Air Travel

Find Sun, Sand and Serenity on an Aruba Vacation

An Aruba vacation is, in many ways, perfect. There’s near-eternal sunshine, it’s located outside of the path of hurricanes and serves up a variety of top resorts, dining and activities wrapped around a friendly and welcoming vibe.

“Aruba is an extremely safe island, which appeals to a lot of people,” said AAA travel advisor Jennifer MacPherson. “It’s OK to walk around at night. It’s got great all-inclusive resorts, and it’s also an excellent place to stay at a non-all-inclusive hotel because there are so many restaurants to choose from.”

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At 75 square miles, Aruba is small enough to explore easily but big enough that it’s possible to find solitude without having to drive too far from the island’s main hotel zone on the northeast coast just outside the capital city of Oranjestad.

The resort area is concentrated on two beautiful beaches: Palm Beach, primarily home to larger, high-rise hotels and the hub for Aruba’s water sports activities, and the low-rise Eagle Beach, fringed by a lively boulevard lined with restaurants, shops and nightclubs.

Aruba Accommodations

“Aruba has everything from all-inclusive resorts to top-notch luxury properties and boutique hotels,” said MacPherson.

Travelers seeking an Aruba all-inclusive, adults-only, experience can book Riu Palace Antillas on Palm Beach near the popular De Palm Pier, or the more laid-back Divi resorts, which offer the option of beachfront accommodations, a stay in a quiet village setting or alongside the links at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort.

Boutique hotel options include the excellent and eco-friendly Bucuti & Tara Resort on Eagle Beach – which also has one of the island’s top beachfront restaurants, Elements – and the wellness-focused Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa. The Aruba Ocean Villas in the fishing village of Savaneta has a trio of luxuriously private overwater bungalows, while budget-conscious families often choose the highly rated Holiday Inn Aruba on Palm Beach, which has three pools, a spa and a casino.

Aruba Ambiance and Adventure

Dotted with divi-divi trees – with their sideways branches, the trees are a national symbol of an island where cooling trade winds blow almost constantly – Aruba’s broad, white sand beaches are a magnet for visitors, many of whom go directly from their hotel rooms to the shore each morning to stake out a spot for the day.

“With the trade winds you don’t always realize how strong the sun is, so I always advise my clients to use sunscreen and take advantage of the beach umbrellas and palapas offered by their resort,” notes MacPherson.

Water sports like parasailing and Jet Skiing can be found right off Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, while visitors who want to try their hand at windsurfing head to Malmok Beach near the northern tip of the island. Sunset cruises cast off each evening from Aruba’s west-facing beaches, and Jolly Pirates sets sail for day trip snorkel adventures with a swashbuckling party theme.

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Aruba Excursions

If you’re wondering what to do in Aruba outside of the hotel district, don’t worry – there is plenty.

Despite the palm trees shading many a resort swimming pool, Aruba is a desert island – a fact that quickly becomes clear once you venture beyond the hotel districts. The island’s sparsely populated east side is dotted with cactus, its rugged coastline fringed with cliffs frequently pounded by strong surf. Arikok National Park, which covers about one-fifth of the island, attracts hikers with its high hills and cool caves. The park also has a pair of undeveloped beaches and a natural pool sheltered from the wind and waves by rocks.

Guided tours of Aruba’s backcountry by all-terrain vehicle, e-bike, and on horseback are popular, although many visitors opt to rent a car and explore the island on their own. Day trips include historic sites like the Bushiribana gold mine ruins and the Casibari rock formations with their prehistoric drawings, and wildlife destinations like the Aruba Ostrich Farm, donkey sanctuary or butterfly farm. If you visit the charming and petite Alto Vista Chapel, be sure to stop at the neighboring boutique winery.

Those who have been on Aruba cruises might be familiar with the trolley in Oranjestad, which leads from the cruise port to the downtown shopping district, a smattering of interesting museums and the distillery, Pepe Margo, where you can sample and purchase locally made spirits in a traditional Aruban home. Even the island’s grittier port city, San Nicolas, has been beautified with colorful murals and has a blossoming art scene.

Aruba Dining and Cuisine

Aruba’s culinary diversity is reflected in top restaurants like Papiamento (named for the island’s local language), which serves upscale local cuisine in a historic cunucu house. At Flying Fishbone, guests dine on fresh seafood on the beach. For other styles of cuisine, there’s French at Bohemian and Peruvian dishes at Lima Bistro.

The California Lighthouse on the northern tip of Aruba is one of the island’s most photographed sites; savvy visitors head there in the evening to catch the great light and enjoy a sunset dinner at the nearby Faro Blanco, an elegant Italian restaurant with a formal terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Like almost everything else in Aruba, ordering and paying for your meal is a breeze. English is spoken almost universally on the island, and the U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere.

“Most of my clients who stop in Aruba on a cruise end up going back there on vacation,” said MacPherson. “Once you go to Aruba, everywhere else pales in comparison.”

Plan your Aruba vacation with the help of a trusted AAA travel advisor. Call 866-423-5585 to speak with an advisor today!

Have you been to Aruba? Tell us what you love about it in the comments below.

Fireworks Safety Tips and Facts for the Fourth of July

The flashes and booms of fireworks on the Fourth of July are a tradition almost as old as America itself. But – as with any time you are dealing with fire – fireworks safety should be top of mind.

Fireworks History

In the days leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Founding Father John Adams predicted in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that the occasion would be “solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

As anticipated, fireworks were part of the first organized Independence Day celebrations in Philadelphia and Boston in 1777 and have been representative of the holiday’s festivities ever since. It doesn’t feel like the Fourth of July without seeing sparklers twirling in the dark or hearing the popping and sizzling of firecrackers late into the night.

During your summer celebrations, practice these fireworks safety tips to make sure that the only flashing red, white and blue lights that you see are in the sky, not on top of a police car or ambulance.

Fireworks Safety Stats

Fireworks can cause serious burns and other life-changing injuries to eyes, ears and appendages, and can potentially be fatal.

There were an estimated 9,700 injuries bad enough to require medical treatment and a minimum of eight deaths due to fireworks-related incidents in 2023, according to the latest U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Fireworks Report.

Most incidents are due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, but an estimated 700 reported injuries were from sparklers.

An estimated 19,500 fires are started by fireworks annually, according to the National Fire Protection Association. And as you might imagine, more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year.

Fireworks Laws

Connecticut

All fireworks are illegal except for sparklers and fountains, which can only be legally used by people 16 or older.

New York

The sale and use of fireworks known as “sparking devices” are allowed by New York state law in cities and counties where a law has not been enacted against them.

Counties that prohibit the sale and use and of sparkling devices are Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Orange, Richmond, Schenectady, Suffolk, Warren and Westchester.

Sparkling devices are defined as ground-based or handheld and produce a shower of colored sparks and flames, audible crackling or whistling and smoke. The law limits the size, type and construction.

New Jersey

It is unlawful to sell, possess or use fireworks anywhere in the state without a valid permit. Those 16 years of age or older can lawfully buy, possess and use certain sparkling devices and novelties. Permissible fireworks include handheld or ground-based sparklers, snakes and glow worms, smoke devices and trick noisemakers.

Massachusetts

It is illegal for private citizens to use, possess or sell fireworks, or to purchase them legally elsewhere and transport them into the state. The law prohibits any article designed to produce a visible or audible effect.

Rhode Island

Legal fireworks include ground-based and handheld sparkling devices, fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, spinners, party poppers, snappers, toy smoke devices, snakes and glow worms. Any firecrackers, rockets, mortars or any other device that launches a projectile and/or makes a “bang” are illegal.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Advice from the National Safety Council and CPSC on how to practice proper fireworks safety.

One of the best fireworks safety tips to follow is to never use fireworks illegally. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a public show put on by professionals. If you do choose to use fireworks legally, use them away from people, houses and flammable materials.
Never light fireworks: indoors, in a container, in your hands or when impaired.
Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
Never point or throw fireworks at anyone or anything.
Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby to fully put out fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire. Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.
Do not underestimate sparklers: Sparklers burn at around 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing and children have gotten severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. If sparklers are legal where you live, don’t let young children handle, and closely supervise older children.
Remember that kids imitate adults. Do not operate fireworks irresponsibility in front of children and teach them to understand the dangers.

How will you be celebrating the Fourth of July this year? How do you feel about fireworks? Tell us in the comments.

Protect your home and property with homeowners insurance from AAA. Schedule an appointment to speak with an agent today.

8 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Lobster in Maine

It’s nearly impossible to think about Maine and not have lobster spring to mind. You know, smothered in warm, melted butter with a glass of sparkling wine. Scrumptious.

You can savor lobster in Maine in a variety of ways, though steamed lobster and lobster rolls are among the favorite ways to delight in the sweet and tender meat of this crustacean. You’ll find lobster rolls at restaurants and seafood shacks across Maine, even at McDonald’s during peak summer months.

However, you don’t need to stick to the tried-and-true ways to eat this dreamy delicacy in Maine. You can savor this shellfish as lobster risotto, lobster nachos or lobster grilled cheese. In Bar Harbor, you can even cool off with a scoop of lobster ice cream – what a way to celebrate a hike at nearby Acadia National Park!

So, let’s take a lobster-themed road trip through Maine. Here’s where to stop from south to north to go beyond the usual to get your fix.

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Lobster Risotto

Robert’s Maine Grill, Kittery

For fresh-caught lobster and local craft beers, Robert’s Maine Grill in Kittery Point is the place. They’ve got lobster prepared all kinds of ways, but this is where to stop for mouth-watering lobster risotto with mushrooms, spinach and parmesan that’s finished with a balsamic drizzle. Pair this dish with a state-brewed beer, even a hyper-local ale, like Tributary Pale Ale that’s brewed just 2 miles away at Kittery’s Tributary Brewing Company.

Lobster Benedict

The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast, Portland

It’s easy to start the day off on the right foot when breakfast features eggs benedict with lemon-herb butter, and of course, Maine lobster. It’s not on the menu every morning at The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast in Portland, but it is a guest favorite, so we suspect it’s got a heavy presence in the weekly breakfast rotation.

