If you go on a road trip in a vehicle like the GMC Acadia seven-seater, you may discover that the journey can be at least as enjoyable as the things you can do at the destination. Having beautiful scenery is essential for a memorable drive. The White Plains area near New York has many scenic drives that make your family trip memorable.
Hudson Valley
Stretching along the Hudson River from Westchester County in the south to Albany in the north, Hudson Valley is the perfect place to take a trip and escape from the noise and crowds that come with city life. Besides the breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, farmlands, and other natural landscapes, there are also plenty of places along the way to stop, take pictures, and enjoy the views.
The first time you’ll probably be tempted to park the Acadia for a while and enjoy the scenery is when you cross the Hudson River to get from Poughkeepsie to New Paltz. You’ll discover the Walkway Over the Hudson, a 1.28-mile elevated pedestrian bridge that’s the longest in the world. Walking halfway across and stopping to enjoy the view on all sides is likely to make memories that will last a lifetime.
After crossing the river and reaching New Paltz, you can take a step back in time by visiting the Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian-era castle built right on the riverbank. You can make a day of it and go on the hiking trails, row-boat on the nearby glacial lake, or indulge yourself and visit the hotel’s spa. Once back on the road, you can continue to soak up the views, with the river on one side and various farms, vineyards, and nature sanctuaries along the way.
Catskill Scenic Route 30
If you’re more of a fan of mountain views, you should visit the Catskill Mountains. Besides many opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, biking, and more, they also provide the perfect opportunity for a mountain road trip. The 61-mile road takes you from Hancock to Gand Gorge and passes many villages and other towns along the way, like Walton, Delhi, and Stamford. You’ll also discover historical sites, logging, farming, and quarrying locations, old buildings and churches, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local food and wine.
However, among all these attractions, the most astonishing thing about driving down Route 30 is the natural landscape that surrounds it. You’ll be driving along Delaware River’s east branch, and everything around you is different depending on the season you’re in. This may convince you to take this trip more than once, so you can enjoy the many aspects of the Catskill Mountains’ natural surroundings.
Suppose you have time to take a break and enjoy the local attractions, sample some local food. Most restaurants in the area order their produce from local farms, so everything you eat is likely to be fresh, natural, and locally sourced. You can also visit the site where the legendary Woodstock festival took place more than half a century ago and discover a local landscape that pays homage to the art and culture of the 1960s.
Ellenville Northeast Off-Road Adventures
If your idea of a fun road trip involves leaving the safety and comfort of paved roads for a while, you can enjoy driving across 75 acres of rugged mountain terrains. They include everything you’d expect from an off-road course, from large rocks that you have to go over to steep hills and plenty of dirt all around.
Although the GMC Acadia is more than capable of conquering off-road terrains, Northeast Off-Road Adventures can provide you with rental vehicles if you don’t want to get yours dirty. They can also teach you the ins and outs of off-road driving, so you can take advantage of their experienced instructors if you have the time.
Adirondack Mountains
If you’re willing to venture a little further, Adirondack Mountains will provide an excellent road trip opportunity and plenty of fun things to do once you get there. They’re located north of Albany, so you can continue your trip up the Hudson River and then enjoy the views of the Champlain Canal, Lake George, and Lake Champlain. Once you get near the Adirondack Mountains, in the area near Lake Placid, you can take the High Peaks Scenic Byway, New York State’s Route 73.
This 30-mile road is the gateway to The Adirondack Park, a vast natural park larger than Everglades, Glacier, The Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone parks combined. It contains around 85 percent of all wilderness areas in the Eastern U.S. Driving down Route 73 will reveal breathtaking views of more than 40 mountain peaks. The over 4,000 feet of elevation means that the whole area offers a diverse mix of wild natural surroundings that change with every season, revealing new aspects with every visit.
Aside from natural beauty, the Adirondack Mountains offer plenty of other opportunities to relax and have fun. The over 4 million travelers coming here each year can enjoy hiking or biking around the area, boarding or canoeing on the lakes, rock climbing, fishing, or simply sightseeing and enjoying the views. Also, inter sports enthusiasts should know that Lake Placid was the home of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, which means that you can visit the bobsled, triathlon, ski jumping, and trial luge competition location and enjoy some skiing while you’re there.
Going on a road trip with loved ones can be an excellent opportunity to bond and have fun while seeing new places and enjoying new experiences. The areas near White Plains provide many wonderful road trip opportunities, and you can make the most of them by using a vehicle especially designed and equipped for carrying around many passengers in safety and comfort, like the GMC Acadia. If you’d like to check one out and take it for a test drive, visit us at Meadowland GMC.
The hamlet of Carmel, New York, is an excellent place for you or your kids to learn more about dance. And there are many notable dance studios in the area ready to take your moves to the next level.
Let’s look at what they teach, who they instruct most, and what their prices are like.
The Seven Star School of Performing Arts
The Seven Star School of Performing Arts is only about 15 minutes away in Brewster. It’s been training and inspiring new dancers since 2001, with its experienced faculty members teaching dance, acting, and voice classes. The atmosphere is wholesome and fun, and the studio focuses on building self-esteem and dance skills.
Each class is tailored to the capabilities and tastes of its students. The Diaper Dancers class is for 2-year-olds and designed to build musical awareness, coordination, and a love of dancing. The Broadway Babies and Pre-Dance classes are for 3- and 4-year-olds. Broadway Babies expands on Diaper Dancers by adding singing and acting to the curriculum. Pre-Dance teaches these kids early ballet, tumbling, and tap skills.
