If you’re overdue to spend some real QT time with your son (when aren’t we?), one of the easiest ways to make it happen is to set aside a few hours at a time for just the two of you. We asked moms of boys everywhere to share their favorite mother-son activities, and from a Sugar Rush-inspired baking session to planting a garden and playing LEGO, there’s tons of ground to cover!
1. Go fishing. Grab a pole, and hit the local pond. It’s a quiet sport that’ll keep you present and in the moment.
4. Start a journal. There are plenty of diaries and journals for girls, but boys need a place to write down their thoughts too. Encourage him by writing in it with him. We especially love this one from Wee Society.
5. Schedule tech-free playtime. Being present with your kid, even for 20 minutes, is one of the most valuable ways to bond.
6. Run a race. Whether it’s a 5k or a 1-mile fun run, train with your son and show him what moms (and women) can do!
7. Attend a rally for a cause you care about. It’s important to teach your son how to be a good citizen.
8. Bake something. Not a seasoned baker yourself? Try one of these easy kits that make you look like a cake boss, even when you’re not.
10. Have a good cry. Boys are often encouraged to hide their feelings and “man up.” Letting your son know it’s okay to have emotions will set him up to be a more empathetic adult.
11. Go surfing. Spend an afternoon catching waves with your kid. Don’t live near the beach? Make it a vacation, and book one of these Airbnbs that are perfect for families!
16. Get takeout from somewhere fancy and eat al fresco. Support a local restaurant by grabbing takeout and hitting the open green field for an outdoor dinner.
17. Go see a symphony or stage performance. Sharing this experience with your son will help him appreciate the theatrical arts later in life.
18. Have an up-close encounter with animals (reptiles, giraffes, starfish, etc.) at your local zoo. We can’t deny that a visit to the zoo is a favorite for everyone involved.
19. Plant something. There’s nothing like digging in the dirt and watching the fruits of your labor grow in the sunshine.
20. Make art/take a clay class. Art isn’t just for girls, it’s for everyone! Schedule a class and get ready to get messy
21. Volunteer. Compassion is a key skill in raising a strong man.
22. Pretend to be spies and create decoder messages for each other.
23. Practice random acts of kindness. Because it's awesome.
24. Play ninjas/dinosaurs/Star Wars/house. Whatever he’s into, he’ll love that you’re into it too.
25. Make a “lunch” out of free samples of a shopping trip to Whole Foods or Costco. Hey, those samples are worth their weight in gold!
26. Do a big puzzle together that can be framed in his room when it’s done. It'll keep everyone busy for hours! Which will be some kind of record.
27. Make a surprise craft together for your partner. Do something sweet for the other person who loves him as much as you do.
28. Ask him a question.These simple prompts will help your son feel comfortable opening up and sharing his thoughts.
29. Plan a walking (and sampling) food tour of your favorite local foodie district. Every kid should know exactly how the neighborhood delicacies taste.
31. Go through old family photos and talk about your family history. To go forward it’s important to know where you’ve come from.
33. Have a water balloon fight in the warmer months. Don’t want to deal with the broken bits of balloons after it’s all over? Try our favorite water games, instead.
34. Go to a museum together. Pick a museum, any museum! From dinosaurs to cars to local history, there’s something for everyone.
35. Go beachcombing for crabs and other beach critters together. Whether you live nearby, or if it’s an annual trek, collecting stuff on the beach is a must.
38. Chaperone a Boy Scout trip. Dad doesn’t always have to be the one on the campout.
39. Go to a sporting event. Whether it’s baseball, tennis, football, golf, basketball, or hockey (or anything else!), if he’s into it, he’ll love being able to watch it in person.
With over 400 National Parks in the United States, whether you’re into exploring hiking trails, camping, going on scavenger hunts, or even soaking in hot springs, there’s an open space out there that you’ll love. If you have a 4th grader in your crew, be sure to snag the free national parks pass that’s good for their whole 4th-grade year. Another way to get in free is to visit during free national park days or choose a park that’s always free.
With a huge increase in visitors to national parks in recent years, some have instituted a reservation system during peak weekends and summer months. Be sure to check for this before you visit! Keep reading to see our favorite family-friendly parks, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
What to See & Do: Located around 4 hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, Sequoia National Park is home to the famous General Sherman Tree (the world's largest tree by volume). Also not to be missed is The Congress Trail—a 2.7-mile paved hike that loops through the forest where you'll get up close and personal with other famous sequoias like The President, The House, and the Senate—jaw-droppingly beautiful trees that have called this micro-climate home for the past 2,500 years or so.
Tips & When to Go: Open year-round, there's no bad time of year to see these gentle giants. In the winter, you can snowshoe among the trees (some roads may be closed due to conditions) while in the summer, you can spend more time and camp inside the national park if you desire. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. To help plan your trip, read our insider's guide to visiting Visalia and Sequoia National Park.
From the river bed of the Rio Grande to the peaks of the Chisos mountain range, this remote park runs along the Texas/Mexico border.
What to See & Do: Designated as one of the darkest places in the country, it’s one of the best places to stargaze with your kids. It’s also filled with fossils—be sure to take your dino enthusiast to the Fossil Discovery Exhibit. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities for families: some of the best trails for kids include the Window View, the Basin Loop, the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, and for older kids, the Lost Mine Trail is worth the trek. One of the most popular things to do in Big Bend, however, is to float the Rio Grande. There are several outfitters that offer easy, half-day floats, like this Madera to Grassy Banks option from Big Bend River Tours, which are perfect for families with young children.
Tips & When to Go: Cell service can be spotty, but free, public WiFi is available at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, the Chisos Mountains Lodge, and the Rio Grande Village Store. The best time to go is Sept.-May, as it gets very hot in the summer.
Famed for its granite domes and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a gold mine for families.
Things to See & Do: Filled with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, two favorites include the Tuolomne Grove Nature Trail because you are rewarded with some massive Giant Sequoias, including the one you can walk through, and the Mist Trail as you have the opportunity to see two waterfalls. Make sure you set aside some time to spend exploring Yosemite Village. Grab some lunch 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.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, with seasonal activities, but May and Sep. are less crowded.
Sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and animal wildlife are all part of the wonder of Zion National Park in Utah. You’ll want to give yourselves plenty of time at this scenic destination to take it all in.
Things to See & Do: Try a kid-friendly hike, like The Grotto Trail, Weeping Rock Trail, or the Emerald Pool Trail. While at the Emerald Pool trail, be sure to check out the gorgeous waterfall views. For a fun way for families to learn more about Zion together, head over to the Nature Center. Daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, youth programs specifically for children and families are offered, and last 30-45 minutes, so they're just the right length for your mini explorers.
Tips & When to Go: Zion National Park is open year-round. Some services or facilities may have limited hours at various times of the year.
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers trails along the granite shoreline that seem to rise from the sea. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about lobsters or search for harbor seals, the cool freshwater lakes, and frothy saltwater tidal invite exploring, and there are plenty of yummy lobster dinners within reach.
What to See & Do: Acadia offers families dozens of activities beyond hiking (though the hiking is both excellent and most often very family-friendly), which everyone will love. Pack your bikes for rides along the network of Carriage Roads, and blow their minds at Thunder Hole, a partially submerged cave that booms about an hour before high tide.
Tips & When to Go: While there is plenty to do for visitors of all ages and abilities, much of Acadia’s landscape is very rugged. If you’ve got wee ones in tow, a child’s backpack carrier just might save the trip. Late summer and early fall offer warm days, fewer crowds, and typically chilly evenings, making it the perfect time for a visit.
From mountain waterfalls to ice-cold streams running through rhododendron-laced valleys, the Smokies are full of crystal-clear swimming holes, easy and moderate hikes for all legs, and scenic drives. In addition to being a great national park for kids, this park offers free admission year-round.
What to See & Do: Getting to the Smokies is relatively easy from any place in the southeast, and it’s easily accessible from both Tennessee and North Carolina. Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are both mountain towns just outside of the park and offer plenty of lodging and entertainment options for families looking to neon-light their vacation. A true naturalist would be hard-pressed to find anything wrong with the Smokies, and it’s equally suited for families who prefer to balance their bouts with nature with outlet shopping, live entertainment, and restaurants (all available just outside the park).
Tips & When to Go: It’s rare to have a true off-peak season in the Smokies, so if you’re looking for isolation this isn’t the park for you. However, solitude can be found inside the boundaries of the park, and we recommend going in the early spring to catch the incredible display of ephemeral wildflowers in bloom. Or, go in the fall around the second or third weekend of October to see the brilliant fall leaves.
Explore the coastline and see wild horses on this island sanctuary.
What to See & Do: Since the park is located on a 37-mile-long barrier island, this spot is ideal for beach-loving families. Look for shells, kayak, play in the ocean, or visit one of the centers for a nature program and to experience the marine life touch tanks. Camping is a popular lodging option here, there are several sites, and reservations are required during portions of the year.
Tips & When to Go: Be sure to keep a distance of 40 feet from the wild horses. The park is open year-round, and visitors peak in July, to watch the horses swim the channel, but insects like mosquitos and gnats thrive in the humid summer months. Spring and fall are lovely times to visit.
The third-largest national park in the lower 48 states spans 2,400 miles and offers a respite from cold winter temps elsewhere in the country.
What to See & Do: The dry winter season here means more animals to spot (hello, alligators and manatees!), more ranger programs to attend (think: hikes, bikes, and talks), and way fewer mosquitos than you and the kiddos would find any other time of year. Ride bikes, take a boat tour (most of the park is only accessible by boat), or set up camp before the wet season hits.
The dramatic landscape of Badlands has an otherworldly feel that has to be seen to be believed. With a combination of impressive rock formations and beautiful grasslands, this South Dakota spot is worth a visit as it’s one of our top national parks for kids.
What to See & Do: Drive Badlands Loop Road and stop at a few of the overlooks for jaw-dropping views. Popular with kids, the quarter-mile Fossil Exhibit Trail winds along a boardwalk and features fossil replicas. Along with the Junior Ranger program in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, kids can also check out the interactive exhibits and visit the theater to watch the film Land of Stone and Light. In the summertime, families can get a close-up view of the night sky through telescopes on Friday through Monday nights at the evening ranger program.
Tips & When to Go: Badlands is open year-round, although the visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Summertime offers additional programs such as the Night Sky program, evening ranger programs, guided hikes, and talks.
Although not as well known as some other parks, Cuyahoga Valley is an ideal spot to watch changing foliage, colorful wildflowers and wildlife. Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, this midwestern park may become a new favorite.
Things to See & Do: To see a magical view of Blue Hen Falls, the Blue Hen Falls Trail is an easy hike that the whole family can do together. At half a mile and just under thirty minutes, it’s a great intro trail and leads to the peaceful waterfall. You can also try birdwatching, canoeing and a whole schedule of summer events including train rides on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, ranger-led hikes and wildlife walks.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open every day, although some areas close at dusk for the night. Wildflowers are in bloom in mid to late summer.
If you’ve got a dino lover in your house, then Dinosaur National Monument is a definite stop for your list. Inside the Quarry Hall, the kids can check out over 1,500 real preserved dinosaur fossils that are sure to fascinate them. Next, move on to see some petroglyphs and pictographs as you drive the 10-mile Tour of Tilted Rocks. You’ll also find hiking, river rafting, and ranger-guided programs.
Tips & When to Go: Dinosaur National Monument is open every day all year, but during the winter, some roads and facilities are closed. The Quarry Visitor Center and Quarry Exhibit Hall are only open at certain times, so check the website before heading on your trip. In the summertime, temperatures can easily climb over 100 degrees, so take plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Located only 75 miles outside of Washington, D.C., and with over 100 miles of scenic highway, this park is perfect for families who love a good road trip. Skyline Drive is the main (and only) drag through the park, and the 75 overlooks of the Shenandoah Valley are swoon-worthy.
What to See & Do: The Shenandoah National Park’s Scenic Drive ensures that you will see splendid views and have every opportunity to get out and explore the park since nearly all trailheads are located a short distance from the road. This is the perfect park for families with good car seat travelers!
Tips & When to Go: Because they leave the fields in the Shenandoah National Park unplowed to purposely propagate the wildflowers that bloom there, you are guaranteed to see an incredible show year-round.
Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the Hot Springs National Park is the only park that had a city grow up around it. Known for its bubbling mineral springs and their restorative and healing powers, you can still bathe in them today in one of the restored historic bathhouses.
What to See & Do: While the springs have been around for ages, the amenities have continued to improve. You can bathe in the mineral waters from the comfort of a modern-day spa after spending a morning hiking one of the park's 26 miles of trails. And did we mention that there’s a diamond mine only an hour away in Murfreesboro?
Tips & When to Go: We like the idea of a nice, hot mineral spring bath on a cool spring day, don’t you? The bathhouses are open year-round, but Arkansas heats up in the summer and we suggest going during one of the cooler months.
You can see beaches, rainforests, and mountains at this beautiful park in the Pacific Northwest. Olympic National Park holds a little something for everyone.
What to See & Do: On the coast, kids four and up can be “Ocean Stewards” and earn a badge for completing activities. You can also explore tide pools, try any number of family hiking trails or spend some time on Rialto Beach. For evening fun, join one of the Night Sky programs, such as stargazing or full moon hikes at Hurricane Ridge.
Tips & When to Go: June through September are the most popular times to visit. Although the park is most crowded during these times, the park also has the most facilities and programs available. The park is still a show-stopping sight in winter, but check the website for weather and road conditions first.
Lava Beds National Monument is a must-visit spot when you bring the family to Siskiyou County in Northern California. Here you can check out free flashlights from the visitor center and explore the many (VERY DARK) caves that were formed when lava flowed through the area thousands of years ago. For the youngest explorers, check out Mushpot Cave just a short walk from the visitor center. This is the only cave that has its own lighting in the tunnel.
What to See & Do: Skull Cave (pictured above) is a popular choice because of its massive size. A good lighting source will be needed if you want to venture all the way down to the cave's ice floor (the flashlights from the visitor center can be pretty dim so you might want to bring your own).
Tips & When to Go: Summer is a great time to visit Lava Beds. Remember that even though it might be in the 90s above ground that it will be very chilly when you head into the caves so long pants/long sleeves are recommended. There's no restaurant at the park so bring in lunch with you when you visit. Check out our guide to visiting Siskiyou County with kids for lots of other tips including where to visit the petroglyphs!
While not an official national park, Indiana Dunes still offers visitors over 15 miles of protected lakeshore and 48 miles of trails—some within sight of the Chicago skyline!
What to See & Do Lake Michigan’s sandy shoreline includes dunes that reach as high as 125 feet tall, and its National Lakeshore status has protected its natural beauty from development and commercialization. If you decide to explore the dunes, just be sure to stay on the marked trails to protect the natural habitat!
Tips & When to Go Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a perfect spot for a picnic, day hike or day at the beach from the moment the sun starts shining in the spring until the last leaves have fallen in autumn.
Located in central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system. Experience the underground adventure with cave tours, trails, and more.
What to See & Do: You’ll find over 84 miles of hiking trails suitable for all different levels, so find the one that works best for your family and get ready to explore. A variety of cave tours are also available so you can see Mammoth Cave up close and personal. The Frozen Niagara is a popular cave tour for families with young kids. Lasting an hour and 15 minutes, the tour is ideal for small hikers at just about a quarter of a mile. Reservations are strongly recommended, but not required.
Tips & When to Go: The cave is open year-round, and the Visitor Center’s hours vary by season.Cave temperatures are between the 50s and 60s but can become much colder in the winter. When touring the caves, flash photography is not permitted. Strollers and child backpack carriers are also not permitted on cave tours, so make sure young ones are up for the walk.
Mountain scenery, glacier-chiseled lakes, and tons of activities greet you at this stunning park in Montana.
What to See & Do: Visit the Apgar Nature Center so kids can play and learn with various interactive activities, ranger talks, and children’s programs. Take in the scenery and look for wildlife as you drive the 50-mile Going to the Sun road. As an alternative, you can use the free shuttle along Going to the Sun Road between the nature center and the St. Mary Visitor Center. You’ll also want to make sure to make time to explore the park with a hike. Plenty of trails are popular with children, such as Trail of the Cedars, Hidden Lake Nature Trail or the Oxbow Trail. After you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t forget to make a stop for a scoop of huckleberry ice cream! A Glacier must.
Tips & When to Go: Glacier is open every day of the year, although hours at visitor stations vary by season. Summer is the most popular season to visit. Weather-related events may affect Going to the Sun Road plowing and opening, so follow the park’s current road status to get the latest information.
Little fossil fans will love imagining past prehistoric days and dinosaurs as they explore the Painted Desert landscape of Petrified Forest National Park.
What to See & Do: Be sure to make a stop at the Rainbow Forest Museum where your kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits and skeleton displays. From the museum parking area, you can find the trailhead for the Agate House trail, a two-mile trek with a paved portion, leading to an old pueblo made of petrified wood. At the Painted Desert Visitor Center, you’ll find an orientation video, a restaurant, gift shop, and plenty of information about the park.
Tips & When to Go: Petrified Forest National Park is open year-round, with the exception of December 25th. However, visitor center hours and park road hours vary by season.
Visiting White Sands feels a little bit like running through a dream. Acres and acres of soft white gypsum sand dunes will have the kids running, rolling and sliding for hours.
What to See & Do: Hit the Visitor Center first to learn all about how White Sands formed, and then head out to experience it! The eight-mile ride down Dunes Drive will take you to the center of the dune field. Sleds can be purchased at the Visitor Center, and little ones (and adults!) will love the chance to take a slide down. Sledding is permitted in the loop area of Dunes Drive. The Visitor Center also has a Junior Rangers program, a gift shop and a native plant garden. Kids can also check out an Adventure Pack for the day, containing binoculars, field guides, a compass and other items to help them explore the dunes.
Tips & When to Go: White Sands is open daily all through the year, with the exception of December 25. The monument occasionally closes for inclement weather or unsafe road conditions. Hours vary depending on the season, so check the website for the latest times. Pack sunglasses and don’t forget the sunscreen, because the sun shining off of those white dunes is bright.
Be wowed by the active volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii’s Big Island!
Things to See & Do: Start at the Visitor Center and check out the video Born of Fire, Born of the Sea. You’ll want to cruise the main road of Crater Rim Drive, where you’ll find tons of scenic stops to admire, such as Kilauea Overlook for unbeatable views. Swing by the Jaggar Museum where you can learn all about lava, seismographs and everything volcano-related. Finally, take your flashlights and explore the magnitude of Nahuku, the Thurston Lava Tube.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, including all holidays. The park contains two active volcanoes, so safety is always a priority. Stay up to date on volcanic activity and air quality before visiting by checking the park’s website.
Joshua Tree’s beautiful desert landscapes, nature trails and Dr. Seuss-like trees make this park a consistent favorite for families. It’s definitely worth a stop on your next California journey.
What to See & Do: You’ll find plenty of short trails and nature walks that won’t be too strenuous for small hikers. The Bajada, Cap Rock, Hidden Valley, and Cholla Cactus Garden are loop trails that are all one mile long or shorter and take an hour or less to complete. Let the kids pose for a photo with the appropriately named Skull Rock, located along the main park road. If you’re there at night, don’t miss the chance to gaze up at some unbelievable stars.
Tips & When to Go: Joshua Tree can get extremely hot in the summer, so a spring visit might be more comfortable, weather-wise. You’re in the desert, so plenty of water is also a must!
Yellowstone is definitely one for your national parks list! With geysers, hiking trails, animals, and forests on display, this gorgeous park is a can’t-miss stop on your road trip.
What to See & Do: No trip to Yellowstone is complete without a visit to Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser. Take a stroll on the boardwalks around the geyser, and then stop by the Visitor Center to find out when the next eruption is scheduled to take place! You can get a great look and a photo op from the viewing area nearby. While you’re in the Visitor Center, kids can sign up for the Yellowstone Junior Ranger program, where they can earn a badge after completing a series of activities around the park.
Grand Prismatic is another stunning feature on your Yellowstone trip. The park’s largest hot spring boasts bright colors that almost seem unreal. The boardwalk surrounding Grand Prismatic does get crowded, so hold tight to little hands as you check out this amazing thermal feature.
Driving into Yellowstone, you’ll catch some great wildlife sightings, and maybe even a bison crossing, which is always a thrill for little ones.
Tips & When to Go: Summer offers a ton of available activities but is by far Yellowstone’s busiest season, so expect crowds and a slow drive into the park. Spring, summer and winter offer fewer crowds, but some roads and activities are not available depending on weather, so keep up to date on Yellowstone’s website and plan your trip well in advance. We also love visiting in the winter via snowcoach!
With over 2,000 natural stone arches, beautiful red rock formations, and hikes for all ages, Arches National Park is a treat for the whole family.
What to See & Do: Drive through the park to catch a glimpse of some of the famous arches, and stop for strolls and photos. Kids will love Balanced Rock, a gravity-defying structure with a short loop trail that is perfect for small hikers. Another great spot for your little road trippers is Sand Dune Arch. With a 0.3-mile hike and tons of soft sand to play in, kids will have a blast making a detour here.
Tips & When to Go: March through October is the park’s busiest season, so expect crowds and longer lines to drive into the park. Rangers programs are offered in spring, summer, and fall, and the Visitor Center is open daily, except for December 25.
Kids love volcanos, and they’ll love that this lake formed from a volcano is also the deepest one in America. But there’s more to Crater Lake National Park than just the lake, and you’ll want to hit the trails (and fishing holes, and swimming holes) before you wrap up your visit.
What to See & Do: Trying to spot the Phantom Ship (a rock formation along the rim) is worth the trip all by itself, and Crater Lake National Park also offers boat trips to Wizard Island. With its volcanic past, this park is perfect for littles with big imaginations.
Tips & When to Go: Accessible almost all year, Crater Lake is rarely overwhelmed by visitors, even in the summer. Go between July and September for the best weather (and best chance to get out and explore).
Located just off the coast of Ventura, California, Channel Islands National Park is the perfect family day trip. Accessible only by boat or plane, the Park includes five islands.
What to See & Do: Not only are the islands great to explore by foot or kayak, but the necessary boat ride to get there adds to the trip’s element of adventure. Since these islands are truly remote, don’t take anyone whose needs might exceed what you can carry in a backpack. Tiny tots and need-to-nappers might be better off going when they get a tad older.
Tips & When to Go: While the islands are open to visitors year-round, fall, with warmer water and animal migrations, is a sure bet for the WOW factor. Keep your eyes peeled for blue and humpback whales off the coast, and you’re sure to see dolphins as you make your way to the islands by boat.
Additional reporting by Anna Doogan & Shelley Massey
Make sure to capture all your best travel moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world, and with so much to do, it can be hard to decide what to do first—especially when it comes to exploring the Big Apple and discovering fun things to do in NYC with kids. From the bright lights of Times Square to the world–class art galleries of the Upper East Side, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Of course, don’t forget there’s tons of nature to discover, you can nosh on some of the world’s best goodies—including the best pizza in the world (yasss!), and explore the numerous hidden gems and best immersive experience in NYC. To make sure you don’t miss out on the best NYC has to offer, here is a list of the top 101 (because NYC always has to be extra) things to do in the city.
The Best Ways to Explore Nature in NYC & the 5 Boroughs
1. You may have been to Central Park, but have you been to NYC’s other biggest parks? One of the best things to do with kids in NYC is to pay a visit to Prospect Park (Brooklyn), Pelham Bay Park (Bronx), Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Queens), and Freshkills Park (Staten Island—currently in the process of being renovated and is opening in phases through 2036). Each has so much to explore, from the Shakespeare Garden in Central Park to the Audubon House in Prospect Park… and beyond!
2. Want a more guided experience of the city’s parks? Joint the Urban Rangers for a family event, often including ways to engage little minds, bodies, and hands. Visit the NYC Parks website’s “Best for Kids” section to find an activity in your local park.
3. Take a stroll through the city’s gardens, hidden oases of flora to amaze and engage year round. Many of the gardens include sensory sections to engage the smallest visitors (and parents will enjoy them, too!) and various themed activities and crafts. Our garden recommendations are the Botanical Gardens in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, Snug Harbor in Staten Island, and Wave Hill in the Bronx.
4. If you’re itching for a nature walk of a more uniquely NYC type, check out one of the more unusual parks the city is home to. Not sure where to start? Head to the High Line to experience an elevated-train-track-turned-green-walkway, or wander among the graves at Greenwood Cemetery.
