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Looking for that perfect Mother's Day gift to give your mom or any mother in your life this year? How about some jewelry? You can't go wrong when you give that special mom something that sparkles to open on Mother's Day. If you're not sure where to go in the Washington, D.C., area to shop for jewelry, we've put together a list of some of the best places to shop. Read on for a look at some local jewelry shops where you can find the perfect Mother's Day gift. more Tiny Jewel Box Tiny Jewel Box on Connecticut Avenue Northwest in Washington, D.C., is a family-owned jeweler that specializes in custom jewelry. They design pieces in a range of styles from vintage to contemporary. You can work with the designers at Tiny Jewel Box to create a piece that will perfectly reflect your mom's personality and individual taste. All the gems that Tiny Jewel Box use are ethically sourced. You can even bring your own stones, and the designers will create a piece using them. The entire process takes between three and five weeks, so you'll need to plan ahead if you want it to be ready for Mother's Day. You'll start by discussing your budget and ideas with the designer. They will make sketches, then a wax model, and finally the actual piece that you can take home. Secrète Jewelry Secrète Jewelry sits on Connecticut Avenue Northwest in the district's Dupont Circle. This shop specializes in custom-made jewelry, but they also have a great selection of watches, pendants, rings, and bracelets, so you are sure to find something that suits any taste. The staff at Secrète Jewelry will work with you to create a unique piece for mom. They begin by forming a wax mold that's based on a combination of your ideas and visions and the designer's expertise. Bensons Jewelers Bensons Jewelers is a family-owned jewelry shop on F Street Northwest in Washington, D.C. The store has a wide selection of jewelry and gifts from around the globe. The buyers constantly scour the world to find unique and original jewelry, so they always have something new to offer. It's a great place to shop because the inventory continually changes. The services at Bensons Jewelers include a diamond concierge, stone remounting, and more. Bensons has a large selection of Washington, D.C., charms available that would make a nice gift for a mom, and they can special order any charm you would like to give. They also have birthstones for every month, so you can find a bracelet, necklace, or earrings with your mother's birthstone. A piece with the birthstones of her children always makes a nice gift, too. Ann Hand Ann Hand first opened in 2001 in Washington, D.C., offering brooches, bracelets, lapel pins, and more. Some of her designs have been worn by influential women around the nation, and because of this, some refer to her as the “the Nation's jeweler.” You can shop for American flag-themed brooches, the Liberty Eagle pin, and the Eagle of Hope pin. Her designs also include eagle bangle bracelets and the Mother and Child cameo necklace. Some of her bestselling earrings include gold and crystal earrings and her Glory earrings with the colors of the flag styled in a ribbon above a pearl. Charles Schwartz & Son Stop by Charles Schwartz & Son for a selection of bracelets, brooches, necklaces, and watches. This store is a staple in the district. It first opened in 1888 and is the area's oldest jeweler. Whether you want to find the perfect gift or refurbish a family heirloom, the experienced and professional staff has the knowledge to help you get exactly what you want. The store recently expanded from its Washington, D.C., location to Chevy Chase, Maryland, where you can visit them in the Barlow Building on Wisconsin Avenue. Stop by to take a look at the selection of designer jewelry, vintage pieces, and more. Robert Laurence Jewelers Robert Laurence Jewelers on G Street has a selection of affordable custom jewelry. They also sell watches and offer fine jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. If you'd like to create a custom piece for mom, you can select a mounting and an image or sketch that represents the type of piece you want the designer to make. They will then start the design process using computer-aided design software to create a visual for you to look at. If you have a stone you want to use, the designer will incorporate it into the piece. Alternatively, the shop can provide a stone for you. Diament Jewelry Diament Jewelry is a gift shop and jewelry store that opened in 2018 at The Wharf in Washington, D.C. It's packed with fun gift items and lots of jewelry. You can find the Diament line of vintage and handmade jewelry with a mix of styles that will appeal to a wide range of people. Diament also carries old stock vintage jewelry that is over 30 years old and unworn. The handmade pieces use sterling silver and gold-filled materials, and most of the vintage pieces are brass, gold, or silver plated. Stop by Diament Jewelry to find a wide selection of items for mom. They have simple pieces for under $20 and more elaborate pieces that are still affordable. There are gemstone necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, along with bright and fun pieces, such as candy resin stud earrings and blue and silver unicorn stud earrings. Diament also carries vintage hair clips, vintage name necklaces, and a variety of rings in gold and silver. These are some of the shops and jewelry stores we will head to when we want to find a Mother's Day gift. Do you have a go-to jeweler in the Washington, D.C., area that we missed? Stop by Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC and tell us about it. We can stop by to check it out and maybe even find the perfect gift for our mom.

Each year, approximately 885,000 tons of sugar are refined at the Domino Sugar Refinery in Baltimore. Beyond Domino Sugar itself, Charm City's sweet side also comes through in the desserts found on restaurant menus and in bakeries and other food establishments across the city. When you're looking for something sweet to celebrate a special occasion, you can take your taste buds on a journey of discovery as you explore the best Baltimore eateries for sugar cravings. Berger Cookies From its location in Lexington Market, Berger Cookies continues to satisfy the Baltimore community's sugar cravings. The bakery traces its origins to 1835, when German immigrant Henry Berger opened his first bakery in East Baltimore. Baltimoreans by birth can identify Berger's signature treat in a heartbeat: the soft, cake-like cookies hand-dipped into a lusciously rich fudge frosting. The bakery team creates these cookies using the same homemade recipe from the 1800s with only a few minor adjustments. Cookies aren't the only Berger's baked goods you can enjoy. Cakes are also a popular treat. Berger's cakes come in two varieties. The Berger's Original Half Cake features freshly baked layers of pound cake covered with Berger Cookies fudge frosting. The Coconut Half Cake contains delicious pound cakes covered with vanilla frosting and fluffy flakes of coconut. Location: 2900 Waterview Ave., Baltimore. Telephone: 800-398-2236 Dangerously Delicious Pies Founded more than 15 years ago by Rodney "The Pie Man" Henry, Dangerously Delicious Pies puts a rock-and-roll spin on a bakery favorite. As the frontman to Baltimore's "Glenmont Popes," Rodney Henry knew an excellent pie when he tasted one. While touring with Glenmont Popes, he slung pies at merchandise tables and traded slices of pie for lodging. Today, Dangerously Delicious Pies offers a complete line of quiches and sweet and savory pies for dine-in at its Canton Square retail shop, carryout, and delivery. Each pie is handmade from scratch. You'll find cream pies such as coconut cream and banana cream, fruit pies with apple and blueberry, as well as specialty pies, such as the Baltimore Bomb. Location: 2839 O'Donnell