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The original Dodge Caravan was first introduced for the 1984 model year, and ever since then drivers have been in love with the minivan. To celebrate the minivan's continued success, Dodge is launching a new 35th Anniversary edition of the Grand Caravan SE and SXT. Let's discuss some of the features that you can expect from the new edition. Exterior For its 35th Anniversary, Dodge is giving the Grand Caravan special anniversary badging, a shinier grille, and 17-inch Tech Silver aluminum wheels. The anniversary edition will be more available in six colors: Billet Silver Metallic, Black Onyx, Granite Crystal, IndiGo Blue, Octane Red, and White Knuckle. Interior The interior of the 35th Anniversary Grand Caravan will feature a Piano Black console, Piano Black instrument trim, and all-black upholstery with Cranberry Wine accent stitching on the seats, steering wheel and door trim. Special 35th-anniversary logos will be embroidered on the front floor mats. The SE anniversary edition will come equipped with Stow N' Go second-row bucket seats and a power driver's seat. The SXT will feature heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and second-row window shades. Both anniversary editions will comfortably seat up to seven people. While you can expect the 35th Anniversary Grand Caravan's interior to be stylish, you can also expect it to be quite practical. In addition to the storage provided by the Stow N' Go seating, the anniversary edition will also feature plenty of front seat storage and an overhead bin. You can always count on the Grand Caravan to provide plenty of room for family, friends, and fun. Performance Like all Grand Caravans, the 35th Anniversary Edition has been engineered for efficiency. Its 283 horsepower, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 Flex-Fuel engine is capable of reaching 25 miles per gallon on the highway and producing up to 260 pound-feet of torque. Technology Of course, the 35th Anniversary Dodge Caravan will feature all of the latest technology. Three-zone automatic temperature control will allow the driver and passengers to set their ideal temperature levels so that everyone rides in comfort. The anniversary edition will also feature the popular UConnect Theater, loaded with games, apps, and so much more. Radio 430 NAV, featuring a high-resolution 6.5-inch touch screen, Garmin GPS navigation, and SiriusXM TravelLink will come standard in the 35th Anniversary SXT. Safety and Security The 35th Anniversary Grand Caravan will provide all of the safety and security that you've come to expect from Dodge minivans, including standard features like child protection door locks, the LATCH system, and a total of seven air bags. Specially designed crumple zones will help to absorb impact energy in the unfortunate event of a crash. With the ParkView rear back up camera, you'll have a wide-angle view as you're pulling out of a parking spot or driveway. Electronic stability control will help you maintain control when driving on wet or icy roads. These are just some of the exciting features you can expect in the 35th Anniversary Dodge Grand Caravan. It will soon be available to test drive so stay tuned! Image via dodge.com

As we near spring and the weather starts to get warmer, it's time to start planning outdoor activities. Luckily for those of us who live in the Alexandria area, there are a ton of great places to go hiking and enjoy nature. Let's take a look at some nearby trails. Mount Vernon Trail The 18-mile Mount Vernon Trail stretches all the way from the Mount Vernon Estate, where George Washington once called home, to the historic monuments of Washington, D.C. The trail is great for hiking, jogging, and bicycling. While traversing the Mount Vernon Trail, you'll be treated to a wide variety of beautiful sights, from stunning views of the Potomac more River to the Dyke Marsh, a gorgeous habitat for beavers, Red-winged blackbirds, and red foxes. Another highlight along the trail is the historic Jones Point Lighthouse, built in 1855. The trail has something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs. Dora Kelley Nature Park The Dora Kelley Nature Park is a 50-acre nature preserve that serves as a home to the tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, and belted kingfisher. While hiking along the park's one-mile nature trail, you're likely to see bald eagles, Cooper's hawks, barred owls, and even a wild turkey or two. At the end of the trail is a stunning oak-hickory forest dotted with beautiful mountain laurel. The Holmes Run Stream Valley Trail, great for hiking or bicycling, also runs through Dora Kelley Nature Park. Along this trail is a freshwater marsh that a variety of frogs, toads, salamanders, and turtles call home. Theodore Roosevelt Island Theodore Roosevelt Island was conceived by landscape architects in the 1930s to serve as a tribute to our 26th President's legacy of conservationism. Three trails traverse the island - the Swamp Trail, which passes through swampy woods and a cattail marsh, the Woods Trail, where you can view the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Plaza, and the Upland Trail, which runs the length of the island through woodlands. While hiking along these trails, you're sure to spot a variety of frogs, snakes, and turtles. The island is also a great place for birdwatching, as it is home to the Baltimore