The Hip Hop class is for kids from 3 to 6 and focuses on enhancing coordination and rhythm through trendy musical expression. Kids 5 to 6 years old can take the Broadway Stars class. It builds on Broadway Babies, with courses lasting for two hours. They include drama, singing, acting, ballet, and tap dancing.
Also, 5- and 6-year-olds can also take more advanced hip hop, musical theater, and break dancing classes. Kids from 7 to 9 can take their first full-fledged ballet courses and learn about officially recognized body flow patterns, formalized steps, and emotional expression through movement.
Other 7- to 9-year-olds include hip-hop, break dancing, musical theater, tap, jazz, and lyrical dancing. Voice coaching and stage acting courses are available as well. From 10 to 18 can take more advanced versions of the same classes. Sessions for younger kids happen earlier in the day, and courses for older people later. The Seven Star School of Performing Arts opens from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays but closes at 2 p.m. on weekends. Fully catered birthday parties with entertainment, decorations, and party games start at $350.
Happy Feet Dance School
If you prefer a more personalized dancing education experience for your child, consider Happy Feet Dance School in Carmel. Each class has a maximum number of students, so they won’t get so large that students can’t benefit from focused interactions with teachers. Happy Feet classes focus on ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical dancing. They start in early January and last until June. Then, a significant recital takes place to show off their new skills.
Building coordination, concentration, teamwork, and self-esteem is central to the mission of Happy Feet Dance School. The school also helps kids experience the joy of dancing. Classes take place Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Children from 3 to 18 years old can attend.
Dutchess School of Performing Arts
The Dutchess School of Performing Arts is in Poughkeepsie, about 40 minutes away. It’s a premier school that focuses on professionally executed dance instruction. The ballet faculty serves children and young adults from 3 to 18 at introductory, advanced, and pre-professional levels. The courses focus on the most well-known forms of ballet globally and help dancers move toward the professional level with grace and poise. Contemporary dance classes focus on rhythm, speed, and solid but refined torso and leg work.
The school’s rhythm tap classes teach a wide range of ethnic dances that focus on percussion from the Caribbean, South American, Central American, and African sources. The music in these classes varies greatly but centers around jazz.
One of the rarest options on the class list is traditional Irish step dancing. It requires high stamina, a rigid upper body, and fast, precise leg movements. Classes range from $175 to $300 depending on their length and focus, though prices change. You can visit from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
The Pinewood School of Dance
The Pinewood School of Dance is in Stormville, about 20 minutes away from Carmel. It’s dedicated to providing an exceptional level of dance education. Preschool-aged students attend one-hour classes that teach ballet, tap dancing, and tumbling. Kids from 5 to 7 can take one-hour courses in ballet, tap, jazz, or a combination of all three. Students 8 and up can take one-hour classes in jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, or modern dance. The half-hour pointe ballet classes are also available.
This dance school sometimes lets students who show a remarkable aptitude for their favorite form of dance move to more advanced classes earlier than usual. A $25 registration fee is required for signup. What’s more, the more courses a student attends per week, the cheaper each class becomes. One class per week is $16; two cost $13 per class, three go for $11 per class, and four commands $9 per class.
The Pinewood School of Dance is open from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. They’ll perform The Nutcracker to celebrate the John Jay High School holidays on December 4 and 5.
Each of these dance schools builds up the talents of preschoolers and young adults, influencing students’ artistic expression and execution along the way. Dance classes are also great for improving coordination and giving kids an opportunity to exercise and stay in shape. Did we miss any of your favorite dance studios in the area? What classes do your children love most? Contact us and let us know which establishment you like best.
If you’re shopping for a new SUV in Poughkeepsie, New York, you must choose one that can handle the challenging driving conditions in the area. A GMC is an excellent option as it comes equipped with a powerful engine and plenty of well-thought-out features that make it a breeze to drive in all kinds of situations. The following is a list of GMC SUV models ideal for a Poughkeepsie driver.
GMC Terrain
If you’re primarily using your new vehicle for commuting in Poughkeepsie, it’s a good idea to get the GMC Terrain. This compact crossover is easy to drive in an urban setting because of its small and narrow turning radius. Whether you’re negotiating through heavy traffic or getting into a tight parking spot, you’ll be impressed with the excellent maneuverability and agility of this GMC model.
Aside from being a great urban commuter, the GMC Terrain can also deliver a spirited driving experience when you decide to hit the open road. It’s fitted with a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels or optionally all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup can get up to speed relatively quickly and provide enough power for most driving tasks, including tackling the hilly Terrain in Dutchess County.
If you want more power and better ride quality, opt for the top-spec Denali trim, which features a 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four and a more comfort-oriented suspension. Also, considering that Poughkeepsie gets a lot of rain throughout the year and substantial snowfall in winter, you may want to equip your Terrain with all-wheel drive for increased traction.
Although it’s a compact crossover, the GMC Terrain offers surprisingly spacious seating. This helps you and passengers stay comfortable when stuck in a traffic jam or traveling long distances. The SUV also has an extensive list of standard infotainment and safety features to keep you entertained behind the wheel. These features include a 7-inch touch-screen display, four USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a Wi-Fi hot spot.
Except for the two lowest trims, every model of the GMC Terrain comes standard with a navigation system. This feature is useful for navigating Poughkeepsie’s complicated road network, which comprises many one-way streets and high-speed arterial highways. Some models offer remote start capabilities, allowing you to warm up your vehicle’s engine and cabin before you step out into the winter chill.
