When it comes to a family vacation, kids just wanna have fun. One of the easiest ways to make that happen is to book a property that features a kids club. So we did the research (and asked a lot of little experts) to find the best resorts with the coolest experiences. Our list includes hotels and resorts that offer epic encounters, opportunities to learn and grow, and the chance to make new friends from all over the world. From Beaches and Club Med to other all-inclusive resorts, here’s the buzz on hotels that cater to kids with unique décor, plus fun and extraordinary activities. What are you waiting for? 

Note: While COVID restrictions are being lifted, check with your resort to see which activities are currently offered.

USA

Fairmont Scottsdale - Scottsdale, AZ

courtesy Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

This luxury property takes kids' fun to the extreme with four family-friendly pools and the Trailblazers Kids Club. Explore interactive group activities and themed adventures every day. From 9 am - 1 pm, children 5-12 will have a blast with supervised games, crafts, sports, and virtual reality fun on the I-Beam interactive floor. Kids can make solar oven s'mores, pan for gold, play dodgeball and take nature walks. After hours, visit the Trailblazers Recreation Center together and dig into the virtual reality sandbox, play a life-sized game of Pac-Man, borrow basketballs for the sports court or rent fishing poles for their catch-and-release fishing program. Meet desert animals like their resident tortoise, Cecil. 

Online: scottsdaleprincess.com

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort - Hilton Head, SC

Courtesy of OMNI Hilton Head

In these beautiful, lush surroundings, it’s all about the beach. Kids from 4-13 will dig into the sand and have a fun time exploring all things water. Planning to reopen in April 2022, Kids Camp will feature daily activities like Picasso art lessons, catching a wave on a boogie board, playing life-size chess/checkers or hanging with resort mascot Duney the Dolphin. Daily themes include Move and Groove Monday and Super Soaked Saturday. Full-day, half-day and evening programs available. Check out the two family pools, splash pad and playground. New Family Fun Package includes a $100 dining credit, s’mores kit, kites and 2-hour bike rental for up to four guests.

Online: omnihotels.com/hotels/hilton-head

The Nantucket Hotel & Resort - Nantucket, MA

courtesy Nantucket Hotel

Located on a 50-square mile island, The Nantucket Hotel & Resort offers kids 3-12 lots of cool things to do. Their complimentary Kids Club morning program is a blast, featuring nature and ocean crafts, tie-dye, crabbing for shells, and a Lily Pond Walk. The highlight is getting to ride on an antique fire truck through town. On Saturday morning walking adventures, kids learn about the island and its former residents on a Pirates Day Adventure. Programs run from Jun. 27 through Sept. 3, 2022. Their Kids’ Club Evening program includes dinner, outdoor games and a movie, all while parents enjoy a date night, Jul. 1st through Sept. 3rd, 2022 on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Evenings. 

Online: nantuckethotel.com

Island H20 Live at Margaritaville - Orlando, FL

Courtesy of Margaritaville, Orlando

Chill out at this awesome resort in Kissimmee where kids are king!  Margaritaville features the thrilling Island H2O Live! Water Park with 20 experiences, and it's open from Mar. – Nov. There’s also a wave pool with ocean waves, a river raft ride and a splash pad. Innovative technology lets guests share their experiences on social media with their friends back home!  Guests can also discover the island vibe at the resort’s Fins Up Beach Club—head to the Sunset Walk Promenade for live entertainment and street markets. Dine at the Estefan’s Kitchen. Yep, we're talking about Emilio and Gloria’s restaurant.

Online: margaritavilleresortorlando.com

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort - Pigeon Forge, TN

Courtesy of Dollywood

Create memorable family vacations at DreamMore Resort. Accommodations include rooms with bunk beds, plus fun throughout the property like s’mores, apple cider tasting and bedtime stories in the lobby. Kids ages 4-10 years old will love Camp DW, featuring ranger talks, painting birdhouses and pool parties (in the summer). Share the fun in the family game room or fort-style playground. Jump into Dollywood Splash Country Waterpark (opens Memorial Day Weekend) and thrill to Dollywood with 40 rides, great entertainment, and award-winning dining.