Lobby Pop

Highroller Lobster Company, Portland

You’ll find lobster prepared a variety of ways at the Highroller Lobster Company in Portland, but one of the hands-down faves is the Lobby Pop. This lobster on a stick is such a fan favorite that the restaurant trademarked the name in 2019. Order yours naked (just warmed lobster in butter) or dipped in corn bread batter and deep fried. They’ve got signature dipping sauces too, like sweet red pepper mayo and lime mayo.

Lobster Bloody Mary

Taste of Maine, Woolwich

In Woolwich, Taste of Maine is known for lobster, of course, but not just the deliciously edible kind. Travelers and locals alike stop over to snap a photo of the super-size inflatable lobster that sits atop the restaurant. At Taste of Maine, you’ve got almost too many choices when it comes to lobster, but our pick is the lobster bloody Mary that’s garnished with celery, an olive and meat from a massive lobster claw. Notably, Taste of Maine also sells the ”world’s largest lobster roll,” a mouth-watering claim we’d love to independently verify.

Lobster Grilled Cheese

Beal’s Lobster Pier, Southwest Harbor

The lobster grilled cheese is becoming nearly as easy to find across Maine as the ubiquitous lobster roll. For many, Beal’s Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor is the go-to for this deliciously melted sandwich with cheddar cheese and tomato. The lobster grilled cheese draws in hungry visitors from near and far, all eager to polish off this scrumptious sammie. Need more lobstah choices? On the menu, you’ll also find lobster bisque, lobster bites and lobster mac and cheese, which pair well with a refreshing Maine blueberry mojito.

Lobster Ice Cream

Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium, Bar Harbor

Ice cream and lobster may not sound like the world’s best combination, but when the line at Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium in Bar Harbor snakes out the door, you may give this pairing a second thought. Interestingly, this flavor was created some years ago as a joke, but the flavor was so popular that it earned a permanent spot on the menu. This curious flavor, which blends butter pecan ice cream with buttery lobster, can be ordered in a cup, a cone or a lobster tail.

Lobster Taco

Langosta, Bar Harbor

Everyone loves Taco Tuesdays, but you can get lobster tacos every day of the week at Langosta, a Mexican taqueria and cantina in Bar Harbor. The lobster tacos feature chilled lobster, Mexican corn, lime mayo and a savory cilantro sauce. Even better, each order comes with three lobster tacos. If that’s not enough luscious lobster for you, start off your meal with the lobster queso and chips. Yum-o. There’s also a lobster burrito on the menu. When in Maine, as they say.

Lobster Nachos

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound, Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound in Bar Harbor is first and foremost a lobster restaurant. They’ve got fresh-caught lobster all over the menu, from lobster rolls to steamed lobster to lobster bisque. Also, lobster nachos, which sounds like a lobster-rific way to start any meal, though many of us are good to go with nachos as the meal. Get ready for warm house-made tortilla chips topped with 6 ounces of lobster, mango salsa and lobster bisque-infused cheese. All we can say is OMG. Delicious.

What’s your favorite place to eat lobster in Maine? Share your recommendations in the comments.

When to Replace Tires: Don’t Ignore These Signs

Few events disrupt a road trip – or the average day – as much as a blown tire. And while you can’t always avoid running over a nail, there are ways to keep your tires in optimum condition and ensure you arrive at your destination safely.

Knowing when to replace tires is not something all drivers are aware of, but old or worn tires can be dangerous. In 2021 alone, there were 622 fatalities from tire-related motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., according to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

One way to ensure uninterrupted travel and your safety is to examine tires thoroughly and maintain them regularly.

Signs of Tire Damage

In the Northeast, tires usually have a lifespan of about five years.

The pressure monitor system light on your dashboard is a sure sign to take your car to a professional to check for punctures or other issues, but some warnings are not as obvious.

Here are a few more signs that your tires may need repair or replacement.

Worn tire tread – The tire appears smooth or has very few ridges. Improper alignment, overinflation, underinflation or a damaged suspension can also cause uneven wear, affecting tread in one area more than another. Uneven tire wear or cupping can also take a toll on the steering mechanism.
Slipping and stopping – Wheel spin when the car accelerates or skids when braking are “obvious signs that a tire’s tread has exceeded its useful life,” said Joseph Klis, co-founder of AAA Approved Auto Repair facility Klis Brothers at North Shore Firestone in East Northport, N.Y.
Sidewall cracks, bubbles/bulges and breaks – These can be caused if a tire scrapes against a curb or a foreign object.
Dry rot – This occurs when the tire loses moisture, and the rubber becomes dry and brittle. This is due to UV exposure, hash chemicals, high temperatures and age.

Find a AAA Approved Auto Shop near you.

Tread Lightly

Many drivers wonder at what tread depth to replace tires. Tires are measured in 32nds of an inch with new tires having about 11/32nds. Although tires are considered worn out at 2/32nds, AAA recommends replacement at 4/32nds of tread life.

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Watch the the video above to learn how to easily measure your tread depth with a quarter.

“The reason is stopping distance in wet weather,” according to John Paul, senior manager of traffic safety for AAA Northeast. “A tire with 4/32nds of tread stops from 60 mph in up to 60 feet shorter distance, the length of a tractor trailer, than a tire with 2/32nds.”

Key Tire Maintenance

Knowing how often to change your tires depends on how well you care for them.

Some of the biggest tire care mistakes are not regularly rotating tires, skipping routine alignments and incorrect tire pressure. In addition to regularly checking your tread, you should also be keeping up on these maintenance tasks.

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Tire Pressure

Drivers should inspect tires once a month to ensure they are properly inflated to the recommended pounds per square inch. You can find this information on the driver’s door placard. Always check tire pressure with a gauge when the tires are cool.

You should also keep a closer eye on your tires in cold weather and check them at least twice a month. When the temperature decreases by 10 degrees, a car’s tires can lose between 1½ and 1 pound of air pressure.

Fully inflated tires improve gas mileage, make driving safer and help tires last longer.

Tire Rotation

The main purpose of rotating tires is to ensure that the best tire treads are on the front of the car. It ensures proper handling, performance and tire wear. It is critical for the vehicle owner’s safety. Refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for mileage recommendations. Typically tire rotation is performed between 5,000 and 7,000 miles but it can vary based on the vehicle and types of tires.

Tire Alignment

Wheel or tire alignment is critical to a car’s suspension and helps to maintain tires. Alignment refers to angling the tires onto the car to maximize contact with the road. When the wheels are not in alignment, they wear unevenly, and the car can pull to one side. The alignment should be checked generally every year or 12,000 miles or at the first signs of tire wear or uneven handling.

“Alignments can only be set on a balanced tire,” notes Klis. “A tire with uneven wear will continue to wear on that poor pattern even with an alignment and would not be well-spent money.”

when to replace tires - checking tire pressure

When to Repair and When to Replace Tires

Even if a tire isn’t flat, any damage is reason to consult a tire care expert for a more thorough inspection.

“Tires should only be repaired within the tread area, never on the outside edge or sidewall,” according to Paul. “Punctures larger than one-quarter inch should not be repaired but the tire should be replaced instead.”

Rather than just plugging a hole, a mechanic should remove the tire from the rim, inspect it for damage and then repair it with a combination of a plug and a patch.

“Generally, once the tire is repaired properly it is safe for use,” Paul said. “At the same time the tire should be rebalanced, and the tire pressure monitoring system-wheel sensor should be inspected.”

Not all tires can be repaired, Paul added. “Specific repair limits should be based on recommendations or repair policy of the tire manufacturer and/or type of tire service,” Paul explained. “And never repair a tire that has an existing, improper repair. The tire must be replaced.”

You may be wondering if AAA replaces tires during roadside assistance calls. AAA can install your spare tire if you have one. A technician can also inflate your tire if needed. If your tire needs more extensive repair or replacement, AAA will tow your vehicle to the nearest approved repair facility.

Don’t Forget Your Spare

If your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire, don’t forget to have the air pressure checked regularly. If your spare is mounted under the car, it is also a good idea to periodically service the mechanism that lowers and secures the tire. Learn more about how to care for your spare.

How do you care for your tires? Tell us in the comments.

20 Things to Do in Connecticut Under $20

There’s lots more to Connecticut than picturesque fall foliage and charming small towns (although we do love it for that, too.) The Constitution State has so much to offer to both out-of-state visitors and locals alike – and all within a budget, too.

These are our top 20 things to do in Connecticut for $20 or less.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

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Harkness Memorial State Park – Price Varies

This park’s 237 acres of pristinely maintained gardens, beaches and historical buildings can be enjoyed all year round. Walk the stunning grounds, have a picnic, tour the Roman Renaissance Revival-style mansion or simply take in the panoramic views of Long Island Sound. Free for in-state registered vehicles. $15 for out-of-state on weekends and $10 on weekdays.

Avery’s Beverages – $13.50

Just like its founder 100 years ago, Avery’s is still handcrafting and bottling small-batch craft soda in the trademark red barn on Corbin Avenue. Try one of its classic flavors like cola and ginger ale or test your bravery with a “Totally Gross” flavor like Toxic Slime. You can even make your own flavor on a visit to the mixing room. If you’re looking for a fun, cheap thing to do in Connecticut, this is it.

B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill – Free

Every Sept. 1, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill opens just in time for the fall season. Good thing, too – it’s the perfect autumn activity to experience. As the last remaining steam-powered cider mill in the country, you can watch an apple pressing demonstration while you eat an apple cider doughnut and sip on either iced or hot apple cider. Is there anything more fall coded?

The Book Barn – Free

The tagline for The Book Barn says it all: “A bibliophile’s bliss.” We’d have to agree, seeing as you can browse more than 500,000 books between their three locations. If it’s your first time, we recommend visiting the Main Barn as your introduction. From the multiple buildings with books stacked to the ceiling to farm animals, roaming cats, water features and more, there’s enough to keep any book lover happy to stay for a lifetime.

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Buttonwood Farm Sunflowers – $3 donation

The Sunflowers for Wishes event held at Buttonwood Farm is an annual tradition with lots of heart. Every year, 14 acres of sunflowers are planted for guests to pick for a $3 donation – 100% of which goes to the Make A Wish Foundation of Connecticut, which grants wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Coventry Farmer’s Market – Free

Beginning at the start of June, the Coventry Farmer’s Market sets up shop each week on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead and offers an enormous array of locally grown, locally produced and locally made goods. Every week has a different theme – like Strawberry Fest, Farm-to-Table, Dog Day, Sweet Treats and many more.