5. You don’t need to go anywhere special to find nature—it’s all around us. Go on a nature walk and keep your eyes peeled for local critters, migratory birds, and more. For a guided walk, look to the NYC Parks website, which hosts bird-watching events, nature exploration walks, beach discovery tours, and more. Or, just stop by the information center of many parks and ask to borrow a kit with binoculars, a magnifying glass, as well as activity sheets and colored pencils to keep kids engaged on the walk.
6. Want to get more hands on? There are many opportunities to help out in NYC parks and community gardens. What’s available varies by season but activities are often all-ages and include park cleanup, planting, weeding, mulching, and the occasional unique one-off (like planting sea grass on Brighton Beach!).
7. Did you know that NYC has indoor parks as well? Some are so well-hidden that even native New Yorkers don’t know about them! Our favorite is The Ford Foundation in Midtown: It has an atrium with real trees and plants, a reflecting pool, and a sensory garden.
8. Meet and greet the city’s animals at the various zoos and farms in NYC. Visit Queens Farm, the city’s only working farm, dive into the depths of the waters at the Coney Island aquarium. Or drop by Alley Pond for themed crafts, walks, and encounters with their animal ambassadors.
9. Wake up in a real farm with a farm stay near NYC. Help out with the daily farm chores (like feeding the animals!), disconnect from the internet, and buy some fresh produce on your way out. It doesn’t get much more “farm to table” than literally getting the goods at the farm yourself.
10. Hop on a train, bus, or car out of town for a day trip. You don’t have to go far from the city to find incredible hiking trails, quaint towns, and fun adventures for the whole family. We recommend different daycations depending on whether you’re traveling in the spring for a spring break trip, summer, fall to see the leaves change, or winter to find some nearby snow.
11. NYC’s playgrounds have been getting renovated in recent years, and thanks to renewed funding, will continue to revamp the city’s beloved child hangouts. Your local playground is sure to entertain and educate, as well as keep the little ones cool in the summer with plenty of splash park options. There are also some incredible and unique playgrounds to check out around the city, like Domino Park’s homage to the sugar factory that used to exist in the space. You won’t want to miss these!
12. You never get too old for a carousel, and the city has a few that are sure to thrill, no matter how old you are. Some of our favorite merry-go-rounds are Jane’s Carousel in DUMBO, the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park, and Riverbank State Park’s Totally Kid Carousel—which features kid-designed rides.
14. Explore the city in a way you’ve never seen it before—through the augmented reality lens of a scavenger hunt! Companies like CluedUpp and Watson Adventures set you up with clues, and send you on an adventure down various parts of NYC in search of answers to mysteries and virtual treasures.
15. There are plenty of amusement parks to get your thrills, from the city’s very own Luna Park to the beloved SIx Flags in nearby New Jersey. Smaller adrenaline junkies will enjoy Nickelodeon Universe, while everyone in the family will find something to love at LegoLand in Orange County.
16. Whether you’re visiting or having a staycation, consider bedding down at a family-friendly hotel. These offer fun perks just for kids, like indoor “camping” kits and scavenger hunts through the hotel hallways.
17. Fore! Swing your clubs through challenging and family-friendly courses in any of NYC’s mini-golf spots and by “fore” one of the most fun things to do in NYC with kids.
18. Entertain your tiny train buffs with an extra-special train ride near NYC. There are so many choices to fulfill your trainspotter: seasonal rides to the North Pole, year-round scenic routes on classic locomotives, miniature train shows (the biggest are at Grand Central Terminal and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens), a visit the Transit Museum along with their can’t miss rides on vintage trains.
20. Board games make for a great night in, but you can still make it a night out with the fam. Head out to a board game cafe like the Uncommons in Manhattan or Sip & Play in Brooklyn, and enjoy game night while sipping on drinks that you didn’t even have to make yourself. Everyone wins!
21. Roll a strike (or just have fun!) at one of the city’s bowling alleys. Many, like Bowlero and Brooklyn Bowl, have plenty of other fun things to do to make the experience a full night out, like live music, arcade games, and even laser tag.
22. Flip and bounce on the trampolines at Launch Trampoline in Queens, Bounce-U’s bouncy castles in Elmsford, or one of the other trampoline parks in and near the city.
23. Hide from bad weather at a kid-approved indoor playground. Explore large structures like the ones at Funtopia and Joyful Palace, or keep it smaller for the tinier tots at a cafe-playground combo like Masal Cafe in Sheepshead Bay.
24. Level up your gaming skills at one of the city’s fun arcades. Make it a family affair with places like Dave and Buster’s—which has games for all ages and a banging bar for the adults.
25. Enter the world of virtual reality at a specialty spot where kids and adults can try the awesome new tech. Explore new worlds, work together as a team in a virtual environment, and have fun! Note that some places have age restrictions (generally 12 and up), so be sure to check before you go if you have younger kids.
27. Visit a museum where you’re not just allowed to touch the exhibits—you’re actively encouraged to! Interactive museums like the NY Hall of Science in Queens, Liberty Science Center in NJ, and SpyScape in Manhattan are all excellent places to take curious kids.
28. While you’re out and about, capture the magic at one of New York’s photo booths. You’ll find these memory machines hidden around the city, whether you’re checking out the Ace Hotel or chowing down at Dekalb Market Hall.
29. Slip and slide into the pools at an indoor water park, whether it’s 90, or 19 degrees, outside. Aquatopia and the Great Wolf Lodge are two great options within driving distance of NYC.
30. Embrace your creative side by joining an arts and crafts class. Free options include crafting at parks and libraries themed, cultural, and seasonal workshops in museums and gardens (which are often free with admission). There’s also a huge range of paid classes, like pottery, paint and sip (sodas, not wine!), and even textile arts.
31. Kids can sing and dance with performances especially made for different age groups. From classical music to kid bops, catch a show at a local theater, cafe, or park.
32. Plan, dig, and build at a construction-themed playground, and introduce kids to life-long skills like safe tool use and effective risk assessment. Places like The Yard at Governors Island and Kids at Work in Manhattan unleash kids on building materials armed with tools and creativity. Diggerland in NJ even lets them operate heavy machinery (supervised, of course)!
33. It’s always storytime somewhere in NYC. Catch a read-along at a library, bookstore, or park, sometimes featuring the author of the work being read.
34. Smaller tots can dance, sing, and learn key motor skills at “Mommy and Me” (or “Guardian and Me”) classes all around the city. These provide an excellent way to build budding skills and find parent friends in your nabe.
The Best Places to Experience Art & Culture in NYC with Kids
35. Art doesn’t just sit on museum walls—it’s all around us! There are tons of public art on display in the city, many of them here for a limited time, allowing you to explore new art throughout the months. Check out the various outdoor artworks and sculptures, or visit a special art park, like Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens or Storm King Art Center in Orange County.
36. Grab your sketchbook and some pencils and head outside to find new inspiration in the parks, streets, and life in the city. You can join an outdoor drawing Meetup group (just make sure they allow kids to join in), visit a special outdoor drawing space like Street Lab, or check out occasional arts and crafts events in the parks—which usually all the materials kids will need to partake in the activity.
37. For a quick recreational getaway, visit one of the city’s islands. Relax and take a stroll through scenic locations on Governors Island, Roosevelt Island, City Island, or the newest, man-made addition to the roster, Little Island.
38. Turn your island-hopping into an educational experience, instead, by visiting one of the historic islands, like Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
40. NYC has parades and festivals galore. Cheer along at huge well-known parades like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown and Flushing. There are parades for every occasion, like holidays and seasons. Check them all out!
41. See the city from a completely different perspective: From the outside. Book a a spot on a kid-friendly cruise in the Hudson River and view sights as you sip on a drink and listen to live music.
42. Hop on a ferry for a quick ride. Enjoy the experience of the ferry itself then be rewarded by awesome destinations, like Governors Island’s two ferry docking stations or the Staten Island terminal and its impressive fish tanks.
43. NYC is full of famous filming locations. See the fire station from “Ghostbusters,” take a peek at Marilyn Munroe’s infamous subway grate, and find more familiar spots that have appeared in movies!
45. Museums aren’t just for adults! The children’s museums in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island are specially designed for curious little ones to climb, build, explore, and learn. Some other museums, like the Skyscraper Museum, frequently have family and child-oriented programs (often offered free with admission).
46. Uncover the multilayered history of NYC through engaging museums. Two especially kid-friendly options are the New York Historical Society—which, among other things, holds weekly storytime and crafts events—and the Museum of the City of New York.
47. Want to expand your minds beyond NYC history? The city’s history museums have you covered, with everything from naval and aviation history at the Intrepid, to natural history at the American Museum of Natural History.
49. Childhood is the perfect time to enter the vast and colorful world of art and art history. NYC has some incredible art museums—The Whitney and the MoMA are especially fun to visit with kids in tow.
50. Beat the crowds by exploring some of the lesser-known museums in New York. They’re worth a look as much as the main attractions, and include exhibits on storytelling, firefighter history, the city’s oldest house, and other unique spots you may otherwise miss.
51. For some family fun and stunning photo-ops, check out one of NYC’s interactive experiences. Some are here for a brief period of time (like Wonderland Dreams, an “Alice in Wonderland” experience featuring hand-painted dreamy scenery). Others are mainstays with rotating exhibits, like fan-favorite CAMP, which brings favorite kids characters to life through immersive experiences.
54. Grab a churro popcorn and an endless-refills soda, and sit back in one of the most comfortable chairs ever for a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse, now open in two locations. Or visit any of the city’s other excellent movie theaters, from big names like AMC to more niche spots like Williamsburg’s Nitehawk Cinema.
55. Libraries are more than just places to borrow books. Visit a local library to enjoy free Wi-Fi (even outside), toddler storytimes, arts and crafts, coding classes, game nights, magic shows, and many more community activities.
56. Join a coding class to give your kids skills that’ll train their minds to think analytically and arm them with skills for their future. From Minecraft to Scratch, there are classes to accommodate kids of all ages and skill levels.
57. Kids are given the tools and knowledge to cook delicious meals safely at the city’s many cooking classes for children. Nourish the mind and body with candy-making at Cricket’s Candy Creations, pizzas and pastas at Eataly, workshops for all ages at Taste Buds Kitchen, and more.
59. Branch out beyond Broadway and catch a performance at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, or any of the other excellent theaters around the city. Keep an eye on the respective websites, as these performance centers often host child-oriented events. Or head outside for a performance al fresco, like the annual Shakespeare in the Park program, or the traveling shows of Puppetworks.
60. During the summer, you can catch a movie on a big screen under the stars in a nearby park through Summer Flicks. If you don’t even want to leave the car, visit one of the city’s drive-in options for a nostalgic treat for the adults and a novelty for the kids.
62. Give some time to volunteer as a family and make someone’s day while making memories to last a lifetime. Find opportunities to help out (many of which are kid-friendly) through organizations like City Meals on Wheels—which has options from making gift cards to making weekly visits to elderly or disabled people who need some companionship. Other volunteer options include helping out at food kitchens, distributing books and toys, and even dog walking at Sean Casey Animal Rescue—just show up with your ID to take one of their doggos out for a stroll!
63. Some of NYC’s treasures are more well-hidden than others. Discover secret spots around town, like a hidden hamburger joint and a park in the sky.
64. Take in city skyline views at a rooftop hangout. Options include eating at TimeOut Market, rooftop skating at Vale Rink, and even farming and gardening at Brooklyn Grange and the Met.
65. Get a bird’s eye view of the city at an overlook spot. Spots like Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, and Edge take you up high and offer a spectacular view of Manhattan and beyond!
68. If you and the little ones are feeling a little jaded, try looking at your home city from a different perspective: a tourist’s! Do all the touristy things, like checking out Times Square, visiting the Empire State Building, or window shop along Fifth Ave.
69. Put on your helmet and protective gear and go on a biking adventure. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along a bike path, or ride off the beaten path to a more advanced off-roading experience. Be on the lookout for bicycle events for kids, which sometimes include free helmet fittings and giveaways.
70. Feel the thrill as you zip down one of the city’s ziplines. Explore the Treetop Adventure and Nature Trek in the Bronx Zoo, the Alley Pond Adventure Course, Governors Island’s 300-food line (as well as a maze and a rock-climbing wall), and other cool zipping spots. Prefer to stay on the ground and feel the speed? Get a rush on the curving, 57 foot-long, three story-high slide on Slide Hill— the longest slide in NYC!
71. Ride the waves in your water vehicle of choice! Try kayaking, surfing, or snorkeling (you may need to head out of the city of that last one). There are some free options for those just getting their feet wet, and plenty of instruction options for kids.
72. Join an outdoor sporting event for a fun and social way to stay fit. Take a class in parkour to turn the whole city into your playground, hone your team work skills with soccer, and try your hand at other kid-friendly sports, from basketball to tennis.
73. You don’t need any special equipment to get some exercise in NYC: All you need is your feet! There are hiking trails in and near the city perfect for any skill level and age, from the smallest feet and stroller hikers to the most advanced trekkers.
74. Build strength and confidence at an indoor rock climbing gym. Reach new heights at Brooklyn Boulders, The Cliffs, or one of the other best bouldering spots. If you’ve never tried it before, book an “intro to climbing” class to start out, available at any location you go to.
75. Take your sports game indoors at a sports facility for all the fitness benefits, any time of year. Some hot spots for indoor sports are Williamsbridge Oval in the Bronx, Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, And Aviator Sports Center in Brooklyn.
76. If you want to make a bigger commitment—and give yourself the choice to work around your schedule—get a membership at one of NYC’s excellent fitness centers, like the Brooklyn Sports Club, Matchpoint, or any of the Ys (from Kings Bay Y to 92Y!).
78. Tumble and fly through the air with circus performance arts at a circus training spot like The Muse Productions and Aerial Arts. It’s a fun way to get stronger and look very cool while you’re at it!
79. Ice skating isn’t just a winter sport in NYC, thanks to the city’s many indoor skating options. Of course, you can also head out in winter to one of the seasonal rinks that open for the cold season, from traditional ice rinks to slightly less frigid Glice options.
80. If ice skating isn’t your jam, hit the disco floor in your roller skates, instead. Several indoor skating rinks are open year-round, and often feature a blast from the past with 90s aesthetics. In the warm months, you can also skate some seasonal outdoor spots.
81. In the summer, cannonball into one of the many enormous, free outdoor pools. Other times, dive inside instead, with everything from Olympic sized professional pools to kid-friendly shallow swimming pools, for year-round swimming lessons for the tykes.
The Best Places to Shop & Eat Your Way through NYC
82. Some of the city’s food truck fare is on par with the best restaurants—and often more affordable. Head to your favorite truck or check out more options in Governors Island, DUMBO Lot, Bronx and Queens Night Markets, and many more options you may need to discover for yourself through word of mouth.
84. Surround yourself with stories at a bookstore. There are many to choose from, whether you want brand-new books and a shiny interior, indie niche book options, BIPOC-owned stores, or worn and well-loved used books.
85. Head to a mall for a day out window shopping (and, okay, actually shopping, too!). Wander around Kings Plaza Mall or Queens Center Mall and try to resist the ever-present smell of Cinnabon, or check out the upscale offerings at Brookfield Place or The Shops at Hudson Yards. If you’re willing to head out of the city, the Mall of the American Dream has plenty to keep the family busy on a full day out.
86. Get a mani/pedi at one of New York’s kid-friendly spas, where kids will get pampered and even get a treat like milk and cookies after their experience.
88. Treat your family to brunch, where sweet and savory options abound. Many spots keep kids in mind, piling their waffles high with whipped cream, fruits, and syrup: The perfect recipe for a very happy and hyper up child. (Or adult: You know you want some, too!)
89. Have a tea party at one of the tea parlors or high tea spots around town (including with “Eloise” at the plaza).
90. On occasions when you don’t feel like cooking, you can head out to a kid-friendly eatery, from breakfast at Bubby’s to dim sum at Jing Fong’s.
92. Splurge and dine at one of New York City’s best theme restaurants for kids: Have a tea party at Alice’s Tea Cup, feast on the colors at Serendipity3, or craft your own potion at The Cauldron.
903 If you have a dog in the family, you can include them in your outings at one of NYC’s dog-friendly restaurants and cafes. No pets? No problem: Visit the kitties at a cat cafe or the puppers at a dog cafe (and maybe take one home if you fall in love—they’re all adoptable!).
94. Explore one of the city’s food halls for a special treat. Eat indoors at the Dekalb Market Hall and Vanderbilt Food Hall, or head outside for seasonal noms like Smorgasburg or Urban Eats’ al fresco food popups.
The Best Seasonal Activities Happening around New York
95. Catch the evanescent cherry blossoms for the brief period they’re in bloom and other flowers blooming at spring festivals around the city. Or visit any of the gardens we mentioned earlier in the post to see the flowers bloom to life in spring!
96. In the middle of summer, nothing beats the heat like taking a dip in the water. The city sports a whopping 14 miles of beaches with some excellent spots to cool down in the water. For all the fun of a beach minus the swimming, head to Manhattan’s first beach, opening to the public in 2023 (and another beach is planned for 2028 opening in Williamsburg).
97. Bring fresh seasonal fruits and veggies home! Pick strawberries and other berries, apples, cherries, flowers, and more at U-Pick spots near NYC.
100. When there’s fresh snow on the ground, hit the hills with a sled or check out some stellar snow tubing spots. If you get a hankering for some snow sports but it’s 90 degrees outside, don’t sweat it: The Mall of the American Dream (located just a few minutes out from the city) has year-round indoor sledding and skiing.
Yes, it’s hard to believe but spring break 2024 is right around the corner. Loads of properties are offering spring break deals with free nights, room upgrades, free breakfasts, and low rates. Whether your travel plans take you to Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, or somewhere nearby, these properties have everything you need to really enjoy your family’s spring break.
The Meritage Collection
Arizona Spring Break Deals
Tanque Verde Ranch | Tucson, AZ Situated on 60,000 acres of breathtaking desert landscapes, Tanque Verde Ranch is one of America’s original old-time cattle and guest ranches, recognized as the last luxurious outpost of the old west. As the ultimate dude ranch experience, family-friendly activities including horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, tennis, swimming, Jeep adventures, and much more await spring break travelers.
The Spring Break package includes the following with a stay between March 8 and April 20, 2024:
Lodging with three hearty meals daily
Horseback walking and loping trail rides and lessons
Scheduled breakfast rides and cowboy cookouts
Supervised children’s program (ages 4-11)
Fishing, archery, horseshoes, kids arts and crafts, basketball, pickleball, tennis, yoga, fitness center and indoor and outoor pools
Mountain biking, guided hikes, nature programming and more
LEGOLAND® California Resort – Carlsbad, CA For the ultimate spring break escape, LEGOLAND California Resort’s Vacation Packages are the perfect option for families. Through the “Hotel + Ticket” package, families can spend the night at the LEGOLAND Resort Hotel, which features 500 themed guest rooms and a separate sleeping area just for kids, along with an in-room treasure hunt with prizes, a heated, resort-style pool and complimentary breakfast daily. The package also includes a 2-Day Park Hopper Ticket, providing entry to the LEGOLAND theme park, SEA LIFE® aquarium, and LEGOLAND Water Park. This spring, families can experience the opening of a new land, Dino Valley. The new land near the entrance of the Park will feature three roar-some rides, a reimagined Dino Dig area and tons of prehistoric fun. Launching this summer, visitors can experience North America’s first-ever LEGO® World Parade.
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Z Hotels SF includes Hotel Zetta, Hotel Zelos, and Hotel Zeppelin, three boutique properties with bold personalities located in downtown San Francisco. Guest who book their Leap Year offer will save 29% off best available rate and receive a complimentary 2:29 pm check out for travel any time before 12/31/24. The offer will be live here starting Monday: San Francisco Hotel Offers | Z Hotels SF
Promo Code: LEAPYEAR
Save 29% off Best Available Rate
Complimentary 2:29pm checkout
Book by: 2/29/24
Travel By: 12/31/24
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Paséa Hotel & Spa | Huntington Beach, CA Save 24% off Paséa’s best available rates plus a free $100 resort credit when guests plan their visit by January 31 for dates of stay through December 31, 2024. Visitors can use their resort credit on whatever their resolutions are for more “me” time at the spa or comfy cozy moments in their guest room. Book online HERE using promo code ‘pron24.’
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Palisades Tahoe On Apr. 6 and 7, take advantage of the learn to ski and ride special, which is $109 for adults and children ages 3 and up. The program is designed for first-time skiers or snowboarders and includes a two-and-a-half-hour half-day beginner lesson, rental equipment, and a limited beginner lift ticket.
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Franciscan Lakeside Lodge For those who book now through Feb. 28 for stays through June 15, you can use the promo code WINTER at checkout to unlock a $134/night room rate.
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Granlibakken Tahoe When you stay at Granlibakken Tahoe, you can redeem discounted Palisades Tahoe lift tickets. Book here and use promo code STYSKI to redeem.
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Quail Lodge & Golf Club | Carmel Valley, CA Located on the sunny side of the Monterey Bay Peninsula, Quail Lodge & Golf Club is the ideal place for families to visit for spring break. Located on 850 acres, the resort not only has enormous, outside-facing guest rooms with terraces or balconies open up to panoramic views of gardens, but also offers a number of outdoor activities suited for the whole family including a heated outdoor pool, nature trails, tennis courts, a VIP shuttle to Point Lobos Nature Reserve for incredible hiking, and more
With the “Stay Longer, Save More” package, guests who book three or more nights midweek will receive the third night complimentary when using promo code: 3FOR2.
This spring, Zachari Dunes is celebrating being voted as the #1 Best New hotel by USA Today’s 2024 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards with the “Best New Hotel” package. From now through May 31, guests can utilize this offer for a complimentary upgrade to a partial ocean view suite with a bottle of sparkling wine included for a vacation toast. Link to book: here.
A special cultural vacation for the whole family awaits at Hotel Enso. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of San Francisco’s Japantown—one of just three Japantowns remaining in the US—with the Zeitaku Package, an extravagant 3-night stay at Kimpton Hotel Enso starting at $5,000. Revel in the opulence of the King Corner Spa suite, featuring breathtaking views and high-end amenities. The curated 3-day itinerary includes a bay cruise, omakase dining, relaxation at Kabuki Spring & Spa, and a private helicopter tour with stunning aerial views of the Bay Area’s famous landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate National Reserve, Golden Gate Park, Oracle Park, Point Bonita Lighthouse, and Alcatraz Island. All transportation to and from San Francisco International Airport is provided by luxury ride service partner Ride Alto. Link to book: here.
Snow Mountain Ranch Located in Granby, CO, between Winter Park Ski Resort and Rocky Mountain National Park, true to its name, Snow Mountain Ranch is the ultimate winter wonderland. The 5,100-acre property offers Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on 85K of groomed, world-class terrain, private and group cross-country ski lessons and rentals, dog sled experiences, winter horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating, indoor archery and rock climbing, indoor swimming, nostalgic roller skating, and much more
Package: Stay for 3, Ski for Free: Book a midweek vacation at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the resort will provide free Nordic ski rentals. Use code SK03. Valid for cabin or lodge room weekday stays for 3 or 4 nights, through February 29, 2024. Weekdays include Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Book at www.ymcarockies.org
YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center Nestled on more than 850 acres bordered on three sides Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center is an ideal destination for magical, affordable winter fun. Guests can enjoy a number of on-site, seasonal activities during the day – including sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, roller skating, indoor swimming or rock climbing and more – and return to their cozy lodge room or private cabins at night. And the town of Estes Park itself is a must-visit winter destination – with numerous festivals, stunning winter vistas, local boutique shops, and charming restaurants.
Deal: Half off select activities at Estes Park Center during February: Guests will receive 50% off archery and the indoor rock climbing sessions during the month of February at the Estes Park Center. Weekdays only, Monday-Thursday. No code or coupon necessary
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Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver Centrally located in the heart of Denver, baseball fans are positioned within just steps of Coors Field for the ultimate Colorado Rockies experience. This year, opening day is scheduled for April 5th (spring break week!). Designed for any baseball-loving family, this package will have the family singing take me out to the ball game with amenities including Jack-and-Jill style suite with adjoining rooms so everyone has their own bed and bathroom; Tickets to a Colorado Rockies game at Coors Field; Custom jerseys for the whole family from a local embroiderer; A game day brunch at Apple Blossom, the hotel's in-house restaurant; and a popcorn maker and cracker jacks placed in-room for game day snacking. Available from February 23 - September 29 (Spring Training through the end of the baseball season). Call to book (303) 529-2340.
