ML Interest Tag: boathouse

OpenTable Reveals List of 50 Most Kid-Friendly Restaurants in America

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Dining out with kids can be a delicate balance of choosing between a decent meal and a place where the whole family feels comfortable. Luckily, there are plenty of places across the country where you can have both and OpenTable’s list of the 50 Most Kid-Friendly Restaurants in America is a good place to start.

The 2019 list of the best places for families to eat includes restaurants in 16 states and is compiled based on user reviews collected from Jul. 1, 2018 to Jun. 30, 2019.

Washington, D.C., Florida and New York are tied for first for most mentions on the list at seven each, followed by Hawaii with six and California and South Carolina with four each.

“When you’re dining out with kids, you want to find a restaurant that has something for everyone––a menu that appeals to younger diners, great cocktail options for the adults and, of course, the ambiance to match,” said Caroline Potter, Chief Dining Officer at OpenTable. “Whether you’re a family of foodies celebrating something special or you’re avoiding doing dishes on a weeknight, these restaurants have a fun family-friendly vibe and fare that’ll hit the spot.”

Here are the 50 Most Kid-Friendly Restaurants in America for 2019 according to OpenTable diners, in alphabetical order:

Aquarium Restaurant – Multiple Locations         

Becco – New York, New York 

Benihana – Multiple Locations

Bill’s Bar and Burger – New York, New York 

The Boathouse – Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Buddy V’s at The Venetian – Las Vegas, Nevada 

Cap City Fine Diner & Bar – Grandview – Columbus, Ohio

Carmine’s – Multiple Locations

Cattle Company Steakhouse – Pearl City – Pearl City, Hawaii     

Columbia Restaurant – Multiple Locations

The Dead Fish – Crockett, California 

Farmers & Distillers, Washington, D.C. 

Farmers Fishers Bakers, Washington, D.C. 

Fire + Ice Boston – Boston, Massachusetts

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar – Charleston, South Carolina

Founding Farmers – Multiple Locations

Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant – Frankenmuth, Michigan

Hard Rock Cafe – Multiple Locations

Hell’s Kitchen – Caesars Palace Las Vegas – Las Vegas, Nevada

Henry’s Louisiana Grill – Acworth, Georgia

House of Blues Restaurant & Bar – Orlando – Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Keoki’s Paradise – Koloa, Hawaii

Kobe Japanese Steakhouse – Multiple Locations

L. Woods Tap and Pine Lodge – Lincolnwood, Illinois   

Little Goat – Chicago, Illinois

Loveless Cafe – Nashville, Tennessee    

Maggiano’s – Multiple Locations

Mama’s Fish House – Paia, Hawaii

Max Brenner – Multiple Locations

The Mill House – Waikapu, Hawaii

Monkeypod Kitchen – Multiple Locations

Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner – Buena Park, California

NINJA NEW YORK – New York, New York 

Old Lady Gang – Atlanta, Georgia

Old Oyster Factory – Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

The Pirates’ House – Savannah, Georgia 

Raglan Road Irish Pub – Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Rainforest Cafe – Multiple Locations

Sea Captain’s House – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Skull Creek Dockside Restaurant – Hilton Head, South Carolina 

The Smith- Lincoln Square – New York, New York 

Sugar Factory – Multiple Locations

Tavern on the Green – New York, New York

Tony’s Di Napoli – Midtown – New York, New York 

True Food Kitchen – Palo Alto – Palo Alto, California

Ulele – Tampa, Florida

Uncle Julio’s – Multiple Locations

Virgil’s Real BBQ – New York City – New York, New York

Wolfgang’s Steak House – Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii

Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth – Frankenmuth, Michigan     

You can check out the full list and details on each restaurant here.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Open Table

 

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Your Next Escape: Suttle Lake

by Annette Benedetti

If you’ve been aching for a vacation that allows you and your little adventurers to explore new lands and brave the wilds, then you are in luck. Less than three hour drive away, near the crest of the Cascade Range, Suttle Lake awaits. Located in the Deschutes National Forest, this stunning high desert location offers Portland families the opportunity to boat, hike, fish, swim and do oh so much more in a place that looks and feels nothing like home. Read on to find how to get there and where to stay, adventure and play.

photo: Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife via flickr

Go

Imagine spending a weekend, or the better part of a week, with your tribe fishing, boating, hiking and swimming in the beautiful Deschutes National Forest. Central Oregon and its high desert landscape strikes a strong contrast to what we find here in, or right outside of Portland, and its only an easy 2.5 to 3-mile drive away.

