There’s a new addition to this list of fee-free national parks days
As we navigate a crazy winter season, the thought of a getaway in 2024 sounds pretty magical. Once the dust has settled, heading to a national park is an awesome way to enjoy the great outdoors, especially when it’s free! Get your kids set up with the Junior Ranger booklet in your park of choice and see what the whole family can learn about these amazing areas of the country.
The National Park Service has just announced the list of days when all national park will waive their admission fees. New for 2024, Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19) has been added as a national parks fee-free day. Juneteenth was signed into law as a national holiday on June 17, 2021, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States.
“National parks are places that awaken senses, inspire curiosity, encourage reflection, and foster joy,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said. “The entrance fee-free days expand opportunities for people to visit their national parks and experience the beauty and history of our country.”
When can you get into the National Parks without paying?
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The 2024 free admission for everyone days include:
Mon., Jan. 15: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday
Sat., Apr. 20: First day of National Park Week
New for 2024: Wed., June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
Fri., Aug. 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
Sat., Sep. 28: National Public Lands Day
Mon., Nov. 11: Veterans Day
With more than 400 parks across the country, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re planning a fall foray, a winter getaway, a spring fling, or a summer trip, you can find a free admission day for every season.
Even though admission is free on these special days, other paid activities are not. You may need to pay amenity or user fees where applicable. These fees include the cost of activities, such as camping, as well as boat launches, transportation, or touring fees.
If the six annual free days don’t fit your schedule, some of the national parks are fee-free every day of the year (or at least every day they’re open). Some of the most notable entrance fee-free parks include:
When your new baby bundle arrives, every little life event feels like front-page-worthy news. You likely feel like a geyser ready to gush, but not everyone is going to want baby bulletins 24/7. Especially not your friends without kids, who may be struggling to find their place in your new life. Here are five tips and tricks on how to stay close with your child-free friends after your new addition arrives.
There are many reasons people are childless. Some are by choice, but if your friend is struggling to conceive (or hasn't met the right partner), it might be best to tread lightly on the baby bulletins. In fact, waiting for your friend to inquire about your newest addition is best (but hard to do!).
2. Keep Up with Traditions
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If pre-baby you got together for brunch once a month or took a yearly girls’ getaway, make a point of prioritizing these special events. You may not have the time (or energy!) to keep up with your previous social plans, but carving out the time and space for events that foster meaningful connections is key.
3. Make Your Friend the Headliner
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Chances are, you and your babe are the center of a lot of people’s attention (yours, your partner’s, your parents…. You get the idea!). When you're together, turn the spotlight onto your dearest friend and let them share their week's (or month’s) highlight reel uninterrupted. Meeting up while your baby sleeps helps you give her your undivided attention. Asking your friend to join you on a stroll or hike while you push the stroller is a great time to catch up. Or grab some coffee or a quick lunch while baby dozes in the buggy.
4. Save Your Parenting Woes for Other Parents
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You’re exhausted. We get it—down to our core! But telling non-parent friends they couldn’t fathom your next-level fatigue won’t win you any bestie awards. Parenting struggles are best shared with other new moms; they get it and will have mom-tested advice. If you need more support, try finding a local mom group to commiserate with.
It's important to carve out child-free time with your best pals, but if your ride-or-die friend treats your newborn like her next of kin, it might be time to make room for an honorary auntie. Including your child-loving (but child-free) friend in kid-friendly and family-friendly activities means you get to see your bestie more often, and she's just that much closer to you and your child.
Plan a quick weekend getaway at one of these cabins near Boston that maximize winter fun
If winter break has you planning your next weekend getaway with the kids, we’re right there with you. That’s why we rounded up a bunch of our favorite family-friendly winter cabin rentals near Boston that are perfect for your next family vacation. From ski cabins in the mountains to remote cabins where families can get away from it all, these nearby cabins have everything you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Boston.
