3 Tips for a Staycation in Philly
Philadelphia is about 40 miles from Hatfield, making it an ideal distance from the city for a staycation. If you’ve got the time for a daytrip or two to Philly while enjoying sleeping in the comfort of your own home, follow these tips to make the most of your time in the big city.
Expand Your Culinary Interests
Though Philadelphia is famous for cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, there’s much more to experience food-wise in the city. Philly has some legendary Israeli and Spanish fare that you can enjoy at restaurants like Zahav and Double Knot. If this is your first time visiting the city and you absolutely want to experience the dishes it’s most famous for, consider signing up for a food tour to experience it all in one trip.
Get Around Via Public Transportation
Philadelphia is highly walkable, which makes exploring the city on foot the best way to get around. Or you can pay just $5 for a Philly PHLASH all-day pass. It’ll drop you off at some of the top neighborhoods for attractions, restaurants, and bars.
Take Advantage of Free Tours
Seeing the Liberty Bell Center is a must for first-time visitors, and it’s just one of many sights that you can visit for free. Plan to take a guided trip of Independence Hall and Rittenhouse Square, and all you’ll have to pay for is the bus pass and any food or drink you need!
Philadelphia is a wonderful city, and with a little preparation, it’s easy to get around and see everything on your list. Follow these tips to enjoy a seamless staycation in Philly.
Image via Flickr by shinya
3 Winter Activities near Hatfield
It might be tempting to stay in your warm home this winter, but there’s far too much waiting to be explored near Hatfield, Pennsylvania!
Visit the Blue Mountain Resort
If you have the time for a short trip north, there’s a fantastic winter sports destination near Hatfield just past Allentown. Blue Mountain Resort has skiing and snowboarding, snowtubing, and more. Plan a short day trip or take a weekend and spend a night at the resort. There are 23 trails and five lifts to ensure you can ski to your heart’s content.
Get Into the Hockey Spirit
Winter is peak time for National Hockey League games, and fans have their choice of following one of the many professional teams nearby. If watching on television isn’t enough to satiate your hockey passion, why not try playing a game? Experienced athletes can join a 3-on-3 league at the Hatfield Ice center. Novices can try group skating lessons, and if you have kids, they might be interested in joining a youth hockey league.
Warm Up With Exquisite Spirits
You won’t stay cold for long with a trip to Cardinal Hollow Winery. Stop by and visit the Skippack Tasting Room, and see what you think of the jalapeno wine. There also more traditional options, including dozens of red wines, white wines, mead wines, country wines, and more.
With so many things to do nearby, it’s time to get moving. Make this winter in Hatfield your best ever with a trip to one of these amazing locations.
Image via Flickr by gags9999
2018 Toyota 86 Overview
2018 is about to get a lot more fun, driving-wise, as Toyota’s latest version of the 86 model hits both the street — and the Peruzzi Toyota showroom. Designed specifically to be an affordable two-door sports coupe, this new car doesn’t skimp on classic racing style, power or safety.
The exciting 2018 Toyota 86 features a potent Boxer-Four engine that — with 205 hp — offers plenty of muscle. The new 86 has improved rear-wheel drive and aerodynamics, paddle shifters, plus sport-tuned suspension that all adds to more agile handling. As a fun compact, it also gets an economical 28 mpg (combined city/hwy), and includes important features like Vehicle Stability Control and an advanced airbag system. Plus, ToyotaCare (our no-cost maintenance plan featuring roadside assistance) provides added peace of mind.
With its distinctive sports car profile, newly-added LED lights and turn signals, plus a chrome-tipped dual exhaust, its one vehicle that will never fade into the scenery.
Inside, the 2018 Toyota 86 offers distinctive little touches that marry luxury to classic racing traditions. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is ergonomically designed for a feeling of optimum handling on the road. Suede-like Granlux wraps interior touch points with luxurious softness, while the deeply-bolstered front seats offer both comfort and control. The folding rear seats can bring along either two more friends for the ride — or a little extra cargo.
