Here’s how to make this Independence Day feel meaningful, whether you’re gathering with family or savoring a quiet afternoon of your own.

Curl up with a Revolutionary War saga

If you’re going to read one thing this holiday, make it a novel that puts you right in the middle of America’s beginning. Woman’s World has rounded up seven historical fiction favorites set during the Revolutionary War years, and every one of them is the kind of book you’ll want to finish before the fireworks start.

For fans of Outlander, Diana Gabaldon’s Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone picks up in 1779, 20 years after the Jacobite Rising that tore Jamie Fraser and Claire Randall apart. Their family is finally reunited, but as the American Revolutionary War creeps closer to home, the duo decide they’ll do whatever it takes to stay together. As one reader put it: “What a wonderful book in a delightful series, filled with rounded characters against a historical setting with the most amazing adventures!”

Allison Pataki’s The Traitor’s Wife follows socialite Peggy Shippen, who marries war hero Major General Benedict Arnold and then convinces him to strike a deal with her former lover, now in charge of British espionage. “I’m fascinated by Revolutionary War history, so I couldn’t wait to read this book based on the life of Benedict Arnold,” says Rebecca Haynes, Woman’s World Deputy Health Director. “I loved that the author included an epilogue and notes that revealed the true historical details and where she took creative license with the facts. Even though I knew how the story would end, I couldn’t put the book down.”

If you love a story about a strong woman in disguise, reach for Amy Harmon’s A Girl Called Samson. Set in Plympton, Massachusetts in 1760, it follows Deborah Samson, who is left an indentured servant after her father abandons the family. Twenty years later, with the Revolution raging, Deborah goes undercover as a soldier in the Continental army. One reader called it “an eye-opening walk through history and a compelling exposition of love, both gentle and unending. In a word, it was stunning.”

Round out your stack with America’s Daughter by Celeste De Blasis (a romance triangle that opens on the night of the Boston Tea Party), The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray (three heroines across three centuries), Marissa Hale’s American Wild (a French widow starting over in the new world) and Laura Frantz’s The Lacemaker, set in colonial Williamsburg. Any one of them makes the fireworks feel a little more personal.

Save a few quotes for the group text

There’s a reason certain lines have echoed down through generations. A well-chosen quote is the perfect thing to tuck into a card, share on social media or read aloud before the potluck begins.

A few of our favorites for the reflective moments:

• “America is a tune. It must be sung together.” — Gerald Stanley Lee
• “May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.” — Peter Marshall
• “Remember, remember always, that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
• “In the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it.” — Barack Obama
• “I’d like to be remembered as a person who wanted to be free and wanted other people to be also free.” — Rosa Parks
• “With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?” — Oscar Wilde

And when you need a laugh, there’s always Stephen Colbert: “It’s Fourth of July weekend, or as I call it, exploding Christmas.” Or Ron Swanson from Parks & Rec: “History began on July 4th, 1776. Everything before that was a mistake.” Slip one of those into a text to your book-club friends and you’ll get a reply before the sparklers are lit.

Sing, walk and laugh your way to a healthier holiday

Here’s a lovely bit of news for anyone who’s ever felt a lump in their throat during “The Star-Spangled Banner”: that patriotic feeling is genuinely good for you. Research shared by Woman’s World found that group singing doubles your production of the feel-good hormone oxytocin while significantly reducing cortisol, the stress hormone. So gather everyone on the porch for a rendition of “Born in the U.S.A.” — it’s medicine for the heart in more ways than one.

If you tend to worry about the sugar in your slice of berry pie, take heart. A study in Diabetes Care found that 40 minutes of laughter significantly lowers post-meal blood sugar spikes. Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign also found that feeling proud of where you live makes you more content and satisfied with your life. Fly the flag. Belt out the songs. Laugh with the neighbors. It counts.

And when the after-dinner restlessness hits, take a walk. A Stanford University study showed that walking outdoors for as little as four minutes at your usual pace spurs twice as many creative ideas compared to sitting still. It’s the perfect way to walk off a slice of pie and dream up your next chapter — literally or otherwise.

Set a table worth remembering

Every great holiday needs food that makes people linger at the table. Woman’s World’s roundup of 13 Fourth of July recipes is full of patriotic flair without the fuss.