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Hotel Maverick | Grand Junction, CO Families love adventure, and Hotel Maverick is Grand Junction’s home base for exploration. Home to outdoor destinations like the Colorado National Monument and James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, spring break is arguably the best time of year to experience Grand Junction’s robust family-friendly adventure offerings from hiking and mountain biking to bird watching and rock climbing. The city’s first independent boutique hotel, Hotel Maverick is a scenic destination that fosters the spirit of curiosity, equipping families (and their pets) to immerse in nearby experiences built against Grand Junction’s sprawling red rock canyons
This spring break, families combining adventure with college visits can take advantage of Hotel Maverick’s “Rowdy Rate,” which offers a 15% discounted rate for Colorado Mesa University students and alumni. Not affiliated with CMU? Hotel Maverick’s Bed & Breakfast offer includes $20 daily credit towards breakfast at onsite Betty’s Coffee. Find more information at thehotelmaverick.com/offers
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Stay Two Nights, Get Third Night Free This Spring in Ouray, Colorado: Escape to the winter wonderland of Ouray and indulge in a frosty spring retreat like no other! As the snow blankets the San Juan Mountains, we invite you to embrace the season's magic with our enticing "Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free" campaign. Nestled amidst stunning natural beauty, Ouray offers a serene escape where snow-capped peaks, hot springs and charming alpine ambiance blend to create the perfect snowy spring escape. Promotion includes lodging with five different area properties. You must call the property and mention the “Stay Two Night, Get Third Night” promotion. Promotion is valid through March 2024 *unless stated otherwise
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Mesa Verde Motel Visit Mesa Verde National Park and the canyons and cliff dwellings of southwest Colorado this Spring Break! Package is $600 and for a family of up to 5 people and includes:2 Night Stay at Mesa Verde Motel in Mancos, Colorado
SPRING INTO SAVINGS: 35% OFF + THIRD NIGHT FREE: Treat your family to a snow-filled Spring Break in Breckenridge, Colorado. You can enjoy the warmth of sunny ski days and après-ski events for the whole family. Grand Timber Lodge not only offers easy access to the slopes, it also houses a full-service spa, Family Fun Center, and even a private movie theater! Book now and save 35% on your next family vacation, plus receive a third night completely FREE!* Pack your bags for ski-in, ski-out memories that will endure for a lifetime. Book: grandtimber.com/spring-break-2024/
*Based on availability. Package includes a 90-minute tour of the Grand Colorado on Peak 8. Restrictions and qualifications apply. Book by 04/01/24. Stay by 05/31/24
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C Lazy U Ranch Family Spring Break Vacation Special Northwest of Denver is Colorado’s award-winning premier luxury guest ranch—C Lazy U Ranch—an all-inclusive experience with 8,500 acres of land to explore and more than 200 horses to meet. The ultimate Spring Break retreat, C Lazy U invites guests with a Family Spring Break Vacation special (on select dates between March 6 and April 7) to settle into upscale cabins with cozy wood-burning fireplaces (and without televisions for a true digital detox); and enjoy gourmet meals, with wine selections chosen by the property’s onsite sommelier; followed by evening entertainment and s’mores by the campfire. Committed to family-focused programming that allows for a healthy mix of time together and time apart, C Lazy U provides robust kids and teens programming (ages three to 17) with designated experienced counselors. There are a variety of fun activities to enjoy, such as horseback riding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, ice skating and hockey on a Zamboni-groomed pond, snowtubing and feed wagon sleigh rides, a spectacular sightseeing excursion for families of up to 12 people to experience together.
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McGregor Mountain Lodge Spring Weekday Special, Estes Park All spring long, all of our one-bedroom cottages and suites (does not include The Old Caretakers Cottage or Cedar Lodge Suites) are only $169/night! This special is active on Sunday through Thursday nights. This excludes holidays. Come up and enjoy the peace and quiet of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter months, where wildlife abounds and the snowshoeing is world-class. Get a fire crackling on your hearth, and soak in the best views in the Estes Valley.
Also includes: Free Snowshoes for the duration of your stay, Free Movie Rentals from our video library, Free Popcorn, Extra Firewood to keep that cozy winter feel going. To qualify for this special, please either call and mention the “Winter Weekday Special” or write “Winter Weekday Special” in the comments field when booking online.
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Wildwood Inn Buy One Weeknight, Get One Free, Estes Park At the Wildwood Inn, you will find inviting accommodations tailored to your unique needs. Looking for something simple? We have a wide array of spacious studios and rooms. Perhaps you are looking for something a bit more extravagant—choose from a variety of suites and even vacation homes. From things like kitchens, fireplaces, in-room spas, private hot tubs and decks, even steam showers and Tempur-Pedic ™ mattresses, you can pick a space with exactly what you need. Stay nestled in the mountainside or cozied up by the river. Located next door to Rocky Mountain National Park, and just three miles from downtown Estes Park, our property features breathtaking views, a barbecue and picnic area, a playground, and a full-service day spa all on seven gorgeous acres.
Bring the family to the mountains for a Winter Getaway. Book 1 night Sunday-Thursday night in any unit type and get the 2nd night FREE. This offer must be booked and stayed by April 30, 204. This offer is not available for 3rd party bookings, so book direct and save! This offer requires full payment and is non-refundable and not movable. We reserve the right to discontinue this offer at any time and is based on availability.
Aqua-Aston Hospitality
Florida Spring Break Deals
The Boca Raton The Boca Ratonis the ultimate destination with shopping, great dining, incredible spa treatments, and more all in one convenient place. The property provides year-round escape, exclusively for members of The Boca Raton Club and resort guests.
Islamorada Resort Collection Immerse your family in the beauty of the tropical Florida Keys this spring break. With this package, your family's bond will be captured with a 30-minute photography session led by a talented local photographer, Javier Exposito. Guests will also receive a $200 resort credit per stay, valid at the Collection's bars and restaurants. From lounging by the pool to engaging in exciting recreational activities, the Islamorada Resort Collection offers something for everyone in your family to enjoy. Valid for stays 03/01/2024 - 04/07/2024. A minimum stay of three nights is required. See full details here.
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Southernmost Beach Resort | Key West, FL Located along the quieter southernmost limit of the famous Duval Street, the recently renovated Southernmost Beach Resort features tons of family fun for a memorable stay in Key West’s Historic District. Just by booking at least 14 days in advance, families can save up to 25% on their nightly room rate. Enjoy water activities like snorkeling, eco-tours, kayaking and paddle boarding just steps from the resort, or grab an onsite bicycle and explore the island’s nearby boutiques, museums, and art galleries.
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Playa Largo Resort & Spa | Key Largo, FL Connect with nature and soak up the views of the sparkling Florida Bay with your family in a private cabana by the pool at Playa Largo Resort & Spa. Families can spend some quality time in the Florida Keys sunshine, and save when they add a private cabana to relax in the shade for the ultimate island vacation. All cabanas come with a dedicated server to bring you all the island delights you crave. Receive a special rate for your stay when you upgrade with promotional code 11P.
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Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa| Palm Beach, FL Situated directly on the beach, the Forbes Five Star Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa offers a luxurious family spring break getaway where parents and kids alike can “play” and unwind. In addition to beautiful oceanfront accommodations designed by Jonathan Adler and private outdoor balconies, Eau Palm Beach offers a newly renovated Kids & Teens Club with the latest educational games and tech, an adults-only poolside bar, and multiple restaurants.
This spring break, families can book the Fourth Night Free package on all room categories when staying select nights through April 30, 2024.
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Caribe Royale Orlando Resort | Orlando, FL With its all-new one-bedroom suites and two-bedroom villas comfortably sleeping up to five people, and rates as low as $175/night, Caribe Royale Orlando is extremely spacious for its price point, giving families a high-end option only 1.5 miles from Disney’s doorstep. On-site amenities provide endless entertainment, even when retreating from the parks—kids can careen down the 75-foot waterslide, and parents can indulge in an Island Spa treatment or relax in two hot tubs.
Wondrous Winter Escape: When booking direct on the Caribe Royale website, app, or through the call center, guests save 15% off for 2+ nights, and a $25 daily dining credit when booking direct. Valid for stays February 29-April 1, 2024. Blackout dates apply.
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Hawks Cay Resort | Duck Cay, FL Alongside the aquamarine water of the Atlantic Ocean, guests enjoy offshore, flats and backcountry fishing; diving; kayaking and standup paddle boarding programs; Cliff Drysdale tennis program, and the only resort-based Dolphin Connection program with complimentary daily viewings in the continental U.S.The resort boasts 177 guestrooms and 210 two- and three-bedroom villas, a full-service marina, six restaurants, saltwater lagoon, five swimming pools, kids club and Calm Waters Spa.
NOW AND THEN ANNIVERSARY OFFER: Receive a 4th night FREE, plus a $40 resort credit when you book a stay for three nights between January 12 and March 31, 2024. *Must book by March 31, 2024. Offer valid for stays between January 12 - March 31, 2024. Subject to availability and blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with other discounts. All nights subject to daily resort fee. 7-day cancellation policy
Spring Break Escape Package: Book the ultimate spring break retreat for your family to enjoy: Pre-Arrival Snack Stock ($100 value); Hideaway Hangout Day Pass for up to two (2) children for up to two (2) days ($200 value); One (1) Children's Beachfront “Buckets of Fun” Amenity; and breakfast for a family of up to four (4 people - 2 adults & 2 children) for one (1) day ($155 value)
Residential Respite Package: For larger families, book the Residential Respite package and experience the residential-style suite options available for guests and receive: Breakfast for a family of up to four (4 people - 2 adults & 2 children) for one (1) day; Pre-Arrival Snack Stock ($100 value) of select in-house items for up to four (4) people, and one (1) bottle of wine, upon arrival
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B Ocean Resort, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Located on the pristine sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach, FL, B Ocean Resort offers a unique combination of beachfront relaxation and premier city life adventures. In the day, relax on the resort’s private beach or explore the shopping and entertainment of downtown Fort Lauderdale. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant, the Naked Crab, or cheers with friends at a one-of-a-kind, adults-only live underwater mermaid burlesque show found only at the Wreck Bar.
Travelers can save up to 25% off stays of two nights or more with the Winter Escape promotion at B Ocean Resort. Getaways must be booked by March 19, 2024, for travel prior to April 6, 2024, using promo code BWINTER.
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Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort, Miami Beach, Florida
Located in the heart of Miami’s famous Millionaire's Row, Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort is a boutique-style resort in Mid-Beach Miami. Artfully designed with warm tones and bold touches, the resort’s newly renovated 231 Boho-Deco inspired accommodations represent a fusion of modern comfort and timeless Miami style. The resort features two ocean-facing outdoor pools with poolside cabanas, a private beach with shaded daybeds and complimentary paddleboard rentals, a Green Lawn with a variety of family-friendly games, a fitness center and the on-site Allison Restaurant & Bar. In addition to being steps from the Atlantic Ocean, guests can enjoy having direct access to the 9-mile Miami Beachwalk with complimentary bike rentals.
As families and friends search for warm Spring Break getaways, this historic and stylish resort invites guests to savor refreshing drink on the sands of the world-renowned Miami Beach. Book a stay with the Miami Beach Getaway promotion to enjoy a 20% discount on all food and beverages during stays and can take advantage of discounted valet parking at only $30 per night. The promotion is valid for travel planned through October 2024. Vouchers are a valid for one complimentary cocktail made with the resort’s house spirit, bubbles or wine. Adults aged 21 and older can redeem their welcome beverage at the resort’s signature restaurant, Allison Restaurant & Bar.
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa, Deerfield Beach, Florida Thoughtfully decorated with wood furnishing, light tones and pops of colorful island-inspired patterns, the newly renovated 244-room resort surrounds its guests with a serene environment that embraces the beauty of the pristine beaches and endless views of the water. The boutique resort invites guests to schedule a visit to Spa950, an on-site full-service spa with a wide menu of treatments and five treatment rooms where guests can savor blissful revitalizing treatments. A worry-free vacation would not be complete without complimentary made-to-order breakfast and evening reception at the on-site Beach Terrace Restaurant, access to the resort’s fitness center and heated outdoor pool, free beach chairs and bicycle rentals for guests, and more.
Guests can enjoy the full week of Spring Break with an affordable extended stay using the Stay Longer & Save promotion. Guests save 10% off one night, 20% off two nights or 30% off three nights on travel booked through April 2024, with rates starting at $200 per night. Perfect for groups, families and friends looking to enjoy a week away from home in the sunny Florida weather, enjoy all that the resort has to offer – from the beautiful beaches to the relaxing spa.
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
As a city-centric escape in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s downtown district, the hotel offers newly renovated, spacious accommodations among the crowded city streets. Conveniently located near the Broward County Convention Center and Port Everglades cruise terminal, traveling professionals and seafaring families can settle into their suites after a long travel day with convenient amenities such as complimentary made-to-order breakfast and evening reception at the on-site E Spot Restaurant & Bar, access to the resort’s fitness center and heated outdoor pool, a private gardens and koi pond, and more.
Guests can ensure safe and reliable transportation to Port Everglades from the hotel with the Pre-Cruise Package. A complimentary shuttle service will take travelers to Port Everglades from the hotel, ensuring a timely and convenient arrival.
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport, Miami, Florida Conveniently located within half a mile of Miami International Airport, the 318-room all-suite hotel satisfies their guests’ cravings at Grill305, the on-site restaurant with vibrant coastal cuisine and fine steak menus alongside an extensive beverage selection. After a long day of travel, guests can rest in the hotel’s outdoor Olympic-size pool, work off stress in the fitness center, or explore everything Miami has to offer with Little Havanna, the Dolphin Mall and South Beach just a short trip away. Find images of the hotel here.
With the Cruise Package, guests can enjoy convenient transportation between Miami International Airport and PortMiami using the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service. Leaving the hotel is no hassle, complimentary breakfast and evening reception at Grill 305, the hotel’s on-site restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine and fine steaks, will check one thing of the to-do list for an easy and convenient exit.
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Kimpton Angler’s South Beach With a rich past stemming from its heyday as a haven for true anglers including Ernest Hemmingway, Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach is located within steps of the Art Deco District and just two blocks from the beach. The hotel features a total of 132 one-, two- and three-story guest rooms and suites with spacious floor plans ranging in size from 400 to 1,000 square feet and includes studios, lofts, villas, spa villas, and poolside bungalows.
Suite Deal: Stay 4 Pay 3 - enjoy a four-night stay in one of our luxe suites for the price of three. Available for stays now through September 30, 2024. Minimum 4-night stay required.
Georgia Spring Break Deals
Serenbe Stay at one of the properties within Serenbe Community and immerse your family in a week of nature, the arts, and more. Get a tour of Serenbe Farms (one of the first Certified Organic Farms in GA), take family walks along the various nature trails (and greet the Serenbe animals), enjoy live music on the Porch of the Farmhouse, or explore all the local shops/businesses within the community.
While the Inn at Serenbe offers various unique packages and promotions, if you book a five-night stay at the Inn (or within the Community) in March or April, you’ll receive 20% off the best available rate, perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly destination.
Hawaii Spring Break Deals
Aqua-Aston Hospitality's Winter Promotion | Hawaii Travelers can take up to 20% off at one of Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s participating Hawaii properties including luxury condominium style Aston Waikiki Beach Tower and oceanfront Aston Islander on the Beach in Kauai. The booking window is open to the public from January 8, 2024 through February 2, 2024 for travel by June 30, 2024. Use promo code ‘Escape’ when booking your reservation.
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Mauna Kea Residences | Kohala Coast, HI For families seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, and spacious accommodations, Mauna Kea Residences, situated within the Mauna Kea Resort on the Island of Hawaii, offers the quintessential tropical getaway. These private residences boast panoramic ocean views and grant access to world-class amenities. Enhancing the getaway is the ‘Experience Aloha’ package, designed to elevate guests’ itinerary during their stay. Those who book a minimum 5-night stay will receive a resort credit of up to $300 per night to apply towards endless activities at Mauna Kea Resort, including dining & luau, spa, golf, tennis, and beach activities. *Valid on stays through May 31, 2024.
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Villatel Orlando Resort Set upon 77 acres in Orlando’s premier tourism district, the brand-new Villatel Orlando Resort offers luxe 4-9 bedroom villas, suited for groups of 8 to 24, with amenities that’ll deliver the ultimate Spring Break fest—from epic themed rooms to movie theaters, arcades, private pools, game lofts, and more. Travelers can keep the fun going with the resort’s exclusive spring break packages, including a poolside package with games and floats, a movie night package to enjoy in your home theater, or a BBQ basket to grill up a feast on the patio. To make this stay even sweeter, guests earn a free night when they book a stay of 7+ nights using code “1FREENIGHT” at checkout (blackout dates apply). Rates start at $232/night. Off-property, families can enjoy easy access to theme parks Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World, just mere minutes from the resort.
Hotel Commonwealth
Illinois Spring Break Deals
21c Museum Hotel Chicago Enjoy spring break in the big city with 21c Museum Hotel Chicago’s Snuggle Up Package, which offers families the comforts of home, complete with oversized plush blankets, streaming TVs for holiday movies, plush snowballs, an in-room fort, and lots of hot chocolate to cozy up to after a long day exploring the city. The package will run through end of March and 21c also has a new partnership with the Museum of Ice Cream, offering a 10% discount to hotel guests.
Massachusetts Spring Break Deals
Hotel Commonwealth | Boston, MA Steps from America’s beloved Fenway Park sits a premier luxury hotel and the Official Hotel of the Boston Red Sox, Hotel Commonwealth. Hotel guests can enjoy an overnight stay and unforgettable game-day experiences this spring— the “Family of Fans” package includes an overnight stay, an ultimate photo opp at Fenway Park, Pavilion section seating, a family welcome message on the Fenway Park scoreboard, personalized matching Red Sox jerseys and more. The cherry on the sundae for any baseball fan is a stay in one of Hotel Commonwealth’s renowned baseball-themed guest rooms, from the park-facing Fenway guest rooms to the Fenway Park Suite or Baseball Suite surrounded by Red Sox memorabilia. Families can also take advantage of Hotel Commonwealth’s “Stay Longer, Save More!” package to save up to 20% when staying four nights or more.
Minnesota Spring Break Deals
Grand View Lodge| Nisswa, MN Those looking to step away from the traditional warm-weather spring break destinations need to look no further than Grand View Lodge. Spread over 750 acres, the iconic lakeside retreat offers a variety of private, luxury accommodations – from boutique hotel suites to traditional cabins and spacious villas perfect for spring break travel for families of all types – 45 holes of championship golf, 2,500 feet of sandy beach on Gull Lake, indoor pools, indoor waterslide, and the recently renovated Glacial Waters Spa.
The “Spring Break at the Lake” package: With a stay of three nights or more between March 15 and April 7, 2024, you'll get 15% off of ski, snowboard, or tubing pass at Mount Ski Gull
Missouri Spring Break Deals
The Elms Hotel & Spa | Excelsior Springs, MO The hotel is settled among vineyards, golf courses, historic sites, parks, and trails and is currently offering travelers 20% off when booking at least three nights when booked by February 29th, 2024, for stay dates through May 2nd, 2024 (perfect for spring break!).
Montana Spring Break Deals
The Resort at Paws Up | Greenough, MT The Resort at Paws Up combines luxury with unforgettable adventure on a 37,000-acre ranch—featuring untamed Montana wilderness steeped in Lewis & Clark history. Visiting families can stay in a luxury three-bedroom Wilderness Estate, or the one- to three-bedroom Big Timber Homes, to enjoy all the comforts and privacy of home with elevated Western furnishings.
Spring Break Time, Montana-Style (March 25–April 17, 2024) Includes: Book 4+ nights and receive a 20% discount off lodging rates. A $500 prepaid Resort credit per person per stay (included in package pricing) to use as you wish on activities and excursions or spa treatments. All daily meals, nonalcoholic beverages and a selection of beer, red and white wine and well liquors.
New Mexico Spring Break Deals
Taos Ski Valley | New Mexico Nestled among the highest peaks of New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo mountains, Taos Ski Valley is a year-round destination that delivers a pure mountain experience. Independently owned and operated, Taos Ski Valley strives to be better, not bigger. Whether skiing, riding, hiking, biking, or more, visitors of Taos Ski Valley are invigorated by the essence of the outdoors and inspired to make memories that last a lifetime. Taos is known for its wide variety of lessons and ski improvement programs. This season Taos Ski Valley has two new packages to appeal to every level:
First Timers Package: Taos Ski Valley will offer new skiers and riders a deeply discounted rate to try out the sports for the first time. The package includes instruction, a novice lift ticket, and equipment rental from Taos Sports. The package starts at $205 for a one-day first time lesson, $330 for a two-day first time lesson, or $395 for three days. (A savings of $179 or more than 50% for the one-day option, up to $757 savings for the three-day).
Ski Week Packages: Since the 1960s, guests have enjoyed the beloved Ski Week which provides a full week of instruction to inspire and improve visitors’ skiing, renew their spirits, and create long-time friendships. New this winter, guests can book a Ski Week package, which includes five days of immersive lessons, two five-day lift tickets, five nights of accommodations at the slopeside Blake Hotel, five-day demo ski rentals and daily breakfast at 192 at The Blake.
New York Spring Break Deals
Trump International Hotel & Tower New York| New York, NY This spring break, Trump International Hotel & Tower New York touts their year-round family-friendly Glamping By The Park package. After a day of exploring Manhattan, guests can keep their little ones entertained by camping indoors with a tent, sleeping bags and a make-your-own s'mores kit complete with "campfire" all without leaving the comforts of a luxurious hotel suite overlooking Central Park. Terms & Conditions apply.
The Hermitage Hotel
Tennessee Spring Break Deals
Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains | Sevierville, Tennessee Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains in Sevierville, TN is right at the heart of America's number one national park destination. The panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and surrounding countryside will astound and delight. Located on gentle green slopes, families can enjoy outdoor fun and top draws like Dollywood, Splash Country, Rainforest Adventures and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are just a short drive away. At Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains, spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment-style suites comfortably sleep four to eight guests, with plenty of room to rest and relax in separate living and sleeping areas, full kitchens, and dining spaces. Interested in having someone else handle the cooking? Utilize Club Wyndham’s partnership with Take a Chef for a discounted experience, and have a private chef prepare a customized meal for your group from start to finish.
For spring break travel, families can save up to $250 when staying three nights or more, when booked by February 29, 2024, by using promo code STAY24 at checkout.
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Big Cypress Lodge | Memphis, TN Camp out inside the iconic Memphis Pyramid this Spring Break and experience nature like never before when you stay at the world-class Big Cypress Lodge, located in the heart of downtown Memphis along the Mississippi River. Suspended among Cypress trees, the 103-room wilderness hotel overlooks Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. Your stay includes these complimentary perks: Tickets for the Sky High Ride, Shuttle service to and from Downtown Memphis, and a Delicious In-Room Snack Basket. Book here with offer code: BAR to pay only $199 a night from Sunday to Thursday; subject to availability.
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The Hermitage Hotel | Nashville, TN Nashville’s iconic Hermitage Hotel has partnered with Draper James, the spirited lifestyle brand from Nashvillian Reese Witherspoon, to offer the ultimate Girls Getaway. Ideal for mothers and daughters this spring break, shopping, dining, and sightseeing are all on the menu, along with the ultimate photo-friendly memento: matching Draper James pajama sets for everyone in the group. Guests will be pampered with a private shopping experience at Draper James’ flagship store in Nashville’s stylish 12 South neighborhood. What’s more, with the hotel’s Third Night Complimentary deal, guests who book 2 or more consecutive nights, will receive the third night complimentary.
Texas Spring Break Deals
Cinnamon Shore South | Port Aransas, TX Instead of the minimum five-night booking requirement, guests can opt to book just four nights at this charming, family-friendly coastal village on the Texas Gulf Coast. Running from March 8-17, guests get all the perks for a great deal, including luxe pools, lakefront fishing, private dune crossovers to the beach, and tons of Spring Break activities! Guests can rent golf carts for beach driving, and the community is just a short jaunt away from the charming beach town filled with great food, classic beach tourist shops, and more. Spring Break marks the grand opening of the new Splish Splash Family Pool, and there are even dog parks for your fur baby.
