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The Ford Mustang continues to be one of the most exciting and thrilling cars on the market. Rule the open road with the adrenaline-pumping 2018 Ford Mustang. Completely Customizable The 2018 Ford Mustang truly lets you express your personality with many customization options. You can choose between four exterior trim levels and 12 exterior colors. You can also customize your digital gauge layout and swap between normal, sport, and track driving modes on a whim. Most Mustang enthusiasts will tell you how much they enjoy the roar of its engine. The 2018 Ford Mustang even gives you the ability to control just how much growl you want under the hood. more Power Choices The customization options don't stop there. You can choose between two engine options in the 2018 Mustang. The standard option is a 2.3-liter Ecoboost that can pump out 350 pound-feet of torque power. Drivers can also upgrade to the available 5.0-liter V-8 GT engine to achieve up to 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. The direct-injection fuel engine and dual-fuel exhaust system give this model optimal performance and a roaring sound that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The 2018 Mustang also comes with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that provides faster and more efficient performance than most automatics. For even more control of your Mustang's performance, opt for the available steering wheel mounted shifter paddles. The unique launch track control system gives you the right amount of brakes and traction, warming up the tires quicker and giving you an ideal off-the-line launch effect. Additional Performance Options Heighten the performance capability of the 2018 Ford Mustang with the available add-on packages. The EcoBoost Performance Package includes upgraded chassis tuning, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and an improved braking experience. The GT Performance Package gives drivers upgraded brake calibers and an advanced limited slip differential. Both options give you the ability to swap between five drive modes for an experience that meets your current driving needs. Swap between normal, sport, track, snow/wet, and drag strip modes to improve your Mustang's performance. Driver-Focused Cockpit As a Mustang driver, it is important to think of the driver seat as your control center. The driver-focused cockpit of the 2018 Ford Mustang is equipped with plenty of technology to assist you with your performance desires. For example, this model's advanced safety features will allow you to focus on the exciting drive ahead without worry. The available 12-inch LCD driver infotainment screen gives you access to your most important vehicle controls, including drive mode, music selection, and access to the Ford Sync 3 system. The premium leather-wrapped seating will give you ideal comfort and grip for the most thrilling off-the-line experience. The 2018 Ford Mustang might look similar to the models that have preceded it. The 2018 model, however, is more customizable than ever before with performance capability that is incomparable. Come by the Ford Store Morgan Hill today to check out the impressive features of the 2018 Ford Mustang. Photo by SoulRider.222 | Licensed under cc BY-ND 2.0

California is often referred to as wine country because of its abundance of vineyards and wine tasting destinations. Check out a few of the best wine spots in the San Jose, California, area. Divine Wineries Divine Wineries is conveniently located in downtown San Jose and serves some of the highest-rated handcrafted wines in the entire area. None of their unique wines are available for purchase in local stores and can only be tasted at this winery. They source their wines from the Sierra Foothills, the Santa Clara Valley, and even the Alexander Valley. Reservations are not required and they are open Wednesday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 12 to 10 p.m., and on Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. more This winery is within walking distance of nearby hotels, making it a great choice for a full day of wine tasting. Locals can also join the Divine Wineries wine club for just $35 per month. This membership includes up to three free bottles of wine each month and special discounts on wine accessories and unlimited happy hour events. Vino Vino Vino Vino is also a wine tasting destination in downtown San Jose that has 13 different fine wines available. They also serve small plates to pair with your wine tasting. Want to bring along a guest that does not enjoy wine? Vino Vino also serves local craft beers. This winery has a simple goal: to provide locals with a no-frills spot to taste local wines, share good food, and get to know their neighbors. This sports bar environment is perfect for a casual wine tasting experience, and you can easily reserve a table online. Lohr Vineyards & Wines The history of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is not only interesting but is also an important part of the California wine industry. The founder, Jerry Lohr, spent many years attempting to find the right spot for his vineyard. He eventually landed on the central California coast, paving the way for a vibrant wine industry. Both of the J. Lohr locations are open