Online: dollywood.com/resort

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Oahu, HI

disney aulani with kids
Disney Aulani Resort & Spa

Kids’ imaginations will soar at this tropical paradise. Play with dress-up gear, see Disney films, navigate an outdoor play structure and meet Disney characters throughout the resort.  Add in the rich culture of the Hawaii islands and it’s a winning combination. There are also plenty of activities for tweens and teens, including water play, games, boogie boarding, adventure trails, the Aloha House Party, the North Shore Beach Zone and more. Check their website to see when Aunty’s Beach Club and other kids’ programs plan to reopen.   

Online: disneyaulani.com

Check out our insider's guide here.

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach - Miami Beach, FL

Courtesy of Acquamarine Resort

This five-star resort treats kids like little scientists and turns the experience into a marine learning adventure. More than two-thirds of the Acqualina is dedicated to family residences with a relaxed, kid-focused atmosphere. The hotel's award-winning kids' program, AcquaMarine uses a marine biology-inspired program for children ages 5-12. There are themed days like Amazing Alligators, Feisty Fish, Ocean Mammals and Super Sea Storms. Kids will learn about all things oceanic, from the Coast Guard to science projects about waves through outdoor games, technology and creative activities. There's also an oceanfront soccer field, basketball net, foosball, chess, plus pool and beach games. The best part? The daily program is complimentary to hotel guests. Currently available Thurs.-Sun. by appointment only.

Online: acqualinaresort.com

Suncadia Resort - Cle Elum, WA

Kristina Moy

In the beautiful Pacific Northwest, just east of Seattle, lies this sprawling, year-round resort. Enjoy condominium-type accommodations, ideal for families with lots of kids’ activities. Take in the great outdoors with hiking, biking, even ax-throwing or have fun at the Great Suncadia Scavenger Hunt. Try the Build-a-Bear, Painting Kits or Tie-Dye Down at the Farm. Come winter, families can experience the thrill of the hill on an inner tube, ice skating and sleigh rides.

See our insider's guide here

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort - Hilton Head, SC

Courtesy of Disney Hilton Head Resort

You’ll spend plenty of quality time with your family at this Disney Resort. Enjoy singing, storytelling and roasting marshmallows around the campfire. Go crabbing on the resort pier, take a walk with a naturalist and zip down a wraparound Water Tower Slide at the Big Dipper. Play Goofy Bingo with trivia questions, sweet treats and plenty of fun. Bring the whole family to watch classic Disney movies at their outdoor movie theatre under the stars or just hang out at the beach. Trek on down to the Disney Beach House to swim at the pool and hang out at the game tables. 

Online: hiltonhead.disney.go.com

International

Beaches Resort - Turks & Caicos 

courtesy Beaches Resort

A true island escape set on 12 miles of the world's best beach; Beaches Turks & Caicos is the ultimate all-inclusive vacation for families. Discover endless land and water sports, and global gourmet dining at 21 restaurants with luxurious rooms and suites. Fun, family-friendly activities include Sesame Street® stage shows, The Pirates Island Waterpark and swim-up soda bars. There are even two new food trucks by the waterpark that offers Mac & Cheese and ice cream creations. That’s why Beaches Turks & Caicos has been voted Top 25 Hotels for Families in the World by TripAdvisor® year after year. Kids Camp is available for kids of all ages, from tots to teens, with certified nannies and Kids Camp staffers. For children with special needs, Beaches is the first resort in the world to offer Autism Certification with specialized service, engaging activities and custom dining options.  

Online: beaches.com/resorts/turks-caicos

Martinhal Family Hotels & Resorts - Portugal

Martinhal

You may have experienced properties that promote themselves "family friendly," but the Martinhal Resorts take this to a whole new level. With four properties in Portugal, Martinhal Resorts truly are luxury resorts designed with parents in mind. Their incredible kid's program covers ages six months and up. When staying at Martinhal Chiado, the world's first luxury family hotel in a city center, kids can visit the kids club from 9:30-6. It's all included in the room charge. A special "pajama club" offers childcare services (for an additional fee) until 10 p.m. each evening, allowing parents to enjoy a night out in Lisbon.

Similar offerings are available at Martinhal's three other properties in Cascais, Sagres and Quinta. At Martinhal Cascais the Kids Clubhouse is unlike any you've ever seen, with over 7,700 square feet of play space and spacious outdoor playgrounds for children. Free supervised sessions are available for kids ages 19 mo - 9, allowing parents to enjoy meals on their own or take day trips to nearby towns. Check out their website for special packages.

See our insider's guide here.