oriole, palm warbler, and American goldfinch. Huntley Meadows Park Nature lovers and history buffs alike will enjoy a hike through Huntley Meadows Park. Near the park's entrance sits the Thomson Francis Mason House, a villa built in 1825 as a summer retreat for Mason, who served as mayor of Alexandria from 1827 to 1830. The house has been restored and is open for tours. On the two miles of nature trail that run through the park you'll see beautiful wildflowers, Monarch butterflies, and several bird species. There is also a one-mile hike and bike trail that leads to the park's stunning 1,500-acre wetland that is home to beavers, frogs, dragonflies, heron, and deer. These are just some of the great hiking trails in the Alexandria area. Consider planning a trip so you can see for yourself the wonders of Northern Virginia. Image via Flickr by Jojodub /Under use by CC BY 2.0

When you think of the Jeep automotive brand, you probably picture the Wrangler or Cherokee, but did you know that Jeep once produced pickup trucks? The Jeep pickup truck line, discontinued in 1988, is making a comeback for the 2020 model year with the all-new Jeep Gladiator. Let's talk about some of the features you can expect from this exciting new pickup truck. Trim Levels With four trim levels to choose from, you're sure to find a 2020 Jeep Gladiator that fits your style. The Sport trim will come standard with Bluetooth hands-free calling with voice command, a 5-inch infotainment screen, USB port, and backup camera. A special cold weather package and larger more UConnect touch screen will be available on the Sport S, along with stunning 17-inch tech silver aluminum wheels. Available features for the Overland include heated seats and leather upholstery. The Overland will also come equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a shift knob, a wall-style 115-volt power outlet, and a 7-inch touch screen. Fender flares, side steps, and 18-inch granite crystal aluminum wheels are part of the Overland's premium package. The Rubicon comes equipped with front, rear, and side trail cameras. Power and Capabilities The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is powered by a 285 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine capable of producing 260 pound-feet of torque. Jeep also plans to introduce a diesel engine capable of producing more than 400 pound-feet of torque.  All Gladiators come equipped with heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles and Jeep's renowned four-wheel drive system, making it the perfect truck for all of your off-roading adventures. The Rubicon gets lockable wide track axles, an electronic disconnecting sway bar, FOX shocks, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. All Gladiators are capable of towing up to 7,650 pounds and have a maximum payload of up to 1,600 pounds. Available features, like a three-position tailgate and a roll-up tonneau cover, will make it even easier to load, tow, and haul all of your favorite gear. Exterior Features The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is set to be the only open-air pickup truck on the market, with hardtop and soft top options. Drivers who want to get even closer to the great outdoors and experience a pickup ride unlike any other will be able to fold the windshield and remove all four doors. Technology The 2020 Jeep Gladiator features the latest technology to make your ride safe and secure and keep you entertained. Adaptive cruise control detects vehicles on the road ahead and automatically adjusts the Gladiator's speed in order to maintain a safe distance. Forward collision warning with active braking alerts you to potential collisions and applies the brakes as needed. With the Gladiator's Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, you'll be able to access all of your favorite apps, navigation tools, and music. You'll also be able to make calls and send texts hands-free. These are just some of the exciting features you can expect from the all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator. It will soon be available to test drive, so stay tuned. Image via Jeep.com

Nothing beats a morning cup of joe. If you want to try a new place in Alexandria, Virginia, or perhaps are still on the hunt for a coffee shop worthy of a morning routine, use our guide of the top coffee shops below. Killer E.S.P. Located in Old Town Alexandria, Killer E.S.P. might be the spot for your next coffee fix. They have all your bases covered. If you're looking for a sweet treat to pair with your coffee, you can order a delicious slice of pie or a scoop of sorbet. The E.S.P. in the name stands for espresso, sorbet, and pie. The cozy interior offers plenty of room for relaxing and enjoying your food if you have the time. more Junction Bakery & Bistro Another excellent spot to grab a cup of coffee is Junction Bakery & Bistro. The decadent fresh bread and mouth-watering pastries are worth the trip alone, and that's before you add in the fact that they serve up some excellent coffee. Nitro-poured coffee is also available if you're looking for a thicker, creamier mouthfeel in your cup of java. The tall windows let in plenty of light so you can really enjoy a sunny day from the comfort of your table while you sip on some coffee. Grounded Coffee Shop Grounded has earned its reputation among the locals as one of the best coffee shops in town. The cafe is large with plenty of