Thirty-some years ago, I started down the path of becoming a Florida family travel writer with my tow-headed, in-tow toddler, Aaron, as my assistant researcher. Now his curly-coiffed daughter, Layla, is in training for the position. 

To celebrate her 10-month birthday, we headed to Fort Lauderdale, a favorite family destination. We thereby checked off another of our sand-bucket list items for Sunshine State family discoveries, always leaning into little-known and insider treasures. 

Here we visit five spots that satisfy a three-generation family on the lam.

Some of the destinations and resorts I cover have hosted me in the past, but the opinions and recommendations expressed are entirely my own.

1. Fort Lauderdale

Subtitled “The Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is a water-wonderful world from its sprawling beach sandbox to its Everglades backyard, and 300 miles of canals in between.

Beaches

Think of the beautiful beaches of Miami, but without the hype and bustle; same sand but more of a family vibe. This is especially true the farther away you roam from Las Olas Oceanside Park, although you’ll find the most amenities there. For quiet, head north to Fort Lauderdale Beach or south to Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (with a side of nature and kayaking).

Museum Of Discovery And Science

One of Florida’s first and finest hands-on museums, it is geared toward teaching kids through games and interaction. The Museum of Discovery and Science has a 3D IMAX theater and hosts all sorts of learning experiences. Don’t miss the gift shop.

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures

Grab your eyepatch and get ready for a swashbuckling hour at sea shooting off water balloon cannons and learning to talk like a pirate. Adults, too, will enjoy the engaging narration aboard Bluefoot Pirate Adventures as the ship makes its way along the Intracoastal Waterway’s mansion- and yacht-lined shores.

Where To Stay

B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale had me at “mermaid shows.” As a family, you’ll want to skip the burlesque mermaid dinner shows you can watch through windows into the pool from the Wreck Bar. But weekend brunch shows are all about kids and teaching environmental responsibility.

The lazy river was the clincher for Pelican Grand Beach Resort. We love the oceanfront suites overlooking the beach’s quieter north end and the kid-friendly scavenger hunt and menus.

Where To Eat

Sea-breezy, alfresco dining oceanside, Sandbar Grill keeps it beach casual. Otherwise, we prefer to head away from the big-city beach buzz. Check out the restaurants to the north in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Or head to Sistrunk Marketplace & Brewery food hall for a well-rounded selection of eats from Mexican to Korean. Funky Buddha Brewery has kid-menu choices plus ping pong and cornhole games indoors.

Pro Tip: Even pre-toddlers benefit from the stimulation of family attractions, so don’t feel you have to wait until your child gets older to take them traveling.

2. Stuart

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, where shipwrecks and pirates are hardwired into history, Stuart hides in the shadows of the big-ticket destinations up and down the East Coast. Its beaches line Hutchinson Island while its historic downtown hugs the St. Lucie River.

Beaches Of Hutchinson Island

A litany of beach accesses string along Highway A1A from St. Lucie Inlet to Fort Pierce Inlet. The most popular with the most amenities, Stuart Beach and Jensen Beach both have excellent food concessions. Lifeguards patrol the beaches generally from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Elliott Museum

Right across the Stuart Beach access road, Elliott Museum is one of Florida’s best historical attractions, and perfect for families. Climb aboard a 1931 Ford school bus, go on a scavenger hunt, ogle collections of baseball cards and signed balls, stroll the streets of yesteryear, and gawk at more than 100 shiny vintage cars.

Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

Also steps from the beach, the Oceanographic Center makes the perfect follow-up to a morning of beachcombing. Learn about local sea creatures from a 750,000-gallon gamefish lagoon, interactive stingray exhibit, touch tanks, and daily programs.

Children’s Museum Of The Treasure Coast

Set in a riverside park with a butterfly garden at its front door, the Children’s Museum skips the state-of-the-art techie gimmicks of modern-day science museums and brings learning down to a relatable, hometown level. Kids can catch a tarpon, go grocery shopping, and play on the beach, or take a voyage of fantasy aboard a pirate ship with cannons that shoot plastic balls.

Pro Tip: Combine your indoor time at the Children’s Museum with outdoor fishing and picnicking at Indian RiverSide Park.

Where To Stay

Like Stuart itself, its accommodation options are low-key — of the bed and breakfast, camping, and mom-pop sort. Even its sprawling Marriott Hutchinson Island Beach Resort is sedate, despite its two golf courses. Since Aaron’s teen-surfing years, we’ve favored Vistana Beach Club’s condo accommodations right at Jensen Beach.

Where To Eat

Our favorite breakfast spots, the aforementioned beach cafés, can’t be beaten for alfresco views and good food, also come lunch. Hit up Sand Dune Café at Jensen Beach or Seaside Café at Stuart Beach. For lunch or dinner on the Intracoastal Waterway, Conchy Joe’s Seafood scores for its fish-house casual setting and family welcome.

3. Kissimmee

Orlando and its environs are the bull’s eye of Florida family travel. But next-door Kissimmee, while also convenient to the theme parks, pulls away from the hype with a past steeped in cowboys and nature, and a present that mixes in the Old Florida style.

Downtowns

Lakefront parks, old-timey storefronts, family restaurants, and historic murals give downtown Kissimmee and neighboring St. Cloud hometown flavor. Don’t forget your rod and reel to cast for bass. Airboat and other lake tours explore the natural treasures of Central Florida’s Chain of Lakes.

Boggy Creek Adventures

More wildlife encounters await at this escape to rural Florida. Zippy airboats at Boggy Creek take you into gator country for a ride on the wild side. Explore a butterfly garden, a fossil and gem mine, and a Native American village while you’re there.

Reptile Attractions

To get close up to the slithering, jaw-some reptile world, take your fascination to Reptile World Serpentarium, home to more than 80 species of native and rare snakes; and Gatorland, where the thrill of seeing gators by the hundreds gets a boost from the park’s zip-line and off-road adventure.

Where To Stay

Kissimmee also has its resort side and many of its accommodations fall into the supersized destination category. A family favorite for outdoor types, Reunion Resort & Golf Club has its own water park, plus three links and junior golfing instruction. One- to three-bedroom suites and vacation homes generously accommodate families.

On the other hand, Gaylord Palms Resort (also with its own water park plus a surfing FlowRider), keeps you under a bubble that replicates a microcosm of Florida’s favorite destinations. Get a taste of St. Augustine, Key West, and the Everglades all in one resort.

Where To Eat

Kissimmee’s signature brand of dining includes an epic live-themed show with food to match. For families, I recommend Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Pirates Dinner Adventure.

4. Fort Myers

Despite suffering a vicious hurricane attack in September 2022, the Fort Myers area still has much to offer families and continues to rebuild and grow for the kid market.

Beaches

Barrier islands Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach took the hardest hit, but their beaches have begun to reopen, along with more lightly-impacted gulf-front parks on Bonita Beach. A website devoted to local beaches tells you which have reopened, including a few on Sanibel Island, known for its superlative seashell-picking. Tourism officials warn beachgoers to wear footwear and stay out of the water to avoid injury from remnant hurricane debris.

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

The natural crown jewel of the Fort Myers area, “Ding” Darling has reopened most of its facilities on Sanibel Island. Loop Wildlife Drive by car, bike, or foot and hike Bailey Tract to see birds, alligators, and even a bobcat if you’re lucky. Don’t miss a visit to the free Visitor & Education Center with its hands-on exhibits and award-winning “nature calls” restrooms. (Kids love them.) Tarpon Bay Explorers offers paddle craft rentals and tours currently on a limited basis.

Pro Tip: Low tide is the best time for bird-watching and morning is optimal for bobcats, river otters, and other refuge creatures.

Downtown Fort Myers

Least damaged, aside from the destruction of boats in its city marina, the Historic River District caters to families with its famous Edison & Ford Winter Estates museum, riverside gardens, and historic homes. Hands-on IMAG explores local history, live critters, and scientific phenomena. Don’t skip a stop at the newly reimagined playground at Centennial Park overlooking the Caloosahatchee River. Make late afternoon reservations for the virtual golf and other games at Chips Sports Pub at the Luminary Hotel.

Where To Stay

Riverfront Luminary Hotel situates you amid walkable, kid-lovable downtown. Accommodations include suites perfectly suited to families. For a different waterfront vista, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa goes the extra mile for families with a bayfront beach, watersports, and family-perfect suites; on the islands, ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa overlooks a beautifully restored beach in addition to two swimming pools and a marina for watersports. On Fort Myers Beach, expect a Margaritaville Resort to open in fall 2023.

Where To Eat

With a Model A hanging from the ceiling, milkshakes, and a kids’ menu, Ford’s Garage makes a fun pit stop downtown, especially after a visit to the Edison & Ford Estates. On a Sanibel outing, stop at The Shack for sandwiches and frozen custard.

Pro Tip: More attractions and businesses open weekly in the Fort Myers area. Keep abreast of updates on its tourism bureau website.

5. Fort Walton Beach

Florida’s Panhandle in the Northwest boasts its own brand of local color — powdery sand white as snow, waters an enviable green, and a spunky attitude that redefines casual. Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island are one of the Panhandle’s oldest and family-friendliest landing spots.

Beaches

About those beaches: They range from the spring break party scene around the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier and adjacent Boardwalk entertainment complex to the ethereal rolling dunes of Gulf Islands National Seashore en route to Destin, a newer town on the coast. The silky, squeaky sand and emerald, fish-fertile waters remain a constant.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Florida’s oldest aquarium attraction, Gulfarium is well-loved for its marine life shows and encounters featuring dolphins, sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, and stingrays. You will find it in the midst of the pier and Boardwalk activity.

Emerald Coast Science Center

Away from FWB’s beach culture, Emerald Coast Science Center lives in charming, historic downtown. It has a hometown, small-scale feel that doesn’t overwhelm like some of the bigger hands-on science museums. Live snakes and other reptiles add to the cool “ew” factor.

Where To Stay

Plenty of affordable and family-welcoming hotels and resorts line the beach on Okaloosa Island. Our favorite, The Island Resort, is central to beach attractions and has rooms that open right onto the cool pools, one with a grotto waterfall. Plus, the resort provides family entertainment including a mermaid appearance. Yep, had me once again at “mermaid.”

Where To Eat

Truthfully, we typically cross the bridge to Destin when it comes to mealtime. We love the Donut Hole Bakery & Café for breakfast and the somewhat kitschy Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill for lunch and a look through the alligator park. Closer to home, the Crab Trap Seafood & Oyster Bar at the Boardwalk has a playground on the beach, where parents can enjoy their dinner while keeping their kids within eyeshot.

Pro Tip: Unlike South and Central Florida destinations, the Panhandle’s season doesn’t start until spring break. Plan accordingly, as certain attractions and businesses close in the winter.

Winter Haven in central Florida offers amusement park enthusiasts LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and the Peppa Pig Theme Park. In addition, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Bok Tower Gardens and Bonnet Springs Park, while the entire family will remember their precious time away together.

The town sits between Orlando and Tampa, so you can fly into either Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Tampa International Airport (TPA). We rented a car for the hour’s drive south of Orlando and east of Tampa.

Here are the seven places I love to take my grandkids when we visit Winter Haven, Florida.

Thank you to Visit Central Florida for hosting my stay. All opinions are my own.

1. LEGOLAND® Theme Park & Water Park

Located in Winter Haven, on the grounds of the former Cypress Gardens, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort & Water Park is a 150-acre field of fun designed for kids 2–12. It offers more than 50 rides, shows, attractions, a water park, and a stunning botanical garden.

Pirate River Quest

The Pirate River Quest is the newest ride at LEGOLAND® in 2023. The ride is approximately 25 minutes and is appropriate for all ages. While riding through the canals, you’ll participate in a quest searching for gold bricks and counting jewels.

Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show

As you plan your day, note the showtimes, as you won’t want to miss Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show. With pirates, barefoot skiing, a flyboard, wakeboarding, and the famous ski pyramid, you’ll want to say, “Yes,” when everyone asks, “Did you see the ski show?”

Botanical Gardens

When historic Cypress Gardens opened in 1939, they planted the seedling that today is the giant Banyan tree, the garden’s focal point. Today, they incorporated it into LEGOLAND® Theme Park as the botanical gardens. In addition to the Banyan tree, you’ll find 10 types of banana trees, 30 varieties of palms, and 15 kinds of azaleas.

You’ll want to budget at least 1 full day for this park, but you’ll find plenty to keep you busy for 2. When planning your trip, remember that on many days they are only open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Pro Tip: Download the app before you go to help with your planning. It provides insights into show times and character appearances.

2. Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida

Located steps from LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, Peppa Pig Theme Park caters to the littles — preschoolers and early elementary. You’ll find six rides, including a modest roller coaster driven by Daddy Pig, which even a timid 4-year-old will enjoy.

The splash pad is fun to cool down in the afternoon heat and jump in puddles, just like Peppa and her brother George. Have the kids wear their swimsuits under their clothes and pack some towels to dry off. Before leaving the park, I recommend making the water feature your last stop. That way, you can change and dry off without dealing with wet swimsuits for the rest of your time at the park.

Plan to spend a half-day at Peppa Pig Theme Park.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, they have a shuttle from the hotel to the Peppa Pig Theme Park. While it isn’t a long walk, the shuttle is convenient if you have any issues walking. The Model Citizens (the theme park employees) will also call the resort to have the shuttle return you to the hotel.

3. Bok Tower Gardens

Situated amongst the Florida orange groves, Bok Tower Gardens, located in Lake Wales, is a National Historic Landmark. In 1929, Edward Bok, a Dutch immigrant and world peace advocate, dedicated the gardens as a gift to the American people.

The 205-foot Singing Tower carillon stands on one of Florida’s highest points, surrounded by almost 700 acres of conservation land. You’ll find rare plants and animals in this area.

We spent about 3 hours at the Bok Tower, and you could easily spend more time exploring every garden.

Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden

The almost 3-acre Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden allows families to experience nature in various ways. But, of course, the kiddos will have more things to do than stop and smell the flowers. It features a rope spider web for climbing, a shaded stage with costumes to perform an impromptu play, and a xylophone to make music similar to the Singing Tower. In addition, the kiddos can try out the vintage water hand pump and make some mud pies, of which even Peppa Pig would be proud.

Bok Tower

Every day, the Singing Tower carillon features concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. They also play short selections on the hour and half-hour. The concert schedule showcases live concerts by Geert D’hollander from mid-October through mid-May, from Thursday–Sunday. In addition, you’ll hear the Bok Tower concerts throughout the garden, so you don’t need a concert ticket.

Blue Palmetto Café

The Blue Palmetto Café offers sandwiches, salads, and snacks in an indoor-outdoor setting. Pick up lunch at the café, spread a blanket within the gardens, and enjoy a picnic lunch. In addition to lunch, they serve breakfast until 11 a.m.

You can rent scooters from the gift shop on a first come, first served basis.

Pro Tip: Bring quarters to purchase food to feed the koi fish in the moat around the Singing Tower.

4. Bonnet Springs Park 

Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland is a new 168-acre urban oasis that brings the natural beauty of central Florida to life. Even the dog will have fun at Bonnet Springs. Some park highlights include the Nature Center, Butterfly House, Botanical Gardens, and Canopy Walk.

Pro Tip: The park offers tram service to various stops throughout the park. You can board the shuttle every 15 minutes in the covered area behind the Florida Children’s Museum.

5. Florida Children’s Museum

Located within Bonnet Springs Park, the 47,800-square-foot Florida Children’s Museum is a state-of-the-art facility. The two-story building opened in 2022, featuring activities for babies through early teens. Babies can play with mom and dad’s help in the watermelon seeds area with brightly-colored stacking fruit. Preschoolers and early elementary kids will have fun in the city built for play. They can be whatever they dream of in the various buildings, from firefighters to veterinarians. Even grown-ups can get involved in adult-sized costumes. Older kids have an area where they can complete a stop-action video. We found something for everyone here, even the adults.

While entrance to Bonnet Springs Park is free, the Florida Children’s Museum does have an admission fee.

Pro Tip: You’ll find places to sit throughout the museum, so this grandma found it easy to watch her grandkids while they played.

6. Harborside Restaurant

Harborside Restaurant, situated on the shores of Lake Shipp in Winter Haven, offers stunning sunset views from its deck. While the menu is seafood-focused with dishes like gulf oysters on the half shell, gulf grouper, and shrimp, they offer substantial steak and pasta selections if you don’t enjoy seafood. In addition, they have a kid’s menu that will satisfy even the pickiest eater.

Pro Tip: Look for various specials throughout the week. For example, one day, you might find half-off appetizers, and another, a special on catfish.

7. Lake Morton

Charming downtown Lakeland, known as the “City of Swans,” is Polk County’s largest city. Queen Elizabeth II donated a pair of swans to Lakeland in 1957, making the graceful bird a beloved city symbol. Today, you’ll see far more than two swans and an assortment of other waterfowl on Lake Morton.

Pro Tip: You can purchase food to feed the waterfowl from machines around the lake. Do not bring bread to feed the birds.

If you’re looking for more grandparent recommendations for Florida travel, check out these articles:

•  I’ve Been A Grandparent For 3 Years: Here Are 10 Must-Do Sarasota Experiences My Granddaughter Loves
•  I’m A New Grandparent — The First 3 Places In Florida I’m Taking My Granddaughter
• 11 New Experiences In Central Florida Your Family Will Love

Imagine the perfect town for a nuclear or multigenerational vacation. It would be near the water, full of attractions and activities to keep everyone happy and occupied, and exude the kind of genuine friendliness and charm to make you never want to leave. Well, imagine no more. The town you’re yearning for is Stuart, the seat of Martin County, Florida.

Located on South Florida’s Treasure Coast between Daytona Beach and Miami, Martin County has more than 22 miles of powdery beaches and 100,000 acres of eco-friendly parks and conservation lands.

My husband and I spent some time in this Treasure Coast paradise and found it uncrowded, unpretentious, and full of delightful surprises. I’m sharing our experiences so that you can find your own vacation paradise, too.

Our visit to Stuart was hosted by Discover Martin County. However, all opinions are entirely my own.

1. Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa

Jensen Beach is minutes from downtown Stuart, but once you step onto the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa property, you’re in another world. This oceanfront resort offers stretches of golden beach on the outside and an ocean-inspired décor that blends with every aspect of its interior.

Hutchinson contains 178 classy, comfortable oceanfront rooms and suites. Every night, we fell asleep to the soporific sound of ocean waves hitting the beach through our open-balcony door.

Amenities include two outdoor pools, oceanfront dining, a spa, and easy access to Stuart and other Martin County treasures.

2. Historic Downtown Stuart

Historic Downtown Stuart is a treasure trove of more than 50 locally-owned shops, restaurants, and galleries mere steps from the scenic St. Lucie River. Lovers of architecture will appreciate the turn-of-the-century buildings and historic homes. While history buffs will enjoy a look around the Stuart Heritage Museum.

Watch a movie, play, or concert at the Lyric Theater, which has been in operation since 1926. Take a pleasant stroll along the Riverwalk, or catch some live music and a nightcap before turning in.

Pro Tip: Stuart is comfortably walkable, but you can also ride the free downtown tram.

3. Martin County Beaches

Stuart is surrounded by miles of stunning beaches, and because Martin County isn’t as well-known as other Florida destinations, the crowds are thinner. Beachcombers have plenty of room to sit, swim, or sunbathe. But for many, a day at the beach is often difficult — if not impossible — because of mobility challenges. Martin County has made sure residents and visitors can enjoy area beaches alongside their families and friends.

Weather permitting, the guarded beaches — Bathtub, Jensen, Stuart, and Hobe Sound — make rolling beach wheelchairs available free of charge for individuals with a variety of mobility needs. These all-terrain chairs are constructed with PVC, making them lightweight. They have four air-filled balloon tires, so navigating through sand is possible. Each chair also comes equipped with an umbrella and a roomy pouch attached to the back to hold essential items.

If you require help, simply ask the beach’s guard tower and a lifeguard will assist you

Pro Tip: Always check tidal schedules and view the beach cams for current conditions before setting off.

4. Treasure Coast River Cruises

For a unique picture of Stuart and surrounding areas, seeing them from a pontoon boat will give you an entirely different perspective. Treasure Coast River Cruises offers four entertaining sightseeing cruises.

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Sandbar Cruise, departing from Sandsprit Park in South Stuart and returning 2 hours later with big smiles. Our captain was charming, informative, and hilarious. Learning about the wildlife we saw, listening to stories past and present, and simply being out on the water felt like a floating mini-vacation.

The pontoons carry a maximum of six and are roomy and comfortable. The captains are properly licensed and safety-conscious. You can bring any food or drink you like, including alcoholic beverages. Water is available free of charge.

5. Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

One of Stuart’s most popular attractions is the Florida Oceanographic Center. This 57-acre parcel is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. The massive complex is home to the Florida Oceanographic Society’s headquarters, nature trails, a 750,000-gallon Game Fish Lagoon, a children’s activity pavilion, a sea turtle pavilion, and the award-winning Ocean EcoCenter. And that’s only the beginning. You’ll need at least half a day to engage your senses in the center’s offerings.

There was so much to see and do, my husband and I could barely take it all in. We were shown how to pet and feed a stingray, marveled at rescued sea turtles and an adorable baby octopus, and watched fascinated children engage with interactive educational activities.

Pro Tip: A fine spot to take a break is the third-floor viewing deck with a spectacular view overlooking the lagoon.

6. The Elliott Museum

Across the street from the Florida Oceanographic Center is another family-friendly wonderland where you can spend a couple of hours delving into the past. The Elliott Museum is best known for its impressive vintage car collection, which includes some of the first vehicles to take to the road.

From familiar oldies to models of which few have heard, a wander through the exhibits is a treat for all. If you want to see a particular vehicle that isn’t on the floor, simply select it from a list. In minutes, it will magically appear from the multi-story automated storage facility, along with all its information displayed on a nearby computer screen.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to visit the second floor for shipwreck artifacts, a genuine moonshine still, replicas of an old apothecary and general store, an impressive collection of Major League Baseball memorabilia, art, and more.

7. Children’s Museum Of The Treasure Coast

Located in Indian Riverside Park in Jensen Beach, the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast has an outstanding array of exhibits to encourage children to learn about their world, create, and explore their interests and talents.

The Baby Beach House is an area where the littlest ones can play in a safe environment. Hospital and vet clinics let the kids play doctor with replicas of internal organs and bones. And The Spanish Galleon — a 64-foot, 16th-century replica — enables children to experience life aboard the ship on a 90-day crossing through sound, smell, touch, and story-telling. They can even fire soft rubber cannonballs at imaginary enemy ships.

The museum is filled with happy noise, bright colors, and flashing lights. For this reason, there are designated calm areas for children with autism, where parents can take them to destress. Regularly scheduled Sensory Friendly Days give these children the run of the museum without the noise and lights.

Pro Tip: Admission fees can add up, but reduced rates are available through Groupon and other discount programs.

8. Hobe Sound

Sometimes, the journey is as satisfying as the destination. You can transform a 30-minute drive along SE Federal Highway from Stuart to Hobe Sound into a day, or half-day, adventure by taking advantage of things to see and do on the way.

Blowing Rocks Preserve

If this natural attraction is on your agenda, you’ll need to plan to be there at high tide, so find out when that is and plan accordingly. If you time it right, you’ll be treated to a rare natural phenomenon. When waves crash through the craggy rock formations at high tide, they appear to explode upward as high as 50 feet into the air.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Pick up a map at the entry gate and explore the largest state park in Southeast Florida. This 11,500-acre park offers opportunities for picnicking, walking, hiking, and biking. Accessible walking paths, restrooms, and other amenities make this park a true gem that all can enjoy.

Florida Tunnel Of Trees

For some natural eye candy, drive along SE Bridge Road and through an amazing tree canopy. The name speaks for itself, and the experience is magical and photo-worthy.

Hobe Sound Public Beach

Engage in some play time at Hobe Sound Public Beach, then take a wander through the delightful town. Charming antique shops, family-owned eateries, and art galleries offer sweet surprises behind every door.

Murals of Hobe Sound is a project that turned the town into an outdoor art gallery. You’ll see these colorful artistic gems gracing building facades throughout town.

The Grove Pizza Cucina And Wine Bar

When stomachs start rumbling, head to The Grove Pizza Cucina and Wine Bar, a true dining experience with a casual atmosphere. Along with their exquisite pizzas, the restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes with a twist. The pappardelle with lamb bolognese is phenomenal, as is the chocolate tower for dessert, alternating layers of deep-fried homemade chocolate pasta and a mascarpone filling drizzled with a chocolate sauce. A meal at The Grove is the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Pro Tip: Stuart is a family-friendly town with an upbeat vibe. If you’re fortunate enough to be in Stuart on a Sunday morning, take the tram to Flagler Park and enjoy Market on Main, held weekly rain or shine. This is a golden opportunity to meet the folks who live and work in Stuart while checking out locally-grown produce, handmade items, freshly-made sweet and savory foods, and more.

Related Reading: 

• 16 Florida Beach Towns Our Readers Love (2022)
• 7 Fantastic Things To Do In Scenic Jupiter, Florida
• 7 Incredible National Parks And Preserves To Visit In Southern Florida

When my granddaughter moved to Florida, I was excited to share the Florida experience with her. While I planned to show her what I knew, she continually surprises me with what she sees. I didn’t expect the joy of seeing the world through a child’s eyes! Here are 10 experiences with grandchildren to enjoy around Sarasota. 

Pro Tip: Most of these locations offer a membership that includes benefits to a reciprocal network of gardens and museums throughout the United States. Be sure to ask about it and consider joining if it makes sense for you!

1. Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is 10 acres of lush tropical gardens located near the heart of downtown Sarasota. It’s home to exotic and local animals, wandering pink flamingos, reptile exhibits, a petting zoo, and presentations, all connected by a winding 1.2-mile paved-brick pathway.

The Gardens are one of the oldest, continuously running attractions in Florida. David Breed Lindsay, the founder of the newspaper that became the Herald-Tribune, purchased a swampy little banana grove in the 1930s to create a botanical garden. Today, the Jungle Gardens are under new ownership and continue to delight visitors and locals alike.

Gardens, Reptiles, Flamingos, And Goats, Oh My!

You may not think a garden would hold a child’s interest; however, following a path through the jungle where a new surprise is around every turn quickly becomes an adventure. Numbers on the map suggest a route, but if you follow it exactly, you’ll miss some exhibits. We start with the outer loop, head toward the petting zoo (a fan favorite), then continue around before following the inner circle toward the flamingos.

Pro Tip: When feeding animals at the petting zoo, stay outside of the fence. They recognize the sound of brown paper bags opening and will rush over (think a minor stampede) to whoever is holding the bag!

2. Mote Marine Laboratory And Aquarium

Mote Aquarium is on 10.5 acres near St. Armands Circle. What started as a marine scientist’s passion project in a one-room lab has grown into a program that spans from Sarasota to the Florida Keys. Exhibits are in two buildings, with plans for a new 110,000-square-foot facility at Nathan Benderson Park. 

Two Buildings, One Special Day

You’ll walk into what feels like a cave surrounded by tropical color in the main building. Aquatic tanks lining the walls are alive with marine life. You can look into the eyes of a sea monster (a 27-foot giant squid), size up a replica of an enormous megalodon jaw, reach out and touch stingrays, and peer into the open-topped shark tank. 

The Ann & Alfred E. Goldstein Marine Mammal Research & Rehabilitation Center is the second building. Here, sea otters, turtles, and manatees receive care. Docents are standing ready throughout the exhibits to answer questions. What I love about the aquarium is that it’s big enough to enjoy for a couple of hours and small enough for little feet to explore.

Pro Tips: Kayaking and eco-boat tours are available and launch near the aquarium. For things to do nearby, including best restaurants, consider Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting St. Armands Circle.

3. See Florida Sea Turtles

Florida’s turtle nesting season begins in May, babies start hatching in July, and the season ends in October. Nests are found on beaches along the coastline; with luck, you can experience turtle hatchlings dashing toward the sea. Sarasota has the largest density of loggerhead sea turtles along the Gulf of Mexico. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Sea Turtle Viewing Opportunities page for the latest hatchling news.

Watch The Hatchlings’ Race To The Sea

Areas along the beach marked with caution tape indicate nest sites. When females lay their eggs, the marks left in the sand look like tire tracks reaching from the shoreline to the nest. Volunteers and researchers monitor the beaches looking for signs of nestings, mark the spot, then begin timing it to determine the hatching window. 

Pro Tip: Sea turtles are protected, so interaction is not allowed. Help by keeping the beach free of debris and obstacles, turning off any lights during nesting and hatching season, and observing activity safely. You gotta let turtles be turtles! Want to know more? Read up on

• How These Colored Lights Along Florida’s Coast Are Helping Save Sea Turtles
• 7 Ways To Help Protect Baby Sea Turtles During Your Beach Vacation

4. Horseback Riding On The Beach

You get a special feeling when you see a horse walking on the beach. Now, imagine swimming with them in a bay! That’s an experience available near Sarasota that I’m excited to share with my grandchild when she is a little older. For now, we can enjoy watching them from the shoreline at Palma Sola Bay in Bradenton. 

Feel The Gentle Power Of These Beautiful Animals

A few companies offer trail and beach rides in Tampa Bay, Bradenton, and Sarasota. Two highly rated companies are C Ponies and Florida Beach Horses. Some of these horses were rescued from unfortunate conditions, given a lot of love, and now enjoy doing what they love to do…playing! We’ve watched them from State Road 64 near Anna Maria Island and Robinson Preserve. Schedule a ride, or plan to be near the area around tour times to see these magnificent animals.

Pro Tip: Robinson Preserve is a great outdoor area with extensive boardwalk trails and a fun lookout tower.

5. Bishop Museum Of Science And Nature

I was surprised to find the largest natural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast in downtown Bradenton. If your grandchild is into dinosaurs like mine, they will be in awe of the life-sized mastodon skeleton in The Bishop Museum lobby. Beyond that, they can explore the natural world from prehistoric times, experience the Planetarium show, and more. The interactive style of the museum makes learning seem like play.

Backyard Play, Live Manatees, And The Moon

Enjoy story time in the Mosaic Backyard, which is equipped with a treehouse and room to explore. The Lego zone, where you’ll find more legos than you want to step on, will ignite their architecture and building creativity. Skeletons of manatees and sea turtles are upstairs, right next to the tank with live manatees in the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat. My granddaughter enjoyed watching them eat the floating romaine lettuce. 

Pro Tip: After a few hours here, you can eat downtown (plan ahead with our picks for 10 Favorite Restaurants In Bradenton) or explore the Bradenton Riverwalk.

6. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

They say that plants help boost moods, increase creativity, reduce stress, and eliminate air pollutants, so spending an hour or two at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a surefire way to feed your grandchild’s inner zen. There are two campuses totaling 45 acres. Selby Gardens, near downtown Sarasota, is 15 acres, and Spanish Point in Osprey is 30 acres.

Pro Tip: The gardens light up during the holidays, when you can stroll the grounds, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy the season’s magic.

Explore The Rainforest And Climb Among The Trees

Little ones will enjoy the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden and the treetop walkway at Selby Gardens. My granddaughter highly recommends the large garden chimes and tree swing. The colorful, oversized frogs are fun, too! Be sure to stop at the koi pond, where you can feed fish the size of your arm. They swim right up to the water’s edge. A special audio Family Tour, perfect for school-aged kids, presents garden information in a family-friendly manner. 

They moved the butterfly house to Spanish Point, but you may see some butterflies in the butterfly garden. As of this writing, construction is active for their expansion; however, most everything is open.

Pro Tip: Bayfront Park is a few blocks down the street. Bring a picnic lunch, head to the tiki restaurant on the sand, and enjoy the park, fountain, and playground to finish the day. 

7. Ride The Legacy Trail

The Legacy Trail is an 18-mile, multi-use paved trail that runs from Sarasota’s Payne Park, the former Spring training home for major league baseball, to the Old Venice Train Depot and Caspersen Beach via the Venetian Waterway Trail. It’s built on a former railroad, so street crossings are minimal, and several overpasses safely cross major streets. Much of the trail is shaded, and historical markers tell the county’s story. Many trailheads have a park experience with playgrounds and restrooms. You can rent a bike, trike, or e-bike and explore this much-loved trail.

A Multi-Use Paved Trail Everyone Can Enjoy

You don’t have to ride the entire trail to enjoy it! Little ones will enjoy the trailhead parks, older kids may enjoy Payne Park’s skate park, and one trail section goes through Oscar Scherer State Park. The closest access to that section is the Osprey Trailhead; if lucky, you may see baby alligators and other wildlife.

Pro Tip: Friends of the Legacy Trail started a surrey program in 2023 so those with reduced mobility can enjoy the trail! Volunteers pedal up to four people in a covered surrey. Reservations are required, and dates are limited, but the ride is free.

8. Siesta Key — The #1 Beach In The U.S.

Visiting Sarasota is only complete after a day at the beach! Siesta Key is known for its white crushed quartz sand that feels like powdered sugar. It’s cool to the touch, even on the hottest days, so little ones won’t need to hop-step over burning sand! The Crescent Beach area has a large parking lot, restrooms, and amenities. If you can, plan to stay for the sunset. You will not be disappointed!

Sand Castles And Salty Breezes

From Sarasota Beach to the north to sleepy Turtle Beach on the south, you’re sure to find a patch of sand you love! Turtle Beach has that Old Florida feel, smaller crowds, a campground, and grills. You may spot manatees swimming in the lagoon.

The area around Siesta Village has more beach stores, restaurants, and congestion. The free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley runs between Siesta Key Village and Turtle Beach, or you can rent bikes or scooters. So, keep the car parked and head to the village for a bite to eat, ice cream, sweets, and beachy shops. 

Crescent Beach holds the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand International Sand Sculpting Festival in November. It takes several days for the sculptors to complete their work, so they rope off the area leading up to the event. You will be amazed by the artistry!

Pro Tip: During busy seasons, the area is congested (as expected). Crescent Beach has the largest parking lot and the most people. As you drive along Beach Road, watch for small pullouts on the Gulf side with unpaved parking if you want a smaller crowd and are okay with fewer amenities. For outdoor dining with a tropical vibe, try SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) in Siesta Key Village and Spearfish Grille on Old Stickney Point Road, where they stack boats for storage.

9. Ringling Museum

“The Circus Kings, Our Ringling Family Story” described early Sarasota as “half fishing village, half Western cow town.” The Ringlings fell in love with this jungle jewel, and Sarasota eventually became the winter home for the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus. John and Mable Ringling built their winter estate and filled it with art treasures from around the world with the idea of someday gifting it to Florida.

Venetian-inspired Ca’ D’Zan sits on prime real estate fronting Sarasota Bay. It hosted grand lawn parties on the pink-hued marble terrace, and today, you can visit the 66-acre complex for a glimpse into the life and legacy of the man behind The Greatest Show on Earth. His spark has made this area the Cultural Coast of Florida.

Explore Sarasota’s Circus Legacy

John Ringling was a man from humble beginnings, amassed enormous wealth during his lifetime, then died with just $313 in the bank. While not everyone is a fan of clowns, the circus is part of America’s legacy, a time when a child’s imagination came to life as acrobats dangled from impossible heights, larger-than-life beasts marched right before them, and, yes, colorfully painted clowns made them laugh (or cry!). It was a show they could see, smell, taste, and feel as the excitement and energy played out before their eyes.

There are six venues to explore at The Ringling, and the ones younger grandchildren will enjoy most are:

The Circus Museum: Tibbals Learning Center holds circus memorabilia. Kids can climb into a clown car, walk the wire, and get up close to a (faux) tiger for a chance to run off and join the circus, for the day anyhow. 

Ca’ D’Zan: 36,000 square feet, five stories tall, with incredible waterfront views, this is the Ringling Estate. The interior is just as magnificent as the exterior. 

Education Center: The classrooms for adult and child learning are here. Check their schedule for free family arts and crafts workshops. Afterward, you can enjoy the gardens.

Bayfront Gardens: You can stroll the grounds, including an arboretum, a rose garden, and an impressive row of banyan trees. Kids will enjoy the playground, turtles, birds, and running space! The museum has stroller tours that are a great way to enjoy the estate.

Pro Tip: As you walk down the row of banyan trees on the right side of the front of the mansion, watch for the cherub statue that the trees’ tendrils have swallowed up. You can see her face peeking out from the branches.

10. Hunt For Shark Teeth At The Shark Tooth Capital Of The World

Ten million years ago, the city of Venice was underwater and a popular habitat for sharks. As the water receded, the sharks died; today, only their fossilized teeth remain. With a keen eye and simple tools, you may find some to take home.

Fossils On the Beach And Hunting For Sharks Downtown

There are several Venice beaches to enjoy. Wear sunscreen, grab a kitchen strainer — or an official “Venice Snow Shovel” — then head to the shoreline that stretches from Venice Beach near historic downtown and the jetty to Brohard Park and Paw Park Dog Beach by the pier, and finally secluded Caspersen Beach. There are bathrooms at every beach, and some have additional amenities. You’re on the Gulf, so the waters are mostly calm. 

Continue your shark-themed adventure in Downtown Venice with a shark-spotting hunt. It’s a one-mile loop that begins at Centennial Park by the Interactive Fountain (splash pad) during which you’ll search for little bronze shark sculptures spread throughout downtown Venice. Find the map and clues online. Adults enjoy strolling through downtown Venice while the littles follow their treasure maps. There are 10 sharks to find but be warned, some streets are dangerous. 

You’ll be tempted as you pass by hard-to-resist sweets shops, ice cream parlors, and the aroma from downtown restaurants. My granddaughter loves to play in the fountain!

Pro Tip: Florida beaches are gorgeous most days of the year; however, there are days when red tide conditions (that is, the presence of harmful algae blooms) are high. This is troublesome for those with respiratory conditions. Avoid the beach on high red tide days; lower counts are usually not a problem. Current conditions can be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Red Tide Status page.

Are you yearning for a classic beach vacation but don’t want to deal with the crowds? I’ve discovered just the right place. North Carolina is known for its coastal vacation spots. It boasts mainly of a lively, high-spirited, “school’s out” type beach scene. Being a mature traveler, sometimes you just want to enjoy the beach at a slower pace.

On the southern shores of North Carolina, located just south of Wilmington, lies Oak Island. Part of the Brunswick Island chain, this 12-mile-long island is scenic and serene, with the Atlantic Ocean to the south and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) to the north. White sandy beaches, blue-green waters as far as the eye can see, and sand dunes covered with tall beach grass gently swaying in the breeze — idyllic for a quiet beach vacation away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy beaches and towns.

Oak Island is the quintessential piece of paradise: the perfect mix of quiet, lazy beaches and fun sightseeing activities. Here are some of the best reasons to visit Oak Island.

Things To Do On Oak Island

1. Oak Island Area Beaches

The number one reason people flock to the North Carolina coast is relaxation. You can relax plenty on Oak Island. Bring a book, spread out a beach blanket, and stab an umbrella in the soft, white sand. Go for a walk or bicycle ride on the beach. Search for seashells or watch the birds dive and dip into the water for their next meal.

If you are not staying right on the water, Oak Island has over 100 public beach accesses to both the beach and the ICW. You can find a list of these access points here as well as locations of restrooms and rinse stations.

Pro Tip: There are 20 handicap-accessible beach entry points, 10 of which are equipped with Mobi-Mats. The town of Oak Island’s Parks and Recreation Department offers beach wheelchairs for island visitors’ use. Reservations should be made well in advance as they fill up fast.

2. Watch The Sunrise Or Sunset

This is one of my favorite beach activities. With Oak Island being a south-facing island, it is one of the few places on the East Coast where you can catch amazing sunrises over the Atlantic and, on the same day, watch the sunset over the ICW.

I’ve found the best place to witness the sunrise or set is at, on, or under a pier. Oak Island has two piers: Ocean Crest and Oak Island Pier. Both are great for fishing or just taking a stroll. They both are excellent spots to watch the sun rise or set and capture the moment on film. You might even catch a glimpse of sea life swimming in the waves.

Pro Tip: Both piers are available for sightseeing and fishing, and both have restaurants. Oak Island Pier boasts Ruby’s Coffeehouse, and KoKo Cabana, a full-service restaurant. At Ocean Crest Pier, you’ll find Seahorse Eats and Drinks, a beer and wine bar and grill.

3. Oak Island Lighthouse

A must-see on any lighthouse lover’s road trip list is the Oak Island Lighthouse. Completed in 1958, it is North Carolina’s newest lighthouse. Oak Island Lighthouse is the first in the U.S. to use rotating LED technology. When the old light system motor failed, it gave them the perfect opportunity to explore a new cost-effective solution. The new LED system was installed in December 2020.

For amazing views, visitors can climb the 131 steps to the top via a private tour. Top Tours are limited and reservations must be made in advance (4–6 weeks in advance during the busy summer months). Free public open house tours, of the first floor only, are also available. Please see the lighthouse website for open house and Top Tour information and reservations, as well as Lighthouse hours and other pertinent information.

Pro Tip: The lighthouse has ship-ladder steps. Be sure to wear sturdy sneakers. Even without climbing to the top, visitors can easily spend an hour here and across the street on the boardwalk and observation deck. There are no restroom facilities.

4. Fort Caswell

Just past the Oak Island Lighthouse, out on the point of the island, lies the historic ruins of Fort Caswell. Constructed between 1826 and 1838, Fort Caswell played an important part in the Civil War and both World Wars. It was decommissioned in 1946.

Visitors can wander the grounds of the coastal fortress through ruins of buildings, and dungeon-like rooms of the old batteries. The old gun mounts, slit trenches, and other properties of maritime days are still to be found. It’s a great place for kids to run around and is wheelchair accessible.

Pro Tip: Today, this beautiful property is privately owned and used as a retreat and conference center. When retreats are not in session, it is open to the public for tours of the ruins and overnight stays. Reservations need to be made in advance online or by calling ahead on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

5. Water Sports

The crystal-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the ICW on the other make Oak Island the perfect spot for water-sport enthusiasts of all sorts.

Bring your own kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or you can rent on the island. At Long Beach Paddle Company, you can rent equipment and head out on your own, or take a guided tour.

Local Call Surf Shop, Oak Island’s only “true surf shop,” is where you can find all your surfing needs, from surfboards and skimboards to boogieboards, bathing suits, flip flops, sandals, glasses, and much more.

6. Golf

If golf is your game, you’re in the right place. Rated one of the Top 30 Hidden Gems of North Carolina, the Oak Island Golf Club is an 18-hole, 6,720-yard, George Cobb-designed course that meanders through Oak Island and Caswell Beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This is coastal golf at its finest for any golfer.

Also in Brunswick County, just 27 miles from Oak Island Golf Club, is the renowned Rivers Edge Golf Club. Designed by Arnold Palmer, this course runs along the bluffs and tidal marshes of the Shallotte River. Rated as a Top 10 Golf Course in North Carolina, Rivers Edge is one of the most spectacular courses you’ll ever play. 

Want more golf during your getaway? Read up on the nine best public golf courses in North Carolina.

7. Fishing

Fishing is abundant on Oak Island. Enjoy fishing from one of two ocean-side piers, the Intracoastal Waterway, and sloughs. Bring your own gear or rent.

Go out with the professionals on an Oak Island Fishing Charter boat or try your hand at surf fishing right on the beach. Oak Island Pier House, the bait and tackle shop, offers everything you need for a day of fishing.

Pro Tip: Oak Island Recreation Center offers surf fishing lessons. For more information and reservations, click here.

8. Oak Island Nature Center

This is a nice cool getaway from the beach. The grounds include a butterfly garden, animal exhibits, fossil exhibits, walking trails, a beautiful view of the Intracoastal Waterway, covered picnic areas, and a fishing dock.

Pro Tip: The Nature Center is small and the building may not be open, but you can still walk the trails and sit down by the water. Pack a picnic and have lunch in the shaded picnic area.

9. Scenic Ferry Rides

A great escape from the beach, for a few hours or a day, is to take a scenic ferry ride. Two ferry terminals are located about 20 minutes from Oak Island in Southport.

The Bald Head Island Ferry is a 20-minute, passenger-only ferry. The Fort Fisher Ferry carries vehicles and travels 35 minutes, one way, up the Cape Fear River. Both terminals have public restrooms, concessions, and plenty of local area information for newcomers.

10. Bald Head Island

If you take the ferry to Bald Head Island, enjoy a guided nature outing or ride along on a sea turtle patrol at the Conservancy Center. Hike through the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve or golf at the Bald Head Island Club.

“Old Baldy” is the oldest standing lighthouse (circa 1817) in North Carolina. The breathtaking view from the top is undoubtedly worth the 108-step climb to get there.

Pro Tip: I suggest planning a whole day exploring the island because the ferry fee is a bit high (to me) — over $20 for adults and over $10 for children (plus parking). Once there, you can rent a bike from Riverside Adventure Company, or a golf cart at Cary Cart Company. Both are located a short distance from the ferry landing.

11. Fort Fisher And Carolina Beach State Park

Fort Fisher State Historic Site is where the largest land-sea battle of the Civil War was fought. The tour trail is about a quarter-mile long and includes exhibits, a visitor center, and a small gift shop.

Did you know that the only place in America where the Venus flytrap grows in the wild is North Carolina? At Carolina Beach State Park, Venus flytraps and other wildflowers can be found along the easy, half-mile Flytrap Trail. It is part natural surface, part wooden boardwalk, and is handicap-accessible.

12. Shop In Historic Southport

Spend the afternoon shopping in Southport’s quaint, picturesque downtown. Stroll the ancient oak-lined streets admiring Victorian homes, coastal cottages, and historic buildings. Take in the sights and sounds of a true waterfront village by strolling along the boardwalk from the riverfront to the Southport Marina.

13. Swamp Park

Have you ever wanted to ride on a swamp boat? See alligators in their natural habitat? How about zip-lining through the treetops or getting muddy on an ATV? Adventure has no age limits! You can experience all this and more at Swamp Park, which is roughly 30 miles from Oak Island Beach.

Pro Tip: You could spend several hours here. Wear sneakers and bring a change of clothes. Chances are you will get wet or muddy.

Best Restaurants On Oak Island

One of the biggest reasons I like to travel to new places is to eat. If you are a seafood lover like me, you’ll love Oak Island. Not into seafood? You’ll find plenty of other options, including barbecue, burger and pizza joints, and more. Two of my oceanfront dining favorites are Island Way and The Lazy Turtle Oceanfront Grille. Other Oak Island favorites include Shagger Jacks, Salt 64, and Tranquil Harbor Restaurant.

Best Places To Stay On Oak Island

On Oak Island, you won’t find miles of super-sized, three- and four-story condos or dozens of high-rise hotels. The shoreline is dotted with smaller, single-family vacation rentals, rustic motels, and quaint bed and breakfasts. Perfect for a quiet, slower-paced getaway.

If you do prefer the amenities of a larger hotel, there are several in the Oak Island area within minutes of the beach, including Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Comfort Suites, and Hampton Inn & Suites.

For more Carolinas vacation advice, consider our beautiful Carolinas road trip: Asheville to Myrtle Beach, the 10 best hikes in stunning North Carolina, and why Emerald Isle is perfect for your next beach vacation.

Thanda Island, a remote, uninhabited teardrop of sand, in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Tanzania, is 20 acres of secluded paradise. One of the world’s most exclusive private island getaways, this is the perfect sanctuary to enjoy time with family.

Thanda was designed with families in mind. The owners wanted to create a paradise island where generations of families could come together, to reconnect and bond, away from the distractions and pressures of the outside world, and that’s exactly what we got to do during our recent stay…

Our Thanda Island Reunion Story

Zambia, in the heart of Africa, has been my home for more than 25 years. When COVID suddenly shut the world down nearly 3 years ago, my eldest son was training at the military academy in Australia, and my second son was studying at university in the UK. My family was scattered across the globe, and I had no idea when we would all be together again. Countries opened and closed borders like cuckoo clocks. Travel rules and regulations chopped and changed. No one knew, from one day to the next, what the situation really was. Could we travel? Should we stay home? What were the rules? We booked flights, only to have them canceled. We got our hopes up, just to have them dashed as lockdowns were extended.

But finally, here we were more than 2 years later, waiting at the airport in Zambia, ready to welcome our eldest son home for the holidays. Tears (mostly mine!) were flowing as he walked through the arrivals gate, and even my husband, usually stoic, turned away to surreptitiously wipe his eyes as we headed for the car and the drive home. Our youngest son, who had managed to return from England a few weeks earlier, was awaiting our return. A month together lay ahead of us, and I was determined to make it special.

