Refinancing your auto loan can be a big decision. You may be able to lower your interest rate and save money. However, in many cases, a new loan may cost you even more than the original.

Here are a few of the pros and cons of refinancing a car to help you decide if it is the right decision for you.

What Is Loan Refinancing?

Simply put, loan refinancing is replacing one loan for another. When you refinance, you are essentially paying off your old loan with money from your new loan, then repaying that new loan under its terms. There are several reasons you may choose to refinance depending on your personal circumstances and motivations. Typically, borrowers look to refinance their car if they believe they can qualify for a new loan with more favorable terms or they need to increase their immediate cash flow.

Pros

Lower Interest Rate

One of the most common – and financially beneficial – reasons to refinance your car loan is to reduce your interest rates. Interest rates can fluctuate depending on the market, so choosing to refinance your loan may simply come down to the fact that rates have lowered.

But the current market isn’t the only factor affecting interest rates. An important component lenders consider when calculating the interest rate they offer is the borrower’s credit score. This number helps financial institutions determine how likely you are to pay the loan back. Therefore, if you had a poor credit score when you took out your initial loan, your loan had a higher interest rate. Conversely, if your credit score has improved since then, you may qualify for a lower interest rate.

Lower Payments

If your financial situation has changed since you took out your original car loan and you are looking to lower your recurring expenses, refinancing could prove to be a good option. In this situation, a lender would offer you a new loan with lower monthly payments over an extended period. Essentially, you would be paying less money each month but over a longer time span. The downside of this, however, is that by extending the loan, the total amount you pay over the lifetime of the loan will increase (more on that below).

Increased Cash Flow

If you are in immediate need of cash, such as for a sudden home improvement need, a cash-out loan is also an option. This refinance option works if you currently owe less than what your vehicle is worth. You can then take out a new loan based on the equity of your car and pocket the money left over. For example, if your car is currently worth $12,000 and you owe $8,000, you have $4,000 in equity. A new loan would allow you to pocket the equity you have in your car.

There are some downsides to this option. Cars, unlike houses, are deprecating assets. Even if maintained well, a car will continue to lose value the longer you have it. This creates a possible pitfall of having an upside-down loan in which you owe more than what the car is worth. If you are involved in a crash that damages the car, the value will likely decrease drastically, making it even more likely that you go underwater on your loan.

Another consideration with cash-out loans is that interest rates tend to be much higher than with traditional car refinance loans. You’ll want to ensure that the total interest you will pay on the loan is less than the cash-out you receive.

Cons

Increase in Total Cost 

Is refinancing a car worth it? It depends. If you need to lower your monthly costs, refinancing is a great place to start.

Lenders will generally will try to keep the original length of your loan. But if you have to extend the length for any reason, you may end up paying more over the life of that loan because interest will continue to be charged until the debt is fully paid. For example, if you have an $8,000 loan with a 5% interest rate paid over four years, you’ll pay a total interest rate of $843.25. If you extend your loan to six years, you will end up paying $1,276.44 in interest.

This may not be a problem if you are expecting to be in a better financial situation in the future or simply need a short-term influx of cash.

Higher Interest Rates

There’s no guarantee that you will be able to secure a lower interest rate when you refinance your car loan, particularly if you are refinancing in order to lower monthly payments or receive a cash-out loan. Because of this, you should review your auto loan at least annually to see if you can secure an interest rate lower than what you currently have. If you see a lower rate you may want to jump at the opportunity, even if you weren’t considering a refinance before. It’s better to get a good deal when you can rather than a bad deal when you need it.

You will also be susceptible to higher interest rates if you have an older car. Most lenders won’t issue a loan on an asset that has significantly depreciated in value. If they do, to make the deal financially viable, they will charge a higher interest rate.

Learn about refinancing options with AAA Auto Loans.

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

Gardening is one of the most satisfying pastimes. You dig around in the dirt a little bit, apply water and then — voila! — you have vegetables, greenery, herbs and flowers. Whether it’s spring, summer or fall, flowers can brighten up your garden or landscaping. But when is the best time to plant flowers? Our Northeast flower chart can help.

One of the first things you need to know when planting flowers is your planting zone. For the uninitiated, a planting zone is a way of measuring climate differences. The zones are based on the average annual minimum temperature in that area. You can find your zone here. There are around 11 planting zones in the US. Northeast planting zones range from 3 (cold) to 7 (mild), though most of the Northeast sits comfortably between zones 5 and 6. Only the very upper regions of New York, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine get into the 3-4 range.

Sourced from the Old Farmer’s Almanac, our flower chart marks the zones in which certain flowers flourish, and it also notes if they’re annuals or perennials. Annual flowers, like impatiens, go through their entire life cycle in one planting period. If you want impatiens every spring, you have to plant them every spring. Perennial flowers, like peonies, have a longer life cycle. With proper care, they can return and flower year after year.

An important thing to note when consulting our flower chart is that most flowers do not do well in extremes. As you look over the flower chart, you’ll notice that almost all of the flowers thrive best when planted in either spring or fall. These mild, in-between seasons are perfect for growing strong and healthy flowering plants. Everyone knows you can’t usually plant flowers in winter, but the dog days of summer can be just as bad.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are annual flowers that flourish in zones 2-11. (Although there are some smaller perennial varieties.) It is best to plant them after the last spring frost. Sunflowers look almost like huge daisies — some of them can grow over 16 feet in height! They are hardy plants that are easy to maintain. Sunflowers bloom in summer and early fall.

Zinnias

These annual plants grow best in zones 3-10. Like sunflowers, make sure to plant them after the last spring frost, and no sooner. Zinnias are great flowers for new gardeners, since they’re easy to plant as seeds and they grow very quickly. They bloom in summer and are beloved by butterflies.

Coneflowers

Coneflowers are perennials that grow in zones 3-9. These spindly purple flowers are best when planted in spring. Coneflowers bloom from June to October, adding a vibrant pop of color to your garden for many months. Like zinnias, they also attract butterflies.

Jacob’s Ladder

This perennial plant can grow in zones 3-8, and can be planted in either spring or fall. The vibrant purple flowers can bloom from late spring to early summer, and last up to four weeks.

Shasta Daisies

Shasta daisies are perennial flowers that can grow in zones 5-8. Like Jacob’s ladder, they can be planted in spring or fall. These flowers are classics of the garden, with white petals and yellow florets. Shasta daisies bloom in spring or early summer, and sometimes even flower through fall.

Lavender

This fragrant perennial grows in zones 5-9, and should be planted in late spring. Expect the signature fragrance to hit its peak when they bloom in late spring and early summer.

Roses

Roses are perennial flowers that can grow in zones 3-10. Plant your roses in late spring or early summer. There are many different types of roses, but they usually bloom on and off from spring to fall.

Black-Eyed Susans

These perennials thrive in zones 3-9. They should be planted in late spring or early summer, when the soil temperature reaches 70 degrees. Black-eyed susans brighten up any garden when they bloom throughout the summer.

Big-Leaf Hydrangeas

Big-leaf hydrangeas are perennial and they grow in zones 5-7. They can be planted in either spring or fall. Big-leaf hydrangeas are fascinating flowers that grow in an array of rich colors depending on the pH level of the soil. My hydrangeas blooms in shades of blue, purple and pink, so I truly have no idea what’s going on in my dirt. They bloom from mid-spring to early fall.

Tulips

Tulips are technically perennial, but generations of hybridization and human meddling has weakened their ability to come back year after year. Most gardeners treat them as annuals. Tulips can grow in zones 4-8. They should be planted in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before hard frost sets in. Tulips come in many varieties, but they usually bloom in spring.

Peonies

Peonies are perennial flowers that do best in zones 3-8. They are best planted from late September to early October, about six weeks before the ground freezes. These fat, fragrant blossoms flourish when planted in an area with direct sunlight. Once established, peony bushes are hardy plants with vast root systems. They bloom in late spring and early summer.

Get more tips for landscaping and gardening in the Northeast. 

What are your favorite gardening flowers? Let us know in the comments below!

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

RVing isn’t just a way to travel — it’s a lifestyle.

More than simply a mode of transportation, an RV is an all-in-one vacation mobile. It’s your hotel, restaurant and roaming office. It’s your home on the road.

Whether you’re interested in renting or buying an RV for the first time, or you can’t wait to get on the road again, these RV safety and insurance tips will make sure your journey is a smooth one.

If you daydream about cross-country road trips, camping at national parks or waking up in a new place every day, read our article about why you should take an RV road trip. It includes what to think about when planning, types of RVs and more.

RV Insurance

For those that own an RV, a specialty RV policy is recommended to properly cover your home on wheels. It also will provide you with a variety of options to customize to your needs.

Because an RV is like a car and a home, it includes some of the coverages of both auto and home insurance. Like car insurance, your RV insurance should have liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. And like a home, you’ll want to discuss a total loss policy with your agent that covers replacement cost vs. actual cash value.

There are a few other factors to consider that could impact your RV coverage as well.

• Type of RV. RVs come in different sizes, styles and price points. They can be towable or drivable and can suit a variety of needs. Coverage varies for every type of RV.
• Renting. If renting an RV for pleasure, it’s smart to get extra coverage from the rental company. Similar to insurance when renting a car, the rental company’s insurance may cover what your personal insurance does not.
• How often will you use it? Some use their RV for road trips, while others use it as a full-time residence. Full-time RVers may need coverage more akin to a homeowners policy.
• What do you plan on keeping in there? You might have photography equipment or expensive camping supplies, or maybe you’ll be working from the road and bringing along your computer and other tech. Whatever personal property is in your RV, you’ll want to make sure it’s protected.
• Other policy options. Depending on your state and what is offered by your insurance carrier, there are a few other options you can discuss with your agent. Emergency expense coverage pays for items such as lodging and/or travel expense if your RV were to be damaged or destroyed by a covered loss. Vacation liability provides liability coverage when you are parked and using your RV at an RV site. RV policies may provide an option for 24-hour roadside assistance, but a AAA RV membership will also cover you.

Learn how you can protect your RV with specialty insurance through AAA.

RV Safety

Once you’re fully insured and you’ve found and booked the perfect campsite, it’s time to hit the road. Keep these RV safety basics in mind for your travels ahead.

Driving an RV Is Not Like Driving a Car

RVs are longer and heavier (some could be as big as buses) and have limited visibility. Some states require a special license to drive an RV, especially if it’s over a certain weight, but you don’t need one to drive most motorhomes, according to Outdoorsy.