The 2018 Toyota 86 has audio controls integrated into the steering wheel, plus a high-res 7” dashboard touchscreen with navigation and iPod connectivity. While cruising those wide-open back roads, six audio speakers ensure that your favorite playlist provides the perfect soundtrack.
If you’ve been itching to inject some excitement back into the driving experience, the 2018 Toyota 86 is just the thing. Stop in to Peruzzi Toyota to see for yourself why the automotive world has been buzzing about this dynamic new model. If you’re looking for something a little different, Peruzzi Toyota has a large selection of over 200 new Toyota vehicles in the Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA areas. If you’re looking for a used Toyota vehicle or a used car from a different manufacturer, Peruzzi Toyota has a large selection of over 500 pre-owned vehicles for you to choose from. Give us a call at 877-545-2111 or visit us at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA and take a test drive today!
How To Replace Your Serpentine Belt
There may come a time when your serpentine belt comes off or needs to be replaced. This can be a difficult job so make sure you have some experience with vehicle repair for attempting this one. Of course, the service experts at Peruzzi Toyota are always here to help you make the replacement. We can also advise you on when to make the replacement and can check if your vehicle needs other vital service adjustments or repairs.
The serpentine belt, also known as the s-belt is one of the most important aspects of your vehicle as is vital for making your engine work correctly. This long belt runs every important engine function including the water pump, alternator, a/c compressor, and power steering. Since it’s used by so many different systems, it’s important that you check it periodically for signs of wear and tear, fraying, or cracking. You’ll want to replace it about every 50,000 miles but a service experts like those at Peruzzi Toyota can check it for you and let you know when it needs replacing. Follow the steps below to replace your s-belt:
- Check out your vehicle’s belt routing diagram and repair manual before you begin. If needed, the belt schematics for most vehicles can be found online.
- Practice matching the routine of the belt wrapping around the pulleys with your new belt in hand.
- Locate the self-adjusting tensioner and remember to be careful when releasing the tension of the belt. Position your wrench or belt removal tool on the tensioner, and make sure you have enough room to remove the tool once the tensioner is released. Finally, release the tension. Since the tensioner tool is a flat bar you will be able to get into the tight space for the tensioner’s roller.
- Remove the old belt. Check the tensioner for wear by spinning it with your hand before you install the new belt. If the tensioner is noisy, loose, or overly tight, it will have to be replaced along with the belt. Check all the pumps and idler pulleys to make sure they are able to move freely. Check the pulleys for the water pump, alternator, smog pump, and a/c compressor to make sure they do not wobble.
- Install the new belt. Line up the ribs in the new belt with the grooves in the pulleys. You should also make sure the belt isn’t twisted.
- Tighten the tensioner and double check everything before starting your engine again.
This is one of our tougher service guides to follow and perform, so if you have any issue at all or feel uncomfortable, contact the service professionals at Peruzzi Toyota. We’d be more than happy to look at your serpentine belt or any other part of your vehicle to see if you need anything repaired or replaced. We also handle everything from tires, brakes and batteries, to oil changes and everything in between. Give us a call at 877-523-2999 or visit us at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA. Make an appointment with your Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA area Toyota service and parts center.
The Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle offer a look into the lives of Americans before the Industrial Revolution. Here are four exhibits you don’t want to miss.
Rooms Filled with Tiles
Fonthill Castle, built between 1908 and 1912, was meant to showcase the tiles and prints created by Henry Chapman Mercer and serve as his home. With over 44 rooms full of displays, you can see decorative ceramic tiles from all over the world and thousands of prints by European and American artists. Many of these works are actually integrated into the walls and ceilings of the castle.
Tools of the Old World
To see how the American people functioned throughout daily life and in different jobs, the Mercer Museum shows the tools and artifacts of the preindustrial world. Walk along the Open Court area to view displays on food, like cheese making and meat and fruit preservation. Other displays include a look into the tobacco, mining, nautical, and gunsmith trades.