Living in a landlocked country as we do, neighboring Tanzania and its warm ocean and sandy beaches were the destination of many a family holiday when our boys were growing up; it was perfect for swimming, sandcastle building, collecting shells, and more. I felt another Tanzanian beach holiday was just what my family needed, but given that my boys were now in their 20s and sandcastles and shells had perhaps lost some of their charm, I decided Thanda Private Island would be the perfect choice.

The Location

Tanzania is a vibrant and beautiful country, blessed with the winning combination of superb big game-viewing areas and stunning tropical beaches. Tanzania’s beaches, especially those on its islands, are spectacular. While Zanzibar is probably the most popular and well-known island in East Africa, tiny Thanda Island, just 100 miles to its south, remains virtually unknown.

The 20-acre Thanda Island sits 30 miles from Tanzania’s mainland. It’s set in the Shungi Mbili Island Marine Reserve — a marine protected area situated between the Tanzanian mainland and the Mafia Island archipelago — and opposite Africa’s largest game reserve, Selous. Thanda is only 1,148 feet wide and a bit over half a mile in circumference — it takes less than 15 minutes to walk around!

The shark fin-shaped triangle of sand is surrounded by coral reefs that protect it from stormy seas, and aside from your fellow guests and island staff, the only sign of human life is the occasional traditional fishing dhow on the horizon. This is Robinson Crusoe territory, but with all the luxury one could desire and Tanzania’s vibrant largest city, Dar es Salaam, just a 35-minute helicopter flight away.

Pro Tip: Thanda Island only rents on an “exclusive use” basis; guests have the entire island to themselves for the duration of their stay.

Accommodation

At the heart of the island is an elegant beach-house villa. More Hamptons or Cape Cod design than typical Tanzanian beach style, five double-bedroom suites all lead directly to the beach, and there’s an expansive living area with a private library, grand piano, wine collection, cigar humidor, and an indoor aquarium filled with tropical fish. Outdoors is a dining area with 180-degree views over the ocean and a glass infinity pool.

Further accommodation is available on the other side of the island, in two double-story thatched chalets built with local materials — perfect for members of your group who want a bit more seclusion.

Good To Know: All this comfort does not come at the cost of the environment — air-conditioning and fresh water are provided by power from the lodge’s own solar farm (the second largest in Tanzania).

Dining

Thanda Island cuisine is fresh and delicious: fish, prawns, freshly caught lobster and mangrove crab, beef, game, poultry, vegetarian dishes, seasonal vegetables, and tropical fruits. From the villa’s magnificent dining table to alfresco dining on the beach under a canopy of stars, enjoy wood-fired pizzas, sandbank picnics, breakfasts on the beach, and Swahili feasts dedicated to the flavors, spices, and aromas of Tanzania — if you can dream it, Thanda’s chefs can produce it!

The Beach

The beach at Thanda Island is everything you could desire. White sand stretches around the edges of the island, fringed by glittering water in shades of turquoise. This is a beach perfect for sunbathing or shell-collecting walks. At night, beach dinners or simply sitting around a crackling beach bonfire are a wonderful end to the day.

The Marine Reserve

Step off the shimmering sand and into the waters off Thanda Island and you’ll find yourself in Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, the largest marine protected reserve in the Indian Ocean and the only private marine reserve along the entire East African coast. The marine reserve is filled with extraordinary marine biodiversity — coral reefs,, dugongs, dolphins, five species of sea turtles, and more.

Thanda employs an in-house marine biologist who documents local sightings, guides guests on dives and snorkeling expeditions, nurtures the Thanda Island reef restoration project, and works closely with NGO Sea Sense to protect the endangered sea turtles who nest on Thanda’s shores.

Whale Sharks

For me, the highlight of the waters around Thanda was the gentlest giant of the ocean, the whale shark. Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most amazing ocean experiences you can have. Being up close with these creatures, who can grow to an astonishing 40 feet (about the size of a school bus!), is an incredible part of the Thanda Island experience. Despite their name, whale sharks are harmless, feasting only on plankton (just like whales). Due to their gentle nature, you can actually swim right alongside them.

Pro Tip: Whale sharks, the largest fish in the world, are found just south of the island from October to March.

Water Sports

Being situated within a marine reserve makes Thanda Island perfectly located for water sports. The reefs around the island offer wonderful snorkeling, and the resident snorkeling guide can show you blue-spotted stingrays, trumpet fish, cornet fish, jewel damselfish, and countless other colorful tropical fish. If you don’t fancy or need a guide, you can simply don a mask and fins and dive into the water to take a look for yourself.

Scuba diving is another favorite activity. The waters around Thanda teem with unique marine life, including a diverse range of coral reefs and over 400 species of fish. If you aren’t a diver and want to learn, this can also be arranged at Mafia Island Diving on nearby Mafia Island. Dives are done from traditional Arab dhows in the Mafia Island Marine Park, which has some of the most spectacular diving off the East African Coast.

Depending on the season, guests can watch turtles nesting, and for those looking for something above the water, a boathouse full of equipment has everything you need for sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. Adrenaline junkies can try their hand at water skiing and tubing — a very patient boatman spent hours helping my youngest master wakeboarding. Deep-sea fishing is available too, and the island is outfitted with all the equipment you need, including a 28-foot reef runner cat to reel in tuna, kingfish, and more. For those who prefer a more sedate pace, a cruise on a traditional dhow is a good option.

Pro Tip: Children are welcome to fish — or learn how to — and the fishing season is from September to March, with sailfish from November to January.

Other Island Activities

I loved the white, gray, and black egrets that nest on the island. This is the perfect environment for them and they breed very successfully here, judging by noisy interactions between parents and hatchlings.

For the more sports-minded, there’s a full tennis court, volleyball court, yoga sessions, and a fully equipped gym.

Wellness and happiness sum up Thanda’s ethos, and the island’s beauty and massage specialists have created a full range of special massages, facials, and body treatments that will have you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed in no time at all — I visited the spa on a daily basis!

The Neighboring Islands

As wonderful as Thanda Island is, you may wish to explore some of the neighboring islands. A 30-minute boat ride away is Mafia Island with mangrove thickets, ancient baobabs, and the picturesque Chunguruma forest to explore, as well as hippos, flying foxes, and bush babies. You can visit a local fishing village and see how traditional dhow sailing boats are built. The islands of the Mafia Archipelago are also home to antiquities dating back to the 11^th century, and various ruins can be visited, including a beautiful, barrel-vaulted mosque from the 15^th century and a number of well-preserved buildings from the latter half of the 18^th century.

A little further afield is Dar es Salaam — a thriving harbor city on the mainland with a colorful mix of African, Arabic, Indian, British, and German architecture and culture — and where you can shop the markets for colorful African textiles and souvenirs. Alternatively, a visit to Zanzibar, the legendary spice island, is another option. The historical center, Stone Town, is a fascinating place to explore and a spice tour is a great activity to sign up for. For these excursions, a helicopter flight from the island can be arranged.

I never get to spend enough time with my grandchildren. They’re getting older now, and very involved in their own activities. So when my daughter told me she’d booked a cruise on Royal Caribbean with them for the holidays, my husband and I offered to come along. 

No matter which Royal Caribbean ship you cruise on — they have 20+ ships in their fleet, from smaller boats with fewer decks to 5,000-passenger Oasis-class ships — what you can count on is outstanding live shows and entertainment, flexible dining options, family-friendly cabin design, and a Kids Club for those 6 months to 17 years old. These are just some of the perks that make cruising with Royal Caribbean an ideal multi-gen vacation, especially for seniors. 

For us, Royal Caribbean’s Allure Of The Seas provided the perfect backdrop to create lasting memories. I looked at the pictures of the ship out of Galveston, Texas, and knew it would be an over-the-top experience. The departure port and parking were convenient, so I embarked on the ship along with my daughter and her husband, plus their four children. 

The cruise was fabulous, and we made so many wonderful memories together. Here are my key tips if you cruise on Royal Caribbean with your grandchildren.

Note: I was a guest of Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, but my opinions are my own. 

1. Download The Royal Caribbean App As Soon As Possible

The Royal Caribbean International app allows you to do so many things, like plan your port excursions ahead of time or reserve activities like cupcake decorating or sushi-making classes — such fun things to do together. Many fill up and are sold out, so download the app, ASAP. You can also make show and dining reservations and buy beverage and internet packages. The best part is you can actually plan each day of your cruise before you even set sail.

Set Up Your Onboard Chats

If you’re cruising with extended family or friends, your most important communication is with them. “Where are you? What time are we going to dinner? are destined to be your most common queries. The app allows you to set up a chat with the members of your group by connecting to the free Wi-Fi. 

You’ll see three dots in the top right. Open it and invite members of your party to join the chat. Once they accept your invitation to connect, you’re free to message them with pertinent details. It took me 2 days to figure this out.

2. Study The List Of Shows And Events

Mamma Mia!, Hairspray, and Grease are just a few of the popular onboard musicals offered by Royal Caribbean, and they’re all family-friendly. Make sure you make your reservations on your app as soon as you can, as the shows tend to fill up. 

We loved the performance of Mamma Mia! and sang all of the songs together. The Ice Games show was spectacular, as well, keeping everyone mesmerized with skating skills, flips, and athletic prowess.

My granddaughter Riley really wanted to go to the ’70s party on the promenade. We joined hundreds of other disco lovers as we danced late into the night. Another evening, she wanted to do the HUSH Silent Party. She knew what it was. I had no idea. You put on headphones and tune into the same DJ spinning the songs. There’s no loud music to talk over and we had an awesome time belting out our favorite songs. 

Karaoke and a Family Feud–style game also let us create great memories together. Ditto for the carousel and mini-golf on the Boardwalk.

What to take a spin on the ice yourself? Don your skates and off you go on the ice skating rink, available on all Voyager, Freedom and Oasis-class ships. If you dare, zipline across the ship or take the challenge on the rock climbing wall (found on Oasis-class ships); if not, watch your grandkids do it with ease. And for something a little tamer, ride the carousel at sea (found on Oasis-class ships) or try the bumper cars (found on Quantum-class ships).

3. Creatively Shout Out Your Family Name

It was very cute to see three and four generations of families all wearing the same T-shirts, hoodies, or pajamas on board. I wished I had thought of that.

4. Try New Things

This is your chance to be open to new experiences. When you go off on your shore excursions, take a moment to talk with the locals and ask them about their lives. Expose your grandchildren to different cultures, and give them a chance to broaden their understanding of a world very different from their own.

Even if you don’t choose an excursion, get off the boat and walk around the port. Taste a new fruit at a stand. Check out the local snacks, chips, and candies. You may acquire some new favorites. Buy some souvenirs that will provide a lasting memento of your adventures.

I brought my granddaughter to the Art Auction, and she learned about artists Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, and Peter Max. I think this is just the kind of thing that will stay with her.

5. Check Out The Adventure Ocean Kids’ Club

There are times when you all need a little downtime, and Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Kids Club is just the thing — plus it’s complimentary. 

The clubs are divided into age groups, and trained professionals work with the kids. Aquanauts is for kids 3–5 where my grandson Blake had a ball singing, creating arts and crafts, and playing games with the others. Explorers is for children 6–8 and my other grandson, Rory, was happy to do science projects, talent shows, and ice cream parties. For tweens 9–12, my granddaughter Bella did karaoke, played video games, and went on backstage tours. I saw teens playing in basketball tournaments, enjoying FlowRider surf simulators, and ziplining over the boat. My granddaughter Riley was happy to hang out in the teen lounge with her other friends. 

Note that the hours vary from sea days to port days. Extended babysitting hours are also available for a fee. All ships (besides the Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas) include nurseries for the littlest ones.

Pro Tip: Be sure to register your children on embarkation day. My daughter also signed a waiver so that both my husband and I could pick up the kids.

6. When In Port, Stay On Ship Time

Some of the ports we visited were in a different time zone, either an hour ahead or behind. Your best bet is to keep your watch on ship time so you don’t miss the boat when your ship is ready to depart. This is especially important if you’re on an excursion not sanctioned by the cruise line.

Pro Tip: Port days have different dining room schedules than sea days. Be sure to check the daily Cruise Compass to confirm their hours.

7. Explore All Onboard Dining Options 

The great thing about Royal Caribbean is that they offer so many places to eat, from epicurean culinary adventures to something quick and easy at the Windjammer Buffet. 

Kids love Johnny Rockets (an upcharge), but there are other specialty restaurants on Royal Caribbean ships. Oasis-class ships have Boardwalk Hot Dogs and The Donut Shop in their Boardwalk neighborhoods, and most ships have Sorrento’s pizza, Cafe Promenade, and soft-serve ice cream stations that are included with your cruise. 

If you’re looking for a quieter place to eat on an Oasis-class ship, head to the Park Café located in Central Park. They offer soup, salads, and sandwiches, along with great desserts. Once I discovered it, we had lunch there every day. I particularly enjoyed the make-your-own salad bar and prime rib sandwiches. 

The same is true with the Solarium (found on every Royal Caribbean ship) for breakfast. They offer the same delicious hot and cold buffet as the Windjammer, but it’s much smaller and easier to find your group or to find a place for your group.

8. Bring That Hawaiian Shirt

We were hesitant about packing one of those colorful Hawaiian shirts, but my husband was glad he did. He wore it several times, especially at Caribbean night.

9. Take Your Formal Pictures Before Your Last Night

We had planned to take cruise pictures on the last night, but there were no formal photography services or backdrops available. So we ran around the ship in our jeans with matching-colored t-shirts and found some cute spots to take our own.

10. Take Shore Excursions

Part of the joy of cruising is having new experiences in port that range from exotic beaches, ATV adventures, cultural experiences, and outdoor recreation. Before you decide which excursions to book, talk to your grandkids about what interests them, and go from there. 

Royal Caribbean offers an amazing collection of remarkable shore excursions on the island of Barbados: you can swim with the turtles, and observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. Hike through the rainforest and go tubing in an underground cave system in Belize. Visit the Chacchoben Ruins in Costa Maya. Your grandkids will love to swim with the stingrays in the shallow sandbars of Grand Cayman. Sailing with Royal Caribbean to the Bahamas means a stop at CocoCay, their own private island with access to a beautiful beach, food, drinks, and more. 

The Allure stopped in British Honduras as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Snorkeling, diving, and visiting Gumbalimba Park to hang out with monkeys and parrots was the highlight of Roatan, Honduras. Costa Maya is a little more laid back, and we went ashore to buy some of the artisan crafts. In Cozumel, we visited a chocolate factory to watch the manufacturing process. Of course, we got to sample the delicious chocolate and bring a few bars home.

All too soon it was time to return and go ashore in Galveston, but we were filled with memories of quality family time we spent together and adventures we would never forget aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure.

Pro Tip: If disabilities are an issue for you or your party, not to worry. There were plenty of people aboard enjoying the cruise in walkers, wheelchairs, and motorized vehicles.

Grand Rapids, Michigan’s second-largest city, is one of my favorite weekend getaways with the grandkids. We recently visited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Grand Rapids being named Beer City, USA, where Michigan ranks fifth in the nation for craft beer.

The seven things mentioned in this article include activities for grandkids of various ages. For example, I have two granddaughters, one 19 and one 3, so when we all get together for an outing, we must consider the wide range of ages.

Experience Grand Rapids hosted one of my visits to Grand Rapids.

1. The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum greets you with a pretty mosaic installed during ArtPrize 2009. The theme here is play; you won’t see any Don’t Touch signs. Instead, they feature hands-on interaction throughout the museum.

They offered an entire room of make-and-take art projects on the second floor. In addition to drawing, they offer a variety of elements that you can paste on paper to create a picture. The older kids enjoyed this as much as the younger ones. Keep in mind that the art area closes about an hour earlier than the rest of the museum.

We should have allowed more time here. As the museum was closing, the youngest complained that she didn’t get to finish making her pizza in the pretend pizzeria. I was also a bit disappointed, as she declared me her customer, and I didn’t get to eat that delicious-looking pizza she was creating.

You’ll find plenty of seating throughout the museum so that you can easily watch the kids while they play. But from experience, don’t start scrolling through your phone, as they’ll move on to the next activity, and you’ll be frantic.

Pro Tip: A child must accompany anyone over 18 who enters the museum. An adult must accompany anyone under 18.

2. Mitten Brewing Company

The family-friendly Mitten Brewing Company is a place every generation will enjoy. The adults appreciate the beer, while the younger crowd will find the house-made, draft, non-alcoholic root beer a special treat.

Everyone will enjoy the pizza. While breweries offer beer flights, you can order a flight of pizzas at Mitten Brewing, so the whole family will get what they like including the teen vegan in your group. Any six specialty pizzas, including the weekly special, can create a pizza flight. The flight, served on a wooden paddle, produces a meal that feeds four.

The 120-year-old building is a former Victorian-era firehouse, Engine Number 9. So, details like the fire pole and exposed brick are evident. However, the theme of today’s brewery is baseball. And you won’t miss Michigan’s favorite baseball team, as all televisions are focused on the game when the Tigers are playing.

Register for the digital Brewsader passport, where collecting eight electronic stamps will earn you a free T-shirt.

Pro Tip: While they don’t take reservations, sign up for the waitlist on Yelp to reduce your wait.

3. The John Ball Zoo

The John Ball Zoo showcases over 1,800 animals from five continents, so we did some pre-planning to take full advantage of our day at the zoo. First, I downloaded their map from the website to get an idea of where the animals live in the zoo. Then, I made a plan for when the daily animal programs happen so I could maximize our participation. You will need to double-check once you arrive to ensure the day’s agenda hasn’t changed.

In addition to viewing the animals, there are other activities you won’t want to miss. You can ride the funicular to the top near the Bissell Tree House Event Center. The kids may also want to participate in face painting, the ropes course, ziplining, or camel rides.

Plan to take a picnic lunch or buy lunch at the zoo. You’ll undoubtedly need energy for the activities they offer at the zoo.

Pro Tip: The zoo, a seasonal destination, closes from late fall through early spring.

4. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Lena Meijer Children’s Garden

Since Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is about 5 miles from downtown and the other museums, we started our day there and worked our way back downtown. The sculpture park is one of the world’s top 100 most visited museums, where a narrated 45-minute tram tour will give you a quick overview of the 158-acre sculpture garden. The sculpture park holds over 50 sculptures by artists like Rodin and Degas. That tour works well for the older ones, but the kids’ tram tour is perfect for the littles. The kids’ tram tour includes everyone getting off the tram and exploring the sculptures. Then docents conduct a sing-along appropriate to each sculpture. For example, when viewing Sean Henry’s Lying Man sculpture, they sing “Are You Sleeping”? What a fun way for the littles to explore art at their level.

The 5-acre children’s garden is the largest in the United States. The kids will love digging for fossils in the rock quarry or stretching their legs with a climb in the tree house. Another favorite in the children’s garden is the five senses area. The kiddos can experience all five senses — touch a soft lamb’s ear plant, see the flowers’ vivid colors, hear the water run in the water feature, and smell and perhaps taste the mint leaves.

Another favorite is the Great Lakes water feature, where they can have a great view of how Michigan sits among the Great Lakes. I mean, what kids can resist getting wet?

Our favorite time to visit is spring, for the Butterflies are Blooming exhibit. The Conservatory explodes with over 7,000 tropical butterflies. The little ones learning about the life cycle of a butterfly can see them at every stage — chrysalis, cocoon, caterpillar, and butterfly.

Pro Tip: Bring the kids an extra outfit in case they get wet at the Great Lakes water feature.

Before visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, take a few minutes to review this article before you go: Everything To Know Before Visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

5. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Gerald R. Ford, the 38^th president, grew up in Grand Rapids, where the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is today.

As a University of Michigan alumni, I loved telling my grandchildren about Ford’s time at the University of Michigan. He was a center on the Wolverine football team.

The museum includes an exhibit of the 1976 Bicentennial. They also have a replica of the Oval Office on display. In addition, they showcased some of Ford’s interests through a rotating display — for example, the space program.

Pro Tip: Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library is in Ann Arbor, not Grand Rapids. If you want to include the library in your visit to Michigan, you’ll need another day to enjoy it, as the drive between the cities is about 2 hours.

6. Grand Rapids Public Museum

Grand Rapids Public Museum is Michigan’s second-largest museum and one of its oldest. The museum’s permanent exhibits focus on history, science, and culture. In addition, they frequently offer rotating exhibits, so you’ll always find something new. For example, we’ve seen displays from the Titanic to the Wonders of Ancient Egypt. This museum is suitable for older kids who enjoy history and culture.

The littlest ones will have a great time on the carousel, where they can ride a traditional carousel horse or even a giraffe.

Our 3-year-old loved the Doll Collection, where the doll house sported a Please Touch sign. A table with place settings made for perfect pretend afternoon tea.

Pro Tip: The Amway Grand Plaza, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is in downtown Grand Rapids and within walking distance of many of the downtown attractions mentioned in this article.

7. Make Pasta At The Local Epicurean

What kid doesn’t love spaghetti? I know this is our family’s go-to for those picky-eating kiddos. And I’ve also found that kids are likelier to try foods they’ve been involved in making, no matter their age, because they know what’s in the dish.

Our family enjoys taking cooking classes while we’re on vacation, then we have a memory and a future meal to remember our trip. The Local Epicurean is a Grand Rapids Italian market offering private cooking classes. Call ahead to get one scheduled. You can choose your menu and plan the time that fits best with the rest of your activities. I suggest taking the cooking class around lunch or dinner time. Then you have an activity and a meal all in one.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying in a vacation rental, you can also purchase some handmade lasagna to bake and serve for a family-style meal at your rental.

For more information on places to eat, drink, and things to do, check out these articles on Grand Rapids:

• 7 Fantastic Breweries To Visit Along The Beer City Ale Trail
• 7 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Grand Rapids, Michigan: Where To Stay, Eat, And Play

Situated within walking distance of downtown Traverse City on East Front Street, Delamar Traverse City is an upscale boutique resort. Nestled by Lake Michigan’s shoreline, the 173-room full-service hotel will welcome you year-round.

What I enjoy the most about Traverse City is that it’s right on the Grand Traverse Bay and Delamar has stunning water views and a waterfront patio. Add to that the local art galleries, boutiques, antique shops, and eateries in the downtown area, and you won’t need to get into your car to have a great time. But if you venture out for a drive, you’ll be near some of the best vineyards and wineries in the nation. Nature is also a significant attraction with Sleeping Bear Dunes, a four-season national lakeshore park that features miles of hiking and biking trails.

While you’re in Traverse City, make your base camp the Delamar Traverse City. Here are nine reasons why the whole family will love that decision.

Delamar Traverse City hosted my stay; however, the opinions expressed are my own.

1. Location, Location, Location

While visitors from surrounding states typically arrive after a road trip, Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) services this northwest Michigan town via Delta, American, United, and Allegiant airlines. The hotel’s amenities include a 24-hour airport shuttle and plenty of free on-site parking.

One reason the whole family will love Delamar Traverse City is its proximity to downtown Traverse City, which is steps away from local boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. This means that you won’t be dependent on transportation if someone wants a change of scenery for a bit. If you prefer not to walk, request the hotel shuttle at the valet desk, and they’ll give you a lift.

2. Stunning Views

The lobby features stunning views of the bay through floor-to-ceiling windows, a deck, and a roaring elongated fireplace to sit and enjoy a good book.

While seats near the window at the Artisan Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern inside the Delamar showcase a beautiful view of the West Bay, they also feature outdoor dining on a deck that positions you closer to the water. Make your dinner reservations for sunset; dinner will be even more memorable.

3. Fireplaces And Firepits

With fireplaces and firepits throughout the property, you’ll be just as comfortable on crisp fall days as in the summer. The lobby area is in the rear of the property, so you won’t be interrupted by new guests checking in off the parking lot.

The main dining room in Artisan Waterfront Restaurant boasts a large fireplace to make those comfort food meals in the fall even more special. Comfortable sofas and chairs encircle a hand-crafted Swedish farmhouse fireplace for a cozy evening by the lake.

4. Artisan Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern

Artisan Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern features a Great Lakes-inspired menu reflecting the seasons. Sustainability is an essential aspect of the menu. Serving lunch and dinner daily, you’ll find yourself returning to try that other special dish you couldn’t fit in on the first visit.

Some of their signature dishes include a Great Lakes Chowder ladled over a mound of smoked whitefish and served with house-made fennel crackers. Another local favorite is the Michigan Lobster Roll, where they replace lobster with local whitefish, made with apples, corn, fennel, and dill, and served on grilled brioche. It’s then topped with crispy shallots.

Of course, you’ll find locally grown cherries on the menu in various forms. Michigan is the nation’s leading producer of tart cherries, and they show up in desserts, salads, and even dishes like bruschetta.

5. Heart Of Michigan’s Wine Country

Traverse City sits on the 45th Parallel, the halfway point between the equator and the North Pole. That’s the exact parallel of the great wine regions of France and Italy. You’ll find more than 40 wineries in the area, where many vineyards offer on-site hiking trails. Additionally, be sure to taste the hard cider offerings. Sip a cider flight in one of the tasting rooms, and you’ll enjoy sampling and scenic views.

6. Fitness Studio

You’ll find Yen Yoga Fitness, an on-site fitness studio that offers yoga and workout classes. Hotel guests receive a discount on their courses. When you call to make your reservation or register for a class online, note that you are a Delamar guest. They’d even provide you with a sanitized mat if you forgot your yoga mat.

On Friday afternoons, they have a Lavender Chill Restorative and Vino activity that will help you wind down from the crazy week you’ve just had. The session concludes with a lavender and peppermint-infused cloth, and then the group moves to Artisan for a glass of wine.

7. Family-Friendly Activities

You could spend your entire stay in the hotel, that’s how much you’ll find to do there. Delamar features two heated pools, one indoors and one outdoors. They heat the outdoor pool year-round, and the indoor heated pool features a sauna and jacuzzi for some added luxury.

The lawn games on the terrace fit the bill for families that enjoy a bit of competition. Challenge the reigning bocce ball or cornhole champions or give giant Jenga a try.

Heading outdoors, guests enjoy dining under the lakeside pergola, lounging by the fireplace, or meeting friends at the bar for cocktails or a game of bocce ball. Several nights a week during the summer, they feature live music.

If you want to get out on the water, they offer on-site watercraft rental and Nauti-cat sailing charters to make it easy.

8. TART Trail

If you decide to venture out, the paved, non-motorized Traverse Area Recreation and Transit (TART) Trail is a 10.5-mile-long route that you can access just steps from Delamar. You can bike, walk, jog, or in-line skate. Renting a bike at one of several local bike shops is a fun way to get out and explore, then rest a bit at one of the restaurants or wineries on the trail.

9. The Art

While the stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay are paramount, you’ll find plenty of eye-catching art throughout the property. For example, a mural that represents the tree of life, hand-painted by Stockholm artist Jonas Wickman, graces the walls in the Artisan Restaurant. In the main dining room, a second Wickman mural depicting birch trees reaching the sky is visible through glass walls encasing the “Birch Room.”

Pro Tip: While Traverse City is a year-round destination, I enjoy visiting in the warmer months. Spring affords the beauty of the cherry blossoms, summer showcases the cherries during the National Cherry Festival, and you can’t beat the spectacular fall foliage in mid-October.

• 7 Must-Try Traverse City, Michigan Restaurants
• Weekend Getaway To Traverse City, Michigan: The Best Things To See And Do
• The Special July Festival You’ll Want To Experience in Michigan
• How To Spend A Weekend At Sleeping Bear Dunes

Scottsdale’s reputation as a chic city filled with high-end shops and restaurants doesn’t mean families will not have a fantastic vacation here. The city offers so many activities that are fun for adults while entertaining kids of all ages. From parks to sports to museums, Scottsdale has a bit of everything. Here are many of the reasons why you should schedule your next family vacation in Scottsdale.

Things To Do In Scottsdale

1. McCormick Stillman Railroad Park

Scottsdale’s many parks provide places to stroll, play, and picnic. Parks spread throughout the city to ensure that there’s some nature to hang out in nearby no matter where you stay. One of my favorites is McCormick Stillman Railroad Park.

My family has enjoyed many fun days and evenings in this park. My daughter and I have traveled around the park on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and rode the horses of the Charros Carousel dozens of times. The renovated playground provides many options for climbing, swinging, and sliding, while the miniature western town sparks imaginative play. You can also explore the model railroad museum, the 1928 Pullman Car used by presidents, and the Merci Train car which delivered aid to the French people during WWII. Large lawns host picnics and areas for throwing balls and Frisbees.

Pro Tip: For several months in the spring, the park stages concerts every Sunday evening with food and ice cream to purchase. Arrive early to find space for your blanket near the stage and take a train ride before the music starts.

2. Chaparral Park

If you traverse this 100-acre park from north to south, you can learn about desert flora in the xeriscape park, watch the joyous hounds in the dog park, and catch a local game of baseball or soccer. Then, shoot some hoops or hit the playground — a compact, safe tangle of slides, swings, and climbing structures. Around the lovely lake, build your muscles at the 10-station exercise course or have a picnic while watching the geese and the two eagles that frequently visit. Along the western edge of the park, embark on the Indian Belt Wash Greenbelt, which takes advantage of parks, golf courses, and the green belt to provide 11 miles of path to walk or bike.

3. McDowell Sonoran Preserve

To truly experience the desert landscape, head to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. There are many trails of various lengths and difficulty levels, perfect for the abilities and desires of your family. My favorite launching point is at the Gateway Trailhead. A large parking lot, clean restrooms, and a water station await your visit. The options range from the flat and wide nature trail with informative placards to the almost 10-mile loop with stunning views through Bell and Windgate Passes. The Gateway Loop, the most popular trail, will provide a fun, moderate hike for most families.

Pro Tips: Be aware of and prepare properly for the weather. Once the sun comes up over the mountain, there is very little shade and you can overheat quickly. Carry more water than you think you will need. If you come across a rattlesnake, give it a wide berth. The only two I have seen were on the farther trails, but they can be anywhere.

4. Spring Training

Baseball fans and anyone looking for a fun day in the sun can visit Scottsdale Stadium, home of the Giants, and Salt River Fields, home of the Diamondbacks and Rockies MLB Spring Training stadiums. Outside of Spring Training, Salt River Fields also holds many festivals and hosts the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens.

5. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum Of The West

Nestled in downtown Scottsdale, the collection of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West ranges from artifacts such as spurs and saddles to exceptional paintings and sculptures by western artists. The youngsters can clamber aboard a stagecoach and pose in a 3D camping scene. Everyone can learn about Western history and culture through the museum’s permanent and special exhibitions.

6. Festivals And Art

Scottsdale abounds with art and festivals that families can enjoy during their stay. The Scottsdale Waterfront hosts many festivals throughout the cooler months. Canal Convergence spans a couple of weeks in November and entails elaborate sculptures spanning the canal and various light displays. There are interactive pieces along the sidewalk and flame-shooting sculptures within the canal timed to a musical show. Scottsdazzle brings concerts and fun activities during December. You can also attend various food and crafts festivals and concerts.

The Civic Center Plaza offers space to relax and play as well as various types of events. A complete renovation is due to be finished in January 2023 with a new splash park and improved open-air concert spaces. Many street art pieces dot the downtown area, from the colorful mosaics of Pinball Wizard and the soaring Soleri Bridge to the 26-foot-high One Eyed Jack.

Resorts That Delight The Whole Family

7. The Westin Kierland Resort And Spa

Everyone in the family will find many captivating moments at The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa. At Adventure Water Park, young children can wade into the shallow end of the spacious pool while bolder children ride the water slide and teenagers brave the Kierland FlowRider. Those looking for a calm time can float on the lazy river and lounge in the shade while sampling the cocktails and snacks. The youngsters can hang out at the Westin Family Kids Club or play in the OK Corral, while the adults hit a round of golf, luxuriate in the spa, or explore the Scotch Library.

Pro Tip: Just east of the resort, head over to Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter for plenty of outdoor shopping and dining options. Each has a central square with spaces to relax and a splash pad in Scottsdale Quarter.

8. The Phoenician: A Luxury Collection Resort

The sprawling pool complex of The Phoenician includes various options for families, from the Kids Zone with a slide and splash pad to several pools surrounded by lounge chairs and private cabanas. Whether you prefer golf, tennis, pickleball, or a game room, you will have plenty to fill your days. The pampering at the luxurious spa will refresh you with a steam room, sauna, relaxation room, and fabulous massages so that you are ready to spend time with the kids again.

9. Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

The rooms at Andaz consist of small bungalows with room to spread out and an outdoor patio. The atmosphere is calmer than most resorts but the pool still offers space for fun. Andaz sits near downtown Scottsdale, perfect for exploring the area, but is set off the main street under the gaze of Camelback Mountain.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

10. Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant

For an old-fashioned ice cream parlor where the treats retain the rich, creamy flavors you have loved since your childhood, you can’t beat the Sugar Bowl. A Scottsdale icon since 1958, the pink décor and the long, wooden soda fountain bar bring you back to the ‘50s. Choose from dozens of traditional ice cream flavors and dishes, just like the kids in the Family Circus Comics. A game room in the back gives the kids, and some adults, a great place to burn off some of that sugar high.

11. Grimaldi’s Coal Brick Oven Pizzeria

Before your ice cream, stop across the street at Grimaldi’s to watch the cooks hand-toss the dough, add your favorite ingredients, and pop the pizzas into the coal-fired brick oven. The hearty New York-style, thin-crust pizza aids in your recovery from a long day of playing in the pool or park.

Pro Tip: Share some cannolis, loaded with chocolate chips.

12. Brat Haus

Also in downtown Scottsdale, the Brat Haus boasts a large, off-street patio that can accommodate a family of any size. Choose one of their 28 craft beers on tap to wash down your Bavarian pretzel, Belgian-style fries, or choice of brat. If you brought your dog along on vacation, he is welcome to join you.

Families can share many experiences in Scottsdale all year long. Visit a park or museum, see a game, then relax in the pool before a fun meal. The sun will likely shine warmly down on you.

Pro Tip: Just a short drive from Scottsdale brings you many other opportunities for family fun. Two you don’t want to miss are the Phoenix Zoo and the Musical Instrument Museum. Depending on the weather, these are both perfect side trips within a half-hour drive for your Scottsdale stay.

Explore more of the Scottsdale area in articles like these:

• 9 Amazing Experiences In Scottsdale, Arizona In The Fall
• My 5 Favorite Luxurious Experiences At Scottsdale’s Top Resorts
• 7 Places In Old Town Scottsdale To Enjoy Local Wine

Aspen is practically a byword for a luxury vacation destination. It attracts skiers, naturally, but also those who simply love the scene. What a scene it is! The town abounds with shops, galleries, and one-of-a-kind restaurants. Everyone ought to take a day trip to this Rocky Mountain gem, but it’s far better to uproot the family and stay as long as you can.

Perhaps you are drawn by the thrills of winter sports. Skiing is the top one, but other wintertime activities include dogsledding and seeing the Christmas sights. Aspen’s glory, however, is evergreen, extending long after the snows melt. There’s hiking, a regular stream of festivals, and much more. Fall is a time of incredible bargains and colorful displays put on by the trees after which the town is named.

Mountain life is about more than just skiing. There is shopping, nightlife, fine dining, and family fun. The world has many mountains, but there’s only one Aspen. It stands out above the rest.

Famously luxurious, Aspen is home to many incredible homes. Below you’ll find a section of 10 of the finest. Each is ideal for a family vacation. They have room for everyone and provide access to Aspen’s delights, those found on the mountain as well as those in town.

Do note that prices fluctuate significantly throughout the year and the rates listed below reflect a year-round average.

Four Peaks Estate

It speaks to the brilliance of this property’s architects that every inch of the more than 13,000 square foot home looks impeccable. It sits on three majestic acres outside town, a short drive from all three skiable mountains. The location is stunning and the designers of this haven have truly done it justice, as the photographs will show. Each of the five bedrooms might be considered a “master” at a lesser home and is perfect for a large family getaway. From the windowed dining room to the leathered-up living room and home theater, there is something stunning behind every door.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

(0 Review)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 10 Guests
• Bedrooms: 5
• Bathrooms: 7

Top guest reviews

• Hello Blair, The Cuvee Starwood home was Fabulous and exceeded our expectations. The views are to die for and the accommodations the absolute best. The furnishings, linens, floorplan, were perfect, impeccable, fully stocked and tastefully decorated. We celebrated my husbands 60th Birthday and had a wonderful hands-on cooking experience with chef “Susie Jimenez” who made the night one of the most memorable evenings ever. The menu was over the top amazing and she was delightful! I would highly recommend her to anyone. The staff, Blair, Kait, management Ben, were extremely helpful, personable and accommodating. I would highly recommend this 5star resort home to anyone going to Aspen, a truly wonderful vacation. Thank you, Barbara”
• Hello Blair, The Cuvee Starwood home was Fabulous and exceeded our expectations. The views are to die for and the accommodations the absolute best. The furnishings, linens, floorplan, were perfect, impeccable, fully stocked and tastefully decorated. We celebrated my husbands 60th Birthday and had a wonderful hands-on cooking experience with chef Susie Jimenez who made the night one of the most memorable evenings ever. The menu was over the top amazing and she was delightful! I would highly recommend her to anyone. The staff, Blair, Kait, management Ben, were extremely helpful, personable and accommodating. I would highly recommend this 5star resort home to anyone going to Aspen, a truly wonderful vacation. Thank you, Barbara
• Everything about our experience with Four Peaks was incredible. Rita and Crystal did an amazing job taking care of our every need. If we needed anything, these two ladies took care of it immediately. The house was a dream. Stunning views and spacious rooms! We will return to this house in the near future!
• Everything about our experience with Four Peaks was incredible. Rita and Crystal did an amazing job taking care of our every need. If we needed anything, these two ladies took care of it immediately. The house was a dream. Stunning views and spacious rooms! We will return to this house in the near future!
• The property was gorgeous! I loved all the big windows throughout the house to see the beautiful mountain views. From the attention to detail, fresh appetizers upon arrival, and pre-trip planning, Cuvée made everything seamless and I can’t wait to visit Aspen again soon!

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Aspen Ski Den

Aspen has a lot to offer, from skiing to shopping to luxury homes. This large single-family home is a superb example of the latter, a property that allows guests to take in the former diversions with ease. Within walking distance of the heart of Aspen, it is in the perfect location with something to please everyone. Five splendid bedrooms have unique charms but share the principle that light ought to be let in. From charming brick walls to wood paneling, the home will please aesthetes with its non-ostentatious take on luxury living.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

(0 Review)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 10 Guests
• Bedrooms: 5
• Bathrooms: 4

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Victorian Home On The Eastern Edge

From the tranquil blue exterior to the restored 1930s bathroom, this Victorian home is a fine place for a mountain family. It is about a 10-minute walk from the slopes and shops that made Aspen famous. During that stroll, you’ll see few houses as charming as this one. The large backyard is naturally equipped with a hot tub and garden. Thoroughly modernized, the home retains quaint elements of how mountain life used to be, such as a wood-burning stove. Though rendered obsolete by the home’s radiant heating, it still provides a (less literal) sense of warmth.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (33 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 10 Guests
• Bedrooms: 5
• Bathrooms: 5

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Red Mountain Masterpiece

Taking careful note of the surroundings, architect Chad Oppenheim has created a home worthy of Aspen’s natural beauty. A unique building for a unique family, it is the cause of many jaws dropping and a perennial source of memory making. It makes bold use of the area’s natural materials and the gambit certainly pays off. The outdoor areas are as thoughtfully crafted as those inside. Large boulders, set down after millennia by receding glaciers, look suspiciously as though they have been placed intentionally. This getaway has four bedrooms and offers innumerable opportunities to experience awe.

Dreaming of – your dream vacation awaits you

• Maximum Occupancy: 10 Guests
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 5

Oops, this listing is currently inactive. Check out these alternative properties in the same location!

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Sprawling West Aspen Home

Aspen’s three mountains can accommodate a great many skiers. Likewise, this envy-inducing vacation home can host a large troupe of guests (18 to be precise). It’s in a great location in West Aspen, near the golf course and a shuttle stop that can carry the whole group to town and mountains alike. The home features plush carpets, posh furniture, and seven bedrooms in various configurations. Common areas abound, indoors and out. Guests would be remiss not to check out the backyard trail to Red Butte once the snows melt.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (14 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 18 Guests
• Bedrooms: 7
• Bathrooms: 6

Top guest reviews

• We needed a rather large place for a family reunion. With 7 BRs and 6 Baths this was a perfect fit. Great location in Aspen-about 2 miles to the airport and the same to downtown. The public free bus line stopped at our street giving easy access to everywhere. We highly recommend this home
• Great time bus stop one house down the street
• Large home with double kitchen and living rooms. We were only eight people and it was super spacious. Great home for a large group. Excellent views and we enjoyed the hot tub. Well equipped. Nice location on bus line.
• Excellent
• Very well appointed. Kitchens were both equipped well. perfect for a bubble group to enjoy each other and enjoy skiing aspen

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Mountain Laurel Springs

Enjoy a profound sense of freedom as you take in commanding views of Independence Past from this amazing Aspen home. Skiers and shoppers alike will appreciate the home’s proximity to the bus. The living room is truly grand, and not only because of its mountain views — the furnishings are also easy to admire. No one will feel left out as each bedroom is something to write home about, even the downstairs kids’ room with a pair of twins.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

(0 Review)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 8 Guests
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 3

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The Observatory

Like many mountain towns, Aspen is a great locale for stargazing. The best place to see the universe’s best and brightest is this landmark home in central Aspen. Built in the late 1880s, the house doubles as an observatory. The telescope has been upgraded, but the structure remains the same, as charming as ever. Not only a work of art in and of itself, but the Observatory also boasts a fine collection. There’s room for 12 overnight guests and seating for even more should you make use of the splendid kitchen to throw a dinner party. The whole family will take delight in exploring every corner of this unique vacation home.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (3 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 12 Guests
• Bedrooms: 6
• Bathrooms: 7

Top guest reviews

• The Cuvee team was wonderful host and the house was perfectly located in downtown Aspen. Great launching pad for ski adventure with friends.
• This was my second time staying at this property. The location is convenient for skiing access on Aspen Mtn, transportation at Ruby Park, and the whole downtown area. The property manager was exceptionally responsive to any issues that arose. Would definitely stay again.

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Robinson Road Ski House

A 12-minute walk to ski paradise, this four-bedroom home is itself quite heavenly. It has four bedrooms. Each has an en suite bathroom and a king-size bed. Two even have fireplaces of their own (residents of the other two will have to settle for the one in the homey living room). Other perks include a rooftop hot tub, a backyard pond, and conveniences like the next-door park and playground. It really is a family home: even the dogs are allowed for a $30-a-night fee. Extra guests will be comfortable on one of three sofa beds.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (45 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 12 Guests
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 5

Top guest reviews

• Great house and facilities. Excellent for our family gathering.Park near house was excellent for children play with just grandpa supervision.House had everything we needed and more.
• The house is perfect families and a great location. Easy walk to town.
• Perfect location for our son’s wedding. There was plenty of areas for us to be together and to get ready for our events. Thanks for sharing your home!
• Large, luxurious bedrooms. Convenient location and helpful hosts.
• Wonderful stay. The house was perfect location in Aspen. Will be back!

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Split-Level Condo At Aspen Alps

Getting the whole family to ski together is always a struggle. That is less true for guests at this incredible Aspen Alps condo. As a ski-in/ski-out accommodation, it’s easy to make sure everyone goes down together at least once. Two well-appointed bedrooms are on the lower level (a king and a room with two doubles). The glorious master suite is above, as is a queen room. The condo has a patio with a grill and gondola views, and a living room furnished with fine leather furniture.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (8 Reviews)

• Property Type: Condo
• Maximum Occupancy: 8 Guests
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 3

Top guest reviews

• Rating Details:The property manager was very helpful.The vacation rental was spotless.I was very happy with the location.I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.Reviewer Comments:We arrived for a three day stay to enjoy Aspen, enjoy foliage, see Maroon Bells , hike and take the Silver Queen gondola up Ajax. Condo was actually much nicer than pictures suggested. Excellent location next to the gondola, yet quiet and private. Great outdoor patio , huge living and dining room. A very fitting setting to celebrate my 70 th.
• Really nice place to stay in aspen. Your backyard is the gondola , can’t beat the location. Love having a back patio where you could sit outside and enjoy the Colorado air. The interiors are amazing , everything is clean. Nice we too with two bedrooms up and two down. Enjoyed the location immensely, would just walk down the slope a bit to the base of mountain where we would shop . Coffee, eat!
• What a fantastic place. We loved the property from the ease of getting into town as well out on the mountain. Couldn’t recommend it more highly!
• The unit is nice, however, bathrooms are in need of remodeling.
• Great condo with great location. Within walking distance of downtown. Ski in/ski out. There are a lot of stairs to get to condo but view is beautiful.

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Wonderfully Restored Home From 1888

A remarkable piece of evidence attesting to Aspen’s eternal draw, this home from the late 19th century shows that mountain life is not some passing fancy, but an everlasting obsession. A true family home, this house in central Aspen has character, all thanks to its pedigree and the diligence of its keepers. Many elements of the original design remain, such as bathroom sinks and exposed beams. The new additions (including buffalo leather sofas and faux-Victorian beds) by no means detract from the home’s character.

Dreaming of Aspen – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (14 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 8 Guests
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 3

Top guest reviews

• Everything was perfect highly recommend
• Thank you for sharing your home with us! Property exactly as listed and the host was very friendly and helpful. I hope to have opportunity to return.
• Great location and a cozy and comfortable house with nice back yard.
• What an amazing place – if looking to stay downtown in an charming home with great hosts, look no further.
• Our family had a wonderful stay over the Holidays. Plenty of space and we really enjoyed the ability to walk to everything we wanted to do. Dennis was very easy to reach and got back to us right away with answers to any questions.

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If you are looking to discover more in and around Aspen check out:

• Fantastic Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado During The Winter
• The Best Things To Do In Aspen Besides Skiing

Disclosure: TravelAwaits selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

From my home in Detroit, I have been traveling by Indianapolis for over 20 years to visit family in St. Louis, but I have never explored the city until recently. I always knew Indianapolis was a big sports town with the Indianapolis 500, the Pacers, the Colts, and in 2022, the College Football Playoff National Championship. However, until I visited, I didn’t realize that Indy has activities for all types, whether you’re a sports lover, history buff, or nature enthusiast.

Pro Tip: Staying downtown will save you time as most of these attractions are easily walkable.

Whatever you choose while visiting Indianapolis, you can guarantee your family will have a wonderful time. Here are nine fantastic things to do in Indianapolis for the whole family.

Note: Visit Indy hosted my visit, but all opinions expressed are my own.

1. White River State Park

Bring the whole family to experience culture, art, sports, and nature within White River State Park.

This 250-acre green space in the middle of downtown Indianapolis is the perfect place to start your Indy adventure, with its stunning view of the city skyline, public art, 3 miles of walking trails, and a central canal that runs alongside cultural, educational, and recreational attractions.

I spent almost a full day enjoying the abundant activities within this urban oasis. Besides strolling through the nationally renowned museums, you can rent kayaks and paddle boats to cruise around the canal. Or you can take a ride on a gondola. 

White River State Park is the perfect place to relax, get fresh air, walk the trails around the canal, or stay for a late-night concert. It offers countless things to do all in one place. 

Pro Tip: During the summer, Old World Gondoliers offer daily rides through the canal at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. You need to make reservations online to secure your spot. 

2. Eiteljorg Museum

Eiteljorg is one of only two museums east of the Mississippi exploring Native American and American Western art. Plan on spending an hour or two wandering through the museum, viewing the exhibits that tell a complex story of Native Americans.

The museum has two floors filled with special short-term exhibits that change periodically throughout the year, as well as permanent collections. Within the Native Art in North America area, you can learn about the culture of three Native American groups in Indiana and their emotional story of how they lost the right to their lands in the past. Today, Native American locals are teaching the younger generation how to persevere and maintain their traditions to pass them down to future generations. 

Eiteljorg is more than an art museum filled with photographs, multimedia, and sculptures; it also has hands-on activities for the kids. Children can dress in authentic costumes, hop into a stagecoach, try basket weaving, and build a tipi. The Eiteljorg Museum is a fabulous destination that will have you feeling like you escaped to the West.

3. Indiana State Museum

The Indiana State Museum has three floors of amazing galleries showcasing the story of the Hoosier state. The exhibits are in chronological order, so you can follow the flow of time from the rise and fall of the dinosaurs to the American Revolution, and from Indiana statehood to how American pioneers created the Hoosier identity. There are over 500,000 objects to see and plenty of hands-on activities for children of all ages to enjoy. 