Getting There
Take I5 S to exit 253 for OR-22/OR-99 toward Detroit Lake/Bend and drive for about 80 miles. Take a slight left onto US-20 for 12 miles and the sign for Suttle Lake will be on your right. Follow the winding road to either Suttle Lake Lodge or campgrounds.

photo: Allison M. via Yelp

Stay

There are plenty of options when it comes to finding the right accommodations for your clan at Suttle Lake. If you love to explore the wild with out spending the night in it, Suttle Lodge has a variety of offerings. If roughing it is your family’s style then campgrounds it is!

Suttle Lodge
Recently renovated, this lodge has 11 rooms, a meeting room and a cocktail lounge that is affectionately referred to as skip. The lounge and lodge rooms well appointed and cozy with modern furnishings and stone fireplaces.

When booking a room at the main lodge there are four deluxe lodge suites, four standard guest suites, two lofted guest suites and one ADA-compliant guest suite to choose from. The Deluxe suites and the ADA_Compliant room sleep two and the rest sleep up to four people. The main lodge has electricity, forced air heating and running water.

The Cabins
Suttle lake lodge also provides cabins for rent. Your crew can choose from five waterfront cabins that sleep between four to six people at a time. There’s even a cabin that has a private dock, perfect for jumping off of when the temps are at their highest. An assortment of rustic cabins are available that—while they share a communal bathroom and lack a kitchen—sleep up to six.

Bonus: both the lodge and cabins are pet friendly.

Suttle Lodge
13300 US-20, Sisters, Or.
Cost: starting at $125/night
online: thesuttlelodge.com

Camping
There are several campgrounds located around Suttle Lake. South Shore Campground offers both beach front and hillside spots. Each site has a gravel parking spur, picnic table and campfire area. Drinking spigots and vaulted toilets are available. There is also a boat launch in this area.

South Shore Camping
Hwy 20. 10 miles southeast of the Santiam Summit of the Cascades.
Cost: Starting at $18/night
online: recreation.gov/camping/south-shore


photo: wakiwon via flikr

Play

The possibilities for fun at Suttle Lake are endless. You can rent boats, kayaks, canoes and SUPs at Suttle Lodge’s boat house and spend your days paddling around the lake. Swimming is possible once the temps rise and the lake water offers a brisk opportunity for young water lovers.

Fishing
If you have an angler in the family, you will be pleased to know that Suttle Lake is open to fishing year-round. The lake is home to kokanee and trout and casting from the shore is possible in some areas, but boat fishing is where it’s at. Motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake.

Hiking
There is plenty of hiking near and around Suttle Lake. If you are looking for a fun trail that is appropriate for all ages, then the Suttle Lake Loop Trail is perfect. This 3.6 mile loop is appropriate for all skill levels and gives hikers amazing views of the lake and Mt. Washington on a clear day. You’ll make your way through trees and camping areas and you will even cross over a beautiful foot bridge. There are plenty of areas where you can rest and restrooms are located on each end of the loop.


photo: by Annette Benedetti

Insiders Tip: If your troop loves to swim, Scout Lake is located less that two miles up the road from Suttle Lodge. It is relatively shallow and the water is a comfortable temperature by late May or early June—and downright warm by mid-summer. Your kids will love it, and so will you.

Eat

You can grab breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Boathouse at the lodge. Their menu is impressive and includes steamed egg sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes, hot dogs, burgers, salmon rolls and more. If you are in need of a beverage. They serve coffee in the morning and soda and Bloody Marys in the afternoon and evening.

The lodge also has a cocktail bar and menu that offers pizzas, hot sandwiches and fun drinks like the Frozen Pump, Drake on the Lake and Lodge Nog (for when ya get cold.)