Because of its complex road system, Poughkeepsie has a higher crash rate than the statewide average. If you want to stay safe on the road, you need to have a vehicle loaded with advanced safety features. The Terrain offers a generous selection of standard driver-assistance technologies that can help you avoid potentially dangerous situations. These features include automatic high beams, emergency braking, following-distance indicator, pedestrian monitoring, lane-departure alert, and lane-keeping assistance.
GMC Acadia
If you need a larger SUV to ferry your family around, the GMC Acadia is a better option than the Terrain. This three-row, midsize SUV can accommodate up to seven people in its standard configuration or six people with the optional second-row captain’s chairs. The first and second-row seats are spacious, providing ample legroom and headroom for tall adults. The seats are adequately supportive and cushioned to provide a comfortable ride on long journeys.
Since winter temperatures in Poughkeepsie can fall below freezing, you’ll appreciate Acadia’s standard tri-zone climate control system. For better protection against the cold, you may want to choose a model with heated front and second-row seats. The SUV also has an excellent selection of infotainment and safety features to provide you with a connected, enjoyable, and safe ride. These features include an 8-inch touch screen, five USB ports, satellite radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a Wi-Fi hot spot, blind-spot monitoring, lane-changing warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and rear parking sensors.
While it isn’t as nimble as the more miniature Terrain, the GMC Acadia is easy to maneuver, thanks to its precise and responsive steering. It demonstrates minimal body lean around sharp turns and glides smoothly over uneven surfaces, resulting in a composed and refined ride. If you live in a rural part of Dutchess County and need to drive away from the pavement regularly, it’s recommended that you get the AT4 trim. This model comes with an off-road-tuned all-wheel-drive system and hill descent control.
GMC Yukon
The GMC Yukon is a solid choice if you frequently transport many passengers. The full-size SUV has a seating capacity of eight and offers adult-friendly legroom in all three rows of seats. It also boasts one of the largest cargo capacities in its segment, giving you up to 122.9 cubic feet of storage space. Opting for the XL trim expands the maximum cargo space to an incredible 144.7 cubic feet.
In addition, the Yukon lets you and your passengers travel in exceptional comfort and style with its upscale and well-appointed cabin. The interior of its range-topping Denali trim is comparable to luxury SUVs in terms of build quality and refinement. Every model of this SUV is equipped with plenty of standard features, such as a 10.2-inch touch-screen display, satellite, radio, HD, radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front pedestrian braking, forward-collision warning, and front and rear parking sensors. Standard tri-zone automatic climate control and remote start help you cope with the cold winters of Poughkeepsie.
If you enjoy boating or camping trips in Dutchess County and beyond, you’ll be happy to know that the GMC Yukon offers solid towing capability. With an impressive tow rating of 8,400 pounds, it allows you to transport multiple ATVs or jet skis, a medium-sized boat, or a small camping trailer. The SUV’s stout engine and composed handling enable it to tackle the steep inclines and winding roads you often encounter in the area.
If you’re thinking of buying a GMC SUV in the Poughkeepsie area, consider stopping by Meadowland GMC for a test drive. Contact us today to make an appointment.
Have you ever been watching a movie and wondered what type of vehicle the characters were driving? Well, in many cases, the likely answer is a GMC. GMC vehicles have appeared in countless movies for the past few decades. We explain why many films make use of GMC vehicles and point out eight examples of movies that have made use of these vehicles in different ways across the years.
Why Are GMC Vehicles So Popular in Movies?
GMC vehicles often appear in movies for many reasons. For starters, GMC has been around for decades. Any film based in the present time made over the past several decades had the opportunity to use a GMC vehicle. However, movies based in a previous era can also use GMC vehicles since these vehicles existed during these periods.
In addition, GMC is known for its rugged and capable trucks and SUVs. These qualities make them suitable for common movie types, such as action-adventure movies and dramas. Whether it’s someone looking to escape a monster or a group of federal agents on a high-speed chase, GMC vehicles are a common choice to assist the characters.
‘Lethal Weapon’ (1987)
“Lethal Weapon” is a fast-paced action movie. To ensure that the main characters had a truck that could keep up with them, producers gave them a GMC Sierra 3500. The two main characters, police officers played by Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, race around town in their GMC Sierra. The truck can be seen throughout the film, as it plays an essential role in many scenes. This movie is an excellent example of showcasing how GMC trucks can withstand even the most extreme situations.
‘Speed’ (1994)
GMC vehicles were still going strong in movies almost ten years later when they made an appearance in the blockbuster “Speed.” “Speed” is about a Los Angeles cop who attempts to thwart a villain who has placed an explosive device on a bus, which will automatically detonate if the bus slows down. Keanu Reeves, the main protagonist, relies on GMC law enforcement vehicles as he goes through one very stressful day. You’ll see a GMC Yukon helping Reeves get on and off the speeding bus while it’s in motion throughout the film.
‘The Bridges of Madison County’ (1995)
“The Bridges of Madison County” is a classic love story. It tells the tale of a photographer, played by Clint Eastwood, who is on assignment to photograph the famous bridges within Madison County. While there, he has a brief emotional affair with a married woman, telling the tale of two people who met too late in life.
Clint Eastwood’s character drives around a 1960 GMC pickup in the movie. Supposedly, Eastwood loved the truck so much that he bought it after the production, and it’s currently on display at his Carmel, California, hotel.