 

Banyon Tree Mayakoba - Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Banyan Tree Resorts

Kids have a blast when they learn to interact with nature and be part of preserving the resort's ecosystem. At the luxury resort Banyan Tree Mayakoba, kids can monitor the release of baby turtles as they swim back to the sea to freedom between May and November. Kids can also learn to kayak, snorkel, boogie board and Latin dance. Explore the wildlife of the mangroves on an eco-tour, or even swim with the dolphins in their natural habitats.

Online: banyantree.com/mayakoba

Coconut Bay Beach Resort, St. Lucia

Courtesy of Coconut Bay Beach Resort

Escape to Splash at Coconut Bay Resort with your fam and explore 50,000 square feet of active play areas including a zip line, rock-climbing wall, water park and a petting zoo that doubles as a sanctuary for rescued animals. Share the memories with the weekly hayride/beach party. Watch turtles being released from the beach to the water in the nesting season. Join the CocoLand Kidz Klub and get an awesome Coco Backpack, a water bottle, a t-shirt and a hat. Learn about pirates, ecology and wildlife with their SCOUT program, which stands for Seeing, Crafting, Observing, Understanding, Tasting, Saint Lucia.

Online: cbayresort.com

Club Med, Punta Cana

Courtesy of Club Med

Dare you try the flying trapeze, bungee jumping and aerial acrobatics? Or would you be happier bouncing on the trampolines? Everyone gets to be a kid at this all-inclusive Club Med, including those four and up. Pairing with Cirque du Soleil, the resort’s program showcases a circus-inspired interactive arts program called CREACTIVE, which provides recreational acrobatic and artistic activities inspired by the circus. 

Club Med is also known for its outstanding children’s programming starting at four months with Baby Club Med (0-2) and Petit Club Med (2-3). Age-appropriate activities include creative workshops, archery, water sports, DJ instruction for tweens, digital treasure hunts and lots more.

Online: clubmed.us/puntacana

Velas Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Courtesy of Velas Vallarta

Check out the all-inclusive Velas Vallarta designed for families, starting with a range of accommodations including up to three-bedroom suites. Every day brings new adventure at their Kids Club, which offers a full calendar of board and video games, tennis lessons, sandcastle competitions, stone painting, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, movie nights and more. Open to children ages 4-12 years old, the little ones participate in ceramic painting, while the adults get to relax with yoga, cultural tours, nightly entertainment, eco-friendly activities, water sports and more. Everyone gets to celebrate at the weekly Mexican Fiesta. New is their Bonfire on the Beach, which includes cocktails, gourmet dinner and a decadent dessert, all overlooking Banderas Bay.

Online: velasvallarta.com

Star Camp at Iberostar - Playa Paraíso, Mexico

Gabby Cullen

Inspired by the Scout movement and incorporating the theory of multiple intelligences, Iberostar's Star Camp strives to combine fun with values and includes a range of 140 activities, based on age. Kids enjoy 12 different categories including team sports, group challenges, science and cooking activities, board games, arts, crafts, dance and even technology. Most important, they learn how to protect underwater life. 

Check out the Monkeys (ages 4-7), Dolphins (ages 8-12) and Eagles (ages 13-17). You might see members of Star Camp at headquarters and then, an hour later, they’ll be on the beach participating in a scavenger hunt. They cruise the lazy river, play capture the flag, do escape room challenges, have mini-chef baking challenges. Every night from 8 p.m. - 9 p.m., they perform on the main stage, complete with costumes and great memories!

See our insider's guide here

Moon Palace – Cancun Mexico

Courtesy of Moon Palace Cancun

Prepare your kiddos for playtime to the max! At the Moon Palace, the two resorts’ state-of-the-art Kids & Teens areas are amazing inside and out. Let’s start with water – enjoy the Double Wave Simulator Flowrider, giant waterslide and a kiddie pool for hours of fun in the sun. The colorful Kids Playroom at Sunrise gets two thumbs up with a dollhouse, Skate n Play, an X-Box room, theatre and more. The Nizuc Playroom adds a PlayStation Video Game area, computers, tablets and toy area. Spend time riding bikes, paddleboarding, kayaking and more as a family. 

Online: moonpalacecancun.com

 

Featured image: iStock 

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You’ve probably seen your friends’ pix on Instagram showing off their vacation with the whole family in tow. Why not plan your own multi-gen trip with you, your parents and your kids? It’s a chance to make epic memories that both your kiddos and grandparents will cherish forever. Here are our top picks for hotels and resorts that cater to multi-gen families with adventures for kids, time for the adults to chill independently and plenty of opportunities for quality family time. Keep reading to see them all.