I lingered watching the pendulum swing with the earth’s rotation and in the exhibit with photos of Hoosiers and how they are famous. The highlight, though, was the Popular Culture exhibit, which was fun to see how many of the items I had growing up. Who had the Trivia Pursuit board game, Cabbage Patch Kids, an Atari, and a Rubik’s Cube? 

Pro Tip: There are ramps and stairs leading from one exhibit to the next, but if you need them, there are elevators available to reach all floors.

4. Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is the first institution to be triple-accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. The zoo is mapped out into five sections — Oceans, Deserts, Plains, Forests, and Encounters — that cover over 64 acres. Your kids will love the encounters where they can watch them train elephants and pet sharks. Plan to spend at least a half-day in order to see all of the 3,800 animals. 

As one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, the Indianapolis Zoo contributes globally to conservation research, climate change research, and breeding projects for endangered species. They do a great job teaching visitors how essential conservation efforts are and show you how to help the Earth and the animals that live in it. 

Pro Tip: Buy your tickets online and save 50 percent. Pick the Total Adventure Package for animal feedings and unlimited rides, especially on the safari jeep roller coaster, where you can see the biggest group of orangutans in North America high in the sky. 

5. Monument Circle

Monument Circle is where you’ll find the Soldiers & Sailors Monument. This monument commemorates the courage of Hoosier veterans who served in wars before WWI. An observation deck at 274 feet offers a 360-degree view of the city skyline. 

The best time to visit Monument Circle is at night to see the spectacular light presentation, Shining A Light. It usually repeats nightly at 9:45, 10:15, and 10:45 p.m. The best viewing area is on the south steps of the monument to see the surrounding buildings lit up. What a great way to wind down a busy day.

Pro Tip: If visiting over the holiday season, the monument is decorated with 2,400 lights, making it one of the largest Christmas trees in the world.

6. Mass Avenue Cultural Arts District

Located just a few blocks northeast of Monument Circle, Mass Avenue is the heart of the city’s arts district. You can go to the theater, browse art galleries, get a quick bite to eat, or plan a full night out. While walking the 5-block area, you will see tons of gorgeous street art, including larger-than-life murals of famous Hoosiers, like Kurt Vonnegut and Mari Evans. You can spend a couple of hours browsing through the boutiques lining the street, which offer unique gifts for family and friends.

Pro Tip: Check out the Ann Dancing sculpture. Seeing the lady dancing in a box is quite a sight — and make sure to check out all four sides, as her shimmy is different.

7. An Evening Out In The Bottleworks District

You’ll find the uniquely reimagined Bottleworks District at the end of Mass Avenue. This cultural district used to be the world’s largest Coca-Cola Bottling Plant during the 1920s–50s and is now filled with bars, restaurants, boutiques, and plenty of other entertainment. This is a great area to end up in after a day of exploring. 

If you are hungry, you must visit The Garage Food Hall, where they have plenty of options for the entire family, including burgers, pizza, and ethnic foods. If you encounter bad weather on your trip, check out the Living Room, which has eight movie screens, or Pins Mechanical, which has duckpin bowling and over 40 pinball machines to enjoy. 

And be sure to try Modita, an Asian-inspired fusion restaurant offering fresh and unique ingredients for dinner. You will need to make reservations if you walk in from the street, as there is no guarantee that you will get a table as they continually sell out. Modita opens every day at 4 p.m. 

Pro Tip: To find the original Coca-Cola spiral staircase, enter the Bottleworks Hotel lobby with all its amazing bronze accents, walk past the billiards table, and then through the shiny bronze doors to see the impressive staircase. 

8. Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis

The ultimate five-level playground can be found at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The museum has enough interactive exhibits for the entire family to be kids for a full day.

Your children’s ages will determine which exhibit you visit first. You can immerse yourself into the world of dinosaurs, discover about a child’s life in different cultures, see the largest water clock, or ride the 1917 Carousel. 

But, wait, there’s more! There is a complete sports experience outside for you to enjoy. The complex has 12 mini courts and fields where you can teach kids how to play sports, whether basketball, football, golf, or drag racing.

Pro Tip: Purchase tickets online before your visit, as prices increase as the day gets closer.

9. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Did you know there is a museum right in the middle of the famed oval speedway? The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum displays several past winners’ vehicles and the Borg-Warner Trophy. Your family can choose from a variety of guided tours that will take you through Gasoline Alley, a lap around the oval, a stop at the start/finish line, and the basement’s rare vehicle collection. Visiting the Indiana Motor Speedway Museum with your family can bring a whole new generation into the love of racing. 

Pro Tip: To park at the museum, enter Gate 2. If an event is going on, parking is across the street, and buses are available to the museum.

Santa Rosa is seventh heaven for children from 0 to 199 years old. Ask any Peanuts fan; they’ll tell you all about Charlie Brown’s hometown. In the shadow of the San Francisco Bay Area, it’s sometimes overlooked as a family getaway destination. But for a multigenerational group, it is an ideal place to play, learn, eat, and unwind.

Santa Rosa is a small city with fewer than 2 million residents. Founded in 1833, it’s the county seat of Sonoma County. The metropolis has endured earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts, rebounding from each and rebuilding a better Santa Rosa every time.

Santa Rosa is perfect for a multigenerational holiday. It’s compact and easy to get around. Budget-friendly lodging, eateries, and excursions are of high quality. From wineries to playgrounds, there are experiences everyone will enjoy.

Schulz Campus

Nothing is more multigenerational-friendly than Peanuts. Santa Rosa is the Mecca for Peanuts or Charles M. Schulz fans. Dotted along West Steele Lane is the Charles M. Schulz legacy to Santa Rosa and the world. Called the “Schulz Campus,” you’ll find the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, Snoopy’s Home Ice, Warm Puppy Café, and Snoopy’s Gallery and Gift Shop.

1. Charles M. Schulz Museum

The Charles M. Schulz Museum is a must whether you are a Peanuts fan or not. The museum is full of light, color, art, laughs, and inspiration. Permanent and changing exhibits show the development of Schulz’s cast of characters throughout his career. It’s captivating and informative.

Everyone loves Peanuts, and the museum displays examples of the love from around the globe. Charles Schulz’s office/studio was moved from his nearby home to the museum. It’s just as he left it on his last day of work there — including paper that missed the bin.

The Education Room is for everyone. There, you can learn to draw a Peanuts character with the guidance of instructors.

Don’t miss the theater. There are documentaries and animated films showing daily. Theater admission is included in your museum ticket. Outdoors you will find shady areas for daydreaming and picnicking.

2. Snoopy’s Home Ice

When you leave the museum, head east to Snoopy’s Home Ice (Redwood Empire Ice Arena). Charles Schulz created a first-rate ice arena for figure skating, hockey, and ice shows. The arena offers skating sessions, lessons, and skate rentals year-round. In addition, local hockey teams play and practice on Snoopy’s Ice.

3. The Warm Puppy Café

Whether you are a skater or an observer, stop in the Warm Puppy Café for a cup of hot cocoa, a snack, or lunch. The café is located at Snoopy’s Home Ice. Picture windows are made for rink viewing while you enjoy soups, sandwiches, four flavors of hot cocoa, and Mr. Schulz’s favorite — tuna on wheat. I liked the vegetarian chili with cornbread.

4. Snoopy’s Gallery And Gifts

After your hot cocoa, walk 3 minutes east to Snoopy’s Gallery and Gifts. In addition to a wide range of Peanuts-themed memorabilia, you’ll enjoy a museum-like gallery of Peanuts merchandise and art from all over the world.

Take time to look at the signed and unsigned lithographs of Peanuts comic strips. You are bound to find one of your favorites to take home.

The Great Outdoors

5. Children’s Museum Of Sonoma County

Head west from the Charles M. Schulz Museum to the place that should be called the “Fun For Everyone Museum.” At the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, exhibits are meant to be touched, and no one will need to be quiet.

One of the best parts of the museum is the gardens and playgrounds with food and ornamental plants; everyone can learn about where our food comes from and how it’s grown.

6. Armstrong Redwoods

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is an ancient redwood forest. The tree inhabitants are among the largest and oldest living organisms on earth. To walk among them in silence, listening to the forest’s soundtrack, soothes the heart and lifts the spirit.

Pack your picnic basket, binoculars, and cameras, and take a nature break. Sit and forest bath, soaking up the redwood fragrances and sounds. Take a hike, look for wildlife, then take a nap.

Twenty miles of trails are maintained, some of which are accessible. Armstrong is a beautiful picnicking location, as well. Picnic tables are available in addition to restrooms. Learn more on this brochure (PDF).

7. Safari West

Safari West, the Sonoma Serengeti, is a wildlife preserve on the outskirts of Santa Rosa. Nine hundred animals representing 90 species roam 400 acres of woodlands and rolling hills in Sonoma County.

Many animals are protected, studied, and bred at Safari West. Hooved animals like giraffes and antelope, carnivores like cheetahs, and fabulous birds like flamingos and ibises are just a few of the many inhabitants here.

This place deserves an overnight stay and two nights would be ideal. After a day of jeep touring in small groups, return to your glamping en-suite safari tent, where R&R awaits before dinner in the dining room.

8. Francis Ford Coppola Winery

“Take your place in the sun” is the welcoming phrase at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Made for a multigenerational experience, the winery is a place to spend the day relaxing by the pool. Rent a cabana for the day and enjoy the sun and water. Food and beverage are available at the pool or indoors at the restaurant.

Of course, wine tasting and wine purchases are available for adults. There are also automobiles, costumes, and props from many of Coppola’s movies. In addition, plenty of wine and movie-related merchandise is available to satisfy a “shopping jones.”

9. Luther Burbank Home And Gardens

Another one of Santa Rosa’s favorite sons, Luther Burbank not only made a lasting mark on Santa Rosa, he influenced the world by developing plants that would produce more food for a growing nation and hungry world.

The beautiful Luther Burbank Home And Gardens in the center of Santa Rosa is free to stroll, smell, admire, and photograph. The grounds are a living museum to the hundreds of plants Burbank has developed and bred. I think you’ll be surprised at how he influenced our diets with things like the Burbank potato, now the most common potato in the world. In addition, he developed many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. See them all in this divine garden. Also, keep an eye out for fairy houses while on your self-guided tour.

Check out the gift shop for information about docent-led tours. The gift shop is also the perfect place to find a gift for a gardening friend or buy seeds from Burbank’s creations.

10. Santa Rosa Wednesday Night Market

On Wednesday night, strolling from stall to stall under the downtown redwood grove is something you can only experience in Santa Rosa. The enormous market has stalls filled with local farmers’ produce and prepared local favorites. There are also artists, craftsmen, cooks, and importers selling wares.

Grab a dish or two from a vendor and head to the town square where you can sit and enjoy the delicious bounty of Sonoma County. That also includes beer and wine made in the area. While sitting in the square, you’ll be entertained by local artists and performers. Check out the “Entertainment” tab on the Santa Rosa Wednesday Night Market’s website.

11. Photo Ops With The Peanuts Gang

Somewhere you least expect it in Santa Rosa, a member of the Peanuts gang is waiting for a photo with you and your companions. Peanuts on Parade features 5-foot-tall fiberglass figures of Peanuts characters. You’ll find them at airports, train stations, parks, shops, and shopping malls. The statues were decorated by local artists, then sold to raise money for art scholarships.

About 70 of the camera-ready effigies are located in Santa Rosa. See how many you can include with you in a photo. Then, check them off using the Peanuts on Parade locator (PDF).

Getting There

The Golden Gate Bridge is 50 miles south of Santa Rosa. The region’s airport, Charles M Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS), has direct service to and from Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orange County, Portland, Phoenix, Reno, San Diego, and Seattle.

Rental cars are available on airport property. The train station is just a mile away. Local and regional buses are a few steps from the terminal, including airport shuttles to San Francisco and Oakland.

The small airport is easy to get in and out of and crowds are rare. It can really take the stress out of flying with a group. If you are flying into San Francisco or Oakland, consider taking the Sonoma County Airporter to STS, where you can pick up your rental car and save driving through city traffic. Buses with Wi-Fi and luggage storage are frequent, safe, and comfortable.

Why Take The Family To Santa Rosa?

Santa Rosa is a small northern California city north of San Francisco. It’s a family-friendly town, with activities, eateries, and lodging for all ages, styles, and budgets.

From adults to toddlers, you and your grandchildren will enjoy activities for all age groups, those just for adults or those designed for little ones.

To learn more about Santa Rosa, go to Visit Santa Rosa.

Learn more about everything northern California has to offer, including:

• If You Like Napa Valley, You’ll Love These 4 Northern California Wine Regions
• 6 Quaint Towns To Visit In Northern California
• 9 Must-Visit Quaint Coastal Towns In Northern California

When you think of pop culture locations that people from around the world travel to see, chances are a cornfield in the middle of Iowa won’t immediately come to mind. But thanks to the 1989 blockbuster Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner as farmer-turned-baseball field architect Ray Kinsella, the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa, has become an enormous tourist attraction, drawing movie and baseball fans alike and routinely hosting celebrities and sports stars. Recent attention from Major League Baseball has also reignited interest in the film site and its legendary field. 

Here’s what you need to know about the real-life Field of Dreams and what you can expect to experience when you visit this special spot. Because after all, if you build it, they will come!

1. It’s A Little Piece Of Hollywood In The Heart Of Farm Country

In 1987, the Lansing family of Dyersville got an interesting visit from a member of the town’s Chamber of Commerce. Universal Studios was scouting locations for its new project, wanted to build a baseball field in the middle of a cornfield, and thought the Lansing farm might just fit the bill. After a series of meetings and test shoots, the producers chose the Lansing land, the field was constructed, and filming for Field of Dreams began on the site. The Lansing home also made an appearance in the film as the Kinsella farmhouse.

Dyersville is located 26 miles west of Dubuque, Iowa, part of the Quad Cities metro area. It’s a 4-hour drive from Chicago and a 3-hour drive from Des Moines. The area is served by the Quad City International Airport, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away in Moline, Illinois; the airport is serviced by carriers American, Allegiant, Delta, and United. While the area isn’t a major metropolitan center, it’s still quite accessible for those who want to experience this unique baseball site beloved by movie buffs and MLB fans alike.

2. You’ll Ask If It’s Heaven

As you approach the farm, it’s impossible not to feel both nostalgia and anticipation. Half-hour tours of the home are on offer and can be booked online in advance. They cost $20 for adults and $12 for children, but they are a great way to take a peek inside the home, where several pivotal scenes from the movie were shot.

Admission to the field and the surrounding area is free, and you can snap as many photos as you’d like. Plan to take your time, play a few games of catch, get your selfies in, and savor being there. In one of the most famous scenes from the movie, the ghost of legendary outfielder Shoeless Joe Jackson emerges from the cornfield, looks at the diamond, and asks, “Is this Heaven?” You’ll likely wonder the same thing.

Aside from the home tour and field, there’s a great gift shop on-site where you can purchase movie memorabilia and trinkets, baseball-related items, and much more. Be sure to check it out and grab something to remember your visit by.

For the ultimate over-the-top evening, consider staying in the farmhouse itself! If you opt for the luxe Kinsella Experience, you will have access to a homey bedroom on the upper level of the home, be personally greeted by the site’s staff, and receive all sorts of fun items, including an official MLB Field of Dreams baseball. You’ll also get a bottle of wine and a picnic blanket so that you can recreate the scene where Ray and his wife picnic centerfield. It’s not cheap — prices start at $500 per night during the off-season — but you’ll get a one-of-a-kind stay and a great story to tell!

3. There Are A Variety Of Lodging Options

If an overnight stay at the farm isn’t in your budget, don’t fret. There are plenty of other places to stay nearby.

In Dyersville, you’ll find low- to mid-level chain hotel options. Keep in mind that their prices are elevated because of their proximity to the Field of Dreams, and you won’t get a whole lot of bang for your buck. If you’ve driven to the site, or you have a rental car, consider staying at one of the nicer options in the nearby Quad Cities. You’ll pay just as much for a hotel room, but you’ll end up having a more upscale experience.

Nearby Dubuque is home to a variety of bed and breakfasts, most located within the town’s charming and historic downtown district. The Redstone Inn & Suites is a spot with a fascinating past: Constructed as a home for some of the town’s elite, it was used as a tavern before it was saved from the wrecking ball and converted into an inn. There’s also the Hotel Julien Dubuque, with its modern chic, historic touches, array of amenities, and on-site spa.

4. You Can Make It Multigenerational

Our best tip for visiting this iconic spot: Splurge and make it a whole-family trip. Baseball is all about nostalgia. Love for the game and its traditions is sewn into our country’s fabric and is passed down from generation to generation. The Field of Dreams was made famous by an Academy Award-nominated film that has inspired baseball fans for 30 years, so when you visit, invite the extended family to come along.

You’ll see fathers and sons, moms and daughters, and grandparents and grandchildren playing catch, taking terrific family portraits, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Some wear jerseys from their hometown teams; others pose near the corn where the players of yesteryear mysteriously emerged in the movie. It’s a touching and endearing thing to see and experience.

This is a bucket-list trip that will delight the whole family. With that in mind, consider including older relatives, especially if they love the game of baseball. You won’t regret it.

5. The Best Time To Go Is During Baseball Season

While the Field of Dreams and the Kinsella farmhouse are open year-round, Iowa can and often does get pretty cold in the winter. To avoid the crowds, consider a late fall or early spring trek to the site; the temperatures will be bearable, and you’ll still be able to run the bases, play catch, and tour the home.

That said, the place really comes alive in June, July, and August, once it’s warmer. Just like in the movie, the corn is high, the sun is hot, and the boys of summer are up to bat on diamonds — Major League and Little League — across the country. The bottom line is this: Summertime is baseball season, and it’s really the best time to visit this iconic spot dedicated to the game and all the things that make it great.

6. The Site Plans to Host A Major League Baseball Game Again In 2022

As aluded to earlier, the most-quoted line from Field of Dreams is, “If you build it, they will come.” It’s the ghostly, mysterious message that Ray Kinsella keeps hearing, and the one that ultimately compels him to plow over his cornfields and construct a regulation baseball field. It’s also the mantra that Major League Baseball will be banking on again in 2022.

After the success of its White Sox/Yankees matchup in 2021, the MLB will host another primetime game Thursday, August 11, 2022, between the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds. The league expects a capacity crowd at the 8,000-seat ballpark, adjacent to the actual Field of Dreams. The game will be televised to a national audience, and fans, both in-person and watching from home, will get to see their favorite players once again emerge from the cornstalks. Tickets were only available via a June lottery, so if you haven’t scored them yet, plan on watching the game from home.  

Planning a road trip through Iowa? Here are the best things to see and do in Des Moines. When you’ve seen everything the capital has to offer, make one of these amazing day trips from the city or check out these family-friendly activities in Cedar Rapids.

And why not make the Field of Dreams part of a baseball road trip? Here are the best places to explore baseball history in the Midwest.

Walt Disney World tops the vacation list for generations of travelers. It’s a magical place where lasting memories are made, and now there’s even more to love. As part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” Walt Disney World is continuing to mark its 50th anniversary with the rollout of exciting new experiences and attractions.

Budgeting time on a Disney vacation can be challenging since there’s always so much to see and do at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Here are nine new things you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World hosted my visit, but all opinions expressed are my own.

1. Guardians Of The Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

EPCOT

As an ardent fan of roller coasters and the Guardians of the Galaxy films, I was excited to experience EPCOT’s newest major attraction. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is one of the largest enclosed roller coasters in the world, and this thrilling ride is an audiovisual treat.

Set in EPCOT’s first “other-world” pavilion, called the Galaxarium, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind begins with an incredible pre-show experience filled with Guardians of the Galaxy characters, elaborate storytelling, and a virtual journey to a Nova Corps ship. Then, it’s “save the galaxy” time on this immersive omnicoaster ride featuring Disney’s first-ever reverse-launch, roomy Starjumper vehicles that rotate 360 degrees, and a fantastic soundtrack that changes with each ride and alters the feel of the entire experience. “September” and “Conga” had me dancing the whole time.

This family-friendly coaster has a 42-inch minimum height requirement. Riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind feels like surfing through space and time, and the experience is exhilarating. It was so much fun that I wanted to do it again and again.

Pro Tip: On Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, seating choice affects the overall experience. After riding the attraction numerous times in various locations, my personal favorite is the front seat’s smooth glide. The back seat provides maximum thrills. Dark indoor coasters and reverse-launch rides can be disorienting for some people. I didn’t experience any motion sickness, even on back-to-back rides.

2.  Space 220 Restaurant

EPCOT

Vacationers can enjoy an out-of-this-world culinary experience at Space 220 Restaurant, a popular dining venue in EPCOT’s expanded Mission: SPACE pavilion. At this memorable dining attraction, the immersive experience is mind-blowing and the space-themed atmosphere is the star of the show.

After checking in at the Departure Lounge and receiving a boarding pass, guests board a “space elevator” and blast off on a simulated scenic journey to the Centauri Space Station. Upon arrival, they can enjoy lunch or dinner while taking in panoramic views of the space station, astronauts, planets, satellites, and stars. While the meal is on the expensive side, the unique interstellar experience and virtual day and evening views of our planet from 220 miles above the Earth are phenomenal.

Pro Tip: Space 220 reservations sell out quickly, so make bookings as soon as possible. If you can’t obtain a reservation, check the restaurant early to see if you can join a walk-up waiting line for the Space 220 lounge. It’s part of the main dining area, so you can still enjoy the incredible views.

3. ‘Disney Enchantment’ And ‘Harmonious’ Nighttime Shows

Magic Kingdom Park And EPCOT

Nightly entertainment has long been a memorable highlight of Walt Disney World vacations. As part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” marking Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary, Disney has introduced two new spectacular nighttime shows.

“Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park is designed to inspire viewers to believe in the magic and power that lives within them. The show features a stunning display of fireworks, Disney music, colorful enhanced lighting, state-of-the-art projection effects, and characters from Disney and Pixar films.

Taking place at EPCOT’s World Showcase Lagoon, “Harmonious” is one of the biggest nighttime shows ever created for a Disney theme park. “Harmonious” celebrates how Disney music and stories can inspire people around the globe. The show features Disney songs performed by a culturally diverse group of worldwide artists, fireworks, giant floating screens, lights, lasers, and a wide array of images and stunning special effects.

Pro Tip: It’s wise to stake out your viewing spots early for these popular nighttime events. To watch “Harmonious,” look for places with unobstructed views of the World Showcase Lagoon, including the Showcase Plaza area and near the Mexico and Norway pavilions.

4. New Quick-Service Dining Venues

EPCOT And Disney Springs

EPCOT is home to a wide variety of favorite restaurants, and now there are new dining spots to try. The light and airy Connections Café and Eatery is conveniently located near popular attractions in EPCOT’s World Celebrations area. The Connections Café is EPCOT’s new Starbucks location, so it’s a great place to stop for a beverage in the morning. The Connections Eatery menu includes lunch and dinner items, kids’ meals, and allergy-friendly options.

Other new EPCOT casual dining venues include Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue at The American Adventure pavilion and the France pavilion’s La Crêperie de Paris. If you’re heading to Disney Springs, satisfy your sweets craving at Salt & Straw, a new artisanal ice cream shop featuring an assortment of unique flavors. Their ice cream is delicious.

Pro Tip: Tables and seating areas at the Connections Café and Eatery have charging stations, making this an excellent place to recharge and relax. Try the popular Liege Waffle if you’re in the mood for dessert. 

5. Drawn To Life Presented By Cirque Du Soleil And Disney

Disney Springs

This dazzling new show is the first-ever theatrical collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Imagineering, and Walt Disney Animation Studios. Drawn to Life depicts the story of a young girl who discovers an uncompleted animation bequeathed to her by her late father, a Disney animator. Guided by an amazing pencil, the daughter delves into the world of animation and embarks on an uplifting personal quest filled with Disney memories from her childhood. The show’s beautiful artistry, incredible acrobatic performances, and brilliant choreography kept me spellbound throughout the entire production.

I’ve enjoyed combining Cirque du Soleil shows with dinner in Disney Springs on past visits. This shopping, entertainment, and dining district is home to dozens of fantastic dining options. The performance lasts about 90 minutes, so make dinner reservations with your show time in mind.

Pro Tip: A few children from the audience are selected to go on stage to draw pictures during the Drawn to Life pre-show. If your group includes kids, you may want to purchase seats close to the stage to maximize their chances of being chosen.

6. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

EPCOT

Set in EPCOT’s expanded France pavilion, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ushers guests into the world of Disney and Pixar’s award-winning film, Ratatouille. This family-friendly 4D ride has no height requirement, allowing kids to enjoy the experience.

Seated in trackless rat-shaped cars that swivel quickly, guests feel like they’ve been shrunk to Remy’s size while zipping under oversized props and scurrying through Gusteau’s restaurant. Riders become immersed in sights, sounds, and special effects from Ratatouille, and the stirring rat race is a fun experience for all ages. This dark indoor attraction features lots of screens, and 3D glasses bring the characters and scenes to life. 

Pro Tip: Enjoy all the incredible details and storytelling in this culinary-themed ride through Gusteau’s Paris restaurant. Afterwards, stop in at nearby Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie or Crêpes À Emporter by La Crêperie de Paris for an authentic taste of France.

7.  Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Are you looking for a unique once-in-a-lifetime experience that will take your family’s Disney vacation to a whole new level? Walt Disney World launched its much-awaited Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios earlier this year. During this memorable two-night adventure aboard the Halcyon starcruiser, guests can immerse themselves in their own unique Star Wars story and live out their intergalactic dreams in a highly interactive way.

Guests engage with characters, crew, other passengers, and even droids throughout their Galactic Starcruiser journey. Some highlights include lightsaber training, memorable live theater, role-playing interactions with Star Wars characters, galactic-themed dining and entertainment, and bridge navigation training. Storylines and gameplay missions come to life via the Star Wars: Datapad inside the Play Disney Parks app. Guests’ individual decisions profoundly affect how their personalized experience unfolds, so no two “voyages” are the same.

With cruise-like inclusive rates of $5,999 for four in a cabin, this immersive experience is probably best-suited for avid Star Wars fans and families with older Star Wars-loving children and teens. Some Galactic Starcruiser activities have minimum age requirements, such as 7 years and older for lightsaber training.

Pro Tips: Prepare well ahead of time to get the most out of your Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser adventure. Think about what your story will be. If you and your family want to arrive in character, you can purchase Galactic Starcruiser outfits in advance from shopDisney. Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is a tech-intensive experience, so pack portable chargers for your journey to a galaxy far, far away. 

8. Dazzling New Performances And Shows

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! recently opened at the Theater in the Wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. This newly reimagined 25-minute stage show takes families into the beloved undersea world depicted in the Disney and Pixar hit animated film Finding Nemo. The production is filled with visually immersive storytelling and features music, animated puppets, live performers, dancers, and innovative special effects. 

Disney KiteTails is another colorful new attraction taking place on and over the Discovery River Lagoon. The short show features massive kites and character props from beloved Disney movies like The Lion King and The Jungle Book.

Pro Tip: Disney KiteTails was modified recently, and the show is performed on an unscheduled basis during the daytime. For the best chances of seeing the outdoor show, take a break near the Discovery River Lagoon and keep an eye on weather forecasts throughout the day.

9. Exciting Ongoing Developments

EPCOT And Throughout Walt Disney World

More new additions and innovations are on the way at Walt Disney World. One of the most anticipated is EPCOT’s Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana — the first Disney Parks experience based on Disney’s popular Moana movie. This walk-through attraction in EPCOT’s World Nature neighborhood is designed to encourage Disney guests to meet and play with water in a fun way while learning how to protect our world’s natural water resources. Another new area coming to EPCOT, the CommuniCore Hall and Plaza, will provide beautiful settings for the theme park’s popular festivals and musical performances.

Disney also just introduced a new MagicBand+ in late July. The next-generation wearables offer the same popular features as previous versions, plus they enable guests to engage in exciting interactive experiences throughout all four Walt Disney World parks. Guests at select Disney Resort hotels may also experience the rollout of Disney’s new “Hey Disney!” digital voice assistant using Amazon Alexa technology and devices later this year.

Pro Tips: Disney’s new MagicBand+ wearables are now available on the shopDisney website. Annual Passholders and those with reservations at a Walt Disney World Resort may be eligible for a special discount on MagicBand+ orders through their Disney account. Guests can also use Disney MagicMobile or an old MagicBand to perform select functions, including theme park and guest room entry.

Before heading off to Walt Disney World, download the free MyDisneyExperience app well in advance and get comfortable with its features. The app will help you to keep track of plans, make reservations, and get current wait times for theme park attractions so you can pack lots of Disney magic into your next trip.

For more information on Disney theme parks, check out these stories:

• The Only Disney Packing List You’ll Ever Need
• How To Spend A Perfect Day At Hollywood Studios, Florida

The idyllic getaway of Rosemary Beach, Florida, is on the cusp of becoming one of America’s favorite new vacation destinations. And with its family-friendly vibes, charming architecture, golf courses galore, excellent coastal cuisine, and that sugar sand beach, it’s easy to see why.

Read on for the reasons you should make Rosemary Beach, Florida, and the South Walton beach area your next getaway location. It’s the least Florida place in Florida.

1. Walkable And Bikeable

Perhaps my favorite part of my recent weeklong jaunt to this area was how I didn’t have to get in the car one time the entire trip (except to get to the airport). We rented bikes and were able to find great restaurants and attractions within biking distance. Some were even close enough to walk. Almost every day, we’d take a bike ride as a family to explore the pretty neighborhoods and impressive seaside homes. There are numerous biking paths all over, but we used one adjacent to the famed Scenic Highway 30A the most.

2. Perfect For A Multigenerational Trip

Rosemary Beach is super family friendly. There are tons of activities around for kids. Nearby state parks are fun for the whole family. Plus, the water deepens so gradually that you can walk out really far and it’s still shallow; that made it way more fun to swim and splash with my niece and nephews. Additionally, the aforementioned biking options meant we could take family bike rides together. Most of the area’s restaurants offer kids’ menu options and also open early enough for kid-friendly dinner time. Beautiful rentals — not hotels — make it even more fun to share a large beach house together. Ours was located in the perfect spot right between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach, two of the loveliest communities in the region.

Pro Tip: If you do opt to stay in a hotel room, The Pearl Hotel is a South Walton gem.

3. White Sand Beaches

The beautiful beaches on this stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast are made of clear quartz. They are luxuriously soft and even squeak when you walk on them. Additionally, there are some pretty sand dunes in the area to explore, too. As an added bonus, the beaches stay nice because most pets aren’t allowed on the beach unless an area homeowner has a special permit.

4. Easy To Get To

On my recent trip, we had family members coming from Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska; St. Louis, Missouri; and Austin and Houston, Texas. It was a breeze to get to Rosemary Beach even with all of us coming from those different places. That’s because there are two airports that are easily accessible from South Walton. Panama City airport is roughly half an hour away, while Pensacola is less than 2 hours from Rosemary Beach.

There are also numerous large metropolitan areas within driving distance. Atlanta is just over 5 hours away by car while Nashville is 7 hours from the beach. Both New Orleans and Birmingham are about a 4-hour journey.

5. Close To Other Charming Beach Communities

While Rosemary Beach itself has enough to keep visitors busy, it’s also super close to a number of other cute beachy villages. One of my favorite excursions of the week was heading to Seaside, famous for being the setting and film location of The Truman Show. Their Saturday farmers market was a lively, exciting spot, and I loved walking around exploring local vendors and produce.

All in all, the South Walton beaches consist of numerous posh beach towns between Destin and Panama City Beach. They include (from east to west) Inlet Beach, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seacrest, Water Sound Beach, Seagrove Beach, Seaside, Water Color, Grayton Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Dune Allen, Sandestin, Miramar Beach, and Seascape. The name comes from the name of the county, South Walton.

6. Championship Golf Courses Nearby

With warm weather all year long, Florida is the perfect backdrop for a vacation with a golf element. My husband and his cousins loved driving an hour or less to try out different courses during our week in Rosemary Beach. Both public and private course options abound, so any level of golfer from beginner to pro can find a course that fits. My hubby liked both the Signal Hill Golf Course in Panama City Beach as well as the Emerald Bay Golf Club in Destin.

7. Located On 30A

Until my trip, I hadn’t heard of the famous coastal highway 30A. Known as Scenic Highway 30A, this two-lane road hugs Florida’s Gulf Coast and is widely considered one of the prettiest drives in the U.S. Coincidentally, 30A is also a lifestyle brand that embraces this happy, beachy approach and was inspired by the highway’s beachside communities. Travelers who want to pick up some of the cute clothes and other wares from the 30A brand can get them all around the area.

I recommend doing your 30A shopping at Amavida Coffee. The brand truly represents the feeling you get with the wind in your hair, the sand under your feet, and all those gorgeous ocean views. While you’re in the town center, browse the rest of the upscale boutiques in the area.

8. No High-Rise Buildings

Boardwalks, cobblestone streets, fountains, and gas lamps make the area so charming, but so does the fact that there aren’t giant buildings all over the place. Instead, Rosemary Beach is dotted with carriage houses and cottages. This is on purpose — a reflection of the New Urbanism school of thought for development/planning. In fact, structures of over 50 feet or roughly four stories high aren’t allowed in the South Walton beaches area. The few that do exist were built before this ban was put in place. This also helps with population density. The beaches never feel too crowded. There simply aren’t that many people staying right in the area.

It’s easy to see that there’s something special about this stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast. The South Walton beaches between Destin and Panama City are the perfect spot for a family getaway, foodie adventure, and relaxing beach vacation all rolled into one. Add Rosemary Beach, Florida, to your list for getaways ASAP. You won’t regret it. And do it soon, because for now, Rosemary Beach is popular but not oversaturated and still has a bit of an undiscovered vibe.

9. Excellent Culinary Scene

It’s no surprise that the treasures of the Gulf, like fresh seafood, shine in these beachside communities. But there are lots of other dining gems as well.

Amavida Coffee And Tea

Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the local artisan Amavida Coffee and Tea; be sure to get their unreal fancy chocolate with Hawaiian sea salt. You can feel extra good about it, too, since Amavida is a certified B Corp that balances purpose and profit.

Edward’s Fine Food And Wine

Edward’s Fine Food and Wine has an impressive wine list and offers an upscale experience; on our trip, one night just the adults went out to eat here. My scallops were some of the best I’ve ever had. The crispy Brussels appetizer was another show-stopper.

Grayton Beer Company

Beer enthusiasts will rejoice in the area’s celebrated microbrewery, Grayton Beer Company; my hubby enjoyed his American lager all week long.

George’s At Alys Beach

Another great, slightly upscale spot we tried was George’s at Alys Beach. If you can, sit outside on the perfectly breezy patio to enjoy the coastal cuisine with Southern flair. Menu favorites were the crab etouffee arancini, ABC salad (avocado, beet, citrus), and the spicy salt and pepper shrimp.

The Summer Kitchen Cafe

Another favorite was our regular lunchtime spot, The Summer Kitchen Cafe, in the heart of Rosemary Beach. Their veggie burger was excellent, but they’re known for creative coastal cuisine. This spot is actually the oldest eatery in Rosemary Beach.

If you’re ready to book your Rosemary Beach getaway, here are some vacation rentals:

The Perfect View Condo On The Beach | $291/nightly avg

Dreaming of Inlet Beach – your dream vacation awaits you

5 Stars (72 Reviews)

• Property Type: Condo
• Maximum Occupancy: 4 Guests
• Bedrooms: 1
• Bathrooms: 1

Top guest reviews

• The cutest place to stay, the beach was very clean and quiet. Property was close to everything. Will be staying again!
• We loved the condo just a perfect space for two people. Loved location. You can walk to shops at Rosemary, but on outskirts of the traffic of Rosemary. Also very easy to access beach. That was a huge plus. Used the pool a few times after walking back from the beach. We would definitely return if we come back to this area.
• My family and I loved the condo and had a great stay! It was clean, updated and had everything you would need.It’s across the street from the beach and has a beautiful view of the ocean. We also walked and biked to Rosemary Beach and all its conveniences. The pool was nice but note that it is not heated so it was quite chilly this time of year. Chris from Kismet was great to work with and quick at answering any questions. My only criticism is the early check out is 9:30am, which I wished was a bit longer. Other than that, we’d definitely be back!
• Fantastic View from a Beautiful Condo! The location was perfect-easy access to everything.
• This property is in very close walking distance to the beach, just walk over the boardwalk and you are there! Loved sitting on the deck in the mornings and able to look directly at the beach. The space is neat and clean and perfect for a couple or family, the built-in bunk beds were a huge hit! Very close to the best shops and restaurants. Cannot wait to return!

View Deal on VRBO from $291

Mahogany Cottage – Incredible Gulf Front Views | $1,840/nightly avg

Dreaming of Rosemary Beach – your dream vacation awaits you

4 Stars (2 Reviews)

• Property Type: Private vacation home
• Maximum Occupancy: 8 Guests
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 3

Top guest reviews

• Great location! Loved the bikes!
• Positives. Incredible beach front view! We absolutely loved seeing the water and it gave us room to breathe in the tight Rosemary Beach community. And the girls LOVED the loft sleeping area. We slept so well, hearing the ocean and our access to the beach was wonderful.Negatives. Furnishings were tired and there was old bacon under one of the beds (we know because we had to fix one of the beds.). The kitchen is fine if you are not planning on cooking very much. But the restaurants were all booked into April OR you could wait for an hour and a half with no reservation. That said, we were there during spring break so it was a zoo.BUT, the Rosemary Beach property management was wonderful and brought items that were not in the kitchen (lids, dish towels, colander) so we were able to work with it. The Rosemary Beach architecture is beautiful but really too packed in for us so I doubt we will return. But, if you enjoy that community, this house would be great-just realize it is not one of the ones that has been updated!

View Deal on VRBO from $1,840

For more information about Rosemary Beach and beaches nearby, check out:

1. My 20 Favorite Places To Visit In The Florida Panhandle
2. 12 Charming Vacation Rentals Along Florida’s 30A Highway For Your Gulf Getaway
3. 12 Large Vacation Rentals In The Florida Panhandle That Sleep 14 Or More

Need a comfortable place to lay your head while in Jackson? The Lodge at Jackson Hole is the perfect spot! With all the amenities you’d expect from a resort property plus the little extras that make your stay special, everyone in the family will be happy here. With a ski lodge-inspired decor, this upscale property is cozy in all seasons. Decorated with a western flair — complete with carved bear accents and historic photos of Jackson — the hotel exudes a homey yet upscale feel. 

It seems they’ve thought of everything here, whether you’re traveling with family or on business. Walk into the lobby and enjoy the bright, open space with rustic accents including the large bears. Across from the front desk, grab a seat in front of the roaring fire. Whether you’re here for vacation or business, The Lodge at Jackson Hole offers everything you’d expect in an upscale property. Amenities include a restaurant and lounge, daily breakfast, concierge services, fitness center, and a resort-style pool area with a hot tub, sauna, and soaking pool. The Lodge also features a spa, a convenience store stocked with all the necessities, guest laundry, large meeting spaces, and a helpful front desk staff.

Here are the top reasons everyone in the whole family will love The Lodge at Jackson Hole.

Note: I was hosted at The Lodge at Jackson Hole. All opinions are my own.

1. Well-Appointed Guest Rooms

The comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms are complete with everything needed for a great stay. The comfortable queen bed with a double pillow-top mattress and high thread count linens is perfect for a good night’s rest. What’s more, you can even book a room with your very own fireplace. Talk about cranking up the ambiance! Room-darkening shades can be pulled shut to ensure no morning sun shines through and you can sleep well into the morning. 

In the sitting area, there’s plenty of room to relax on the pull-out sleeper sofa or put your feet up on the gigantic ottoman. The kids in your life will love to curl up on the sofa and make it they’re home away from home. The smart refrigerator is within arm’s reach and the large 50-inch smart TV is in full view, so they’ll have everything they need right there. 

For those needing to get some work done, you can spread out on the executive desk and send out all those emails via the fast and free Wi-Fi. And, no worries if you can’t make time for coffee downstairs before an early morning conference call. You can have all the caffeine you’d like without leaving your room thanks to the personal in-room Keurig coffee makers. 

After a day on the slopes or trails, the relaxing rain shower along with a traditional shower head will be appreciated. The clean lines of the glass shower give the bath a modern look and feel. The spa feel continues with upscale bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash to enjoy. 

And, if you plan to avoid the long food lines in the park, you’ll really appreciate the convenience of the small in-room smart refrigerator. Large enough to hold all your picnic essentials, you’ll save time and money by grabbing what you need at the store and keeping it all in your room for each day’s outing. Any lunch leftovers are easily taken out of the cooler and stashed back in the fridge for the next day, or they’re heated up for dinner in your in-room microwave.

Pro Tip: Ask the front desk to set you up with a boxed lunch for your busy days in the park!

2. Delicious Daily Breakfast Buffet

Jackson is known for being somewhat on the pricey side, so it pays to save wherever you can. Your breakfast is included with your stay here and it’s one less expense for you and the family. If you’re traveling with kids, you know breakfast for the entire crew can really put a dent in your wallet. The Lodge at Jackson Hole is to the rescue! 

With your stay here, you’ll be eating a marvelous hot breakfast every morning before you begin your adventures. Think sizzling bacon, scrambled eggs, and hot biscuits with creamy gravy. Pair your main hot breakfast dish with an assortment of breakfast breads, cereals, oatmeal, and fresh fruit. Finish up with a thirst-quenching glass of your favorite breakfast juice or milk and you’re all set! 

You’ll find all this and more at the deluxe breakfast spread served each morning. The whole family will find more than enough to satisfy their morning hunger pangs. With Starbucks coffee included on the buffet, what’s not to love? My favorite item just may be the yogurt blueberry parfait!

3. Gorgeous Pool Area 

Warm weather or cold, the pool area at The Lodge is to die for. With a unique garage-type door that can be raised or lowered, the indoor/outdoor pool can be enjoyed in all seasons. After a day of sightseeing, there’s no better way for the kids in your group to burn up some of that excess energy than by jumping in the pool! 

For adults, the bubbling hot tub and separate soaking tub are welcome respites after a long day on the trails. Grab a cold drink and stay a while. At night, the soft lighting on the deck makes the pool area even more inviting.

4. Fireside Lounge On-Site

No worries if the adults in your group want to grab a drink before dinner. With a bar tucked away just past the grand lobby area, a cocktail is well within reach here. Starting your night right here at the on-site bar is a great way to relax — minus the crowds of downtown Jackson. During our stay, the lounge proved to be a lively spot to enjoy an adult beverage and strike up a conversation with another guest. Whether you’re in the mood to compare travel tales or to relive your vacation escapades, the Fireside Lounge is a perfect place to do both. 

While you’re here, grab a bite to eat. The Fireside Lounge offers shareable appetizers for your group to sample a few options. Looking for something a little more satisfying? The dinner menu features entrees including pastas, fish and chips, burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, soups, salads, and desserts.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a romantic night in, room service is available from The Fireside Lounge.

5. Convenient Location In Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson, Wyoming, is a hotspot for outdoor activity. Staying at The Lodge at Jackson Hole will give you plenty of bang for your buck as this very popular vacation spot is less than 60 miles from two stunningly beautiful national parks. 

The south entrance to Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is less than 60 miles away. And the stunningly beautiful Grand Teton National Park is only about 5 miles away. Even closer is the National Elk Refuge, located just outside of Jackson.

The Lodge’s location is convenient within the town of Jackson as well. The hotel is located only about a mile from downtown Jackson and Jackson Town Square. The Lodge at Jackson Hole is a perfect location if you want to avoid staying in the crowded downtown area, but still want to be close to all the action. 

With multiple local dining options within walking distance, you may find, as we did, that the restaurants outside of busy downtown Jackson are often less crowded than some of the downtown Jackson hotspots. This means less wait time for you — always a good thing when hunger strikes!

Pro Tip: The Lodge is about a 15-minute drive from the Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). While The Lodge no longer offers airport transportation, taxis are available from JAC to the hotel. If you choose to rent a car, free parking is included with your resort fee.

6. Complimentary Shuttle To Downtown Jackson

If you want to explore downtown Jackson and the town square, The Lodge offers a convenient free shuttle service. Just call the phone number you’re provided at check-in to schedule your ride. 

The shuttle is an amazing amenity and runs daily. With the free shuttle, you can avoid any parking woes downtown, making your night even more relaxing. And since you aren’t driving, you can enjoy your cocktail with dinner, no worries! The shuttle will whisk you away and drop you off downtown at your desired location. What could be easier? 

7. Luxurious Spa Services

In the mood to be pampered? You’ve come to the right place. The Lodge offers a full-service, on-site spa! Choose from options like the aromatherapy massage with your choice of aromatherapy oils. Or maybe you could opt for a special deep tissue massage to really work out all those kinks. You may compliment your massage with a variety of additions including CBD oil, arnica oil, or a hot stone enhancement. Try the moor mud wrap to release toxins and replenish your skin, leaving it dewy and glowing. 

8. Extra Special Touches For Skiers

For guests coming to enjoy the fabulous Jackson skiing scene, The Lodge has you covered! The hotel offers complimentary transportation to and from local ski destination Snow King Mountain as well as a convenient off-site storage area for all your equipment. They’ve even partnered with local outfitter JH Skis to deliver rental equipment directly to the property if needed. So, all you have to do after a day on the slopes is warm up by the fire or grab a spot in the hot tub! 

Pro Tip: For most reservations, cancellations can only be made without penalty up to 14 days (by 4 p.m. MST) prior to your scheduled arrival date. Cancellations or “no-shows” that occur after that time will be charged the full contracted amount of the reservation.

After you make your reservations, read up on all of our Jackson Hole content, including:

• 7 Delicious Restaurants To Try In Jackson Hole On A Budget
• 12 Fantastic Jackson Hole Vacation Rentals With Amazing Mountain Views
• Jackson Vs. Jackson Hole, Wyoming: What’s The Difference?

San Diego in sunny Southern California is the perfect trip with the grandkids. You could easily keep busy for weeks here and never repeat an activity, but you’ll find many you’ll want to do again and again.

My daughter and I wanted to take the kids and get away for a week’s vacation. She always loves to escape our Michigan hometown and head to California. I found that flights on Independence Day had great ticket prices, so I booked a ticket for the two of us and my two young grandchildren.

With such great weather year round, it doesn’t matter when you go to San Diego. Getting outdoors is always fun. Our trip focused on wild animals and getting out on the water for the most part. So while you’ll find many more things to do in San Diego, here are the must-see stops with the grandchildren.

1. San Diego Zoo

Located in Balboa Park, The San Diego Zoo sits on 100 acres with over 12,000 animals of more than 650 species. The zoo offers six unique tours and experiences that you won’t want to miss. The first three listed are best suited for ages five and up, while three are perfect for all ages. 

Note that all these tours require a ticket, no matter the child’s age. In addition, they require admission to the zoo as a separate charge.

Crazy About Cats

If you have cats at home, this 90-minute tour will bring you to the big cats, where the kiddos may see a lion, tiger, jaguar, mountain lion, leopard, fishing cat, ocelot, or serval. The tour begins before the zoo opens, where your guide will drive you around in a golf cart. They teach the littles how the zookeeper cares for the cats and how they can help cat species. Additionally, you’ll have a close-up meeting with at least one cat.

Animals In Action

The zoo features exotic cats in this interactive experience where the kids will get a close-up view of the animals. Then the wildlife experts take you behind the scenes, where you’ll have some great photo opportunities.

Early Morning Cheetah Experience

If your young grandchild asks a lot of questions, this is the tour for you. You’ll take a 60-minute guided tour led by a guide who knows all about cheetahs. They’ll tell stories about the animals and plants as they drive you around the zoo on a cart, with opportunities to get off and get a closer look. You’ll also learn about the zoo’s conservation work. They require a two-to-one ratio (one adult for every two children).

Discovery Car Tour

The Discovery Car Tour is a 60-minute guided tour using an expedition cart. You’ll have a chance to ask lots of questions and learn about how the zoo’s conservation work impacts the world.

Exclusive VIP Experience

The VIP Experience is an exclusive tour where you’ll spend 5 hours discovering the zoo with your zoo guide. They tailor what you see to your family’s interest. In addition, the zoo includes a sit-down lunch in this VIP experience.

Inside Look Tours

This 90-minute adventure offers an insider’s look at how the zoo cares for its animals. The guide shares experiences and stories while driving you around the zoo in a deluxe golf cart.

Pro Tip: ADA Compliance

The zoo operates a complimentary ADA shuttle service for those who need help with mobility. In addition, the zoo map notes ADA elevators and paths. I have some mobility challenges, so the ability to see the zoo via various golf cart tours added to my enjoyment. 

