ML Interest Tag: free-shuttle

9 of the Best Things to Do in Breckenridge, CO with Kids

by Gabby Cullen

Fresh mountain air, history, the arts, outdoor adventure, and amazing food—you can expect this (and more) when you visit Breckenridge, CO with your kids. From paved biking trails to exhilarating mountainside fun, a children’s museum, and even an authentic gold mine, there’s no end to the fun at any time of year. We scoped out this lively mountain town and found the best things to do in Breckenridge with kids. 

1. Enjoy historic Main Street and downtown Breckenridge.

This charming historic districts has plenty of modern-day perks and interests to keep the kids interested. Wander into Peek-a-Boo Toys, a speciality shop filled with toys and games, and stock up on sweets at Fuzzywigs Candy Factory. Rub the replica gold nugget for good luck at Prospector Park, check out the free history exhibit at the Welcome Center, blow off steam at the Blue River Lawn, and find the toddler sandbox and play area at the Blue River Plaza. Don’t leave without getting a cookie sandwich from Mountain Top Cookie Shop!

2. Experience Country Boy Mine.

a picture of country boy mine, one of the best things to do in Breckenridge with kids
Kate Loweth

This now-shuttered gold mine is a short distance from the heart of Breckenridge, and it’s something you won’t forget. You’ll walk almost 1,000 feet into the heart of the mine and learn what it was like for miners in the 19th century. There is also a chance to pan for gold, pet the donkeys, go on a treasure hunt, and try the extreme sledding course in the winter. There’s also a fun gift store at Country Boy Mine filled with gems, fun toys, and historic books about the history of mining in Colorado.

3. Go hiking.

All those mountains you ski in the winter? There are trails all over them, and in the summer, it’s one of the best ways to soak in the mountain air, wildflowers, waterfalls, and lakes. Some of the best hikes for families include the Sallie Barber Mine Trail, Blue River Trail, and the Fairy Forest Sawmill Reservoir Trail.

Related: 17 Incredible Fall Hikes You Should Do at Least Once

4. Eat at one of the many restaurants in town.

picture of pizza from tin plate pizza
Kate Loweth

There is no end to the options for dining in Breckenridge. One of our favorite spots is Tin Plate Pizza. Located in an old mining cabin in the historic district, this spot is steeped in history. Home to the town’s gold assayer, Tin Plate is where Colorado’s largest gold nugget, colloquially named “Tom’s Baby,” was cleaned and weighed at 13.5 pounds in 1887. Go for the meatballs to start and then choose from a dozen pizza options like our favorite, the elote pizza that’s topped with corn, roasted poblano peppers and goat cheese.

Downstairs at Eric’s has a great menu, 27 arcade games, and a laid-back vibe. Breckenridge Brewery has fantastic apps for kids (think giant pretzels), a relaxed space, and great beers for the parents. Crepes a la Cart is well worth the wait in line, The Blue Moose is your best bet for breakfasts, and the Kenosha Steak House has one of the best decks in town, cornhole, and room to run.

5. Stay at the Grand Colorado on Peak 8 for the ultimate vacation experience.

picture of the Grand Colorado resort
Gabby Cullen

Whether you’re there to ski or snowboard, or if you prefer the mountain town in the summer months, the Grand Colorado has everything you need, plus more. The resort has multi-bedroom suites with full kitchens, so you can opt to eat in (be sure to grab groceries at the store outside of town, as there aren’t many grocery options in town) your apartment. You can book your stay here. 

The Grand Colorado on Peak 8 has an escape room, lawn games like giant chess, shuffleboard, Nintendo and Wii rentals, two indoor/outdoor pools, splash pads for little kids, an arcade room with everything from air hockey to pinball, a free little library, and five private movie theaters you can reserve at the front desk upon arrival. You’ll see kids having fun everywhere: the lobby, the water zone, and outside. When staying at the Grand Colorado, you’ll have direct access to Peak 8 and the BreckConnect gondola.

If you want to dine at The Grand Colorado at Peak 8, Robbie’s Tavern is perfect for burgers, sandwiches, a fantastic Philly cheesesteak, and other upscale pub fare. It’s also a great spot to watch snow enthusiasts in the winter and the outdoor fun of Epic Discovery in the summer months. Ullr Café is where you’ll find coffee, baked goods (try the sausage roll), and a fun happy hour at the end of the day. 

6. Spend the day at Epic Discovery.

Epic Discovery is the place for summer guests to enjoy ropes courses, panning for gems, a bungee trampoline, a bounce house, an alpine slide, a rock climbing wall, mini golf, and much more. If you aren’t staying near Peak 8, you can ride the gondola from town up to the mountainside for a day of fun. Epic Discovery is open from late June to Labor Day daily from 10:00 am – 5:30 pm, and the BreckConnect gondola is open daily from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.

7. Enjoy the art scene.

a picture of Isak Heartstone, the troll, one of the best things to do in Breckenridge with kids
Kate Loweth

From a downtown full of sculptures to live theater performances, Breckenridge is full of ways to explore the arts. We loved discovering these points of interest along Main Street as well as tracking down the famed Breckenridge Troll in a nearby park. Named Isak Heartstone, this 15-foot tall wooden troll sculpture is located on the Trollstigen Trail next to Illinois Gulch Trailhead. You can walk here from Main Street to check out this massive sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, who is known worldwide for bringing awareness to recycling and upcycling by building great things out of trash.

Another one of the best things to do in Breckenridge with kids is to catch a show at the Riverwalk Center, where live music and other events happen weekly (most are all-ages appropriate!). In August, you can enjoy the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, when dozens of art events are held in parks, on trails, and in cultural venues.

Bonus: you can even explore the area’s public art using the self-guided audio tour.

8. Visit the Mountain Top Explorium.

If you’re looking for a indoor things to do in Breckenridge with kids, then Mountain Top Explorium is the place! Kids will love the Mountain Top Medical Center exhibit, where they can check X-rays, rescue skiers stranded on a slope, review vitals, and be first responders! Another fun pretend play area is the Wonder Lab, where kids can write their names on a glow-in-the-dark board, their shadows, and create a design on a giant Lite Brite.

Other exhibits include the Rocky Mountain Wildlife exhibit, the Tot Spot, and the Kidstruction Zone. They offer a summer day camp and guided astronomy sessions are coming soon.

9. Ride bikes along the Blue River Bikeway.

picture of a girl riding a bike in Breckenridge, CO
Kate Loweth

The Blue River Bikeway runs through the heart of town. The paved path is perfect for families who want to enjoy the mountain views. If you have toddlers or young kids, be aware that part of the path is on an incline, so you might benefit from renting a bike with a seat attachment. Don’t forget to pack lots of snacks and water and stopping at the playground at mile 3 is a must.

All throughout town, you can find ski shops that double as bike rental shops during the warm months like Elevation Cycles. Book a guided tour of the mountain bike trails with Colorado Adventure Guides to increase your skills or try something you’ve never done before. It’s a great way to view the area from a different vantage point and explore as a family.

Keep in mind that Breckenridge’s elevation can hit you hard when you arrive. Be sure to hydrate for a few days before you arrive, as well as while you are in Breckenridge. And, reapply sunscreen when you are out and about.

 

—with additional reporting by Kate Loweth

This trip was paid for by Grand Colorado, but all opinions here belong to the writer. 

 

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19 Small Beach Towns That Are Big on Charm

by Melissa Heckscher

These sweet spots offer plenty of sun, sand, and surf without the extra crowds

Looking for a beach vacation where finding a spot on the sand won’t be a land rush? Look no further! These are our favorite beach towns in America that are big on charm but not so big on crowds. So pack up the swimsuits, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and head for one of these 20 beaches that are packed with family-friendly fun without being so, well, packed!

 

East Coast Beach Towns

Assateague Island, MD

Located on a 37-mile stretch of preserved sandy wilderness, this barrier island off the Maryland and Virginia coastline is a little piece of equine heaven. Legend has it, the wild horses that populate the shores and marshes here arrived via shipwreck hundreds of years ago. Today, the island is home to nearly 200 horses (about 75 on the Maryland side and 100 on the Virginia side). Visitors can spot them while enjoying one of the island’s other activities, including kayaking, bird-watching, dolphin-watching, fishing, hunting, crab & clam-catching, and camping (you can pitch a tent right on the sand where the horses roam!). Or, take a dedicated Saltwater Boat Tour to ensure you spot a pony or two on your visit.

If you want more of a beach town vibe, head to Chincoteague, a small and bustling town located on the Virginia side of the island, where you’ll find quaint ice cream shops, mini golf courses, uncrowded beaches, and bustling shops.

Find out more: nps.gov/asis

 

Lubec, ME

The easternmost town in the continental United States, Lubec Maine has been called the “best alternative to Cape Cod” for travelers looking for a quaint (yet remote) beach town. And while getting there may be a trek (it’s just across the border from Canada and about 2 1/2 hours from the Bangor, ME airport), the stark beauty and cozy New England charm of this nearly 240-year-old fishing village will make it all worth it. Take in sweeping coastal views at the iconic Quoddy Head Lighthouse (the actual easternmost point in the country). Then, head for the trails at Quoddy Head State Park, which offers amazing cliffside views of the shoreline. If it’s sandy beaches you want, the 48-acre Mowry Beach Preserve offers fine sand beaches, swimmable water, and clamming at low tide.

Find out more: Visitlubecmaine.com

 

Gloucester, MA

Gloucester is one of the sleepy beach towns on Cape Ann. We suggest heading straight for Wingaersheek Beach, a kid-friendly spot known for low waves. There are lobstering tours, sailing tours, and kayak rentals. The St. Peter’s Fiesta is a five-day festival celebrating the patron saint of fishing—a perfect event for America’s oldest fishing port. If there’s time, be sure to check out the three(!) lighthouses, and the country’s oldest art colony.

Good to know: Starting in June, visitors can park at Stage Fort Park and take the free shuttle to the beaches on the weekends.

Find out more: Gloucester-ma.gov

 

Jamestown, RI

Beavertail Lighthouse and Park is a must-visit in this quaint Rhode Island town, but Mackeral Cove is the hidden gem for family beach days. There are regular lifeguards on duty, a parking lot, and it’s within five minutes of downtown. If you need a break from the beach, there are plenty of other water activities: sailing, fishing, and kayaking. Also, history buffs can wander through historic buildings: the windmill, the house on the rocks, and the firefighter museum before heading over the Newport Bridge for a glimpse of those famous gilded-age summer homes.

Find out more: jamestownrichamber.com

 

Bethany Beach, DE

Bethany Beach is all about family. It boasts a boardwalk just like its more frequented neighbor Rehoboth but with fewer tourist attractions. The one-mile long, 150-foot wide stretch of sand is ideal for little kids and offers all sorts of fun activities: Monday night movies on the beach, Kids Nature Adventure Saturdays, and the summer concert series. Especially sweet is the comfort station near Garfield Parkway. Open 24/7 with spots to change sandy little bottoms, the cool space (read: it has AC) is a welcome retreat from the blazing sun.

Find out more: townofbethanybeach.com

 

West Coast Beach Towns

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Seabrook, WA

“Washington’s Beach Town” sits 70 feet above the shoreline, giving its community of over 450 nestled homes (the majority of which can be rented) stellar views and much to do all within a five-minute walk. There’s a park on the hill and down by the water and a slew of fun activities to be found throughout the town: community fire pits, horseshoes, bocce and volleyball courts, an indoor pool, and definitely a whole lot of bike riding. Shops and restaurants galore also await.

Good to know: For a little day trip, you’ll want to check out Olympic National Park (and it’s some million acres of mountains, coast, and rainforests).

Find out more: seabrookwa.com

 

Westport, WA

Ocean Shores is a popular family vacation spot but Westport flies right under the radar, and it’s worth a visit for the razor-clamming alone (North Cove will be filled with kids and their buckets, trying to snag enough clams for dinner). Boogie boarding is also a blast, and the water is the best north of the marina. Want to take a hike? Strap on your boots and baby backpack and head for the docks. The 2.2-mile pedestrian trail leads to the Grays Harbor Lighthouse and the Maritime Museum, where you’ll get your fill of old salty sea dog tales.

Find out more: westport-graylandchamber.com

 

Manhattan Beach, CA

Located just 25 miles southwest of Downtown Los Angeles, this quaint little beach town is the sort of place that’s popular… but mostly with locals. Not quite touristy, but bursting with California beach charm, the little village is known as much for its fancy foodie spots as it is for its surfing and beach volleyball tournaments. Littles will love walking to the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier to dip their fingers in the touch tanks at the town’s free aquarium, where more than 100 ocean animals are on display. Hungry? Eat like a local by grabbing a bite to eat at The Kettle (it’s open 24 hours!) or order a slice of pizza at the walk-up Manhattan Pizzeria.

Good to know: Want to see a game on the sand? The pro-AVP volleyball league holds its US Open tournament every August. And, it’s free!