daily for free wine tastings. No appointment is necessary, but larger groups should always call ahead. You can also join the J. Lohr club. Membership includes access to VIP events, brand discounts, and free bottles of wine. Left Bend Winery The Left Bend Winery is just a short drive outside of San Jose in Los Gatos. All of the wines from the Left Bend Winery are sourced from the Santa Cruz Mountains. TThis winery handles every aspect of the winemaking process, from pre-harvest to bottling. You can order bottles of their wine and join the wine club online. Club members receive complimentary tastings, discounts on wine bottles, and four wine annual shipments of your favorite wines. The Left Bend Winery is open Thursday through Sunday from 12 until 5 p.m. Spend a day checking out the best wines of San Jose, California. Each of these local vineyards is a great choice and has special deals and memberships to ensure you have a great wine-tasting experience. Photo by dalecruse | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The Ford Mustang continues to be one of the most exciting and thrilling cars on the market. Rule the open road with the adrenaline-pumping 2018 Ford Mustang. Completely Customizable The 2018 Ford Mustang truly lets you express your personality with many customization options. You can choose between four exterior trim levels and 12 exterior colors. You can also customize your digital gauge layout and swap between normal, sport, and track driving modes on a whim. more Most Mustang enthusiasts will tell you how much they enjoy the roar of its engine. The 2018 Ford Mustang even gives you the ability to control just how much growl you want under the hood. Power Choices The customization options don't stop there. You can choose between two engine options in the 2018 Mustang. The standard option is a 2.3-liter Ecoboost that can pump out 350 pound-feet of torque power. Drivers can also upgrade to the available 5.0-liter V-8 GT engine to achieve up to 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. The direct-injection fuel engine and dual-fuel exhaust system give this model optimal performance and a roaring sound that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The 2018 Mustang also comes with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that provides faster and more efficient performance than most automatics. For even more control of your Mustang's performance, opt for the available steering wheel mounted shifter paddles. The unique launch track control system gives you the right amount of brakes and traction, warming up the tires quicker and giving you an ideal off-the-line launch effect. Additional Performance Options Heighten the performance capability of the 2018 Ford Mustang with the available add-on packages. The EcoBoost Performance Package includes upgraded chassis tuning, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and an improved braking experience. The GT Performance Package gives drivers upgraded brake calibers and an advanced limited slip differential. Both options give you the ability to swap between five drive modes for an experience that meets your current driving needs. Swap between normal, sport, track, snow/wet, and drag strip modes to improve your Mustang's performance. Driver-Focused Cockpit As a Mustang driver, it is important to think of the driver seat as your control center. The driver-focused cockpit of the 2018 Ford Mustang is equipped with plenty of technology to assist you with your performance desires. For example, this model's advanced safety features will allow you to focus on the exciting drive ahead without worry. The available 12-inch LCD driver infotainment screen gives you access to your most important vehicle controls, including drive mode, music selection, and access to the Ford Sync 3 system. The premium leather-wrapped seating will give you ideal comfort and grip for the most thrilling off-the-line experience. The 2018 Ford Mustang might look similar to the models that have preceded it. The 2018 model, however, is more customizable than ever before with performance capability that is incomparable. Come by the Ford Store Morgan Hill today to check out the impressive features of the 2018 Ford Mustang. See how the Ford Mustang compares to the Chevrolet Camaro! Photo by SoulRider.222 | Licensed under cc BY-ND 2.0

Strolling through a used bookstore simply cannot compare to buying books online. If you are one of the few people that still enjoys the smell and feel of used books, make sure you check out these wonderful used bookstores in the Morgan Hill, California, area. Recycle Bookstore Recycle Bookstore has been selling used books since before it was considered a trendy thing to do. They have been a favorite local bookstore in the San Jose and Morgan Hill communities for over 40 years. They have a wide variety of inventory with over 100,000 books in different categories. more You can also trade-in or sell your used books to restock your own collection of books. Make sure you come and visit the resident cats in the bookstore, too: Recycle Bookstore is home to four local cats that will gladly help you choose a new favorite book. Booksmart Booksmart has one goal: to give local Morgan Hill residents a place to learn that is also entertaining. This 5,000 square foot bookstore has been in