Cruise to Thimble Islands – $18

The Thimble Islands weren’t named so for their small size, but it’s fitting, anyway. An archipelago of 365 tiny islands in Stony Creek Harbor, the Thimble Islands are both beloved for their beauty and seclusion and revered for their folklore – namely, the claim that the infamous Captain Kidd buried his treasure there. Take a 45-minute cruise around the Thimbles to see them all up close.

Dinosaur State Park – $6

See where dinosaurs literally walked 200 million years ago. As one of the biggest sites for dinosaur tracks in North America, Dinosaur State Park acts as life-size diorama of the Jurassic age and offers an up-close look at footprints, fossils, interactive exhibits and over 2 miles of trails for hiking and exploring.

Gillette Castle State Park – $6

A castle in Connecticut? Yes, really! Built in 1919, Gillette Castle was the home of William Gillette, an actor best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Today, you can take a guided tour of the castle’s unconventional interior, walk the beautiful grounds and check out the quarter-scale railroad that circles the 122-acre property.

Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market

Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market is a fifth-generation family-owned marketplace, better known as an Italian wonderland. Besides all the delicious sights and smells, visitors can enjoy browsing the high-quality products, including cheese, meats, grocery items and – perhaps best of all – the bakery where fresh focaccia comes steaming out of the oven.

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Lobster Landing

As a Connecticut staple, Lobster Landing is beloved for a reason. Enjoy a variety of delicious fresh seafood set against the most charming, no-frills seaside hut as a backdrop (complete with an askew “o” in “Lobster.”) Admittedly, the lobster rolls are more than $20, but the rest of the menu stays under budget, from a $4 hot dog to lobster bisque for $9 and change.

Norwalk Oyster Festival – $15

The 46^th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival is happening Sept. 6 to 8 at Veterans Memorial Park. The event is sure to be a hit with carnival rides, an arts and crafts sale and plenty of food offerings for every taste. That’s right, you don’t have to be an oyster fiend to attend; the International Food Court serves up a variety of cuisine that includes Mexican, Columbian and Italian.

Olde Mistick Village – Free

A perfect activity for families (including the furry members) is a stroll around Olde Mistick Village. It’s one of the best free things to do in Connecticut. Chock full of quaint shops and restaurants, the village offers plenty to do from exploring a “haunted” book shop, to trying some homemade fudge or even picking your wizard house.

Pratt Street Salsa Socials – Free

It’s time to get your salsa on! Happening once a month through September, the Pratt Street Salsa Socials are events where everyone gets in on the fun. The music will be playing – you just have to start dancing!

Saville Dam – Free

Looking straight out of a storybook, Saville Dam sits at the top of the Barkhamsted Reservoir and is surrounded by picturesque tree-dotted hills. The castle-like structure is a great place to take in the views, have a photo op or hike the 22-mile scenic trail loop that encircles the sparkling reservoir.

Talcott Mountain State Park – Free

Hikers will enjoy the moderately difficult climb to the summit of Talcott Mountain where they’ll be greeted by the impressive Heublein Tower. From the top, 360-degree views include Mount Monadnock, the Berkshires and even Long Island Sound.

Terrain

As a cafe and garden shop, Terrain is a plant-lover’s paradise. Wander through the incredibly curated space that inevitably distorts the line between indoor and outdoor. Cafe fare boasts seasonally inspired dishes, coffee and tea, sweet treats and more.

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Try the famous local pizza – Price Varies

A visit to Connecticut simply wouldn’t be complete without sampling some New Haven-style ‘za. Famous for its extremely thin crust and coal-fire bake, you can’t go wrong. Make a trip out to Wooster Street to try both Sally’s Apizza and Frank Pepe’s where small pizzas go for about $18 on average.

Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art – $20

Prepare to be wowed by the almost 50,000 works of art here at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. As the oldest operating public art museum in the country, the museum houses many collections from Greek and Roman antiquities to African American arts and textiles. Works are distributed among five connected buildings, so we recommend reserving a good chunk of time to see it all.

Yale Peabody Museum – Free

After four years of major renovations, Yale’s natural history museum is back and open to the public once again. Enjoy exhibits all about our world’s past and present, including the halls of dinosaurs, minerals, earth and space.

Find more things to do in the Northeast for under $20.

What are some of your favorite activities in Connecticut under $20? What did we miss? Tell us in the comments!

Summer Driving Safety Tips From AAA

It’s easy to see why summer is the most popular season for driving. There’s nothing like sitting next to an open car window and letting a mild breeze slip through your hair on the way to your destination. But before the many summer car rides you’re sure to enjoy this year, it’s important to take care of your vehicle and keep safety top of mind. AAA has you covered on both fronts with these summer driving safety tips.

Beware of Extreme Heat

As temperatures increase, it’s paramount to ensure children and pets are not left in locked cars. On a typical 80-degree summer day, the interior temperature of a vehicle increases by 20 degrees in only 10 minutes and can reach a deadly 109 degrees in 20 minutes. On hotter days, the interior temperature can easily reach 120-140 degrees, and cracking the windows has little effect.

To prevent hot car deaths, AAA Northeast recommends caregivers practice the following:

Never leave children or pets in the car unattended. Even if the outside temperature is 60 degrees, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach 110 degrees, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Stop and look at the backseat before exiting a parked vehicle. Make it a habit to check the entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away. Place personal items, like a purse or briefcase, in the back seat as another reminder to look before you lock. Ask child care providers to immediately call if your child doesn’t show up for care as expected.
Lock your vehicle to prevent unsupervised access and a child getting trapped inside. Keep car keys away from children and teach them that the inside of a car should never be used as a play area.
Act fast, call 911 and take action if you see a child alone in a locked car. A child in distress should be removed as quickly as possible.

Learn more about dealing with extreme heat.

Get Your Car Ready

Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires are a few common reasons for breakdowns. Safe and carefree summer driving starts with preventative car care and maintenance.

Have your vehicle’s air conditioning system checked before the start of the season.
Batteries have a typical lifespan of about three to five years. Drivers should have their batteries tested at the three-year mark, and on an annual basis going forward. AAA provides members with free battery testing.

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Keeping your tires in good shape is important because they’re the only parts of your car that touch the road. Drivers should check each tire’s tread depth, inflation and overall condition at the start of every season. “Look for cracking, bulging or breaks,” said AAA Car Doctor, John Paul. Such damage can cause blowouts when vehicles are traveling on hot pavement at highway speeds. Tires should be inflated to manufacturer specifications (found on the driver’s doorjamb) and treads should be at least 4/32-inch deep.
Scorching summer temperatures put serious stress on engines. “Make sure the cooling system is ready by having it flushed on a regular basis and using manufacturer-recommended coolant,” said Robert Sinclair, senior manager of public affairs for AAA Northeast. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, has anti-corrosion chemicals to prevent rust buildup inside the engine. Getting rid of old coolant, flushing the engine with fresh water and filling it the proper mixture of the coolant formula and water, along with checking hoses and belts, will help a vehicle stand the test of hot summer driving. Remember to never remove the cap from a hot radiator.
Drivers (or their favorite reputable maintenance shop) should also check their vehicles’ transmission, power steering and windshield wiper fluids, and make sure all brake lights, headlights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights are working.
See and breathe easier with new filters and blades. Summer is the perfect time to replace consumable items like air filters and wiper blades. A new engine air filter will ensure your car runs as efficiently as possible. A new cabin air filter will prevent unpleasant, musty odors and help you and your passengers breathe easier. Wiper blades should be replaced at the first signs of wear, such as streaking or chattering and groaning noises.
Getting locked out of your car is never fun, though it’s especially troublesome when all you want to do is escape the heat. Lockouts persist despite advances in key technology. Motorists should take special care of smart keys and keyless entry fobs. Always take these with you when exiting the car, avoid exposing them to water and replace batteries as recommended by vehicle manufacturers. If you do get locked out, AAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7 to help.

Get Yourself Ready

Summer presents plenty of traffic safety concerns that, if ignored, can turn a dream ride into a nightmare.

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days because it is historically when the country sees an increase of fatal crashes among teenagers. AAA recommends that now is a good time for parents to both model safe driving behaviors and help ensure their teens practice them, too.
Whether traveling 5 or 500 miles, every driver should carry an emergency kit with important items like a mobile phone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, drinking water, extra snacks and food, booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, windshield wiper fluid and a basic toolkit with a tire pressure gauge and adjustable wrench.
Sun glare can be a serious hazard. Try wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses while driving to keep your view as clear as possible. You’ll also benefit from keeping your windshield clean. Dirt and streaks are especially pronounced under strong light.
Flip-flops are fine for the beach, but they’re not the best footwear for driving. The straps and flimsy soles can easily get caught under the pedals.
Tying a surfboard, cooler or a week’s worth of camping supplies to your vehicle’s roof rack? Make sure you review its weight limit first, and check your route for any height restrictions.
Avoid distractions. For parents, that can be children in the backseat. For any driver, it can be the temptation to use a cellphone behind the wheel. If you have to make a call or send a text, find a safe place to pull over.
Turn on your headlights during twilight hours to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
Avoid eating behind the wheel. Enjoy snacks at rest areas or stop at restaurants for meals.
Don’t leave food or drinks inside your car on a hot day, especially canned beverages, which can explode under high temperatures. The same goes for hairspray or canned deodorant.
When packing, distribute weight evenly in and atop your vehicle. Don’t pack items in any spot that obstructs your view, or your mirrors.

Prepare for Road Trips

Summer means road trips. And while you might want to make the best time possible, getting to your destination quickly is never worth jeopardizing safety. Crash risks for sleep-deprived drivers increase steadily compared to those who get seven or more hours of sleep. Missing just two to three hours of sleep in a 24-hour period can quadruple a driver’s crash risk, and drivers who have slept fewer than five hours have crash risks comparable to drunken drivers.

Here are some summer driving safety tips to stay alert and safe behind the wheel.