This family farm has been completely restored with high-end amenities but still retains its classic character. Only 3 hours from Boston, it's a short walk to the water in Friendship, Maine with large, bright, airy rooms, 5 bedrooms, 2 living areas, 2 fully stocked kitchens and a designated workspace (with high-speed internet) on 11 beautiful acres.
Plan an unplugged winter getaway at this cozy cabin that's perfect for a family of three or four. Just minutes from Burlington's skiing and snowshoeing spots, this 700-square-foot abode has all you need to chill this winter (including a charger for your EV). Hot plates, a toaster, and microwave allow you to cook quick meals in between all your outdoor adventuring. And best of all, if your dog is well behaved, your furry friend is welcome to join you here.
Insider Tip: Beds can be brought in if you need to sleep more than two; they even have a pack-n-play for babies and toddlers.
Rustic charm and modern amenities are what you'll find at this recently renovated 1920s fishing cabin in the Catskills. It's the just-right distance from Boston for families who want to really getaway from it all. The nearby ski mountains offer lots of afternoon activity, and the firepit outside beckons after a long day of schussing on the slopes.
Settle in to the very private, wooded six acres at this downstairs suite, affectionally called "Sheeps Heaven View." Explore the area and enjoy the winter activities you'll find all around. Then return to the suite to enjoy card games, board games or a family movie night. Please note, there isn't a full kitchen here (a great excuse to eat out!) and all your dishes will be washed (and returned) by the host. The perfect perk for parents.
This recently updated A-frame chalet is just minutes from Gunstock Mountain. And it's got winter (and summer) sports in mind. A place to store your skis is part of the A-frame design, as is a secret play nook, right off the living room that'll have your kids squealing with delight. The hot tub on the deck is for use year-round and a great spot to enjoy the cold night air once your kids are asleep.
This peaceful cabin combines a fantastic location with amenities that appeal to families, and it's all in the heart of New Hampshire ski country. Located just 15 minutes from Wildcat Mountain, it's a great spot for families looking for a ski vacation. Also nearby is Jackson Falls, a wonder any time of year. Plan to grill out, snuggle up to screen a few flicks or break out board games to play as a family during your stay.
7. The Dogtown Cabin at Applecart Farm—Rockport, MA
Applecart Farm is one of the most private residential properties in Rockport. The property is surrounded by close to 2,500 acres of protected woodlands and miles of trails, but is only a 5-minute walk to the train station and 10-minute walk to downtown Rockport. Kids will love visiting with the friendly miniature horses that live on the property and exploring the area around them. Bring your cross country skis or snowshoes to make the most of this wintry wonderland.
Settle in at this New Fairfield, Connecticut cabin across from Candlewood Lake and a two-minute drive from Squantz Pond State Park. This little house has stylish touches all around, as well as a fire pit and an inflatable hot tub to keep you warm when the snow flies.
Only minutes from historic Plymouth and the Cape, this log cabin is on an acre of private, wooded property. Located across the street from cranberry bogs and walking trails, you'll have plenty to do with your family while you are there. A large, raised outdoor deck with gas BBQ overlooks the backyard, a great place to cook even when it's cold outside. Plus, we hear the hosts make a memorable cranberry bread. Please note, this listing is no longer pet-friendly.
10. Mountain Chic New Hampshire Family Getaway—Conway, NH
This perfectly-located North Conway cabin is both dog and family friendly. You'll never be bored being 5-10 minutes away from downtown North Conway and the abundance of winter activities at Cathedral Ledge. The cabin's floor to ceiling windows facing Cathedral Ledge are worth the trip alone, but we suggest bringing your skis (downhill or cross-country, take your pick) or your snowshoes to keep everyone active and outside on this vacation. For a change of pace, why not rent snowmobiles to enjoy in the park?