Find out more: Downtownmanhattanbeach.com

 

Rodeo Beach, CA

When it’s summer in San Francisco, “Karl the Fog,” as the city’s infamous weather condition is nicknamed, can often turn beach trips into bundled-up affairs. So head over the Golden Gate, take the exit for Rodeo Avenue, and wend your way west to Rodeo Beach, a crescent crown of the Marin Headlands. Less well known than its sandy cousins—San Francisco’s Ocean Beach to the south or Marin’s Stinson Beach to the north—it’s the perfect spot to take in NorCal sun and surf.

Also known as Fort Cronkhite, its World War II military barracks add major character to the setting, while the cove is beloved by local surfers and rarely all that crowded. If the family wants to stretch its legs, hunt for colorful pebbles by the boulder wall, explore the lagoon, or take in the view from the coastal trail above the barracks. Dogs are welcome, too! And dolphin pods have been known to frolic close to shore.

Check out our guide to all there is to do in the Marin Headlands.

Good to know: There’s nothing commercial in the Marin Headlands, so be sure to pack a picnic or get back on Highway 101. Sausalito is just one mile north and great for grub.

Find out more: nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/focr

 

Avila Beach, CA

Not quite as populated as Pismo Beach but sunnier than Cayucos, Avila Beach is a quintessential California beach town. The shallow water and far-out breaks make play easy for the littles, there are BBQs and swing sets right on the beach, and a great Farmer’s Market on Fridays. The kids can head to Harford Pier to watch for whale and sea otters, and you can rent boats and paddle boards. There’s also lodging for every budget: hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.

Check out our guide to what to do in Avila Beach.

Find out more: visitavila.com

 

Southern Beach Towns

Holden Beach, NC

Holden Beach in the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina has small-town charm, but plenty of activities (check out the North Carolina Festival by the Sea) to keep your family busy. You can take the kids crabbing and fishing, and explore the island by foot, by bike, or by kayak or canoe excursion along the Intracoastal Waterway. And, there is plenty of wildlife to spot: dolphins swimming offshore, endangered (and protected) loggerhead turtles making their journey from the nest to the ocean, and ghost crabs that make their way along the beach at night.

Good to know: All of New Brunswick Islands’ beaches are dog-friendly!

Find out more: ncbrunswick.com/holdenbeach

 

Tarpon Springs and Dunedin, FL

You’ll enjoy Greek culture at its best in Tarpon Springs, with its bakeries, shops, shrines, and cathedrals. This is also where you’ll embark on a unique experience: a boat tour that celebrates the “Sponge Capital of the World.” You’ll want to visit Honeymoon Island, a 385-acre secluded natural barrier island off Dunedin. Kids can fish, snorkel, ride bikes, picnic beneath a covered pavilion, hike on nature trails, visit a dog park, and build sand castles. Adventurous families will love the four-mile kayaking trail through the shallow waters full of mangrove forests where mangrove crabs, osprey, and other wildlife can be seen. The trail opens up to St. Joseph Sound into open water and sunshine providing a unique experience you can’t have anywhere else.

Check out our Clearwater guide

Find out more: visitpeteclearwater.com

 

Kure Beach, NC

Instead of heading for the Outer Banks, take a peek at Kure Beach, instead. Ocean Front Park is a hot spot for families, with the pirate ship-themed playground, tot lot, and rain gardens, with access to the dunes. Fort Fisher Recreation Area is the best place to find starfish and other ocean critters and the super popular North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher has a variety of hands-on animal encounters, including feeding lorikeets and touching a stingray.

Good to know: Freddie’s Restaurant is a must-try, family-owned Italian joint known for its pork chops.

Find out more: wilmingtonandbeaches.com/kure-beach

 

Port Aransas, TX

Located on 18 miles of beachfront on Mustang Island, this sleepy island town has plenty of family-friendly activities. You can go birding at one of six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, take the ferry to San Jose Island, a former ranch that is now an uninhabited wildlife preserve, or have a beach day at Mustang Island State Park or at the Padre Island National Seashore. As far as food goes, this fishing and foodie destination has 11 different restaurants that’ll cook up what you catch that very day.

Check out our full review

Find out more: portaransas.org

 

Bay St. Louis, MS

Any community that had to rebuild after Hurricane Katrina is one strong community. That can certainly be said of Bay St. Louis, tucked onto the Gulf of Mexico some 90 miles east of New Orleans and as quaint as they come. When it comes to exploring the town, you’ll find good eats in the Depot District (as well as the Historic Train Depot itself, which is now home to Mardi Gras and folk art museums). Find more art, antiques, souvenir shopping, and the local library over in Old Town. Then follow Main Street right to the beach for all your favorite ways to have fun in the sand (including tossing a Frisbee to your pup as the beach is pet friendly). A bike path also extends for three miles between two piers, making for a fun pier-to-pier walk or ride challenge. When you’ve washed off the sand, check out McDonald Park’s impressive splash pad on Dunbar Ave.

Find out more: baystlouis-ms.gov

 

Midwest/Central Beach Towns

Traverse City, MI

Located on the southern end of Lake Michigan’s Traverse Bay, this thriving beach town is known for its hip food and wine scene as well as its sandy beaches, lush forests, and deep blue waters. Kids will love climbing 284 feet to the top of the sand dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (about 40 minutes outside the city, but totally worth the drive!). Or, stay near town and head to the popular Cinch Park Beach to enjoy the city’s splash pad, sandy beaches, and volleyball courts. Want to head out on the water? You’ll find canoe, kayak, paddleboat and stand-up paddleboard rentals there, too.

Find out more: Traversecity.com

 

Coeur d’Alene, ID

This gorgeous lake town has been a vacation hot spot for celebs including Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Matthew McConaughey,  George Clooney, and Harry Styles. And it’s no wonder: The northwestern Idaho town, located about an hour from the Spokane, WA airport and surrounded by mountains and forests, is both a sophisticated village and an outdoor adventure paradise. Spring and summer offer biking, boating, zip-lining, white water rafting, golfing, swimming, and hiking galore—while the winter ushers in the ski season at the nearby Schweitzer Mountain Resort.  

While the lake has more than 100 miles of shoreline, some of it is rocky (and parts are privately owned). For the best swimming or beachgoing for families, head to Coeur d’Alene’s City Park or Honeysuckle Beach.

Find out more: Coeurdalene.org

 

Park Point, MN

Duluthians know and love Park Point, a skinny shoreline that runs for six miles between Lake Superior and Superior Bay, bordering Wisconsin. Park Point Recreation Area, with grills and volleyball courts, is more popular (and lifeguarded) than other stretches, but with all six miles open to the public, there’s plenty of room to spread out, watch boats pass in the bay, and feel the winds as they dance over the dunes. For visitors, nearby Canal Park has plenty of hotels and restaurants. Be sure to educate the whole family at The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center at the base of Canal Park’s Aerial Lift Bridge, which spans the entrance to Duluth Harbor. The museum is free of charge and is open daily.

Find out more: duluthmn.gov

 

Ogden Dunes, Dune Acres, Porter Beach, and Beverly Shores, IN

The lakefront communities that make up the Indiana Dunes region have as much of a groovy vibe as any other beach town—the only difference being that the stretch of water belongs to Lake Michigan, rather than the Pacific or the Atlantic Ocean. Families can enjoy hiking and birding along the Great Marsh Trail in Beverly Shores, dine al fresco at the lake view picnic area before walking miles of pristine, sandy beaches, or kayak the waters of Lake Michigan.

There are plenty of eats, including pizza made to order off the back of the Rolling Stonebaker, a food truck that can often be found near the entrance of Beverly Shores. There are plenty of public access points to the lake, and if you decide to rent a spot in one of the beachside towns, you’ll have access to private beaches, too.

Find out more: indianadunes.com

Additional reporting by Kate Loweth, Gabby Cullen & Jennifer Massoni Pardini

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8 Easy Ways to Save on a Disney Trip This Year

by Melissa Heckscher

You might not need that Park Hopper pass after all

A Disney vacation may be on the top of many families’ bucket lists: But let’s face it: The “Happiest Place on Earth” is also pretty pricey.  Hold on to your mouse ears! There are a few tips and tricks that might make your Disney family vacation a little easier on your wallet. From taking advantage of “non-peak” days to saving on snacks and merchandise, here are the best ways to save at Disneyland and Disney World.

Disney Parks

Disney Savings Tip 1: Use Gift Cards to Save Money

Retailers like Costco, Best Buy, and Sam’s Club sell Disney gift cards at a discount. Deals vary, but you may be able to buy a $50 gift card for $45. Target’s Red Card gives customers 5% off of all purchases, including gift cards. Although these discounts may seem modest ($18 off a $360 3-day park-hopper at Disneyland, for instance), the saving can add up (that would mean a $72 discount for a family of four).

Be aware that many retailers limit the number of cards you can buy in a single transaction, so it pays to plan and purchase gift cards one at a time as soon as you decide to go to Disney.

Related: The Secret Target Hack That Gives Shoppers a Disney Discount

ShopDisney

Disney Savings Tip 2: Get a Disney Credit Card

Getting a Disney credit card means every dollar you spend will earn you Disney Reward Dollars to spend at Disney World and Disneyland. Cardholders also receive discounts between 10%-20% on merchandise, food, and tours. As a bonus, you can flash your card for access to exclusive photo spots around the park.

 

Melissa Heckscher

 

Disney Savings Tip 3: Buy Merchandise Beforehand

When you’ve got a gaggle of kids begging “Pleeeeeeeaase” for every doll, toy, and knickknack they see at a Disney park, it’s easy to end up with a stroller-full of stuff (and an empty wallet) by day’s end. But you can cut your kid off at the pass! Plan ahead by buying the things your kids will want… before they even know they want them. This merchandise pack from Amazon, for instance, has all the Disney park basics.  Here are some shopping tips to help you save:

  • Check the special offers section at the Disney Store online to save up to 50% on authentic Disney merch. Just visit Shopdisney.com and click on the “Sale” section to find items for way cheaper than you’ll find them in the park.
  • Buy your mouse ears on Etsy! According to DisneyFoodBlog, Disney Minnie ears now cost a whopping $39,99 inside the park! Save yourself the cash and buy your ears beforehand. Etsy has an amazing selection, with everything from sparkly ears to basic black, with prices as low as about $7 per headband.
  • Buy Disney duds at Walmart. From Frozen PJs to Star Wars sweatshirts, Walmart carries a big stock of Disney clothing and merchandise at prices way lower than you’ll find at the parks or the Disney store. Keep in mind: According to KrazyCouponLady, these items are made specifically for Walmart and may be lower quality than what you’d find at official Disney locations (but who cares if you’re only using them for a few park days).
  • Buy Disney costumes from JCPenney. With daily deals that slash prices in half, JCPenney has a wide array of authentic Disney Collection costumes, with most costumes selling for half-off, at $25.
  • If you’re headed for Disney World, go to the Character Warehouse Outlet store first. This is where Disney sends all of its merchandise after its first run—and it’s where you can find prices up to 80% less than what you’d see in the parks! The store sells everything from clothing and high-end Disney purses to toys, dolls, and those light-up bubble wands every Disney-bound toddler wants by night’s end.
  • In a pinch, you can get deliveries from places like Amazon and Target to your hotel. You may be able to find souvenirs for less and get them overnight.

 

Tripper Heckscher

 

Disney Savings Tip 4: Be Smart About Food

Those adorable Disney treats may be irresistible once you’ve got a few hungry little bellies inside any Disney park! Our advice: Pack your actual meals (Disney allows outside food into the park), and leave your spare cash for special treats like the mouse-shaped chocolate popsicles or caramel-covered apples that your kids really want. Note: There are some restrictions on what you can bring into the park, so be sure to review them before you go. Some other tips to save on munchies:

  • Eat breakfast in your room before you leave for the park. If your room has a small refrigerator, you can have a filling breakfast with bagels and spreads, cereal, and fruit. (Don’t forget to bring utensils or snag some from the park)
  • Bring a water bottle, and fill it up for free around the park. If you want to carry a water bottle around, you can get cups of water for free at food and beverage stands, although they tend to be small.
  • Skip the character meals (unless that’s a must for your family). Meals with Disney characters are magical, but not necessary to have a great trip. Stick to quick-service meals instead of sit-down feasts, and you will save a ton while still eating well. Some quick-service meals are large enough to share, especially with young children, so eyeball the portion sizes before ordering too much. If you absolutely must dine with the Disney characters, choose breakfast over lunch or dinner; it’s less expensive, according to this Disney blogger.