If you don’t feel like eating out, The Boathouse sells groceries and other provisions as well.

Insider tip: there is minimal cell service and limited Wifi. When you stay at Suttle Lake you get a unique opportunity to unplug and be present with your family. If there is an emergency, data pops up the closer you walk towards the highway.

What is your family’s go-to Oregon lake? Share it with us in the comments below.

—Annette Benedetti

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Wrapped Around: 11 Best Enclosed Playgrounds

by rtjeannetteswanson

Park play time should be characterized by playful physical activity and not by safety-related stress. In theory, wide open spaces are wonderful, but not so much when your eyes are working overtime. This is why we love fenced in playgrounds or at least semi-enclosed playgrounds that take the worry factor down a few notches. Here are 11 of our favorites.

photo: Anne C. via Yelp

1. NTC Park
While this one is not surrounded by a fence, it makes the list because of a generous stretch of grass acts which acts as a barrier between the play area and parking lot. Because of the addition of the Public Market, parking is quite scarce in the lot behind Kid Ventures, but (usually) abundant at the park. The two age-specific play structures often solve the worry of the smaller set being intimidated by the more seasoned park players. This park scores an A+ for catering to all ages and a central location that’s a magnet for mamas from all over San Diego.

2370 Cushing Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/park/liberty_station_ntc_park

photo: Jeannette Swanson

2. Silver Terrace Park
This park is a little gem, and when we say little we mean don’t blink or you might miss it! On Friars Rd. close enough to hear the trolley rumble past, this park is entirely fenced in. The play structure is well kept and there’s plenty of grass for the kiddos run amuck. There’s a paved sidewalk for easy stroller access, and if you’ve got a sleeping babe you need not wake them while your older kids play thanks to the cozyness of the park.

Insider Tip: There are no restrooms and the parking lot is a tad small, so try to limit sippy time and plan on leaving a little early so you can look for parking in case the attached lot is full.

5550 Friars Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation

photo: Melissa Heckscher

3. Kensington Mini Park
This park is for the family who appreciates smaller spaces (and a Starbucks just across the street!) The equipment is simple, but in a positive way that won’t overload your tots brain. This one is ideal for those in the neighborhood or for those who need a break from other too crowded playgrounds.

4121 Adams Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/kensington_mini_park

photo: Matt E. via Yelp

4. Nobel Park
Since this park often gets an overflow from the rec center next door, your littles are almost always guaranteed impromptu play dates. Most would consider this park to be divided into three areas that can stand on their own. There’s a spot for sand toys and digging, slides and playground equipment for younger kids as well as a separate set for the older crowd. A row of covered picnic tables sits between the playground, so bring a to-go breakfast or lunch to nosh on outdoors.

8810 Judicial Dr.
San Diego, Ca
858-552-1626
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and recreation/nobel

5. Jackson Park
This neighborhood park can be added to your itinerary on a day you’re planning to visit Grossmont Center or the Costco in La Mesa. Test drive a couple of cars and yield to the in-ground stop sign before proceeding. After your tots imagination has driven them at least three times around the faux Nascar circuit, make sure they climb out and stretch their legs as they zip down the slides. With all the shade supplied by the abundance of nearby trees, this is a must visit for our many months of warm weather.

5870 Jackson Dr.
La Mesa, Ca
Online: lamesaparks.org/parks/jackson-park/

6. 4S Heritage Park
This neighborhood park might look small in relation to the grassy area that wraps around it, but it’s surrounded by almost a complete circle of fencing. The large area of grass is actually a plus, since they have the option to frolic barefoot on the sweet green blades after being corralled in the entertaining play area. Although, it might be tough to get them to forfeit the wobbly bridge, twisting slide and peek-a-boo hole that beckons them to ask for just five more minutes.