Children’s Exhibits
Kids can also enjoy a visit with hands-on exhibits like “Animals on the Loose” in the Children’s Gallery featuring animal-shaped artifacts to play with. Imagination Gallery is a fun activity space with even more hands-on learning for families.
Darker Side
View a darker side of the museum in the Gallows, Hearse, and Prisoner’s Dock areas. You can walk right under this historic gallows. Don’t forget to check out the Vampire Killing Kit for some seriously useful knowledge.
Whether you’re passing through Doylestown, PA or a long-time resident, the Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle is a great stop to make.
Image via Flickr by James Loesch
Where to Shop at Montgomery Mall
Montgomery Mall in North Wales, Pennsylvania, offers all the best stores for serious shoppers. Whether you’re looking for a gift or a new favorite addition to your wardrobe, check out these popular stores featured in the mall.
Habitat
Specializing in comfortable clothing to live in, Habitat has relaxed styles for men and women. They also feature home furnishings and gifts like glassware and pottery. Stop in for a casual tunic or sweater and a new frame for the mantel.
S&B Sports Collectibles
Sports lovers will enjoy a stop in S&B Sports Collectibles to browse a huge selection of memorabilia and treasures to add to any collection. Famous sports stars are known to make regular appearances for autograph signings, so be sure to check the website for signings, specials, and promotions.
The Disney Store
Kids always enjoy The Disney Store experience as the store itself looks like something out of Wonderland. Clothing and toys are adorned with their favorite characters, and the store has places for kids to play while parents shop. Find authentic Disney merchandise from classics like Snow White and Winnie the Pooh to new favorites like Moana and Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Gertrude Hawk Chocolates
Everyone enjoys a sweet treat, especially after a few hours of shopping. Head over to Gertrude Hawk Chocolates for a dipped strawberry or piece of dark chocolate to satisfy your craving. Take some treats home by creating your own batch of mixed candies, or opt for a pre-made holiday gift box.
Montgomery Mall has numerous shops for every taste. Stop by with the whole family.
Image via Flickr by cacaobug
3 Top Wineries to Visit Near Hatfield
Nothing beats a good glass of wine, except perhaps discovering a new twist on a classic flavor. A visit to a local winery expands your wine horizon and offers a taste all the area has to offer. Try these three wineries near Hatfield to sample homegrown Pennsylvania goodness.
Cardinal Hollow Winery
Cardinal Hollow Winery isn’t shy about trying new flavors. Enjoy a full array of reds, whites, ports, meads, and country wines flavored with seasonal fruits, the Brazilian cupuacu fruit, and even jalapenos. A taste of Cardinal Hollow’s entire list is $30 per person and takes about two hours, plus you receive a souvenir glass. Cardinal Hollow has five Pennsylvania locations; the closest to Hatfield is in West Point.
Stone & Key Cellars
If you’ve always wanted to create your own wine, you must visit Stone & Key Cellars in Montgomeryville. While they have an array of wines for sampling and purchase, you can also gather a group of friends, family, or co-workers to create your own barrel, yielding about 285 bottles. Stone & Key’s winemakers will guide you through what is certain to be a memorable process.
Country Creek Winery
Country Creek Winery combines the exquisite taste of French American hybrid grapes with Pennsylvania-grown fruit in a quaint historic setting. It’s what you picture when you think winery. The winery is housed in a 1850s-era dairy barn in Salford Township and offers a variety of red, white, and fruit wines.
A winery visit is a great way to try something new, but fortunately, you don’t have to stray far from home to sample memorable blends of delicious wines.
Image via Flickr by quinn.anya
3 2018 Toyota C-HR Features You’ll Love
The C-HR moniker on the newest addition to Toyota’s lineup stands for “coupe-high rider.” You’ll ride in high style in a cheeky small crossover while in this vehicle. Introduced for the 2018 model year, the Toyota C-HR has a few features we know you’ll love.