Bring your family and friends for a weekend in the heart of the White Mountains, nestled in the woods off a winding road near the snowy riverbank. A great place to stay if winter sports are your family's jam, the cabin is across the street from Gale River and close to Franconia Notch State Park, Crawford Notch, Cannon Mountain and multiple other ski mountains. Local breweries abound for some apres that's pretty kid-friendly, and we suggest checking out local tubing hills and the Woodstock Ice Caves in the winter.
Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Grab your mittens and scarves, we’ve found the coziest family rentals in Big Bear, Idyllwild, and Mammoth Lakes
In the winter months, families all over the country escape to San Diego to enjoy the sunshine and warmer temps. For those lucky enough to enjoy San Diego weather year-round, it’s the time of year when we crave snuggling up in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa, watching the snowfall, and breaking out our fluffy mittens and scarves. A cozy cabin rental, within driving distance, is the answer to our wintertime wanderlust! From chilly days exploring nature or playing in the snow to unplugged evenings with big family fun. Check out these nearby Airbnb rentals in Big Bear, Idyllwild, Lake Arrowhead, Ojai, and Mammoth that are perfect for a getaway this winter.
Blackbird A-Frame with Mountain View—Big Bear Lake, CA
Big Bear is an obvious choice for families that want to escape to the mountains. This A-Frame is perfectly located, tucked away in the trees of Lower Moonridge in Big Bear Lake. It's situated in the heart of it all, making it an ideal location for your winter adventures. It's a two-minute drive to Bear and Summit Mountain and a three-minute walk to the main ski shuttle. It's also so well equipped that you can just spend your time at home snuggled up to the vintage, wood-burning stove or unwinding in the hot-tub.
Sleeps: 7 guests Price: Starting at $400/night Online:airbnb.com
We wrote about the beauty of Idyllwild in our round-up of best fall weekend escapes and it's just as lovely in the winter. Relax beneath the tall pines and let the kids run wild at the Whiskey Creek Cabin in Idyllwild. This multi-level Airbnb is surrounded by nature and a welcome respite from city life. Cozy nights can be spent around the fire stargazing at the night sky or on the upper deck with a glass of wine while the kids play on the spacious property. Don't forget Fido on this family getaway, The Whisky Creek Cabin is dog friendly.
Sleeping loft for the kids? Check. Deck with hot tub surrounded by nature? Check. Retreat to this cozy A-frame cabin in the San Jacinto mountains that checks all the boxes for a relaxing family getaway. Situated on an acre of land, this mountain cabin has plenty of nature to explore yet is only one mile from the restaurants and shops in the center of town.
Enjoy modern touches with the serenity of nature at The Red Door cabin in the wooded community of Pine Cove. Just minutes from the village of Idyllwild, this 3-bedroom cabin is at an elevation of 6,000 feet with 4 acres of forest to discover. After a chilly winter day exploring with the kiddos, soak into the modern free-standing tub in the master bathroom or the sunken jacuzzi on the deck.
You're not going to get snow, but you may have a deer sighting! Hidden from the hustle of the city, this bohemian cabin in the Santa Monica Mountains will feel like it's worlds away from the stresses of city life. Spend quiet evenings in the outdoor cedar soaking tub, read a book with the kids in the hammock. or take to one of the onsite or nearby trails for a hike. With plush furnishings and luxurious details, this bohemian cabin will feel like a magical retreat.
Ready for a cozy cabin, but urban dwelling is much more your thing? Check out this comfy bohemian tiny house at Caravan Outpost in Ojai. This unique property has 10 Airstreams and one tiny house available for rent surrounded by lush botanical gardens and stylish chill spaces. Families will love the plentiful assortment of games available and nighttime s'mores around the campfire.
If you have skiers or snowboarders at home, think about a trip to Mammoth Lakes. This condo is just less than a half-mile from Canyon Lodge and a mile from The Village. It is a condo with a cabin feel, equipped with two bedrooms plus a loft, and two and a half bathrooms. The mountain retreat features wooden vaulted ceilings and large forest-facing windows to take in the scenery. The beautiful brick fireplace is perfect for a cozy family game night after a day on the slopes.
Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Although there’s really no bad time to head to the lake, summer is prime swim season. And with a half-dozen or more lakes near Atlanta within an easy morning’s drive, you can live your best beach life without too much trouble. Trade your next trip to the splash park for an afternoon of boating, tubing, fishing and all around good times at one of our favorite swimming holes. Who says you need to have a friend with a cabin to enjoy the amenities of Atlanta’s best lakes. Here’s where to spend your next unplanned summer day.
As one of the closest (and largest) lakes to Atlanta, Lake Lanier is a popular favorite with Atlanta families. It is also one of the busiest. But busy isn’t always bad, as the powers-that-be saw the potential in all those visitors and created Lake Lanier Islands Resorts. Head there to have an epic time at the water park, amusement park and restaurants (just expect crowds and an added price tag), or skip the party and find a quiet cove to claim as your own for the day. Boats are available to rent, or you and the kids could get your toes wet along the shore at Don Carter State Park, where you'll find everything you need to hike, swim and play the day away.
Cradled in the hills of the North Georgia Mountains, Lake Rabun is an 835-acre stocked lake and a great place to spend time fishing, camping and hiking (hint: don't miss a trip to Angel Falls when you're there). For water activities, lake homes often have two-story boat houses, perfect for passing the time if you're able to VRBO one or are lucky enough to have a friend with one. If not, no problem. There are 80 tent and trailer campsites and a developed recreation area that's perfect for a picnic and a splash.
If you’re looking for a lake getaway with panache, Lake Oconee is your best bet. The Ritz-Carlton at Lake Oconee delivers the dream of an American lake vacation with precision. It's as simple as checking in, then checking out in one of the lakeside hammocks, swings, infinity pool or the spa. Don’t miss the nightly s’mores, curated by a s’more-fessional. Families can also enjoy all that Lake Oconee has to offer through any of these parks and marinas.
Downstream from Oconee is the laid back Lake Sinclair. The perfect destination for a big city break, this low-key lake is known for Dukes Lounge, offering curbside and lakeside service. Rent a boat at one of the local marinas and head to Dukes for waterside service. Move over, Chick-fil-A. There’s a new king in town.
All it takes is thirty minutes on the interstate to get to Lake Allatoona, one of Atlanta’s main water reservoirs and recreational lakes. With much of its shoreline managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, Allatoona is a popular lake that still retains its natural beauty. Close to Atlanta and with multiple marinas, campsites and recreational areas, families can easily make this lake destination a day trip or turn it into a full weekend of freshwater fun.
With its shoreline part of the Nantahala National Forest, Lake Chatuge is a far cry from busy Lake Lanier. Located in North Georgia in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you won’t find any water parks or laser shows, but you will find quiet coves and uninhabited islands perfect for exploring. While it’s a doable drive from Atlanta (clocking in around two hours), you may want to pack a bag and stay at the Ridges Resort and Marina. With a salt water pool, fire pits with s’mores at night and a nearby marina where you can rent a boat for the duration of your stay, you’ll wonder why you ever went to the trouble of driving six hours to the beach.
Odds are, you’re a little out of practice in planning vacations. You may have even added an extra person to your family since your last getaway! Don’t stress. Planning your dream summer trip is as simple as asking yourself a few questions:
With over 30 unique brands of hotels across the country, Marriott Bonvoy has something for every family getaway. Find your home away from home now!
Who?
The first part of planning is deciding who is coming with on this vacay. If you're planning a family trip you'll be bringing your kids, but are you going to invite grandparents or other extended family members? Depending on the ages of your children, you may even consider planning a trip with another family that has kids the same age.
What?
Next, you'll want to figure out what type of vacation you're planning. Are you wanting to disconnect from tech and spend time outdoors? Are you hoping you and your kids will learn something on this trip? Is relaxation a must or a maybe? Narrowing down the type of trip you want to take will make it easier to plan out the small details.
