ski resorts nationwide.

Do you know of any other great beginner ski resorts? Is your favorite already on the list? Tell us in the comments.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

If you live in the Northeast, you’ve been through your fair share of snowstorms. You probably even have a memory of your own worst snowstorm — when the snow piled up high against your door, or the power went out or school was closed for a week. In honor of Mother Nature’s icy and relentless wrath, we present the biggest blizzards and worst snowstorms in United States history.

The Great Blizzard of ’88

In March of 1888, the Northeast was faced with one of the worst blizzards in American history. Also known as the Great White Hurricane, the Great Blizzard of ’88 left as much as 55 inches of snowfall in some areas, and caused disaster wherever it went. The entire area from Washington, D.C., to Maine suffered from brutal winds, massive snowdrifts and catastrophic damage. Over the course of the three-day blizzard, over 400 people were killed. Major cities like New York City and Boston ground to a halt as their railway and telegraph lines were buried or destroyed. The disastrous effects of the Great Blizzard of ’88 actually inspired Boston to create the first underground subway system in the country.

The Knickerbocker Storm – 1922

On Jan. 28, 1922, more than 2 feet of snow fell on Washington, D.C. The weight of the snow collapsed the roof of the Knickerbocker Theatre, killing 98 people. This led to stricter building codes to prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again. To this day, the Knickerbocker Storm holds the record for the most snowfall in D.C., and the Knickerbocker Theater’s collapse remains its deadliest disaster.

The Great Appalachian Storm – 1950

On Thanksgiving weekend of 1950, as much as 62 inches of snow blasted the central Appalachians. As if that wasn’t enough, the area was also beset by frigid cold and intense wind storms. Right after the storm passed, temperatures became unseasonably warm, which led to extensive flooding from the snowmelt. Overall, the Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 caused at least 160 deaths.

The Blizzard of ’78

The Blizzard of 1978 struck on Feb. 5, and didn’t dissipate until two days later. The nor’easter broke snowfall records in Boston (27.1 inches), Providence (27.6 inches) and Atlantic City (20.1 inches). The huge amounts of snow dumped by the storm were matched with hurricane-force winds and coastal flooding. The severity of the blizzard hadn’t been anticipated, and many people were forced to shelter in place for days at a time. Motorists found themselves stranded in their cars in the middle of snowy highways. An estimated 100 people lost their lives.

The Storm of the Century – 1993

In March of 1993, a great cyclonic storm formed in the Gulf of Mexico. As the storm progressed up the East Coast, it began to snow in regions as far south as Alabama and Georgia. The snowstorm stretched from those Southern regions into Maine and even Canada. The affected areas were battered with unseasonably frigid temperatures, powerful wind gusts and up to 60 inches of snow. At one point, every major airport on the East Coast was closed. It was one of the first major storms predicted several days in advance thanks to computer forecast models. While the advanced warnings no doubt saved lives, 318 people still lost their lives. The Storm of the Century is known as one of the deadliest American storms of the 20th century.

The Great Blizzard of 2003

From Valentine’s Day to Feb. 19, the Great Blizzard of 2003 swept across the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast. Every major city from Washington, D.C., to Boston was covered in an enormous blanket of snow, with many areas getting up to 2 feet. Airports across the Northeast suspended flights and shut down operations completely, while New York City, Boston and Philadelphia transformed into icy ghost towns as residents hunkered down against the bitter cold. The Great Blizzard of 2003 caused 27 deaths and put an entire region of the country on hold.

Snowmageddon – 2010

In February of 2010, two blizzards — one on Feb. 4-7 and one on Feb. 9-11 — hit within just days of each other. Most people agree that “Snowmageddon” refers to the first blizzard, but the second storm is sometimes included in the term. However you define it, it was called “Snowmageddon” for a reason: The storm wreaked havoc across the country, icing over roads in New Mexico and shutting down the federal government in the nation’s capital. The massive storm also led to transportation shutdowns and power outages, and killed 41 people in the U.S. and Mexico.

Snowzilla – 2016

A January 2016 blizzard, hailed as Snowzilla, paralyzed the entire East Coast, leaving hundreds of thousands without power. Snow fell in areas as far south as Georgia, Alabama and even the Florida Panhandle. With intense snowfall, hail, wind gusts and whiteout conditions, it was unsafe to travel even short distances. In all, 55 people lost their lives. The snow reached a maximum height of 42 inches in Glengary, West Virginia.

December 2022 North American Winter Storm

The most recent storm on the list hit the United States and raged on from Dec. 21 to Dec. 26. The December 2022 North American Winter Storm was a bomb cyclone that buffeted the Midwest and the Great Lakes region with blizzard conditions, even dumping as much as 55 inches of snow in Buffalo, New York. A wide swath of the country also experienced extremely cold temperatures, even if they didn’t get hit with any snow. The unprecedented scope of this storm is estimated to have affected 60% of Americans, who received winter weather advisories or warnings, and caused massive disruptions for travelers during the busy Christmas season. As a result of the storm, 106 people across the United States and Canada lost their lives.

What’s the worst snowstorm in United States history that you remember? How did you stay warm? Tell us your story in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

As the region endures winter’s frigid grip, AAA is reminding drivers to check their vehicle’s battery and charging system to prevent facing a dead battery to start the next cold morning.