If you’re new to RVing, you can benefit from taking a training course, like the one by the RV Safety & Education Foundation. Classes and workshops are often offered online and cover everything from RV weighing to tire safety.

For your first RV trip, try a destination that’s closer to home so you can get better acquainted with the vehicle. Practice makes perfect!

Maintenance

If you own an RV, you know they experience a good amount of wear and tear. After all, they drive for long distances and could stay parked for months at a time. Bring your RV to a trusted mechanic that specializes in RVs for regular checkups and stick to the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

Tires are a big part of RV safety; a blowout could ruin your trip and spell disaster for both the vehicle and the precious cargo inside. You want to make sure the tires can handle the weight you are carrying and maintain and monitor the pressure. Consumer Reports also recommends replacing tires every 10 years from the date of manufacture, or sooner if noted in your owner’s manual.

Before Every Trip

Like any other road trip, you’ll want to make sure both you, your passengers and your vehicle are prepared. Give your RV a thorough safety check to get it ready for the road, map and price out your route for fuel and plan for emergencies. You’ll also want to secure down all the items in your RV before every trip to keep them from becoming hazardous projectiles while driving.

Get more tips.

Try the 330 Rule

Many veteran RVers swear by this rule, which encourages drivers to stop driving once they’ve hit 330 miles or it’s 3:30 in the afternoon – whichever comes first. This ensures you’ll have enough time to explore your destination without being completely spent from too many hours behind the wheel, and that you’re totally alert while driving.

Other versions of this theory are known as the 3/3/3 rule (300 miles/stop every three hours/stay three nights) and 2/2/2 rule (200 miles/stop every two hours/stay two nights).

RV Security

While most campsites and RV parks are safe, you may want to invest in a security system to keep an eye on your RV. Easy-to-install security camera systems, as well as window and door alarms may help to give you added peace of mind while you’re sleeping and out exploring.

If you do experience a break-in, your RV insurance can cover you for the replacement cost of your items – in other words, the full cost to replace the item with one of similar kind and quality.

If you plan on using public Wi-Fi during your trip, you may also consider downloading a virtual private network or VPN on your devices, to keep your personal information safe.

Schedule an appointment with an insurance agent to learn more about protecting your RV with specialty insurance through AAA.

Tell us your best RV tips in the comment below.

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

Road trips are a great way to have your own adventure across America’s roads. Take your expedition to the next level by making it an RV road trip.

Why an RV Road Trip?

Taking an RV road trip is almost completely different to taking one in your car.

First of all, you and your family will probably have a lot more room to spread out in an RV, alleviating the stresses of being in the same car with each other for hours on end. You don’t have to worry about scoping out hotels and motels along your route in advance – you already have a clean and safe space to sleep in your RV. You also don’t have to rely on rest stop food if you have your own little kitchen on wheels.

If you had already been planning on camping, RVs can make the experience a lot easier. You get to visit scenic sites across the country without the hassle of putting up a tent and taking it down when you’re finished.

There’s also a lot of camaraderie that comes with traveling in an RV. You’re bound to meet other road-trippers at RV parks, campsites and roadside attractions, and you can swap tips and tricks for how to make your trip one to remember. You can also find RV communities online if you want to connect after your road trip is over (or before your road trip to get some insider information).

Before heading out, review these RV safety and insurance tips. You can also directions plan your road trip with the help of AAA’s travel guides. 

Should You Rent an RV for a Road Trip? 

Have you decided you want to go RVing? Great! The second choice you need to make is whether you should rent an RV for a road trip, or buy one to keep. RVs are a hot commodity, spiking at the height of the pandemic. Around 11.2 million households now own an RV.

Before you rent or buy an RV, you should learn about the different styles and sizes that might fit you and your family best. There are many types of RVs, but here are the three that you’re most likely to encounter. They also don’t require the addition of a pickup truck.

• Class A: At 26-45 feet, it’s the biggest motorized RV, with top-shelf amenities like a bathroom, a kitchen, and lots of sleep and storage space. They’re limited on where they can drive due to their large size, and they have low fuel efficiency.

• Class B: Also called “camper vans,” Class B can be 17-23 feet. It’s the smallest of the three, with good fuel economy. It’s also easier for drivers who don’t have much experience with RVs, though it’s a little cramped inside.

• Class C: The mid-sized Class C is 20-30 feet, making it smaller than a Class A, but bigger than a Class B. It’s the best of both worlds, and usually comes with a bathroom, kitchenette and sleeping areas.

If you’re planning on taking frequent road trips, buying an RV might be more cost-effective for you.

Protect your RV with specialty insurance through AAA.

Have you ever taken an RV road trip? What was it like? Would you do it again? Tell us your story in the comments below!

Domestic demand for gasoline last week fell a sizable 365,000 barrels a day to 8.8 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). That’s a hefty week-to-week drop at a time of year that typically sees demand ride an incline through spring. Total product demand — which includes gasoline, propane and other oil-derived products — fell by 2.2 million barrels a day, the EIA reported.

Market prices for oil and gasoline did end last week slightly higher, after several moves by the Trump administration to increase pressure on Venezuela and Iranian oil production, which could reduce global availability of crude oil. The Treasury Department on Thursday issued penalties against a Chinese refinery for allegedly buying Iranian oil that is under U.S. sanctions. That action came on the heels of the Trump administration earlier this month revoking Chevron’s license to pump oil in Venezuela.

In the Northeast, gasoline inventories tightened last week on reduced output from Phillips 66’s refinery in Bayway, New Jersey, which is amid seasonal maintenance to switch to producing summer blended fuel. Stocks in the Northeast now sit at 62.9 million barrels, down 2.4 million barrels from last week but above last year’s figure of 60.9 million barrels.

“As gasoline prices remain relatively flat across the Northeast, the gap between pump prices this year and last year continues to widen,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “In some areas, prices are between 30 and 40 cents cheaper than this time last year.”

AAA Northeast’s March 24 survey of fuel prices found the current national average up a nickel from last week ($3.07), averaging $3.12 gallon. That national average price is 2 cents lower than a month ago ($3.14) and 41 cents lower than this day last year ($3.53).

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$3.01	$3	$3.08	$3.43
Massachusetts	$2.95	$2.95	$3.03	$3.30
New York	$3.10	$3.11	$3.17	$3.42
Rhode Island	$2.92	$2.91	$3.02	$3.29

*Prices as of March 24, 2025

As of March 24, Mississippi and Oklahoma had the lowest prices in the nation, at $2.66 and $2.69, respectively. California and Hawaii held the highest prices in the nation at $4.64 and $4.51, respectively.

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

Few experiences are more enjoyable for sports fans than a trip to the ballpark. But the action on the field is not always the biggest draw. Sometimes, it’s the stadium itself that is worth the price of admission.

Whether it’s a signature aesthetic or noteworthy attraction, a century old or recently debuted, you can find these iconic baseball stadium features across the country.

The Green Monster

Fenway Park

Boston

Towering more than 37 feet high, Fenway’s iconic left-field wall is likely the most recognizable stadium feature in all of baseball. Seats were installed atop the Green Monster in 2003, providing lucky fans with a one-of-a-kind view of the game.

Check out our Fenway Park stadium guide. 

Monument Park

Yankee Stadium

Bronx, N.Y.

With a record number of Hall of Famers as well as countless other greats who have helped win a Major League-best 27 World Series, the Yankees have a plethora of legendary players worth honoring. They do so at Monument Park, located just beyond the center-field fence. The museum is free and open to guests prior to each home game.

Check out our Yankee Stadium guide. 

The Home Run Apple

Citi Field

Queens, N.Y.

Since 1980, the Home Run Apple has been popping out of its resting place behind the center-field wall every time a Mets player hits a homer. When the team moved into Citi Field in 2009, the original apple was installed just outside the park, while a new, twice as tall apple took its place.

Check out our Citi Field stadium guide. 

The B&O Warehouse

Camden Yards

Baltimore, Md.

Constructed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the 1,000-foot-long warehouse has been standing in its place since 1905. When Camden Yards opened next door in 1992, the red-brick building became a signature feature of the stadium’s trendsetting retro-style aesthetic.

The Roberto Clemente Bridge

PNC Park

Pittsburgh, Pa.

The Roberto Clemente Bridge, named after the Pirates’ Hall of Famer, is an unofficial yet unmissable part of PNC Park. Spectators have an unimpeded view of the bright-yellow overpass that spans the nearby Alleghany River. The bridge is closed to cars during Pirates’ home games, giving fans a pedestrian path to the stadium.

The Ivy

Wrigley Field

Chicago, Ill.

Boston ivy has adorned the outfield wall of Wrigley Field since the 1930s. Installed to help make the stadium more of a destination, the foliage remains one of the most iconic baseball stadium features to this day.

The Water Spectacular

Kauffman Stadium

Kansas City, Mo.

The 322-foot-wide water spectacular, consisting of waterfalls and fountains, has been entertaining Kansas City fans for decades. Upon opening, it was largest privately funded fountain in the world.

Rays Touch Tank

Tropicana Field

St. Petersburg, Fla.

Part attraction, part educational exhibit, the touch tank is the 10,000-gallon home of a fever of cownose stingrays, the same species found in the waters of Tampa Bay. The animals are cared for by staff from the Florida Aquarium. Fans can visit the tank throughout the game.

The Purple Seats

Coors Field

Denver, Colo.

In the thin air of Coors Field’s upper deck, you’ll find a distinctively painted row of purple seats. This row is 5,280 feet above sea level, exactly a mile high.

The Swimming Pool

Chase Field

Phoenix, Ariz.

Cool off in the desert with a dip in Chase Field’s swimming pool. The 8,500-gallon tank, located just beyond the right-field fence, has been a staple of the Arizona ballpark since it opened in 1998.

McCovey Cove

Oracle Park

San Francisco, Calif.

The unofficial name of San Francisco Bay located just over Oracle Park’s right-field wall, McCovey Cove is named after former Giants’ great Willie McCovey. On game days, the water is filled with boaters and kayakers waiting for a chance to scoop up a home run ball.

For more tips and recommendations on things to see, do and eat in and around all three Northeast Major League Baseball stadiums, be sure to check out our full Northeast Baseball Guide.

Tell us about your favorite iconic baseball stadium in the comments. 

Featured image: “_5036557” by jessedouglas is marked with CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

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

For such a small state, Rhode Island is surprisingly big on food. The birthplace of New England favorites like stuffies and johnnycakes, the Ocean State also boasts quite a few of its own culinary specialties, indigenous to its tiny corner of the world.

