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The cold weather doesn't have to keep you indoors. In fact, the winter is a great time of the year to take on a new adventure or find a new hobby. If you are the thrill-seeking type, you might enjoy skiing or snowboarding. If you are a music lover, there are usually plenty of classic performances in West Springfield each year. Maybe holiday travel plans may be on the top of your list? No matter what your pursuits are this year, knowing how to safely navigate snowy streets is very important. Here are a few useful tips to get you to your favorite destination. Invest in Winter Tires Although may cars include reliable tires that enable drivers to navigate the snow efficiently, snow tires are created to ensure winter safety. Everyone can benefit from the advanced safety capabilities that these tires offer. Many of them include specific patterns that make it easier to handle rough winter terrain. Buyers can choose between studded tires, unstudded tires, and all season tires to meet their needs. It is an added expense, but it is well worth the security for those who live in regions that encounter brutal winter storms. Easy Brake Knowing how to manage the brakes will significantly help to improve your safety while driving in the snow. Drivers should stay focused on the road and pay close attention to the distance between themselves and other vehicles. As opposed to quickly pressing the brakes, they should keep some extra room in front of them and hit the brakes in slow motion. Most modern cars include anti-lock braking systems that support the driver's efforts to stop quickly and safely. When in doubt, eliminating additional speed through gas acceleration can help drivers to control the vehicle. Just Skidding Furthermore, knowing how to control the car in the event of an emergency bump or turn can impact safety. If the car begins to skid, it is important to maintain control of the wheel and to lightly realign the vehicle. A quick grab can result in unnecessary danger that can be avoided. Once again, drivers should take their foot off the gas, stay calm, and correct the vehicle's direction with ease. Modify Your Speeds It may seem unnecessary to mention that drivers can simply slow down to improve safety while driving in the snow, but this is one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents during the winter. Icy Road Safety suggest reducing speeds to 45 mph when there is ice on the road. Mistakes can happen quickly and more easily in harsh conditions. Drivers can stay safe by being aware of the environment and by taking extra precautions, even when they feel comfortable. With a few extra safety precautions, drivers are encouraged to get out and enjoy winter activities. Weather challenges can be met with care. Winter tires can help to minimize risk for those who travel often. Minimizing braking when experiencing turbulence will help drivers to maneuver more easily. Skidding can be managed as well. Most importantly, drivers can simply slow down to prevent injury. Image via pixabay.com

Bored this winter? Don't just sit in the window and watch the snowflakes dance! Springfield, Massachusetts offers plenty of reasons to get out of the house and enjoy the cold. Start your winter off right with a few extra layers of clothes and a lot of adventure on the mountainous slopes. There are plenty of reasons to create some new memories this year, and snowmobiling is just the right way to do it. Winter Indulgence The New England Sports Park offers a grand ol' time in the snow. You and your family can indulge in 12 lanes of steep slopes that will surely get your heart racing. You might also consider bringing a camera along to capture the scenic views. The park is located at 12 South Hunt Road. Tickets allow guests to ride along the snowy mountains in assorted tubes for just $25.  The hours are generally Thursday and Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There is also an onsite pub for you to stop by and visit once you've worked up an appetite. Super Cool Ski Butternut is another popular option for those looking to get out into the brisk cool winter air. It is located 80 State Route 23 in Great Barrington and includes a massive amount of trails, ski lifts, and parks. Those who truly take a liking to winter sports can even take classes at the ski school located onsite. Classes include snowboarding, advanced freestyle, racing techniques, performance training, and upper-level skier improvement. The park offers tons of other clubs, events, and lessons for everyone in the family to enjoy. Snowed Out With over 2,300 feet of elevation and over 1,100 feet in vertical rise, Jiminy Peak is another mountain resort to add to the winter's list of things to do. The park features over 167 acres of winter wonderland for all ages. This includes an inviting welcome center, Burbank Children's Center, Snowsports School at J.J.'s Lodge, Maloney Ski Patrol, Doc Maynard, and The Country Store. The hours of operation are from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the weekends and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. throughout the rest of the week. The