A typical battery requires 30% more power to start a vehicle when the temperature reaches 32 degrees. Additionally, a battery can lose up to 50% of its capacity when the temperature approaches zero degrees. This combination of cold-diminished batteries requiring more energy to start a vehicle is why many cars fail to start during cold snaps.

“The recent cold affecting the region could lead to a spike in dead batteries partly due to many vehicles sitting parked for extended periods of time over the holidays,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “If your car has been idle for several days, consider starting it and going for a drive before your next essential trip.”

The average battery reaches the end of its life between four and six years. As batteries age, they’re more susceptible to the impact of cold on capacity and starting power. The only way to gauge remaining life is with a battery test.

AAA offers the following tips to ensure your car will start no matter how cold it gets outside:

• Consider having the battery and charging system tested at an AAA Approved Auto Repair facility if your battery is older than three years or you’ve noticed recent difficulty starting your vehicle in the cold. If you have a dead battery and need a replacement, AAA members have access to mobile car battery replacement.

• Short trips might not be enough to keep your battery charged, especially when heating systems cause extra strain in cold weather. If you don’t drive often, consider driving the car for at least 30 minutes once or twice a week. It won’t fully charge the battery, but it can help.

• When you first get in a cold car, make sure all the lights and accessories are turned off. If your car doesn’t start on the first try, wait 10-15 seconds and try again.

• If your car is likely to sit idle for days at a time, a trickle charger or battery booster pack might be a worthwhile investment.

The same advice applies to owners of electric vehicles, which also come equipped with 12-volt batteries. AAA recommends the following cold-weather tips for EV drivers:

• EV range can be reduced anywhere from 20% to 50% in subfreezing temperatures. To maximize range in cold weather, keep the vehicle plugged in so the battery is warmed by the cold weather preconditioning and remains at its optimum operating temperature.

• Warm the vehicle’s cabin when the vehicle is plugged in.

• Depending on the vehicle, seat heaters might be more efficient than the heater.

• Drive at moderate speeds to maximize efficiency and reduce battery drain.

Below are the most popular Car Doctor questions asked in 2025.

Q. My question is that I recently switched my oil changes from regular oil to synthetic. My car is a 2009 Camry LE with about 145,000 miles on it. The shop where I had the work done said that once I switch to synthetic oil, I can’t go back to using regular oil. Is the shop correct? Why would they say this?

A. There is no reason you can’t switch back to conventional oil although you may not want to. In most cases synthetic oil starts life as conventional oil and then is highly processed with different additive packages. Many shops are only using synthetic or blends these days. Synthetic oil offers better lubrication at all temperatures and easier engine starting in cold weather.

Q. My car battery is 7-years-old and the car starts just fine. Should I change it or can it go longer?

A. The average life of a battery in the Northeast is just under five years. Recently AAA replaced a 15-year-old battery. I have personally had a battery last seven years and also replaced one at four years old My advice is unless you test your battery on a regular basis, replace it before it leaves you stranded.

Q. When I talk with people about maintaining their cars I hear all kinds of advice. Even when I go to the dealership the personnel don’t always agree on when regular service should be performed. As an example, I have been told with my Toyota Corolla the oil should be changed every 3000 miles. I have also been told the oil should be changed yearly. How do I know what is right? 

A. Whenever in doubt, I refer to the vehicles owner’s manual. In the case of your Toyota the owner’s manual could list an annual oil change yearly or every 10,000 miles whichever comes first. What is important with long service intervals is that you routinely/monthly check vital fluids, tires and tire pressure as well as drive belts and coolant hoses. Spending a few minutes every month checking these items can help prevent a breakdown on the road.

Q. As I get older, I’m finding it a bit more challenging to drive at night. I’m going to use one of the headlight restoration kits to clean the headlight lenses on my Camry (I did them approximately 3 or 4 years ago and it seemed to help a bit).  I’m also thinking of changing the headlight bulbs.  I typically would just but whatever they have at the local auto parts store for comparable bulbs. However, I did some research on the internet and came across LED headlights; they get very good reviews and are supposedly “brighter” than the regular halogen bulbs that came with the vehicle.  My question is – is it ok to use LED type bulbs in place of the regular halogen type bulbs?  I plan to replace all four bulbs.  

A. Unfortunately as we age, we need more light to see. In fact we need three times as much light to see at age 60 than at age 20. Aftermarket LED bulbs that replace conventional headlights are actually illegal and violate the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations. The issue is they are brighter but not particularly well focused. This extra light, dazzle and poor beam pattern also can blind oncoming drivers.  Personally I have had good results with  Sylvania Silver Star Plus bulbs. The Sylvania bulbs seem brighter and whiter. Although like most high-performance products, they don’t last as long as the stock blub. The other issue with LEDs replacement bulbs is that sometimes they can cause electronic issues. These issues can be minor such as a warning light illuminated or in some cases, I have seen the body control computer fail due to a poorly made LED bulb.

Q. I recently purchased a new Genesis GV70 which to date has been the nicest vehicle I have ever owned. The dealer told me that I need to have it served at a Genesis dealer to maintain the warranty. This was not the case with my last car, is this true?

A. That is false. You can have an independent shop do repairs and perform regular maintenance. You can even perform the service yourself. What is important is that you use original or a quality aftermarket part that meets the original specification. Also document all service performed with the date and mileage. This way if there is a warranty question you will have the documentation that the work was performed as required.