Where?
You know the type of vacation you want, now it's time to pick a locale! Do you want to fly or do you need somewhere within driving distance? Are you wanting to hit up a popular destination or go off the beaten path? We've teamed up with Marriott to help you pick your next getaway and fall in love with family travel. Make planning your dream vacay a little easier with our "Where Should You Vacation Next" quiz!
When?
You’ll need to work around your school, work and life schedules, of course, but you’ll also want to take into account if there are certain dates that are best for the location you’re headed to. Is there a peak season the area is known for? Are there festivals you want to be sure to see—or sure to avoid? Before you book, do a quick search for the dates you are planning on to get the lay of the land.
Why?
Planning a family vacation can be stressful. When you’re on the sixth page of family-friendly restaurant recommendations or just found out the tickets you wanted are sold out, remember why you planned this in the first place: to make lasting memories with your family.
Marriott’s family-friendly amenities make it easy to plan your next family adventure. Find your dream getaway today!
It’s almost Spring Break, and mama needs a getaway! (Okay…I guess I’ll bring the rest of my family, ha!) Seriously though, I feel like we have all been running in different directions and would love to go somewhere as a family to relax and reconnect. When I heard about Port Aransas in Texas, I was immediately sold! “Port A” is known for its small-town island vibe, and it sounds like paradise. We have two kids, ages 2 and 5, so finding a spot that works for all is no easy task—but Port A is it! Between miles of (driveable!) beaches, loads of restaurant options and activities for all, it’s really a no-brainer that this is our dream destination. Need inspo? Here’s what we’ve planned for our four-day getaway to Port A:
Day 1
My crew likes to take it easy when we roll up somewhere new. First thing on our list? EAT FOOD. We chose BlueWater Cowboy for lunch. It has beautiful views of the gulf so that we can soak in our new surroundings, plus enjoy drool-worthy crab cakes and a full kids menu.
Next, we'll hit Bron's Beach Carts & Backyard and grab some famous fruity slushies for the kids to cool off and a frosty beer or two for us, while we listen to live music and play games, like Giant Jenga—and it's so close to the beach!
A beach day is a must in Port A! We hit the beach to snag our spot—but there's actually plenty of room—with 18 of beaches. First things first: We need to travel like a local and rent a beach cart to cruise around in.
On the top of our must-do list is a sandcastle-building lesson with a local celebrity, "Port Aransas Sandcastle Guy."This sounds like a perfect activity for our young kids to try their hands at—and think of the photo ops!
This adventure-filled day will require some carbo-loading, so we made a reservation at Dylan's Coal Oven Pizzeria. I am a pizza connoisseur, and this place is the real deal with the only coal-burning oven in town—who doesn't love pizza?!
Day 2
This morning, we are gonna fuel up with biscuits and gravy at the Island Cafe—they also have plenty of other offerings for our picky eaters.
Next up: Hit the pool! We are heading to Port A's relaxing Community Pool, which has not one but two pools to enjoy. There are places for us to change, lockers for our gear and it's an excellent way to get some water fun in before dinner. Bonus: There's plenty for our two year old to explore, like a splash pad and shallow waters to play in.
My kids are all about a souvenir or two (or three), so we'll spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the local shops, galleries and boutiques. Odds are we'll forget something when packing, but luckily the shops have island-inspired fashions and all of the necessities covered!
I know we'll be craving seafood after a jam-packed day, so we're heading to Castaways Seafood and Grill for some tasty crustaceans for dinner. They also have a kids menu with chicken fingers, fries and stuff I know my kids will enjoy—winner, winner, seafood dinner!
First up? Breakfast. We'll swing by The Donut Palace for some sweet doughy treats, savory egg sandwiches and hot coffee for the adults.