Safety and Technology
Horsepower and acceleration still turn heads, but today’s car buyers seem to crave safety and technology. The C-HR delivers. Its two trim options, XLE and XLE Premium, offer Toyota’s notable safety and tech features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and projector-beam headlights. A 7-inch touchscreen inside the C-HR places entertainment and communication information within reach.
Superior Handling
Not every road is straight and smooth, and not every vehicle handles the road well. The C-HR is not every vehicle. Its weighted steering helps glide the C-HR through corners and sail over bumps with precision. A sport-tuned suspension further makes the C-HR’s ride more comfortable for occupants.
Head-Turning Style
The C-HR’s shape is inspired by a diamond, and Toyota carries that inspiration throughout the interior and exterior of this vehicle. An edgy, aggressive stance means the C-HR will stand out in a crowd. From its angular grille to its cantilevered rear spoiler, the vehicle seeks attention with a color palette to match its – and your – personality. Choose from eye-popping colors such as Blue Eclipse Metallic, Radiant Green Mica, and Ruby Flare Pearl.
The 2018 Toyota C-HR is here to make a statement, are you ready for it? Stop by Peruzzi Toyota to view this striking new vehicle in person and take it for a test drive.
Image via Flickr by Zytonits
3 Driving Resolutions for 2018
It’s a new year and a perfect time to make resolutions. Most of us resolve to change our behavior, which may include our habits behind the wheel. Here are some driving resolutions to make for 2018.
Look Before You Enter
The stoplight turns green, and drag race commences as everyone mashes the gas to advance through the intersection. But what if someone runs a red light or stop sign going the other way, barreling at full speed? The results could be disastrous. Resolve to take a couple seconds to scan the intersection before accelerating through.
Use Turn Signals, and Use Them Well
We’ve all seen that driver who doesn’t use a turn signal, hoping others can predict their every move. Maybe we’ve been that driver. It’s time to use those turn signals as a courtesy to let others know our intent. When turning, signal before braking in case the following driver isn’t paying attention. Also, signal before changing lanes, as failure to do so is considered trespassing.
Put That Phone Down
We know we shouldn’t text and drive, yet we continue to do it. A bad driving habit, texting while driving is a serious distraction that can prevent us from avoiding accidents caused by other terrible driving habits, including tailgating, cutting in line at the last minute, and drifting out of the lane. Wait to read and send messages until you arrive at your destination.
We all have bad habits behind the wheel. Whether these habits are the ones you need to break or there are others, let’s all resolve today to make the roads safer and friendlier in 2018.
Image via Flickr by Lord Jim
3 Tips for Keeping Road Salt off Your Car
Salt may be great on food, but it’s havoc on your car. You can’t avoid salt when you drive in snow, but you can mitigate its effects. Here are a few tips on how to keep salt off your car.
Keep It Clean
Salt is unsightly, so you’re probably eager to wash it off. Waiting for spring cleaning won’t do. Wash your car frequently during winter and after every snow storm. Don’t forget to clean the undercarriage, which bears the brunt of the salt’s effects, but avoid using car washes that recycle water.
Your carpets and floor mats pick up salt from your feet, so vacuum frequently and choose all-weather floor mats. Apply a coat of wax to your car before winter to discourage salt from sticking.
Be Careful Where You Go
Some places simply draw more salt than others. Avoid driving directly in the snow, which can contain accumulated salt, especially if that snow came off a plow. Don’t drive near plows or salt trucks either, and skirt puddles and potholes when you can.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Head off extensive salt-related damage with a trip to the mechanic. A service appointment before winter can help you identify and solve problem areas before it’s too late. Remember, the undercarriage sees the most salt, and a mechanic can give that area a good once-over or treatment.
Peruzzi Toyota is happy to service your car before winter, helping you keep your new or pre-owned Toyota on the road for miles to come. Check out our outstanding service department for maintenance recommendations and specials to protect your car in every season.
Image via Flickrby myARDOT
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