Q. When I step on the brake, I get a vibration. The steering wheel shakes a bit. I took the car into my local shop, and they said the brakes were okay but the brake rotors were out of round. I had the brakes replaced and now all if fine. How do I avoid this from happening again.

A. The number one reason that brake rotors become distorted is due to poorly tightened wheels. Whenever a tire/wheel is installed on a vehicle it should be tightened with a torque wrench to the specified “tightness”. Fully tightening a wheel with an impact wrench or even improperly by hand can cause a brake vibration. The vibration may not happen immediately but will show up over time.

Lower oil prices and light trading volumes in petroleum markets over the holidays contributed to cheaper gas prices. Over the holiday-shortened trading week, oil prices ended last week nearly 3% lower as markets monitored recent geopolitical activity impacting oil markets. 

The muted market activity last week occurred alongside a lack of data guidance. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) did not release its weekly supply and demand report due to the holiday closure of government agencies on Dec. 24 and 25. The report, which typically is released on Wednesday mornings, was delayed until Monday, Dec. 29. 

“As the end of the year approaches, the price of gasoline across the Northeast is at or near yearly lows,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Prices typically reach annual lows in the depths of winter, and time will tell when the bottom is reached.” 

AAA’s Dec. 29 survey of fuel prices found the national average down 3 cents from last week ($2.85), averaging $2.82 per gallon. The Dec. 29 national average price was 19 cents lower than a month ago ($3.01) and 20 cents lower than this day last year ($3.02). 

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$3.04	$3.06	$3.13	$3.12
New Jersey	$2.84	$2.87	$3.01	$2.92
New York	$3.04	$3.06	$3.13	$3.12
Massachusetts	$2.96	$2.97	$3.03	$3.02
Rhode Island	$2.88	$2.90	$3.01	$2.95

*Prices as of Dec. 29, 2025 

As of Dec. 29, Oklahoma and Iowa had the lowest prices in the nation at $2.23 and $2.34, respectively. Hawaii and California held the highest prices in the nation at $4.41 and $4.28 respectively. 

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

In a time of economic uncertainty marked by soaring prices, Americans are nevertheless optimistic about the financial outlook for 2026: 63% said they expect to do better financially in 2026 than in 2025, according to a NerdWallet survey. And 82% reported feeling either partially or very confident about meeting 2026 financial resolutions, noted another survey from 401K Specialist magazine.

Americans’ top financial goals for 2026 include paying down debt, increasing income and saving more, noted Edward Jones.

Whatever the goals, whether someone is aspiring to save more money, buy a car or a house or pay down student loans, they should start by assessing their income and spending, according to Ted Lyons, vice president of financial services for AAA Northeast.

Build That Emergency Fund

One of the places those savings should go is an emergency fund. This is money put aside in the event of an unexpected expense, such as a major car repair, a medical procedure, a broken appliance or a job loss. Some experts say you should have enough money saved to cover six months of household expenses, but if you can’t manage that, base your savings on what you spent on your last significant expense. One way you can guarantee regular savings is by having money taken out of your paycheck each time you are paid. Without an emergency fund, if something breaks, you will be forced to turn to credit cards and could start accumulating debt.

Planning for a Car

When it comes to meeting specific financial goals, such as buying a house or car, first take stock of your financial situation, Lyons said. Tally how much you currently earn, spend and save.

“Ideally, you don’t want to make rash decisions on any of these large purchases,” he added. “If the car is acting up, start doing research. Look into your credit report to make sure it’s accurate and resolve any items that may be on your report in error.”

Decide if you want to lease or buy a car. Once you know, determine what you can afford, factoring in other expenses, such as gas, maintenance and insurance.

Research cars, get member pricing on in-stock dealer inventory and apply for an auto loan all in one place with the AAA Auto Buying Program.

Identify the car you want and start looking at what they are selling for. Shop around for the best loan interest rates and then get pre-approved for a loan.

“If you do all those things, you can be prepared to act when that unicorn shows up,” Lyons said. Otherwise, if you see a car on a lot that you like, but haven’t researched or still need financing, you will be at a disadvantage to negotiate. If you don’t act and leave to do your homework, the car may be gone when you return. 

Unfortunately, when it comes to cars, you don’t always have time to plan. If your car suddenly stops working or is totaled in a crash, you may have little choice when it comes to securing a loan or maybe even getting your first-choice car. Although there is the potential to refinance a higher-interest loan you may have taken with the dealer.

Get low rates on auto loan refinancing with AAA.

Time to House Hunt

The process is similar if your goal is to buy a house. First determine what you can afford. The total value of the house should not exceed three to five times your annual household income, according to Fidelity. Saving money for a down payment is critical, added Lyons. The larger your down payment, the lower your monthly mortgage payment. Pay off credit cards balances, starting with the ones with the highest interest rates, to improve your credit rating and enable you to save more money.

Shop around to get the best mortgage rate, and if you can, get preapproved for a mortgage. Buyers need to be ready.

Learn how to be the best mortgage loan candidate.

Evaluating Student Loans

Refinancing private student loans is another issue that gets a look as a new year starts. Unfortunately, the current interest rates for private loans are likely higher than what customers already are paying, said Donald Kerr, director of student lending and college services for AAA Northeast. The interest rates for a private student loan currently start at 2.89%.