selected attractions determine ticket prices. Just Chilling Also, Nashoba Park isn't too far away from the Springfield area. This park features 17 trails, lifts, rentals, and snow tubing. It is located at 79 Powers Road in Westford. The park has allowed visitors to embark upon its unique and progressive terrain since 1964. Visitors can expect slopes with varying levels of difficulty, a separate snow tubing park, and annual races from this award-winning park. The hours are from 1:00PM to 10:00PM on the weekdays and from 9AM to 10PM on the weekends. With these wonderful options available this winter, it won't be difficult for you and your family to create new memories. Snowmobiling has always been considered a fun way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you are just beginning to learn more about snowy adventures or considered an experienced racer, you'll find exactly what you need in Springfield. Image via pixabay.com

As a car driver, it is imperative that you are prepared for the variable weather that the winter may bring. Every driver should have a few supplies and emergency items to prepare for the worst. The right items will help you deal with cold weather and potential hazards. After adding these six things to your car this winter, you can relax knowing that you have the right tools to handle things — at least until assistance arrives. Battery Check Many car owners have their batteries checked just before the winter to avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery during this time of the year. No one wants to be stuck out in the cold attempting to jump a car with frozen fingers and toes, but unfortunately, things happen. One of the easiest things you can purchase to ease the pain of an unexpected dead battery is a set of jumper cables. Attempting to get juiced up in the cold is bad enough; this way, at least you'll avoid having to ask around for the cables. Frugal Safety Another easy purchase is an ice scraper and brush. Most car parts stores or major retailers offer these at minimal cost. There's no need to search the kitchen for spatulas and makeshift tools if you have taken the time to get winter-ready. The Home Depot offers a wide variety of ice scrapers and snow brushes for under $20, but a heavy-duty version might cost around $70. Navigating Danger A winter storm can go from bad to worse in the blink of an eye. Having a navigation system can prevent you from getting lost at the wrong time or even help you to avoid traffic accumulation that may have occurred as a result of inclement weather. A navigation system may seem like an extra expense or an unnecessary feature, but when the going gets tough, you'll be at peace knowing you're at least headed in the right direction. Just in Case Believe it or not, snacks are also highly recommended for winter road warriors. Several storms have left people stranded for hours at the mercy of Mother Nature's timelines. One of the simplest things that drivers can do to improve their survival chances is to purchase a few snacks to leave in the car. This may seem like a minor suggestion to assist with winter preparations, but this is one step that you'll be glad to have taken if the weather does turn sour. A Few Must-Haves Another important purchase for the car is a First Aid Kit. Target makes this a neat process with its Health Essential line. Shoppers can customize their first aid kit with items like band aids, Neosporin, Benadryl, and calamine lotion. Other recommended items include a blanket or sleeping bag, brake fluids, screwdrivers, reflectors, and a flashlight. Staying Charged Lastly, a fully charged cell phone is a must. Drivers can purchase a backup battery, an independent battery charger, or a battery charging cell phone case for emergency circumstances. Although some of these items may seem a bit tedious for the average driver, the winter is unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for the worst. Taking the recommended safety precautions won't do you any harm and will actually be a big help in a bad situation. Image via pixabay.com

Technology is incredible — with all the advancements being made nowadays, cars are actually able to think for themselves and actively help keep you safe while you're out and about driving. Toyota is leading the pack in this regard, and many of their cars come with amazing safety features standard, making them the ideal choice for safety-conscious drivers. With that in mind, here are our top picks for the safety features you need in your next Toyota. Pre-Crash Braking Many crashes can be minimized or even avoided completely if you brake fast enough. Human reflexes can be slow, though, so Toyota gives you the option of letting the car itself take care of you. Using both a front-facing camera and a laser radar, the car detects any obstacles ahead and works to avoid them or, if that's not possible, to minimize impact. The driver is warned to put on the brakes, and if you don't put enough pressure on, the car will modify your braking to ensure that you don't end up hurt. This feature is available across the entire Toyota range. Lane Departure Alert Another standard feature on Toyota vehicles is lane