MAD RIVER VALLEY MARATHON
Grab your running shoes, load up on carbs, and head to central Vermont for the third Annual Mad Marathon (July 7). The rural route traverses 26.2 miles of scenic back and dirt roads in the Green Mountains. The course is certified by US Track & Field, and is a Boston Marathon qualifier. Take it easy on the Mad Half run (13.1 miles) or register with friends as a relay team. The Kids Fun Run (July 6, 6:30 p.m.) precedes an evening of music and free ice cream in Waitsfield. Mad Marathon and 1% for the Planet have joined forces to dedicate the run to sustainability with proceeds for nonprofits in New England. To show support for Boston and the running community, they will also donate to One Fund Boston. Entry fee: $100; half $85, teams $140-$230.
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FAMILY-FRIENDLY BOUTIQUE LODGE IN MAINE
The Lodge on the Cove, debuting June 15, is a family-friendly resort nestled on Chick’s Cove along the Kennebunk River in Kennebunkport. This completely refurbished former motor lodge offers 30 retro-chic rooms outfitted with refrigerators, microwaves, and semi-private furnished decks. Amenities and activities include complimentary breakfast, free bike rentals, kayaks, kids’ yoga programs, frequent evening bonfires, poolside ice cream socials, icy cocktails, and more. The Plunge opening package (June 15-
July 15) features two-night accommodations, breakfast bakery bag delivered to your door, lunch at the tiki bar, use of kayaks, and more. From $359, double occupancy. 800-879-5778, www.lodgeonthecove.com
ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL IN TORONTO
Get your electric groove going at the Digital Dreams Music Festival, Canada’s largest electronic dance music celebration taking place over Canada Day weekend (June 29-30). The two-day outdoor festival, returning to downtown Toronto at The Flats at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre (Ontario Place), features top electronic music artists from all over the world, including headliners Tiesto, Richie Hawtin, Porter Robinson, and many more ($149-$249, http://digitaldreamsfest.ca/). Tourism Toronto is offering a two-day event ticket package that includes one-night hotel accommodations starting at $270 for two for general admission tickets or $474 for VIP tickets. 800-499-2514, www.seetorontonow.com
WHIMSICAL CUISINE IN SOUTH BEACH
Tongue & Cheek is the newest restaurant in the “south-of-Fifth” neighborhood in Miami Beach. Helmed by chef Jamie DeRosa and Michael Reginbogin, its menu features ingredient-driven American fare. Diverse offerings deliver big flavors, such as lettuce wraps with crispy pigs ears, Florida oranges, and salted peanuts; fried chicken with pickled red cabbage and Tabasco hollandaise; and beef cheek burger with cheddar pimento cheese on a housemade brioche bun. Enjoy handcrafted, whimsical cocktails at the 15-seat bar. (Bourbon for Apples, anyone?) And do save room for the Cracker Jack milkshake dessert. Entrees $15-$30. 305-704-2900, www.tandcmiami.com
GRAND CANYON ADVENTURE TALE
Those who enjoy heart-racing adventures from the comfort of their couch or beach chair should read Kevin Fedarko’s newly published book, “The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Though the Heart of the Grand Canyon.” A writer and part-time river guide, Fedarko narrates the true story of a night in 1983 when massive snowmelt sent runoff racing down the Colorado River toward the Glen Canyon Dam. As engineers scrambled to avoid catastrophe, a trio of river guides secretly launched a hand-built dory named the Emerald Mile into the river just below the dam’s base, and rocketed downstream beneath a full moon. Hardcover $30, Kindle $12.60 authors.simonandschuster.com/Kevin-Fdarko/64833987
HASSEL-FREE GOLF CLUB SHIPPING
No more dragging your clubs to the airport, and paying airline baggage fees. Ship Sticks ensures a seamless pickup and delivery of clubs from your home or club directly to your hotel or golf course. The online service allows you to schedule shipment dates, print shipping labels, and arrange for pickup. (Or you can drop off at a local UPS store.) If your bag is delayed, Ship Sticks pays for a set of rental clubs. Prices include $1,000 insurance with option to add more. Rates from $39 ground, three-day select $49, two-day air $59, next-day air $69. 561-429-3900, www.shipsticks.com
DOG SITTER SEARCH SITE
Need to travel but hate leaving Fido at a kennel? Rover.com is an online community for dog owners seeking local sitters to provide real homes for their pets. Thousands of approved, reviewed, and insured sitters offer a personal touch, including professionals who will come to your home, large families with other dogs, and doting retirees who will love your pup like their grandchildren. Search by location, date, dog size, and whether you want your pup to stay at home or with a sitter. Prices from $10 to $75. 888-453-7889, www.rover.com
Necee Regis