From doughboys to Del’s lemonade, tradition is at the heart of all signature Rhode Island foods, earning them a dedicated fanbase of anyone who’s ever experienced a clam shack pit stop on a lazy beach day or late nights that ended with New York System hot wieners served “all the way.”

Learn about these and more as we highlight our top 10 favorite Rhode Island foods and where to get them. Prepare for lots of New England flavor and seafood, lots of clams, heaps of tradition and plenty of delicious excuses to pack up the car and go.

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Rhode Island-Style Calamari

If you thought fried calamari was already addictive, you haven’t tried it Rhode Island-style. Made with squid freshly fished from the surrounding waters, the crispy battered rings and tentacles get a flavor boost from a quick toss with garlic, butter and the vinegary kick of pickled cherry peppers. From the mouthwatering first whiff to the savored last bite, the dish is completely hard to resist and so revered that it was named the official state appetizer of Rhode Island in 2014.

Where to try it:

Hemenway’s, Providence. This classic Rhode Island seafood restaurant is consistently ranked among the top spots for calamari. Its central location to Providence attractions including the RISD Museum and the Rhode Island Convention Center makes it even more appealing.

Twin Oaks, Cranston. Bringing a friend to Twin Oaks to try the calamari is kind of like saying “try my mom’s.” Family-owned since 1933, it’s been around long enough to feel like family. The waterfront views aren’t bad either.

The Capital Grille. Good news for anyone who can’t make it to Rhode Island every time a calamari craving strikes – the Capital Grille serves Rhode Island-style calamari at its locations across the country as a nod to its roots at Union Station in Providence.

Clam Cakes

A staple of Rhode Island’s many beach and roadside clam shacks, these fried dough fritters are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and traditionally stuffed with meaty Rhode Island quahogs (aka the state’s official shellfish). They are best served hot and often come beside a bowl of Rhode Island clam chowder (more on that later), in which they are ideal for dunking.

Where to try it:

Aunt Carrie’s, Narragansett. Some say that Aunt Carrie was the inventor of clam cakes, but there is no hard evidence to prove it. No matter what, it’s a local favorite near the beach. Open seasonally.

Monahan’s Clam Shack, Narragansett. Another casual walk-up shack, located on the Narragansett seawall. You can’t beat clam cakes and chowder while watching the sunset over the water at one of the outdoor tables on a summer night. Don’t forget ice cream after! Open seasonally.

Stuffies

We told you there were going to be a lot of clams on this list. And no list of Rhode Island foods would be complete without mentioning stuffed quahogs, affectionately referred to as stuffies by the locals. Baked and served on the half shell, these clam shack favorites are typically made with a mixture of celery, onions, clams, bacon, breadcrumbs, chopped clams, clam juice and seasonings. Every place has their own spin; the fun part is trying them all.

Where to try it:

Anthony’s Seafood, Middletown. Anthony’s serves both hot and mild versions made with either roasted or cherry peppers. Like many variations, the stuffing includes Portuguese chourico sausage, influenced by Rhode Island’s large Portuguese population.

Amaral’s Fish and Chips, Warren. Fresh and simple. If you’re looking for a taste of the classic, try these.

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Flo’s Clam Shack, Middletown (Clam Shack) and Portsmouth (Drive-In). The stufffies here are known to be so big that they need to be contained with a rubber band. Open seasonally.

Rhode Island Clam Chowder

Unlike creamy New England clam chowder or the tomato-based Manhattan version, Rhode Island clam chowder has a clear broth, putting all of the focus on the clams (quahogs, of course!) Big chunks of tender potatoes, herbs and bacon make up a hearty bowl of what may very well become your new favorite type of clam chowder.

Where to try it:

Evelyn’s Drive-In, Tiverton. This clam shack on Nanayuaket Pond serves all the staples, including this local favorite.

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Matunuck Oyster Bar, South Kingston.  A bowl of chowder is always a good place to start before sampling some of the freshest shellfish around. The oysters at Matunuck are fished right from the waters of the restaurant owner’s nearby oyster farm.

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Hot Wieners

Hot wieners, also known as New York System wieners, are what Rhode Islanders crave. Served at diners throughout the state, they are more than your average hot dog; in fact, you’re better off not calling them hot dogs at all. And don’t put ketchup on them either. These small sausages made with pork, veal and spices are typically ordered “all the way,” with onions, yellow mustard, celery salt and a seasoned beef sauce. Wash it all down with a cold glass of coffee milk (keep reading to learn more) and you’ve got quintessential Rhode Island late-night munchies.

Where to try it:

Olneyville New York System, Providence and Cranston. Winner of the James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award in 2014, Olneyville sets the standard for hot wieners.

Coffee Milk

A hot wiener’s best companion. Yet another one of the Ocean State’s “officials,” the designated state drink of Rhode Island is one that not too many people have heard of elsewhere, at least by the same name. Like chocolate milk, coffee milk is made by stirring coffee-flavored syrup into milk. Add coffee ice cream to the mix and you have another uniquely Rhode Island beverage: the coffee cabinet. Try one of the milkshakes at Newport Creamery locations throughout the state where it is called an Awful Awful or at Delekta Pharmacy in Warren, which has been serving the treat at its soda fountain for over 100 years.

Where to try it:

At most diners/hot weiner spots … like Olneyville New York System.

Make it yourself. You can purchase coffee syrup in most general stores and supermarkets throughout Rhode Island. Autocrat and Eclipse are the most famous brands.

Del’s Frozen Lemonade

Nothing says summer on Rhode Island like Del’s frozen lemonade. It comes in flavors like orange, watermelon and blueberry, but true Del’s enthusiasts know that it’s all about the classic lemon. Frosty, sweet and tangy, it strikes the perfect balance between slushy and Italian ice — no straw or spoon required. It’s one of the most refreshing things that you can have on a hot day.

Where to try it:

In the summer you can find Del’s stands and trucks all throughout the state. Most are only open seasonally, but you can also make it yourself in the off-season with their make-at-home packets.

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Doughboys

Rhode Island’s version of a beignet, a doughboy is simply a square of dough that’s been fried and dusted with either granulated or powdered sugar. Best enjoyed still warm from the fryer. Available at pizzerias and clam shacks throughout the state.

Where to try it:

Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowderhouse, Warwick and Narragansett. There may be a line but the locals will tell you it’s worth it.

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Pizza Strips

Often the most anticipated guest at any Rhody get-together, some might say that it’s not a party without pizza strips. Unlike traditional pizza, this unique-to-Rhode Island specialty is sold at bakeries and features a thick, airy crust topped with tomato sauce and not much else, except for maybe a sprinkle of parmesan or herbs on top. There’s no mozzarella cheese on this pizza.

Where to try it:

D. Palmieri’s Bakery, Johnston. A staple of children’s birthday parties, cookouts and game nights, D. Palmieri’s “party pizza” is in the highlight reel of many Rhode Islander’s most memorable moments.

De Petrillo’s Pizza & Bakery, North Providence.

LaSalle Bakery, Providence. Pick up a box of zeppoles with your platter of pizza strips and you’re all set for a night of good eating.

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Johnnycakes

Rhode Islanders are passionate about all of their foods, but perhaps none are as hotly debated as johnnycakes.  From how to spell their name (jonnycakes or johnnycakes?) to how to make them (milk or water), to whether they should be thick (South County-style) or thin (Newport County-style), the unleavened cornmeal pancakes are notorious for causing arguments. Two things are for sure — johnnycakes are a tradition that started with Native Americans and have been around longer than any of us, and whether you enjoy them like pancakes for breakfast, as a side dish with dinner or lunch, or even for dessert, they are delicious.

Where to try it:

Kenyon’s Grist Mill, Usquepaugh. Kenyon’s Grist Mill is the world’s largest manufacturer of Johnny Cake Meal. Try a sample on one of their tours or at the annual Johnnycake Festival in West Kingston.

Commons Lunch, Little Compton. Crepe-thin is how they make the johnnycakes at this long-time establishment.

What are your Rhode Island foods? Did your favorite make the list? Tell us in the comments!

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

Casinos, once mostly part of the Nevada landscape, can now be found throughout New England and the country. As gambling has gone mainstream, casinos have evolved to become vacation destinations, and many offer family-friendly attractions right on sight. However, if you’d rather step away from the casino grounds for the day, you can find many fun attractions a short drive away.

Here we share popular attractions near southern New England casinos and in New Jersey and New York casino towns.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

New England Casino Getaways

Connecticut

Less than a dozen miles separate Connecticut’s two biggest casinos, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket and Mohegan Sun in Uncasville. Both can be found in the southeastern part of the state, less than an hour’s drive in good traffic to the picturesque seaport town of Mystic.

In Mystic, you can explore aquatic life at the expansive Mystic Aquarium and geek out on the state’s seafaring history at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Another nearby museum focuses on a different class of ship: submarines. The Submarine Force Library and Museum in Groton houses the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, as well as many other submarine artifacts. For something different, try the kid-friendly entertainment at Nature’s Art Village in Oakdale. The village hosts a dinosaur sculpture trail and mini golf during the warmer months and hands-on gem mining and shopping year-round.

Massachusetts

There are enough Boston-based attractions near Encore Boston Harbor casino in Everett to make the casino the day trip and Boston the main attraction. Further west, the attractions found just a few blocks away from the MGM Springfield casino should not be overlooked. Springfield is the birthplace of basketball and where you can find the Basketball Hall of Fame. Here, you can see exhibits and artifacts of basketball’s history and marvel at the stats of the hall’s inductees. Also, within city limits is Springfield Museums, which offers access to five downtown museums for the price of one admission. The biggest draw of the five may be The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, with plenty of colorful, hands-on exhibits. For roller coaster lovers, Six Flags New England is just south of Springfield. The much quieter Yankee Candle Village, in nearby Deerfield, gives you the chance to make your own scented, wicked concoction at the candlemaker’s flagship store.

Rhode Island

Because of Rhode Island’s small size, all of the Ocean State’s attractions are relatively close to Bally’s Twin River Casino in Lincoln (and the smaller Bally’s Tiverton). At Twin River, you can find R1 Indoor Karting Entertainment Center, which offers indoor go-karts, complicated escape rooms and axe throwing. Head south to Providence to explore Roger Williams Park, which hosts a zoo on 40 acres, a botanical center (open during warmer months) and a museum of natural history and planetarium. The RISD Museum showcases some 100,000 pieces of fine art and design, and you are sure to find many Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design students studying the artwork there.  

