Thanks to an earlier-than-normal winter storm, finding snow near me is more than just a fantasy
It may not snow in San Diego, but when the weather gets chilly you don’t have to go far to find it. There’s so much fun for kids (both little and big) to have in the nearby mountains that goes beyond just skiing and snowboarding—see below for a few of our favorite go-to spots that will surely make your winter bucket list. Here you’ll find the best snow tube parks and sledding, magic carpets and gondolas to ride. So get your winter gear in order, grab some chains—now’s the time for an unforgettably fun day in the snow in Southern California.
1. Big Bear
Slide into fun at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at the top of Snow Summit in Big Bear. The whole family young and old alike will love whizzing down the snowy hills on high-speed tubes. Ride the magic carpet up to the top before sliding down one of three 300-ft tubing lanes. Ride again and again during your 1.5-hour time slot.
Snowmobile adventures, tubing, and cross country skiing await you on Mammoth Mountain. Cruise through tree-lined meadows on a guided snowmobile excursion or catch a lift to the top for Woolly's Tube Park and snow tube your way back down. You can click into some Nordic skis or snowshoes to get a workout exploring Lakes Basin on a cross country adventure.
Your little snow angels will squeal with delight at Yeti's Snow Play. Here you'll find some of SoCal's best snowtubing, sledding, and snow play...as well as a friendly Yeti who's willing to pose for pics. The snow play area is open only for kids 36” tall and under, while those over 36” tall can go sledding, tubing, and ride the gondola up to the top! Kids between 32” and 36” can snow tube with a paid parent on a separate tube.
You’ll be able to cool down on top of this mountain about an hour due east of San Diego. When you head up, there are plenty of turn-off spots, but it does get crowded. Along with your boots and mittens, you’ll want to bring some snacks, a full tank of gas, and some snow chains.
You’ll have to wait for just the right time, but every year a good northern storm can drop snow in Julian. Watch the weather reports, then drive up right after it snows. Google "snow sled near me" and you'll find this is the best place to tackle small snow hills and then warm up with some hot apple pie in town. Remember, the snow melts quickly around Julian.
Good to Know: Please only park in designated lots and not on residents’ yards and sides of the road. Also please pack out what you bring in. Many times the town has to clean up after visitors. This is a problem every year, so please be considerate in this small town.
Find the magic of snow on Palomar Mountain just North of San Diego. Bundle up to make snowmen and snow angels or toboggan down a snow hill. Dress warmly and you may want to pack an insulated thermos of hot water and cocoa packets to enjoy on the way home.
Whether you take the day or a weekend trip, you’ll be glad you drove (about two hours) up to Idyllwild. Here, you’ll find a cute mountain town where you can take a winter hike, sled, or just walk around the town after fresh snow. There are plenty of cute shops to look at and places to eat too.
Did you know that this year Golden Gate Park celebrates its 150th anniversary? We are so excited to have things opening up in GGP so that we can finally celebrate what a treasure this 1,000+ acre park is to the Bay Area. The observation wheel is finally opening up, the museums are ready for visitors and there are tons of things to do with the kids in Golden Gate Park!
The SkyStar Observation Wheel Is FINALLY Open!
SkyStar
If you've visited Golden Gate Park this summer, you've likely seen the building of the massive SkyStar Observation Wheel on the lawn near the Conservatory of Flowers. This Ferris wheel was brought to GGP as part of the 150th anniversary celebration and is finally opening on October 21.
Standing 150 feet in the Music Concourse, the state-of-the-art SkyStar Observation Wheel features 36 enclosed temperature-controlled gondolas, boasting unparalleled views from downtown San Francisco to the Pacific Ocean. Health and safety modifications to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be maintained including thorough sanitizing of all gondolas between each use; a limit of one household per gondola; social distancing in queues; onsite handwashing; and temperature testing for staff.
Tickets are $18/adults and $12/seniors (65+) and kids 12 and under. A VIP ride experience in a specially designed gondola, offering a longer ride and more amenities, is available at $50/person. The real benefit of the VIP ticket is that you don't have to wait in the check-in line.
Pro tip: The observation wheel lights up at night so plan an early evening adventure. That way you'll avoid roasting in the gondola when the sun is beating down, and you'll get to see the lights.