If you still want to consider refinancing, research lenders to find the best interest rates. A higher credit score is usually necessary to get the lowest rate. If you have multiple loans, consolidating them into one payment can save money and make repaying easier. Once you are approved for a loan and complete any necessary paperwork, the new lender will pay off the loan and set you up with a new rate and payment terms.

If you have a federal student loan, refinancing it usually is not advantageous, Kerr said. You may get a lower rate, but you will lose the protections and perks that come with a government loan, such as the opportunity to apply for deferrals and loan forgiveness programs.  

Learn about affordable and flexible student loan options with AAA.

Whatever your financial goals, AAA Northeast is available to help. Contact AAA Financial Services.

Did you set any financial resolutions for the new year?

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Paying a fine for a traffic violation is painful enough, but for many drivers, the added penalty of license points is even worse, as points can jeopardize your driving privileges and increase auto insurance premiums.

The majority of U.S. states use a points system for driver’s license violations, with nine exceptions, including Rhode Island. While the types of offenses and number of points given vary by state, the principle is the same: Accumulating too many points eventually leads to having your license suspended and, potentially, revoked.

In New York, drivers receive two points for not signaling and five points for failing to stop for a school bus. Drivers who get 11 points in 18 months can have their license suspended.

Points can remain on a driver’s record for several years and, depending on the severity of the offense, could cause a driver’s insurance rates to go up.

Some states, including New York, allow drivers to reduce points on their licenses by taking classes, such as the AAA Defensive Driving Course, which can possibly reduce their insurance costs as well.

In the Northeast, these three states have license point reduction programs. Note: Connecticut and Massachusetts do not have point reduction programs.

New Hampshire

Drivers with at least three points on their licenses can have three points removed by completing a driver improvement course, including one offered by AAA of Northern New England. The point total may be reduced, but the points will remain on the driver’s record. Drivers must take the course in person in New Hampshire. If they don’t take a class to reduce points, they will remain on their license for three years.

New Jersey

Garden State drivers who accumulate six or more points within three years are assessed a surcharge. Your license is suspended if you get 12 points or more on your record. Drivers can reduce their point total by having no violations or suspensions for one year or by taking a qualified class to reduce points on a license. Once the course is completed, two points may be removed from the driver’s license.

New York

To reduce points on your license in New York, you need to complete an approved defensive driving course. This can decrease point totals by four points every 18 months. Taking a course also may reduce insurance premiums, but drivers need to take a course every 36 months to keep any discount. Drivers can take courses in person or online (the AAA Defensive Driving Course is available both ways). Even after completing the course, most violations, convictions and points will remain on your driving record for as long as four years, according to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

Point reductions will have no effect if a driver’s license has already been suspended or revoked. And violations such as driving while intoxicated, driving while ability impaired or getting three speeding tickets within 18 months, will result in mandatory license suspension or revocation, regardless of points.

Learn more about the AAA Defensive Driving Course or sign up now.

Have you ever taken a defensive driving course for license point reduction? Tell us about it in the comments below.

A dead battery. Snow, ice and salt buildup. Frozen door locks. Many of winter’s harmful effects on your car are readily apparent. Others, however, you may not notice until it’s too late. Such is often the case for one of the most prevalent issues motorists must contend with during the colder months: low tire pressure.

There’s no way around it — your car tires will lose air pressure at a faster rate when the cold weather arrives. Here are the reasons behind low tire pressure in the winter, why underinflated tires cause a serious safety risk and ways to keep your tires solid when the weather is cold.

What Causes Low Tire Pressure in the Winter?

The simple answer to this question is cold temperatures. As you may remember from grade school science classes, when a substance is cooled, its molecules slow down and move closer together. In other words, the substance becomes compact and dense.

This same principle causes low tire pressure in the winter. As the temperature drops, the air molecules condense and exert less pressure on the walls of the tire.

As a general rule, a tire will lose one pound per square inch with every 10-degree drop in temperature. This is in addition to the one-to-two pounds per square inch (psi) tires typically lose each month from normal, everyday driving.

The Dangers of Low Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure can be expensive — it causes fuel inefficiency (which will cost you at the pump) and premature tread wearing (which means forking over money for a new set of tires). But driving with underinflated tires isn’t just a financial drain, it’s a serious safety hazard. Low tire pressure makes it more difficult to steer and stop, which can easily contribute to a crash. A worn-down tire is also more prone to punctures that will leave you with a flat.

Most notably on the safety front, low tire pressure can cause a blowout. When a tire is underinflated, more of its surface comes in contact with the road. This increases friction that, in turn, causes a buildup of heat. If the air inside a tire gets too hot, a portion of the rubber wall can pop loose. The sudden rupture causes an immediate and rapid loss of air. Blowouts are extremely dangerous as they can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and force other drivers to deal with a flying piece of debris.

When to Check Tire Pressure in Winter

The aforementioned dangers can all be prevented by taking the simple step of checking your tire pressure more often in the winter. Nowadays, most cars have tire-pressure monitoring systems that alert drivers via dashboard light when the tires are under inflated. But it’s best to keep your tires inflated rather than wait until they are underinflated.

