Days are at their longest this time of year, so you should be taking advantage of the extra hours of daylight in the evening. The canal is one of the most beautiful places to enjoy a summer night while you watch the sun set, and there's no better way to see it than from the bow of the Sam Patch, a replica of an 1800's packet boat used by canal travelers back in the day.

Board the Sam Patch this Thursday, July 9, for a rare evening cruise, when you can enjoy refreshments and snacks provided by Simply Crepes, as well as a cash bar aboard the boat. Float down the canal while the evening slowly slips into night, and see what it was like to travel a few centuries ago. You can even experience going through one of the canal's many locks.

Boarding starts at 5:45 p.m. at Schoen Place, and the cruise lasts until 8 p.m. Tickets cost $5-$10. For more information call 262-5661 or visit samandmary.org.