Earlier this spring, five new baby bison joined the GGP herd and you can check them out via the park's two webcams. The bison webcams offer a rare opportunity to observe the all-female herd as five longtime residents—Betsy, Bailey, Bellatrix, Buttercup, and Bambi—get to know their five young roommates, 1-year-olds acquired in March in honor of Golden Gate Park’s 150th anniversary. Among the youngsters is Sesqui, a bison named for the park’s sesquicentennial who sports an ear tag number of 150. Bison gear is available at the Welcome Center and you can find free Bison activities here.
As a part of San Francisco's Slow Streets program, Golden Gate Park has become virtually car-free from one end of the park to the other, from Stanyan Street at the east end of the park, to Ocean Beach and the Great Highway at the west end. That means you can walk, ride your bikes, roller skate or run right on the street! Families with kids aged 12 and up can also book a Segway tour through the park.
With San Francisco's playgrounds recently reopening to the public, families are thrilled that they can once again take advantage of GGP's Koret Children's Quarter. The mother of all playgrounds, on a Saturday mid-morning this is not for the faint-of-heart. It’s big, there’s a ton to do and it’s busy. (The din of children squealing with delight almost drowns out the drums of Hippie Hill). Try out the cement slides—one of the few remnants of the vintage playground that once stood here (bring scrap cardboard). The playground also includes one of the tallest climbing structures in the park circuit, a water feature and sand that mix together for a messily awesome good time and a carousel! Restrooms are just past the carousel.
Visit California Academy of Sciences
Kate Loweth
Advanced reservations are required when you visit the Cal Academy as they are limited to 25% building capacity to ensure social distancing. They are opening for members Oct. 13-22 and thereafter for non-members. Find their COVID-19 protocols here.
See What's on View at the de Young
de Young Museum
The de Young museum is now open for visitors with timed tickets available via online reservation. You'll definitely want to check out the Frida Kahlo: Appearances Can Be Deceiving exhibit while you are there. It's on exhibit through February and your timed ticket to the exhibit also gets you access to the permanent galleries. In celebration of the de Young museum’s 125th anniversary, the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco are hosting The de Young Open, a juried community art exhibition of submissions by artists who live in the nine Bay Area counties. Artworks by over 750 Bay Area artists will be on view in a unique wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling presentation and you can check them out with your general admission.
Tickets to the de Young include free same-day admission to the Legion of Honor. Kids 12 and under are free but still need to have a timed entry ticket. Through Dec. 2021, frontline and essential workers will get free admission. Every Saturday the de Young offers free general admission to all residents of the nine Bay Area counties with a timed reservation required. Note: the deYoungsters Studio and the observation deck are currently closed. Find their COVID-19 protocolshere.
Visit the San Francisco Zoo
Marianne Hale
Kids of all ages will be thrilled to hear that the SF Zoo is back open for visitors! The Little Puffer Railroad has recently reopened (with a max of 18 riders) and you'll definitely want to book your tickets for this year's Sloth-oween, a brand-new Halloween festival at the zoo. Dress in your costumes and enjoy a self-guided walk around the zoo to find our five sloth-themed haunted houses, including “Franken-sloth’s Fort,” where you will learn some creepy facts about sloths.
Cruise through the Conservatory of Flowers
WolfmanSF via Wikimedia Commons
The Conservatory of Flowers has reopened at 25% capacity and we are thrilled we can visit again! It will continue to be free every first Tuesday of the month. Face coverings are required at all times and visitors must follow a one-way path through the conservatory. Find their COVID-19 protocols here.
Stop and Smell the Flowers at the San Francisco Botanical Garden
The SF Botanical Garden has reopened and on-site enrichment activities are starting. Bean Sprout Family Days are back and you must make a reservation for this in advance. The Garden continues to be free on the second Tuesday of every month, from 7:30-9 a.m. daily and at all times for San Francisco residents. Find their COVID-19 protocolshere.
COMING IN DECEMBER: Visit "Entwined" in Golden Gate Park
San Francisco Recreation and Park Department
An art installation coming to Golden Gate Park will transform Peacock Meadow into an enchanted forest of otherworldly shapes and ever-changing light. “Entwined,” by San Francisco artist Charles Gadeken, will honor Golden Gate Park’s 150th Anniversary. Dec. 1-Feb. 28.