Related: All the Disney Recipes You Need to Make Magic at Home

Taylor Gregory/ Unsplash

Disney Savings Tip 5: Buy Your Park Tickets Right

Disney park prices fluctuate throughout the year, with holidays and school vacations usually meaning higher ticket prices. To keep those exorbitant prices at bay, plan your trip accordingly by following these tips:

  • Go off-peak.  Tickets at Disneyland, for instance, range from $104 to $179—depending on what day you choose to book (Spring Break and Winter Break are the most expensive times). If you are flexible about your vacation plans, you can save hundreds of dollars just by booking a trip during September vs. August.
  • Skip the “Park Hopper” pass. It may be tempting to buy a Park Hopper so that you can visit more than one park in a day. However, there is so much to do in each park this isn’t necessary to have a good time, especially if you’re there for more than one day (if you buy a three-day 1-park per day pass, you can alternate which park you want to visit each day).
  • Use (reputable) ticket sellers to get discounts. Pricing fluctuates, but there are discounts to be found through retailers like Get Away Today for Disneyland and Undercover Tourist for Disney World. Remember, if something looks too good to be true it probably is—so make sure you purchase tickets through an authorized retailer (NOT Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or some tantalizing website that looks too good to be true). There may also be discounts for certain groups, including members of the military, Florida residents, Southern California residents, and Disney Vacation Club members. Dig around a little to see if you qualify before buying.
  • Consider an annual pass. For frequent visitors, getting an annual pass may pay for itself. Not only will you get park admission, but you’ll get discounts on food, merchandise, and parking. You’ll also get access to exclusive merchandise and even some freebies. Unfortunately, annual passes no longer cover admission to both Disneyland and Disney World, even at the top tier, so you will need to choose which park you prefer to visit upfront. NOTE: Annual pass sales are currently paused at Disney World—and only the top tier of passes are available at Disneyland—but this may change, so keep checking the website to try to snag a pass. 
Snap/ Disney

 

Disney Savings Tip 6: Consider your Add-Ons Carefully

For some, photos are priceless and the value of a Disney PhotoPass or Memory Maker is well worth the investment. For those who don’t mind cell phone snaps or not being in every picture, it’s a better idea to save your money and spend it on something more meaningful for your family. Similarly, a Genie+ Lightning Lane pass will save you hours in line—but may not be necessary if you’re visiting during off-peak times.

Related: Everything You Need to Know about Disney’s New Genie Service

airbnb

Disney Savings Tip 7: Save on Hotel Rooms

If your Disney trip includes some overnights, you’ll be needing a place to stay. With costs ranging from about $200 to $600+ per night (with some rooms going well above $2,000 per night), your sleepover costs certainly add up. Here are some tips for saving while you slumber:

  • Choose a Disney “Value” hotel if you want to stay on-site. There is no denying staying at an on-site hotel that keeps you in the “Disney Bubble” throughout your trip adds to the magic (and saves you money in parking!). If this is a priority, be sure to look at the budget hotels, including the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, which has cabins as well as campsites that can accommodate tents and RVs. At Disneyland, the Paradise Pier Hotel is a more affordable way to stay on property while not paying premium fees.
  • If you do stay at a Disney hotel, try to make the most of your stay by taking advantage of perks, like adding a discount dining card onto your package if eligible. Disney hotels also offer transportation to the parks, which helps save on parking fees. You can also take advantage of hotels that offer unique experiences, such as views of nightly fireworks.
  • Save money by staying off-site. There are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs close to Disney World and Disneyland (like this Mickey Mouse-themed condo in Kissimmee!). Many guests prefer this option, as these spots have more space and some offer amenities like full kitchens.
  • Stay at a hotel with a free shuttle to the park. Don’t lose the money you saved by staying off-site on parking fees ($30 per day at Disneyland and $25 at Disney World). Instead, choose a hotel that offers free shuttles. These include the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress and the Best Western Orlando Gateway—or the Sheraton Park Hotel and the Desert Inn and Suites near Disneyland.

Related: If You’re Going to Disney World, a Good Neighbor Hotel is a Lifesaver

David Roark, Walt Disney World Resort

 

Disney Savings Tip 8: Plan for “Free” Time

Got a few days to spare? You can have a magical Disney vacation without spending every day in the parks. This can help you save a bundle. Check out free and low-cost activities near Disney World and Disneyland. Disney Springs in Orlando is run by Disney and is free to visit. While there are no rides, just walking around keeps you in the Disney bubble without paying for an additional day of park admission. In Anaheim, take a beach day for an inexpensive change of pace without losing those vacation vibes. You can also plan on spending a day just relaxing by the hotel pool in either location.

Related: Things to Do With Kids in Orange County

Pro Tip: Want a free ride without stepping foot into a Disney park? According to Parksavers.com, neither the Disney Monorail nor the Disney Skyliner (the massive aerial gondola that zips between hotels) requires a ticket to ride! Both offer a birds-eye view and enough of a thrill to keep kids giggling and grown-ups hanging on tight. If you time it right, you can even be on board when the Epcot fireworks go off!

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Everything You Need to Know about Skiing in Mammoth Lakes, CA with Kids

by Andie Huber

In honor of Mammoth’s record-breaking snowfall, your guide to skiing Mammoth—from which lodge is best, what to do if you don’t ski, where to stay in Mammoth with kids, and where to eat is here—plus insider hacks to make your ski experience the best one ever

“With 28-30” of snow since yesterday afternoon, we just blew through our all-time season snowfall record of 668”. We’ve received 695” of snowfall to date at Main Lodge, making the 22/23 season the biggest in our history!

To our employees, to this community, to all of you who have battled the elements this season – YOU are the stuff of legends. Thank you, thank you, thank you. 💪🏽 It’s going to be a legendary spring up here and we’ll be open daily through at least July!”

– Mammoth Mountain

Mammoth Lakes, which sits at close to 8,000 feet (if you’re keeping track that’s about 1,600 feet higher than Lake Tahoe), typically has a long ski season but thanks to a record-breaking snowfall this year, Mammoth is slated to stay open for skiing at least through July and quite possibly, as late as August. If you were waiting for a sign to finally get your family up on skis or snowboarding, now’s the time to take advantage of the best (and brag-worthy) conditions. And, as we approach spring, the mountain just gets better and better—more sun, less wind, means less layers.

From world-class ski schools, après ski experiences catered just for kids, a multitude of activities off the slope, and a variety of lodging options to suit your family, Mammoth is a world-class destination that is, lucky for California families, within easy reach.

Whether your family is new to skiing, could use a lesson or two, here are the best places to learn how to ski in Mammoth, what else there is to do off the slopes with toddlers and big kids, which nearby restaurants are kid-friendly, and of course, and which cozy hotels are best for a snow-based adventure everyone will enjoy.

Mammoth is kid-friendly and isn’t the sleepy little town you remember (there are loads of hotel and restaurant options galore—and for foodies, the Voltaggio brothers just opened Vulcania in the Village last year). Add to that a straightforward drive you can handle (it’s about a two-movie drive, with a break in between for a potty break!), or a quick flight, it should become your new winter and springtime tradition.

Everything You Need to Know about Skiing in Mammoth—Especially for Beginners & First Time Skiers

Like we said before, spring in Mammoth means mild conditions, a sunny après scene and the chance to take advantage of the season’s massive snow fall. The mountain itself is large and spread out, offering loads of options for every type of snow play.

Good to Know: On the mountain, there are three lodges: Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, and Eagle Lodge, which means that even on busy days, the crowds disperse throughout the mountain so you never feel claustrophobic on the slopes. There are free shuttle buses between all three lodges, if you want to hit all the parts of the mountain, but for first timers, we recommend choosing one of the lodges for the day (more on which one we recommend below) and committing to the one spot for ease—especially with little ones.

If You Want Your Kids to Take Lessons at Mammoth: Mammoth Ski and Snowboard School is a stellar program, with patient pros who help the little ones become future shredders—they also offer adaptive lessons so those that may have a disability can still enjoy the rush and excitement of heading down the mountain. Kids group lessons start at three-years old and continue up through adult. Lessons are available at all three lodges.

Good to Know about Skiing with Kids

  • Kids 4 and under ski free at Mammoth Mountain with beginner slopes that are wide and groomed—ideal for beginners (no matter their age). All skiers/riders need a valid ticket to load the chairlifts and gondola, so visit a ticket window and show proof of age to get your little ones a free single or multi-day ticket.
  • A fantastic family-friendly option is to purchase the Beginner Ticket (available for purchase at a ticket window) and offers lift access to beginner chairlifts at Canyon Lodge (7 and 17), Main Lodge (chairlift 11), and  Eagle Lodge (chairlift 15)  (as opposed to the entire mountain of lifts) for a discounted rate.

Next-Level Ski Hack: Let’s be honest, getting fit for skis and gear can kind of be annoying—let alone carrying all that gear around from spot to spot. To the rescue? Ski Butlers—an incredibly personal service for ski and snowboarding equipment. Instead of dealing with lines at the ski rental spots around town or in the lodges (and delaying your time on the mountain), Ski Butlers will bring gear to your accommodations—boots, helmets, skis, poles, snowboards, goggles—everything you need for the slopes. Just provide them your stats (height, weight, etc…) and they’ll fit and adjust your gear on-the-spot. They’ll even pick up your gear too so you don’t even need to worry about returning it. Of course, renting gear the old-fashioned way absolutely works as well—and the friendly staff on the mountains will get you the gear you need as quickly as possible.

Good to Know: Another fantastic ski hack? Rather than carry your gear to and from the mountain, you can store your gear slopeside in lockers you can rent. For families, this is a godsend. Private lockers are available at Main and Canyon Lodge.

Related: 10 Skiing Hacks to Memorize Before Hitting the Slopes

Which Mammoth Lodge Is Best for Your Family?

Canyon Lodge: For beginner skiers and first-timers to the mountain who are looking for the quickest and easiest access to the slopes, we recommend Canyon Lodge. From the Village (even more convenient if you stay here), you take the gondola up to Canyon Lodge where you are delivered to the base and have access to two beginner chairlifts. These runs are relatively short compared to Eagle Lodge’s beginner runs but the terrain varies and the crowds (at least when we were there) remained minimal throughout the day compared to the other lodges.

Good to Know: There is also infant care (newborn-23 months) just steps away from the Canyon Lodge gondola with half and full day options.

Eagle Lodge: For skiers and snowboarders that are looking to progress their skills from green to blue, head to Eagle Lodge. Not only does it have the longest green runs on the mountain, there’s also Eagle Playground, that, according to Mammoth, helps burgeoning shredders “gain confidence on freestyle terrain,” and include features like, “gentle rollers, small snow spines, mini-boxes, and jumps that get bigger and longer as you shred through the park.”

Good to Know: Because there is only one beginner ski lift at Eagle Lodge, it can get more crowded.

Main Lodge: The busiest of the ski areas, in addition to some green runs, beginners can also access Woolly’s Woods and Disco Playground—beginner terrain parks and special featured fun zones for kids looking to work on some new skills. Head to this lodge if you are also planning to take the scenic Panorama Gondola up to the top—dropping you off at 11,053 feet and where you can eat at Eleven53 Cafe and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you have a lift ticket, you can access the gondola for free. Otherwise, up to 2 kids (ages 12 & under) ride free with each paying adult.

If You Think You’re Going to Ski More Regularly: Right now, if you purchase the 2023/24 Ikon Pass, you can take advantage of the Buy Now, Ride Now Deal—meaning you can use your pass this season at Mammoth (ahem, this season, that will most likely, last until August) and other ski and snowboard destinations.

What to Do in Mammoth with Kids Who Don’t Ski or Snowboard (Or if You Don’t Want to Ski Every Day)

fun things to do in mammoth
Andie Huber

1. Go Snowshoeing or Cross Country Skiing in Mammoth

Take the free, orange bus line to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center (it’s only 10 minutes from the Village) for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. There are 19 miles of trails to explore with rentals, lessons, and guided tours available. Trails are dog-friendly and fairly flat so if you have a child who can trek it, this is a good spot for a beginner snowshoer.

2. Go Snow Tubing in Mammoth

Bomb down the slick snow lanes at Woolly’s Tube Park for a thrilling good time. For those 42” and smaller who aren’t yet tall enough to enjoy the ride, Woolly’s has a fun snow park area and heated deck serving up hot cocoa and adult beverages. Access to the snow park is easy—simply take the (free) red bus line here and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance. Woolly’s Tube Park will be open through mid-April.

3. Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl

Take the free red bus line or the town’s trolley (in the evening) to Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl for a laid-back evening of bowling and eats from pizza to salads to poutine and tacos. Sit at a booth or have your food delivered to your bowling lane. You’ll also find a full bar and arcade, as well as a more upscale Brasserie upstairs for a date night-style dining experience.

Where to Eat in Mammoth with Kids

From fine dining to grab-and-go eats, Mammoth’s dining options are much more diverse than you’d expect from such a small town. Most spots have high chairs and kids menu (or dishes pleasing to a kiddo palate) at the ready, lots have table-side crayons and all won’t bat an eyelash if you walk in at prime dinner hour with a gaggle of children. Expect a warm welcome from restaurants eager to serve families—although like any restaurant, if you want to minimize your wait time for food, avoid the 6:30-7:30 p.m. dining hours. Below are our favorite family-friendly places to eat in Mammoth:

Best Places for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in Mammoth

best places to eat in Mammoth, CA
Andie Huber

1. Old New York Deli

One of our favorite spots in the Village is Old New York Deli—and, judging by the packed house we aren’t the only fans of this classic bagel spot. From sandwiches to traditional bagels and cream cheese to baked goods galore, Old New York Deli is a prime spot to fuel up before a day of adventuring.