16600 4S Ranch Pkwy.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sdparks.org 

photo: Jeannette Swanson

7. Western Hills Park
Just like NTC Park, this hidden park is not fenced in, but it makes the list because of its elevated location from the street and tucked away nature in general. Located in a quiet neighborhood in Bay Park, this one should make its way onto your calendars each Friday of the month if you’re in the area. Bay Park Connection hosts a weekly play date at this location and they generously bring a batch of coffee and donuts to fuel us and our mini play dates. Starting at 9:30 a.m. and going until the sugar rush has worn off, there’s plenty of companionship to be had here. Even if you can’t make the Friday play date, the safe location, expansive grassy area with a fence of trees and the trail that makes for a perfect mini hike, is enough to warrant a play trip here.

4800 Kane St.
San Diego, Ca
Online: yelp.com/biz/western-hills-park-san-diego

photo: Richard G. via Yelp

8. West Hills Park
This smaller Santee playground receives light foot traffic during the week and a fence that’s only one panel short of being entirely enclosed. This one might be the East County equivalent of NTC Park, since it also has a separate structure for the older jungle gym lovers. There’s even a bright blue whale on springs that your beach lover can bounce around in and pretend they’re actually minutes from the water.

8790 Mast Blvd.
Santee, Ca
Online: ci.santee.ca.us

9. Kroc Center Playground
This playground not only stands out because of its vibrant purple color scheme, but its design was inspired by many local tot artists. The playground sits between an athletic field and the gymnasium and sits in the shade in the late afternoons. While the park is only accessible to members, it’s a wonderful resource for its members and to area families. The park can either be the focal point of your day or it can be a quick jaunt after a scheduled activity at the center.

6845 University Ave.
San Diego, Ca
619-287-5762
Online: sd.kroccenter.org

photo: Jeannette Swanson

10. Mills Park
While this playground is only open to those with access to MCAS Miramar, its smaller size is very welcoming to new moms or moms with multiple kiddos. This fenced in playground has a nice slice of shade that’s provided by a canopy and it makes for a nice sitting spot with baby while you watch your older ones play. On the way in or the way out, consider getting a cup of coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts. After all it’s one of the rare five in the San Diego area!

MCAS Miramar
Bauer Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmiramar.com/mills-park/

11. MCRD Bay View Marina Park
This fully fenced-in, ADA approved playground by the marina is a dream come true for kids and parents alike. There’s a Marine-themed vehicle and a variety of obstacle-themed structures to give them a tactical experience. There’s also a soft turf here that will appeal to the little movers who prefer not to have sand in their shoes. To round out the day, walk around the marina before heading home. But like the park above, this one is only open to those with base access, so consider making a date out of this with one of your military gal friends.

MCRD San Diego Boathouse & Marina
2221 Guadalcanal Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmcrd.com/boathouse-marina/

What are your favorite fenced in parks? Let us know in the comments!

—Jeannette Swanson

 

 

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Get On Your Feet! Where to Try Standup Paddleboarding

by rtjamybond

If your family has tried all of the high-energy, gravity-defying activities (think: rock climbing, laser tag, and white water rafting) and you’re looking for something new and a little more laid back, consider the latest trend in water navigation: standup paddleboarding. Wondering if you’re capable?  The truth is if you can stand, you can SUP!

Photo: Scott McLeod

Active Nature
The flat, slow-moving nature of Seneca Creek waters make this the perfect place for beginners. Active Nature outdoor adventure company offers everything from single-session introductory courses to a full waterman’s package where you can train for races and competitions. They also offer romantic outings such as Water and Wine where you can paddleboard to a local winery and relax in the vineyard while you sip the region’s finest wines. Cost: $20-$200

Seneca Creek at Riley’s Lock
13015 Riley’s Lock Rd. (Poolsville, Md)
202-262-5312
Online: anadventures.com

Key Bridge Boathouse
Take the ultimate city tour by paddleboarding along the Georgetown waterfront where the river is calm and serene and features a different perspective on Washington’s skyline. Key Bridge Boathouse focuses on beginner level paddleboarding. You can rent by the hour, join a class, or get private instruction. Cost: $20/hour