With virtual classes still going strong around the Bay Area, it’s time to up your online game with free Zoom backgrounds that help kids show their Bay Area spirit. They can support local sports teams, feature their favorite zoo animal and even ride the iconic cable cars on the steep streets of San Francisco. Find your favorite to download and get those kids ready to Zoom!
The Redwoods
Michael Macor / The Chronicle
Step out into nature with this gorgeous Zoom background of our favorite tree, the California Coastal Redwood.
Hop on over to the Gallery of California Natural Sciences at the Oakland Museum of California where you can snag this gorgeous photo of a colorful crustacean.
Outside is the name of the game this summer. And any way you look at, it riding the Mount Rainier Gondola is the pinnacle of summertime adventure. But that’s just the cherry on top of family-friendly activities you can find at Crystal Mountain Resort. Read on to plan the perfect mountain play day with your crew.
1. Ride with a View
Allison Sutcliffe
Although the destination is the highlight of the gondola ride, the journey itself is an awesome experience that’ll dazzle your adventurous half-pint. It’s like playing I-spy with 360-degree views, and trying not to miss anything as you travel 2,000 vertical feet during the leisurely 12-minute ride. The now-bare ski terrain reveals mountain wild flowers, animal trails and if you’re lucky, some wild critters too. When you look up you can spot mountain cabins, fields in the middle of lush forests and jagged mountain peaks that will leave everyone guessing which one is which. Psst... each gondola houses up to eight people for the smooth ride to the top.
Spectacular Summit
Allison Sutcliffe
The view from up top is what it’s all about. From the moment you step off the gondola at 6,800 feet, snowy Mt. Rainier’s presence looms. It’s larger than life and no matter where you wander it’s in view. In fact, on a clear day you can see all the way from Mt. Adams, to Mt. Saint Helens on to Rainier and up to Mt. Baker from most vantage points along the ridge. There are a few spots where you and your kidlet can take it all in. If you’re feeling brave, try the sling back deck chairs that line the ridge by the Summit House restaurant. But if sitting there’s too edgy for your Little, head toward the picnic tables off to the right of the lift. They’re lined up along the ridge so you can enjoy the snow-capped peaks that surround you while getting your nosh on.
2. Hit the Trails
Allison Sutcliffe
Exploring at the summit is easy to do with your sidekick. You can hike at your own pace along the ridge trails that branch out in either direction from the landing point without much planning. If this option is up your alley, grab an area trails map at the ticket kiosks before you head up the mountain. A quick out and back hike is just as informative and exciting as a longer, winding walk across the ridge. If you’re feeling super adventurous, families can ride the gondola up and take one of two trails back down to the base. Plan a solid two hours to make the trek and bring hiking essentials like food, water, poles and sturdy shoes if you go.
Good to know: Snow is a definite possibility on trails at high elevation until late summer.
Hit the Silver Creek Mining Sluice at the base of the mountain for an old-timey activity. The kids can pan for fossils or gems when you purchase a 3-pound bag of dirt ($7.95) at Right Angle Sports. Everything you need to find these tiny treasures is there—pans, running water and a sluice box that stands just the right height for little gold miners. Best part? Anything the kids find, they get to keep.
4. Play a Round of Disc Golf
Allison Sutcliffe
Pack Frisbees with your gear (or rent them from Right Angle Sports) if you want to play the lower, 9-hole disc golf course while you’re visiting the mountain. Even if you don’t follow the disc golf rules to a tee, sinking baskets and walking around the mountain basin on a sunny summer day is an awesome way to wear the kids out. The course starts behind the chapel, and it’s easy to spot upcoming baskets each time you score. It’s the excuse you need to stay and play a little longer in the mountains.
5. Mosey on with a Horseback Ride
Xanterra Travel Collection
Top off your day with a horseback ride through the mountains you’ve been admiring. The wranglers and guides at Crystal Mountain Outfitters, above the C parking lot, can get you riding in no time. They offer one-hour long rides ($40/person), two-hour long rides ($75/person), a scenic ride ($110/person), a three-hour long tour ($125/person) and a half-day, five-hour long ride ($190/person) if you want to truly go the distance through the Cascade wilderness. You can also tag them for specialty tours (like fishing) and overnight adventures, too. Anyone who’s six and older can saddle up. You can use your card to book a reservation (with a $10 convenience fee) or use cash to avoid it (psst… cash works best to tip your wranglers, too.) Rides just opened for the season (June 27) and they run through Labor Day.
