By Taylor Smith

Summer is a great time to enjoy the many cultural attractions, fine food, and parks available in Philadelphia. Located approximately one hour from Princeton (two hours from Manhattan), Philadelphia is the perfect place to wile away a weekend. In addition to the suggestions below, there’s always the opportunity to watch a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park. Better yet, schedule your trip around Independence Day to view the spectacular Fireworks Celebration at Penn’s Landing on the Delaware River Waterfront. more

By Taylor Smith

Nantucket is a storied island off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The island’s maritime history is legendary. Whaling was at the heart of Nantucket’s culture and livelihood until the mid-19th Century. Many of the original islanders were connected to the sea in some way, and all of them lived by it. Spontaneous storms, fog, and strong currents often caught sailors and visitors to the island off-guard. According to the Nantucket Shipwreck Museum (www.nantucketshipwreck.org), some 700 vessels litter the waters surrounding Nantucket Island. more

By Taylor Smith

New Jersey is gifted with approximately 217 miles of coastline. During the summer months, it is not uncommon to hear discussions of your neighbor’s “shore” house or when the family reunion is planned at one of the local beach rentals. In fact, ask anyone who was raised in New Jersey what their fondest childhood memories are and they will undoubtedly mention summers spent “down the shore.” For such a small state, each beach is unique in its own way. While Ocean City is alcohol-free and kid-oriented, Asbury Park is rock and roll, and Spring Lake is country club chic. more