Casino Weekend Getaways in New York and New Jersey

New Jersey

The Garden State has nine casinos, all located in Atlantic City. Many have their own entertainment options. Should you want to step away from the casino, Steel Pier offers an urban amusement park for all ages that overlooks the ocean. If the saltwater calls, hop aboard a boat with Atlantic City Cruises to view the shoreline and spy Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. There are several wineries located fewer than 30 miles from downtown, including Renault Winery & Resort. This winery, one of the oldest in America, also has a hotel, fine dining and a sculpted golf course.

New York

New York has 34 casinos spread throughout the state, according to the American Gaming Association. Here we highlight two.

Located between Syracuse and Utica is Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, which offers more than 120,000 square feet of gaming and plenty of entertainment options. To the east, history buffs might enjoy Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome, located at a historically important convergence of regional waterways. To the west, you can explore the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, which has an annual induction ceremony. Turn north to explore nearby Oneida Lake and stop by the cozy Sylvan Beach Amusement Park in warm weather for some family-friendly thrills.

Downstate in the Catskills, Resorts World Catskills Casino in Monticello offers 100,000 square feet of gaming. Fewer than 2 miles away, the Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark offers year-round aquatic fun at New York’s largest water park, as well as plenty of other family-friendly entertainment. About 20 miles west of the casino, you can explore two beautiful lakes at Lake Superior State Park. You can also take a walk through the history of the Woodstock music festival and the flower power generation at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts museum.

Book your next casino vacation with a AAA travel advisor.

If you’re in the market for a new home, you’ve surely learned that the real estate landscape can drastically change in just a moment’s notice. Not long ago, houses would list and sell within days. Experts say that those days are behind us.

Financing a home has become costlier and buyers have become more cautious. With home sales slowing, many sellers have had to endure weeks and in some cases months of waiting as their properties sit on the market.

As of March 2024, the 30-year fixed rate mortgage (FRM) averages around 6.67%, according to Freddie Mac. To put it into perspective, the average 30-year FRM lingered around 3-4% ten years ago. While still high, it is an improvement from late October 2022, when the average rate was listed at at 7.08%, the highest in 20 years and more than double what it was at the same time the previous year. The spike led many potential homebuyers to hold off, lowering demand and pushing home prices down.

Despite the dark clouds facing homebuyers, an increasingly popular mortgage tool called a temporary buydown mortgage may be the silver lining. Steve Vieira, AAA Northeast’s director of mortgage operations and sales, says 2-1 and 1-0 options are “worth exploring and possibly beneficial for the seller and the buyer.”

How Does a Temporary 2-1 or 1-0 Buydown Mortgage Work?

“The first thing to be aware of is that the temporary buydown mortgage involves a cooperative seller,” Vieira said. “Before a qualified buyer locks in a fixed rate 30-year mortgage, the buyer or their realtor can approach the seller of the home or builder and negotiate a temporary buydown 2-1, or 1-0 mortgage.”

As its name suggests, a 2-1, or 1-0 temporary buydown mortgage allows the buyer to ease into their full fixed-rate mortgage fee. In a 2-1 mortgage, the first year of the buyer’s monthly payment is 2% less than the fixed rate. In the second year, the payment bumps up by 1% point. When the third year begins, the full fixed rate takes effect and remains for the duration of the loan. In a 1-0 buydown, the mortgage rate is 1% lower in the first year before increasing to the full rate in year two.

In each case, at closing, the seller pays the difference between the percentage points by depositing a lump sum cash deposit into an escrow account that is tied to the mortgage. Each time that the buyer makes a monthly payment, a withdrawal is made from the escrow account that brings the temporarily reduced payment up to the full loan rate.

Temporary Buydowns by the Numbers

When describing the benefits of a temporary buydown mortgage for a buyer, Vieira offered this example of a Northeast couple, buying a home with a 7% fixed $250,000, 30-year, 2-1 mortgage. This is how the numbers would play out for the buyers:

• At closing, the seller or the home builder makes a $5,831.88, lump sum cash deposit into an escrow account that is tied to the buyer’s mortgage. This cash deposit equals the difference in the interest costs between the temporary buydown rate and the note rate.

• The buyer’s full 7% monthly mortgage payment, including interest, is $1,663.46.

• For the first two years of the loan, the buyers make monthly graduated loan payments.

• In year one, the buyers make their 5% monthly mortgage payments of $1,342.05.

• In year two, the buyer’s interest payments increase to 6% and their mortgage payments increase to $1,498.88 per month.

• In the third year, the buyers pay the full 7% payment of $1,663.46. They continue to pay 7% for the life of the loan.

• During the first year of their temporary buy down mortgage, the buyers saved $3,856.92

• During the second year of their mortgage, they saved $1,974.96

• The buyers total two-year savings equals $5,831.88, the same amount that the seller deposited into the escrow account at the time of the sale.

Benefits for Sellers and Buyers

As an increasing number of houses linger on the market for longer periods of time, the seller benefits by closing the sale in less time. Taking part in the temporary buydown mortgage may also save the seller money over time. It could result in a far lower expenditure than what it would cost to slash the sale price on the home. Time is money in real estate. If the house sits on the market for weeks or months, the seller may be forced to drop the price by significantly more than the temporary buydown escrow payment.

The buyers, meanwhile, can use the extra cash to purchase new furnishings, update their new house and take care of other expenses that come with a move. The house sells and the seller turns over the keys to the new owners.

Learn more about AAA’s temporary buydown mortgage program and how it can potentially save you thousands of dollars on your next home purchase.

*Disclaimer: All loans offered through AAA Northeast Bank. NMLS # 179871, AAA New Jersey Division Financial Services Inc. NMLS # 2495543 110 Royal Little Drive Providence RI 02904 (800) 446-6997. Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance. MORTGAGE BROKER ONLY, NOT A MORTGAGE LENDER OR MORTGAGE CORRESPONDENT LENDER. “We arrange but do not make loans.” Other rates and terms available. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Some restrictions apply. All loans are subject to credit approval, appraisal and satisfactory title examination where applicable. Consult your tax advisor regarding the tax deductibility of interest. Other rates and terms available. Counseling may be required.

As the law-abiding citizens we are, we make it a point to stay abreast of all the rules of the road. It turns out, however, that’s easier said than done sometimes.

You see, individual states and towns have their own traffic rules and regulations. The vast majority of these laws are similar from place to place and, most would agree, rules that should indeed be on the books. But every so often there’s a driving law that stands out. Whether it’s oddly specific, mindbogglingly random, painfully archaic or just downright silly, they all can be categorized as bizarre traffic laws.

Let’s take a cruise around the country to see what bizarre laws about driving that states have come up with, starting in our neck of the woods.

In the Northeast

Connecticut

• You must grant right-of-way to any person guiding cattle across the roadway.

Maine

• It’s illegal to sell a motor vehicle on Sunday.
• In South Berwick, parking in front of Dunkin’ Donuts is prohibited.

Massachusetts

• In Milford, peeping into the windows of automobiles is against the law.
• It is illegal to travel on a roadway with a sleigh or sled drawn by a horse, unless there are at least three bells attached to some part of the harness.

New Hampshire

• It’s against the law to inhale car fumes with the intent of inducing euphoria.

New Jersey

• Only in New Jersey is there a statewide ban on drivers pumping their own gas (it’s also prohibited in parts of Oregon).
• Like in Massachusetts, you can’t drive a horse-drawn sleigh on a highway unless there are a sufficient number of bells attached to the horse’s harness.

Rhode Island

• Section 11-22-11 of Rhode Island law says it’s illegal to ride a horse on a highway for the purpose of racing or testing the speed of the horse. Doing so could cost you $20.
• You cannot operate a motorized tricycle on a Rhode Island interstate.

Around the Country

Alaska

• In Anchorage, it’s illegal to tie a dog to the roof of a car.

Arkansas

• In Little Rock, it’s against the law to honk your horn after 9 p.m. “at any place where cold drinks and/or sandwiches are served.”

California

• It is a misdemeanor to shoot at any kind of game from a moving vehicle – unless your target is a whale.
• It can be illegal for a woman to drive while wearing a bathrobe.

Colorado

• It’s illegal to drive in circles in Westminster, or, more specifically, to drive “past a traffic control point three times in the same direction within any three-hour period.”

Georgia

• In Marietta, it’s illegal to spit from a car or bus. Spitting from a truck, however, is perfectly fine.

Illinois

• You can claim roadkill, so long as you don’t owe child support.

Iowa

• In Tiffin, you’re prohibited from throwing stones, bricks, or missiles of any kind into the street – unless you get written permission first.

Maryland

• You cannot use profanity on any street, highway or sidewalk. Doing so will cost you up to $100.

Minnesota

• In Minnetonka, it can be illegal to have dirty tires or wheels.

Missouri

• You are not allowed to leave your keys in your car in University City.

Montana

• It’s illegal to have a sheep in your truck without a chaperone.
• Don’t let your sprinkler get the street wet in Kalispell – it’s against the law.

Nevada

• Camels are prohibited from walking on public highways.

Ohio

• In Youngstown, running out of gas is a misdemeanor.
• Cincinnati taxi drivers can only wear shorts from May 16 through Labor Day.

South Carolina

• In Hilton Head, it’s illegal to accumulate garbage in your car.

Washington

• It’s against the law to hug someone while you’re driving.

Which of these bizarre laws made you laugh the most? Tell us in the comments. 

For more automotive coverage, visit AAA.com/CarsTrucks.

Life insurance is one of the best ways to ensure your loved ones are financially secure when you’re no longer around to provide for them. Despite its importance for a bright financial future, life insurance still has a reputation for being a bit confusing.

From annuities to underwriting, life insurance terminology can pose a barrier to fully understanding a policy, which isn’t an ideal scenario for either the customer or the company providing the policy. Getting to know life insurance terms is a win for everyone involved and helps to demystify the process as a whole.

While specific policies differ from company to company, there are some standard terms that are used across the life insurance landscape. Keep the following glossary handy any time you’re starting, updating or simply reviewing your life insurance policy.

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Annuity

An annuity is a contract that provides you with regular income for life (or a set time period) that’s paid out by your insurance policy.

Beneficiary

A beneficiary is the person (or people) you designate to receive compensation if something happens to you.

Cash Surrender Value

Cash surrender value is the amount of money you would get if you canceled your policy before it pays out – typically minus fees and loans.

Direct Response

Direct response is a type of insurance with no middleman. It’s sold straight to you via mail, online or in-person.