2. Balboa Park

With more than 1,000 acres, Balboa Park is one place we could have spent more time. With more than 15 museums, the area will keep the whole family entertained for more than a day. Unfortunately, we only had about half a day here, and it wasn’t nearly enough. While the San Diego Zoo is in Balboa Park, you’ll find a lot of kid-friendly activities. Here are a few.

Balboa Park Carousel

Pick your favorite animal and take a ride. The carousel was built near Buffalo, New York, in 1910, reports 10 News San Diego, and in 2022, it celebrated its 100th year anniversary in Balboa Park. Amazingly, it operates with most of its original parts.

Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater

The puppet theater is fun for all ages, and even the grandparents will enjoy the show. The puppets are local San Diego puppet stars. 

Balboa Park Miniature Train

The Balboa Park Miniature Train starts near the zoo and takes you on a half-mile trip around the park grounds.

Pepper Grove Playground

If the kiddos need to blow off some steam, let the kids play on the Pepper Grove Playground. You’ll find the perfect shaded bench to sit and rest on while keeping an eye on the kids. They’ll have swings, climbers, and slides to enjoy.

Pro Tip: Visitor Center

Begin at the visitor center, where they’ll orient you to all that the park offers. Maps, brochures, and free guided tours of the park are available here.

3. San Diego Wildlife Safari Park

Located about 35 miles northeast of the San Diego Zoo in Escondido, California, the San Diego Wildlife Safari Park sits on 1,800 acres. You won’t find cages with the 3,600 animals of 300 species inside. Instead, we saw the animals from an open-air safari truck. The animals mingle in a sprawling savanna. Plan your visit to last about 4 hours.

My granddaughter was the first to spot a newborn animal that the guide reported to the veterinarians the day we visited. It was an exciting morning.

Pro Tip: Age Restrictions

Some safaris are for all ages, while others are for kids 3 and older. Before purchasing your ticket, note the age restrictions for the trip you plan to take.

4. San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

The San Diego Whale Watching Cruise is an amazing 3-hour cruise for any age. We visited in July during the migration of the blue whales, the largest animal on earth. Mighty fin whales are abundant in the summer too. Although taking the cruise doesn’t guarantee you’ll see a whale, if you don’t, the guides offer you the chance to come back another day and take another cruise.

You’ll want to bring a camera to record the blowing and tails. Although capturing it all on camera isn’t easy, I found a video to work best. This trip was so much fun. My granddaughters are still talking about it.

Pro Tip: What To Wear

Remember that the temperature is 10 to 15 degrees cooler on the water than on land, so add an extra layer, maybe a light jacket or heavy sweatshirt. Wear flat, closed-toe shoes as you may want to stand while the boat is in motion. You’ll also want sunglasses and sunscreen.

5. San Diego SEAL Tour

The amphibious San Diego SEAL Tour is fantastic fun for the younger grandkids. Of course, they are used to driving on land in cars and trucks, but this vehicle driving into the water was an exciting surprise to my granddaughter.

The 90-minute tour is just the right length to keep their interest, with about 30 minutes on land and 60 on the water. My granddaughter was particularly interested in the animals. While you’ll see various birds, like California brown pelicans and egrets, other wildlife is also often on view.

Note that while you’ll most likely see sea lions and maybe some seals on tour, SEAL Tour stands for Sea And Land Tour and not the animals.

Pro Tip: Parking

Parking may prove to be a challenge during the summer months and school breaks, so arrive about an hour before the departure of your tour.

6. Maritime Museum Of San Diego

If your grandkids are into pirates, the Maritime Museum of San Diego is a stop you won’t want to miss. While the museum offers a variety of exhibits, including an interesting one for the kids on dispelling the myths of sea monsters, they also feature a pirate show that takes you out onto San Diego Bay.

The kids are part of the interactive show, where they become part of the crew, learn how to bail water from a sinking ship, fight with swords, and swab the decks. The 90-minute performances are a dream come true for the kids. They are right in the middle of it all.

If you’re looking for more things to do on the water, check out this article on the best things to do on San Diego Bay.

7. Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is San Diego’s walkable historic district. So when the grandkids need to get out and walk around, this makes the perfect place to explore.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

While you explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, you’ll find several museums and restored buildings in the park. The ones that particularly appeal to the kiddos are:

The Schoolhouse

The schoolhouse will interest the littles as you can draw comparisons from their school to what life was like in the late 1800s. The one-room schoolhouse has a wood-framed structure with a shingle roof and 10-foot ceilings. Be sure to point out the water bucket and ladle instead of a water bottle or drinking fountain. Also, contrast the current heat registers to the pot-bellied stove.

Blackhawk Livery Stables

These stables housed horses and wagons in San Diego’s early days. Today they feature woodworking and blacksmith demonstrations.

The Seeley Stable

This stable includes a Concord stagecoach, a two-wagon freighter, an ox-drawn cart, and a mud wagon. Draw comparisons to how we travel today to add interest for the kids.

San Diego Sheriff’s Museum And Education Center

With its interactive displays, the San Diego Sheriff’s Museum was a fun stop for our family. The museum shows the 150-year history of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. It features an old patrol car and a real helicopter. In addition, we used the courtroom and jail cell to take some memory-making photos.

Café Coyote

While in Old Town, stop for a casual, relaxed lunch or dinner at Café Coyote. The beloved Mexican restaurant features house-made tortillas that are transformed into various traditional Mexican dishes — tacos, tostadas, and burritos. Refried beans and Mexican-style rice come with most of the offerings. For the kids, the Pup menu has only Mexican favorites; but for those fussy eaters, they also have kid-friendly American food like chicken nuggets. They also offer a separate vegetarian menu. Of course, the adults will appreciate the Margarita flights.

The colorful outdoor patio seating is perfect for those kids who have a hard time sitting still. They’ll also enjoy watching the tortilla makers and listening to the Mariachi singers.

Pro Tip: Discover Old Town

Discover Old Town offers a fun Kids History Hunt and some money-saving coupons.

For more help in planning your trip to San Diego, check out these articles:

• 9 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In San Diego
• 10 Things To See And Do On The Water In San Diego
• 12 Sensational San Diego Vacation Rentals For Your Next Stay In Sunny SoCal

A skip-generation trip, also known as a skip-gen trip, includes grandparents and grandkids while leaving the parents at home.

Our family loves to travel, and we instilled that love of travel in our daughter beginning at a young age. We told her it was in her DNA. After she married and started having children, we continued to travel, adding more people to the trip as our family grew. While our family travels together frequently, grandparents, parents, and grandkids, circumstances arose where it made it necessary for mom and dad to stay home. Usually, their jobs required them to stay behind, or my job provided the opportunity for the grandkids to tag along. Over the years, my two grandchildren, and sometimes their grandfather, have made memories through skip-gen travel.

Some popular skip-gen destinations are theme parks, national parks, Europe, or a cruise. The trips have enriched my relationships with my grandchildren wherever a skip-gen trip took us. 

Here are seven reasons why I recommend that you take one with your grandkids.

1. See A Familiar Place Through Fresh Eyes

For my first solo skip-gen trip, with only my granddaughter and me, we left not only her parents behind but also her grandfather. I decided to go somewhere I had been before. It gave me a certain comfort level in knowing the lay of the land and how to get around. However, there was still a lot to see.

The journey was also straightforward, with a non-stop flight of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, so delayed flights and complications wouldn’t be an issue. It’s vital if you are the only adult, especially traveling with more than one child.

My granddaughter is interested in art, so I chose Washington, D.C. for the trip. I had been there several times before, primarily on business, and had visited some museums. But a lot remained to uncover.

Pro Tip: Provide a series of activity choices and let the grandkids choose from those. Be open to any additional ideas they may have, but leaving it open-ended might be overwhelming for them. If you know the destination, provide some starting options.

2. Increase Planning Flexibility

Grandparents are often retired while most parents work, making it challenging to plan a trip with three generations. When the kids have a school break, grandparents are more likely to have time to take a trip. Parents have limited vacation time and often constraints on planning around co-workers’ time off. When grandparents and their grandchildren travel together, you only need to consider two generations’ schedules, making getting away easier.

A bonus for the parents is that they will enjoy some time away from the kiddos. Without the kids, it will allow the skipped generation to have some one-on-one time.

Pro Tip: Get the kids involved in the planning and be sure to plan activities that both generations will enjoy.

3. Share Your History Or Heritage

One of my first skip-gen trips with my granddaughter was an overnight trip to my alma mater so that she could experience a collegiate football game at the Big House in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Her grandfather, a major Michigan fan, also came along.

It was only an hour’s drive, and we stayed overnight in a hotel. I shared what a football game was like in my college days on this trip. We toured the campus, where I described the good, the bad, and the ugly associated with my years on campus. Since her grandfather and I dated in college, we had a meal at one of our old favorite date-night restaurants discussing how times have changed and what remained the same. She had the experience of a Big Ten football game at the football stadium with the largest crowd in the United States. She also learned some of her grandmother’s history and how it made me who I am.

Pro Tip: If significant events occur in the town while you are there, make hotel reservations ahead of time. I’ve found on football weekends, hotels may not have a room for only one night, but if you ask for two nights, rooms are available and require a two-night minimum stay.

4. Mark A Milestone

Milestone travel is already part of many cultures with honeymoons and babymoons. Celebrations that mark a significant birthday, like double digits, sweet sixteens, or high school and college graduations, are another reason for a skip-gen trip. These types of trips build memories that will last a lifetime. For example, we decided to take our granddaughter to Disney World for her fifth birthday, and it brought back fantastic memories of when we took her mother. Because it was her birthday trip and her parents weren’t along, we could spoil her a bit with no complaints.

My husband and granddaughter found they shared a love of all things space during the trip. At Epcot, she had a chance to sample other cultures while we talked about where she might like her first international trip to take her.

An excellent graduation skip-gen trip would be one to a country representing the family heritage. That trip would allow the young adults to better understand their family history in a meaningful way.

Pro Tip: Start with a close-to-home overnight or weekend trip to try it so that if there are significant issues, you can resolve them more easily.

5. Learn New Skills

My 16-year-old granddaughter and I went to a photography workshop in St. Louis, Missouri. We both enjoy photography and creating images, so we went to a multi-day, skill-building seminar that helped beginners and advanced photographers augment their talents. For my granddaughter, it was her first adult-type training. She was the youngest attendee, but she held her own.

Perhaps, both you and your grandchild are foodies. Build an itinerary around a food destination. For example, my trip to Nova Scotia’s South Shore provided an opportunity to get a fresh catch from a lobster boat, go to a lobster pound to weigh and sort the lobster, and watch a chef demonstrate deconstructing a lobster in a restaurant. A cooking class and a similar trip would be the perfect foodie skip-gen trip for pre-teen or teenage grandchildren who love food.

Pro Tip: Check out the age or experience level of the program on offer. Check-in with the event organizer if you believe that your grandchild might be too young. In our case, when I did this, we discussed maturity level and experience, and it turned out to be a perfect fit.

6. Get To Know The Grandkids Better While Making Memories

One of the top reasons for a skip-gen trip is to get to know your grandkids better while making memories that both of you will cherish in the years to come. In turn, this will create a stronger bond between generations. Start by doing your research ahead of time with mom and dad. Then have a series of conversations with the young one and find out their interests.

You might have a place in mind. While working in San Francisco, I had to be there over some holidays, so my husband brought our granddaughter to California. While the general destination was pre-determined, we had many options for activities. As we discussed choices, I was surprised to discover this 7-year-old wanted to hug a tree. She’d heard the expression and knew of the redwoods in Muir Woods. So, while the actual destination might be set, working on tuning into the grandkid’s interests, you may be surprised at what you discover. I know I was.

Pro Tip: Don’t just research interests, but also find out any allergies or issues concerning motion sickness to be sure you’re prepared to manage those situations.

7. Expand Experiences Among Cousins

Since I only had one child, both of my grandchildren have the same parent; however, I see the skip-gen trip as an opportunity for cousins to travel with the grands and get to know each other better in new environments. While cousins have different parents, they have grandparents in common. A trip together can help them see the things they all have in common with the help of those grandparents. The journey can help the extended family grow closer together.

National Parks are popular skip-gen trips, especially in the summer. The parks offer a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to activities on the water. Of course, as a grandparent with knee issues, activities on the water are easier than hiking, but national parks are places where all ages can find things that interest them. So sharing these destinations among cousins makes an excellent adventure.

Pro Tip: Be sure to plan the trip with everyone’s interests in mind.

If you’re looking for the perfect skip-gen trip, consider these destinations:

• 10 Perfect Multigenerational Trips To Experience This Summer
• 9 Fantastic Destinations The Entire Family Will Love
• Our Writers’ 8 Favorite Places To Travel With Their Grandkids In The U.S.

My mom is very special to me. She’s 83 years young and has much life left in her. She will not go anywhere by herself, so I take her on trips with me. When I plan a mother-daughter trip, I usually choose small Texas towns with a town square, historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and boutique shopping. We both agree that we like to road trip when the weather is nice — not too hot, not too cold.

My mom and I like many of the same thing, including antiquing, historical sites, finding old treasures, and ice cream. Now and then, I get her out of her comfort zone and head to the hiking trails. But she and I are the happiest staying at a bed and breakfast that serves nice breakfasts, and at night watching her favorite show — Wheel Of Fortune. Below are some of our favorite mother-daughter trips we’ve taken in Texas.

1. Palestine Dogwood Blooms

Palestine is a charming town in East Texas that we’ve not been to together, and it was our latest trip. We were excited to experience the East Texas culture and see the beautiful dogwood trees and attractions we had never had the chance to see. I found an adorable rustic cabin in the woods to stay in, and they served us breakfast each morning. If you’re ever out that way, look up The Ranch At Walston Springs. You’ll be dazzled by the landscape, the beautiful garden, and the walks down by the river.

One of the best times to visit is during the Dogwood Blooms Trail Celebration, which runs from the middle of March to the first of April. It’s when the dogwood blooms outshine the town.

Pro Tip: The Texas State Railroad is a wonderful excursion to take. It offers several tours throughout the year.

2. Magnolia Market, Waco 

To take a trip to a town that offers shopping by one of your favorite home DIY couples on TV is a trip to take multiple times — and we have. The Magnolia Market changes its decor quite often, and there seems to be more added to the market every time we go. My mom and I have been here at least three times — twice on a getaway and once returning from San Antonio.

From the first to the lastest mother-daughter road trip to Waco, we’ve seen the Magnolia Market grow into a one-stop-shop market with row after row of shops. Plus, all the food trucks are lined up in a curve. Weekends can get busy waiting in lines just to get into the stores. The Magnolia Table Restaurant is no different. Plan to wait in line there too.

Pro Tip: If you have time to spare, take a trip to downtown Waco. The shops and boutiques are plentiful there too.

3. East Texas Arboretum And Botanical Society

Athens is a lovely small town in East Texas where the air is nice and the trees are beautiful. We have taken many day trips here, and on our last visit, we took an afternoon stroll through the gardens at East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society. We’ve visited many times in the spring, but I hear it’s just gorgeous in fall. It’s quite pleasant to walk around the arboretum to see all the beauty and try to name all the flowers and trees. If time allows, you may want to visit the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center — a popular place for families to go.

Pro Tip: One of our favorite places to eat in Athens is The Cherry Laurel. Whether we go for a treat or lunch, it never disappoints.

4. New Braunfels

I love to visit this part of Texas for local events and to get a glimpse of the Guadalupe River. My mom and I have been here twice. The last time was recently, when we were invited to a special event. Any reason to go to New Braunfels is good enough for us, especially if there’s time to visit the small charming town of Gruene and have lunch at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar overlooking the river.

Pro Tip: If you like to dine with scenic views, whether in New Braunfels or Gruene, it’s best to make reservations as those seats are the first taken.

5. San Antonio

I think most travelers go to San Antonio to stroll around the riverwalk. We were no different. It’s a must whenever we’re in town. I wanted to do something special for my mom, so I booked us a riverwalk boat ride. It was a little chilly that day, so we bundled up together while listening to the taxi driver tell the story of San Antonio. Afterward, we made our way to one of the many restaurants on the riverwalk.

Pro Tip: The best time to visit the riverwalk is during the week.

6. Berry Pickin’ In East Texas

We took a day trip out to Edom — another small East Texas town — to pick blueberries. It was one hot day in July and our first time visiting a pick-your-own blueberry farm. We picked enough blueberries for a thousand blueberry cobblers — not really — but it seemed we picked way too many. Afterward, we each bought blueberry ice cream. I felt we deserved it. I couldn’t help but buy a bottle of syrup, jam, and jelly — all blueberry. Next time, I will find us a cozy bed and breakfast to stay overnight. If you ever drive through or visit Edom, stop at Blueberry Hill Farms. Be sure to check the dates and times they are open.

Pro Tip: If you plan to pick blueberries and visit the small town shops, go on any day of the week except Sunday and Monday when all the shops are closed.

7. Charming Jefferson

Jefferson, Texas, is known for its quaint historic bed and breakfast inns and charming downtown. It’s considered one of the best weekend getaways for couples and families. It also has many outdoor adventures to seek. Speaking of the outdoors, if you’re into hiking, boating, horse riding, etc., here is everything you need to know about outdoor activities in and near Jefferson.

8. Downtown Grapevine

Another great town to visit is Grapevine, Texas, any time of the year. Grapevine is a short driving distance from Dallas and Fort Worth. There is always something happening on Main Street. Grapevine is one of my favorite places to visit for shopping and wineries. But, mom and I chose Christmas time to visit together. This is when all the shops get out their fancy holiday decorations, and the town lights up with special events and all the outdoor holiday-themed characters. It’s when the town comes alive with holiday music, fake snow (hey, it’s Texas), and extra attractions all throughout town.

Pro Tip: You’re lucky if you’re going for the wine, as there are at least 10 wineries right on Main Street.

9. Fort Worth

Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards if you’re looking for a place to go in Fort Worth with everything from great restaurants, shopping of all kinds, wine, beer, cowboys, bull riding, and plenty of live entertainment. The daily longhorn cattle drive happens twice a day at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm. Find a spot on the sidewalk to see real cowboys ride Texas longhorns. It’s well worth seeing, especially if you’ve never seen longhorns… or cowboys! Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection is within walking distance of the Stockyards and is the perfect place to stay.

Pro Tip: There is a new reason to visit the Fort Worth Stockyards, well, if you love the famous John Wayne, aka The Duke. A John Wayne Museum has joined in all the fun and is located on East Exchange Avenue and Rodeo Drive.

10. McKinney

Even though McKinney, Texas, is not a small town (population in the hundred thousands), it sure feels like it, especially downtown. My mom and I got invited on a downtown McKinney food walking tour, and I wanted to make it special, so I booked a room on Vrbo. It was a small room with a shared bathroom, and mom got to bring her dog, Lily. It was truly nothing big, but there are many charming rentals in McKinney, and some are even within walking distance of downtown. I would love to make this trip again, but stay closer to downtown. Check out downtown McKinney — I bet you’ll love it as much as we do.

11. A Trip To The Texas Hill Country

I haven’t taken my mom to the Hill Country yet, but I’ve been several times. Any town you choose in the Texas Hill Country will be fantastic. Depending on what you want to do is where you’ll end up. For instance, if you want to visit the wineries, you may want to stay close to Highway 290. There’s a slew of them on this highway from Johnson City to Fredericksburg. Dripping Springs has the Hamilton Preserves and Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, if you and your mom like the outdoor life. If you like to shop, opt to stay in Boerne. Its Main Street has boutique after boutique and lots in between.

Gatlinburg’s plethora of family-friendly attractions and gorgeous Smoky Mountain backdrop makes it a wonderful weekend getaway year-round. Here are eight great things to do in and around this quaint eastern Tennessee mountain town.

1. Dollywood

Dollywood has the best that theme parks and water parks have to offer. There are rides for thrill-seekers, like Drop Line and Lightning Rod, as well as rides for those with younger children, like the Lemon Twist and Busy Bees. It’s the perfect way to spend a day in the summer, and the location also offers on-site hotels and other accommodations so you can turn a day visit into a full weekend.

2. Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a Cherokee Indian word that means “the place of the balsams.” Today, the word mainly refers to a massive rock layer that encompasses many peaks of the nearby Smoky Mountains. Much of this area has been used to create a magical mountain adventure. Here you can go ziplining, explore a treehouse playground, ride a mountain coaster, go mining for gems, and much more. And you get to do all that while taking in some of the best views Gatlinburg has to offer.

3. Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Stop by the Gatlinburg Farmers Market during your trip to experience the best of the area’s locally grown foods. You can also watch live craft-making demonstrations and listen to live mountain music. It’s the perfect way to spend the morning. The farmers market is open on Saturdays from 8:30 to noon from May through October.

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Gatlinburg’s pride and joy. Almost everything you experience in the city incorporates the mountains in some way or has to work around them. The park straddles the border of Tennessee and North Carolina and covers over 800 square miles between the two states. The scenery is usually enough to bring people in, but if you need to know more, you can also go hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and zip-lining. This is just the top of the list in terms of fun outdoor adventures you can have.

5. Gatlinburg Golf Course

Any fan of golf needs to take at least a few swings on the Gatlinburg Golf Course. It is known to be one of the most picturesque courses in the United States, thanks to the gorgeous views of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains. It also features a fully-equipped pro shop as well as a food services area. The 18-hole course is open year-round and is likely to give you the most memorable round of golf you’ve ever had — regardless of your final score. Because the views are that good.

6. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

The Hollywood Star Cars Museum takes visitors through some of the most famous films and television shows of the last 50 years by showing off their best cars. George Barris, who has created more famous cars than anyone, is the creator behind most of the vehicles featured in this museum. Some popular cars in their collection include two Batmobiles (one from the 1966 television show and one from Batman Returns), the Ghostbusters Ecto-1 and the Beverly Hillbillies Jalopy. This is certainly a pitstop you don’t want to miss.

7. Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies

The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is another perfect family attraction. It is home to over 10,000 exotic sea creatures across 10 different themed galleries. This includes 12-foot sharks, giant sea turtles, every color of fish you can imagine, and even adorably playful penguins. An underwater tunnel allows visitors to feel like they are up close and personal without the worry of actually getting wet. It’s an enjoyable experience for those of every age.

Pro Tip: Grab your Smoky Mountains: Flex Pass to visit this aquarium, as well as 30 other top attractions!

8. Fannie Farkle’s

Fannie Farkle’s is the best place to go in Gatlinburg to find fun games and delicious food at the exact same time. Purchase a game card upon arrival and swipe it on all the best arcade games you’ve ever seen. And when you need a break, chow down on one of their world-famous Ogle Dogs. This foot-long corn dog is made from a secret recipe that honors one of Gatlinburg’s founding fathers. Not having fun is simply not an option as soon as you step through the doors.

The list of places to visit in Gatlinburg could go on and on, but these eight locations are some of the best ones to start with. There’s a reason so many people visit Gatlinburg every year. It only makes sense that you go and find out for yourself exactly why that is so!

Related Reading:

1. 12 Gorgeous Gatlinburg Cabins For Your Smoky Mountain Getaway
2. How To Spend A Weekend In Pigeon Forge
3. 12 Incredible Pigeon Forge Cabins For Your Smoky Mountain Getaway

For the multigenerational family seeking a fun and affordable vacation, visit Las Cruces to experience New Mexico culture, outdoor activities, and historic sites under endless blue skies. Known for its sunrises, sunsets, and wide-open spaces, Las Cruces is rated #3 in Money magazine’s 20 Best Places to Visit in 2019.

The city’s major employer is the federal government supporting the White Sands Test Facility and White Sands Missile Range. Las Cruces means the crosses in Spanish — legend says the crosses mark early settlers’ graves. Let’s explore Las Cruces in south-central New Mexico, 46 miles north of El Paso.

Things To Do In Las Cruces

Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring museums, markets, monuments, and state parks, or visiting the wineries, families will find many adventures in and around Las Cruces.

Farmers And Crafts Markets

Celebrating 50 years, the Farmers & Crafts Markets of Las Cruces fills seven blocks of downtown Main Street with vendors selling locally grown produce, locally made food, and crafts. You’ll experience the culture of the Mesilla Valley with jewelers, metalwork, paintings, fiber, local art, and craftspeople. Find organic produce and gluten-free options, traditional Mexican food, and even homemade kombucha. You can spend an entire morning exploring the vendors and having lunch on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the market.

White Sands National Park In The Evening

Did you know that the white expanse of White Sands National Park that extends 275 miles does not absorb heat from the sun, making a stroll on the dunes comfortable even in the hot summer months? Take a ranger-led sunset stroll offered daily to learn about geology, animals, and the park’s plants. Walk along the white dunes the night before the full moon from April through October. The park stays open late on full moon nights, where you can listen to live music in the natural amphitheater from May through October.

Railroad Museum

Located in the historic Santa Fe Railroad Depot, the Las Cruces Railroad Museum explores railroading with hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities on STEAM Saturdays. At Brown Bag Lunch Lecture Series, learn about railroad transportation or flag and lantern signals or attend kids-only sessions, including transportation storytime and Dino train.

Museum Of Nature And Science

The Museum of Nature and Science offers three permanent exhibitions: stargazing, desert life, and Permian trackways. Learn about animal feedings with snakes, amphibians, lizards, turtles, trace fossils, plant life cycle, and life in the earth’s crust. The museum focuses on providing a fun environment for discovery, community enrichment, and learning new ideas.

Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument protects five areas that cover almost a half-million acres. The areas include the Organ Mountains, Sierra de las Uvas, the Robledo Mountains, Potrillo Mountains, and Dona Ana Mountains, from Ponderosa trees in the highest elevations to narrow canyons and open woodlands. You’ll find hundreds of dwellings, rock art, artifacts, and other evidence of the Native peoples of the area.

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Located 1.5 miles from historic Mesilla near Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is an Audubon designated Important Birding Area, stop number 43 on the Statewide Birding Trail. You’ll find interpretive and hiking trails, picnicking areas, gardens, theater, wildlife viewing blinds, and exhibits at the visitor center.

The Zuhl Museum

If you are a rockhound, you’ll love The Zuhl Museum, part art gallery, part history museum at the New Mexico State University in Las Cruces. Be amazed by giant geodes filled with amethyst and other minerals surrounded by a forest of polished 280-million-year-old petrified wood. Over 1,800 fossils were donated to the university by Herb and Joan Zuhl in 2000. This collection is the largest petrified wood display in the world.

Prehistoric Trackways National Monument

Established in 2009 to protect the significant fossilized mega trackways within 5,280 acres in the Robledo Mountains, you’ll see footprints of amphibians, reptiles, insects, plants, and petrified wood dating back 280 million years — before the dinosaurs. Sites interpreting the fossils are still under development. You can see a 30-foot and a 15-foot trackway on display at the Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science.

Leasburg Dam State Park

Drive 25 minutes north of Las Cruces to Leasburg Dam State Park for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, river running, and birding in this peaceful picnicking and camping area. Stop at the visitor center for area information. The park has a main restroom with hot showers, a kids’ playground, and an amphitheater that hosts monthly night sky programs, ranger-led hikes, and birding events. The camping hookup sites are available by reservation only.

Las Cruces Museum Of Art      

The Las Cruces Museum of Art is an oasis for Friday Night Painting Parties and adult summer classes like drawing, watercolor, jewelry making, or ceramics. Kids’ types include drawing, clay, painting, and recycled art. The museum hosts traveling contemporary art exhibits along with studio class programs.

Recycled Roadrunner Statue

Kids love the 20-foot-tall Recycled Roadrunner Statue that was first constructed at the foothills landfill to make people aware of how much we throw away that ends up in the landfill. The artist moved the giant bird to the rest area west of Las Cruces on Interstate 10. Look closely, and you’ll see old cell phones, bike parts, shoes, tires, metal crutches, computer keyboards, etc. 

Mesquite Street Historic District

Visit Mesquite Street, which meanders through the oldest part of Las Cruces. The same trail brought Spanish explorers from Mexico City to Santa Fe, today part of the El Camino de Tierra Adentro, The Royal Road of the Interior Land National Historic Trail. Start a walking tour at Klein Park and visit old adobe houses, churches, shops, and museums. Eat enchiladas at Nopalitos, where the Gallegos family has operated for more than 50 years. Have a cup of coffee at Beck’s Coffee and purchase a bag of coffee beans.

Take The Las Cruces Wine Trail

Salsa dance or listen to music on the back patio area as you enjoy cabs, Petite Sirah, or malbecs at Amaro Winery in downtown Las Cruces. At Fort Selden Winery, enjoy wine tastings and wine by the bottle or case.

Heart of the Desert Winery presents award-winning wines on the relaxing patio and home-grown pistachios from Eagle Ranch Groves. Sip wines and eat pizza from an extensive menu at Luna Rossa Winery & Pizzeria.

25 miles south of Las Cruces, come and experience tradition at LaVina Winery, New Mexico’s oldest winery. At Rio Grande Winery, sip and paint, enjoy weekly food specials, live music, and drink wine. Enjoy Desert Nights Rose, El Santo “The Saint,” a blend of reds, or Land of Manana, a sweet style Moscato.

“Walk Of Flame” Green Chile Trail

Las Cruces Green Chile Trail is considered the “mecca of green chile production,” where farmers harvest millions of tons a year. You can find many varieties from mild to hot. One fresh, medium-sized green chile pod has as much vitamin C as six oranges. One teaspoon of dried red chile powder has the daily requirements of Vitamin A.

Hot chile peppers speed up the metabolism and burn calories by triggering a thermodynamic burn in the body. Local grocery stores roast the green chiles in August and September, and restaurants feature dishes like green chile burgers, green chile wontons, green chile hummus, and stuffed hatch green chiles.

Restaurants In Las Cruces

La Posta de Mesilla has been famous for Mexican food, steaks, tequila, and margaritas since 1939. The cantina serves over 100 tequilas. Enjoy nachos, shrimp ceviche, enchiladas, fajitas, combination plates, and steaks with shrimp. They offer Pancho Villa Specials for children under 12.

For Neapolitan-style pizzas, visit Zeffiro’s Pizzeria Downtown for the best in Las Cruces. Order the supreme pizza, the chicken parmesan, or build your calzone. Save room for the real thing here, tiramisu or Italian lemon cream cake.

Order a seasonal craft beer and a green chili cheeseburger at the Spotted Dog Brewery. The Black and Tan Onion Rings are the best — thick-cut onion rings coated with beer batter, drizzled with dark stout beer, and served with sriracha ranch.

In the heart of old Mesilla, have dinner at the Double Eagle Restaurant, situated in a historic, elegant home built in 1849, filled with crystal chandeliers, antiques, century-old art, and, oh yes, two ghosts. Start with the house favorite, green chile cheese wontons and firecracker shrimp. The steaks are excellent, the aged double eagle ribeye or the 40-ounce tomahawk beef ribeye for two. Save room for the Bananas Foster prepared tableside so you can enjoy the show. Stop off in the Imperial Bar for the glamour and a margarita from a classic 30-year-old recipe.

Caliche’s Frozen Custard often earns national attention with sweet treats and memories. Try the fudge brownie bliss, Nana Berry Swirl, or my favorite, the mint de caliche.

Hotels In Las Cruces

Stay at Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, southern New Mexico’s premier Heritage Hotel and Resort. The conveniently located hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant and bar. At Mezcla restaurant, you can sample calamari, green chile fondue, a classic burger, or trout escabeche.

Or choose the Springhill Suites Las Cruces or Holiday Inn Express & Suites for families. Lundeen Inn of the Arts is a Mexican Boutique Inn rated one of the top 20 inns in the country. Seven guest rooms boasting 18-foot ceilings, Jacobean-style furniture, and an 1855 German piano serve a diverse clientele. Enjoy stimulating conversations about the area’s art, culture, and history with the art dealer and architect owners.

Los Alamos is a hidden gem in North Central New Mexico for nature lovers, science lovers, and families. 

For the second year in a row, Los Alamos was ranked as America’s Healthiest Community by U.S. News & World Report. Los Alamos has spectacular scenery, unusual high-altitude recreational adventures, ancient village sites, and small-town friendliness. It is best known for its dynamic technology development. 

Let’s explore Los Alamos, just a 40-minute drive northwest of Santa Fe, where you’ll find things to do for the whole family.

Things To Do In Los Alamos

Los Alamos is the gateway to three national monuments and sites that kids will love.

Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument, named for 19^th-century anthropologist Adolph Bandelier, has 33,677 acres of magnificent canyons, mesas, and several thousand Ancestral Pueblo dwellings. The 10,000-foot elevation brings significant snow in the winter, and in the summer, temperatures may vary from 70–40 degrees Fahrenheit with rainstorms.

Begin your exploration of Bandelier with a hike along the 1.4-mile Main Pueblo Loop Trail, starting at the visitor center and leading through archaeological sites along the floor of Frijoles Canyon. Part of the trail is handicapped accessible. Hike the 3-mile round trip from Falls Trail to the majestic Upper Falls.

During the summer, attend the ranger-led programs like astronomy nights, bat strolls, survival lessons, or night walks. See the heritage demonstrations of traditional music and dance, pottery making, or food preparation, and get a free permit at the visitor center for overnight back-country camping.

Tent camping is available in two campgrounds: Juniper, for groups of 10 or less, on a first-come, first-serve basis; and Ponderosa, for groups of 10 or more, requiring a reservation for tent sites, picnic tables, pit toilets, and small cooking shelters.

You’ll find all kinds of wildlife in the park, including mule deer, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, lizards, salamanders, and various birds, including the mountain chickadee. Watch out for any tarantulas you find; they’re protected.

Valles Caldera National Preserve

A volcanic eruption created the Valles Caldera National Preserve over 1.25 million years ago. The caldera, or volcanic crater, is a depression 12–15 miles in diameter with walls varying from a few hundred to over 2,000 feet above the floor.

You can find wildlife ranging from Gunnison prairie dogs, badgers, coyotes, golden eagles, and the second-largest elk herd in New Mexico. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and exploring prehistoric sites and abandoned cabins. The closest overnight camping is in Jemez (Hey-mess) Springs.

Manhattan Project National Historical Park

Three cities form The Manhattan Project National Historical Park: Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park is known for developing the atomic bomb and introducing the “Nuclear Age,” the most significant event of the 20^th century. Kids can participate in the Junior Ranger Program.

Historic Walking Tour

Get your historic walking tour map at Discover Los Alamos Visitor Center and explore the history museum and shop, the Baker House, the Fuller Lodge, the Memorial Rose Garden, the Romero Cabin, and the Bradbury Science Museum.

Bradbury Science Museum

Experience more than 40 interactive exhibits within the Bradbury Science Museum’s three galleries: history, defense, and research, a window into Los Alamos National Laboratory. Two 16-minute films throughout the day reveal the race to build the first atomic bomb during the Manhattan Project, and the lab’s efforts today to ensure the nuclear project’s safety, security, and reliability.

Hands-on experiments in the Tech Lab show children and families the scientific and technical concepts of life sciences, space achievements, supercomputing, energy, and the environment.

Los Alamos History Museum And Bathtub Row

A visit to the Los Alamos History Museum begins in the restored Los Alamos Ranch School Guest Cottage. The exhibits take visitors through four areas: the Pajarito Plateau’s Ancestral Pueblo People, the homesteading history, the ranch school era, and finally, the Manhattan Project.

See Harold Agnew’s Cold War Gallery at the Hans Bethe House with exhibits featuring the 70-plus years of Cold War history in the laboratory and the community. You will observe a Nobel Prize display, scientist profiles, atomic weapon models, and the city as a civil defense community.

The Romero Cabin offers a glimpse back 100 years ago to area homestead cabins and the original footprints of the Ancestral Pueblo rooms and kiva.

The last house on Bathtub Row is the Oppenheimer House, currently under renovations, with innovative housing exhibits scheduled to open in fall 2022.

Los Alamos Nature Center

Perched along Canyon Road, Los Alamos Nature Center offers a passport to hike the Pajarito Plateau’s extensive trail system. Browse the gardens, play in the nature area, learn about local animals and plants, or attend planetarium shows, hosted talks, and guided hikes.

Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway

One of eight “byways” in the state, the 132-mile loop offers scenic views, historical and cultural pueblos, natural bubbling hot springs, desert cliffs, and snowy alpine peaks. Depending on how often you stop, you can easily spend a day here. Head west toward Jemez Springs, through Bandelier National Monument, and drive up a thousand feet in elevation to Valles Caldera — the volcanic crater boasting hot springs, fishing, and grazing elk at a 9,000-foot elevation.

Stop at Jemez Falls Campground, where an easy quarter-mile hiking trail leads down to a beautiful waterfall. Drive to Battleship Rock and take the short, steep hike to McCauley Warm Springs. Proceed along SR 4 to Soda Dam, and then to the Jemez State Monument, the historic pueblo, and the mission. Past the Gillman Tunnels, stop at Ponderosa Valley Vineyard and Winery, the largest riesling vineyard in New Mexico. Visit Jemez Pueblo and Walatowa Visitor Center and then return to Los Alamos.

Tsankawi

Located in a more remote section of Bandelier National Park, hike 1.5 miles along a mesa to see petroglyphs and the Ancestral Pueblo village of Tsankawi. Ladders are required to access the trail. Use caution during thunderstorms since the course is very exposed to the elements.

Anderson Scenic Overlook

My favorite place to watch expansive sunsets is Anderson Scenic Overlook, 5 miles from Los Alamos on Highway 502 as you head west into town. You’ll see gorgeous views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley.

Fuller Lodge Art Center

Visit Fuller Lodge Art Center, a beautiful art gallery in the historic Fuller Lodge wing. The rotating exhibit hosts over 100 local and regional artists, as well as classes for all ages and a gift shop with art for sale.

Los Alamos County Golf Center

One of the oldest 18-hole golf courses in the state, the Los Alamos County Golf Course was built in 1947 by the Atomic Energy Commission. You’ll play through cottonwoods and ponderosa pines with small greens and sloping fairways — a challenge for all playing levels. Fresh mountain air at 7,400 feet makes the drives go flying.

Restaurants In Los Alamos

Serving lunch and dinner in Los Alamos for over 40 years, Blue Window Bistro boasts fresh, locally-sourced, and seasonal food made from scratch, like the smoked gouda and artichoke dip, fried green tomato with crab stack, or chicken cobb salad. Order the black angus beef burger, vegetarian garden burger, or for your mains, jumbo sea scallops or filet mignon. Save room for tiramisu or my favorite, limoncello mascarpone cake.

Found my chocolate place! Rose Chocolatier offers gourmet chocolates and pastries made fresh daily. Add an espresso, coffee, tea, or Italia soda, or special order a cake, candies, pastries, or hot cocoa. The homemade fudgesicles are heavenly.

Viola’s Restaurant has been serving Mexican food breakfasts and lunches since 1988. You’ll find classic breakfasts plus huevos rancheros or quesadillas, Mexican food lunch combos, burgers, sandwiches, and homemade posole and sopapillas with prompt and friendly service.

Pajarito Brewpub and Grill has 28 beers to choose from, plus the best all-American burger anywhere. Try the stuffed green chile burger, the pastrami burger with Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, or shrimp and grits. They now fill growlers of beer.

Hotels In Los Alamos

Nestled on 3 acres of pine forest, just 4 miles from Los Alamos, the Pueblo Canyon Inn and Gardens is 20 minutes from Bandelier and Caldera. Choose from five bedrooms in the main house; a two-bedroom, two-bath with a full kitchen; or a round studio cabin. A continental breakfast is provided, which includes muffins, bread, fruit, yogurt, cereal, hard-boiled eggs, juice, coffee, and tea. Dine in the breakfast room or take it to go. Enjoy a piano, pool table, outdoor kitchen, a putting green, treehouse, gardens, and chickens.

For just the two of you, Hacienda del Cerezo is 12 miles northwest of Santa Fe on 336 acres, surrounded by over 150,000 acres of the Tesuque Indian Reservation, the Horcado Ranch area, and the old Jacona Spanish Land Grant. The all-inclusive resort — with a full breakfast, lunch, a five-course dinner, and wines — was listed as one of the “25 Best American Lodges” by Travel & Leisure. The Hacienda is a large home with only 10 guest suites. Each has its own privately-enclosed patio, fireplace and sitting area, king bed, oversize baths with large Jacuzzi tubs, separate showers, water closets, and bidets.

Or stay with the grandkids in the Holiday Inn Express & Suites or Hampton Inn & Suites Los Alamos.

Pro Tip: You may decide to move here after your visit. Los Alamos has the best school district in the state. It’s also the best county to live in America, the safest city in New Mexico, and the 17th best small town in America.

Whether you’re looking to retire or simply get away, New Mexico has you covered:

• 12 Small Towns In New Mexico Perfect For Retirees
• 9 Things To Do In Beautiful Las Cruces, New Mexico
• 7 Charming Small Towns To Visit In Southern New Mexico

Peaches are my all-time favorite fruit. Nothing says “Summer’s here!” like biting into a just-picked, juicy Texas peach. Here in Texas, peaches only ripen from mid-May to August, so every spring I eagerly start charting my peach-buying trips. My husband and I try to visit as many of our favorite peach orchards and festivals as possible, especially those within easy driving distance from our home in Dallas.

While luscious Texas peaches also grow in South Texas, especially around Fredericksburg, we limit our peach-buying trips to nearby North Texas and East Texas counties. Freestone County, Kaufman County, and Parker County all produce bountiful peach crops every summer. Parker County even holds a popular Peach Festival in downtown Weatherford every July (more on that below!).

1. Cooper Farms In Fairfield (Freestone County)

Cooper Farms is just under 90 miles south of Dallas, or about an hour and a half from our place, and easily accessible just off I-45 South. They grow 70 different varieties of peaches — including donut peaches — along with nectarines, plums, blackberries, figs, and vegetables on approximately 300 acres of land. Fairfield is centrally located between Dallas and Houston.

Co-owner Elizabeth Cooper says, “Our crop expectancy is looking to be Mother’s Day to Labor Day this year. The crop is looking really, really good! The farm is currently covered in blooms, and we will be in the thick of harvest before we know it. We plan to have lots of peaches for retail and wholesale customers this year.”

At the Cooper Farms Country Store in Fairfield, fresh peaches share the spotlight with peach ice cream, milkshakes, and ice cream floats. Gooey peach cobbler and hand-braided peach pies plus peach bread and other bakery goods are also big sellers there.

Pro Tip: While in Fairfield, we never miss a chance to stop for lunch at Sam’s Original Restaurant & BBQ, 390 East I-45. An oversized all-you-can-eat buffet spread features homemade Southern comfort food. Think chicken and dumplings, fried chicken, and chicken-fried steak plus melt-in-your-mouth barbecue brisket and sausage, fresh veggies, soups, and salads plus banana or bread pudding for dessert.

2. Ham Orchards In Kaufman County (Near Terrell)

Ham Orchards, the closest peach growers to our Dallas home, is about 45 minutes away by U. S. Highway 20 East, then cutting through the city of Terrell to 11939 County Road 309. The 200 acres feature five orchards and over 15,000 peach, apricot, plum, and nectarine trees. Owned and operated by the Ham family for 42 years, Ham Orchards has become a destination for peach (and barbecue) lovers around the country. They also feature an 8-acre “pick-your-own” blackberry patch behind their sprawling country store. Ham Orchards is open every day but Sunday during peach season, mid-May to mid-August.

Inside the bustling farmers’ market store, you’ll find farm-fresh vegetables, including terrific-tasting tomatoes right off the vine. They also sell fruits, jams, jellies, preserves, local honey, East Texas Pecans, homemade fudge, and fried pies made daily in their own bakery. They also feature homemade breads, pies, cakes, and casseroles. Ham Orchards’ soft-serve peach ice cream and strawberry ice cream are deservedly famous. People start queuing up early for the delicious hand-made ice cream and the barbecue by Eddie Deen sold from a stand at the back of the store.

My favorite item on the barbecue menu is the peach pulled pork barbecue sandwich, served with sides of potato salad and coleslaw and a large glass of iced tea. After purchasing our food, we head for the covered pavilion out back that features plenty of picnic tables. The tables quickly fill with happy groups of barbecue- and peach-loving customers. Like us, many of them make Ham Orchards a family travel destination every summer.

Today, Ham Orchards is run by daughters Sharien and Karien Ham along with their husbands and families. They recently expanded the pavilion to accommodate even more people. Ham Orchards hires 90 employees for their busy summer season and provides summer jobs for a number of local students.

Co-owner Sharien Ham Strange says, “Each summer God brings us the most amazing

employees. We hire over 60 high school and college kids along with the most precious, hard-working women I know to work in the store with us.”

Pro Tip: Take along a cooler so you can safely transport those pints of peach ice cream you’re going to want to take back home — especially if you live or are staying an hour or so away like we do. If you’re like us, you’ve probably bought more peaches than you’ll ever eat, but your family, friends, and neighbors will be more than happy to take a few of these luscious gems off your hands.

3. Peachy Peel Farm In Scurry (Kaufman County)

Located at 10800 County Road 4090, Peachy Peel Farm produces tree-ripened cling and cling-free peach varieties from June through August. From mid-May to July they offer thornless blackberries for their customers to pick themselves, or they’ll be happy to pick them for you. Peaches are sold in small and large baskets, along with their ripe plums. They also sell jams and salsas made from their fruit. 

Seasonal tomatoes and other vegetables and fruits are also available, along with homemade peach and blackberry cobblers and cakes. They also make their own vanilla, peach, and strawberry ice cream.

Pro Tip: Peachy Peel Farm offers special dinners served in the orchard, starting with appetizers on their beautiful garden patio. Guests stroll down to the orchard to enjoy fresh cuisine in a peach-inspired meal. They also hold weddings and receptions in the orchard by special request.

4. Parker County Peach Orchards

Parker County boasts three peach orchards, starting with Hutton Peach Farm at 210 Greenwood Cut Off Road in Weatherford. Pop’s Peaches at 701 N. Main Street in Weatherford, and Rees’s Peaches at 6017 SFM 5 in Aledo also grow peaches. Peaches are also sold at Weatherford Farmers Market on Fort Worth Highway. The best time to visit any of these is right after they open.

Parker County residents are extremely proud of their peaches, and start planning for the annual Parker County Peach Festival early in the year. Before the festival in July, the Parker County Peach Pageant held in June draws girls from infants to age 21. The queen and princess ride in the June Rodeo Parade, and also in the December Christmas parade. The annual peach fest draws thousands to downtown Weatherford for a day packed with activities and entertainment.

More On The Parker County Peach Festival

The 37^th-annual Parker County Peach Festival is expanding this year and will feature more than 200 arts and craft, food, and activity vendors in booths scattered all around the historic Weatherford Courthouse Square. Visitors can expect to get their fill of homemade peach ice cream, peach cobbler, peach pie, peach tea, peach smoothies, or ice cream topped with fresh peaches. Parker County’s juicy peaches are a sweet treat all on their own, even with the fuzz still on.

Two entertainment stages invite Peach Festival guests to sit back and relax while enjoying continuous performances by local entertainers. A highlight of the festival is the Food Competition, an event that has become a crowd favorite. A number of antique and specialty stores around the downtown area will also feature specials all day, and visitors are warmly invited to visit these downtown merchants before or after the festival.

The Peach Pedal Bike Ride draws over 2,200 cyclists for a fun event that benefits United Way of Parker County and the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce. Riders start from the Weatherford High School parking lot at 2121 Bethel Road in Weatherford. The 61-mile ride starts at 7:30 a.m., the 39-mile ride starts at 7:45 a.m., and the less strenuous 28-mile and 8-mile rides start at 8 a.m. 

Free transportation to the festival on an air-conditioned shuttle runs all day from the 9^th Grade Center, Weatherford College, and Heritage Park. The shuttles drop passengers off at and pick them up from the festival entrances. The Parker County Peach Festival runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Weatherford. Tickets are available for pre-purchase only at peachfestivaltx.com for easier hands-free entry. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 5 to 12 (those under 5 are free).

Pro Tips: It’s hot outside, so Festival-goers should dress casually and wear walking shoes. We recommend going early and then stopping for lunch at The Mesquite Pit on Weatherford’s Fort Worth Highway. Expect friendly service, downhome ambiance, and affordable prices for great barbecue, grilled or chicken-fried steaks, veggies, and cornbread.

Planning a memorable multigenerational family vacation is top-of-mind for parents and grandparents this year. All-inclusive resort vacations are popular with multigenerational travelers, and the good news is a passport isn’t needed. There are outstanding all-inclusive vacation options located throughout the United States. 

We’ve rounded up a selection of favorite all-inclusive properties from Florida to Montana for your next multigenerational family trip. There’s something fun for all ages and interests at these all-inclusive resorts, and rates include lodging, meals, and many activities. Accessible accommodations are available at every property. 