departure alert, which helps to keep you on track at all times. Should you start to drift out of your lane without activating your turn signal, the car will play an audio alert letting you know that you need to adjust your course and help keep you focused on the road in front of you. Newer models like the RAV4 are able to go one step further, though, and will activate corrective steering to set you back in the right lane. Blind Spot Monitoring One of the biggest causes of road traffic accidents is the fact that drivers often don't see other cars approaching when they go to switch lanes. The special blind spot monitor system ensures that you'll no longer run into this problem. It works by detecting any cars in your blind spot and then activating a light on your rear-view mirror to let you know that someone is there. If you activate your turn signal and go to switch lanes while there is still a car in your blind spot, an alert will sound so that you don't pull out in front of them and cause an accident. This feature is available for all models of the Tundra and Camry. Automatic High Beam Assist If you tend to drive a lot at night, then automatic high beam assist will certainly come in handy. Using a sensor, the car detects lighting conditions, analyzes factors such as your vehicle's speed and whether or not other cars have their taillights on, and activates your high beams to provide improved visibility when needed. Should the car detect oncoming traffic, or if you enter a well-lit area, it then switches back to low beams. This ensures that you don't dazzle other drivers by mistake so that everyone stays safe on the roads. As with many other safety features, this is standard across the Toyota range. These Toyota features will make you feel safer on the road at all times! Image via https://pixabay.com/en/number-4-four-digit-background-2052105/pixabay.com

Nothing completes a Sunday afternoon like a long scenic drive along the byways in the Springfield area. After a good home-cooked meal and a movie, many families enjoy the old-fashioned amusement that involves simply hopping in the car and putting your feet on the gas. Slow cruising is highly recommended for some of the most majestic scenic drives near Springfield. Historic Pedaling Many enjoy the timeless sights of the Western Massachusetts' historic Route 20. Jacob's Ladder Trail spans over 100 years of development, revealing an expansive landscape that includes ginormous trees, colorful foothills, and mountainous terrain. Drivers can reach the byway from the Massachusetts turnpike, Route 102 East in Stockbridge, or from Route 10/202 South. Memories are easy to create during these relaxing rides. Simplistic Fun While traveling around Western Massachusetts, drivers might also want to check out the Stockbridge area. This includes a botanical garden, the Chesterwood home designed by a revered sculptor, the Norman Rockwell Museum, and the Schantz Galleries. If there are a few moments to spare, families will most definitely enjoy quaint little shops like the Williams & Sons and the Charles H. Baldwin & Sons country stores along the way. Artistic Vroom If there's time to press on to Lenox, families will be delighted to catch a glimpse of the town's performing arts centerpieces located less than 10 miles away from Stockbridge off Route 7. Tanglewood hosts the Boston Symphony and its many guests throughout the year. Shakespeare & Company also offers a wide range of performances for arts enthusiasts. You can croon over the timeless architectural design of the Ventfort Hall Mansion and the Mount while you're passing through or stop by a few authentic shops in the area, such as R.W. Wise, Goldsmiths, and Berkshire Classic Leather & Silver. Crafty Kingship Another well-known path is Route 6A in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A ride along this path includes over 30 miles of nature's best sights and sounds. Enjoy the landscape of the shoreside's captains' homes, along with the intrigue of nearby marshes and waterfronts. This route is also known as Old King's Highway. While enjoying a beautiful view of endless sky and land, drivers and passengers might also pass by Sandy Neck Beach and Sandwich Town Beach, several boutique shops, a few museums, and the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Whether driving a new car, old car, sports car, minivan or SUV, there's always a reason to hit the road and check out the Springfield area. Families can stop to eat, shop, and sightsee while the avoiding the hefty price tag that often goes along with formal events. No admissions prices or advanced purchases necessary. Well-planned drives are bound to be inspiring enough to delight families of all sizes. For some, the stop and go may be unnecessary. The boutiques, museums, and trails are all wonderful experiences to add to the journey, but the area's landscape can be entertaining enough on its own. One thing is for certain: scenic drives are still tons of fun, whether traveling along Route 20, around Stockbridge, through Lenox, or along Route 6A. https://www.flickr.com/photos/aresauburnphotos/793935625/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by aresauburnphotos