If you find yourself starting to get drowsy while driving, find a safe place to pull over and rest. Symptoms include having trouble keeping your eyes open, drifting between lanes, not being able to remember the last few miles, yawning, missing exits or street signs and feeling irritable or restless.
On longer drives, stop every couple of hours for a break.
Don’t underestimate the impact of driving at night, when your body is accustomed to rest.
Avoid eating heavy foods.
Travel with alert passengers and take turns driving. When it’s not your turn, sit in the back seat. Riding in the front seat can lead to passive driving, inhibiting your ability to get valuable rest.
Know your route. Today, most drivers rely on GPS to provide directions and traffic information. Like any technology, however, you should be prepared in case your device loses its signal or malfunctions. Researching your route before you leave and carrying a physical road map are two critically important summer driving tips.

EVs Need Attention, Too

If you drive an EV, there are also a few summer driving tips to remember.

Hot weather could decrease range, so map out a charging plan ahead of long road trips.
Although EVs don’t overheat the same way other vehicles can, the battery thermal management system can fail, causing the high-voltage battery to overheat. Keep an eye on warning gauges and if your EV has a battery cooling system, ensure that it is serviced on a regular schedule.

You’re not the only one enjoying the road this summer. Cyclists and motorcycle riders will be out and about, as will children on summer break. Stay alert to keep everyone around you safe.

Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. That includes riding in traffic lanes.
Watch for kids near obvious places, like playgrounds, but also keep an eye out for kids flocking to ice cream trucks or chasing stray balls.
When you’re driving next to a motorcycle, it helps to envision the body of a vehicle around. That will help you maintain a safe traveling distance.

What other summer driving tips did we leave out? How do you stay safe on the road? Tell us in the comments below.

Learn more about AAA automotive services.

Nearly 71 Million People Expected to Travel During July 4th Week

AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home during the Independence Day holiday travel period from June 29 to July 7. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period represents a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“Summer vacations are in full swing, and with the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson. “We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Modes of Travel

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car. AAA’s car rental partner Hertz said the busiest pickup days are projected to be Friday and Saturday, June 28 and 29, and Wednesday, July 3.

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. With airports expected to be packed throughout the week, AAA recommends arriving two hours before your flight, reserving parking ahead of time and traveling with carry-on luggage rather than checked bags to save time and money.

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruise ships and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million.

When to Go

The worst times to travel by car on the days leading up to and including July 4th are between 2 and 7 p.m., according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX.

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3rd, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car
Date	Worst Travel Time	Best Travel Time
Monday, July 1	Minimal traffic expected	N/A
Tuesday, July 2	2 – 6 p.m.	After 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3	2 – 7 p.m.	Before noon
Thursday, July 4	2 – 7 p.m.	Before noon
Friday, July 5	11 a.m. – 4 p.m.	Before 10 a.m.
Saturday, July 6	10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.	Before 10 a.m.
Sunday, July 7	2 – 8 p.m.	Before 11 a.m.
Monday, July 8	1 – 5 p.m.	After 7 p.m.

Source: INRIX

Plan your summer vacation and more with the help of a knowledgeable AAA travel advisor.

How are you celebrating the 4th of July? Will you be traveling anywhere special? Let us know in the comments below.

Summer Bucket List

Summer is officially here! Let’s make the most of it.

From ways to cool down and relax to classic summer games and outings, our summer bucket list has all the essentials for enjoying the lazy, hot and and fun-filled days ahead.

Watch a Sunrise/Sunset or Stargaze

Summer is the perfect time to take a minute and enjoy a natural wonder. Starting your day with a sunrise or ending it with a sunset can help you enjoy a moment of calming beauty. Stargazing can be fun any night of the year, but the clear nights of the warmer months just can’t be beat.

It’s on our summer bucket list to see a shooting star, and the Delta Aquariid meteor shower in late July and Perseids in mid August are two promising opportunities.

Go to the Beach

Days spent by the shore define summer in the Northeast. Search our beach guide and find your place on the sand.

Visit a Local Farm

Support your local growers by picking up the freshest fruits and veggies of the season at your nearest farmers market or pick-your-own. There’s nothing like freshly picked berries, peaches and tomatoes, straight from the farm to your hand.

Some of our favorite u-pick spots include Four Town Farm and Ward’s Berry Farm in Massachusetts, and Lewin Farms on Long Island. Check the availability and hours of the farm you’d like to visit ahead of time and find out whether you need to make a reservation.

Read a New Book

Settle into your beach chair and get lost in a good book. Make a summer reading list of the year’s must-reads. Barnes & Noble has a summer reading list for all ages to get you started. If you’re feeling ambitious, try a book that could lead to a new skill like playing an instrument, making a different cuisine or crafting.

Play Outside

Head to your yard, the beach or a nearby park and play a game with family or friends. It might be hard to draw yourself away from the cool confines of your air conditioned space, but the sunshine will do you good! Just remember to stay hydrated and reapply your sunscreen.

Toss around a Frisbee or ball, or set up a net for games like volleyball or badminton. Cornhole, horseshoes, croquet and Spikeball are crowd-pleasers. And kids can entertain themselves for hours in the driveway with simple sidewalk chalk, drawing and creating games like hopscotch, four square and outdoor Twister.

Plant a Garden

Although the spring and fall are prime seasons for planting, certain flowers, fruits, veggies and herbs can be planted in early summer too. See our seasonal flower chart and check your local nursery to see what’s available. Due to the heat, be sure to monitor and water your plants often.

Plan a Picnic

Picnicking is a classic summer bucket list item. Check out our backyard picnic post for recipes and inspiration.

See Something Amazing

Watch a baseball game, see your favorite performer in concert, marvel at the artwork of a master at a museum or experience the twists and turns of a roller coaster at your favorite amusement park.

No matter what event or attraction you go to this summer, you can get exclusive tickets and savings of up to 40% with AAA Tickets.

Mix a Summertime Drink

You have to stay hydrated when the weather gets hot. Squeeze lemons to make fresh lemonade, brew your own iced tea or mix the two to make Arnold Palmer. For the adults, drinks like margaritas and sangria are always a poolside hit.

Make S’mores

What dessert embodies summer more than a s’more? Make this classic summertime treat and try new flavor combinations by using different kinds of chocolate, adding peanut butter, Nutella or fruit or subbing out the graham crackers for cookies or brownie brittle. If you can’t roast over a real fire, you can use a grill or your oven, but be careful.

Have a Movie Night

Pop some popcorn, pour your favorite beverage and settle down for a movie. Re-watch a classic film or personal favorite, rent a newer movie or start marathoning a series, director, genre or other theme. Stay inside where it’s cooler or view a film under the stars with a projector in your yard.

Go on a Walk, Hike or Bike Ride

Enjoy the nice weather and get some exercise. The Northeast is home to a bunch of great biking, hiking and walking trails. If you haven’t biked or hiked in a while – or ever – take it slow, stay safe and hydrate.

For more ways to get fit while spending time outside, check out these outdoor workout ideas.

Go Camping

From backpacking to taking an RV, camping offers an escape from daily life and helps you feel closer to nature. If sleeping outside doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, consider glamping.

Camping out in your backyard with your kids can be a lot of fun, too. Avoid electronics to make the experience feel more authentic!

Enjoy a Frozen Treat

Whether it’s ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato or Italian ice, nothing satisfies like a cold treat on a hot day. You can even try making your favorite frozen treats at home and customize them to your liking.

Create a Summer Playlist

You may want to enjoy some background music while you’re cleaning around the house, playing outside, gardening or going on a road trip. Whether you like oldies, past summer hits or songs with “summer” in the title, think about what summer means to you and make the perfect playlist.

Cool Down With Water Fun

If taking a dip in a lake, pool or ocean isn’t an option for you, there are still plenty of ways to cool off during a hot summer day. Turn on the sprinklers, fill up some water balloons or water guns and get ready for a water battle!

Clean Your Home

Though warmer weather may not be ideal for cleaning out an attic, cooler spaces like the basement, garage and any air-conditioned rooms in your home are perfect for summertime cleaning and organizing.

While you’re going through your stuff, consider selling the things you want to get rid of to make a little extra cash.

Get started on summer fun by perusing our curated shopping list below.

What’s on your summer bucket list this year? Tell us in the comments below.

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

Merging Into Life Podcast: Insurance 101

SEASON 1: EPISODE 3
Episode Feedback

A beginner’s guide to auto, home and life insurance.

IN THIS EPISODE

Ever feel lost in a maze of insurance jargon? Relax, we’ve got you covered!

AAA insurance specialists Emily Buckley and Brad Ferris are here to talk about insurance basics. From unraveling the mysteries of umbrella insurance to nailing down how much life coverage you actually need, let the pros guide you with this insurance 101 crash course.

Plus, the inside scoop on getting the best renewal rates, vehicles that are a breeze to insure and surprising truths about renters insurance for first-time renters that could save you big.

When it comes to protecting your world, knowledge is power. Listen now for information you can use!

To learn more about your coverage options with AAA, head to AAA.com/Insurance.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[2:41] – What is umbrella insurance and why might you need it?
[6:47] – Breaking down renters insurance for beginners.
[11:20] – What are the different types of insurance? We discuss life insurance, annuities, and common insurance myths.
[16:55] – Can you claim it? We explore why is homeowners insurance important by covering different real-world scenarios.

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]
Amanda Greene: So, my husband and I were chatting while we were cleaning up dinner the other night, and I took my rings off to wash some pots and pans that couldn’t go in the dishwasher. After I was done, I went to go put my rings back on, and I dropped my engagement ring in the sink as the water was going down the drain. My heart stopped, but thankfully I was able to grab the ring before it swirled down. It did make me wonder though, am I even covered if my ring gets lost? I think so, but not with really any confidence. That’s the thing with insurance. I have some, but I think it is time I dig a little deeper.

Welcome to Merging Into Life, where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time, brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. Today, we’re talking about all things insurance, umbrella, life, car, annuity. I didn’t even really know what that was until today, but I promise you this won’t be a lecture on what you should have done, or a huge downer imagining all the things that can go wrong, because this is something that can bring peace of mind when you do it right.

Now, before we dive in, we want to mention that though our guests in this episode are offering us some great expert insight, conditions vary from state to state and person to person. You should always remember to check how this advice applies to your situation with your insurance carrier.