6201 Minaret Rd. #105
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: oldnewyork.com

2. Gomez Restaurant

Nosh on burritos, sizzling fajita plates and delicious enchiladas at this welcoming Mexican restaurant in the Village. Portions are incredibly generous and for those 21+ Gomez offers up 600+ different types of tequila and is home to the “Mammoth Margarita.”

100 Canyon Blvd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: gomezs.com

3. Burgers Restaurant

The name of this restaurant sums up its specialty: burgers! Across the street from the Village, Burgers dishes out generous portions of their comfort food. Not into the traditional burger? You’ll also find a variety of equally filling eats like veggie burgers, buffalo burgers, pork baby back ribs and more.

6118 Minaret Rd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: burgersrestaurant.com

4. Mammoth Brewing Company

A short walk from the Village, this comfort food dining spot also crafts its own beers since 1995. Burgers and waffle fries rule the menu but you’ll also find flatbreads and tacos to please a variety of cravings.

18 Lake Mary Rd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: mammothbrewingco.com

5. Sidedoor

Located conveniently next to the Canyon gondola, this wine shop inside a cafe (or is a cafe that features a wine shop?) offers hearty breakfast options (eggs, bacon, and potatoes FTW before a big day of skiing, along with doughnuts, crepes filled with Nutella for the kids. They also have an online order-ahead system so you can beat the lines.

100 Canyon Blvd. #229
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: sidedoormammoth.com

6. Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company

If you need your coffee (and a baked good or two), head to this newcomer coffee spot. Expect delicious coffee and amazing pastries and donuts at its new storefront in the heart of downtown Mammoth Lakes.

436 Old Mammoth Rd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Online: mammothcoffeeroastingco.com

7. Toomey’s

Delicious food and a laid-back atmosphere makes Toomey’s an ideal spot to grab lunch or dinner. Located in the Village, you’ll find dishes like their coconut mascarpone pancakes, fish tacos and a kids menu that includes chicken fingers, mini burger and fries and more.

6085 Minaret Rd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Online: toomeysmammoth.com

On-Mountain Dining in Mammoth

There are 19 dining options on the mountain in Mammoth. As with any mountain resort, times will get busiest during lunch so plan accordingly.

Good to Know: You can skip the lines and order ahead online from select locations on and off the mountain via the Mammoth App (this must-download app also offers real-time alerts, weather reports, lift tickets, tracking for you and your friends, and more.)

Where to Stay in Mammoth with Kids

Condos and hotels abound in Mammoth Lakes, and with the town’s free public bus system you really can’t go wrong with your accommodation choice. Still, traveling with kids means convenience—and proximity to shops, dining and activities—can mean the difference between a happy tear-free afternoon and an epic toddler meltdown. Here are family-friendly places to stay in Mammoth:

1. Westin Monache Resort Mammoth

Best for: Great views, hot tubs, swimming pool, and easy access to Canyon Lodge

Located in the Village, Westin Monache Resort Mammoth boasts mountain views from every room. Each room is equipped with a kitchenette, a small fridge,  and a microwave. From the hotel, just walk down the steps to the gondola and get whisked up to Canyon Lodge. The Westin offers a ski valet so you don’t have to schlep your ski equipment back and forth every night. Like The Village Lodge Mammoth, the Westin offers a free shuttle bus service, which is built into the resort fee cost.

Good to Know: Not only are all the bus lines and evening trollies just steps outside of the Westin, if  you’re staying at the Westin, they also offer a free shuttle service around town, including to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. Just give them a call when you’re ready to get picked up.

Online: westin-monache-resort-mammoth.mammoth-lakes-hotels.com

2. The Village Lodge Mammoth

Best for: Ultimate convenience to shops and dining

For accommodations that feel more like home book a condo at The Village Lodge Mammoth. Options range from studio condos to three-bedroom deluxe condos. Condos come equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes stocked with coffee, tea, pots, pans, dishware, a full-size fridge, stove and more, which is a huge perk if you want to whip up food for your child or store leftovers. A swimming pool is open daily (even in winter!) with cribs available upon request.

The Village Lodge also offers a free shuttle service anywhere within a 5-mile radius in Mammoth and you’re steps from dining, shopping, most of the major bus lines and the Canyon Village gondola. For those kiddos obsessed with things that go, ask for a room that looks out to the gondola—your child will love watching them come and go all day long.

Online: thevillagelodgemammoth.com

3. Mammoth Mountain Inn

Best for: Ski-in-and-skin-out

If being slope-side is your jam, stay at Mammoth Mountain Inn. Located just a few steps from the lifts at the Main Lodge, this spot offers both hotel-style rooms and condos, with the latter featuring kitchenettes. Nearby you’ll find the Yoddler Restaurant and Bar, Sierra General Store and Mountainside Bar and Grill. Because the Inn is slope-side, this area does get a bit quieter once the lifts close and the après crowds have dispersed.

Online: themammothmountaininn.com

What to Do with Babies & Toddlers in Mammoth

If your kids are too young for ski school or you have babe you’re not ready to hand over to the slope-side childcare, here are the best things to do with young kids in Mammoth:

1. Ride the Canyon Gondola

Bonus: It’s free and if it’s not crowded, you can easily wheel your stroller on and off it for an easy ride. How long is the scenic gondola ride? It’s about 10-15 minutes each way so the adventure can take as little as 30 minutes if you want to just go up and back down again. But we recommend staying at the top and exploring around and take in the stunning views before heading back to the base.

2. Ride Mammoth’s Free Buses

Mammoth is only four miles across, which means you won’t be lost for hours on the different routes. Bonus: This is also free and we found makes for great white noise if you have a baby who loves naps in the front pack.

3. Walk around the Village

Peruse Mammoth gear and locally-sourced products (a favorite is Busy Beez General Store) , load up on coffee at Vida Coffee, chocolate at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, discover new toys at Trendy Tots, or grab a happy hour drink at one of the many kid- and dog-friendly patios (see above on great places to eat). The area is all paved and perfect for a leisurely stroller walk. Make sure to check out all the shops, dining options and events happening at the Village at Mammoth.

Good to Know: If you’re looking for a place to hang out slope-side, the area at Main Lodge behind Broadway Marketplace is emptier than most and is frequently used as a base camp for other families whose parents are trading off hitting the slopes.

4. Look Out for Woolly in the Village

You might catch him on the slopes or in one of the lodges handing out high-fives and hugs to his pint-sized fans. Also check Mammoth’s events calendar for more happenings.

How to Get to Mammoth

How to Get to Mammoth from Los Angeles

Want to leave LA and be on the slopes in Mammoth in under 2.5 hours flat? Then Advanced Air will get you there. Advanced Air offers regional service to and from Burbank (BUR), Hawthorne (HHR) and Carlsbad (CLD) airports now through April 17. With Advanced Air, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a private air travel experience at a commercial airline cost with benefits such as private terminals and skipping security lines. Plus you can bring your well-behaved dog with you.

There are also daily flights from LAX that operate year-round and will deliver you to Mammoth from LAX. Of course, flying is optional—and you can absolutely drive to Mammoth from Los Angeles. If you opt to drive, it’s around 5 hours from DTLA (without traffic of course). For the full list of available flights, check out visitmammoth.com.

How to Get to Mammoth from the Bay Area

Families who flock to Tahoe know the headaches associated with I-80 traffic, especially when chain control is in effect. Flying from SFO to Mammoth? The flight time is a cool 35 minutes. If you decide to drive to Mammoth, it’s about 5-6 hours from the Bay Area.

Unlike some ski towns you might have visited, there isn’t just one central lodge or downtown area. Mammoth is fairly spread out in the sense that there is the Village, Main Lodge, Old Mammoth and Main St. The free buses or your hotel’s shuttle will get you anywhere you need to go. And, the fact that it’s a bit more spread out means areas won’t be jam-packed and overwhelming for the littles.

The Best Time to Go to Mammoth with Kids

There is never a bad time to visit Mammoth but if you want to introduce your kids to skiing, then springtime, according to the experts, is by far the best time to go. The weather is warmer, the sun is shining and it’s not as windy as it can be during the winter months—no frozen fingers and toes to slow your brood down.

Our Editor’s Cheat Sheet for a First-Timers Weekend Trip to Mammoth & Having Smoothest Ski Vacation Ever:

  1. Fly into Mammoth (the flight is less than an hour).
  2. Stay at The Westin (amazing location close to the Village & Canyon Lodge for awesome beginner trails, après ski hot tubs, and nearby dining).
  3. Download the Mammoth App (best planning tool and up-to-the-minute information)
  4. Use Ski Butlers to rent your gear (delivered and picked-up from your room).
  5. For a non-ski day, go snowshoeing at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center for an epic winter hike.
  6. Don’t forget the sunblock! Bluebird days (sunny, cloudless days) means you’re that much closer to the sun—and it will show.

To learn more about Mammoth and everything this skiing destination has to offer Visit Mammoth.

This trip was paid for by Mammoth Lakes Tourism and Mammoth Mountain but all opinions expressed belong to the writer.

 

 

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Fall Day Trips from NYC That You Still Have Time to Take

by Cheryl de Jong-Lambert

It’s not too late to enjoy the final weeks of fall at one of these day-trip destinations right outside of New York City

Fall snuck up on you? Us too. No worries. You can still get away from NYC for a day before the last leaves hit the ground. Whether you and your kids want to enjoy a scenic hike, snuggle farm animals, or get a dose of American history, there’s plenty of doable destinations to offer up what you’re looking for. Bonus: each of these amazing spots is just a short car or train ride away from the city, so no need to pack an overnight bag (unless, that is, you want to). Grab the family and get out of town with one of these easy fall day trips from NYC!

Related: Fall Activities You Won’t Want to Miss If You Live in New York

Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park: Highland and Poughkeepsie

Enjoy the fall foliage from a bird's eye view by crossing the Walkway Over the Hudson, a remodeled railroad track (think The Highline, but over water!). The bridge connects Highland and Poughkeepsie and towers over the Hudson at 212 feet high and 1.28 miles long, which makes it the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. For an even more spectacular view, take the glass elevator to the Poughkeepsie waterfront to check out Upper Landing Park and the Wayrias Park Promenade, which runs along the river's edge. Once you're done taking in the sights, make a day out of it by exploring the many family-friendly attractions located at either end of the walkway. The area offers a bustling but quaint environment, with trails and parks, historic districts, hamlets, shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a children's museum—all reachable by bike or on foot.

Getting there: Take MetroNorth to Poughkeepsie then walk .75 miles to the Walkway entrance. Or drive about an hour and a half up either side of the Hudson River; take Route 9 to the Poughkeepsie (eastern) side, or 9W to the Highland (western) side.

61 Parker Ave.
Poughkeepsie, NY
Online: walkway.org

Storm King Art Center: Hudson Valley

The Hudson River valley is renowned for having inspired a generation of landscape artists known as the Hudson River School. Building on that tradition is the Storm King Art Center, which brings art down from the wall or shelf and places it right in front of you—in the form of large contemporary sculptures staged in the middle of a field, nestled in a copse of trees, situated atop a mountain, or perched near the water's edge. At more than 500 acres, this open-air museum features one of the largest collections of outdoor sculpture in the U.S. Walk or rent bikes (you can't bring your own) and meander along a network of trails to see sculptures up close and personal, and often towering over you. You can also hop a tram at designated points to reach further-afield areas of the park. Bring a picnic or pick up a box lunch at the Storm King Cafe. Note: Storm King Art Center is closed on Tuesdays.

For more fun: Visit the nearby namesake mountain—Storm King State Park—where Thomas Cole, a founder of the Hudson River School, found many breathtaking vistas to paint! The 2.5-mile loop that leads up to the 1,340-foot peak is well maintained but rocky and moderately difficult in stretches.

Getting there: Storm King Art Center is about an hour's drive north of New York City. Coach USA also runs buses from Port Authority.

1 Museum Rd.
New Windsor, NY
Online: stormking.org

High Point State Park: Kittatinny Mountains

To see fall foliage from not one, or two, but three different states, visit High Point State Park, which boasts the highest elevation in New Jersey. The park offers more than 50 miles of relatively easy trails along with manicured lands designed by the sons of Frederick Law Olmstead of Central Park fame. In addition to the Kittatinny Mountains, the park's centerpiece is the 20-acre Marcia Lake, which is closed for swimming after Labor Day but still a lovely place to stroll along, and its pinnacle is the 220-foot High Point Monument, a stair-filled obelisk similar to the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. Opened in 1930 and dedicated to all war veterans, it offers panoramic views of the Poconos to the west, the Catskills to the north, and the Wallkill River Valley to the southeast.