3500 Water St. NW (Georgetown)
202-337-9642
Online: ]keybridgeboathouse.com

Potomac Paddlesports
There’s something for everyone at Potomac Paddlesports, from beginning group lessons, to private instruction, to SUP racing, and SUP yoga. If you’re beyond the beginner stage of paddleboarding and looking to step it up a notch, the Great Falls area offers Class I and Class II rapids that will keep you moving even when you don’t paddle. You can buy a two-year SUP membership through Potomac Paddlesports and get four lessons, coached practices and unlimited rentals.  You’ll learn more than 20 strokes and maneuvers, along with river awareness and etiquette. Kids 12-17 can participate in Paddlestroke SUP’s CampSUP, a five-day class designed to build a solid foundation for the sport. Cost: $125 and up

Old Angler’s Lot
10801 MacArthur Blvd. (Potomac, Md)
301-881-2628
Online: potomacpaddlesports.com

Valley Mill Kayak School
If you’re not quite ready for the Potomac, you can enjoy an Intro to SUP class on a private lake through Valley Mill Kayak School. They will even let you start out in a pool if you’re truly timid. Lessons run every Saturday and Sunday from May through early October. Kids can combine canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding in Valley Mill’s summer camp. Cost: $105/ three hours

15101 Seneca Rd. (Germantown, Md)
301-840-7388
Online: valleymillkayak.com

Have you or your kid gone stand up paddleboarding?Tell us about your experience in the comments below. 

–Jamy Bond

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Cool D.C. Parent to Know: The Career Changer

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

More and more, mamas and papas are leaving their desk jobs behind to start their own businesses (cue the mompreneur phenomenon). But before you put in your notice, you should meet Caroline Greene. Caroline’s a recovering lawyer turned life and business coach (and best-selling Amazon author) who helps moms start businesses and build lives that truly matter to them. This D.C.-based mom of two daughters shared some of her wisdom for moms as well as some local family hangouts that you’ll want to check out asap. 

Photo: Caroline Greene

 

You’re the author of two Determined Mom’s Guides. What will readers find in these guides?
The Determined Mom’s Guides are short, easy-to-read books with actionable steps to help moms be the parents, partners and whole people they want to be. My first book, MATTER, tells the story of how I went from being an Ivy-league educated lawyer to a stay-at-home mom to a life coach, and shares the tips and tools I learned along the way to help other moms find meaningful work. My second book, NEXT, shares all of the mistakes I made when launching my business (and provides a practical, step-by-step guide on how to avoid them) to help moms can start successful businesses that are right for them and their families without making all the same missteps I did!

What’s the one thing you’d tell a parent looking to start a new business in the DMV?
Don’t do it alone. The myth of self-sufficiency is an all-powerful one, especially in the DMV area. All too often it tells us that if we’re “good enough” to start a business then we’d better be “good enough” to do it all by ourselves. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether it’s getting more help in the house, reworking your tacit arrangements with your partner, or hiring a guide or mentor to help you navigate your business launch, get the help that’s right for you so that you can enjoy your time – at work and home.

You’ve got a free hour between appointments and pick-up. Where do you go for some “me time”?
You know, not too long ago, that very question would have put me into a panic. “What is ‘me’ time? Who gets to have that? I don’t even know what that means! “ But I’m delighted to tell you that with the help of my own coach, I’ve finally tapped into the things that bring me joy and actually give myself permission to do them. My current favorites are taking a walk or heading down to the Key Bridge Boathouse to jump on a paddleboard.

What’s your favorite go-to restaurant for family dinners?
If I’m choosing, Cactus Cantina! If the kids are choosing, Café Deluxe (which they call Lucky Moo Moos. I have absolutely no idea why.)

What’s the best part of being a parent in D.C.?
As someone who would rather be on the beach year round than live in a big city, I sometimes find it hard to embrace living in D.C., but the truth is, it’s a wonderful place to raise a family. Between the Kennedy Center, the Udvar-Hazy center, and the beautiful parks and playgrounds all over the city, there is never a shortage of things to do—assuming I can get everybody out of the house to go do them!

Do you know a cool mom or dad that everyone in the District should know, too? Tell us about them in the comments below. 

