Where We’ve Been: Family Adventures, Hidden Gems & Travel Inspiration
Welcome to our monthly recap here on FunFitnessFamily, a family travel blog dedicated to helping families discover memorable adventures, hidden gems, scenic hikes, and fun things to do throughout Maryland and the East Coast. Above all, my favorite thing about running our family travel blog is documenting these experiences—not just for our readers, but for our family. Years from now, these monthly recaps will help us remember the places we explored, the milestones we celebrated, and the moments that made us laugh along the way. I encourage you to use this to inspire new experiences to enjoy and document with your family!
Family Adventure Recaps 2026
June 2026
Summer officially arrived, and somehow we packed even more adventures into June than we thought possible! From mountaintop hikes and graduation celebrations to live performances, glamping getaways, star gazing, and one very satisfying opportunity to smash a car for charity, this month was filled with unforgettable experiences across Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Here’s a look back at everything we explored during June.
Hiking to Big Schloss
We kicked off the month with one of the most rewarding hikes we’ve done this year—a trek to Big Schloss in George Washington National Forest. Known for its incredible rock formations and panoramic views overlooking Virginia and West Virginia, this scenic hike is well worth the effort for adventurous families.
Smashing a Car for Charity at Savage Fest
One of the most unique experiences of the month happened at Savage Fest in Howard County, where we took turns smashing a car to raise money for the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services. It was a fun way to support a great cause while enjoying one of our favorite local community festivals.
Featured Family at Benner Meadow Run Campground
We were honored to be featured as Benner Meadow Run Campground’s Featured Family following our recent glamping adventure in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands. This continues to be one of our favorite family camping destinations thanks to its peaceful setting, convenient location near Ohiopyle, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Shakespeare in Washington, D.C.
We spent an evening at Shakespeare Theatre Company watching Othello starring Wendell Pierce. It was an incredible production, and we’re already looking forward to upcoming performances including Twelfth Night and Macbeth. If you’ve never visited this theater, it’s an excellent option for a unique date night or cultural outing in Washington, D.C.
Summer Sounds at Hickory Ridge Village Center
Summer concert season officially began as we attended the first Summer Sounds Series performance at Hickory Ridge Village Center in Columbia. These free community concerts are one of our favorite ways to spend a summer evening.
NASCAR Weekend at Pocono Raceway
The kids put their skills to the test during NASCAR Weekend at Pocono Raceway, trying their hand at the rodeo activities while enjoying everything the race weekend had to offer. Even if you’re not a huge racing fan, there’s plenty of family entertainment throughout the event.
Columbia Festival of the Arts
While the kids were busy at Pocono Raceway, I headed to Columbia Festival of the Arts, one of Howard County’s signature summer events. From local artists and live music to food vendors and interactive performances, it’s always one of my favorite festivals of the year.
One of the biggest highlights was watching Eventi Verticali perform their breathtaking vertical dance production, SPHERE. Watching dancers suspended high above the audience was unlike anything I’ve ever seen and easily became one of the most memorable performances of the month.
Celebrating Middle School Graduation
June also brought one of our biggest family milestones as we celebrated our daughter’s middle school graduation. It’s hard to believe how quickly the years have gone by, and we’re excited for everything that comes with starting high school this fall.
Treats and Tunes at Clarksville Commons
We enjoyed another relaxing summer evening at Clarksville Commons, where live music, local treats, and beautiful weather made for the perfect family outing.
Our First Public Star Party
One of our favorite new discoveries this month was attending our first Howard County Recreation & Parks Public Star Party. Thanks to the volunteers from the Howard Astronomical League, we had the opportunity to observe planets, stars, and deep-sky objects through powerful telescopes while learning more about the night sky.
A Sasquatch-Themed Cabin Getaway
Our family (and our dog!) escaped to Midnight Cabin in West Virginia for a fun, Sasquatch-themed getaway. Between the unique décor, peaceful setting, and dog-friendly accommodations, it was the perfect place to unwind while exploring nearby attractions.