As 2016 nears its end, we're starting to see car manufacturers bring out next year's new models. The cream of the crop is the 2017 Toyota RAV4. Packed with plenty of new features, including many innovative safety systems, you may want to consider upgrading even if you already have the 2016 model. Although the premium version is little on the pricey side, you certainly get a lot for your money. Here are our picks for the five reasons to drive a 2017 Toyota RAV4. The Pre-Collision Safety System Cars continue to get smarter as manufacturers find new ways of making them think for themselves, and this pre-collision safety system is the ultimate in safety technology. The car is actually able to detect potential obstacles ahead and works to either avoid them or lessen the impact. This feature really could save your life, so it makes the Toyota RAV4 a great choice for the safety-conscious driver. Lane Departure Warning As another smart feature, the Toyota RAV4 has been specially designed so that you always stay on course. If the car detects you drifting out of your lane by mistake, it will flash up a warning so that you can move back in. Even better, you also have the option of activating the corrective steering feature and letting the car itself gently set you back on track. It's incredible how far technology has come in the last few years, and this feature shows that an era in which cars drive themselves might not be all that far off. Heated Steering Wheel One of the additional options with the premium version of the Toyota RAV4, a heated steering wheel is something that drivers have long been clamoring for — and with good reason. It makes the car much more comfortable to drive in cold conditions, so with winter closing in, this feature will certainly come in handy for those in colder climes. Bird's Eye Camera This feature really has to be seen to be believed. Using a 360-degree camera, the car is able to generate an aerial shot of your surroundings and make parking that little bit easier. The image shows up on the handy in-car monitor, and you can watch the video of the camera rotating to spot any additional obstacles that might get in your way. Reversing into a parking space can be frustrating at times — but not any longer! Motion-Activated Power Liftgate We've all been there: you're carrying a heavy load of shopping back to your car, but when you get there, you just can't find your keys to open the trunk. Fortunately, that's not a problem you'll have to face anymore, thanks to the Toyota RAV4's nifty motion-activated power liftgate. All you need to do is wave your foot in front of the sensor, and the trunk will open itself up for you (provided you have your keys on you). The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is a real gem. These are prime features that will take your driving experience to the next level! Image via Dealeron

With kids back in school, you might find yourself facing a carpool with multiple children. To make things easier for both you and your passengers, be sure you have the following essentials in your vehicle. 1. Entertainment A small basket or plastic bin is a great place to store toys, books, and games to keep the kids entertained on the road. As soon as they get in the car, they can pull something out of the bin, and once you get to your destination, they can put it back in. This keeps your vehicle clean and prevents any meltdowns from bored children. Consider rotating the contents of the bins each month so there's something new and fresh for entertainment. 2. Snacks and Drinks No parent wants to encounter children who are grumpy because they're hungry or thirsty. Steer clear of those meltdowns by keeping snacks and drinks close at hand. Single-serve snack packs or applesauce pouches are ideal for hungry kids because they don't create a large mess. While water is perfect for thirsty children, keep in mind that plastic water bottles can leach chemicals into the water if they get too hot. Therefore, only store juice boxes, and keep the water fresh. 3. Trash Can Once the kids finish their snacks, be sure they don't throw the empty wrappers on the floor. Avoid this by keeping a small trash can in your car. You can even repurpose a plastic cereal dispenser into the perfect car trash can. It's small and thin so that it will tuck in perfectly behind the seats, and it has a snap-on lid that will prevent the trash from falling out if it tips over. 4. Wipes and Hand Sanitizer You never really know where those little fingers have been, so get them clean in a hurry by keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer in your vehicle. Consider a natural hand sanitizer that isn't made with any chemicals, so your kids can immediately stick their fingers in their mouths during snack time. A package of wet wipes will also help you clean up any sticky fingers, dirty faces, or accidents. 5. Spare Outfit Whether your kid gets a little too creative in art class or extra rambunctious on the playground, you never know when an extra set of clothes will come in handy. Help keep the children clean and dry by keeping a full outfit, including shirt, pants, socks, and shoes, in your vehicle. 6. First Aid Kit With children, cuts and scrapes can happen just about anytime. With a small first aid kit stocked with bandages, gauze, swabs, and antibiotic ointment, you can handle any minor injury and make sure you don't get any stains on your seats. If you tend to spend a lot of time playing outside, consider keeping bug spray and sunscreen stocked in your first aid kit as well. You never know what you'll face when carpooling multiple children. Be prepared for just about anything by keeping your Toyota stocked with these essential items.   Image via pixabay.com

