A Change of Scenery

“A Change of Scenery” focuses on day trips from Thurmont that are within 150 miles (give or take). These trips will not include “Disney-level” destinations, but rather, lesser-known points of interest. The purpose of the article is to suggest venues for folks seeking a short, easily accessible change of scenery. In the process, hopefully something will be learned. Some will be historic, some cultural, and others just plain quirky. I confess an ulterior motive for writing this article:

I have a wanderlust addiction.

Tried and True

By the time this article goes to print, it will be February. Seed catalogs will soon arrive, delivering the first dreams of summer treasures. But, for now, it’s still winter, and the walls have closed in.

You may have a severe case of what is commonly called “cabin fever” or “stir-crazy.” Nine out of 10 doctors prescribe for their stir-crazy patients: “Get out of the house and go do something!”

There is a get-out-of-the-house activity that has been around for generations. It’s sure to break video game trances and give those thumb muscles a rest. Bowling! Pack up the kids and their friends for a couple of hours of actual (not virtual) activity.

You don’t have to be in a league. You don’t even have to be good. Just have fun with family and friends. Scorekeeping is automated, so you don’t have to worry about dealing with the rules of scoring. Special accommodations are available for little kids and those with restrictions. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

For a twist on regular bowling, you may be interested in duckpin bowling. The ball and pins are much smaller. The ball has no finger holes and is delivered differently. Not having holes may be a feature that opens up the sport to someone with arthritic fingers.

Less than 15 miles from Thurmont are three bowling alleys:  Rouzerville, Walkersville, and Taneytown. Duckpin is available at the lanes in Taneytown and Walkersville.

Bowling is great exercise, and it won’t feel like exercise. Bowling can improve muscle strength (arms, legs, core), flexibility, and cardiovascular health, as well as boost mental health through stress relief, focus, social connection, and improved hand-eye coordination. It’s a fun, engaging activity for all ages.

So, get out! Have some fun! Hang on! Just a few more weeks of winter to go.

Sisters Harper and Ellie Branch burn off some energy at the lanes.

Beating the winter blues, getting out and getting some exercise bowling!