Dividend

A dividend is a little bonus you may get back if your life insurance company overcharged for your policy.

Face Amount

Think of face amount like face value: It’s the payment amount on your policy that doesn’t include any extras.

Insurable Interest

Insurable interest is the reason for insuring someone, like love, family or financial ties.

Insurer vs. Insured

The insurer is the company that provides the policy, and the insured is you (or the person covered).

Lapse

When a policy becomes inactive because premium payments haven’t been made.

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Life Insurance

A policy that acts as a financial safety net for your loved ones if anything happens to you. It’s like saying, “I got your back – even if I’m not around.”

Non-forfeiture

Non-forfeiture means that if you stop paying your premiums, you won’t lose everything, and you can instead choose options like taking cash or reduced coverage.

Participating and Non-participating Policies

A participating policy type may offer a piece of the company’s profits as a dividend. A non-participating policy does not.

Policy Proceeds

Policy proceeds are the funds your policy pays out when it matures, or someone claims it (i.e. your beneficiary).

Premium

The regular payment that’s made to keep your policy active. Sort of like a gym membership, but instead of working out, it’s ensuring your loved ones are financially healthy.

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Rating

A rating is an extra charge added to your premium if you are considered a higher-than-average risk.

Rider

Just like how celebrities can add expensive coconut water to their dressing room riders, a life insurance rider is a little add-on to customize your policy (like extra coverage or specific inclusions).

Standard Risk

The classification of a person applying for life insurance coverage that falls under the average standards on which premium rates are based.

Supplementary Contract

A separate agreement for how the policy payout will be managed (installments vs. lump sum, etc.).

Underwriting

The process of underwriting is like choosing your fantasy team. Both use “stats” (in this case, medical history and lifestyle habits) to evaluate risk and determine the best outcome (cost and type of coverage).

Learn more about life insurance through AAA.

Sally’s Apizza

237 Wooster Street, New Haven, Conn.

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New Haven pizza is consistently ranked among the top pizza styles in the country. To taste test for yourself, head to Wooster Street, Connecticut’s historic Little Italy neighborhood where it all began. Here, among a row of long-established pastry shops, restaurants and a few nationally recognized pizzerias, you’ll find the original Sally’s Apizza.

Sally’s Apizza (pronounced “ah-beetz”) has been handcrafting pizza the same way since it was founded by Salvatore “Sally” Consiglio in 1938. The recipes are original, with all the hallmarks of New Haven pies: thin crust, light on cheese and heavy on sauce. And at the Wooster Street location, they are still using the same 100-plus-year-old coal-fired brick oven, infusing every crust with coveted charred flavor.

“Every aspect down to the oven itself gives each bite a signature taste of sweetness, from the sauce balanced with a slight bitterness to the iconic char,” said Sally’s general manager, Matt Ball.

A large population of Italian immigrants came to New Haven in the early 1900s, bringing their favorite foods and customs with them. One of the most famous and the first to gain recognition for his Neapolitan-style pizza on Wooster Street was Sally’s uncle, Frank Pepe. After working for Frank for over a decade, Sally opened his own place down the block and both have grown to become more popular than ever.

What sets New Haven-style pizza apart from all the rest is that it remains true to its roots. The product you get today is consistent with what families were making generations ago. That’s what draws lines to the storefronts as soon as they open and brings in customers from across the country. Sally’s even retains the same look and feel from its early days, with wood-paneled walls and old-school booths.

The Consiglio family sold Sally’s Apizza in 2018 but Sally’s son’s Ricky and Bobby are helping to maintain the legacy, consulting as the operation expands to include locations in Fairfield and Stamford, Conn., with more to come. The first Massachusetts restaurant opened in Woburn in December, and another one is in the works in Boston’s Seaport District.

Don’t worry about the char, Ball reassures, “our new locations operate with the same coal-fired oven specifications as the original.”

Our Recommendation

The Tomato Pie has been a menu staple since Sally’s first opened. Topped with just tomato sauce and a light sprinkle of parmesan, it calls back to a tradition established by New Haven’s Italian immigrants, when after a long day in the local factories, it was common for workers to head to bakeries and smear tomato paste on flatbread.

The simple combination lets the brick oven flavor shine. But “insiders know that adding garlic and basil is an out-of-this-world combo on this classic and timeless pizza,” Ball said.  

Because the Tomato Pie is so popular, mozzarella cheese (the “mootz”) is considered a topping at Sally’s, so keep that in mind when ordering.

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

We know what you’ve been thinking — you need a vacation.

More than half of Americans agreed that “taking time off is more important than ever,” according to a 2023 consumer insight report from the U.S. Travel Association. Yet, fintech company Sorbet’s 2024 PTO report found that nearly two-thirds of workers are not using their vacation days. Undoubtedly, the many business owners, stay-at-home parents and non-corporate folks of the world who don’t receive paid days off have even less time for themselves.

Yes, there is lots to be done and seemingly not enough time to do it, but you can’t constantly operate at full-speed without a rest stop. That’s just not how people are programmed. Burnout is real. Like a wind-up toy that’s been cranked to capacity, you can only go so long at your strongest before you start to slow down.

Being overworked and constantly connected can lead to mental and physical stresses that can be just as detrimental to your health as being sick. And it’s not just you who feels it. All the reasons why you work so hard in the first place — your job, your family and friends —  start to become affected by your stress too. Don’t discount the importance of a much-needed, well-deserved dose of R&R. Whether you would like to get away with your family or are thinking of venturing out solo, you need a vacation to refresh and come back better than ever.

Here are some real (and other not-so-serious) signs that it may be time to get in touch with a AAA travel counselor ASAP.

Signs You Need a Vacation

You’re on edge.

Your inner dialogue is full of irrational villain-esque criticisms and nitpicking of absolutely everything. Things you normally wouldn’t flinch at or may have never bothered you before are now driving you insane. You might snap at your partner for leaving their dishes in the sink or maybe you curse the phone every time it rings. Don’t they know you are busy (Netflix binging)?

You, um, forget stuff.

You have so much weighing on your mind that you start forgetting about other, sometimes important, things. You know those days when you put on two different socks, can’t remember where you parked or maybe even forgot to pick your kids up from school? Too many of those days are a clear sign that you need a vacation to recharge.

Your passport is looking a little empty.

When’s the last time you used that thing anyway? Better check before you start planning a trip. It might be time to renew. Learn about AAA’s passport services.

You’re low on sunshine.

Your doctor might have told you that you are lacking vitamin D, which is a common deficiency. Sunlight is a major source of vitamin D, so go somewhere far from the fluorescent lights above your cubicle and soak in some rays.

You order a pina colada at happy hour but it just doesn’t hit the same.

And getting caught in the rain is not fun either.

New vices.

Whether it’s a drink after work, snacking throughout the day, overeating or sneaking in an occasional smoke break, you’ve picked up an unhealthy habit to deal with the stresses of one long day after another. You clearly need a vacation, but in the meantime try exercising to release tension instead.

Travel commercials make you overly emotional.

What a perfect life that couple is having, splashing around on the beach and clinking champagne glasses in an infinity pool. And here you are eating chips in your sweatpants, trying to determine if it’s where they are, how happy they look or how great they look in their bathing suits that’s making you the most envious right now.

You don’t care.

Motivation is lacking and you’ve been feeling depressed.

The most excitement your sunglasses have seen lately is the glare on your commute home …

Which, incidentally, is causing everyone to drive 5 mph and making you a little crazy. First, take a deep breath. Next, contact your AAA travel advisor. This service is included with your membership (translation: It’s free)!

You’re always tired.

Too much stress can lead to having trouble sleeping, which can lead to trouble staying awake at your desk. If you’ve become best friends with the snooze button, your body is telling you that you need a vacation.

You can’t think.

You have a deadline to meet, but all you can think about is if it’s Friday yet. You find yourself unable to concentrate, easily distracted and no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to get your brain to work.

You forget what it feels like to function without caffeine.

Must. Have. Another cup of coffee …

The closest you’ve been to a spa is your own bathtub.

Maybe you lit some candles. Treat yourself to a real spa day or, even better, a week-long wellness retreat.

Daydreaming all the time.

In meetings, you find yourself lost in thoughts of palm trees and steel drum bands. And on the road, traffic becomes a mirage of a desolate beach. Just try not to daydream yourself into the car in front of you.

You’re thinking about deleting your social media accounts because the FOMO is too much.

Why does it seem like everyone else has time for a vacation?

Your bank account is not balanced.

As in, most, if not all of the things you pay for are bills and necessities and not enough fun things that make you happy. Treat yourself!

You keep revisiting old photo albums and living vicariously through your happy, vacationing self.

Time to get started on creating some fresh, new memories.

So what’s the verdict? Do you need a vacation? Whether your ideal getaway involves exploring faraway destinations, a road trip, family time at a theme park or lounging around on a cruise or in the Caribbean, don’t let those vacations days go to waste.

First Step: Planning

Stop procrastinating and start making your much-needed vacation a reality. Here are a few tips to get you started.

• Create a tentative budget and a schedule. Penciling in the date not only gives you something to look forward to but it gives you a goal to work toward.

•  Research the pros and cons of traveling to your desired destination during your preferred time frame. Will the attractions and activities that you are most interested in seeing be available?

• Book with a travel advisor. In addition to providing in-depth expertise about destinations across the globe, these professionals have relationships with cruise lines, hotels and tour operators and often have access to special rates and added benefits that you can’t find anywhere else.

• Take advantage of exclusive travel discounts on car rentals, flights, hotels, vacation packages and more.

• Check your passport. It can take up to six weeks to get a new passport, and some destinations require it to be valid for six months beyond your return date. If you don’t have a passport, you will need a REAL ID to travel domestically. Make sure you have enough time to get all of the necessary documentation needed before you go on your trip.

• Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against unforeseen events such as personal emergencies, weather-related delays and cancellations, and more.

Start planning your next vacation (and soon) with a AAA travel advisor. 

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

Coming off another strong year for the cruise industry, savvy travelers are looking to plan their next sail now. It’s the best time of year for scoring great cruise deals, whether to take advantage of seasonal discounts or lock down your preferred cabin in advance.

AAA Travel is seeing strong interest in bookings for this summer and beyond, and homeporting, solo trips and smaller ships are some of the biggest trends. Still, when most people picture a cruise, they think of big ships sailing the ocean blue, invariably on a weeklong course set for the Caribbean. While that’s a great place to start, there are lots of other options.