Head to the Big Easy - New Orleans, LA

Pedro Szekely via Flickr

NOLA is not just a non-stop party for adults, but an awesome place to share new experiences. Ride the streetcar from bygone days or take a swamp tour and get up close and personal with gators and other creatures. Don’t miss City Park with its old-fashioned merry-go-round and storybook-themed playground. Keep everyone entertained with a French QuaTour, led by teachers ideal for kids 4-18.

Where to Stay: Domio Baronne Street is designed for families, a wonderful combination of home and hotel costing about 25% less than similar-sized hotels. Amenities include spacious rooms, game room, work room, fitness center and 38-foot rooftop pool. With multiple rooms in the suites, grandparents can have their own private bedroom.

Check out our insider's guide for more things to do with kids in New Orleans.

Enjoy an Eco-Friendly Oasis - Huatulco, Mexico

Las Brisas

Sun-worshippers will love their day in the sun at nine bays and more than 30 beaches along the Pacific Coast. With a town that focuses on eco-tourism, imagine your fam river rafting, kayaking, sport fishing and hiking through the jungle.

Where to Stay: Las Brisas offers top amenities to please all three generations—mini-golf, five restaurants that appeal to all tastes, dance lessons for the adults, Little Angel’s Kids Club and snorkeling. Eco-tours let everyone spot crocodiles in their natural habitat. The hotel has grandparents in mind with a marble bench in the showers.

Find out morevisitmexico.com/huatluco

Explore Real Reefs - Cancun, Mexico

Bagus Tri Kuncoro via Pexels

If it’s the beach you’re after, Cancun is recognized for having some of the world’s most beautiful, including the Great Mayan Reef for snorkeling and scuba diving. For those with the spirit of adventure, swim in an ancient cenote, explore the Coba or Tulum ruins, learn about Mayan traditions and discover the underwater caves in XCaret.

Where to Stay: Award-winning NIZUC Resort & Spa offers accommodations in luxury villas for the ultimate in relaxation. Indulge in a spa treatment at the first ESPA-branded spa in the Mexican Caribbean. The Winik’s Kids Club offers kids cooking classes, ceramic painting and more. Older kids dig the cool new teen lounge. For grown-ups, there are plenty of fitness classes, yoga, cooking classes with the chef and an adults-only pool. Take your pick of multiple beaches with lots of water activities. Explore more of Cancun with off-site excursions, too.

Find out more: visitmexico.com/quintanaroo-cancun

Find Something for Everyone - Branson, MO

Branson Convention & Visitor's Bureau

Branson, Missouri makes the perfect multi-generation destination because there is literally something for everyone to do together and on their own. From theme parks to natural outdoor recreation and live shows, let your family share the giggles all the way through the town. There are so many family-friendly shows grandparents and grandkids can enjoy together in the live music capital of the world. Have the grands take the kids to pet shows, magic shows and musicals, while the parents step out for a nice dinner. Dolly Parton’s Stampede is always a popular outing with live animals the kids will love.

During summer, there are water sport activities galore, ditto the mini-golf, and thrill rides at Silver Dollar City. During the fall, Harvest Fests come to life and there is nothing like X-mas in Branson to share memories with the whole family.

Find out more: explorebranson.com

Enjoy Culture on the Coast - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

courtesy Velas Vallarta

Walk along the Malecon (the seaside boardwalk), and admire the unique sculptures and public art. Experience a downtown food taco tour, and go whale watching. Visit Old Town, and enjoy live music and dance performance at Rhythms of the Night.

Where to Stay: The all-inclusive Velas Vallarta is designed for families, from the restaurants offering kid-friendly menus to the kid's programs that have appealing activities for your whole group. Kids will love the Kids Club, while the adults can relax with yoga, city and cultural tours, weekly Mexican Fiesta, nightly entertainment, eco-friendly activities, water sports and more. Stay in a range of accommodations, including up to 3-bedroom suites.

Find out more: visitpuertovallarta.com

Europe is Calling - Portugal

Explore the cobblestone streets, rich history and cultural traditions. Go dolphin and whale watching, enjoy a cave tour and give your kids a taste of the world.