This spring break, enjoy the Family Fun package at this sprawling Hill Country resort. Using the code FAMILY, you'll get a three-night minimum that includes a $500 resort credit. Activities include a Bounce House, a Junior Golf Clinic, a unique Glow Foam Party by Austin Foam Monsters, featuring a dazzling display of glowing foam, and more. Teens are offered a Neon Nights Teen Swim Party and a dedicated hangout spot with hammocks for relaxation. Plus, families can enjoy Glow Golf and Dive-In Movies, to create unforgettable memories under the Texas stars.
Vermont Spring Break Deals
Topnotch Resort | Stowe, VT The AAA Four-Diamond Topnotch Resort blends the gracious charm of a ski lodge with the luxurious amenities of a world-class resort. Located on 120 acres of woodland at the foot of Mount Mansfield between Stowe Village and Stowe Mountain Resort, the property includes 68 guestrooms and suites and 16 two- and three-bedroom resort homes (dogs are welcome in select rooms and suites).
The Linger Longer package is for Topnotch’s three resort home types – 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms, 16 resort homes total. With space for friends and family, there’s plenty of room to spread out and relax (or work) in a mountain home away from home. Guests have access to all Topnotch amenities. Book a 4-night stay or longer and the last night is free.
Lotte Hotel Seattle | Seattle, WA Families visiting Seattle this Spring Break can experience the magic of the Teatro ZinZanni Residency at the luxurious Lotte Hotel Seattle. This one-of-a-kind entertainment experience brings together two iconic Seattle brands during Teatro ZinZanni’s 25th anniversary year, promising an opulent, world-class extravaganza in the breathtaking setting of the hotel’s historic venue, the Grand Ballroom in The Sanctuary. Families can join the party and enjoy premium cuisine and world-class cirque, comedy, and music for a special evening the whole family can enjoy. When travelers book online on Lotte Hotel Seattle’s website with the code ZINZANNI, they’ll save up to 25% off their room rate. *Through March 31, 2023.
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Suncadia | Cle Elum, WA Bed & Breakfast Package (ongoing): Wake up in the mountains! The Suncadia Bed & Breakfast package allows guests and families to start their day energized and ready to explore Suncadia’s 6,400-acre mountain playground – perfect for families with numerous outdoor adventure activities and programming for all ages. Package Includes: Overnight accommodations in The Lodge or The Inn and a $40 Daily Dining Credit
Washington DC Spring Break Deals
Viceroy Washington DC Situated alongside the District’s vibrant 14th Street corridor, Viceroy Washington DC is a modern luxury lifestyle hotel with a rich history and whimsical art. A gallery featuring local artists’ works, dining concepts that pay homage to the neighborhood’s jazz heritage and design elements meant to embody the neighborhood of Logan Circle’s most distinctive qualities. The 178-room hotel features Dovetail, an all-season outdoor patio restaurant and bar that’s opening on May 18th; Hush, a seasonal rooftop bar and pool; BPM, a grab-and-go indoor-outdoor coffee bar; and more than 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Travelers can now save up to 15 percent off when they prepay their stay. Details can be found here.
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Hotel Zena Changing the conversation in Washington, D.C., Hotel Zena is a bold cultural and lifestyle-driven hotel that celebrates women while recognizing the enduring struggle for gender equality. Every architectural line, material, and art installation was designed and curated to send a message of female empowerment – including a portrait of the late, honorable Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the lobby using 20,000 hand-painted and repurposed tampons. The 191-room hotel features an impressive art collection; Figleaf, its signature bar and restaurant; and Hedy’s Rooftop, an upscale lounge for cocktails and lite bites. Travelers can take advantage of their Stay & Dine deal which offers a $50 daily food and beverage credit. The package can be booked here.
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Washington Hilton | Washington DC Helping guests celebrate the spring magic of DC’s Cherry Blossom season, the hotel has rolled out fresh Cherry Blossom packages and offerings below. Two miles away from the White House and National Mall, guests can also enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool deck, LivingWell Health Club, sleek lobby bar, sports bar, and regionally-inspired Four Oaks restaurant.
Cherry Blossom Package Details: Enjoy DC's Cherry Blossom season with a spring getaway package to Washington Hilton! Book our Cherry Blossom Package to receive two cherry blossom-themed cocktails, themed cupcakes, 50% off an appetizer at one of our delicious on-site restaurants, and a commemorative festival kite
Cherry Blossom Breakfast and Parking Package Details: Enjoy DC's Cherry Blossom season with a spring getaway package to Washington Hilton! Reserve our Cherry Blossom Breakfast and Parking Package to receive two cherry blossom-themed cocktails, themed cupcakes, breakfast, self-parking, and a commemorative festival kite.
Campspot Campspot, a leading camping booking site, will be kicking off spring camping with their biggest sale of the season! Campspot’s Biggest Booking Week will run from in early spring and offer incredible discounts at top private campgrounds across the country. Whether you’re searching for an adventurous spring break getaway, or planning ahead for summer vacation, browse and book the perfect campsite complete with waterpark, mini golf, bike rentals, or whatever tickles your family’s fancy. Visit campspot.com to get a head start on browsing, and follow along with @Campspot on Instagram to receive sale updates!
Jellystone Park
Book 4 nights - receive 25% off
Book 5 nights - receive 30% off
Book 7 nights - receive 30% off
TX & CA locations only - Everything is open including all pools, food and beverage options, all activities, etc.
TX Locations only - Fun Passes available at a discounted rate. See more online
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Camp Fimfo
Book 4 nights - receive 25% off (Code: 4Night)
Book 5 nights - receive 30% off (Code: 5Night)
Book 7 nights - receive 30% off (Code: 7Night)
All activities and amenities will be open including all water features and coasters!
TX Locations only - Fun Passes available at a discounted rate. See more online
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
Caribbean & South America Spring Break Deals
Atlantis Paradise Island | The Bahamas Take advantage of the January sale by booking through January 24 for travel through June 17, 2024. The Public Sale is available from January 1st through 24th, 2024 to all visitors. Kick the year off right with ensured fun under the sun and the gift of travel! *Each offer is for a minimum two (2) night stay
The January Sale includes:
$125 resort credit, along with 25% savings at The Coral, 20% savings at The Royal, and 15% savings at The Reef
$250 resort credit, along with 15% savings at The Cove
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Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Rainforest, Beach and Golf Resort | Puerto Rico Make the most of this holiday season and take advantage of our Best Available Rates by booking 5 Nights and get the 5th Night free plus $100 Food and Beverage Credit for your stay. These apply to travel dates between November 1, 2023 through April 30, 2024.
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Seven Stars Resort & Spa, Grace Bay Beach – Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Seven Stars Resort is an acclaimed independent luxury resort that welcomes families. With the largest, most expansive suites overlooking Grace Bay, and accommodations that include two- and three-bedroom ocean fronts – ideal for families and extended families.
Spring Break deal: Two offers currently available: Winter Offer: 10% off for travel from Feb 1 – April 14th , 2024. Booking window February 1-29, 2024. Spring Offer: 25% off all room types. Book by Feb. 29th
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Wyndham Palmas Beach and Golf Resort Get ready to beat the cold with our Winter Package: Book a 5-night escape and enjoy the 5th night on us, plus indulge with a $100 Food & Beverage Credit so you can enjoy the cuisine created by James Beard Finalists Chefs Jeff McInnis and Janine Booth.
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Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Located on Palm Beach, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino invites families to put a retro twist on spring break with its Retro-Fun experience. This add-on experience includes a wicker basket full of finger food, 1950's candies, vintage games (think: Gumby and a Magic 8 ball), old-school Coca-Cola bottles and TIME magazines from the 1950s and 1960s for some light reading. Families can also take advantage of the resort's water sport activities, a family-friendly pool with lively music and dining at more than 10 on-site options. Call the resort at 800-228-9290 to add to a reservation. The experience is available throughout 2024.
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The Somerset on Grace Bay | Turks and Caicos Winter Warm Up - Enjoy 15% off when you stay 3 nights or more, including daily complimentary breakfast. The offer is valid for bookings until April 1st, 2024, for travels between January 4th and April 6th, 2024. Three three-night minimum stay is required. Valid on all room categories. Blackout dates and certain restrictions may apply.
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Park Hyatt St. Kitts Every 5th night free + $100 Resort Credit once per stay. Valid on all room categories. Blackout dates and certain restrictions may apply.
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Beaches Resorts | Jamaica and Turks & Caicos, Caribbean Beaches Resorts, the leading all-inclusive family-friendly resort company in the Caribbean, is offering families major savings on 2024 vacations. The Winter Blue sale offers up to $1500 in air credit for bookings at select resorts and a $150 Resort Credit on stays of seven nights or more, including all three Beaches Resorts throughout Jamaica and Turks & Caicos. Families can book the ultimate all-inclusive vacation at properties like Beaches Negril, which just debuted new three- and four-bedroom Firesky Reserve Villas and Eventide Penthouse Suites, or enjoy Beaches Turks & Caicos’ 45,000 square-foot waterpark. Simply book any qualifying Beaches Resort vacation through March 3, 2024, using the promo code: WBRC2024.
Book the Spring Break Getaway for bookings Feb. 1-Apr. 30, 2024, and receive 5 nights in a superior room with last night free, transport to/from the airport, a welcome cocktail, beach club access, and more.
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort Perfect for all travelers, the 330 all-suite property is nestled along the Aruba coast and within walking distance of the dazzling waters of the top-rated Eagle Beach, and conveniently located only 5 minutes away from Palm Beach where guests can experience Aruba’s flavors and lifestyle. Guests of Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort will also enjoy an array of dining options on property and exciting amenities, including complimentary breakfast daily, complimentary nightly cocktail reception, as well as a private underground walkway that safely transports you to the beach. Families will also love the five food and beverage outlets on property, bike rental availability to explore the island, access to a concierge desk to book any island excursion of their choice, and much more.
In timing with Spring Break, Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort is also offering a one-of-a-kind Fun in the Sun Family Package, which offers guests
Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten | St. Maarten Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten is a duo of stunning oceanfront, all-inclusive resorts in the Dutch Caribbean, comprised of the family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa and five-star, adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino and Spa is a 420-room fun-for-all ages resort, while Sonesta Ocean Point Resort is a spectacular adults-only 130 suite “resort within a resort” featuring all-access to the adjacent all-ages Maho Beach Resort. While Maho Beach Resort will be best for guests of all ages, groups traveling with adult children will enjoy the next-door Ocean Point Resort. Families who book their stay now through December 19, 2024, can enjoy up to 35% off standard rates by selecting the ‘Barefoot Paradise’ package. Offer valid on new bookings only and cannot be combined with other deals. Blackout dates apply and based on availability. Travelers are to use promo code: PARADISE at checkout for stays through December 19, 2024.
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The Landings Resort and Spa (St. Lucia): On the shores of the treasured Gros Islet offering all-inclusive packages for its one, two and three-bedroom villas with butler service, washer/dryers and plunge pools. Plus, unlimited use of watersports, 7,000 sq ft spa, four pools and more.
Spring Break offer:
Deal: Stay 5 nights or more and enjoy $100 Spa credit, daily butler service and resort activities including Caribbean cooking classes
Booking window: Now through February 29, 2024 Travel window: Now through June 30, 2024! Promo Code WINTER2024
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort (Aruba): Opened in February 2023 steps from Aruba’s renowned Eagle Beach, annually voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and features 330 suites with stunning views of the Caribbean and five food and beverage concepts. Spring Break offer:
Fun in the Sun Family Package: Family sailing excursion including lunch; made to order breakfast; afternoon drinks; snacks; spacious suite accommodations and a welcome amenity for the entire family upon arrival
Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan (San Juan, Puerto Rico): A breezy walk from Isla Verde Beach and nearby dining, bars, and nightspots with onsite outdoor pool and swim-up bar and poolside restaurant. Spring Break offer:
Deal: 25% OFF – Book 3 nights and get the 4th night free. Booking window: February 1 – May 31, 2024 How to book: SRP: PVK
Canada Spring Break Deals
Chelsea Hotel | Toronto As Canada's largest hotel with 1,590 guest rooms, the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, is centrally located and just steps from the city's best shopping districts, world-class theatres, vibrant nightlife and exciting attractions. A full-service urban resort, the Chelsea Hotel has room types to suit everyone and the hotel offers three restaurants, separate adult and family recreation areas and pools – including the "Corkscrew" - downtown Toronto's only indoor waterslide. As a premier family destination, the hotel offers a full range of services including the Family Fun Zone, Kid Centre and Club 33 Teen Lounge. The Chelsea Hotel, Toronto is an independent property as part of the Langham Hospitality Group’s international portfolio of hotels and resorts.
Stay and Save!Including Family Day Weekend/President’s Day Weekend
Family Day (Canada) and President’s Day (US) (February 17-19): Join us over Family Day long weekend. Book stay dates between February 15th to 19th for a flat rate from CDN $169. Enjoy the hotel’s dedicated Family Fun Zone, and guests can expect a line-up of free family-friendly activities all weekend long. Terms and conditions apply.
March Break (March 8-17): During March Break, the Chelsea is your family’s playground. For stay dates between March 7th to 17th, at the low rate from CDN $169 on weekdays and from CDN$189 on weekends. Enjoy complimentary events and activities all week long, from movies to magic shows and everything in between. Terms and conditions apply.
Mexico Spring Break Deals
El Cielo Resort & Winery is a haven of luxury and tranquility nestled in the heart of the picturesque region. This resort is a wine tourism endeavor featuring a winery, as well as a boutique hotel boasting 95 lavishly appointed suites and villas. From the moment guests step into their rooms, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of comfort and sophistication, ensuring a truly elevated and unforgettable stay.
This spring break package includes lodging in a junior suite, American breakfast, a chocolate-tasting adventure, a barrel tour, and accommodations at one of the firepits with s’mores. Want to be on cloud nine? Guests are welcome to check out additional amenities, such as a welcome glass of wine, bicycle rentals, parking and free Wi-Fi. Valid from March 22 to April 7, 2024. Those interested in booking can do so here.
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Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is the ideal getaway for families looking to explore, reconnect with nature, and have an unforgettable vacation this spring break! A kid's dream come true, this all-inclusive, family-friendly eco-resort in the Riviera Maya is home to onsite crystal-clear cenotes; a river lined with mangroves that travelers can swim or kayak on as monkeys swing above; a grand 29-slide waterpark; a kids and teens club fully equipped with a jungle gym, trampoline, mini movie theater, crafts, sports and board games; an incredible onsite mini farm with local rescued animals where kids can become wildlife caretakers for the day; bike tours; snorkeling; 8+ restaurants; and much, much more! Additionally, the resort just launched their brand new Signature Eco Suites which are outfitted with plunge pools on private balconies and bunk beds that are perfect for kids!
For a limited time, the resort is offering a “Chase the Sun” package, making this resort a no-brainer for spring break! By booking before February 15th, 2024, guests can save up to 52% when traveling between January 1st and December 19th, 2024. Plus for extra savings, you can receive 125 USD in resort credit by using the promo code RESORT24 when booking!
JW Marriott Cancun | Cancun, Mexico Keep the whole family engaged and busy in Cancun during your spring escape! The JW Marriott CancunFamily Fun package includes guaranteed connecting rooms, a daily $100 resort credit, free breakfast for two children under 12 years old, and daily internet access. Book your stay valid through April 4, 2024 using promotional code MAJ.
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Conrad Punta de Mita (Punta Mita, MX): Inside Punta de Mita's exclusive gated community, guests can enjoy personal concierge services in their suites with outdoor showers and plunge pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean, three outdoor pools and six oceanfront dining concepts including an onsite Agave Studio featuring over 100 different tequilas and mezcals. The hotel also offers pickleball courts amid lush tropical landscaping, historic wellness therapies and direct access to land and water activities on the beaches of Riviera Nayarit. Spring Break offer:
Deal: Book three nights, get the fourth night free
Waldorf Astoria Cancun (Cancun, MX): Opened November 2022 with 173 luxurious guest rooms and suites (each featuring breathtaking ocean views and a private balcony with a plunge pool), signature Waldorf Astoria Spa with 21 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, sauna and salon, a private sandy beach, pools and seaside fine dining concepts. Spring Break offer:
Friends’ Getaway Offer: Includes roundtrip transfer to Cancun International Airport – Waldorf Astoria Cancun, a Chef’s 4-course dining experience at Malpeque for two people per stay, daily reservation for a Pool Cabana. This offer is not applicable to existing reservations or group bookings, and may not be combined with other select promotions, discounts or offers. All offer components are non-transferrable or redeemable for cash, expire at check-out and may not be used or applied on future stays. Offer is subject to change without notice. Offer is subject to availability. Minimum two (2) night consecutive stay required.
Booking window: Now through December 15, 2024 How to book:Here
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Hilton Los Cabos (Los Cabos, MX): With views of the Sea of Cortez and direct access to a cove-protected beach in Los Cabos, Hilton Los Cabos features access to four world-renowned golf courses including Cabo del Sol designed by Jack Nicklaus, Enclave Beach Club, seven dining outlets, four oceanfront pools, beachside spa and excursions from camel rides to sailing.
Deal #1: “Make My Stay” for $350 Resort Credit on 3+ Night Stays
Booking window: Now through March 31, 2024
Travel window: Now through September 2024 Here; SRP: PGAIRO
Travel window: Now through September 2024 Here; SRP: PGAIRO
Europe & Asia Spring Break Deals
Cameron House | Loch Lomond, Scotland There's so much to discover at Cameron House this winter. Arrive to a chilled Cameron House Signature Cocktail in your room and enjoy the most indulgent stay at Cameron House with our two-night winter experience package. Guests can make the most of unlimited access to the Cameron Leisure Club, leaving you feeling completely relaxed.
Deal: Two-night stay in a Classic bedroom with complimentary upgrade to Loch View Bedroom. Cameron House Signature Cocktail in your room on arrival. Full access to the Cameron Leisure Club which includes a swimming pool, family pool, gym, sauna, steam room and bubble pool. Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast in the Cameron Grill restaurant on both mornings. Code: WINTERBB
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The Vintage House Hotel The Vintage House Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of the Douro Valley winemaking region, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and in the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. The Vintage House Hotel used to house a former 19th Century winery and is characterized by an idyllic setting, surrounded by hills and mountains covered by vineyards that stretch to the river. Its old-world elegance exudes European Charm and offers a warm welcome to guests, capturing hearts with its position and elegant, comfortable interiors.
Between now and April, we suggest you see the seasonal Winter Experience programme available until 31st March 2024, and then again from 1st November 2024.
The Gastronomic Experience programme includes a dinner in the restaurant as well as other benefits, running throughout this year.
________________ The Yeatman Hotel - Porto Occupying a breathtaking position overlooking the Douro River and the city of Porto, The Yeatman is located in the heart of one of Europe’s great wine capitals. Home to British Port shippers for over three centuries, The Yeatman blends the finest Portuguese traditions of hospitality with a uniquely British flair for understated, stylish comfort. Set in landscaped gardens, The Yeatman is a tranquil haven where guests can unwind enjoying panoramic views, extensive terraces and two infinity pools (indoor and out). Apart from enjoying the swimming pools, children can play in the Kids Club and it is possible to book a babysitter in advance. There are plenty of books available in the bedrooms and Hotel Library and younger children are catered to with a fun surprise on arrival among other in-room amenities.
Grand Universe Lucca | Italy Wheel into spring break with an unforgettable trip to the historic city center of Lucca, Italy. The palatial Grand Universe Lucca offers the unique Bikes & Bites package where guests of the hotel are given bikes and a basket with “Schiacciata”, Tuscan flatbread stuffed sandwiches; “Buccellato” old sweet bread; Tuscan wine (for mom and dad), and water to bring along for a picnic. The whole family will love riding along the city walls that encircle Lucca and offer an incredible birds-eye-view of the entire city. The experience costs 25 Euro per person. Book here
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The Shelbourne | Dublin, Ireland Celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2024, Dublin’s grand dame has always embodied the zeitgeist of the city--from being the premier venue for Dublin’s society events in the 1950s and 60s to playing host to the forming of The Chieftains, and today continuing to be Dubliners’ preferred social hotspot for fine food, cocktails, and pints. Known as “Ireland’s living room,” The Shelbourne is kicking off its milestone celebrations with the following packages for winter and spring of this year:
The Journey Through Time Since 1824 package includes deluxe room accommodation, gourmet breakfast, and complimentary parking for just €200 ($215) per person with the option to upgrade to one of the hotel’s luxurious Heritage Park View Rooms for an added €80 ($86). This package is available Sundays through Thursdays from January 7th to February 28th and is subject to availability. Promotional Code: THM
The Shelbourne will also be introducing the Toast To 200 Years Of History package for stays between March 1st and November 30th, which includes a deluxe room accommodation and gourmet breakfast, complete with a voucher that guests receive at check-in for two special cocktails to celebrate the momentous anniversary. Promotional Code: QZR
Perfect for winter break, the Luxurious Family Escape at The Shelbourne package allows children to indulge in turndown service. Available from February 11-24th, the package includes bed & breakfast in a deluxe double room (for 2 adults and 2 kids under 12), parking, and a turndown service featuring kids’ bathrobes and slippers, freshly baked cookies and milk, and in-room movie setup with popcorn. Promotional Code: ZE2
Looking ahead to spring, the Celebrate Easter at The Shelbourne offering includes deluxe accommodation, breakfast, parking, two celebratory 1916 cocktails at No.27 Bar, and an in-room Easter egg with chocolate treats. It is available for stays between March 14th and April 7th. Promotional Code: EB5
Lastly, for any visitors looking to pamper themselves during their trip to Dublin, The Shelbourne Spa is offering a Winter Skin Savior facial package, including an Elemis’ signature deep cleaning skin wellness facial that leaves skin looking healthy, refreshed, and rebalanced. Following the treatment, guests are invited to enjoy the relaxing room overlooking St. Stephen’s Green before heading to The Salon for a blow out and superfood hydrating smoothie. The package is €149 ($164) per person, and available Monday through Thursday from January 1st through February 28th with booking subject to availability.
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A Cultural District with a WOW factor | Porto, Portugal
WOW is a huge new cultural district where everyone is welcome. In the historic heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, just a short distance from the centre of Porto, WOW pays homage to culture, history, and Portugal's main industries. Explore six different museums, restaurants, and workshops for all the family
Special offer: Family ticket (2 adults+2 kids) for 2 museums – 72€. Valid for 1 month.
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Vakkaru | Maldives Vakkaru sits on a secluded reef island with ocean views, white sand, and unique marine biodiversity. The Vakkaru Dream Getaway is available for stays of fice days or more between now and December 22, 2024, and includes:
Up to 30% off on accommodations; daily breakfast at Amaany ; complimentary daily dinner at designated restaurants; complimentary stay and meals for two children below 12 years of age; complimentary access to Parrotfish Club for children 3 to 12 years of age, Coconut Club, Sports Fields and Merana Spa’s Wellness Area, and more.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
There’s no doubt about it: kids are sponges when it comes to learning (and picking up on swear words, turns out). We’ve rounded up some fun facts for kids that will entertain and wow them (and you!). For those in search of trivia for teens, we’ve got you covered as well! Try to stump your kids at the dinner table or go all in for a family trivia night. In the mood for even more fun? Try out these hilarious jokes for kids, the best minute to win it games, and some selections from the 100+ movies every kid needs to see before they grow up.
6. Even in an airplane, a trip to Pluto would take about 800 years.
7. Ham the Astrochimp was the first hominid in space, launched on Jan. 31, 1961.
8. Neptune’s days are 16 hours long.
9. It takes eight minutes and 19 seconds for light to travel from the sun to Earth.
10. The footprints on the moon will be there for 100 million years.
11. A neutron star can spin 600 times in one second.
12. Jupiter is the fastest-spinning planet in the solar system (it only takes about 10 hours to complete a full rotation on its axis).
13. Sound does not carry in space.
14. The Earth's core is as hot as the surface of the sun.
15. The very first animals in space were fruit flies...they were sent up in 1947 and recovered alive.
16. In 2011, ten-year-old Kathryn Aurora Gray discovered a supernova (a star that has run out of energy, explodes and then collapses before it dies) that no one else had seen before.
17. Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, has saltwater geysers that are 20x taller than Mt. Everest.