Check out these eight U.S. all-inclusive resorts for your next multigenerational family vacation.

1. Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Port Saint Lucie, Florida

Known for its all-inclusive properties worldwide, Club Med delivers its signature family-friendly brand of hospitality at Club Med Sandpiper Bay. Situated alongside the St. Lucie River, this 307-room resort caters to families and multigenerational groups with specially designed family rooms, multiple restaurants, and a wide variety of sports and activities for all ages. Club Med Sandpiper Bay’s rates include accommodations, unlimited daily food and beverages, children’s clubs for kids ages 4-17, nightly entertainment, and an extensive array of land and water activities. Water sports, golf, Club Med’s trademark flying trapeze activity, Club Med Academies, and pickleball are popular here. A nursery for little ones ages 4 months to 23 months old and a tot program for children ages 2 to 3 are available for an additional charge. Multigenerational families can book connecting rooms featuring two terraces, a lounge area, and sleeping accommodations for up to eight guests.

Pro Tip: Families can use the Club Med Easy Arrival service to sign up for excursions and childcare in advance, book sports equipment, make special requests, and seamlessly handle contact-free check-ins.

2. Woodloch Resort, Hawley, Pennsylvania

Since opening in 1958, vacations at Woodloch Resort have been built around family togetherness. Set on over 1,000 acres in the Pocono Mountains, this four-season all-inclusive property was named the top family resort in the United States in the 2021 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Family-owned and operated for over 60 years, Woodloch’s goal is to unite families, and most activities are designed for multiple generations to enjoy together. Woodloch Resort has a 60 percent repeat guest rate, and some families have been coming for decades.

Woodloch Resort’s all-inclusive plan includes accommodations, meals, entertainment, amenities, and over 30 daily activities. Popular events include bakery wars, family Olympics, scavenger hunts, evening Broadway-style shows, and amenities like go-carts, boating and water sports, and winter snow tubing. A wide variety of family-friendly accommodations are available including two-bedroom suites for up to 12 and three- to six-bedroom fully furnished guest homes. 

Pro Tip: Families can make advance reservations for private dining areas seating five to 35 people for celebration dinners and special events. Guests can order personalized cakes from Woodloch’s in-house bakery. 

3. Vista Verde Ranch, Clark, Colorado

Families love this secluded AAA Four Diamond Rocky Mountain playground set on 540 acres near Steamboat Springs. Vista Verde Ranch’s flexible program lets family members enjoy activities together or head off on their own and regroup later to share adventures during dinner and evening programs. Summer and winter are prime times for families to visit, and Vista Verde’s seasonal kid, tween, and teen programs are superb. All-inclusive rates include meals, beer and wine, activities, guides, equipment, supervised kids’ programs, and more. During the summer months, horseback riding and outdoor activities including fly fishing, mountain biking, and hiking reign supreme.

Vista Verde Ranch turns into a magical wonderland filled with snow and fun family adventures in the winter. Families enjoy tubing, backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Vista Verde’s luxurious accommodations include three lodge rooms and 12 private log cabins with up to four bedrooms. 

Pro Tip: There’s so much to do at Vista Verde Ranch. After arrival, meet with the front desk crew to go over the schedule and prioritize activities. Make winter dogsledding reservations in advance. 

4. The Tyler Place Family Resort, Highgate Springs, Vermont 

This 165-acre family-owned property on Lake Champlain has provided memorable vacations for generations of families since 1933. The Tyler Place is open from late May through early September and offers extensive activities for every family member. All-inclusive rates include virtually everything except alcoholic drinks, spa services, and some privately scheduled motorized watersports. A vast array of adult and family-friendly activities and amenities are provided. Families enjoy three delicious daily meals and fun outdoor-oriented pursuits including watersports, tennis, mini-golf, biking, pickleball, softball, yoga and water aerobics, arts and crafts, and gardening workshops. With daily children’s programs for ten separate age groups from infants through teens and over 200 dedicated staff, The Tyler Place’s award-winning childcare programs and guest service levels are outstanding. The Tyler Place offers more than 70 family-friendly accommodations including spacious suites and private family cottages with up to four bedrooms. 

Pro Tip: The Tyler Place’s return guest rate averages around 70 percent, so make reservations early. All stays are weekly except Memorial Day and Labor Day weeks when shorter bookings are available.

5. White Stallion Ranch, Tucson, Arizona

Adults and kids have fun making memories together at this year-round ranch on 3,000 acres of spectacular Sonoran desert bordering Saguaro National Park West. Award-winning White Stallion Ranch has been owned and operated by the True family for over 55 years. White Stallion’s Full American Plan rates include lodging, three meals daily, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, hiking, entertainment, and wireless internet access. With a 4-night stay or a 6-night stay, depending on the season, Full American Plan rates also include shooting, rock climbing, fat-tire E-biking, archery, and airport transfers from Tucson International Airport. Riding, team cattle penning competitions, E-biking, visits to the petting zoo, and watching movies together in the 27-seat theater are popular with families and multigenerational groups. Accommodations include 43 spacious guest rooms and family suites and The Hacienda, a four-bedroom home perfect for larger family groups. Kids under five stay free year-round, family reunion packages are available, and seasonal specials are offered as well. 

Pro Tip: Visiting Tucson’s world-class Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a great learning experience for families. 

6. Migis Lodge, South Casco, Maine

Set on 125 acres with 3,500 feet of Sebago Lake shoreline, Migis Lodge has been hosting generations of families for over 100 years. This family-owned resort’s Full American Plan includes delicious meals plus a wealth of activities such as sailing, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding, leisurely lake cruises, swimming, fishing, tennis, children’s programs, and fitness classes. Guests can choose from eight spacious Main Lodge rooms and 35 well-appointed private cottages of various sizes with fireplaces and porches. The Migis Lodge staff provides daily supervised programs for children and teens, including the Kids’ Camp for children 4 through 6, Adventure Camp for kids 7 and older, and the “Zoo” evening activities. This idyllic southern Maine resort is open during the summer and fall, and a one-week minimum stay is required during July and August. 

Pro Tip: Migis Lodge staff can book golf tee times at the nearby 18-hole Point Sebago course at a special rate for Migis guests. Avid shoppers may wish to stop at the massive L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport on their way to the resort. 

7. Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York

This stunning clifftop Victorian castle resort overlooking Lake Mohonk in New York’s Hudson Valley is a year-round family favorite. Mohonk Mountain House is situated just 90 miles from New York City, providing easy access for many families. Owned and operated by the Smiley family since 1869, Mohonk Mountain House is surrounded by 40,000 forested acres and has been named a National Historic Landmark.

The resort’s all-inclusive rates cover meals, most nonalcoholic beverages, and many activities such as lake and indoor swimming, boating, fishing, tennis, golf, wellness sessions, family programming, hiking along 85 miles of trails, and evening entertainment. A Junior Naturalist Program and other children’s activities are also included. Families can choose from 265 rooms and suites, five cottages, and the six-bedroom Grove Lodge. 

Pro Tip: Families reserving six or more rooms can contact Mohonk’s group sales team early to book rooms and coordinate dining times and activities. Smaller family groups can call the resort directly to book dining reservations up to 28 days in advance. 

8. Flathead Lake Lodge, Bigfork, Montana

Founded in 1945, this family-owned and operated all-inclusive ranch has delighted generations of family vacationers. Situated on 2,000 acres along the shores of Flathead Lake, Flathead Lake Lodge is open from May through October. Week-long stays are required during the family-focused summer season. There’s something for every interest and age group here, so adults and kids can enjoy their own adventures while still bonding as a family.

All-inclusive rates include accommodations, three meals daily, beverages, and all on-site activities, including horseback riding, incredible water sports, guided mountain biking, swimming, tennis, nightly entertainment, youth programs from tots through teens, and more. Families can choose to stay in rooms, spacious suites, and cabins of various sizes located throughout the property. Large families like the South Lodge’s flexible accommodations and cozy lobby area. Multigenerational families can arrange private dinners and boating excursions for special celebrations. 

Pro Tip: Flathead Lake Lodge is just a 45-minute drive from Glacier National Park. Since there’s so much to experience at Flathead Lake Lodge, plan your park visit before or after your stay.

Going all-inclusive? Don’t miss Our 7 Favorite All-Inclusive Resorts In The Caribbean 2022.

I thought I might be asking for trouble taking my grandchildren to stay at a swanky Houston hotel, but our stay at Hotel Zaza in the Museum District paid off. We were going to see Ramses the Great & The Gold of the Pharaohs, a world premiere exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. I invited my daughter and the grandkids to go with me to see the exhibit, and they were so excited. The anticipation is almost as much fun as the actual trip with children. Dakota, my 6-year-old granddaughter — who knows way more about Tutankhamun, Egypt, and the pyramids than I do — will probably wear her Cleopatra (Halloween) costume. Four-year-old Hank won’t be far behind. He will want to wear his plastic dinosaur head when we visit the Morian Hall of Paleontology.

We hit the Houston highlights mostly near our hotel during our 3-day weekend. Here are some fun things to do in Houston with the grandkids.

1. Stay At Hotel ZaZa In The Museum District

I remember when the Hotel ZaZa was the old Warwick Hotel years ago, and it was just as beautiful now as it was back then. The luxury accommodations wowed the kids. They liked the bejeweled horse standing in the lobby’s koi pond. I loved the beautiful artwork everywhere in the hotel. The location is perfect for the places we wanted to visit; just a two-block walk to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Hermann Park was across the street. The limousine will drive you anywhere within a 3-mile radius of the hotel, so we parked and used the car service to get around.

2. Houston Museum Of Natural Science

The grand Houston Museum of Natural Science is full of captivating exhibits, some permanent and some on worldwide tours. On our visit, we explored Ramses the Great, ancient Egyptian tombs, and paleontology — and this doesn’t even scratch the surface.

Special Exhibits

We learned about Ramses the Great and his wife, Queen Nefertari, who reigned over 3,200 years ago. While exploring over 180 magnificently lighted and displayed artifacts, we saw some never shown before. We ventured through rooms filled with golden tomb treasures, carved obelisks, royal golden masks, sarcophagi, stunning jewelry, animal mummies, and architectural displays showing the giant-seated statues. Painted background displays made you feel like you were inside the chamber, observing the artifacts. The multimedia recreation of Ramses’s Battle of Kadesh is displayed as the mightiest battle ever.

We found a Senet gameboard carved on a stone, symbolizing the deceased’s passage through the underworld. The grandkids and I had just played a game the night before from Dakota’s Egypt book I had given her for Christmas. The statue of Ramses II as a sphinx offering a ram head vessel and the other objects are on display through May 23, 2022. Then the exhibit moves to Boston and San Francisco before it tours different parts of the world.

New Hall Of Ancient Egypt

We entered through an archway with two seated, larger-than-life stone figures, viewed a sunrise timeline, and walked through eight rooms — over 12,500 square feet. The New Hall of Ancient Egypt is the revamped permanent experience at the museum. The grandkids liked this better because there were actual mummies on display. Visually, it’s almost overwhelming, with paintings on walls and columns of Egyptian Art depicting ancient Egyptian life.

The golden room was our favorite: a simulation of the tomb of Tutankhamun. I loved the tomb of Nefertari and the animations and models showing Egyptian mythology and temples. Rows of arches and columns create a feeling of magnificent architecture as we explored fashion, religious symbols, sarcophagus lids, mummies, jars, and icons.  

Morian Hall Of Paleontology

This dinosaur exhibit was Hank’s favorite since he is very enthralled with dinosaurs. At Morian Hall of Paleontology, these dinosaurs look like action figures, some chasing, grazing, escaping, or flying. This display was unique and had many more prehistoric beasts than any other I’ve seen. The exhibit’s curator, Dr. Robert T. Bakker, Ph.D., a world-renowned paleontologist, changed the image of dinosaurs from slow, dumb, cold-blooded animals to swift-moving, warm-blooded creatures — some that even had feathers. He currently is leading a dig for Dimetrodon and other Permian-era species in Seymour, Texas, southwest of Wichita Falls.

More Amazing Exhibits At The Museum Of Natural Science

The Burke Baker Planetarium has presented astronomical programs since 1964. The Planetarium shows video technology on its dome including presentations like Black Holes, Death of the Dinosaurs, and Stars of the Pharaohs. See live butterflies at the Cockrell Butterfly Center and Brown Hall of Entomology. The Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals displays an 850-pound amethyst, a priceless crystallized gold cluster, and over 450 bejeweled mineral objects. The grandkids and I could spend all day here and not see it all. Grab your tickets in advance here.

3. The Children’s Museum

Designed for kids ages 3–12, donations, memberships, and individual ticket sales support The Children’s Museum. Kids can play in the Kidtropolis, a city for kids, where they choose what they want to be and work with other kids to make it function. The Invention Convention Workshop provides gadgets like Legos where kids design and build. How Does It Work explores physical science using mazes, tunnels, and tubes. Powerplay allows kids to study nutrition, health, and exercise with climbing mazes and tunnels where they jump, stretch, climb, crank, and crawl their way through the space. There are endless possibilities for entertainment here, plus venues for birthday parties, playdates, and family nights. Sign up for timed entries and purchase individual or member tickets. The museum is within walking distance of Hotel ZaZa. 

4. Hermann Park

With over 445 acres, the urban Hermann Park Conservancy is in the heart of Houston, south of downtown, near the Texas Medical Center, the Museum District, and right across the street from Hotel ZaZa. Presented to the city in 1914 by George Hermann, the Park boasts historic public green spaces and Art in the Park. Ride the Hermann Park Railroad, pedal boats on McGovern Lake, visit the Japanese Gardens, McGovern Centennial Gardens, and the Gift Shop in Lake Plaza.

GingerKale offers healthy breakfasts like Avocado Toast, strawberry crème Fraiche toast, or breakfast tacos. Sample the GK burger, cobb salad, or club sandwich for lunch.

The Pioneer Memorial Log House Museum serves as a memorial to Houston’s pioneer women and men.

As a kid, I remember having my picture taken standing under the Sam Houston Monument, the General sitting atop his horse, Saracen. General Houston has guarded the entrance to Hermann Park at Montrose and Main Streets since 1925.

The kids played at the Buddy Carruth Playground for All Children, an excellent place for swinging, climbing, sliding, and laughing. The 100-year-old Houston Zoo, within Hermann Park, spreads over 55 acres with over 6,000 animals, the second most visited zoo in the United States.

5. Waugh Bridge Bat Colony

See 250,000 bats fly from under the Waugh Drive Bridge, over Buffalo Bayou, and between Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive. See a fantastic view of the bat flight from a pontoon boat and learn more about these flying mammals.

6. Urban Harvest Farmers Market

On Richmond, near Kirby, visit the kid-friendly Urban Harvest Farmers Market for a casual morning of shopping local produce like eggs, honey, coffee, fruits, vegetables, cheese, and bread with people watching and food demos.

7. Downtown Aquarium

In downtown Houston, head to the Downtown Aquarium to see the stingray reef, the 500,000-gallon aquarium, adventure exhibit, plus unlimited amusement rides. Have lunch or dinner at the full-service restaurant. You could easily spend 3 or more hours here. We had to tear the kids away to leave. Grab your tickets in advance here.

8. The Galleria-Area Water Wall

A 64-foot-tall fountain looks like a vast horseshoe of running water, sitting amid 186 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower. What a great location to take pictures and feel the mist.

9. Space Center Houston

Learn everything about space here and become a certified astronaut at the Space Center Houston, where you can spend all day. See moon rocks, the NASA Johnson Space Center, two mission controls, and the place where astronauts trained. The amazing SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket and the first-stage booster stand over 156 feet tall. Make your reservation since ticketed admission is timed-based.

Pro Tip: Get the Houston CityPASS and save money on attractions.

Places To Eat

The Monarch Restaurant & Terrace in the Hotel ZaZa served an excellent breakfast with avocado toast, breakfast tacos, plate-sized pancakes, and French toast. The terrace boasts views of Mecom Fountain, the Museum of Fine Arts, and Hermann Park.

Goode Co. Seafood on Westpark was close to the hotel and offered delicious seafood. I can vouch for the jumbo lump crab cake. My daughter and I shared a bowl of seafood gumbo and the Laguna Madre shrimp stuffed with jalapeño and cheddar, wrapped in bacon and roasted mesquite. The kids filled up on fried shrimp and fries.

We met Aunt Missy for lunch at Barnaby’s Café in the Museum District, a short drive from the hotel. The sandwiches were enormous, as was my pesto chicken salad and artichoke hearts sandwich. The kid’s menu offered roadside sliders and two bite-sized burgers with French fries, which the kids split with mac & cheese.

Cyclone Anaya’s in Rice Village, near our hotel, offered Campechana, a shrimp mixture, Gulf Coast blue crab, tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and chipotle cocktail sauce served with plantain chips. The bacon-wrapped shrimp served with rice, refried beans, grilled vegetables, guacamole, and pico de gallo was out of this world. The kids split a grilled chicken breast with veggies and guacamole.

There’s plenty more fun-filled Houston experiences for all ages:

• 12 Hidden Gems The National Museum Of Funeral History Is Dying To Share
• 12 Free Or Nearly-Free Things To Do In Houston, Texas
• The Best Day Trips From Houston, Texas

Kansas City, Kansas — KCK to locals — prides itself on being a city of diversity. With several prevalent ethnic groups, you’ll find plenty of attractions and restaurants that appeal to a variety of tastes. Visiting the Kansas side of the Missouri–Kansas border takes you on a path of cultural and historical diversity.

1. Historic Murals

Downtown Kansas City features impressive murals exploring the city’s history and culture, but you’ll find dozens more scattered around town. 

Possibly the largest and most grandiose art piece in the city may be the Anthology of Argentine Mural in the Argentine neighborhood. Tracing the immigrant history of Kansas City, the block-long mural, painted on a tall brick wall, first honors the Indigenous peoples who lived in the area before Euro-American immigration, followed by other ethnic groups. The mural features a collage of cultural activities and events, including a local band, Latino wrestling, the growth of the railroad, and dancing. 

Downtown’s Avenue of Murals highlights the area’s history, including the local newspaper, Hmong community, Native Americans, and Hispanic influence.

2. Strawberry Hill Museum And Cultural Center

Built in 1887, the Queen Anne–style mansion was built for the Scroggs family. After the Scroggs lived in the home for more than 20 years, a local parish bought the mansion and turned it into an orphanage for scores of children who lost their families during the 1918 flu pandemic. The church ran the orphanage until it closed in 1988, and sold it to a Strawberry Hill historical group. 

Today, the Strawberry Hill Museum And Cultural Center explores the European immigration to the area, including several Eastern European countries, such as Croatia, Russia, Slovakia, and Poland. Western European immigrants came from nations such as Denmark and the Netherlands. The museum took its name from the neighborhood, whose hills were once covered with strawberry vines.

3. Wyandot National Burying Grounds

Formerly the Huron Indian Cemetery, the burial ground is a major story in the history of the Wyandot following their forced relocation to the area from Ohio. The Wyandot National Burying Grounds offer a historical and picturesque look at the Native American nation through its gravestone designs and the noteworthy people buried there, including a chief and Eliza (Lyda) Conley, the first Native American lawyer to argue a case before the United States Supreme Court. While she lost the 1910 case, Conley won in the end, as a state law was passed to protect the then–Huron Indian Cemetery from being razed for business development. Conley is buried there, alongside her family.

4. Grinter Place — Kansas Historical Society

Grinter Place gives a glimpse into rural life during the mid-1800s. Moses Grinter made a living during the 1830s running a ferry crossing the Kansas River for soldiers assigned to Fort Leavenworth and Fort Scott, before opening a successful trading post. The Grinters built their second home — and the first farmstead in the county — in the late 1850s. The Grinters also invested in real estate, buying land from local Native Americans. 

While Moses received credit as a successful businessman, several people believe it was Annie who was the brains behind their real estate ventures. As a Native American (she was a member of the Delaware tribe), Annie Grinter couldn’t be seen as the face of the business. Visitors learn these and other tidbits during a tour of the two-story house. The home includes furniture and accessories common to the era the family lived there, as well as some family items. The farm is located on a hill and offers a picturesque view of the area.

5. Wyandotte County Historical Museum

Located inside a contemporary-looking building, the Wyandotte County Historical Museum provides a fascinating look into the area’s history. Combining vintage photos of the Quindaro ruins — once a community used to help freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad and later home to formerly enslaved people — with artifacts and memorabilia, the museum highlights key periods in Kansas City’s history. 

One room focuses on Indigenous tribes that once lived in the area. While some are no longer in existence, the museum looks at tribes, such as the Kansaa (Kaw) and others, forced to relocate from the region. 

Sculptures from classic buildings were saved before their demolition and can be viewed. Kansas City’s first fire department is prominently celebrated. A medical section includes a look at nursing in the area.

6. National Agricultural Center And Hall Of Fame

Explore the history of farming at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame. With tractors, implements, and other farm machinery on display inside a Quonset building, the building gives a vibe of farm life. Take a walk through time as you visit a living history farm outdoors. Learn about key players from agriculture’s history with a visit to the Wall of Fame. The agricultural center also hosts special exhibits.

Pro tip: The National Agricultural Center is open seasonally, from April to October.

7. Kaw Point Park

Stand at the confluence of the Kaw and Missouri Rivers, near where the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery spent a few days during their exploration upriver. Kaw Point Park offers a beautiful view of the Kansas City, Missouri, skyline. The city park features a walking trail with wildflowers and native plants that the expedition may have seen. An amphitheater near the rivers includes stone seats with the names of the people (and Seaman, the Newfoundlander dog) who served with the Corps of Discovery. A parade ground includes the names of 17 tribes that called Kansas home. Tribal flags are flown during special events. The park is an excellent spot for dropping canoes and kayaks into the river.

8. Military Memorials

Kansas City honors its veterans with beautiful monuments. The Rosedale Memorial Arch is located on a hilltop, offering an impressive view of the Missouri side of the border. Resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Rosedale Arch recognizes people who served during World War I. A smaller memorial is located beneath the arch honoring locals who served during World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam.

The Soldier and Sailor Memorial Hall in downtown KCK was built during the 1920s to honor those who served during World War I. But plaques and other exhibits in the lobby recognize Kansas Citians who have served in several wars, including World War II. Today, the building hosts community events and concerts. The facility hosted Patsy Cline’s last concert before the country music star died in a 1963 plane crash.

A monument thanking locals involved with building B-25 bombers during World War II is located outside the Wyandotte County Museum. It recognizes more than 50,000 people who built about 6,000 planes at the KCK plant. A portion of a plane can be seen inside the museum as part of military exhibit.

The Korean-Vietnam Veterans Memorial pays tribute to men and women who served during two of America’s post-World War II wars. The Korean-Vietnam Veterans Monument showcases major differences in the wars, with the Korean War statue featuring a soldier in a traditional 20th century military combat uniform. The Vietnam sculpture shows the influence of jungle fighting during the second-longest war in American modern history.

9. Quindaro Ruins Overlook And Museum

The small town of Quindaro served as a key stop in Kansas for escaped slaves as part of the Underground Railroad. In 1862, most residents had left the town, as men enlisted in the army and families moved to other communities. Abandoned buildings fell into ruin, and trees and vegetation covered them. A university opened in the area during the 1890s but closed during the Great Depression. Quindaro Ruins Overlook provides a view of the valley where the town once existed. The Old Quindaro Museum offers a look into the area’s history. You’ll also find a statue of abolitionist John Brown near the museum.

10. Sporting KC Stadium Tour

You don’t need to be a fan of soccer (or fútbol, as Ted Lasso might call it) to enjoy a tour of Children’s Mercy Park, home of Major League Soccer’s Sporting Kansas City. The team plays in the top soccer league in the United States. During a guided tour, visitors can check out the field up close, while also learning about the team and the game. Tours include a look at the team’s locker room and media center. Check out the scarf displays in the lobby, and learn their role in the sport.

11. Where To Shop

Part-tourist attraction, Legends Outlet Kansas City quickly grew from a few outlet stores to one of the Kansas City Metro’s most popular shopping destinations. With outlets such as Banana Republic, Gap, and Nike among the more than 75 national and local stores, Legends Outlets offers a full day of shopping, entertainment, and dining.

While there, explore the Kansas history trail, featuring sculptures and medallions recognizing such noted Kansas figures as Wyatt Earp, Amelia Earhart, Walter Chrysler, and athletes Wes Santee, Jim Ryan, and Maurice Greene (once considered the world’s fastest man).

Village West grew up around the outlets and is now home to stores such as NFM, Cabela’s, and Russell Stover’s, as well as Hollywood Casino and the Kansas Speedway.

12. Where To Eat

A diverse population creates an opportunity for outstanding ethnic food in KCK. Whether it’s Italian, Asian, or American fare — including the barbecue the area is famous for — you’ll find plenty of choices. If you want to challenge your taste buds, explore Kansas City’s Taco Trail, with more than 50 stops.

Further Reading:

• Best Of Kansas Road Trip: Kansas City To Hays
• 6 Reasons To Visit The Hometown Of Paul Rudd
• 13 Unique Tours To Experience In Kansas City

We squeeze into the SUV to drive to Moab, the perfect base for exploring Utah’s national parks. 

Onboard is Baby, who recently took his first steps. He delights in his newfound skill and protests when imprisoned in the baby capsule (also known as the car seat). Across from him is his four-year-old brother Arthur who is obsessed with dinosaurs. Wedged between them is poor Nan (that’s me!). While I sometimes snare the front seat, I’m mostly jammed between the siblings and their spilling crayons, toppling dinosaur books, and the snacks I can’t quite reach. 

My daughter and her husband are in the front pretending they are young marrieds again on a three-day jaunt. They can forget the ticking time bombs in the back because Nan is there. They are recovering from the morning horrors of packing diapers, bibs, baby bottles, baby monitors, strollers, and the other baggage that accompanies parenthood. 

My solution to the chaos was to plonk in an armchair, jostle the baby on my knee, and yell instructions like “Don’t forget Baby. He’s not on your list!” Possibly the reason they banished me to the back seat. 

1. The Scenery From Salt Lake City To Moab

Salt Lake City (SLC) to Moab takes four hours. We take seven hours with stops so the children aren’t constrained for long. Locals argue that Utah has better scenery, but I’m captivated by the snow-capped mountains ringing SLC. Route 6 takes in Price Canyon with its sheer mountains, ridges, spires, and buttes. To my surprise, the four-year-old doesn’t request his tablet. The landscape keeps him amused as do the trucks and long freight trains. 

2. Eastern Prehistoric Museum, Price 

My daughter lives in SLC, so the tips I pass on come from mothers in her circle. One suggestion was to break the trip halfway at the Eastern Prehistoric Museum in Price. The kids beeline for the indoor sandpit and use brushes to unearth dinosaur fossils — the four-year-old pretending to be a paleontologist. The university-run museum has skeletons of local discoveries including an Allosaurus and a Utahraptor, a dedicated children’s area with dinosaur-related puzzles, activity sheets, and a moderately priced gift shop.

We lunch at Tangerine Eatery, one of the better meals on our trip with great kids’ food, organic berry bowls, gluten-free options, and a wall of self-service froYo flavors. 

Pro Tips: Many tourists fly to SLC and rent a car to drive to Moab. If you do this, it is worth visiting SLC’s Museum of Ancient Life, which has a mock stream running through a canyon where kids can excavate dinosaurs. Another gem is the Natural History Museum of Utah, but make sure to prebook. 

Timing Is Everything: Moab is home to some of the most stunning red rock landscapes on Earth. More than 1.5 million people visit Arches National Park each year. While chatting with a park ranger, she said that visiting in late fall or early December as we were doing was perfect timing. “In summer,” she said, “visitors can wait for an hour just to park the car!”

The days are sunny, with a blue sky setting off the landscape of ochre rocks. When we lunch at a picnic shelter with a view of Balanced Rock, we have the icon to ourselves.

Pro Tip: The National Park Service is piloting a timed entry reservation system in 2022. For example, May reservations open on February 1.

3. Pick Up A Junior Ranger Guide 

Arches National Park is five miles north of Moab. Grab a free Junior Ranger Guide from the visitor center just inside the park. There are lots of kid-friendly activities with simple explanations. A butte is a flat-topped hill, I learned, a fin a skinny wall of rock. The booklet suggests activities that invite children to use their five senses to experience the park. Based on our experience, parents of young children might present these activities orally and hand the booklet to the children when they leave the park. I noticed Arthur became so obsessed with the map he stopped taking in the scenery! 

4. Driving In Arches National Park 

The road corkscrews up the hill, with increasingly spectacular views. Nature’s striking outdoor gallery features sandstone arches (there are 2,000 in the park), soaring pinnacles, and spires.

The 36-mile round trip takes half a day, including photo stops. Even if you can’t wander far because of the kids, most landmarks are visible from the car (except for the famous Delicate Arch, an incredible 46 feet high and 32 feet wide and so renowned, it graces Utah’s license plates).

While my daughter and son-in-law walk the 100 yards hand-in-hand for a view of Delicate Arch, I remain trapped between two sleeping children. 

5. Hiking With Small Children 

Hiking in Arches National Park with small children is possible. There are several short hikes: Landscape Arch (1.6 miles), Broken Arch (2 miles), Windows Primitive Loop (1 mile), and Park Avenue (2 miles).

My daughter strapped Baby on her back to hike to Double Arch (0.8 mile). Using a stroller for the first paved section would be possible, but the last portion involves steps and some climbing. I was walking with Arthur, and he had no problems. Little did he realize that my holding his hand kept me stable! The walk is classed as easy, but nothing is easy with a baby on your back. Looking at my daughter slugging up the hill brought back memories of carrying her on our first tourist outing when she was a baby. The guide told me she was the youngest participant to venture on a historic walk — how history repeats itself!

6. Canyonlands National Park

Sadly we didn’t visit Canyonlands National Park. One of the consequences of multi-generational travel is that children’s needs are paramount because if the kids are happy, everybody’s happy. Ours was a dinosaur-centric trip to meet the interests of the four-year-old. If your focus is national parks, Canyonlands has several kid-friendly trails at Island in the Sky and the Needles. The remarkable Dead Horse Point State Park is also close to Moab.

7. Potash Road 

Potash Road is a 17-mile scenic drive with unforgettable views of the Colorado River on one side and towering walls of red rock on the other. At the section nicknamed Wall Street, kids can watch rock climbers and view ancient petroglyphs from the road. We wanted to locate dinosaur footprints on the Poison Spider Dinosaur Track. This involved a hike that my daughter did with Arthur. With a weak knee, it was too steep for me. She found the walk unsettling because of the drop on one side. Later I learned you can see the footprints embedded in the rock from your car if you bring binoculars!

Pro Tip: The Potash Road Byway is 4.1 miles north of Moab off Highway 191. Drive in the late afternoon when sunset magnifies the intense colors of the sandstone cliffs. 

8. Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail

When I told the ranger how inaccessible the Potash Road dinosaur footprints had been for little kids, she suggested visiting Mill Canyon. “You can easily see 200 footprints there,” she said. 

The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite is 15 miles north of Moab on Highway 191. There’s no entry fee. 

Families can wander a quarter-mile board loop over the dinosaur tracks. Information panels feature realistic artwork depicting the dinosaurs in their former marshland home teeming with crocodiles.

Nearby Mill Canyon Dinosaur Bone Trail is accessible by 4WD. We have an SUV. My daughter and Arthur venture forth like intrepid dinosaur explorers, fording a stream — one step for my daughter but for Arthur, it meant stepping stones. They climb a narrow ridge to explore the trail of real dinosaur fossils embedded in the hillside. Both agree this was a thrilling adventure. 

Pro Tip: Moab Giants is the other significant attraction for junior paleontologists. It includes a half-mile trail with 100 full-size replicas of local dinosaurs and a 5D underwater theater showing prehistoric deep-sea creatures. 

9. Lions Park 

Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead is between Moab and Arches National Park. The Boulder Park playground allows kids to rock climb safely. Even Baby loved it as he could totter and fall with impunity on the five-inch-thick padded surface. 

There is a 2.5-mile paved walk along the banks of the Colorado River. The bridge is part of a network of bike trails leading to the national parks. Rent bike trailers for babies or trail-a-bikes for toddlers in Moab.

Pro Tip: Discover Moab provides a good resource for family activities. 

10. Downtown Moab 

Moab’s long main street is flanked by motels, tourism operators, and souvenir shops. The goods become sameish with endless racks of t-shirts and stickers. A local artisan gift shop, Moab Made, breaks this mold. I buy a painting of Double Arch for my family in memory of our hike and a calendar for Arthur of Lego figures photographed against the Moab desert. 

Moab Rock Shop is on the outskirts of town. Owner Lin Ottinger discovered four species of dinosaurs, including his namesake Iguanodon Ottinger. His store overflows with rocks, minerals, fossils, and vintage vehicles. Kids can rummage for inexpensive treasures. 

Sadly, Moab Food Truck Park, a good option for families, had closed for the season. We dined at Moab Brewery, a tourist mecca with excellent food and a distillery.

11. Family-Friendly Accommodations

We stay at a self-contained building within Bowen Motel with three bedrooms with queen-sized beds and TVs. The family bedroom has two additional beds. We appreciated the family-sized kitchen, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Every morning, the first person up goes next door to Love Muffin Cafe to buy takeaway coffee and sensational muffins. 

We loved staying in town and walking everywhere. I didn’t find the main street noisy, but light sleepers should book accommodation one block back or outside of town.  TripAdvisor has a good list of recommendations. 

12. The Half-Way Stop 

Heading home, we stop at Helper, named for the “helper engines” that assisted steam engines as they climbed the steep grades of Price Canyon. The Mining & Railroad Museum is stuffed with local history. Kids love the model railway and the real caboose. Helper has an Art Deco streetscape and funky cafes. Happiness Within offers great coffee, couches, and specialty drinks that kids love. Or spill as in Arthur’s case. But them’s the breaks when traveling with grandchildren!

For additional Utah inspiration, consider

• 9 Utah State Parks That Should Be On Your Bucket Lis
• 10 Can’t-Miss Outdoor Activities Near Moab, Utah 
• Important Ranger Tips For Visiting Arches National Park

It has been forever since you have gotten together with extended family; missed bear hugs from grandma, rosy cheeked smiles from toddlers, and a good old-fashioned embrace from a sibling. It is time for a family reunion! You want to make the gathering extra special by vacationing somewhere exciting and different. Planning a destination family reunion doesn’t have to be a tremendous amount of work. In fact, it can be easier than planning one in your home. Less cooking, less mess to deal with, and guests can have their own, personal space.

Multigenerational trips, including everyone from grandparents to toddlers, bring families together in a special way. Traveling as a clan allows for a deep bonding experience bridging generations and expanding core family units.

1. The Initial Discussion

Getting everyone on board is the first step in pulling off a fabulous destination reunion. The goal is for the whole family to agree on a location, time, and budget. Easier said than accomplished. However, those family members who want to participate will let you know right upfront. The ones that are on the fence or are definitely out; well maybe next time.

The conversation typically starts with a few people chatting and brainstorming ideas about getting away as a family. The perfect destination is a trip that will work for your entire clan. If you have seniors, small children, tweens, and teens, the destination needs to have fun options for every age and ability.

Once you have an idea in mind, it is time to approach other family members that might be interested in joining in on the reunion fun.

2. Planning Committee

A destination family reunion should be about the entire family. A planning committee of one person is not the best way to share the planning and decisions. That one planner will end up stressed and overworked. Ideally, two or three individuals are perfect to spearhead a planning committee. Ask for volunteers! Budget can be a big hurdle for some family members, planning committee members can have an impact on where to draw the line when it comes to how much money each family will spend.

Everyone has an opinion, the planning committee should consider all options and present the one they are willing to put the time and work into making a reality.

3. Share Information

You don’t want any last-minute surprises to ruin your get together. Keep everyone up to date on decisions, timelines, payment due dates, etc.

There are a number of real-time sharing tools available to track plans, activities, accommodations, meals, etc. Google docs and sheets allow input from all participants, can be easily accessed and is a free tool. Another great planning option is Trello where each family can have their own card and can view all the others.

Pro Tip: Have one person responsible for keeping a secure file, or a backup, in case a not-so-savvy techie unintentionally wreaks havoc with your shared document. Think, grandpa trying to add a link to his favorite golf course and accidentally re-sorting the entire spreadsheet.

4. Decide Upfront On Finances

You don’t want to end up alone in the forest. Keep in mind, families operate on different budgets and you might need to plan out 6 months or a year to accommodate different financial situations.

This is where planning can get a little touchy, particularly if you have family groups that are unfamiliar with traveling. Setting a budget is key to keeping everyone included.

Items to discuss:

• Length of stay — this can differ for each attendee
• Airfare versus road trip
• Accommodations — all inclusive, four-star hotel, condo, Vrbo, etc.
• Food — eating out, cooking in
• Activities — big bus tour vs hiring a private guide
• Additional expectations — purchasing matching shirts, professional photographs, etc.

5. All Inclusive Getaways

One simple way to make the financial discussions easy is to book an all-inclusive getaway. It is also easier on the reunion planning committee since each family can craft their own amazing vacation while still being part of the family reunion. Another benefit of packaged deals is that from children to seniors, there are activities that suit every family member.

There are so many options for pre-planned package vacations. All-inclusive options allow members of your clan to explore on their own during the day and come together for dinner or dessert each night.

Cruising is one very good option. Cruise lines offer a variety of price points, allowing everyone in the family to travel the way they like and fits their budget. With excursions and meals included, cruising makes family travel easy and offers guests a variety of group activities that will help please the whole family.

All-inclusive resorts are another great destination family reunion option. Sun-kissed, beach-focused, family-friendly resorts are easy to plan. Take advantage of the ease in planning for many families by setting up a trip that is a one-stop-shop. It doesn’t just have to be the beach, there are other all-inclusive resorts like ranches, skiing, golf, and amusement parks where there is a central theme but activities for everyone.

Often, with group getaways, there are incentives when you have a large number of guests. These incentives range from free passage for the group leader or upgrades that can be spread across the entire group. The best way to take full advantage of any extra incentives is to book your all-inclusive package through your travel agent. It will not only save money, but for a large group, the agent will be able to get you the best upgrades.

Wendy Lee offers a few ideas about all-inclusive, multigen trips here.

6. Consider Everyone’s Capabilities

Hiking through slot canyons may sound like an amazing trip for you, but not for an infant-toting dad. Try to have options available for every age and ability.

Multigenerational trips require a wide array of activities that appeal to kids, families, adults, and seniors. The goal is for everyone to have fun, and planning lots of options is key. Challenges may arise, it is good to tackle them head-on. Here are a few tips about multigenerational travel challenges. 

7. Have Two Or Three Group Events

Group events are the lynchpin of destination family reunions. Depending on your destination, your family activities could be as simple as a day at the beach with games, a picnic, and watersports. If you are at a dude ranch, dinner around a campfire complete with S’mores would be a fun, family-focused event. Heading to the slopes for your family getaway, plan an outing on a horse-drawn carriage or sled dog ride complete with hot chocolate and twinkling stars.

Advance planning of the events where all the families come together is an important detail. After all, getting everyone together is the major goal of a destination family reunion. If you are away for a long weekend, then one or two preplanned meals and/or activities are the perfect way to enjoy each other’s company. There will be lots of mini, last-minute gatherings, but having a master plan will avoid scrambling to muster the troops.

8. Let Family Members Plan Time For Themselves

Downtime is key to a happy and healthy destination reunion vacation. After all, it is not totally about family time, it is your vacation.

Sitting by the pool with a great book may be your idea of a perfect getaway. Others in your group may prefer hang gliding over a day in a lounge chair. That’s okay, let everyone have their own time that is not an all-hands-on-deck activity.

Getting to try new and different things away from the entire group leads to better dinner conversations. There is so much more to share and discuss.

9. Have Fun

I think this is the thing the planners forget to do most often — Have Fun!

Planning a destination family reunion is stressful, but once the vacation has begun, it’s time to relax and enjoy the ride. If you have planned and communicated the details of the trip with everyone, then your job is done.

Aunt Susie doesn’t want to attend the beach bonfire — that’s okay, you are not in charge of everyone’s good time. Uncle Bob doesn’t like the view from his balcony — let him deal with the front desk, you are not his travel agent.

Take a deep breath and let the good times roll.

More On Planning A Family Reunion

Planning a destination family reunion is fun and rewarding. Getting many families together to reconnect, build family bonds, and have fun is rewarding. Knowing you were partly responsible for the gathering where family members had so much fun they are already planning the next destination is such a joy. Where is your next destination family reunion?

Prickly saguaros, towering palm trees, and massive red rocks: Arizona’s most recognizable features don’t exactly conjure up the classic Christmas.

But wrap some strings of lights around those palm trees and nestle a few rows of glowing luminarias among the red rocks, and you’ll have a Christmas scene unlike any other.

During December, when winter weather is taking much of the northern United States into snow-globe territory, Arizona’s desert cities are typically basking in sunny days in the 60- and 70-degree range.

But that doesn’t mean the Grand Canyon State forgets about Christmas. In fact, December is the month that many of Arizona’s communities shine brightest.

From major urban extravaganzas that attract thousands of holiday revelers each year to small-town gatherings that are big on tradition and warmth, Arizona offers a spectacular array of holiday experiences.

Here are six of the best places in Arizona to spend Christmas. 

Sedona

Christmas at Sedona’s Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village has a singular charm that mixes a Southwest mission feel with the best of the town’s gorgeous Red Rocks.

Each year, Sedona adorns its central shopping and restaurant district with thousands of luminarias — paper-bag lanterns that traditionally have candles set in sand inside. Luminarias are a significant symbol of the holidays throughout the Southwest, and at Tlaquepaque, they glow along the curving walkways and beneath the graceful archways.

For the past 46 years, Tlaquepaque has been the site of Sedona’s Festival of Lights, an event that features the lighting of the 6,000 luminarias. The festival lights typically takes place on the second Saturday of February.

Even before that happens, though, Tlaquepaque takes on a festive air in December with colorful strings of stars, string-light-wrapped trees, and snowflake ensembles.

Of course, even the brightest lights cannot outshine Sedona’s main show — the luminous red rocks that rise all around the town. One of the main advantages of an Arizona Christmas is that during the daytime, the warm temperatures allow for comfortable hiking and biking, while the evenings come with a brisk chill.

So, before bundling up for Tlaquepaque’s holiday light show, plan to work up a sweat on the miles of gorgeous Red Rock trails. It’s a Sedona tradition!

Phoenix

Nothing highlights the beauty of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert quite like Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden, a sprawling 140-acre attraction that features 50,000 desert plants.

Add in a dose of the holidays with Las Noches de las Luminarias, and you’ll have pure desert magic.

Starting at the beginning of December and continuing throughout the month, the garden’s lovely trails are lined with 8,000 flickering luminaria bags. The lights are arranged among the garden’s lofty saguaros and spiky agaves.

Scottsdale

No place does desert Christmas better than the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The resort’s Christmas at the Princess event is not to be missed.

Visitors will know they’re in for a holiday treat as soon as they approach the resort and spot the row of brightly lit palm trees guarding the entrance.

That’s just the beginning of the spectacle, which features more than four million holiday lights, an ice-skating rink, train rides, a carousel, a Ferris wheel, ice slides, and a large S’moresland carnival area complete with fire pits for roasting marshmallows for the traditional campfire treat.

The Princess fully utilizes its beautifully landscaped grounds, positioning whimsical holiday characters (a fishing Santa, the Grinch, and the Little Mermaid) in its numerous ponds, and placing gigantic Christmas trees in its outdoor courtyards.

Now in its 12th year, the Fairmont’s Christmas at the Princess begins annually in mid-November and continues through the Christmas holiday. It attracts a quarter of a million people a year, drawing large groups of friends and families on busy December weekends.

Of course, Christmas in Scottsdale offers the best of both worlds. During the day, visitors to the Princess can bask in the warm desert sunshine, lounge by the pool, or play golf on the adjacent course. In the evening, they can immerse themselves in holiday wonder.

Prescott

Since the 1980s, Prescott has been known as “Arizona’s Christmas City,” and the small central-Arizona city more than lives up to its name.

Prescott takes full advantage of its charming Courthouse Plaza in the middle of town, putting on an annual event known as the Courthouse Lighting. Dating back 67 years, the event occurs annually on the first Saturday of December; it features a Christmas parade in the afternoon and the traditional lighting ceremony in the evening.

Dozens of trees are lit up each year, and the stately Yavapai County Courthouse serves as the focal point for the festivities. On the evening of the Courthouse Lighting, thousands gather in Prescott’s chilly nighttime temperatures for a traditional ceremony that culminates with the lighting of the courthouse and surrounding plaza.

With a population of about 45,000, Prescott offers the best of small-town Arizona. Its historic downtown, anchored by the courthouse plaza and adjacent Whiskey Row commercial area, makes the perfect spot for a holiday with a hometown feel.

At an elevation of 5,367 feet, Prescott tends to be cool in December, and the evenings are chilly. Occasionally, the mile-high city enjoys a white Christmas.

The Courthouse Lighting is free of charge.

Flagstaff

For a true winter Christmas, Flagstaff, at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, is the place to go.

Designated as “Arizona’s Official Winter Wonderland,” Flagstaff has an annual average of 100 inches of snow a year and is the most likely Arizona destination to have a white Christmas.

On the first Saturday of December each year, the Flagstaff Parks and Recreation Department holds a Winter Wonderland and Tree Lighting ceremony in the historic downtown, featuring music, luminaria bag decorating, and hot cocoa. The event is free of charge.

Christmas in Flagstaff also includes a skiing and snowboarding vacation at the nearby Snowbowl Resort.

Tucson

For the 51st straight year, Tucson’s Historic Fourth Avenue has been the site of a popular winter street fair.

The family-friendly Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair brings more than 600,000 people to the heart of Tucson’s Old Pueblo each year. The fair attracts artisans from around the world, along with food booths, entertainment stages, and children’s activities.

A Tucson winter typically brings sunny days, so plan to shed those winter coats and scarves and enjoy the warmth of the Sonoran Desert.

Related Reading:

• 5 Quaint Arizona Towns That Could Star In A Hallmark Christmas Movie
• 10 Arizona Vacation Rentals Perfect For Snowbirds
• 9 Fantastic U.S. Christmas Markets To Get You Into The Holiday Spirit

Can you imagine if your grandparent was a travel writer? TravelAwaits writers’ grandkids are pretty lucky! We turned to our experts for the best multi-generational vacations that grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy together. Some are attractions and some are cities — all are great fun for young and old alike!

1. The Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis

Freelance and travel writer Robin O’Neal Smith says The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is an awesome place for a multigenerational visit. “There is so much to see and do, grandchildren will be entertained for the entire day and won’t want to leave. As an adult, I found it interesting and was entertained. There are phenomenal exhibits, indoor and outdoor activities, a snack bar, and more,” says Smith.

“Some of the fun things to do for kids include the Carousel Wishes and Dreams, The Lilly Theater, The Fireworks of Glass, Playscape, Science Works, Treasures of the Earth, and more,” says Smith. Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience will entertain sports lovers. Adults and children alike will enjoy the “Take Me There®: Greece” and “Barbie You Can Be Anything: The Experience” exhibits. Smith wrote about 15 Travel Industry Careers Barbie Has Had Since 1959 and said it was great to reminisce about Barbie’s past. Weather permitting, kids and adults can enjoy outdoor activities such as baseball, football, soccer, racing, hockey, basketball, golf, tennis, a climbing adventure, and more.

2. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts

Travel blogger Melody Pittman and her granddaughter took an RV trip to a Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort, which has several locations throughout the country. “We stayed at Yogi on the Lake in Pelahatchie, Mississippi, not far from her house. She had just turned two, so we wanted to stay close in case she didn’t survive an overnight,” Pittman explains.

They got a spot right on the lake and enjoyed watching the turtles, ducks, and fish. Since it was a Jellystone Resort, there were dozens of activities. Pittman says “they were even more fun since the Halloween festivities, like the S’mores and Halloweenie roast, had begun.” From karaoke and a jump pad to a gorgeous swimming pool and a splash pad, “there isn’t a dull moment at this family-friendly campground,” says Pittman.

Pittman is an experienced RV’er, but you don’t have to own a camper or RV to stay at a Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort. Camp in a tent or glamp in a cabin — some locations even have yurts you can stay in! Pittman says that the cabins at this particular campground have great porches, furniture, and grills. “Rent a golf cart so you can properly explore every nook and cranny of this awesome property,” she suggests.