With that being said, today, I have two guests who, when it comes to insurance, they’ve got you covered. They’re going to guide us through what we need, how to approach it, and what insurance really brings you, because it’s all about building a safety net for you and the people you love. First, I’d like you to meet Emily Buckley.

RESOURCES

Contact a AAA Insurance Agent

AAA Jewelry Insurance

AAA Insurance Guide

Understanding Umbrella Insurance

Insuring Engagement Rings and Expensive Gifts

Term vs. Whole Life Insurance: What Is the Difference?

6 Myths About Life Insurance You Probably Believe

Why Life Insurance Through Work Isn’t Enough

What Is an Income Annuity?

The Ins and Outs of Hurricane Insurance Deductibles

Want to Learn More? Drop Us a Note

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*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Heart and Soul: Northeast Soul Food Restaurants

Although it had been around long before it was given a name, the term “soul food” was first coined in the mid-1960s when “soul” was often used to describe African American culture. Like soul music, it speaks to the hearts of those who consume it, but more than that, it is deeply rooted in tradition and history – an authenticity both soul food restaurants and home cooks strive to convey.

“Soul food/Southern cooking is the storytelling of the Black experience and one of the biggest expressions of Black cooking in America,” said chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson.

Not all Southern food is soul food. Descended from enslaved Africans in the South, soul food is a distinctly African American cuisine. It is one of several traditional Black cultural cooking styles, including Cajun, Creole and low country.

The recipes passed down through generations of African American families are a connection to the resilience and resourcefulness of their ancestors. Chitterlings, fried chicken, candied yams, braised collards and other staples of the soul food repertoire were developed in the kitchens of newly emancipated cooks making the most of what they had. Homegrown crops such as okra, sweet potatoes, greens and beans – most of which were brought to the South during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, were inexpensive and easily accessible, as were game and offal.

”There are a lot of game meats that get forgotten about when it comes to soul food, and they are also a huge part of the experience,” pointed out Samuelsson, who serves classics like pan-fried catfish with black-eyed peas, shrimp and grits and fried yardbird at his restaurant Red Rooster Harlem.” The genius of using neck bones and other parts of the animal is symbolic of a great and creative cook.”

True to the metaphor, you could say that instead of making lemonade from lemons, Black communities made red drinks (a soul food essential that also plays a symbolic role in Juneteenth celebrations).

A clear indication of good soul food is the ability to taste the love that goes into it. Delight in everything from cornbread to peach cobbler at these acclaimed Northeast soul food restaurants.

Sylvia’s Restaurant

New York

Founded by the late Sylvia Woods, “the Queen of Soul Food,” in 1962, Sylvia’s Restaurant is a Harlem institution. Sylvia’s family continues her legacy, welcoming all walks of life into the restaurant and making them feel at home. Locals, tourists, celebrities, dignitaries and even former President Barack Obama have enjoyed its famous barbecue ribs, Carolina-style fried catfish and fried chicken.

Fellow Harlemite Samuelsson is also a fan. “Since the pandemic, many amazing and historical soul food restaurants have been forced to close,” he said. “A bright example of a soul food restaurant that has survived, and notably one of my favorites, is Sylvia’s in Harlem. Sylvia’s is going on 60 years and is a staple in our community.”

Visit on Gospel Sundays for brunch or Wednesdays for live music.

Delta’s

New Brunswick, N.J.

Delta’s celebrates the food, music and spirit of the South. High ceilings, exposed brick and lounge seating set the vibe.

The menu features soul standards like smothered chicken and pork chops, barbecue ribs and oxtails, mixed in with twists like a Southern-inspired steamed dumpling starter and mac-and-cheese crab rolls. Spinach dip lovers will appreciate Delta’s version made with collard greens. And for dessert, red velvet cake, banana pudding and sweet potato pie will send you off with a smile.

On weekends, the space is amplified by live bands and DJs. Take in the lively atmosphere at night with a signature cocktail or come and relax on Sunday for brunch.

Sandra’s Next Generation

New Haven, Conn.

While you’ll find all the usual soul foods on the menu at this cozy New Haven restaurant deliciously and lovingly prepared, the fried chicken is said to be among the best in New Haven.

Chef Sandra Pittman, who owns and operates Sandra’s Next Generation with her husband Miguel and family, has perfected her mother’s signature fried chicken recipe. Marinated in spices for fully saturated flavor, crispy and served hot, Colonel Sanders can’t even compete.

Fill up with the church plate, which allows you to choose an entree and four sides. All meals are complemented with cornbread that’s baked fresh each day.

Darryl’s Corner Bar and Kitchen

Boston

Come to this neighborhood spot to meet up with friends, hang out, sip on a cocktail and enjoy live music and entertainment.

Through different names and owners, the corner of Columbus Avenue has been a landmark for soul food for over six decades. Owner and Boston native Nia Grace has seen to it that the heritage endures at Darryl’s Corner Bar and Kitchen. As co-founder of the Boston Black Hospitality Coalition, she is also a champion of Black-owned restaurants in the city.

Start with the soul food tacos filled with fried chicken or catfish. For a sampling of all your favorites, get the chicken or catfish “Bob the Chef” meal (named for the location’s original restaurant) with your choice of two sides. On Sundays the restaurant offers a fixed-price, all-you-can eat buffet (reduced price for seniors and kids 6-12).

Based on your suggestions, we also recently visited Kin Southern Table + Bar in Providence, R.I. Check out our video and recommendations.

What soul food restaurants do you love? Tell us in the comments.

Making ‘Scents’ of Car Air Fresheners

On average, American drivers spend nearly one hour behind the wheel each day. If you’re going to be anywhere for that long, let alone an enclosed space, you’re going to want to make sure it smells good. That’s a big part of what makes the demand for the best car air fresheners so high and the market for them worth millions of dollars.

The humble car air freshener has a unique origin story that dates back to the 1950s. Since then, the market has grown to include numerous different models and scents. Let’s take a look at some of the best air fresheners available today.

Prefer an audio summary of this post? Click below to listen to this article.

The History of the Car Air Freshener

In 1952, a man named Julius Sämann was living in the northern New York town of Watertown. One day he was having a conversation with his milkman, who complained about the bad smell spoiled milk left in his truck when the drink spilled.

Sämann was a German-Jewish chemist who fled his homeland and settled in upstate New York. There, he spent years studying the Canadian pine forests and extracting the aromatic oils from these trees. To solve his milk truck driver’s problem, Sämann combined the fragment smells of a Canadian pine tree with specialized blotter material and the first car air freshener was born. He gave his new product the shape of its inspiration: a pine tree.

Little Trees, as they’re known today, were an immediate hit and quickly began selling across the country and around the world. The air fresheners are still made in Watertown although the product line has grown quite a bit. Originally there were just three scents: Royal Pine, Spice and Bouquet. Now, there are more than 40 including Cotton Candy, Fresh Shave and New Car Scent.

Types of Car Air Fresheners

Like most things that have been around for 70 years, car air fresheners have evolved quite a bit. There are now vent clip-ons, visor attachments, sprays, air purifiers and more.

Cardboard

Cardboard air fresheners, like Little Trees, are made of specialized blotter material that slowly releases the fragrance. They are generally meant to hang from the rearview mirror but you can put them anywhere in the vehicle.

Clip-On

As the name implies, clip-on air fresheners clip on to your car’s air vents. The air then helps circulate the fragrant oils throughout the cabin. They work as long as air is passing through them. With most clip-ons, you can adjust the amount of scent that is released.

Plug-In

Plug-in air fresheners work in much the same matter as clip-ons except they do not require your car’s air to be on. Instead you plug the device in and it releases the scent itself.

Can

These cans have a fragrant gel or wax inside them. All you have to do is twist the lid to open the built-in vents. You can control the amount of scent being released by adjusting the size of the vent openings.

Spray

These are just like your household deodorizing sprays except specifically designed for your car. They are especially useful if the odor is coming from one particular area in the cabin.

The Best Air Freshener Scents

The most common scents include some version of Apple, Coconut, Lemon, Cherry and the always popular New Car Smell.

According to Little Trees, their best-selling scents are Black Ice, New Car Scent and Caribbean Colada. The company’s more unique fragrances include Fresh Shave, with notes of talcum powder and musk, Rainshine, a mix of dewy florals and earthy greens, and Celebrate!, a blend of vanilla cake and sweet buttercream frosting.

Yankee Candle, another major producer of car air fresheners, has popular scents Red Raspberry, Clean Cotton, Lilac Blossoms and Leather in its lineup.

Do you use air fresheners in your car? What is your favorite scent? Let us know in the comments below.

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

Hula With Mickey Mouse at Aulani

Before I visited Aulani, Disney’s resort in Hawaii, I thought I knew what to expect. Having been to Walt Disney World and Disneyland more times than I can count, I assumed that Aulani would be similar to the Disney resort hotels in Orlando and Anaheim: Highly immersive (i.e. tons of movie theming), feeling very Disney (with hidden Mickeys everywhere) and closely tied to the theme park experience.

I couldn’t have been more wrong. Aulani surprised me at every turn.

While there’s no doubt that your Hawaii family vacation to the resort will be a magical experience, only part of the magic comes from the mouse. The rest of it comes from the island itself.

Looking to plan a more traditional Disney vacation? Listen to Episode 2 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Theme Park Secrets.

Aulani is on Oahu, about 20 miles from Honolulu, on the leeward side of the island. While it’s owned by Disney, there’s no theme park attached to it. (Disney also has non-park hotels in Hilton Head, S.C., and Vero Beach, Fla.).

Before I got there for my first trip in 2021, I had assumed the hotel would be a lot like Disney’s Polynesian Resort at Walt Disney World, with wafting ukulele music, “Moana”-themed rooms and a tiki bar with volcanoes that erupt when you order a certain drink. But as soon as I stepped through the doors and into the lobby, I knew Aulani was different. The lobby opens to an expansive deck overlooking the resort, the pools and palm trees giving way to the sparkling ocean beyond. It was my first taste of the enchanting majesty and singular beauty of Hawaii.

Unlike other luxury resorts in Hawaii, Aulani doesn’t give out leis or kukui nut necklaces on arrival. However, you can ask for celebration buttons, like the ones you get in Disney parks, to mark birthdays, anniversaries or any occasion. When I arrived for my most recent visit in March 2024, I took one that says, “I’m celebrating,” and in the blank space wrote, “mai tais.” I was only half kidding. As I had already learned, Aulani makes my favorite mai tai on the island.