A Let Freedom Ring Berry Pie, its lattice cut into a star-spangled design, is worthy of any centerpiece. A Patriotic Layer Cake, with strawberry and blueberry preserves tucked between snowy layers of white frosting, feels like a story unto itself. Brownie Flags decorated with red icing, powdered sugar and blueberries are the sort of thing your grandchildren will remember years from now. And a pitcher of Watermelon Limeade — just four ingredients and five minutes in the blender—is the drink you’ll want in your hand as the sun goes down.

Let the day be a story you’ll want to reread

The best Fourth of July isn’t the loudest one. It’s the one you’ll still remember in November—the book you couldn’t put down on the hammock, the friend who called just to say hello, the quote your daughter texted you at exactly the right moment.

As John Adams once wrote, this day would be “celebrated with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.” Two and a half centuries later, we’re still doing exactly that. Add a good novel to the mix and you’ll have a holiday worthy of the story that started it all.

Sweet and savory deals to snag

Restaurants across the country are rolling out patriotic promotions, and you’ll want to plan ahead so you don’t miss out.

Krispy Kreme is celebrating in true red-white-and-blue style. Wear those patriotic colors on Saturday, July 4, and you’ll get one free Original Glazed doughnut. Even better, from July 2 through July 5, you can snag an Original Glazed dozen for just $2.50 with the purchase of any dozen or 16-count Minis at regular price. The offer is limited to two per in-person guest and one per online guest—just use the code “USA” when placing your online order.

Burger King Royal Perks members can grab a Whopper Jr. for $2.50 on the BK App or BK.com on July 4 only. The chain is also giving away limited-edition Firecracker Cookie Pies while supplies last, so act fast if you want a taste.

Freddy’s is serving up $2.50 All-Beef Hot Dogs along with a Mini Red, White & Blueberry Concrete—a festive twist on the chain’s classic frozen custard. Talk about Fourth of July fireworks!

Firehouse Subs is running a buy-one-get-one deal from June 29 through July 4. Purchase a small or medium sub and get a second for just $2.50.

Carl’s Jr. rewards members can score a Double Cheeseburger for $2.50 through the Carl’s Jr. app, at Carlsjr.com or by scanning the QR code at checkout in stores.

Cracker Barrel is thinking bigger. Rewards members have until July 26 to enter for a chance to win a $500 Cracker Barrel gift card and a $500 gas gift card with any eligible entree purchase. Buying All-American menu items—like the All-American Nostalgic Cherry Coke Float or All-American Kids Sundae—or American Heritage merchandise earns an extra raffle entry.

Checkers & Rally’s rounds it out with a classic burger-and-pie combo for just $2.50 on Saturday, July 4. The deal is good online and in stores, but it ends the moment the clock hits midnight.

Must-watch TV specials for the 250th

Even if fireworks-in-person aren’t in the cards this year, your living room can feel just as festive. Networks are pulling out all the stops.

Things kicked off June 29 with “Disney Celebrates America: The Pursuit of Happiness” on ABC (available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu), a coast-to-coast journey through Disney’s theme parks that celebrates American “firsts.” A press release described it this way: “From Main Street, U.S.A. and its turn-of-the-century nostalgia to Tomorrowland where the nation lifts its gaze to the future, each stop will play host to true tales of American ‘firsts.’ In this coast-to-coast event, Disney Parks and attractions are the portal through which America’s greatest stories, triumphs, and traditions are celebrated.”

On July 4 at 8 p.m., three big broadcasts go head-to-head:

• “Disney Celebrates America: Nashville’s Star Spangled Bash” on ABC brings country royalty and pop favorites together in downtown Nashville, with Reba McEntire, Little Big Town, Tim McGraw and Lauren Daigle among the performers.
• “The Great American Block Party 250” airs live on CBS from the Washington Monument, featuring the Zac Brown Band, Goo Goo Dolls and more, capped by a spectacular fireworks display.
• Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks returns on NBC, Telemundo and Peacock with performances by Blake Shelton, Post Malone and Noah Kahan.

“This year’s broadcast will be especially meaningful as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America and the 50th anniversary of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events and Specials for NBC and Peacock. “This beloved live event creates a shared moment for viewers across the country while showcasing the powerful reach of both NBC and Peacock.”