I've heard great things about the Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond, an extensive habitat for birds, butterflies and more. Our kids love animals, so this is sure to be a hit and a beautiful, relaxed stroll through nature.
Next up, we will get our hands dirty and paint some pottery as a family! Fire It! Ceramics is the perfect place for a fun activity that we can all take part in and go home with some cool souvenirs.
Okay, I know my kids will love this one… but we are pretty psyched about it, too: Red Dragon Pirate Cruise! There's exciting cannon fire, dolphin watching, sword fighting and treasure hunting, all on this cool pirate ship on the water.
Since it's our last night here, we plan on an extra-special meal at Black Marlin Bar & Grill. I have to try their award-winning shrimp and grits, and they have mouth-watering steaks and, of course, a kids menu with all their faves.
Day 4
One last beach adventure before we go back to reality. The water in Port A is known for being warm, with soft sand to squish your toes in, and we can't leave without one more dip.
Before we head out, we'll enjoy a leisurely brunch at an outdoor table at Tortuga's Saltwater Grill, enjoying some French toast topped with caramel and crispy bacon (and probably plan our next trip to Port A!).
Looking for the perfect weekend (or longer) getaway from Atlanta that will appeal to all of your kids? Nashville Opryland Hotel Resort and SoundWaves is as fun for you as it is for them—and we promise it’s unlike any place you’ve ever seen. The only problem with it being on your destination radar is that every other trip you take will pale in comparison. Keep reading to find out why it makes the perfect easy getaway from Atlanta, below.
Situated in the heart of Nashville, the rooms of the Gaylord Opryland Resort are built around 9 acres of airy, indoor garden atriums. You'll forget about the winter blues—and hide from the sweltering summer—when you enter the doors and walk through paths teeming with tropical plants, bordered by waterfalls and illuminated by the natural light from the glassed-in ceiling.
Good to Know: You can request a room that overlooks one of the gardens, and some even have patios that you can walk out onto from your room.
Room Packages are offered seasonally. The Chill & Thrill Winterfest Package Includes one night room accommodations, SoundWaves indoor waterpark wristbands, ice skating passes and ice tubing passes through Feb. 28. The Spring It On Package includes a spring-inspired scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, a visit with the Easter Bunny on select dates and more, from March 5-May 8.
For a few more weeks, you can ice skate, drive light-up, spinning ice bumper cars, tube down an ice mountain, and enjoy live ice skating shows, carriage rides, and indoor riverboat cruises at Gaylord Opryland Resort. While you're there, you can purchase tickets to SoundWaves and enjoy all of the water park's indoor features, in a clean, warm, naturally-lit environment.
Beginning March 5, celebrate spring—whether on Spring Break to Nashville or during a quick weekend getaway—with an interactive painting and storytelling adventure, private horse-drawn carriage rides, a scavenger hunt throughout the gardens of the resort, an oversized egg hunt from a flatboat river cruise ride, plus crafts, cookie decorating choreographed indoor water fountain show. SoundWaves indoor features will be open all spring, and seasonal outdoor water attractions will typically be open Memorial Day through Labor Day. View calendar for the specific schedule to plan your visit.
There is so much to do, see, eat and hear in Nashville that you might be tempted to leave the Gaylord Opryland Resort during your visit. Located in the heart of Nashville, an excursion is easy. However, with a dozen sit-down restaurants, 6 grab-and-go concepts, and two bars (a wine bar and a craft tavern that also offer snacks in addition to libation), you never really need to leave the resort if you don't want to.
You'll find Italian, Mexican, upscale steakhouse, pizza, burgers, and more, including delicious Southern food at the only Jack Daniel's restaurant in the world. Sample hand-selected “Tennessee Sippin’ Whiskey” from the distillery and give your barbecue sandwich a shot of authenticity by ordering the slaw on top.