You should be checking your tire pressure at least once a month throughout the year. During the winter, however, you’ll likely need to double the frequency. To get the most accurate reading, check your tire pressure using a high-quality air gauge in the morning or after the car has been idle for several hours. Tires and the air inside them will get hot when in use, causing the air to expand and pressure to increase. You need the tires to be cold to prevent a false reading. If the low-pressure light comes on when you start your car but goes away once you begin driving, you still have underinflated tires.

Compare the reading with the manufacturer’s tire pressure recommendation, which can be found in the owner’s manual and on the driver’s-side doorjamb. Once your tires are inflated to the recommended level, you’re good to go!

Winter is one season not to be trifled with. Learn how to prepare your car and stay safe on the road during the cold-weather months.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Winter storms, including snow, ice, freezing and flooding, have cost billions of dollars in insured losses over the past few years alone, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Wind and hail consistently lead homeowners claims, followed by water damage and freezing.

Make sure you’re ready for winter insurance risks and the challenges cold weather may bring your way.

Top Winter Insurance Claims

• Ice dams. When cold weather persists, ice dams can form on the edge of your roof, blocking melting snow from falling away and refreezing as temperatures drop. This cycle of melting and refreezing can cause ice to form under shingles and could eventually lead to leaks and water damage inside your home.
• Roof and siding damage. Heavy snowfall, sleet, hail and perilous winds can make winter weather unpredictable. Because roofing and siding bear the brunt of this impact, they comprise a significant portion of homeowner losses over the winter months.
• Losses from falling tress and limbs. This is one of the most common claims AAA Insurance sees. While structural damages to your home or car caused by falling trees and limbs from heavy snow and wind are obvious losses, power loss could also be an issue. To possibly get reimbursed for the cost of lost groceries due to a power outage, check with your insurance agent to see if food spoilage coverage is on your policy.
• Frozen pipes. The most common winter insurance claims stem from how the elements affect your home’s exterior, but don’t forget about your plumbing. When pipes freeze, they can burst and cause substantial water damage. The most severe instances happen when homes experience a power outage, resulting in a loss of heat over a significant period of time. So, if you plan on being away from home for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to shut off the water to your home and drain your pipes.
• House Fire. This kind of property damage is typically traced back to a secondary heating source. “Although many homeowners think of themselves as being responsible with this, individuals that live in multi-family homes, apartments or condos need to also consider if they’re adequately covered if they suffered a loss due to a neighbor’s negligence,” said Jodi DeSantis, vice president of insurance sales for AAA Northeast.

What You Can Do to Prepare for Winter

• Fight back against ice damming. Add extra insulation to your roof to let the indoor heat melt the snow and ice slowly from the inside out. If your roof is prone to ice damming, use a roof rake shortly after a storm to clear as much snow off as you can, even if it’s just around the gutter line. Do not climb onto the roof; if you need a more thorough cleaning, hire a contractor.
• Insulate your pipes, doors and windows. By adding insulation to your hot water pipes, you can minimize the chances those pipes will freeze over and blow. Air leaks near doors or windows should also be eliminated with weather stripping or other door draft stoppers.
• Keep an eye on your trees. Fallen tree branches are one of the most likely – and most damaging – forms of debris you’ll face during cold weather. To prevent damage, trim back any trees that are too close to your home or driveway.
• Inspect your ducts and plumbing. Your furnace and heating ducts need to be in working order to prevent or minimize winter damage. Reach out to a professional if needed for a thorough inspection.

Review Your Insurance Policy

Try to make a habit of reviewing your insurance policy and updating your documentation, including photos, to reflect your home’s condition before the winter. This gives you an opportunity to refresh your understanding of what is included and, accordingly, what actions you might need to take to protect your home.

Most home insurance policies will provide coverage for wind or falling debris that may cause damage to your home.

Damage caused by flooding — which can occur in the winter if the temperature spikes — is not within the scope of a standard policy. Flood insurance must be purchased separately. In insurance terms, a “flood” has a very specific definition and is excluded from a homeowner policy; however, water from a leaking pipe, for example, is typically protected if purchased as part of a policyholder’s coverage.

Get A Home Insurance Quote

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Forget about new year, new you — how about new year, new hobbies?

Trying a new hobby can help you relax, learn something, get in shape or even make friends.

Today’s hobby choices are not limited to legacy pastimes, such as stamp collecting, birdwatching or fishing. Not that there is anything wrong with those. People are thinking outside the hobby box, taking up everything from tossing axes to throwing themed dinner parties, so finding something that interests you should be easy.

The Benefits of Having a Hobby

Hobbies have numerous physical and mental health benefits, according to UCLA health. These include boosting your mood, improving your overall health, reducing your risk of chronic diseases and enhancing your cognitive abilities, not to mention the perks tied to specific activities.

Before choosing a hobby, reflect on your interests, goals, strengths, what you enjoy doing and the type of pastime that interests you. Do you want to get in shape, meet more people, develop a skill or just need a reason to quit streaming at night?

Start by revisiting the leisure activities you enjoyed when you were younger and see if you want to pursue any of those interests. Also ask friends and relatives for suggestions and why they enjoy their hobbies.

8 New Hobbies to Try

Painting

Besides being relaxing, painting is good exercise for your hands and fingers and is a way to boost creative thinking and problem-solving skills. It is also inexpensive and provides artwork for your home and gifts for others. If you want to socialize, attend or host a paint night, where people often snack and sip while they paint. Well-known people, like former President George W. Bush, took up painting as a hobby later in life.