For more fun: Take in a bit of Bavaria on your foray into northwest Jersey, and visit the quaint Lake Mohawk business district, about a 30-minute drive from High Point. The Tudor-style lakefront village is fringed with tall evergreens and features mountain views as a backdrop. Stroll the small boardwalk to a playground, then double back to Krogh's Restaurant and Brew Pub for hearty American fare and a good selection of fresh beers on tap.

Getting there: If you like winding country roads, then getting to High Point will be half the fun. Route 23 winds through wooded hills and farmland before arriving at the park's entrance, a trip that's less than 90 minutes from New York City.

1480 NJ-23
Sussex, NJ
Online: nj.gov

Related: Where to Go Pumpkin Picking With Your Family This Season

The Franklin D Roosevelt Library and Museum: Hyde Park

A good option for history buffs and families with older kids, Hyde Park is home to the estate of one of the country's great leaders, FDR. In addition to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, you can explore other historic locations, like Eleanor Roosevelt's private house, and the Top Cottage, where FDR used to retreat for some peace away from "the mob." Take a break for lunch at Uncle Sam's Canteen, and explore the rest of the preserved history of Hyde Park before hopping back onto the free shuttle at 5 p.m., which will take you straight back to the train station. The train ride will take you a little more than two hours each way, but it's well worth the educational experience it provides.

Getting there: To leave the driving to someone else, take the Metro-North train to Poughkeepsie, and get a car service to the museum. (Budget about two hours for the trip.) Here's how to get there using mass transit once you arrive in Poughkeepsie. 

4097 Albany Post Rd. 
Hyde Park, NY 
Online: nps.gov

Bethpage Bikeway: Massapequa and Woodbury

The Bethpage Bikeway is one Long Island's most popular trails, and it's easy to see why. The trail leads bikers and hikers 12.5 miles between Massapequa and Woodbury, taking visitors through some scenic routes on a smooth ride. The trail takes you from a shady wetland area in the Massapequa Park Preserve, to the Bethpage State Park, which has some trails of its own to navigate. They lead through a nice range of scenery, from the wooded and marshy, to the delightfully suburban. Most of the path is paved with a few busy but safe intersections, making this an easy bike ride for the family. We recommend bringing along a picnic to enjoy.

Getting there: Take the Babylon-bound LIRR to Massapequa Station, or drive down Route 135 to the Bethpage State Park exit and enter where you see signs for the picnic grounds.

Manetto Hill Rd. and Woodbury Rd
Woodbury, NY

Merrick Rd. and Ocean Ave.
Massapequa, NY
Online: traillink.com

Catskill Animal Sanctuary: Saugerties

Located two hours from the city is the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, which provides a compassionate and loving home for animals taken from bad environments, such as from hoarders or abusive or neglectful owners. Between 250 and 350 animals can be found at the sanctuary at any given time, making it a joy to explore. To visit the 148-acre sanctuary, you must take an organized tour (held on weekends from April through November), but throughout the tour, visitors can wander the grounds and interact freely with all the farm animals who make the space their home. It's worth noting that the sanctuary also has a mission to educate visitors about living a vegan lifestyle by introducing people to the animals they eat and providing free vegan snacks after each tour.

Getting there: Take the NY Trailways bus from Port Authority to the Kingston, NY stop—from here, it's a 10-minute cab ride. Alternatively, take the Amtrak train to Rhinecliff, NY, and grab a 20-minute car service. The website has detailed instructions on getting there by car. Keep an eye out for special tour dates, in which some include a bus ride straight from the city to the sanctuary.

316 Old State Rd. 
Saugerties, NY 
Online: casanctuary.org

Related: Ear You Go! Amazing Corn Mazes near NYC

Kaaterskill Falls: Catskill Mountains

A visit to the Kaaterskill Falls leaves the family with some amazing memories—and even more amazing photos. This 1.7-mile hike is steep but easy and short enough for the kids to manage, making it an extremely popular attraction for families and hikers. Kaaterskill is the highest waterfall in New York State, and consists of a two-tiered cascade. The first tier of the falls forms an impressive basin called the Amphitheater, which, according to legend, is where Rip Van Winkle took his fateful nap. Although the hike is relatively easy, the rocks do get slippery, so be watchful of the kids and keep away from the trail's edges. Luckily, the trail received upgrades a few years ago with better safety features, so as long as you stay on the trail and don't go beyond the yellow trail end marker, you're sure to have an enjoyable hike. (There have been several injuries and even deaths when people have deviated from the trail and ignored safety regulations.) 

For an easier trek, you can view the equally beautiful Bastion Falls, located right at the foot of the Kaaterskill Falls. If you complete the trip quicker than you expected, you can make a side trip to the town of Woodstock, a nearby quaint little locale with little shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Visit on a Saturday or Sunday for the Mower's Flea Market, an eclectic collection of items and sellers that's well worth the detour.

Getting there: Take Interstate 87 to the very winding Route 23A West. Drop off passengers when you see the well-marked trailhead behind a guardrail; the parking lot is about 50 yards up the road.

Route 23A
Catskills, NY
Online: greatnortherncatskills.com

Palisades' State Line Lookout: Alpine

There are many reasons to visit the Palisades in NJ, from the amazing views to the awesome picnic areas set up throughout the parks that line the rocky outcrops. But nature and bird lovers will want to visit in the fall for an incredible experience: hawk watching at the State Line Lookout. From September through November, the spot draws volunteer birdwatchers for the Hawk Watch, a census of the hawks and other raptors who pass through the area on their fall migration. Visitors are welcome to join in—for the chance to see the most birds, visit in the day or two following a cold front. Make sure to bring binoculars, and to really make a day of it, pack food for a picnic and some comfortable walking shoes: the State Line Lookout has a number of hiking trails for any level of experience, including a few walks that the kids will be able to take part in.

Getting there: By car, take the first exit off the upper level of the George Washington Bridge, onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway northbound. From there, continue until you see the exit for State Line Lookout. You can also take the 9W bus up, but be warned that busses don't stop directly in front of the location and will leave you to make a 45-minute walk uphill towards the State Line Lookout, so we don't recommend it with young children.

State Line Lookout and Palisades Interstate Pkwy.
Alpine, NJ
Online: njpalisades.org

 

 

 

 

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San Diego’s Best Free Summer Concerts for Families

by Beth Shea

Jam with the fam with the return of San Diego’s summer concert scene. There are tons of FREE outdoor family-friendly music fests where you can boogie down all over town. Let the kids stay up late and enjoy a sunset picnic while music fills the open air. Read on for our guide to concerts in your neighborhood and create new summertime rituals with the entire family.

NORTH COUNTY COASTAL

Community Dancing at Free Concerts in the Park San Diego

CARLSBAD: TGIF Concerts in the Park
This popular series is held in four local parks, so there’s always something new to check out.

WHEN: June 24; July 1, 8, 15 & 22, 29; Aug. 5, 12 & 19 from 6-8pm. Free.

Stagecoach Park
Poinsettia Park
Calavera Hills Park
Alga Norte Park

Online: carlsbadca.gov

DEL MAR: Summer Twilight Concerts
Enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach with some amazing tunes by the ocean.

WHEN: June 28, July 19, and Aug. 23 at 6 pm and 7 pm. Free.

Powerhouse Park
1658 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 92014
Online: delmarfoundation.org

ENCINITAS: Summer Concerts by the Sea
Rock out right on the beach with classic cover bands, country, alternative rock and rockabilly.

WHEN: Sundays on July 10, 24; Aug. 7 & 21 from 3-5 pm. Free.

Moonlight Beach
400 B St., Encinitas, 92024
Online: seecalifornia.com

ENCINITAS: Switchfoot Bro-Am
The Annual Switchfoot Bro-Am is the ultimate family-friendly music beach party. Check out an awesome surf competition and free concerts on the sand while raising money for local community and youth programs supporting music in schools and fighting hunger.

WHEN: June 18 from 7 am-5 pm. Free.

Moonlight Beach
400 B St., Encinitas, 92024
Online: broam.org

LEUCADIA: Summer Fun on the 101
This fun, free music festival features multiple live bands for a day of celebrating music and musicians.

WHEN: July 9 from 12-7:30 pm. Free.

Leucadia Roadside Park
860 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Online: leucadia101.com

SOLANA BEACH: Concerts at the Cove
Head down to the beach and catch an evening concert by the ocean.

WHEN: Thursday evenings from June 23 – Aug. 25 at 6 pm.

Fletcher Cove Park
111 S. Sierra Ave., Solana Beach
Online: ci.solana-beach.ca.us

 

photo: San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

NORTH COUNTY INLAND

ESCONDIDO: San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Attend a Summer Serenade this year full of live music, food trucks, kids crafts, beer & wine and more.

WHEN: July 9 and Aug. 13 from 5-7:30 pm. Cost: $10/members; $15/non-members. Registration required.

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
320 N Broadway, Escondido, 92025
Online: sdcdm.org

POWAY: Summer Concert Series
All you need is love, a picnic (or cash for the food trucks) and chairs to enjoy Sunday concerts in Poway. Concerts at held at two different parks.

WHEN: June 26, July 10, 17, 24, 31; Aug. 7 & 14 from 5:30-7pm

Lake Poway
14644 Lake Poway Rd., Poway

Old Poway Park
14134 Midland Rd., Poway

Online: poway.org

SCRIPPS RANCH: Symphony in the Park
Rock through the summer with these concerts in Scripps Ranch.

WHEN: July 10 & Aug. 14 from 6-7:30 pm

Hoyt Park
Scripps Ranch Blvd. + Aviary Dr., San Diego, 92131
Online: symphonyinthepark.org

CENTRAL SAN DIEGO

ALLIED GARDENS: First Friday Concerts
This series has become increasingly popular with residents each year as a wonderful way to connect with the community.

WHEN: 1st Friday each month from June-October from 6-8pm. Free.

Allied Gardens Community Park
5155 Greenbrier Ave., San Diego, CA 92120
Online: facebook.com

BALBOA PARK: Spreckels Organ Pavilion
Every local has to attend this iconic organ concert at least once.

WHEN: every Sunday at 2pm and Monday at 7:30pm from May-August. Free.

Spreckels Organ Pavilion
2125 Pan American Rd. E., Balboa Park
Online: balboapark.org

POINT LOMA/LIBERTY STATION: Subaru's Great Big Family Play Day
Join us for this once a year family FUN day filled with live music, entertainment, activities and family memories! Frequently referred to as “Coachella for Kids”, this event is the family music festival you won't want to miss! Tickets are now on pre-sale at discounted prices!

WHEN: June 26 from 10am-4pm

Liberty Station at Ingram Plaza
2751 Dewey Rd., Point Loma, 92106
Online: greatbigfamilyplayday.com

MISSION HILLS: Summer Concerts in the Park
Bring your picnic baskets and catch up with friends at this neighborhood park.

WHEN: June 17, 24; July 4 (at 12pm), 8, 15, 22, 29; Aug. 5 & 12 at 6pm. Free.

Pioneer Park
1521 Washington Pl., San Diego, 92103
Online: missionhillstowncouncil.org

POINT LOMA: Summer Concerts
This popular venue boasts different local restaurants selling food each week and of course great music.

WHEN: July 15, 22, 29; Aug. 5 & 12 from 5:30-8:30pm. Free.

Point Loma Park
1049 Catalina Blvd., Point Loma, 92107
Online: pointlomasummerconcerts.org

SEAPORT VILLAGE
This is one of the longest running music series of the summer held at both the Carousel District stage and the Lighthouse District stage.

WHEN: every Saturday and Sunday from 1-4pm. Free.

Seaport Village
849 W Harbor Dr., San Diego, 92101
Online: seaportvillage.com

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS: Summer in the Park
Grab dinner before or after the fun at one of the many popular restaurants nearby. Bring cash to buy dessert from mobile vendor Mrs. Frostie for ice cream treats.

WHEN: July 8, 15, 22 & 29 from 6-8pm. Free.

Trolley Barn Park
1943 Adama Ave., San Diego, 92116
Online: uhcdc.org

 

EAST SAN DIEGO

EL CAJON: Dinner & A Concert
No need to bring a picnic when grabbing dinner is quick & easy from the nearby restaurants in downtown El Cajon. This is one of the longest running concert series of the summer.

WHEN: every Friday from May-September from 6-8pm. Free.

Prescott Promenade
200 E Main St., El Cajon, 92020
Online: downtownelcajon.com

LA MESA: Sundays at Six Concerts
This series takes place in the park's amphitheater so there's no need to bring your lawn chairs if you get there early! There's lots of room for kids to run on the grassy knolls and a playground with great equipment.

WHEN: June 19, 26; July 10, 17, 24 & 31 at 6pm. Free.

Harry Griffen Park
9550 Milden St., La Mesa, 91942
Online: lamesaparks.org

SANTEE: Town Center Summer Concerts
You'll be singing and bopping along to these summer tunes.