3. Alaskan Cruise

When freelance writer and travel blogger Kara Williams’ children were younger, the family went on an Alaskan cruise. “When my children were 8 and 10, my husband and I took them and their grandmothers on a Holland America cruise to Alaska. A cruise is a fabulous multi-generational vacation since the ship offers activities for everyone to enjoy — from the spa and casino to kids’ clubs and a pool. While there are plenty of opportunities to make memories together, separate staterooms allow everyone to have their own private space, too!” recalls Williams.

“Alaska is a particularly great destination for a multi-generational cruise since the shore excursions are so interactive and fun. We took the grandmas on a helicopter tour of a glacier as well as ziplining in the forest. We all loved these active tours, but there are more mellow activities — including wheelchair-accessible excursions — too,” says Williams. She says standing at the handrail on a top deck “spotting wildlife and admiring ice-blue glaciers that dot the sea,” is another fun activity for everyone.

4. The Maryland Zoo

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is travel writer Desiree Rew’s favorite place to spend time with her 2-year-old grandson. Formerly known as “The Baltimore Zoo,” the 135-plus acre zoo opened in 1876, which makes it one of the oldest zoos in the country. The Baltimore native grew up going to the zoo, then took her son as a child. Now, she enjoys sharing the experience with a new generation.

“Feed the penguins, stretch your neck like a giraffe, watch elephants, move your arms like the birds, go on an African safari, and tell your grandma what sound the monkeys make,” are a few of The Maryland Zoo experiences Rew likes to share with her grandson.

With easy accessibility from downtown Baltimore, the zoo is popular with both Charm City locals and out-of-towners alike. Rew notes that it features play areas where grandkids can make new friends while grandparents get some rest. “Special events throughout the year, [make] going to the zoo a fresh experience each time you visit,” she says.

5. Marble Falls, Texas

“Nestled in the Texas Hill Country about an hour’s drive northwest of Austin lies the quaint town of Marble Falls,” travel writer and road trip enthusiast Kim Croisant tells us. “The town boasts many lakes, kid-friendly parks, and a charming, walkable historic downtown. But the fun doesn’t stop there. There’s plenty to keep families busy for an entire weekend, from guided cave tours, hiking and biking trails, and kayaking on Lake Marble Falls,” she describes.

The proud Texas native is raising her 11-year-old grandson, taking him and her pups on as many trips as possible. Last year, they road-tripped down to the Texas town in October and stumbled upon fun fall festivities at Sweet Berry Farm. They picked beautiful zinnias, went on a hayride, gobbled up grilled corn, and stuffed a scarecrow for the first time. In the spring, the area is also one of the best places to see bluebonnets in bloom. “We both think Marble Falls is a place to visit more than once,” Croisant exclaims.

6. Vero Beach, Florida

Pittman’s granddaughter Scarlett loves visiting her grandparents in Vero Beach. The 3-year-old came for a staycation last summer. “Vero Beach has a superb family-friendly attraction,” Pittman proclaims. Not only is the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) educational, but it’s also great for nature hikes and getting out on the water. “We also have many parks with excellent playgrounds,” says Pittman. “Scarlett loves going to the splash pad at Royal Palm Pointe (fishing is available, too) and eating oceanside at Waldo’s or getting ice cream at Kilwin’s.”

“Vero Beach has terrific beaches, and any kid would be thrilled to splash in the surf and build sandcastles. We drove to Round Island around 4 p.m. each evening to see the manatees and often visited the independent Vero Beach Book Center. Depending on when you visit, there may be shows at the Riverside Children’s Theatre. On Scarlett’s next visit, I want to take her to Skate Factory and see what she thinks of roller skating,” says the proud grandmother.

7. St. Augustine, Florida

“If heading south, St. Augustine is a fantastic place to take your grandkids when they are about 8 or older,” according to Smith. “There are so many things to do and learn, your grandkids will not be bored, and you will enjoy it too. There is so much history in the St. Augustine area that kids are not taught in schools. I learned new things when I was there and found it fascinating.”

“There are more than 60 historic sites and attractions to enjoy in the nation’s oldest city. Take the tram around the city to see the highlights and learn what your grandkids are most interested in and then make a return visit to those places. A few that I recommend are the Fountain of Youth Park, Ripley’s Believe it or Not (the original one), the iconic Castillo de San Marcos fort, the Bridge of Lions, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. If your grandkids are animal lovers, they will enjoy the GTM Research Reserve to view the turtles, fish, and snakes. There are beaches, golf courses, art and culture, and so much more,” says Smith, who assures us that “St. Augustine will delight visitors of all ages.”

8. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

“Our grandchildren were in town for the best train ride ever,” says Fort-Worth-based travel writer and photographer Janie H. Pace. “The Knight Sky Car, pulled by the famous #473 locomotive, was a charming ride, allowing beautiful photos of the tracks, the Animas River, and snow-covered San Juan mountains,” says Pace about the experience.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s historic coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive has been transporting passengers through the scenic Rocky Mountains since 1882. The powerful hissing train winds in and out of canyons along the same tracks that cowboys, miners, and early settlers took over a century ago. It pulls 8–10 cars on the 45-mile spur of the Denver & Rio Grande rail line.

The trip from Durango to Silverton, Colorado, and back takes 3.5 hours each way. Elevations vary from 6,520–9,300 feet. While the train can travel at up to 18 miles per hour, it slows to 5 miles per hour for the steepest climb. Two hours are allowed in the historic mining town of Silverton for lunch and brief exploration. Tickets include admission to the D&SNGRR Museum.

“We made the return trip via the motorcoach along the 52 miles of magnificent snow-filled mountain terrain on the San Juan Skyway,” Pace explains. “You also have the option to return to Durango on the train in your exact seat, learning more history of the area.”

Related Reading:

• Best Zoos In The U.S.
• 10 Perfect Multigenerational Trips To Experience This Summer
• 9 Life Lessons From A Multigenerational Midwest Road Trip

The Greenbrier Resort and Hotel sits majestically in rural West Virginia, a bastion of elegance that has been known as “America’s Resort” since the area’s natural hot springs started attracting visitors to their healing properties in the late 1700s. The original hot springs, while no longer in use, are still at the center of the property in recognition of this historic resort’s roots.

1. The Greenbrier’s History Will Become Part Of Your Own

Set among the Greenbrier Valley: WV Vacations | Weekend Getaways Allegheny Mountains, The Greenbriar covers over 11,000 West Virginia acres and has hosted 28 presidents, royalty, celebrities, and business leaders. It has been a tradition within many families throughout generations to gather and vacation at the resort that has grown far beyond a hot mineral spa retreat.

It is a touchstone for many families, and their children grew up learning how to play tennis or golf, meeting other kids, then returning for those kids to be married at The Greenbrier. A few years later, all three generations return with their grandchildren, starting new family traditions. There are many stories of generations spending their holidays at America’s Resort and it is the perfect multi-generational family escape, reunion, or getaway.

To maximize the multi-generational family vacation, look for some of the things that The Greenbrier offers or, better yet, make The Greenbrier your center for family fun. One thing that helps in family gatherings is space and variety and this resort has both in spades. It is enormous with hotel rooms and suites of many sizes, 710 in all, 10 lobbies, 40 meeting rooms, and dozens of restaurants and retail stores.

2. Keep The Family Together At A Self-Contained Paradise

Drive up to the majestic Greenbrier, leave the valet your keys, and, except to visit charming local towns, you won’t need your car until the dreaded checkout day. The Greenbrier is a vast property but safe and completely self-contained. A series of shuttles get both adults and children to their selected activities and an array of restaurants make sure no one goes hungry. For the adults, The Greenbrier’s historic watering holes like the Lobby Bar have hosted thousands of luminaries and countless friendships have been formed there and business deals scrawled on the back of napkins. It’s that kind of bar! 

3. Dining Choices Abound — For Everyone

There is always coffee and tea in the main lobby in the mornings, but the amenity most guests try not to miss is the daily high tea where hot or cold tea and a variety of desserts get visitors through their afternoon lag.

Enjoy breakfast in your room, grab a coffee at the Greenbrier Gourmet & Coffee Bar, or enjoy the regal elegance of the Main Dining Room. The Coffee Bar is open all day and transitions to sandwiches later. An ice cream parlor is also right next door. There are several cafes for lunch or shuttle out to the golf courses for Sam Snead’s restaurant and Slammin’ Sammy’s bar and grill. At the pool, Tree Tops Cafe takes care of food and drink all day long. 

Dinner can be an elegant, many-course meal at the Main Dining Room where a dress code is enforced or head to The Pizza Shoppe for a casual salad and pie. Perfect for all ages, The Forum and Prime 44 West SteakHouse allow families to mix up their dining choices or mom and dad can have a romantic dinner while the kids grab a pizza, even delivered to the room.

4. Active Sports Enthusiasts Will Never Be Bored

The Greenbrier is known worldwide for its golf courses and they are breathtaking. Designed by Sam Snead and then updated by Jack Nickalus and other golf course designers, the highly respected Old White course has hosted Ryder Cups and PGA tournaments. Every hole has a story and getting a tour of the course is a special treat. The Meadows and The Greenbrier are two more 18 hole courses and the Ashford Short Course copies some of the most famous holes in the world. A golf center with a pro shop, lessons, swing clinics, and an excellent pro staff rounds out the incomparable golf program. 

Tennis is another world-class sport at The Greenbrier and the resort hosts several tournaments annually. Outdoor courts stretch over many acres and indoor courts can be reserved on those rainy or cold days when avid tennis players just “have” to play. Pickleball players are also welcomed at The Greenbrier courts. 

An enormous infinity pool is where I like to spend days at the resort. A kids pool, plenty of room in the shallow end, and an infinity edge that overlooks The Old White are awesome features. There are chairs and towels aplenty and service here, as everywhere, is outstanding. Just charge it to your room.

Outdoor exploration is also on tap with mountain bike trail rides, ATV tours, aerial adventure course and climbing tower, gun club, and ice skating in winter. Head to the activities desk and arrange your day or week. Next time, I plan to fish one of the streams winding through a golf course for a maximum outdoor immersion. Or maybe it will be a falconry class.

5. The Grandparents Will Not Lack For Things To Do

Although many grandparents will happily play a round of golf or a game of tennis, if the older adults would rather slow it down after a day at the pool, maybe a game of shuffleboard or a round of croquet is more appealing than sweating.

Horse-drawn carriage rides around the resort property are popular and the resort’s main building is full of nooks and crannies perfect for curling up with a book or Kindle. Of course, the spa and indoor pool are there for relaxation and recovery.

6. Rainy Days Are Never Boring

Although The Greenbrier is built to indulge outdoor and sports enthusiasts, being stuck inside is not too bad. The glamorous, tiled indoor pool on your way to the spa is a true nod to the history of America’s Resort, and the spa is rated one of the top 20 in the world. Of course, the spa is built around the natural hot springs and their therapeutic powers but facials, massages, and wraps round out the menu.

The original bowling alley has been preserved and is truly reminiscent of the early highly polished manual lanes. An arcade takes care of pinball and video game urges. Two escape rooms for kids or adults encourage families to strategize together and against each other. Both kids and adults can do crafts like jewelry making or glassblowing or a collectible toy experience.

The Bunker Tour is the ultimate indoor experience and, while small children will not appreciate the 90-minute historical recounting, adults of all ages, especially those that remember the Eisenhower-Era nuclear fears, will be in awe of the fact that an entire government facility and small city was hidden by The Greenbrier, tucked into a hillside and disguised as the construction of a conference center. For 30 years, the bunker was maintained at the ready to accommodate the entire house and senate representatives in the event of an attack.

7. Evenings Can Be Spent Dining, Dancing or Gambling… Or All 3

On the lower level of The Greenbrier is a sophisticated casino designed for those that like to play slots or cards but The Casino Club is also known for dining, live music, champagne toasts nightly, and dancing to the DJ-directed tunes late into the night. Of course, babysitters can be hired through the hotel.

8. Color And Patterns Are Everywhere Thanks To Dorothy Draper

One thing that attacks the eye and refuses to let go is the interior design at The Greenbrier. Famed New York decorator Dorothy Draper was given full control to make The Greenbrier memorable and, even now, her success with color, graphics, patterns, bold carpets, and rich wallpapers is undeniable.

How Draper put together such incredible textiles in seemingly random fashion and the fact that they worked then and continue to set a high bar for design, is testimony to Draper’s creativity and that of her successor and apprentice Carleton Varney. You will not forget your visit to The Greenbrier and daily memories are guaranteed to last lifetimes.
Pro Tip: Take a day off from all the activities at The Greenbrier and visit the adorable town of White Sulphur Springs with its barbecue wine shop and boutiques, or charming downtown Lewisburg, full of theaters, museums, galleries, and other arts inspirations.

While The Greenbrier is a destination all its own, there are nearby areas that also beckon travelers:

8 Reasons To Visit Lewisburg, West Virginia

10 Quaint Small Towns To Visit In West Virginia

How To Spend A Fantastic Long Weekend In Charming Morgantown, West Virginia

Plano, Texas, is a large, upscale suburban area where the quality of life is good, schools are ranked high, and it is heralded as one of the best places to live in Texas. This city assures visitors a wealth of fun activities and attractions that will satisfy the whole family. It boasts a diverse food scene, lots of shopping, and family fun around every corner. From bowling, escape rooms, trampoline parks, museums, and fun with crayons, you’re sure to find many things to do that your family will love. Being only minutes north of Dallas and under a 30-minute drive from the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Plano serves as a top destination for families to visit for enduring fun year round.

Here are the best things to do during your time in the city with the family. Visit Plano hosted our tour.

1. Crayola Experience Is For Everyone

Where can the whole family enjoy hands-on fun together in Plano? At the Crayola Experience — that’s where! I was a little nervous, thinking my almost 12-year-old grandson wouldn’t enjoy this experience because of his age, but to my surprise, he wasn’t the only one who had a great time. I, too, enjoyed getting to use my creative side. We participated in every hands-on activity we could, and I got to act like a kid alongside him. We colored squishy things, made a mask, got our picture taken in a cartoon style, colored it, and watched a short, live presentation on how crayons are made. After all that, I paid a little extra to have a wax impression made out of my grandson’s hand. That was a sight to see, and everyone in line was marveling over the process of how his hand turned into hard wax by dipping it in wax then ice-cold water (3 times). Now, that’s a souvenir!

This is a place to get your kid’s creative juices flowing with over 22 hands-on activities. We even got to take the things we made home with us. Food options are available as well as a retail store once you exit the experiences. Oh, yes, parents, it’s a whole store full of gifts and treasures. The store is located inside The Shops at Willow Bend shopping mall. Follow the covered parking area signs, and it’s right inside the doors.

Pro Tip: Allow at least 3 hours to enjoy all the fun. But that will depend on your group. We were there for three solid hours, and it was just us two.

2. Enjoy A Day At Southfork Ranch

The picturesque setting that the Ewings’ called home on the original TV series Dallas from 1978 to 1991 is still gorgeous after all these years. I remember being glued to the television, watching the show every week with my family. The series is no longer, but Southfork Ranch remains alive and well. It offers home tours of the main house, trail rides, and horseback riding lessons. There’s also a museum that depicts the TV show with recreated scenes, photos of all the actors, and many memorabilia. You’ll enter through the visiting center before heading to the museum and the trail rides, but let me warn you, the gift shop isn’t your ordinary visitor center gift shop — it’s almost as big as a department store — offering clothing, memorabilia, gifts, monogrammed merchandise, etc. If you’re a huge Dallas fan, there is a souvenir waiting for you!

My grandson and I enjoyed a great trail ride with a few other people. But what made our ride even better was our trail boss had to tend to several newbies and let my grandson and I lead the way. We definitely have been on a horse a time or two.

Pro Tip: After the trail ride, you are free to roam the premises and check out the longhorn cattle.

3. Take A Nature Walk At Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, with 3 miles of paved hiking trails and 3 miles of unpaved hiking trails, poses a beautiful walk along the creek as you explore the open prairie and forest, all the while watching for wildlife. If you can, bring your bike to ride the 2.8-mile off-road bike trail. Plus, enjoy a family picnic while you’re there under the covered pavilion and let the kids play on the playground. Pets are welcome on a leash, and restrooms are available, too.

4. Hike Oak Point Park And Nature Preserve

Plano’s largest park, Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve has mostly been undisturbed by man and is the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy nature, wildlife watching, and native plants. The park provides 3.5-miles of concrete trails and 5 miles of soft trails along Rowlett Creek. I suggest an early morning hike to catch the sunrise. You are welcome to bring your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to enjoy out on the pond.

Pro Tip: The park is in the vicinity of Go Ape Zipline (see below). That right there is a full day of outdoor fun!

5. Go Ape Zipline And Adventure Park

Ziplining is all the craze lately, and Plano offers a good one. Adults and kids 10 and older will enjoy climbing the treetops, zipping across to the next line, then repeat. I did this back when it first opened, and though it was exhausting climbing all those stairs to get to the next zip line, I enjoyed it very much. Go Ape Adventures is located inside Oak Point Park, so when you’re all done there, zip on over to another adventure!

6. Heritage Farmstead Museum

Heritage Farmstead Museum is a living 4.5-acre piece of history depicting life in the Victorian Era from 1890 to 1920 on the Blackland Prairie. Bring a picnic lunch, stay for a tour, or a special event. Activities such as ground tours, house tours, wagon rides, and feeding the chickens are available. This is a great place to take the younger kiddos.

7. Shop Till You Drop In Plano

There’s no shortage of retail space in Plano. It’s a paradise for shoppers, and the serious shopper will come from miles away to spend the whole day, if not the weekend, to find those perfect shoes and handbag! You could spend a full weekend shopping and still not see it all. Two of the best shopping areas are The Shops at Legacy and Legacy West. With a large variety of stores, each has enough to keep you busy for the better part of a day. And, don’t forget about The Shops at Willow Bend, where Crayola Experience is located. If that’s not all, there’s Preston Park Village, Preston Towne Crossing, and Preston Village Shopping Center.

8. Experience Legacy Food Hall

Meet me at the table! Legacy Food Hall is a 3-story food court with 20 restaurants opened for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. What a superb place to grab a meal if you have picky eaters in your bunch. One place, 20 eateries or so to choose from — wow! From brisket to tacos to sushi and more, you’ll no doubt find your favorite meal. Then everyone meets at a picnic-style table in the courtyard for family togetherness. After your meal, grab a treat… in the same area! Look for live music on the weekends.

9. Enjoy Waterfront Dining At The Boardwalk Granite Park

For a very casual “restaurant row” with indoor seating with air conditioning, indoor-outdoor seating with fans, and outdoor seating with a nice waterfront view, head to The Boardwalk Granite Park. And of course, there’s plenty of kid-friendly food and games to play for the whole family, like cornhole. The Boardwalk is a row of eateries to suit everyone’s palate. We enjoyed two sit-down dinners there. I told my grandson he could have the first pick where he wanted to eat. He chose Fork&Fire, where he had a “grownup” meal of shrimp and scallops. The next night, we ate at The Union Bear. He ordered a huge helping of homemade mac & cheese, and I devoured what was left the next day. The food at both places was so good, we would definitely go back there to eat.

10. Stay At Hilton Granite Park

If you come to Plano for more than a day, you are steps away from it all when you stay at the Hilton Plano Granite Park. This is especially true if you’re coming to the city for some shopping and to enjoy a meal or two overlooking the water. The Boardwalk is steps away from the hotel, and the Legacy West shopping center is minutes away. This is where we stayed for the weekend and enjoyed swimming in the pool and lingering in the beautiful hotel lobby during downtime. We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast at the Carso restaurant inside the hotel, but we headed to The Boardwalk when the evening rolled around. And, best of all, after a long day of fun in Plano, you don’t have to venture far for dinner — you’ve got lots of choices within steps.

Pro Tip: Plano, Texas, is business savvy and a great place to raise a family. Whether you come to live or vacation, there’s something for everyone.

After the past year of missed events and travel, people are anxious to reconnect with the individuals and activities that matter most. In many cases, that means reconnecting with family to make new memories and strengthen bonds. The Florida Keys are an ideal place to satisfy that desire. 

The 125-mile-long chain of islands stretching out into blue-green water at the southernmost tip of Florida, known as the Florida Keys and Key West, is a vibrant area where families have countless opportunities to reconnect and make new family memories. 

Loaded with adventure, natural beauty, and history, visitors can walk among shipwreck artifacts, kayak among brilliant mangrove islands, “meet” sea turtle patients at the world’s first veterinary-certified sea turtle hospital, and explore remote national parks. The island chain offers countless opportunities to reconnect in the keys through shared experiences and memory-making adventures. 

Florida Keys & Key West hosted my stay in the Keys. All opinions are my own.

1. Enjoy A Family Road Trip

What better way to reconnect than together in one vehicle or multiple cars, all stopping at the same locations? You will find miles of wide-open gorgeous seascapes with ocean and sky spanning as far as the eye can see, and don’t forget the endless unique roadside stops to prospect.

Five distinct destinations are featured in a family road trip to the Keys: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine, the Lower Keys, and the southernmost island in the continental United States, Key West. 

Each offers its own vibe and distinct pleasures. Any of them could be your home base for the vacation, and all offer reconnection opportunities.

2. Drive On The Florida Keys Overseas Highway

The shared adventure begins with simply driving the famous Florida Keys Overseas Highway, including more than 40 bridges. The landmark Seven Mile Bridge is a sight to behold. Florida’s designated All-American Road is a great way to begin your reconnection.

3. Explore The Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary

The Keys encompass four national wildlife refuges, two remote national parks, 10 beautiful state parks, and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides protected waters surrounding the entire subtropical island chain, including the continental United States’s only living coral barrier reef.

Those open spaces offer seemingly endless opportunities to reconnect with the natural world and each other. Enjoy time spent immersed in nature and share unforgettable experiences with friends and family. 

4. Visit The Florida Keys State Parks

The Keys’ most protected, secluded, scenic, and well-kept beaches are within the region’s ten state parks. 

The most popular are Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Lower Keys’ Bahia Honda State Park, Islamorada’s Indian Key Historic State Park, and Key West’s Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. 

Each park has unique landscapes, amenities, and pleasant opportunities for early morning walking or hiking. Campgrounds and picnic areas provide shaded respites. Florida state parks are a perfect setting to reconnect with family. 

5. Take In The National Parks

The Keys are home to two remote national parks. Biscayne National Park is located as you enter the keys, and then at the very end of the keys, 70 miles west of Key West, is Dry Tortugas National Park. 

Biscayne National Park encompasses islands, coral reefs, and shoreline mangrove forests in the northern Florida Keys.

Dolphins, turtles, and pelicans live in the Biscayne Bay Lagoon. The underwater Maritime Heritage Trail links shipwrecks and other dive sites. 

Dry Tortugas National Park includes seven islands, plus protected coral reefs. The Garden Key is home to beaches and the 19th-century Fort Jefferson. It is only accessible by boat or seaplane. 

Shortly after you leave Key West, you will be out of cell range, so you are guaranteed a day of everyone being unplugged and enjoying nature and each other. Do take your phone to take photos of this fantastic national park.

Both of these national parks offer plenty of wide-open spaces to explore and reconnect with family members. 

Pro Tip: If you tend to get motion sickness, take Dramamine before departure. 

6. Make A Splash With Water Activities

The soothing salty water in the Keys is refreshing and revitalizing. Families can experience the serene joy of Keys living by trying paddleboard yoga, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, aqua-cycling, or kayaking. An eco-tour to spot frolicking dolphins or sea turtles is fun for all ages.

Vacationers can explore the offshore islands of Indian and Pigeon Keys and snorkel in warm, turquoise blue-tinted water. They can try the cross between snorkeling and scuba diving (SNUBA) at multiple places in the Keys. 

7. Cast A Line With Fishing

One of the Keys’ most popular action-packed adventures for the entire family to enjoy is fishing. Whether along the reef, in deep blue water, or the backcountry, you can enjoy some of the best saltwater fishing in the world. 

Friends and families can fish together on private half-day or full-day charters. Many restaurants offer to cook your catch for you to enjoy. 

Fishing “party boats” are also available and provide education, bait, and more. 

Pro Tip: Remember to practice sustainable best practices to conserve the unique Florida Keys ecosystem and fisheries for future generations. 

8. Walk Along The Beach Together

There are beautiful beaches to enjoy whether swimming or just walking along the edge of the sea. Walking the beach together is a great way to reconnect and create memories, and it is the perfect activity for all ages. 

9. Learn At Historical Sites

In the Keys, there’s history to fascinate everyone: tales of pirates and sunken treasures, Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, Civil War-era forts, and even the “Little White House” of former President Harry S. Truman.

Follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway by visiting his house and discovering the spots where he wrote, drank, and fished during the 1930s.

Key West’s Old Town district is the largest predominantly wooden historic district in the United States. 

Visit the historic Fort Zachary Taylor or Fort East Martello. Both are nearby and provide historical learning opportunities.

10. Bask In Nature

There are endless ways to reconnect with nature and family in the Keys. 

Family groups can explore lush botanical gardens, unique aquariums, a butterfly conservatory, a hospital for turtles, or a wildlife refuge that protects tiny indigenous Key deer.

A playground for all ages, most vacationers spend a lot of time outdoors enjoying the vivid, colorful scenery, warm fragrant breezes, and miles and miles of open spaces of the Keys. 

11. Lend A Hand With Voluntourism

Spend some time making a difference and participate in a “voluntourism” adventure as a family. Helping others or the environment is a great way to reconnect in the Keys.

You can help preserve the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States as a part of voluntourism. You can also donate some time with Habitat for Humanity, the wild bird rehabilitation center, or various other places. Learn more about voluntourism here.

12. Taste The Food

Unique dishes, fresh fish, and the family around the table. What could be a better way to reconnect in the Keys? Sharing a meal is a way to connect and make memories.

The Florida Keys is a foodie’s paradise. There is a restaurant to suit every taste and pocketbook. 

When we visited, we tried different fish dishes each evening. Don’t forget about dessert. Your vacation isn’t complete without eating a piece of Key lime pie. 

13. Watch A Sunset Together

Gather at Mallory Square to watch the sunset. It is doubtful you will find a more beautiful sunset anywhere. 

14. Take A Family Photo At The Southernmost Point

Take a short stroll to the Southernmost Point of the United States and take a family photo in front of the monument. 

15. Find The Perfect Accommodations

Consider a villa or spacious condo so the family can share kitchens and living areas but have private bedrooms. If staying in Islamorada, check out the Pines and Palms Resort. Their Tarpon and Bonefish Villas have two and three bedrooms and you enjoy private beach access for just your family.

Camping is also big in the Keys. Many of the state parks accommodate campers. 

Pro Tip: The Dry Tortugas National Park permits camping by application and they are usually booked a year in advance. 

Reconnect In The Keys

The Florida Keys are a great place to reconnect with family, nature, and adventure. Wherever you visit in the Florida Keys, you will find simple pleasures and fun activities to share with the special people in your life. At the same time, you will be creating memories that last a lifetime. 
You can learn more about how to #reconnectinthekeys by contacting Florida Keys visitor information.

From its rich history and incredible arts and culture to charming river towns and amazing outdoor adventures, Missouri is a destination for every family member! 

As you start planning your summer travel or weekend road trip, here are seven different places in Missouri that your entire crew — from grandparents to toddlers and everyone in between — will love!

1. Independence 

Yes, it’s Harry S. Truman’s hometown. And while his presence is deeply felt in Independence, there’s a whole lot more to see and do here as well! Of course, to learn all about the 33rd president of the United States, you’ll want to stop at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. A multimillion-dollar refresh will be done in 2021, just in time to celebrate the 75th anniversary of when Truman ascended to the highest office in the United States. The complex contains archives, documents, and artifacts allowing you to really get to know the man well-known for his straight talk and “buck stops here” approach. You might also want to make time to visit the home he shared with his wife, Bess, which is now a National Historic Site.

All roads started in Independence when it came to exploring the Wild West. Thousands of people streamed through in the 1800s on their way to seek fortune along the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California trails. You can learn more about them, their struggles, and Independence’s role in their journeys at the National Frontier Trails Museum, home to more than 2,600 first-person trail accounts. Pioneer Trails Adventures also offers an up-close and personal look at the city’s deep pioneer roots with covered-wagon tours that take off from the Historic Independence Square. Each Labor Day Weekend, Independence honors its pioneer roots with the SantaCaliGon Days Festival on the Square.

And if all the history in Independence has you wondering about your own family’s past, you’ll want to visit the Midwest Genealogy Center. This is one of the best places in the country to research your family roots — for free! Its massive online genealogy databases include census records, newspaper articles, and other primary sources. Librarians are on hand to help you get started on your family story. 

To further explore all the fantastic things to see, do, and experience in Independence, check out the city’s online visitors guide and peruse our collection of Independence content here.

2. Arcadia Valley

If you’re looking to include some of Missouri’s most stunning natural features in your getaway, there’s no better place than the Arcadia Valley, located in the state’s southeast. Taum Sauk, the state’s highest point, offers some terrific hikes and scenic, sweeping vistas. Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park has been a favorite road-trip stop for generations. With its crystal-clear spring-fed falls that rush through huge granite boulders, this place is like Mother Nature’s waterslide! And don’t forget Elephant Rocks State Park, where you can wander among enormous pink stones and learn all about the geological processes that created them. You can also see the carved names of stone cutters, left behind a century ago when they trained on the site.

And then, there is the fantastic floating! The Black River is cool, clear, and perfect for a day-long water adventure, with lots of sandbars and rocky beaches to stop for a break. There are many outfitters in the area that allow you to rent canoes, kayaks, or tubes for your float.

While campsites and cabins are plentiful, Wilderness Lodge just outside of the town of Lesterville is the perfect spot for an entire family to stay. Its cozy, comfortable cabins right on the river, onsite amenities, and delicious meals served in the main lodge (breakfast and dinner are included in your rate) make it a terrific choice. This place has been our family’s favorite for years. 

3. Columbia

Home to the state’s flagship university, Columbia sits midway between St. Louis and Kansas City and is jam-packed with attractions and activities for your entire family. Of course, no visit here is complete without exploring the University of Missouri campus. If you’ve only got time for one stop, make it Francis Quadrangle, with its iconic Columns, Jesse Hall, and historic red brick buildings. Grab a slice of pizza (or whole pie!) at Shakespeare’s, where students have been flocking for generations. And make sure you stroll the city’s terrific Ninth Street district downtown, with its funky shops, boutiques, and cafes. 

For outdoor fun, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park boasts some of the best hiking trails in the state, which wind their way past an extensive cave system, and Shelter Gardens is a family favorite with its gorgeous flowers, shrubs, and manicured grounds. Learn how to spend the perfect weekend in Columbia here!

4. Innsbrook

For old-fashioned family fun in a tranquil, peaceful setting, consider Innsbrook for your next Missouri adventure. The resort, just an hour west of St. Louis, was first built as an A-frame resort inspired by mountain chalets in Europe and the natural beauty the developers loved in Colorado. Today, while the property has grown to include luxury homes and condominiums, it still combines nature and recreation in a special, serene way.

Innsbrook includes 100 lakes, nature trails, stables, tennis and pickleball courts, a pool, and even an 18-hole golf course, yet it retains its natural, unspoiled beauty. Big motors are not permitted at the resort, so you’ll be kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in still, quiet waters. And there are plenty of places within Innsbrook’s 7,500 acres to settle in, relax, and reconnect with nature and each other. While many properties here are privately owned, vacation rentals are also available.

5. Springfield

Located right in the Missouri Ozarks, Springfield is an outdoor paradise! Start your adventure at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium, where you’ll walk through massive aquatic habitats filled with fish, marine mammals, and coral from all over the world. Next, head to the flagship Bass Pro Shop store, crammed with everything any outdoor enthusiast could need for an upcoming adventure. 

Fantastic Caverns takes the fun underground; here you’ll take a Jeep ferry ride deep into the earth, where you’ll see all sorts of formations and learn about the 12 brave women who were the first recorded explorers of the massive cave complex back in the 1860s. Missouri State University’s campus is located in Springfield and is certainly worth a stroll, as is the downtown district. And you can check out the boys of summer at a Springfield Cardinals game — they’re the Double-A club affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals.

6. Clarksville 

To share an old-fashioned river respite with your family, consider the tiny town of Clarksville. Located about an hour north of St. Louis, Clarksville sits just off Highway 79 on a stretch of road that runs along the Mississippi River, offering some of the most scenic views in the state! The town is perched just over U.S. Lock and Dam 24, providing a perfect vantage point for appreciating riverboat and barge traffic up close and personal. Enthusiasts of all ages will delight in seeing the barges make their way through the lock and dam system and on their way down the river. This stretch of the Mississippi is also a prime place to spot bald eagles — they routinely stop through Clarksville to fish during their winter migration. 

Clarksville has become a creative haven of sorts, with craftspeople and artists including potters and furniture makers choosing to live and work in Clarksville’s historic buildings and homes. Rent a historic cottage or stay at a B&B, wander the riverfront, and make your way through the shops as you relax and enjoy the slower pace of life here. Plan to make your way up to Overlook Farms, an idyllic spot set well above the river. It’s a working farm, and the store sells many items produced on-site. There are also several inns at Overlook, some historic and all offering luxe accommodations.

7. Hermann 

German immigrants established Hermann in the 1840s; the terrain reminded them of their homeland’s Rhine River Valley. Those settlers quickly built homes, churches, and wineries. Many of them remain today and are perfect for the entire family to explore!

To learn more about the German immigrants who established Hermann, pay a visit to the Deutschheim State Historic Site. It includes two houses from the 1840s that are perfectly preserved to reflect what life was truly like here in that era. Upper City Park, with its historic Rotunda building, is also worth a stop. The brick octagon was built as an agricultural fair exhibition hall in 1864; today it’s fully renovated and used for weddings and other special events.

In addition to the dozen wineries in and around Hermann, the downtown district is full of fun antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. Expresso Laine offers all sorts of fun drinks, snacks, and even an extensive selection of toys!If you’re looking for a bit more adventure during your Hermann vacation, consider a bike or hike down the nearby Katy Trail. While Hermann isn’t directly on this terrific trail, it’s less than 3 miles away. You can easily rent a bike in Hermann, ride across the river on the recently renovated bridge, and reach the McKittrick trailhead. The Katy runs right through Missouri’s most scenic areas and is fun for the whole family.

My mom, or Mema as we all call her, is 82 years old and lives on her own about two hours from me. She’s quite an introvert and stays at home most of the time tending her garden, playing solitaire, and watching Wheel of Fortune. I had decided that a road trip to Central Kansas would be the perfect opportunity for a multi-gen road trip to include her and my grandson. Making travel memories with both of them is very important to me. To my amazement, neither my mom nor myself had ever been to Kansas. It’s another state we get to scratch off our travel map.

So, here we are — a midlife woman (me), my elderly mom, and her 11-year-old great-grandson going on a multigenerational road trip six hours one way from Texas to Kansas. I knew going in that three generations in a car for that long could possibly stir up some controversy, so planning was key. While we had a great time, in the end, I learned a few valuable lessons. 

We were hosted throughout our Kansas road trip. All opinions are my own.

1. Six Days On The Road Was One Day Too Many

We started out on a Tuesday, and by the time Saturday rolled around, we had visited four towns in Central Kansas: Hesston, Lindsborg, McPherson, and Great Bend. That put us moving from hotel to hotel three times. Though this was a travel writing opportunity for me, it was also a planned trip for all of us. Each destination had things for us to do and see, and we will not forget the hospitality and kindness in each town. But still, it lasted too long. 

On Saturday evening, not only my grandson but my mom was ready to go home. My mom even suggested that we leave that night and asked if I was up for driving at night. I think she was missing her precious dog, Lily. Six days on the road were too many for us. So, the next time I plan a family road trip, it will be at least one day shorter.

2. A Blanket For The Car Ride Is A Must

My mom knows I like my house cold, and inside the car is no different. She made her list of what to bring, and a blanket and sweater topped her list. She drove to my house with her suitcase packed and ready to go, but that darn blanket and sweater draped over her shoulders was like she was trying to tell me something. This is a friendly reminder that older people can get cold more often than most.

3. Drive A Car With All The Latest Tech

Seriously, if your car doesn’t have outlets and plugs for electronics, consider renting one that does. Game devices, a phone, and headphones are what kept my grandson completely occupied and content in the backseat. My motto when road tripping is to let the kid play with his electronics, but when we get to our destination, he has to put them away. Gone are the days of playing the ABC game and Slug Bug in the car like you and I once did on family road trips.

4. Take Bathroom Breaks “Together”

Before we left on our trip, I advised them that when one needs to go pee, we all go. It’s not my grandson I had to worry about — it’s my mom! She sure can be stubborn at times. If she doesn’t have to go, she won’t, but that only means I have to stop again just for her. We’ve gone through this a time or two, but it worked out pretty well on this trip, I have to say.

5. I Had To Be Patient And Mindful (More So Than I Expected)

It’s hard to think of our parents getting old. I found myself waiting on my mom to cross the road, to finish her meal, and to make decisions so much that I had to slow myself down. I honestly had a real learning moment realizing she’s not the mom who once took care of me, but that I’m the daughter who now takes care of her. Thinking about this makes me tear up. I slowed down the rest of the trip.

6. Let Each Person Choose Their Own Activities

We pretty much had an itinerary to follow on this trip, but I found I had to be somewhat flexible when it came to my grandson. The three of us were signed up for a paint-on-canvas activity that took place at an outdoor festival in Great Bend. But when we arrived, I saw a bounce house in one corner, a splash pad in another, and so many other kid-friendly activities that I knew my grandson would not want to sit there and paint. So after seeing him struggle with painting his canvas, I told him to go play and have fun. In any other situation, he would have loved to sit there and paint because he loves that sort of thing. Luckily, he is outgoing and makes friends fast. He was off making new friends, playing, and jumping in no time. He even came back a time or two to check in with me. I made the right decision there.

7. Take Breaks When You Can

We visited Lindsborg, Kansas, also known as Little Sweden, for a day and a half and found the town to be quiet, friendly, and safe. So when we were given an activity sheet to find the decorated Swedish Christmas holiday Dala horses around town, I let my grandson wander up and down Main Street by himself to search for them while mom and I sat on a bench. He loved his freedom, and we loved resting our feet!

8. Photo Memories Are For Everyone

A learning moment for me was when I realized my mom wanted to be silly and get her picture taken as much as I wanted to take pictures of my grandson. She’s elderly, but not dead, she reminded me a couple of times. My mom has way more life in her than I sometimes think. After that, my camera filled up with all kinds of photos — of her and my grandson.

9. Don’t Forget To Have Your Own Fun

Being the one responsible for making sure everything went smoothly and on time, I sometimes forgot to enjoy myself. Don’t do this. Make sure you find some time for yourself, and don’t forget to ask someone to snap a photo of you.

While it’s good to have a routine built into our daily lives at home, traveling is one thing that gives us a chance to get out and experience the world. So grab your parents, your grandkids, your aunts and uncles, and set out to see the world.

With 130 miles of sun-kissed golden sand, New Jersey is a summer haven for beach lovers. I’ve been going to the Jersey Shore for more than five decades, both as a kid with my family and as an adult with my own kids. I have spent fun-filled weeks in rental homes up and down the Jersey coastline and enjoyed local seafood while watching the waves crash on the shore, spun on wild rides watching the surf in the distance, and kicked back under the sun while dolphins danced just offshore (really!).

I’ve also suffered the slings and arrows of Joisey jokes over the years, and I’ll admit TV shows haven’t done New Jersey any favors promoting the beauty of the state (in fact, if you watch The Sopranos or The Real Housewives of New Jersey, you might even be afraid to visit). But I’m here to tell you our beaches are some of the best on the East Coast, if not the country. 

To fully enjoy the fun-filled boardwalks and family-friendly hotspots, there are a few, let’s say, quirks to know about New Jersey that will make your stay more pleasant — plus some insider tips that will help you get the most of your Shore visit. Ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Learn The Lingo

First, before you hit the sand, you need to learn the lingo. You’re not going “to the beach” — you’re “heading down the shore”. The “shore” is always “down” and never, never “up”. Otherwise, everyone will think you’re a “shoobie.” Get it?

Nope? I don’t blame you, since these are “only in Jersey” terms, new visitors to the beaches probably won’t be familiar with NJ lingo, so let me explain.

The “shore” is the beach. The beach is always referred to as down, but not necessarily south, although the phrasing originated with northern New Jerseyans who had to go south, or “down” the highway to reach the beach. A “shoobie” is a derogatory term for daytrippers by locals (although not used very often these days), which referred to people who brought their possessions in a shoebox (think Depression era). 

Finally: Once you’re “down the shore” at a home rental or hotel, you can spend the day at the “beach” enjoying the sand and surf.

2. Jersey Shore Geography

When New Jerseyans talk about going “down the shore,” we usually describe a north-to-south route. Note, however, that you won’t want to attempt a full shore drive of multiple stops on a summer weekend — it can often take (many) hours in traffic getting from northern to southern points. Even without traffic in the fall to spring “offseasons,” it will still take several hours to drive from New Jersey’s northernmost beach, Sandy Hook, to the southernmost point, Cape May. 

Along the way, you’ll also encounter a number of barrier island towns. The largest, and best-known, is Long Beach Island (LBI), which serves as a midway point for north Jersey Shore towns (more easily reached from the New York City area) and southern ones (easier to get to from the Philadelphia area). 

Northern Shore towns include funky Asbury Park, nightlife-centric Belmar, family-friendly Ocean Grove, and boardwalk hotspots Seaside and Point Pleasant. LBI is a central point and has a large number of towns to choose from for a vacation, including quiet Harvey Cedars on the north end and kid-friendly Beach Haven on the south end. South of LBI, you’ll find the casinos and free beaches of Atlantic City, the alcohol-free Ocean City, the chic sister towns of Avalon and Stone Harbor on a 7-mile barrier island, the boardwalk haven of Wildwood, and the charming cobblestone streets of Cape May. 

3. A Boardwalk Primer

Around the country, there are walkways, and walks made of boards, and even “broadwalks” and “boardwalks.” But in New Jersey, we have “The Boardwalk,” which is way more than just a place to walk. The wide wooden boards raised up over the sand started in Atlantic City where a wealth of entertainment — from one of the first Ferris wheels to diving horses to the Miss America contest — attracted crowds. 

Over the decades, other towns up and down the shore added amusement-filled boardwalks of their own. Today, you’ll find fair food, rides big and small, seafood restaurants, games of chance, live entertainment, and shopping galore along the weathered boards. 

While there are a few small options in more residential shore towns, these are the biggies to know if you’re planning a vacation around boardwalk fun, traveling from north to south:

• Asbury Park (small and hip, popular with teens and trendsetters) 
• Seaside Heights (boisterous and loud, the boardwalk you saw on Jersey Shore) 
• Point Pleasant (lots of rides and amusements) 
• Ocean City (a dry town, meaning no alcohol, and a great place for families)
• Atlantic City (casinos, restaurants, shops, and a pier filled with rides and amusements)
• Wildwood (the largest boardwalk in the state, with something for everyone; take the tramcar to save wear and tear on your feet) 

4. Buy A Beach Badge

If you’ve driven through New Jersey on one of our toll Turnpike or Parkway roads that traverse the state (the source of the comic classic “You’re from Jersey, what exit?”), you may have noticed there’s no such thing as a “free ride” in the Garden State. The same holds true for the beaches, unfortunately. The majority of New Jersey’s golden sands require something called a beach badge, which incurs either a daily, weekly, or seasonal fee (a season’s badge is the best deal, but is only relevant if you’ll be staying for more than a week). Every township that requires one has its own badge, so if you’re planning on beach hopping, you’ll need to buy a new one for every beach. 

There is some good news for frugal beachgoers, however: The enormous beaches in tourist-friendly Atlantic City and Wildwood are free of charge all summer. And all other beaches only charge for access for summer “peak” season, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and only from about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., so you can come late at night or early in the morning for free, or anytime off season.

What you can’t do, though, is come early on a summer morning and expect to sit all day for free. Teen beach badge checkers are paid to come and check to make sure everyone sitting on the beach has a badge. Sorry. 

5. The Secret To Finding A Great Rental Home

I’ve stayed in a variety of hotels and vacation homes all along the Jersey Shore. For a few days with my husband, I’m a fan of the bling of Atlantic City or the elegant Victorian inns and hotels of Cape May. But when I have the whole family along for a vacation, a house rental is always my top choice so we can spread out, socialize, and have big seafood feasts — preferable on an outdoor deck with an ocean breeze. Although sharing platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have plenty of listings at the shore, I’ve found that working with local realtors actually provides a larger inventory of options, better service, and more tips and insights into both the home and the area. 

For example, for the pandemic summer of 2020, it was late spring when I started looking for a two-week rental to share with my cousin and her family so we could “double bubble.” We scoured home rental sites but came up with truly disappointing options. That’s when I reached out to a realtor I found on Twitter. She asked me our budget and priorities, and then sent us several homes to peruse online, highlighting perks that I couldn’t see on the MLS (for example, an extra “hidden” loft space perfect for our teens that the owners hadn’t mentioned). I saved tons of time and found a house in my budget that was perfect for our group. 

Every town at the shore has its own realtors who have local house rental options — search them online and then look for “rentals” on their web pages. 

6. The Best Eats At The Beach

As soon as I hear “Jersey Shore,” I start to get hungry. It’s not just my once-a-year boardwalk binges — although I highly recommend sampling the creamy frozen custard from Kohr’s, sticky saltwater taffy, sweet fudge, Jersey pizza, addictive Johnson’s caramel corn, and Thrasher’s fries doused in malt vinegar. It’s also the Jersey fresh catches that come right off the fishing boat and into local seafood restaurants. (You can even do a day of deep water fishing with boats up and down the coast). Summer highlights include flounder, tuna, swordfish, and bluefish (although the latter is a bit of an acquired taste) as well as clams and scallops. Match them with Jersey fresh sweet corn and luscious vine-ripened tomatoes, and it’s a perfect vacation feast. 

7. Entertainment Beyond The Sand

It’s not all boardwalks and sand and surf at the Jersey Shore (although those are definitely highlights). We also have a range of great year-round attractions to check out if you’re visiting in other seasons. (In fact, if you come in the warm fall or spring months, you’ll likely still have pleasant weather, along with fewer crowds and great prices for an overnight stay). 

Some highlights to add to your list:

• Lucy the Elephant: The Jersey Shore’s favorite roadside attraction, and National Historic Landmark, is a two-story pachyderm that you can actually walk inside of. It’s located in Margate, just south of Atlantic City. 
• Lighthouses: The state has 18 lighthouses, 11 of which you can explore inside and out. Top choices are in LBI and Cape May. 
• Painted Ladies: Speaking of Cape May, the delightful Victorian town is filled with grand houses, or “Painted Ladies,” that you can see on guided tours via horse-drawn carriage, shuttle, or on foot. 

Bottom Line 

The Jersey Shore is a great place to visit in the summer, or truly any time of year, but it helps to learn the lingo and know which beaches to pinpoint if you want to enjoy the beach like the locals do.

Are you considering a multigenerational trip? If so, Gulf Shores, Alabama, might be the perfect destination.

With travel opening up and people beginning to plan vacations, many 50+ travelers are thinking about taking the whole family on a trip. Multigenerational travel is a great way to bring generations closer together. Enjoying new destinations and experiences together is a beautiful opportunity to create lasting memories for all ages.

The best multigenerational destinations have an abundance of activities and experiences that all ages will enjoy. While some might enjoy one thing more than others, no one is bored, and everyone is happy with the trip.

I recently visited Gulf Shores, Alabama, and found it an excellent destination for a multigenerational trip. There is much to do and a large variety of activities for all ages. Let’s look at a few of the reasons you should consider Gulf Shores for your next multigenerational trip.

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, Meyer Vacation Rentals, and the Foley Depot Museum & Model Train Exhibit provided hosted experiences during our visit. All opinions are my own. 

The Beach

The main attractions at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the stunning white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise water. Families enjoy exploring the miles of shoreline.

A beach is an excellent destination for a multigenerational trip because it lends itself to many activities. Whether you enjoy swimming in the ocean, sunbathing on the beach, walking along the surf, building sandcastles, or playing beach volleyball, there is something for just about everyone to enjoy. 

There are many public beaches, so you can enjoy the beach regardless of where you are staying.

Parasailing, banana boats, and kayak rentals are available at various places along the shore. You can also rent chairs, umbrellas, paddle boards, and beach wheelchairs.

I highly suggest making an appointment in advance for your multigenerational family with Sandcastle University. They will come and teach your family how to make the most awesome sandcastle you can imagine. This is a great activity for young and old as well as everyone in between. Building the sandcastle will create memories for all for many years to come.