Discovering Virginia Farm Market
Road trips always seem to lead us to hidden gems, and this month we discovered Virginia Farm Market. With fresh produce, local products, and a welcoming atmosphere—including being dog-friendly—it quickly became one of our favorite roadside stops.
Dog-Friendly Drinks with a View
After exploring the area, we stopped at Harpers Ferry Brewing, where we enjoyed beautiful mountain views, great beer, and a dog-friendly outdoor space overlooking the Potomac River. It’s easy to see why this brewery is such a popular destination.
My New Favorite Fitness Toy
I finally unboxed my new Crossrope weighted jump rope system, and I can already tell it’s going to become a regular part of my workouts. Stay tuned for a full review, workout ideas, and calorie-burning tips coming soon to the blog.
Exploring Sail250 Maryland
One of the biggest events of the month was Sail250 Maryland, where we climbed aboard visiting tall ships and explored Baltimore’s historic waterfront during this incredible celebration. Between the ships, flyovers, exhibits, and waterfront atmosphere, it was an unforgettable experience.
Celebrating Wawa HoagieFest
No June would be complete without celebrating the return of Wawa HoagieFest. It’s one of our favorite summer traditions—and an easy excuse to grab lunch before heading out on another adventure.
Live Music at Lurman Woodland Theatre
We wrapped up the month by enjoying an outdoor performance by Carey Ziegler’s Expensive Hobby at Lurman Woodland Theatre in Baltimore County. Great music, beautiful weather, and one of our favorite outdoor concert venues made for the perfect ending to another adventure-filled month.
Looking Back on June
June was packed with family milestones, mountain hikes, festivals, concerts, road trips, theater, camping, and plenty of new discoveries along the way. As always, we’re grateful for every opportunity to explore together and can’t wait to see what adventures July has in store.
Have you visited any of these places? We’d love to hear which adventure you’d add to your summer bucket list!
May 2026 Recap
Sometimes I look back through my camera roll and can’t believe how much we packed into a single month!
From beach weekends and waterfalls to birthday celebrations, family milestones, and new attractions, May was filled with adventure, memories, and more than a few muddy hiking boots.
Here’s a look back at everything we did in May 2026.
Beach Weekend at Sun Outdoors Frontiertown
We kicked off the month with a fun-filled car show and beach getaway at Sun Outdoors Frontiertown near Ocean City, Maryland. Between campground activities, waterfront views, and easy access to Ocean City, it made for a perfect family escape.
Planning a visit? Use code FUNFITNESS25 to save 25% on your stay.
Ocean City Boardwalk Fun at Trimper Rides
No trip to Ocean City is complete without a stop at Trimper Rides. The historic amusement park continues to be one of our family’s favorite boardwalk traditions.
Bonus tip: Mega Passes are included with a GetOut Membership, making this a great way to save on summer fun.
Chesapeake Bay Views at Terrapin Nature Park
We spent an afternoon exploring Terrapin Nature Park on Kent Island, where scenic trails lead to beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. It’s an easy family-friendly walk and one of our favorite spots for photography.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration at La Palapa Too
Tacos, music, and great company made for a fun Cinco de Mayo celebration at La Palapa Too. It’s always exciting to discover local restaurants that feel like hidden gems, especially during this festive holiday!
Baltimore Wine Village with Friends
We enjoyed an evening of sipping and sampling at Baltimore Wine Village with friend Dana Stargazer Truitt. The atmosphere, live entertainment, and variety of vendors made it a memorable night out.
A Close Encounter with a Snake
Certainly one of the most unexpected highlights of the month was meeting a snake through Jenn’s Uncommon Critters. This reptile rescue helps educate the public while providing homes for rescued reptiles and other exotic animals.
Hiking Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park
We tackled the Cascade Falls Trail to Lewis and Clark Loop at Patapsco Valley State Park. The waterfall was flowing beautifully and the trail offered just enough challenge to make it feel like an adventure.