Imagine everything from tropical escapes on large boats that feel like amusement parks to polar expeditions on small ships that strike a studious vibe. There are long voyages and short, action-packed and laid-back, and often from convenient Northeast ports.

If you need a nudge to experience one of the many seafaring possibilities, here are a few different types of cruises you can try.

Book your next cruise with AAA Travel.

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For the Spontaneous

Big Boat Cruises

The largest megaships from Royal Caribbean and Carnival carry nearly 7,000 passengers. These splashy, ocean-going leviathans tout over-the-top attractions – think water parks, roller coasters, ziplines and even ice skating rinks – as well as multiple restaurants, sprawling spas and lively nighttime entertainment. There’s something for everyone, from singles to seniors. Supervised programs for kids make them family-friendly, and cabins come in all sizes. Aboard such spectacular ships, the destination almost becomes secondary.

Homeport Cruises

Forget airport hassles and airfare. Cruise from a nearby port in Massachusetts, New York or New Jersey. Homeport cruises are perfect for impromptu escapes, and some provide last-minute deals. The rugged coast of Canada, Bermuda’s pink beaches and the Caribbean beckon, all easily accessible on round-trip voyages from various lines, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess and Disney Cruise Line.

For Mellow Explorers

Riverboat Cruises

Built to duck under ancient bridges and slip through narrow locks on Europe’s inland waterways, riverboats host about 150 passengers in a style drastically different from big ships. Riverside scenery always remains visible, alleviating open-water anxiety, and destination-focused itineraries as well as included tours reveal the history of riverside hamlets. Viking’s scenic river cruises sail year-round on the Rhine, which is adorned with castles.

My top tip for river cruising is fly to the port city the day before to explore the city and shake off the jet lag. It’s great to start your trip exploring instead of
stressing. I always do this!”

– Marie Kwash, AAA travel advisor

Barge Cruises

Catering to 20 passengers or fewer, tiny barges have big personalities. Most glide at a snail’s pace through the canals of the French countryside, sourcing culinary delights like earthy wines, silky cheeses and flaky pastries along the way. Guests hop off whenever they want to stroll or bike nearby towpaths. It’s a bespoke affair, perfect for couples, groups looking to charter an entire boat, or anybody interested in traveling off-grid. Barges also favor the Scottish Highlands, where the Caledonian
Canal links several lochs.

Steamboat Cruises

Ready for a dose of Americana while rollin‘ on the river? Watch the big paddle wheels keep on turning (and turn back time) as Riverlorians spin tales – equal parts lore and history – about life along the arteries of America’s heartland. American Queen Voyages operates the world’s largest steamboat, the 417-passenger American Queen, which plies the mighty, muddy Mississippi. Out west, the 221-passenger American Empress roams the Columbia and Snake rivers, where wineries, canyon waterfalls and the echoes of Lewis and Clark call visitors.

For the Adventurous

Expedition and Adventure Cruises

If you dream about discovering remote destinations, you should be on an expedition ship. These eco-friendly small cruise ships explore the most extreme (and pristine) places on the planet, while onboard experts help you digest the unfolding wonder. Spot polar bears in the Arctic or sail past glistening glaciers in Antarctica with Viking, which even boasts science labs on its polar-class ships. For warm-water expeditions, Celebrity exposes the isolated Galapagos Islands, where giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies reign.

On adventure cruises, the academic aspect gets dialed back, but you’ll still learn about nature, wildlife and local culture, while having plenty of sporty fun. Destinations aren’t as far-flung, favoring places such as Alaska and the Sea of Cortez.

Cruisetours

A dreamy travel mashup, you’ll head to sea either before or after a multi-day land tour, effortlessly linked and facilitated by the cruise line. Cruisetours with Holland America and Princess are popular in Alaska, where inland attractions such as Denali National Park are accessible via scenic train travel and stays at wilderness lodges.

World Cruises

A trip around the world is the holy grail of a life well-cruised. Unpack once and let the parade of world wonders begin. The ship becomes your global ambassador. Circumnavigating the planet takes at least 100 days, plus significant funds. Cunard launched the first world cruise and still offers these epic voyages from its Northeast homeport, but many lines, including Royal Caribbean, feature world cruises now.

World cruise segments, called Grand Voyages by lines like Holland America and Cunard, sail from the U.S. and can be shorter, letting guests choose to participate in certain legs of the journey instead of the full trip. Imagine going on safari in Africa or surveying Australia’s outback, minus the international flights.

World cruises have always been popular with retirees who have the free time to explore. But they are becoming more popular with younger travelers who can work remotely and experience the world in their spare time.”

– Wendy Marley, AAA travel advisor

For Savvy Travelers

Transatlantic and Repositioning Cruises

A rite of passage for many travelers, transatlantic crossings hark back to the golden age of ocean liners. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, with weekly service linking New York and Southampton, England, is the only liner operating a traditional transatlantic route. The itinerary contains no port calls. You’ll get that “king-of-the world” feeling at the bow, as well as from white glove service at afternoon tea and evening galas in the largest ballroom afloat.

Repositioning cruises may involve transatlantic travel, but the purpose differs, and ports are included. Logistic byproducts, they are exactly as billed: one-way cruises to reposition ships. Notably, many Caribbean-based ships migrate to the Mediterranean for summer and return in winter. Repos tend to be bargain-priced and feature numerous sea days.

Tips When Booking Your Cruise

• AAA’s travel advisors are available to assist with booking – and working with an advisor is free for AAA members. Travel advisors often have access to exclusive deals and amenities, like cabin upgrades or onboard credits. Part of a cruise loyalty program? You can still get all your points, perks and prestige when you book with AAA Travel.

• Plan ahead. When you book your dream cruise, cover all your bases. Don’t wait to reserve excursions, onboard dining, shows or even the cruise itself. When you book far in advance, you have more freedom to pick and choose what you want. With AAA Travel, cruisers can make reservations for ships sailing more than two years from now.
• Try not to fly in on the day of sailing, since flight delays can throw a wrench into your cruise plans.
• Remember to get travel insurance.

What kind of cruiser are you? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: ©2023 AMERICAN QUEEN VOYAGES

A dip in gas prices comes despite demand for gasoline last week reaching the highest level of the year at 9.18 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). That’s an increase of 300,000 barrels a day from the previous week and the highest seen for an early March week since 2020.  

But the stronger domestic demand wasn’t enough to keep petroleum prices from falling alongside stocks and commodities as uncertainty about tariffs and trade injected volatility into markets last week. Global demand is also weighing heavily on prices, particularly because OPEC+ production increases are expected to begin in April. Last week, the International Energy Agency forecasted that global supply will exceed demand later this year, which could keep a lid on crude prices and lead to cheaper gasoline. 

The other factor keeping prices down is strong supply. Domestic inventories of gasoline are about 7 million barrels above where they were in the comparable week of last year and about 3 million more than the five-year average, according to the EIA. It’s a similar story in the Northeast: 65.3 million barrels are in storage, compared to 61.1 million last year and the 62 million five-year average. 

“As more Americans took to the road last week, they enjoyed markedly lower gas prices this year than last,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “In the Northeast, for example, average prices are more than a quarter lower than they were last year.” 

AAA Northeast’s March 17 survey of fuel prices found the current national average down a penny from last week ($3.08), averaging $3.07 gallon. The national average price was 9 cents lower than a month ago ($3.16) and 39 cents lower than March 17 last year ($3.46). 

Region	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$3	$3.03	$3.08	$3.35
Massachusetts	$2.95	$2.99	$3.03	$3.24
New Jersey	$2.90	$2.95	$3.02	$3.24
New York	$3.11	$3.13	$3.17	$3.36
Rhode Island	$2.91	$2.93	$3	$3.21

*Prices as of March 17, 2025 

Mississippi and Texas had the lowest prices in the nation this week, at $2.63 and $2.65 respectively. California and Hawaii held the highest prices in the nation this week at $4.65 and $4.51, respectively.  

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

When it comes to art destinations in the Northeast, you’d be forgiven for only thinking of the region’s major metropolises and their world-class museums. And while the Met, MoMA and the Museum of Fine Arts should be on every art aficionado’s bucket list, New York City and Boston aren’t the only cultural hubs worth visiting.

Here are four road trip ideas to Northeast cities and regions doubling as artistic havens.

The Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley’s scenery is gallery-quality itself, but there are even more stunning sights to behold thanks to the region’s bounty of art museums. In the town of Nyack, just north of Manhattan, is the Edward Hopper House. The 19th-century building was the iconic artist’s childhood home. Today, it serves as a museum that exhibits Hopper’s art, as well as artifacts and memorabilia from his life.

Further up the river, you’ll find the Storm King Art Center just outside of West Point, in the town of New Windsor. The 500-acre outdoor museum is home to large-scale sculptures and artworks amidst meadows and rolling hills. Just across the Hudson is Dia Beacon. The expansive building, which once served as a Nabisco box-printing factory, is home to the majority of the Dia Art Foundation’s collection, ranging from the 1960s to today.

One last stop worth making is to Olana State Historic Site in the city of Hudson. The house and estate were once home to renowned landscape artist Frederic Church. Now it serves as a showcase for art, architecture and landscape.

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Western Massachusetts

Western Massachusetts is known as the home of the picturesque Berkshires. The region boasts an excellent food scene, recreational activities and a long list of cultural destinations. Speaking of this last category, nestled amongst the trees and rolling hills are three museums that every art connoisseur should have on their itinerary.

The trip starts in the southern portion of the state in the cozy town of Stockbridge. Here you’ll find the Norman Rockwell Museum, home to many of Rockwell’s iconic original paintings. In the northwest corner of Massachusetts, the town of Williamstown is home to the Clark Art Institute, a public art museum and academic research center.

Finally, head to the adjacent town of North Adams for the crown jewel of the Western Mass art scene: MASS MoCA. The museum’s expansive layout and indoor and outdoor venues perfectly showcase art of all forms, including painting, photography and sculpture.

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Portland, Maine

Portland is so much more than lobster rolls and lighthouses (although those alone are worth the trip to Maine). It’s also one of the Northeast’s top art destinations. In the heart of the city is the Portland Museum of Art, the state’s oldest and largest public art institution. The museum’s vast collection of more than 18,000 pieces includes work by Andy Warhol, Winslow Homer, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and Edvard Munch. In warmer months, you can tour Homer’s studio and spend time in the museum’s sculpture garden.

Portland is also home to the University of New England Art Gallery. The museum houses the university’s permanent collection and puts on exhibits that focus on the environment, social sciences, medicine, education, arts and humanities. Just outside of town is another university-based art institute – the Bowdoin College Museum of Art. The museum is home to one of the earliest collegiate art collections in the nation, which has grown to include more than 25,000 pieces of work dating back 5,000 years.