And if you’re a history lover, FOX News Media has been running America 250 coverage since June 24, broadcasting from historic locations including the National Mall, Liberty State Park, Philadelphia, Mount Rushmore and Teddy Roosevelt’s Presidential Library through July 5.

Nashville throws the biggest party in its history

Music City is pulling out all the stops for a two-day free celebration, as reported by Woman’s World. Now in its 23rd year, Nashville’s “Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th” event kicks off Friday, July 3, with five entertainment stages spanning country, pop, R&B, blues, rock, Americana, salsa and hip-hop. Families can enjoy the free Amazon Family Fun Zone packed with games and inflatables.

The lineup is loaded with talent from Emily Ann Roberts and Brittney Spencer to MŌRIAH, Charlie Worsham and the GRAMMY-winning Nashville Symphony. Later, the Jack Daniel’s Broadway Stage hosts Boyz II Men, Brothers Osborne, Clint Black, Lauren Daigle, NE-YO, Nick Jonas and Sublime.

The televised finale, hosted by Ryan Seacrest, airs Saturday, July 4, from 7:00–10:00 p.m. CDT on ABC, Disney+, the ESPN App, Freeform, FX, Hulu and NatGeo. Then comes the grand finale: more than 1,000 drones dancing across the sky alongside thousands of fireworks exploding more than 1,000 feet up, choreographed to a live Nashville Symphony performance—the largest fireworks display in Nashville history.

“This broadcast is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate everything Nashville has built over the years and share the best of Music City with audiences across the country,” said Deana Ivey, President and CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. “It’s especially meaningful to do so as our country marks America’s 250th anniversary, giving us the chance to celebrate our nation’s history while sharing the creativity and hospitality that define Nashville today and is fueling its future.”

Wherever you spend July 4, from a Krispy Kreme run in the morning to fireworks and drones lighting the sky at night, this happy 250th 4th of July is one worth savoring.

Oxford’s bookish history

Oxford is a book lover’s dream, with four bookstores in the historic town square, including the beloved Square Books—a stop on many authors’ book tours. The town’s most famous literary hero is William Faulkner (more on him, below), but the bustling city has been featured in several bestselling novels. John Grisham, who attended Law School at Ole Miss, lived in the city for several years afterward, and it’s where he wrote his popular legal thriller A Time to Kill (which was made into a feature film starring Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock and Samuel L. Jackson). Lisa Patton’s Rush, about sorority life, was set at Ole Miss and many of Faulkner’s books were based on Oxford.

This year, Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help, released her long-awaited second novel, The Calamity Club, which features many historic Oxford landmarks, including Neilson’s Department Store, Gathright-Reed Drugstore (now Estelle’s restaurant), Denton’s Furniture (now McEwen’s restaurant), Lafayette County Bank, City Hall and more. The story is about Birdie, a single woman who travels to Oxford in 1933 to ask her wealthy sister for financial help. Instead, Birdie ends up changing the lives of Meg, an 11-year-old orphan; Charlie, a woman with a past; and countless other women struggling to survive the Great Depression.

Must-visit restaurants and bakeries in Oxford, MS

Start your day with a hearty meal at Big Bad Breakfast, a beloved local eatery known for its creative takes on Southern classics (order biscuits or the grits—or both!). Prefer a sweet treat in the morning? Bottletree Bakery, a retro-style spot with must-try cookies, pastries and bagels, is a popular eatery you won’t want to miss.

Step into literary history at Rowan Oak

Next, visit Rowan Oak, a stop on the Mississippi Writers Trail. The former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner is now a museum filled with fascinating memorabilia, like the author’s handwritten notes for the plot of his novel A Fable, written on the wall in his office. The home is named after Rowan and Oak trees, which symbolize security, strength and solitude—though neither tree can be found on the property.

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Discover Oxford’s downtown shopping and dining scene

With plenty of boutiques, stores, restaurants, coffee shops and more, it’s easy to spend a whole day wandering. Stroll the historic square, where you can shop at Neilson’s, the South’s oldest department store; browse darling boutiques, bookstores and record stores; stop for a hot or cold drink (Matchbox Matcha is a must); or get a bite to eat at the Ajax Diner (home to down-home Southern comfort food), City Grocery (an upscale take on regional fare) or St. Leo’s for wood-fired pizzas and more.