Where to Stay: Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort, Portugal is an excellent resort for families. The resort offers a selection of luxury family villas with tennis, football, swimming and a kid’s club nanny in every restaurant. The whole culture surrounding Martinhal is family friendly and children are especially welcome. It even offers a variety of creative activity programs for the different age groups that teach kids new skills. Family spa treatments, free beach beds and complimentary tennis or Padel tennis are just a few of the amenities. Spend time at the Village Square for warm, memorable evenings.

Get Cultured - Chicago, IL

Pexels

Chicago is a great family-friendly destination with many fascinating museums, the free Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Millennium Park’s “The Bean” and, of course, American Girl Place.

While the kids are being entertained by their grandparents, the parents can go out for a great night on the town, starting with cocktails at one of the many rooftop bars. Head to the Skydeck at Willis Tower one of the tallest buildings in the world for magnificent views as far as you can see, while the Chicago Sports Museum delivers interactive fun with Chicago’s sports legends. Many of the hotels like the Four Seasons cater to kids with “make your own sundaes” at night. Of course, if you’re in Chicago, you must try their famous deep-dish pizza.

Check out more things to do with kids in Chicago by clicking here.

Explore Idyllic Beaches - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Wendy Altschuler

Discover over 30 miles of idyllic beaches, excellent golf courses and luxurious world-class resorts in this Caribbean paradise. This is the place to try zip lining,  sing and dance with traditional Dominican music or explore the magical lagoons of the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park.

Where to Stay: The Westin at Puntacana Resort & Club is a luxury hotel that provides a warm welcome to families and offers many activities to share. Two championship golf courses, four outdoor tennis courts, multiple pools and eco-friendly activities are just a few of the ways families can share special moments. Adults can relax with spa treatments, yoga and pilates, while the kids can make new friends in the Westin Kids Club Discovery Room. Together, the resort team has dreamed up all kinds of fun activities to share.

Find out more: godominicanrepublic.com/punta-cana

Have a Caribbean Getaway to Remember - Turks & Caicos

courtesy Beaches

Bring the gang to British Islands of Turks & Caicos for a fun-filled journey. Spend time at the Sesame Sailaway Catamaran Cruise, off-road adventure to Pirate’s Cove, buggy tours and nature reserve. Did you know you can even rent a puppy on the island?

Where to Stay: Head to Beaches for a great multi-generational vacation. Stay at the Key West Luxury Village at the resort, which has three- and four-bedroom villas with private pools. This all-inclusive resort boasts 19 restaurants, plus a world of outdoor water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddle boarding. For the little ones, look for parades, shows, breakfasts and photo ops with Sesame Street characters. Guests can also read with children at a local school as part of a literacy initiative called Reading Road Trip. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Find out more: turksandcaicsotourism.com

Take a Cruise - Multiple Cruise Lines

Gabby Cullen

Would you rather explore the Caribbean or head for the uncharted waters of Alaska? No matter what your family craves, there's a cruise for you. From the kids club to the large dining rooms and daily excursions, a cruise allows every member of your family to custom-design a vacation that checks all their boxes. Of course, meeting up for dinner and a show at the end of the day makes it a perfect trip for everyone along for the ride. We've rounded up our top picks for best family cruises, click here to see them all.

—Mira Temkin

 

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National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed September 15-October 15, and was established to recognize the invaluable contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States. This celebration of heritage and culture coincides with the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrate their independence during this period. Read on for ideas on for celebrating these important community contributors, whether they be in your home or a neighbor’s.

photo: quimuns via Pixabay

1. See a colorful new world unfold at the always-free National Museum of Mexican Art. The 10,000-piece permanent collection spans ancient Mexico to the present day, and is one of the largest and most respected in the country Beginning Sep. 20-Dec. 8, visitors can see a special Día de Muertos exhibition, a commemoration deeply rooted in ancient beliefs of life after death and a spiritual existence within the universe. (1852 W. 19th St., Pilsen)

2. If a kid in a candy shop is something to remember, what about a kid in a Mexican candy shop? Dulcelandia Candy is the largest distributor of Mexican candy in the Midwest and its three locations are well worth a visit. The colorful selection of sweets will make you wish that coconut and mango suckers were a food group. (Little Village, Brighton Park and Logan Square)

photo: XOCO, Gabriela H. via Yelp

3. Indulge in a chewy, fresh-from-the-fryer churro or flaky empanada from Rick Bayless’ XOCO, which offers a contemporary take on Mexico’s most-favorite street foods. After the first bite, your kids will be sold. (449 N. Clark St., River North)