‘Twister’ (1996)
“Twister,” tells the story of storm trackers as one of the most significant storms in decades approaches their town. These storm trackers have developed a new tornado data-gathering device, which they want to deploy during this immense storm. As they rush to the storm’s location and withstand some rough weather along the way, the scientists use a 1985 GMC Vandura Bus. It’s one of the few vehicles to make it safely through the entire movie.
‘Alien vs. Predator (2005)
“Alien vs. Predator” is a crossover between two previous movies, “Alien” (1979) and “Predator” (1987). In this movie, researchers head to Antarctica to study an unknown source of heat they detected. While in Antarctica, they discover a group of parasitic aliens. Worse, they also encounter a species known as Predators, who hunt the aliens. The GMC truck in this movie, a 2005 GMC Yukon XL, belongs to a local sheriff who helps his town face off against the predators.
‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)
“Brokeback Mountain” is one of the best films of 2005. It won awards for best director and best writing and received nominations for best picture. The film tells the story of a rodeo cowboy and a ranch hand, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger, who had a secret love affair over 20 years. Several trucks appear throughout the film, some of which are GMC trucks from 1950 and 1955.
‘Transformers’ (2007)
When filmmakers need a vehicle to help them save the world, they often turn to GMC vehicles. This situation was the case in the 2007 movie “Transformers,” directed by Michael Bay. In this movie, a GMC Topkick takes on a life of its own as it transforms into a sentient robot known as Ironhide. In addition to this GMC vehicle, some government agents also assist in battling the robots, relying on a GMC Yukon fleet to get around.
‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ (2010)
Of course, GMC vehicles aren’t all about world-ending scenarios and running from danger. This scenario was the case in the 2010 “Hot Tub Time Machine,” where a group of friends finds themselves transported into the past when they get into a magical hot tub. This group of friends arrives at a ski lodge, the location of the magical hot tub, through the help of a GMC Yukon Denali.
Get Your GMC Vehicle From Meadowland GMC
Did you recently see a GMC vehicle in a movie that you liked? Or do you want the same dependability those in the most challenging situations rely on for their needs? Whatever the reason, if you want a GMC vehicle, let Meadowland GMC assist you.
We have a range of used GMC vehicles to choose from, some of which you may have seen on the big screen. If you want something newer, we also have the latest GMC models for you to explore. Start now by browsing our current inventory, then contact us when you find something you like. We’ll take you out for a test drive and answer any questions you may have. Let Meadowland GMC show you why all your favorite movie characters prefer GMC vehicles for their adventures.
The GMC Acadia is among the most versatile and well-equipped SUVs on the market today. Its available leasing options are also versatile. Let’s look at the 2022 Acadia and the related leasing options below.
GMC Acadia Core Features and Capabilities
The 2022 GMC Acadia is available in the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali trim levels. It has an exciting range of features and options that make it a strong pick for leasing. Front-wheel and all-wheel drivetrains are available on the SLE and SLT. All-wheel drive is standard on the AT4, and Denali trim levels.
Choose between an efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine providing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and a 3.6-liter V-6 engine granting 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The V-6 option comes with an automatic stop and starts the system, saving you gas at every red light. Both engines come tied to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The 2022 Acadia is ideal for those who want a dependable SUV for home and work that has considerable towing and carrying capacities. This Acadia can tow up to 4,000 pounds and carry 1,846 pounds when outfitted for maximum power. The cargo area is 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.7 feet with the third row folded down, or 79 cubic feet with the second-and third-row seats folded down. You’ll experience a remarkably stable and comfortable ride in this SUV, thanks to its MacPherson strut suspension system. The suspension system also features continuous ride dampening control and a stabilizer bar.
A Vibrant and Utilitarian Exterior
This sport utility vehicle is as eye-catching as it is relaxing. It features broad multi-lamp headlights, a grated steel grille, two L-shaped fog lamps, and smooth body lines. The Denali version comes with a unique grille with a more artistic metallic look, understated but brighter LED headlights, and roof rails. Exterior features and options include heated power-adjustable auto-dimming side-view mirrors, a hands-free liftgate, LED headlights, deep-tinted glass, and windshield wipers with a windshield washing unit.
The SLE is available in Ebony Twilight Metallic, Light Stone Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic, Satin Steel Metallic, Cayenne Red Tintcoat, and Summit White. The SLT and AT4 trims come in those paint colors, plus White Frost Tricoat. The Denali is the only trim level with the Hunter Metallic paint option access. This Acadia’s aluminum wheels are available in 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch sizes, with special aluminum for the Denali trim level.
A Comfortable, Entertaining, and a Safe SUV
The2022 GMC Acadia can seat up to seven on three rows of seating, each with its USB ports for easy device charging. It’s available with tri-zone automatic climate control, second-row captain’s chairs, heated and ventilated seat options, a heated steering wheel, eight-way adjustable power seats, and leather-trimmed upholstery so that every ride will be extremely relaxing.
The 8-inch touch-screen multimedia infotainment system features SiriusXM radio, a GPS navigation system, Bluetooth, voice recognition programming, and app mirroring through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A six-speaker sound system is standard, but music lovers should upgrade it to the premium eight-speaker Bose system, which comes with a subwoofer. Wi-Fi hot spot internet access is also available.
Many safety features are standard at every trim level on the 2022 Acadia. They include the LATCH child safety system, daytime running lamps, a tire pressure monitor, a high definition rear-view camera, lane-keeping warning and assistance, blind-spot alert, forward and rear parking assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. The Acadia comes with a StabiliTrak system, maximizing stability and traction electronically. The OnStar system is also available. It allows drivers and passengers to summon emergency services with the push of a button, cutting down the time it will take them to get to your location.