Once you’ve shopped the downtown area, swing by Caffecitos, Oxford’s espresso truck, then visit Ole Miss, with its gorgeous magnolia trees, sweeping lawns and beautiful architecture, including the Lyceum, the oldest building on the campus. 

Rest your head at a stunning boutique hotel

After a day of shopping, eating, walking and people-watching, stay in the historic district at The Oliver, a boutique hotel just a short walk from the square, featuring a charming speakeasy in the lobby.

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Birdie’s Blush Cocktail

This delightful sip from Joe Stinchcomb, of Oxford’s Good Day Cafe, is inspired by the character in Stockett’s new book and starts with watermelon syrup. To make the syrup, whisk 3 cups watermelon juice and sugar until dissolved; store in a nonreactive container

Ingredients:

• 3 cups Watermelon juice
• 1 1/2 cups Sugar
• 1.5 oz Bourbon
• 1/2 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Watermelon syrup
• 1/2 oz Lemon juice

Add all ingredients to a shaker. Shake with ice. Strain into Collins glass. Garnish with mint and orange sprig.

This story first appeared in the July 13, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Is July 3 a holiday for federal workers this year?

With Independence Day falling on a Saturday this year, it’s causing many Americans to wonder how the timing will impact government agencies and services.The reason: When a federal holiday occurs on a Saturday, most federal employees get to enjoy their paid time off on the preceding Friday. In other words, that makes July 3, 2026, an observed federal holiday.  

Naturally, that can make things a bit difficult for those who were planning to run errands before their own Fourth of July holiday plans. No one wants to get to the bank or post office only to find that it’s closed! 

Knowing what’s affected by the observed holiday can help you knock out those to-do’s before it’s too late. Keep reading for a breakdown of what to expect through the remainder of the week!

What’s open and closed on July 3 and 4

How Independence Day affects Social Security payments

Federal holidays are the most common reason Social Security payments arrive earlier or later than usual. The payments follow a specific schedule (typically by birth date), but are staggered due to the number of beneficiaries. Social Security checks are sent out to most Americans on the second, third or fourth Wednesday of the month—so Independence Day won’t impact July payments for these people.

But anyone who started receiving Social Security benefits (retirement, spousal or survivor) before May 1997 or receives both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can expect to get their payments a day early. These checks are normally paid on the third of each month, but the observed federal holiday indicates the money will arrive on July 2, so check your accounts today! 

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DMV and BMV holiday hours for Independence Day weekend

Looking to renew a license? It’s best to visit your local Department/Bureau of Motor Vehicles today—or you’ll have to wait until Monday! Most state DMV locations will close on both July 3 and 4 in observance of Independence Day and will resume normal operating hours on Monday, July 6. A few states are an exception to this rule, however, so visit your state’s department website or call before venturing out.

If you need to renew your vehicle registration and can’t wait, you may have another option. Many states have launched express kiosks that can be found at retail locations like supermarkets. These offer basic services that can be done even when an in-person visit isn’t possible!  

Post office and mail delivery on July 3 and 4

Here’s some good news for anyone expecting a package: The United States Postal Service (USPS) will be operating as normal on Friday, July 3. This means that you’ll be receiving parcels and letters as usual, and you can also visit a USPS branch for purchasing stamps, mailing packages and more. 

While USPS does normally operate on Saturdays, regular mail delivery will be suspended on Independence Day.  

Bank hours for Independence Day weekend 2026

If you need to make a quick bank run before the weekend, you should have no problems doing so. Most branches of national banks, including Citibank, Bank of America and Wells Fargo, will be open on July 3, but will be closed the next day in honor of the Fourth of July. Check with your local branch, however, as some may send employees home early on Friday for special holiday hours.

Though the physical branches will be closed Saturday, you will still have the option to withdraw cash at ATMs or use online banking. (Just know that transactions will typically remain as pending in your account until Monday!) 

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Retail store hours for the Fourth of July

Whether you’re hoping to pick up some last-minute party essentials or simply want to cool off in an air-conditioned store, you can expect to shop as normal on July 3. And most major retailers like Walmart, Meijer, Target and Kroger are planning to operate normal business hours on Saturday too. 