Don't Miss: Cascades American Cafe offers well prepared fare that won't cause any dining drama with your kids (plenty of options like hamburgers and chicken tenders to choose from), and its dramatic setting in the garden atrium—with two multi-story waterfalls and surrounded by a coy-filled lagoon—means you'll enjoy a leisurely dining experience while the kids take it all in.
In addition to the miles of meandering hothouse paths throughout the resort's atriums, you'll find live music, a water-light show, animal encounters with naturalists, flat-bottom riverboat cruises and more—all indoors—during your stay. And if nothing else piques your interest, the incredible multi-story waterfalls are worth a visit, alone.
While You're in Nashville: Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, the hotel is near legendary Nashville attractions including the Grand Ole Opry®, Ryman Auditorium®, Wildhorse Saloon®, and the General Jackson® Showboat. And, as a hotel guest, you can purchase tickets to spend the day at the hotel's exciting indoor water park, SoundWaves.
SoundWaves is a 4 acre, 3-level upscale indoor/outdoor water attraction with dedicated recreation zones for adults, young children and families. Connected to the Gaylord Opryland Resort, getting there is as simple as walking through a corridor. Without a doubt, it's the cleanest, brightest and prettiest indoor water space we've ever seen, and everything from sleek finishes to the living walls and plant best makes being at SoundWaves a treat. And get this—the unique roof allows guests to sunbathe indoors, and the temperature stays a balmy 84 degrees indoors year-round.
The indoor attractions, which features 5 indoor slides along with a designated toddler section, adult section, surfing feature, lazy river and more, are open year round. Outdoor attractions will open in 2022 on select dates from mid-May through Labor Day. View the calendar here to plan your day. Keep in mind that while check-in time at Gaylord Opryland is 4 p.m., guests with the SoundWaves package may access the water attraction from the time it opens on the day of check-in until noon of the day of check-out.
Really Important Info: Guaranteed admission is available only with the exclusive SoundWaves Water Experience overnight package, which guarantees the capacity at SoundWaves will be manageable (which is exactly what you want when you're toting a group of multi-aged kids to a water park).
Good Idea: Pack a smaller bag with bathing suits and a change of clothes, and store the rest of your luggage with Bell Services so you can enjoy SoundWaves as soon as you arrive in Nashville.
Who’s ready to get out of their house? We are—it’s time! Our dream getaway list? Finding a spot that’s not too far away, plenty for the kids to do, excellent food (and a brewery or two wouldn’t hurt). Oh, and beaches, beauty, laid-back vibes and old-school California glamour.
It exists: In between the breezy vibe of uber-cool downtown San Diego and Real Housewive glamour-town Orange County lies Carlsbad, but SHHHH—don’t tell anyone! We want to keep this gem of a vacay spot all to ourselves. Read on for six reasons why Carlsbad is the destination that will make your family’s travel dreams a reality.
If you go somewhere without scoping out the food scene first, you’re doing it wrong. We have you covered—Carlsbad is a food-lovers fantasy come true. Whether it’s freshly caught seafood and ocean views, tacos with your toes in the sand, gastropub burgers and craft beers, or comforting Italian meals like grandma used to make, Carlsbad has it, and there is literally something for everyone. Did we mention wineries and breweries? Yeah, they have that too. Get here now!
2. LEGOLAND®
That’s right. The pièce de résistance of your trip may just be a visit to LEGOLAND. And we don’t blame you; much like that park with the mouse, this one is iconic and a day or two here is a must. LEGOLAND California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including (cue the confetti!) the exciting new LEGO® NINJAGO® World! There’s also a waterpark, a wonder-filled aquarium and—wait for it—an awesome hotel. More about that coming up.
3. So Many Options to Stay
Because there’s so much to do at LEGOLAND, you may want to spend the night at their hotel on-premises, packed with all the LEGO features to wow kids and adults alike. If you like the ease of location but want another option, the Sheraton hotel just outside features a private entrance to the park!