6. Elevated Eats
Allison Sutcliffe
At 6,872 feet, the Summit House Restaurant is the highest eatery in Washington state. So pulling up a bench on their outdoor patio is a must-do, and not just because of the altitude. The view of Rainier, framed by the colorful planter boxes is about as picture perfect as you can get. And the menu’s got items that’ll please everyone in your bunch. In-restaurant dining isn't currently an option, but you can grab to-go order from the pick up window. Bring your appetite because portions are generous. The Fireside Cantina takes care of hungry explorers at the base. They serve grab-and-go street tacos and provide a shady spot to eat under the over-sized canopy. It’s the place to be on a hot afternoon.
Allison Sutcliffe
What to Pack… Beyond Diaper Bag Basics
1. Masks. They are required inside, outside and in lines, so be sure to pack yours with you. Hand sanitizer, too!
2. Even on a sunny day it can be super breezy at the summit, so be sure to bring extra layers for the fam.
3. The sun at altitude is intense, and there’s not a whole lot of shade up top. So bring all the protection you can muster: sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses and more!
4. Even if hiking isn’t in the cards for your fam, pack water bottles. On a sunny day it’s hot up top and dry too.
Good to know: You can bring your fur babies with you, too. Just keep them leashed and pick up after them so the pristine wilderness stays that way.
If you have a Tahoe trip on your list for the coming months, we’ve got the spot for you. The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe offers families the ultimate in conveniences, large rooms and a gorgeous spot in the woods for your next Tahoe adventure. With so many things to do with kids in Lake Tahoe, you’ll definitely want to book at room at the Ritz-Carlton ASAP. Read on to find out why!
photo: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Ritz Carlton 101
The Ritz-Carlton is mid-mountain at the Northstar California Resort with majestic views of the surrounding slopes from almost every guest room. The imposing building is a contemporary take on the classic mountain lodge, with an enormous granite fireplace column as the centerpiece of a lobby-slash-main lounge. It’s a larger, more luxurious version of your ideal living room, with a killer view outside every window. Most of the guest rooms have fantastic views as well and they all have their own fireplace.
photo: Kate Loweth
Winter at the Ritz-Carlton
Skiing with kids can be overwhelming but your stay at the Ritz-Carlton comes with tons of conveniences to make it a million times easier. It starts with the gear—get your family fitted and geared up in boots, skis or snowboards and helmets on-site at the Ritz-Carlton. When you are ready to ski, get your pre-warmed boots (yes, pre-warmed!) from the valet and head outside where your skis and snowboards are waiting for you. They put your gear right on the snow and off you go!
photo: Kate Loweth
The Ritz-Carlton is located right next to Northstar so you can ski on to the slopes right from the backyard of the Ritz-Carlton. You can even book a lesson and have your instructor meet you at the Ritz-Carlton—it’s that easy! Kids can head to ski school at Northstar to spend the day learning with their peers while parents enjoy the slopes on their own.
photo: Kate Loweth
Check out the daily activities calendar to see what’s being offered during your stay. Every afternoon you can gather at the backyard fire pit for Marshology, the ultimate s’mores making experience with house-made marshmallows that are out of this world. When your achy bones need some relaxation, the heated outdoor pool and hot tub is the place to be. There’s even an adults-only pool located outside the spa.
photo: Kate Loweth
The Village at Northstar
Take the gondola from the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe down to the Village at Northstar where you’ll find ice skating, snow tubing, snowshoeing, live music and tons of fire pits where you can sit and relax. It’s free to ice skate and you can rent skates on-site for $20.
photo: Bourbon Pub
While you are in the Village, make a reservation at Bourbon Pub to try out their killer burgers, unique mixed drinks and relaxing environment. This restaurant by Chef Michael Mina is great for families as the menu is full of kid-friendly options like warm soft pretzels, burgers and steak. If you are a turkey burger fan, we definitely recommend Bourbon Pub’s heritage turkey burger that’s topped with guacamole, pepper jack cheese and harissa mayo. Be sure to save room for the warm cookies!
photo: Kate Loweth
Dining at the Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe has a number of dining options for those looking to stay on property. Manzanita is their upscale option that’s great for a parents-only meal or a family dinner at the chef’s table. The open kitchen and lively bar area keep it casual while the food is anything but. Duck breast with a cherry jus and Pacific Halibut with sunchokes are just two of the delightful options. On weekends they often have a buffet option that’s great for kids with burgers, pasta and brownies.