the Morgan Hill community for over 22 years. In addition to books, they also sell toys, magazines, and games. You can also grab a cup of coffee or snack at the on-site cafe to accompany your book shopping experience. The cafe serves hot dogs, sandwiches, and desserts. Check out one of Booksmart's local events, including an upcoming gallery show reception and a coffee meeting with city council candidates. ThinkerToys Founded in 1969, ThinkerToys has three separate locations in California with one conveniently located right in Morgan Hill. Although this small shop primarily focuses on children's toys and games, they also have a wide selection of children's books. Visiting here is sure to be a fun experience for both children and adults alike. Not sure what to buy? The weekly staff picks are a perfect way to try out a new book or to select the perfect gift for the favorite child in your life. ThinkerToys also regularly gives back to the community through donations to local nonprofits. BookBuyers BookBuyers in downtown Gilroy focuses on trading gently used books. They have recently moved to Gilroy from their previous location in Mountain View. They have a large collection of books, music, DVDs, audiobooks, and even vinyl records. This is a great spot to stop on a rainy day. The bright LED interior lights of the bookshop give you a sense of sunshine. You can also spend some time visiting with the bookstore's cat. The prices are affordable, the staff is helpful, and you just might get lost among the stacks. Keep in mind that the shop is currently a work in progress as new bookcases and shelves are still being built. However, they are open for business and gladly welcome all types of book enthusiasts. There are many used bookstores worth checking out in the Morgan Hill, California, area. Spend an afternoon searching for your next read and getting to know the important bookstores of your community. Photo by Tiomax80 | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

One of the best ways to keep the value of your car and to prevent costly repairs is with regular maintenance. Make sure you are keeping up with these important preventative maintenance tasks recommended by Ford. Change Your Fluids Most car owners know their car needs regular oil changes. However, that is not the only important fluid that needs to be regularly checked in your Ford. You should also have your radiator fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluids checked often. Additionally, your air conditioning coolant can affect your car's ability to reach a comfortable interior temperature. Low windshield wiper fluid can reduce visibility and result in a dangerous driving situation. Make sure that your vehicle inspection includes each of these important fluid checks. more Maintain Your Tires Your vehicle's tires may be more important than you realize. Not only are they responsible for getting you where you need to go, but they can also affect your fuel efficiency, wear and tear on the mechanical components of your car, and the overall safety of your car. You should have your tires rotated as often as you have your oil changed. It is also important to regularly check your tires' treads and to replace them when they are low. In many cases, choosing the cheapest tires is not usually the safest choice. Regular Car Washes Car washes serve more purpose than having a clean car: they also protect your car's exterior paint. Large amounts of dust or debris that is not removed can scratch the paint over time. Additionally, if your windshields and windows are covered in dirt, it can present a dangerous situation, reducing your visibility. Regular car washes are just as important during the winter months as they are in the summer. When ice from the road's sticks to your car's paint, it can eventually lead to rust. Inspect Your Battery Without a battery, your car will not work. Avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery by checking your battery's charge often. There are tools that you can use at home to test the charge of your battery. Some car inspections also check the battery during the multi-point inspection. The technician can usually identify when a battery's charge is low and notify you when it's time to replace the battery. Choosing a Ford Dealer Many Ford owners consider the differences between maintenance tasks at a local mechanic or with a Ford dealer. Ford mechanics are the most knowledgeable technicians when it comes to the maintenance of your Ford. Choosing a Ford dealership for these services can ensure that your car maintains its value, maximizes its fuel efficiency, and ensures that it is reliable and safe. In fact, most Ford warranties will require that you receive services through an approved Ford dealer. Ford dealers offer the most important services including oil and filter changes, wheel alignment, and a full multi-point inspection. Come by the Ford Store Morgan Hill today to schedule your Ford inspection. You can easily schedule an appointment online. Photo by Robert Couse-Baker | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Santa Clara County may be known for its high-tech Silicon Valley, but this California county also offers 28 pristine regional parks and recreation areas. If you are into bird-watching, these parks and preserves represent a veritable