St., Baltimore. Telephone: 410-552-PIES (7437), option 1. Harmony Bakery As Baltimore's gluten-free, vegan bakery, Harmony Bakery creates delectable treats using fresh, organic ingredients from local farmers. The Harmony Bakery team mixes all the flour used in the bakery in house, resulting in crunchy crusts and delicious cakes and cookies. Discover delicious after-dinner desserts or choose from vegan cupcakes, luscious brownies, and delicate tarts that will perfectly accompany your breakfast cup of coffee or tea. Children will adore Harmony Bakery's cookie options, which include chocolate chip and oatmeal cream pies. A specialty doughnut of the day always brings big smiles from regular customers. Harmony Bakery offers convenient online ordering for its bakery products. Location: 3446 Chestnut Ave., Baltimore. Telephone: 410-235-3870. Pure Chocolate by Jinji Fresh off its 10th anniversary, Pure Chocolate by Jinji remains dedicated to sharing the gift of exceptional quality chocolate with others. Founded by Jinji Fraser and her father, Guy, Pure Chocolate by Jinji's retail shop in Baltimore's historic Belvedere Square Market will introduce you to the flavor nuances of some of the highest-quality chocolate you'll ever taste. "Each chocolate we create tells a story," Jinji describes on the company's website. "We begin by focusing on a specific memory, an event, or an emotion, and we work with that moment until we can taste it. Then, the crafting of our next piece of chocolate starts." Products available at the retail shop include barks, bean-to-bar chocolate, drinking chocolate, fudge, truffles, and more. Look for Jinji chocolates in limited supply at cafes, grocers, and restaurants in the Baltimore area. Location: 529 E. Belvedere Ave., Baltimore. Telephone: 410-394-9901. Sacré Sucré Pastry Studio With its headquarters in downtown Baltimore, the Sacré Sucré Pastry Studio is a charming French-inspired bakery with plenty of character. If you're a fan of macarons, you must taste these delicacies from Sacré Sucré. Flavors vary based on holidays and seasons. Beyond macarons, Sacré Sucré also prepares fabulous gâuteaus featuring tahini, caramel, Earl Grey-infused mousse, and almond ganache. Flaky croissants, luscious pain au chocolat, apple turnovers, and salted caramel marshmallows make perfect breakfast or after-dinner treats. Pair your favorite bites with a beverage: espresso drinks, loose-leaf teas, and matcha are among some of the cups of comfort awaiting you at Sacré Sucré. Convenient online ordering is available for pickup at its Fleet Street location. Location: 2001 Fleet St., Baltimore. Telephone: 443-873-0020 The Charmery Dishing out happiness through ice cream, The Charmery offers handcrafted, exceptional-quality ice cream from four Baltimore-area locations. An ever-changing menu of seasonal ice cream flavors, specialty sundaes, milkshakes, and floats delight customers young and old. Established by David and Laura Alima, The Charmery values creativity and community — two elements you'll find in every scoop you savor. The Charmery takes inspiration for its frosty creations from local agriculture and maker communities. You can taste real fruit and high-quality dairy products in the ice cream. Customer favorite flavors include Mint Mountain, Tell Tale Chocolate, Old Bay Caramel, and Malty Vanilla Chip. Vegan offerings are available and follow the seasons. Locations: 801 W. 36th St., Baltimore; 6807 York Road, Baltimore; 6000 Merriweather Drive, #185B, Columbia; 1700 W. 41st St., #400, Baltimore. Telephone: 410-814-0493 (801 W. 36th St.); 443-275-2859 (6807 York Road); 443-546-3359 (Columbia location); 443-759-4905 (1700 W. 41st St.). The next time your sugar cravings strike, explore the above destinations for mouth-watering sweets you can't resist. Now it's your turn to share your favorites. Tell us what y o u think about our suggestions. Did we overlook one of your favorite Baltimore establishments? Write to us and let us know so we can add your recommendations to this list. Make the Most of Your Sweet Discoveries in a New Vehicle From Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC Take your taste buds out for a sweet journey through Baltimore behind the wheel of a new vehicle from Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. Discover why we're the top dealership in the area with one of the largest inventories of new and pre-owned vehicles. Get a Koons offer for your current vehicle in minutes. Visit our showroom or go online today.

Families in Columbia, Maryland, have a lot of options for entertaining their kids. One of the local favorites is tot lots, where children can spend hours and hours enjoying playgrounds with slides, swings, sandlots, and a ton of other activities. We put together a list of some of the best tot lots in the area and what they have to offer to make your choice for a weekend or afternoon of family fun even easier. Most of the parks in the area are maintained and safety checked by the Columbia Association, guaranteeing they'll be a safe, fun time for your kids. Check out the tot lots below and figure out which one is best for you and your family, then take your children there to meet other kids and parents and have a grand old time. Vantage Point Park Small, charming, and surrounded by scenic parkland, Vantage Point Park contains a great tot lot for younger children. Take your kids to the toddler-appropriate swing set in the park, or let them play on the slide and jungle gym nearby while you take a seat on one of the available benches and supervise. There's a gorgeous forest vista behind the play area and a gazebo further down where you can spend a quiet Sunday afternoon. The park is located on Vantage Point Road in the town center, making it easily accessible for most families in Columbia. Wyndham Park Wyndham Park has some swings suitable for toddlers and younger children, but it's also a great park to bring elementary-age children because there are more "grown-up" swings available, as well as a bigger slide that older kids will appreciate. You'll find Wyndham Park on the corner of Little Patuxent Parkway and Broken Land Parkway. Just like Vantage Point Park, Wyndham is also surrounded by lush green woodlands, making it a very relaxing destination for the whole family. Banneker Park Walk a little further down from Wyndham Park, and you'll come across Banneker Park, also located in Columbia's’ town center. In addition to the swings, slide, and jungle gym offered at the previous tot lots, this park also has mechanical horses and seahorses for younger children to ride, as well as a small tunnel to play in. Columbia Association Tot Lot OM9 Located at 9563 Wandering Way, Columbia, this tot lot is beloved by parents of younger children thanks to the playground horses and sandbox that provide hours of fun for young minds. Visit this tot lot in the spring and let your children enjoy the warmer weather playing outside in the sand, even if it's’ not quite summer beach weather yet. Columbia Association Tot Lot OB8 You'll find tot lot OB8 at 6564 Seedling Lane in Columbia. Do your young children have a fascination with cars and can't’ wait to grow up and be old enough to get their own? Well, take them here, where they can ride mechanical stationary cars meant for toddler-age children. If the woodland around some of the tot lots in the area makes you nervous for your kids, Tot Lot OB8 is located in a more residential area with less forested land around it, so you can easily keep an eye on your kids at all times and not have them slip into the woods. Wilde Lake Park Tot Lot Sometimes you want to head to a playground where the kids can have fun while, as parents, you can also enjoy the nature that surrounds you. If this is the fun weekend activity you're looking for, head out to Wilde Lake Park Tot Lot and enjoy the serene grounds of the park and 22-acre artificial lake while marveling at the trees starting