Knitting and Crocheting

Studies have shown that knitting and crocheting benefit both the mind and body. The movements help keep hands and fingers nimble and learning complex stitches and patterns challenges the brain. Knitting and crocheting have also been shown to reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Besides that, you don’t need much to get started and you can knit and crochet almost anywhere. Check in your community for in-person classes that teach knitting and crocheting or learn from online tutorials. Plus, once you start completing projects, they can be given as gifts or donated.

Running

Of course, running has physical benefits — burning calories, increasing stamina, building muscle and decreasing your risk for heart disease. It also is a great stress reducer, releasing endorphins that help regulate mood. Running outside is even more beneficial, allowing you to escape from work or home pressures, get a taste of nature and a dose of vitamin D if it’s sunny. Plus, the initial investment in equipment is minimal. Listen to this episode of our podcast “Merging Into Life” to learn more about getting started as a runner.

Cooking

Cooking can be more than just getting food on the table. It’s a low-cost, creative, practical hobby that can involve the whole family. Not to mention, cooking reduces stress and can improve your well-being, since you will know everything that goes into your food. If, initially, you find cooking stressful, make sure you have all the ingredients and tools you need before starting a recipe. Experiment and develop your own dishes or add personal touches to some of your favorites. Or pick a favorite cuisine and focus on that. Get inspired by some of the trending recipes on TikTok.

Exercising

Exercising and going to the gym can often feel excruciating, but the trick is to find a workout you really enjoy. If you like music and being around people, consider aerobics, Zumba or dance. If not, pop in your earbuds and start cycling or hit the treadmill. Once you get into a routine and start to see results from regular exercise, such as more energy, better mood and more-toned muscles, continuing will be easy. Challenging yourself with goals, such as spending one more minute on the treadmill or completing another repetition also builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

AAA Northeast members can find their perfect gym with the Active&Fit Direct™ Program, which provides access to more than 12,700 gyms, wellness coaching and workout videos for a monthly fee of $28. There are no long-term contracts, so it’s easy to change gyms. After a year, members get back 10% of their membership fees.

Traveling

Some consider travel more of an interest than a hobby, but either way, it’s a wonderful way to spend your time. If you are new to traveling or plan to expand your horizons, AAA Travel can help you plan every aspect of a trip: booking flights, hotels, cruises and things to see and do. Experiencing new places spurs personal growth and appreciation of other cultures. It expands your knowledge base, recharges you and creates indelible memories.

Travel can also inspire another hobby — photography. No vacation is complete without a collection of stunning photos of the places you don’t want to forget. Photos give you a chance to tell stories and see the world differently. Research cameras to see which type is best for you. Mobile phones have excellent cameras, but you may want something more.

Simple Sculpting

You can create permanent works of art in 24 to 48 hours with air-dry clay, which doesn’t require a kiln. Clay kits with tools and paints, like this one, make it easy to start. Your air-dry clay creations can include magnets, jewelry and small trays. A few cautions: Objects made with this type of clay are not waterproof, cannot hold food and can be fragile.

Rock Climbing

If you can’t picture yourself dangling over a cliff, no worries. Indoor and outdoor rock climbing have been growing in popularity, and many rock-climbing gyms offer classes on how to do it safely. Climbing provides both physical and mental workouts. It builds strength and benefits your heart. Plus, mapping out the best route to the top exercises your problem-solving skills. Climbing gyms also provide a chance to socialize.

And with thousands of hobbies to try, if you don’t like your first pick, you can always move on.

Word guessing games have become a popular pastime in recent years. See if you can guess some other modern hobbies and pastimes in this WordroW puzzle.

Do you have a new or favorite hobby? Tell us about it in the comments.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) last week reported a 380,000 barrel a day drop in gasoline demand, which fell to 8.56 million barrels a day for the week ending Dec. 26. The figure might seem lower than expected during a busy holiday travel period, but it landed nearly 400,000 barrels a day higher than the comparable weeks in 2024 and 2023.  

As demand cools, inventories are up for a seventh straight week, climbing by 5.8 million barrels, according to last week’s EIA report. Steady production and wobbly demand since November have led to 29 million barrels of gasoline being moved into storage over the period. Growing supplies are a major reason why pump prices have steadily ticked down since the start of winter. 

Oil prices, meanwhile, remain in a range between $57 and $61 a barrel as markets closely watch developments in Venezuela. The long-term impact on oil and gas prices remains unclear. While Venezuela sits on one of the largest oil reserves in the world, it averaged between 500,000 and 900,000 barrels a day of oil production in 2025. In comparison, the United States averaged about 13.8 million barrels a day of oil production in 2025. 

“While geopolitical events do sometimes rattle global oil and gas markets in the short term, the immediate impact on pump prices here in the Northeast could be minimal as oil prices remain stable,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “Ultimately, regional supply and demand for motor fuels is the key driver of pump prices close to home.” 

AAA’s Jan. 5 survey of fuel prices found the national average down a penny from the previous week ($2.82), averaging $2.81 per gallon. The Jan. 5 national average price was 16 cents lower than a month ago ($2.97) and 25 cents lower than this day last year ($3.06). 