WHEN: every Thursday from June 9 - Aug. 18 (except June 30) from 6:30-8pm. Free.

Santee Town Center Community Park
550 Park Center Dr., Santee
Online: cityofsanteeca.gov

SOUTH SAN DIEGO

CHULA VISTA: Summer Sundays
Chula Vista really knows how to celebrate family with concerts and lots of extra fun for all ages. Samples bites from mall restaurants, send the kids to the fun zone for the free crafts, balloon animals and face painting (bring money for tips), or check out the rotating car club shows each week.

WHEN: every Sunday from June 5 - July 10 from 5-7 pm. Free.

Eastlake Village Walk
884 Eastlake Parkway, Chula Vista, 91914
Online: shopvillagewalk.com

CORONADO: Ferry Landing Weekend Concerts
Enjoy San Diego like a tourist and take the ferry across the bay for a summer concert in Coronado. (You can also drive over there too, but the ferry is way more fun!)

WHEN: every Saturday and Sunday from 2-5 pm. Free.

Coronado Ferry Landing
1201 1st St., Coronado, 92118
Online: coronadoferrylanding.com

CORONADO: Summer Park Concert Series
Coronado takes pride in featuring many local bands and award-winning music you won't find anywhere else in the city. Bring a picnic and join in this long-loved musical family tradition.

WHEN: every Sunday from June 5 - Aug. 14 at 6 pm; and Aug. 21-Sept. 4 at 5 pm. Free.

Spreckels Park
601 Orange Ave., Coronado, 92118
Online: coronadoconcert.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Here are a few tips to streamline your concert-going experience:

  • Low back seats are preferred so that everyone can see the show.
  • Shows generally last two hours unless otherwise noted.
  • Many venues have food vendors, so you don’t have to bring elaborate picnic fixings.
  • Be sure to keep glass containers and alcohol at home.
  • Most concert venues do not allow pets.
  • Check the website before you go to find more details about the concert line-up, parking fees and other particulars.

—Bonnie Taylor, Cherie Gough & Beth Shea

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These Over-the-Top Resorts Are a Kid’s Dream

by Jamie Davis Smith

When it’s time to hit the road, just say “no” to bland accommodations. These resorts have so much to offer families that you won’t have to plan a ton of off-property excursions. You’ll find stargazing parties, encounters with rescued dolphins, over-the-top themed rooms and so much more. Your family adventure awaits!

Hyatt Regency Maui

Be a Mermaid Hyatt Regency Maui Resort - Maui, Hawaii

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort has something for everyone. Adventurous families can feed the resort’s resident African Black-Footed Penguins in the only habitat in the Hawaiian Islands of its kind. Older kids who want to explore Hawaii's natural beauty can get a closer glimpse at the stunning creatures that surround the resort on a wildlife tour. At night, kids will love the Drums of the Pacific Lu’au. For a unique experience, families can participate in a Tour of the Stars activity led by a NASA Solar System Ambassador. This program earned the resort the title of World’s Top Hotel for Stargazing. Then check out the Hawaii Mermaid Adventure that comes complete with insta-ready GoPro photos. 

Online: hyatt.com

LEGOLAND California Resort   

LEGOLAND California  – Carlsbad, CA  

Whether your child is going through a serious LEGO phase or is more of a casual fan, a visit to the LEGOLAND California Resort is a must-do. Visit the LEGO theme park and splash your way through the water park. Then, head to the LEGOLAND Hotel for even more fun with bricks. Every room features a LEGO theme and kids can choose from Pirate, Kingdom, Adventure, LEGO NINJAGO or LEGO Friends. Bonus: each has a separate sleeping area for kids. There are even more LEGO activities throughout the hotel as well as nightly kids' entertainment. Similar LEGOLAND resorts are in Orlando, Florida; Goshen, New York and elsewhere around the world. 

Online: legoland.com

Bailey Made courtesy of Under Canvas

Under Canvas - Various National Parks

Give kids the ultimate glamping experience by going Under Canvas. Sleep in a safari-inspired tent in one of several national parks. By day families can enjoy guided hikes, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts and a variety of outdoor games. By night, watch outdoor movies and enjoy live music and fireside chats. Another option is always to just kick back and gaze at the stars. Kids will be having so much fun getting back to nature that they may not even miss their screens. 

Online: undercanvas.com

Be Grand at Moon Palace The Grand - Cancun, Mexico

Moon Palace The Grand believes that more is more! Start your day at the immense water park with simulated surfing, a lazy river, a wave pool and elaborate water slides. Then, kids can try their hand at one of the several rooms dedicated to play that include neon mini-golf, a 3-floor labyrinth, arcade, bumper cars, laser maze, a bowling alley,  interactive sports, sky trail, mirror maze and more. There is so much to do that you could never leave the resort and still not do it all, but staff can arrange tours of nearby attractions. 

Online: thegrand.moonpalace.com

Wendy Altschuler The Phoenician Arizona

Unleash Your Inner Phoenix and the Phoenician - Scottsdale, Arizona

The Phoenician Arizona is the perfect family escape in the Southwest. With multiple pools and a huge, twisty waterslide it's a great way to get in quality time in the lap of luxury. Once kids are ready to get out of the pool, head to The Kids Zone with a treehouse complete with swaying bridge and a splash pad with spray guns, falling buckets of water and shooting water spouts. There is also an indoor Funicians Kids Club with plenty of activities and a full game room.

Online: marriott.com

Don Riddle, Four Seasons

Four Seasons Hualali - Hawaii 

The Four Seasons Hualali resort in Hawaii has so much to offer that you may never set foot off the hotel's expansive grounds. Go snorkeling with a marine biologist, swim in a 1.8-million-gallon aquarium or watch sea turtles on the beach. If you must see more of Hawaii, the resort can arrange a variety of experiences from tours of nearby farms to a helicopter ride with majestic views of the island's volcanos.  

Online: fourseasons.com/hualalai

Cartoon Network

Lots of Laughs at the Cartoon Network Hotel - Lancaster, PA

Fulfill your child's greatest dream and become immersed in the Cartoon Network universe. From Ben-10 and Adventure Time-themed rooms to Powder-Puff Girls water slides, this resort has it all. Of course, lodgings include big-screen TVs with custom Cartoon Network showings, but there is so much to do you won't find yourself spending much time in your room. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, outdoor movies, firepits perfect for making s'mores and more. The on-site Cartoon Kitchen features dishes from favorite shows like Total Drama Pizza and Steven Universe's Together Breakfast. If you want to venture out, Dutch Wonderland full of rides of the pint-sized crowd is just down the street. 

Online: cartoonnetworkhotel.com

Graduate Hotel Madison

Graduates Welcome - Various Locations

Graduate Hotels embrace local culture and capture the fun of being in college. These boutique hotels feature game rooms with a billiards table, video games, board games and more. Family suites with bunk beds are a fun way to spend the night and have plenty of space for the entire family to spread out. Some locations have other amenities, like a rooftop pool and bicycle rentals, for even more family fun. 

Online: graduatehotels.com

things to do with kids in chicago great wolf lodge gurnee
Great Wolf Lodge

Howl at The Great Wolf Lodge - Various Locations

Great Wolf Lodge resorts were designed with kids in mind. From an enormous waterpark to bowling alleys, laser tag, climbing walls, MagiQuest and nightly dance parties there is non-stop action all day long. It's impossible to wander around the lodge without running into a Great Wolf Lodge character meet-and-greet, storytime, yoga or craft. In the summer, head outside to enjoy a large outdoor pool. When it's time to hit the hay, head to a cozy themed room with bunk beds.

Online: greatwolf.com

Canopy by Hilton

In-Room Glamping at the Canopy - Washington, DC

Just because you are visiting the big city doesn't mean you can't have fun glamping in your room. Book the Urban Camping package at the Canopy located just outside of the nation's capital for a bug-free glamping experience. Kids will catch some shut-eye in sleeping bags in their very own tent. Set up the star machine and make your own treats with an electric s'mores maker. Once the young campers are snoozing away, parents can retreat to their own king-size bed in the suite to enjoy the included bottle of wine. The only problem is that the kids may not want to leave the room!

Online: canopybethesda.com

Kimpton Cardinal

Explore More with Kimpton - Multiple Locations 

Kimptons are stunning, quirky hotels that go the extra mile to welcome families. Each location has its own twist. You will find a fun Little Explorers package at the Kimpton Palomar in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania complete with "kid currency" that can be used to buy warm chocolate chip cookies and milk, insta-print camera to capture a kids'-eye view of the city, a scavenger hunt and coloring book. They even throw in a bottle of wine for the parents! The Kimpton Cardinal in Winston-Salem, North Carolina has a huge recreation room complete with a multi-story twisty slide and bowling alley. It's always worth exploring what a Kimpton Hotel at your destination has to offer. 

Online: kimptonhotels.com

Beaches Turks & Caicos

Be a Beach Bum at Beaches - Turks & Caicos

Beaches Turks & Caicos truly has something for everyone. Kids who are part fish will love the watersports including snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking and more. Other kid favorites are Pirates Island, the resort's expansive waterpark including gigantic waterslides, a long lazy river, kid-friendly pools and swim-up soda bars. Need more? Daredevils can try the water cannons, whirlpools and one-of-a-kind Surf Simulator. Land lovers can choose from activities including beach volleyball, soccer, board games and more. Kids who need a break from their parents can head to Beaches' Kids' Club and hang out with their favorite characters from Sesame Street. 

Online: beaches.com/resorts

disney aulani with kids
Disney Aulani Resort & Spa

Disney Aulani Resort & Spa - Honolulu, HI

There are, quite possibly, a thousand great reasons why visiting Disney Aulani with kids should be on your bucket list. For starters, there is a man-made reef, filled with fish, on the premises, that was built solely for your snorkeling pleasure. Kids under 11 must be accompanied by an adult but feel free to swim for however long you want to snorkel to and fro. We also love the Painted Sky Studio where your little keiki (Hawaiian for kids) can get made over into a luau boy and girl. If they want to channel a more Disney-like character, they have Ariel from the Little Mermaid, Moana and more traditional Minnie Mouse Buns they can choose as well.

Of course, no visit to a Disney resort would be complete without QT with the big guy himself, so be sure to make reservations for the Disney Character Breakfast. Before sitting at your table, you’ll be able to grab a photo-op with Mickey himself who personally greets each and every guest before they head to their table and take their first bite. Get more info about the Disney Aulani Resort & Spa by checking out our Insider's Guide here.

Online: disneyaulani.com

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Bunk with the Minions - Orlando, Florida

For many families, visiting Orlando is all about theme parks. But, the themes shouldn't end when you head back to your hotel. Loews Portofino Bay and Loews Royal Pacific has a variety of kids' suites meaning you can be fully immersed in the magic throughout your trip. Whether your kids love Minions or the dinosaurs from Jurassic World, they will be thrilled with their unique vacation digs. After a hard day at the parks, enjoy the resort's beach pool complete with a Roman aqueduct-themed water slide and sandy beach. Look for regular poolside activities including a water balloon toss, hula-hoop contests and arts and crafts.  

Online: universalorlando.com

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas

Swim With the Dolphins at Atlantis Paradise Island - Bahamas

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas is best known for Aquaventure, the resort's iconic water park. With 141 acres of high-speed water slides, a mile-long river ride and 11 swimming pools, everyone will find something they love. But the water activities don't end there. Younger children can participate in Atlantis’ Sea Squirts program where they can hand-feed baby stingrays. Children eight and up can "Snuba"-dive and participate in a safe, modified form of scuba-diving. Families can head to Dolphin Cay where they can swim with dolphins and learn about dolphin conservation, including learning about the dolphins rescued from Hurricane Katrina. For any kid who needs a break from the water, the resort offers tons of other activities, including games, cooking lessons and jewelry making.

Online: atlantisbahamas.com

The Plaza Hotel

Spend the Night in Eloise's Suite at the Plaza Hotel - New York City, New York

In the Eloise Suite, named for The Plaza's famous resident in Kay Thompson's Eloise books, your capricious kiddo will love the outrageous and fun décor by Betsey Johnson. The suite is decorated with an Eloise-approved palette of pink black with her name in big neon lights. Fans will be delighted to find the room stocked with themed books, dolls, and clothing as well as a letter from Eloise, treats and pink lemonade. A night in this one-of-a-kind room includes an Eloise-themed tea, gift bag robe, and other fun Eloise gifts. Just be sure to check the Eloise calendar so you don't miss any opportunity!

Online: theplazany.com

Club Med

Join the Circus at Club Med Punta Cana – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Club Med has been doing the family all-inclusive experience for years, and they've perfected the equation. Possibly the most unique offering is Club Med Circus School, an acrobatic playground for adults and children alike. Trained performers safely challenge, support, and entertain guests as they test the limits of their comfort zones through acrobatic trapeze, suspended bungee and trampoline. More comfortable with your feet on the ground? Club Med Circus School also engages participants in the circus arts, including face painting, choreography and music.