GMC Leasing Preparation, Terms, and Process
The 2022 Acadia is an ideal option for leasing. Before you begin the process, it’s best to get a few things done. Have your credit score checked; this can be done online or at Meadowland GMC of Carmel. The results of your credit check will impact the terms available to you as a prospective lessee. Provide the best down payment you can; the larger the down payment, the more affordable your monthly times are likely to be. Trading in an old vehicle can also be used as a down payment.
When ending your lease, be mindful of the possible fees charged whether you’re completing the lease early or your auto lease is upending a lease before generally requires a buyout payment that transfers vehicle ownership from the dealer to the lessee. Buyout payments are usually based on the residual value of the vehicle. Mileage allowances represent the total miles you’re allowed each year. If you go above this limit, extra fees will be triggered at the end of your lease. Security deposits are sometimes required in advance to cover the cost of unexpected damage to the SUV.
Once you have your trim level, features, and options picked out; you’ll need to get your credit approved. At that point, one of our experienced professionals will guide you through the financial agreement. Details will include your monthly payment, interest rate, the length of your lease, special manufacturer lease deal terms, insurance options, and the vehicle’s initial price. Once you have agreed on the terms of your lease and covered your down payment, you’ll be on the road in no time.
Specific Leasing Offers for the Acadia
GMC is offering an ultra-low mileage lease for those who qualify. The standard monthly rate and term are $229 a month for 24 months. The 2021 version is available with a $2,750 purchase allowance as long as you finance through GMC Financial. New offers become available regularly at both the dealership and corporate levels, so keep an eye out online for these specials.
Contact us at Meadowland GMC of Carmel, New York, to discuss the 2022 Acadia. Our professional financing staff will help you find the best possible deal so you can begin your journey in this comfortable and capable SUV.
Some people love their cars, and other people love cars in general. Car clubs are perfect for those who see car ownership, upgrading, and maintenance as more of a way of life than a pastime. They bring together car lovers of all stripes and give back to the community through spectacular shows and events. Let’s look at a group of the most exciting car clubs in and around Danbury, Connecticut.
The West Connecticut Rover Club
Established during the beautiful spring of 1997, the West Connecticut Rover Club was founded by Michael Ladden and Peter Goundry. It grew through their friendship until it became one of the largest car clubs on the eastern side of the United States. The West Connecticut Rover Club now has three major branches: the Ottawa Valley Land Rover Club, the ROVERS of PA & NJ, and the Rover Owners Association of Virginia.
Members regularly tour the area in and around Danbury, so make sure you keep an eye out for their cars at shows. The West Connecticut Rover Club is currently in the middle of the Across the World Overland Expedition. It has taken them through twenty states and over an incredible stretch of road totaling 8,180 miles. This means that new membership is suspended for now, but it won’t stay that way, so check in regularly.
The Cradlewood Valley Corvette Club
Formed in 1979 by a group of friends who share a love of showroom-quality Corvettes, the Cradlewood Valley Corvette Club first met in an old Caldor parking lot in Brookfield. It has since become one of the most notable Corvette clubs in the northeastern states. The club holds an awesome range of events throughout each year, including cruise nights, picnics, monthly meetings, annual banquets, day trips, auto-crossings, and road rallies.
The Cradlewood Valley Corvette Club gives as much of its event proceeds as possible to ease the suffering of the poor and hungry throughout the year, so when you contribute to them, you’ll be giving to charity too. Every month the club holds a dinner meeting. These meetings start at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at Italia Mia Restaurant and Pizzeria at 223 Danbury Road. Call 203-512-7318 to confirm that the time hasn’t changed. Ask for Ben DeFazio, Membership Chairperson. He’ll be able to talk you through membership requirements.
The Connecticut Council of Car Clubs
If you want to check out a car club that sits at a level above the rest, look no further than the great Connecticut Council of Car Clubs. Founded in 1973, this council comprises a long list of member clubs and is influential enough to impact legislative proposals related to their way of life. Antique, special-model, and classic car lovers will all adore their massive car shows.
Meetings are held on the first Monday of February, April, May, June, August, and November at the Athenian Diner Restaurant at 864 Washington Street. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., and the meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.
The primary activities of the council include the education of legislators regarding the unique needs of antique and special interest car owners, meeting with local transportation committees on a range of topics, cruise nights, car shows, swap meets, and 4C legislative subject meetings. The council has featured vehicles at the New England Air Museum Car Show and Aircraft Exhibit for many years, so if you want to get a good look at their cars and learn what they do, consider attending that event.
Blood Sweat & Gears Classic Car Club
Every Friday at the Savin Rock Conference Center at 6 Rock Road in nearby West Haven, the Blood Sweat & Tears Classic Car Club gathers. The location is next to Jimmy’s Seafood Restaurant, and the gathering runs from 6 p.m. to dark. Founded in early October of 2004, this classic car club carries on in honor of an old friend now passed away, William G. Hanks Senior. If you’d like to join the club, you’ll need a car with a model year earlier than 1981. Once you have that, fill out the online form and attend one of the meetings.
The cruise nights of Blood Sweat & Gears have included sponsored trophy events judged by seasoned car-lovers, exciting raffles, lively music, and door prizes. Their recent Pints & Power vendor event was a blast. It included raffle prizes, a wide beer selection, live music, food trucks, and more.