birder's paradise, as they host not only huge residential populations but also migratory birds. Here are some places where you can go birding to your heart's content. Baylands Nature Preserve This 1,940-acre preserve is one of the largest tracks of undisturbed marshland in the San Francisco Bay area. Over 15 miles of trails give you access to a large variety of wildlife and a unique mixture of tidal and freshwater habitats. Baylands is regarded as one of the best bird-watching areas on the West Coast and is not only home to a substantial residential population, but also an important stopover during the Pacific Flyway migration. more Birds that you can view here include the endangered California clapper rail, wintering ducks such as mallards and pintails, migratory shorebird species, cliff and barn swallows, nesting black-necked stilts, American avocets, black-crowned night herons, and snowy egrets. Baylands Nature Reserve is located at 2500 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto, and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park This park, nestled in the hills east of Gilroy, is a 6,695-acre recreation area, offering 33 miles of trails that wind along breezy mountain ridges, clear streams, and through oak forests. This park is home to all kinds of species, such as reptiles, amphibians, insects, and mammals. If you are lucky, you can spot the rare western pond turtle or the California tiger salamander. It is also a great place for birding. Over 219 bird species have been noticed in this area, including the national bird, the bald eagle. Common species that you might spot are the American wigeon, mallard, bufflehead, ruddy duck, California quail, wild turkey, acorn woodpecker, and the California scrub-jay. Notable species that have been seen include the bald eagle, golden eagle, cackling goose, Clark's grebe, American pipit, Rufous-crowned sparrow, and the rock wren. This park is located at 10840 Coyote Reservoir Road, Gilroy, and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Ed R. Levin County Park This 1,500-acre park is one of Santa Clara County's most unique regional parks and recreations areas, as it offers a combination of constructed parklands, natural bush, and hillsides. Expansive lawn areas are ideal picnic spots for the family, whereas the rolling grasslands and oak woodlands offer lovely trails that are great for bird-watching. Over 64 bird species have been spotted here, including migratory birds, shorebirds, raptors, flycatchers, and corvids. Common species that you can see here are the great blue heron, acorn woodpecker, mallard, turkey vulture, red-tailed hawk, and the white-tailed kite. If you are lucky, though, you might also spot a ring-necked duck, American wigeon, bald eagle, golden eagle, yellow-billed magpie, belted kingfisher, or a rufous-crowned sparrow. Ed R. Levin County Park is located at 3100 Calaveras Road, Milpitas, and they are open from 8 a.m. until sunset. If you love bird-watching, then you will be spoiled for places to go to in Santa Clara County. So, grab your binoculars and head out to the beautiful parks and preserves of this county. Photo by roseannadana cc BY-ND 2.0 | Licensed under

So you have decided to buy a new car, and have done your research on the internet, and found a few models that tick all the boxes. Before you make your final decision, be sure to take each car you're considering for a test drive. Remember that there are certain things that you will only find out once you drive the car. In order to save time, make an appointment for a test drive ahead of time. Car dealers have limited space available, and the specific model you are looking for might not be on the premises or might be parked in the showroom. Also, in order to prevent you from making rash decisions or being cornered by a persistent salesman, line up test drives one after another. This will also make comparisons between the different models easier, as everything will still be fresh in your mind. more Here are a few other things to remember when taking a car for a test drive. The Parked-Car Tests Here are a few things to check before you start the car: Is the front seat easy to access and does it give you adequate support? This might not be so important for short commutes, but during long trips, this could make all the difference. Are the back seats easily accessible, and do they provide ample leg and headroom? If it's a requirement, will you be able to easily fit in a baby seat? Does the cargo area provide the space you need? Do seats fold or move easily? Can you comfortably reach all the controls? How Does the Car Drive? Here are a few things to focus on once you are on the road: How is the visibility? Can you see easily over the steering wheel, and how are those blind spots? How is the suspension? Do you feel the bumps and rough patches on the road, or is it a smooth ride? Does the car lock up or skid when you brake and is the steering responsive? Is the car powerful enough to suit your needs, and how is the acceleration? Test the safety features available in the car, such as hill start assist, or lane-keep assist. Decide on Your Own Route The salesperson might have a normal, easy route that he uses for test drives. Do not agree to this. Ensure that you do the test drive on the terrain and roads that you normally