Are your kiddos too little to participate? No worries. The resort offers Baby Club Med, where babes ages four months to 24 months are cuddled, fed and put down for naps (their kind of vacay!). For tots three to four years old there’s Petit Club Med with caretaker-led outdoor play including golf and tennis. Mini Club Med is designed for kids ages four to 10, with sports and activities (a fave is kiddie Zumba).

Online: clubmed.us/r/Punta-Cana

Gabby Cullen

Enjoy the Ultimate Kids' Club at Iberostar Paraíso Complex—Playa Paraíso, Mexico

Iberostar has completely re-invented what it means to go to a kids' club. Star Camp is inspired by the Scout movement and incorporates the theory of multiple intelligences. The new program combines fun with core values and includes a range of activities (over 140, based on age!) that utilize and cater to the different ways kids learn: linguistic, musical, interpersonal, mathematical, naturalistic and more. There are 12 different categories including team sports, group challenges, science and cooking activities, board games, arts, crafts, physical leisure and even tech!

Star Camp is cheerfully designed, with many sustainable features, including the outdoor playground made of recycled plastic. There’s an indoor climbing/play structure, puzzles, crafts, Imagination Playground blocks for little kids and a mini trampoline park, climbing wall, lounge chairs and video games for the older crew. Find out more by checking out our insider's guide here. 

Online: iberostar.com/riviera-maya/iberostar-paraiso-maya

Limelight Hotels

Climb Walls at the Limelight Hotel - Snowmass, CO

Hotel perks have reached new heights at the Limelight Hotel, located in the Snowmass Base Village Plaza. The plaza is home to an open-air community space where families ice skate (in the winter only), enjoy fire pits, pop-up activities, and casual dining. But even cooler, kids of all ages can also try their skills on the rock climbing wall that adorns the front of the hotel all year long. Six stories up, it's a great way to hang around when not on the slopes or hiking.

Bonus: There's also a kid's room for younger guests inside the Limelight: you'll find toys, books and maybe a new friend or two. 

Online: limelighthotels.com/snowmass

Hilton Aruba

Hang with the Birds at Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino in Palm Beach, Aruba

When you visit the Hilton Aruba in Palm Beach, Aruba, you'll have access to a long list of kid-friendly amenities, including the daily bird interaction, where guests can have an encounter with the resort’s 11 macaws, and the snorkeling instruction that’s perfect even for beginners. There’s a waterproof library for pool lounging opportunities, a family movie night on the South Pool deck, s’mores and campfire night and even stargazing! If you’re still looking for more, check out their endless list of wellness activities including ping pong, bocce ball and paddleboarding for the older set (16 & up).

Online: hiltonaruba.com

—Jamie Davis Smith, Ayren Jackson-Cannady with Gabby Cullen

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All the Ways to Explore Yosemite National Park

by Kate Loweth

Cozy cabins, the best hikes for kids, activities in the park, and all your Yosemite recs are here

If you are looking to spend some serious time in nature, look no further than Yosemite National Park. Less than four hours from the Bay Area, Yosemite will give you the fresh air, big trees and time away from technology that you’ve been yearning for. We have the full scoop on all there is to do in the park and the brand-new kid-friendly spa experience that you’ll want to book ASAP. Follow our guide below and you’ll be ready for the most epic national park trip with your kids!

Tuolomne County

Big Oak Flat Entrance

Kate Loweth

If you enter Yosemite via the Big Oak Flat Entrance, the Tuolomne Grove Nature Trail is right there. It's a kid favorite because you are rewarded with some massive Giant Sequoias, including one you can walk through. It's a mile downhill from the parking lot to the grove where you then take a half-mile loop to see all the sequoias.

The mile climb back uphill can be a little bit challenging for little legs but the route is paved and there are info stations along the way that explain the history of this road in the gold rush days. In the fall you'll find all shades of reds and oranges from the Dogwood trees.

Hetch Hetchy Entrance

We love this option to enter the park because you will often avoid the long lines and waiting that the other entrances see. From 120, it's about a 9 mile drive to the entrance station and then another 20 minutes to get to the reservoir. But, it's totally worth the drive, take our word for it! 

The highlight of this Yosemite entrance is the reservoir and dam that were constructed after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to provide water to the Bay Area. When you arrive, pass the dam and park along the road. From there you can walk across the dam and take a number of paths, the most popular of which will get you to Wapoma Falls. This 5-mile round trip hike is mostly flat and totally gorgeous. We recommend going in the spring so you can take advantage of the melting snow and see the falls at its peak. 

Where to Stay Near the Big Oak Flat & Hetch Hetchy Entrances

Kate Loweth

Evergreen Lodge
If you are looking for modern conveniences in a woodsy setting, pick Evergreen Lodge for your next stay when you visit Yosemite. Right now, Evergreen Lodge is celebrating 100 years of welcoming families to Yosemite and it's the perfect time to visit. You can book special packages and activities through the end of 2021. The property is located about 10 minutes off highway 120 on the road that takes you to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. You'll feel like you are totally away from it all when you visit. 

Accommodations include cabins of every size including the two-bedroom family cabins that we definitely recommend for those visiting with little ones. You'll get a bedroom with a king-size bed, another with two twins and a center living room with a pull-out couch. Custom camping is also available if you really want to get a taste of the outdoors. You'll arrive to your campsite with a tent already set up (pretty much the camping dream) and mattresses already laid out. 

While cooking at the cabins and campsites is prohibited due to fire danger and animal issues, Evergreen Lodge has excellent dining options for families. Pick up snacks, sandwiches, happy hour supplies and more at the general store. For a sit-down meal, there's the Main Lodge and Tavern, both with outdoor dining available and loads of kid-friendly options. The pool bar opens in the summer months for snacks and drinks under the sun. 

Kate Loweth

Probably our favorite aspect of Evergreen Lodge is all the areas for kids to play. There are multiple climbing structures with slides, ziplines, bocce ball areas and giant chess boards. Sit on the deck of your family cabin and watch the kids play under the trees. It's just about as relaxing as a family vacation can be!

Daily activities are offered if you'd like a little more structured fun during your visit. You can enjoy family hikes, nature crafts, stargazing, tie dye and more. Check the schedule when you arrive to see what's available. And, don't miss the family-favorite nightly s'mores. Grab your s'mores kit from the activities desk and get roasting at the campfires outside. 

Evergreen Lodge is located just 10 minutes from the Hetch Hetchy entrance to Yosemite and 15 minutes to the Big Oak Flat entrance. Guided hikes and Yosemite Valley tours are able to be booked through Evergreen Lodge. 

Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
33160 Evergreen Road
Groveland, CA
Online: evergreenlodge.com

Kate Loweth

Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Families looking for an amazing spot to stay while visiting Yosemite should book a villa at Rush Creek Lodge. Just outside the west park entrance, Rush Creek offers amazing views, rooms that are perfect for families and more on-site activities than you could imagine.

Hillside villas sleep up to six people—one room with two twin beds (or a king) and a second room with a king and pull out couch. All rooms come with a fridge, coffee maker and huge bathroom. You have tons of space to store your snacks and hang your coats when you walk in the door.

One thing you won't find in your Rush Creek Lodge room is a TV. This deliberate effort to get people to head outside will be just the electronics break you need. If you need something to keep the kids busy while you enjoy a cup of coffee on your deck (we can all dream, right?), each room is stocked with games like Barrel of Monkeys and Yahtzee.

Kate Loweth

Just Opened: The Rush Creek Spa is definitely something you'll want to check out during your stay. The space is thoughtfully designed to include the iconic features of Yosemite into a wellness experience that induces relaxation and rejuvenation and restores balance to the mind, body and spirit.

While the spa is typically adults only, the kids are welcome to join you when you book exclusive time for your family to use the spa facilities including the saltwater hot tub with waterfall, aromatherapy steam room, cool mist room, warm waterfall coves and innovative sensory room. Add on a massage treatment or facial for the ultimate in relaxation. You can also opt for kid-free spa time if that's more relaxing for you (we totally get it). 

Kate Loweth

Venture to the playground to ride on kid-sized ziplines, a massive slide and swings for the little ones. You can also play giant-sized games of Connect Four and checkers. Pull up an adirondack chair and enjoy the sunset as the kids explore.

Warning, you might have a hard time getting the kids to venture off property when they see the massive game room and playground that awaits them at Rush Creek. The game room has a climbing "tree house" as well as pinball, shuffle board, pool, foosball and pretty much every board game you can imagine. Out on the deck you'll find ping pong and darts.

The Recreation Team has daily activities planned from stargazing to tie dyeing to geode breaking. Evenings include s'mores by the outdoor fire pit (yes, nightly s'mores!) as well as fierce games of BINGO. The Rec Team can also suggest hikes, book you a massage or reserve you a spot on one of the hotel's guided tours in Yosemite.

Other amenities at Rush Creek include a heated salt water pool, two hot tubs, both a tavern and a restaurant, and a lobby gift shop that serves fancy lattes and DIY trail mix pretty much all day. You can find laundry facilities and microwaves in the main lodge.

Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
34001 Highway 120
Groveland, California
Online: rushcreeklodge.com

Mariposa County and the El Portal Entrance

Kate Loweth

We love the ease of visiting Yosemite via Mariposa and the El Portal entrance. Whether you travel through Livermore and then Merced, or head south to Gilroy and then east through Los Banos, the drive there is pretty easy even for kids who tend to get car sick. The road doesn't get windy until you pass Mariposa and start to head into the park. The drive from Mariposa to Yosemite is about an hour and you'll have another 30 minutes to get to the valley from the entrance. 

From the El Portal entrance you can easily make your way to Bridalveil Falls, Tunnel View, Yosemite Valley and the Badger Pass Ski Area. 

Where to Stay Near the El Portal Entrance

Kate Loweth

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort
Families looking for the perfect combination of rustic and convenient will love the Yosemite Bug. Located in Midpines on the road between Mariposa and the El Portal entrance, you'll be perfectly located for Yosemite adventures. The Yosemite Bug offers lots of different lodging options—cabins, rooms with private bathrooms, rooms with shared bathrooms, glamping tents, camping spots and even hostel rooms. There's a shared kitchen onsite that's available for your use if you'd like to cook a meal and laundry facilities for when your kid gets his favorite pants soaked on Day 1. There's also an onsite spa. 

The property also has the June Bug Cafe if you'd rather have someone else cook for you. We highly recommend taking advantage of this option as the meals are delicious and large enough to share. The dinner menu changes from day to day with vegan and vegetarian options always available (plus options like pizza for the kids). Order up your trail lunch at breakfast time and you can take it with you when you venture into the park. 

Yosemite Bug has trails on the property that will lead you down to a waterfall and swimming hole (be careful as the trails are steep and difficult for little ones). You can rent out snowshoes in the winter (as available). The kids will love the outdoor ping pong and foosball tables and parents will love that the rooms do not have TVs (because, nature!). 

6979 Highway 140
Midpines, CA
Online: yosemitebug.com

What to Do in Mariposa

Kate Loweth

You should definitely plan to spend some time exploring Mariposa while visiting Yosemite. This quaint, mountain town has lots of great restaurants and we particularly recommend 1850 Restaurant for their burgers, wings and brews (snag a growler to go). 

You'll want to plan some time to visit the Mariposa Museum and History Center. Named by the Smithsonian Institute as the best small
museum west of the Mississippi River, the Mariposa Museum and History Center brings Gold Rush History, Native American History and the Yosemite region’s tourism history alive in one of the most extensive museum experiences one can have. The outdoor/indoor setup allows for visitors to walk through time and we know the kids will love it. 

Another fun spot to visit is the California State Mining and Mineral Museum. Kids will love walking through the mine tunnel and checking out the “Fricot Nugget,” a rare and beautiful 13.8-pound piece of crystalline gold found in the American River in 1864. Because this museum is also a state park, kids can participate in the onsite junior ranger program. 

The brand-new Yosemite Climbing Association Gallery and Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday and kids will love seeing the progression of the sport of mountain climbing through this massive collection of photos and gear. See how the first climbers of El Capitan and other Yosemite big walls were able to accomplish such feats with minimal gear. Pro tip: If you are able to book a private tour with museum director and rock climbing legend Ken Yager, definitely take advantage of it as he is full of enthusiasm for the sport as well as information about the artifacts in the museum. 

South Entrance

Kate Loweth

We love the South Entrance to Yosemite because the drive from the Bay Area is less windy than via the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It's also the preferred access point for those travelling from Los Angeles. As soon as you enter the park, you'll be right by the parking lot for the Mariposa Grove. Park here and take the shuttle bus to the grove entrance. We love it here because Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias.

Little ones or those with strollers can take the paved Big Trees Loop Trail and see a number of the park's famous trees. A longer path will take you to the Grizzly Giant, a massive tree with branches the size of large tree trunks! There are lots of other trails to extend your hike if you have older kids. We recommend taking the Mariposa Grove Trail up to see the pair of trees called the "Faithful Couple" as they merged together at their base! You can swing by the Mariposa Grove Cabin to learn about the park's early history before heading back down via the Perimeter Trail.