to enter full bloom in the spring season. Next to one of the park's most visible landmarks, the barn, you'll find a tot lot for children that includes plenty of fun activities to keep them occupied. After the kids are done playing, take a stroll with them around the 1.5-mile path around the lake, and try to spot some of the birds that have started migrating back to the area, as well as other small wildlife that can be found in the park. Wilde Lake Park is located north of the town center at 10002 Hyla Brook Road. Dorsey Hall Pool Tot Lot Perhaps your family loves to combine a day of swimming with a day out in the park. If your child has already started lessons or just can't get enough of the water, Dorsey Hall Pool Tot Lot is the place for you. The hall has an eight-lane pool, as well as a wading pool (with a beach entry to make it easier to get in the water). Your children will love the water features and the water slide. Adjacent to the pool areas, you'll find a well-equipped tot lot that most Columbia area kids absolutely love, as well as basketball courts and sand volleyball courts if you have older athletic children that would like to join in on a day of family fun. To get to Dorsey Hall Pool Tot Lot, you'll have to venture slightly further, as the hall is located at 4649 Columbia Road in Ellicott City. However, trust us that the extra drive is definitely worth it, as Dorsey Hall tends to be an absolute favorite for local families. We know that every family is different, as is their preferred way of spending a sunny spring afternoon or brisk weekend day. Whether you have toddlers who like to swing all day or lots of children of different ages and interests and you'd like to spend a day together as a family, the Columbia area has the perfect tot lot to offer you and your family. If you visit a tot lot you love that we left out, please contact us at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC in Clarksville, Maryland, and let us know, as we'd love to include it in a future post.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or you just want to show your special someone how much they mean to you, a romantic dinner is a perfect way to spend an evening. The challenge is finding the perfect spot to have your meal. In and around the Washington, D.C., area, you have lots of choices if you're looking for a place that not only has a romantic ambiance but also serves excellent food. Take your love to a romantic dinner in D.C. at one of these restaurants. Fiola Mare Fiola Mare is an upscale Italian seafood restaurant in Georgetown. The indoor dining area is warm and inviting, but there’s also outdoor seating overlooking the water. The menu celebrates chef and owner Fabio Trabocchi's love of the sea and combines it with his Italian heritage. The menu features a wide range of options, each one better than the last. You can feast on seafood towers, handmade pasta, and the signature Carrello del Pesce. This seafood cart features the daily catch and comes with a flair to your table. There’s no better place to have a special night out with your love than at Fiola Mare. The dining room is elegantly decorated with a nautical design, and you'll have wonderful views of the water and the marina. Choose from the extensive wine menu for a bottle or glass to go with your meal. You can both choose from starters that include Calvisius caviar, oysters, or tuna, and for your main meal, the Fiola Mare lobster ravioli with ginger and chives is fantastic. You can also get Rohan duck breast or Japanese A5 Wagyu. Tail Up Goat Tail Up Goat is an intimate yet modern restaurant with top-notch service. It's a combination neighborhood hotspot and romantic eatery where you can dine indoors or on the patio. Three former Komi employees opened this place, offering a relaxed spin on Caribbean and Mediterranean dishes and a constantly rotating menu, with new dishes added to the mainstay classics. Make a reservation for the four-course dinner, and you'll both enjoy the meal and the atmosphere. There's an emphasis on pasta and bread and some shareable plates that can add to the romance of the evening. Make sure to try the crispy salt cod with smoked cauliflower aioli, the delicious ricotta cavatelli, and the squash bread. These are all so delicious you just might end the evening competing for the last bite. Iron Gate Iron Gate in Dupont Circle is another great place that serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The chefs cook everything over a wood-burning hearth and rotisserie, making this a unique place to have a meal. There are three very different and distinct dining spaces, so you can choose your experience. Select the Carriageway bar for a laid back and relaxed atmosphere, the Wisteria patio for an outdoor dining experience, or the Winter dining room for an intimate and romantic ambiance. Iron Gate has over 400 wines on its wine list and a menu that features dishes such as a daily focaccia, cremini mushroom arancini, new frontier bison flank steak, caramelized ricotta gnocchi, and charred Mediterranean octopus. No matter what dining area or dishes you choose, you can't go wrong at Iron Gate. Anju Make your dinner reservation at Anju and feast on contemporary Korean cuisine. Executive chef Angel Barreto creates delicious dishes made for sharing, whether it's the classic Korean rice dish with veggies and meat in a bowl with gochujang sauce on the side for dipping, the pan-roasted duck breast, or noodles in a spicy seafood broth. The décor and ambiance set the tone for a romantic date night. You and your date will enjoy the welcoming atmosphere with exposed brick walls, indoor greenery, and bamboo rattan seats. Anju is warm, welcoming, and cozy, making it perfect for any occasion. District Winery District Winery is D.C.'s first and only commercial winery, and it sits along the Anacostia River in the Navy Yard neighborhood, making it perfect for a romantic evening. The restaurant at District Winery offers stunning views from the dining room and bar, or you can sit out on the waterfront patio. The menu features seasonal items and shareable Charcuterie boards, such as the Mangalica or Finocchiona. You can also snack on sea bass tartare, burrata and beets, or charred octopus. You can make your date night even more special with a tour of the winery before or after you eat. Winery tours are available Wednesday through Sunday and last for 60 minutes. Learn more about winemaking in an urban environment, how the winery sources its grapes, and the bottling process. The Dabney The Dabney is a popular D.C. date night spot because it always delivers the perfect night. The décor and atmosphere are warm and inviting, with a large roaring hearth that serves as the centerpiece of the restaurant. The hearth is also where James Beard award-winning chef Jeremiah Langhorne and his staff will cook your food. The menu focuses on local ingredients, especially from the Mid-Atlantic region. The Dabney offers indoor and outdoor seating, with an enclosed outdoor patio with heaters so you can still sit outside after it starts to cool down. The tasting menu features items such as Appalachian apple stack cake, white Alba truffle custard, and aged Roseda beef. You can also try the grilled scallops and lobster and charred fireside vegetables. The bar menu, like the tasting menu, is always changing, but some of the items you might see include fried duck drums, Dabney brioche toast, and sweet potato rolls. These are some of the most romantic restaurants in Washington D.C., and the places we would take our loved one to for a special evening out. Do you have a favorite romantic spot in the D.C. area? Stop by Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC and tell us about it. We can check it out the next time we want to plan a date night. While you’re here, we can show you our extensive selection of new and used cars and trucks to get you around Washington, D.C.