—Sarah Vogel

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Happiness Is an Island Called Hilton Head

by Tinybeans Team

Warm sunshine. Balmy breezes. Wide, sandy beaches. Meandering bike trails underneath a canopy of live oaks and Spanish moss. Al-fresco dining. Effortless adventures for the entire family. Happiness. Have we just described your perfect summer day? Now imagine it with mild temperatures, fewer vacationers, and off-season pricing. You’ve just glimpsed Hilton Head Island during the fall. Read on to find out why there’s no place we’d rather be, and what we love most about this relaxed Southern isle.

Photo: S. Massey

The Great Outdoors

With average daily temperatures in Hilton Head in the 70s and the lowest precipitation during the year in October, your family can still enjoy the beaches on Hilton Head Island long after you’ve traded in your sandals for sneakers at home. But don’t mistake a trip to this 5,000-acre oceanfront vacation destination as a mere trip to the beach. You’ll also find a 15-mile network of leisure paths perfect for biking, and a 605-acre forest preserve where you’ll see 130 species of birds, wildflowers, and wetlands.

Insider Info: Thrill your little naturalists with a trip to the Coastal Discovery Museum, a 68-acre property dedicated to educating visitors about the Low Country of South Carolina. Enjoy the Museum’s trails, gardens, live oaks, butterfly enclosure and Marsh Tacky horses, or register for a Museum-lead excursion into marshes, waterways, and historic sites. Coastal Discovery Museum (70 Honey Horn Dr., 843-689-6767, online: http://www.coastaldiscovery.org)

Photo: Sea Pines Resort

Resort Amenities

As one of the first eco-planned destination in the U.S., Sea Pines Resort seamlessly combines the natural beauty of Hilton Head with world-class amenities that make family vacations a breeze. The new Sea Pines Beach Club includes clean, well-appointed outdoor showers, public restrooms, plenty of parking (for bikes, that is!), family changing rooms, and dining options for beach-goers. If you’re a family that golfs together, you’ll find three world-class courses at practically every bend in the trail. And don’t forget your rackets, because the Sea Pines Racquet Club offers instructional programs and clinics for all ages. Sea Pines Resort (32 Greenwood Dr., 1-866-561-8802, online: https://www.seapines.com).

Photo: S. Massey

All-Ages Activities

In addition to miles of nature trails, sunny days, and sandy beaches, Hilton Head Island offers the small set plenty of thrills. Don’t miss an adventure with Pirates of Hilton Head, where kiddos become Pirate Crew on a custom pirate ship in search of hidden treasure. And every trip must include a trip to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum, which affords incredible views of the harbor and an aerial view of the island. Individual watercraft, including kayaks, sailboats, paddle boards, and jet skis, are all available to rent at nearby H2O Sports. And for those who like to keep their feet on the ground, the Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground, built into a grove of Spanish moss-dripping live oaks, provides endless hours of fun. Pirates of Hilton Head (843-363-7000, online: http://www.piratesofhiltonhead.com), Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum (866-305-9814, online: http://harbourtownlighthouse.com), H2O Sports (1-877-290-4386, online: http://www.h2osports.com), and Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground are all located at 149 Lighthouse Rd., in Harbour Town at Sea Pines Resort. 

Insider Info: Hilton Head’s shopping is stellar, and you’ll find delightful boutiques throughout the Sea Pines Resort – all with bike racks for an easy (and fast) shopping stop. And if you’re looking to swing a club but your putters aren’t quite ready for prime time, head to Pirate’s Island Golf, where you can play 18 holes in an hour and cap off your evening with ice cream! Pirate’s Island Golf (8 Marina Side Dr., 843-686-4001, online: http://www.piratesislandgolf.com/hilton-head-sc-pirates-island).

Photo: S. Massey

Lodging

Lodging options abound on Hilton Head, with an array of accommodations at Sea Pines Resort including 300 villas, 100 rental homes and the luxurious 60-room Inn at Harbour Town. If you opt to stay outside of the Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head’s hotel scene has recently undergone a renaissance of renovations and you’ll find fresh, convenient, and updated options throughout the island. We particularly love the zero-entry pool and kid’s club at Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. Sea Pines Resort (32 Greenwood Dr., 843-785-3333, online: https://www.seapines.com/vacation-rentals/villas-condos/), Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island (130 Shipyard Dr., 843-842-2400, online: http://www.sonesta.com/hiltonheadisland).