Other on-property dining options include the Backyard Bar & BBQ that’s great for a mid-ski lunch, dining in the Living Room around the massive fireplace and Cafe Blu—a counter-service cafe offering paninis, coffee and more.
photo: Kate Loweth
Take Your Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe Vacation to the Next Level: Club Level
Families looking to upgrade their Ritz-Carlton experience even more should consider booking a club level room. You will get 24-hour access to the Ritz Club on the fifth floor where you can get coffee, snacks, cookies and even adult beverages all day. The breakfast spread is robust with fruit, cereal, oatmeal, hot items like eggs and sausage and even an omelette station on some mornings. There are plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters and it will definitely make your stay easier by being able to grab a snack or a meal in this relaxed environment.
photo: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
And When the Snow Melts
It’s easy to see why the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe is the ultimate in luxe ski experiences: the ski-in, ski-out access, a gondola connection to the Village at Northstar, the fireplaces everywhere and the heated outdoor pools make for a wonderful winter retreat. But the hotel also is also ideal for a family summer vacation in the great outdoors.
The surrounding area has numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking. During the summer months, the gondola can be used for bike-in, bike-out access: imagine riding to the top of the mountain with your bikes clipped to the gondola, and then biking downhill. It’s also only a 15-minute hotel shuttle ride to downtown Truckee and the north shore of Lake Tahoe with all the beach activities and water sports it has to offer.
photo: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Luxury at the Lake
With the opening of the Lake Club, your family can experience Lake Tahoe in Ritz-Carlton style. Designed by local architect Clare Walton, the clubhouse is a stunning mix of modern and mountain rustic, with steel and glass mixing with stone and wood throughout. The space can be booked for events or simply used a gorgeous base for a day by the water. Visit the Lake Club from Memorial Day through Labor Day for an additional fee.
Besides the beautiful building, one of the primary pleasures of the Lake Club is the ability to launch for a myriad of water sports, including kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, water skiing, wake surfing and sailing and fishing charters, from the club’s private boat pier. You can also rent out luxury boats right from the Lake Club.
photo: Kate Loweth
The High Life as a Ritz Kid
After a day in the sun or on the slopes, return to the hotel proper for some serious pampering. From the heated pool to the arcade to the daily s’mores-making activity at the outdoor fire pit, the hotel makes for a kids’ dream staycation. If they didn’t get work out all their energy with skiing and hiking and swimming, they will also love roaming the sprawling grounds behind the hotel known as The Woods. It’s essentially the biggest backyard ever with its inviting grassy fields, bocce court and oversized lawn games.
photo: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Guests can also enroll their children in the Ritz Kids program. This club for kids from age 5 to 12, features half day and full sessions centered around creative activities in the Ritz Kids Room or outdoor adventures around the hotel. They also offer a night program for kids so that parents can go upscale for their dinner.
photo: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
A Vacation for Parents, Too
The Ritz-Carlton doesn’t neglect parents either. Be sure to get some relaxation time in the stunning spa—it’s open to all guests regardless if you’ve booked a treatment. The facilities include separate relaxation lounges for men and women, each with a sauna, steam room and whirlpool Jacuzzi, as well as an outdoor, heated, adults-only lap pool. Tucked away from the bustle of the rest of the outdoor amenities, this pool is a delightfully serene spot to sunbathe against a stunning mountain backdrop.
There’s a magical new way to get around in Disney World as the Disney Skyliner is officially open at the resort.
The new gondola system takes visitors on an epic ride from four Disney Resort hotels, including Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and the new Disney’s Riviera Resort when it opens later this year, to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Disney Skyliner might be a mode of transportation, but the journey is most definitely half the fun as you’re treated to a bird’s eye view of the Magic Kingdom.