All proceeds from the raffle went to a purple heart military charity and a state animal charity, so you know their hearts are in the right place. They plan to have many more of these sorts of events, properly socially distanced. This classic car club is so well-respected within its community that it holds cruises with police escorts, so all members and attending guests can be sure of their safety while they have a good time.
The Jaguar Club of Southern New England
In nearby Middletown, Connecticut, you’ll find a car club dedicated to one of the most popular luxury cars in the USA: the Jaguar. An affiliate of the Jaguar Clubs of North America, this club was founded in 1968. The Jaguar enthusiasts at the club’s core love holding events for the membership, their families, and the public alike. Car shows, slalom events, autocross events, vineyard tours, technology sessions, social events, and brewery tours are just a few of the event varieties you can look forward to with membership.
The club holds two meetings every month. They are held at the Olympia Diner in Newington, Connecticut, on each month’s second Tuesday and third Saturday. The club is now over 150 members strong, all owners of Jaguars that run the full range of its production years, so you’ll see Jags you rarely see anywhere else at their events.
These engaging car clubs have a lot to offer car lovers in and around Danbury, Connecticut. If you can think of a car club that we left out, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to add it to our list. We want to give the car lovers in our area knowledge of as many clubs and events as possible.
Karaoke can make anyone feel like a star, up on stage, singing to your favorite artists’ top songs. The Carmel area offers a plethora of karaoke bars for you to choose from, where you can sing to your heart’s content. The Meadowland GMC team has stopped by a few of these hot spots to determine Carmel’s top seven karaoke bars.
Who’s up for some bowling? If you live in the Carmel, New York, area, you’ll find several places to go bowling. We created a list of our favorite five of these venues and their highlights below.
Cortlandt Lanes
Cortlandt Lanes offers an inviting atmosphere for bowling in the charming community of Cortlandt Manor. Almost every season features leagues and other activities for bowling enthusiasts. Whether you’re bowling with a league or are having fun with friends and family, you’ll feel at home at Cortlandt Lanes.
While the 2021-2022 fall league season is already in progress, the schedule offers plenty of bowling action almost every night of the week. Cortlandt Lanes is the headquarters for bowling fun for bowlers of all ages and abilities, from a Wednesday night’s men league to a Friday afternoon children’s league.
Each Saturday from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., you can watch the lights go down, and the lanes start to glow for midnight bowling. Cortlandt Lanes offers a $100 progressive strike jackpot during this inviting bowling experience. If it’s not won, Cortlandt Lanes carries $50 over to the following week and adds $50 to the jackpot every week for a maximum prize of $1,000.
Cortlandt Lanes also provides space for fun bowling-themed birthday parties and a pro shop, operated by Professional Bowling Association member Eddie Walsh, that’s open from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Location: 2192 Crompond Road, Cortlandt Manor, New York
Telephone: 914-737-4550 or 914-737-4551
Jefferson Valley Lanes
Take a brief drive from Carmel and enjoy bowling at Jefferson Valley Lanes. This brightly illuminated, family-friendly establishment features 24 lanes, making it an ideal destination for an after-school activity or special celebration.
Jefferson Valley Lanes offers bowling leagues featuring men, women, mixed participants, senior, bumper, and junior. While the 2021-2022 fall and winter league schedule is in progress, guests who aren’t participating in leagues can bowl at several designated time blocks during the week (visit the website for the schedule).
Jefferson Valley Lanes also offers a prime spot for fun children’s birthday parties. Party packages include a two-hour bowling time block, shoe rental, plates, napkins, and more for the celebration.
Location: 3699 Hill Blvd., Jefferson Valley, New York
Telephone: 914-245-7771
New Milford Lanes
New Milford Lanes likes to say that it’s more than a bowling alley. It’s a hub for entertainment in the New Milford, Connecticut, community, about 14 miles from Carmel. Bowlers of all ages and abilities are welcome to bowl at New Milford Lanes.
A Saturday Rent-a-Lane special, held each Saturday from 12:30 to 5 p.m., allows families or groups of friends up to six people to reserve a lane for one hour of bowling for $35 or two hours for $50. The ever-popular glow bowling lights up the lanes from 10:30 p.m. to midnight on Friday evenings and 7 p.m. to midnight on Saturday evenings. Costs are $12 per person on Friday evenings. Saturday evening specials are $15 per person for one hour of bowling or $20 per person for two hours of bowling.
Fuel up with some yummy snacks at Sue’s Snack Shack, including pizza, burgers, fries, nachos, cold and hot beverages, and more.
Location: 145-D Danbury Road, New Milford, Connecticut
Telephone: 860-799-7477
Schneider’s Fishkill Bowl
Located minutes from Interstate 84 in Fishkill, New York, Schneider’s Fishkill Bowl allows bowlers of all persuasions to have a great time and enjoy some fabulous bowling. Forty lanes feature Qubica full-color LCD monitors with animated graphics so that all bowlers can keep track of their scores during play.
Schneider’s Fishkill Bowl offers seasonal open bowling hours when guests can bowl. A Tuesday night special is available for $2.50 per game from 5 to 9 p.m.
You may want to consider joining one of the bowling leagues offered during the winter and summer. Junior leagues for the youngest bowlers and high school bowling leagues are also available, including the prestigious Dick Ritger Bowling Camp during the summer.