If you've ever tried it, you know that, for some reason, strapping on boots with blades of steel on the bottom and using them to propel yourself across a frozen, frictionless surface is, well, fun. Really fun. And, surprisingly, ice skating is something that you can do at just about any age, which makes it a wonderful family activity. Before the late 1800s, ice skating could only be done in fairly uncomfortable winter conditions, making it something everyone in the family might not have enjoyed. But when refrigeration technology came along, it provided a way to freeze large, still surfaces of water. This made climate-controlled ice skating possible, and the smoothest ice surfaces could be maintained all year. Today, going ice skating is a great activity that the entire family can enjoy comfortably, no matter what time of year you feel like skating. With that in mind, we're delighted to tell you about some great locations for ice skating that aren't far from our home here in Clarksville, Maryland. Here are five options you'll appreciate when you and your family are ready for some ice-skating fun: Columbia Ice Rink At Columbia Ice Rink there are times reserved for skating lessons and programs, but it also reserves times for public skating sessions every day of the week. That means that Columbia Ice Rink can help you get going even if you've never ice skated before and need an instructor's help. Or, you can drop by an open session, rent skates, and just have fun on your own. Very young skaters are recommended to wear helmets, just in case. There are also Teen Night sessions on Friday nights for a fun time without a crowd of older and younger skaters. Location: 5876 Thunder Hill Road, Columbia. Public skating sessions: The sessions schedule is subject to change, so please check the Columbia Ice Rink website calendar for an open session during your specific week. Phone: 410-730-0322. The Gardens Ice House Open every day of the year, The Gardens Ice House is a huge ice-skating facility with multiple rinks and many exciting figure skating and hockey programs coached by an incredible staff. But The Gardens Ice House also makes sure there are times each week for you to skate without having to be involved with skating instruction or programs. When you arrive at The Gardens Ice House, you can rent skates, but space is limited, so you'll need to sign up in advance to join a public skating session. The online registration page on its website makes it easy. Location: 13800 Old Gunpowder Road., Laurel. Public skating sessions: Pre-registration is required — visit The Gardens Ice House registration page to register for a public session. Phone: 301-953-0100. Rockville Ice Arena The Rockville Ice Arena has been teaching hockey for more than 30 years at its hockey academy and has world-class figure skating coaches on staff, but it also wants everyone to have a chance to skate and offers public skating sessions several days a week, usually on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, as well as on weekends. It rents skates for public sessions if you don't have your own, but be sure to check the Rockville Ice Arena website for the exact public session times. Location: 50 Southlawn Court, Rockville. Public skating sessions: Public sessions can change, so please visit the Rockville Ice Arena website to see the list of current public skating sessions. Phone: 301-315-5650. Cabin John Ice Rink Part of the Montgomery County Department of Parks, Cabin John Ice Rink features three rinks with plenty of room for the ice-skating programs, lessons, and public sessions you might be interested in. With support from Montgomery County, Cabin John Ice Rink offers more public sessions than most skating facilities, with four to five public sessions each weekday and three sessions on weekends. That means there's a great chance Cabin John Ice Rink is the rink that'll work for you if you have an especially busy schedule. Location: 10610 Westlake Drive, Rockville. Public skating sessions: Please visit the Montgomery Parks Cabin John Ice Rink website page to see the list of current public skating sessions. Phone: 301-765-8620. Wheaton Ice Arena Wheaton Ice Arena is also part of the Montgomery County Department of Parks but balances public sessions with freestyle and stick-and-puck sessions reserved for more advanced figure and hockey skating. This makes Wheaton Ice Arena a great place to skate if your family has some serious skaters as well as some casual ones. Wheaton Ice Arena offers more public sessions on Thursdays and Fridays, but there are some public sessions every day of the week. Location: 11717 Orebaugh Ave., Wheaton. Public skating sessions: Please visit the Montgomery Parks Wheaton Ice Arena website page to see the list of current public skating sessions. Phone: 301-905-3000. With these great ice-skating options, we're sure you'll be able to find a rink that works for you and your entire family. And if we've missed a great ice-skating facility in the Clarksville area that we should know about, please send us a message and let us know why it's a special place to skate for you and your family. And who knows? Maybe some of our friendly staff will be sharing the ice with you soon. Koons Skates Past the Competition for New and Used Car Value We know that life isn't all ice-skating fun and games. If you're considering buying a new or pre-owned car, selling or trading in your old car, or simply looking into your financial possibilities, Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC is ready to give you outstanding vehicle value on a great selection of new vehicles and pre-owned vehicles. Just contact us to get things started, and we'll get back to you quickly. Or you can simply stop by the dealership anytime during our business hours and let us show you around. Either way, we're here to help, and we look forward to working with you to meet your automotive needs. Ice skating Gent by Senne Berk is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Even though we’ve had the pleasure of helping you get to and from the important business of your life for years, at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC we also understand that it’s important to reward yourself with some quality time away from the daily grind. When that time comes, we’ve got a great suggestion for you: fine dining in Fells Point. If you’ve never heard of Fells Point, it’s been a busy part of the Baltimore, Maryland, waterfront since the city was very young, becoming a renowned center for shipbuilding and commerce in the mid-1700s. But eventually, the demand for ships dwindled, and commerce shifted to the Inner Harbor. By the mid-twentieth century, Fells Point had fallen into a neglected, struggling neighborhood of mostly old warehouses. But in the last fifty years, some wonderful things have happened in Fells Point. It was officially recognized in the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its historic significance and charm. It’s also become home to some of the finest shops, bars, and restaurants in the Baltimore area, springing up in historic buildings that are sometimes rustic and sometimes beautifully restored. Here are five Fells Point restaurants you won’t want to miss. Thames Street Oyster House When the Thames Street Oyster House opened in 2011, it brought some unique flavors to the Baltimore area, adding Mid-Atlantic and New England styles to the local Maryland style of seafood. Since then, the Thames Street Oyster House has become one of the most popular seafood places in Fells Point. Seating is limited, and the restaurant recommends making reservations in advance, if possible. Thames Street Oyster House serves a lot more than the highest quality oysters. Along with lighter items, such as crab soup, seafood salad, and lobster stew, you’ll find an enticing range of seafood, from good old fish and chips to elegant entrees like North Atlantic monkfish and Maine lobster. Location: 1728 Thames St., Baltimore, MD Hours: Monday through Thursday: 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. lunch service; 5 to 9:30 p.m. dinner service; raw bar and cocktails available between lunch and dinner service. Phone: 443-449-7726 Blue Moon Cafe Among the many great seafood-themed restaurants in Fells Point, the Blue Moon Cafe has always had the heart of a diner, specializing in breakfast food since 1996, when Sarah Simington and her mother Sherri opened the edgy and stylish cafe. The Blue Moon Cafe is famous for its huge breakfast menu, featuring loaded scrambles, an incredible variety of pancakes (including chocolate chip, and bacon-and-apple), nine kinds of omelets, and benedict choices that include Maryland crab. One menu item the Blue Moon Cafe is famous for is something unique: Captain Crunch French Toast. Location: 1621 Aliceanna St., Baltimore, MD Hours: Weekdays: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Weekends: open 24 hours Phone: 410-522-3940 Max’s Taphouse If you love beer, you’re going to love Max’s Taphouse. The historic building has been many things in the past, but it became Max’s Taphouse in 1986 and has been a special place for locals and visitors to gather ever since. The rumors of a haunted third floor and basement only add to the excitement of drinking and dining in its energetic atmosphere. The beautiful building near the Fells Point waterfront lives up to its name, with over a hundred draft lines and a collection of more than a thousand bottles and cans of beer. But Max’s Taphouse is also an amazing smokehouse, smoking its own beef, turkey, and pork. You’ll love trying their different sauces with ribs or any of their smoked meat dishes. Location: 737 S. Broadway, Baltimore, MD Hours: Tuesday through Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. until late Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to midnight Monday: closed Phone: 410-675-6297 One-Eyed Mike’s On the edge of