According to Disney Parks, the “Disney Skyliner will soar along waterways and wooded areas alike on its way to theme parks and Disney resort hotels, while wide-eyed guests will be treated to views never before seen.”
The Skyliner features approximately 300 cabins which are wrapped in whimsical Disney scenes with beloved characters, fan-favorite movies, attractions and more giving the impression that guests are riding with Disney pals.
Guests can hop aboard the Disney Skyliner Cabins at several uniquely designed stations across the resort including the Epcot International Gateway station, which is inspired by the European pavilions in the park and the Disney’s Hollywood Studios station, which reflects the Art Decostyle of the park’s main entrance. The Skyliner Station at Hourglass Lake, which is shared by Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, gives guests a sky high ride above the lake.
Fans that want to bring the magic of the Skyliner home can purchase all kinds of Disney Skyliner-themed gear including t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, pins, MagicBands, Christmas ornaments, toys and more available now at Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the four resorts the Skyliner serves.
—Shahrzad Warkentin
All photos: Disney Parks/ David Roark/ Kent Phillips
The capital city of Providence, RI is full of history and perfectly combines both city and beach to make it an excellent destination for visiting families. We’ve rounded up a number of our favorite family attractions below and our Providence events calendar is packed with daily story times, museum exhibits and movie nights. Book your time in Providence today!
Providence Children’s Museum
This museum offers hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore arts, culture and science, technology, engineering and math. The museum’s hands-on learning environments and programs are designed for children ages 1 to 11 and their adult caregivers. Explore ice, mist and discover the swirling, whirling ways of water in an all-new water play environment! Explore a garden of native plants, a perfect place for a picnic lunch and for active outdoor play.
Providence Performing Arts Center
The Providence Performing Arts Center is one of the most visually-stunning venues in the country as well as one of the most prestigious destinations for performing artists and companies.
Museum of Natural History and Planetarium
The Museum of Natural History is Rhode Island’s only natural history museum and is home to the state’s only public planetarium. For more than a century the museum has served as a unique educational, scientific and cultural resource by offering exciting exhibits and programming that provide ways for children and families to learn about our world and its people.
India Point Park
Located at the confluence of the Seekonk and Providence Rivers where they widen into Narragansett Bay, the Park is the only broad expanse of Bay shoreline in Providence accessible to the public.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Located amid 40 acres of beautiful woodlands, the Roger Williams Park Zoo provides visitors the opportunity to see animals from all over the globe, some more than a million years old. Naturalistic surroundings are home to more than 100 species of animals including a Komodo dragon, as well as zebras, red pandas, African elephants, Masai giraffes, snow leopards, bears, flamingos, sloths, and more! Kids from two to 102 have the opportunity to feed giraffes and harbor seals, as well as an array of farmyard animals.
1000 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
Online: rwpzoo.org
Historic Federal Hill
Sip a strong espresso at an outdoor cafe, grab a quick pizza for lunch or dine in style at a gourmet Italian restaurant in this historic section of the city, also know as Little Italy. You’ll know you have arrived by the huge arched gateway, with a bronzed pine cone, which marks the entry to the neighborhood.
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Providence
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Providence events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, and Christmas tree farms.
There’s no shortage of magic coming to Disney theme parks this year. While we wait with bated breath for Galaxy’s Edge to open its doors, there is plenty more to be excited about when visiting the selection of parks at Walt Disney World. Keep scrolling to see all the attractions, shows and eateries you won’t want to miss.
If you've been missing the Disneyland Skyway to Tomorrowland, you'll be elated to find that WDW will be opening The Disney Skyliner in the fall of this year. The gondola-styled attraction will connect Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios with more than six miles of cable! The ride includes 22 gondolas that rise from 15 to 60 feet off the ground in adorable character designs and can last from five to 15 minutes depending on when riders decide to disembark. Unlike the bucket-style of Disneyland, the new gondolas will have two wooden benches that can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Rivers of Light
WDW News
Disney's Animal Kingdom is about to get lit up with its new Rivers of Light show, a nighttime extravaganza heavy on symbolism and storytelling. Told with a mix of water, fire, nature and light, the originally-scored shore will be performed on select nights and is bound to be a showstopper!