If you’re looking for a dynamic birthday party venue for the littlest bowler in your family, book a birthday celebration at Schneider’s Fishkill Bowl. A minimum of 10 children are required; the participation fee is $15 per child. The birthday party package includes a two-hour party time block with pizza or hot dogs, chips, and soda served. Children receive a complimentary bowling pin to sign as a keepsake.
Location: 110 Route 82, Fishkill, New York
Telephone: 845-896-7830
Strikers of Brookfield
Friendly competition, ice-cold beer, and some time are all you need for a superb bowling experience at Strikers of Brookfield. This bowling alley with a bar has operated in Brookfield, Connecticut, since 1975. More than a bowling alley, Strikers of Brookfield offers an on-site bar, snack station, and pro shop offering custom-made bowling gear.
Strikers of Brookfield offers 32 lanes, which provide plenty of room for bowling for groups and individuals. Whether you want to enjoy a night out with friends or family or arrange a bowling event for birthday parties and corporate gatherings, you’re sure to enjoy a fun bowling activity.
Avid bowlers will appreciate the many bowling league options available. While the 2021-2022 bowling season is currently in progress, bowling league options include:
Monday night men’s league.
Tuesday night five-person team league.
Wednesday and Friday night open leagues for bowlers of all skill levels.
Thursday night four-person league.
When you want to refresh after a game, head to the Spare Time Bar & Lounge. You’ll find plenty of seating, a pool table, video games, and a large-screen TV so that you won’t miss a moment of the sports action on television.
Location: 840 Federal Road, Brookfield, Connecticut
Telephone: 203-775-4343
Now that you know more about some of the best places to go bowling near Carmel, you can gather your family members and friends, lace up your bowling shoes, and get ready for some friendly competition on the lanes.
What did you think about our list of places to go bowling in the Carmel area? Did we overlook one of your favorite bowling destinations? Please write to us and let us know. We’ll add your suggestions to this article. Our team members at Meadowland GMC are always eager to share information about some of our favorite attractions in and near Carmel with customers and community members.
When it comes to buying a new car, there’s no single best option. It comes down to what kind of vehicle you’re looking for, as every vehicle is better at some things than others. Below, we’ll help you pick out the best vehicle depending on the type of car you’re in need of.
Best Family Car
If you’re looking for a vehicle that can fit an entire family along with their belongings, then you’ll want to consider the 2022 GMC Yukon. This large SUV comes with three rows of seats, each of which provides plenty of space for passengers of all sizes. The 2022 GMC Yukon also comes with plenty of options so you can pick a version that best suits your needs.
For example, with this model you can get either a 5.3-liter or a 6.2-liter V8 engine, depending on how much performance you need. The 5.3-liter engine produces 355 horsepower, while the 6.2-liter engine provides 520 horsepower so you really can’t go wrong with either option. There are also plenty of options when it comes to interior features that you’re sure to love if you’re looking for a family vehicle. For instance, there’s an infotainment display that makes it easy to play your favorite music from your smartphone through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. You can also get a Wi-Fi hotspot, giving all your passengers access to better internet access while on the go.
Finally, there’s a host of safety features available, which is essential for any family vehicle. Within the 2022 GMC Yukon you’ll find automated emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and much more.
Best Recreation Truck
When you want a truck that you can have some fun with, consider the 2022 GMC Canyon. With this pickup truck, you’re essentially getting something that has all the capabilities of a full-size truck but inside a mid-size truck frame. With the 2022 GMC Canyon, you have the ability to tow up to 7,700 pounds and upgrade to 31-inch tires and a unique off-road suspension. This means the Canyon can handle practically any adventure you throw at it.
Of course, the 2022 GMC Canyon has plenty of features on the inside as well. It comes with a user-friendly dashboard, of which the infotainment system is the primary focus. In addition to this, the front seats offer plenty of space for even the tallest of drivers, and the elevated rear seats provide an improved comfort experience. Finally, there’s plenty of storage space both within the truck and inside the truck bed, making it perfect for going on adventures.
Best Work Truck
Some of you may be in the market for a truck that’s capable of handling tougher jobs. For this, you should look at the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500. This is perhaps the best truck that GMC has to offer due to its performance and features. The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 produces 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, making it a very capable work truck. This is with the standard engine but buyers also have the option of upgrading to a turbodiesel V8 engine with a 10-speed transmission, making this powerful truck even stronger.
A big feature of the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 is the MultiPro tailgate. This transforms the back of your vehicle and provides you with several different configurations, perfect for when you use your truck for work. For example, you can easily convert it into a flat workspace, allowing you to set up a laptop or some blueprints.
Some other features you can get with the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 that will appeal to those seeking a work truck include 17-inch steel wheels, rubberized vinyl floors, rear corner steps, 12 cargo tie-downs, and a trailering package.
Best Road Trip Vehicle
There are a few requirements to make something a good road trip vehicle. These include:
Good gas mileage.
Plenty of cargo space.
Comfortable ride.
Entertainment system.
Safe.
A GMC vehicle that meets all of these requirements is the 2022 GMC Acadia. This vehicle is large enough to hold all your belongings and a couple of passengers as well. And, despite its large size, you’ll get great gas mileage at 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The 2022 GMC Acadia is also very enjoyable to drive. It has comfortable seats, an adjustable steering wheel, a touchscreen infotainment system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and plenty of USB ports. Finally, the 2022 GMC Acadia comes with all the safety features you’d want, such as lane-departure warnings, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Whether you’re looking to take a trip with your friends, family, or on your own, the 2022 GMC Acadia will make the trip a lot more fun.