drive to see whether the car is suitable. Do you regularly drive long distances on the highway or often drive on dusty roads or rough terrain? Do you need to park your car in tight spaces, or do you regularly have to start it on an incline? Choose a route that will give you the info you need. After you have taken the car for a test drive, refrain from buying on impulse. Sleep on it. The car will still be available tomorrow! If you are thinking of taking a Ford for a test drive, drop by The Ford Store Morgan Hill. They might just have the car that is perfect for you. Photo by DigitalRalph | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Silicon Valley is home to technology giants such as Facebook, Google, and Apple. The humble garage from which William Hewlett and David Packard started developing the famous HP computer brand, is regarded by many as the "birthplace" of Silicon Valley. If you are interested in seeing such a site, as well as many other places of interest in the world of technology, head to Silicon Valley. Here are some interesting places to see. Googleplex A popular sightseeing destination in Silicon Valley is the Googleplex headquarters and campus of this search engine and information giant. Unfortunately, there are no Googleplex or Google campus tours available, and you can only gain access to campus buildings if you are escorted by an employee. more If you should have a friend who works there and you can gain entry, check out the multicolored bicycles that "Googlers" use to get between campus buildings, as well as strange works of art, such as a life-size Tyrannosaurs Rex skeleton, sometimes adorned with pink, plastic flamingos, and a collection of stone busts depicting celebrities and scientists. There is also an on-campus Google merchandise store, jumbo cartoon figures representing each version of the Android operating system, and a sand volleyball court. Googleplex is located at 1600 Amphitheater Parkway, Mountain View. Computer History Museum Find out about the history of computers at this museum, and the surprising similarities between innovations in our distant history and the technology of today. The museum showcases many different and exciting exhibitions, such as "Revolution: The First 2,000 Years of Computing," which features 19 galleries, 1,100 objects, and multimedia experiences that chronicle the history of computing from the abacus to the smartphone. "Where to? A History of Autonomous Vehicles" is an exhibition about the decades-long challenge of bringing self-driving cars to the public. The museum also exhibits the world's largest collection of artifacts relating to the history of computing, including hardware, software, documents, photos, and moving images. Interesting talks are regularly presented at the museum, as well as educational programs. Computer History Museum is located at 1401 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. Intel Museum This museum provides interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on classes in the Learning Labs, in order to connect people with the technologies that shape their modern world. Free field trips are available for students, during which they are taught the history of the Intel microprocessor, silicon chip design, and chip fabrication. The Intel Museum is located at 2200 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara. NASA's Ames Research Center This center has played an important part in NASA's research into space technology and is a key facility for many of its missions and projects. The public is allowed into the Ames Visitor Center, where they can learn more about the work that is done here. Current exhibitions include "Science on Sphere," which offers visitors a new look at the planets of the universe, and "Kepler," which gives visitors the chance to learn about the Kepler mission that is designed to survey our region of the Milky Way. The Ames Research Center is located at Moffett Field, Mountain View. If you are a computer geek, or just interested in technological innovations or history, Silicon Valley is just the place for you. Photo by rjshade | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Here's a scene many of us know all too well: you're on vacation driving on uncharted roads when the engine makes a worrisome clunking sound. Before you know it, you're turning on the hazard lights and praying for a strong cell phone signal. Believe it or not, if you're prepared, have the right supplies with you, and know when to call for help, what may seem to put an end to your traveling fun can be just a small bump along the way. Consider some simple ways to ensure that your road trip is fun and worry-free! Preventatively Assess Your Vehicle Before Your Trip Add to your vacation to-do list a quick trip to the service station to have your car looked over before you set out. There is no better way to avoid a mishap than making sure that all repairs have been taken care of before you head out. Something as simple as an oil change and quick vehicle check can identify any possible roadblocks and put your mind at ease. more You may want to also consider a roadside assistance program that can provide on-site assistance for everything from keys locked in the car to a dead battery and more. Safely Pull Over to the Side of the Road If your vehicle is in distress, it