18. Saturn's rings are made from trillions of chunks of orbiting ice.
19. Alpha Centauri isn't a star, but a star system. It is 4.22 light years away.
20. One day on Venus is almost 8 months on Earth.
21. Jupiter's Great Red Spot is a storm that has been raging for over 200 years.
22. There are more stars in the universe than grains of sand on Earth.
2. Garlic bulbs are full of Vitamin C, iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and more. It also has 17 amino acids.
3. On the South Atlantic island of Tristan da Cunha, potatoes were once used as currency.
4. The strawberry is the only fruit that bears seeds on the outside.
5. According to Tori Avey, coffee became a popular drink in America after the Boston Tea Party of 1773: Making the switch from tea to coffee was considered a patriotic duty.
6. The double coconut palm produced the biggest seed in the world: 45 pounds.
7. Ice cream was once called “cream ice.”
8. Pound cake is so-called because the recipes once called for a pound of butter, a pound of sugar, a pound of eggs, and a pound of flour.
9. Peanuts aren't nuts! (They're legumes.)
10. Carrots weren't always orange: they were once exclusively purple.
11. Cherries are a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) as are quince, pears, plums, apples, peaches, and raspberries!
12. Lima beans have an amazing ability to command wasps as a defense. If insects are eating the lima bean's leaves, the plant gives off a substance that acts as a signal to parasitic wasps to swoop in and destroy their enemy (i.e. the leaf-eating insects).
13. Apples float because they are one-quarter air!
14. Ripe cranberries will bounce like a ball. (Go on, try it!). They also float.
15. German chocolate cake is not from Germany. German is the last name of the man who invented a kind of baking chocolate (Sam German).
16. Cilantro and coriander are considered to be the same.
17. SPAM is a mash-up of the words "spice" and "ham."
Amazing Facts for Students About History
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1. The Wright Brothers only flew together once (though both piloted the planes individually): on May 25, 1910, they took a six-minute flight piloted by Orville with Wilbur as his passenger.
2. Regardless of their size, naval tradition declares submarines to be called “boats” rather than “ships.”
3. Hedy Lamar was a famous Hollywood film actress who also invented what became modern-day Wi-Fi.
8. Before European contact (which caused populations to diminish rapidly ) California indigenous tribal groups spoke more than 200 unique dialects.
9. Amelia Earhart first saw a plane at the age of 10 but didn't take an airplane ride until 1920 when she was 23 years old.
10. Abe Lincoln was a professional wrestler long before he became the 16th President of the United States.
11. After landing in Ireland after her first solo Atlantic flight, a farmer asked Amelia Earhart where she was from. When she said America, he almost didn't believe her!
12. Frederick Douglass's birth name was Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey. When he married he chose the last name Douglass after the hero clan in Sir Walter Scott's famous poem, Lady of the Lake.
13. Frida Kahlo created 143 paintings. Of these, 55 were self-portraits.
14. Babe Ruth was the first baseball player to hit a home run in the All-Star game, at Chicago’s Comiskey Park in 1933.
1. Some tornadoes can be faster than Formula One race cars!
2. There are 2,000 thunderstorms on Earth every minute.
3. The wind is silent until it blows against something.
4. There are ice caves in Iceland that have hot springs.
5. The fastest recorded raindrop was 18 mph!
6. The US gets over 1200 tornadoes a year.
7. Lightning can strike twice.
8. Clouds look white because they are reflecting sunlight from above them.
9. Yuma, Arizona gets over 4000 hours of sunshine a year, making it the sunniest place on Earth. The least sunny place is the South Pole, where the sun only shines on 182 days a year. (Which would you rather live in?)
10. Rain contains vitamin B12.
11. A bolt of lightning is five times hotter than the sun.
12. A hurricane releases enough energy in one second to equal that of 10 atomic bombs.
13. It can be too warm to snow, but never too cold.
14. Tropical storms and hurricanes started getting "named" in 1953.
15. You can tell the weather by counting a cricket's chirps!
16. Worms wiggle up from the ground when a flood is coming.
1. Many people believe that early mermaid sightings can be attributed to dehydration + manatees.
2. Sloths cannot shiver to stay warm, and so have difficulty maintaining their body temperature on rainy days.
3. In the wild, some reindeer travel more than 3000 miles in a single year.
4. Only half of the dolphin’s brain goes to sleep when asleep and the other half stays awake.
5. Other than humans, emperor penguins are the only warm-blooded animals to stay in Antarctica for the winter.
6. The biggest fossil of a spider was found in China. It is one inch long and 165 million years old.
7. The largest living animal is the blue whale, which can measure as much as 100 feet.
8. Nearly 10% of all of a cat's bones are in its tail.
9. In the wintertime reindeer grow their facial hair long enough to cover their mouths, which protects their muzzles when grazing in the snow. Beard-os!
10. Dolphins have been seen wrapping sea sponges around their long snouts to protect them from cuts while foraging for food.
11. Shrimp's hearts are in their heads.
12. While pandas sometimes eat fish or small animals, 99% of their diet is bamboo.
13. An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain.
14. A fox uses its tail to communicate with other foxes.
15. Dogs have wet noses because they secrete a thin layer of mucus, which helps dogs smell!
16. The female hummingbird builds the world's smallest bird's nest (approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, around the size of a walnut!). She weaves it from spiderwebs which allows it to expand as the chicks grow.
17. The largest land animal in Antarctica is an insect: the columbola (which looks like an earwig). Penguins are considered marine animals.
18. There are 222 owl species in the world. Most are nocturnal, but a few are active during the daytime, such as the Barred Owl.
19. Sloths are strong swimmers, especially good at the backstroke.
20. Sharks do not hunt humans or consider humans food. Shark incidents occur when sharks are hunting for seals, dolphins, or other "human-sized" prey. It's a case of mistaken identity!
21. A koala's fingerprints are so similar to human fingerprints that they could taint a crime scene.
22. The loudest animal in the world is the Pistol Shrimp. It can collapse its jaws so fast that creates a bubble that collapses and creates a sonic blast.
1. In 1962, Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single NBA basketball game. No one has broken this record (not even Steph Curry!).
2. Babe Ruth began his career as a pitcher: Ruth was both a left-handed pitcher and a left-handed batter.
3. The record for the long jump is held by Mike Powell: 29 ft. + 4 inches. That’s like jumping the length of two minivans!
4. The most medals won for Olympic basketball (male or female) are both held by women: Teresa Edwards and Lisa Leslie with four gold medals each.
5. Wilma Rudolph (who set the world record in 1960 for 100, 200, and 4x100-meter relay) had polio, scarlet fever, and pneumonia as a child, leading doctors to believe she’d never walk again.
6. NFL Super Bowl referees also get Super Bowl rings.
7. In 1919, Cleveland Indians pitcher Ray Caldwell was struck by lightning in the middle of the 9th inning. He kept playing!
8. The 'G' on the Green Bay Packers helmet stands for "greatness" not Green Bay!
11. Golf is one of only two sports ever played on the moon. In 1971, Alan Shepard hit a ball with a six-iron while on the moon as part of the Apollo 14 mission. The other sport was a javelin toss, during the same visit.
12. The shortest player in the National Hockey League (NHL) was goaltender Roy Waters who measured 5 ft. 3 in. tall.
13. The tallest player in the NHL is Zdeno Chara, who is 6 ft. 9 in. tall.
Now is the time to plan that big family trip for 2024 as these Black Friday travel deals are super hot
If your wanderlust has only gotten more intense this past year, we totally get it. Our favorite destinations are eager to welcome your family and they are offering some crazy deals to entice you to visit. These Black Friday travel deals include sun-drenched properties in California and Florida, as well as family-friendly resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Cruises and airlines are even getting in on the action for Black Friday 2023 and we are here for it!
Best U.S. Travel Deals for Black Friday & Cyber Monday
California Travel Deals
Waldorf Monarch Beach
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - Fish Camp, CA Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is excited to announce a spectacular 30% discount on the best available rate. This deal will launch on Black Friday and continue through Cyber Monday. Click HERE for the deal link (set go live Black Friday).
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Wuksachi Lodge - Sequoia National Park, CA Wuksachi Lodge is delighted to announce a spectacular 30% discount on the Best Available Rate. This offer will launch on Black Friday and extend through Cyber Monday. Click HERE for the deal link (set go live Black Friday).
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Sensei Porcupine Creek Kick off the new year right with a luxury wellness experience at Sensei Porcupine Creek. Guests who purchase a gift card of $5,000 or more will receive a $500 per night wellness credit, which can be used for booking spa services, private consultations with a Sensei Guide, or golf or tennis fees. Gift cards will be available for purchase starting in November, with more information on the Sensei Porcupine Creek website. Deal is valid from Nov. 24-27
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The Coachman Hotel Situated between the majestic vistas of Heavenly Mountain and the serene tranquility of Lake Tahoe, The Coachman Hotel located in South Lake Tahoe offers a cozy and approachable stylish retreat for travelers who relish a nature-driven getaway. For a limited time, the 103-room boutique property is offering guests who book from Black Friday to Travel Tuesday 10% off rates, a waived resort fee, complimentary snack basket, and bottle of Champagne for select two-night stays from November 26, 2023 through June 30, 2024.
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Carmel Mission Inn Carmel Mission Inn, a stylish boutique hotel located in the idyllic seaside community of Carmel, just minutes from Carmel Village and the city of Monterey, is offering up to 30% off its best available rates for stay dates from November 24, 2023, through March 31, 2023. Bookable from Black Friday through Travel Tuesday. For more information, or to book visit www.carmelmissioninn.com.
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The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection Sacramento’s sophisticated politically themed The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection, located in the capital city’s vibrant downtown is buzzing with the year’s best rates and seasonal libations celebrating the magic of the holidays. In addition to 20% off room rates, guests will enjoy two complimentary craft cocktails at the property’s Michelin-recognized farm-to-table restaurant Grange Restaurant & Bar. The winter special is bookable starting 12:01 am on Friday, November 24 through midnight on Tuesday, November 28.
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Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton Bookable starting on Black Friday through the end of the year, Hotel La Jolla’s seasonal promotion gives guests up to 20% off its best rates plus a “pick your perk” option allowing them the choice of an extra treat to liven up their stay from two cocktails and a complimentary appetizer, a complimentary bottle of Champagne, or option for early check-in or late check-out. To book, click here and for more information, visit the property’s website at www.hotellajolla.com.
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The Hollywood Roosevelt| Los Angeles, CA Thelegendary boutique hotel and entertainment industry institution is long known as the epicenter for industry movers and shakers on Hollywood Boulevard. Home to vibrant new restaurant Shirley Brasserie, celebrating authentic French-Californian flavors, helmed by Chef de Cuisine Craig Hopson.
The Deal: Stay two (2) nights or more and get an extra night free. Booking window: 11/21 -11/29. Travel window: 11/22 – 3/31/2024. Book HERE.
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Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter| San Diego, CA Following a nearly $30 million property-wide reimagination, Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is a distinctly Southern Californian take on the Margaritaville experience and is home to San Diego’s largest rooftop pool deck, vibrant and beachy accommodations, three dining and entertainment destinations to sip and savor, flexible meetings and events spaces, and thoughtful amenities.
Black Friday Deal: Stay a minimum of two nights and enjoy 30% off your accommodations, plus 50% off Valet Parking. Book by November 16 – November 29, 2023, and stay between November 16 – September 30, 2024. Book here.
Cyber Monday Deal: Unlock 35% off your stay (minimum 2 nights) and receive 50% off Valet parking. Your coastal escape awaits. Book by November 16 – November 29, 2023, and stay between November 16 – September 30, 2024. Book here.
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Mission Pacific Hotel| Oceanside, CA Mission Pacific Hotel is a vibrant 161-room beachside creative boutique. Bespoke and undeniably Southern Californian, the lively, expressive hotel is charged with local creative energy that speaks to sophisticated travelers who appreciate the unpretentious vibes of Oceanside.
The Deal: Save up to 30% off the best available room rate at Mission Pacific Beach Resort and receive a $30 credit at The Rooftop Bar – Oceanside’s hottest rooftop lounge featuring live DJs, cabanas, craft cocktails, Mediterranean bites, a pool and spa jacuzzi all with an oceanfront view. The booking link will go live before Black Friday and run through Cyber Monday on the Offers page, or guests can also call the reservations number at (760) 655-1332.
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Hotel Erwin| Venice, CA Located in the heart of Venice Beach, Hotel Erwin offers an oceanside stay just steps away from LA’s favorite restaurants, bars, shops and of course, the beach.
The Deal: 30% off Hotel Erwins most flexible rate along with a $50 food & beverage credit for Erwin’s General, open in the lobby for daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and cocktails, plus free goodies at Ospi including 10% off The Window, $20 off Surf School and more. Travel window: now through March 31, 2024. Subject to availability. Book HERE.
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Mar Monte Hotel | Santa Barbara, CA A reincarnation of the historic 1930s Vista Mar Monte, the beachfront boutique lifestyle hotel offers modern amenities and design across three acres of Spanish-influenced grounds, including 200 reimagined guest rooms and suites, two food and beverage concepts – Lido Café and costa – a pool with oceanfront views and programming reflecting the local Santa Barbara culture and community.
The Deal: 30% discount on stays between November 2023 and February 2024 by using the code ‘LOCAL’ during booking. Note that Friday and Saturday nights require a two-night stay. Click here to book.
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Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach(Orange County, CA): With newly renovated guestrooms, oceanfront golf course designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., spa, private beach club, three pools, and seven seaside dining options, this Black Friday, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach is offering:
Offer: Up to 50% off. Booking window: November 1 – November 26, 2023. Travel window: November 1, 2023 – April 30, 2024. Book Here or call and mention “Cyber Sale”
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Hilton Anaheim (Anaheim, CA) Orange County’s largest hotel, Hilton Anaheim is an official Disney Good Neighbor® hotel with select Disney® view rooms featuring private fireworks viewing, outdoor pool, waterslides, health club, organic fine dining and cocktails at Mix Restaurant and Mix Lounge, amusement park and Angels Stadium perks. This Black Friday, the hotel is offering:
Offer: 50% flash sale with rates starting at $110/night. Booking window: November 20 – November 27, 2023. Travel window: November 20, 2023 – March 31, 2024. Code “HPPAP2”
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San Diego Mission Bay Resort | San Diego, CA Set alongside Mission Bay, San Diego Mission Bay resort is the perfect destination for a beachside escape. The property offers beautiful views and luxurious amenities like a private beach, s’mores night under the stars and top-notch rooms and suites, and coastal Californian cuisine to enjoy every aspect of this seaside vacation destination.
The deal: Between November 24 through 28th, San Diego Mission Bay Resort is offering a refundable 20% off the best available room rate for stay dates between November 24, 2023 through May 22nd, 2024. The resort is also offering a non-refundable 30% off the best available room rate for stays between November 24, 2023 through November 28, 2024
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L’Auberge Del Mar | Del Mar, CA Located in the heart of the coastal Southern California village Del Mar, L’Auberge Del Mar boasts luxurious guest rooms, an upscale pool and pool bar, a coastal-inspired spa, al fresco dining overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and more.
The deal: L'Auberge Del Mar is offering a refundable 20% off the best available room rate for stay dates between November 23, 2023 through March 14th, 2024 OR a non-refundable 30% off for stays between November 23, 2023 through December 31, 2024. Full deposit is taken at time of booking.
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Kona Kai San Diego | San Diego, CA Set alongside its own private beach on Shelter Island, Kona Kai San Diego offers the quintessential San Diego experience with two inviting pools complete with private lounging cabanas, beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, innovative programming for the entire family, coastal spa treatments, waterfront dining and more.
The deal: For trips booked from Nov. 23 - 28, Kona Kai is extending up to 20% off the best available room rate for stays from Nov. 23 through March 31, 2024.
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Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa | La Jolla, CA Following a recent $13.9 million renovation, Estancia La Jolla offers guests a luxurious stay with redesigned guest rooms and suites, stunning property grounds, a full-service spa, expansive pool deck and cabanas, and three outstanding on-site dining destinations.
The deal: Estancia La Jolla is offering a refundable 20% off the best available room rate for stay dates between November 24, 2023 through March 31st, 2024 OR a non-refundable 30% off for stays between November 24, 2023 through May 23 31, 2024. Full deposit is taken at time of booking.
The deal: Book our Cyber Winter Special where you buy three consecutive nights, and receive the 4th night free - Book a new reservation directly on our website, promotional code CYBER4FREE
Dates: Now through 12/31/23. Based on new reservations only, no blackout dates
How to book: Using the promo code YBER4FREE, only available on our website. The least expensive night of the stay is automatically comped. Available for lodging stays now through 3/31/24.
The deal: We will offer a 10% discount on bookings from now through February 29, 2024.
Dates: This offer excludes weekends (Friday and Saturday) as well as holidays. Blackout dates include November 24, December 23 - January 1st, January 15, February 14, February 18 & 19.
Where to book: This offer is only accessible by calling our Front Desk directly at 805-927-1329 (Little Sur) and 805-927-0012 (Moonstone Landing)
The deal: Save 25% for stays through March 14, 2024
Dates: November 8 - November 27
How to book: Online only. Only applicable to reservations made directly with the hotel. Cards must be present (can be virtual, mobile, or physical) when being used for payment.
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Silverado Resort, a legendary 1200-acre getaway in Napa Valley, CA:
CYBER WEEK OFFER:One-night stay is 20% savings; two-night stay is 25% savings; three-night or more stay is 30% savings.
Booking dates: 11/5/23 to 11/29/23; stay: 11/5/23 to 5/19/2024.
Terranea Resort located in Rancho Palos Verdes just south of LAX:
CYBER WEEK OFFER: Book a luxurious and spacious 1-2 Bedroom Bungalow, 1-3 Bedroom Casita, or Villa Residence and receive a complimentary third night plus $250resort credit.
Booking dates: 11/16 to 11/19/23; stay dates: 12/2/23 to 10/31/24.
Code BFCM3FREE at check-out. Some restrictions and blackout dates may apply.
CYBER WEEK OFFER: 20% discount off BAR (Best Available Rate). Booking dates: 11/16/23 to 11/29/23; stay: 11/16/23 to 8/31/24. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. For South Coast Winery Resort & Spa the promo code is BFCMSC with rates starting at $239; booking link available here. For Carter Estate Winery and Resort the promo code is BFCMCE with rates starting at $249; booking link available here.
CYBER WEEK OFFER for Black Friday and Cyber Monday exclusive offer is 30% off best available rate during the gift buying season. An additional 10% off for all Loyalty members (guests can enroll here).
Booking dates: 11/13/2023 to 11/27/2023; stay dates through 6/30/2024.
KSL Resorts’ five independent boutique hotels along California’s Central Coast:
CYBER WEEK OFFER: 25% savings for stays through 3/14/2024.
Booking dates: 11/8/2023 to 11/27/2023; stay dates: 11/8/2023 to 3/14/2024.
Booking for Avila Lighthouse Suites is available here; Pismo Lighthouse Suites available here; Paso Robles Innavailable here; Shore Cliff Hotel available here; and The Piccolo available here.
Colorado Travel Deals
The Broadmoor Situated at the gateway to the Colorado Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor and its Wilderness Experience properties – The Ranch at Emerald Valley, Cloud Camp and the Orvis-endorsed Fly Fishing Camp – encompass 5,000 acres. The resort campus has 784 rooms, suites, and cottages.
The deal: 15% off all-inclusive Wilderness Experience stays for select dates in the 2024 season (April-October); Broadmoor exclusive of $269 nightly rates & suites available at 25% off of published rates valid for select dates in January 2024 through April 2024. Book between November 14 - December 1, 2023. More details and booking information here.
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The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa - Denver, CO Discover the epitome of luxury and elegance in the heart of Denver as The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa invites travelers and shoppers to celebrate Black Friday with an exclusive offer providing 30% off retail merchandise and BOGO service enhancements with any spa service, bookable Nov. 24-27, 2023, for redemption Nov. 28, 2023 to March 31, 2024.
Delaware Travel Deals
The Bellmoor Inn and Spa (Rehoboth Beach, DE) Between November 24 and November 28, 2023, The Bellmoor Inn and Spa is offering rooms at 24% off when you book a 2-night stay or more, with rooms starting at $189 after the discount is applied, for stays between November 24, 2023 and January 31, 2024. Book here with code CYBR
Hotel Bethany Beach (Bethany Beach, DE) Between November 24 and November 28, 2023, Hotel Bethany Beach is offering rooms up to 24% off, with rooms starting at $169 after the discount is applied, for stays between April 1, 2024 and August 31, 2024. Book here with code CYBER Bethany Beach Ocean Suites (Bethany Beach, Delaware) Between now and November 28, 2023, Bethany Beach Ocean Suites is offering rooms up to 20% off, with rooms starting at $189 after the discount is applied, for stays between now and January 31, 2024. Book here
Florida Travel Deals
The Don Cesar
Southernmost Beach Resort Situated along the southern limit of the famed Duval Street, the recently renovated Southernmost Beach Resort features classic coastal charm, unparalleled ocean views, and tons of family fun for a memorable stay in Key West’s Historic District. Boasting three palm-fringed pools, a signature restaurant, and four bars, this oceanfront resort will leave the kids begging to return.
The deal: Book between November 23 and November 28 and get 30% off + $100 Resort Credit per stay at Amara Cay and La Siesta. With each booking, a $5 Donation to Give Kids the World. A minimum of a 3-night stay is required. Offer is based on availability and valid for stays from December 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024.
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Opal Grand Hotel Collection – The Palm Beaches, FL This holiday season, a coastal getaway is a breeze when travelers stay at any four Opal Grand Hotel Collection resorts in Palm Beach County: Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa, Opal Grand, Delray Sands, and The Atlantic Suites on the Ave. From Nov. 27-28, guests can enjoy 35% off select dates and experience paradise at any of these luxe oceanfront resorts with the promo code OPFLSH.
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THE DON CESAR | ST. PETE BEACH, FLORIDA Opened in 1928, Florida’s iconic Pink Palace® The Don CeSar invites guests to relax and enjoy pristine private white sand beaches, spacious accommodations in one of the 277 guestrooms, including 36 luxurious suites, six food and beverage concepts and the award-winning Spa Oceana.
DEAL: Stay 3 nights, Save 30%. Book a minimum three-night stay during 11/21/23 - 12/5/23 for stays during 11/21/23 - 12/31/24. Includes a $100 resort credit per stay. Book HERE between November 21, 2023 through December 5, 2023 and use promo code: Cyber2023
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Hawks Cay Resort, the Florida Keys Hawks Cay Resort welcomes guests to the ultimate Florida Keys vacation experience with on-site amenities like fishing excursions, dolphin encounters, snorkel trips, and more. Plus, the new Pilar Bar hosts rum tastings and cigar pairings inspired by longtime Keys resident Ernest Hemingway.
This Black Friday, guests can take up to 45% off and receive a $50 resort credit plus daily breakfast for two during their stay. Bookable Nov. 14 through Nov. 29. Subject to availability, blackout dates apply.
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The Grove Resort & Water Park, Orlando Florida Black Friday/Cyber Monday 30% discount off of BAR rates. Booking window from November 16, 2023 to November 29, 2023. Can stay from November 16, 2023 to December 20, 2024. Book here
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Hilton Orlando (Orlando, FL) Hilton Orlando offers exclusive park perks plus seven restaurants, a full-service spa, multiple pools with a waterslide and lazy river plus a reimagined Lobby Bar and modernized chic decor following a major renovation of its lobby in fall 2022. This Black Friday, the resort is offering: 15% off best available rate and 50% off resort charge. Booking November 20 – December 1, 2023 for travel select dates for December 2023 – 2024 using code “P4” or SRP name ORLOC Special Offers
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Caribe Royale Orlando– Orlando, FL Caribe Royale Orlando recently debuted a completely reimagined, luxury travel experience that solidifies the resort as Orlando’s all-suite, premier destination for Disney-bound families, conveniently located a stone's throw from Walt Disney World and Orlando’s other top theme parks.
Deal: 30% off with $25 nightly F&B credit when booking direct for 2 consecutive nights or more. Booking Window: November 16-29, 2023. Travel Window: November 16, 2023-December 31, 2024. Book via the hotel’s website beginning November 16.