seating, so you almost never have to worry about finding a table. The interior space has an artsy, folk type of vibe with various sayings related to coffee and knickknacks adorning the vibrant wall colors. You almost feel like you've been transported to another world specifically dedicated to coffee. Grounded also serves your standard breakfast-themed baked goods and pastries. Java Loco The next stop on our tour of amazing Alexandria coffee stops is Java Loco. The shop offers a wide assortment of caffeinated bliss, including lattes, traditional coffee, milk tea, tea lattes, and other specialty drinks. The coffee and lattes are some of the best in town, so if you're a coffee addict, you'll want to give Java Loco a try. The interior features a rustic feel with wooden accents and a large chalkboard menu. Food options include baked goods, pastries, and sandwiches. Stomping Ground Make your way to Stomping Ground on Mount Vernon Avenue if you want some truly delicious coffee. It's a great place to have a weekend breakfast and enjoy some of the more complex menu items such as biscuits and gravy, fried chicken biscuit, or Cobb salad. Of course, you can just go for the coffee and espresso, since it's excellent. The coffee menu includes most of the classic espresso beverages including espresso shots, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and mocha lattes. They also have drip coffee, cold brew coffee, and tea. There are plenty of places to get your caffeine fix in Alexandria, but only a handful are worthy of being all-time greats. The next time you're in dire need of some delicious coffee, head to one of these great coffee destinations. Image via Flickr by OiMax / Under use by CC BY 2.0

If you're looking to buy your first Jeep model, it can seem a bit daunting. There are several styles to choose from, and many of them vary in price point rather wildly. Because of this, it can be hard to decide which model is right for you or your family. If feeling a little lost, here's a quick guide to some of the best Jeeps for first-time buyers. Jeep Compass The 2019 Jeep Compass is a great entry-level Jeep. It's the most affordable of the lineup, but it still delivers on the brand's renowned style and dependability. It features all the modern comforts of a compact SUV such as a higher ride height and available four-wheel drive. You also get access to the entertainment suite which includes an Apple Music subscription. The Compass offers plenty of cargo room for camping, road trips, and weekend grocery hauls. You can also add excellent driver assistance safety features such as blind spot monitoring, rear parking more assistance, and forward collision detection with active braking. The frame also has reinforced beams in the doors to mitigate harm to passengers in side collisions. The backup camera is equipped with a distance tracker, so even the most complicated parallel parking operations become a walk in the park. If you're looking for a bit more off-road capability in your Jeep, the Compass is still an admirable performer, especially if you opt for the Trailhawk trim. This upgraded trim adds all of your favorite Jeep off-roading features such as selectable drive modes and three tow hooks. The two-tone exterior color and red-stitched black leather seats will have you arriving in style. Jeep Grand Cherokee The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a few steps up from the Compass and is great for those familiar with driving SUVs or looking for a few more features. The interior of the Grand Cherokee is a big step up from the Compass, so if you're a commuter, or love to take long drives, you 'll want to consider the 2019 Grand Cherokee. Entertainment and tech features in the cabin are boundless. Apple CarPlay and A ndroid Auto are available in addition to Bluetooth controls, voice command, and SiriusXM. You can also outfit the Grand Cherokee with an onboard navigation system. Upgrading to the Trailhawk trim level unlocks many of the great off-road capabilities found on the Compass Trailhawk. Jeep Wrangler Sometimes you know what you want, and what you want is to have more fun. If you're looking for a real warrior on the trails, the 2019 Wrangler just might be the first Jeep m odel for you. First and foremost, the Wrangler won SUV of the year, so it's a huge win for the model regardless of whether you plan on hitting the trails or not. The Wrangler includes several advantages when it comes to off-roading tech compared to the other Jeep models. For example, the sway bar can be disconnected to allow for better articulation and drive mode selection is standard. If you're thinking about purchasing your first Jeep model, the best thing you can do is come in to test drive the latest models. Doing so can not only shine a light on Jeep's o verall potential but help sort out what model is best for you. Image via Flickr by truckhardware / Under use by CC BY 2.0