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Burlington, Vt.

If you’re only visiting the Burlington area for the skiing, you’re missing out on one the Northeast’s cultural gems. Vermont’s largest city is home to an art scene teeming with more than enough museums and galleries to fill any itinerary.

The Fleming Museum of Art, located on the University of Vermont campus, is the state’s preeminent institution of its kind. It houses a 24,000-piece collection from artists and cultures around the world. The nearby Champlain College Art Gallery, meanwhile, focuses on the work of contemporary local artists working in all media.

The Burlington City Arts Center hosts exhibitions, as well as art classes, camps and open studio hours in its three-level, state-of-the-art facility. Other notable stops to make on your Burlington art road trip include the S.P.A.C.E. (Supportive Places for Artists and the Creative Economy) Gallery, Soapbox Arts and the Frog Hollow Vermont State Craft Center.

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The art is calling, now all you need is a ride. Good thing AAA members can save on Hertz rentals.

Cruise passengers unpack just once yet repeatedly wake up in different destinations. It’s a magical formula for exploration, even before factoring in the watery vistas! And ensuring a smooth sail is as simple as knowing your ABCs.

A – Apps

They’re like downloading pocket-size, personal cruise directors! Printed planners detailing daily activities still exist, but apps are making them obsolete by offering additional research functions, deck plans, destination maps, messaging and reservation capabilities, bill tracking and more. Some even control features such as cabin lights and shades.

B – Budget

Curtail onboard spending with packages purchased prior to boarding. Look for deals on beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions and internet, but always check the math while bearing usage in mind.

C – Cabins

Like on land, shipboard real estate is about location. Cabins on upper decks cost more than the exact same cabins on lower decks. Plus, you’ll pay for being centrally situated. Windowless inside cabins are undeniable bargains, if used simply for sleeping, but nothing delivers a worthwhile sense-of-place better than a private balcony. So, splurge assuredly! Avoid anything below the pool deck or near noisy entertainment venues, elevators and the anchor. For less motion, go midship on a lower deck. And, when traveling with a group of friends or family, ask if balcony partitions can be removed to make a communal outdoor space.

D – Dining

Fee-based specialty restaurants can be a gourmand’s nirvana, where culinary excellence melds with amazing showmanship — like Celebrity Cruises’ animated Le Petit Chef experience, Norwegian Cruise Line’s theatrical teppanyaki tables and Royal Caribbean’s whimsical, down-the-rabbit-hole Wonderland eatery — but it’s hard to beat the elegance and grandeur of the main dining room on a ship. And everything is included. So, give the escargot a try, along with other bites you might have passed on for fear of disliking them and wasting money. If you end up hating something, just swap for something else. There’s no better opportunity to broaden your palate.

E – Embarking

Arrive early or late, but don’t get stuck in the middle where serpentine lines choke out cruise spirit! Also, since you’ll be separated from checked luggage for a while, bring a carry-on with essentials and a bathing suit if you plan to hit the pool deck. If there’s an escorted ship tour, take it.

 F – FOMO is real

Accept the fact that you can’t do everything, especially right away. The decks of megaships from Carnival, Disney, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean are stacked with wild attractions. Picture roller coasters, water parks, go-karts, skydiving simulators, ziplines, slides and more. Some ships even stage licensed Broadway shows. Daily activity rosters propose everything from enrichment lectures to line dancing. Live music is always on tap, and with the exception of Disney and Viking, you’re bound to find a casino calling.

G – Gratuities

Most cruise lines charge a daily fee covering food servers and cabin stewards, alleviating the need to tip directly. Automatic gratuities on bar and spa bills are another trend, so be aware to avoid double tipping.  

H – Homeports

Skip the stress of flying and sail from a convenient, drive-to homeport, where you can parlay the savings into an upgraded experience or maybe a second cruise. Homeports in the Northeast include Boston, Bayonne, N.J., (Cape Liberty) and two in New York City (Manhattan and Brooklyn).

I – Itinerary

Nothing beats the calm wash of the Caribbean for testing one’s sea legs. It’s cruising’s most popular destination, promising year-round itineraries of all lengths. Alaska ranks second among American travelers, but a growing demand for world cruises proves the entire globe is in play.

J – Join

Participating in group activities is a surefire way to meet like-minded travelers, especially if cruising solo. Joining communal dining tables is another easy icebreaker. Plus, online platforms help acquaint passengers even before boarding.

K – Kids

The gangway’s open, and not just on Disney ships. Mainstream lines have dedicated kids’ clubs brimming with toys and tech gadgets. Supervised, age-specific programming is the norm, including hip haunts for teens. You’ll even find luxury lines catering to kids during school breaks. Viking’s adult-only ships are the exception.

L – Lingo

Embrace some sailor-speak, especially directional nautical terms such as port (left) and starboard (right). Tendering, the process of using small boats (tenders) to access the shore from a ship at anchor, is key, too. Logistically, tendering takes extra time and presents accessibility challenges to consider.

M – Multigenerational

There’s something for everybody aboard today’s big boats. Family members can scatter to pursue individual interests and then easily come together for shared meals, family-friendly shows and agreed-upon activities.

N – Naps

Schedule some, because nothing compares to the awesome snoozing only the cradle of the sea can induce.

O – Opinions

Everybody has one, but when it comes to cruise planning, the advice of a seasoned travel advisor is priceless. Aside from facilitating a good lifestyle fit with a line and ship, your advisor can help address pop-up issues and secure perks. Onboard, engage the crew. They’re well-traveled, know the ship and love sharing insights.

P – Packing

Go light or you may likely go home regretting it. Cruising has become less formal, although it’s still a fun opportunity to don a dazzling outfit. Bring space-saving storage, such as hanging toiletry bags and magnetic hooks, which work great because ships are mostly metal. Avoiding overpacking also leaves room for acquired treasures!

Q – Quiet

Even on energetic, city-size ships peaceful nooks abound, but intimate ships can elevate quiet moments to an art form.

R – Reservations

Don’t wait till you board to book shore excursions, special occasion dates at alternative restaurants, spa appointments on sea days and even seats for some shows. With online and app portals to make reservations in advance, popular slots go quickly.

S – Size

It matters, and age isn’t just a number. The biggest and newest ships sport all the eye-popping amenities lines love to tout. However, if you’re seeking pure seafaring luxury and personalized service, smaller ships from Oceania, Regent, Seabourn and Viking excel.

T – Tours

Ship-organized shore excursions are the safest and most convenient (but not necessarily least expensive) way to tour ports. Exploring independently, while preferable in easy-to-navigate ports, requires research and good time-management. Ships will wait for passengers on a late-returning shore excursion but won’t extend that courtesy to those touring independently.    

U – Unplug

For sanity and to spare unexpected roaming fees, turn your phone off. Or, at least put it on airplane mode.

V – Views

Some ships are so commanding you can forget you’re at sea. From the bow, watch the slippery edge of the horizon disappear. Then, head aft, where the ship’s lacey wake stretches out like a roadway marking your journey. Savor every sail-in/sail-out.

W – Wellness

Beyond the bountiful buffets and the lido lounge chairs, spectacular fitness facilities beckon. Look for gyms sporting the latest equipment (Peloton bikes, Pilates apparatus, etc.), boxing rings, rope courses, yoga classes, meditation sessions and spas adorned with thalassotherapy pools. Sea-salt scrubs are so apropos! Plus, spa-centric staterooms and dedicated spa restaurants make getting fit while afloat an immersive affair.

X – Xanadu

Cruise line private islands fit the bill. They stand out as the most popular stops on Caribbean voyages.

Y – Yes

Just say it and set sail. Statistics show you won’t regret the decision.

Z – Zen

Find yours. From the latest leviathans to sublime small ships, riverboats to rugged expedition vessels, there’s a cruise line and a soulmate ship for anyone who wants to sail away.

Plan your next cruise vacation with a AAA travel advisor. It’s a free service with your membership, so take advantage!

Tell us your favorite thing about cruising in the comments below.

Featured image: Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas.

Throughout New England — consisting of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine — visitors will find more than enough activities, entertainment and food to fill out a full week’s itinerary. Of course, narrowing down your choices may be quite the challenge.

We’ve picked some of our favorite New England destinations to make planning your road trip a little easier. Wherever your starting point, you can use the AAA mobile app to map out the perfect route.

Need a ride? Save on Hertz car rentals with AAA.

Dive into Mystic, Conn.

Take a deep dive into America’s seafaring past at the Mystic Seaport Museum (pictured above). Check out the artifacts in the formal exhibit halls, wander the streets of a recreated New England coastal village, see historic boats like the Charles W. Morgan whale ship, tour a working shipyard and hear the stories of those who made their living from the sea. Of course, no visit to Mystic complete without your own excursion on the water. Whether it’s a river cruise on the 1908 steamboat Sabino, a sail on the Breck Marshall–a 20-foot Crosby catboat, or some time on a pedal boat, you can enjoy the sea air as you travel through the water.

Book a hotel near Mystic, Conn.

Head to Providence, R.I., for bites and sites

Get a well-rounded taste of Providence on a food tour. During Providence Tour Company’s Crime and Cuisine on Federal Hill tour, you’ll sample some of the city’s notable Italian cuisine from such restaurants as Roma and Trattoria Appia. Along the way, you’ll hear the tales of how one mayor went after a mob boss, the corruption that shook the state’s banking system and how the city police cracked down on an illegal dice game. You’ll walk away with satisfied taste buds, a bit of history and a special memento.

Book a hotel near Providence, R.I.

Make your way to Worcester, Mass.

New England’s second largest city, Worcester offers plenty of outdoor recreation, including Mass Audubon’s Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a great place to get outside and stretch your legs. There are 5 miles of trails, ranging from 0.1 to 1.7 miles in length. Along the way, you can watch for a variety of wildlife, including wild turkeys, great-horned owls, green herons, turtles, butterflies and much more. There’s also a nature center, where you can learn more about the area and its inhabitants.

Book a hotel near Worcester, Mass.

Set out for Concord, N. H.

One of the best ways to explore this capital city is by taking the Historic Walking Tour. This self-guided tour takes approximately 1.5 hours and covers 2 miles. Prominent stops include the New Hampshire State House, the JFK Apartments and the New Hampshire State Library. Because you take the tour at your own pace, you can pop into the many boutiques, galleries and shops throughout downtown as you go along. When it’s time to refuel, choose one of downtown’s restaurants to sample a bit of local flavor.