The main attraction at Aulani is the water, from the extensive complex of pools and decorative ponds in the center of the resort to the beach just beyond. The hotel shares Ko Olina Beach with the Four Seasons next door and the Marriott a bit farther away; though it’s public like all the beaches in Hawaii, each of the hotels has an area just for hotel guests with beach loungers and umbrellas.

If you don’t splurge on an ocean-view room (which I would 100% suggest doing, if you can swing it), the beach is the best place to watch the sunrise. Given that you’ll be fighting jetlag and adjusting to the time difference, you’ll likely be awake in plenty of time to watch the sun come up. That’s actually a good thing, though. Unless you’re in Waikiki, there’s very little to do at night, so you’re much better off waking up early and enjoying every bit of daylight that you can.

While the beach is delightful, you’ll probably spend most of your time at Aulani in the pools. The resort has the best water features I’ve ever seen. A saltwater lagoon offers snorkeling and fish-feeding without having to go into the open ocean. There’s also a lazy river, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean – with a waterfall – kids’ splash pad areas and baby pools, and hot tubs, including an adult-only one.

Inside the mountain that rises in the center of the resort, there are two waterslides integrated so seamlessly that you can’t even tell they’re there until you get to the stairs. On the mountain itself and the rock features built around the lazy river, there are hidden animal carvings; instead of hidden Mickeys, look closely to spot whales, octopi and schools of fish.

Don’t worry. You will still see Mickey, and plenty of other Disney characters. They hang out in public spaces, all in resort wear, to do casual meet-and-greets. Walking from your room to the pool, or from the beach to a restaurant, you’ll likely see Moana or Stitch saying hello and greeting guests, or Donald Duck in a Hawaiian shirt.

Mickey and Minnie both make appearances throughout. In the morning, Chef Minnie hosts a character breakfast. In the afternoon, surfer Mickey and Minnie bop around and say hello. At night, the pair make an appearance at Aulani’s luau, which is more fun than any luau I’ve ever been to before. In addition to the hula-dancing mice, there are also theatrical Disney touches in the show and demonstrations on playing ukulele, mashing poi and other Hawaiian traditions.

Aside from character meals, Aulani also has several excellent dining options. Ama Ama is a locally sourced fine dining restaurant with stunning sunset views. The Olelo Room has craft cocktails and excellent sushi made with incredibly fresh ahi and albacore, which come with a little pat of Mickey-shaped wasabi and chopsticks emblazoned with a tiny mouse. All around the Olelo Room (“olelo” means “say” in Hawaiian), are carvings of objects with the Hawaiian words for them underneath. Some are practical (pua’a is a pig, kalaka is a truck), and some are a little more Disney (kalipa aniani is glass slipper, kalela is castle).

I loved the garlic shrimp tacos at Off the Hook, the poolside restaurant, so much that I ordered them for lunch almost every day with a mai tai, sometimes in a hollowed-out pineapple. The resort also has quick-service options for quintessentially Hawaiian snacks like spam musubi and shave ice, both Mickey-shaped, of course. In Hawaii, the rule is still true: Everything tastes better when it’s shaped like Mickey Mouse.

Plan your Disney Hawaii vacation with AAA Travel.

Have you ever been to Aulani? Tell us about your experience in the comments

Crossword: Father’s Day

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

New FAFSA Form Rollout a ‘Bumpy Ride’ But Don’t Give Up

The highly anticipated, overhauled 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA was released in early 2024, but has run into a few snags.

Prospective college students around the country are delaying decisions as they await financial aid offers derailed by errors plaguing the new system.

The delays have put pressure on colleges as well, as many schools cannot provide complete offers to students without knowing how much aid a student may get from the federal government. Many schools have extended the deadline for making a tuition deposit from May 1 to June 1 as they continue to monitor the situation closely.

Donald Kerr, director of student lending and college services at AAA Northeast, urges families not to give up.

“The redesigned FAFSA is intended to help families who are most in need of financial assistance to make a college education possible. It increases the amount of aid available by billions of dollars,” said Kerr. “Unfortunately, the delays have added up to the point where many students are starting to give up and instead seeking employment and looking at community colleges on a part-time basis.”

Kerr offers the following guidance for students and families:

Check the status of your FAFSA on studentaid.gov to ensure it was submitted, processed successfully and sent to colleges. If it has been sent, students should sign up for a student portal at each prospective school, which will give them access to view financial aid before award letters arrive.
If your FAFSA form has not been processed, reach out to the Federal Student Aid office by phone or use the live chat option on studentaid.gov to determine the reason or error. While some issues are outside the control of students and families, such as a system glitch expected to be corrected by mid-April, other issues may have a simple fix.
If needed, students can reach out to a school to request an individual extension. While many schools have already extended deadlines, students can reach out directly with concerns about their own timeline given financial aid delays.
Know that the Department of Education and schools across the country are working hard to get all issues and delays resolved as soon as possible so students can make the very important decision on where to start their college journey.

“It may be a bumpy ride this year, but don’t give up on what could be one of the most generous financial aid seasons for those who need the help the most,” Kerr added.

Who Should Fill Out a FAFSA?

College students and/or their parents complete and submit the new FAFSA form online, which includes information about a family’s income and assets, to apply for federal financial aid for college costs. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA data to award their own financial aid.

College students and their parents should submit a FAFSA form annually. This includes those who believe they won’t qualify for aid because they make too much money. Low-interest financial aid loans are available to everyone regardless of income. Even if a student won’t use financial aid, many private scholarships want to see the results of the FAFSA form. Millions of dollars of federal student aid are left on the table each year simply because people did not fill out a FAFSA form, according to the College Board.

Normally, the FAFSA is available by Oct.1 each year. The deadline to complete the 2024-2025 form is June 30, 2025, although students and their parents should check if their colleges and states have different deadlines. After the form is processed, applicants receive a FAFSA Submission Summary (formally the Student Aid Report), outlining the amount and type of aid for which they might be eligible.

The New FAFSA Has Fewer Questions

The primary goals of the FAFSA revisions were to shorten and simplify the 128-question form and develop new formulas so more students qualify for aid. The new FAFSA has about 40 questions, and some applicants could answer as few as 28.

A simpler form could make higher education accessible to more people.

“Many families have viewed the form as too difficult to complete, which created a barrier to obtaining a college education for some,” said Kerr.

Updates to calculations that determine financial aid are projected to increase eligibility for federal student aid, including Pell Grants, for as many as 610,000 new students from low-income backgrounds.

Other Major Changes

Instead of using data from the form to estimate the expected family contribution (EFC) to college costs, a new formula creates a student aid index (SAI). Schools plan to use the SAI to determine the extent of a student’s financial need by subtracting the SAI from the school’s total cost.
If a student’s parents are not married, only the parent who contributes the most financial support to the student needs to be listed on the form. In the past, contributions from the parent with whom the student lives carried more weight.
Each student and at least one parent or contributor need to create a federal ID. Users will not have access to the form until the new usernames and passwords are cleared by the Social Security Administration, according to Kerr.
Males no longer are required to verify that they have registered for the selective service (draft) to qualify for federal financial aid, Kerr noted. (Males between the ages of 18 and 25 still must register for the draft).
In the past, students could designate up to 10 colleges to receive their FAFSA data; now they can list 20.

Tips on How to Fill Out a FAFSA Form

You no longer have to download your tax data into the FAFSA. All you have to do is sign an authorization form giving the IRS permission to share your information, although it is a good idea to have a copy of your return handy in case you need to refer to it.
The form is separated into a student section and a parent section, and while the student completes their section first and then invites the parent to do their section via email, it is a good idea for families to complete the form together.

Federal aid can help finance your education, but often it is not enough on its own. Learn more about AAA Northeast’s affordable student lending products and services.

What do you think of the new FAFSA? Tell us in the comments.

Empowering Teen Drivers to Make Safe Choices

The harsh realities of distracted and impaired driving were presented to more than 100 high school students at AAA Northeast’s recent event, AAA to Gen Z: A Safety Summit for the New Generations of Drivers, held at Adelphi University in Garden City, N.Y.

Speakers from law enforcement, the local district attorney’s office, advocacy groups and representatives from AAA Northeast told students from seven Long Island high schools that, while it may be hard to imagine a tragedy happening to them, all it takes is one lapse in judgement or a nanosecond of distraction behind the wheel to end a life.

“I’m here to scare you,” said Maureen McCormick, special assistant for legislative initiatives for the Suffolk County district attorney’s office and a 38-year prosecutor. “Not to death, but enough to save your own lives.”

Deadly Distractions

The statistics are scary enough. On average, one alcohol-impaired-driving fatality occurred every 39 minutes in 2022, according to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association. The 15- to 20-year-old age group makes up 17% of that total.

Equally as concerning are the rise in drivers using marijuana and crashes involving distracted drivers, often caused by cellphone use, a particular problem with younger drivers. Statistics show that 56% of teens text while driving.

Rich Faber, a health and driver’s education teacher at Syosset High School, said fighting distractions is his biggest concern when it comes to new drivers. “Kids have always been in cars with phones,” he said. “They are not used to looking at the surroundings.”

While AAA surveys show that the age group most engaged in speeding and distracted driving is between 19 and 24 years old, Alec Slatky, managing director for government and public affairs for AAA Northeast, told the students that they will be that age soon enough. “The habits you start today are going to last a lifetime,” he said.

Promoting responsible driving behavior and making the roads safer are at the core of AAA’s mission. “…We know our roads are getting deadlier for everyone,” said Slatky. “As students are getting out of school, they face more risk on the road, so we wanted to take this opportunity to give them tips to keep themselves, their passengers and others safe.”

Rachel Liu, a junior at Syosset High School who completed her school’s driver’s education course, said she came because she wanted to learn more about being a safe driver before taking her driver’s test. “I’m hoping this will cement the ideas in my head,” she said.

teen summit — Students at the summit wrote down their reasons for driving safely.

Preventable Tragedies

Speakers emphasized that many crashes are preventable. They urged students to speak up if they are in a car with someone who is impaired or if they see a driver who is impaired. And, again and again, reminded them to stay off their cellphones.

