Looking for ideas for an early October trip when my boys (9 & 11) have "fall break" from school. Last year we enjoyed a visit to our Nation's capital. We live near Cincinnati, and prefer to drive no more than 8-10 hours to reach our destination. Thanks.

Chicago, NYC, the Lake Michigan shore, Philadelphia, Nashville, Boston...

Civil war battle sites in PA, MD, VA. It's educational and there are enough cannons, trenches, etc. to keep boys that age interested. Some to consider are Gettysburgh, Antietam, Harper's Ferry, New Market, and lots of small engangement sites up and down the Shenendoah Valley. As a bonus, the valley should be gorgeous in the fall.

One of the things my kids (now in their 30's - 13 and 15 then) still talk about is standing on the site where Lincoln delivered it and reading the Gettysburgh Address aloud. The words meant a lot more to them after they had seen the battle fields.

While I love the big cities, my spouse doesn't, so Lake Michigan shore might be a good choice. Do you have any particular hotel/restaurant/activity suggestions for that area?

The Civil War battle sites sound interesting, especially Gettysburg. The boys would love the cannons, etc.

Thanks for the advice!

The "Harbor Country" area of New Buffalo, Lakeside, Union Pier... up to St. Joe and South Haven are gorgeous that time of year. Try Michigan.org and it has links to Harbor Country & SW Michigan.