is important to pull out of traffic for your safety, as well as that of other drivers. If you are unable to pull the car off of the road, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are encountering issues. Take a note of your car's location and any nearby landmarks so that you can communicate your coordinates to roadside assistance or a towing company if necessary. Create an Emergency Roadside Kit As Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." Head off a roadside catastrophe by preparing an emergency roadside kit. In many cases, just a few simple items can get you up and running again quickly, such as: Basic tools including a screwdriver, duct tape, pliers, and wrenches. Jumper cables in the event of a dead battery. Flares or triangle reflectors to warn approaching cars that you are stopped. A first aid kit in case of a minor cut or scrape (leave more serious injuries for professionals). Flashlight with extra batteries for more visibility during a nighttime incident. Tire pressure gauge and a tire puncture repair kit. Water and nonperishable snacks in the event of a long wait for assistance. Before heading out on a vacation road trip, double-check your kit to make sure that it is complete and up to date — we've all reached in for an "emergency" granola bar on a busy day. Taking your car on a vacation can be a wonderful way to explore important landscapes and landmarks while spending quality family time together. Make the most of these special times together with a few easy preparations that can keep you comfortable and safe in the event of an unforeseen emergency. Photo by Robert Couse-Baker | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Ford offers a lot more than just personal vehicles. The company also has plenty of options for businesses in need of commercial vans and super-duty trucks, and you'll find a good selection of them here at The Ford Store of Morgan Hill. We have several varieties of Ford's most popular commercial vehicles in stock, and we also have several unique advantages and opportunities for commercial buyers who want a fleet of Ford vehicles. Transit The Transit is Ford's basic van. Different businesses need vans for different purposes, but that's why the company offers the Transit with three height options along with two wheelbases and three body lengths. You can also get one of three engines (including a diesel option) and a center console display with SYNC 3, Ford's latest infotainment system. The base model only has a bare interior, but the Transit's popularity means you won't have any trouble finding a place that can fit your van for plumbing, electrical supplies, catering, or any other job you'd need a van for. more Transit Connect Lighter than a regular Transit, the Transit Connect is a light commercial van with all the toughness you'd expect from Ford's truck and commercial vehicle group. The Transit Connect has less space and fewer options than the Transit, but you can still choose two wheelbase lengths and get up to 128.6 cubic feet behind the front seats. In exchange, the smaller size comes with a smaller price tag, plus it's easier to maneuver in city traffic. If you need a van, but you don't need all the space a Transit offers, then the Transit Connect is just your speed. Super Duty Trucks Ford Super Duty refers to a whole family of trucks that starts with the F-250 and goes up to the F-450. Super Duty trucks offer better towing and hauling figures than you get from the light-duty class, plus you can add features like dual rear wheels and gooseneck hitches that put the trailer's weight right above the rear axle. You can also order a Super Duty truck as a chassis cab and attach the upfit of your choice to the rear. Special Incentives We don't just offer commercial vehicles. We also offer special incentives to our commercial customers. Some of these deals come directly from Ford, but when you buy from us, you can get discounts on bulk purchases, special lease terms that can work with your business model, and servicing discounts when you bring your Ford fleet vehicles to our dealership for regular maintenance or emergency repairs. Our dealership has plenty of commercial vehicles on the lot ready for someone to drive them off. If we don't have the right vehicle in stock, we can help you order what you need directly from the factory. We also offer special discounts and incentives so that you'll be completely satisfied if you decide to use Ford for your entire fleet or replace your existing commercial vehicle with a Ford alternative. Have a look at our commercial stock and schedule a test drive today. Photo by aaronx | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Board games like Monopoly and chess are classics that still retain modern-day charm and popularity, especially in the Bay area where these games can be found in epic proportions. With giant game pieces and playing fields included, we're sure you're dying to try these big attractions out for yourself. Here are three Bay area spots where you can find your next mega-sized gaming adventure. Monopoly in the Park Monopoly is perhaps the most popular board game played across the globe. Its rules are simple: attempt to own as much property as you can and collect free money along the way. And what better way to play than with giant wearable game