The historic city is in Central Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, 80 miles from Florence. Bologna boasts one of the most complete food experiences anywhere. Over its 20 acres, visitors will find markets, restaurants, wine shops and classes in food preparation. All are surrounded by lush fields and farms that grow the ingredients for making Italian food the delight it is.

If your travels take you to Italy during the holidays and at any other time, schedule at least a day to visit FICO Eataly World in Bologna. For more info, go to www.eataly.com/us_en/magazine/eataly-stories/fico-eataly-world

For the past 40 years, this benevolent oceanic organization has rescued thousands of dolphins, whales, seals, turtles and other sea denizens. Volunteers respond when the animals are stranded along the New Jersey coastline near Atlantic City.

Take the free tour of the center’s emergency equipment, pool house and 1,000-gallon observation tank. If you happen to be there on a busy rescue day, you can see the volunteers at their lifesaving efforts. For more info about the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, go to www.visitnj.org/nj-attractions/marine-mammal-stranding-center-museum

Every school kid knows the story, the wooden warship that battled the British Navy during the War of 1812. After many decades in Baltimore Harbor, the USS Constitution was recently moved to the Boston Navy Yard. Today the floating museum is free to visitors, where they can see Navy weapons, sailors’ quarters, rigging, tools and other artifacts.

For those kids and adults who want to experience some hands-on seagoing crafts, there’s a regular schedule of classes, entertainment and other events.  The frigate is crewed by 60 active duty U.S. Navy personnel who keep Old Ironsides shipshape. Charlestown is a Boston harbor suburb served by regular ferry service. For hours and other info: ussconstitutionmuseum.org

If you’re doing some cross-country driving, consider this great Louisiana stop for an hour or two of enjoyment. It’s located about 100 miles along U.S. Route 10 west of the state capital, Baton Rouge. The facility makes high-quality rum in traditional copper pots, with the mixture of cane sugar and molasses.

Visitors are welcome Tuesdays through Saturdays for free tours. Not only do you get to see how the product is made, you also can sip free samples of the famed silver and spiced Bayou Rums. Of course, if you’re the driver who has had several sips, when you’re on the road again, give the wheel to one of your passengers for another couple of hours.