4. Celebrate the musicality of the Hispanic culture with ¡SÚBELO! – A Celebration of Pan Latin Music and Culture, highlighting artists from Puerto Rico, Peru and Mexico as part of the World Music Festival held in venues across the city. (Sep. 14, 3 p.m.-7 p.m.; Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St., Millennium Park)

5. Take part in a one-hour joyous, heartfelt adventure that delves into the rich, tuneful traditions of Día de los Muertos through music and dance at the MAC’s Sugar Skull! A Día de los Muertos Musical Adventure.

photo: Mindy’s Hot Chocolate, Tim M. via Yelp

6. No matter the temperature, hot chocolate is always a treat. Our favorite take on the steamy sensation comes from Wicker Park hot spot Mindy’s Hot Chocolate (1747 N. Damen Ave., 773-489-1747). The Mexican hot chocolate is a rich, flavorful melange of dark chocolate, milk, fresh cinnamon and cayenne — all topped with housemade marshmallows. If you’re in the western ‘burbs, Le Chocolat (127-129 S. Washington St., Naperville) also does an amazing Mexicocoa.

7. Hola, shoppers! Maxwell Street Market is a historic outdoor bazaar filled with vendors that sell jewelry and crafts inspired by Mexico and some of the best Mexican and Latin street food vendors in Chicago. (Every Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; 800 S. Des Plaines St.)

8. Highlight a traditional Hispanic dessert at mealtime with a visit to one of Bombon’s four locations. The neighborhood bakery is known for its Tres Leches Cake, a vanilla sponge cake soaked in three types of milk with hints of rum, sweet vanilla, cream and cinnamon. They give it their own twist with variations like Amaretto and Peachy. (West Loop, Pilsen, Little Village and Chicago Lawn)

photo: The Kids’ Table

9. Create a Mexican Fiesta as a family with hands-on cooking fun at The Kids’ Table. Families will make Quesadillas, Broccoli Guacamole and Pina Colada Milkshakes. (Sep. 13, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m; 2237 W. North Ave., Wicker Park)

10. The fun in the kitchen doesn’t stop there. Taste Buds Kitchen is looking to spice things up with an adult-only, BYOB Mexican Feast. They’ll help you whip up your favorite recipes from street-style Carne Asada and Crispy Fish Tacos to handmade Guacamole, Lime Crema and Mexican Street Corn. No celebration is finito without made-from-scratch Corn Tortillas, you won’t believe how easy they are to make. (Oct. 4, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.; 2521 Waukegan Rd., Bannockburn)

photo: The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Jane V. via Yelp

11. Visit The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, the only freestanding cultural institution in the nation devoted to Puerto Rican arts and historic exhibitions year-round. It’s located right here in our Humboldt Park community. (3015 W. Division St., Humboldt Park)

12. Sign baby up for classes at Rayito del Sol, Chicago’s first full Spanish Immersion program that had their grand opening this summer. Geared toward ages 6 weeks to six years, Rayito del Sol offers full and part-time childcare and its award-winning programming allows kids to consciously grasp both the Spanish and English languages. (2550 W. Addison St., Roscoe Village)

13. Work your way along Clark Street, from Devon to Touhy Avenues, tasting samples of signature dishes in the diverse Rogers Park neighborhood for Taste of Clark Street. The community celebration will include family-friendly activities and live music, including Mariachi Sirenas, Chicago’s first and very own all-women Mariachi. (Sep. 22, 2 p.m.-6 p.m.; 6950 N. Clark St., Rogers Park)

photo: Daughter of the Cuban Revolutionary, credit Steve Gunther

14. See Goodman Theatre’s midwest premiere of Daughter of the Cuban Revolutionary, a one-woman tour de force telling the tale centered on three towering figures in her life: her father, Raul, who co-wrote the manifesto for the Cuban revolution with Fidel Castro; her uncle, Eddy, who was the frontrunner for the Cuban presidency in 1951 before committing suicide; and her mother, Dalia, Miss Cuba runner-up in 1959. (Oct. 8-13; Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, Loop)

15. Attend HispanicPro’s networking event on the rooftop at Godfrey Hotel and meet some of Chicago’s most prominent Latino organizations for an evening of mingling, cocktails, light bites and celebrating. (Sep. 13, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Godfrey Hotel, 127 W. Huron, River North)