Best GMC for Young Drivers
Finally, if you’re looking for a vehicle for a new driver, your primary focuses are likely safety and reliability. For this, look no further than the 2022 GMC Terrain. This vehicle received a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, its best possible score. This is due in large part to its safety features, like automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure warning.
Another great benefit of the 2022 GMC Terrain is the gas mileage. This SUV is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, meaning young drivers won’t have to stop for gas as often. Finally, with the Terrain you can upgrade to all-wheel drive, which is perfect if you want something that’s able to handle rougher driving conditions with ease.
Get Your Next GMC Vehicle at Meadowland GMC
No matter what kind of vehicle you’re in the market for, Meadowland GMC is here to help. Please browse through our current inventory or contact us today to schedule an appointment at our dealership. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about GMC vehicles or set you up with a test drive so you can experience them for yourself. With our help, you can purchase a GMC vehicle that perfectly suits your needs.
Every driver is different, but most people can agree on some key features that make it fun to drive. Whether you enjoy hitting the accelerator hard, taking your SUV off the beaten track, or cruising comfortably on the highway, you want to feel good when you’re sitting behind the wheel. GMC’s lineup provides you with a great selection of SUVs and trucks that can do all of these things and more. Here are some of the things to look out for when you’re searching for a car that’s fun to drive.
A Powerful Engine
This is one of the most prominent points to note, but you’ll want an engine with enough power to provide peppy acceleration. Cars with underpowered engines generally aren’t that fun to drive because you have to wait a long time to get up to speed after you hit the throttle.
It’s not just as simple as looking at the engine’s horsepower. Of course, indeed, a V-6 with 300 horsepower will typically produce better acceleration than a four-cylinder with 200 horsepower. However, an engine’s power can also be impacted by the size of the vehicle. Some 200-horsepower engines can propel compact sports cars to a rapid pace in a few seconds, while a 300-horsepower unit may only manage to shift a large SUV up to highway speed at a relatively moderate tempo.
Responsive Handling
Most drivers like to feel in control of the steering wheel on the road. As such, drivers appreciate a vehicle with a steering system that responds promptly to a driver’s actions. A vehicle that turns without delay when you turn the wheel left or right will be easier to maneuver around tight corners or handle nimbly when you’re driving in heavy traffic.
The steering can also provide the driver with important information about how the car’s tires are gripping the road and the surface conditions. This can be especially important to make a car easier to drive in difficult situations. The vibrations picked up by the driver through the steering wheel can let them know if it’s safe to hit the gas or if they need to drive more carefully to avoid slippage or other problems.
Steering is also affected by a car’s suspension and chassis. In general, a car with a softer suspension will take corners less nimbly and experience more body roll. On the other hand, if a vehicle’s suspension is too hard, it can make for an uncomfortable ride.
Similarly, the chassis can contribute to a vehicle rolling because it may bend when you take a corner. Strengthening the chassis with braces can prevent this, but it may also have the effect of making your car heavier. That, in turn, can make it less fun to drive. The best manufacturers manage to strike the perfect balance between keeping the chassis strong but light.
Smooth Gear Shifting
Accelerating swiftly isn’t just about raw power. It would help if you also could shift smoothly through the gears so that you pick up speed steadily. Automatic transmissions aim to accomplish this by deciding when to change gear away from the driver. This can lead to more refined gear changing.
However, some drivers find automatic transmissions to be inflexible and too slow. They prefer vehicles with a manual transmission, which gives the driver more control over how and when to shift gears. This control can give a driver the feel that they have a greater command over how the vehicle performs, another key factor in creating an enjoyable driving experience.
Great Off-Roading Chops
Many things that make a car fun to drive are very subjective. They can vary between drivers depending on what they prioritize in a vehicle. For people who like taking their truck or SUV off the beaten track or for a weekend trip away from the city, their idea of a fun drive would be a vehicle that can cope with trails and obstacles.
Off-roading prowess isn’t just about having a powerful engine to tackle slopes. It also demands a rugged suspension, low gears so you can drive confidently at a slow pace, and a four-wheel-drive for better traction and control. Off-roading vehicles also typically feature a high ground clearance so that rocks and other obstacles won’t get in the way.
An Upscale Cabin
Even if you have a car with perfect acceleration and responsive handling, an uncomfortable driver’s seat or cramped cabin can take away the fun of driving it. Having a supportive driver’s seat is a crucial part of any car that’s fun to drive. That’s because when a driver feels stable in their seat, they can focus all their attention on the road ahead and don’t have to worry about losing their balance.
A good car should also provide clear visibility so that you feel confident about responding to what’s going on around you. Many drivers prefer an elevated position, which is the case in many SUVs so that they have a commanding view of the road up ahead. However, if your main priority is speed, you may prefer a position closer to the ground to improve your acceleration.
Find Your Next Truck or SUV at Meadowland GMC in Carmel
If you’re looking for a fun vehicle to drive in the Carmel area, we’ve got a great selection of trucks and SUVs here at GMC Meadowland. From compact SUVs designed for city driving like the GMC Terrain to larger vehicles perfect for bigger families such as the GMC Yukon, we have a diverse selection for you to choose from.
If you have any questions about the GMC lineup or would like some advice on how to pick a car that’s fun to drive, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Alternatively, why not drop by our New York dealership to talk to us in person or get to know our vehicle inventory up close. We can even organize a test drive for you to get a feel for how our GMC vehicles perform on the road before you commit to buying one.