Other popular chains such as Kohl’s and Lowe’s will have adjusted holiday hours that involve an early close. Call or check the website to know the latest time you can visit your nearest location.

Planning a Costco trip? Make sure you stock up on Friday! All Costco stores will be closed on Independence Day, so any holiday purchases will have to be made elsewhere on the day.

With this handy guide, you’re all set to tackle your to-do list and enjoy a stress-free Independence Day weekend! 

Walk back in time at Colonial Williamsburg

Start your day at the Colonial Williamsburg living history museum, where you can experience life as it was in the 18th century. Explore the historic buildings and watch live demonstrations for a glimpse into the city’s past. Plus, the museum is hosting a special weekend-long event (July 2–5) in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

Savor historic dishes at King’s Arm Tavern

Next, enjoy a delicious meal at the King’s Arm Tavern. The recreated 18th-century spot delights its guests with an authentic colonial atmosphere. You’ll savor Cornish hen, onion pye, peanut soup and other dishes by candlelight.

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Marvel at the History of Alexandria, a Laid-Back Virginia City

Step back in time in Alexandria, Virginia! Settled in 1695, this charming locale trades the bustling pace of nearby Washington, D.C., for cobblestone streets, historic homes, Colonial-era restaurants and fascinating walking tours. Begin your day learning about early hospitality at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. Tour this 18th-century five-star hotel and accompanying tavern, which once hosted six […]

Explore the 1935 hedge-maze replica behind the Governor’s Palace

This beautiful labyrinth, comprised of boxwood and holly hedges, is similar to 18th-century English designs. It’s a popular attraction for those who visit the beautiful palace.

See a live fife and drum corps performance in Colonial Williamsburg

In the 18th century, these corps would play music as a way of communicating vital commands during wartime. They would even be used to alert troops about meal times! 

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Bonus: Experience Williamsburg at home!

Treat yourself to a celebratory cocktail and a thrilling video of the city’s famous amusement park!

Patriotic Punch

Ingredients:

• 6 oz. cran-raspberry juice
• 4 oz. white grape juice
• 4 oz. pomegranate juice
• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 12 oz. raspberry vodka (optional)
• 6 mint leaves 

Moisten rims of 6 glasses with water, then dip in sugar. Set aside. Combine all ingredients in a pitcher. Stir and chill until ready to serve. Garnish glasses with mini flags and apple slices cut into star shapes. Makes 6 drinks (3 drinks without vodka).

Virtual Tour: Busch Gardens 

Enjoy first-person views of the amusement park’s roller coasters. Watch the “Busch Gardens Williamsburg POV” video posted by Theme Park Review on YouTube.

This story first appeared in the July 7, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine. 

Explore the Black Hills Caverns

As your trip begins, embark on a tour through the marvelous Black Hills Caverns. A knowledgeable guide will walk you through all three levels while sharing local history, folklore and details on the geology of the caverns. You can also upgrade your ticket to include a gem-panning experience that will result in a sparkling souvenir.

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Enjoy a night of western entertainment

In the evening, kick back and relax at the Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show. This popular spot serves up a hearty meat-and-potato meal and plenty of entertainment in the form of a Wild West-themed extravaganza.

Spy stunning bald eagles

The impressive birds of prey are most commonly seen around waterways. Fish are their main diet, so you may catch an eagle swooping down with its talons out to catch one for lunch. 

Take a day trip to explore the Badlands National Park

Located an hour away, this sprawling 244,000-acre park is known for its rich fossil beds. But there’s plenty of wildlife to see too; look for prairie dogs, black-footed ferrets, bison and bighorn sheep.

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Bonus: Experience the city at home! 

Get whisked away to Rapid City with an appetizer inspired by the Firehouse Brewing Co. and a wonderful video walking tour.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Ingredients:

• 14 oz. can chopped, drained artichoke hearts
• 10 oz. baby spinach
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded Italian-blend cheese
• 2 tsp. minced garlic

In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Serve with crudités or tortilla chips.

Video Walking Tour

Explore the downtown area—including the famous presidential statues—with a 4K walking tour posted by “WanderingWalksofWonder” on YouTube.com.

This story first appeared in the June 29, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Savor a famous food staple at Gino’s East

Start your visit at one of the city’s many fantastic museums, like the Field Museum. Wander its exhibits to see more than 40 million stunning specimens, including SUE, the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil. Afterward, stop by Gino’s East of Chicago for a taste of delicious deep-dish pizza.