Before you know it, the temperatures are going to drop, it's going to start snowing in Massachusetts, and it will be time to put winter tires back on your vehicle. However, you may wonder if you really need winter tires or if you can use all-season tires throughout the winter. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of winter tires versus all-season tires. All-Season Tires When most cars leave the factory, they come with a set of all-season tires because they're designed to offer a smooth ride, good gas mileage, and decent tread life. Not only that, they're also built to handle a variety of conditions, including wet roads and light snow. However, just because they're designed to handle most seasons, that doesn't mean you should use them in all seasons. To offer the kind of performance drivers want on dry roads, all-season tires have to give up some of the handling you need to take on snowy roads. All-season tires aren't designed to effectively handle icy roads or push through a few inches of snow. Winter Tires On the other hand, winter tires are specifically designed to handle the unpredictable conditions you'll face during the winter. Winter tires come with thousands of small slits in the tread that help provide traction on snow and ice. Winter tires also come with a special tread pattern and deeper tread depths. The pattern pushes water, slush, and snow out and away from the tire, and the deeper tread gives you better traction and reduces snow buildup around the tire. Finally, winter tires are made with a unique type of rubber. When temperatures drop, the regular rubber you find on all-season tires stiffens, which makes it harder for the tire to gain traction. However, the rubber that goes into winter tires stays pliable even in sub-zero temperatures, so you get a better grip on the road and can handle those unexpected slips and slides. Which One Is Best for You? Deciding between all-season tires and winter tires depends entirely on the type of conditions you typically encounter during the winter. Since snowy and icy roads are an annual occurrence in Springfield, putting on winter tires is a safety precaution you shouldn't skip. When you take your vehicle to Balise Toyota Scion to get winter tires mounted, make sure you have a full set put on. Just changing the front tires increases the chances that your rear tires will skid in slick or icy conditions, and just changing the rear tires doesn't give your front tires the traction they need. Additionally, don't forget to get your all-season tires put back on when spring arrives. Winter tires don't have the same handling capabilities as all-season tires, and they wear out faster when roads are dry and warm. As colder weather approaches, make sure you're ready to handle the challenges of winter driving by switching out your all-season tires for a set of winter tires. With a set of tires for warm weather and a set of tires for cold weather, you can enjoy a safer ride. https://www.flickr.com/photos/shrk/312677831/sizes/l Image via Flickr by shrk

The season of fall is loved by many all across the nation, and for good reason. With cooler weather, layered clothing, and pumpkin spice-flavored coffee, what's not to love? If you and your family are looking to get out this fall and enjoy the season, here are four events you can't miss, happening right here in Springfield, Massachusetts. "Cats in Hats" Oct. 4, 2016 to April 30, 2017 at Springfield Museums Theodor Geisel, more famously known as Dr. Seuss, was actually a Springfield native. The Springfield Museums have given Geisel his own exhibit to honor the success of his beloved children's stories. More than 40 original artworks are in the exhibit, all with a theme of "cats in hats," in homage to one of Geisel's most successful books. Interactive features at the museum include the "Cat Walk" scavenger hunt, a Cat "Paw-trait" Wall-Selfie Photo Booth, and a Cat-Toons cartoon station area. If your kid is dressing as a Dr. Seuss character this Halloween, this is an exhibit they won't want to miss. Storrowton Village New England Scare Fest 2016 Oct. 13 to Oct. 31, 2016 at Eastern States Exposition, Big E Fairgrounds For 13 nights, this thrilling scare attraction will be open so that you can get your fright on this fall. This Massachusetts tradition is modeled after the Storrowton Village that was established in 1808 and then later haunted by allegedly possessed New England Settlers. You and your friends can brave the haunted house attraction together, if you dare. If you make it out of the haunted house, there is a Zombie Parking Lot Party where you