16. CSO Latino Alliance is celebrating their 5th anniversary with a tribute to the great Mexican composer Silvestre Revueltas. The event will include a rare screening of the film Redes (1935), one of the early examples of Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema. Before the film, musicians from the Civic Orchestra of Chicago will perform Revueltas’ String Quartet No. 2. Stay after the film for a Q&A with Angel Gil-Ordóñez, who conducted the PostClassical Ensemble in the recording of the score you will hear. (Sep. 5, 6:30 p.m.-10 p.m.; Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Loop)

photo: Mariachi Herencia de México

17. The free and open to the public YAS! Fest is Chicago’s largest celebration of young artists and youth arts organizations. The day will feature the creative work of musicians, actors, dancers, artists and visitors can explore youth arts programs from across the city. This year’s fest will include a performance by Latin Grammy Award-nominated ensemble Mariachi Herencia de México. (Sep. 21, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; 201 E. Randolph St., Millennium Park)

18. Sign the kids up for a sugar skull workshop. Participants will have their own sugar skull to design while learning more about sugar skulls, the history Día de los Muertos and what it means to many. The workshop offers age-appropriate knowledge and experience worth remembering and passing along to new generations.

— Maria Chambers

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This holiday season, the Happiest Place on Earth has transformed into the Merriest Place on Earth! Holidays at the Disneyland Resort brings an exciting new festival along with magical holiday decorations, food, attractions, and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re heading to Disneyland for the holidays, we’ve got the scoop on all the best, can’t-miss experiences throughout the resort.

Taste the Magic
New this year, the Festival of Holidays celebrates holidays around the globe with 14 different food stations offering sweet and savory dishes inspired by cultures around the world. Sample the flavors of India, Germany, Mexico, Sweden, the American South, Eastern Europe and more. These bite-sized treats are on the pricey side, but oh-so-delectable and well worth the indulgence. Our favorites: Adobo Pork Bao at Good Fortune’s Feast, Brisket Potato Croquettes at Nosh & Nibbles, Mango Lassi at Spicy Salutations, and Sweet Potato Pie at Southern Home Holidays. The festival also features street performances with stilt walkers, Bollywood dancers, a drum line, and more. Free craft tables for the kiddos and music complete the merriment.

If you belong to the legions of fans of Disney’s limited edition, hand made, holiday candy canes, you’ll have to fall in line 30 minutes before park opening to get one. If you miss your chance, don’t worry: there are plenty of holiday sweets throughout the park. Snowman caramel apples, pumpkin spice lattes, gingerbread men, and candy cane Mickey-shaped beignets are just some of the seasonal treats available to enjoy.

 

Join the Parade
¡Viva Navidad! is Disney California Adventure’s best kept holiday secret. Part Mexican fiesta, part Brazilian samba, and all fun, this parade is guaranteed to get everyone’s toes tapping! Donald Duck, Panchito Pistoles, and Jose Carioca (aka The Three Amigos) wave from a colorful float, accompanied by a mariachi band, folklorico dancers, and samba drummers. Giant mojiganga puppets of Santa and Mrs. Claus roll through the streets while Mickey and Minnie arrive just in time for the final dance. Tip: Grab a spot next to the Jumping Jellyfish ride for the best views.

Celebrate the season with your favorite characters at A Christmas Fantasy Parade. This daily procession starts at It’s A Small World, marches down Main Street, and ends in front of the Main Street Disneyland Railroad Station. It’s worth grabbing a sidewalk spot early to get unobstructed views of the floats, marching tin soldiers, Mickey, Minnie, and Santa Claus.

 

Party After Dark
World of Color’s new nighttime holiday show combines classic animation and holiday tunes in a production like no other. World of Color – Season of Light features winter and holiday scenes from classic Disney films projected onto a gigantic watery screen. The scenes are accentuated by lights, flames, and 200-foot fountains, and everything is synchronized to a holiday soundtrack. The holiday spirit is infectious: don’t be surprised to find yourself humming along to Dean Martin’s “Let it Snow” or Michael Buble’s and Idina Menzel’s “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”.

Save your visit to “it’s a small world Holiday” till after dark. After the sun sets, this classic attraction gleams and sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights. Every quarter of the hour, instead of the usual parade of dolls, you’ll see holiday scenes projected onto the front of the attraction. The holiday makeover continues inside: as your boat sails the seven seas, you’ll see depictions of holiday celebrations around the world. Dolls are dressed in holiday finery, and the (in)famous “it’s a small world” soundtrack is interspersed with “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” sung in various languages.