tokens and dice all on a 930-square-foot custom granite game board. There are also game referees on-site to oversee the game from start to finish. more Monopoly in the Park first debuted at the 1992 San Francisco Garden and Landscape Show but made its way to San Jose in 2002. Its current home is near the Children's Discovery Museum and is the perfect backdrop for family and friend get-togethers. You can also bring your own folding chairs and tables to enjoy a picnic or simply lounge about. Furthermore, this attraction holds the sole title for officially licensed monopoly game board of its kind in the world and even landed in the Guinness Book of World Records for its impressive size. It also received an Excellence Award for Best Attraction in 2015 by the Silicon Valley Concierge Association. Santana Row Chess Plaza San Jose's Santana Row is a quaint and charming square lined with high-end retail shops, boutiques, and eateries. It's also home to a colossal chess board and matching white and black pieces within the 300 block. You'll also notice adjacent tabletop chess boards and chairs for those who prefer a classic-sized game. Either way, we're sure you'll agree the flowering pot arrangements hanging from nearby street lights and calming ambiance make this Santana Row attraction all the more inviting. The Playroom at Hotel Zetta San Francisco We head out of San Jose for our final entry on the list: the Playroom at Hotel Zetta San Francisco. This modern gaming space is located on the hotel's second floor and offers a chic and comfortable play space for guests. Here you'll find normal-sized amenities like a pool table, ping pong, shuffleboard, Connect Four, and several gaming consoles. These are, however, overshadowed by the Playroom's larger attractions, which include a 30-foot Plinko game wall and giant Jenga setup. As you lounge atop low-seated sofas or near classic tables and chairs, you'll find the hotel's Playroom an ideal indoor retreat for Bay area gamers. Furthermore, Hotel Zetta offers a special Borrow Bar program where guests can rent equipment like laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, or virtual reality hardware to enjoy in the lounge or in the comfort of their room. If you're looking to enjoy a classic board game with a giant-sized upgrade, these top three Bay area locations can guarantee an experience like never before! Photo by HarshLight | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The Escape and the Edge are two of the smaller SUVs Ford has to offer, with the Edge being the larger of the two. Both vehicles have plenty in common, including smart Ford engineering and reliability. However, they also have a lot of differences. If you're not sure which one to pick, read on and find out what makes each one unique. Size The first difference you'll notice between the Escape and the Edge is the size difference. The Escape is a compact crossover, and the Edge is the next class up. Both vehicles have plenty of space for two rows of adults, but the Edge has 40.6 inches of rear legroom while the Escape offers 37.3 inches. For cargo, the Escape has 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 68 cubic feet behind the front, and the Edge gives you 39.2 and 73.4 cubic feet. It's not a big difference, but most Edge trims also have a rear seat quick-release button. more Power Another difference between the two SUVs is the list of engines they come with and the power they offer. The smaller Escape comes with one of three engines depending on your trim choices: a 2.5 liter I-4 with normal aspiration and 165 horsepower, a turbocharged 1.5 liter EcoBoost with 179 horsepower, and a 2.0 liter EcoBoost that offers 245 horsepower. On top of the extra power, the EcoBoost engines are also more efficient than the big starting engine. The Edge also has three engines, but it starts out with the 245-horsepower 2.0 liter engine. The two middle trims replace this with a 3.5 liter V-6 engine that generates 280 horsepower, but you could also get the top Sport trim with its twin-turbo 2.7 liter V-6 that delivers 315 horsepower. Interior Features Both the 2018 Escape and the 2018 Edge come with great feature lists, but the larger Edge comes with a higher MSRP and more features for each trim level. Both trims have the SE, SEL, and Titanium trims in common, but the Escape starts with the lower S trim and the Edge ends with the higher Sport trim. On the plus side, an SUV buyer who cares more about their budget than features can get an Escape SE for around $5,000 less than an Edge SE. Safety The two 2018 SUVs have similar scores in the safety department. Both have a 5-star rating from the NHTSA, both come with seven airbags, and both have rearview cameras standard. Each crossover can have driver assistance features on higher trim levels, but while the Escape can have a driver drowsiness monitor, the Edge can have a 180-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers, and inflatable seat belts. A Ford SUV of any size is a good companion for long road trips and moving days, but it's good to have one with the right size, features, and price. So take a good look at their features and specs, and don't forget to test drive both at your local Ford dealership before you make your final decision. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0