Taking over the old Mizner’s Lounge and Commander Porter’s at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the new Beauty and the Beast-themed bar will have four unique spaces inspired by your fave film! The amazing gold chandelier is the main show stopper, pairing the beauty of Belle's gown and of course, the rose. No word yet on the menu, drinks or opening day so stay tuned so you can be their guest!
The Grand Floridian is getting another update in the form of a new location for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. The hotspot will take over the current Ivy Trellis Salon and be Walt Disney World's third location. Because of its popularity, the Magic Kingdom's boutique is also getting an upgrade next spring which will add more chairs and a magic mirror so even more littles can enjoy a magical transformation.
Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway
WDW News
While Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway isn't set to open until Spring of 2020, we are still excited for the attraction that gives riders a 3-D experience––no glasses needed. The new ride, which replaced the Great Movie Ride, follows an original story involving Goofy taking control, a new theme song and state-of-the-art technology. California visitors can also expect this attraction to hit the Disneyland Resort sometime in 2022.
It’s hard to believe that one of Seattle’s most iconic attractions is also one of its youngest. Since it opened in June of 2012, thousands of Seattle families and tourists have flocked to the Seattle waterfront to ride the ginormous Ferris wheel perched high above Pier 57. But believe it or not, there are many families who have never taken a ride. The next time you’re looking for things to do in Seattle, head to The Seattle Great Wheel to get a bird’s-eye view of the city like no other. Scroll down to learn more.
It’s All About the Wheel
The 175-foot tall Seattle Great Wheel dwarfs your regular run-of-the-mill Ferris wheel by over 100 feet. Located at the end of Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel offers spectacular views of the Seattle Aquarium, Elliot Bay, Century Link Field, Mt. Rainer, T-Mobile Park, Space Needle and Pike Place Market. The Wheel features 42 fully enclosed gondolas, so the ride is perfect whatever the weather. (Note: if winds reach sustained speeds of 55 mph or higher or if there are lightning strikes within one mile, it will stop operating.) Other than that, you’re good to go!
WhattoExpectontheRide
Each gondola holds up to eight adults which when you do the math, can hold over 300 riders at a time, so the line moves pretty quickly even on the busiest of days. Because ride times vary based on how large the crowd is at any given time of the day, you can expect your tour to last anywhere from 10-20 minutes in length, but that will include at least three full revolutions.
If you only have a few people in your party, it’s likely that you’ll have to share the space with another smaller party of riders. The gondolas are not huge inside–there is just enough room to sit and enjoy the ride. However, if you arrive early or visit on a day that isn’t very busy, they might be able to accommodate you with your own cabin.
At first, the ride is slow, as all 42 gondolas are loaded with new riders, giving you a chance to really take in the view. Once everyone is on board, you will go on three slow-ish rotations around the wheel depending on how long the boarding process takes. Although this doesn’t sound like long, we promise you that it’s the perfect length of time to be in a gondola with your children. Little ones will be pretty antsy by the end of those 20 minutes and you’ll be ready to bust free as well…no matter how amazing that view is.
Feeling nervous about being up so high? We won’t lie and tell you that it’s no big deal–at a whopping 175 feet tall (that’s over 17 stories!) your heart is likely to skip a beat or two on your first trip around. The littlest ones won’t even notice the height, but older children may get the heebie jeebies. Luckily, the ride is super smooth and you’ll easily be able to distract them with all of the cool sights.
Who Can Ride?
Just about anyone can experience the Seattle Great Wheel. It is wheelchair accessible (however the door width is 30”), the ride is slow and smooth making it appropriate for both pregnant women and babies and given that each gondola can hold up to 1300 pounds, nobody is too big to ride.
The Price of Tickets & Where to Get Them
The Seattle Great Wheel tickets are $14 for adults (age 12 & up); $12 for seniors (65+); $9 for kids (ages 3-9); and anyone age 2 or younger rides for free. While you can always wait in line to purchase your tickets, we recommend you buy them online. However, tickets for children 0-2 and seniors are only available at the ticket booth. There is no service fee to purchase tickets online, but be sure to print them out at home and have them in hand when you arrive. If you only have the confirmation code, you will still have to wait in the regular line to have the tickets printed, which will likely test your patience and your crew’s patience. Tickets are general admission and valid for any date or time that the wheel is open (excluding the by reservation only New Year’s Eve Midnight Ride) and do not expire until used.