If you're on a road trip and happen to be winding your way through Virginia, make sure to spend some time in Alexandria. Sure, there's plenty of great food and museums in the area, but if want a truly memorable experience, you should look for some of the more unique attractions Alexandria has to offer. Here are some of the top strange attractions to visit in Alexandria. The Apothecary Museum The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary shop opened in 1792, and it's one of, if not the, oldest apothecary in the United States. Due to the rise of synthetic drugs and legislation to favor it, the shop closed in 1933 and re-opened as a museum six years later. Still open to the public, you can visit this piece of more American medical history. When it was running, the shop also sold farm equipment, dentistry tools, soap, cigars, brushes, and other general goods. Many of these items are on display as well. This museum is chock-full of little historical trivia and things that will just make you say "wow." For example, one display features invoices for Robert E. Lee and Martha Washington. It's not every day that you get to see historical artifacts like this. Many of the shop's original containers, which still contain ingredients, are on display today, giving an amazing snapshot of what life was like leading up to the early 1930s. Guided tours run every half hour at quarter past and quarter to each hour. The Hollensbury Spite House Currently, the Hollensbury Spite House is the narrowest standing building in the United States. The Hollensbury Spite House is only seven feet wide and 25 feet long. At one point there was a five-foot-wide house in New York, but it has since been demolished, giving the title to Hollensbury. A spite house is a building which is constructed with the sole purpose of irritating neighbors or specific parties. In this case, John Hollensbury's home was situated next to an alley. Horse-drawn wagons would drive through the alley and scratch the walls of his home. To prevent this, he built a house occupying the alley. When you tour the house, you'll observe how John used the exterior walls of the two homes on either side of the alley as the interior walls of his spite house. You'll also see the divots in the wall caused by the offending wagons. Tour Gadsby's Tavern This revolutionary wartime bar and tavern has had an impressive guest list over the years, including names such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and many others. Now, the building operates seasonally as a museum where you can learn about revolutionary history and enjoy the historically accurate architecture. The tavern now serves a menu inspired by the food eaten in colonial America. There are a lot of interesting stops to make in Alexandria, Virginia. If you have the time, try to visit each of the unique venues on this list. You may even learn something new, inspiring, or exciting on your adventures in Alexandria! Image via Flickr by dewitahs /Under use by CC BY 2.0

If you're considering the new 2019 Chrysler 300, you'll need to decide which trim level is right for you. There are five trim levels on this year's model release. Each offers a new set of features and there are a handful of exterior changes between the trims. Here's a quick guide to help you determine which trim level is right for you. The base trim level for the 2019 Chrysler 300 is the Touring trim. In regards to power, it has a capable 3.6-liter V-6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission with variable valve timing. Automatic projector beam headlights are standard. If you're looking for driver assistance safety features you'll need to opt for a higher trim level. Entertainment is readily available on the Touring trim. Features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM are standard inclusions on the 300's uConnect system. Touring L The next trim level on the 300 is the Touring L. The Touring L has many of the same standard features more as the Touring, however, the L version adds several optional features. Some of these are additions to the SiriusXM service, including Travel Link and traffic updates. Onboard navigation is also available on the Touring L, making it a great choice for adventurers. The Touring L also opens up some optional driver assistance features such as parking assistance and blind spot monitoring. 300S This is the middle trim on the 2019 Chrysler 300 lineup. This is the only trim with a horsepower rating of 300. The exterior includes a few minor changes over the set of Touring trims. The 300S Features a black chrome grille and bright chrome wing badge to help differentiate it from other trim levels. In regards to driver assistance features, the full-speed frontal collision warning and advanced lane departure system are added as optional features. Heated leather seats are standard starting with this trim level. Limited The Limited is the second-highest trim level available on this year's model release. The Base Engine Controller is added, which increases the engine's efficiency by altering the air-fuel ratio and timing based on driver actions and needs. The heated front seats are also standard on this trim, however, the heating capability has been added to the rear passenger seats. The exterior features a granite crystal grille. The Limited trim has the same optional driver assistance features as the 300S. 300C The highest available trim level on the Chrysler 300 is the 300C. The exterior includes a platinum grille and Bi-Xenon headlamps. The Interior includes premium leather seating. The engine on the 300C is a more powerful 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi engine. Choosing the right Chrysler 300 for you comes down to a few key factors. The 300 has you covered on the entertainment front. Even the base trim includes the latest in-demand music streaming tech. If you want upgraded features such as driver assistance or onboard navigation, you'll want one of the middle-level trims. If you're craving more power, you'll want to give the 300C a spin. The extra two cylinders give it a ton of extra power. Image via Chrysler.com

Sometimes the best way to stay safe on the road is to practice proper safe driving habits. No matter how many years you've been driving, it's always good to review some of the best habits. Before you hit the road for your next trip, make sure you're familiar with these top safe driving practices. Know the Weather Forecast Weather can have one of the biggest impacts on road conditions. It can also severely affect your visibility. Before you head out on the road, make sure you know if the forecast is calling for rain, fog, ice, snow, or any other hazardous conditions. If you have the possibility of facing severe weather, it's always better to postpone your plans and stay off the road than risk driving through dangerous conditions. Maintain Your Vehicle Even if you're a safe driver and you always pay attention to what's going on around you, it won't do you any good if you have an accident because a tire blew out or your brakes failed. Routine maintenance not only keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, but it also improves your safety. At least once a month you should go through your vehicle and check the battery, tire pressure, oil level, windshield wipers, wiper fluid, air filter, belts, hoses, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Stay Focused Changing the radio station, checking directions, talking to passengers, looking at a text message, and taking a phone call can all take your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel. These dangerous distractions also cause you to lose focus. Fortunately, vehicles like the Dodge Charger come with features to help keep your focus on the road. This includes an infotainment system that comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to get directions, make calls, and send and receive texts while still keeping your eyes on the road. Look Past the Car Ahead of You While it's always good to watch what the car in front of you is doing, you should also scan multiple car lengths ahead of that car. By looking to the right and left of the car ahead of you, you'll be able to quickly process upcoming road conditions, stoplights, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other important information. Plus, it's possible you might see a dangerous situation before the vehicle ahead of you, which means you'll have more time to slow down. Watch Your Speed According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speed was a contributing factor in 27 percent of accidents in 2016. When you speed, you have less time to react to situations happening on the road in front of you. If you often find yourself driving above the speed limit, leave earlier to allow yourself more time to get to your destination, use cruise control whenever possible, and make sure you always pay attention to how fast you're actually going. No matter what type of car you drive, safe driving is always important. Keep these safe driving tips in mind the next time you get behind the wheel, so you can avoid costly and dangerous accidents or breakdowns and enjoy the adventures of the open road. Image via Flickr by State Farm /Under use by CC BY 2.0

When you're interested in riding around in style, you'll find several excellent options available. If you have it narrowed down to the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, or Jeep Wrangler, you might be having a hard time deciding which one is right for you. Learn about the stylish and luxurious features you can find on these three vehicles so you can pick the one that meets your needs. Jeep Wrangler When sporty style is the appearance you're going for, you can't beat the classic good looks of the Jeep Wrangler. On the exterior, you'll find iconic style that includes round headlamps, removable top and doors, a seven-slot grille, and flat fender flares. You'll also discover contemporary touches, such as the available LED headlights and heated side mirrors. more While you can enjoy plenty of off-road adventures in your Wrangler, you also don't have to leave any modern comforts behind. That's because the Wrangler is available with leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped dashboard. You can also stay connected thanks to an available infotainment system that includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Chrysler 300 The Chrysler 300 offers a bold and stunning style on the inside and outside. When you drive around in the 300, you'll turn heads thanks to the standard dual exhaust with bright tips, solar control glass, LED taillights, and daytime running lights. You'll also appreciate convenience features that include standard heated side mirrors and available LED fog lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. When you climb inside the Chrysler 300, you'll discover plenty of other luxuries. The infotainment system comes standard with an 8.4-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice command using Bluetooth, and steering wheel-mounted controls. You can also enjoy the ultimate comfort with available leather-trimmed seats, heated front and rear seats, and ventilated front seats. Dod ge Charger If you prefer your style to come with a little muscle, turn to the Dodge Charger. The outside of the Charger features a lean and low profile. You'll also find convenience features that include solar control glass, a sleek capless fuel fill, and available heated side mirrors. Of course, the main feature you'll enjoy when you take the Charger for a spin is its performance. You have a choice of four engines, and each one delivers heart-pounding power and impressive efficiency. The Charger comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that offers 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. If you choose the available 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, you'll enjoy 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. The available 392 HEMI V-8 engine delivers 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. However, if these engines don't offer the power you need, then you can go for the available Supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI SRT Hellcat V-8 engine that produces an outstanding 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. No matter what type of style you're interested in, you know you can find it with one of these excellent models. Now that you know the different luxurious features you can find on each vehicle, you can choose the right one for your needs. Image via Flickr by GabboT /Under use by CC BY 2.0

Located just south of Washington, D.C. and on the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, is a beautiful city known for its architecture and museums. If you're planning a visit to Alexandria, you'll find four distinct neighborhoods that each offer something different to enjoy. Learn more about the neighborhoods of Alexandria so you can take in the best the area has to offer. Old Town Old Town is in the heart of Alexandria and where the city first started to grow. As you stroll down the red brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets, you'll have an opportunity to explore some of the more over 200 independently owned boutiques and restaurants. If you like history, Old Town is the neighborhood for you. Stop by the Gadsby's Tavern Museum to see where the first five presidents liked to socialize. You can also wander through the stunning gardens at the Carlyle House or stop by the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum to learn more about healing and medicine from the 18th century. West End West End is the largest neighborhood in Alexandria and home to an incredible variety of things to do. If you want to explore the growing craft beer scene in the area, you can't beat a visit to Port City Brewing Company. When you visit, you don't want to miss the chance to try the Port City Porter, which offers a smooth and silky finish with hints of fresh coffee and cocoa powder. Another interesting attraction in the West End neighborhood is the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site. Here you can view the reconstructed fort that was once used to protect Washington, D.C. during the Civil War. Del Ray With its eclectic and walkable streets, Del Ray is a neighborhood made for exploring. One of the best ways to see everything Del Ray has to offer is to set out on a walking tour. Along the way, you'll have a chance to check out some of the neighborhood's interesting and colorful murals. If you spot a unique boutique or restaurant that looks good while you're walking, be sure to stop in and see what's happening. If you time your visit right, you can also take part in popular neighborhood events, such as First Thursday. This monthly street festival takes place on the first Thursday of every month and features special events, live music, entertainment, and more. Carlyle and Eisenhower Valley Although Carlyle and Eisenhower Valley are known for their modern and contemporary vibe, you'll still find a distinct mix of old and new attractions. If you're interested in spending some time outside, consider visiting the 26-acre Cameron Run Regional Park or strolling along the nature paths in the African-American Heritage Park. Exploring the National Inventors Hall of Fame halls at the United States Patent and Trademark Office is also a great place to learn about technological achievements and perhaps get inspired to create your own invention. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Old Town or the diverse areas of Del Ray, you'll always find something interesting to do when you visit the four neighborhoods of Alexandria and to ride in style; check out our selection of the latest CDJR models on the market! Image via Flickr by Dougtone / Under use by CC BY-SA 2.o

While Alexandria, Virginia, offers plenty of exciting things to see and do, sometimes you just want to get away for a while. That's when you should consider checking out some of the off-road trails in the area. When you're interested in spending some time in nature, make plans to head to one of these top off-roading destinations near Alexandria. Lee Ranger District The Lee Ranger District in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests has several off-road trails worth exploring. One of the most popular is the more Peters Mill Run and Taskers Gap Off-Highway Vehicle System, which is also the largest in the state. Here you'll find close to 40 miles of rugged off-road trails that offer plenty of twists and turns for excitement. Keep in mind that the trails are open to all users, so you'll have to watch out for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Budds Creek Motocross Park Located in