Fells Point, One-Eyed Mike’s is known for its inviting atmosphere and friendly service. It’s also a place that takes its Grand Marnier seriously. As part of a network of Grand Marnier Clubs, club members gather to enjoy the many varieties of this outstanding French liqueur. The menu of American classics offers such standards as burgers, steak, and even duck. But of course, this is balanced by a wonderful selection of local seafood dishes, including oysters, crab cakes, mussels, and scallops. Location: 708 S. Bond St., Baltimore, MD Hours: Wednesday through Saturday: kitchen open 5 to 10 p.m., bar open 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Tuesday: closed Phone: 410-327-0445 Bertha’s Mussels It was the early 1970s when Tony and Laura Norris purchased the struggling Lone Star Bar and led the way in lifting Fells Point to a location for great food, spirits, and entertainment. Inspired by a stained glass window Tony found that memorialized a woman named Bertha (and which now decorates the establishment), it was renamed Bertha’s Mussels, serving quality food and drink ever since. With mussels as part of the name, you know Bertha’s Mussels is going to be a fantastic place if you love local seafood, but especially mussels. The variety of mussel dishes on the menu includes marinara, garlic butter, garlic butter with anchovies, garlic butter with spinach and tarragon, white wine, and coconut Thai chili. You’ll also find many other great seafood and American dishes to choose from. Location: 734 S. Broadway, Baltimore, MD Hours: Wednesday through Saturday: noon to 9 p.m. Sunday: noon to 5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday: closed Phone: 410-327-5795 Hopefully, you’ll get the chance to relax a little and make it to one of these must-try Fells Point restaurants soon. And if you’ve discovered other great restaurants in the Fells Point area, just contact us and let us know — we’d love to hear about your experience with them. You’ll Find Fantastic Vehicle Options at Koons Maybe you’re not even sure your car can get to Fells Point. Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC is the place to go if it’s time to trade in the old for something you can rely on. Browse through our selection of new or pre-owned vehicles knowing that at Koons, we take pride in giving you the best value to meet your transportation needs. Thames Street Oyster House by Paul Sableman is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Has it been a while since you've heard a live band? Are you looking for a place to discover new sounds? If you enjoy live music, you can find many great spots to listen to your favorite band or check out new groups to add to your playlist in nearby Columbia, Maryland. Come along with our team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC as we explore some of the best live music venues in the area, where you can always find talented musicians playing. The Hall at Live! Inside the Live! Casino and Hotel, you'll find the expansive live music venue, The HALL at Live! It features three stories of seating for up to 4,000 attendees. Every seat offers a great view of the stage, and the state-of-the-art sound and lighting system ensures the bands all sound and look incredible, even from the balcony. You can enjoy headliner bands, such as Flogging Molly, a staple in the punk genre, and international artists, such as K-pop star Im Chang Jung. To make it an even more special event, consider getting tickets for a private VIP box with plush seating that'll keep you comfortable for the entire show. Location: 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Suite 7777, Hanover Jim Rouse Theatre Named after Columbia's founder, the Jim Rouse Theatre is affiliated with Wilde Lake High School. You can often see the high school band and choir performing here. It's a great place to attend a show that'll help you feel more connected to the local community and show your support for the youth here. Of course, the facility is available to anyone who wants to use it, so you never know what might be coming across the stage. You'll need to contact the vendors who put on events directly to purchase tickets. Location: 5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia Sonoma's Bar & Grill In addition to getting some delicious food, you can also catch some of the area's best live entertainment and music at Sonoma's Bar & Grill. Almost every weekend, you'll have a chance to hear live music or participate in trivia nights and other fun events. Sonoma's has indoor seating for up to 200 people and an outdoor seating area for over 50. If you need a place to host a meeting or event, this is the place to go. On the menu, you'll find lots of palate-pleasing options that make listening to your new favorite band even more enjoyable. For starters, get the four-cheese mac and cheese, garlic pretzel bites, mozzarella sticks, or Buffalo chicken wings. Main course options you'll love include the CSK Bimbo Burger, Cajun fish sandwich, bacon cheeseburger quesadilla, and Merriweather chicken sandwich. It's always a good time at Sonoma's Bar & Grill. Location: 7284 E. Cradlerock Way, Columbia Lakefront Live Entertainment of all kinds happens at Lakefront Live, an outdoor stage on the banks of Lake Kittamaqundi. You can take in live music shows put on by local artists and headline bands. You'll hear a wide range of music demonstrating Columbia's diversity. Whether you're a fan of Motown and R&B or lean more toward '90s rock and alternative, you're sure to find your favorites here. The venue is outside, so it's ideal to see a show when the weather is nice, and the Columbia Association ensures that events are fun for all who attend. You can often find food vendors offering local cuisine crafted especially for the live music events. Be sure to check the schedule to find out when the next one is happening so that you don't miss your chance to discover a new band. Location: 10275 Wincopin Circle, Columbia Union Jack's If you're looking for a weekend music venue that features live bands, then Union Jack's is for you. The atmosphere here is always top notch, and the food is too. Every Friday and Saturday night, you can hear music that'll put you in good spirits. The venue also hosts other fun events, such as karaoke nights and ping-pong tournaments, with a DJ who sets the mood perfectly. On the menu, you'll find weekly specials with great prices and tasty offerings that ensure the music isn't the only thing to love about Union Jack's. Some of the most popular menu items include appetizers such as the Maryland crab dip, fried pickles, and house pretzels. Or try a salad, such as Jack's garden salad or the Southwest salad. Mouthwatering entrees include the London steak sandwich and seafood pasta. You might go to Union Jack's for the bands, but you'll keep coming back for the food. Location: 10400 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia Merriweather Post Pavilion Another outdoor live music venue in Columbia, the Merriweather Post Pavilion has been a place for people to gather and enjoy nature and live music for over 50 years. Throughout the year, you can head to Merriweather Post Pavilion to hear a variety of music from artists such as Louis Tomlinson, the Goo Goo Dolls, Shania Twain, and many others. No matter your favorite genre, you'll find a band playing at Merriweather to suit your style. It has hosted famous bands and those that are up-and-coming, so you never know what will be playing on the speakers in Symphony Woods Park. Bring a blanket and stretch out on the lawn or get a little closer to the stage by grabbing a spot in the conventional seating area. The venue recently added a balcony that gives you a good view of the stage. Some events bring in food vendors so you can enjoy local eats after taking in the show. Location: 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia If you're looking for somewhere to discover your new favorite band or want to listen to some old classics, we hope you'll check out one of the live music venues on our list. Do you know of other sweet spots to listen to great music in or around Columbia? We'd love to hear about them if you do, so drop us a line and we'll check them out. Image by Diego Sulivan is licensed with Unsplash License

Cozy up and get ready for the happiest season of all. It's the time of year for hot chocolate, carols, and Santa. Washington, DC, has no shortage of fun holiday events and activities for you and your loved ones. Spending the holidays in the nation's capital can be fun for the whole family, with plenty of activities for adults as well. Koon's Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has the ultimate guide for the holidays in Washington, DC. Downtown Holiday Market The Downtown Holiday Market, hosted by the DowntownDC Business Improvement District and Diverse Markets Management, is returning for its 18th year. The market, spanning the two blocks of F Street between Seventh Street and Ninth Street, features a wide variety of food and live entertainment. The market's main entrance is located on the sidewalk in front of the National Portrait Gallery at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Over 70 exhibitors will be participating in this year's event, which features a variety of products and services from various businesses. Several food vendors will also set up shop along the market, providing snacks and warm beverages. In addition, there’ll be a live stage featuring over 75 different performances throughout December, creating the perfect holiday atmosphere. The market's main entrance is located on the sidewalk in front of the National Portrait Gallery. The Downtown Holiday Market runs from Nov. 18 to Dec. 23 and will be closed on Nov. 24 and Dec. 5. Entrance is free. The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO The highly anticipated The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve tour by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is coming to the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, on Dec. 26. Rock out to your favorite Christmas tune at this electric event. The TSO, which is composed of multi-platinum rock veterans, will perform updated versions of holiday classics. Be prepared for awesome pyrotechnics, energetic music, and beautiful storytelling. The band's charitable activities are in keeping with the vision of late TSO founder Paul O'Neill and his wife, who were known for their philanthropy. At least $1 from every ticket sale goes to a charity. Over the years, the organization has donated over $18 million to various organizations. Tickets cost $49.50 for the 3 p.m. show and $59.50, available for purchase through Ticketmaster. U.S. Botanic Gardens: Seasons Greenings The Season's Greenings, holiday display in the U.S. Botanic Garden will feature model trains, D.C. landmarks made from plants, and beautiful holiday decor. Head over to the Bartholdi and Terrace Gardens, where you'll find trees and shrubs with glimmering string lights, as well as several large sculptures of pollinators. The holiday display will feature a train exhibition. You'll be able to travel through different agricultural scenes made from plant parts from around the world. Models of the city's most prominent landmarks, such as the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian, and the U.S. Capitol Building, will be displayed inside the garden, with a model train available for children to ride. The event will run from Nov. 24 to Jan. 2, 2023. Tickets aren’t required to enter the center or to see the trains. National Sculpture Garden Ice Skating Nothing feels more magical than ice skating in the winter snow, surrounded by the magnificent architecture of national monuments and museums. The Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden is the perfect place to enjoy some holiday fun. You'll have the opportunity to see large-scale sculptures by some of the most prominent artists, such as Roy Lichtenstein and Alexander Calder. There are also various events and activities for the whole family. Don't worry if you are new to skating. The Washington Elite Ice-Skating School provides group and private lessons for all ages and also offers group packages for birthday parties, special events, and schools. The rink will be open from Nov. 26 to Mar. 23. Tickets start at $9 for ages 12 and under and $12 ages for ages 13+. Two 45-minute sessions are included in the fee, with a 15-minute break for ice maintenance. Skates are available for rent for $6. “The Nutcracker” The Washington Ballet's delightful show, “The Nutcracker”, is back this winter season. This production is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys the holiday season and is a perfect way to start a new tradition with your loved ones. This holiday classic takes place in 1882 in historic Georgetown, featuring notable historical figures such as George Washington and King George III. Set to the magical score of Tchaikovsky, the ballet features over a hundred dancers and over two dozen sets designed by The Washington School of Ballet. The ballet takes place at Warner Theater on various dates from Nov. 25 to Dec. 30. Tickets range from $48 to $90, depending on the date and seating location, and are available through Live Nation. Snag your tickets before they sell out to avoid missing out on this timeless Christmas classic. Enchant The world's largest Christmas light spectacular, Enchant, is returning to Nationals Park from Nov. 25 to Jan. 1. This year's display will include an interactive light maze of over four million glittering lights and plenty of family-friendly activities. After meandering through the maze, head on over to the Hallmark Village. There, you'll be able to meet Santa, browse the shops, and warm up with some hot chocolate and various libations from local vendors. Tickets start at $35 for adults and $23 for children and are available for purchase online. Our holiday guide is jam-packed with loads of events and activities to celebrate the holidays in Washington, DC. We hope we’ve given you plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit. How was our list? Did we miss any of your favorite holiday events? Contact our team and let us know. We'd love to include your suggestions. Choose Koons Clarksville For Your Next Vehicle Give the gift of happiness for the holidays with a new car. Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC is here to help you treat a loved one or yourself. Need to trade in your old ride? We constantly add to our inventory and would love to purchase your used car, regardless of make or model. Stop by anytime for a test drive or a risk-free evaluation of your used vehicle. We look forward to serving you. Person Holding Cup of Hot Chocolate by Jill Wellington is licensed with Pexels License

Enjoy the holidays a little extra this year by skipping the planning, shopping, cleaning, and cooking. Instead, book a reservation at a scrumptious restaurant. There are plenty of dining establishments open on the holiday that can offer you an elevated meal or classic Thanksgiving specials you love to have on your plate each year. Don't cook Thanksgiving dinner when you can eat out at these Baltimore, Maryland, restaurants open on Thanksgiving that our team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC put together for you. Maximón Tell your family the kitchen is closed this holiday and make a reservation at Maximón, a Mexican restaurant that's located inside the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore. With its impressive stone architecture, wood and marble furniture, and lush greenery, the atmosphere is ideal for eating. The restaurant uses a combination of Mexican and southern American techniques and ingredients to create the menu. Maximón carefully sources its ingredients by purchasing ingredients from where they get inspiration from, ensuring an authentic dining experience. Additionally, the restaurant aims to give back to its community by collecting a dollar from each guacamole sale and donating it to Baltimore's Hispanic Youth Tech Center. The center focuses on creating more educational opportunities for the community. So, this holiday season, you can enjoy a tasty meal you don't have to cook and know your money is going toward a cause to improve your community. Your choice of entrees for your Thanksgiving meal includes: Roasted chicken. Palomilla steak. U2 grilled tiger prawn. Whole roasted lobster. Order delicious sides to accompany your meal, such as: Double fried potatoes. Street corn. Plantain fried rice. Thanksgiving hours: Varies depending on when you make your reservation. Address: 200 International Drive, Baltimore. Charleston Charleston is located inside The Promenade at Harbor East, and on Thanksgiving Day, you can enjoy a two-course meal with dessert. It's about $95 per person to experience this holiday meal. For the first course, you have your choice between butternut squash, sea island white rice pea, and andouille sausage soup, or shrimp bisque finished with cognac and amontillado sherry. Your other option is baby arugula and frisée salad with fresh pomegranate, Vermont goat cheese, and cider vinaigrette, or fried green tomatoes, Colombian aji, and upland cress with lemon-cayenne mayonnaise. Your second course choices are roasted Amish turkey breast and turkey leg confit pecan, and Vidalia onion stuffing with roasted sweet corn, or pan-roasted wild rockfish, oyster, and button mushroom fricassée with lemon beurre blanc, or braised beef short rib, Yukon gold potato and carrot puree with roasted cippolini onions. For sides, there are several choices, such as peas with rice and cranberries, which are served family style. Make your reservations online using the restaurant's website or call to ensure your family's spot on the holiday. If you decide to cancel your reservations, please give the staff at least a 72-hour notice, or the restaurant will charge $50 per person due to the short notice. Thanksgiving hours: Thursday, Nov. 24 from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Address: 1000 Lancaster St., Baltimore. Mt. Washington Tavern Indulge in Mt. Washington Tavern's Thanksgiving at the Tavern special menu. You're going to want to reserve your table online now to ensure you can eat this tasty meal on the holiday with your loved ones. Each check includes a 22% gratuity charge. Some appetizers you can order include: Crab dip. Truffle fries. Maryland crab soup. Cream of crab soup. You have your choice of several entrees, including: Traditional turkey platter. Honey baked ham platter. Crab cake platter. Just the sides. If you want single items, order from the Tavern's a la carte section, which includes: Slow-roasted turkey. Mashed potatoes. Bread stuffing. Snipped green beans. Thanksgiving hours: Varies depending on your reservation. Address: 5700 Newbury St., Baltimore. Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar Perhaps traditional Thanksgiving food isn't your thing, and it's okay because Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar offers you a holiday meal under the sea. The seafood restaurant offers a Thanksgiving menu, and it costs $75 for guests and $40 for children 10 and under. There's a time limit of an hour to an hour and a half to sit at your reserved table. If you need to cancel your reservation, you can make it online or by calling, give the restaurant at least a 24-hour notice. You can begin the meal with delicious salads and starters, including: Sweet orange cranberry sauce. Honey yeast rolls. Roasted beef and carrot salad. Field greens salad. For your entree, enjoy several options, including: Pumpkin curry P.E.I. mussels. Shrimp and scallop macaroni and cheese. Roasted herb turkey breast. Roasted spice salmon with apple butter. You also have your choice of several sides, including: Local oyster stuffing. Candied sweet yams. Southern-style green beans. Wild rice and mushroom pilaf. The restaurant also has desserts galore and offers you options such as: Pumpkin pie. Sweet potato pie. Cookies. Brownies. Additionally, enjoy complimentary beverages of: Soda. Ice tea. Coffee. Hot tea. Juice. Thanksgiving hours: Thursday, Nov. 14 at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. Address: 402 Key Highway, Baltimore. Sotto Sopra Sotto Sopra offers you an Italian Thanksgiving meal. Make your reservations online or by calling to secure your spot now. While the restaurant doesn't have a specific holiday menu, you can still enjoy its regular menu and its fall specials. Additionally, if you want to eat an Italian meal with your family in the comfort of your own home, you can order online and have it delivered or pick it up. The Autumn-inspired dishes include: Pumpkin salad. Sweet potato ravioli. Pumpkin gnocchi. Pumpkin risotto. Pumpkin pizza. Thanksgiving hours: Hours may vary based on the holidays and your reservations. Address: 405 N Charles St., Baltimore. Did we miss your favorite restaurant to eat Thanksgiving dinner with your family? Contact us, and we'll include it on the list in time for you to make reservations for you and your loved ones. Before you go to Baltimore, Maryland, visit our dealership in Clarksville, Maryland, to get your oil changed for the drive. We have deals you can browse to help save you money on vehicle services this holiday season, especially with our holiday travel special. Image by Fantesca Estate & Winery is licensed with Unsplash License

Columbia, Maryland, is a great city to live in when you have kids. This family-oriented community has many indoor and outdoor attractions for all ages and is also home to many kid-friendly restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities. You'll have plenty of options in and around Columbia when you’re in the mood for something to do with the kids to keep them entertained. Take a look at this list of some of the entertainment centers in the area put together by the team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. ShadowLand Laser Adventures ShadowLand Laser Adventures is a fun destination for families in the Maryland area. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon with several entertaining attractions under one roof. While the immersive laser tag adventure is the biggest draw, the facility also has a glow-in-the-dark mini golf course and a mega-arcade that covers over 3,000 square feet. ShadowLand is different from the typical laser tag game. It has game enhancement modules (GEMs) that target players from the arena’s walls, along with spells and viruses that will damage players and other GEMs that offer cures. The two-story arena has carpeted ramps, towers, and catwalks for the players to explore, and the experience includes thematic music, mysterious fog, and lots of colored lights. Hyper Kidz Columbia The kids will be sure to use up their energy no matter what the weather is like when you bring them to Hyper Kidz. This indoor playground features soft foam play equipment with some slow-moving parts to test their balance and climbing skills while encouraging exploration and play. The kids can climb, slide, crawl, and run in a safe environment. Hyper Kidz provides play spaces for children of all ages under one roof. The big-kid zone has a four-story pavilion for heights of 4 feet and over with tube slides, spiral slides, obstacles, ramps, and a ball blaster. The kid zone is designed for children aged from 2 to 7. It has a balloon house, motorized revolving rides, a ball pit, and a building block room. The last zone is the mini zone, which is for babies and toddlers. It has ocean-themed play equipment that's soft and low to the ground. There are no sharp edges, and your baby will have lots of padding to land on. Monster Mini Golf The Monster Mini Golf center in Columbia offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf, virtual reality adventures, a vast arcade filled with video games, and more. The laser maze at this entertainment center is also a hit with the kids. The maze is in a room with music, lighting effects, and laser beams that they must make their way through. This is a timed event, so the kids must think on their feet and act fast before running out of time. The 18-hole mini golf course at Monster Mini Golf features black lights that bring the obstacles along the course to life. A virtual canvas will surround you throughout the game, and you’ll even get to interact with animated monsters along the way. Sky Zone Bring the kids to Sky Zone trampoline park, and they will jump, flip, and bounce away all their extra energy. The Columbia, Maryland, Sky Zone has many fun attractions, including the freestyle jumping area, ultimate dodgeball, and the foam zone. The foam zone is a great place to practice flips and jumps with a soft landing. SkySlam is the main attraction for ball players who want extra height so they can dunk harder. Main Event The Main Event entertainment center offers the whole family a variety of fun, games, and activities. There are numerous activities all under the same roof at this facility, so everyone can find something they like to do. Some of the ways you can spend your time at the Main Event include: Bowling: The experience at this pro-level bowling alley is enhanced with a state-of-the-art electronic scoring system and lively music. It also offers cosmic bowling to bring the fun to a new level. Virtual Reality (VR): Experience the fun of a virtual reality arcade. Some VR games you can play include Beat Saber, Vader Immortal, Hologate, and Virtual Rabbids. Laser Tag: The laser tag arena provides all kinds of obstacles for dodging around and hurdles to climb over, plus several levels for snagging your targets before they see you. This team-oriented game is fun for the entire family. Billiards: Challenge your friends to a game on the Main Event’s regulation billiards tables. Story Rooms: Choose an adventure to play in the immersive story room. Gravity Ropes: Test your balance and strength on the extreme indoor ropes course, complete with a swaying bridge, tight rope, and balancing planks. Mini Golf: Try out the indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf course. Mini Escape Rooms: Solve puzzles and riddles to find your way out of the mini escape room. Autobahn Indoor Speedway If you and the kids want to test your driving skills, head to the Autobahn Indoor Speedway in Jessup, Maryland. This go-kart facility has electric karts that go up to 50 miles per hour, and the philosophy at the Autobahn is no speed limits. The professionally designed Grand Prix-style tracks feature an advanced reflexive barrier system for added safety. Kids and adults can both enjoy getting behind the wheel. The Pro Karts are for kids aged 13 and up who are at least 56 inches tall, while the junior karts are for kids from 8 to 12 years old who are at least 48 inches tall. Autobahn also offers axe throwing. This new entertainment craze is a modern version of the sport of throwing battle axes. Why You Should Choose Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC The Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC team hopes this list of family-friendly entertainment centers will help you keep the kids occupied and entertained. If you have a place you like to go with the kids that we missed, give us a call or stop by our dealership in Clarkesville and tell us about it. We can check it out and maybe add it to our list. Black Light Mini Golf by Marc-Anthony Macon is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Maryland's fall foliage typically starts to change color in early October and continues to present a stunning display through to mid-November. Factors such as temperature and rainfall can impact this timeline, but most years will see at least a few days of truly stunning displays from the trees. While lucky Maryland residents can enjoy much of the color in their own backyards, the autumn months are also a wonderful time to venture further and admire the sights in other parts of the state. Here are a few ideas for breathtaking road-trip destinations during the fall. Scott's Cove Recreational Area Scott's Cove provides an idyllic destination for families who want to admire the foliage from the water. Situated along the north bank of the Rocky Gorge Reservoir in Howard County, this recreational area offers easy access to the Patuxent River. You can launch from Scott's Cove when the watershed properties are open, which is typically from the middle of March through to the end of November, giving you ample time to enjoy the changing autumn foliage. Scott's Cove is an excellent place to begin the Patuxent Challenge if you're interested in adding a little more excitement to your day. To complete the challenge, you must take a selfie with one Patuxent Challenge sign in each county plus one in the City of Laurel. There are 14 challenge sites in total, only two of which are north of Scott's Cove, so you can easily complete the challenge by heading south from here or by starting in St. Mary's County and working your way north. Along the river, you'll enjoy gorgeous views of the surrounding trees, which will make you want to take selfies with more than just the challenge signs. Scott's Cove provides a portable restroom facility for visitors, and the picnic area and playground offer plenty of added fun at the beginning or end of your trip. Sugarloaf Mountain Recreation Area Sugarloaf Mountain offers an excellent view of the surrounding area from an elevation of 1,282 feet, so you can take in the fall foliage from a stunning vantage point above the trees. The mountain is so well positioned that during the Civil War, the northern and southern forces both had turns using the position as a lookout. You can park about three-quarters of the way up the