What to Bring
The bad news? There isn’t a ton of room in the gondolas, so you’re going to want to pack light. The good news? You can bring a stroller and park it at the bottom of the stairs where you get on the wheel and leave some of your not-so-valuable items in there while you ride. Speaking of strollers, leave your SUV-sized double jogger at home and opt for a smaller umbrella stroller instead. It will be great for little ones who get antsy standing in line. Otherwise, bring clothes for the weather–you will be waiting in line outside in the Seattle elements sunglasses for the ride in the wheel to make sure you can see all the sights and, of course, your camera. Food and drinks are not allowed in the gondolas, so leave the snacks and juice boxes in your stroller.
photo: Kristina Moy
The Great Wheel VIP Experience
If you really want to splurge or plan a very special date night, go for the VIP Experience. The Great Wheel features one special luxury gondola with four leather bucket seats, a stereo system and a glass floor. VIP tickets are $50 each and includes a champagne toast at Fisherman’s Restaurant, a souvenir t-shirt, photo booth photos and priority boarding. Note: the VIP gondola is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
LED Light Shows
The Seattle Great Wheel is covered in over 500,000 LED lights and on weekends (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) you can watch the colorful light show displays. Mid week, the Wheel typically illuminates just the ring beam. Psst…keep an eye out on holidays and game days for special themed light shows—they are especially fun to watch! But guess what? You can also “order” your own custom light show. If you are getting married, having a special event or want to do a baby gender reveal, they can program an array of patterns, letters, colors and designs just for you. Email The Seattle Great Wheel at LightShow@pier57seattle.com for more information.
photo: Kristina Moy
What Else Can You Do at Pier 57?
You can actually plan to spend up to a few hours at Pier 57 (aka Miner’s Landing). In addition to the Great Wheel, the Pier is home to a lesser-known but just as iconic Wings Over Washington flying theater. Expect an experience similar to one you’d find at a Disney theme park. You can read all about the ride here. You’ll also find a historic indoor carousel, the Waterfront Arcade, a variety of places to eat and shops and oddities to check out.
Seattle Great Wheel
1301 Alaskan Way – Pier 57
Seattle, WA 98101
206-623-8607
Online: seattlegreatwheel.com
Editor’s Note: Operating hours may change during special times of the year. Visit the website for current hours before you head out. Last ride loads 10 minutes before closing time.
Can’t decide between Disney World and a European vacation? Why not have both? Disney’s Riviera Resort won’t open until later this year, but you can already book your stay at this resort that promises to provide the “enchantment of the European Riviera.”
The new resort in Florida, which will be the 15th Disney Vacation Club property, is now accepting reservations for December 2019. The property blends Disney magic with Old World European elegance, featuring grand archways, towers and terraces. Throughout the resort guests will also be treated to a unique collection of artwork that celebrates Disney characters in style of the old masters.
“Disney’s Riviera Resort is inspired by Walt and Lillian Disney’s travels throughout Europe and the Mediterranean coastline — from France to Italy,” Terri Schultz, Disney Vacation Club’s senior vice president and general manager, said in a statement.
“Walt fell in love with European art, architecture, food, and stories, and his extended tours of the region continue to influence Disney storytelling and theming. We look forward to welcoming our members and guests later this year to this new resort inspired by Europe and imagined by Disney,” Schultz added.
The resort will also feature dining options inspired by authentic French and Italian cooking. Among several cafes and bars, the signature table-service restaurant situated on the rooftop of the resort will be named Topolino’s Terrace: Flavors of the Riviera—Topolino means “Mickey Mouse” in Italian! This will also be the where guests can book an exclusive Disney character dining for breakfast.
Getting in to the parks will be a breeze as the new Disney Skyliner, a state-of-the-art gondola system that will begin operating this fall, will have a dedicated station right outside the Riviera Resort. The ride will connect directly to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Guests can choose from 300 family-friendly vacation homes, including deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas, and grand villas that sleep up to 12 guests each. Reservations, which are being accepted online now, start at $335 per night.
