If you grew up in the Baltimore area between 1955 and 1990, then you may remember the following amusement park. The Enchanted Forest was nestled on Route 40, and as kids, many locals considered this magical place to be a mini Disney World. With a fairytale theme, this place offered rides, slides, and puppet shows. It was a nice place to getaway from the city and just have a great day with family.
Take a look at the following clips and prepare for a step back in time:
The Enchanted Forest closed in the early 1990s. Today, pieces of the old attraction can be found at Clarks Elioak Farm in Ellicott City. The castle, Willie the Whale, the Old Lady's Shoe, and more reside at the farm, offering children a similar, yet very different experience. For more information on the current Enchanted Forest at Clarks Elioak Farm, click here.
What do you remember about this place? Feel free to share your memories down below! :-)
Winter in New Jersey is often unpredictable, especially when it comes to how much snow we'll get, but the Old Farmer's Almanac usually gives us a pretty good clue of what lies ahead. An average winter in New Jersey brings about 13 inches of snow to Cape May County and between 40 to 50 inches in Sussex County in Northern New Jersey. Winter 2023-2024 saw just 2.3 inches of snow in the southern half of our state and 36 inches in Sussex County. The Old Farmer's Alamanac winter weather predictions in New Jersey for 2024-2025 look a bit different than normal.
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While the Old Farmer's Alamanac calls for higher than normal temperatures for all of New Jersey this winter, the expected snowfall will flip. Northern New Jersey should see less snowfall than normal while the southern part of the state will experience more snow than normal.
That leads to the inevitable question. Will we wake up to a snowy wonderland on Christmas morning? Probably not. The Farmer's Almanac 2024 winter in New Jersey predicts a sunny and cool Christmas week, although snow should arrive in the south in the final days of the year. There's no mention of a major snowstorm either, although we all know that can change at any time.
The Old Farmer's Almanac winter forecast for New Jersey shows that the snowiest parts of the season will occur at the end of December and February, both ideal times for getting outdoors. Pull out your sled, and head to Cheesequake State Park, which boasts one of the best sledding hills in New Jersey. Go ice skating on a natural rink, or set off on a brisk winter hike.
We also have to be prepared for the cold. The Old Farmer's Almanac predicts mid-December, the beginning and end of January, and late February will be the coldest parts of the season. February will have an average temperature of 33 degrees Fahrenheit, the lowest of the the season. The warm-up starts in March, with temperatures in the mid-40s as we welcome spring.
The Old Farmer's Almanac, founded in 1792, claims to be correct 80 percent of the time. Even though the winter weather predictions in New Jersey call for milder conditions than normal, prepare your home and vehicle ahead of time just in case. Start by checking your furnace, smoke alarm, and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're working properly, and make sure your home is insulated. Stock up on salt for those icy mornings, and put your shovel where it's easy to find. Keep emergency supplies - blankets or extra clothes, an ice scraper, salt, chargers for your phone, a first aid kit, and water and snacks - in your car.
What do you think of the Farmer's Almanac Winter Forecast for 2024 for New Jersey? Are you looking forward to the milder temperatures? Or do you hope the snow will surprise us? One of my favorite memories of living in South Jersey was a late February snowstorm, with thunder and lightning, that started right after the sun set. I woke up the next morning to temperatures in the high 40s and much of the snow had already melted. A blast of winter that doesn't stick around too long...pure perfection. We have to be prepared for whatever comes our way, though, especially if we plan on traveling. If you're hitting the road this winter, check out the OIYS ultimate winter packing list.
There's no need to stay inside all winter when there are plenty of attractions around Baltimore. The following 7 spots are at their best during the cold season. Check 'em out and enjoy!
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1. Sled down the hills at Patterson Park...
When the white stuff arrives, bring your sled to Patterson Park. It has several hills where you can zoom, slide, and race. Bundle up and have fun!
2. And then dance on ice at Dominic Mimi Dipietro Ice Rink
This seasonal attraction at Patterson Park runs from October to March. Public skating sessions are $5 and skate rentals are $3. This is a perfect wintry activity that any age can enjoy.
Address: 200 S Linwood Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224
3. Witness a snow-covered city from the Top of the World Observation Level
You can see 360 degree views of the city from the 27th floor of Baltimore's World Trade Center. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for children 3-12 (Children under this age range are FREE). This sky high perspective of Charm City is swoon-worthy.
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Address: 401 E Pratt St, World Trade Center Institute, #27, Baltimore, MD 21202
4. See the harbor from the cozy confines of a cruise ship
Spirit of Baltimore operates year-round and it's the perfect way to see the outdoor harbor sights while still staying warm (and full of delicious food). Whether you choose a lunch or dinner cruise, you're sure to enjoy your time.
5. Get inspired at the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade
On January 15th at noon, this event will begin at Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Eutaw Street. It commemorates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with over 70 groups, from bands to floats and more.
6. Have a warm and hearty meal at Woodberry Kitchen
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This restaurant is consistently ranked as one of the best in Baltimore. The only thing better than the food is the rustic and comforting atmosphere that's perfect for a winter evening.
Address: 2010 Clipper Park Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211
7. Marvel at the frozen sights at Patapsco Valley State Park
This nearby park has many natural attractions, one being Cascade Falls, which freezes over in the wintertime. Dress in layers and visit this spot, which is a breathtaking sight to behold.
What are your favorite winter activities around the city? Let us know below!