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Enjoy a night of laughs at Second City

As dusk approaches, treat yourself to a night of entertainment at Second City in Old Town, home to renowned sketch and improv comedy. This six-decade-old spot is where comedy actors like Tina Fey, 56, and Steve Carell, 63, got their start and today continues to entertain and delight both locals and tourists.

Catch a game at Wrigley Field

Admire the Cloud Gate sculpture

Locals have given the impressive art piece, located in Millennium Park, the nickname The Bean. As one of the largest permanent outdoor art installations in the world, it continues to attract visitors from all over! 

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Bonus: Experience the Windy City at home!

Get whisked away to Chicago with a cocktail inspired by the beloved Irish tavern The Dearborn and a classic romance story set in the city. 

Maple Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 

• 1 1/2 cups bourbon
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tsp. orange bitters

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher. Chill until ready to serve. Pour over ice and garnish each with an orange slice and a cherry. Makes 6 drinks.

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This story first appeared in the June 22, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Step back in time at the Museum of Chincoteague Island

Get to know the local history by visiting the Museum of Chincoteague Island. As you stroll through the exhibits, you will have a chance to see shipwreck artifacts, admire model ships and learn about the iconic Chincoteague ponies Misty and Stormy. After working up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at Blackfin Island Grill, where you can savor seafood options like a fried fish sandwich, oyster tacos and crab cakes.

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See spectacular wildlife during a sunset cruise

As the golden hour approaches, embark on a sunset wildlife cruise. During your trip through inland waterways, you will have a chance to spot wild ponies, dolphins and eagles.

Admire the view at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Reserve

This 14,000-acre property is home to 15 miles of hiking and a quaint, untouched beach. Hike the maritime forest and you may see two species of deer and the formerly endangered Delmarva fox squirrel.

Explore the island’s many shops and galleries

It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring home unique souvenirs and get to know the friendly locals who run the island’s storefronts.

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Bonus: Experience Chincoteague at home! 

A fruity cocktail inspired by Ropewalk Restaurant and a documentary of the island will transport you.

Strawberry slushie

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups strawberries
• 1 bottle rosé

Blend strawberries until smooth. Add rosé and blend well. Pour mixture into ice cube trays and pop in the freezer overnight. When ready to serve, blend the cubes until a “slushie” consistency is reached. Pour into glasses. Serves 6.

Take a virtual tour of the island

Get an in-depth look at the island’s culture with a PBS documentary. Watch the “Chincoteague Island, VA” video posted by PBS Appalachia Virginia on YouTube.com.

This story first appeared in the June 15, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine. 

Admire the views at a state park

As your getaway begins, stop by Leffingwell Landing in the beautiful Hearst San Simeon State Park. This relaxing spot, located at the end of Moonstone Beach—famous for its smooth, colorful pebbles that look like moonstones—offers picnic areas, scenic paths overlooking the ocean and plenty of wildlife, like otters.

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Sample fantastic wines at Cutruzzola

In the late afternoon, wind down at the Cutruzzola tasting room as you sample several award-winning boutique wines in a cozy setting. Then, once you’ve worked up an appetite, nosh on some BBQ favorites at Firestone Main Street Grill down the street. Try tasty options like pork ribs, tri-tip sandwich or The Pig shredded pork sandwich.

Explore the trails at the Fiscallini Ranch Preserve

Open from dawn to dusk each day, it’s home to bluffs along the ocean, grassy meadows, forests and spectacular wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, otters and more!

Visit the historic one-room San Simeon Schoolhouse  

The quaint building served as the only San Simeon school from 1881 to 1950. 

Life

Bask in the Beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea, a Coastal California Village

Celebrate the season of love in Carmel-by-the-Sea! This relaxing beach village (also known as simply Carmel) may only be one square mile, but it has plenty to offer, thanks to its wineries, fairy-tale cottages, beautiful views and museums. Begin your day admiring the village’s 11 vibrant Comstock cottages on a walking tour. During this self-guided […]

Bonus: Experience the fun at home!

Imagine you’re in Cambria with an appetizer inspired by Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill, then take a historic virtual walking tour.