mountain and take one of the trails to your desired vantage point. The Green Trail from the West View lot is one of the easier options. This quarter-mile trail features stone steps for a steadier climb. Once you reach the peak, you can take the same trail back or make a loop by following the Red Trail down to the McCormack Overlook and then turning onto the Blue Trail to return to the parking lot. For a more challenging hike, park in the East View lot and take the Orange Trail up. This trail also spans a quarter of a mile, but it covers much steeper terrain. If you're interested in a longer hike, you have numerous options, thanks to the many intersecting points on the trails surrounding the mountain. Consult a map of Sugarloaf Mountain before your hike so you can plan accordingly. This area features red and white oak, black gum, tulip poplar, eastern hemlock, and black birch trees, presenting a brilliant landscape of color. You may also spot some of the local wildlife, including the white-tailed deer, red fox, flying squirrel, wild turkey, and red-shouldered hawk. Seneca Creek State Park Seneca Creek State Park covers 6,300 acres and includes the 90-acre Clopper Lake. You'll find over 50 miles of trails within the park where you can hike, bike, or go horseback riding amid the autumn foliage. The park provides restrooms and offers playgrounds and picnic areas where you can unwind and enjoy the scenery. A 27-hole disc golf course covers 32 acres of the park, providing a playful way to explore the area. History buffs can enjoy sights such as the restored 19th-century one-room Seneca Schoolhouse. The partially restored Black Rock Mill is another worthwhile stop, with informative exhibits revealing the area's history. The self-guided Woodlands trail offers interpretive features that describe the life of the Clopper family, who once owned a plantation home on the land. You can easily fill an entire day in the area, soaking up the natural beauty. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Scenic Byway Running 236 miles alongside the Potomac River, the C&O Canal Scenic Byway covers a rich landscape of picturesque country roads from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland, creating endless opportunities for scenic fall drives. We recommend joining the byway at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center in Potomac, Maryland. From here, you can drive along the byway in either direction and tailor the road trip to fit your schedule. Though the byway has seven visitor centers dotted along its route, Great Falls Tavern is one of the most distinctive. Here, you can take a boat ride down the canal on a replica Charles F. Mercer excursion boat and travel along the locks just as families would have done in the 1870s. You can also access the Billy Goat Trail from this visitor center. The trail features three sections that offer a total of 8 miles of hiking. This is a strenuous trek that’s best suited to experienced hikers. Make some time to explore the visitor center as well. Formerly the Crommelin House, this location was once a favorite hotel among Washington officials and congressmen. Today, you'll find detailed displays that reveal the area's fascinating history. Outside, you can stop at the snack bar for something to munch on before you continue your explorations. Where do you like to go to see the fall foliage in Maryland? Contact our team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC and let us know. We love having great recommendations for our customers when they head off the lot. These road trips will give you the perfect opportunity to enjoy all the features and functionalities of your new vehicle as you enjoy the delightful autumn sights. Aerial view of a forest road by Aaron Burden is licensed with Unsplash

The nation's capital is a great place to be, especially during the year's spookiest season. Every year, the residents of Washington, D.C., flock to the city's variety of Halloween-themed events to enjoy the sights, sounds, and scares of October. Whether you're looking for a Halloween date night idea or a place to take the kids for a spooky weekend, there's an event for you in Washington, D.C., this fall. At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, we're proud natives of the Washington, D.C., area and Halloween is one of our favorite holidays. To make sure our neighbors enjoy the season as much as we do, we've put together this guide to some of the best Halloween events in the area. Boo at the Zoo Washington, D.C., is home to one of the most expansive and best-loved zoos in the nation, the Smithsonian National Zoo. Every year, it hosts the Boo at the Zoo event, a family-friendly celebration of the Halloween season. The event provides a safe and fun place for kids under the age of 12 to go trick-or-treating alongside some of their favorite critters. While the zoo hasn't yet announced exact details about its 2022 event, visitors can anticipate browsing some of their favorite exhibits, decorated for Halloween. The zoo also typically offers snacks and train rides as well. If you're looking for a spooky event that's fun for the whole family, be sure to get your tickets as soon as they're available. Washington, D.C., Ghost Tour Washington has a long history, including some dark and eerie secrets. For those looking to explore the spookier side of our nation's capital, look no further than the Washington, D.C., Ghost Tour. This event is offered by U.S. Ghost Adventures, a national company that provides haunted tour experiences all over America and owns some of the nation's most notorious haunted houses. Tours take place nightly and start at the Treasury Building at the intersection of 15th Street NW and F Street NW. The tour lasts approximately an hour and covers a little over a mile, during which visitors will hear some of the darkest supernatural tales from the district's history. The tours are led by experienced guides with a knack for storytelling, and the tour includes eight stops at famous haunted locations, including the president's church. You might just see the six ghosts in white cloaks that are rumored to appear when the church's bell tolls. If you're feeling especially adventurous, you can even book the extended tour, which includes a total of 12 stops. Field of Screams Field of Screams is one of Washington's best-loved haunted attractions and has a long history of providing thrills to locals. The attraction has even gained recognition as a top Halloween destination from publications like The Washington Post and the Baltimore Sun. Located just outside of Washington in Olney, Maryland, Field of Screams is much more than just a haunted house. It's a massive Halloween-inspired theme park with plenty of terrifying activities for you and your friends. The centerpiece of the park is the Super Screams Haunted Trail, which is the longest outdoor haunted trail in the country. This attraction combines the Haunted Trail and the Trail of Terror, which features 13 small haunted houses. The Trail of Terror promises woods full of zombies, so get ready for a thrilling experience for your whole party. Aside from the trails, visitors can also visit the Slaughter Factory haunted house and participate in Halloween-themed carnival games. If you're looking for some serious scares this Halloween, consider picking up tickets online and taking a drive out to Olney. PumpkinPalooza For those looking for something more family-friendly and low-key, PumpkinPalooza is a great event. Sponsored by the NoMa Business Improvement District, this annual celebration of fall held in Alethia Tanner Park. While the details of 2022's event are still to be announced, past festivals have included a range of activities for the whole family, including a pumpkin patch where you can pick out your next jack-o'-lantern. Previous PumpkinPaloozas have also included live entertainment, costume contents, fall-themed refreshments, and scavenger hunts. Best of all, the event is free, so be sure to stay tuned and check PumpkinPalooza's webpage for additional details. Día de los Muertos at the Wharf Over the years, the traditional Mexican celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) has gained increasing recognition throughout the United States. Washington's famous waterfront complex, the Wharf, holds an annual celebration of Día de los Muertos that's a great way to celebrate Mexican culture and the coming of fall. This year, the street festival will take place on Oct. 24. Although exact details haven't been released yet, visitors can count on musical performances, fantastic food and beverages, and holiday-themed activity. Feel free to dress up when you go and enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Day of the Dead this fall. The Wharf is offering prizes for the most authentic outfits. So, there you have it. That's a quick overview of some of our go-to fall festivities in Washington. What do you think? Did we miss any events you love? If you're a Washington native and want to share your favorite Halloween haunt, feel free to drop us a line and we'll see if we can include it. We hope this list helps you enjoy the season, whether you live in the area or you're driving in to visit. Your Trusted Dealership in Clarksville, Maryland If you're looking for a trusted local dealership in the Washington, D.C., area, look no further than Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. We have an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles at great prices and our friendly staff is happy to help you find your next vehicle. Koons Clarksville is also the perfect place to sell your vehicle. We're constantly  expanding our inventory and we'd love to buy your vehicle, no matter the make or model. We pride ourselves on offering excellent prices and trade-in values, and you can easily value your trade before you come in. Image by Szabó János is licensed with Unsplash License