McCormick said she has seen many terrible crimes during her career, though not all committed by terrible people. Some continue to haunt her. She choked up recalling the 2005 case of drunk driver Martin Heidgen hitting a limousine head-on while driving the wrong way. The limousine was carrying six members of the Flynn family returning from a wedding. The limo driver, 59-year-old Stanley Rabinowitz, was killed, as was 7-year-old Katie Flynn. When the dash cam video of the moment of the crash was shown at the summit, many in the room jumped. Heidgen was convicted of depraved indifference murder and sentenced to 19 years to life in prison.

Particularly dismaying is the rise in dangerous behavior, such as drivers using marijuana, driving as fast as possible and recording themselves while driving, according to McCormick.

“Put your phone away, put it in the glove box, stop taking selfies while driving. It’s your responsibility to drive like you care about other people,” she said. “I’m begging you as a mom. Don’t hold your lives so cheaply.”

One student from Uniondale High School, who chose not to give her name, told a AAA representative she was going to be more careful not to get in a car with someone who had been drinking.

One Bad Choice

Audience members were visibly moved by the story of Alisa McMorris, whose 12-year-old son, Andrew, was killed by a drunken driver in 2018. He was hiking with his Boy Scout troop, including his father, when the car plowed into them. Several other scouts were severally injured.

In their son’s memory, the McMorris family started The Andrew McMorris Foundation, which advocates for measures to curb drunken driving and provides grants and scholarships.

“What keeps killing me is how this was preventable,” McMorris said.

Have a Plan Before You Go Out

McMorris offered students these tips to help keep them safe:

Before you even go out, ask “How are we getting home?”
If you are in a car with someone who is not sober enough to drive, say you are going to be sick and get out. Save face, save a life.
Do not text and drive.
Always have money to get home.
Make a deal with your family to give you a ride if something happens.

“It’s about empowerment,” McMorris said. “They (students) have the ability to make a change.”

“You don’t realize what could happen until you hear the actual stories,” added Amy Berenbroick, a 10th grader at South Side.

Be A Hero

Karen Torres, president and founder of ALL4UDAD, a program for road safety education and advocacy, stressed to the crowd how easy it is to get distracted, and used several interactive activities to demonstrate. She lost her father, who was working on a road crew, when a cement truck driver dropped his bottled water. When he bent to retrieve it, he veered into her father. “It takes a conscious effort every time you get in the car not to be distracted.”

A major goal of the summit was to give students the courage to be advocates for themselves and others. “The biggest takeaway for the teens is that they should speak up if they feel like unsafe behavior behind the wheel is taking place or about to take place,” said Slatky. “Speaking up is not easy – especially if you’re talking to family or friends – but they can come up with some lines beforehand to have in their back pocket if these situations arise.”

How do you teach your teen to drive safely? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: The AAA Public Affairs team at the summit.

Spend a Moment at … Wright’s Dairy Farm & Bakery

Wright’s Dairy Farm & Bakery

200 Woonsocket Hill Rd, North Smithfield, R.I.

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If you’ve had an exceptional piece of cake, pastry or scoop of ice cream in Rhode Island lately, there’s a good chance it came from Wright’s Dairy Farm. As a state (and out-of-state) staple, Wright’s has been whipping up incomparable local dairy goods since 1914, and there are many reasons why the farm has made such a name for itself.

First and foremost: freshness. Whether you choose to buy a quart of chocolate milk or a Funfetti birthday cake from Wright’s, you know exactly where it was made and processed – right there, on site, with milk that came directly from the herd of Holstein dairy cows that dot the pastoral landscape. Affectionately dubbed “happy cows,” these ladies are the true stars of the operation, producing more than 9 gallons of milk every day. The milk is pasteurized and bottled on the farm within 24 hours and then it’s either delivered to local stores to be sold, or used for baking or making ice cream.

There are a few ways to experience Wright’s, each of them with their own great perks. The original farm in North Smithfield is where you can scope out some amazing desserts at the bakery, see the cows being milked, visit the baby calves and take a self-guided tour to learn about the farm’s 100-year history.

Wright’s Creamery in Providence is the only “cow-to-cone” ice cream in Rhode Island, and where you’ll find the ice cream flavors of dreams – from Coffee Oreo to rainbow-swirled Unicorn. You can also catch The Wright Scoop in Warren, a fully renovated Streamline trailer, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on the go. Interested in trying the latest flavor concoctions before everyone else? Sign up for the Wright’s Test Batch Club, happening yearly.

Spend a moment with us at more of our favorite places.

Have you ever been to Wright’s? Tell us in the comments.

How to Avoid Vehicle History Report Scams

If you’ve ever bought or sold a used car, you’re likely familiar with vehicle history reports. These detailed reports provide crash data, maintenance records and ownership history, assuring buyers that they are getting what they paid for. Unfortunately, the process of obtaining these reports is often corrupted by criminals in the form of vehicle history report scams.

Such scams are often perpetrated by sellers trying to offload a damaged, stolen, salvaged or malfunctioning car. In other cases, scammers are trying to obtain personal information. Either way, it’s critical to use a reputable vehicle history report provider. Otherwise, you will be leaving yourself vulnerable to criminals.

Types of Vehicle History Report Scams

Incomplete Reports

Sellers may try to pass off an outdated or incomplete vehicle history report that does not include all the relevant information. If a car is involved in a crash but no insurance claim or police report is made, it likely will not show up on a vehicle history report. In such instances, the owner may not disclose this information to potential buyers in fear of losing the sale.

“I try to remind consumers that the information is only as good as how and when it was entered,” said AAA Northeast Car Doctor John Paul.

Speaking of when, another trick scammers often use is providing an outdated report that was completed prior to any damage. In whatever manner it’s done, intentionally withholding information is a scam.

Fake Reports

Scammers will often create counterfeit vehicle history reports containing fabricated or altered information in an attempt to hide negative records. These may include digitally altered documents and/or fake vehicle identification numbers used to deceive buyers. Fake reports are most often used by private sellers.

Phishing Scams

Scammers often send emails or text messages to potential buyers leading them to fraudulent websites. Once there, the recipients are asked to provide personal and/or financial information, which can then be used for identity and monetary theft.

One type of phishing scam specifically targets people selling their cars online. The criminals contact the sellers as if they are interested in purchasing the vehicle, but ask them to get a vehicle history report from a website link that they provide first. Once the seller orders the report, they are never contacted again, and the scammer has what they wanted all along – valuable personal information.

How to Avoid Vehicle History Report Scams

Use Reputable Sources

Now is not the time to go comparison shopping. Your safest bet in securing an accurate vehicle history report is using a well-known, reputable provider. Start by heading to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System’s website, vehiclehistory.gov. Here, you can get a vehicle history report and find a list of approved report providers.

Verify the Website’s Legitimacy

Scammers will often try to deceive consumers by creating websites that appear to be those of trusted sources but aren’t. To spot these fake sites, you’ll need to examine the URL.

All secure websites have URLs beginning with “https,” rather than “http,” along with a lock icon on the left side of the address bar. You should also examine the end of the URL to make sure the domain checks out. Legitimate websites have commonly used domains such as “.com,” “.org” and “.gov”.

Scammers have tried using websites with a “.vin” domain, thinking users would believe it was legitimate site for looking up a vehicle identification number, which is often abbreviated as “VIN.” In fact, “.vin” is a domain used for websites related to wine, as “vin” is the French word for wine.

Do not provide any personal information if any of these elements are missing or suspicious.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Ultimately, your goal is to learn whether the car is in the condition the seller claims it is. The best way to know this is by having a trusted mechanic inspect it. This should always be done prior to purchasing a used car, even one that comes with a legitimate vehicle history report.

Don’t know a good mechanic? We know hundreds. Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair shop close to you.

Be Skeptical of Enticing Offers

Scammers will often try to lure in unsuspecting individuals by offering free or low-cost vehicle history reports. The Car Doctor always says, “if the deal is too good to be true it most likely is.”

Trust Your Gut

Whether buying or selling, if anything strange comes up during the vehicle history report process that seems suspicious, trust your gut and walk away.

Have you heard about or been a victim of a vehicle history report scam? Tell us in the comments below.

In the market to buy a car? Apply now for affordable auto loan rates on new and used cars with AAA Auto Loans.

Nearby Dinosaur Attractions for Kids

Dinosaurs are fascinating for all ages, but our prehistoric predecessors are particularly awe-inspiring to kids learning about them for the first time.

Dinosaur attractions that stand alone or as part of museums breathe life into what can otherwise only be imagined from books or on screens. Thinking about colossal creatures roaming the Earth with footsteps big enough to shake the ground feels like make-believe, but standing next to a life-sized model of a sauropod footprint brings an entirely new perspective.

I remember when my parents would take me to visit the American Museum of Natural History in New York City as a kid. Looking up at the long neck of the rearing Barosaurus skeleton at the grand entrance could stop anyone in their tracks, but it feels even bigger when you’re small.

Our region has played a large role in the unearthing and research of dinosaurs in North America. From discoveries of old dino stomping grounds in Connecticut, to paleontology digs and expeditions led by institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pennsylvania.

If you know a kid who can tell his Brachiosaurus from his Stegosaurus or can identify a Triceratops in two seconds flat, you don’t want to miss out on these local dinosaur attractions.

Dinosaurs! At the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning

Rockville Centre, N.Y.

Filled with lessons of evolution, extinction and how animals eat, dinosaurs are excellent science teachers. Dinosaurs! is an engaging educational space on the grounds of Long Island’s Tanglewood nature preserve that focuses on adaptations. Towering models of dinosaur skeletons, hand-painted murals and lifelike animatronics serve as the attention-grabbing example of how animals conform to their surroundings, with interactive and hands-on exhibits and real-life birds and reptiles throughout to tie them to today’s world. Outside, there’s even more dinosaurs, animals and a dino dig.

The American Museum of Natural History

New York, N.Y.

A premier dinosaur attraction, the American Museum of Natural History is home to the world’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils, the first of which was found in 1897. Pick your favorite from the many scale models of ancient reptiles in the dinosaur halls, where you can see Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, flying Pterodactyls and more. The museum is also home to a cast skeleton of one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered: the Titanosaur. At nearly 19-feet-tall and 112-feet long, it cannot even be contained within its gallery!