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Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort – Hollywood, FL Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort is your family-friendly tropical escape with 369-rooms, eight diverse bar and restaurant concepts, two pools, the famous FlowRider surfing simulator, year-round live entertainment, the St. Somewhere Spa, a kid’s club, paddle boarding and kayaking, and more.
Deal: Escape the winter blues and bask in the South Florida sun at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort and save up to 20% when booking to stay between November 21, 2023 – June 30, 2024. Booking Window: November 20, 2023 – November 28, 2023. Book here during the booking window.
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Villatel Orlando Resort Villatel Orlando is now officially open for guests to enjoy. This 77-acre resort offers unparalleled convenience, providing easy access to Orlando's major tourism attractions. To celebrate the grand opening, the resort is turning Black Friday "blue" with an exclusive offer. By using the special code BLUEFRIDAY20, travelers can enjoy a fantastic 20% discount on all stays booked between Friday, November 24th and Sunday, November 26th for any future stays lasting at least 5 nights.
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Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Mayfair House Hotel & Garden has an exclusive cyber offer this holiday season for iPrefer Rewards members. Book a room for 2 nights and receive your 3rd night free and receive 30,000 bonus iPrefer Points for a two-night or more stay in 2023 or 2024.
Once people are signed up for iPrefer Rewards, they can use this booking link
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PGA National Resort unveiled an incredible $100 million transformation in February 2022 which touched every aspect of the celebrated property – including celebrity chef-helmed restaurants such as Top Chef Winner Jeremy Ford’s The Butcher’s Club, The Spa which was redesigned by V Starr, tennis star Venus Williams’ design firm, 21 two-bedroom, two-bathroom cottages designed by Serena & Lily, new pickleball courts, and more.
Book 3 nights and receive 30% off the best available rate. Book 5 nights and get 50% off the best available rate.
The Deal: Book between November 20th and November 27th and stay by 10/31/24, receive 30% off 3 or more nights! Rate does not include $35.00 Daily Resort Fee. Stay must be booked between 11/20/23 and 11/27/23, and completed by 10/31/24. Rates are subject to availability. Offer may not be combined with other promotions or special offers. Offer not applicable to prior reservations, groups or conventions. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Maximum number of guests allowed in room: 4. Cancellation policy: 72 hours prior to date of arrival. Subject to hotel tax. Subject to a resort fee.
The Deal: Book between November 23 and November 28 and to 30% off + $100 Resort Credit per stay at Amara Cay and La Siesta. With each booking, a $5 Donation to Give Kids the World. A minimum of 3-night stay is required. Offer is based on availability and valid for stays from December 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024.
The Deal: Book between November 24-November 28 to receive:
25% Off Standard Rate at The Cloister or The Lodge for stays January-March 2024*
15% Off Standard Rate at The Cloister or The Lodge for stays April-August 2024*
25% Off Standard Rate at The Cloister or The Lodge for stays September-December 21, 2024*
10% Off Standard Rate at Cottages for stays January-December 21, 2024*
A $250 resort credit per stay for The Cloister and The Lodge.*
A $100 resort credit per Cottage per night of stay*
Valid for stays January through December 2024 excluding these blackout dates: March 24-31, 2024; May 23-26, 2024; July 1-6, 2024; August 30-September 1, 2024; November 17-23, 2024; November 27-29, 2024; December 22-31, 2024. Rate Code: BFRIDAY23
The Deal: Book between November 24-November 28 to receive:
25% Off Standard Rate at The Inn at Sea Island for stays January-March 2024*
15% Off Standard Rate at The Inn at Sea Island for stays April-August 2024*
25% Off Standard Rate at The Inn at Sea Island for stays September-December 21, 2024*
A 30-minute Topgolf Swing Suite session per stay.*
Valid for stays January through December 2024 excluding these blackout dates: March 24-31, 2024; May 23-26, 2024; July 1-6, 2024; August 30-September 1, 2024; November 17-23, 2024; November 27-29, 2024; December 22-31, 2024. Link to book here.
Hawaii Travel Deals
Aqua-Aston Hospitality
Hotel Wailea| Maui, HI Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux offers Maui’s hottest hideaway with 72 suites spread across 15 tropical acres. This intimate, peaceful retreat is nestled within a lush tropical hillside perched 300 feet above the sea, with convenient access to island adventures by day – from beaches, water sports and golf to restaurants and shopping – and luxurious tranquility by night.
The Deal: Guests can enjoy a 25% off discount on stays of 3 nights or more. Available between 12/15/23 – 6/30/24 (subject to blackout dates). Hotel Wailea’s email subscribers have exclusive early access to the sale starting on 11/17/23. Public access to the sale is from 11/24/23 until 11/27/23. Promo code: FRIDAY2023; click here to book.
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Kaimana Beach Hotel| Oahu, HI Located at Waikiki’s best address along the Gold Coast of Oahu, Kaimana Beach Hotel is situated on the quietest end of Waikiki, yet just five minutes from the energy and excitement of Honolulu. The 122-room hotel has been an integral part of the fabric of Waikiki for more than five decades. The celebrated social hub of the hotel and a new culinary experience at the iconic Hau Tree is known for its beachfront brunch just steps away from the ocean.
The Deal: Guests can enjoy a 30% off discount on stays between 11/8/23 – 12/15/24. Kaimana’s email subscribers have exclusive early access to the sale starting on 11/8/23. Public access to the sale is from 11/22/23 until 11/30/23. Click here to book.
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White Sands Hotel| Waikiki, Hawaii Built in 1957 and reimagined for today, the White Sands Hotel includes 94 rooms and suites, exterior walk-up corridors, and private lanais that make it a vintage gem suited for contemporary island life.
PACIFIC 19 Kona| Kona, HI PACIFIC 19 Kona is a newly renovated and re-envisioned boutique hotel for independent travelers seeking stylish accommodations and authentic island experiences.
The Deal: 25% off. Booking window: 11/16/23 – 12/1/23. Stay window: 12/1/23 – 9/30/24. Book HERE.
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Aqua-Aston Hospitality – 25+ hotels and resorts in Hawaii 20% off at Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s properties on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and Hawaii Island. Visitors will love condo-style properties with resort amenities including Aston Kaanapali Shores, Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, Aston at the Whaler on Kaanapali Beach and more. A-List members (Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s loyalty program) also receive early access to the sale at 25% off.
Booking Window A-List Members: November 14 — 20, 2023; General Sale: November 21 — 28, 2023
Stay Dates: A-List Members: November 14, 2023 — December 20, 2024; General Sale: November 21, 2023 — December 20, 2024
Promo Code: General Sale:CYBERSALE
Louisiana Travel Deals
ONE11 Hotel (New Orleans, LA) ONE11 is offering 20% off rooms on November 24th, for stays through Feb. 1st. Starting Rate: $209 a night
Maine Travel Deals
Sandy Pines Campground Maine’s most elevated camping experience, Sandy Pines Campground, will offer travelers 20% off all Couples Camp Cottages reservations this coming Small Business Saturday, November 25th, and Cyber Monday, November 27th. Set in the lush of a serene salt marsh, the glampground provides travelers with the best of Maine summer, made more comfortable with air conditioning, mosquito nets, electricity, and top-of-the-line glamping accommodations.
Massachusetts Travel Deals
Hampton by Hilton Boston Seaport District (Boston, MA) Set near the waterfront and a five-minute walk from Flynn Cruise Terminal, Hampton by Hilton Boston Seaport District features an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and proximity to local dining, Leader Bank Pavilion and Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. This Black Friday, the hotel is offering:
Offer: 60% off the Park and Stay Package (for daily parking each night of stay). Booking window: November 25 – November 28, 2023. Travel window: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024. Code “S1G”
The Deal: Book between November 27 and December 2, 2023, and get up to 40% off a stay between November 30, 2023 and April 29, 2024, as well as select dates in fall. Additionally, book between November 24 and December 2 and receive a $200 resort credit per room on a 2024 summer vacation (valid for new reservations only; minimum stay restrictions and blackout dates may apply).
Montana Travel Deals
Explorer Cabins - West Yellowstone, MT Explorer Cabins in Yellowstone is thrilled to announce a remarkable 30% discount on the Best Available Rate, available exclusively for a limited time. This incredible offer will make its debut on Black Friday and continue through Cyber Monday, so mark your calendar for an adventure like no other. Click HERE for the deal link (set go live Black Friday).
Nevada Travel Deals
EL CORTEZ HOTEL & CASINO | LAS VEGAS, NEVADA The longest-running hotel & casino in Sin City, El Cortez Hotel & Casino offers a wide range of rooms to suit every style and budget, from the nostalgic charm of the Original 47 and Pavilion rooms to the contemporary luxury of the Tower Premium Rooms. Steeped in history since its grand opening in 1941, the downtown hotel embodies the timeless essence of Las Vegas effortlessly blending vintage allure with contemporary amenities.
DEAL: 25% off stays through August 2024. Book online starting November 24, 2023 through November 27, 2023
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Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton(Las Vegas) Boasting contemporary guestroom chambers, ten immersive restaurants for group dining including Nobu, expansive pool with sleek seating and Mykonos vibes, VIP cabanas and more, this Black Friday, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton is offering:
Offer: 40% off best available rate; Booking window: November 20 – December 5, 2023. Travel window: November 20, 2023 – December 31, 2024. Book Here
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Whitney Peak Hotel In the “Biggest Little City” of Reno Tahoe, the vibrant Whitney Peak Hotel, located in the heart of Downtown, features 300+ contemporarily-designed staterooms with panoramic views of the surrounding nature and bustling city. For Black Friday and Cyber Monday the hotel is offering 20% off all bookings made between November 16-29. The property features a one-of-a-kind amenity with the Guinness Book of World Records “World’s Tallest Artificial Climbing Wall.” towering 164ft above Downtown.
New York Travel Deals
Sound View Greenport
NoMo SoHo - New York City Located in the heart of New York City’s SoHo neighborhood, NoMo SoHo’s guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of New York City, in addition to the wildly popular NoMo Kitchen, an iconic restaurant with a glass atrium and intimate outdoor patio.
OFFER: From Black Friday through December 1, NoMo SoHo is offering 30% off all room types for stays through December 31, 2024. Guests can gain access to book by signing up for NoMo SoHo’s newsletter at www.nomosoho.com/subscribe/
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Sound View Greenport| Greenport, NY Sound View Greenport’s newly renovated seaside hotel and restaurant sits on 14 acres of private, waterfront land in the charming town of Greenport, New York.
The Deal: 35% off best available rate. Booking window: 11/16/23 – 12/1/24. Stay window: 11/9/23 – 5/23/24. Book HERE.
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33 Seaport Hotel (New York, New York) Dive into the gift of luxury at 33 Seaport Hotel with our Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer. Book between November 17 – 27 and enjoy 20% off your stay from January 1 – March 31, plus a daily breakfast for two. Act fast and embrace the allure of New York City! Book here
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Kixby Hotel Experience all that New York City has to offer this winter with an exclusive Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday deal in honor of Kixby Hotel’s 120th anniversary and title of one of New York City’s longest-standing hotels. To celebrate the iconic milestone, Kixby is offering travelers a flat rate deal of $120 per night for a Lux King room for travel dates through March 2024. Guests must book online, linked HERE. Book Nov. 28-29. Travel dates: December 17, 2023 - March 28, 2024
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Walker Hotels (Tribeca & Greenwich Village) Sister properties located in two of New York City’s most iconic neighborhoods, Walker Hotel Tribeca and Greenwich Village are celebrating Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year with an exclusive 35% off next year’s holiday stays booked for November 16 – December 31, 2024. This limited-time rate at Walker Tribeca can be booked HERE and Greenwich Village HERE. Booking dates: November 16 – November 29, 2023
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Crowne Plaza HY36 – New York, New York Crowne Plaza HY36 is offering additional savings on their Book Early and Save rate, guaranteeing an additional 10% discount on weekdays and 12% on weekends for in-app bookings only. Travel Window: January 1, 2024 – August 31, 2024. Book through the IHG Hotels & Rewards App
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The William Vale (Williamsburg, Brooklyn) Cyber Monday Deal: From November 14th through December 14th, 2023, The William Vale will offer a special Cyber Monday deal where guests can book rooms at a special fixed rate starting at $185 / night for the Queen with Balcony for stays between November 14th through December 31st, 2024, using the promo code CYBER23. The lower rate of the year, bookings can be made HERE.
North Carolina Travel Deals
The Art of Living Retreat Center - Boone, North Carolina
The Art of Living Retreat Center offers a serene and rejuvenating wellness experience surrounded by nature in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
OFFER: Available to book from November 17 - November 27, Art of Living Retreat Center is offering 25% off Signature Retreats (Happiness, Stepping Into Silence, Meditation) and R+R Retreats for stays from December 2023 through March 2024
The Windsor Suites | Philadelphia, PA The Windsor Suites embodies the vibrant energy of Philadelphia the moment you arrive. It’s conveniently located on the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway, home to world-famous arts and cultural sites. Intersecting the downtown business district, travelers will experience an urban lifestyle from spacious suites with skyline views.
The Deal: 35% off luxurious One Bedroom Suites and Skyline Rooms. Booking window: Nov 15, 2023 – Nov 30, 2023. Stay dates:Nov 15, 2023 – Feb 29, 2024. Book HERE.
CYBER WEEK OFFER: With the purchase of a full-priced lift ticket, guests get a free Aquatopia Twilight Ticket. 2024 Camelbeach Season Passes are on sale for $99. To conquer the slopes during the day and hit the waves at night this is the perfect combo for round-the-clock fun at Camelback. Booking dates: Black Friday, 11/24/2023 to Cyber Monday, 11/27/2023 at 11:59 p.m. Booking link available here.
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Blue Mountain Resortin Palmerton, Penn., is a friends and family all-year resort in the Poconos:
CYBER WEEK OFFER: Bonus Bucks are awarded on gift card purchases and earn $10 in bonus bucks for every $100 spent on Blue Mountain Resort digital or physical gift cards. Booking dates: 11/24/2023 to 11/27/2023. Booking link available here.
South Carolina Travel Deals
HarbourView Inn, Charleston, SC - 25% off bookings made from 11/27 through 12/3 for travel by 12/31/24. Before discount, hotel starting rate $289/night
The Spectator Hotel, Charleston, SC – 23% off bookings made from 11/27 through 12/3 for travel by 12/31/24. Before discount, hotel starting rate $299/night
French Quarter Inn, Charleston, SC – 23% off bookings made from 11/27 through 12/3 for travel by 12/31/24. Before discount, hotel starting rate $289/night
Texas Travel Deals
Hilton Anatole
The Westin Riverwalk – San Antonio, TX The beautiful and newly renovated Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio invites travelers to celebrate Black Friday/Cyber Monday with an exclusive offer of 30% off rooms. Book between Nov. 24-27, 2023, and stay between Nov. 28, 2023 and March 31, 2024.
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Hilton Austin (Austin, TX) Situated in Downtown Austin with close proximity to Sixth and Rainey St nightlife, Hilton Austin is home to the first hotel location of F45 Training—one of the fastest-growing fitness experiences loved by celebrities, as well as a rooftop pool and the first Top Golf Swing Suite for an interactive tee-off experience inside the property’s energetic Austin Taco Project serving craft cocktails and fusion tacos. This Black Friday, the hotel is offering:
Limited time rates for Hilton Honors Members as low as $139 booking Nov. 24-27 with travel Dec. 1, 2023-Feb. 29, 2024. Book Here; Request “Honors Advance Purchase” or use code "HPPAP2"
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DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Austin (Austin, TX): The newly renovated DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Austin is situated two blocks from the Texas Capitol and features refreshed guestrooms, revamped pool deck, and onsite restaurant spotlighting the city’s culinary notoriety. This Black Friday, the hotel is offering:
Up to 30% off Advance Purchase when booking Nov. 24-27 for stays December 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024. Book Here with code "H2A"
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Embassy Suites by Hilton Austin Downtown South Congress (Austin, TX) Amidst scenic views of the Austin skyline with an indoor pool next to Lady Bird Lake and Congress Avenue Bridge, and Music Row which features dining, shopping and eclectic music venues. Embassy Suites by Hilton Austin Downtown South Congress’ Black Friday deal includes:
Up to 30% off Advance Purchase when booking Nov. 24-27 for stays December 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024. Book Here with code "H2A"
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Hilton Anatole(Dallas, TX) Hilton Anatole ishome to the largest U.S. hotel collection of art and antiques as well as the iconic JadeWaters pool complex featuring two 180-ft. water slides, lazy river, kids splash pad, leisure cove with swim-up bar and more. This Black Friday, the hotel is offering:
Up to 20% off the North Pole Adventure Room Package. The package includes two adult tickets to the North Pole Adventure Experience, daily $50 F&B credit, free wi-fi and 50% off parking. Booking Nov. 24-28 for stays December 8, 2023 – December 30, 2023. Book Here
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Hotel ZaZa– Austin, Dallas, Houston On Cyber Monday only, Hotel ZaZa is offering an exclusive deal. Book any date for any rate online and automatically receive a complimentary upgrade. Travel anytime within the next year (November 28, 2023 — November 28, 2024). Visit http://www.hotelzaza.com/ on November 27 and book any date at any rate for an automatic upgrade.
CYBER WEEK OFFER: 20% discount off BAR (Best Available Rate). Booking dates: 11/16/23 to 11/29/23; stay: 11/16/23 to 8/31/24. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. The promo code is BFCMCC. Booking link available here. Rates starting at $229.
Tennessee Travel Deals
Bode | Nashville, TN Located steps away from the restaurants, bars, and nightlife of Lower Broadway, Bode is on a mission to cater to both solo and group travel by offering chic suites ranging from one to four bedrooms in size. While on property, can’t-miss experiences include Dawn, the airy artisanal coffee shop, and Sidebar, their locally-loved craft cocktail bar.
The deal: 20% off stays through March 2024. Book HERE from November 15, 2023 through November 30, 2023
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Noelle | Nashville, TN Situated on the corner of Fourth Avenue and Church Street in downtown Nashville with Printer’s Alley at its back, Noelle is an immersive 222-room boutique hotel and creative gathering place, boasting an on-site luxury boutique, Keep Shop, and five imaginative food and drink concepts. Originally opened in 1930 as Noel Place, Noelle pays homage to the property’s Art Deco roots and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The deal: Enjoy up to 24% off guest rooms and suites, a $24 dining credit, and 24% off retail. Offer is valid for stays between November 30, 2023 and November 30, 2024. Book HERE starting November 17, 2023 through November 29, 2023
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Rock Springs Retreat Center - Tennessee Located 45 minutes from Nashville, Rock Springs Retreat Center offers transformative retreats that focus on holistic wellness, combining fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle to help individuals achieve sustainable, long-term results.
The deal: From November 20 - December 1, guests can book one week and get the second week at 60% off for stays through February 29, 2024. Guests can book by contacting Rock Springs Retreat Center at 615-437-6524
Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown and Element Salt Lake City Downtown (Salt Lake City, Utah) Between November 24 and November 27, 2023, Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown is offering rooms 20% off, with rooms starting at $189 after the discount is applied, for stays between November 24 and March 31, 2024. Between November 24 and November 27, 2023, Element Salt Lake City Downtown is offering rooms 20% off, with rooms starting at $159 after the discount is applied, for stays between November 24 and March 31, 2024.
Airlie
Vermont Travel Deals
Topnotch Resort, Stowe, Vt is offering a Cyber Monday 2023 – One Night, One Room, One Hundred Dollars flash sale starting at 8:15 am ET on Mon. 11/27 (8:00 am ET for email subscribers). Only one room priced at $100 (excluding taxes and resort fees) is available per night between 11/27/23 and 8/31/24 on a first-come, first-served basis (total available rooms: 100). The sale ends when the 100 nights of reservations have been found and booked – they will go quickly so shoppers need to act fast!
Virginia Travel Deals
Skyland Resort - Luray, VA Skyland Resort in Luray, VA, is offering a 30% discount on the Best Available Rate. This incredible offer makes its debut on Black Friday and extends through Cyber Monday, so be sure to mark your calendar for a serene getaway amidst the mountains. Click HERE for the deal link (set go live Black Friday).
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Big Meadows Lodge - Stanley, VA Big Meadows Lodge is offering 30% discount on the Best Available Rate. This fantastic offer kicks off on Black Friday and extends through Cyber Monday, so make sure to mark your calendar for a serene retreat amidst the mountains. Click HERE for the deal link (set go live Black Friday).
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Airlie| Warrenton, VA Airlie offers an array of accommodations across seven landmark buildings, nestled into a serene village setting nestled on 300 rolling acres in Northern Virginia's picturesque countryside.
The Deal: Discounts start at 30% off per night. Booking window: Nov 17 to Nov 29, 2023. Stay dates: Nov 17, 2023 – Mar 31, 2024. Book HERE.
Washington DC Travel Deals
The Madison Hotel – Washington, DC The Madison’s exclusive "Winter in Washington" package, available for booking from Nov. 24-Dec.31, promises a cozy stay complete with breakfast for two, complimentary valet parking, and a leisurely late checkout. Guests are invited to toast to the season with two complimentary handcrafted seasonal cocktails at The Madison’s crown jewel, Lady Madison, DC’s premier cocktail lounge. Bookings are valid online for stays between Nov. 27, 2023-March 3, 2024.
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The River Inn |Washington D.C. The River Inn is a boutique hotel tucked away on a tree-lined street in the coveted Washington, DC neighborhood of Foggy Bottom. Centrally located four blocks from the Kennedy Center, three blocks from the metro, and five blocks to the picturesque shops and restaurants of Georgetown - there is so much to explore just steps away. The National Mall, Smithsonian Institute and White House are all just a quick metro ride away as well.
The Deal: 35% off regular rates. Booking window: Nov 16 to Nov 29, 2023. Stay dates: Nov 16, 2023 - Mar 31, 2024. Book HERE.
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Hotel Hive| Washington D.C. Deemed Washington D.C.’s first micro hotel, Hotel Hive is known for smaller rooms and bigger — more buzzworthy — experiences. Set in a historic building, the vibrant space is steeped in character.
The Deal: 35% off regular rates. Booking window: Nov 16 to Nov 29, 2023. Stay dates: Nov 16, 2023 - Mar 31, 2025. Book HERE.
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The Normandy Hotel|Washington D.C. Tucked just off Connecticut Avenue among the stately embassies and tree-lined streets of peaceful Kalorama, The Normandy Hotel is an inviting and residential retreat from the city. Steps from DC’s iconic Dupont Circle and a short stroll from eclectic Adams Morgan, The Normandy offers a uniquely DC experience that’s steeped in sophisticated charm – where every stay feels like coming home.
The Deal: 35% off regular rates. Booking window: Nov 16 to Nov 29, 2023. Stay dates:Nov 16, 2023 - Mar 31, 2026. Book HERE.
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Viceroy (Washington, DC) 35% off best available rate when booked 11/11-12/3/23. Valid for stays Nov. 11, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2024. =
Wyoming Travel Deals
Anvil Hotel| Jackson, WY On the doorstep of Yellowstone, in the vibrant town of Jackson, Anvil Hotel celebrates the wonder of Wyoming offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
The Deal: 35% off best available rate. Booking window: 11/16/23 – 12/1/23. Travel window: 11/9/23 – 5/23/24. Book HERE.
Meliá Hotels International One of the leading leisure resort companies in the world with more than 400 hotels globally, Meliá Hotels International will be offering up to 50% off select hotel rates.
Great Wolf Lodge is giving families a reason to save this holiday season with exclusive deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Great Wolf Resorts, Inc. is North America’s largest family of indoor waterpark resorts with locations across North America.
Black Friday Deal: Rooms starting at $24/person (minimum of 4 people). Booking Nov. 24, code FRIDAY, stay Nov. 24, 2023-Feb. 29, 2024
Cyber Monday Deal: Save up to 50% off with rates starting at $99.99/night. Booking Nov. 27, code CYBER, stay Nov. 27, 2023-Feb. 29, 2024
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Sandals Resorts & Beaches Resorts
The leading all-inclusive Caribbean resort brands,Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, are turning Black Friday “blue” with their "Gift of Blue" sale, giving guests up to a $750 air credit and up to a $250 resort credit on vacations of seven nights or more at select properties including Beaches Turks & Caicos, the new Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica; Sandals Royal Curacao; and Sandals Saint Vincent debuting in 2024. Bookings can be made with the promo code GOB2023 between November 13, 2023 – December 21, 2023 for travel through November 3, 2024. Additionally, for every booking made between Thanksgiving and Giving Tuesday (November 23-28), $50 will be donatedto theSandals Foundation, the non-profit arm of Sandals Resorts International, to support its ocean conservation efforts, specifically the expansion of coral nurseries throughout the Caribbean, which hosts 10% of the world's coral reefs.