Where to Stay Near the South Entrance

Kate Loweth

Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge
Make it easy on yourself and book a family cabin at Tenaya Lodge for your Yosemite visit (you can thank us later). The Explorer Cabins opened this summer and they are perfect for families as they are less than three miles from the Mariposa Grove South Entrance.

Family cabins have two bedrooms—one with a king bed and one with a twin-over-full bunk bed. The living room has a small kitchen, fireplace and a pull-out couch that can sleep two more. Family cabins are gathered together around a central fit pit that is lit each night for s'mores. It's a great opportunity to invite another family or grandparents along to share the beauty of the outdoors!

Kate Loweth

Kids will love the opportunity to try out the brand-new Kids Adventure Course that's located up by the main lodge. The course is designed for little ones ages four and up that are between 30 and 100 pounds. They get the opportunity to try out six different elements that include bridges, swinging logs and rope challenges. Right next to the course you can play a game of horseshoes as well as rent mountain bikes and sleds.

Other Tenaya Lodge activities include guided flashlight hikes, nightly dive-in movies, spa treatments and fishing (with equipment available to rent). In winter the big draws are the massive sledding hill and ice skating. The main lodge has a seasonal outdoor pool as well as an indoor pool where the dive-in movies are shown.

For help planning what to do in the park, check out this handy guide full of information about what to do and where to go to make the most of your visit. 

On-site dining includes the family-friendly Jackalopes Bar & Grill, upscale Embers (that's perfect for a night when you utilize the on-site childcare service) and the seasonal Timberloft Pizzeria and Summerdale BBQ. There's also a deli that sells snacks as well as to-go lunches for your day at Yosemite.

Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge
1122 Highway 41
PO Box 159
Fish Camp, CA
Online: tenayalodge.com

Yosemite Village

Make sure you set aside some time to spend exploring Yosemite Village. Grab some lunch fixin's and souvenirs at the gift shop (it is huge—perfect to stock up on everything from hot cocoa to wine to grilling supplies). Take a break to watch the Spirit of Yosemite film at the visitor center to give the kids all the background info on Yosemite and how it came to be a national park.

The Yosemite Museum has hands-on exhibits where kids can learn all about the cultural history of Yosemite's native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. If you are lucky, you may even be able to see traditional skills presented by historians. Outside you can walk through a replica Miwok village to see how they lived.

Ranger programs are available throughout the year and seasonal activities (like ice skating in the winter) are also hosted at the village.

Insider tip: Do you have a 4th grader in your crew? Grab your free pass to the national parks through the Every Kid Outdoors program and you'll save yourself the $35 cost to get into the park.

Kate Loweth

A favorite hike for park visitors is the Mist Trail as you have the opportunity to see two waterfalls. Park at the Half Dome Village lot and take the free shuttle to stop 16. Walk across the bridge and you'll find the trailhead. The hike is uphill for about a mile to reach the footbridge where you can get a great view of Vernal Fall, especially when the water level is high in spring and summer. The trail can get crowded but there are scenic spots to stop along the way for a snack and a hiking break.

Beyond this point you can continue to the top of Vernal Fall via a steep, granite staircase. This can be challenging for little ones so the footbridge is a good turnaround point. Ambitious climbers can continue on to Nevada Fall via the Mist Trail.

After you return to the trailhead, you'll find a great spot to stop along the Merced River to have lunch and enjoy the water. Take the shuttle from stop 16 to stop 20 to return to the parking lot.

Yosemite in the Winter

Kate Loweth

Trust us and book a winter visit to Yosemite. The crowds are minimal and you'll see the park's magic in a totally different light. Consider renting snowshoes and bringing them with you so that you can explore the park's trails through the snow. 

Badger Pass Ski Area is the oldest ski resort in CA and it is currently open for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and tubing with skiing and snowboarding also available this year. Just a quick drive up the mountain from Tunnel View, you'll find that the parking is easy and the kids will love a day spent sledding down the hills. 

Late February is also the time of year when you might be able to catch a glimpse of the famed Horsetail Falls Firefall. This natural phenomenon occurs when the perfect conditions come together to make the Horsetail Falls appear to be flowing with fire. The park has designated a specific parking area at the Yosemite Falls Parking Area for those hoping to see the firefall. It's a 1.5-mile walk to the viewing area. 

Getting There

Kate Loweth

North: From the Bay Area you'll be taking highway 120 to reach Tuolumne County and the Big Oak Flat entrance of Yosemite. This drive will take you through Stockton where you can stock up on veggies and fruits from various farm stands along the way. If you are looking for an opportunity to get out of the car for a bit, swing by Harris Orchards in Ripon to see what's in season. Our fall stop had apples, pomegranates and persimmons ripe for the picking! Summer bring stone fruits, cherries, grapes and more.

South: The drive to the South Entrance will take you through the grapevine along 152. Los Banos is a good place to stop as there are tons of fast food options there (and not much happening once you pass Los Banos).

For more information on what to do in Yosemite and nearby, check out the Yosemite/Mariposa County Tourism Bureau and the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau websites.

 

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Evergreen Lodge, Mariposa County, Tenaya Lodge and Rush Creek Lodge but all of the opinions belong to the writer. 

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Beautiful British Columbia Is Calling (Your Kids)

by Christine Lai

O Canada! After nineteen months of closure, the world’s longest land border has reopened at last, allowing U.S. citizens to once again venture to the Great White North (albeit with restrictions). We jumped at the opportunity to visit British Columbia’s Vancouver and Whistler, and after reading our guide, you will as well!

Vancouver

Perched on a unique location between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore mountains, Vancouver offers both a metropolitan experience and also a portal to the great outdoors. Families can be on the beach one day and strolling through a dense forest the next, all while taking in the sights of a walkable downtown and waterfront. As diverse as its geography, its impressive assortment of activities, food and sights for kids of all ages makes Vancouver a week-long (or longer) destination.

Vancouver Aquarium
Over 65,000 animals and 30 exhibits representing the Tropics to the Arctic are housed at the aquarium and kids can roll up their sleeves at the touch pools to interact with some of them. The astounding two-story Canada Pacific Pavilion immerses families into native marine life found just off the Vancouver coast and we loved the mesmerizing snow globe jelly exhibits. The aquarium is also a marine mammal rescue center to sea lions, otters and seals who await their release back into the wild—because nothing beats a second chance.

Good to know:

  • Don’t miss the 4D theater experience
  • Spend some time exploring Stanley Park, its rainforest, train ride (operates seasonally) and famous Seawall

Granville Island
Formerly an industrial wasteland, today Granville Island (technically a peninsula) is a thriving hub of culture, art and dining buttressed by the Public Market as its backbone and lures locals and tourists alike. Nothing screams “FOR KIDS” more than the Kids Market, where an Adventure Zone, arcade, virtual reality experience, toy shop, bumper cars and even a barber await. Summer visitors can play in a water park that operates in the back—good luck ever getting the kids to leave! 

Good to know:

  • Take the rainbow-colored Aquabus ferry to the island on False Creek which doubles as a short sight-seeing tour
  • Grab lunch at Alimentaria, a restaurant that showcases Mexican farmers and suppliers and try the authentic sopes with bone marrow and traditional northern Mexican dessert Buñuelo

Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park 
Do swaying suspension bridges, exploring rainforest canopies and nature walks fit your bill? If so, Vancouver’s oldest attraction boasting North America’ highest treetops is a must-see! Festive lights illuminate the 450 foot long suspension bridge (which can sway quite severely!) and park until January 23 and our visit here was unanimously a family favorite and highlight of the trip. Be sure the kids check out the Rainforest Explorers program and collect a prize. 

Good to know:

  • This park has plentiful activities and walks to enjoy but three attractions that may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights are: the suspension bridge that hangs 230 feet over a river, the treetop canopy 100 feet above the ground and the cantilevered cliff walk
  • All this adventure will work up an appetite so combat hangriness at Logger’s Grill with burgers or at The Cliff House restaurant for table service
  • Free shuttle transportation is available to and from select downtown Vancouver locations 

Fairmont Waterfront
Commanding sweeping views of the harbor and Stanley Park, the Fairmont Waterfront is situated steps away from sightseeing while also serving as a luxurious home base. Buzzing with activity, the hotel’s rooftop apiary is home to 250,000 bees that produce 600 lbs of honey annually. During the warmer months, kids will love checking out the beehives in action.

The hotel’s restaurant, ARC, plates up a relaxed, artisan West Coast genre from locally sourced ingredients (some from the rooftop herb garden). Their weekend bottomless brunch (try the mimosa flight!) is highly popular and kids either eat for free or half off. In addition to dining discounts, the Fairmont rolls out the carpet in welcoming kids with in-room mini-sized bathrobes (a first for us!) making the Fairmont Waterfront the ideal choice for family-friendly lodging in Vancouver. 

Whistler

The site of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is a world-class destination for all things winter activity-related and a haven for year round outdoor enthusiasts. We loved the charming Village that pulses alive with apres-ski and dinner following a day of shredding on the slopes and how compact and walkable the location is (because who wants to walk 85 miles after a day in ski/board boots?!). There are also activity options off the slopes and we checked out a few below. 

Joern Rohde

Escape! Whistler
Escape rooms are interactive, themed game rooms in which riddles and puzzles are solved to “escape” the room (note: the rooms are never truly locked). We tried the Pirate Ship escape room with the kids and it was a big hit as even the five-year-old got involved! The opportunity to collaborate and work together as a team was not only fun but a great chance for older kids to take charge and provide leadership. 

Whistler Core
This indoor climbing wall spot offers guided climbing sessions for ages five and up and also a three-hour Climb & Dine session for the eight to 14 crowd in which kids are dropped off for an evening of climbing. Kidless apres-ski and dinner, anyone?? 

Ice Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza
When was the last time you had the chance to ice skate under both the stars AND Olympic rings? This gorgeous setting will have your family gliding under a starry night for a memorable, magical winter wonderland experience.  

Self-guided tours
A curated selection of self-guided tours is available when you download the Go Whistler Tours app. From art galleries to a sweet treats tour, your family can pick a tour and follow at your own pace and schedule. 

Vallea Lumina
The forests come alive after dark in this tantalizing, immersive experience that utilizes lights and multi-media to showcase Whistler’s natural beauty.  A night walk/hike of sorts, you will be led on a journey past a rushing river of LED-lit salmon as they run their way upstream among other dazzling sights. Warm up little hands after the trek with hot cocoa by the fire pits at the home base. 

Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Even if you don’t ski/snowboard, you can enjoy the majestic views of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains with the gondola ride. Holding world records for the longest unsupported lift, highest lift and longest continuous lift, the gondola is an engineering marvel of its own right. If luck is on your side, you'll get the sole silver gondola that has a glass bottom for a truly spectacular view of glaciers, mountain peaks, lakes and forests!

Wheels

The majestic scenic drive to Whistler from Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway takes about two hours and locally owned and operated VIP Whistler’s private car transfer is an easy, comfortable and convenient choice. Other options for transportation include shared shuttle Whistler Shuttle or YVR Skylynx but no matter what transportation mode, be prepared for epic views en route. 

 

Nosh 

Whistler has no shortage of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining. Start your day off at the Grill & Vine (inside the Westin) for their extensive breakfast buffet to fill up for the morning.  21 Steps Kitchen and Bar serves up modern comfort food (try the prawns and short ribs) in a warm, casual setting that is perfect for families. Catch a bay window table for views of the Village below. Ohyama Ramen is a quaint, funky spot to get your fill of brothy noodles and The FireRock Lounge at the Westin is a chalet-style bar where you’ll find everything from burgers to a quinoa Buddha bowl.  

Stay

Westin Resort & Spa
Located at the base of Whistler, this hotel is steps away from the Whistler & Excalibur gondolas and Fitzsimmons express lift so you can roll out of bed and onto the slopes.  Every room features a fireplace, full kitchen with stove, microwave and dishwasher for easy meal prep and quick breakfasts (if that's your thing). During the winter season, the hotel offers s’mores by the fire pits, hot chocolate and maple candy on the outdoor plaza, live entertainment and take away crafts and games for kids. 

Good to know:

  • Whistler Kids ski school is next door to the hotel, eliminating long treks with gear (the worst, am I right?!). This is one of the easiest, most convenient set-ups we’ve encountered.
  • When it's time for après ski (that inevitably rolls into dinner for the kids), a short stroll into the Village puts you in the center of all the hubbub 

With a location that is hard to beat combined with impeccable service, we found staying at the Westin a highlight and attraction itself and think your family will, too! 

—story and photos (unless otherwise noted) by Christine Lai

Editor’s note: This trip was sponsored by Destination Vancouver, Destination BC, Fairmont Waterfront, Whistler Tourism, VIP Whistler Car Service, Escape! Whistler, Vallea Lumina & Whistler Blackcomb but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

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