Insider Info: Looking for easy access to the playground, light house, and Pirates of Hilton Head cruise? We recommend the recently updated Villas at Sea Pines Resort at Harbour Town. Not only are they situated within walking or biking distance to some of the island’s main attractions, but they’re also equipped with elevators, kitchens, and spacious rooms (score!).

Photo: S. Massey

Dining

Family dining at restaurants may typically conjure as much anxiety as anticipation for vacationers, but Hilton Head’s relaxed vibe extends to its dining options. Island staples, like the Salty Dog Cafe and Hudson’s on the Docks, offer al-fresco seating options, fresh and delicious adult menus, and kids menus that include local seafood. Hudson’s owns one of the island’s two fishing fleets, which you can check out from your dockside table. Or head to The Scull Creek Boathouse, where life size Connect 4 and corn hole will entertain everyone before they tuck in to local favorites like shrimp and grits and frogmore stew. Salty Dog Cafe (232 S. Sea Pines Dr., 843-671-2233, online: http://saltydog.com), Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks (1 Hudson Rd., 843-681-2772, online: http://hudsonsonthedocks.com), The Scull Creek Boathouse (397 Squire Pope Rd., 843-681-3663, online: http://www.skullcreekboathouse.com).

Insider Info: If you’re looking to incorporate a date night on your family vacation, call Hilton Head Nannies & Companions and enjoy oceanfront dining at Coast for a relaxing adult evening. Coast Oceanfront Dining, located in the Sea Pines Beach Club, 87 N. Sea Pines Dr., 866-561-8802. 

Getting to Hilton Head: Hilton Head Airport, located approximately 5 miles from all Island resorts, and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, located approximately 45 miles south of the Island service flights to Hilton Head daily. It is approximately a 5 hour drive from Atlanta, Georgia.

Have you been to Hilton Head Island? What’s your favorite thing to do there?

-Shelley Massey

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Ship Ahoy!: 9 Ways to Hop a Boat With the Kids

by rtgretchenkunz

We New Yorkers are surrounded by water, constantly going over, under and around it. But most of us — with the exception of many Staten Island commuters, of course — don’t really spend a lot of time on the water. Taking a boat ride, be it big or small, powered by wind, feet, or diesel fuel is a great way to enjoy the city with kids. Here are some of the coolest ways to go boating in NYC, for all kinds of reasons. Click through to see our seafaring picks!

For Paddle Boats and More: NYC Parks

You don’t have to go any further than one of your local parks to have a boatful of fun.  Central Park boasts the famous Loeb Boathouse on the lake, where you can rent rowboats or kayaks to paddle under your own power, or take a ride in an authentic Venetian gondola for a little bit of Italy in NYC.  In Queens and Brooklyn, Wheel Fun Rentals can get you in a pedal boat or kayak at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park, Marine Park or the World's Fair Marina.  In Staten Island, you can rent a row or paddleboat at Clove Lakes Park, and in the Bronx you can get in some free rowing on weekends at Hunts Point Riverside Park via Rocking The Boat.

Where is your favorite place to explore the seas around the Big Apple?

—Gretchen Kunz

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Gently Down the Stream: 5 Canoe Adventures for Beginners

by rttyadams

A canoe or kayaking adventure might sound like an adventure too big, but with all the waterways around us, it’s easier than you think. Blow little minds with undulating water fun at these five Portland spots. They offer a variety of options, from rentals, lessons, events and even multi-day canoe trips. Go forth and find the perfect stream for an unforgettable day.

photo: Dark Dwarf via Flickr

Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe
Alder Creek, located along the Port of Portland harbor at the east tip of Tomahawk Island, offers a variety of options at its Hayden Island location, from two-hour to weekly rentals to private lessons to youth programs for kids 10-14 years old. While you’re there you can row out along the challenging Columbia River, or opt for the more placid waters of the Tualatin River at Alder Creek’s boathouse at Brown’s Ferry Park in Tualatin. Alder Creek also rents canoes at its Southeast Portland boathouse, on SE Water Street, near OMSI and just steps from the Willamette River.