Pro Tips: Sunscreen is a must. Watch for nesting sea turtles from May–November. It is illegal to disturb them. 

Fishing

If your family gets into fishing, they will love Gulf Shores. The Alabama Gulf Coast is considered a world-class fishing destination. Whether you choose beach casting, a deep-sea charter, or pier fishing, there are many varieties of fish to be caught.

Boat Tour

There are many options when it comes to boats in Gulf Shores. You can rent a boat for the day, and the whole family can enjoy a day at sea playing in the water and riding the boat or fishing. There are single and double-deck pontoons with slides available. Jet Skis and other boats are also available to rent.

You can also take a sunset cruise to see spectacular views or a dolphin cruise. I think the dolphin cruise is the best option for pleasing all ages. At 61, I found the dolphins swimming beside our boat to be captivating. I think it brings out the child in all of us.

Coastal Arts Center At Orange Beach

This Coastal Arts Center at Orange Beach has something for all ages, plus you can create a keepsake to remember your trip. From creating glass art to sculptures to art workshops, there is something for most generations to enjoy. They provide creative programs in glass blowing, pottery, and visual arts. Plus, they host kids’ programs and a variety of teen workshops. 

The Hot Shop features hot glass demonstrations throughout the day and offers a Make-Your-Own fused/blown glass lesson. When I visited, I made a glass starfish. 

Pottery demonstrations and Make-Your-Own clay items are offered in the Clay Studio.

There is a lovely art gallery in the main building, along with a gift shop. 

Pro Tip: Be sure to call in advance to reserve a spot. Walk-in slots are rarely available. 

Bellingrath Gardens

Something is always blooming at Bellingrath Gardens. This Southern estate garden is 65 acres of floral beauty.

Check their website to see what is blooming each month. They have special events happening throughout the year and lots of children’s activities. Just walking through the gardens is a fun activity for all ages.

Gulf State Park

Sitting between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama, Gulf State Park is a destination in itself. There is so much to see and do.

The state park has an area of 6,500 acres, including a wide public white sand beach area on the Alabama coast. There are two miles of beach, and most of the park lies behind the beach community. 

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, run by Hilton Hotels, sits right on the beach within the park. The campground is one and a half miles from the beach and offers campers 496 campsites with full-hookup and paved pads. They also have eleven primitive sites. The camping area includes eleven modern bathhouses.

Cottages are also available for overnight stays. 

The park has 29 miles of either paved or boardwalk trails. All are wide enough for strollers, bikes, wheelchairs, etc.

There is a large swimming pool and a splash pad within the park. Several paved tennis courts are part of the park. 

Gulf State Park has over 2,000 feet of fishing space along the rails of the second largest pier on the Gulf. 

There is a large nature center with interesting programs for all ages. 

Bikes are available to use within the park for three hours at a time, free of charge.

Another fun way to see the park is via Segway. You can rent Segways within the park at Coastal Segway Adventures, and a certified Segway operator will provide lessons and help you glide through the park. When we visited, we rode over 12 miles and saw freshwater lakes, hardwood forests, swamps, bogs, and even some alligators during this unique guided tour. 

Kayaks, paddleboats, and canoes are available for day use on Lake Shelby and in the Gulf. 

Whether going to the park to stay a few nights or visit for the day, there is plenty to do for all ages. 

Pro Tip: If you are planning to hike, remember your bug spray and sunscreen.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

A modern educational wildlife park sitting on 25 acres has something for everyone. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is known as “The Little Zoo That Could.” It survived all sorts of devastating losses and still came back better than ever. 

They offer hands-on educational animal encounters, giraffe feedings, and even a zipline for a ride over the zoo to give you a bird’s-eye view. 

The nice thing about this zoo is everything is spread out. All the animals seem to have plenty of room to roam around.

Since it is spread out, there is some walking from one place to another, but all the paths are paved and wide for wheelchairs and strollers.

Pro Tip: While visiting the zoo, you might enjoy a meal at the neighboring Safari Club restaurant.

Fort Morgan

Learn about Alabama’s Gulf Coast history dating back to Native American periods. Fort Morgan is just one of the many places to learn about colonial and Civil War History.

Fort Morgan was used as a military fort from the War of 1812 till after World War II. The state of Alabama accepted ownership of Fort Morgan for use as a historic site in 1946.

Pro Tip: Be aware there is a lot of walking, and if you desire to see the upper level, there are steps. Small children and those with mobility issues may not enjoy this visit.

Foley Depot Museum And Model Train Exhibit

Who doesn’t love trains? Kids and even great-grandparents will get a kick out of visiting Foley Depot Museum & Model Train Exhibit. Just a short drive (about 10 miles), and you can see this lovely museum that gives you a blast from the past. 

When you visit the historic depot, you are transported back in time via photos, memorabilia, and tools documenting Foley’s history and the vital role the railroad played in area development. 

The Foley Model Train Exhibit will thrill not only the younger crowd but anyone who enjoys trains. The impressive display covers 1,200 square feet of the tabletop. It includes trains, cars, a farming community, a model town, a country fair complete with a moving Ferris wheel, an operational car wash, an outdoor drive-in theater, and wooden bridges and tunnels. 

There is no charge to view the model train exhibit. The engineers running the trains are volunteers who love what they do and are available to answer questions. Be sure to check their website for days and times of operation.

These are just a few of the many things to do during a multigenerational trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Once your family has experienced some of the world’s finest beaches and one of the country’s hidden gem destinations, they may want to return year after year. When that happens, you know your destination was the perfect choice for a multigenerational trip. 

Pro Tips: If you desire to stay in a rental property so you can all be together as a family, check out the many options available through Meyer Vacation Rentals.

When it comes to family travel, it’s often a multi-gen affair. Mom, dad, the kids, grandparents, and sometimes the kids’ kids. After a year or more when many families didn’t see each other at all, as much as they wanted, or only via Zoom, there’s a longing for quality time together.

To make this trip more about memories than mistakes, plan. Start with choosing the best destination. Ideally, it satisfies the interests of your family, from the youngest to the oldest. Activities should be plentiful. You want to choose to do as much or as little as you want.

Where to go depends on what you all like. Are your family members amusement park fans, beach or golf lovers, adventure junkies? Go where most of your hearts lie. Here is a curated list of some of my favorite places that are perfect for a family trip. I’ve had the pleasure of going to all but one — which I’ve heard amazing things about.

1. Copper Mountain, Colorado

Copper Mountain is known for skiing. I took a ski lesson not so long ago after swearing to never touch a ski pole with still-fresh memories of a disastrous attempt at skiing 40 years ago. But it’s great during the summer, too. The entire family can enjoy hiking, biking, and chairlift rides with scenery worthy of oohs and aahs. For the thrill-seekers, there is the Rocky Mountain Coaster, the Woodward Wrecktangle climbing wall, quad power jump, and other activities. For something quieter, hit the Copper Creek Golf Course or go to the nearby historic town of Frisco. The accommodations at Copper Mountain resort include multi-bedroom condos with kitchens, dining, and living room spaces. There’s a brand-new hotel at the base of Copper Mountain: Element 29. It has an outdoor patio along West Ten Mile Creek plus fire pits and hot tubs.

Pro Tip: Copper is bringing back its 10 Barrel Backcountry Brew Pub. On select Saturday afternoons, trek up to the pop-up location at the base of the Timberline lift. Grab some food, listen to music, enjoy lawn games, and more. 

2. Whidbey Island, Washington

Drive about two hours north of Seattle and discover Whidbey Island with its beach and forested trails. A bonus is all the outdoor art. There’s a new 16-acre outdoor museum, the Price Sculpture Forest, with art from trees or hidden behind foliage. Earth Sanctuary is a nature retreat and sculpture park on 72 acres. For action for all ages, scale a tree with AdventureTerra. With the help of ropes and a guide, climbers ascend Coastal Douglas Firs to reach the top of the forest canopy and view the Deception Pass Bridge and San Juan Islands. Choose to stay at Fort Casey Inn and enjoy the comforts of home in historic former officer’s quarters. Consider the Captain Whidbey Inn in nearby Coupeville with cabins and historic inn rooms. The restaurant is over-the-top with water views. Tasting the PNW (Pacific Northwest) oysters is a must, as is downing a Big Yellow Taxi, which features Whidbey’s Cadee gin. They brag about the Captain’s Chowder; see if you agree.

Pro Tip: To sample local specialties stop in 3 Sisters Market for island chef-prepared meals like a pot pie from The Oystercatcher, produce, wine, and more.

3. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

This destination is for the family who wants the ease of a luxurious, all-inclusive resort. It’s a plus that Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana shares a waterpark with Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana. Enjoy kayaking or a catamaran ride. It’s not until you get way out in the middle of the ocean that you realize that a catamaran is really not much shelter. Exhale, you’ll be ashore soon! You don’t have to stress about mealtime with six restaurants and seven lounges with vegetarian, vegan, and Keto options. The young ones can hang out at the KidZ Club and teens their club, with its virtual reality simulators, Formula 1 racing, and more. Grownups can make their way to the fitness center with Zumba and spinning rooms or the ZEN Spa. Take your pick of yoga, dance classes, and cooking lessons, or relax with cocktails at one of the infinity pools.

Pro Tip: Venture out. The concierge has information about trips you can take for additional fees from vendors for deep-sea fishing, zip-lining, and other adventures.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is much beloved for its fab food, history, and culture. Simplify your itinerary with the Essential Charleston Passport, a digital ticket to travel back in time and discover the city’s cultural mainstays by hopping between the Old and Historic Districts. The young ones will love the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry with its interactive exhibits. They’ll climb to the top of a medieval castle and command a pirate ship.

What’s new? Tempest, a South Atlantic seafood restaurant housed in a boarding house originally constructed in 1916 for merchant marines. The latest addition to the Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms is the Sweetgrass Inn. Enjoy the ocean, spa, poolside restaurant, and bar. With Charleston just 30 minutes away, you get a city-beach vacay.

Pro Tip: While you may want to take a horse or walking tour, also grab a map and explore on your own Charleston’s homes, alleyways, and gardens. 

5. Pensacola, Florida

What’s to love about Pensacola? The beach. The splendor rivals what you might expect to see in the Caribbean with its white sand beach and sparkling waters. You can rent a house on the beach for a price that won’t make you cry. This small town is big on arts, culture, cuisine, and nightlife downtown. As a group, do a dolphin cruise or go to a Blue Angels practice. Feeling adventurous? Rent a crystal-clear LED-lighted kayak for an evening ride. Explore the city via electric bikes. When hunger calls, the Garden at Palafox is an outdoor food hall, home to food airstreams including E-saan Thai Street Food, Boca Latin Kitchen, and more. Summer brings the Bands on the Beach outdoor concert series at the Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

Pro Tip: The Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel is the new luxury place to stay downtown. The property has three outdoor venues, including the New Orleans-style Fountain Courtyard.

6. Cape Neddick, Maine

Cape Neddick is all about hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, golfing, sailing, swimming, or immersing yourself in Maine culture on a lobstering excursion. Kennebunk is nearby with its galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The place to stay is the Cliff House, especially if you need TLC. The Spa at Cliff House takes wellness seriously. Indulge yourself with energy, therapeutic, and salt stone therapies. Rustle folks up for an early guided beach walk on the Marginal Way Walkway. It’s just over a mile of coastline that connects Perkins Cove to Ogunquit Beach. If the younger generation wants a bit more excitement, Portland, Maine, is a short drive.

Pro Tip: Don’t leave Cape Neddick without having dinner at Walkers Maine. It’s fine dining at its best in these parts.

7. Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, Riviera Maya, Mexico

The music and memorabilia up the fun factor here. With designated adults-only and family-friendly areas, the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is ideal. The Woodward Riviera Maya is for all ages and all skill levels. Ready, set, action, be it skateboarding, BMX, scooter, parkour, gymnastics, cheer, dance, or indoor dryland snowboarding and skiing with ParkBoard and ParkSki training equipment. Note that these activities seem best suited for kids and teens, but adults seem to enjoy them as well! There are also select private experiences like a beachside fire pit, guitar workshop, Latin dance, and fitness classes. The Hard Golf Club awaits you as does the Rock Spa.

Pro Tip: Complete your experience with an excursion to zipline in the jungle or to swim in a cenote.

8. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte captures your heart with its small-town charm. You expect fantastic barbecue and fried chicken, but there’s more. Take for example Optimist Hall, a former historic mill that was transformed into a food hall with retail, office space, and eateries like Ava with its wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, Bao and Broth, Asian street fare, and cocktail bar Billy Sunday. It’s the largest food hall of its kind in North Carolina. It’s not fussy — just enjoy your grub. Walk off all the eating at Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and Mint Museum Uptown. What ups Charlotte’s cool factor is its neighborhoods. Don’t miss NoDa, It’s colorful, and it’s not only the murals and street art. You’ll find breweries and one-of-a-kind shops, like vintage clothing store The Rat’s Nest. There’s the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Olympic-level whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center among other activities. Where to stay? The Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel is chic and has the Merchant rooftop bar. 

Pro Tip: Venture 20 minutes beyond the city and check in at the AAA Four-Diamond Ballantyne. Pamper yourself at the luxurious spa and enjoy the signature afternoon tea. 

9. Red Reflet Ranch, Ten Sleep, Wyoming

Would you like to stay in a private chalet on this 28,000-acre working ranch and all-inclusive luxury resort? Same, and while this is the only place I recommend but haven’t visited personally, I’ve heard good things about it. Spend your Red Reflet Ranch days horseback riding, fishing, hiking, four-wheeling, and taking gourmet cooking classes or yoga. If that’s not enough, hit the rifle range, enjoy the tennis and basketball courts, or rock climb. Refresh yourself with a swim in the natural waterpark and enjoy the beach, canoes, and water slide. Dinner time is all about dining with the owners and other guests. You have options, be it dinner at the Mountain Cabin, cowboy-style barbecue in the outdoor Cantina, or a private dinner in your chalet. 

Pro Tip: Make your way to Ten Sleep Brewing Co. with its beer, views of the Big Horn Mountains, food trucks, and music.

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Enjoy the beach, boardwalk, golf, the SkyWheel, water parks, boat rides, kayaking, paddleboarding, Ripley’s Aquarium, and all the liveliness of the strip in Myrtle Beach. But go beyond the usual. I was blown away by the Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet just south of Myrtle Beach. It’s a national historic landmark with the largest collections of American figurative sculpture in the U.S. in a garden setting, with a zoo, butterfly house, children’s sensory trail, picnic area, and ponds. About an hour’s drive south of Myrtle Beach is the historic waterfront city of Georgetown. Stop by the River Room. You’ll love the Cajun gumbo, shrimp and grits, and everything else on the menu at this dockside restaurant.

Pro Tip: You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you find in the 11 galleries at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum in Myrtle Beach.

A long-shuttered resort in Tunica, Mississippi, is about to get a huge makeover. Developers announced this week they will be putting $140 million into the redevelopment of the former Harrah’s Tunica Resort. Work will include renovation of the two hotels, convention center, spa, and salon.

It will also include the construction of a 20-acre water park and an 18-hole golf course renovation by famed architect Rees Jones.

“This property is truly one-of-a-kind, and we believe adding an amazing water park and other family-friendly amenities will enhance our guests’ experience and create a destination for all age groups in this region and beyond,” said Tom DeMuth, managing director of Summit Smith Development, one of the companies involved in the project.

The property will include a 100-acre private lake, a family fun center with an all-ages video arcade, a sporting clay and hunting center, an RV park, and a boardwalk with dining, retail, and entertainment venues.

Tunica is located in the northwest corner of Mississippi, about 50 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee. It has grown over the years with a major emphasis on casinos.

This project is looking to attract more families with the additions of the water park, a youth sports complex, lake activities including fishing and boating, and the boardwalk.

The property has been vacant since Harrah’s closed its doors in 2014.

DeMuth said more information on the project would be announced in the coming weeks, but for now, the plan is to complete the project in phases, starting in 2022.

The water park is expected to be complete next summer. It will include a lazy river, drop capsule slides, a raft bowl slide, kids slides, two swim-up bars, and other play areas.

The resort, which will employ more than 650 people, will be managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, and the hotel will have a total of 1,168 guest rooms in the two towers.

For more on vacationing in the area, consider our Tennessee and Mississippi content, and don’t miss our recommendations for fantastic family vacations all around the United States (and the world!), either.

If you’re looking for a fun, outdoor activity to do with your grandkids on your next multigenerational trip — or even in your own hometown — you might consider geocaching. Never heard of it or wondering if it’s too much of a tech stretch to give it a whirl? Rest assured, geocaching is something that can be enjoyed by all ages (from preschoolers to even the most tech-averse grandparents). All you need to get started is a smartphone, the downloaded Geocaching app (more on this below), and a sense of adventure.

Geocaching is often described as a modern-day treasure hunt. Geocaching enthusiasts around the world have hidden “caches” — small containers — in locations ranging from neighborhood parks to city centers to remote trails. In fact, there are three million caches hidden on all seven continents (yes, even Antarctica). So, chances are, there’s treasure not too far from where you are right now!

Inside these containers — hidden from plain sight, but never buried — are little trinkets. Once you find the container, you can take something that catches your eye and leave a surprise for the next person. However, geocaching isn’t about the specific “treasure” you earn; it’s the thrill of successfully finding the cache.

I like that folks of all mobility levels can have fun geocaching. Cache descriptions on the Geocaching app spell out if they are wheelchair accessible and note where terrain might be difficult. Each cache is also rated 1 to 5 on a “how hard it is to find” scale, so folks who are new to the activity or enjoying it with younger kids can search for 1-star ratings. Teenage grandkids might enjoy the stashes that are rated 4 stars for difficulty and terrain.

I dabbled with geocaching when my own kiddos were younger, and we had a ball using my phone’s GPS to lead us to secret spots not only close to our Colorado home but also on our travels. Sometimes the lure of searching for a hidden stash was all it took to get them outside and traipsing around — breathing fresh air, getting exercise, taking in nature, decoding clues, and competing to be the first person to shout (or whisper, if bystanders were around), “I found it!”

Intrigued? Read on for tips to get started geocaching, and you’ll be well on your way to building memories with your grandchildren through this fun activity.

1. Download The App

Your first step is to download the Geocaching app on your phone. It’s available from both Google Play and Apple’s App Store. The app with a basic membership is free, though the information for some caches is only revealed with a premium membership, which costs a few dollars a month. As a beginner, you’ll likely find plenty of caches to hunt for with just the free membership. Make sure to allow the app access to your location; having GPS enabled on your phone is key.

2. Start With Simple-To-Find Caches

Click the Map icon in the app, and you can start searching for hidden caches all over the world. Scroll to your home location, your grandkids’ hometown, or a locale you’ll be visiting with them in the future. Click on the cache icon you’d like to learn more about, and you can learn its ratings for difficulty and terrain.

Also note your cache’s attributes icons: You can find out, for example, if the cache location has parking nearby, if it’s recommended for kids, if it’s available 24/7, and if it’s wheelchair accessible. To get even more details on its accessibility, you can cross-reference the number code of the cache (for example, GC3PNM2) with the Handicaching database.

Each cache description also details how big the container is, ranging from micro (smaller than a film canister) to large (the size of a bucket). Your treasure might be housed in an Altoid tin, a plastic Tupperware container, or a military ammo box.

Ideally, your first cache is marked “traditional” — the most straightforward type of cache containing a logbook and, if the container is big enough, a small item (a colorful marble, foreign coin, keychain, toy car) to take and replace.

Finally, take note in the “Activity” section of the cache description when the cache was last found. This can help you determine if it’s still hidden there, and the activity log’s history may also give you some pointers. If no one has logged a find for months, it may be that the cache has been destroyed or removed, so you might not be able to find it yourselves.

3. Use The Compass, Cache Name, And Hints To Find Your Treasure

Once you’ve determined the cache you want to find, click “Navigate” on the app, and it will use your phone’s map app to help lead you to the treasure location. Once you’re pretty close, you can switch to compass view to follow the orange arrow and count down the feet until you should be where the cache is hidden. You can also adjust your settings to allow your phone to vibrate when you’re super close to the cache — exciting!

If you think you’re in the right spot but are having trouble finding the hidden container, consider the name of the cache. Could “Take the High Road” mean that you should look up for treasure, not on the ground? Or maybe “I Pine For You” suggests you should be searching for a box hidden in an evergreen tree. Geocachers like to have fun with words, and they typically disguise clever hints in their cache names.

Sometimes additional hints in the cache description will help you find your treasure — or perhaps the hints will make you even more confused! Remember, caches will never be buried, but they could be hidden under branches or rocks, magnetically stuck to the bottom of a guardrail, or perched on a ledge.

4. Watch Out For Muggles!

Geocaching is a stealth activity. You don’t want to attract attention from passersby, lest non-geocachers disturb or take the cache. In geocache speak, we call these bystanders “muggles,” inspired by the non-magical characters in the Harry Potter series. While it’s difficult — especially with young children — to be circumspect while excitedly hunting for treasure, remind them that it’s all part of the game to be secretive about their search!

5. BYOP (And A Trinket)

When you find your traditional cache, there will be a logbook to sign and date. Some tiny caches known as nanos — the smallest of the micro-sized caches — won’t have room for a pencil or pen, so you’ll need to bring your own pencil (BYOP) to sign the log. You can also log your find in the app to keep a running list of your successes.

If you want to take something out of the cache container, be sure to replace the item with something of equal or greater value. For example, if you’re eyeing a unique coin from Malaysia, don’t replace it with a pebble you just found on the ground. A simple keychain for a sparkly sticker might be an equal swap.

Note that your geocache container may include a Trackable, Geocoin, or Travel Bug. These are items that are meant to be moved from cache to cache, and you can follow the progress of these trackable items by entering their codes online. If you don’t want the responsibility of helping a trackable item along on its journey, just leave it in the cache container.

6. Respect The Environment And CITO

Remember some golden rules of hiking while geocaching on public lands: Respect the environment by staying on marked trails (caches shouldn’t be hidden too far off walking paths) and not trampling bushes, flowers, or plants.

Be careful not to litter along the way; pack out your own trash. And if you really want to do Mother Nature a favor, CITO: cache in, trash out — pick up some litter that others have left behind.

Editor’s Note: For additional inspiration, consider these seven leave-no-trace tips, according to a USDA forest program manager, too.

7. Consider A Second GPS-Enabled Device

To help prevent sibling squabbles, you might consider geocaching with the app installed on two phones. That way two grandkids can navigate at the same time with their own screens. If your grandchildren take to the activity, you might also consider purchasing a dedicated handheld GPS device, such as those made by Garmin.

The forums at Geocaching.com are filled with users debating, “Are phones or GPS devices better?” Some GPS enthusiasts note that a handheld GPS can be more accurate than a phone’s GPS when it comes to navigating, especially under tree cover (though both have a margin of error). Users also note that batteries last longer in a GPS, plus they’re built more ruggedly and might survive a spill on a pile of rocks that your iPhone may not.

8. Hope For The Best, But Prepare For Challenges

Even if you think you’ve chosen a cache that’s easy to find, its exact location may simply stump you, which can be frustrating. Remind your grandkids that the hunt is all part of the fun, and there’s always next time.

Years ago, my kids and I spent close to an hour trying to find a cache while we were vacationing in New Hampshire — but no dice. Thankfully, I’d chosen a location next door to an ice cream stand, so we still managed to salvage our outing with refreshing, sweet treats!

And if your grandkids don’t take to geocaching, remember this activity is for all ages — no pint-sized people required. You can always keep the app on your phone and search for treasure yourself on your next vacation. Geocaching is a neat way to get to know neighborhoods, stumble upon scenic spots, and otherwise stay active outdoors on your travels. Have fun! And for more on U.S. and Canadian destinations where you can geocache, consider:

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Let’s face it, although 2020 felt like a rollercoaster, it was nowhere near as fun as a trip to an amusement park. In fact, for much of the year, theme parks were shuttered, and even when they reopened, the planned rollouts of many new rides and attractions were shelved due to restricted admission and lost work time. Enter 2021, and it’s the year of the theme park, with an array of exciting new rides and amusements gearing up to impress thrill seekers big and small this spring and summer. If you have grandkids you want to impress, entertain, and just enjoy spending time with, this is a selection of the newest, fastest, most innovative, and most exhilarating rides in the United States. Grab the grandkids and buckle up for an adventure!

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure At Epcot

Orlando, Florida

Shrink down to rodent size and race with Remy, the gourmand rat star of Disney’s Ratatouille animated film, in this innovative new ride coming to Walt Disney World’s Epcot theme park. Set in the France pavilion of Epcot’s World Showcase, you’ll travel in a rat-shaped vehicle that moves across a “trackless” floor through oversized props and 3D animation. (Note that a similar version of this ride already exists in Disneyland Paris, so you can get a sneak peek to see if it will be a fit for your little ones). This is a “dark ride” that feels like you’re traveling through the streets of Paris and running — like a rat — through Gasteau’s Restaurant. It should be a win for preschoolers and up as long as they’re not afraid of dark spaces.

Pro Tip: Epcot is also undergoing a number of updates and renovations, including a fantastic new entrance area.

Ice Breaker At SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando, Florida

Opening spring 2021, Ice Breaker is SeaWorld’s first launch coaster, with four air-timed launches sending riders both backward and forward, culminating in the steepest beyond-vertical drop in Florida: a 93-foot-tall spike with a 100-degree angle. Even though this coaster sounds intimidating, the top speed is 52 miles per hour, and it never goes upside down, so it may actually be a fit for coaster newbies.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster At Universal’s Islands Of Adventure

Orlando, Florida

Located at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure theme park, this will take you on a prehistoric journey to Jurassic Park with the VelociCoaster opening in the summer of 2021 that will be Florida’s fastest and tallest launch coaster. Be prepared to catapult to prehistoric predator swiftness up to 70 miles per hour and more than 150 feet in the air. This is for kids who love big thrills. If you’re not a fan, be sure to bring a “ride buddy” for your grandkids so they don’t have to ride alone.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss our 11 tips for visiting Universal Studios with grandchildren.

Iron Gwazi At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay, Florida

Big coasters are big news in Florida in 2021, and not just in Orlando. Go further west toward the Gulf Coast to Busch Gardens to discover another high flying choice, the Iron Gwazi. This is a hybrid, meaning it’s a part-wood, part-steel coaster. It’s being billed as the tallest, steepest, and fastest in the hybrid category. Even if it didn’t hit all of those hybrid superlatives, this coaster is a doozy, with a 206-foot-tall peak, a 91-degree drop, and speeds reaching up to a scorching 76 miles per hour. There’s a 48-inch height requirement, which actually isn’t as high as the “extreme” rides here (this one is just designed “high thrills”), but nevertheless, don’t attempt this one with grandkids who aren’t game for big rides quite yet.

Avengers Campus At Disneyland California Adventure Park

Anaheim, California

When Disneyland eventually opens its doors in 2021 (no date has been set yet by the state for theme parks reopening), Avengers Campus will be a top draw. This is where the Avengers and their allies will assemble to recruit the next generation of Super Heroes. The first experience to debut will be the WEB (Worldwide Engineering Brigade). This Spiderman-themed attraction occurs in an organization where young genius inventors gather to create technologies to give people superpowers. Advance word is that there will be no age/height requirements for this ride where you “sling webs” in a high-tech, 3D, motion-simulator car. The immersive land will also provide encounters with Avengers such as Iron Man, Black Widow, and Black Panther, as well as treats fit for a superhero at Pym Test Kitchen, where guests will taste super-sized and super-shrunk foods from Pym Technologies.

The Secret Life Of Pets At Universal Studios

Hollywood, California

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash ride was originally scheduled to debut in 2020 at Universal Studios Hollywood but will now (hopefully) launch in the summer of 2021. This will be a great one for preschoolers, with a minimum height requirement of just 34 inches and a cuddly puppy theme. Riders will become stray puppies traveling the streets of New York City, with encounters with favorite Secret Life of Pets characters including Max, Snowball, and Gidget.

Knott’s Bear-y Tales At Knott’s Berry Farm

Buena Park, California

Southern California’s original theme park is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2021. Knott’s Berry Farm is an old-school charmer, and it still retains an old-fashioned charm and a focus on family entertainment. Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair is a new interactive ride using 4D technology and gentle movement as riders use “jelly blasters” to try and score points while recovering boysenberry pies. It’s good for preschoolers and up. The ride will open after California gives the all-clear for theme parks to reopen.

Pro Tip: If the ride leaves you craving a slice of pie, you can buy some at the on-site Ghost Town or Farm bakeries (and lots of other homemade sweet treats, too).

Jersey Devil Coaster At Six Flags Great Adventure

Jackson Township, New Jersey

If you had to guess, where would you say the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest single rail coaster was located? Orlando, maybe? Possibly California? Maybe even Las Vegas or Dubai, both known for their over-the-top displays? Nope. The honor of the most stomach-lurching ride on the planet will be in Jackson, New Jersey, at Six Flags Great Adventure, when the Jersey Devil Coaster launches into action this summer. The South Jersey theme park has become a destination for adrenaline junkies drawn to dare devil-level thrill rides. The Jersey Devil will offer three intense drops, a 180-degree “stall” (meaning you’re hanging upside down for an extended period) and a zero-g roll. Although admission details weren’t released yet at press time, it’s best to assume that this ride’s minimum height requirement will be 54 inches, as is the case for Great Adventure’s other thrill rides, so not the best spot for grade-schoolers or anyone afraid of heights.

LEGOLAND New York Resort

Goshen, New York

There’s good news for fans of the primary-colored building blocks and the interactive theme parks that bear their names. A brand new LEGOLAND park is opening in upstate New York in the summer of 2021 with all the building and ride fun. It’s the first major theme park to open in the Northeast in more than four decades. LEGOLAND is perfect for kids in the age 2-to-12 range. Older teens can find the rides a little too tame but may still have fun checking out the intricate replicas of iconic buildings such as Yankee Stadium and the Empire State Building. Among the highlights are seven themed lands, over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, and experience the global debut of the LEGO Factory Adventure Ride (where guests will be transformed into a LEGO Minifigure!) and the perennially popular LEGO Driving School where you get a souvenir license to take home with you. You can even spend the night in a LEGO-themed room, including Pirate, Kingdom, LEGO Friends, and LEGO NINJAGO themes!

Pro Tip: Prepare nervous kids for new rides by taking a virtual tour or watching ride videos before you visit the theme park. This helps them determine whether a ride is in their comfort zone before they’re confronted with it in real life.

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When my daughter first left home for university, I thought I’d never get used to not having her around. We called, we texted, and she was only an hour’s drive away, so I could easily visit her on the weekends. At first, this was every weekend, but as she settled into life in another city, made friends, and found her feet, we also settled into this new way of being. I scaled back the visits, and we all got used to it. So, when her 3-year university course ended and she came out with a first-class honors degree, I felt we not only needed a good mother-daughter celebration, we also needed to reconnect. When I was offered a press trip at the historic Midland Hotel in Manchester, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to try out their basement spa.

Getting There

We took a train to Manchester, which is about an hour and a half from Sheffield, where we live. I like to take the train as it’s a relaxing way to travel, and it gave us a chance to settle into the trip and chat awhile. When we got to Manchester, we decided to start off as we meant to go on, by going out for a cocktail or two! Every time I go to Manchester, I seem to get lost between the train station and the hotel, and, a couple of cocktails in, we ended up walking a little out of our way! I think maybe next time I’ll leave the cocktails till later. If there’s one thing I became very aware of, it’s that the age difference means she can handle alcohol better than me!

The History Of The Hotel

The Midland Hotel and Spa in Manchester was originally built as the city’s railway hotel in 1903 when the railway station was positioned directly behind it. This city center hotel has a gothic exterior, and as soon as you see it rising magnificently amid the modern buildings and the city’s tram lines, you know this is a very special place. It has kept some of the art deco features, but it has a mostly modern interior and a basement spa that won The Good Spa Guide’s Best Urban Spa Award in 2019. One of the most intriguing things about this old railway hotel is the corridor displays. When the hotel was renovated, letters and postcards were found in drawers and wardrobes, which now form displays on every corridor’s walls. I found one letter written to a guest at the hotel from Australia. It tells of the writer’s stay in Queensland and their work there as a botanist in 1973. Mr. Rolls and Mr. Royce also used the hotel for their first-ever meeting to discuss the possibility of going into business together.

We Started With Dinner

It had been some time since I’d been anywhere alone with my daughter, just her and me. What if we had nothing in common? What if there were awkward silences? What if we just didn’t have much to say to each other anymore? There’s nothing better for relaxing into someone’s company than sharing a meal and a drink, so we checked into our room, which was a beautiful spacious suite, got changed, and headed down to the restaurant. It was very busy in the bar when we walked through, but very quiet in the restaurant, which meant we could chat easily. There’s a choice of dining at the hotel. You can eat in the bar, in The French, a sumptuous restaurant, The Mount Street dining room, and of course, your room. We enjoyed a delicious, quiet meal in the Mount Street Dining Room, where we caught up with each other’s busy lives and slipped easily back into our old paths of conversation.

The Spa

After a good sleep and a buffet breakfast in the bar area, we made our way down to the spa. This is an award-winning spa, and it’s immediately obvious why. The relaxation room is the best I’ve ever been in. The soft cushioned alcoves are perfect for lounging in privacy, and the overhead suspended tepees are fun and quirky. There are even a few beds, complete with sheets and blankets, so you can tuck yourself in and have a snooze!

My daughter and I both had an hour-long massage each, and then we chilled out in the relaxation room where infusions of herbal teas and lemon and lime iced water were freely available. I honestly could have stayed there all day! I found the relaxation aspect of the trip to be brilliant at bringing us closer. It was a shared experience while also giving us our own time and space to wind down separately. When we met back in the relaxation room, we had shared an experience, and not only did we relax in our bodies, we relaxed with each other’s company as well. The Rena Spa at the Midland is a sensory experience. We made sure we left enough time to use the pool with a swan neck fountain, perfect for relieving any neck tensions. The sauna has a whole wall of Himalayan salt rock, and the steam room is salt-infused, bringing a taste of the sea to your experience.

Out And About In Manchester

We’ve been to Manchester before, so we knew the city a little, but our first stop after leaving the hotel was lunch. We chose a Korean restaurant close by, called Ban Di Bul, which turned out to be a real find. If you’ve got some time to spend in Manchester, make sure you don’t miss a trip to China Town. I prefer Manchester’s China Town to London’s, as its more authentic and less touristy. The Chinese supermarkets are especially good. Our trip to Manchester wouldn’t be complete without a quick visit to the Manchester Art Gallery, where you can view an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. Just around the corner from the Midland, the art gallery was something we knew we could easily fit in before our train home was due.

Pro Tips

Intergenerational travel can be wonderful. You can learn from each other and get to know each other better as adults. It can also show your differences. Choose something you know you will both enjoy; don’t try to show the other person something that you think is cool, but they might not. If you know you have differences in the things you like to do, steer clear of those differences and concentrate on your similarities. We already knew we both love a good spa, so it was the perfect trip to help us reconnect after 3 years apart.

Related articles:

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After my dad passed away from a long illness, my mom said she wanted to travel. She was anxious to join me and see as much of the world as she could.

It had been years since we’d gone on a family vacation and a lot had changed. We now had an adult child/parent relationship, with our own likes and dislikes, expectations, and dream destinations.

With a bit of planning, your first trip, like ours, will be enjoyable, will deepen your relationship, and will create memories that last long after your suitcases are put away. Here are eight tips to help make that first trip together a success.

1. Choose A Destination Or Event You Are Both Excited About

Start with a day trip or long weekend road trip to explore something close to home. Think about a place neither of you have visited or a trip based on your common interests, like art, gardening, or theater.

I mention local and regional destinations because when it comes to travel, it’s best to do a trial run. A weekend trip can help you iron out the wrinkles before you embark on an epic journey to the far reaches of the world.

Since my mom and I both liked watching short track speed skating, we went to a skating competition on our first trip together. The trip was such a success, attending World Cup competitions landed us in Canada, Bulgaria, China, and Japan.

If you are in need of inspiration, here are some mother-daughter destination ideas.

2. Take Turns Choosing Must-See Attractions

Research the destination’s attractions online before you go to make sure there’s something each of you is excited to see. Touring each other’s choice attractions expands your mind and gives you some insight into the other person.

Just when you think you know your parent(s) and nothing could surprise you, think again. My mom loved animals, so trekking to see snow monkeys in Japan came as no surprise. It was her excitement about going to a hockey game in Quebec that shocked me.

3. Talk About Money Before You Go

A simple discussion about how to handle the expenses before you set off on the trip can avoid misunderstandings on the road.

Are you treating your mom and dad to the trip as a way to say thank you for everything they’ve done for you? Is your mom footing the bill because it’s your birthday? Or are you splitting expenses down the middle?

4. Choosing Accommodations

If one of you is a night owl and the other an early bird, adjoining hotel rooms may be in order. On the other hand, if your elderly parent needs some assistance with activities of daily living, you can opt for a shared room.

If you need more space, staying in an Airbnb is an excellent and affordable choice. It gives you both plenty of room and the option to have meals at your home away from home.

Also consider affordability, accessibility, and location when your accommodations. You might blow your budget for a night in Giraffe Manor because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But you might pass on staying in a ryokan in Japan simply because it will be impossible for your mom to sleep on a futon on the floor.

Whatever option you choose, take a look at the photos and reviews others have posted to see if you’ll can both be comfortable in whatever place you’re considering.

5. What To Eat

Taking turns selecting restaurants is just as important as taking turns choosing the attractions you’d like to see. Eating local food may be important to you and a highlight of your travel experience. Having recognizable food on the plate may be important for your dad.

Look at the menu in advance to make sure there’s something each of you would like to try, especially if food allergies or intolerances need to be considered.

If you both enjoy cooking, a cooking class is a great way to sample the local cuisine.

6. Treat Yourself Well To Stay Healthy

While touring, plan for refreshment stops. Dehydration in the elderly is a common problem due to medications and reduced thirst signals, so encourage your mom to drink plenty of water and plan for frequent rest stops.

Add some downtime to your itinerary, too. Building in free time allows your mom to put up her feet and relax or might allow each of you to explore some things independently. It gives you both a break from your togetherness.

7. Bring Your Best Self

Despite your love for each other, traveling with a parent can be stressful. You might not see as many things on the trip because you can’t dash from one place to the next. You may not get to try the restaurant you’d read a glowing review about. Be patient, be kind, be considerate. I promise you’ll be grateful for the wonderful memories you’ll make while traveling together.

8. Pro Tip: Consider These Resources

• Medicare does not cover the costs of most healthcare outside of the U.S. or its territories. Depending on your and your parent’s healthcare needs and intended destination, you may want to consider Medicare Coverage When You Travel: What You Need To Know.
• If you’re traveling with a wheelchair-bound parent, this website offers travel advice.
• Read fellow TravelAwaits writers’ Sue and Diana’s account of traveling domestically and abroad with Diana’s mom — and how the new women’s wellness product giving you the freedom to explore can help women of all ages on the road.

As a tour guide in Paris since 2007, I have had a number of grandparents take tours with their grandchildren, and it’s always such a delight to see their faces light up when they first set eyes on the Eiffel Tower, indulge in their first warm crepe, play in the Luxembourg Gardens, and marvel at the treasures in the Louvre.

Paris has so many wonders to explore that it could be a bit overwhelming to narrow down what to see and do. We have compiled a list of our recommendations, organized by category, that will be as much fun for grandparents as they will be for grandchildren.

Tours

Paris tour operators offer a myriad of transportation modes to see the city including bicycles, Segways, cars, buses, tuk-tuks, boats, motorcycles, convertible cars, and old-fashioned walking.

1. Bike About Tours

Bike About Tours offers private and group bicycle tours of Paris, Versailles, and the Champagne region. The super-friendly owners (one is from the United States) and staff go out of their way to make the tours fun and engaging. On their night tour, you bike along the Seine River while marveling at the Paris monuments lit up. Adults enjoy a free glass of Champagne and everyone gets a complimentary Seine boat tour ticket. The full-day Versailles tour includes a visit to the fantastic food market, where you select food for a picnic in the gardens of the Versailles Palace, and touring the Petit and Grand Trianon — the summer palaces of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XIV — and the small village and farm of Marie Antoinette. Tours meet at a Le Peloton coffee bar, which Bike About Tours also owns, which serves artisanal coffee, home-baked cookies and cakes, and fresh hot waffles.

2. Paris Authentic

Another fun way to tour the city is with Paris Authentic, which has a fleet of the legendary Citroen 2CV vintage convertible cars. The young, entertaining drivers dress in blue and white striped French Marine T-shirts, a bandana around the neck, and of course, a black beret. Drivers will pick you up at your hotel or apartment.

3. Seine River Cruises

Seine River cruises are a relaxed and easy way to see many of the top Paris monuments. Night tours have the advantage of viewing the Louvre, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, and d’Orsay Museum lit up, plus the tours are timed so you see the dazzling lights that flash from the Eiffel Tower during the five minutes of the hour. Bateaux Parisiens and Bateaux Mouches are the main companies for Seine cruises, and they offer 60-minute rides and 3-hour lunch and dinner cruises.

For more Seine recommendations, consider my picks for eight fantastic Seine River cruises in Paris.

4. Eye Prefer Paris Tours

My tour company is Eye Prefer Paris Tours, and I lead fun and entertaining private tours of Paris. I specialize in neighborhood walking tours, exploring the off-the-beaten-path surprises you probably won’t find on your own. My most popular tour with children is my chocolate and macaron tour, during which we do tastings at the best pastry and chocolate shops and also stop for hot chocolate at a swanky cafe. I am a former chef and caterer, and I give food tours with tastings of cheese, croissants, baguettes, chocolates, and pastries as well.

Parks, Theme Parks, And Outdoor Activities

5. Luxembourg Gardens

One of the most beautiful gardens in Paris has loads of activities for kids. The 64-acre garden was part of the Luxembourg Palace built for Queen Maria de Medici in 1612. The park has mini-sailboat rentals to float on a large basin, puppet shows, a bee apiary, sandboxes, playgrounds, a carousel, and zip lines.

6. Jardin Des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes combines a botanical garden and four natural history museums (mineralogy, paleontology, entomology, and evolution) on 70 acres in the Latin Quarter. Besides over 4,500 species of plants, a winter garden, an alpine garden, and a rose garden, Jardin des Plantes is the site of the oldest and first zoo of Paris, dating back to 1794, which originally was the royal zoo of Versailles.

7. Tuilerie Gardens

Nicknamed the backyard of the Louvre, the Tuileries are the gardens of the former Tuileries palace adjacent to the Louvre. In the summer and also during Christmastime, a section of the garden is turned into an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, funhouse, games of chance, a roller coaster, bumper cars, and a giant water slide. Ask for la barbe a papa (daddy’s beard) if you want cotton candy.

8. France Miniature

Just 45 minutes from Paris, you can see a mini-version of Paris and all of France. France Miniature is a theme park that features 117 miniature versions in 1/30 scale of the most significant highlights of every region of France. From the mighty Mont Saint-Michel and the seaside village of Saint Tropez to the chateaus of the Loire Valley and the ancient Roman arena, grandparents and grandchildren will be astonished by these marvelous miniatures. The Paris section includes the Eiffel Tower, Arche de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and Sacre Coeur. France Miniature also has a small amusement park, a snack bar, and a restaurant.

9. Chateau De Vincennes And Parc Floral

Medieval Paris comes alive in a 12th-century castle and fort with dungeons, moats, and fascinating stories of kings and queens at the Chateau de Vincennes. The one-time residence of King Louis VII in the mid-1100s, the castle is next door to the Bois de Vincennes, or the Woods of Vincennes, and the Parc Floral. Miniature golf, a zoo, picnic areas, musical performances and concerts, a farm with cows, pigs, sheep, rabbits, and goats, and an amusement park in the summer are among the large range of activities.

10. Disneyland Paris

Say bonjour to Mickey and Minnie Mouse when you visit Disneyland Paris. Smaller in size than U.S. Disney parks, Disneyland Paris features the popular favorites Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast. At Disney Village, grandparents (and parents) can appreciate the Festival Disney, a promenade designed by architect Frank Gehry.

Culture And Museums

11. Louvre Museum

That Muse makes the Louvre fun and accessible for kids with interactive treasure hunts. The small-group tours are divided into teams of two to four people, and participants are given a list of clues and challenged to compete to uncover the treasures of the museum. Every hunt has a specific theme to keep the players engaged, and bonus questions are asked for extra points. Taking selfies in front of the various artworks also adds to the team’s point total. Private and customized hunts are also available upon request.

12. Centre Pompidou

Still controversial for its unique mix of glass and industrial-looking exposed beams and exposed, boldly colored pipes, The Centre Pompidou, built in 1977, is the main modern museum of Paris. Glass-enclosed escalators expose great views of the city and the top floor has Georges restaurant and cafe. There’s a designated children’s gallery with rotating exhibitions on the mezzanine level.

Just outside the museum, there are mimes, jugglers, acrobats, and musicians who perform, and just across from the museum is the Stravinsky Fountain, with colorful, moving sculptures by artist Nikki de Saint Phalle.

13. Catacombs

If the grandchildren like spooky skulls, they will enjoy the Catacombs, a series of low-ceilinged caves 60 feet underground, which was used as a mass grave to contain six million skeletons.

Pro Tips: Lines can be long even if you have advanced tickets, so allow a minimum of 90 minutes. If anyone in your group has respiratory problems, like asthma, or claustrophobia, we recommend skipping the Catacombs. There are no bathrooms on site.

Food, Restaurants, And Cafes

14. La Cidrerie Du Marais

Authentic Brittany-style crepes made with buckwheat flour (which is gluten-free) are made to order at the rustic La Cidrerie Du Marais. Besides the savory crepes with cheese, ham, eggs, and other fillings, the dessert crepes include chocolate, sugar, caramel, and Nutella. Apple cider with and without alcohol is a house specialty.

15. Le Relais De L’Entrecote

Le Relais de l’Entrecote, serves some of the top steak frites (steak with fries) in Paris. The set, two-course menu includes a green salad with classic French vinaigrette dressing and tender, sliced steak with a Bearnaise-like sauce served with crispy fries. The meal is under 30 euros a person and includes seconds of the steak and fries. Make sure to leave room for dessert.

16. Angelina

Even chocoholics will have trouble finishing the super thick, super-rich hot chocolate topped with a mountain of fresh whipped cream at Angelina. The elegant tea room near the Tuileries Garden also has over-the-top pastries, including their specialty, Mont Blanc, made with meringue and sweet chestnut cream. Angelina also has a full food menu.

Pro Tip: Order just one hot chocolate for two people.

17. Le Souffle

Le Souffle serves sky-high, light-as-air souffles. Savory flavors include chicken, cheese, and spinach. Order a small savory souffle so you have room for the yummy dessert souffles, including Nutella and banana, caramel, and chocolate with hot chocolate sauce.

Whether you love the idea of snow glistening atop desert dunes or would rather escape somewhere warm during the wintery months, there’s a desert home just waiting for your arrival.

After a canceled May 2020 trip to Santa Fe that was supposed to be all about White Sands, hot springs, and visiting Georgia O’Keeffe’s Abiquiu home, I’ve had a dramatic desert getaway on the brain. While the American Southwest has some of the most striking landscapes in the country, there are also deserts worth exploring in Wyoming and even Oregon, and there’s a desert Airbnb for every solo traveler, spirited group, and budget. Fuel your desert daydreams or actually book your next vacation with inspiration from our ultimate list of desert homes to rent in winter, organized state by state.

Oregon

Juniper Ridge Cottage

Location: Prineville, Oregon

Price per night: $64 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 2-bed studio, 1 bath

The Juniper Ridge Cottage invites you to explore Oregon’s High Desert, also known as the Oregon Outback and the Great Sandy Desert. Get back to nature with just the amenities you need — a kitchenette and a comfy king-size bed (plus sleeper sofa) indoors and a firepit and grill outside if you’re up for braving the winter chill. Superhost Barbara notes that you can expect breathtaking desert sunsets. Enjoy a hot coffee from the Keurig any time and snuggle up with one of the cottages over 120 DVDs once you’ve had your fill of fresh air.

Off Grid Relaxation And Inside Sauna

Location: Bend, Oregon

Price per night: $79 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 2-bed studio, 1/2 bath

Inside sauna? Yes, please. This rustic cabin at the base of Pine Mountain is situated on 5 acres of Oregon High Desert. In addition to being an ideal no-frills home base for exploring the best things to do in Bend, you can fire up the sauna, relax in the outdoor clawfoot tub, or watch as paragliders make their descents. Host Sherri recommends a visit to University of Oregon’s astronomical Pine Mountain Observatory, too.