Book a hotel near Concord, N.H.

Visit Vermont’s Only National Park

Don’t drive past Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock, Vt. Here, you can learn about the families that called this area home, and tour some of the buildings they resided in. For instance, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Mansion is open for tours each May through October, and the Belvedere – which includes a bowling alley and fallout shelter – is open for select guided tours. Outside, you can walk the gardens, hike more than 20 miles of trails or participate in one of the many programs and special events held each year. 

Book a hotel near Woodstock, Vt.

Relax in Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Check out the collection of lighthouses in Cape Elizabeth. These include Maine’s oldest lighthouse, Portland Head Light, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse and Two Lights (twin lighthouses, including Cape Elizabeth Light). You’ll also find two state parks and a municipal park where you can hike, picnic and swim the day away. Of course, you can indulge your love of seafood, especially lobster, at the many local restaurants. You’ll find plenty of cozy accommodations in and around the town.

Book a hotel near Cape Elizabeth, Maine.

New England is an ideal choice for any road trip, so feel free to use this itinerary as a guide to crafting a journey that suits your interests. Each destination features a wealth of accommodations, from familiar brands to local inns and plenty of private rentals, so you can find exactly the right spot to lay your head at night. When all is said and done, you’re sure to have great memories to talk about on the ride back home. 

Rent a car with Hertz and take advantage of exclusive AAA member perks and savings.

There’s a lot to think about when planning a wedding. Beyond the venue, the dress and tux fittings, the cake tastings and bachelor/bachelorette parties, there’s your life together as a married couple.

This wedding planning guide will help kickstart your plans for the big day and beyond with tips on saving money, insurance considerations and more.

Getting Started

Start by making a good old-fashioned list. Brainstorm what you and your spouse want on your special day and jot it down. Include the over-the-top requests you’ve been dreaming of since you were a kid like a castle honeymoon or writing your own vows. You’ll be surprised at how much easier your vision will come together when all your ideas are in one place.

Get yourself a wedding planning notebook if it helps. Think about things like the time of year you want to get married, how many people you want to invite, if you want a destination wedding and the big one – what is your budget?

Establishing a Wedding Budget

It wouldn’t be a proper wedding planning guide without a section on budget.

Nailing down a budget can seem like the most unromantic part of planning a wedding, but setting your monetary limits and goals as soon as possible will help you to prioritize and allocate your finances wisely. You don’t want to start your life together financially struggling ever after.

Some of the largest wedding costs include the reception venue (which may include food and beverage), the band/DJ, florist, photographers and plane tickets for a destination wedding/honeymoon. Weigh these expenses and decide what is worth saving and splurging on. If venue prices are a little too crazy, you may want to opt for a wedding in your parents’ backyard instead. If you can’t find a photographer within your price range, maybe there’s a friend that’s willing to volunteer.

Wedding Money-Saving Tips

Once you have an idea of the type of wedding you want to have and where you’d like to honeymoon, you can start putting money aside.

Shaun McGee, vice president of financial services for AAA Northeast, suggests opening a dedicated savings account. “Covering such a large expense can seem like a dauntless task, but it is achievable. Opening a high-yield, online savings account and contributing to it through payroll deduction is a great way to reach your goal,” he said.

Here are a few more simple tips to keep in mind to save and stay within your set budget.

• A longer engagement could mean more time to save. We know you can hardly wait to tie the knot but having an extended period to save could make it easier to make all your wedding dreams come true. Break down how many months you have until your wedding and decide on a weekly or monthly savings goal. Implement this with simple changes like skipping your daily $5 latte or cooking at home more.
• Use tools. There are lots of convenient money saving apps that can help you track your spending and saving. Keep each other accountable and have fun with it.
• Have your wedding cake and eat it too. You can skip a few luxuries here and there without sacrificing your overall vision. While all the upsells will be tempting, your wedding will still be amazing without the ice cream sundae station. You can still have your dream Ireland castle honeymoon, too, you just may need to shave off a few days or opt for three- or four-star accommodations instead of an extravagant resort.

Wedding and Honeymoon Money Spending Tips

Ask all your wedding purveyors how you can cut costs. They know that everyone’s budget is different and will work with you. For example, the date you choose could make a huge difference in price as weekdays are generally less in demand and less expensive. Also, the type of reception. If the cost per plate is too much for a sit-down dinner, you may want to consider having a cocktail party or a brunch instead.

Planning your honeymoon flights on certain days can also significantly cut the cost of your tickets, saving you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Do your research and be sure to compare different dates when booking. Keeping your trip domestic will also be less expensive.

AAA travel advisors that specialize in destination weddings and honeymoons are available to assist with all the details and find you as many savings as possible. Find your Agent of Honor today.

Another smart spending tip for your wedding is to rent instead of buying your jewelry, tux or wedding dress. Sample sales can also save you some big bucks. If you’re buying a wedding dress, buy it well in advance (at least 8-10 months ahead) to avoid rush fees on shipping and alterations.

Overall, it’s pretty easy to find deals and sales on almost all things wedding and honeymoon-related. Sign up for newsletters for brands you like, follow their social media accounts and grab all the latest wedding and honeymoon magazines.

Protecting Your Wedding 

When you’re planning for the best day, you don’t want to have to think about the worst, but life and the weather are unpredictable. If something happens that is out of your control – like a snowstorm or hurricane – that forces you to cancel or postpone your wedding, event insurance can be a life safer. It can also protect you from financial losses if one of your vendors calls out sick or if someone gets hurt.

You hopefully won’t need to use your event insurance, but at least you can have peace of mind knowing that it’s there. Start by requesting a quote.

You may want to consider travel insurance for your honeymoon or group travel insurance if you’re planning a destination wedding. Your travel agent can help you get a plan in place.

And don’t forget about your rings! Wedding ring insurance is also a good idea to protect your bands from loss, left or damage. AAA Insurance can help you find the right jewelry insurance policy. Get a quote today.

After the Big Day …

Time to do some adulting! Marriage is a major life event that merits a review and update of your insurance policies.

“One way newlyweds can save money on their insurance is to combine auto policies,” says Emily Buckley, AAA Northeast senior insurance agent. “Most of the time this means going from a single- to multi-vehicle policy, which allows you to qualify for a multi-car discount.”

This may be also good time to look into an umbrella policy. This liability insurance provides coverage above and beyond the limits of your car and property policies. “When you and your spouse combine policies, it’s important to understand that you’re also combining your funds,” Buckley said. “The perfect policy to protect your lifestyle? An umbrella!” Umbrella insurance covers the policyholder and members of the family/household, making it especially practical for homeowners and married couples.

And of course, life insurance. While you are combining your finances, take a look at your life insurance policies. If you already have a term plan, this is an opportunity to convert it to a whole plan. And if you don’t have a policy yet, now is a good time to look into one.

Get in touch with a AAA Insurance agent to learn more about your insurance options.

Congratulations! As you prepare for this milestone event, remember to keep your budget in mind, take an organized and thoughtful approach to planning and don’t get too caught up in the details. Most importantly, enjoy this exciting time.

Well-known for horse racing and the Kentucky Derby, a road trip through Kentucky, from Shelbyville to Frankfort to Lexington, is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the state’s beautiful countryside and equine attractions. 

Get Up Close and Personal With the Horses

You’ll find many opportunities to visit with horses at the many horse farms between Shelbyville and Lexington. At Swallowland Farm in Shelbyville, you can visit the majestic Léttleiki Icelandics and even take riding lessons. Throughout the year, you also can visit to see the Icelandics in action during one of the competition shows.

In Eminence, say hello to a variety of thoroughbreds, including rescue horses and former racehorses, at West Meadow Farm. The farm offers tours, but make sure you reach out to schedule your visit before heading there.

Old Friends in Georgetown welcomes visitors to spend time with former racing champions including Triple Crown race winners Silver Charm, Big Brown, Tough Gold and others. Guided tours of the working farm are available year-round but must be booked in advance. Children younger than 10 are not permitted except on private tours.

Explore Kentucky’s Horse History

At the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, you can take a deep dive into Kentucky’s relationship with the horse. Start at the International Museum of the Horse, which documents the history of the horse and its connection with humans through exhibits, artifacts, art and more. Next, head to the Hall of Champions, where you can meet some of the retired racing legends that call the park home. Then, down at the Breeds Barn, you can see and learn more about four to six different horse breeds during the Parade of Breeds Show. Of course, this barely scratches the surface of all there is to see and do here, so consider spending a day here to explore the entire park.

Get a Run for Your Money at Keeneland

You can’t come to Kentucky horse country and not see some horse races. At Keeneland in Lexington, you can catch thoroughbred racing throughout the year. When planning your visit, make sure you arrive early so you’ll have time to see the horses take a spin around the walking ring at the Paddock before the race starts. Then, head inside where you can place your bets, if you choose, before grabbing a seat to take in the action. If there are no races taking place during your visit, you can still sign up for one of the available tours of the grounds.

Where to Eat

The culinary scene in Kentucky’s horse country also can’t be missed. At Dos Mundos in Shelbyville, you can sample Peruvian and Asian fusion; think fried corn ribs and arroz chaufa, Peruvian-style fried rice topped with a spicy garlic chili oil fried egg and your choice of protein. At Fava’s 1910 Diner in Georgetown, you have to try the traditional Kentucky Hot Brown —  Texas toast with sliced ham and turkey, covered with homemade cheese gravy, topped with bacon and tomato and baked until golden brown.

In Versailles, at The Kentucky Castle, order the black cherry grilled cheese, which marries Broadbent smoked bacon with gruyere cheese and black cherry jam on sourdough bread.

For a special treat, head to the Rebecca Ruth Chocolates factory in Frankfort. During the tour, you will hear how this family business started and how Ruth Booe kept the business going and sample the original Bourbon Ball chocolate. Once the tour is over, stop in the gift shop to pick up a box of your favorite sweets to take home.

Where to Stay

For an affordable and convenient home base during your trip, check into The St. Clair in downtown Frankfort. Housed in a historic building, the boutique property features a variety of guest rooms and suites with full kitchens or a kitchenette, so you have all the comforts of home. The property is located above the Howser Tavern, where you can enjoy your favorite drink and a bite before heading up to your room. There’s even a speakeasy if you know where to look.

Exploring Kentucky’s horse country is sure to be a trip to remember.

Plan your trip with a AAA travel advisor and rent your car with Hertz. AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals.