Hospitality Leader Delaware North Companies Suggests Wide Array of Summer Getaways and Activities Using Tax Rebates

Buffalo, NY (PRWEB) May 11, 2008 -- Americans looking to use their federal tax rebates to fund summer vacations amid rising prices can consider traveling to some of the dozens of special destinations nationwide operated or serviced by Delaware North Companies (http://www.delawarenorth.com), a global hospitality leader.

Among them: Yosemite and other national parks, Niagara Falls and other state parks, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/), nine Major League ballparks, Boston's TD Banknorth Garden (http://www.tdbanknorthgarden.com/) and other major entertainment venues, gaming and racing complexes across the country and the Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga, N.Y., and several other resorts in scenic natural locations.

The Travel Industry Association (TIA) has estimated more than $10 billion in federal tax rebates will be spent on travel this year.

Delaware North has compiled a list of some unique, relaxing and just down right fun ways to spend your tax refund, experience new things and relax for a while.

Take in a natural wonder -- There's no better time than spring to vacation with friends and family to see a famous national park. Whether you want to hike Sequoia's trails, gawk at Yellowstone's wildlife or snuggle in at the Ahwahnee's cozy rooms in Yosemite, Delaware North has you covered.

Pick up some moon rock -- Your tax return may not afford you a real trip to space, but you can get pretty close by visiting Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Delaware North recently funded the center's newest attraction Shuttle Launch Experience, which enables visitors to experience a simulated launch and take in an orbital view of Earth. Less adventurous souls can do everything from eat lunch with an astronaut, visit the rocket garden and possibly even witness a shuttle launch.

Visit America's Pastime -- Nothing says baseball like the smell of fresh popcorn and the sound of hot dog vendors hawking fans' favorite food at some of the greatest ballparks in the country. Delaware North Companies provides concessions, retail and/or premium dining at many major league stadiums. Satisfy your inner sports enthusiast and your cravings for foot-longs and soft pretzels by scoring tickets to a game this spring.

Invest in your kitchen -- Buffalo-style chicken wings meet Prosciutto Spinach Rotol. You don't have to be a culinary expert to indulge in Home Plate, or Pathway's to Plate (http://www.shopdelawarenorth.com/), Delaware North's signature cookbooks. These collections of decadent recipes are satisfying and simple enough to cater to both the established and aspiring chef. Choose one or both books filled with mouthwatering suggestions straight from the kitchens of Delaware North's Sportservice and Parks & Resorts chefs throughout North America. Both books are sure to score a home run in the hearts (and mouths) of hungry readers.

Get away from it all -- Let's face it, after filing your taxes and putting in long hours at work, you're more than ready to unwind. Chances are a soak in a soothing hot spring pool and a deep-tissue massage probably sound like the perfect way to relieve your stress and reinvigorate your spirit. Take a time out at Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa (http://www.harrisonresort.com/spa.aspx?ic_campid=145&ic_pkw=PRWire_SumVacTrav_May08) in Vancouver, CAN or visit the Gideon Putnam Resort (http://www.gideonputnam.com/Spa.aspx?ic_campid=145&ic_pkw=PRWire_SumVacTrav_May08) and its famous hot spring to re-learn the importance of relaxation.

Experience world-class gaming -- Those who enjoy the excitement of slots, table games and top-notch entertainment, should look no further than one of Delaware North Companies Gaming and Entertainment destinations. Over the past year, both Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack and Daytona Beach Kennel Club and Poker Room have undergone significant transformations. Wheeling Island additions include a poker room, full-table games and unbeatable hotel. Daytona Beach Kennel Club and Poker Room will open a brand new facility complete with Las Vegas style poker room in late May.

Take in a show -- The rolling stones won't be rolling forever. If there's an artist you've always wanted to see or just one you'd like to see again, be sure to take in a show this summer. You won't want to miss Tom Petty or Kenny Chesney as they make the rounds on tour this summer. Catch Petty at TD Banknorth Garden in Boston on June 13th, or Kenny Chesney at Cleveland Browns Stadium on May 24.

About Delaware North Companies

Delaware North Companies is one of the world's leading hospitality and food service providers. Its family of companies includes Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, Delaware North Companies Gaming & Entertainment, Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, Delaware North Companies Sportservice, Delaware North Companies International and Delaware North Companies Boston, owner of TD Banknorth Garden, Delaware North Companies is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States with revenues exceeding $2 billion annually and 40,000 associates serving half a billion customers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. For more information, visit www.DelawareNorth.com.

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