Close out your Disneyland visit by watching Believe… in Holiday Magic fireworks show. Set against the backdrop of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, the holiday version of Disney’s nightly fireworks display is set to holiday music and ends with a magical snowfall. It’s definitely worth letting the kiddos stay up past their bedtime. And if they happen to fall asleep in their stroller, at least they’ll drift off to dreamland with stardust in their eyes.

Enjoy Seasonal Attractions
“It’s a small world” isn’t the only attraction to get a holiday makeover. Head over to Adventureland and board the Jingle Cruise (aka Jungle Cruise) to see what happens when a plane full of holiday decorations accidentally dumps some of its cargo into the jungle.

Christmas collides with Halloween as Jack Skellington and his ragtag gang of misfits take over the Haunted Mansion. Haunted Mansion Holiday is much brighter and cheerier than its regular version, so don’t be afraid to take the little ones. They’ll see singing jack-o-lanterns, faithful Sally, funny teddy bears, and loveable Zero the Ghost Dog. As you glide past the haunted dining hall, take note of the Haunted Gingerbread Mansion, created from scratch every year, and take in a big sniff of the heavenly gingerbread scent.

Every corner of the resort is bedecked with holiday cheer, from Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle to the giant Christmas trees on Main Street and Carthay Circle to the gingerbread mansion at the lobby of the Grand Californian Hotel. In typical Disney fashion, each location gets its own themed decor. Don’t miss the larger-than-life holiday ornaments at A Bug’s Land or the snowcar and whitewall tire wreaths at Cars Land!

Even musical entertainment gets a holiday twist. Hang out on Main Street to catch a caroling performance by everyone’s favorite barbershop quartet, the Dapper Dans. They never fail to win the crowd over with their vaudeville routines, Deagan Organ Chimes, and killer a capella harmonies. In addition, the Disneyland Marching Band plays holiday tunes at the flagpole and by Sleeping Beauty Castle.

 

Say Hi to Special Friends
You’ll find Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and other Disney friends at their usual character meet-and-greet locations throughout the park. For the holiday season, they’ve donned special holiday outfits, so you’re sure to capture some magical holiday photos with the kids! Tip: Disney photographers will take your photo and hand you a Disney Photo Pass card so you can view and order photos online. Even if you decline the Photo Pass Card, the photographers will happily snap a photo for you with your own camera.

Santa Claus has parked his sled at Disney California Adventure’s Redwood Creek Challenge Trail! Guests can make their way through brightly decorated paths, complete challenges to join the ranks of Santa’s elves, then pose for a photo with Santa and whisper holiday wishes into his year. If you’re at Disneyland Park, you can find Santa at Critter Country. Santa also appears at the end of the Christmas Fantasy Parade and Viva Navidad parade.

Fans of the popular Disney Channel show Elena of Avalor will enjoy welcoming Princess Elena at her Musical Grand Arrival for the first time ever! This colorful parade happens several times at Disney California Adventure’s Paradise Bay. Princess Elena waves from a magical float and greets her subjects with waves, smiles, and songs. Afterwards, she poses for photos and signs autographs in a beautifully decorated corner of Paradise Bay.

 

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Guests can ask for free cups of ice water at counter service restaurants throughout the resort.
  • Download the official Disneyland Resort App and check it often to get up-to-date wait times and FASTPASS Ticket return times for every attraction in Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
  • Stand in one less line by purchasing tickets in advance (online, at the Disney Store, or at retail stores).
  • Most weekdays and all weekends during Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are considered Peak Season days; expect to pay top prices for 1-day park tickets. Multiple day ticket prices do not vary by date. Crowds are usually larger on peak days, but the parks stay open longer.
  • Early birds get the worm (or mouse) at Disneyland: if you’re staying at one of Disney’s resort hotels (Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian, or Paradise Pier Hotel), you get an Extra Magic Hour to either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park, for the duration of your stay. Also, visitors with 3+ day park tickets enjoy one Magic Morning, which allows them to enter either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park one hour before the general public.

Disneyland and California Adventure Park
313 Disneyland Dr.
Anaheim, Ca 92802
Online: disneyland.disney.go.com

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort runs through January 8. Have you been to Disneyland over the holidays? What’s your favorite part? Tell us in the comments below.

–Ana Picazo

photos: photos courtesy of Disneyland Resort