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Westgate Resorts Westgate Resorts is offering travelers a chance to kick back and relax this Black Friday with an exclusive offer of up to 50% of savings, bookable from Nov. 20-29, 2023, for travel from Nov. 20, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024. With sought-after destinations such as Park City, UT; Orlando, FL; Las Vegas, NV; Gatlinburg, TN; Myrtle Beach, SC; and several more, Westgate Resorts accommodates every escape with luxurious spaces and breathtaking views. To book, visitors can visit westgateresorts.com and apply the promo code ‘Friday’ at checkout.
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The Kessler Collection | 10 Properties Nationwide This Cyber Monday, guests can experience the enriching ambiance of The Kessler Collection’s hotels for 24% off luxury stays from December 1 – March 31 when booking between November 27 and December 1. To book, click here.
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Sonesta Hotels Save up to 30% off when booking two nights minimum with promo code CYBER. Sonesta Travel Pass Members have early access to the promotion starting today (Nov. 2) to book a stay through November 30 for any time through April 15, 2024.
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Rosewood Hotels & Resorts will be hosting a Black Friday and Cyber Monday of 30% off best available rate promotion valid for bookings made from Friday, November 24th at 12:01 a.m. EST through Tuesday, November 28th at 11:59 p.m. EST for stays through June 30th, 2024. The promo code will be: CYBER23.
The deal: The brand will be offering up to 40% off portfolio-wide. Booking window is November 21 - December 5, 2023 for stays from November 21, 2023 - September 2, 2024.
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@hotel 50K+ hotels on the site will be more than 50% off their market price, while 200K+ hotels on the site will be more than 30% off their market price Sunday, November 19th to Friday, December 1st
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Virgin Hotels, the luxury lifestyle hotel brand from Sir Richard Branson, is launching Joy Behind Every Door – a new holiday campaign that’ll spread festive joy to travelers around the world. The new campaign will offer:
The year’s best savings with up to 30% off bookings made between November 13 to December 31, valid for hotel stays through the end of 2024
Surprise upgrades to Sir Richard’s Flat – the most luxurious suite available at all Virgin Hotels
A charitable donation for all bookings made on Giving Tuesday to help combat hunger this holiday season
Travel Deals for the Caribbean, Central America & South America
Hamilton Princess & Beach Club | Bermuda
Atlantis Paradise Island is offering a Cyber Week Sale for stays from January 2 through November 30, 2024, in The Coral, The Royal, The Cove, and The Reef Towers. The Cyber Sale is Atlantis’ biggest sale of the year, offering Savings of up to 25% + Resort Credits & More.
Early Access is available November 16 through 21, 2023 for Atlantis Paradise Island newsletter subscribers and loyal guests. Travelers can sign up for early access via the website here to receive the invite to these exclusive offers:
For stays from January 2 through April 30, 2024, guests will receive the 5th Night Free (20% savings on 5+ nights) PLUS a $500+ Resort Credit (the credit is equivalent to $100 per night, so a longer stay equals more resort credit!).
For stays from May 1 through November 30, 2024, guests will receive the 4th Night Free (25% savings on 4+ nights) PLUS a $400+ Resort Credit (the credit is equivalent to $100 per night, so a longer stay equals more resort credit!).
Public Sale is available from November 22 through December 1, 2023, and provides guests with their 5th Night Free (20% savings on 5+ nights) PLUS a $250 Resort Credit per stay for travel from January 2 through November 30, 2024.
During Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Travel Tuesday, guests can save even more when adding on the popular Beverage or Marine Adventure Experience Credits to their reservations. For every $100 purchased, an additional $20 is added.
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Caribe Hilton | Puerto Rico Centrally located just minutes from the heart of Old San Juan, Caribe Hilton is a tropical oasis with three on-site pools, a zen garden, and a secluded beach where travelers can enjoy a bit of R&R with lots of local flair. Caribe Hilton offers a close-to-home Caribbean retreat, where guests have easy access to the rich culture of San Juan.
The deal: 30% off BAR in Ocean View Rooms and Suites & 2 Piña Coladas. Book Nov. 27-Dec. 3, 2023 for travel April - July 202. Visit here and use code 'P7'
The deal: Book between October 12th, 2023 - March 29th, 2024, and get 2 nights at 15% off, 3-4 nights at 20% off, or 5+ nights at 25% off. Valid on stays October 15th, 2023 - April 30th, 2024.
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Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort(Puerto Rico): Oceanfront resort facing the Caribbean Sea with two outdoor pools, spray area, kids’ play area, mini-golf, tennis courts, casino, golf course, nearby cathedrals and more. Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort is offering the following this Black Friday:
The deal: 20% off best available rate with a minimum two-night stay, continental breakfast for two adults and two children. Booking Nov. 24-27, travel Jan. 6-June 30, 2024. Book here with code “BF2024”
The deal: For new bookings made between Friday, Nov. 24th at 12:01 AM (EST) and Sunday, Nov. 26th at 11:59 PM (PST) get a 20% discount for stays of 3 nights in the All-Inclusive program and a 30% discount for stays of 4 nights or more in the All-Inclusive program. Valid only for stays through April 30th, 2024.
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Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten, St. Maarten Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten is a duo of stunning oceanfront, all-inclusive resorts in the Dutch Caribbean, comprised of the family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa and five-star, adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort.
From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten will offer 50% off standard room rate when booking a future stay with code BLACKFRIDAY online at sonestastmaarten.com. Available for stays between December 1, 2023 to December 21, 2024. Guests must stay three nights or more and pay in full at time of booking.
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Ocean Club Resorts, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Ocean Club Resorts, two all-suite resorts located along the pristine Grace Bay Beach, provide the spacious accommodations, comforts of home such as a full kitchen or kitchenette, screened-in patio, and onsite range of activities.
Travelers who book a six-night stay at Ocean Club Resorts (the East or West location) this Black Friday through Cyber Monday will receive the seventh night free. Available for new bookings only made between Friday, November 24 – Monday, November 27, 2023, for stays April 1 – 30, 2024. Valid on accommodations ranging from Studio to One-Bedroom Suites. The promotional offer must be booked here online, use promo code BFCM.
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Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, St. Lucia Reminiscent of a Mediterranean village, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort brings luxury to the hillside of Labrelotte Bay. The 65-acre all-inclusive resort is the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape with private villas, seven dining options, a luxurious spa and more. Discover this year’s Black Friday sale and score the trip of a lifetime.
The Deal: Up to 60% off + a $250 USD Resort Credit (resort credit is only for stays 5+ nights). Visit the website to book on Nov. 20 - or sign up for windjammer’s newsletter to be the first to receive access. Booking Window: Nov. 20-28, 2023. Travel Window: Nov. 20, 2023 - December 18, 2024
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West Bay Club& Point Grace| Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Point Grace is an intimate hotel with picturesque cottage accommodations on the award-winning Grace Bay Beach ideal for romance. West Bay Club is a luxurious oceanfront resort ideal for family getaways.
The Deal: Up to40% off; a three-night minimum stay required. Booking window: 11/23-11/28. Travel window: Now-12/31/2024.
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Grace Bay Club & Rock House | Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Both properties are part of Grace Bay Resorts – the Caribbean’s leading independent luxury resort developer. Rock House is dubbed the “Caribbean Capri” and is a new Mediterranean-inspired luxury resort situated on the rugged, untouched limestone cliffs of Providenciales’ north shore.
The Deal: 30% off plus a $100 resort credit. Booking window: 11/23-11/28. Travel window: Now-12/31/2024. Blackout dates apply. Book via website (link will be available at midnight on 11/23).
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Rancho Santana| Nicaragua Rancho Santana is a sprawling 2,700-acre luxury retreat set on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. Boasting Central America’s premier surf breaks, a 6,000-square-foot treetop spa, three pools, a sea turtle sanctuary, four restaurants and more, watch a sea turtle hatching, hike, mountain bike and more.
The Deal: Enjoy 30% off, applicable to all accommodations with a flexible cancellation policy of 30 days without penalty. On Nov. 27, use code RSCYBER when booking HERE for stays until Nov. 1, 2024. A stay minimum of five nights is required. =
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Hotel el Convento | San Juan, PR The oldest member of the Historic Hotels of America, Hotel el Convento offers a tranquil retreat located in the heart of the vibrant San Juan.
The deal: 20% off all rooms
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Palacio Provincial | San Juan PR Located in the heart of Old San Juan, Palacio Provincial is a boutique hotel that flawlessly combines past and present. Providing unparalleled views of Old San Juan and San Juan Bay, hotel guests can soak up the Puerto Rican sunshine with lite bites and hand-crafted cocktails on the property’s rooftop pool and terrace space.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa’s deal is a chance for families to save on a great 2024 vacation experience.
Save $150 on a 5-night Premium All-Inclusive stay and $200 on a 7-night stay for travel 1/2/24 to 8/31/24. Valid for direct bookings November 24-30, 2023, only with promo code BLK DEALS at cbayresort.com or by calling toll-free 877-252-0304.
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The Somerset on Grace Bay (Turks & Caicos) Book between November 17th – 27th, 2023 for 30% savings on all accommodations, $250 resort credit per reservation (applicable to spa treatments and/or excursions booked through Concierge), daily complimentary breakfast. Offer is vaild for 4-night minimum stay; offer not applicable for existing reservations and subject to availability. Valid on stays from November 18th, 2023, to October 31st, 2024.
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Wyndham Grand Rio Mar (Puerto Rico) 50% off our best available rate. Book between November 24 and 27th and stay through November 24th and December 31, 2024.
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Wyndham Palmas Golf & Beach Resort (Puerto Rico) 50% off our best available rate. Book between November 24 and 27th and stay through November 24th and December 31, 2024.
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Hamilton Princess & Beach Club (Bermuda) Book between November 13th, 2023 - December 1st, 2023 and get 30% off. Minimum stay two nights, valid on stays November 13th, 2023 - December 31st, 2024.
Additional Deal: Book between October 12th, 2023 - March 29th, 2024 and get 2 nights 15% off, 3-4 nights 20% off, or 5+ nights: 25% off. Valid on stays October 15th, 2023 - April 30th, 2024.
The Deal: For new bookings made between Friday, November 24th at 12:01 AM (EST) and Sunday, November 26th at 11:59 PM (PST) get a 20% discount for stays of 3 nights in the All-Inclusive program and a 30% discount for stays of 4 nights or more in the All-Inclusive program. Valid only for stays through April 30th, 2024.
The Deal: Sale Away this Black Friday at the newly opened Goldwynn Resort & Residences and enjoy 20% off a stay when you book by November 30. 2 night minimum stay applies. Subject to availability. Stay must be booked between January 2- June 19, 2024.
The Deal: Escape your winter blues with savings up to 40% at Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort and Casino! Book between November 24th to 27th, 2023 for stays 6 nights or longer for select stay dates in January – early April 2024.
Travel Deals for Mexico
Andaz Mexico City Condesa, Mexico City Nestled in the trendy Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City, Andaz Mexico City Condesa has emerged as a chic urban enclave for both locals and tourists alike since opening in January 2023. For Black Friday (booking window: November 16-29, 2023), the hotel is offering 25% off on all stays from November 16, 2023 to August 31, 2024.
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Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, the newly renovated, 401-room Fairmont Mayakoba is a AAA Five Diamond resort set on 45 acres, within a private luxury community.
Now through March 29, 2024, guests can receive 20% off their rate for stays between October 15, 2023 and April 30, 2024 when they book directly on Fairmont Mayakoba’s website, HERE.
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Casa Kimberly, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico The former love nest of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, this luxurious nine-suite boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Puerto Vallarta and has stunning views of Banderas Bay and the red clay rooftops that dot the Sierra Madre Mountains. Today the carefully preserved hotel consists of a fine dining restaurant and tequila bar, original azure-tiled pool, and elaborate, individually designed suites with expansive terraces complete with outdoor private Jacuzzis. Lovers are welcome to ignite their passion while draped in the historic luxury of old Hollywood.
From Nov. 24-27, guests have the rare chance to book 50% off its magnificent suites for stays between December 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024. Sale does not apply to reservations from December 24 to January 3 and other blackout dates may apply. Use code CYBERCK to reserve at the discounted rate. Visit here to book.
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Hilton Los Cabos (Los Cabos, MX) With views of the Sea of Cortez and direct access to a cove-protected beach in Los Cabos, Hilton Los Cabos features access to four world-renowned golf courses, Enclave Beach Club, seven dining outlets, four oceanfront pools, beachside spa, and excursions from camel rides to sailing. This Black Friday, the resort is offering up to 35% off accommodations and $100 resort credit. Book Nov. 20-Dec. 15 for travel Jannuary 1 – September 30, 2024. Book Here
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Conrad Punta de Mita (Punta Mita, MX) Inside Punta de Mita's exclusive gated community, guests can enjoy personal concierge services in their suites with outdoor showers and plunge pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean, three outdoor pools and six oceanfront dining concepts including an onsite Agave Studio featuring over 100 different tequilas and mezcals.
Offer: Up to 40% off stay when booking Nov. 20-Dec. 15. Travel:January 1 – September 30, 2024. Book Here
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Colima 71 Mexico City's newest boutique hotel, Colima 71 will be offering 34% off all stays booked between Friday, November 24th through Monday, November 27th for stays from December 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. This deal includes complimentary one-way transportation from the airport to hotel upon arrival, daily complimentary coffee service, and a Midnight Mezcal turndown service. Located in the district of Colonia Roma Norte, Colima 71's central location offers a quaint, yet modern hospitality experience to explore the best of Mexico City's rich culture and vibrant community.
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Velas Resorts For the annual Black Friday holiday, Velas Resorts in Mexico is offering up to 20% savings on the nightly rates plus added values like complimentary stays for kids and half off teens, airport transfers, unlimited access to the spa’s renowned hydrotherapy, suite upgrades, and more through 2024.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya: Exclusive benefits include a 50% off discount on roundtrip transportation, hydrotherapy access, and a 50% off discount for kids and teens.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Guests can enjoy a free round-trip transfer, hydrotherapy access, and a 50% off discount for teens.
Grand Velas Los Cabos: Guests can receive a 25% off discount on Governor, Presidential, and Royal suites for 4 night stays, along with a 50% off discount on a round trip airport transfer with a minimum three-night stay. Access to hydrotherapy and 50% off for teens is also available.
Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos: Guests can enjoy a 50% off discount on round-trip transportation for a minimum three-night stay and $100 USD in Romantic Experiences credit.
Velas Vallarta: Benefits include round-trip airport transfers, complimentary upgrade from one-Bedroom Suite to one-Bedroom Luxury Suite (subject to availability), and a 50% off discount for teenagers.
Casa Velas: Travelers can enjoy a round-trip transfer and access to hydrotherapy.
Mar del Cabo: Guests can receive a 50% off discount on round-trip transportation and complimentary breakfast per stay. Guests can also enjoy a two-for-one on select Cabo Adventure activities such as outdoor adventures, Cabo arch tour, and a Camel safari with lunch.
Travel Deals for Europe
Borgo San Vincenzo
Grand Universe La Residenza | Lucca, Italy In the under-the-radar, yet coveted town of Lucca lies the brand new Grand Universe La Residenza, a property that was once the home to a family of Italian nobility, that offers spacious multi-bedroom units, and luxurious amenities fit for royalty. Grand Univers La Residenza makes for the perfect home base to explore the historic city.
The deal: 20% off on all BAR online rates when booking November 20 - November 27, 2023 for travel. November 20, 2023 - April 30, 2024. Email Info@granduniverselaresidenza.com with the subject line: Black Friday / Cyber Monday 2023 to book
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Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa Nestled on the hill of an expansive 60-hectare estate in the heart of Italy’s most beloved region, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa overlooks the mountainous Serchio Valley, one of the most unexplored areas of Italy. One hour from Florence and Pisa, the resort features 180 luxurious rooms, a spa, two restaurants, two swimming pools, on-site cooking lessons, and a variety of off-property excursions ranging from visits to local wineries, medieval towns, and more, giving travelers an authentic taste of Tuscany.
The deal: 20% off on all BAR online rate when booking November 20 - November 27, 2023 for travel November 20, 2023 - April 30, 2024. Email Reservation@renaissancetuscany.com with the subject line: Black Friday / Cyber Monday 2023 to book
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Borgo San Vincenzo, Montepulciano, Italy Tuscany’s newest luxury boutique hotel, Borgo San Vincenzo, is a reimagined 18th-century borgo named for the patron saint of winemaking, offering sophisticated wine-driven experiences inviting guests to immerse themselves in the region’s vibrant culture, breathtaking views, historic wine scene and culinary excellence.
The deal: 20% off on all suites in any season (4-night minimum stay), daily breakfast for two, complimentary e-bike rental for two days and €100 euros ($106) food & beverage credit when booking Nov. 23-27. Visit here to book.
The Deal:This year for Black Friday, Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts is offering up to 50% off stays. It's the brand's deepest discount of the year, valid at all five locations across Scotland and Northern Ireland, including the newly launched Slieve Donard and Dornoch Station hotels. Sign up for an email alert when the sale goes live at marineandlawn.com/black-friday-2023. Stays must occur by 31 March 2024, some restrictions may apply.
Travel Deals for Asia
Vakkaru Maldives Located in the heart of Baa Atoll on a secluded reef island with idyllic ocean views, powder-soft white sand and unique marine biodiversity, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless resort sanctuary.
This year, Vakkaru has deals for Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday.
Book Direct Benefits: Resort Credit of $100 per Villa per stay or $200 per Residence per stay
30% off on Merana Spa treatments
40% off on Ayurveda treatments and packages
20% off on selected watersports including Jetski, Seabob & Jetboard
Booking window: November 15 to December 6, 2023. Stay window: November 15, 2023 to May 15, 2024
Blackout dates: December 23, 2023 to January 10 2024; and March 23 – April 7, 2024
Black Friday Travel Deals on Airlines and Cruises
Windstar Cruises
French bee For the first time in French bee’s seven-year history as France’s beloved leisure airline – connecting US travelers to Paris from NYC, San Francisco, LA and Miami – they have launched a Black Friday deal offering:
Special Low Rates: Miami > Paris $389*; New York > Paris $387*; San Francisco > Paris $419*; San Francisco > Papeete (Tahiti) $499*; Los Angeles > Paris $419*
*Round trip price including tax and VAT for 1 person, in BASIC economy class. Subject to availability and price changes due to taxes and/or conversion rates.
Booking window: November 20– November 27, 2023
Travel window: November 20, 2023, to March 31, 2024
Windstar Cruises – Pick Your Perk! Select one on your upcoming/applicable cruise: free pre- or post-cruise hotel nights, up to $1,000 Onboard Credit, OR Premium Suite guests may select a free upgrade to an All-Inclusive Fare featuring Wi-Fi; unlimited beer, wine & cocktails; and all gratuities. PLUS enjoy reduced deposits of just 5%.
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Princess Cruises Princess Cruises has unwrapped its Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, offering cruisers three great savings opportunities including up to 50% off 2024 and 2025 vacations, 50% off deposits, and the opportunity for third and fourth guests to sail for free.
Available now through Thursday, Nov. 30, the 50% off sale applies to all fare types including inclusive packages like Princess Plus and Princess Premier which add popular amenities like WiFi, beverages, desserts, fitness classes, crew gratuities and more at an even greater savings of up 65% when the inclusive package amenities are purchased separately.
The Deal: Up to 50% off 2024 and 2025 sailings, 50% off deposits, and the opportunity for third and fourth guests to sail for free.
American Queen Voyages Travelers looking for an unforgettable experience sailing America’s rivers will save up to $2,500 per stateroom plus FREE roundtrip air on select 2024 voyages when sailing on American Queen, American Countess and American Empress. Travelers will be able to book through American Queen Voyages website on the special offers page Nov. 22-27 for select voyages.
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Oceania Cruises Oceania Cruises is offering up to $3,000 off on specific sailings in addition to its already generous simply MORE value. In addition, travelers will receive 2for1 cruise fares, FREE roundtrip airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, free champagne, wine & more, gourmet specialty dining and unlimited WIFI. Oceania Cruises Black Friday Sale will be offered on over two dozen sailings. Book Nov. 14-Dec. 5 for select voyages.
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Holland America Line
Holland America Line, a premium cruise line with a 150 year legacy, is offering up to 30% off all itineraries of 5+ days booked between November 17 and December 1, excluding Grand Voyages. Select cruises also include prepaid stateroom crew appreciation, resulting in an added value of up to nearly $700 per person depending on the length of sailing. Guests can save on cruise itineraries to worldwide destinations spanning Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, South America and Antarctica. The reduced fare also applies to the cruise portion of an Alaska Cruisetour, combining an Alaska cruise with an overland tour to Denali and the Yukon. This deal is combinable with Holland America Line's popular 'Have it All" premium cruise package, perks include shore excursions, a beverage package, specialty dining and Wi-Fi.
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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, a luxury all-inclusive river cruise line with sailings in Europe, Egypt, South America and Asia, is bringing back its 12 Days of Christmas Event this year. A new offer will be unveiled each business day for 12 days, with the first deal unveiled on Black Friday. The offers will be completely different than last year, with unprecedented savings including 50% off popular cruises. Additionally, live as of November 1, guests can book new Cruise & Air combo savingsof up to $3000 USD on select journeys, with savings on popular European itineraries, including ‘Venice & Jewels of Veneto,’ ‘Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley,’ ‘Enchanting Danube’ and more, along with bucket-list trips outside of Europe like the ‘Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration’ sailing.
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Cruise Croatia
Cruise Croatia, specialists in luxury small ship cruises in Croatia, is offering $500 per cabin off any cruises departing in May 2024. With adults-only itineraries that take guests through Split, Dubrovnik, Opatija, and other highlights of Croatia, passengers will indulge in luxury on yachts featuring 38 passengers or less. Popular itineraries include the Luxury Split to Dubrovnik Balcony Cruise and Opatija to Dubrovnik Deluxe Balcony Cruise. This offer is valid for cabins booked between November 20th to December 8th, 2023.
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Crystal Cruises Now through December 10th, Crystal is offering exceptional deals for those who book online.
First-Time Crystal Guests Offer
Crystal is offering a $500.00 ($250.00 per person) As You Wish Shipboard Credit for new guests, applicable to select 2023 and 2024 departures.
Bookings must be made by December 10, 2023 to receive the credit
Solo Traveler Offer
When embarking on a solo adventure with Crystal, guests can enjoy special offers on select suites and voyages in 2023 and 2024 with award-winning gastronomy, butler service to make one feel perfectly at home, and personalized experiences that embrace the joy of traveling alone.
Bookings must be made by December 31, 2023 to receive the credit
Black Friday Travel Deals with Tour Operators & Other Travel Deals
TourRadar Adventure seekers will save on once-in-a-lifetime trips to coveted international destinations, from Australia to Peru.
The deal: From Monday, November 20 until Sunday, November 26 (thru 9:00 am/ET), access as much as 50% off numerous TourRadar trips. Unique Cyber Monday sales are also live from November 27-29 for organized adventures in 2024.
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EF Go Ahead Tours EF Go Ahead Tours’ Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sales will run from October 24th to November 30th. Travelers can save up to $600 off/$1,200 per couple with some itineraries discounted by 20% and more on tours through 2025. Plus there will be surprise lightning deals of up to $1,000 off over the month. These are steep discounts kept secret until the day of and will include future travel at reduced 2023 prices! Cyber Monday deals will include up to $1,000 off per individual or 10% off remaining sales, plus an extra $50 off when booking online.