Christmas Valley High Desert Base Camp

Location: Christmas Valley, Oregon

Price per night: $83 per night

Accommodations: 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath

South of Bend but still in Oregon’s High Desert, you and yours can check into this rental amongst the high desert sage. The decor is quaint and the house is fully equipped for staying in and getting cozy, with a well-appointed kitchen (think a Crock-Pot, toaster, and coffee pot), a wood stove, a fireplace, and a collection of DVDs and books. Wake up early and watch the desert unfold around you. Superhost Troy notes that jackrabbit and cottontail “mow” the lawn, so be prepared for some High Desert wildlife sightings!

California

Darwin-Buck’s Cabin Under The High Desert Stars

Location: Darwin, California

Price per night: $80 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Weclome to Darwin, a tiny town in California’s Inyo County. If you want a quintessential desert experience, this is it. You’ll be approximately 30 minutes outside of Death Valley National Park with the desert and the unique charms of Darwin, which include a community garden, art installations, and nods to the mining town’s past, surrounding you. Superhost Jody includes fabulous detail about her space in the Airbnb listing. The furnishings and decor say Wild West, but upgrades like a wheelchair-friendly shower and radiant heating under the floors promise a comfortable stay for anyone who checks in for the expansive desert views.

Oeste Home

Location: Morongo Valley, California

Price per night: $579 per night

Accommodations: 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 bath

So far, our list has featured some very reasonably priced desert getaways. But maybe you’re looking to do something over-the-top, like renting a desert retreat. The Oeste Home in Morongo Valley, approximately 20 minutes north of Palm Springs, fits the bill. This stunning getaway, featured in Domino magazine, manages to combine a midcentury modern aesthetic with desert romance. Relish in all the thoughtful touches, prepare a big meal in the chef-worthy kitchen, and get to know the desert from the bathtub under the stars.

Wild Spirit Cabin

Location: Landers, California

Price per night: $144 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Further north of Palm Springs and Morongo Valley is the equally design-centric Wild Sprit Cabin. You’ll take a dirt road in and find your new home away from home is surrounded by desert washes and big, blue skies. Swing in the hammocks, lounge in the hot tub, and watch out for tortoises! Superhost Meri says they call this part of the desert home, too.

House Near Joshua Tree/Pioneer Town

Location: Yucca Valley, California

Price per night: $111 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath

If your dream of a desert vacation involves visiting Joshua Tree National Park, this is the perfect place to say. While Oeste Home and Wild Spirit Cabin aren’t far from the national park, this lovely desert home, which has more room for you and your traveling companions, is our closest pick. It also has gorgeous outdoor living spaces — and succulents both inside and out that will have you feel like you’re living in an enchanted garden.

Nevada

Desert Gold Death Valley House

Location: Beatty, Nevada

Price per night: $500 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

Across the border, just north of Beatty, Nevada (which is 10 minutes east of Death Valley National Park, or a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas), you’ll find the unparalleled Desert Gold Death Valley house, featured in the New York Times an Audi commercial. The impeccably appointed home seems to hover above the desert and below the stars. Enjoy views that appear almost out of this world and knowing you’ve checked into the most exclusive desert home on our list.

Wild West #1

Location: Beatty, Nevada

Price per night: $129 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath

For a less over-the-top desert stay, enjoy Death Valley Get Away Cabin Wild West #1 in Beatty proper. Sit around the fire pit for cozy stargazing, or on the porch with your morning cup of joe. This compact cabin has everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay, including views of rugged Beatty Mountain just across the street.

Designed To Death

Location: Beatty, Nevada

Price per night: $273 per night

Accommodations: 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

Our final Beatty pick, Designed To Death is all luxury and desert charm. Fix a meal in the big kitchen, strike up a conversation in the ultra-cozy living room, or get outside and enjoy the out-in-the-desert-surrounded-by-palms living space. At night, everyone can retreat to their own one-of-a-kind bedroom. Oh, and when you’re in Beatty, don’t miss your chance to see Death Valley’s adorable wild burros!

ADA- Plus Pet-Friendly In Pahrump

Location: Pahrump, Nevada

Price per night: $150 per night

Accommodations: 8 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

About an hour south of Beatty, and just over an hour west of Las Vegas, we have our eyes on a few homes in Pahrump, a town in the Mojave Desert. First up: this comfy-cozy ADA- and pet-friendly ranch. The whole family, including Fido and Sparky, can enjoy time spent indoors and out. Fire up the barbecue, sit around the firepit, or spread out inside. Your host also notes that there’s great golf nearby.

Guesthouse Between Death Valley And Vegas

Location: Pahrump, Nevada

Price per night: $76 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1-bed studio, 1 bath

This Pahrump pick is considerably smaller and extra quaint, making it perfect for solo travelers or a romantic getaway. You’ll still be surrounded by the Mojave Desert, but ambiance is everything here, with multiple ponds on the property and a lanai that invites you to take a load off and take it all in.

The Casita At Tlaquepaque

Location: Pahrump, Nevada

Price per night: $79 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Superhosts Lloyd and Carol invite you to check into the Southwest-through-and-through Casita at Tlaquepaque. This is another desert getaway that’s perfect for solo travelers or couples, but it has a very different aesthetic than the guesthouse listed above. Enjoy a kiva fireplace, rich, earthy decor, and unique art everywhere you look.

Arizona

Beaulieu Cottage

Location: Sedona, Arizona

Price per night: $112 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

On to Arizona, and we’re starting with a lovely and affordable West Sedona pick. Feel yourself surrounded by nature. Chimney Rock, Sugarloaf Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and Coffeepot Rock are all nearby. Bear Mountain, Fay Canyon, and Boynton Canyon aren’t far off. The modern space is perfectly inviting and welcomes solo travelers and couples. We can see ourselves enjoying the views from the covered porch or back patio already. When you’re ready to venture out, see all our advice for enjoying time in Sedona.

Desert Vibrations Private Retreat

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $284 per night

Accommodations: 8 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths

Buckle up, because we have a lot of favorite desert homes in Tucson, where the winter highs are in the high 60s (and might even reach 70!) between December and February. If you’re looking for a family or larger-group getaway, this is it. Outside: a massive pool, a hot tub, and iconic saguaro cacti. Inside: gorgeously designed spaces, charming details, and a corner for everyone to call their own.

Ayda’s Casita

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $80 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1-bed studio, 1 bath

If you’re looking for something on the smaller side, where you’ll really feel out in the desert, checking into Ayda’s is a good choice. Make your way along a long dirt road toward the mountains. Your tiny house, a hot tub, and the stars, which your superhost notes you can almost pluck out of the sky, await.

Private Casita In Westside

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $200 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

This home is all about wide-open space as it’s set on 3.5 acres of gorgeous desert. Sit out and watch the sunrise and sunset from the Adirondack chairs, or do the same thing from the four-person hot tub. Inside, you’ll get your fill of Wild West decor, plus modern amenities and a well-appointed kitchen.

Light And Bright Guesthouse

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $120 per night

Accommodations: 7 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

This unique, open-and-airy guesthouse promises desert views and a rugged mountain backdrop. The sleeping situation is unique in that there’s a king bed plus a hide-a-bed and multiple air mattresses, so if you’re planning on checking in with a handful of travel companions, your stay might be reminiscent of a big sleepover — in a good way. Press brew on the Keurig to get your morning going, spend the day exploring Tucson, and throw some delicious eats on the grill for an at-“home” dinner as the sun drops below the desert skyline.

Tucson Mountains Staycation

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $125 per night

Accommodations: 7 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

Perhaps the best deal on our list, this Southwest stunner boasts 1,650 square feet, a kiva fireplace, plush furniture, and iconic surroundings. Superhost Chris advises visitors to be on the lookout for resident tortoises Frankie and Rose, who appear to enjoy the homegrown prickly pear fruits, also known as tuna.

Stunning Southwest-Style Home (With Pool)

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $154 per night

Accommodations: 8 guests, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths

This desert home is another tremendous deal considering it accommodates eight guests in four well-appointed bedrooms (the master has its own bath with a soaking tub and separate shower). You’ll have a kiva fireplace and access to an outdoor kitchen and private pool.

5-Acre Cowboy Hideaway With Mini Donkeys

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $114 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Well, if the name of this desert rental doesn’t have you wanting to check in as soon as possible, we might just have different travel priorities. That’s fine, of course, but your interest might be piqued by the fact that this “cowboy guesthouse” for two is on an equine therapy facility that’s also home rescue donkeys — and boasts a pool, walking paths, and a putting green. Apparently there are even baby goats. When you’ve had your fill of the outdoors, cozy up in front of the gas stove or make yourself a simple meal in the casita’s kitchenette.

Westside Trailhead Retreat

Location: Tucson, Arizona

Price per night: $81 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath

Get out in the Sonoran Desert — and right on the trail — when you check into this Tucson horse-ranch guesthouse. You’ll be right next to Tucson’s Sweetwater Preserve. In fact, superhost Laura notes that the Sweetwater Trailhead is located at the end of the property’s driveway.

Primitive Yurt Camping Tent

Location: Fort Defiance, Arizona

Price per night: $111 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 2 bed-yurt, 1/2 bath

Superhost Jacinda describes this yurt as being in a “secluded and serene location.” Its accessible by dirt road and promises breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. Note that while the yurt is heated, this is somewhat of a camping experience. The half bath is an outhouse, but there is an indoor fireplace and even a TV. Fort Defiance is part of the Navajo Nation 3 hours east of Flagstaff and just under 3 hours northwest of Albuquerque.

Utah

The Doll House Ranch

Location: Hanksville, Utah

Price per night: $249 per night

Accommodations: 16 guests, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths

You might’ve been thinking the Arizona desert couldn’t be beat. But then, there‘s The Doll House Ranch, in remote Hanksville, an undeniably one-of-a-kind stay that, according to superhost Jessica “was built in the 190s by a local cowboy named A.C. Ekker” whose team “blew holes into the cliffside” so The Doll House could be built into its environment. Considering it sleeps 16, this is an ideal destination for reunions — family or otherwise. Guests will love the architecture and Southwest decor, but its the sprawling desert views, framed by not-too-far-off mountains, that win it a place on our list.

Cove Fort Smart Tiny House

Location: Beaver, Utah

Price per night: $40 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

If you’re pining for a really off-grid desert experience, the Cove Fort Smart Tiny House could be just the destination for you. The host invites guests to trek to the “middle of nowhere … a vacant desert” where you can experience quiet and antelope. According to the listing “stays in 2020 will be somewhat experimental,” but whenever you arrive, the house has regular utilities, a tiny, working kitchen, and “plenty of hot water” for sudsing up in a “small shower that should be tall enough for most”!

Juniper Forest Inn

Location: Kanab, Utah

Price per night: $157 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths

The view from the living room of this charming property earned it a spot on our list. As the photos indicate, doggos love hanging out on the porch, and you will do. This pet-friendly property has. a fenced-in back yard. Springdale, Utah, is just an hour northwest, and you’ll want to visit Zion National Park if you check in here. You can also head northeast to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which Robyne Stevenson writes about here.

Altitude Adjustment

Location: Kanab, Utah

Price per night: $150 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths

If you want an even more desert Kanab experience, consider the Altitude Adjustment cabin, set on 5.6 acres just 5 miles east of town. The rustic decor invites you to slow down, and we’re willing to bet you’ll wind up spending nights snuggled up by the indoor fireplace — or out by the firepit under the stars.

Wyoming

Historic Barn Loft

Location: Savery, Wyoming

Price per night: $129 per night

Accommodations: 5 guests, 4-bed loft, 1 bath

Only one Wyoming desert home made our list, and that’s because there aren’t many places to rent in Wyoming’s high-altitude and sagebrush steppe Red Desert. That said, this historic barn in Savery allows you to experience this unique terrain. Savery is remote; you’ll be 4.5 hours by car from Denver, 3 hours from Cheyenne, and 6 hours from Jackson (Savery is in south-central Wyoming just over a mile from the Colorado state line). Superhost Kimberly suggests bringing your fishing gear. Savery Creek runs through the property, where you can watch horses graze and get away from the hustle and bustle for a few nights. In town, don’t miss the Little Snake River Museum, where you can experience “over 15 historic buildings and countless exhibits depicting the rich history of this secluded ranching valley.”

Colorado

Lucky Little Dog House

Location: Alamosa, Colorado

Price per night: $93 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Colorado isn’t exactly known for its deserts, unless you’re headed for Great Sand Dunes National Park, in which case a stay at the Lucky Little Dog House in nearby Alamosa will be ideal. More than any other house on this list, the Lucky Little Dog House is reminiscent of Little House On the Praire (or in the Desert). Superhost Wendy provides plenty of wood for the indoor wood stove and the outdoor firepit. For breakfast, you can crack freshly laid eggs from the property’s spritely free-range hens.

Sage Canyon Cliff House

Location: Cortez, Colorado

Price per night: $259 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Like The Doll House in Hanksville, Utah, the Sage Canyon Cliff House in Cortez, Colorado, is literally built into a cliff. The difference? This home is smaller and has more of a boutique aesthetic. Follow the garden path to Sage Canyon’s tipi alcove and petrogyphs. Since you’ll be be just about 10 miles away, read up on how to visit Mesa Verde’s incredible cliff dwellings.

New Mexico

Shipping Container Home

Location: El Prado, New Mexico

Price per night: $60 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

Something about this shipping container home is reminiscent of the Desert Gold Death Valley House in Beatty, Nevada. But it costs a lot less to check into, and probably hasn’t been featured in the New York Times or an Audi commercial. You’ll still enjoy a gorgeous space and wide-open desert and mountain views. Taos is just 10 minutes away. Here’s how to spend a perfect weekend there, and the best things to do in town.

Authentic Adobe Home

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Price per night: $194 per night

Accommodations: 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

Welcome to a magazine-worthy authentic adobe home complete with timbered ceilings, Southwest textiles, a kiva fireplace, and oodles of indoor and outdoor living space. Enjoy the views from the patio or hit the hiking trails to stretch your legs before or after a big meal made in the gorgeous open-concept kitchen.

1948 Spartan Camper

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Price per night: $72 per night

Accommodations: 2 guests, 1 bedrooms, 1 bath

Superhost Suzanne welcomes solo travelers and couples to enjoy a vintage vacation in her old-school camper, which has been featured in Vintage Camper Trailers magazine. In addition to the charm par excellence of the tiny livingroom, kitchen, bath, and separate bedroom, you’ll love the camper’s dedicated deck. Suzanne suggests a visit to nearby La Cieneguilla Petroglyph Site (which is just minutes away) and says guests can expect views of the Milky Way if their stay includes a clear night.

Spirit Yurt At Flying Trees

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Price per night: $70 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 2-bed yurt, 1 bath

If the primitive yurt in Fort Defiance piqued your interest, but you’d rather be closer to a city and not have to use an outhouse, superhost Phil’s Spirit Yurt, about 30 minutes south of Santa Fe proper, is the desert destination for you. This is an environmentally aware desert adventure at its finest. During your yurt stay, you’ll use a hot-water-on-demand system and a composting toilet. You’ll also notice the solar panels soaking up the desert sun. Phil says, “from the deck of the yurt, you will have unobstructed spectacular views, including the Ortiz Mountains, Cerro Pelon, and the entire cosmos at night!”

Secluded House With Desert Views

Location: San Ysidro, New Mexico

Price per night: $142 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths

We’d never heard of San Ysidro before, but it’s top of mind now, as we imagine checking into this fabulous two-story home with gorgeous Southwest touches like rich textiles and timbered ceilings . The property is managed by Evolve, the same company that manages the Authentic Adobe Home in Santa Fe. San Ysidro is less than an hour north of Albuquerque and is an hour west of Santa Fe.

Riverside Hot Springs Private Retreat

Location: Truth Or or Consequences, New Mexico

Price per night: $217 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

Truth be told, we had to include this amazing desert home for its location name alone. And then there’s the fact that it’s literally on the Rio Grande and has its own private hotspring tub for soaking under the sun or stars. Inside, you’ll find humble decor — and beautiful views from every window.

Cottage On The Continental Divide

Location: Pinos Altos, New Mexico

Price per night: $104 per night

Accommodations: 3 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

This Southwest cottage on the edge of Gila National Forest introduced us to clerestory windows, which make it appear that the ceiling is hovering above some of the rooms — and let the New Mexico sunlight and night sky in. You and yours will appreciate the grounds around the cottage, which is pet friendly and has a fenced-in area. Superhost Tom notes that kids love the sleeping loft (accessible only by ladder) and notes that you can walk out the door and onto a trail that will take you “deep into the surrounding canyons and mountains.”

Casita Azul

Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico

Price per night: $135 per night

Accommodations: 4 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bath

This simple casita in beautiful Las Cruces is the only property on our list to have both a hot tub and an outdoor kiva fireplace. What more could you ask for during a winter escape? Get cozy in the water or by the fire and enjoy the desert mountain views. Superhost David maintains hummingbird feeders around the casita and notes that you might have a tiny companion during your morning coffee hour.

Still not sure exactly where you want to go or what kind of getaway you’re after? Consider our Ultimate List Of Cabins To Rent In Winter and Ultimate List Of Oceanfront Homes You’ll Want To Escape To ASAP for more vacation rental inspiration.

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Disclosure: TravelAwaits selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

Fall is in the air and nothing spells fall in North Carolina like visiting a real farm and picking your own apples fresh from the tree.

Did you know that North Carolina is the seventh-largest apple producing state in the nation? There are over 5,000 acres of apple orchards in western North Carolina. The hill country between Asheville and Charlotte, with its rich soil, warm days, and cool nights, is perfect for growing great-tasting apples. Henderson County produces more than 70 percent of North Carolina’s apples. That’s a lot of apples!

There are over 30 varieties of North Carolina apples that all ripen at different times throughout the fall. Varieties like Gala and Gingergold are the first to ripen in mid-August, then Honeycrisp, Golden, and Red Delicious. Fuji and Jonagold ripen in mid- to late September, Rome Beauty, Winesap, and Granny Smith in mid- to late October, and Pink Lady in early November. To find out when your favorite is ripe and ready to pick, check the Henderson County apple ripening schedule or visit the individual orchard websites.

There just might be as many farms, orchards, and roadside apple stands in and around Hendersonville as there are varieties of apples themselves. With apples ripening at different times, every day is a great day to visit an apple farm. They open mid-August, seven days a week, and the U-pick orchards are open through October. The barns will stay open with harvested apples and produce until close to Thanksgiving.

Most all the apple houses have in-house bakeries offering delicious apple treats like donuts, fried pies (what I’d call turnovers), apple cider, and slushies as well as a host of other goodies. Most have covered picnic areas. Bring a picnic lunch or grab a bite to eat at a food truck (if available).

Along with acres of delicious apple trees, most of the apple farms are family-oriented with lots of activities for the kids, like tractor rides, kiddy trains, petting zoos, play areas, and the ever-popular apple cannons (weekends only).

Call it a farm or an orchard, an apple house or an apple barn. Spend an hour or two or make a day of it. Either way, visiting an apple orchard spells fall — and fun! Here is a list of some favorite North Carolina apple orchards between Asheville and Charlotte.

Sky Top Orchard

There is nothing quite like fall on a mountain-top farm. Sky Top Orchard is exactly what the name implies. Dozens of rows of apple trees, available for U-pick, sit atop beautiful McAlpine Mountain with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Sky Top apple house offers fresh-made apple cider, hard cider, apple cider doughnuts, other fall produce, jams, jellies, and much more.

For the kids, there is a great play area complete with tractors to climb on, a bamboo forest to wander through, and a farm animal viewing and feeding area.

Pack a lunch and eat at the farm picnic area. Or just a few miles north of Sky Top is the historic village of Flat Rock where you’ll find great little shops and restaurants.

Pro Tip: Once you turn off Greenville Highway, the orchard is a little over a mile up a narrow, winding mountain road. You’ll see some spectacular views, but there is no space to pull off the road for photos.

Grandad’s Apples N Such

The first thing you notice when you pull up to Grandad’s farm is the traditional barn and silo. There’s a large, gray barn with a red roof and next to it, a matching silo that has a green tractor sitting high on top. The farm itself is quite beautiful. We enjoyed ourselves strolling the grounds admiring the picture-perfect farm setting. Follow the path past the cornfields that leads to an expanse of green grass adorned with a magnificent weeping willow tree and an impressive duck pond. A traditional farmhouse sits back in the distance.

In addition to apple picking, there is a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, an apple cannon, a great kids’ play area, and, beyond that, fields of tall yellow sunflowers. Sit and rest on one of the many high-back, white rocking chairs or snack on apple donuts or bread fresh from the bakery.

Inside the apple barn, we enjoyed looking at farm instrument wall decor while browsing through small booths with country items, fresh honey, jams, ’n’ such. In addition to barrels of apples, there are various fruits and vegetables fresh from the farm gardens.

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard

A three-generation, family-owned and operated farm on the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard is a fun, farm adventure. Turn off the road and follow a path through the orchards. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the big, green barn. Over 20 varieties of U-pick apples are available as well as U-pick grapes and pumpkins. You can even pick sunflowers and colorful zinnias, when available.

Inside the apple house, huge boxes of pre-picked apples and a variety of pumpkins await. Stepp’s bakery offers lots of goodies including pumpkin and apple cider donuts. The country store offers a variety of local honey, molasses, apple butter, and unique souvenirs.

There is a large covered picnic area for relaxing and enjoying Pig Out BBQ, available on weekends. Also on weekends, wagon rides, a jump pad, apple cannons, and a five-acre corn maze round out the fun at Stepp’s.

Justus Orchard

Justus Orchard is probably our favorite only because it was the first North Carolina apple orchard we visited. Bonus: They open in July for blackberry picking, then in mid-August the apples are ripe and ready to be plucked from their branches.

Even if the blackberries are gone, take a stroll through the orchards, past the blackberry patch, toward the farm animal feeding and petting area. You’ll want to just sit for a while and enjoy the view of the beautiful farmhouse, windmill, and duck pond.

Watch fresh apple donuts being made in the bakery. Try a candy or caramel apple, or take home a whole pie (frozen and packed to go). When the weather turns cold, they offer hot cider and coffee. Good To The Bone Barbecue is available on weekends.

Justus has a host of outdoor weekend activities including a jump pad, apple cannons, a play area, cut-outs for picture taking, farm animal feeding, and more.

Coston Farms

Pull up to Coston’s wide front porch complete with rocking chairs. Inside, along with apples, you’ll find everything you need to decorate for fall. There is farm, country, and apple decor and gift baskets. Peruse the shelves of unique jams and jellies like F.R.O.G. and B.E.A.R. Jam, Christmas Jam, raspberry chipotle jelly, and Amish-made sorghum. Make sure you visit the bakery for the best-ever warm apple fritters. Coston does have U-pick, but I think the Apple House and Gift Shop are the best attractions here.

Lyda Farms

Buy fresh North Carolina apples straight from the orchard at Lyda Farms, along with a large variety of pumpkins and winter squash (and other produce) for eating or decorating. The roadside market is open June through November and carries a variety of fresh, seasonal local fruits and vegetables.

Freeman Orchards

A favorite apple house, Freeman’s has a great variety of fresh apples, each with a thorough description and history. They also sell other produce and goods as well as their amazing homemade pies. They don’t offer U-pick, but you can mix and match all the varieties you want.

Twisted Apple

A unique stop, Twisted Apple is small and very friendly. If you’re unfamiliar with a particular apple variety, they cut one open and offer a taste while explaining it. The store has a fun vibe (just look at their logo) with lots of organic apples and produce, fresh-made donuts, old-fashioned apple cider, and craft-brewed apple ale. Open on weekends only.

Roadside Stands

For some mature travelers, the weekend crowds might be daunting. I know it sometimes is for us. Or maybe the thought of tromping around an apple farm is just not appealing (pun intended). You can still enjoy the scenic drive to Henderson County and get all the feels, and fruits, of apple country by visiting one of the many roadside apple stands.

For a list of roadside stands and farm markets, click here.

Pro Tips

Bring a sweater as the fall mountain air can get chilly. A small wagon or rolling basket is handy for hauling apples from the orchards. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Before heading out, always check orchard websites (or Facebook pages) for apple varieties that are available (and what’s not), events, scheduled tours, and up-to-date information.

Weekends in apple country can get pretty crowded. That’s when all the children’s activities and rides happen. Be prepared to wait in line for parking and purchasing produce or baked goods. Weekdays are much less crowded (unless a school-group tour is scheduled) with the best times being early when the orchard opens or late afternoon.

Parking and admission to all orchards are free. Parking lots and pathways are mostly gravel and the terrain throughout the orchards can be uneven and steep in some areas. Wear sturdy shoes or sneakers. Handicap parking is available. Most restrooms are port-a-potties.

How To Get There: From Asheville head south on Interstate 26 for 26 miles. From Charlotte go west on US Hwy 74 for 103 miles and from Greenville, South Carolina, take US Hwy 25 north for 48 miles. All three points will lead you to the intersection of US Hwy 64 and I-26. All the apple farms listed are no more than 15 minutes in either direction from that point.Take the scenic back roads instead of the highways. It’s gorgeous, especially in the fall.

Nestled below the Arbuckle Mountains in south-central Oklahoma, and just under an hour from the Texas/Oklahoma border, is the beautiful 77-foot waterfall known as Turner Falls – Oklahoma’s largest waterfall. The waterfall descends into a pool of natural spring water where visitors from all over come to enjoy the ambiance of what Mother Nature has made. From sunrise to sundown during the summer months, you can enjoy a full day of swimming, hiking, exploring natural caves, seeing an old rock castle, and more. Turner Falls has been a popular family destination among local Oklahomans as well as Texans for many years.

Here are nine things to do at Turner Falls.

1. Turner Falls Park

Yes, the waterfall is the center of attraction at the park, but Turner Falls Park, the oldest park in Oklahoma, has so much more to offer its guests. With over 1,500 acres of pure nature on three different levels, many visitors come here just to walk around the park and take in the beauty of its surroundings. If this is something you’re planning on doing, be sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes as there are different terrains around the park.

Since there’s so much to see, and with everything spread out over all levels, my advice would be to plan your day by going online to view the park and where you want to park your vehicle, especially if it’s your first time visiting. I went there many years ago, and I’m so glad I planned my day by going online first because so much has changed.

Summer hours are 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Parking is available on all levels and is free on level three. Buses run throughout the day, taking people from level to level — and they’re also free. So keep that in mind when planning your visit. The Turner Falls Park Facebook page is also an excellent resource for up-to-date information. You’ll have to leave your precious pooches at home because the park does not allow pets.

Pro Tip: During the busy season, the line to get in can get quite long. Buses stop running at 6:30 p.m. in the summer months.

2. Turner Falls

Wading

I’m 99 percent sure dipping your feet in the water by the falls is the main reason why many visitors flock to Turner Falls each year. The waterfall is something spectacular to see and makes an excellent picture for your photo album. If it’s your first time visiting the park and you want to swim or wade in the water, this area is the most manageable place to get into the water. It’s rocky, but it’s an easy walk into the water.

Swimming

The water is so cold — not chilly, but cold, but that doesn’t stop visitors from swimming in it. Well maybe some, like me! My almost 11-year-old grandson ran right in and started swimming across to the other side, leaving me stranded while still trying to get used to the cold water. Dipping my feet in the water is just fine with me!

This is the best area for the elderly and toddlers to enjoy the water.

Pro Tip: Life jackets are mandatory for all kids 12 and younger. Be sure to bring your own because they are very costly at the park. Water shoes are highly recommended in all areas where swimming and wading are allowed.

3. Pack A Picnic

Picnicking at the park seems like a popular thing to do. When we arrived early in the morning, some families already had their picnic gear set up and their grills smoking. I’m guessing these families weren’t first-timers. Picnic spots are first-come, first-serve, but don’t let that worry you; there are so many lovely areas to have a picnic, and most include a picnic table and a grill.

Bringing a wagon to hold your food and other items in isn’t a bad idea, nor is a rolling ice chest, especially if you’re having a family-style picnic. If you’re lucky to find a picnic spot close to where you parked, that’s great; otherwise, there’s an area in the back of the buses where you can place large items during your ride. Pop-up canopies are allowed in the park, as are beer and alcoholic beverages as long as they stay at your picnic site.

Pro Tip: Get there early for a nice spot under a tree or in a shaded area provided by the mountains.

4. Blue Hole Pool

The Blue Hole Pool is where the grandkids are going to want to hang out the most. It was my grandson’s favorite part of the whole park. This area is where a long slide that leads into the water and a diving board are located. There is a lifeguard on duty, which was very reassuring to me. Just be careful when walking and swimming in the creek. It can be very rocky and slimy from the moss.

Pro Tip: There are a couple of benches in the shade where you can sit and watch.

5. The Castle

The castle at Turner Falls Park is an example of English architecture constructed with native stone back in the early 1930s. Now hollowed out, the castle is an impressive piece of art to walk through while thinking about what happened inside many years ago. There are steep stairs that go up to the castle, and once you get inside, there are multiple levels to walk through and a narrow staircase to a higher level. No tours are given, so you can go through the castle when it’s convenient for you and your family.

Pro Tip: Be careful walking around inside the castle and watch for rocks. Some areas are difficult to navigate.

6. Natural Caves

Who doesn’t love cool caves to wander through? The three caves at Turner Falls Park are above the waterfall but a little hidden. Take your time exploring the area to find them. I made it down the stairs and over the rocks to one of the caves, but it was too difficult for me to see the other caves. But hey, I have bad knees! I let my grandson explore on his own, and he found another cave. He told me he was glad I didn’t walk down there as I would not have made it.

Pro Tip: Difficult for some. Plan accordingly.

7. Hiking Trails

You could spend your whole day hiking around Turner Falls Park. There is a two-mile hiking trail that leads to views of the park’s highlights and has many detours to shorter trails. Set out to explore the park and watch for wildlife, such as whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and other animals who have made the park their home. Keep in mind, with the park being on three levels, there are elevation changes along the road through the park. Use the map that you get when you check in to see all the trails that are available to explore throughout the park.

Pro Tip: Trail hiking in the park is moderate to difficult. Again, plan accordingly.

8. Trout Fishing

If you happen to be at Turner Falls in the winter months, trout fishing is available from late November through the middle of March. Check for availability before you go as dates are subject to change. Fishing would be a terrific excuse to grab the grandkids for a weekend and stay in one of the cabins (more on these below). Wintertime camping would be a lot of fun at Turner Falls. For fishing fees, daily catch limits, and permits, see Turner Falls Park’s things to do page and scroll down to the fishing section.

Pro Tip: A valid Oklahoma fishing license is required.

9. Overnight Camping

Whether you stay in a cabin along the edge of Honey Creek or pitch a tent in the primitive camping area on Level 3, there are plenty of options for overnight camping at Turner Falls. There are cabins with amenities to rent that include grills, picnic tables, and fire pits as well as screened-in shelters on the two lower levels. RVs are welcome, too. For a layout of the cabins and what’s included inside, see Turner Falls Park’s Cabin page. Camping during the offseason, when it’s more relaxed and the colors of fall are out, makes for an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Of course, that’s my opinion because fall is my favorite time of year for camping.

Pro Tip: Firewood is available for purchase, or you can bring your own.

Pro Tips

If you are into zip-lining, there is a course just outside of the park on the same road. It’s called 777Zip Zipline. It’s a two-person sit-down type zip line. No reservation needed. The last time we were at Turner Falls, we kept seeing people across the park right over us. If we weren’t so hot and tired after we left the park, my grandson and I would have done it. So now that’s two reasons to go back in the Fall — camping and zipping!

Turner Falls is also featured in our articles on nine beautiful hikes in Oklahoma and the best hikes in all 50 states. Read up for additional inspiration!

Lake Geneva, a year-round playground in southern Wisconsin, grew up around picture-perfect Geneva Lake. During the Gilded Age, wealthy Midwesterners with names like Wrigley, Schwinn, and Swift built palatial summer homes along the shore, inspiring the city’s nickname, Newport of the West.

In 1968, the late Hugh Hefner opened his first Playboy Club Hotel with star-studded entertainment, and Lake Geneva became a swinging paradise. Thirteen years later, his bowtie-clad cocktail Bunnies and their Playmates hopped into oblivion. Lake Geneva morphed into a family-friendly destination with good times and good eating for all ages.

Lake Geneva sits near the Illinois border about 80 miles northwest of Chicago and 50 miles southwest of Milwaukee. Here’s our guide to what to do, where to eat, and where to stay.

Things To Do In Lake Geneva

View The Mansions From A Tour Boat

Board a sightseeing boat for a narrated cruise of Geneva Lake by Lake Geneva Cruise Line. You’ll get an up-close view of the many historic mansions and their exquisitely manicured lawns. Several themed tours are offered, including sunset and brunch cruises. The most talked-about is the U.S. Mailboat Tour during the summer months: Postal jumpers (usually athletic college kids) leap from the boat to deliver and retrieve mail from the piers of lakeside residents, then leap back again. The boat never stops or slows down. Tours operate from downtown Riviera Docks seven days a week from May 1 through October 31.

Hike The Geneva Lake Shore Path

A 21-mile trail, the Lake Geneva Shore Path circles the lake. You can hike it in a day, although you might want to break it up into shorter lengths. The 3.5-mile segment between downtown and Chapin Road passes chewing gum magnates William and P.K.’s Wrigley Estates homes and boathouses, and Lake Geneva Public Library, which was designed by a protege of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The entire trail is walkable, but the terrain varies from dirt to paved. Note that bikes, skates, skateboards, and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the path. Wear sturdy shoes.

Fun Fact: Wrigley Estates is made up of several homes and buildings — that’s why it is plural.

Be Amazed At The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

Master illusionist Tristan Crist delivers thrilling Vegas-style magic and comedy in an intimate setting. The fast-paced 60-minute show includes audience participation and a helicopter that suddenly appears on stage. Originally from Milwaukee, Crist worked as a featured performer at such venues as the Circus World Museum in Wisconsin Dells and Circus Circus Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. His new year-round home, Tristan Crist Magic Theatre, has 175 tiered seats. You’re close to the action, but that won’t help you figure out how he does what he does. It’s magic.

Take A Class At Lake Geneva School Of Cooking

Chef John Bogan offers entertaining hands-on culinary classes for all skill levels. You’ll prepare a three- to four-course restaurant-quality lunch or dinner using classical techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Then take a seat in the formal dining room and feast upon your creations, along with appropriate wine pairings. Toques and aprons are provided. Sign up for a scheduled class on Lake Geneva School of Cooking’s website or call to book a private party.

Zip Through The Countryside On A Scooter

Rent a motorized scooter from Lake Geneva Scooter Tours and Rentals and admire the Wisconsin scenery on low-traffic back roads. Explore on your own, or join a three-hour guided tour around Geneva Lake. Scooter rentals start at under $60 an hour. Three-hour guided tours are under $150 a person with a four-person minimum. Helmets are provided. Pick up your scooter from Lake Geneva Scooter Tours and Rentals at The Mountain Top chalet at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa (more on that below).

Step Back In Time At The Lake Geneva Museum

Stroll along a recreated “Main Street” to learn the early history of Lake Geneva and glimpse the lives and lifestyles of those who shaped the region. View Potawatomi Native American artifacts, an 1890 fire hose wagon, and a 1920s dental work station. Architecture buffs: The museum’s home is a 1929 brick low-rise that formerly housed the Wisconsin Power and Light utility. Admission to Lake Geneva Museum is under $10 for adults and there is a discount for seniors.

Sip And Savor At Studio Winery

Raise a glass at Studio Winery, a combination tasting room, art gallery, and live music venue. Small-batch artisanal wines and distilled spirits are produced on-site from local and imported grapes and grains. Tasting prices start at under $10 for five samples or are free with a two-bottle purchase. Party snack platters and chocolate pairings are extra. Check the calendar for musical performances and for craft and painting classes.

Best Restaurants In Lake Geneva

The Lake Geneva foodie scene is as diverse as it is plentiful. Among the Wisconsin mainstays are fried cheese curds (fresh cheddar nuggets breaded and deep-fried until melty), Friday night fish fries, and farm-to-table produce and protein. If you wish to imbibe, ask the bartender for a Brandy Old-Fashioned Sweet. Here are a few recos:

Hunt Club Steakhouse overlooks one of three golf courses at Geneva National Resort and Club while serving up prime steaks and scrumptious seafood. Save room for the carrot cake topped with Wisconsin cream cheese frosting.

Oakfire serves up Neapolitan-style pizzas and other casual Italian fare with a spectacular lake view.

Sprecher’s Restaurant and Pub is a brewpub known for Wisconsin-brewed craft beer and gourmet sodas. The root beer is legendary.

A Lake Geneva icon for 50 years, maritime-themed Popeye’s on Lake Geneva gets raves for its rotisserie chicken and cheesy broccoli soup.

Pier 290 is notable for contemporary American fare and comfort classics on the Geneva Lake waterfront.

Two dual-identity coffee shops serve up premium brews and more: Avant Cycle Cafe rents, sells, and fixes bicycles. Inspired trains, employs, and celebrates people with disabilities to prepare them for future job opportunities.

Editor’s Note: For more dining tips, check out our full list of the best restaurants in Lake Geneva. Yes, Popeye’s and Sprecher’s make the list!

Where To Shop In Lake Geneva

Charming downtown Lake Geneva is lined with one-of-a-kind specialty stores within walking distance of each other. You’ll find a treasure trove of apparel, artwork, home goods, and gourmet foods. Satisfy your sweet tooth at any of several confectionaries and bakeshops, and bring your loyal four-legged companion a new treat from the pet boutique.

Best Hotels In Lake Geneva

You’ve got an abundance of choices for overnight accommodations, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels and from vacation rentals to wooded campsites. Many offer water views. These are a few of our favorites:

Maxwell Mansion

Built in 1856 as the summer home of a prominent Chicago surgeon, Maxwell Mansion is a 24-room boutique hotel fully restored and furnished to its original grandeur. Mansion rooms are appointed with exquisite antiques and en-suite baths. Rooms in the former stables and carriage house are decked with modern equestrian themes.

A clandestine speakeasy in the mansion basement is open to hotel guests Friday and Saturday nights. That is, if you know the always-changing password. Check the Maxwell Mansion Facebook page each week to find it.

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

Hugh Hefner’s former Playboy Club Hotel, which closed in 1981, was transformed into the luxe Grand Geneva Resort and Spa. The sprawling campus encompasses 355 guest rooms, suites, and villas; two golf courses; multiple casual and fine dining options; horse stables; indoor and outdoor swimming pools; a ski slope; an indoor water park; a shopping arcade; and a private airport with a helipad. Hail the Grand Trolley to take you around the complex.

Lake Lawn Resort

Just minutes from downtown Lake Geneva in Delavan is Lake Lawn Resort, a historic hotel and recreational enclave on Delavan Lake. The property was the winter home of a traveling circus in the mid-1800s. A modest guest house opened in 1838, and it grew exponentially from there. An extensive renovation was completed in 2012, and today Lake Lawn Resort has 272 guest rooms and suites, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, a golf course, a marina with boat rentals, and watersports. The Lake Lawn Queen cruise boat will take you on a tour of the lake. The General Store Gift Shop is a delightful emporium jam-packed with sundries, apparel, games, and Wisconsin-branded merchandise. Dining venues feature American heartland cuisine. Indulge in a gigantic, freshly baked cinnamon roll at breakfast and experience sweet decadence.

Big Foot Beach State Park

Whether your camping style is a pop-up tent or a luxury RV, Big Foot Beach State Park overlooking Geneva Lake can anchor your stay. The park has 100 wooded campsites, 34 with electrical hookups, plus pit toilets and showers. Recreational amenities include 6.5 miles of hiking trails and picnic areas. Walk the 2.5 miles along Geneva Lake Shore Path to downtown Lake Geneva. You’ll pass the colossal Stone Manor, the largest mansion on the lake. Find booking details and make reservations here.

Pro Tip: Lake Geneva, designated a Bird City Wisconsin, is an ornithology lover’s dream destination. Check out a free bird-watching kit containing binoculars, ID book, and map from the Lake Geneva Public Library and explore the many natural areas and avian hotspots.

New Hampshire is a playground for visitors looking for mountains, ocean, and lakes paired with old New England charm. The variety of landscapes from the Atlantic Ocean to the peaks of the White Mountains is interspersed with quaint villages nestled in valleys and sprawling pasturelands.

New Hampshire is home to luxury resorts, extensive hiking trails, farm-to-table restaurants, festivals, history, and gorgeous scenery. Experiencing the relaxing pace of life and natural beauty is tonic for your well-being.

1. Portsmouth

New Hampshire’s coastline is short but packed with seaside charm. Portsmouth, on the Piscataqua River, is a working fishing city with ocean access.

Downtown’s Market Square is the city’s restaurant hub, offering fresh coastal cuisine in small chef-run restaurants tucked away in 17th- and 18th-century brownstones. You will find amazing restaurants including the Black Trumpet Bistro, where the chef prepares unique dining options for their weekly prix fixe menu. As a James Beard Foundation semifinalist, their reputation for hospitality is first-class.

The Strawbery Banke Museum is an outdoor history museum and a lovely spot to spend a sunny afternoon. Explore their historic buildings, heirloom gardens, and costumed residents while learning about the history of the Portsmouth area.

Pro Tip: For more information on Portsmouth, consider how to spend a day in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

2. Hampton Beach

Hampton Beach is the vacation destination arm of the town of Hampton. The oceanfront village is packed with opportunities to play on the long, inviting beach. The boardwalk is loaded with fun things to do and see. The dining and bar scene is everything you would want from a fun resort area. Hampton Beach is a throwback to the old-style beaches where the main drag runs along the beach and parking is plentiful.

Pro Tip: To learn more about Hampton Beach, see my tips on how to spend a perfect day in quaint Hampton Beach.

3. Exeter

Exeter is home to Phillips Exeter Academy, one of the oldest and most prestigious boarding schools in America. As you stroll the campus quad, the lush green space is surrounded by meticulously maintained antique brick buildings. It is easy to imagine spending your high school years in this close-knit community.

Exeter was New Hampshire’s Revolutionary War capital. You can visit the American Independence Museum to view one of the rare first printings of the Declaration of Independence. The museum houses many documents and offers several docent-led tours for your enjoyment.

If you are craving some contemplative time with nature, hike the Jolly Rand Trail. The 3.7-mile out-and-back trail is rated as moderate and winds through the wooded Kimball Reserve.

Pro Tip: Stroll down Water Street and stop at one of the many coffee shops to watch the stream of students and faculty grab their afternoon pick-me-ups.

4. Peterborough

Peterborough is a quintessentially quaint New England town. Situated in the valley of the Monadnock Region along the Contoocook River, Peterborough’s charm and panoramic views give it high marks when it comes to evoking a classic feel.

Take a drive up Pack Monadnock in Miller State Park. At the summit, climb the fire tower for a spectacular view of the Peterborough area. The access road is a short 1.3-mile ride to the top. If you are feeling adventurous, you can choose one of the hiking trails up the mountain for a good workout.

If you love poking around for antique art, stop at the New England Art Exchange. You can browse paintings, fine prints, sculptures, drawings, and photography.

Pro Tip: If you are planning to drive up to Pack Monadnock, reserve your parking spot ahead of time.

5. Sunapee And Newbury

Home to skiing, lake life, state parks, and other natural areas, Sunapee and her lake neighbors are a necklace of jewels in the New Hampshire Lakes Region.

Visitors to Mount Sunapee State Park in Newbury can enjoy the beach, boating, camping, and hiking. The area is a popular vacation spot for many New Englanders.

Mount Sunapee Resort, also located in Newbury, is a family-focused ski resort and part of the Vail Resorts Epic Pass system. Operating 67 trails serviced by nine lifts, Mount Sunapee Resort is a great place for a multigenerational ski weekend.

Pro Tip: Sunapee is a popular destination with locals year-round. Plan on making reservations if you want to stay close to the lake.

6. Cornish

Cornish is a small farm town in western New Hampshire. It is famous for the beautiful Saint-Gaudens Park, which was the summer home of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the great American sculptor. There are often artisans in residence, and demonstrations, tours, and classes are available. A popular place for events, the grounds, gardens, and buildings are beautifully maintained.

Pro Tip: Saint-Gaudens is a popular wedding destination, so check before your arrival to make sure the park is open for viewing the day you plan to visit.

7. Hanover

Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover is more than just a quaint New Hampshire hamlet. It is the center of an Ivy League college campus that embraces the great outdoors. The students and faculty take great pride in their Environmental Studies program.

The Hanover Inn, located on Dartmouth College’s campus, offers first-class amenities wrapped in historic charm. Dine at the Inn’s PINE Restaurant, where farm-to-table is a continued tradition. The chef offers Tuscan and American cuisine prix fixe or a la carte menus featuring ingredients sourced from local farms and encompassing seasonal products.

Pro Tip: The Appalachian Trail runs through Hanover, offering residents and visitors a chance to “walk the trail,” even if it is just for a few short miles.

8. Lincoln

Lincoln is home to the breathtaking Franconia Notch State Park. Mother Nature’s gifts are boundless, and she showcases many of them for the park’s visitors. Nature enthusiasts come here to unplug and breathe the crisp mountain air.

Editor’s Note: Franconia Notch State Park has earned its place on our lists of eight excellent hidden gems in New Hampshire and 15 best stops during a New Hampshire fall foliage road trip, too.

Drive down I-93 between the Kinsman and Franconia mountain range peaks for the most beautiful eight-mile drive in central New England. In the spring and summer, the greenery is so deep and saturated, it is almost unnatural. In the fall, the vibrant foliage is a riot of colorful patchwork. In the winter, the peaks sparkle when the sunlight reflects off the clean, white blanket of snow.

Flume Gorge, at the base of Mount Liberty, is a popular hiking spot. The trail is an easy two-mile loop. It is well maintained, but expect to climb some stairs and hills. There is an entrance fee, and you must reserve your parking spot online.

Lincoln offers many options for campers, hikers, boaters, and picnickers. It is a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon or a long weekend.

Pro Tip: Download your trail maps while you have Wi-Fi; connectivity is spotty in the White Mountains.

9. North Conway

The best way to see the country is by train. Conway Scenic Railroad offers you the chance to explore while riding the rails. The Mountaineer to the Notch runs from North Conway Village to Crawford Depot. You can travel coach or first class and add lunch service. The five-hour round trip showcases some of New Hampshire’s finest scenery, including sheer bluffs, steep ravines, and stunning panoramic views.

If you prefer a more tranquil visit, stop at Echo Lake State Park. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, and some hiking. The Echo Lake Trail takes you in a loop for a beautiful, easy way to enjoy the lake. Alternatively, you can work out your legs with a moderate hike to Cathedral Ledge for a panoramic view of North Conway.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to hike all the way to Cathedral Ledge, you can drive up the road to the gate and walk the last mile to enjoy the amazing views.

10. Meredith

Lake Winnipesaukee is synonymous with New Hampshire fun. The largest lake in the Lakes Region, Winnipesaukee has everything you need for a lake vacation. Swimming, boating, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach are at your fingertips.

The Loop Drive around Winnipesaukee takes you on a 97-mile adventure through the lakes. The views are spectacular at any time of year. Bring your camera; there are plenty of panoramic photo opportunities along the way.

Bed and breakfast stays are synonymous with quaint towns. The Nutmeg Inn is a piece of Meredith history decorated with charming 18th-century appointments coupled with modern conveniences. With rooms named after spices, you get the feeling you are visiting your great-aunt’s homestead, complete with a rocking chair deck.

Pro Tip: The Loop Drive takes you through Meredith and Laconia (see more on this community below).

11. Laconia

Famous for Laconia Motorcycle Week, known to the locals as Bike Week, Laconia welcomes over 400,000 motorcycle enthusiasts each year in mid-June. If a bike festival is on your bucket list, start planning now for next year. Finding suitable accommodations can be tricky.

Weirs Beach on the western shore of Lake Winnipesaukee is a popular resort destination because of its family-friendly beach, boardwalk, and classic drive-in. Watching a movie at the Weirs Drive-In Theater will add a touch of nostalgia to your visit.

Every trip to the beach requires ice cream, and Kellerhaus offers homemade ice cream, chocolates, and candy. With their goodies made on-site, they offer the freshest local ingredients. They also serve a Weekend Waffle Breakfast from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The breakfast is a great value, and you can even add a scoop of their sweet ice cream to your waffle.

Pro Tip: The week before Bike Week can be hectic with preparations, if you are looking for quiet and relaxing, you should choose a different time to visit.

The New Hampshire countryside is dotted with quaint towns and villages just waiting to be discovered.