Dino Roar Valley

Lake George, N.Y.

You are going to see a lot more than squirrels and birds on this nature trail. At Lake George Expedition Park, visitors embark along the 1.5-mile path of Dino Roar Valley, encountering prehistoric sights and sounds and meeting a variety of moving, roaring, dinosaurs along the way. After exploring the trail, little ones and their families can enjoy a dinosaur-themed stage show and hands-on activities and adventures like the opportunity to climb into a dinosaur’s nest and fossil digging. Open seasonally.

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Leonia, N.J.

Located on the sprawling grounds of Overpeck County Park a short drive from Manhattan, Field Station has attractions starring dinosaurs for kids of all ages. Paleontologists have worked to make the park experience as authentic as possible, with scenic trails featuring more than 30 realistic animatronic dinos. Live shows, games and activities like the T.rex “live feeding” make this a memorable and educational day trip for the whole family. Check website for seasonal schedule.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Pittsburgh, Pa.

Andrew Carnegie’s interest in dinosaurs and evolution fueled paleontology expeditions in the late 1800s that led to the discovery of many dinosaur types in North America, beginning the fossil collection that can be seen in the “Dinosaurs in their Time” exhibition at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Home to dozens of original fossils from the Mesozoic Era, most of the skeletons are real, not replicas. Remarkably, more than 75% of the objects on display are “type” specimens – meaning that they are the original specimen on which individual species are based – including the T.rex!

Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History

New Haven, Conn.

After being closed four years for renovations, the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History reopened in March with new classrooms and collection areas, improved accessibility and 50% more gallery space. Outside the museum, the life-sized bronze Torosaurus statue invites visitors to explore the Great Hall of Dinosaurs inside. Its collection includes Stegosaurus and Triceratops fossils and the type specimen of Brontosaurus. You’ll also get to see Rudolf Zallinger’s famous mural “The Age of Reptiles” – the world’s largest dinosaur mural.

dinosaur attractions — Dinosaur tracks on display at Dinosaur State Park.

Dinosaur State Park

Rocky Hill, Conn.

Walk in – or at least next to – the footsteps of dinosaurs. Dinosaur State Park is the site of 2,000 dinosaur tracks –500 of which are on display – believed to be from large carnivorous dinosaurs called Dilophosaurus. The fossils were accidentally discovered when the land was being excavated for a new building in the mid-sixties. The park’s museum, surrounding gardens, picnic area and the opportunity to cast your own dinosaur footprint make it perfect for a family day out.

The Dinosaur Place at Nature Art Village

Oakdale, Conn.

For a day of fun, Nature’s Art Village has something for everyone, from museums to mini golf to shopping and antiquing. They also have more than 50 life-sized dino models over 1.5 miles of nature trails, complete with hands-on activities and lessons for your journey. Feel the towering presence of a 40-foot Brachiosaurus, meet an animatronic Dilophosaurus, feel the rumble of a volcano near Raptor Bay and finish with a picnic. The kids will love the dino-themed playground and maze, which ends with sliding out of the mouth of a T.rex! Check out their website for more seasonal activities.

Beneski Museum of Natural History

Amherst, Mass.

One of New England’s largest natural history museums, the Beneski museum, located on the Amherst College campus, has more than 1,700 specimens on display, including fossilized dinosaur and fish skeletons, dinosaur footprints, wooly mammoths and trilobites. Its collection numbers more than 200,000 specimens, which are available for study by academics and researchers.

Save on museums, zoos and other attractions with AAA Discounts.

What’s your favorite dinosaur attraction? Tell us in the comments.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen?

You’ve probably heard the term “catalytic converter” recently. Unfortunately, it’s likely for all the wrong reasons.

Theft of this important car part has been rampant in the last few years. In 2019, 3,389 catalytic converters were reported stolen across the country, with 14,433 stolen in 2020, 52,000 in 2021 and 153,000 catalytic converters stolen in 2022. Although thefts did decline in 2023, the risk still remains.

We know the motivation behind stealing valuable cars, but why the specific interest in catalytic converters?

What Is a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter is an important feature of your car’s exhaust system. Its purpose is to limit the amount of harmful pollutants emitted by an internal combustion engine. Located between the vehicle’s engine and tailpipe, these devices convert toxic gases found in car emissions, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, into less-harmful substances like carbon dioxide and water vapor.

Catalytic converters are filled with precious metals, which act as the catalysts. Most often, these include palladium, rhodium and platinum. When the engine emissions’ harmful gases pass through the device, they make contact with these metals and undergo a chemical reaction. This process alters their molecular structure, converting them into safer substances.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen?

The reason these catalytic converters are stolen so often lies in what’s inside them. There is both a high demand and limited supply of the precious metals contained in these devices. Recent disruptions in supply chains have made them even more difficult to source and, in turn, even more expensive.

This has turned catalytic converters, which can be removed from cars in a matter of minutes with readily available tools, into valuable commodities. Today, catalytic converters are worth more than gold – literally. Platinum, palladium and rhodium are each worth thousands of dollars per ounce. Catalytic converters typically have just a few combined grams of these metals. That would still fetch a price of at least a few hundred dollars, possibly up to $1,000.

Cars Most Likely to Have Catalytic Converter Stolen

All catalytic converters are valuable and thus prone to theft. But those found in two vehicle segments are most likely to be stolen, for vastly different reasons. One because they’re more valuable and the other, because they are easy to get to.

Catalytic converters work most effectively in high temperatures, which is why they are typically located near the engine. Because the engine in hybrid vehicles is not always in use, the converters fail to heat up to optimal temperatures. Therefore, the converters in hybrid vehicles have more of the precious (and expensive) metals to make up for the lack of efficiency.

Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks are victims of their own circumstance. A higher ground clearance makes it easier for a thief to slide under the vehicle and remove the converter.

How to Tell If Your Catalytic Converter Is Stolen

It’s unlikely you’re looking underneath your car every time you go for a drive. So how else can you tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen? It will be readily apparent once you start your car.

Without a catalytic converter, your car will make a loud, roaring sound once the engine starts. You may also notice the check engine light on and the vehicle not driving smoothly.

How to Protect Your Catalytic Converter From Getting Stolen

Install an Anti-Theft Device

Installing an anti-theft device over your catalytic converter is the most effective way to prevent it from being stolen. There are several types of devices available, including shields, cages and steel cables. Check with your mechanic to see if this is would be a safe solution for your vehicle.

Etch Your License Plate Number or VIN Onto the Catalytic Converter

This step can’t stop a thief from stealing the catalytic converter, but it could deter them. If the component should get taken, the unique marking can alert potential buyers that it is stolen. This may make it more difficult to sell and less appealing to thieves. Nearly two dozen states have passed or are considering legislation that would more closely regulate the purchase of scrap catalytic converters.

Park in a Smart Spot

Whenever possible, park your car inside a closed garage or in your driveway. If you’re parking away from home, leave the vehicle in a well-lit area.

The Most Stolen Car Parts

Catalytic converters are not the only vehicle components thieves are trying to get their hands on. Here are some other commonly stolen car parts.

Tires and Wheels

Car tires and wheels check a lot of boxes for thieves. They can be easily removed in just a few minutes, they’re expensive and they’re essential for every automobile yet commonly replaced, so there’s always a market for re-selling. An easy way to protect your wheels from theft is by installing wheel locks. These are specially designed lug nuts that can only be removed with a unique wheel lock key as opposed to a standard socket.

Batteries

These don’t hold quite as much appeal as other commonly stolen car parts because used car batteries are not overly expensive. They are, however, simple to remove, making them easy targets. Installing after-market hood locks can prevent anyone from accessing the battery.

Air Bags

Air bags need to be replaced once they’re deployed, creating an ongoing demand for these safety features, and an opportunity for thieves to make money. Approximately 50,000 air bags are stolen each year at a cost of more than $50 million, according to the NICB.

Tailgates

Truck tailgates can often be removed in less than a minute without the need of any tools and can fetch hundreds of dollars on the resale market. While many newer pickup models now have locking systems, owners of older trucks can install their own tailgate locks.

How Can Insurance Help?

Having comprehensive coverage on your policy will ensure you are protected from stolen car parts. Sometimes (and less confusingly) called “other than collision,” it provides coverage from damage caused by an incident other than a crash, including theft. While only mandatory if you are leasing or financing a vehicle, this inexpensive option could prove to be invaluable if you find yourself the victim of a stolen catalytic converter or other car part. Catalytic converter repair could cost thousands of dollars.

Should you need to use your comprehensive coverage, your deductible would apply.

Reach out to a AAA Insurance agent to discuss your auto insurance coverage options.

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

Merging Into Life Podcast: Theme Park Tips and Hacks

SEASON 1: EPISODE 2
Episode Feedback

Secrets to seamlessly planning your first family trip.

IN THIS EPISODE

Every child dreams of going on a theme park adventure. Rollercoasters, magical characters, delicious food – what’s not to love? But planning a trip to a theme park can also feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you narrow down what to do? What is the best day to go to a theme park?

Enter Felicia Troy, AAA travel sales manager and Disney enthusiast. Having planned countless theme park trips, Felicia knows the top theme park secrets and amusement park hacks to maximize your experience and find fun for the whole family. This episode is full of useful theme park tips, from finding the perfect place to stay to getting the most out of park apps.

You can plan the best theme park vacation ever, and we’re here to help.

Save on Walt Disney World park tickets with AAA Tickets.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

[2:42] – The best time to go to a theme park
[6:40] – Preparing for your trip and what to pack for a theme park vacation
[12:01] – How to deal with long lines and the best ways to beat theme park crowds
[15:47] – The importance of setting a budget and how to save money at theme parks

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]
Amanda Greene: You are almost done with school. Are you excited for summer?

[00:00:05]
Kids: Yeah, I can’t wait. I’m going to miss my friends.

[00:00:09]
Amanda Greene: I know, but summer break means a summer vacation. Where do you think we should go this year?

[00:00:14]
Kids: Disney!

RESOURCES

Ask an Advisor: Disney 101

How to Skip Lines at Disney

11 Ways to Save Money on a Theme Park Vacation

Your Guide to Universal Orlando Resort Parks

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