Sunset Views at Shipyard
While visiting New Jersey, we discovered Shipyard in Pennsville. This dog-friendly brewery offers live music, waterfront seating, and some of the best sunset views we’ve seen along the Delaware River.
Retro Gaming at Yestercades
Nothing sparks nostalgia quite like an arcade. We spent an afternoon playing classic games at Yestercades in Westfield, New Jersey. With four locations throughout the state, it’s a great rainy-day activity for families.
Celebrating Our Son’s Birthday
One of the most important events of the month wasn’t a destination at all—it was celebrating our son’s birthday with family at Freppe’s Tex Mex, a family-owned BYOB restaurant in Plainfield, New Jersey.
Becoming a Driver’s Ed Mom
Now that my son passed his learners permit test, I am learning how to become a driver’s ed mom! This is undeniably a major parenting milestone!
If you know, you know.
Exciting? Absolutely.
Terrifying? Also absolutely.
The Final Middle School Orchestra Concert
Additionally, May brought another bittersweet milestone as we attended our son’s final middle school orchestra concert. It’s hard to believe how quickly these years have gone by.
Memorial Day Glamping Near Ohiopyle
We wrapped up Memorial Day weekend with a glamping adventure near Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania. In spite of the crazy bouts of rain throught the weekend, we were able to work in a visit to beautiful Cucumber Falls and a whole day exploring the great outdoors!
Touring Kentucky Knob
Architecture lovers won’t want to miss Kentucky Knob, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s undeniably remarkable homes tucked into the Laurel Highlands. It was fascinating to compare its design philosophy with some of Wright’s other famous works.
Mud, Sweat, and Ravens Rock
Not every hike goes according to plan.
Thus, a muddy trek to Ravens Rock at Coopers Rock State Forest turned into one of our messiest adventures of the month—but the views at the top were worth every muddy step.
Finding an Almost Heaven Swing
West Virginia’s famous Almost Heaven Swings continue to grow in popularity, and we were excited to add another one to our list. If you’re participating in the challenge, search for “SWINGO WV” to learn more.
Bargain Hunting at the She-Sale
One person’s clutter is indeed another person’s treasure.
This month’s She-Sale delivered some incredible bargains and a few unexpected finds.
Music in the Parks at Hersheypark
As orchestra trip chaperones, we joined our school’s Music in the Parks competition at Hersheypark. We’re incredibly proud that the orchestra brought home a first-place finish. Even more, we were elated that the band and chorus also swept first-place at the awrads ceremony!
Stranger Things Comes to Life at Sandbox VR
Lastly, we finished the month by stepping into the Upside Down at Sandbox VR‘s Stranger Things Catalyst experience at the new location in Baltimore’s Harbor East neighborhood.
As fans of the series, being dropped right into the middle of the action was jaw-droppingly immersive. One minute you’re gearing up, the next you’re battling Demogorgons and trying to save the day. If you’re a fan of the series, this one belongs on your bucket list.
With 11 different VR adventures to choose from, there’s something for everyone! Popular options include Stranger Things: Catalyst, Squid Game Virtuals for older teens and adults, and Age of Dinosaurs for younger families. If you are not in the Baltimore area, Sandbox VR has over 50 U.S. locations plus international locations around the world! Note: Kids must be at least 48″ tall to play at Sandboyx VR.
Book your experience now and use SpotHero to save on city parking! With a convenient app, this is always our go-to hack for stress-free parking when we visit Baltimore, Washington D.C. and other cities!
Looking Back on May
When I put everything together, I’m reminded that adventures don’t always have to be big vacations. Sometimes they’re local hikes, family celebrations, community events, or simply trying something new together.
In summary, May gave us a little bit of everything: travel, milestones, outdoor adventures, celebrations, and quality family time.
I’d love to hear from you—what was your favorite adventure or memory from May?
And if you’d like more family travel ideas, hikes, attractions, and hidden gems throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, and beyond, be sure to follow along here at Fun Fitness Family.
