Local legend claims that Freeport was the birthplace of Maine, the decision to separate from Massachusetts having been made in a local tavern way back in 1789. Whether this is truth or folklore, Freeport has much more to offer, including South Freeport, a historic harbourfront village offering up a fresh catch every day. Nearby Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park and the Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary provide nature trails with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean over the rocky shores of Maine.

Camden, Maine is proud to call itself the "Jewel of the Coast." A beautiful seaport town with a harbor full of sail boats, Camden has been used as the setting for so many movies, from Carousel to Peyton Place, that it is what many people think of when they think of New England. With a series of annual festivals running all year round, including the US Toboggan Championships, the Summer HarborArts Juried Arts & Craft Show and Windjammer Weekend, there is always something to do in Camden.

It took George H.W. Bush to make Kennebunkport known to most of the country, but New Englanders have enjoyed this quiet coastal Maine town for years. In hot weather, beaches are a major draw, but Kennebunkport's many small boutiques, art galleries and restaurants make a visit fun at any time of year. Inveterate shoppers may want to combine a visit to Kennebunkport with a trip to nearby Kittery, where dozens of outlets and factory stores offer plenty of bargains.

From quaint town shops and quiet beaches, to honky tonk arcades and carousels, the York area is guaranteed to entertain the whole family. Old York, run by the local historical society, contains nine different restored buildings, including "The Old Gaol," the oldest jail in America. The beautiful coastline provides cliff walks with views of an authentic Maine lighthouse. Head to nearby York Beach and visit York's Wild Kingdom, an amusement park and zoo that is home to Rewa, a White Bengal tiger.

In the resort area of southwest Ohio, Mason features two major theme parks that attract families from all over the Midwest. Kings Island, the bigger of the two theme parks, has won "Best Kids Area in the World" for six consecutive years in a row from Amusement Today and remains a major attraction. Before they head to the U.S. Open, some of tennis' biggest stars show off their skills each summer in the Men's Masters and Women's Open.