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$2.91	$2.95	$3.06	$3.02
Massachusetts	$2.94	$2.96	$3.02	$3.01
New Jersey	$2.81	$2.84	$2.99	$2.97
New York	$3.02	$3.04	$3.12	$3.12
Rhode Island	$2.87	$2.88	$2.98	$2.93

*Prices as of Jan. 5, 2026 

As of Jan. 5, Oklahoma and Iowa had the lowest prices in the nation at $2.21 and $2.32, respectively. Hawaii and California held the highest prices in the nation at $4.40 and $4.26 respectively.  

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.  

The United States has its share of dangerous roads — from mountainside passages in Colorado to isolated trucking routes in Alaska and speedy expressways cutting through tourist-heavy destinations.

But if you look beyond our country’s borders, you’ll find that these pale in comparison to the most harrowing roads in the world. These treacherous trails are a driver’s worst nightmare: sharp, winding routes through nearly impassable terrain, wide open to the wicked whims of mother nature, not to mention gravity. And not a guardrail in sight.

From the shores of the Norwegian Sea to the peaks of the Himalayan mountains, here are some of the world’s most nerve-racking roads.

Karakoram Highway

Pakistan and China

The Karakoram Highway is widely regarded as one of the most impressive engineering feats in recent times. The 800-mile road linking China and Pakistan is said to be the highest paved road in the world, reaching heights of more than 15,000 feet above sea level. That’s more than halfway to the top of Mount Everest. Because of this challenging terrain, construction of the Karakoram Highway took roughly two decades. It also claimed the lives of more than 1,000 workers, most of whom died in one of the region’s notorious, and frequent, landslides.

The mountainous home of the Karakoram Highway is the site of countless land- and mud-slides, rock falls, floods, avalanches and earthquakes. Add in hairpin turns and steep drops along the side and you have what many people consider the most dangerous road in the world.

Although open to the public, and a popular tourist destination, the Karakoram Highway is not for the faint of heart.

North Yungas Road

Bolivia

There is one place in Bolivia where vehicles travel on the left side: North Yungas Road. The exception is made here because it gives drivers a better view of the edge of the road — and the 2,000-foot drop beyond it.

Nicknamed “Death Road,” North Yungas features a a perfect storm of perilous driving conditions. The 43-mile path connecting Bolivia’s capital La Paz to the Amazonian town of Coroico is carved into the side of the Cordillera Oriental mountains. It descends nearly 12,000 feet, making it one of the longest stretches of continuous downhill road in the world.

The road itself is rarely more than 10 feet wide and plagued by landslides, fog and heavy rain. As a result, hundreds of drivers are estimated to die on the road annually.

In 2009, the Bolivian government built a new, safer route nearby. North Yungas Road, however, is still open to cars.

Atlantic Ocean Road

Norway

Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road looks less like a traversable highway and more like a roller coaster-esque racecourse straight out of a video game. The 5.2-mile road snakes and undulates across the harsh Norwegian Sea, leaving itself susceptible to the blustery winds and crashing waves that accompany the area’s frequent storms. The dangerous road’s location delivers some otherworldly views, which explains the several designated viewing spots along the route. Just make sure to do your sightseeing on fair-weather days.

Guoliang Tunnel

China

Perusing the list of the world’s most dangerous roads, you’ll notice many are found alongside mountains. The Guoliang Tunnel, however, is carved into mountains, China’s Taihang Mountains, to be exact. Just 15-feet high, 13-feet wide and holding the distinction as one of the steepest roads in the world, the perilous tunnel was built out of necessity, according to the Daily Mail. Prior to 1972, the only access to the remote village of Guoliang was through a footpath consisting of 720 steps.

The village wanted to create a more accessible route to the outside world. Shockingly, it took just 13 local villagers to construct the nearly mile-long tunnel (along with 4,000 hammers, 12 tons of steel and five years’ time).

Driving on the road requires laser-like focus, as the path twists and turns without much notice. As if these hazards weren’t enough, motorists will also have to navigate around the crowds of footbound tourists looking to get a firsthand look at what has become a popular tourist attraction.

Passage du Gois

France

The Passage du Gois is a nearly three-mile road located along France’s Atlantic coast, connecting the mainland to the island of Noirmoutier. At first glance, it may seem like a safe, serene roadway. But, twice a day, like clockwork, the Passage du Gois becomes one of the world’s most dangerous roads. Because the path is essentially at sea level, when the tide comes in, it’s flooded under several feet of water.

Digital panels inform drivers when the road is passable. As you can imagine, not everyone obeys these warnings, leading to many a trapped tourist. Elevated towers have been placed along the road for stranded travelers to wait out the tide.

Zoji La

India

Any list of the world’s most dangerous roads surely must include one that winds through the most treacherous terrain on Earth: the Himalayan mountains. Situated more than 11,500 feet above sea level, the 16-mile pass connects Ladakh and Kashmir. The winding, partially unpaved road is most perilous due to the region’s notoriously brutal weather. Zoji La is typically closed during the winter due to snowfall that can total more than 50 feet. There have also been at least 60 landslides fall across the roadway, according to the Daily Mail.

Bayburt-Of Road

Turkey

Zigzagging up the 6,000-foot-high Soganli Mountain, with no guardrails to speak of, is the northern section of Turkey’s state road D915, known as Bayburt-Of Road. The passageway was built back in 1916, but we use the term “built” generously, as the road is made of nothing more than dirt and loose gravel.