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Go City Go City is the go-to app for travelers. With passes in more than 30 of the world’s best cities, Go City offers affordable access to top attractions and hidden gem tours and experiences that can act as a suggested itinerary and discovery tool for both regulars and first-time visitors alike. Get up to 50% savings off normal entry prices at top attractions + up to 10% off Black Friday Sale. Deal available Nov. 21-27 here
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Campspot, the platform redefining the art of camping and outdoor adventures, has unique Black Friday/Cyber Monday Camping Deals to enhance travel experiences without stretching your budget. Over Cyber Weekend, avail yourself of up to 50% off* on some of the top campgrounds across various destinations. (*Terms apply. Please refer to the terms and conditions listed for each deal)
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Contiki Contiki, the social travel company for travelers 18 to 35-years-old, is celebrating the cyber holidays with savings of up to 25% off on 60+ trips across six continents. On-sale trips include the brand-new South Korean Soul tour and the latest Africa addition, the Sea, Safari, and South Africa trip, plus fan-favorite European adventures such as the European Discovery and Italian Escape. Travelers can enjoy tours led by expert Trip Managers with hassle-free planning including accommodations, transportation and most meals. The public sale begins on November 17th and closes on November 30th.
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Trafalgar
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Editor’s Note: Blackout dates may apply. Confirm cancelation terms before you book. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
The coastal views are unlike anything you’ve seen before
You don’t have to have a full week vacation to get some rest and recharge with your crew. Mendocino is the perfect option for a family micro-cation as you can drive there when work and school get out on Friday and enjoy the weekend on the coast. We have the full scoop on all the family-friendly Mendocino activities your kids will love including the Skunk Train railbikes and horseback riding on the beach. Book your Mendocino escape today!
Getting There
Kate Loweth
Just over three hours north of San Francisco, the drive to Mendocino County can definitely be part of the adventure. A less windy route takes you from 101 to exit at Railroad Avenue where you head to toward Bodega Bay on the coast. Cows, horses and goats will keep the kids entertained along the way. Stop at Bodega Bay Oyster Company for some local shellfish. If you time your arrival for Saturday or Sunday noon-4 p.m., they will be serving up barbecued oysters!
Bodega Bay is another great stop along your drive. Bribe the kids with taffy from Patrick's Salt Water Taffy (pink building on the coastal side of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay) and then grab some fried artichokes with a gorgeous view at The Birds Cafe.
Stock up for your Mendocino visit with a stop at Surf Market in Gualala. In addition to picnic staples like local cheese, bread and sandwich fixings, you can purchase some fresh fish or sausage from their extensive meat counter to cook up for your dinner.
If you are to driving through Anderson Valley don't miss The Apple Farm. Head off the main road for just a moment on the way into Hendy Woods State Park and you will find this adorable farm stand were they serve delicious apple cider and offer hard cider tastings on the weekend. Be sure to grab a bottle of the non-alcoholic variety to sip as your finish your drive through the redwoods. The Apple Farm also has overnight accommodations.
Adventures
Kate Loweth
Skunk Train – Fort Bragg All aboard! Fort Bragg is where you can catch the Skunk Train for a ride through the redwoods along Pudding Creek. This train (so named because oldsters claimed that you could smell it coming before you'd see it) has both indoor cars and an outdoor car so that you can walk around and make the most of your ride. The Pudding Creek Express is a one-hour, 7-mile round trip tour that takes you over the first tracks laid down by the California Western Railroad. Snacks and beverages (including beer and wine) are available for purchase on the train.
Kids will love the experience of riding the railbikes and we totally recommend it for families. Two riders are seated on a double recumbent bike that rests right on the train tracks. With power-assisted pedaling, you and your partner make your way along the tracks for a 30-minute ride. When you get to your destination, you have some time to take a hike in the woods or grab a snack before you head back into town.
After your ride, check to see if the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad is open for visitors. Your Skunk Train ticket will get you in to check out over 1,300 feet of track that document the area's logging history. You may have trouble getting the little LEGO lovers past the kid-level train table out front (strategically placed to let them touch the LEGO trains and not the model trains inside).
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens – Fort Bragg Color is everywhere at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The succulent garden offers colorful cactus and spots to sit and enjoy your afternoon. March and April bring the fragrant rhododendrons that thrive in this coastal climate. Come in the summer and the vegetable garden will be full of life. Stop by to see if any strawberries are ripe and try one for yourself.
Russian Gulch State Park – Mendocino There are tons of state park options to get your redwood fix in Mendocino County. Russian Gulch State Park offers a view of a collapsed sea cave called Devil’s Punchbowl just a short walk from the parking lot (high tide provides the most drama). If you have more time to spend in the park, hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail to check out the waterfall.
Sarah Montoya
Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too - Mendocino Nestled in a small cove on Big River Estuary, just before it flows into Mendocino Bay, is the adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1982, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too offers ultra-stable redwood outriggers, kayaks, canoes, SUP and bicycle rentals for anyone who wants to explore beautiful Big River and beyond. Cruise down the water to see seal or otters on shore and plenty of birds catching fish. You can even bring Fido along on the Canine Cruiser, a specially-designed rig that allows dogs to see all the action.
Ross Ranch Horseback Riding - Manchester Go for a horseback ride on the beach or through the redwoods with the skilled horses of Ross Ranch. Kids 6 and up can participate in this experience (we highly recommend the beach ride!) that lasts about 1.5 hours in the saddle. You'll take a slow pace down to the sand where the horses will walk along a gorgeous and nearly-deserted beach.
Ford House Museum – Mendocino If you've got some history buffs in your crew, definitely plan to stop at the Ford House Museum in Mendocino. Here you can take a look at a huge diorama depicting the town as it stood in 1890 (count how many water towers you can find!). Check out the whale bones and learn how whales use baleen to filter feed in the waters off Mendocino.
Kate Loweth
B. Bryan Preserve – Point Arena Did you know that Mendocino County is home to giraffes, antelopes and zebras? Around 100 of these majestic animals live at B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena and you can bring the kids there for a visit. They are currently offering self-guided car tours and guided tours aboard a 1974 open-air Land Rover where you can learn how they breed critically-endangered and endangered African hoof stock. You can even spend the night in one of the on-site cottages.
Point Arena Lighthouse – Point Arena Get a bit of a history lesson along with a gorgeous view of the coastline when you visit the Point Arena Lighthouse. This non-profit that is completely dependent on visitors is a great place to spend the afternoon. Begin your visit at the museum where you can learn the history of the lighthouse and see the original 1908 First Order Fresnel lens that was removed from the lighthouse in 2009. Learn how the lighthouse keepers were responsible for keeping the light going and cleaning every nook and cranny of the lens. Head to the whale watch room where you can borrow some binoculars to try and spot a gray whale offshore. After your museum visit, climb the 145 steps to the top of the tallest lighthouse tower on the West Coast where you will get a 360 degree view of the coastline along with an informative lesson from the tour guide there.
Pennyroyal Farm – Boonville Take your trip home via Highway 128 so that you can pass through Boonville, home to Pennyroyal Farm. This farmstead creamery and winery offers daily tours of the barn where you can meet the goats and sheep that live there. Learn all of their names (yes, each one has a name!), how these animals are raised and how their milk is turned into cheese. Time your visit with lambing season in the spring for an extra-special treat. Your tour ends with a wine and cheese tasting for the parents and a grape juice and cheese tasting for the kids.
Beaches and Tide Pools
Kate Loweth
Bowling Ball Beach – Point Arena Bowling Ball Beach is so named because of the massive bowling ball-shaped formations that line the beach when the tide is low. These are concretions—sedimentary rock formed when mineral cements bind grains of sand or stone into larger formations. You can access the trail to Bowling Ball Beach at mile marker 11.41 where the sign reads "Park facing south only." Here, take the northern path across the bluffs and follow the stairs down. At the bottom, you will likely have to scramble across downed logs to access the beach. Just take it slow and the adventure will be worth it!
Glass Beach– Fort Bragg Treasure hunters flock to Glass Beach to search the sands for glass made smooth by years of riding the waves offshore. From 1906 to 1967, everything from cars to batteries to bottles, cans and appliances were unceremoniously pushed over the cliffs into the ocean. Mother Nature turned this trash into treasure of tiny sea glass. Get the kids to search for colors from clear to the more rare reds and blues. Just make sure that all treasures get left behind for the next visitor to enjoy. As with all California State Parks, the glass found at Glass Beach is protected and should not be taken home.
MacKerricher State Park – Fort Bragg A prime spot for tide pools, MacKerricher State Park is just three miles from downtown Fort Bragg. Stop in at the visitors center when you arrive to feel pelts from animals that live in the area and see how your size compares to that of a whale. Then follow the map to the boardwalk and seal watching station. If you arrive when the tide is low, the area has a massive tide pool that will keep the kids busy for hours. Look for colorful sea stars and speedy sand crabs. Then venture on down the boardwalk to look for seals sunning themselves on the rocks.
Where to Eat
Kate Loweth
Mendocino has no shortage of great spots to grab a bite for the road or to enjoy a meal with a view. Frankie's offers the kid-favorite combo of pizza and ice cream. The thin crust cheese satisfies any kid appetite and the candy cap mushroom ice cream is a sweet treat for adventurous eaters. When the sun is out and the fog stays away, pick a spot on the deck at Flow Restaurant where the view is gorgeous and the fish tacos are a favorite. If you are looking for a family friendly fine dining experience MacCullum House Inn staff is happy to accommodate your kids pallet. Although the restaurant does not have a kids menu the chef is willing to adjust some items to be sure your kids find something they like and the banana split with house made ice cream is delightful.
In Fort Bragg's Noyo Harbor, the Harborview Restaurant at the Noyo Harbor Inn gets top billing for gorgeous views and delicious food to go along with it. Book a spot on the deck and just might spot a seal swimming by during your appetizer course. So fun! You can also head to the harbor itself for some of the freshest fish you've ever had. We loved the casual vibe on the outdoor deck at Noyo Fish Company (definitely get the fish tacos).
The quaint town of Point Arena has a tiny coffee shop, Little Green Bean, that offers tons of area recommendations while you wait for your beans to be ground and your pour-over drip coffee to brew. Head across the street to Franny's Cup and Saucer to satisfy your sweet tooth. Open Wednesday-Saturday, favorites at Franny's are the macarons, giant gingersnaps and not-to-be-missed Friday donuts. The Point Arena Wharf has a coffee shop so grab a cup of coffee and walk the pier, climb some rocks and look for sea creatures in the tide pools.
Where to Stay
Noyo Harbor Inn
Noyo Harbor Inn—Fort Bragg You'll love the location of the Noyo Harbor Inn for your visit to Mendocino and all the conveniences it offers. Located just above Noyo Harbor, you'll be off the main drag of Fort Bragg with views of the harbor right out your window. It's right down the street from the Skunk Train and Glass Beach, and just a short drive to the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. Families will enjoy the spacious rooms with balconies, giant ensuite tubs and coffee maker/mini fridge. The on-site restaurant offers top-notch service and some of the best food in town. Make sure you request table on the deck for the best views.
Inn at Schoolhouse Creek—Little River If you want some extra space to spread out, a kitchen to cook up some farm-fresh eggs in the morning and a quaint cottage to call home, this is your spot. The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers cottages with different layouts to suit the needs of families of all sizes. On a recent visit we stayed in the Pomo Cottage that had a full kitchen, bedroom with king-sized bed, pull out couches that could sleep up to four people and a private hot tub for soaks under the sun. The property also has a spa (currently closed), BBQs for public use and a gorgeous property and creek for exploring. Dogs are also welcome!
Mendocino Grove – Mendocino Even though Mendocino Grove has only been open for a few years, they have glamping down. Safari tents on wooden platforms welcome you to this gorgeous area just five minutes from downtown Mendocino. There are two family tent options, queen bed with two twin beds (sleeps 4) and queen bed with four bunk beds that comfortably sleeps six. You'll be cozy for the night as they have bed warmers for all your campers. Each campsite has its own fire ring for campfires and you can purchase wood and s'mores kits on site.
Amenities that you'll love include spa-quality bathrooms and hot showers. Wake up to coffee, oatmeal, and hot chocolate at the community area in the center of the camp, with additional items for purchase. Mendocino Grove has bocce ball, hammocks, hiking trails and a volleyball court to keep the kiddies busy. Depending on when you stay you may be able to enjoy a free concert, participate in a yoga class, or support local farmers with their Farmer Dinner Series. For some on-the-water time, walk down the hill to Catch-a-Canoe to rent a kayak or outrigger canoe for the morning.
The Little River Inn – Little River Located right in the middle of all the Mendocino County action, the Little River Inn knows what keeps families happy when they are away from home. Each room on this property has rocking chairs with a view of the coast and if you are lucky, some amazing sunsets. Rooms are equipped with a small fridge, Keurig coffee maker, TV and WiFi. Borrow a game or movie from the front desk to keep the kids entertained, or hike down the trail to the nearby beach. Golf, tennis and spa services are also available on site. If you choose to stay in one of the onsite cottages you may even be able to enjoy a coastal view from your private hot tub. Definitely pick up a box of their fudge and a bag of their cookies when you check in.
The hotel's restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner with a view of the crashing waves or the hotel's beautiful garden. Breakfast choices include Ole's Swedish Hotcakes (the short stack is still big enough to share), Little River Inn scones and loads of egg options. If you are there for Sunday brunch, make sure you ask for your complimentary glass of champagne. For dinner, kids can choose from options like the monster burger (which really is quite large) or fish and chips. Give yourself a few extra minutes of peaceful dining and ask for their coloring packet—a dozen-page booklet that gives the history of Mendocino County and area highlights, all for you to color!
Point Arena Lighthouse Vacation Cottages – Point Arena For a truly coastal experience, you can stay right at the Point Arena Lighthouse in one of their six vacation cottages. Three of them comfortably sleep six people with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. They come with a well-equipped kitchen, satellite TV, wood-burning fireplace and the most gorgeous coastal views. Wake up to hear the waves crashing against the rocks and spend your days exploring the 23 acres of land adjacent to the lighthouse.
MacCallum House is a boutique hotel and restaurant in the heart of the town of Mendocino. This Victorian home is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has 19 rooms in the main house. In addition to the main house the inn offers a variety of accommodations including a stay in the historic barn, cottages, suites and more. Many of the spaces include fireplaces, hot tubs, and ocean views. With so many options you are sure to find the perfect room accommodations for your family. The MacCallum House Restaurant is part of California's original farm-to-table and chef-driven dining movement and provides a delicious taste of local, fresh and seasonal cuisine.
Get back to nature with a dip in one of Portland’s many swimming holes—no crowded splash pad necessary
No offense to Portland’s many splash playgrounds, but when it comes to chill vibes on a sunny day, it’s hard to beat dipping your toes in a scenic Portland lake or lazy river. Lucky for parents, the Portland area has tons of awesome swim spots that are just a short drive from the city and offer welcoming water and amazing views you’ll want to enjoy again and again before school starts in the fall. So grab your swimsuits, sand shovels and sunscreen, it’s time to hit one of our favorite nearby swimming holes. And for the littlest toe-dippers, don’t forget those water wings!
High Rocks Park While jumping off rocks might not be a parent’s idea of wholesome summer fun, you can rest assured because this spot has lifeguards posted from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Consider it the perfect spot for kids to be a little daring. On the Clackamas River in Gladstone, right off Highway 205, High Rocks Park a popular spot and is often busy during the hottest parts of the day. While the lifeguard makes it a safer swimming hole, please make sure your kids are strong swimmers and stay close by, as the river's currents and rocky terrain has risks.
Hood River Waterfront Park For a change of scenery, take your swimsuits to the Gorge. This swimming spot on the Columbia in Hood River is not only great for dipping, but kids will love the playground when they dry off. It’s beautifully landscaped and maintained, full of unique play structures. Plus it’s right across the street from some of the best dining Hood River has to offer.
Glen Otto Community Park These sandy stretches along the appropriately-named Sandy River make excellent summer destinations. The wide river banks offer slow moving and shallow water, and further back you’ll find picnic grounds, barbecue pits and a playground. The easy access from Portland means that this spot is popular (read: gets really busy), but the water’s always fine.
1102 E. Historic Columbia River Hwy. Troutdale, OR Online:troutdaleoregon.gov
Battle Ground Lake State Park This beautiful forested lake holds the promise of an escape from the city, even while being super easy to get to. With miles of hiking trails to explore you can make the kids earn that swim. They’ll splash and dip in the sapphire water while surrounded by the pines and firs. Just remember, kids under age 4 are not allowed to swim here.
18002 N.E. 249th St. Battle Ground, WA Online:parks.wa.gov
Lost Lake A perfect view of Mt. Hood graces your every splash at this lake deep in the woods. Grab a campsite for the night or come on a weekday to beat the crowds. Trust us, the jewel-tone water is irresistible. Rent a paddle boat or canoe (with life jackets) and get out on the water. When you dry off, an easy hike around the lake is a fun way to see it from another point of view.
Insider tip: While families can access Lost Lake for day use, spending time at the Lost Lake Resort turns this day trip destination into a full-blown weekend getaway.
Moulton Falls Regional Park This collection of deep pools is more than just a picturesque spot—it’s one of the best local swimming holes around. The falls itself are beautiful, and they’re surrounded by big flat rocks that make it a perfect spot to soak up the sun in between dips. With an easy hike, a two-story bridge, picnic spots and that deep blue water, you can see why it’s so popular with Portland families. Our advice? Arrive early to claim your rock.
27781 N.E. Lucia Falls Rd. Yacolt, WA Online:clark.wa.gov
Silver Falls State Park Home to some of Oregon’s most majestic waterfalls, you can find plenty of opportunities to get wet at this park. Dip in the lazy river, wade in the deep pools or just put your arm in the splash-zone of the tumbling falls. For a whole day of fun, explore the hiking trails, then grill up a delicious dinner on the picnic grounds.
Walton Beach For a classic beach day without the drive to the coast, Walton Beach on Sauvie Island is the ticket. Spend a day on the river watching for eagles, counting cargo ships and splashing the sand away. It’s a popular spot that doesn’t usually feel too crowded—there’s still plenty of room to fly a kite. Keep in mind that it’s still 9 miles once you get to the island, and roads can be busy on sunny weekends. A $10 daily parking pass is available at the Cracker Barrel Store right off the bridge to the island. Psst...if you’ve heard rumors of a clothing-optional beach, they’re true. Collins Beach is also at the north end of the island, but it’s much further north, so there’s no risk of accidentally ending up there if you don’t want to.
38378-38798 N.W. Reeder Rd. Portland, OR Online:sauvieisland.org
Sellwood Riverfront Make sure to fit in an end-of-summer trip to this awesome swimming spot. Decades ago you might never have thought to swim in the Willamette, but it’s been cleaned up a lot and is now just fine for water play. One of the closest access points is the Sellwood Riverfront. The beach is more of a pebble-sand thing, and you might have to share it with some pooches, but for a quick afternoon dip’n’splash, it can’t be beat.
S.E. Spokane St. at Oaks Pkwy. Portland, OR Online:portland.gov
Oxbow Regional Park On the banks of the Sandy River, Oxbow has plenty of sandy areas to enjoy. Because of the wide swaths of beach and the calm, shallow river, it’s a great choice for kids who want to play and splash. Combine a trip with some of the trails through the nearby forest, or cast off your kayak for a float. But please leave your pups at home (this is a no dogs park), and remember the day use fee is $5.
George Rogers Park This wide Lake Oswego beach on the Willamette River keeps very popular with families on the hottest days of the year. While it’s not huge, there’s plenty of space to fit in, and the nearby park with amenities like a playground, restrooms, picnic areas and sports fields means there’s something for everyone.
Dabney State Park Downriver from Oxbow, Dabney makes a fun day trip with kids. Sand dunes, clean water and a small river offshoot practically beg kids to come explore. Because it’s such a calm spot on the river, it’s very popular to launch inner tubes from and can get crowded when the weather is pitch perfect. But you can always escape to the rest of the park, with an old orchard, ponds, disc golf and forest hikes waiting. There is a $5 day use fee.
Henry Hagg Lake at Scoggins Valley Park A human-made lake with lots of beaches to choose from, Henry Hagg is surprisingly big, and the water is pleasantly warm. Tucked outside of town on the west side, it’s a beautiful area. The beaches are well-used and offer grills and boat ramps, as the lake is a popular boating destination. If your first beach choice is too crowded, you can drive around the lake until you locate your perfect spot. There is a $7 entrance fee.
50250 S.W. Scoggins Valley Rd. Gaston, OR Online:washcoparks.org
Broughton Beach Located off Marine Drive in the north end of Portland, this popular beach offers unparalleled access to the Columbia River as jets fly by overhead. The beach may fill up with families on hot days, but as it stretches 1.3 miles, there’s plenty of space to share. It makes an excellent option for a no-plan day at the beach. There is $5 day use fee.
Blue Lake Regional Park This beautiful vibrant swimming lake near Portland is popular with the whole family. Explore the wetlands, reserve a picnic shelter, rent a paddleboat or play on the sports fields. While the littlest kids can’t swim in the lake, they can enjoy the nature discovery garden or play in the gushing, dumping, spraying splash pad. There is a $5 day use fee.
21224 N.E. Blue Lake Rd. Portland, OR Online:oregonmetro.gov
Have you been to an outdoor movie night? Seen the fireworks over Navy Pier?
You may not be ready to officially admit that lazy summer days are dwindling; it seems as though it has only just begun, but that time is creeping in. This may seem like a moment for panic, but we’re going to help you rally to squeeze in every bit of sunshine and adventuring. Before you have to settle into school-year routines, take advantage of the last couple of months of favorable weather by hiking, boating, golfing, and more. If they aren’t on your summer bucket list yet, check out our recommendations around the Chicagoland area.
A residual from the pandemic, many neighborhoods are still closing their streets on a limited basis, to allow restaurant capacity to spill onto pop-up patios. It’s a great opportunity to visit some finer establishments with the kids or even pets. The next Dine Out on Broadway will occur on September 15-17.
While there will never be a shortage of places to shop in Chicago, the indoor/outdoor Randolph Street Market is America’s largest urban antiques market. Remaining dates include July 29-30 and September 23-24.
The call of hanging in the urban jungle all summer long is strong. But, how about throwing in some fresh air, unforgettable scenery, and wild animal spotting into the agenda? Lace up your boots, strap an infant to your back, maybe even bring along the fishing poles, and explore some lesser-known hiking spots found in our story: Discover the Not-So-Obvious Spots to Hike, Camp & Fish Near Chicago.
Thrill-Seek as a Family at The Forge: Lemont Quarries
The Forge: Lemont Quarries (aka The Forge) is an amazing 300-acre adventure park, 22 miles from downtown Chicago. Not only does the park feature the largest aerial adventure course in North America, but a day of adventuring also gives you access to four over-water ziplines, 5 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking, paddle sports, and a dedicated kids’ zone.
Mini-golf. Putt-putt. Goofy golf. Adventure golf. Shorties. No matter what you call it, you have a blast playing it. Most of Chicago’s mini-golf courses are pure, kitschy fun and are only open for a limited time each year. So grab a short pencil and head to one of our city and suburban favorites.
Walk. Bike. Run. Skip. Gallop. However you make your way down this two-mile trail, you’re sure to enjoy the sights at the North Shore Sculpture Park. The paved path is lined with sculptures from artists across the world.
Splish, Splash! Illinois’ largest waterpark dedicated to family fun for all ages, Raging Waves, is excited to you its newest addition: Aussie Mat Dash. Riders race side-by-side on mats down the six-lane slide.
Once the largest diesel-powered fireboat in the world, the Fred A. Busse is now set to share a bit of history with passengers who take a Chicago Fireboat Tour.
Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are big in Chicago, and if your kids haven’t begged for one yet, they will soon—and they get a pass on the sacrilege of using ketchup. Grab one at a legendary local spot and turn eating into an adventure.
Are they soft, fluffy, or rough? You’ll find out what a stingray feels like during a 15-minute touch session. Learn about sustainable seafood options that help protect these creatures in the wild. Along with learning about different species (including cownose and yellow stingrays) and their wild habits, you’ll see just how docile and friendly these ocean swimmers can be.
Explore the Green Space at Chicago Botanic Gardens
Visit Chicago Botanic Garden and be treated to colorful views of the North Lake, vistas of the Malott Japanese Garden, and close-ups of blooms in Dixon Prairie and the McDonald Woods. Until Sep. 5, you will also see hundreds of winged beauties and pretty petals in the Butterflies & Blooms exhibit.
A visit to see the iconic Blue Man Group is always a fun way to celebrate the new school year. A dynamic combo of art, music, comedy, and tech, Blue Man Group encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child in order to see the world through a new perspective.
Keep the kids up a tad later on Wednesdays and Saturdays this summer to experience the fireworks display synchronized to music at Navy Pier. Make it extra unforgettable by booking a nighttime segway tour.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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).
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