can enjoy food, beer, outdoor games, and live music. There's also a family-friendly area with a kids' zone open on the weekends that offers a pumpkin patch, face painting, bounce houses, and games. Three County Fair Kick Off Celebration Oct. 15, 2016 at Barn Three County Fairgrounds This year, you and your family can participate in the 200th Fair Kick Off Celebration at the Barn Three County Fairgrounds in Northhampton. With a delicious BBQ chicken dinner, live music, and dancing, this is sure to be an event that you and your family won't soon forget. It's a great way to start the fall season and to get out enjoy the gorgeous autumn weather. Springfield Thunderbirds Home Opener Oct. 22, 2016 at MassMutual Center For the fall sports lovers out there, the Springfield Thunderbirds are kicking off their 2016 season this October with a home opener against the St. John's Icecaps. To get the most bang for your buck, check out the Opening Night Pack, containing two tickets, four game vouchers, a commemorative puck, and a $5 gift card to your favorite donut shop. Following the game, on Main Street, sing-songwriter Jake Manzi will be performing. As you can see, fall is going to be an exciting time in Springfield this year. Bundle up and head out, so that you don't miss out on all the fun! https://www.flickr.com/photos/quintanomedia/15363469907/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Anthony Quintano

While fall brings a lot of beauty to the area, it also brings plenty of unique driving hazards. When you're out on the road this fall, make sure you keep an eye out for these fall driving hazards and know how to handle them safely. 1. Deer Fall is one of the more active times for deer because it's their migrating and mating season. If you live in an area where there are a lot of deer, you're more likely to encounter deer on the road in fall. Be especially cautious at dawn and dusk, since this is when they are often out foraging and grazing. If you see a deer standing on the side of the road, slow down and pass it with caution. Also keep in mind that deer travel in groups, so if you see one, there are probably more hanging around nearby. 2. Low Tire Pressure Fall is a time for fluctuating temperatures. While daytime temperatures are still warm and comfortable, nighttime lows can get quite chilly. The rubber in tires expands and contracts with these temperature changes, causing them to lose pressure. Low tire pressure can lead to poor handling, lower gas mileage, and an increase in the risk of a flat tire. Keep an eye on your tires, and check the pressure occasionally to make sure it doesn't get too low. While you're at it, don't forget to check the pressure on your spare tire. 3. Wet Leaves The colorful fall leaves are beautiful while they're still on the trees, but once they start to drop, they become a hazard on the road. Leaves cover road markings, which makes it hard to see lane lines and important warnings. Additionally, wet leaves are slippery, and they make it hard for tires to get good traction. If you find yourself on a road covered in wet leaves, be sure you increase the distance between your car and the car ahead of you in case you need to stop suddenly. 4. Shorter Days Another trademark of the changing season is shorter days. The lessening daylight means you might end up making your evening commute at twilight or even in darkness. Therefore, you need to be extra alert for children, pedestrians, and bicyclists, who will be harder to see during your drive home. Also, remember to turn your lights on so your vehicle is more visible to pedestrians and other drivers. 5. Wind Gusts This changing season can bring unpredictable weather, including wind gusts. Not only can those strong gusts blow leaves and other hazards directly into your path, they can also make it hard to keep your own vehicle in your lane. Make sure you check the forecast before you leave so you know what conditions you have to deal with during the day. Even with these unique driving hazards, fall is a wonderful time of year to get out and take in the scenery. Keep these safety tips in mind so you can reduce the risks and enjoy everything this season has to offer. https://www.flickr.com/photos/anandkhatri/12373688323/sizes/l Image via Flickr by khatri_it

With only 100 miles separating the cities of Boston and Hartford, a road trip should definitely become one of your top priorities. Not only can you see a new town but you also get to experience fresh food, great people, and an altogether different vibe. If you're looking for an exciting day or weekend trip, trek down Interstate 84 or an alternative route to explore the area. Along the way, you'll find plenty of fun things to do. Here are a few places you can't afford to miss. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden If you don't mind straying from the interstate, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden in Springfield, Massachusetts, is well worth the extra 30 minutes of drive time. Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, was a popular writer and illustrator for several generations. Whether you loved "The Cat in the Hat" or "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish," his uplifting works are forever memorialized in this sculpture garden. Kids and adults alike will have a superb time exploring the grounds. The Basketball Hall of Fame Although Springfield might take a backseat to its larger neighbors, Hartford and Boston, it's home to the Basketball Hall of Fame, where the greatest players of all time are remembered for their contributions to the game. The Hall of Fame features interactive exhibits, as well as plaques and stories from the likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Wilt "The Stilt" Chamberlain. Even if your hoops game isn't exactly stellar, you'll love reading about uplifting stories and triumphant victories. Adult tickets cost $23, and children's tickets are $16. Harriet Beecher Stowe House In the midst of the Civil War, few people stood for equal human rights like Harriet Beecher Stowe did. This outspoken abolitionist and author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" became an iconic figure in the fight to end slavery. When you arrive in Hartford, you can visit the house where she penned some of her most famous works. The house is still set up like it was more than 100 years ago, and you can feel the ambiance and patriotism as soon as you walk in the door. Admission for adults is $14, while children 16 and under can go for just $8. It's an experience that will stick with you for a lifetime. Legal Sea Foods If you head into Boston, you can't go without sampling some of the freshest seafood on the Eastern Seaboard. That's why you head to Legal Sea Foods. This Boston institution has served up some of the finest ocean cuisine for more than 35 years. When you go, make sure to try the clam chowder, which each president since Ronald Reagan has eaten at his inauguration. Look for specials as well, such as $1 oysters served on the terrace. There are hundreds of places to go when you set out on the route between Hartford and Boston, but these four stand out among the rest. Whether you want a little patriotism, children's literature, seafood, or basketball, you'll end the trip feeling satisfied. Just don't eat too much clam chowder. https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanhoosear/26947840156/sizes/l/ Image via Flickr by tvanhoosear

As America's top-selling car for 14 years straight, the Camry is in a class of its own. The sedan looks to continue its run into a 15th year with the 2017 edition. This newest version of the Camry features a bevy of new tech and comfort features but at no extra cost. In 2017, see what all the talk is about by putting yourself in a spectacular new Camry. Here's a look at what it has to offer. Under the Hood This year the Camry boasts three engine options, including the hybrid version. The first engine option is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, capable of 178 horsepower and up to 170 lbs-ft of torque. While it's not nearly as robust as other engine options, it still provides swift acceleration with a zero-to-60 time of only 7.9 seconds, as well as a top speed of 115 mph. On the efficiency side, this four banger gets 33 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 24 in the city. If you're looking for something with a little more pep, check out the 3.5-liter V-6 version. This beastly engine is on par with several luxury competitors, sporting 268 horsepower and 248 lbs-ft of torque. With this behemoth on board, you can easily cruise from zero to 60 in about 6 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars in its class. The increase in engine displacement hardly affects fuel economy, as the V-6 still gets 30 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city. The last engine option is for the Camry hybrid. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that's linked to an asynchronous motor. This powertrain gets up to 40 miles per gallon city and 37 mpg on the highway. It's What's Inside That Counts Prior models of the Camry had superior features, even for an economical mid-sized sedan. However, many of the fancier features required you to dip into your pocketbook. In 2017, the Camry offers several options that come standard, depending on the trim level you select. New interior specs include a JBL premium sound system, a wireless phone charging station, and the Toyota Entune infotainment system, which allows you to link your phone seamlessly with the car. Attractive Exterior Features If the Camry's engine and interior haven't enticed you to race over to your local dealership, the sedan's new body should have you rushing out the door. Many competitors pare down the exterior for the sake of price, but the Camry's sleek, sophisticated appearance makes it look more like a luxury car. Amenities include projector-beam halogen headlights, daytime running lights, an available moonroof on all trims, 16-inch steel wheels, an available rear spoiler, and a chrome-tipped exhaust. When you break it down, the Camry is every bit as amazing as it was 14 years ago. With technology that's ahead of the pack, excellent aesthetics, and an engine that conjures up visions of a sports car, the Camry is the car to have in 2017. Image via Dealeron