Optimal times for canoeing this summer are in the mornings when the weather is cool and there’s not a lot of canoe and kayak “traffic.” Before heading there, pack a lunch, a camera and a hat. What’s good about canoes — especially for parents — is you can toss your camping gear, two kids and dog inside and not be cramped like you would be in a kayak.  A two-hour canoe rental costs $30 or an all-day rental $60. Call to reserve a canoe before you get there, especially on hot, sunny days.

If you’d rather discover canoeing with an experienced guide, the Learn to Canoe classes are a 2-for-1 value at $59: You can explore Tomahawk Island (at the tip of Hayden Island) and pick up basic canoe rowing skills. Alder Creek also donates and loans canoes/kayaks for special events for the Tualatin Riverkeepers and Portland Audubon Society.

200 NE Tomahawk Island Dr.
503-285-0464
Online: aldercreek.com

photo: Kathy and Sam via Flickr

Portland Kayak Company
Don’t be fooled by their company name. Portland Kayak Co. is about canoes, too! The Willamette River access is just behind its shop on Macadam Avenue, but you’ll need a roof rack to transport your family canoe. Here you can find classes and multi-day kids and teen camps on the Willamette River for kids as young as 10. They also offer private lessons with canoes as well as rentals and tours. Rentals are $20 per hour for two; all-day rental is $85 if you want to load up the canoe and take the family to Bybee Lake, Vancouver Lake or a lake on Mt. Hood.
The store offers guided trips to Ross Island.

6600 SW Macadam Ave.
503-459-4050
Online: portlandkayak.com

photo: Tualatin Riverkeepers

Tualatin Riverkeepers
Families floating down the Tualatin River — one of the most family friendly waters in the state — can spot osprey, hawks and herons. Tualatin Riverkeepers offers canoe classes, tours, rentals and adventures at the Cook Park boat launch on the Tualatin River in Tigard.  From July 3 through September, canoes and kayaks are available for four-hour rentals for $30. To make it more affordable for repeat customers, the Riverkeepers have offered a membership deal. TRK members receive one free rental and $10 off each additional rental. Memberships start at $35.

Tualatin Riverkeepers hosts a Family Day Paddle on Aug. 16 at 1 p.m. Check out their website for Autumn River Paddle Trip and free rental River Cleanup Days too. The group also offers private Spanish-speaking guided canoe trips.

11675 SW Hazelbrook Rd.
Tualatin
503-218-2580
Online: tualatinriverkeepers.org

photo: Jason McHuff via Flickr

Willamette Riverkeeper
Connecting families to the true Willamette River is the goal of Portland-based Willamette Riverkeeper’s River Discovery Program. The nonprofit group has its own fleet of canoes and offers camps where families can learn about the river habitats and water environment. From May to October, WRK hosts monthly River Discovery paddling adventures up and down the mainstem Willamette River, its tributaries and sloughs. The trips are offered free of charge but donations are gratefully accepted.

WRK’s signature trip, Paddle Oregon celebrates its 15th year with an Aug. 17-21 trip. Cost of the journey is $749 for adults; $699 for youth 17 or younger. Registration includes food, baggage shuttle, safety paddlers, camping accommodations, showers, T-shirts and more. In the fall, keep an eye out for Willamette Riverkeeper’s Our Great Willamette Cleanup on Sun., Oct. 4.

1515 SE Water St. # 102
503-223-6418
Online: willamette-riverkeeper.org

photo: Columbia Slough by Katrinket via flickr

Columbia Slough Watershed Council
7040 NE 47th Ave.
503-281-1132
Online: columbiaslough.org

While they don’t offer regular canoe rentals, the Columbia Slough Watershed Council does host an annual group paddle Regatta, this year on Aug. 2nd from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Multnomah County Drainage District at 1880 NE Elrod Drive. The suggested donation is $8 and boats are provided, although participants can bring their own. No one will be turned away.

The CSWC also hosts regular, nature-based events at local parks and provides local schools with free field programs and classes.

Where do you take your kids when you want to float under the clouds in a canoe? Tell us in the Comments!

—Ty Adams

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