Mechanicsville, Maryland, Budds Creek Motocross Park is a natural-terrain motocross track that offers the perfect combination of jumps, hills, corners, and soil with a deep and tacky consistency. In addition to hosting several professional races throughout the year, you can also stop by the track to check out the amateur races. On days the track doesn't have a race or other special event, be sure to visit for practice hours and put your own skills to the test. Tuscarora Trail The Tuscarora Trail stretches for 250 miles through Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The trail was originally created as an alternative route for the Appalachian Trail when it was feared that the development would force the closure of the main trail. However, when the National Scenic Trails Act of 1968 passed, the Appalachian Trail was preserved and the Tuscarora Trail became an excellent option for off-road excursions. You can choose to complete the entire trail, or you can pick different sections to explore. Savage River State Forest Travel to Grantsville, Maryland, for a chance to explore the scenic Savage River State Forest. The area has several trails open to off-road vehicles, including the newest option: St. John's Rock ORV Trail and Campground. This is the first-ever trail system on Maryland Department of Natural Resources land specifically designed for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. The trail system features a full-size rock crawl area for four-wheel-drive vehicles, technical trails for all-terrain vehicles, and single-track trails for motorcycles. When you want to enjoy multiple days of fun, you can stay at one of the sites at the campground. Assateague Island National Seashore Assateague Island National Seashore is a barrier island on the Atlantic Ocean coast. While the island is famous for its herds of wild ponies, it's also an excellent place to go off-roading. The island is open year-round for off-road beach recreation. Just remember that it has a limit of 145 vehicles, so you might want to call ahead to ensure it's open. Whether you want to cruise down the sandy beach or check out some forested trails, these unique off-roading spots near Alexandria offer a great way to get out and enjoy nature. And there is no better way to get to your next adventure than in one of our latest Jeep models at Ourisman CDJR of Alexandria. Image via Flickr by Doug the trail builder /Under use by CC BY-SA 2.0

When you see a good-looking car or truck passing by, often the first thing that catches your eye is the chrome detailing. Most car manufacturers, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, use it on their models to one extent or another. It shines in contrast to the paintwork and adds a touch of class to any vehicle. However, if chrome is not cared for, it can become dull and pitted with grime and road contaminants. Before cleaning your chrome, it is best to know what type it is. Types of Chrome The chrome parts and detailing on your car could be either metal or plastic that has undergone a chromium-electroplating process. Going back to the 1970s and before, the chrome parts would all have been metal. However, as the process for plating chrome on plastic was developed, more manufacturers switched to this lighter and more cost-effective option. more While looking great, plastic chrome is not as hard-wearing as metal and should be cleaned with care. Too much or too vigorous polishing and buffing can reveal the underlying material. Cleaning Chrome To start cleaning your chrome, you should hose down the areas you are working on. Remove as much as possible of the physical dirt, mud, and contaminants. Then, if you are cleaning the grille, for example, apply a good quality chrome cleaner to its surface and use a soft brush to help work it in and get rid of the more persistent bits. A good chrome cleaner will contain lubricants that allow you to clean the chrome without scratching the surface. Work on small areas at a time and don't allow the cleaner to dry on the chrome. If you find stubborn stains that you can't shift, you can use a fine synthetic steel wool to help you remove them. Once the area is clean, rinse it off with water. Then, using a clean microfiber cloth, carefully dry the chrome. You don't want stains from the cleaner or any water spots. Polishing For polishing metal chrome parts, your car's manual usually contains advice about the best materials to use to clean and polish them. Alternatively, you could ask at your local auto-detailing shop. They will suggest the right types of compounds, polishes, and tools to use for the type of chrome on your vehicle. For metal, an electric rotary buffer might be the best tool for bringing out a high-quality and long-lasting shine. Plastic chrome needs a gentler approach, so using a mild sealant and polishing by hand will give you the best results. Apply the polish to the surface and slowly work the product into one small area at a time. Gradually polish each area until there is no longer any of the product visible and your chrome is gleaming. The protective wax in the polish seals the surface, making it more resistant to staining and oxidation, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Regularly cleaning your 4x4, especially after you've been off-roading, will help to keep it in pristine condition, particularly the shining chrome. Image via Flickr by Mike Babcock /Under use by CC BY 2.0