Cambria shrimp cocktail recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lime
• ⅓ cup olive oil & vinegar salad dressing
• 18 peeled, deveined extra-large shrimp
• 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 3 cups thinly sliced iceberg lettuce
• 1 avocado (pitted, peeled and cut into 1/2″ wedges)

Grate ½ tsp. lime zest and squeeze 1 Tbs. juice; whisk with dressing. Season and sauté shrimp 2 min. per side until opaque. Divide lettuce among 6 glasses, top with avocado, shrimp and dressing.

Virtual walking tour

Experience the sights and sounds of historic downtown as you watch the Cambria Historical Walking Tour video posted by “Where the Road Takes Us” on YouTube.

This story first appeared in the June 8, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine. 

Where to stay: All-inclusive luxury with a ‘Stay at One, Play at Two’ bonus

To experience the best of both worlds, start on the Dutch side at the legendary Maho Beach, where jets from Princess Juliana International Airport skim so low over sunbathers you can practically read the flight number—equal parts terrifying and thrilling (hold onto your hat, literally!). Then head to Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa, a sprawling all-inclusive with five restaurants, a fantastically friendly spa and the adults-only Cloud9 Rooftop Bar for plane-spotting views with cocktails in hand.

Life

Snorkeling, Spa Days and Margaritas: My Perfect Isla Mujeres Vacation

Looking for a respite from the daily grind and wanting to recharge myself before the holidays, I was excited to learn of a place in the Mexican Caribbean called Isla Mujeres, the “Island of Women.” Located 8 miles off the coast of Cancún, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, this 5-mile-long island is a […]

Families, this is your headquarters: the Beach House Kids Club runs 8 am–5 pm, there are water slides, and yes, a swim-up bar. For a quieter escape, slip next door to the adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort—130 ocean-facing suites—some with butler service and “swim-out” suites—a dramatic cliffside Edge Pool and three à-la-carte restaurants, all included. The resorts’ “Stay at One, Play at Two” policy means you get access to the amenities and restaurants at both hotels without paying twice.

Must-see stops on both the Dutch and French sides 

Take a tour to the French side to explore Marigot Market for well-priced souvenirs (souvenir does mean “to remember” in French, after all!) and iguanas galore. Next, find the Moses Walk, a sandbar path that lets you feel like you’re actually walking on water.

Circling back to the Dutch side, history buffs can stop at Fort Amsterdam, where legend has it Peter Stuyvesant—known locally as “Peg Leg Joe”—lost his leg, and which is now a pelican nesting ground. Wake up early enough and you may spot monkeys doing their morning acrobatics. Grab the catch of the day with a view of the yachts at Chesterfields Restaurant & Bar in Philipsburg (everyone from Mick Jagger to Oprah has called this island home). The island’s original name, Swaliga, means “goddess of the salt”—and with this much flavor, that tracks.

Visit StMaartenEntry.com for entry requirements and SonestaStMaarten.com for reservations.

Life

Naples, Florida: Your Guide to Paradise Coast's Best Kept Secrets

Get whisked away to Naples, aka Paradise Coast! Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this picturesque destination is known for its golfing and world-class resorts, but there’s so much more to appreciate. A visit here also means a chance to enjoy award-winning restaurants and historic landmarks. Indulge in waterfront dining at Seventh South Start your […]

Bring the island fun home! 

Get a jolt of island vibes with a Blue Curaçao cocktail inspired by Sint Maarten’s Sonesta resorts and jet-spot from your living room.

Sint Maarten Electric Blue Lemonade recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. vodka (omit for nonalcoholic)
• 4 oz. fresh lemonade
• 1 oz. Blue Curaçao (or 1 oz. Blue Curaçao syrup for non-alcoholic) 
• 2 oz. lemon-lime soda 
• Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry to garnish

Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the vodka and lemonade and stir well. Add a slow pour of the Blue Curaçao so it sinks to the bottom. Top with the lemon-lime soda and garnish. Serves 1.

Take a virtual tour of the island 

Ready to island-hop from your couch? This sun-drenched “Best Things to Do” video posted by Experience Luxury Travel on YouTube covers both sides of the island — from the famous plane landings at Maho Beach to the French bistros of Grand Case — with tips on beaches, food and hidden gems.

This story first appeared in the June 6, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.