There are tons of options from luxe to budget, but our top picks for your fam are the Park Hyatt, Omni, and Sheraton hotels—not only excellent values, but they feature fun pools with slides—WHEE!
Wanna swim, hike, bike, dive, surf, birdwatch, or just add to your shell collection and stroll? No problem. With seven miles of breathtaking west coast beach waves, you can do it all—or nothing at all.
5. Outlet Shopping
Outlet shopping has never felt so right: This beautiful outdoor shopping center in Carlsbad has 90 designer and name-brand outlet stores, including Barneys New York Warehouse, Coach, Elie Tahari, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Nike Factory Store and many more, all offering savings of 25% to 65% every day. Pro tip: It’s right near LEGOLAND. If you want to sneak away… we won’t tell.
6. Award-Winning Golf
With four acclaimed golf courses throughout Carlsbad to choose from, you just can't go wrong. Even if you're not a golfer, these are some of the most beautiful greens in the country. The Park Hyatt Avira boasts a course designed by golf great Arnold Palmer with a most memorable coastal layout. Humblebrag: The Crossing at Carlsbad was voted by GOLF Magazine as one of the "Top 10 New Courses You Can Play," and the greatest names in golf history have played at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa's golf resort.
A relaxing beach getaway close to home sounds like exactly what we need right now—bonus points if we don’t have to travel far and can get right to the fun. Port Aransas exudes a small-town island vibe that’s irresistible. Bounce between driveable beaches, eclectic eateries and local activities for all ages and interests—all while cruising around town in a golf cart. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite activities in Port Aransas by age group, making it even simpler to make your way to Port A!
When your little guppy gets tired of the 18 miles of uninterrupted beachline, the Community Park Pool is a cool, refreshing oasis! There’s a splash pad just for them, along with slides, buckets and shallow water entry to the pool. There are plenty of places to lounge in the shade, lockers to stash your stuff and showers to freshen up before your next stop.
Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
Enjoy birdwatching as you walk down the ADA-accessible boardwalk, which is also great for strollers. You’ll stroll right over the wetlands where kids can get a close-up look at birds, alligators and fish. The end of the boardwalk boasts a beautiful trail that leads you through a field of wildflowers around the edge of the saltmarsh. A bench under a mesquite tree is perfect for taking a rest and birdwatching.
Ages 4-7
Fire It! Ceramics
When you've had enough of the sun and sand, or on those rare rainy days, take the gang to Fire It! Ceramics. Spend time together creating one-of-a-kind painted ceramics with your kids and leave with handmade, beautiful souvenirs.
Joan & Scott Holt Paradise Pond
This is a two-acre habitat and a stop on the spring migratory route for smaller warblers and other songbirds, while many feathered friends call the pond home all year long. Because even kids need to take a load off, enjoy their sitting area at the entrance for watching butterflies, dragonflies and birds. Visitors flock from across the country for a sitting here!
Ages 8-12
Bron’s Beach Carts and Backyard
Fun for the entire family can be had at Bron’s Beach Carts and Backyard! Kids can sip on snow cones and slushies while you enjoy an adult beverage. Have a great time playing yard games like cornhole, hula hoop, giant Jenga, ping pong and test your skills on all types of video games. Relax under the big umbrellas or on the patio deck while listening to live music.
Learn How to Build an Epic Sandcastle
Build a better sandcastle! Tips, pics, tricks. Famous local, “the sandcastle building guy,” has been sand-sculpting since Memorial Day 1999. Sign up for a lesson to score some take-a-way tricks of the trade that will build castles and memories.
Teens
Surf Lessons
This one is sure to put a smile on your teen's face: Take a surf lesson on the beach! Texas Surf Camps have been teaching kids and adults of all ages for 16 years!
Parasailing
Experience some of the best views of Port Aransas while floating up to 500 feet from state-of-the-art Parasail Boats 'Chute 'Em Up' & 'Hang 'Em High.' Make your reservation here.