All told, the dizzying drive contains 29 hairpin turns. Add in a crumbling road conditions, sections so narrow they can barely fit two cars, and unpredictable snow, blizzards and fog, and you have a road to be avoided at all costs.

Sichuan-Tibet Highway

China

When you think of what makes these roads so dangerous, you’d likely form a list of the usual suspects: sharp turns, poor infrastructure, crowded paths, hazardous weather conditions, etc. One factor that probably wouldn’t come to mind, though, is altitude sickness.

The Sichuan-Tibet Highway spans more than 1,300 miles across China. Along the way, it traverses more than a dozen mountains that reach heights of over 16,000 feet. The air at that altitude contains half the amount of oxygen than at sea level. This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches and nausea.

But then you have to deal with the road itself, which consists of poor driving surfaces, hairpin turns around mountains and nerve-wracking bridge crossings. Did we mention the frequent snow, ice and landfalls?

Skipper’s Canyon

New Zealand

Just how dangerous is New Zealand’s Skippers Canyon Road? So dangerous rental car companies forbid customers from driving on it. Indeed, the route through the Skippers Canyon Gorge is not for the faint of heart — or the claustrophobic. The vast majority of the twisting, unpaved road is too narrow for more than a single car to pass. Should you encounter another vehicle on your journey, one of you will have to back up until you find a spot wide enough for you both.

Skippers Canyon Road was built by miners in the late 1800s during their search for gold. Unless you, too, want to test your luck, we suggest traveling the road via professional tour companies familiar with the route.

Make sure to brush up on your safe driving tips before you go on your next adventure.

Have you driven on any of the most dangerous roads in the world? How was the experience? Let us know in the comments below!

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

When it comes to roadside service companies, you want one with experience, expertise and above all else, a name synonymous with safety.

This is where AAA Roadside Assistance stands above the competition. AAA has delivered reliable roadside assistance throughout the U.S. and Canada for more than 120 years. It’s also often considered the best roadside assistance for families, with memberships getting passed down from one generation to the next.

With AAA, there are no hidden costs or surprises — just fast, guaranteed roadside assistance when you need it. Every benefit is clearly outlined in your membership, and you can choose from multiple tiers to fit your needs.

AAA is recognized as the most reputable brand in America for automotive information and support, according to Morning Consult’s 2025 Most Trusted Brands report. And it beats all major roadside assistance providers in overall customer satisfaction for car roadside assistance as reflected in 2024 AAA U.S. Market Track national surveys.

Here’s why.

Just the Facts

Benefit	AAA Roadside Assistance	Other Roadside Service Providers
A name you can trust	✅ 120-plus years and more than 27 million roadside requests annually.	❌ Other providers offer a quick fix, but only AAA is ranked No. 1 in customer satisfaction.
Protection in any vehicle	✅ AAA membership covers the member, not the vehicle, so you’re protected in any car, even if you’re riding with a friend or using a rental.	❌ Other providers limit coverage to the car that’s registered to you.
No surprises or hidden fees	✅ All services are covered by membership with transparency on limits and additional charges.	❌ Some providers charge al la carte for services or offer low introductory subscription rates that jump when it’s time to renew.
24/7 availability	✅ Members can request service at any time, 365 days a year. On average, AAA helps one member every second.	❌ Some towing companies operate only during regular business hours.
Approved network of tow trucks and trained technicians	✅ AAA uses its own fleet and a trusted network of vetted independent service providers.	❌ Other providers rely on third-party networks and outsourced chaos.
Emergency services	✅ Flat tires, jump-starts, lockouts, fuel delivery and more.	❌ Limited.
Battery service	✅ AAA offers complete on-the-spot battery service, including testing, delivery, replacement and recycling. We replace over 2 million batteries per year!	❌ Limited.
Resolves issues at the scene	✅ Over half of tow requests end with members getting safely back on the road — no tow needed.*	❌ A tow could be all you get for your money.
Choice of towing destination	✅ Tow to your mechanic, dealership or home, or choose from AAA’s network of 6,000-plus Approved Auto Repair Facilities.	❌ Some companies pledge to tow you an unlimited distance but will often take you to the nearest facility, which saves them money.
Bicycle roadside assistance	✅ We’ll pick you and your bike up. Depending on membership level, roadside assistance is also available for specialty vehicles, like motorcycles and RVs.	❌ Limited.
Added perks	✅ Members enjoy travel, insurance and financial services, exclusive discounts, access to AAA branches for DMV/RMV services (in select locations) and more. Members who use AAA Discounts & Rewards save an average of $220 annually.	❌

Take a virtual ride-along on a AAA roadside call!

How to Request AAA Northeast Roadside Assistance

• Call: 800-222-8252

• Request online: AAA.com/GetMoving

• Use the AAA Auto Club App

For the Best Roadside Assistance, AAA Has the Advantage

Learn more about the benefits of being a AAA member.

Sign up to be a AAA member.

*R12 December 2024 Tableau/EDR. AAA Member PFCR and RAP calls) (52.9%). The Go-Rate is the ratio of calls that were dispatched as a Tow Service and were resolved at the scene of disablement — allowing the member to safely drive their vehicle in lieu of the vehicle being towed.